NFL Draft Review

The NFL Draft is always the best draft in all of professional sports. The feeling was a little different with all the lockout junk. The New York crowd certainly piled it on with loud 'We Want Football' chants straight at Commissioner Roger Goodell. The top 5 didn't see a lot of excitement and fireworks. Afterwards though, the sparks flew starting with the Falcons. Before we go that quickly, we have to analyze the first five and see what every team got.

The picture says it all. Carolina this is your future.

1) Carolina Panthers- Cam Newton, QB Auburn

Now, here's the deal I'm an Oakland Raider fan (Spare me your jokes). Everytime I see Newton I think of Jamarcus. I know it's unfair to do that. I can't help it. Newton scares me like a hot girl in a horror film running for my life scared. I personally didn't care for any of the quarterbacks in this draft (more later). Newton goes to a team in desperate need of a make over. Carolina has nothing to do go on. Steve Smith wants out, John Fox is out and nothing is left but spares. Good luck Mr. Newton and for crying out loud save your money.

2) Denver Broncos- Von Miller, LB Texas A&M

I was a bit surprised with this pick. Miller's stock rose in a matter of weeks. I'm not quite sold on Miller over Dareus. Miller isn't much of a run stopper. He's more of a blitzing outside Linebacker. I felt new head coach John Fox missed here. Miller will be a good player but you have to address your need. Broncos didn't do that.

3) Buffalo Bills- Marcel Dareus, DT Alabama

One man's misfortune is another man's fortune. I had penciled the Bills and Miller from the get go. I didn't think they would reach for a Quarterback at number 3. Instead, they pick up a beast inside and a guy I really like. He's not Donkey Kong Suh from Nebraska or Warren Sapp. Dareus will just be a solid starter for years and years and be the anchor of the Bills interior defensive line.

4) Cincinnati Bengals- A.J. Green, WR Georgia

My buddy Chris, big Bengal fan, was doing cartwheels. Every Bengal fan should have been with this pick. Green was their need and possibly the best athlete in the draft. The Bengals were starring at a no brainer and went with it. There was rumors of a trade out but they stuck to their guns and got the player they need. Great choice by the Bengals.

5) Arizona Cardinals- Patrick Peterson, CB LSU

A lot of experts liked Peterson as the best football player in the league. I was mildly surprised Gabbert wasn't the choice. Arizona must want to see if they can develop Max Hall. I like Peterson a lot though. He's a good player and return man. With Warner, they couldn't stop anyone, now they have the opposite problem. The Cardinals defense is getting better but their offense stinks.

6) Atlanta Falcons- Julio Jones, WR Alabama

I was stunned with how much the Falcons gave up to get Jones. The total of 4 picks 2 are first round picks is quite a bit. They were very high on getting wide receiver and they found their man. Jones gives Matty Ice another weapon. The Falcons may have jeopardized their future to some degree by giving away 4 picks. In the end, they got their guy and that's what matters.

7) San Francisco 49ers- Aldon Smith, DE Mizzo

I have a firm belief the Niners wanted Peterson. They weren't able to get him so they go with Smith. Smith is an athletic defensive line man that should help the Niner defense that slipped a little bit last year. With Patrick Willis and Corner Nate Clements, the defensive line now has their leader. We will see because I'm not quite sold on Smith.

8) Tennessee Titans- Jake Locker, QB Washington

When this pick was announced, I wondered if the Raiders had traded for the pick. This was the Al Davis reach in the top ten. I saw enough of Locker to know he's a big fat bust. My 5 alarm siren went off immediately when I saw him. Locker stunk it up against any team with a real defense. All you needed to see was him against the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Locker is the white Vince Young, which means he will whine, cry, runaway and end up being a bust.

9) Dallas Cowboys- Tyron Smith, OT USC

Our BBSD blogger Larry was pretty upset with this pick. He wanted a Prince. Well I'm here to tell you that if you want to see Romo end up on the IR again, then Price was your pick. Romo needs protected and Smith can do that. He may have played on the Right side of the offensive line, that's perfect since that's what Dallas needs. He was the need and sometimes that's not sexy.

10) Jacksonville Jaguars- Blaine Gabbert, QB Mizzo

The Jaguars never had complete confidence in Garrad and it always showed. This pick proved they are ready to move on. Gabbert is their guy for the future. I disagree. You can tell me how much Jon Gruden loves Gabbert. My rebutal will be Gruden loves every player who ever put pads on. Gabbert should not have gone 3rd in the order of quarterbacks off the board. He's better than Locker but that's not a big complement.

