ReaLesT
10-21-2008, 08:44 PM
1 Titans 6-0 - 1/12 Still no wins against teams with winning records, but still no losses ... period. This week's Monday nighter will raise some eyebrows for the curiosity factor to see if the Titans can beat a "legitimate" team.
Still no wins against teams with winning records, but still no losses ... period. This week's Monday nighter will raise some eyebrows for the curiosity factor to see if the Titans can beat a "legitimate" team. But the way the Colts have played this season, maybe this is not the true test after all. Looking ahead, the Titans only face two more tough running defenses the rest of the way. Translation: Pencil this team in for the AFC South title. THIS WEEK: vs. Colts (3-3)
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2 Steelers 5-1 - 2/6 If Penn State is Linebacker U., the Steelers are Linebackers, Inc. Thanks to the latest of great Steelers linebackers, James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley (16 combined sacks), the Steelers currently own the league's top-rated defense.
If Penn State is Linebacker U., the Steelers are Linebackers, Inc. Thanks to the latest of great Steelers linebackers, James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley (16 combined sacks), the Steelers currently own the league's top-rated defense. And it doesn't seem to matter who's playing running back each week. Mewelde Moore? THIS WEEK: vs. Giants (5-1)
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3 Giants 5-1 - 1/7 The Giants got back to being themselves in beating the Niners -- pounding the ground game and the opposing quarterback. But now the schedule gets really interesting, a 10-game stretch that includes the 5-1 Steelers this week, the Cowboys and Eagles twice, plus the Redskins, Panthers, Cardinals, Ravens and Vikings.
The Giants got back to being themselves in beating the Niners -- pounding the ground game and the opposing quarterback. But now the schedule gets really interesting, a 10-game stretch that includes the 5-1 Steelers this week, the Cowboys and Eagles twice, plus the Redskins, Panthers, Cardinals, Ravens and Vikings. Oh my, Eli ... THIS WEEK: at Steelers (5-1)
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4 Redskins 5-2 - 2/19 They are in some ways a reflection of this year's unpredictable, parity-filled NFL with six of their seven games decided by a touchdown or less -- and three games by a field goal or less.
They are in some ways a reflection of this year's unpredictable, parity-filled NFL with six of their seven games decided by a touchdown or less -- and three games by a field goal or less. But what's very much gone right for the 'Skins is that they have suffered season-ending injuries to just two key players so far. The close game trend is likely to continue, with Washington's grinding offensive style. The injury luck? Brace yourselves, Redskins fans. THIS WEEK: at Lions (0-6)
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5 Bills 5-1 7 5/20 Rejoice, Bills fans! The respect you all knew was coming has finally arrived after a solid win over the Chargers. Especially impressive is how Buffalo continues to roll on despite several injuries -- its depth is much stronger than in years past.
Rejoice, Bills fans! The respect you all knew was coming has finally arrived after a solid win over the Chargers. Especially impressive is how Buffalo continues to roll on despite several injuries -- its depth is much stronger than in years past. Now the Bills begin a three-game stretch against all of their AFC East rivals. With three wins they could cement their status as division frontrunners. THIS WEEK: at Dolphins (2-4)
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6 Buccaneers 5-2 1 6/17 Was this Chucky's plan all along? Did he intentionally bench the brittle Jeff Garcia, in hopes of saving him for the Bucs' playoff run? Of course not, but it's clear that resting Garcia after Week 1 to ensure his full return to health was the right call.
Was this Chucky's plan all along? Did he intentionally bench the brittle Jeff Garcia, in hopes of saving him for the Bucs' playoff run? Of course not, but it's clear that resting Garcia after Week 1 to ensure his full return to health was the right call. The veteran QB looks rejuvenated and even more oozing with energy than his normal "I drank 126 Red Bulls before the game" self. THIS WEEK: at Cowboys (4-3)
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7 Panthers 5-2 2 4/13 After their one-game aberration, the Panthers returned and showed off their stifling pass defense in shutting down Drew Brees and the Saints. Steve Smith is heating up, a troubling sign for the rest of the league.
After their one-game aberration, the Panthers returned and showed off their stifling pass defense in shutting down Drew Brees and the Saints. Steve Smith is heating up, a troubling sign for the rest of the league. THIS WEEK: vs. Cardinals (4-2)
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8 Bears 4-3 5 8/23 This is now Kyle Orton's team. Completely. Knowing the Bears' normally shutdown defense would be missing its three shutdown corners, Orton and the offense opened things up in a wild win against the Vikings -- a critical game that preserves the Bears' tie for first place in the NFC North.
This is now Kyle Orton's team. Completely. Knowing the Bears' normally shutdown defense would be missing its three shutdown corners, Orton and the offense opened things up in a wild win against the Vikings -- a critical game that preserves the Bears' tie for first place in the NFC North. Chicago should get their starters and nickel corner back from injury this week. THIS WEEK: Bye
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9 Cardinals 4-2 1 9/23 Think Ken Whisenhunt has been drilling the importance of this week's cross-country trip to Carolina to his team? Think he's been sifting through motivational tactics throughout Arizona's bye week, trying to find the right formula to lead his team to that elusive "big road win" after racking up big frequent flier miles? This is a big one more mentally than anything for the Cards, who can definitively brand themselves as true contenders with a win in Charlotte.
