The Anchor’s Desk: The Gradual Sexification of Sports News

The economy sucks. Newspapers are shutting down. Local news stations need to earn back viewers. Mainstream sports websites have new competitors and independent blog sites to compete with.

It’s time to make a desperate ploy, fellow media members. Time to turn to an age-old method to get attention: Super-hot chicks.

This has been creeping up on us for a while. We men used to keep our two favorite things, women and sports, separate. The SI Swimsuit edition was a completely separate issue that came once a year. It was fun, and had nothing to do with sports. The lines weren’t blurred.

Then our local sports pages started getting sprinkled in with car ads sporting hot bods and mini-skirts.

Sex sells.

Fox’s Best Damn Sports Show Period will dedicate an entire episode to a Hooters beauty pageant. I’m not saying I wouldn’t watch, but if I want sports, give me sports for crying out loud! Call it what it is.

Mainstream sports websites like www.cbs.sportsline.com, and especially www.si.com, dedicate plenty of room to the hotties. Features like “Which celeb chick is hotter?” or “Vote on which athlete looks better half-naked” have become Internet staples that come as a side dish to our sports information consumption. It’s become a part of the equation.

The sports sites are starting to become man-sites. The message is: “Guys, we give you tons of reasons to come to our site! Get your sports and your women all in one place.” The lines have definitely blurred.

Since the internet is the future, are we going down this road and never looking back?

Right now, the major shows and websites are still trying to walk that fragile line of subtlety. Just a small bit of the hot babes sprinkled in with the sports info.

I say, why pretend to make it subtle? If sex sells, and you are using that to get readers and viewers, why not go all the way? Why not give us more chicks with our sports…WAY more.

That’s the future anyways, right?

I say don’t stop. This could save the local sportscast, which has been disappearing from some newscasts. Fellow sports anchors like myself could sprinkle in still shots of Baywatch and Maxim babes in between each highlight.

Here’s how my Mariners highlights could look and sound like:

–ANCHOR ON CAMERA—
Good evening, The Ms at home tonight…

(–TAKE VIDEO–)
To the first inning, Ichiro homers. 1-0 Mariners! What a great play! And now we take a look at Pamela Anderson. (cut to still shot of her in red bathing suit)

Moving on to the third inning, Beltre strikes out again. Hey, Yasmine Bleeth sure looked hot in 2001! (cut to a still shot of her)

Eighth inning, the Misses put the game away. Ichiro a double! A run scores! He’s the only guy on this team who isn’t terrible! Here’s someone not terrible…Megan Fox! (cut to hot Fox picture)……”

Think more viewers would turn in? If our brains have been preconditioned the last few years to expect babes and sports together…my plan is crazy enough to work.

Sports pages could have an article about a game, and the accompanying picture wouldn’t be from the game, but a sexy shot of Eliza Dushku.

The caption would read “This hot babe had nothing to do with the Packers game, but she’s nice to look at!” That might put a jolt into the dying newspaper industry, right?

I’m gonna go cry now about the state of journalism…right after I google some Megan Fox pics.

* – Megan Fox photo credit: Maxim

[Blog Editor’s Note: Thank you for writing this article, Scott.  It provided the perfect excuse to include a picture of Megan Fox, thus making Midwest Sports Fans one of the last sports blogs to feature its first picture of Fox. Also Scott, please don’t take offense that we replaced your head shot on the front page.  You’re great and all, but I guarantee the Fox pic drives more click-throughs to the article…thus proving your point I guess.]

———-

Scott Reister is a featured contributor to Midwest Sports Fans, as well as Dallas Sports Fans.

He is a Sports Anchor for the NBC affiliate in the Tri-Cities and Spokane, WA. To learn more about Scott, visit the Scott Reister bio page on Midwest Sports Fans or check out the Scott Reister bio page on Midwest Sports Fans or check out the Local Sports page on KNDU.com.

To contact Scott: sreister@hotmail.com

Fantasy Football: 5 Things I Learned in June

With June coming to an end, Bruno Boys Dominic takes a look at five things he learned throughout the month, so join him as he covers everything from Chad Ochocinco’s rejuvenation to the naming of RBBCs.

———————

1. Ocho Cinco is still muy funny   

I’ll admit, I didn’t think Chad would ever return to my good graces after the last couple of seasons of whining and under-producing.

However, it seems the 31-year-old wide receiver has helped himself to a slice or two of humble pie in the offseason, giving him new perspective (if anyone knows the cook, send a few slices to Brandon Marshall please).

Now, a new and improved Ocho Cinco is poised to rejoin the ranks of the fantasy relevant. And, as always, he’s done so in style. First, he told the world he was going to live with Carson Palmer and his family for a couple of weeks to develop a closer relationship with the QB—a gesture quickly shot down by Palmer’s wife.

Then, Johnson delighted us again with his flair for the dramatic by proclaiming he wanted to beat the Nutrisystem out of Mike Golic for making negative comments about him.

Of course, what’s important about all of this is not that Chad is cracking me up again (though it certainly doesn’t hurt). Rather, it’s that he appears to be 100% dedicated to returning to his status as one of the league’s most productive receivers. That makes him a prime candidate for a huge year, and someone you should definitely target in your upcoming draft.

———————

2. Roger Goodell has his own laws

He’s set a precedent, I’ll give him that. In fact, anytime I hear about one of my fantasy players going to meet with the commish, I cringe.

Goodell’s made it crystal clear that he won’t stand for any action made by a coach, team, or player which reflects negatively on the league. Donte Stallworth’s DUI manslaughter sentence appalled most of us—and, when compared with Michael Vick’s, it seems like US law cares more about dogs than jaywalkers.

However, Goodell handed out his own justice, suspending Stallworth indefinitely and sending him a strongly worded letter that pretty much said, “I don’t care what punishment the courts give you, it will not fly in the NFL.”

Fantasy-wise, Stallworth is fairly useless this season—or was he already? Regardless, if your players are set for trial or have a tendency to commit small- to mid-range felonies in their spare time, make sure you snag their backup, or avoid them altogether.

