Oakland Raiders Crystal Ball: Ten Non-Game Predictions

Lately with sports news slow, a lot of people have been making predictions on the upcoming NFL season. Whether it be games, win-loss records, playoffs, whatever, everyone seems to have there say in what will happen.

Here I’ll show you 10 of my non-game predictions for the Oakland Raiders upcoming season and explain why I believe they will happen.

 

1. All three of the Raider running backs (Justin Fargas, Michael Bush, and Darren McFadden) will “start” at one point in the season.

The Raiders have three very talented backs Fargas is the most likely to “start” as he has shown the most heart and is a veteran leader on the field. Fargas has had a somewhat injury plagued career as of late and will likely miss a game.

McFadden also had an injury plagued rookie year and it has been said his toe (injured last year) is still bothering him and may not be fully healed. The third back, Bush, is also very talented and likely the most well rounded of the three.

 

2. Johnnie Lee Higgins and Zach Miller both make the Pro-Bowl for the first time.

Last year Higgins was snubbed out of a well deserved Pro-bowl appearance after leading the league in punts returned to the house.

Miller is an up and coming star at tight end who is steadily improving, and, with Tony Gonzalez and Kellen Winslow both now out of the AFC, his chances are very high.

3. At least one “deserving” Raider will be snubbed from the Pro-Bowl.

It seems to happen every year. It just happened to Higgins, the year before it happened to Nnamdi Asomugha and Shane Lechlar, and before that it happened to Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard when they led all linebackers in interceptions.

4. The Raiders are top five in rushing.

The year before last they were ranked sixth, and last year they were tenth, but they lost many players responsible for production in the ground game to injury (Oren O’Neal, Justin Griffith, Jake Grove, as well as McFadden, who was limited due to turf toe, and Fargas, who missed a few with minor injuries).

This year with the additions of Khaliff Barnes, Lorenzo Neal, and less injury-prone Samson Satele the Raiders ground game will be an impressive force with one of the most talented backfields in the league.

5. Sebastian Janikowski breaks the 63-yard field goal record.

He is often seen making 70-yarders for warmups and has arguably the strongest leg in the league. And if Cable has the balls and confidence to try him from 76 yards in a game there’s no doubt in my mind he can hit it from 64.

 

6. The Raiders’ passing offense, run defense, and time of possession all improve over last year.

These were three areas the Raiders were very weak in last year and were ultimately the cause of the Raiders lack of production. They will improve through continuity and moves made this offseason to improve them. And because of the fact that they can’t get much worse than they were, the only way to go is up.

7. Raider-bashing will be at an all-time high, regardless of win-loss records.

Lately the media seems to be having a field day at the Raiders expense. Whether it be pundits criticizing our draft or predicting us last in the division with a 2-14 record, there seems to be a lot of negativity from the media directed at the Raiders.

It’s even reached Comedy Central. I’m sure many of you have even seen the recent clip from the Colbert Report: http://ccinsider.comedycentral.com/2009/06/25/colbert-raiders-logo-a-clear-endorsement-of-gay-rights/

 

8. Before the 2009 season starts, the Raiders will make noise via trade or free agency.

Its no secret the Raiders still have a few holes in their offense. The Raiders even offered a handful and the No. 7 pick up for trade prior to the draft. Now there are rumors floating around that players like Derrick Burgess are being shopped around.

If the Raiders were to make a move in FA there are still a good deal of linebackers available as well as a handful of quality D-linemen.

 

9. JaMarcus Russell throws for 3,000 yards.

Labeled by many as a bust, he has been given all the tools he needs to succeed, but because the Raiders are a running team he won’t exceed this mark by much.

 

10. Tom Cable finishes the season and returns for 2010.

His players have confidence in him as well does Al Davis. Tom Cable’s team first mentality will bring the Raiders back to greatness.

Frank Walker Is Practically Giving Cars Away

No, he doesn’t own a car dealership. Ravens cornerback Frank Walker is just that much of a baller.

Rather than spending the night with random chicks from the club, he gives them his cars. (Via his Twitter)

1. @MissMEsq bc i dm show wasnt bout tostay at her crib lol hellll nawwwww about 1 hour ago from web in reply to MissMEsq
2. @MissMEsq i wass sleepy so i told this random chick iiwas talking t in the club to take it ome and rode home with my bi t roc about 1 hour ago from web in reply to MissMEsq
3. just finished my first grind. gave my car to a complete stranger last night on the way to go get it. I was sleepy, and she seemed cool

That’s right Frank, you don’t want to lamp out with the chick? Give her your car and then Tweet about not wanting to stay at her crib. That’s a sure way to make Baltimore Magazine’s 100 Most Eligible Bachelors.

Building the Perfect NFL Player: Quarterback

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

During one of our recent Happy Hour podcasts, a guest mentioned in the chat about having a coach that was a combination of task master and players coach. Well, that got me to thinking, what about putting together the perfect NFL player?

Over the next two weeks, I’m going to break down every NFL position (QB, RB, WR, TE, OL, DL, LB, CB, S) and, taking current NFL Rosters only, will build the perfect NFL player. Today’s look will be at building the perfect Quarterback.