Think Ken Whisenhunt has been drilling the importance of this week's cross-country trip to Carolina to his team? Think he's been sifting through motivational tactics throughout Arizona's bye week, trying to find the right formula to lead his team to that elusive "big road win" after racking up big frequent flier miles? This is a big one more mentally than anything for the Cards, who can definitively brand themselves as true contenders with a win in Charlotte. THIS WEEK: at Panthers (5-2)
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10 Broncos 4-3 4 6/21 Mike Shanahan probably won't allow his QB Jay Cutler to brag about having a stronger arm than John Elway. Granted, Cutler was playing with a jammed finger against New England, and he tried gamely to keep the Broncos from getting destroyed on national television.
Mike Shanahan probably won't allow his QB Jay Cutler to brag about having a stronger arm than John Elway. Granted, Cutler was playing with a jammed finger against New England, and he tried gamely to keep the Broncos from getting destroyed on national television. Cutler's below-average game should not be too much of a concern. But giving up 138 rushing yards to Sammy Morris ... in the first half?!?! That's a problem for Tan Man Shanahan. THIS WEEK: Bye
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11 Chargers 3-4 3 1/12 Philip Rivers was one pass from putting the Chargers ahead of the Bills in the fourth quarter ... too bad he completed it to the wrong team. Like the Colts, the one-time heavyweights in San Diego can't make up their minds whether or not they want to dominate or deflate.
Philip Rivers was one pass from putting the Chargers ahead of the Bills in the fourth quarter ... too bad he completed it to the wrong team. Like the Colts, the one-time heavyweights in San Diego can't make up their minds whether or not they want to dominate or deflate. Now they fly halfway around the world for a roadie to visit Big Ben ... luckily not Roethlisberger, but against another desperate Saints team. THIS WEEK: at Saints (3-4)
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12 Cowboys 4-3 1 2/12 Nice to see Jerry, Wade and the Cowboys finally admit it's a perfectly good time to panic. OK, they really didn't do that a loss to the Rams is instigating the football equivalent of the financial crisis.
Nice to see Jerry, Wade and the Cowboys finally admit it's a perfectly good time to panic. OK, they really didn't do that a loss to the Rams is instigating the football equivalent of the financial crisis. Let's take a breath, however. Dallas is still 4-2 in games with injured starting QB Tony Romo in the lineup ... and Brad Johnson didn't play all that poorly against the Rams. They still have plenty of weapons, at least on offense, to right their leaky ship. But another loss, and watch for the carnage around Jerry Jones next week. THIS WEEK: vs. Bucs (5-2)
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13 Eagles 3-3 1 3/14 The week of rest seems to have helped Brian Westbrook heal well enough to return to the field this week against Atlanta, a game that originally looked like a second bye week over the summer.
The week of rest seems to have helped Brian Westbrook heal well enough to return to the field this week against Atlanta, a game that originally looked like a second bye week over the summer. But now the Eagles need to get inside Matt Ryan's head ... think Philly defensive coordinator Jim Johnson will blitz much this week? THIS WEEK: vs. Falcons (4-2)
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14 Packers 4-3 7 7/21 This is the way to head into your bye week, in style with a blowout win at home over the Colts. Aaron Rodgers continues to -- uh, well -- do his best Brett Favre impersonation by playing hurt, firing deep balls around the yard and keeping the Packers in the playoff hunt.
This is the way to head into your bye week, in style with a blowout win at home over the Colts. Aaron Rodgers continues to -- uh, well -- do his best Brett Favre impersonation by playing hurt, firing deep balls around the yard and keeping the Packers in the playoff hunt. Now if he could only become a spy, that would complete the transformation. THIS WEEK: Bye
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15 Jaguars 3-3 3 5/20 Jacksonville likely stands a better shot of catching the Titans in the AFC South. At 3-3, the Jags have very winnable games against the Browns, Bengals and Lions the next three weeks -- teams with a combined record of 2-17.
Jacksonville likely stands a better shot of catching the Titans in the AFC South. At 3-3, the Jags have very winnable games against the Browns, Bengals and Lions the next three weeks -- teams with a combined record of 2-17. Then (hopefully) at 6-3, the Jaguars host the Titans in Week 11 in what could be a Jacksonville launching-pad game ... or an elimination game for the division. THIS WEEK: vs. Browns (2-4)
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16 Patriots 4-2 4 2/20 Do you ever hear this team complain? Create unnecessary drama? Make excuses after injuries? Like him or not, Bill Belichick runs a tight ship in New England. And after losing his MVP starting quarterback Tom Brady, starting running back Laurence Maroney and now hard-hitting safety Rodney Harrison -- all for the season -- the Pats sit quietly at 4-2, one game behind the Bills in the AFC East.