When drafting future players, keep a keen eye on their history and character issues, as Goodell isn’t going anywhere, and neither is your fantasy player if they can’t keep out of trouble.

———————

3. Never make a fantasy football trade at a wedding with an open bar

Do I really need to elaborate on this one?

———————

4. For some reason, people love to name RBBCs
 
“Earth, Wind, and Fire”. “Smash and Dash”. And, most recently voted in by Raider’s fans, “Shake, Rattle, and Roll”. It seems that if a team has more than one back running the ball successfully, the committee is bound to get a name.

However, like identical twins whose parents tragically dress them in the same clothes, some players crave individuality and don’t want a name that is linked with someone else.

Whether or not Chris Johnson will suffer the shared glory of Smash and Dash is not the point—what matters in the world of fantasy is that if they’ve earned a name, it usually means you want all of them on your roster.

Unless of course, they’ve earned a name that’s not so flattering (like my running back team last season—”Battered, Bruised and Broken”).

———————

5. If you trade for Brandon Marshal, buy your antacids in bulk

When I realized an owner in my fantasy keeper league was clearly fed up with Brandon Marshall and his off the field issues, I made my move. He agreed to give me Marshall for a mere 3rd round pick in our upcoming draft. That’s not bad for arguably one of the top ten receivers in the league.

Unfortunately, he also carries enough baggage to keep La Guardia airport busy for days. So, I admit it—there’s a risk, not to mention a possible 2-3 game suspension. It’s a keeper league though, no biggie. And, call me stupid, but I held high hopes that he would mature into the man he claims he wants to be and stop getting into fights with his lady friends.

Of course, days after I traded for him, he decided to use the leverage he had (none) to demand more money. Soon after that, the trade request came in.

For an instant, I was excited at his possible new destinations, until logic sunk in. Not only was he probably not going anywhere, his antics may have harmed his relationship between him and his QB and coach. The lesson: trading for troubled studs can be a great investment, but remember that the investment can go both ways.

In other words, if you take a diva, you get a diva.

———————

For more fantasy football insight and advice, click the link below…

Bruno Boys Fantasy Football

Fantasy Football: 5 Things I Learned in June

With June coming to an end, Bruno Boys Dominic takes a look at five things he learned throughout the month, so join him as he covers everything from Chad Ochocinco’s rejuvenation to the naming of RBBCs.

———————

1. Ocho Cinco is still muy funny   

I’ll admit, I didn’t think Chad would ever return to my good graces after the last couple of seasons of whining and under-producing.

However, it seems the 31-year-old wide receiver has helped himself to a slice or two of humble pie in the offseason, giving him new perspective (if anyone knows the cook, send a few slices to Brandon Marshall please).

Now, a new and improved Ocho Cinco is poised to rejoin the ranks of the fantasy relevant. And, as always, he’s done so in style. First, he told the world he was going to live with Carson Palmer and his family for a couple of weeks to develop a closer relationship with the QB—a gesture quickly shot down by Palmer’s wife.

Then, Johnson delighted us again with his flair for the dramatic by proclaiming he wanted to beat the Nutrisystem out of Mike Golic for making negative comments about him.

Of course, what’s important about all of this is not that Chad is cracking me up again (though it certainly doesn’t hurt). Rather, it’s that he appears to be 100% dedicated to returning to his status as one of the league’s most productive receivers. That makes him a prime candidate for a huge year, and someone you should definitely target in your upcoming draft.

———————

2. Roger Goodell has his own laws

He’s set a precedent, I’ll give him that. In fact, anytime I hear about one of my fantasy players going to meet with the commish, I cringe.

Goodell’s made it crystal clear that he won’t stand for any action made by a coach, team, or player which reflects negatively on the league. Donte Stallworth’s DUI manslaughter sentence appalled most of us—and, when compared with Michael Vick’s, it seems like US law cares more about dogs than jaywalkers.

However, Goodell handed out his own justice, suspending Stallworth indefinitely and sending him a strongly worded letter that pretty much said, “I don’t care what punishment the courts give you, it will not fly in the NFL.”

Fantasy-wise, Stallworth is fairly useless this season—or was he already? Regardless, if your players are set for trial or have a tendency to commit small- to mid-range felonies in their spare time, make sure you snag their backup, or avoid them altogether.

When drafting future players, keep a keen eye on their history and character issues, as Goodell isn’t going anywhere, and neither is your fantasy player if they can’t keep out of trouble.

———————

3. Never make a fantasy football trade at a wedding with an open bar

Do I really need to elaborate on this one?

———————

4. For some reason, people love to name RBBCs
 
“Earth, Wind, and Fire”. “Smash and Dash”. And, most recently voted in by Raider’s fans, “Shake, Rattle, and Roll”. It seems that if a team has more than one back running the ball successfully, the committee is bound to get a name.

However, like identical twins whose parents tragically dress them in the same clothes, some players crave individuality and don’t want a name that is linked with someone else.

Whether or not Chris Johnson will suffer the shared glory of Smash and Dash is not the point—what matters in the world of fantasy is that if they’ve earned a name, it usually means you want all of them on your roster.

Unless of course, they’ve earned a name that’s not so flattering (like my running back team last season—”Battered, Bruised and Broken”).

———————

5. If you trade for Brandon Marshal, buy your antacids in bulk

When I realized an owner in my fantasy keeper league was clearly fed up with Brandon Marshall and his off the field issues, I made my move. He agreed to give me Marshall for a mere 3rd round pick in our upcoming draft. That’s not bad for arguably one of the top ten receivers in the league.

Unfortunately, he also carries enough baggage to keep La Guardia airport busy for days. So, I admit it—there’s a risk, not to mention a possible 2-3 game suspension. It’s a keeper league though, no biggie. And, call me stupid, but I held high hopes that he would mature into the man he claims he wants to be and stop getting into fights with his lady friends.