 

Head: Peyton Manning, Indianapolis Colts

No Quarterback in the NFL is smarter than Peyton Manning, period. Holding a current regular season of 117-59, he has completed at least 62 percent of his passes in every year, with the exception of his rookie season.

Known best for running the Colts no-huddle offense, he frequently will have a formation selected, only to walk up to the line of scrimmage before selecting a play, based on the defense presented to him.

He dissects defenses better than any other current NFL Quarterback to the tune of just over a career two to one touchdown to interception ratio. His 94.7 passer rating is the highest among all current NFL QB’s, and second in NFL history. Simply put, Peyton Manning has a quarterback’s mind that stands alone.

 

Arm: Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

In the pass-happy world of the NFL, no arm has more behind it than Drew Brees of the New Orleans Saints. Since his breakout 2004 season, Brees hasn’t thrown for fewer than 3,000 yards in a season, including 2008’s 5,069 yards, the second-highest seasonal output in the NFL.

In 2006, he had a streak of five straight 300-yard passing games, tied for second in the NFL, and also holds the NFL single-season record for passes completed with 440 in 2007. Since joining the New Orleans Saints in 2006, Brees has shattered the mold of a pocket passer quarterback, and should continue that trend over the next few years.

 

Body: Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers

He takes a licking and keeps on ticking. At a mere 6’5″ tall, and 241 pounds, Big Ben can stand up to most linebackers trying to take him on. Even with his rough 2006-2007 season due to his motorcycle injury, Roethlisberger did more than most, still playing in 15 games despite multiple injuries he was trying to recover from.

Now fully recovered, he was won his second Super Bowl ring, playing with a style he even admits as reckless, while taking plenty of hits. Since 2004, Roethlisberger has been sacked 192 times, most of them while still trying to make a play. He doesn’t throw the ball away when the rush is on.

Instead, most highlights of Big Ben can be seen when avoiding a blocking breakdown, whether its spinning around in the backfield for more time (ala John Elway), or tucking the ball and daring the defenders to take him down. Whatever the case, Roethlisberger’s frame is a model of a quarterback who can take a hit, and dish a few out himself.

 

Legs: Vince Young, Tennessee Titans

Let’s keep in mind, all we’re using is his legs, which are easily the quickest in the NFL since Michael Vick and Donovan McNabb. As a college QB at the University of Texas, Young twice rushed for more than 1,000 yards, and came two yards shy of doing it three straight years. Overall, his 3,127 yards were the most in UT history, and his 37 touchdowns is tied for number one among Quarterbacks.

In his first two years in the NFL, the numbers weren’t as high, but teams still respected his rushing ability, gaining 947 yards and 10 touchdowns, including a 6.7 yards per carry average his rookie season. While he played minimally in 2008, with the rise of the spread formation and the Wildcat, having quick feet like Vince Young’s is optimal for a winning quarterback.

 

Intangibles: Tom Brady, New England Patriots

Is it really any question? After getting passed over 198 times in the 2000 NFL Draft, Brady has done everything, from winning Super Bowls (36, 38, and 39), to setting records (50 touchdowns in 2007). He has a career record of 101-27, including a record 21 game winning streak. He has never lost in overtime, and has led the Patriots to 28 game winning drives.

His ten straight playoff victories is an NFL best. He wins with studs on the roster (Randy Moss, Wes Welker in 2007, Deion Branch 2003-2005), or in 2006, when he had a no-named receiving corps. Despite injuries, including a sports hernia in 2006, and knee problems in 2007 and 2008, Brady is one of the most respected and feared QB in the game today.

 

A quarterback needs strength, speed, and skill. A solid mind, strong arm, quick feet, big body, and the “extra” touch make up winners that we talk about forever. Pieces from Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Ben Roethlisberger, Drew Brees, and Vince Young together make up the perfect quarterback.

Don’t Look Now: Adrian Peterson May Be Running on Borrowed Time

It’s no secret that Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson is the best young back in the NFL today. 

Having exploded onto the scene with 1,341 rushing yards as a rookie and breaking the single game rushing record with 296 yards against the San Diego Chargers, Peterson only improved in 2008. Last season he ran for an astounding 1,760 yards, recording the best season by a Viking runner in the franchise’s history.

However, as widely known as Peterson’s dominance is, the short shelf life for an NFL halfback also recognized. In fact, the minor decline of 30 year-old LaDainian Tomlinson garnered Peterson the title as the NFL’s top runner today.

A comparison to LaDainian Tomlinson is no doubt an honor in a number of ways. But when it’s said and done, there are a few names that I’m sure Peterson—along with LT—would not like to mentioned in the same sentence with when it comes to winning. Those are the names of Hall-of-Fame caliber players Barry Sanders and Curtis Martin. 

What do they all share in common? A career’s worth of ball-carrying brilliance, and an empty ring finger to show for it. 

Peterson is far from the same type of back as Barry Sanders was, but when examining farther, there are a number of similarities between the two. Like Sanders, Peterson was drafted into the NFC North to a franchise that is far from a championship organization with hopes to change that.

At first glance, it seemed as if both were capable. In 1989, Sanders rushed for 1,470 yards as a rookie and found the end zone 14 times. Peterson scored two fewer times on the ground with 12 TDs.

Although Sanders’ outstanding rookie campaign was not enough to propel the Lions to the playoffs—they finished 7-9—it looked like the franchise had a star destined to launch them to the next level.