Do you ever hear this team complain? Create unnecessary drama? Make excuses after injuries? Like him or not, Bill Belichick runs a tight ship in New England. And after losing his MVP starting quarterback Tom Brady, starting running back Laurence Maroney and now hard-hitting safety Rodney Harrison -- all for the season -- the Pats sit quietly at 4-2, one game behind the Bills in the AFC East. Ready to strike. Impressive. THIS WEEK: vs. Rams (2-4)
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17 Colts 3-3 12 3/17 Maybe Tony Dungy's team should go with the ol' 11-man front against the unbeaten Titans and their vicious running game this Monday night? Tennessee will enter the game rocking an average of 154 yards rushing every game, and coming off a ridiculous 300+ against Kansas City last week.
Maybe Tony Dungy's team should go with the ol' 11-man front against the unbeaten Titans and their vicious running game this Monday night? Tennessee will enter the game rocking an average of 154 yards rushing every game, and coming off a ridiculous 300+ against Kansas City last week. The Colts are very close to clicking on offense, but their matador running defense will likely cost Peyton Manning a chance to win a ring this year. THIS WEEK: at Titans (6-0)
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18 Falcons 4-2 1 17/31 This week rookie QB Matt Ryan graduates to a new level of his NFL education against blitz-happy Philadelphia. Plus he gets to face their lovely, warm fans who truly appreciate the efforts of all opposing players in displaying their athletic prowess against the hometown team.
This week rookie QB Matt Ryan graduates to a new level of his NFL education against blitz-happy Philadelphia. Plus he gets to face their lovely, warm fans who truly appreciate the efforts of all opposing players in displaying their athletic prowess against the hometown team. In other words, get ready to get screamed at, thrown at and for your team bus to be egged to and from the game. THIS WEEK: at Eagles (3-3)
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19 Saints 3-4 4 11/23 Uh oh. While nearly every team has at least one icky loss -- certainly this season -- the Saints picked a poor time for their worst effort of the season ... against the rival Panthers. Carolina may have given some teams a blueprint on upsetting Sean Peyton's timing-based offense in New Orleans' worst offensive game of the Peyton era.
Uh oh. While nearly every team has at least one icky loss -- certainly this season -- the Saints picked a poor time for their worst effort of the season ... against the rival Panthers. Carolina may have given some teams a blueprint on upsetting Sean Peyton's timing-based offense in New Orleans' worst offensive game of the Peyton era. Expect Drew Brees to get fiery in practice this week. THIS WEEK: vs. Chargers (3-4)
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20 Jets 3-3 4 16/23 Not a good week to be a legend. From spy stories to losing to the Raiders (THE RAIDERS?!?!), Brett Favre would be excused if he wanted to be excused. Which he originally did with the Packers, before he no longer did later in the offseason, leading to more excuses why he could no longer make up with Packers management and ultimately this week's controversy with his old team.
Not a good week to be a legend. From spy stories to losing to the Raiders (THE RAIDERS?!?!), Brett Favre would be excused if he wanted to be excused. Which he originally did with the Packers, before he no longer did later in the offseason, leading to more excuses why he could no longer make up with Packers management and ultimately this week's controversy with his old team. We're tired of the diva act, Brett. Maybe you're not who we thought you were. THIS WEEK: vs. Chiefs (1-5)
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21 Ravens 3-3 2 15/29 Welcome to Niffle, Joe Flacco. The young buck played well when the Ravens needed him against Miami. Now is the chance for Baltimore to sneak back into the playoff race, with the Raiders, Browns and Texans up next before playing the Giants in Week 11.
Welcome to Niffle, Joe Flacco. The young buck played well when the Ravens needed him against Miami. Now is the chance for Baltimore to sneak back into the playoff race, with the Raiders, Browns and Texans up next before playing the Giants in Week 11. THIS WEEK: vs. Raiders (2-4)
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22 Dolphins 2-4 3 18/27 Guess if you were to pick a team that the wacky "Wildcat" offense would not work against, it would be the Ravens. Miami's coaches quickly shelved the gimmick after Ray Lewis and his crew shut it down, along with everything else Miami tried in losing last week to Baltimore.
Guess if you were to pick a team that the wacky "Wildcat" offense would not work against, it would be the Ravens. Miami's coaches quickly shelved the gimmick after Ray Lewis and his crew shut it down, along with everything else Miami tried in losing last week to Baltimore. That's not so troubling as the 842 yards the Dolphins have allowed over the past two weeks combined. THIS WEEK: vs. Bills (5-1)
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23 Vikings 3-4 1 10/23 Is Brad Childress next on the head coach chopping blocks? After two others were fired this season already, the Vikes' lead dog seems the one most likely to be dumped next. The most recent loss in Chicago, when shoddy special teams led to 14-21 points for the Bears, exemplifies the Vikings under Childress.
Is Brad Childress next on the head coach chopping blocks? After two others were fired this season already, the Vikes' lead dog seems the one most likely to be dumped next. The most recent loss in Chicago, when shoddy special teams led to 14-21 points for the Bears, exemplifies the Vikings under Childress. Now they have the dreaded bye week, at least for struggling coaches. THIS WEEK: Bye
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24 Browns 2-4 - 15/26 This team was so close, SOCLOSE (!!!), to notching a huge road win in Washington. Head coach Romeo Crennel will hear all week from critics questioning why he didn't take a gimme field goal midway through the fourth quarter when three points could have pulled his Brownies to within one score.