Of course, days after I traded for him, he decided to use the leverage he had (none) to demand more money. Soon after that, the trade request came in.

For an instant, I was excited at his possible new destinations, until logic sunk in. Not only was he probably not going anywhere, his antics may have harmed his relationship between him and his QB and coach. The lesson: trading for troubled studs can be a great investment, but remember that the investment can go both ways.

In other words, if you take a diva, you get a diva.

———————

For more fantasy football insight and advice, click the link below…

Bruno Boys Fantasy Football

Five Wide Receiviers That Will Step Their Production Up in ’09

Every year in the NFL a wide receivers production will differ, usually not to a significant degree but sometimes their numbers will drop horrendously or they will explode and break out into a career year. I am going to select five wide receivers that I think are going to step up and make a difference with a bigger production load this year.

5. Braylon Edwards

Edwards put up some great numbers in 2007 with over 1000 receiving yards and pulling 16 touchdown passes. In 2008 however Edwards dropped off terribly and only managed to pull in three touchdowns and gain 873 yards.

His drop off in production cannot be completely blamed on his lack off play, there was the terrible situation at quarterback, where two of the three QB’s were placed on IR.

In 2009 though I believe the Browns will have more stability at quarterback and Edwards will thrive on this and put up just as good numbers as he did in 2007, if not better.

4. Marques Colston

Colston also had a breakout year on 2007 and being the number one receiver for Drew Bree’s most people thought his numbers could only get better. 2008 however was not Colston’s year as he tore a ligament in his thumb and was not the same from then on.

Colston is a huge target though 6’4″, 225 and if he is fully recovered will bounce back hard and will be that number one receiver Drew Brees’ need.

3. Jeremy Maclin

I’m going out on a limb here and predicting that this rookie is going to put up some great numbers, some will ask why I didn’t pick Michael Crabtree. I didn’t select Crabtree because of the system he is in, I believe he is a fantastic receiver and will be an All Pro someday, but in the 49er’s system putting up big numbers is too much to ask.

Maclin will contribute immediately this is because he will be stepping right into Andy Reid’s pass heavy offense and will see a lot of balls coming his way and with the 4.3 forty speed this guy posses, he will be able to run by a lot of people and pull down some long passes for some huge gains.

2. Chad Ocho Cinco

In 2008 Chad concentrated too much on getting out of Cincinnati than actually playing for Cincinnati that he damaged his stock a bit.

After only gaining 540 yards and pulling in three touchdowns (career lows bar rookie season in ’01) and now it seems he will be in Bengal town for a long time to come, Chad has also come to realize this and now has stated he is going to put in a lot more effort to get back in shape and again become a lethal receiving threat.

This is an obvious selection as he is a great receiver and with a great quarterback in Carson Palmer there’s no doubt he can do some great things.

1. Roy Williams

When Williams was traded to Dallas most people believed that his would now make their offense unstoppable, but unfortunately for Dallas things didn’t pan out and Williams ended up with only 198 yards and one touchdown.

There is no doubt that at the moment Roy Williams is nothing but hype, but if he can get back to his 2006 pro bowl form and become more substance he will easily fill the void at receiver left by the departure of Terrell Owens.

All these receivers have something to prove, whether it’s just the beginning for them, they’re trying to prove they can come back from injury or that they can bounce back from a down year to be a great receiver.

One thing they all have in common is talent, all they have to do is prove they can use and they’ll get those big pay checks and help their teams get those big W’s!

The NFL’s 10 Greatest Defensive Teams of All Time

Cliches become cliches because they hold universal truths told in simple and easy-to-understand statements.

The most truthful—and also most overused—cliche in sports is “defense wins championships.” This is especially meaningful in the NFL.

On rare occasions, an offensive team will be so good (like the 1999 St. Louis Rams) that a strong defense isn’t needed—but those are the exceptions, not the rules.

In the majority of NFL history, a dominant defense can equal a championship, while a weak one means looking ahead to the draft.

There have been great defenses in NFL history, but who is the best of the best?

Ask any fan, player, sports writer, or coach, and you’ll get radical differences in opinion. That’s what makes writing and discussing sports so fun. It creates lively conversation.

Now, it’s my turn to create some of that conversation with my own top 10 list.

In making this list, I didn’t base my selections on just one outstanding season, so those expecting to see the 2000 Baltimore Ravens, the 2002 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, or the 1991 Philadelphia Eagles will be very disappointed.

To make my list, there were two criterion involved: the defense had to be consistently good for at least three years, and it had to be in the Super Bowl era.

Without further adieu, here is my version of the Top 10 Greatest NFL Defensive Teams of All Time.

 

10. Kansas City Chiefs 1960s

Hank Stram’s “Triple Stack” defense was a force in the AFL during the 1960’s and early 1970’s, capturing a Super Bowl crown in 1969.

Four players on the Chiefs defense have busts in Canton: DT Buck Buchanon, linebackers Bobby Bell and Willie Lanier, and CB Emmitt Thomas. In addition, DT Curly Culp, CB Jim Marsalis, and S Johnny Robinson were All-Pros.

In 1969, Kansas City held five opponents to fewer than 10 points, and gave up an average of less than two touchdowns a game. The Chiefs surrendered only 20 points during the playoffs on their way to a Super Bowl victory.

 

9. The Orange Crush Defense—Denver Broncos

Led by OLB Tom Jackson, ILB Randy Gradishar, and DE Lyle Alzado, the Orange Crush defense was a force from 1977-81. In 1977, the defense gave up only 148 points (10.6 ppg), to lead Denver to its first Super Bowl appearance, a 27-17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.

The Broncos went 50-28 with three division titles during the Orange Crush heyday.

 

8. The Big Blue Wrecking Crew—New York Giants

From 1985-90, the New York Giants, affectionately known as the “Big Blue Wrecking Crew,” were one of the most feared defenses in the National Football League. The strength of the unit was at linebacker, where two Hall of Famers roamed: OLB Lawrence Taylor, and MLB Harry Carson.