However, 10 years and 15,269 yards later, Sanders was yet to taste an NFL championship.

Many feel the lack of fielding a competitive team in Detroit was the reason Sanders retired early. Sanders’ desire for a Super Bowl was more prominent than his desire to rewrite the NFL record books.

Now, on the brink of his third NFL season, Adrian Peterson takes the back seat to an even bigger name that is dominating the Minnesota headlines: Brett Favre.

Peterson admits that he would love to play with a Hall of Fame quarterback.

“If he is a part of our team when the season comes around, we’re going to welcome him with open arms and see where the chips fall.”

Peterson also isn’t hesitant to place his trust in Vikings Head Coach Brad Childress.

“I know our coach is going to do his job, and at the end of the day, his job is having the best team possible to win games,” Peterson explained. 

“That’s his job, so I’m going to let him handle his job and I’m going to do my job.”

Now I pose the question: has Adrian Peterson misplaced his trust? Are the Vikings best suited going after an ancient Brett Favre, who is a shadow of what he once was? And is Brett Favre even enough to propel the Vikings to a championship caliber team?

Peterson was blessed  to already compete in the NFL Playoffs.

However, he has also been handed the ball by four different starting quarterbacks. 

Bring someone else to mind? That’s right, as great as Barry Sanders was for such a long period of time, the Lions fielded 10 different starting quarterbacks during that time. 

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying the Vikings have no shot. I have more faith in their organization than I do the Lions.

However, if persuading Favre to come out of retirement with an injured throwing shoulder and hoping he can work his magic once more is their best attempt at getting Peterson to the big dance, then it’s time to get serious.

If they fail to do so, they may find Adrian over the proverbial hill at 30-years-old with more miles on him than even the most durable of stallions can bare.

And like legendary Barry Sanders…nothing to show for it.

 

A Look Back at the 2006 NFL Draft, Pt. 1: Living Up to Expectations

As I was thinking of a short series to discuss, I began to think of one that pertained to past NFL Drafts. Well, the 2006 NFL Draft sure came to mind. We had a lot of surprises within the top ten move up and down, shocking developments within the top ten picks. Well, now it begins. The 3 part series will begin looking at the handful of players within the first 15 picks that have lived up to the expectations the team brought upon them.

JaMarcus Russell: Stepping Up His Game, On and Off the Field

The Oakland Tribune reported this morning that JaMarcus Russell has called his fellow QBs along with the team’s wide receivers and tight ends to a special practice preceding training camp in Napa.

Russell wants to make sure the offense is on the same page going into the 2009 season.

But perhaps it’s more than that. Russell is definitely in a defensive position with veteran Jeff Garcia vying for a starting position. Or maybe Russell is simply living up to the expectations set upon him when he was drafted in 2007.

Many doubted Russell’s ability, while physically prepared, to translate his college game into NFL prowess when he was drafted. But now in his third season, Russell is showing signs of taking the reigns and pushing his team forward.

With the potential of signing new draftees Darius Heyward-Bey and Michael Mitchell, and Russell’s continual progress in strength and accuracy, the stars seem to be aligning in favor of the 2009 Raiders.

What they need now is management, discipline, and leadership. New head coach Tom Cable should help in all three departments, but now it appears Russell is taking steps to get his team in shape as well.

Dissecting the AFC West: Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos Will Contend

The AFC West, a division comprised of underachievers in 2008, should continue a battle this year that ended on the last week of last season.

The San Diego Chargers edged out the Denver Broncos in the final week of competition in 2008 by lighting up the scoreboard, ending up ahead 52-21 in Qualcomm Stadium.

In 2009, the AFC West looks to be a more competitive and much more exciting division. Kansas City and Oakland should make a stronger run for the division title, after setting up shop near the bottom of the conference in 2008.

 

San Diego Chargers

We’ll start at the top of the division. What will San Diego need in order to continue its stay as AFC West Champions?

The first question mark lies next to LaDainian Tomlinson. Who knows which L.T. will grace the field in San Diego this season? A look in the past shows uncertain waters, he might not be a sure bet to reclaim his starring role in San Diego.

Looking back to 2006, LaDainian Tomlinson ran the NFL rushing show with 1,815 rushing yards. A dominant season performance that has lost its shine after only two years.

L.T. ran for only 1,110 yards last season in what seemed to be his worst season rushing in the NFL; failing to beat his rookie mark set in 2001.

Flip the coin however, and L.T. still remained a standout figure in San Diego’s passing game. Matching up with Phillip Rivers 52 times for 426 yards, it wasn’t a career year for L.T. in that department, but certainly a big help to the offense.

San Diego’s best approach to this season will be to keep L.T. as healthy and fresh as possible heading into January.

Darren Sproles should carry half the load, if not more, during the regular season.

Distributing an even load to both backs will be the key to keeping them healthy and running for longer.

It’s easy enough to say that after the age of 30, running backs start to see their way down the ladder in the league. This will need to be the season where San Diego makes a very serious push for a Super Bowl title; their roster should see significant changes in the 2010 season.

On a more upbeat note, Phillip Rivers should have a great season for San Diego once again.