This team was so close, SOCLOSE (!!!), to notching a huge road win in Washington. Head coach Romeo Crennel will hear all week from critics questioning why he didn't take a gimme field goal midway through the fourth quarter when three points could have pulled his Brownies to within one score. Now at 2-4 instead of 3-3, Cleveland must slug it out with the Jaguars, Ravens, Broncos and Bills over the next month. THIS WEEK: at Jaguars (2-4)
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25 Rams 2-4 4 25/31 Props to Jim Haslett, whose tricks for turning around the Rams were highlighted by inviting the entire organization -- from secretaries, sales guys and other paper pushers -- to some team meals to breed new feelings of togetherness.
Props to Jim Haslett, whose tricks for turning around the Rams were highlighted by inviting the entire organization -- from secretaries, sales guys and other paper pushers -- to some team meals to breed new feelings of togetherness. For a workplace that has often been a leaguewide joke for years, congrats for the interim coach for the Kumbaya Move of the Year. THIS WEEK: at Patriots (4-2)
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26 Texans 2-4 1 18/28 Don't mess with the Texans. Look out, Matt Schaub has his mojo back and the schedule appears to give Houston a real chance to get back to .500 before the second half of the season begins.
Don't mess with the Texans. Look out, Matt Schaub has his mojo back and the schedule appears to give Houston a real chance to get back to .500 before the second half of the season begins. THIS WEEK: vs. Bengals (2-4)
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27 49ers 2-5 1 21/29 While it's sad to see a solid football man in Mike Nolan to exit San Francisco, how cool is it to see new interim coach Mike Freaking Singletary at the podium? You fully expect him to get fired up in front of the microphone, with his eyeballs bulging out and eventually popping out the lenses of his glasses.
While it's sad to see a solid football man in Mike Nolan to exit San Francisco, how cool is it to see new interim coach Mike Freaking Singletary at the podium? You fully expect him to get fired up in front of the microphone, with his eyeballs bulging out and eventually popping out the lenses of his glasses. THIS WEEK: vs. Seahawks (1-5)
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28 Raiders 2-4 2 28/32 Wish there was a camera on Al Davis when his guy, his draft pick, Sebastian Janikowski boomed that game-winning 57-yard field goal to beat the Jets in overtime. For all the grief he's taken for selecting and sticking with his kicker, at least it finally paid off.
Wish there was a camera on Al Davis when his guy, his draft pick, Sebastian Janikowski boomed that game-winning 57-yard field goal to beat the Jets in overtime. For all the grief he's taken for selecting and sticking with his kicker, at least it finally paid off. THIS WEEK: at Ravens (3-3)
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29 Seahawks 1-5 2 8/29 The Seahawks have hit rock bottom, and suddenly ... in a poor division ... in an off-year for the NFL's elite. Talk about a missed opportunity for this franchise. Talk about a devastating finish to an excellent Seattle coaching stint for Mike Holmgren.
The Seahawks have hit rock bottom, and suddenly ... in a poor division ... in an off-year for the NFL's elite. Talk about a missed opportunity for this franchise. Talk about a devastating finish to an excellent Seattle coaching stint for Mike Holmgren. Go ahead, talk about it. THIS WEEK: at 49ers (2-5)
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30 Chiefs 1-5 1 27/32 How the heck did this team win a game? Since beating the Broncos 33-19 in Week 4, the Chiefs lost 34-0 at Carolina, they screwed up the trade deadline by misleading both the team's best and most popular player, then went out and lost starting QB Brodie Croyle (again, now for the season) to injury in getting hammered 34-10 by the Titans.
How the heck did this team win a game? Since beating the Broncos 33-19 in Week 4, the Chiefs lost 34-0 at Carolina, they screwed up the trade deadline by misleading both the team's best and most popular player, then went out and lost starting QB Brodie Croyle (again, now for the season) to injury in getting hammered 34-10 by the Titans. rebuilding isn't always easy, but this rebuilding sure is ugly. THIS WEEK: at Jets (3-3)
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31 Bengals 0-7 3 24/31 You know it's a bad season when your hot rookie middle linebacker gets sidelined for the season on a block thanks to a broken jaw supplied from an opposing wide receiver. Carson Palmer should call it a season on this bunch.
You know it's a bad season when your hot rookie middle linebacker gets sidelined for the season on a block thanks to a broken jaw supplied from an opposing wide receiver. Carson Palmer should call it a season on this bunch. THIS WEEK: at Texans (0-7)
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32 Lions 0-6 - 21/32 They tried to sneak back into the game against Houston, but right now the Lions have the best shot in the league at running off an 0-16 season. What does it say about coaching as well, when the team has been outscored 54-0 in the first quarter this season? To avoid the rhetorical question, it says they really stink.