Carson was the brains of the defense—the run stuffer and the captain who kept everyone in line.

Taylor was the wild animal, let out of his cage every Sunday to wreak havoc on opposing offenses. Taylor, Carson, OLB Carl Banks, and ILB Gary Reasons formed the best linebacker corps in the 1980’s.

Adding All-Pro DE Leonard Marshall to the mix only made them more ferocious.

The Giants won two Super Bowls (1986, 1990) and four division crowns during that time.

 

7. The No-Name Defense—Miami Dolphins

From 1970-75, the Miami Dolphins ruled the AFC East—and for three years (1971-73), most of the NFL. The Dolphins were an incredible 67-16-1 over those six seasons, with three Super Bowl Appearances, two Lombardi Trophies (1972-73), and the only unbeaten season (1972) in NFL history.

The defense produced only one Hall-of-Famer (LB Nick Buoniconti), but had solid All-Pros in SS Dick Anderson, FS Jake Scott, DT Manny Fernandez, and DE Bill Stanfill. From 1971-73, the No-Name Defense surrendered just 11.8 points per game.

 

6. Monsters of the Midway II—Chicago Bears

From 1984-88, there was no better defense in the NFL than Buddy Ryan and his blitz-happy “46” defense. Da Bears were fast, physical, and loved to crush the quarterback.

Ryan’s boys led Chicago to six division titles in seven years, culminating in a Super Bowl championship in 1985.

The ’85 Bears are arguably the best defense ever put on the field for a single season. The stats are overwhelming: a 15-1 regular season mark, a 12.5 point scoring average, holding seven opponents under 10 points, and racking up 64 sacks.

The defense featured two players in the Hall of Fame: MLB Mike Singletary and DE Dan Hampton. DE Richard Dent, DT Steve McMichael, OLB Otis Wilson, OLB Wilber Marshall, and S Dave Duerson were All-Pros.

 

5. The Doomsday Defense I & II—Dallas Cowboys

From 1966 to 1983, Tom Landry had two versions of the “Doomsday Defense,” and both were outstanding.

During that time, the Cowboys put together one of the greatest runs of success in sports history—”America’s Team” made the playoffs in 17 of 18 seasons, including five Super Bowl appearances and two Super Bowl championships (1971, 1977).

Doomsday I featured two Hall of Fame inductees: DT Bob Lilly, and CB Mel Renfro. Other standouts were DT Jethro Pugh, and linebackers Lee Roy Jordan and Chuck Howley.

Doomsday II was led by Hall of Fame DT Randy White, while defensive ends Harvey Martin and Ed Jones, and defensive backs Charlie Waters and Cliff Harris were perennial All-Pro selections.

 

4. The Fearsome Foursome I & II—Los Angeles Rams

“The Fearsome Foursome” was a name given to the defensive line of version one, but later encompassed the whole defensive unit of version two.

The original foursome was comprised of Deacon Jones and Lamar Lundy at end, with Rosey Grier and Merlin Olsen at defensive tackle. Jones and Olsen are in the Hall of Fame; Roger Brown would replace Grier, and the Rams had major success with George Allen in the late 1960’s. Jones and Olsen were voted to the NFLs All-Time team in 1994.

The second foursome was made up of Olsen, defensive ends Jack Youngblood and Fred Dryer, and DT Larry Brooks. But there was more to this unit than just the line.

From 1973-80, the Rams won seven consecutive NFC West titles, including a Super Bowl berth in 1979, and finished in the top 10 in total defense in seven of those eight seasons.

In 1975, the defense surrendered just 9.6 points per game, third-best in NFL history. MLB Isiah Robertson, and safeties Dave Elmendorf and Nolan Cromwell were All-Pros.

 

3. Green Bay Packers 1960s

There’s no fancy nickname for Vince Lombardi’s guys—just a powerful, intimidating defense.

The Packer defense of the 1960’s produced five world championships—including the first two Super Bowl titles—and a record five Hall-of-Famers: DT Henry Jordan, DE Willie Davis, MLB Ray Nitschke, CB Herb Adderley, and S Willie Wood.

The 1962 team gave up just 10.8 points per game and posted three shutouts, while holding opposing quarterbacks to a 43.5 rating.

 

2. The Purple People Eaters—Minnesota Vikings

This is the greatest defense not to win the big one.

“The Purple People Eaters” were dominant with a capital D. From 1969-76, the Vikings captured four NFC championships and seven divisional crowns. Minnesota was ranked in the top three in total defense for seven of those eight seasons.

The defense was led by Hall-of-Famers Alan Page (DT), Carl Eller (DE), and Paul Krause (FS). Other top performers were DT Gary Larsen, DE Jim Marshall, SS Bobby Bryant, and LB Wally Hilgenberg.

“The Purple People Eaters” held their 1971 opponents to only 9.9 points per game, capping what might be the best three-year defensive run in NFL history (in 1970, they gave up 10.2 ppg, and in 1969 9.5, the seventh and second-lowest totals in history; the 1971 team was fourth).

 

1. The Steel Curtain—Pittsburgh Steelers

Is there anybody else you’d put here?

“The Steel Curtain” was the most dominant, awe-inspiring, feared defense in the history of the game. No team could stop it, and many didn’t even want to go up against it.

The Steelers defense of the 1970’s had arguably the greatest front seven ever assembled on one team.

Joe Greene (DE), L.C. Greenwood (DE), Dwight White (DT), and Ernie Holmes (DT) made up the front four, while Jack Lambert manned the middle linebacker slot, with Jack Ham and Andy Russell patrolling the outside.

A record 10 Steeler defenders made the Pro-Bowl during the ’70’s: Greene, Greenwood, White, Lambert, Ham, Russell, Mel Blount (CB), J.T. Thomas (CB), Glen Edwards (FS), and Mike Wagner (SS).

Greene, Blount, Ham, and Lambert are enshrined in Canton, second only to the Packers for most defenders on one team in the Hall.