Trent Green, writing in place for Peter King on Monday Morning Quarterback, guarantees Phillip Rivers will be one of as many as 10 QB’s to pass the 4,000 yard mark this season in passing.

Without Jay Cutler in the mix of the AFC West, Rivers won’t have to worry about the constant competition and back-and-forth that used to make up their entire relationship. I think we all remember the Christmas Day shouting match that dropped both of their reputations for a year.

The San Diego Super Chargers, not so super of late, should have a great season in 2009. With healthy backs and a strong quarterback, they are my pick to win the division again.

 

Denver Broncos

Enough has been said about the Denver Broncos this offseason to know that nobody knows how they will perform come September.

New faces make up an almost entirely new organization this year for Denver. Excitement and uncertainty are the best words I can find to describe the Bronco’s feelings when looking forward to the new team.

Kyle Orton heads an offensive unit that should play well in Coach McDaniels’ new scheme.

A stout offensive line, maybe the best in the league, provides the front for what always tends to be an electrifying running game.

Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter, and my personal favorite, Peyton Hillis should combine to be a very balanced attack from the backfield. This spells good news for Orton, who should take advantage of a clean, concise, short passing game.

With Eddie Royal running quick slants, and Tony Scheffler finding himself open on most every play, Orton should have plenty of options over the middle. Good blocking tight ends in Daniel Graham and Quinn (if he makes the team) should make the pocket that much more comfortable for Kyle as he backs into his stance.

The biggest question marks for Denver: Brandon Marshall and their defense.

Marshall stays on top of the headlines in Denver this week, as fans struggle to understand whether or not he will be part of the team when play begins. He’s already missed mandatory OTA’s, and has publicly asked for a trade.

This is on top of his hip-injury, which should be fully healed by the end of July.

Whether or not Marshall deserves a better contract, which he does, this is not the most opportunistic time to demand it.

His legal issues off the field provide a cloud of poor judgement over his young career, and make it difficult for the Broncos to seek negotiations with him.

The word seems to be that Denver would rather let Marshall sit down for the season, than deal out a large contract. But if the perfect trade comes around, I’m sure it won’t surprise many to see Marshall packing his bags for good.

Still, without question, Denver has enough offensive weapons to make up for what would be lost in Marshall.

Defensive threats, on the other hand, still remain uncertain this offseason. The young players drafted by Denver have a great leader to follow in Brian Dawkins. Dawkins should help mold the rookies into professional players in the defensive backfield. It’s always much easier to grow in the NFL with guidance and leadership, both of which a veteran like Dawkins can provide.

The rookie symposium takes place this week, and all the young players coming into the NFL through the draft should benefit from speakers like Mike Tomlin, Cris Carter, and Hall of Fame quarterback Len Dawson.

With guidance, and a little luck, Denver’s defense should provide a much more formidable foe than their 2008 counterpart. Newly acquired Defensive Coordinator Mike Nolan will look to make sure of that.

As a contender, I’d place Denver at No. 2 in the division this year, with stiff competition from the Kansas City Chiefs, who we’ll address next.

 

Kansas City Chiefs

Not a standout team last year by any means, the Kansas City Chiefs did manage to put on quite an offensive show to end the season in 2008. Faces have changed, however, and it’s tough to say what to expect from a new QB and new coaching staff at Arrowhead.

Matt Cassel comes from a season nobody expected from him.

For a quarterback that hasn’t started since high school to lead the New England Patriots to an 11-5 season (10-5 starting record) is highly improbable. Belichik’s defense, and a well seasoned receiver in Randy Moss, backed up Cassel throughout the year, and helped to carry him out of the gates in New England.

This year, Cassel has been left with nowhere near the options he had with the Patriots. Dwayne Bowe is probably his best receiver on the field now that Tony Gonzalez has been traded. Bobby Engram may provide a large target for Cassel, but isn’t Randy Moss. Without the veterans in New England to support him, Cassel will most likely struggle in his first season with KC, but his personal outlook doesn’t seem so grim. 

“Slowly but surely, we’re building chemistry, we’re building rapport, and everybody’s working hard.” Cassel said during KC’s mini-camp.

Only Tyler Thigpen, Brodie Croyle, and Ingle Martin stand between Cassel and having his own team. It’s safe to say he should be the one starting throughout the season for the Chiefs. How he will respond to the changes in his surroundings will be the deciding factor of his success in this league.

The hardest factor for Kansas City to overcome this season will be transforming it’s bottom-of-the-league defense into something worth getting excited about.

With the third overall pick of the 2009 draft, Kansas City chose Tyson Jackson, a stout DE from LSU. He should mold well into a 3-4 defense that makes his run-stuffing ability a stand-out factor. Kansas City followed the trend in later rounds to pick up Alex Magee, DT, and Donald Washington, CB, to help add some young talent to the struggling defensive roster.

Without some serious change in the play of their new defensive rookies and their veterans alike, Kansas City will find it hard to make a winning season out of 2009.

Nevertheless, I do see a lot of potential in Kansas City, and I foresee them competing well with the Denver Broncos in the middle of the division. Before preseason, it’s hard to tell whether or not they can make a run for a wild-card position in next year’s postseason.

 

Oakland Raiders

It’s always been hard for me to tell what kind of season the Oakland Raiders have in store for the NFL and their fans.

