Carter’s NFL Power Rankings: Week Three

With two weeks down in the NFL season and 15 weeks to go until the regular season ends, there are plenty of candidates to choose from for the NFL’s best team. Here’s how I see the NFL teams: Best to worst, along with a few stats I saw regarding each team.

 

1. New Orleans Saints (2-0)

Drew Brees leads all NFL quarterbacks in passer rating (132.9), and touchdown passes (9), and is second in passing yards (669). Mike Bell is fourth among running backs with 229 rushing yards. Marques Colston is the only WR at the moment with at least three touchdown catches.

2. Minnesota Vikings (2-0)

Brett Favre is third among quarterbacks with a 110.2 passer rating trailing Colts QB Peyton by only one-tenth of a point. Favre has also been sacked seven times this season. Only three other QBs have been sacked more times. Adrian Peterson is the NFL’s leader in rushing yards (272) and touchdown runs (four).

3. Denver Broncos (2-0)

Elvis Dumervil has recorded four sacks this season; second-most in the NFL.

4. New York Jets (2-0)

5. Atlanta Falcons (2-0)

Matt Ryan is tied for second with Joe Flacco among quarterbacks with five touchdown passes and fourth with a 108.5 NFL passer rating.

6. Baltimore Ravens (2-0) 

Joe Flacco is tied for second with Matt Ryan among quarterbacks with five touchdown passes. Willis McGahee is tied for second among running backs (Frank Gore) with three touchdown runs.

7. San Francisco 49ers (2-0) 

Shaun Hill has been sacked eight times this season. Only Aaron Rodgers (ten sacks) and Brady Quinn (nine) have been sacked more times. Frank Gore is third among running backs with 237 rushing yards and tied for second (Willis McGahee) with three touchdown runs.

8. Seattle Seahawks (1-1)

Lawrence Jackson has recorded an NFL-third-best three sacks this season.

9. Buffalo Bills (1-1)

Trent Edwards is fifth among quarterbacks with a 104.9 passer rating. Fred Jackson is fifth among running backs with 220 rushing yards. Keith Ellison is second in the NFL with 27 tackles

10. Dallas Cowboys (1-1)

11. Arizona Cardinals (1-1)

Tim Hightower is third in the NFL with 15 receptions.

12. New York Giants (2-0)

Eli Manning has thrown for the fifth most passing yards in the league through his first two games (586). WR Steve Smith is tied for the NFL lead (Santonio Holmes) among wide receivers with 214 receiving yards. Mario Manningham is fourth with 208.

13. Indianapolis Colts (2-0)

Peyton Manning is second among quarterbacks with a 110.3 passer rating and is third in passing yards with 604. Dallas Clark is the NFL’s leader in receiving yards with 222 (and he’s a tight end). WR Reggie Wayne is fifth with 199.

14. Philadelphia Eagles (1-1)

15. Cincinnati Bengals (1-1)

Antwan Odom has recorded seven sacks this season: Most in the NFL.

16. Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1)

Santonio Holmes is tied for the NFL lead (Giants’ Steve Smith) among wide receivers with 214 receiving yards.

17. San Diego Chargers (1-1)

Through the first two weeks, Philip Rivers has thrown for more passing yards than any other QB in the NFL (688). Stephen Cooper is tied for fifth in the NFL (Justin Durant) with 20 tackles.

18. Green Bay Packers (1-1)

QB Aaron Rodgers has been sacked ten times this season, more than any other QB in the NFL.

19. Oakland Raiders (1-1)

Among all 32 NFL starting QBs, JaMarcus Russell has the third-lowest passer rating (46.6), through the first two games. Greg Ellis has recored an NFL-third-best three sacks this season.

20. Chicago Bears (1-1)

21. Washington Redskins (1-1)

London Fletcher is third in the NFL with 27 tackles.

22. New England Patriots (1-1)

Tom Brady has thrown for fourth-most passing yards in his first two games (594). Randy Moss and the Giants’ Steve Smith are tied for the NFL lead with 16 receptions.

23. Tennessee Titans (0-2)

Chris Johnson is second among NFL running backs with 254 rushing yards.

24. Houston Texans (1-1)

25. Miami Dolphins (0-2)

26. Jacksonville Jaguars (0-2)

Justin Durant is tied for fifth in the NFL (Chargers’ Stephen Cooper) with 20 tackles.

27. Kansas City Chiefs (0-2)

Among all 32 NFL starting QBs, Matt Cassel has the fourth-lowest passer rating (66.3), through the first two games.

28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-2)

29. St. Louis Rams (0-2)

James Laurinitis is fourth in the NFL with 22 tackles.

30. Detroit Lions (0-2)

Among all 32 NFL starting QBs, Matthew Stafford has the lowest passer rating (40.5), through the first two games. He and Jake Delhomme have both thrown an NFL-high five interceptions.