In 1976, after a 1-4 start, the Steelers’ defense surrendered only 28 points in the final nine games. Eight Steeler defenders made the Pro Bowl that season. Between 1973-78, opposing quarterbacks had only a 45.0 passer rating.

Pittsburgh won four Super Bowls in six seasons, and owned the 1970’s, thanks to the greatest defense to ever put on a uniform.

NFL Preview: Division-by-division

OTA’s are over, and we generally know what the rosters will look like. With that in mind, let’s take a look at each division and predict the records.

 

AFC East

1.  New England Patriots 13-3: New faces in the secondary, youth at linebacker, and the return of Tom Brady are all signs of big things to come in New England. I really like the addition of Fred Taylor, who will be a solid complement to Kevin Faulk and Laurence Maroney, and Joey Galloway, who will be a reliable target opposite Randy Moss and Wess Welker. The schedule isn’t exactly what I’d call easy, but there are at least 12 wins on the schedule and I’ll personally go with 13.

2.  New York Jets 9-7: Let the Sanchez era begin. I think Mark Sanchez has the moxie, experience in big games and skill to be a decent starter.  But I don’t like the Jets’ receivers, and there are still questions in pass protection. The Jets could go 10-6, but I see at least one trap game pulling them to 9-7. They’ll be ready to challenge the Patriots in 2010. 

3.  Buffalo Bills 8-8: Eight wins may be giving this team too much credit, but the addition of Terrell Owens to an already intriguing offense will help things.  The deep threat of TO will push safeties back, creating opportunities in the passing game for Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson.  However, unless Aaron Maybin can be an immediate contributor, that pass rush is not taking them to the playoffs.

4.  Miami Dolphins 7-9: Perhaps my biggest surprise, I have the Dolphins going from first-to-worst. Why? The Wildcat should certainly generate some excitement, particularly with the addition of Pat White.  However, there are too many question marks (Ronnie Brown’s health, Chad Pennington’s health/consistency) and I just don’t see them repeating the success from a year ago. I don’t trust Pennington for the whole year, and I expect the Chad Henne era to begin next year. This will be a step back type of year for the Dolpins.

 

AFC North

1.  Pittsburgh Steelers 12-4: The Steelers return everyone from their Super Bowl team and could go for 13 wins. However, there are a couple of trap games (I’m looking at you, Green Bay) and the pass protection is still iffy. However, Ben Roethlisberger and the defense will carry them back to the playoffs.

2.  Baltimore Ravens 11-5: The Ravens could win most other divisions in football. They are just unfortunate to play in the AFC North. The loss of Bart Scott hurts, but they have a young offense, while the defense should be solid enough to get them to the playoffs again.

3.  Cincinnati Bengals 8-8: The Bengals recovered nicely at the end of last year. The return of Carson Palmer should help them, as will some nice improvements on defense.  Expect Ochocinco to have a big year, as well as Jerome Simpson. Inconsistency, injuries, and a tough division will keep them out of the playoffs though.

4.  Cleveland Browns 5-11: Brady Quinn will start.  Braylon Edwards will bounce back.  The defense will still be horrid, and the Browns will be the cellar dwellars in a formidable AFC North.

 

AFC South

1.  Indianapolis Colts: 11-5: With the Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans improving, it only make the AFC South that much tougher.  However, for my money, I don’t think there will be a better offense in the NFL this year.  Donald Brown and Joseph Addai should be a lethal combination, while Reggie Wayne, Anthony Gonzalez, and Dallas Clark will create headaches for other defenses. However, their run defense will continue to be mediocre. I don’t like the linebackers and I don’t like the D-Line besides Dwight Freeney. 

2.  Houston Texans 10-6: The Texans get their first playoff berth on the backs of an improved defense, a healthy Matt Schaub, a lethal passing attack, and a great sophomore effort from Steve Slaton. They’ll put points on the board and do enough on the defensive side of the ball to win. The Texans remind me of last year’s Falcons. 

3.  Tennessee Titans 8-8: The Haynesworth loss hurts. Big-time. The Titans will no longer be able to dominate teams in the running game, and Kerry Collins will be forced to win games. The defense is still good, but won’t be great. This reminds me of the Jaguars last year, where the loss of Marcus Stroud did severe damage to the defense. 

3.  Jacksonville Jaguars 8-8: They made some improvements at wide receiver, tackle, and on the defensive line. However, they play in a tough division. But the Jaguars are a sleeper and have some talent at key positions. Look for Maurice Jones-Drew to have a monster year. But, David Garrard does not have the consistency to lead this team to the playoffs.

 

AFC West

1.  San Diego Chargers 12-4: This has been a talented team for a while, and this year it should come together. The secondary has underachieved, but the talent is there.  Shawne Merriman is back, and despite a tough schedule (NFC East, AFC North), there are 12 wins on the table. The Chargers will put some points on the board and put some quarterbacks on their backs.

2.  Kansas City Chiefs 7-9: After a good draft, expect KC to improve. But that defense and the offensive line are still questionable. Matt Cassel will help, but this is not a playoff team.

3.  Oakland Raiders 6-10: They will sweep the Denver Broncos. Though the pick has been questioned, Darrius Heyward-Bey will at least stretch the field for JaMarcus Russell, allowing Darren McFadden and the backs some breathing room. However, the defensive line was not improved, and the run defense will be poor. 

4.  Denver Broncos 3-13: I hope the owner is kicking himself right now. Josh McDaniels has no idea what he’s doing, and for him the Broncos fired a two-time Super Bowl winning coach, a Pro Bowl quarterback with a cannon arm, and angered their top receiver. There is some talent, but the offense has regressed and the defense is still poor (Brian Dawkins is not the same player he once was). This is a playoff team that has been run off the tracks by poor personnel management. Too bad for Brandon Marshall.  Too bad for Eddie Royal. Too bad for Knowshon Moreno. Too bad for Brian Dawkins, who probably thought he would have a shot at the Super Bowl before this mess happened.