Since the Super Bowl losing year with Rich Gannon, the Raiders have dropped into a spiral of mediocrity. But things are looking up for the silver and black.

Last year, rookie back Darren McFadden, despite having almost no veteran leadership, made something out of nothing with his first season. With Justin Fargas leading the way, and Michael Bush riding his coattails, McFadden was able to scrape out 499 rushing yards and four touchdowns, and 29 receptions for 285 yards.

With his first season out of the way, McFadden looks to take up an important role in the Raiders’ offense. Oakland expects to rely on McFadden in the passing game while they work to mend their deep attack.

In his stead, Michael Bush hopes to become the star among the Raiders’ running backs this season. But many would not be surprised if he is traded away before the beginning of the season. Justin Fargas lead the team with 853 rushing yards last season, and without a chance to overtake him, Bush may find his way out of Oakland. Running backs are a precious commodity, and Bush’s value rises that much more when he’s running like he did at the end of the season in 2008.

With three backs sharing game time, Oakland could eventually present a running force as potent as the one for the New York Giants last year; which saw Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward, and Ahmad Bradshaw trading highlights.

JaMarcus Russell benefits greatly in this position. With a strong running game to support the offense, passing the ball would become much easier and more effective. Russell has struggled through his first two seasons with Oakland. His career began with a long rookie holdout, and he didn’t begin to really play until the 2008 season. Putting up 2,423 yards, thirteen touchdowns, and only eight interceptions, Russell certainly made his case to remain the starter for the Raiders.

The staff of the Raiders’ gives Russell another target to aim at this year in Darrius Heyward-Bey. Al Davis continued with his trend to pick the fastest player on the market, and certainly gets that in Darrius. Whether or not he becomes a big threat in the Raiders’ passing game is unsure, but his speed will certainly help decide.

The Raiders, out of all the teams in the AFC West, I believe, have the most ground to cover for this season. They posted a better record than the Chiefs in 2008, but I picture them at the bottom of the division this year.

 

San Diego Chargers:    12-4

Denver Broncos:            9-7

Kansas City Chiefs:       7-9

Oakland Raiders:           5-11

Adrian Peterson and the Quest for 2,000 Yards

Last year around this time, Adrian Peterson set a goal for 2,000 yards rushing in a single season. He fell short of that mark by about 240 yards by gaining 1,760 on the ground.

He had it easy last season facing the 32nd ranked defense of the Detroit Lions and the 26th ranked Green Bay Packers twice. Both teams have upgraded their defense and it’s unlikely either will finish in the same spot again.

The Bears on the other hand ranked fifth in rush defense last season and Peterson played them twice, rushing for 252 yards.

Overall in 2008, rushing defenses that Peterson faced ranked an average of 19th.

In 2009, Peterson will face rushing defenses that finished an average of 18th in 2008.

This season, he faces stiffer competition.

In back-to-back weeks, Peterson will have to rush against the Baltimore Ravens at home before heading on the road to face the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Ravens finished 2008 ranked third in rushing defense while the Steelers ranked second.

Peterson didn’t have the opportunity to face a traditional 3-4 defense last season. The last time he did so was against the San Francisco 49ers who held Peterson to just three yards on 14 carries.

Sadly though, that was after he was coming back from a two-week break after suffering a blow to the knee by Al Harris of the Green Bay Packers.

The 2009 season brings plenty of 3-4 defenses, though. With the Packers switching to a 3-4 defense, the Vikings will play six games against a 3-4. Those games include the Packers twice, Ravens, Steelers, Browns, and 49ers.

So, will Peterson be able to play well against the 3-4? Only time will tell.

His hardest obstacle will come against the Steelers who haven’t allowed a 100-yard rusher since November 18, 2007 when Thomas Jones rushed for 117 yards. The problem for the Steelers is they haven’t faced an Adrian Peterson before.

Peterson saw a bunch of eight and nine-man fronts. With a new quarterback on his way, that’s all about to change.

The likely addition of Brett Favre will open the field for Peterson to run wild. He has destroyed six and seven-man fronts and he will see many more in 2009.

Say what you want about Brett Favre. Defensive Coordinators won’t be putting eight men in the box nearly as often with a Hall of Famer at the helm.

The NFL has only had a handful of 2,000 yard rushers: O.J Simpson (2,003), Terrell Davis (2,008), Barry Sanders (2,053), Jamal Lewis (2,066), and Eric Dickerson (2,105).

Can Peterson become the next?

Despite Steelers’ Success, Patriots Still Team of The Decade

Let me just start by saying I love the Steelers, I really do. But there is simply no denying that the Patriots are the team of this decade, even if Pittsburgh wins the Super Bowl this season.

Another Steelers title would match New England’s three, but you still can’t convince me that the Steelers were better during this decade.

New England has been to four Super Bowls starting with the 2001 season, including back-to-back titles in 2003 and 2004. They registered the most wins of any team during this decade, including a perfect regular season in 2007.

If it were not for a fluke catch in Super Bowl XLII by David Tyree, there would be no discussion.

Another thing working against the Steelers in this argument is Pittsburgh’s inability to beat the Patriots head-to-head in the playoffs. Twice the Patriots came into Pittsburgh in the AFC Championship game and came away with convincing wins.