31. Cleveland Browns (0-2)

Among all 32 NFL starting QBs, Brady Quinn has the fifth-lowest passer rating (66.9), through the first two games. He has been sacked nine times this year. Only Aaron Rodgers has been sacked more times (ten times).

32. Carolina Panthers (0-2)

Among all 32 NFL starting QBs, Jake Delhomme has the second-lowest passer rating (45.3), through the first two games. He and Matthew Stafford have both thrown an NFL-high five interceptions. Linebacker Thomas Davis leads the NFL with 28 tackles.

 

 

Carter’s Top 10 NFL Quarterbacks

1. Drew Brees (Saints): 669 passing yards, 9 TDs

2. Philip Rivers (Chargers): 688 passing yards, 3 TDs

3. Peyton Manning (Colts): 604 passing yards, 3 TDs

4. Byron Leftwich (Buccaneers): 572 passing yards, 4 TDs

5. Eli Manning (Giants): 586 passing yards, 3 TDs

6. Tom Brady (Patriots): 594 passing yards, 2 TDs

7. Matt Schaub (Texans): 523 passing yards, 4 TDs

8. Kurt Warner (Cardinals): 531 passing yards, 3 TDs

9. Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers): 584 passing yards, 2 TDs

10. Jay Cutler (Bears): 513 passing yards, 3 TDs

 

Carter’s Top NFL Runningbacks

1. Adrian Peterson (Vikings): 272 rushing yards, 4 TDs

2. Chris Johnson (Titans): 254 rushing yards, 2 TDs

3. Frank Gore (49ers): 237 rushing yards, 3 TDs

4. Mike Bell (Saints): 229 rushing yards, TD

5. Marion Barber (Cowboys): 203 rushing yards, 2 TDs

6. Cedric Benson (Bengals): 217 rushing yards, TD

7. Ronnie Brown (Dolphins): 179 rushing yards, 2 TDs

8. Fred Jackson (Bills): 220 rushing yards

9. Michael Turner (Falcons): 170 rushing yards, TD

10. Steven Jackson (Rams): 171 rushing yards

 

Carter’s Top 10 NFL Wide Receivers

1. Steve Smith (Giants): 222 receiving yards, TD

2. Reggie Wayne (Colts): 208 receiving yards, 2 TDs

3. Santonio Holmes (Steelers): 214 receiving yards, TD

4. Andre Johnson (Texans): 197 receiving yards, 2 TDs

5. Mario Manningham (Giants): 214 receiving yards, TD

6. Chad Ochocinco (Bengals): 184 receiving yards, 2 TDs

7. Vincent Jackson (Chargers): 199 receiving yards, TD

8. Jerricho Cotchery (Jets): 180 receiving yards, TD

9. Devery Henderson (Saints): 177 receiving yards

10. Randy Moss (Patriots): 174 receiving yards, TD

 

Carter’s Top 10 NFL Tight Ends

1. Dallas Clark (Colts): 222 receiving yards, TD

2. Tony Gonzalez (Falcons): 144 receiving yards, 2 TDs

3. Chris Cooley (Redskins): 151 receiving yards, TD

4. John Carlson (Seahawks): 141 receiving yards, 2 TDs

5. Kellen Winslow (Buccaneers): 120 receiving yards, 2 TDs

6. Brent Celek (Eagles): 141 receiving yards, TD

7. Antonio Gates (Chargers): 161 receiving yards

8. Dustin Keller (Jets): 116 receiving yards, TD

9. Owen Daniels (Texans): 116 receiving yards, TD

10. Jason Witten (Cowboys): 104 receiving yards, TD

 

Carter’s Top NFL Offenses:

1. New Orleans Saints

2. Dallas Cowboys

3. Baltimore Ravens

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

5. San Diego Chargers

6. New York Giants

7. Philadelphia Eagles

8. Tennessee Titans

9. Denver Broncos

10. New England Patriots

 

Carter’s Top 10 NFL Defenses:

1. New York Jets

2. Denver Broncos

3. Minnesota Vikings

4. San Francisco 49ers

5. New England Patriots

6. Chicago Bears

7. Pittsburgh Steelers

8. Arizona Cardinals

9. Washington Redskins

10. Philadelphia Eagles

 

 

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Play Calling Advice That May Break the Redskins Out Of Their Funk

The word is out and the news is spreading.  Washington is ripe for a Lions upset.

 

This is the theme that has been bandied about every major sports show or website over the past week.  If you are judging the Redskins based on their play so far this season you could probably arrive at the same conclusion.

 

On paper there is no way that this happens.  But games aren’t played on paper.  If the Redskins don’t break out of their current scoring slump, and keep giving teams such as the Lions chances to steal a win, this season defining upset could become a reality.

 

This would be devastating to the Redskins.  If they have any hope for challenging teams in their division they must win games like this.  I have come up with some tips that could help them break out of their slump and finally allow me to relax in the fourth quarter of a game.