11) Houston Texans- J.J. Watt, DE Wisconsin

I hated this pick for several reasons. One, the Texans always take defensive linemen with their 1st round pick, it's not a need anymore. Two, their secondary was torched by everyone and Prince was on the board. Three, you have a great defensive linemen in Mario Williams that gets to the quarterback. In a division with Peyton Manning, you need someone in the secondary to take away his options and Prince could have helped you out. Unless they some how manage to sign Asomugha, then this pick sucks.

12) Minnesota Vikings- Christain Ponder, QB Florida State

I'm almost positive half of these teams didn't even watch film on these kids. The Vikings should have thanked their lucky stars they didn't end up with Locker and moved on to another need. Nope, don't want to do that. Webb played well late in the year but forget him. They completely reached Ponder and I hated it. Ponder wasn't worth a 1st round grade. Nick Fairley were still there. Williams wall is about to blow over unless they keep using their "performance enhancers". Bad pick Minnesota. I guess it could be worse that one old guy could come back to play QB for them again.

13) Detroit Lions- Nick Fairley, DT Auburn

At first, I didn't like this pick as much. Lions needed a corner and Prince was sliding right to them. The more I received text and tweets, I love it. Suh can teach Fairley how it's done as far as work ethic. Fairley seemed like a one year wonder. You pair him with Suh and this defensive line is really strong. The Vikings aren't going to be able to run through these two. The Lions are moving up. If we actually have a season, I'd pick the Lions to make the playoffs.

14) St. Louis Rams- Robert Quinn, DE North Carolina

The Rams couldn't get a top WR for Bradford and will look ahead to the 2nd round for that glaring hole. As long as this Quinn doesn't end up like Brady Quinn, it helps the Rams solidify the defensive line. This pick certainly felt like a Steve Spags pick.

15) Miami Dolphins- Mike Pouncey, OG Florida

Well, well, well, maybe the Dolphins have more confidence in Henne than we thought. Pouncey is a solid selection. I ranked him high. Pouncey or Ingram would have been fine by me. He should be a starter from the get go.

16) Washington Redskins- Ryan Kerrigan, DE Purdue

This was one of the picks the Redskins got in the trade with Jax. Can you figure out who will play quarterback for the Skins? Me neither. I guess Grossman. Kerrigan is a nice player and should help their defense. I just can't understand what the hell Synder is dreaming about for a QB. The world may never know.

17) New England Pats- Nate Solder, OT Colorado

I had Solder picked a few spots down to the Colts. This was a good pick, not great. The Pats are lacking a pass rush on their defensive line and Cameron and Bowers was sitting here. Still, Brady is getting older and you have to protect him. Especially when the Jets have guys blitzing all over the place.

18) San Diego Chargers- Corey Luiget, DT Illinois

Other than Luis Castillo, I couldn't name a single guy on the Chargers defensive line. They need some help stopping the run when you look at Oakland and Kansas City pounding the ball at you constantly with 2 or 3 running backs. Luiget has to fix that problem. This is what a good team does. They have a need and they fill it.

19) New York Giants- Prince Amukamara, CB Nebraska

The Prince finally came off the board. I figured the Giants were looking for a tackle to help keep Eli upright. Prince was the best guy still on the board. I love this kid and think he is a day one starter. The Giants defensive line is damn good at getting the quarterback and now they have a CB to help cover the number 1.

20) Tampa Bay- Adrian Clayborn, DE Iowa

Clayborn has some concerns about his stamina. I saw several games where Clayborn was down on one knee sucking wind late in games. In his defense, he took on a ton of double teams and/or the best offensive lineman. I like the pick here to Tampa though. Gerald McCoy has to pan out to make this a great 1 2 combo.

21) Cleveland Browns- Phil Taylor, OT Baylor

The Browns needed a playmaker for McCoy and failed to do that. They had a shot at Jones and passed and there wasn't another WR worthy of a 1st round pick. McCoy can still be happy to get a guy to protect his blind side for years. That is as long as McCoy develops into a starting QB in the NFL.

22) Indianapolis Colts- Anthony Castonzo, OT Boston College

The Colts may have gotten the biggest steal of the first round. Castonzo fits their philosophy to a T. He's a great pass blocker and gets to play with Peyton Manning. Anthony just won the lottery and the Colts have to be very happy. A win win situation.

23) Philadelphia Eagles- Danny Watkins, OG Baylor

I figured for sure the Eagles would take Jimmy Smith. They seem to need a secondary player. Andy Reid had to be thinking about Michael Vick's health at the end of the year. He was getting pumpelled by everyone. Watkins could develop into a starting guard or tackle. I don't know about right now though.

24) New Orleans- Cameron Jordan, DE California

Good choice for the Saints. People rarely talk about their defense. I saw several mocks having the Saints taking Ingram. I'm happy they went to the defense side of the ball. Ingram would have been nice but they need help. Jordan helps getting to the quarterback in a conference that has an mobile Freeman and icy Ryan.