Maybe if Pittsburgh were to beat New England convincingly in this season’s AFC Championship game and go on to back-to-back titles of their own, the Steelers could stake some sort of claim to the title of decade’s best.

I know, I know, Steelers’ fans will argue about the whole “Spygate” incident and what effect it had on the number of Super Bowl titles the Patriots have won. Some fans will go so far as to say the Patriots flat out cheated and should be disqualified from the team of the decade discussion.

I’m sorry, I don’t necessarily buy into that theory.

Every team tries to gain a competitive edge any way possible, and I’m sure many of them have done things that would push the boundaries of fair play.

The Patriots were caught and punished. Let’s move on.

I don’t think their legacy should be tarnished. Did everyone forget about the Raiders of the 70’s, who were notorious for stretching the rules whenever they could get away with it?

Their legacy was not tarnished, if anything it was enhanced. Those Raider teams from that era are widely recognized as some of the greatest in history, and I don’t remember hearing cries for them to relinquish any of their Lombardi trophies.

The Steelers are perennial contenders and could end up winning a few more titles in the next couple of years, but this decade has clearly belonged to the Patriots.

Let’s give them their due respect.

Fantasy Football Tier Rankings: Quarterbacks

Fantasy football rankings can only do so much.

When you’re in the heated battle of a live draft, it’s sometimes difficult to find a glaring difference between, say, Aaron Rodgers and Philip Rivers. You could even make that argument for the top three quarterbacks in the league—Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, and Drew Brees.

It’s not necessarily about “who is better”. It’s more about the fact that all three are worth a selection in the first two rounds, while no other quarterbacks are.

Next time you’re drafting, take a look at these tier rankings, and you’ll have a solid understanding of each player’s value, as well as where you can expect them to be (or not be).

Tier One (Rounds 1-2)

1. Tom Brady—New England Patriots

He still has Randy Moss and Wes Welker, and the New England offense ran smoothly, even without him. He may not throw 50 touchdowns again, but do you really think someone else will play better?

Why you should draft him: For the possibility of reaching 2007’s numbers again.

Why you shouldn’t: He could be rusty.

2. Peyton Manning—Indianapolis Colts

He’s still a top five quarterback, but there may be too many changes for there to be no drop-off in 2009.

As long as he has Reggie Wayne, Manning is relevant, but losing Tony Dungy, Tom Moore, and Marvin Harrison all in one offseason should affect him.

Why you should draft him: He’s as consistent as they come.

Why you shouldn’t: Changes around him could impact his game.

3. Drew Brees—New Orleans Saints

Brees is fresh off a 34-touchdown and 5,000-yard season. But is that truly something he can repeat?

Probably not, but that offense sets him up for at least 4,000 yards and 25+ scores.

Why you should draft him: Because right now, he’s the hottest signal caller in the league.

Why you shouldn’t: 5,000 yards is a rarity. He’s unlikely to eclipse that number in back-to-back seasons.

4. Kurt Warner—Arizona Cardinals

He may be old, but Warner still has fresh legs and a lively arm. He’s not quite as brittle or injury-prone as advertised, either.

With an exciting offense, featuring a receiving corps that goes four-deep supporting him, another 30+ touchdowns could be in order, as well as 4,000 yards passing.

Why you should draft him: His team is still young and promising, and he still has “it”.

Why you shouldn’t: At 38, he’s a high injury risk.

Tier Two (Rounds 3-6)

5. Aaron Rodgers—Green Bay Packers

While Brett Favre may now again be back in the picture, there is little reason to hate on Rodgers.

He put up 4,000 yards and 31 combined touchdowns in his first season. How scared are you of him once he truly gets comfortable? He could easily finish above Kurt Warner or Peyton Manning in fantasy points, but he can be had for less.

Why you should draft him: He has a good set of receivers and a good offense.

Why you shouldn’t: He could be headed for a sophomore slump.

6. Philip Rivers—San Diego Chargers

Rivers came into his own last season, and with the same weapons returning, he should look to possibly even improve on 2008’s Pro Bowl numbers.

Rivers isn’t a one-year wonder, but you can draft him as if he was.

Why you should draft him: He’s maturing into one of the great, young quarterbacks.

Why you shouldn’t: With a healthy LT and Darren Sproles, Chargers could rely on ground game more.

7. Tony Romo—Dallas Cowboys

Is there life after T.O.? I believe so.

Romo still has his boy, Jason Witten, as well as one of the best running tandems in the league.

Jason Garrett knows what he’s doing, too. Romo will be fine. Get him for dirt cheap.

Why you should draft him: He still has Witten, and that’s worked out well.

Why you shouldn’t: Dallas should look to run more, and Owens is gone.

8. Donovan McNabb—Philadelphia Eagles

If it wasn’t an extreme rarity for McNabb to finish a full season, he’d be listed higher.

His team is back in the pre-season Super Bowl talk, he has an explosive set of receivers, and he’s still backed by Brian Westbrook (if he can stay healthy).

Why you should draft him: Their offense is still exciting, and big numbers are possible.

Why you shouldn’t: There is some uncertainty surrounding Westbrook, and McNabb’s injury history makes him a risk.

9. Carson Palmer—Cincinnati Bengals

Palmer is coming back from a huge surgery, so there’s enough questions surrounding his arm that could make you uneasy about drafting him.