 

First of all the Redskins need to spread it out in goal line situations and give Campbell the freedom to make decisions.  So far this year it is evident that the Redskins’ offensive line is not a dominant unit.  The two tight end heavy formations that the Redskins are known for haven’t been giving Portis, or anyone else, the push to get the tough yards.

 

A change of strategy is in order.  Spreading a defense out with three or four receiver sets will do many things that could help this team.  Clinton Portis had his greatest success running for a zone blocking scheme in Denver.  Spreading it out gives Portis more cutback options and space to create.

 

A spread formation dictates that the defense must switch from goal line packages to nickel coverage.  This puts a less powerful team on the field and could help give the Redskins the push that they need in the running game.

 

Spreading it out also takes defenders away from the line of scrimmage and could create opportunities for Campbell to use a QB draw.  Even if a draw is not designed it would give Campbell more space to improvise if a play breaks down.  Campbell’s mobility hasn’t been effectively utilized in the red zone and this could be the formation that may best utilize his instincts.

 

Going with a multiple receiver set allows the big targets like Malcolm Kelly and Marko Mitchell to get into the game and help give the Redskins the goal line play making ability that they were drafted to provide.  The Redskins wanted this size advantage when they drafted them.  Now that they have it they should use it.

 

The defense played much better last week as they actually managed to create pressure without using all out blitzes.  That must continue this week.  Pressure creates mistakes.  The ‘Skins must keep Stafford uneasy the entire game.  If they do the turnovers will follow.

 

Many people think that DeAngelo Hall is the Redskins’ best cornerback.  While he is their best playmaking corner, Carlos Rogers is actually a better cover corner.  Rogers needs to draw the assignment against Calvin Johnson, but Gregg Blache would still be wise to double team him.

 

The Skins should let Hall play the opposite side, where he can’t get burned deep and will be in the best position to make big plays.

 

The Redskins took some of my advice to heart last week, and the result was a win, however ugly it seemed.  If they can make these new changes it might save them from the most embarrassing defeat imaginable.

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Raider Fan Trash Talk: A Premonition

To save Broncos fans some time, I thought I would provide a quick synopsis of Raiders’ trash talk for the next three years. This way you can ignore the Retard Nation and go about your business.

December 2008–Sept. 27, 2009: “The last time the Raiders played the Donkeys, JaMarcus Russell tore you up. He was 10-for-11 for 152 yards.  The horses had no answer for his rocket arm. He will do the same to you this time. Never mind that he has a 35 percent completion rate. Disregard the 7-of-24 performance against the Chiefs because he was 10-of-11 last time…in your own house. Raiderssssss”

Sept. 28, 2009–Dec. 20, 2009: “Last December, the Donkey made JaMarcus Russell look like a pro bowler. Ten-for-11, choke on that Donk fans.  JRuss is going to tear the Horses apart. Raiderssss”

Dec. 21, 2009–Early 2010 football season: “Three games ago JaMarcus Russell didn’t have any trouble with your weak ass Donk defense. JRuss has come into his own, and he will shred you guys again this time around. Raidersssss”

Early 2010 football season–late 2010 Football Season: “Remember two years ago when JRuss went 10-of-11. Remember when he didn’t suck? Raidersssss”

Late 2010 Football season and beyond: “A couple years ago…JRuss…no picks…10-of-11…no picks, did I say that?…152 yards…I hate the Donkeys…JRuss…Raidersssssss.”

 

Please God, let this nonsense go on forever. I know that someday Raiders fans and management will wake up and realize Russell is passable at best and horrendous at his worst, but it is so fun to watch the train wreck while it is still in slow motion.

Go Broncos!

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Carolina Panthers’ Defense Must Allow Double Trouble to Punish Dallas

The Carolina Panthers’ season has not started quite the way they envisioned it would. 

Last year’s NFC South division champion and the recipient of a first round playoff bye has opened up 2009 in far from impressive fashion.  Back to back losses, albeit to playoff teams from 2008, has fans in Charlotte up in arms and calling for heads across the board. 

Regardless of which name you choose to drag through the mud, be it Jake Delhomme, Julius Peppers, John Fox, Marty Hurney, or even Jerry Richardson, chances are there are valid points out there to backup your case.

That’s what this team has been reduced to.  Instead of showing up on Sundays to pull for the home team, or flocking to the local bars in droves to outnumber opposing fans for away games, this fan base has morphed into a pessimistic group of head hunters. 

The Panthers made strides between their season opener and their loss last week in Atlanta, but that fact was overshadowed by the fact that Julius Peppers, making roughly $1 million per game, didn’t have a sack and only recorded two tackles. 

A victory in Dallas has the potential to completely turn the tables in Charlotte and across Panther Nation. 

Wade Phillips, Tony Romo, and the rest of “America’s Team” have their own questions swirling around them.  Much like the Panthers, their first two games have been riddled with a poor pass rush and shaky quarterback play.  The only glaring difference is that the Cowboys were graced with Tampa Bay in Week One and were able to notch a victory.