25) Seattle Seahawks- James Carpenter, OG Alabama

I have no idea why they went with Carpenter. This was a very puzzling pick. Ingram was here to help their offense. Camiri would have been a better reach even. At least he was a tackle to put on the other side of Okung. Seattle wanted out according to insiders. They couldn't get it done and then reached.

26) Baltimore Ravens- Jimmy Smith, CB Colorado

I think a lot of people had this pick. It makes sense. Baltimore's defense is getting older. You have to get younger at certain positions. The window is closing on the Ravens defense while the offense is starting to peak. Ravens always seem to do it right and this year was another correct call.

27) Kansas City Chiefs- Jon Baldwin, WR Pittsburgh

I know Goodell said 26th but I had already typed Smith in with the Ravens well before they picked him. Baldwin is a good choice for Kansas City. They already have Bowe and adding another weapon for Cassel to throw to is perfect. Kansas City still needs some help on the offensive line and will be addressed in later rounds.

28) New Orleans Saints- Mark Ingram, RB Alabama

The Pats once again add another 1st round pick for the following year. Wow that is very smart. Oh yeah the pick. My bad. . Ingram is a power house and should finally help eliminate all the other no names the Saints threw out there late in the year. Good player. I think Bush is gone but other people say he stays with Ingram.

29) Chicago Bears- Gabe Carimi, OT Wisconsin

Cutler was hit far to often and Carimi is a mauler. He will keep Cutler upright instead of faking a knee injury in the biggest game of the year, allegedly. Bears have a good core of players only I'm not sold on Coach Smith. Crap, I did it again. I have to stick to the picks. Anyway, I do like the pick to help a bad offensive line.

30) New York Jets- Muhammad Wilkerson, DT Temple

The guy with the crazy hair on that mega network really like Wilkerson. I figured the Jets would go defense. They always look to help somewhere on the defensive side. I hate the Jets and can't stand Sanchez. However, the front office does a lot of smart moves. Wilkerson will team up with Jenkins to really fill some gaps.

31) Pittsburgh Steelers- Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State

Another team always looking for defensive help, the Steelers gets some with Heyward. He switched between outside and inside the line during the year. He fits the Steelers system of a 3-4. Pittsburgh may have looked for a corner if there was one fitting the bill. They must not have liked anyone and went with the guy they liked the most which was Heyward.

32) Green Bay Packers- Derek Sherrod, OT Mississippi State

If the champions had one glaring weakness, it was the offensive line. I know it's not a major weakness but they needed to get younger and plus Sherrod doesn't start at Left Tackle. I thought the pick would be Bowers who fell all the way from top 5 or 10 to 2nd round. He will be chosen quickly in the 2nd round. The champions found a guy they can use right away on the right side of the line and move last years 1st round pick Bulaga to the left side.

The draft was a lot of fun until about pick number 25, then it hit a wall. The whole thing slowed down and picks weren't coming in at all. Baltimore pulled a Mike Tice and passed even. In the end, everyone is going to remember Newton for better or worse. I was tweeting during the NFL draft and if you would like to follow me it's @mccall316 or email me jcall@bigbadsportsdaddy.com. You can find more sports on www.bigbadsportsdaddy.com.

J Call

Groundhog Day

One year ago, I wasn't a happy Raider fan. Tom Cable hadn't proved anything. Darren McFadden was on the verge of bust. Jamarcus Russell's waist size was on the verge of exploding. The team was a complete mess and then something happened. The players started to rally around Cable. The draft was praised because Oakland drafted quality football players. The best thing to happen was signing offensive coordinator Hue Jackson (it may end up being the worst thing.) The team started to perform. Flash forward to Sunday January, 2nd, 2011 and I couldn't have been happier for an 8-8 season. The team came together under Cable and Jackson. Two days later, Cable is fired and the Raiders are back...as the laughing stock of the league.

If you take a closer look at this season, you will find the Oakland Raiders played great football throughout the season. They had three losses that were inexcusable. I blame the organization for the loss against Arizona, Miami and San Francisco. Other than that, the season was a success. Hard to believe an 8-8 season is called a success but it is the Raiders. I will take 3 no shows over 11. Oakland improved in dramatic fashion on both sides of the ball. The offense, even with the carousel at quarterback, put up huge numbers. McFadden showed signs of brilliance, averaged over 5 yards a carry and ended up with over 1,100 rushing yards. The team average of 354.6 yards a game was 10th in the league. As I mentioned in the season preview, the Wide Receivers were the most important. They didn't help out consistently but still managed to help Campbell reach his 2nd highest career qb rating. Hue should receive a ton of credit for how the offense performed. I'm not ready to give him the head coaching job and fire the guy who seems to have the backing of all the players. Cable is a players coach. They loved him and you don't push away a guy the team loves, unless he's not getting results. Cable was getting results and they were improving. John Marshall was getting the defense turned around as well. They ranked 2nd in passing yards allowed. Even if the rushing defense was the best, 29th in the league, and yet finished 11th overall. This team was moving towards getting to the playoffs next season. The time wasn't right to turn a 180 and go the complete opposite direction.