Add to it that Chad Ochocino is an unpredictable prim donna, and it’s hard to be too sold on Palmer’s supporting cast.

Reports from camp have Palmer and co. in good spirits, and predicting big things; however, it should be noted that only two months from the season opener, Palmer’s arm still isn’t close to 100%.

Why you should draft him: Something tells me Ochocinco is determined to right this ship.

Why you shouldn’t: Something tells me Ochocinco isn’t determined to right this ship.

10. Matt Schaub—Houston Texans

Anyone who has Andre Johnson as their top receiver is a candidate for a huge season. Throw in Steve Slaton, Owen Daniels, and Kevin Walter, and Matt Schaub is officially on the brink of fantasy greatness.

The rest is on Gary Kubiak.

Why you should draft him: He threw for 3,000 yards and 15 touchdowns in only 10 full games.

Why you shouldn’t: Has yet to play more than 11 games in a season as the starter.

11. Jay Cutler—Chicago Bears

On pure talent alone, Cutler is easily in the top ten, and regardless of popular opinion, he very well may finish the season among the league’s best.

However, adjusting to a new offense, city, and teammates should never be overlooked.

But if Kyle Orton could throw 18 touchdowns and nearly 3,000 yards with the same talent, what can Cutler accomplish?

Why you should draft him: He’s Jay Cutler, and he really is this good.

Why you shouldn’t: New weapons are less potent.

12. Ben Roethlisberger—Pittsburgh Steelers

Big Ben hasn’t been the “ideal” fantasy option at quarterback, but he’s proven to be more than serviceable on a consistent basis.

The loss of Nate Washington will force Limas Sweed into being a go-to man, but could also hinder Roethlisberger in the long run. With Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes still around, though, the future is bright for Roethlisberger and the Steelers.

Why you should draft him: Because 2007 is still possible.

Why you shouldn’t: Because 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2008 are more likely.

13. Matt Ryan—Atlanta Falcons

It’s a big jump to go from solid “game-manager” as a rookie, to elite quarterback as a sophomore. With Ryan, I see it happening.

Michael Turner is still backing him with one of the league’s most effective ground games, and now Ryan has Tony Gonzalez to team with the explosive Roddy White and serviceable Michael Jenkins.

Teams will focus on the run against Atlanta. Ryan could have a huge year.

Why you should draft him: His offense breathes “Super Bowl contender”, and he showed us a lot late in the season.

Why you shouldn’t: Atlanta is still a run-first team.

14. Eli Manning—New York Giants

Yes, he’s won a Super Bowl, and yes, he’s even thrown for over 20 touchdowns in four straight years, but has never thrown for more than 24 touchdowns or 3,800 yards. In fact, he hasn’t thrown for more than 3,400 yards since 2005.

Factor in a completely new set of receivers and no Plaxico Burress, and his projected numbers don’t look too sexy.

Why you should take him: He’s a Manning.

Why you shouldn’t: He had 11 games with one or zero passing touchdowns in 2008.

15. Matt Hasselbeck—Seattle Seahawks

Hasselbeck’s back appears to be aligned and working, so a return to his 2007 form isn’t out of the question.

His running game is still mush, but with new additions (and health) to his receiving corps, his prospects for 2009 are looking far brighter than they were at the beginning og last year.

Seattle may not be a Super Bowl contender anymore, but Hasselbeck could surprise some people.

Why you should draft him: Someone has to throw T.J. Houshmandzadeh the ball.

Why you shouldn’t: He’s playing his first year without his mentor, Mike Holmgren.

Tier Three (Rounds 7-14)

16. Matt Cassel—Kansas City Chiefs

If Cassel was preparing for year two in New England as the starter, his stock would be extremely high.

However, with a new coach, system, and a huge drop-off in offensive weapons, he’s starting all over again.

Why you should draft him: He’s as good as advertised.

Why you shouldn’t: The change of scenery could hold him back.

17. Brett Favre—Minnesota Vikings

If Favre signs, he’s backed by the league’s best running back, and he’s back in his old division.

The only knock on him is his age and interceptions. With AP leading the way, will it matter?

Why you should take him: Sure, he’s pushing 40, but like him or not, he’s still got it.

Why you shouldn’t: Last year’s late slide is still scary.

18. Trent Edwards—Buffalo Bills

Edwards had the makings of a solid NFL signal caller, with or without the addition of Terrell Owens in the offseason. But with T.O., Edwards could see an accelerated jump to the elite—that is, if the chemistry is there, and Edwards’ long ball can be consistent.

Why you should draft him: T.O. rarely disappoints in his first year.

Why you shouldn’t: In 24 games, he has 18 touchdowns. Not exactly electric.

19. Kyle Orton—Denver Broncos

Orton put up decent numbers in his final season with Chicago, and he didn’t even have a true No. 1 receiver on his team.

If he can inherit Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal, he could thrive.

Why you should draft him: His new weapons could catapult him into the top 10.

Why you shouldn’t: Brandon Marshall’s future is in limbo.

20. David Garrard—Jacksonville Jaguars

Garrard grew as a passer last season, but more because his offensive line was horrendous, and less because he had good options to throw to.