 

NFC East

1.  Philadelphia Eagles 12-4: This team should win the Super Bowl. Jeremy Maclin has the size, speed, and athleticism to be a No. 1 receiver, DeSean Jackson could be the next Steve Smith. Combine that with a Pro Bowl-laden offensive line, the best quarterback in the division, a healthy Brian Westbrook spelled by LeSean McCoy, a Pro Bowl fullback, and improvement at tight end; there are no holes in this offense. On defense, free safety is a question mark, but only in the sense that we don’t know who will start there. Between Quintin Demps, Rashad Baker, Sean Jones, and Quintin Mikell, the competition should give way to two quality starters. Asante Samuel is the best cornerback whose name I can pronounce in the NFL, Sheldon Brown, Joselio Hanson, and Ellis Hobbs represent great depth, and Stewart Bradley is ready to be the next Brian Urlacher. Provided they stay healthy, you can write this down: The Eagles are THE team to beat in the NFC. 

2.  New York Giants 10-6: That front seven is scary, and the secondary has improved.  However, there are still issues offensively. The top-tier teams will beat the Giants by loading the box, and forcing Eli Manning to beat them on third down. The Giants’ receivers are young, but none of them demand double teams. The Giants will be able to dominate teams into submission by controlling the ball, but against a team like the Eagles, this advantage will be neutralized. 

3.  Dallas Cowboys 9-7: The early part of the schedule certainly bodes well.  They’ll get off to a good start, but the back end is brutal and I could see them losing five in a row to end the season. The talent is there, but that secondary is in shambles.  Aside from the aging Terrence Newman, there is no proven commodity. Tony Romo, Marion Barber, Jason Witten, Roy Williams, and Felix Jones will win plenty of shootouts, but they’ll lose some too. DeMarcus Ware can only do so much to make up for the holes in the secondary. 

4.  Washington Redskins 9-7: It won’t be good enough in the toughest division in football, but I like the Redskins more than most other people. Jason Campbell isn’t a gamebreaker, but he’s solid, especially when Clinton Portis is having a good game. I think Portis, Chris Cooley, Santana Moss, and the emergence of (hopefully) one rookie receiver could make the Redskins’ offense better than average. The O-line still has question mark at right tackle, but that defense is scary. If he is motivated (which I think he will be), Albert Haynesworth will be a force both against the pass and the run. Carlos Rogers leads an underrated secondary; however, they don’t have the ability to dominate any one area that other teams do and the Redskins will find themselves losing a lot of close games. Maybe in a different division they’re a playoff team, but not this one.

 

NFC North

1.  Minnesota Vikings 11-5: People forget that even without consistency at quarterback, this team made the playoffs last year. The Williams’ are aging, but the run defense will still be excellent, and the secondary will be good enough with that pass rush. Adrian Peterson is an offense all by himself, and I think the passing attack (with or without Brett Favre) will be good enough to win games. They’re not going to come from behind a lot, but with big plays and ball control from AP, and constant pressure on the other team’s quarterback, they’ll keep control of the NFC North.

2.  Green Bay Packers 10-6: Nobody is talking about these guys, but they have quietly made a lot of good moves. BJ Raji will be able to contribute immediately, and I think the 3-4 will be an improvement from last year. Aaron Rodgers is better than Phillip Rivers, and probably should have made the Pro Bowl over Eli Manning last year. My one question: Can they run the ball? Ryan Grant wore down last year. The Packers need to use Brandon Jackson more effectively to spell Ryan Grant. However, I think the talent they have passing the ball will open things up for Grant, and the improved defense will help them win some of the close games they would have otherwise lost last year. They will sneak into the playoffs.

3.  Chicago Bears 9-7: This is not what Bears fans will expect, but I don’t see them getting to the playoffs. Jay Cutler is a great player, but Devin Hester is not a proven commodity. Their offense will be better. Pounding the ball to Matt Forte to set up play action will be good enough to beat a lot of teams, but not the heavy hitters. The Bears’ offense will be a poor man’s version of the Giants’ offense (except for Greg Olsen, he’s a beast). The reason they won’t make the playoffs is the inability to generate pass rush.  They did nothing to improve this during the offseason.

4.  Detroit Lions 3-13:  Year one of the Stafford era will have some ups, but their O-Line is going to be leaky. Matthew Stafford will find some kind of a rhythm with Brandon Pettigrew and Calvin Johnson, but they won’t be able to run the ball and they won’t be able to stop the run. However, they are moving in the right direction.

 

NFC South

1.  Atlanta Falcons 10-6: They have a tough schedule, but the offense should be in the top five. I don’t know how one game plans for Michael Turner, Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez (all elite players at their position) and Jerious Norwood. Matt Ryan will find that it’s easy to break out with so many weapons. The defense has improved, but teams will still be able to run on them, as Peria Jerry will need to improve in this area. However, they are good enough to win this division.

2.  New Orleans Saints 9-7: Another tough schedule, but the secondary will be better with Jabari Greer and Malcolm Jenkins. Reggie Bush should bounce back, and a healthy Marques Colston-Drew Brees combination will be lethal. However, they have a tough schedule, and I think the defense will let them down in big games.

3.  Carolina Panthers 8-8: The run offense sets up big plays for Steve Smith, but Jake Delhomme isn’t good enough to win games on his own. The defense was not great last year, and I think Atlanta and New Orleans’ upgrades will push them past the Panthers.

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 3-13: Purely a rebuilding year. They’ve got to hope that Derrick Ward, Earnest Graham, and Antonio Bryant take some pressure off Josh Freeman. That defense will give up a lot of points. 

 

NFC West

1.  Arizona Cardinals 11-5: They’ll lose some games at the beginning of the year, but this team is simply too talented to lose this division. The offense should be two-dimensional this year. They ran the ball effectively at the end of the year and added Chris Wells. On defense, Adrian Wilson is a Pro Bowler, and Darnell Dockett will head a stronger run defense. On paper, the Cardinals should definitely win the division, but don’t be surprised to see them at .500 as late as week 11 before they turn up the jets and win a few games in a row. 