One big thing was the locker rooms love for Cable. You can't have a mutiny. Shane Lechler has played through 6 coaches since 2000. He came out with a great quote, "I just want to know what the hell is going on ... how do you justify firing somebody when you just went 6-0 in the division and 8-8 in the season after we put in so much as a group, as a unit, as a team with our leader being Tom Cable. He later said, "I can't go through another head coach." Man I sure am pumped after hearing that. I mean how can I not be ready for next year. The players have a right to be pissed. I understood firing Kiffin, Shell and Callahan. They stunk! Gruden was traded because Al is crazy. Cable was fired because Al is crazy. I believe I have said this before and it's worth mentioning again, being a Raider fan is like watching Groundhog Day and Weekend at Bernie's combined.

Nobody knows what's going to happen. My guess is he will hire Hue Jackson. If I'm Hue, I run for my life. The 49ers are looking at him as well. I would run across the bay to San Fran. They aren't as messed up as the Raiders. If I'm a free agent, I sign anywhere. You might as well jump ship before the captain rams it into a giant glacier Titanic style. I'm certain the ship is already going down. I just have to wait to see how quickly.

NFL Mid-Season Report

The NFL is halfway through the season. The final teams are getting their bye week this weekend. I wrote an NFL preview blog and I thought it would be fun to take a look at what I had then and see where we are now. I think I did pretty well considering the NFL is the most unpredictable league. I started with the NFC West back in August so we begin there.

NFC West
1st predictions: Divisional Champ San Fran 10-6, Arizona 8-8, Seattle 6-10 and Rams 3-13

At first glance, you would think this is a fat blunder. Well it was. I never thought Bradford was changing the entire landscape of football in St. Louis. I expected a fall off in Arizona and at 3-5, I was close. I had San Fran winning the division (so did everyone else) and Mike Singletary winning Coach of the Year. My bad. They stink and aren't sniffing either. Mike might be heading for the unemployment line. I have no idea what's going to happen in the 2nd half for the West. We could witness a 7-9 divisional champion. My rookie of the year is Bradford and I'm riding him and the Rams into the playoffs.

NFC North
1st predictions: Divisional Champ Green Bay 12-4, Wildcard Vikings 11-5, Bears 7-9 and Lions 5-11

I was right on line with the Packers, Bears and Lions. Detroit with Stafford may have been better than I predicted. We won't know because Stafford keeps getting injured. The Bears continue to be a roller coaster ride each week. Minnesota is the real fraud. Favre has stunk up the field and everyone around him has disappointed. The Moss trade was humiliating. Players are coming out to the media saying they wish Childress was gone already. Be patient because at the end of the year he will be fired. I'm taking away the Wildcard from the Vikings. I had the Packers winning and I still believe that. Rodgers was my MVP. With all the injuries Green Bay has had on the offense, he deserves more love for the award.

NFC South
1st predictions: Divisional Champ Saints 12-4, Wildcard Falcons 10-6, Panthers 6-10, Bucs 4-12

Who knew Moore and Clausen were going to suck and the running game was running away? I didn't. I felt Carolina had a legit shot to compete in the NFC. Instead they may not win more than 4 games. Tampa has been a huge surprise. The Bucs have a chance with a semi-easy schedule to make it 8-8. I won't push them farther than that. Other than having the bottom two in opposite positions, I'm sticking with the Saints and Falcons in the playoffs. Atlanta is good enough to win a wildcard and the Saints will do enough to win the division.

NFC East
1st predictions: Divisional Champs Cowboys 11-5, Giants 9-7, Skins 8-8 and Eagles 8-8

My biggest mistake in the whole preview. The Cowboys have one more than the Bills. They fired Philips (2 years to late). The Redskins and Eagles are right around what I thought they would be. The Redskins have made all the news and I still think they get to 8-8. The Cowboys have no chance for anything other than a top 5 draft pick. I'm giving the wildcard I had the Vikings with and picking the Eagles. The Giants have been much better than I believed. If they keep destroying teams, the NFC might go through New York.