They tried to sneak back into the game against Houston, but right now the Lions have the best shot in the league at running off an 0-16 season. What does it say about coaching as well, when the team has been outscored 54-0 in the first quarter this season? To avoid the rhetorical question, it says they really stink. THIS WEEK: vs. Redskins (5-2)
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Look 4 Ya Team...Least Mine not last...LoL
Still no wins against teams with winning records, but still no losses ... period. This week's Monday nighter will raise some eyebrows for the curiosity factor to see if the Titans can beat a "legitimate" team. But the way the Colts have played this season, maybe this is not the true test after all. Looking ahead, the Titans only face two more tough running defenses the rest of the way. Translation: Pencil this team in for the AFC South title. THIS WEEK: vs. Colts (3-3)
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2 Steelers 5-1 - 2/6 If Penn State is Linebacker U., the Steelers are Linebackers, Inc. Thanks to the latest of great Steelers linebackers, James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley (16 combined sacks), the Steelers currently own the league's top-rated defense.
If Penn State is Linebacker U., the Steelers are Linebackers, Inc. Thanks to the latest of great Steelers linebackers, James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley (16 combined sacks), the Steelers currently own the league's top-rated defense. And it doesn't seem to matter who's playing running back each week. Mewelde Moore? THIS WEEK: vs. Giants (5-1)
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3 Giants 5-1 - 1/7 The Giants got back to being themselves in beating the Niners -- pounding the ground game and the opposing quarterback. But now the schedule gets really interesting, a 10-game stretch that includes the 5-1 Steelers this week, the Cowboys and Eagles twice, plus the Redskins, Panthers, Cardinals, Ravens and Vikings.
The Giants got back to being themselves in beating the Niners -- pounding the ground game and the opposing quarterback. But now the schedule gets really interesting, a 10-game stretch that includes the 5-1 Steelers this week, the Cowboys and Eagles twice, plus the Redskins, Panthers, Cardinals, Ravens and Vikings. Oh my, Eli ... THIS WEEK: at Steelers (5-1)
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4 Redskins 5-2 - 2/19 They are in some ways a reflection of this year's unpredictable, parity-filled NFL with six of their seven games decided by a touchdown or less -- and three games by a field goal or less.
They are in some ways a reflection of this year's unpredictable, parity-filled NFL with six of their seven games decided by a touchdown or less -- and three games by a field goal or less. But what's very much gone right for the 'Skins is that they have suffered season-ending injuries to just two key players so far. The close game trend is likely to continue, with Washington's grinding offensive style. The injury luck? Brace yourselves, Redskins fans. THIS WEEK: at Lions (0-6)
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5 Bills 5-1 7 5/20 Rejoice, Bills fans! The respect you all knew was coming has finally arrived after a solid win over the Chargers. Especially impressive is how Buffalo continues to roll on despite several injuries -- its depth is much stronger than in years past.
Rejoice, Bills fans! The respect you all knew was coming has finally arrived after a solid win over the Chargers. Especially impressive is how Buffalo continues to roll on despite several injuries -- its depth is much stronger than in years past. Now the Bills begin a three-game stretch against all of their AFC East rivals. With three wins they could cement their status as division frontrunners. THIS WEEK: at Dolphins (2-4)
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6 Buccaneers 5-2 1 6/17 Was this Chucky's plan all along? Did he intentionally bench the brittle Jeff Garcia, in hopes of saving him for the Bucs' playoff run? Of course not, but it's clear that resting Garcia after Week 1 to ensure his full return to health was the right call.
Was this Chucky's plan all along? Did he intentionally bench the brittle Jeff Garcia, in hopes of saving him for the Bucs' playoff run? Of course not, but it's clear that resting Garcia after Week 1 to ensure his full return to health was the right call. The veteran QB looks rejuvenated and even more oozing with energy than his normal "I drank 126 Red Bulls before the game" self. THIS WEEK: at Cowboys (4-3)
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7 Panthers 5-2 2 4/13 After their one-game aberration, the Panthers returned and showed off their stifling pass defense in shutting down Drew Brees and the Saints. Steve Smith is heating up, a troubling sign for the rest of the league.
After their one-game aberration, the Panthers returned and showed off their stifling pass defense in shutting down Drew Brees and the Saints. Steve Smith is heating up, a troubling sign for the rest of the league. THIS WEEK: vs. Cardinals (4-2)
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8 Bears 4-3 5 8/23 This is now Kyle Orton's team. Completely. Knowing the Bears' normally shutdown defense would be missing its three shutdown corners, Orton and the offense opened things up in a wild win against the Vikings -- a critical game that preserves the Bears' tie for first place in the NFC North.
This is now Kyle Orton's team. Completely. Knowing the Bears' normally shutdown defense would be missing its three shutdown corners, Orton and the offense opened things up in a wild win against the Vikings -- a critical game that preserves the Bears' tie for first place in the NFC North. Chicago should get their starters and nickel corner back from injury this week. THIS WEEK: Bye
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9 Cardinals 4-2 1 9/23 Think Ken Whisenhunt has been drilling the importance of this week's cross-country trip to Carolina to his team? Think he's been sifting through motivational tactics throughout Arizona's bye week, trying to find the right formula to lead his team to that elusive "big road win" after racking up big frequent flier miles? This is a big one more mentally than anything for the Cards, who can definitively brand themselves as true contenders with a win in Charlotte.