The Panthers defense will be the key on Sunday night but not necessarily because of their production.  The defense will be instrumental in making sure the Panthers’ most effective weapon can reach its maximum potential.

That weapon, of course, is none other than the double-edged sword that has been dubbed “Double Trouble.”  The running back combo of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart burst onto the scene last year and is widely regarded as one of the top duos in the game.  The two combined for over 2,300 yards last year while punching in 28 touchdowns.

The two have picked up where they left off last year but have not had the chance to shine because the Panthers have been playing from behind for most of the year.

Williams has two touchdowns in two games while averaging 3.9 yards per carry, while Stewart is averaging about 5.0 yards per carry but hasn’t reached the promised land yet.

The Panthers’ best chance to come away from Dallas with a tally in the win column lies in the hands (or legs) of this tandem.  The only way they will get the chance to lead the team to victory is if the defense can keep Romo and friends from jumping out to an early lead. 

Though the Panthers put forth a better offensive effort last Sunday in Atlanta, the team was forced to call 41 pass plays compared to just 25 run plays due to the balance of the scoreboard being tipped in the Falcons’ direction.  Williams averaged 4.9 yards per carry and Stewart averaged over seven, but the flow of the game wouldn’t allow the running backs to be featured like the Panthers would have preferred.

The Cowboys’ defense is giving up an average of 135.5 rushing yards per game in 2009, and is giving up 4.7 yards per carry.  Tampa Bay ran wild on Dallas, and although they were able to keep Brandon Jacobs pretty much in tact, the Giants were still able to control the ground game.

If the Panthers can score first for the third straight week, then put together a couple of solid defensive possessions to keep the Cowboys from responding right away, then Double Trouble should be able to hunker down and put in a solid body of work.  Establishing the running game would take unneeded pressure off of Delhomme and would allow the play action pass to be a viable option as the game grinds on.

It is also important that the Panthers’ coaching staff play into their strengths on Monday.  The lights will be bright and the building will be packed, but nerves cannot interfere with the gameplan.  A three and out on the opening drive does not mean that Delhomme needs to come out slingin’ on the second. 

For this team, the running game is the bread, the butter, and the knife that spreads it.  Delhomme isn’t the kind of guy who can take the offense under his wing and win games week in and week out. 

John Fox and his play-calling cronies have been notorious for abandoning the running game early on in recent memory.  Keeping the ball on the ground is the main key to winning this game for Carolina, and to get away from that too early will spell doom and could lead to another Delhomme meltdown if we’re not careful.

The Panthers’ defense has been unimpressive  to say the least this year, but playing with a lead would be a welcome change of scenery for those guys.  Perhaps this scheme will click and the light bulb will come on if they have a chance to go out on the field with something to protect rather than trying to keep the situation from getting worse.

Whichever way you slice it, the Panthers need to establish the ground game to be successful not only in Dallas, but every week.

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Spread ‘Em: Week Three NFL Picks

Week Three is where things start to get interesting. Some of the 2-0 teams will be exposed as frauds, while teams that are 0-2 now may already be playing the most important game of their seasons.

Also, in the minds of the players, coaches, and fans that follow teams, there’s a huge difference between 2-1 and 1-2. There’s a lot of season left, yet this week may tell a lot about what’s to come.

As always, I base my picks on flawed logic, personal opinion, age-old gambling trends, and matchups. If you’re looking for high-end analysis, this may not be the place to look for it.

Here now are the Week Three picks, with the home team in bold. Picks are for entertainment purposes only, of course. (Last week vs. spread: 12-4. Season record against the spread: 21-12)

 

Sunday

Tennessee (+2.5) over NY Jets

The Jets throttled the Houston Texans in Houston in Week One. The Titans lost at home to the Texans in Week Two. So, naturally, Tennessee will beat the Jets.

Wait…what?

It doesn’t make sense, I know, but bear with me.

Tennessee’s offense is predicated on running the ball, and they’ll do that with some success against the Jets. The Patriots, not known for running the ball, averaged a solid four yards per carry last week against the Jets.

I know the Titans’ defense is struggling against the pass, but there isn’t a star receiver on the Jets, and Mark Sanchez, as great as he’s been so far, is still a rookie with a lot to prove. Call this game a speed bump in his development.

Titans, 21-13

 

Houston(-4) over Jacksonville

Casual football fans still don’t know what to make of the Houston Texans, and neither do I for that matter. Are they soft? Are they improved? How’s the defense looking?

This week’s game won’t provide answers any of those questions. The Jacksonville Jaguars haven’t been able to muster a pass rush in their first two games, and Texans quarterback Matt Schaub shouldn’t have much trouble finding his receivers. Meanwhile, despite what figures to be a big game from Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars’ coach Jack Del Rio might find his job in jeopardy soon.