AFC West
1st predictions: Divisional Champs Chargers 10-6, Denver 7-9, Oakland 7-9, Kansas City 5-11

Ok, Kansas City is playing good football and I thought they would suck. They also have the easiest damn schedule in the NFL. KC has played 2 teams with a winning record so far and have 2 left on the schedule. Denver is on the path of finding a new coach again. They are terrible. San Diego seems to be charging as of late. My Raiders are surging. A 3 game winning streak and the defense is coming together. The concern with Oakland is the schedule gets much tougher. I don't think they can over come the stretch of good games to make the playoffs. This division is still the toughest to predict. KC's easy schedule gives them the edge. But I'm a stand up guy and will stick with the Chargers to win the division.

AFC North
1st predictions: Divisional Champs Ravens 13-3, Wildcard Cincy 10-6, Pitt 9-7 and Browns 4-12

It's true, I bought into the Bengals. I thought with all the added talent on offense they would hold down Pitt. I was wrong. I still love Baltimore and think they are better than the Steelers. Cleveland has snuck up on the Saints and Pats in back to back weeks. The Browns will beat out the Bengals in the North standings. I'm swiping the Wildcard tag off Cincy and giving it to Pitt. Baltimore still wins the division.

AFC South
1st predictions: Divisional Champ Colts 12-4, Wildcard Texans 10-6, Titans 5-11, Jags 3-13

In my NFL preview I asked one simple question about the Colts, "Does Peyton Manning still QB this team?" Well he does and I'm sticking with Peyton and the Colts to hold off stiff competition from the Titans and Jags to win the division. Manning has lost several pieces of his offense and keeps winning. Houston hasn't found a secondary so that Wildcard prediction is wiped away. The Titans and Jag have played better ball than I believed. The South is very competitive. Tennessee adding Moss should keep them in the Wildcard hunt. I'm not willing to give it to them though.

AFC East
1st predictions: Divisional Champ Pats 11-5, Jets 9-7, Miami 8-8 and Bills 2-14

We end with my best predictions. I was spot on with Buffalo and Miami. Buffalo plays hard but can't get over the hump. Miami is 4-4 and switching quarterbacks. I don't fully comprehend that decision. New England dumped Moss for Branch and it worked. They are still winning the East. The Jets are now getting my other wildcard spot that went to Houston. Their defense is great and the Jets offense will survive.

I'm giving myself a chance for redemption. I hope I can do a little better the second time. I finished my first prediction with the Super Bowl pick of Baltimore and Green Bay. I'm not backing away from that. Baltimore and Green Bay both have great shots to make it. As good a shot as anyone in the wild NFL.

J Call.

The Defining Moment

The NFL season is coming to the halfway point. Some teams are a sinking ship and others are playoff bound. This season has been crazy wacky and any other word you can find for absolute nuts. The season for teams comes right down to a single moment. It's a defining moment. Your team will make or break the year on this moment. We have seen many of these moments so far this year. The biggest thing is if your team's moment is an injury that's not the kind of season you want. If it's a pick 6 for a win, your season might take off like a rocket. We start in the desert.

Arizona Cardinals- They are a mess. They are still contending in the NFC West. They are only one game back of the Seahawks. I don't know if that shows competitiveness in the West or describes the pathetic West. Their moment was Kurt Warner deciding to put on his dance shoes instead of football cleats. The Cardinals would have had one more year of domination in the NFC West with Warner. Derek Anderson and Max Hall aren't cutting it. They needed the Hall of Famer.

Minnesota Vikings- Their moment was when Brad Childress decided to send the house after Favre. Favre returned and looks an old man because he is an old man. The media still loves him and continues to praise his toughness. We should substitute the word toughness for pride. You can praise his pride. He has the heart but he doesn't have the tools. Also, Jared Allen should have never cut his mullet. Allen was a sack machine last year. He cut it and now the defensive line puts pressure on no one. Bring it back Allen.

New Orleans Saints- Last night. That was the Saints moment. Beating Pittsburgh at home on a Sunday night game. They needed that win. The offense hasn't looked the same, the running game struggles and lack of turnovers by the defense has put everyone talking "hangover." Well beating a Steeler team that was the best team in the NFL was a season changer. They got the turnovers. They got the big plays from Brees. They may have saved their season in one night.

Dallas Cowboys- The team a lot of "experts" picked to win the Super Bowl might be lucky to win 3 games. The moment Jones decided to keep Wade comes to mind. Wade is receiving most of the blame and rightfully deserves it. I say Romo's injury though. They weren't good while he was playing but any hope for a turnaround was flushed when Romo broke his collarbone. Why the hell are they waiting on surgery? The Cowboys should pack it in and get ready for some house cleaning. A top left tackle should be on Jones mind right now not salvaging the season. That's history.

Saint Louis Rams- Are they the biggest surprise of the year? Yes in my opinion. You can look at any one's first preview and not find the Rams near .500 at the end of the season or even predict them to have 4 wins all year. Their moment was drafting Bradford. He's the real star out of the draft. The injuries were the focal point. I say were because we can't talk about them anymore. Bradford has proved his worth. The Rams have a fighting chance in a horrible division and a weak schedule.