2.  Seattle Seahawks 7-9: This is a talented team, but TJ Houshmandzadeh is not the answer at wide receiver. They don’t have a running game, Matt Hasselbeck has been inconsistent. The defense will keep them in a lot of games, but they aren’t a playoff team right now.

3. San Francisco 49ers 5-11: I hate to say it, but that schedule is too tough for this team. It’s a shame, because the 49ers have a good coach, a franchise running back, a couple of explosive receivers in Josh Morgan and Michael Crabtree, and a pretty good defense. But at Philly, Arizona (2), Atlanta, at Houston, at Indy, at Green Bay, make for seven guaranteed losses. the 49ers would still have to face Chicago, at Seattle, Jacksonville, Tennessee, and at Minnesota. Mike Singletary has this team a year and a quarterback away from the playoffs, though.

4.  St. Louis Rams 3-13: Purely a rebuilding year. Marc Bulger has tailed off, and Donnie Avery is his only weapon. Jason Smith will not immediately stop the bleeding in pass protection, and that defense is still porous.

AFC Playoffs

1.  New England Bye

2.  Pittsburgh Bye

Wild Card Games

6 Houston @ 3 San Diego: San Diego wins

5 Baltimore @ 4 Indianapolis: Indianapolis wins

Divisional Playoffs

4 Indianapolis @ 1 New England: New England wins

3 San Diego @ 2 Pittsburgh: San Diego wins

Conference Championship

3 San Diego @ 1 New England: New England wins

NFC Playoffs

1. Philadelphia Bye

2. Arizona Bye

Wild Card Games

6 New Orleans @ 3 Atlanta: Green Bay wins

5 New York Giants @ 4 Minnesota: Minnesota wins

Divisional Playoffs

Green Bay @ Philadelphia: Philadelphia wins

Minnesota @ Arizona: Arizona wins

Conference Championship

Arizona @ Philadelphia: Philadelphia wins

Super Bowl XXXXIV:

Philadelphia over New England.

Super Bowl MVP: Donovan McNabb.

Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookie Wide Receivers: Fantasy and Reality

Jaguars fans and fantasy football deep leaguers alike are trying to figure just who is going to be catching passes from David Garrard this season.

Matt Jones, Reggie Williams, Jerry Porter, and now Dennis Northcutt are all gone. Torry Holt and Mike Walker are the entrenched starters heading into training camp.

The team may very well add a veteran wideout before the season—potentially Roscoe Parrish?

For now, and for the future, three names need to be known: Mike Thomas (pictured), Jarett Dillard, and Tiquan Underwood. All were taken on the second day of the 2009 draft, leaving them with a lot to prove if they are to have meaningful NFL careers.

Here is how the Jaguars may use them in 2009:

 

Mike Thomas

(5’8″, 198 lbs., Arizona)—The smallest of the trio, Thomas has the build of a slot receiver. What do you know? The Jaguars have an opening at the slot after trading Northcutt.

Thomas was the earliest receiver taken of the rookies and, barring injury, is in the best position to see the most playing time.

FANTASY PROJECTION: 35 catches, 400 yards, 2 TDs

FANTASY ANALYSIS: He’s not worth taking a chance on in most drafts, unless you’re in a really deep league. Even if Holt or Walker gets hurt, it may be Dillard or Underwood who sees a bigger bump in production.

 

Jarett Dillard

(5’10”, 187 lbs., Rice)—Dillard was the most accomplished of the rookies during his college career, albeit it was in Conference USA.

He is probably the most polished of the rookies, too, and has the best chance of stepping in if either Holt or Walker get hurt.

Remember, Holt is 33 years old, and Walker has had all sorts of knee problems. Anything is possible.

FANTASY PROJECTION: 20 catches, 250 yards, 2 TDs

FANTASY ANALYSIS: Dillard should not be on any draft cheat sheets, but if Holt gets hurt, he may be worth a flier if you have a roster spot.

 

Tiquan Underwood

(6’1″, 178 lbs., Rutgers)—Underwood has height on his side. He is three inches clear of Dillard, and five above Thomas.

Think of Ernest Wilford—that’s the best Underwood could be as a rookie, perhaps poaching some touchdowns.

FANTASY PROJECTION: 15 catches, 225 yards, 2 TDs

FANTASY ANALYSIS: He should not be drafted. If anything, he may be a better handcuff for Holt owners than Dillard because he has a better touchdown potential. That’s even a stretch, given that the term “handcuff” is usually only used with running backs.

 

Sunday Brunch: Thoughts on the Carolina Panthers

Sorry I have missed the last two dates on my Sunday Brunch article. I am back on track now. Thanks to all my readers.

With Julius Peppers finally signing his Franchise Tag (which is valued at about 16.7 million) the Carolina Panther can finally sleep easy, at last for the next few months. But in all honesty Carolina has issues. Their defense, despite what many think Carolina’s defense wasn’t very good last year. In fact, it was rather average to put it nicely. The Panthers finished 18th in total defense, hardly intimidating. Peppers, Middle Linebacker Jon Beason, and Cornerback Chris Gamble, those are the team’s best players on defense.  The rest are rather no-name journeymen who, while solid players, have allowed Carolina’s once fierce defense to degrade.

While I love the selection of Everett Brown in the draft it will take some time before he becomes the pass rush force I believe he can be. And new Defensive Coordinator Ron Meeks leaves much to be desired. Otherwise the Panther defense will struggle to improve and will possible regress unless another proven, talented defensive lineman that can contribute immediately can be found – I am honestly shocked that the Panthers didn’t make a serious play at Greg Ellis.

Offense is the team’s strength but even it isn’t that imposing. Yes I know it finished 10thin total offense but that has more to do with teams like Indianapolis, Dallas, and San Diego having huge down seasons than to their own offensive firepower. In truth, in Carolina the individual pieces are greater than the whole.  I love their running game, DeAngelo Williams has finally realized his great talent and has emerged as a top notch back and Jonathon Stewart is ready to break out as well. With this great wealth of running backs capable of carrying the load Carolina may soon be in a running back controversy.