Houston, 27-21

 

Philadelphia(-9) over Kansas City

This pick isn’t a vote of confidence in the Eagles as much as it’s a reflection of my belief that the Chiefs have a long way to go before they see much success.

I know key members of the Eagles aren’t healthy (McNabb and Westbrook for instance), but the Chiefs haven’t shown they can run the ball or stop the run, and that combination usually spells disaster.

Eagles, 31-14

 

Baltimore (-13.5) over Cleveland

Many believe that, right now, the Ravens are the best team in the league and the Browns are the worst. Put them together on the Ravens’ home field and one would expect a blowout. That’s what I’m expecting anyway.

Ravens, 34-10

 

NY Giants (-6.5) over Tampa Bay

Eli Manning and his young wide receiving corps showed a national TV audience last week that they are beginning to click. Now, the Giants’ passing offense gets to light up the Buccaneers, who gave up 353 passing yards to Tony Romo in Week One, and 230 to Trent Edwards in Week Two.

Because the Giants’ defense will be a bit short-handed, this one might wind up being close to the spread, but the G-Men will still cover.

Giants, 28-21

 

Washington (-6.5) over Detroit

It’s become chic to take the Lions to cover or win this game outright, but I’m not falling for that trap. The Redskins can run the ball and stop the run and, despite the conservative nature of their passing attack, quarterback Jason Campbell has completed nearly 70 percent of his passes and doesn’t make a lot of mistakes.

The Lions have shown flashes of talent, but have yet to sustain that for more than a quarter. Until they do so, no matter how chic it may be, I’m not betting with the Lions.

Redskins, 27-15

 

St. Louis (+6.5) over Green Bay

Let’s call this my Upset Special. After allowing Cedric Benson to run for over 140 yards last week, the Packers get to face Steven Jackson who is a talented running back in his own right. He’ll do well in this one. Green Bay will be able to move the ball on the Rams and score points, but their offensive line is suspect.

I believe the Rams will not only cover, they’ll break through for a win here. I know they’ve only scored one touchdown this season. However, it’s the home opener for them after two road losses, and the Rams seem committed to giving Jackson the ball more.

Rams, 24-21

 

Minnesota(-7) over San Francisco

The 49ers have been a nice story thus far. It’s always fun to see a team that’s been down for a long time become successful again.

This week, the story gets put on hold. This is the Vikings’ home opener. They’ve won by double digits on the road twice. Granted, they beat the Browns and Lions, but it’s still an impressive feat. The 49ers are a different caliber of team of course, but they are still on the way up.

The Vikings appear to have all the pieces in place already, with Brett Favre proving to be a capable “game manager” thus far. Maybe this week the Vikings open up the passing game a bit and use their speed on the turf to their advantage.

Vikings 27-17

 

New England(-4) over Atlanta

Another trend I’ve seen a lot this week is people picking the Falcons to cover, or win outright. The Patriots are a vulnerable bunch. The Falcons have a great young quarterback, a Hall-of-Fame caliber tight end, and a running back who has yet to really get going this year. It makes sense.

Despite these strengths, the Falcons have an average defense that can be exploited. As each week passes, Pats’ quarterback Tom Brady will grow more comfortable on the field; he hasn’t found his rhythm quite yet.

The Patriots left points on the field against the Jets last week and gained over 200 yards in the first half of last week’s game. There’s no need to panic quite yet, and I’m not betting against them in the meantime.

Patriots 24-17

 

Chicago (-2.5) over Seattle

The Bears are coming off a nice win over the Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers, while the Seahawks lost to the 49ers last week, and saw Frank Gore run for over 200 yards in the process. The Seahawks will be competitive at home, no question, but they are not dynamic on offense, especially without starting quarterback Matt Hasselbeck.

The Bears have enough weapons on offense to put this game out of reach with Seattle backup quarterback Seneca Wallace at the helm.

Bears, 28-14

 

Buffalo (+6) over New Orleans

It’s easy to love the Saints right now, and I want to be seduced by their gaudy offensive numbers. However, I am not easily swayed. The Bills had the Patriots dead-to-rights in Week One and dominated the Buccaneers in Week Two. Their defense can compete with the Saints’ offense, I believe. Whether they can beat New Orleans remains to be seen, and no, I’m not feeling that brave, but I do see this one being decided late.

Saints, 28-24

 

Miami (+5.5) over San Diego

I really liked how the Dolphins played against the Colts last week. While they didn’t win, they proved they had a well-designed game plan. At 0-2, they’ll be desperate to have this one. Meanwhile, the Chargers’ defense isn’t what it used to be, and they’ve become a pass-first team. Against an opportunistic defense like Miami’s that can lead to either big plays, or crushing turnovers. I’m betting on the turnovers.

Dolphins, 23-20

 

Cincinnati (+4) over Pittsburgh

Let me get this straight…

The defending Super Bowl champion Steelers went to Soldier Field last week and lost.