Houston Texans- I can't predict games very well but the Monday night game tonight is the Texans moment. If they sweep the Colts with a convincing win, they will launch themselves to the playoffs. If their defense can't stop Peyton with half his targets out, the Texans will sit at home again. This is the game to define Kubiak's tenure. The term must win gets thrown out to often. I say it fits this scenario.

Cincinnati Bengals- I text the only person I know who is a Bengal fan for their moment: "When Palmer missed a wide open ochocince in the end zone at the end of the game against Cleveland and they lost. Or when he threw 2 ints against t.b (Tampa Bay) when they were ahead with 2 minutes left and should have just ran and punted and won the game." Hard to argue any of that. Palmer has been the defining picture for Cincy. Where did the franchise QB that was drafted out of USC?

Oakland Raiders- I had to finish with the team I love. Da Raiders moment was a few weeks ago against the Chargers. (I talked about it in the Streak Ends blog). The play with Huff diving for Rivers arm, getting the ball fumbled and Branch takes it to the house changed the complexion of Raider football. I realize since then they lost to San Francisco and beat up on two bad opponents. The fact they blew out 2 teams is proof enough they are well on their way. My only lame excuse for the Niner loss was McFadden was out with an injury. They are .500 at mid-season for the first time in years. I was begging for an 8-8 season. The Rivers reverse tuck rule play turned the whole season around. I still have my guard up, you would to if all you've gone through the heartache and despair like I have for a decade. Still, this is the first time in years I've been this pumped up to see a Chiefs Raider game.

The season is 50% over and some teams haven't had their moment. I'm sure I missed some but I only had so much time to write. The truth is your team's has 16 games to make their mark. You always know how the season will go in a matter of a few breaks. The pigskin needs to bounce your way. I can't wait to see how the rest of the year plays out. We are in for a treat and I thought Halloween was over.

J Call

The Streak Ends

The perfect football weekend draws to a close with one more game tonight. How can I call this weekend the perfect weekend? Well my friend, when you beat an arch rival for the first time in 14 tries, I'd say that's a great start but that was the end. The beginning was Saturday where some big names fell, some hearts were broken and for all intent purposes the BCS is back to being a big fat can of worms.

Before we dive into the extremely exciting weekend of football, I must first rant on a thing that has been bothering me for quite sometime: fans. That's right fans piss me off. You know why I can't stand most fans is because they dish it and then can't take it. They make fun of every one's team, conference, division, hair color, etc. The fact is if you can't stand people texting you after your team loses, then don't make fun of someone else's team in the first place. Case in point, a good friend of mine and he called me out in his last blog so I will do the same. You see, he makes fun of every conference even the one his team is in and every one's team. They lost this weekend and I'm sure he will breakdown the loss soon. You can't complain when you get a 1,000 text messages from fans of other teams when your team loses. It's inexcusable. My phone blew up when Boise beat OU or anytime OU loses for that matter. Nebraska fans are the worst. They were the most uptight bunch of fans when they were winning Big XII titles and whipping every team in the nation. However, once Callahan showed up they couldn't handle it. I'd make fun of them and either they looked like they were going to cry or want to fight. These my friends, are what I'd call idiot fans. You should defend your team's "honor" if you are a fan. You shouldn't go overboard. Suck it up and take it like a man. We all make fun of each others teams, that's the nature of the beast in sports. Misery loves company. I will continue to text my good friend John when the Cowboys, Red Raiders, Rangers and especially the Mavs when they lose. He, in return, will text me when the Sooners, Raiders and Spurs get their asses handed to them. At the end of the day, I can still call him a friend because it's all in good fun. I love sports but I know it's not life and death. If I didn't have friends make fun of me for when they lose, I wouldn't be able to throw it right back in their face when they win. Where would be the fun?

I didn't think this weekend would be perfect after what happened on Thursday. Nebraska ran over Kansas State in nothing more than a glorified showcase of Martinez. They hadn't been on National Television yet this year. If you saw their schedule, you would know the reason. The Huskers showed off their talents and made K-State looked like, well a Big 12 team. Not the start I was looking for. However, the sun rose on Saturday morning to start a beautiful day, the mood suddenly changed. The early games weren't much to talk about except Ohio State continuing their dominance. I watched quite a bit of the Texas Tech Baylor game. I text John, BBSD blogger and radio host, right after the bonehead onside kick touchdown. I knew this was going to be a day to remember. The late afternoon games had 2 games I looked forward to the most. I claimed before the Bama game that South Carolina would be exposed as a fraud. Thankfully, I am not a betting man. South Carolina did exactly what Bama wants to do to everyone. Run the ball down their throat and come up with big passing plays. The Cocks upset goes down as the first good thing to happen for me. I hate the BCS and I root for 7 or 8 undefeated teams by seasons end. My hatred for Nick Saban and the Tide goes much deeper. The old ball coach got the big win and set the tone.