With Matt Jones and Dennis Northcutt gone, and only an aging Torry Holt around to take their place, Jacksonville will likely lean hard on the ground game.

Why you should draft him: If he throws less than 400 balls again, he can be extremely efficient.

Why you shouldn’t: His weapons aren’t exciting.

21. Chad Pennington—Miami Dolphins

Pennington won the Comeback Player of the Year award last season—which is both good and bad.

It shows he has a ton of dedication, and can play through adversity. But how long can it last?

Why you should draft him: Like it or not, he’s what makes Miami go.

Why you shouldn’t: A return to 2007 is more likely than a repeat of 2008.

22. Joe Flacco—Baltimore Ravens

Flacco has great size and arm strength, and should have much more confidence heading into his second season; however, he ended the season on a sour note, and still has mediocre weapons.

The Ravens have a solid RBBC approach, and it appears they are, once again, an offense that’s tied to the success of their rush attack.

Why you should draft him: His chemistry with his receivers is improving.

Why you shouldn’t: Even if he progresses, the Ravens won’t throw much.

23. Jason Campbell—Washington Redskins

Campbell got off to a hot start in 2008, throwing for eight scores, up against zero interceptions in the Redskins’ first eight games.

However, Campbell and the rest of Washington’s offense fell apart after that, dropping to 8-8, after starting the season at 6-2.

Why you should draft him: This could be his break-out year.

Why you shouldn’t: Last season was as good as it gets.

24. Jake Delhomme—Carolina Panthers

Delhomme ended a less-than-spectacular 2008 with five interceptions against the Arizona Cardinals. While most took this as a sign that Carolina needed to move on and draft a franchise quarterback, Jon Fox and co. apparently looked at it as simply a “bad game”.

The truth is, in six seasons as the Panthers’ starter, Delhomme has produced one “elite” season, while only tossing for more than 3,400 yards or 20 touchdowns one other time.

Why you should draft him: Steve Smith keeps Delhomme relevant.

Why you shouldn’t: He simply isn’t a good fantasy quarterback anymore.

25. Marc Bulger—St. Louis Rams

A new regime seems to have the right frame of mind, and the Rams are going to try their hand at being a run-first offense.

I’m not sure how Bulger will handle that, but with limited offensive weapons, he may not have a choice.

Why you should draft him: Because someone grabbed Brett Favre way too early.

Why you shouldn’t: Because there’s another starter available.

Tier Four (Bottom of the Barrel)

26. Kerry Collins—Tennessee Titans

Collins is 36 and hasn’t thrown for more than 12 touchdowns in nearly four years. However, if the passing game opens up a bit, it isn’t ridiculous to think that Collins could get back to the form he has in Oakland, where he was tossing 20 touchdowns a year, along with at least 3,400 yards.

The Titans will undoubtedly still lean heavily on the ground game, but Collins is a lot more serviceable than people think.

Why you should draft him: Just for pure depth.

Why you shouldn’t: You were smart enough to draft quarterbacks early.

27. Brady Quinn—Cleveland Browns

Quinn appears to be the “drug of choice” for Eric Mangini, and the Browns front office will find out, one way or another, exactly what they have in their golden boy.

Why you should draft him: Braylon Edwards is still dangerous, and Quinn can play.

Why you shouldn’t: Outside of Edwards, Quinn has almost no weapons.

28. Shaun Hill—San Francisco 49ers

Hill is the front-runner for the starting job, but the idea is for Alex Smith to win his job back.

Hill is incredibly efficient and wins games, but he’s no fantasy star.

Why you should draft him: Frank Gore and the rest of the offense should be better.

Why you shouldn’t: Outside of the aging Isaac Bruce, his receivers are unproven.

29. Mark Sanchez—New York Jets

If the Plaxico Burress talk comes to life, Sanchez could be looking at a very interesting (and possibly successful) rookie season.

Sanchez has all the tools, as well as the moxie, to do some damage in year one, but expecting a Matt Ryan-repeat is a bit much.

Why you should draft him: If they land Burress, the offense is solid.

Why you shouldn’t: If it’s just Cotchery, Sanchez will struggle.

30. Daunte Culpepper—Detroit Lions

Culpepper may not be anywhere close to where he was when he was in Minnesota, but as long as Calvin Johnson is running routes, whoever is quarterback in Detroit could put up serviceable numbers, at worst.

The Lions don’t want to put Sanchez behind a sketchy offensive line so soon, so we’ll get to see Culpepper take a beating, instead.

Why you should draft him: He has solid chemistry with Calvin Johnson.

Why you shouldn’t: He’s no lock to start.

31. Jeff Garcia—Oakland Raiders

Garcia is already out-performing Jamarcus Russell, and if Russell falters early, Garcia could easily step in and put up better numbers.

That is, if he doesn’t win the job in pre-season.

Why you should draft him: Only in deep leagues with two quarterback rosters.

Why you shouldn’t: He’s not the starter, yet.

32. Luke McCown—Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Byron Leftwich is currently listed as the projected starter, but McCown has better moxie, and is passionate in the huddle.

While McCown isn’t the best option out there, he still provides better fantasy value than Leftwich, while either are better than rookie Josh Freeman right now.

Why you should draft him: Only if he’s the starter.

Why you shouldn’t: He threw one pass in all of 2008.

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