The defending AFC North doormat Bengals went to Lambeau Field last week and won.

The Steelers have struggled to protect quarterback Ben Roethlisberger so far this season, while the league’s leader in sacks (Antwan Odom) plays for the Bengals.

The Steelers miss defensive leader Troy Polamalu, and the Bengals have a solid passing attack.

Yet, somehow, Steelers are favored on the road against the Bengals?

I’m puzzled. And I’m taking Cincy, outright.

Bengals, 31-21

 

Denver (-1.5) over Oakland

Considering the lack of respect the Broncos have generated thus far, I half-expected the Raiders to be favored in this one.

Kyle Orton’s finger is improving, as is his grasp of the offense. The Broncos’ defense, which has allowed just 13 points on the season, will be tested by Oakland’s running backs. Similarly, Denver’s running attack should cause trouble for Oakland’s defense. I believe the Broncos will make few mistakes, play disciplined football, and win.

Broncos, 21-10

 

Arizona (-2.5) over Indianapolis

This is being promoted as a potential shootout between two teams with great quarterbacks, and there’s some truth in the advertising. Neither defense is stout, and neither team’s running game has done much in the early going.

Individually, Peyton Manning is better than Kurt Warner. However, I think Kurt Warner’s supporting cast, from the offensive line, to the receivers and running backs, is better. Thus, the Cardinals are the bet.

Cardinals, 27-21

 

Monday Night

Carolina (+8.5) over Dallas

After a Week One stinker, the Panthers were respectable in their game against the Falcons last week. They have yet to return to the running attack that made them successful last season, and the Cowboys may not be the best team to run on; they held their own against the Giants’ formidable backs last week.

However, perhaps the Panthers can do some damage in the air. Dallas hasn’t been able to consistently rush the passer with any success so far this year, and they’ve yet to face a receiver as talented as the Panthers’ Steve Smith.

I expect a lot of points in this game, and I expect Dallas to win, but not by a huge margin.

Cowboys, 38-34

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Spotlighting The Oakland Raiders Going Into Week Three

Rich Gannon had a lot to say to the media this week with regards to the Oakland Raiders. I’m sure a lot of you have heard or read what he said with regards to JaMarcus Russell, but here are some direct quotes you may not have heard in media outlets.

 “When you watch him (JaMarcus), and he’s in rhythm, he’s phenomenal. He can make every throw.”

I absolutely agree with this statement. I had to go to youtube.com last night and watch some highlights because I, myself, doubted JMR’s accuracy; and what I found excited me.

Even when throwing on the run, JaMarcus’s accuracy was right on point. Which leads me to believe that he is having issues with receivers not being where they are supposed to be,  when he looks up to read the field after/during his drops.

JaMarcus said earlier this week, “I know where the guys are going to be, but at the same time, once you look there, they’re not quite there yet.”

Unfortunately, I was not able to watch the game at Kansas City, I listened to it on KSFO 560 radio, but I did get to see a highlight where Darrius Heyward-Bey had a defender directly in front of him, on a comeback route, and JMR purposefully threw it over his head, which leads me to this statement by the QB.

“With the punter we have, you know all-world Shane Lechler, go to the sideline, look at it again, come back out again, and let’s do it again.” I mean c’mon Raider Nation, you don’t want to have the guy throwing interceptions all day, so he throws it away, give him a break.

Rich Gannon also said that, “the addition of Richard Seymour and Greg Ellis has been great for Oakland, not only in the run game, but with their ability to rush the passer. You combine that with the impact they have with the secondary and the linebackers, and I think it bodes well.”

There is no doubt about this statement; it is a fact. Seymour was huge against the Chargers, and creates mismatches whenever he is on the field. He frees up the other defensive lineman, he helps the linebackers get into open space, and he gives the quarterback less time to throw—which helps the secondary with their coverage.

Ellis has three sacks this year. His former team, the Cowboys, have none. So, his impact on the Raiders is not only recognized by Raiders faculty and fans, but also by the Cowboys. Both of these men have been beasts this year and are highly reliable players along the defensive front.

Jonathan Holland is returning kickoffs this week for Oakland, it is yet to be said whom he replaced on the 53-man roster, although all signs point to Louis Rankin, what with the return of Justin Fargas and the fact that Louis is the odd man out on kickoff returns.

For those of you who don’t know, Holland has made a switch from wide receiver to defensive back, so part of this move might help with the absence of Hirum Eugene as well. Holland last returned kickoffs in the Oakland Raiders’ final preseason game, and average 35.5 yard per return. In contrast, Rankin only averaged 18.0 yards on six returns this year.

If Rankin makes it through waivers, the Raiders will be very fortunate to get him signed to their practice squad to replace Holland. Rankin is a great asset, regardless of his return numbers—which leads me to my next point.