I watched most of the Michigan Michigan State game with a Michigan buddy of mine. You could feel his disappointment. "Little brother" handed Michigan a butt kicking and eliminated the hype. ESPN touts Michigan and many other programs when they win. I love to see those teams go down. I give credit to our Michigan blogger, Chris for being rational and saying Denard didn't deserve the Heisman hype so quickly. He's certainly not out of the running and will more than likely end up in New York for the presentation come January. His receivers didn't help him out by dropping wide open passes either. I'm giving a lot of credit to the Spartans though. They had the gameplan and played a damn good game. So far so good.

The Florida LSU and Florida State Miami games ended this stellar day of football. Florida has been so good for so long, that it's time they get knocked from their perch. I don't wish ill will on Urban as we all know he had some health issues. He loses a few more heartbreakers such as the one on Saturday, he might end up back in the hospital. The credit really goes to Les Miles. The ballsy fake field goal flip on the would be tying field goal and the game winning td were both reviewed, upheld and I went crazy. Another great game was the Noles and Canes. The game wasn't pretty but it helped OU's non-conference schedule. My only complaint on Saturday was Arizona lost which hurt Iowa.

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday! Oh sorry I thought I was doing a monster truck commercial. Sunday kicked off with the Chefs and Colts only on CBS. I hate KC and can't stand watching Matt Cassel pretend he's a franchise qb. I'll be honest after the first half, I was nervous. KC had a great defensive scheme for Peyton. He looked off all game long. Good thing the Chefs offense wasn't producing anything either. I've watched a few KC games and if you stack 8 in the box and make Cassel beat you, you'll win. Other teams failed, Indy didn't. Peyton put the game winning drive together and finally put the ball in the endzone for the W. KC, no longer undefeated and the NFL day was just getting started. The other early game that was on my television screen was the Pack and Skins. I've seen every team in the NFC East this year and the Skins are the most impressive. Granted, the Giants plowed through the Texans yesterday and the Eagles kept San Fran win less. I'll keep Dallas on hold for a moment. The Skins defense keeps coming after you with ruthless aggression and McNabb makes the plays to keep the game alive. Neither offensive line is that good giving up a total of 9 sacks and almost 20 hits on the QB. However, coming back from 10 down in the fourth to tie and giving up only 3 points to a good Packers offense should receive you some praise. The Packers keep getting hit with the injury bug, Rodgers included. The NFC East is wide open and if the Skins continue to play aggressive defense and McNabb stays healthy, they might make the playoffs and every Cowboy fan just threw up. Speaking of Dallas...

Where the hell is their season going? I can tell you, down in a blaze of shame. Hell even our Dallas homers, Larry and John are writing nasty blogs on how bad the Boys suck. Congrats on coming over to the dark side. I've ripped Dallas enough that I don't need to say much more. If you want a fans perspective, you'll find it here. Well said John. As I said, the East is wide open and they could still make a run. I hope not because I'm enjoying this way to much.

On to the best thing that has happened to a Raider fan in a long long time, a W over San Diego SuperChargers. I was so sick of hearing that stupid song. I watched after the game as Chris Berman couldn't even break down the game as he was mortified. The guys on NFL Primetime or whatever the hell that show is called gave Oakland no love. I'm fine with that because the Raiders never get love. We are a hated franchise. Oakland blocked two punts, changed quarterbacks twice and found a way to reverse the tuck rule for their first victory over San Diego in 14 tries. CBS flipped to the Oakland game right after the play happened. If you're not familiar or haven't seen it: Michael Huff, another 1st round bust, flew in knocked the ball away from Rivers before the arm went forward. Tyvon Branch scooped up the ball and ran it back for the game clinching td. The play was reviewed and that's when CBS flipped. I text my brother instantly because if the play was overturned it would have been circa 2001 all over again. Instead, the call stood and I did my best credit card leap off my chair. Incredible. A lot of writers called Moss, "the crazy hot chick" you don't marry but date for a while. Well the Oakland Raiders are my crazy hot chick. They do just enough good that just went I think I'm jumping ship or cutting ties, they come up with a huge win. I'm not saying this is going to turn the franchise around or begin a hot winning streak. I will say this was the game they had to win. San Diego has been the Raiders kryptonite.

This is why I love sports so much. The ups and downs throughout the year. You write a team off only to see them overcome. One week you are committing sports suicide and the next your at an all time high. It's what makes sports so great. Yes, I've been Debbie Downer in the past with the Raiders. Name me one fan of any team that hasn't been down. You can't and that's what drives us. Fans love to pick on each other and we must take the good with the bad. Eventually one day, your team from any sport, lifts that trophy high in the air and it might as well be the middle finger to all your sports buddies. That my friend is the best day for any sports fan.