Think Ken Whisenhunt has been drilling the importance of this week's cross-country trip to Carolina to his team? Think he's been sifting through motivational tactics throughout Arizona's bye week, trying to find the right formula to lead his team to that elusive "big road win" after racking up big frequent flier miles? This is a big one more mentally than anything for the Cards, who can definitively brand themselves as true contenders with a win in Charlotte. THIS WEEK: at Panthers (5-2)
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10 Broncos 4-3 4 6/21 Mike Shanahan probably won't allow his QB Jay Cutler to brag about having a stronger arm than John Elway. Granted, Cutler was playing with a jammed finger against New England, and he tried gamely to keep the Broncos from getting destroyed on national television.
Mike Shanahan probably won't allow his QB Jay Cutler to brag about having a stronger arm than John Elway. Granted, Cutler was playing with a jammed finger against New England, and he tried gamely to keep the Broncos from getting destroyed on national television. Cutler's below-average game should not be too much of a concern. But giving up 138 rushing yards to Sammy Morris ... in the first half?!?! That's a problem for Tan Man Shanahan. THIS WEEK: Bye
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11 Chargers 3-4 3 1/12 Philip Rivers was one pass from putting the Chargers ahead of the Bills in the fourth quarter ... too bad he completed it to the wrong team. Like the Colts, the one-time heavyweights in San Diego can't make up their minds whether or not they want to dominate or deflate.
Philip Rivers was one pass from putting the Chargers ahead of the Bills in the fourth quarter ... too bad he completed it to the wrong team. Like the Colts, the one-time heavyweights in San Diego can't make up their minds whether or not they want to dominate or deflate. Now they fly halfway around the world for a roadie to visit Big Ben ... luckily not Roethlisberger, but against another desperate Saints team. THIS WEEK: at Saints (3-4)
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12 Cowboys 4-3 1 2/12 Nice to see Jerry, Wade and the Cowboys finally admit it's a perfectly good time to panic. OK, they really didn't do that a loss to the Rams is instigating the football equivalent of the financial crisis.
Nice to see Jerry, Wade and the Cowboys finally admit it's a perfectly good time to panic. OK, they really didn't do that a loss to the Rams is instigating the football equivalent of the financial crisis. Let's take a breath, however. Dallas is still 4-2 in games with injured starting QB Tony Romo in the lineup ... and Brad Johnson didn't play all that poorly against the Rams. They still have plenty of weapons, at least on offense, to right their leaky ship. But another loss, and watch for the carnage around Jerry Jones next week. THIS WEEK: vs. Bucs (5-2)
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13 Eagles 3-3 1 3/14 The week of rest seems to have helped Brian Westbrook heal well enough to return to the field this week against Atlanta, a game that originally looked like a second bye week over the summer.
The week of rest seems to have helped Brian Westbrook heal well enough to return to the field this week against Atlanta, a game that originally looked like a second bye week over the summer. But now the Eagles need to get inside Matt Ryan's head ... think Philly defensive coordinator Jim Johnson will blitz much this week? THIS WEEK: vs. Falcons (4-2)
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14 Packers 4-3 7 7/21 This is the way to head into your bye week, in style with a blowout win at home over the Colts. Aaron Rodgers continues to -- uh, well -- do his best Brett Favre impersonation by playing hurt, firing deep balls around the yard and keeping the Packers in the playoff hunt.
This is the way to head into your bye week, in style with a blowout win at home over the Colts. Aaron Rodgers continues to -- uh, well -- do his best Brett Favre impersonation by playing hurt, firing deep balls around the yard and keeping the Packers in the playoff hunt. Now if he could only become a spy, that would complete the transformation. THIS WEEK: Bye
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15 Jaguars 3-3 3 5/20 Jacksonville likely stands a better shot of catching the Titans in the AFC South. At 3-3, the Jags have very winnable games against the Browns, Bengals and Lions the next three weeks -- teams with a combined record of 2-17.
Jacksonville likely stands a better shot of catching the Titans in the AFC South. At 3-3, the Jags have very winnable games against the Browns, Bengals and Lions the next three weeks -- teams with a combined record of 2-17. Then (hopefully) at 6-3, the Jaguars host the Titans in Week 11 in what could be a Jacksonville launching-pad game ... or an elimination game for the division. THIS WEEK: vs. Browns (2-4)
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16 Patriots 4-2 4 2/20 Do you ever hear this team complain? Create unnecessary drama? Make excuses after injuries? Like him or not, Bill Belichick runs a tight ship in New England. And after losing his MVP starting quarterback Tom Brady, starting running back Laurence Maroney and now hard-hitting safety Rodney Harrison -- all for the season -- the Pats sit quietly at 4-2, one game behind the Bills in the AFC East.