The Oakland Raiders need to run the ball more. There is no reason why we should not have a 60-40 percent ratio of run to pass. It is insane to put all this pressure on JaMarcus Russell’s shoulders, especially with no Chaz Schilens.

If the Oakland Raiders have a primary receiver this year, odds are it will be Schilens. Schilens had five catches and a 47-yard pass interference call in one quarter against the Cowboys in preseason game one. He has a great chemistry with JaMarcus, and he is missed in the passing game, not only by Russell, but by Zach Miller as well.

Miller is getting extra attention by defenses, and will continue to see heavy coverage until Schilens returns.  With the halfbacks in Oakland’s stable, they should be running, running, running, and only passing when absolutely necessary.

I know that nobody wants a $16 million/year hand-off guy, but right now, that’s what Oakland needs to do to keep the defense fresh and produce some time of possession.

Eric Pears is the man expected to take the spot of injured Robert Gallery. Tom Cable said that he felt better replacing one guy on the line, than moving Chris Morris to guard and replacing two positions. I don’t blame him for it; I think it is a good move.

Pears was a Denver Bronco under Mike Shanahan and is experienced in ZBS. Cable said he is a very smart man, and he’s picking the offense up quickly.

Raider Nation’s immediate thoughts are that Samson Satele is a bust trade, right?

No, that is wrong.

The simple way to put it is to say that Samson was in a man blocking scheme in Miami during his tenure there, and he needs some time to adjust. He is young, folks.

Plus, Cooper Carlisle is getting older, and soon we will need a good guy to replace him at right guard. Satele fits that bill, if Morris holds down the center spot for years to come.

Johnnie Lee Higgins is back, and my personal hope is that he can return to the form he had last year. Hopefully, he’ll keep developing chemistry with the quarterback and pick up where he left off on punt returns.

He seems to be up to some of his old antics, referring to himself in third person earlier this week. He was asked if number 15 would play Sunday, he replied, “Yeah. He has to be out there.”

He said that he was in game mode at Kansas City, until he looked down and realized that he had no pads on. I think, I hope, that Johnnie can be even a small glimpse of his image from last season.

Coach Cable said the woes of the passing game are not due to one person’s inconsistencies, but to the group as a whole not doing well. He even said that the coaching staff has to do a better job.

Way to man up, Cable. This is why he is the best coach since Gruden. He is the most honest coach since John Madden. He really does a good job of keeping things in perspective and getting his job done like a man would do.

On that note, I will leave you to think about things, Nation. All I have to say is keep believing. Good Fight, Good Night.

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Pull For Michael Vick’s Redemption Song to Become a Smash Hit

In 1979, after becoming diagnosed with melanoma, a cancer that would later take his life, Bob Marley began recording what would be his final album, Uprising. His mother Rita labeled it a concept album, conveying the pain he was in during his final days and how he was dealing with his own mortality.

The last track on the album is titled Redemption Song, which rated No. 66 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s 2004 list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. 

I’m not sure how Marley would feel about Michael Vick if he were still alive today, but if I were to guess, I’d think he would be rooting for Vick in his second chance at life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

I’ll take it a step further. I hope Vick’s Redemption Story rises to the top of the charts in 2009 and later takes the top spot on ESPN or Sporting News‘ list of the Greatest Comeback Stories in Sports History when recalled 30 years down the line. 

About 90 percent of the population still feels bitter towards Vick and believes his punishment didn’t fit the heinous crimes he committed while running a dog fighting ring out of his Virginia home for five years.

Fine. You are entitled to that opinion, but also understand that it isn’t as if Vick’s entourage handed down his 23-month jail sentence. He went through the legal system, so if you feel that way be angry at the system, not Vick. 

Let’s take a second to consider all he has lost since Dec. 31, 2006, the last time Vick played in an NFL game:

-Endorsement contracts with Nike, EA Sports, Kraft, Powerade, Rawlings, Coca-Cola, Hasbro and Airtran.

-All marketability and corporate status after once being considered one of the most popular and sought after athletes in the world.

-Roughly $100M in salary.

-Millions of dollars in assets due to bankruptcy.

In short, he has lost everything that made him, Michael Vick, the superstar. And he served about two years in prison. And he is still bankrupt and will be for the foreseeable future.

But yet he hasn’t done his time? Since the government owns you when you owe the banks as much money as Vick owes, he’s actually still doing time!

Back to his entourage for a minute. Don’t underestimate the impact the people he surrounded himself with had on his million mile fall from grace. 

No, Vick shouldn’t have been so attached to these so-called friends once the NFL came calling, but until he was drafted No.1 overall by Atlanta in 2001, he had never left the state of Virginia which make you wonder if he knew any better than to listen to his lifelong friends.

Vick grew up in Newport News, VA, the same place as NBA superstar Allen Iverson.

It was there that he witnessed his first dog fighting ring at the age of eight, and where Iverson’s best friend was shot and killed in broad daylight after an argument over who the best rapper was. Most of us can’t comprehend the things Vick lived or witnessed growing up.