Steve Smith is the third-best wide receiver in the NFL and is a threat to score every time he touches the ball and Moose Muhammad is a solid veteran number two. But behind them there is nothing as Dwayne Jerett has proven to be a massive bust. And there really isn’t much to talk about at the tight end position.

The O-line is among the best in football, powerful road graters and solid pass protectors. But QB Jake Delhomme is the wildcard. A proven veteran he is perfect to run the team’s offense.  But he has significant problems when asked to throw 30 or more times a game. And his TD-to-interception ratio leaves much to be desired. As big of a Panthers fan as I am – and I do follow the team closely – I just can’t help but feel they will regress.

10 things I think I thought and Am Now Thinking Again:

1.  Peppers may have signed his tender, but this will be his last year as a Panther unless he has a complete change of heart.

2.  Yes, DeMarcus Ware’s contract will top that of Albert Haynesworth’s because Ware is the game’s best defensive player, period.

3.  The league will win this anti-trust lawsuit. Baseball won theirs in 1922 so I’m sure the Supreme Court will follow the same ruling.

4.  The Pack is back (again). Their offense is terrific and I love what they’re doing on defense (Though I think the switch to the 3-4 is unnecessary).

5.  I think the G-Men will take a step back this year. Next year, when Hakeem Nicks is ready to be a number one option they will compete for the Super Bowl again. But this year will be an off year.

6.  I think because of the temporary step back the Giants are taking, the Cowboys and Eagles will compete for the Division title.

7.  Speaking of teams that will take a step back, Atlanta I hoped you enjoyed your magical 2008.

8.  I also think the Dolphins will take a step back, but it won’t be as big as Atlanta’s.

9.  The Ravens should make every possible (yet reasonable) attempt to trade for Brandon Marshall. He would put the team over the top and into the Super Bowl.

10.Enough with the Tom Brady ass kissing. Peyton Manning is this generations best QB. Always has been, always will be.

Fantasy Rankings: AFC North Quarterbacks In 2009

The AFC North is an interesting division that possess two top fantasy QB’s, and two others with potential. While Carson Palmer is probably the best of the bunch, at this point, Big Ben gets the nod.

 

1. Ben Roethlisberger

Roethlisberger will enter his sixth full season in the league as the proud owner of two Super Bowl rings after his Steelers defeated the Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII.

In 2008, he threw for over 3,300 yards with 19 total TDs, two coming via the run.

This year, the same cast of characters are back, but Santonio Holmes is a year older and more dangerous. Big Ben’s offensive weapons remain intact and strong.

Look for 3,500 yards and over 23 TDs from Big Ben this season.

 

2. Carson Palmer

Palmer is the most talented QB in the division, but he’s stuck on a horrible team. When healthy, he’s right there in the conversation with Manning, Brady and Brees.

Last year, a lingering elbow injury forced him to miss 12 games.

After an offseason to strengthen his elbow, Palmer is healthy, and Ochocinco looks like he’s raring to go.

Mix that in with some of the younger receivers and look for a nice comeback season. He will get over 3,500 yards with 20-25TDs.

 

3. Joe Flacco

For most of his rookie season, he wasn’t called upon to do much, aside from managing the offense and not making mistakes.

Towards the end, as Flacco’s confidence grew, OC Cam Cameron opened up the playbook ever so slightly. Flacco produced, finishing with just under 3,000 yards and 16 total TDs, two coming via the run.

While this will still be a team that relies on its running game and defense to win games, look for another step forward in year two with over 3,000 yards and between 18 to 20 TDs.

 

4. Derek Anderson

Brady Quinn could certainly end up as the starter, and if so, our projections wouldn’t differ too drastically, but our thinking is that Anderson’s the better QB, and his problems last year were due to a horrendous offensive unit and the incessant drops by WR Braylon Edwards in crucial situations.

The forecast in the Dawg Pound isn’t very bright this season, as the team dealt TE Winslow to the Bucs, and WR Stallworth is suspended indefinitely.

Regardless, look for a team that relies heavily on the run, and for Anderson or Quinn to throw for 2,500-2,700 yards with 15-18 TDs.

 

Draft Tip

Roethlisberger will probably be selected before Palmer. His name will be called from round four on.

Palmer, coming off a serious injury, will probably last until round six, and could potentially be an excellent fantasy sleeper.

Flacco will be available after round ten, and you should be able to scoop up Anderson or Quinn at the end of the draft.

Mark Sanchez At QB Headines 2009 Preseason All-Rookie Team

Every year, it seems that sportswriters/analysts around the NFL offer their advice to franchises who draft quarterbacks. They plead for them to not start the inexperienced rookies.

After teams around the league watched Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco turn their franchises around in 2008, coaches will not be so hesitant so start their rookie quarterbacks for a good period of time.

Mark Sanchez earns the No. 1 spot on the 2009 rookie team. Although the Jets’ starting quarterback job was supposedly up for grabs, it seems there is a front runner.

Sanchez, while coming into the league with limited starting experience, played in an offense which assists players in making the transition to the NFL.

I don’t believe that Sanchez’ experience will be a problem with coach Rex Ryan, who had first-hand experience with successful rookie Joe Flacco last year. This is a similar situation, as Flacco beat out the more experienced Kyle Boller.

Sanchez will also beat out the more experienced quarterback. Kellen Clemens is still unproven and blew his chance at a starting job in 2007. Sanchez needs to screw up bad this off-season in order for Clemens to steal the starting job.

Sanchez contains the poise to be an NFL quarterback. He is extremely competitive, but does not contain the arm strength of Matthew Stafford. He will struggle early on with deep throws, mainly routes outside the numbers. He has a tremendous work ethic, though, and he and his receivers will eventually get their timing right.

With great accuracy, a quick release, and good surrounding talent, Sanchez is poised to succeed in 2009.

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