Do you ever hear this team complain? Create unnecessary drama? Make excuses after injuries? Like him or not, Bill Belichick runs a tight ship in New England. And after losing his MVP starting quarterback Tom Brady, starting running back Laurence Maroney and now hard-hitting safety Rodney Harrison -- all for the season -- the Pats sit quietly at 4-2, one game behind the Bills in the AFC East. Ready to strike. Impressive. THIS WEEK: vs. Rams (2-4)
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17 Colts 3-3 12 3/17 Maybe Tony Dungy's team should go with the ol' 11-man front against the unbeaten Titans and their vicious running game this Monday night? Tennessee will enter the game rocking an average of 154 yards rushing every game, and coming off a ridiculous 300+ against Kansas City last week.
Maybe Tony Dungy's team should go with the ol' 11-man front against the unbeaten Titans and their vicious running game this Monday night? Tennessee will enter the game rocking an average of 154 yards rushing every game, and coming off a ridiculous 300+ against Kansas City last week. The Colts are very close to clicking on offense, but their matador running defense will likely cost Peyton Manning a chance to win a ring this year. THIS WEEK: at Titans (6-0)
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18 Falcons 4-2 1 17/31 This week rookie QB Matt Ryan graduates to a new level of his NFL education against blitz-happy Philadelphia. Plus he gets to face their lovely, warm fans who truly appreciate the efforts of all opposing players in displaying their athletic prowess against the hometown team.
This week rookie QB Matt Ryan graduates to a new level of his NFL education against blitz-happy Philadelphia. Plus he gets to face their lovely, warm fans who truly appreciate the efforts of all opposing players in displaying their athletic prowess against the hometown team. In other words, get ready to get screamed at, thrown at and for your team bus to be egged to and from the game. THIS WEEK: at Eagles (3-3)
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19 Saints 3-4 4 11/23 Uh oh. While nearly every team has at least one icky loss -- certainly this season -- the Saints picked a poor time for their worst effort of the season ... against the rival Panthers. Carolina may have given some teams a blueprint on upsetting Sean Peyton's timing-based offense in New Orleans' worst offensive game of the Peyton era.
Uh oh. While nearly every team has at least one icky loss -- certainly this season -- the Saints picked a poor time for their worst effort of the season ... against the rival Panthers. Carolina may have given some teams a blueprint on upsetting Sean Peyton's timing-based offense in New Orleans' worst offensive game of the Peyton era. Expect Drew Brees to get fiery in practice this week. THIS WEEK: vs. Chargers (3-4)
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20 Jets 3-3 4 16/23 Not a good week to be a legend. From spy stories to losing to the Raiders (THE RAIDERS?!?!), Brett Favre would be excused if he wanted to be excused. Which he originally did with the Packers, before he no longer did later in the offseason, leading to more excuses why he could no longer make up with Packers management and ultimately this week's controversy with his old team.
Not a good week to be a legend. From spy stories to losing to the Raiders (THE RAIDERS?!?!), Brett Favre would be excused if he wanted to be excused. Which he originally did with the Packers, before he no longer did later in the offseason, leading to more excuses why he could no longer make up with Packers management and ultimately this week's controversy with his old team. We're tired of the diva act, Brett. Maybe you're not who we thought you were. THIS WEEK: vs. Chiefs (1-5)
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21 Ravens 3-3 2 15/29 Welcome to Niffle, Joe Flacco. The young buck played well when the Ravens needed him against Miami. Now is the chance for Baltimore to sneak back into the playoff race, with the Raiders, Browns and Texans up next before playing the Giants in Week 11.
Welcome to Niffle, Joe Flacco. The young buck played well when the Ravens needed him against Miami. Now is the chance for Baltimore to sneak back into the playoff race, with the Raiders, Browns and Texans up next before playing the Giants in Week 11. THIS WEEK: vs. Raiders (2-4)
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22 Dolphins 2-4 3 18/27 Guess if you were to pick a team that the wacky "Wildcat" offense would not work against, it would be the Ravens. Miami's coaches quickly shelved the gimmick after Ray Lewis and his crew shut it down, along with everything else Miami tried in losing last week to Baltimore.
Guess if you were to pick a team that the wacky "Wildcat" offense would not work against, it would be the Ravens. Miami's coaches quickly shelved the gimmick after Ray Lewis and his crew shut it down, along with everything else Miami tried in losing last week to Baltimore. That's not so troubling as the 842 yards the Dolphins have allowed over the past two weeks combined. THIS WEEK: vs. Bills (5-1)
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23 Vikings 3-4 1 10/23 Is Brad Childress next on the head coach chopping blocks? After two others were fired this season already, the Vikes' lead dog seems the one most likely to be dumped next. The most recent loss in Chicago, when shoddy special teams led to 14-21 points for the Bears, exemplifies the Vikings under Childress.
Is Brad Childress next on the head coach chopping blocks? After two others were fired this season already, the Vikes' lead dog seems the one most likely to be dumped next. The most recent loss in Chicago, when shoddy special teams led to 14-21 points for the Bears, exemplifies the Vikings under Childress. Now they have the dreaded bye week, at least for struggling coaches. THIS WEEK: Bye
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24 Browns 2-4 - 15/26 This team was so close, SOCLOSE (!!!), to notching a huge road win in Washington. Head coach Romeo Crennel will hear all week from critics questioning why he didn't take a gimme field goal midway through the fourth quarter when three points could have pulled his Brownies to within one score.