That doesn’t excuse him of his actions, it just reinforces that maybe we are all a product of our placement.

To suggest that Tom Brady would be any different than Michael Vick had he been brought up in Vick’s neck of the woods is ignorant because how would we know?

It would be as ignorant as the people that say they would never have joined the Nazi’s in Hitler’s Germany because they weren’t raised that way and they are just too good a person. Well, no, you weren’t raised that way because you weren’t raised in Hitler’s Germany.

We’d all like to think we’re too good to do some of these things, but when you take a deeper look, just consider yourself blessed to have not been put in such settings and situations.

Vick is no different from any drunk or junkie that just made it through rehab. He had everything, he lost everything and is now back in society fighting like hell to get it all back. 

His second chance at life started a few months ago when he was released from prison, and his second chance in the NFL starts Sunday at 1 p.m. when he returns as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles.

Vick’s story has a chance to be a truly inspiring tale, as we have never seen an athlete of his stature hit such a low and get back on his feet. He is 29, so if Vick were to have three productive years in the league from this point forward that would be great.

If he were to overcome bankruptcy and rebuild his nasty image and reputation, that would be Hollywood-worthy. He has been humbled and appears to be remorseful, which is a good start.

Bob Marley’s music career and life ended prematurely with a Redemption Song. Here’s to hoping Sunday is the start of something special in Michael Vick’s Redemption Story.

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Redskins Try to Tame The Beast

As the Washington Redskins head to Detroit to take on the Detroit Lions, their goal has grown beyond just winning a football game and has reached an all out fight to prove themselves.

Redskins’ head coach Jim Zorn has spent the past week fielding questions about his job security, his playcalling, his quarterback, and his ability to coach at the NFL level. In order to avoid being devoured by the pressure building around Redskin Park, it’s time for Zorn to tame this beast and be done with it.

Following an ugly 9-7 win over the lowly St. Louis Rams in week two of the NFL season, the Redskins’ failures in the red zone led to boos from the home crowd and sharp attacks by fans and some media members. Zorn’s offense was unable to score a single touchdown against the Rams, a team that lost in week one 28-0 and looked positively inept in most every football category.

The red zone issues began with the Redskins’ second possession of the game. Redskins’ quarterback Jason Campbell marched the team to the Rams’ three yard line only to see second year wideout Devin Thomas unable to handle a Campbell pass in the endzone. Campbell had done a fine job of keeping the play alive under pressure in the pocket and finally found Thomas come open. Failure number ONE.

On the Redskins’ next possession, following a Rams’ punt, Campbell again guided the team down field. Looking sharp and decisive, Campbell also used his legs to keep the drive going and reached the Rams’ eight yard line. Running back Clinton Portis lost two yards on a first down run, moving the ball back to the 10. Then the dropsy’s surfaced again. On second and goal from the 10 yard line, full back Mike Sellers found himself uncovered in the middle of the field at about the five yard line. Campbell fires an easy touchdown pass into his chest and Sellers simply lets it bounce off of him. On third and goal, wide receiver Antwaan Randle El gets tied up with Rams’ cornerback Ron Bartell…no flag on the play. Failure number TWO.

At this point, Zorn’s frustrations reach their crescendo and leads me to what I think is the root of the Redskins’ offensive woes. In an NFL Films video, Zorn can be heard saying into his headset(NFL video), that he’s just going to run the ball in the red zone from now on, because of the dropped passes. All of the attention has been paid to the red zone failures, Zorn’s playcalling in particular, but very little attention has been given to why.

Zorn showed me that he didn’t entirely trust his players in the season opening loss to the New York Giants. I expected Zorn to loosen it up a bit against the Rams, and he did. With more passing on first down and seemingly trying to use the passing game to open up the running game, Zorn gave his players the opportunity to make plays. He showed some trust in them. But with two dropped passes that would have been touchdown, Zorn was consumed by the beast again, and reverted to conservative plays the next two trips into the red zone. These again resulting in field goals rather than touchdowns.

This shows up in Campbell’s numbers, 23 of 35 for 242 yards. But Campbell didn’t attempt another pass in two more red zone penetrations. How different a game would Zorn have called if Thomas and/or Sellers had made the play that was there to be made? Obviously, we’ll never know, but the video only re-enforces my impressions of the Redskins’ offensive problems. Zorn is trying very hard to minimize the potential for big mistakes with relatively conservative playcalling. His lack of trust in his players has consumed him, and his offense.

The beast to be tamed? Distrust and fear. Zorn needs to use his “whip and chair” in Detroit on Sunday or it could cost him dearly. If Zorn cannot overcome his distrust and put the game in his players’ hands, another ugly win is likely, and a horrendous loss is possible. And with either of these scenarios, his job the Redskins’ future will remain in doubt.

Tame the beast coach, tame the beast.

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