This team was so close, SOCLOSE (!!!), to notching a huge road win in Washington. Head coach Romeo Crennel will hear all week from critics questioning why he didn't take a gimme field goal midway through the fourth quarter when three points could have pulled his Brownies to within one score. Now at 2-4 instead of 3-3, Cleveland must slug it out with the Jaguars, Ravens, Broncos and Bills over the next month. THIS WEEK: at Jaguars (2-4)
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25 Rams 2-4 4 25/31 Props to Jim Haslett, whose tricks for turning around the Rams were highlighted by inviting the entire organization -- from secretaries, sales guys and other paper pushers -- to some team meals to breed new feelings of togetherness.
Props to Jim Haslett, whose tricks for turning around the Rams were highlighted by inviting the entire organization -- from secretaries, sales guys and other paper pushers -- to some team meals to breed new feelings of togetherness. For a workplace that has often been a leaguewide joke for years, congrats for the interim coach for the Kumbaya Move of the Year. THIS WEEK: at Patriots (4-2)
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26 Texans 2-4 1 18/28 Don't mess with the Texans. Look out, Matt Schaub has his mojo back and the schedule appears to give Houston a real chance to get back to .500 before the second half of the season begins.
Don't mess with the Texans. Look out, Matt Schaub has his mojo back and the schedule appears to give Houston a real chance to get back to .500 before the second half of the season begins. THIS WEEK: vs. Bengals (2-4)
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27 49ers 2-5 1 21/29 While it's sad to see a solid football man in Mike Nolan to exit San Francisco, how cool is it to see new interim coach Mike Freaking Singletary at the podium? You fully expect him to get fired up in front of the microphone, with his eyeballs bulging out and eventually popping out the lenses of his glasses.
While it's sad to see a solid football man in Mike Nolan to exit San Francisco, how cool is it to see new interim coach Mike Freaking Singletary at the podium? You fully expect him to get fired up in front of the microphone, with his eyeballs bulging out and eventually popping out the lenses of his glasses. THIS WEEK: vs. Seahawks (1-5)
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28 Raiders 2-4 2 28/32 Wish there was a camera on Al Davis when his guy, his draft pick, Sebastian Janikowski boomed that game-winning 57-yard field goal to beat the Jets in overtime. For all the grief he's taken for selecting and sticking with his kicker, at least it finally paid off.
Wish there was a camera on Al Davis when his guy, his draft pick, Sebastian Janikowski boomed that game-winning 57-yard field goal to beat the Jets in overtime. For all the grief he's taken for selecting and sticking with his kicker, at least it finally paid off. THIS WEEK: at Ravens (3-3)
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29 Seahawks 1-5 2 8/29 The Seahawks have hit rock bottom, and suddenly ... in a poor division ... in an off-year for the NFL's elite. Talk about a missed opportunity for this franchise. Talk about a devastating finish to an excellent Seattle coaching stint for Mike Holmgren.
The Seahawks have hit rock bottom, and suddenly ... in a poor division ... in an off-year for the NFL's elite. Talk about a missed opportunity for this franchise. Talk about a devastating finish to an excellent Seattle coaching stint for Mike Holmgren. Go ahead, talk about it. THIS WEEK: at 49ers (2-5)
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30 Chiefs 1-5 1 27/32 How the heck did this team win a game? Since beating the Broncos 33-19 in Week 4, the Chiefs lost 34-0 at Carolina, they screwed up the trade deadline by misleading both the team's best and most popular player, then went out and lost starting QB Brodie Croyle (again, now for the season) to injury in getting hammered 34-10 by the Titans.
How the heck did this team win a game? Since beating the Broncos 33-19 in Week 4, the Chiefs lost 34-0 at Carolina, they screwed up the trade deadline by misleading both the team's best and most popular player, then went out and lost starting QB Brodie Croyle (again, now for the season) to injury in getting hammered 34-10 by the Titans. rebuilding isn't always easy, but this rebuilding sure is ugly. THIS WEEK: at Jets (3-3)
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31 Bengals 0-7 3 24/31 You know it's a bad season when your hot rookie middle linebacker gets sidelined for the season on a block thanks to a broken jaw supplied from an opposing wide receiver. Carson Palmer should call it a season on this bunch.
You know it's a bad season when your hot rookie middle linebacker gets sidelined for the season on a block thanks to a broken jaw supplied from an opposing wide receiver. Carson Palmer should call it a season on this bunch. THIS WEEK: at Texans (0-7)
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32 Lions 0-6 - 21/32 They tried to sneak back into the game against Houston, but right now the Lions have the best shot in the league at running off an 0-16 season. What does it say about coaching as well, when the team has been outscored 54-0 in the first quarter this season? To avoid the rhetorical question, it says they really stink.
They tried to sneak back into the game against Houston, but right now the Lions have the best shot in the league at running off an 0-16 season. What does it say about coaching as well, when the team has been outscored 54-0 in the first quarter this season? To avoid the rhetorical question, it says they really stink. THIS WEEK: vs. Redskins (5-2)
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