J Call

Sports Suicide

I realized something Sunday night. I was in a horrible mood and what I then realized was that if it weren't for Mr. Timmy Duncan, I may have committed sports suicide over the last decade. I may take sports to serious and shouldn't get so down after a loss, after all I should be use to it by now. However, lets take a look back at the last 10 years or so and see why football is the most depressing time of the year for me.

First of all with the Sooners, we have had some great years. OU won the national championship in 2000. So what's happened since? A couple of BSC and Big 12 Championship meltdowns. The unbelievable Boise State game which would have been enough. USC killed us in a title game. Kansas State put up huge numbers on us in 2003 in the Big XII title game. I had hopes of a national title game last year. Then Bradford's shoulder snapped and the All-American Tight End, Gresham blew out his knee. This year, I had zero hopes and figure Texas will bounce on us next week to revenge their stupid loss from Saturday. Great start.

The Tuck rule. Couldn't this moment alone been enough for Raider fans? This moment killed the franchise. Oakland would have won the Super Bowl that year. Don't tell me the Steelers would have taken us down. No way. Gruden never gets traded and we win back to back Super Bowls. But no, this single worst moment for me as a Raider fan has haunted me for 10 years.

Coaching Carousel. Gruden leaves and crushes Callahan in the Super Bowl. Leading to the team quitting on Callahan, rightfully so. He didn't change a damn thing. Callahan is followed by the walking corpse of Art Shell. Has this guy said a word since '07? Was he even alive during his coaching tenure? I have no clue. The disgrace of Lane Kiffin after that. Kiffin made it pretty simple he's a jerk. The way he acted, Crazy Al had the right to fire his stupid ass. I'm still waiting for Tom Cable Guy to win back to back games. It isn't all Cable's fault. He hasn't had a QB which falls into my favorite.

The Jamarcus Russell Era. How will we ever forget this worthless piece of crap? I know, the biggest bust ever! Kiffin didn't want him, only smart thing Kiffin said as head coach, and Cable didn't defend him either. He was the worst draft pick ever. The work ethic of Russell could be compared to a rock and the rock wins. He single handily set the franchise back another 10 years. Even in Madden, I can't get a decent QB in the draft to help the rebuilding process. It's like the game said screw you, your franchise chose him and must suffer.

Now, I'm witnessing the Chiefs as undefeated leaders of the division. Braylon Edwards, as I knew he would, played a huge role last night. Janikowski should be released this week and we might as well fire up the parade for the Pittsburgh Steelers. My only saving grace has been how poor the Cowboys started and Sam Bradford looks like a real competitor for Rookie of the Year. When will it end? The lock out looms which means no football next year. Everyone seems to hate that and I may have to take a serious stand on the other sidelines. Another decade of Raider football, I might be 6 feet deep before Al Davis.

J Call

Karma Happens

After looking back in my archives, I noticed I haven't written about the NFL since my mega NFL preview. Two weeks into the season and I'm already hating and loving it at the same time. I have written about the Iowa Hawkeyes for a few weeks and since their game for lack of a better term is a cake walk, I figured I don't need to go into great detail. I do want to hit on what happened to them down in the desert last weekend.

Iowa went to the desert and found quicksand and just when it looked as if they escaped, Zona pulled them back down. I talked about it in my IA preview, no early turnovers. What the hell happened? A blocked punt, a pick 6, deja vu from last year's game, and the crowd went wild. The might mo shifted. Iowa made a great comeback, had a shot to take the lead and got their PAT blocked. Now the only National Championship talk about here is for Nebraska since they have played some stiff competition (sarcasm). At least, the Big 10 title is in reach but I'm not trusting Stanzi. The loss to Arizona hurt and the loss of Hampton may hurt worse long term. Jewel Hampton had just came back from missing last year with injuries. Now he's done for another season and I thought Iowa was relying to heavily on Robinson already. He's all they got now. Ball State and home cooking will solve some problems for now.

On to the NFL, where panic happens. My favorite early nomination for play of the year comes from Randy Moss. I can't stand him because of his lack of heart in Oakland, but I hate the Jets and Revis more. This play makes it all better as Revis holds his leg. I wonder what hurt more his leg or pride. Maybe in the rematch, Revis won't talk smack when all Moss has to say is go back and watch the first game. Revis holds out, gets what he wants and then gets hurt. Karma baby.


Speaking of beautiful karma, I'm not sure who will have it worse, the Chargers organization or Vincent Jackson. Who to back in the situation? I can relate to both. As an owner, you don't want pushed around. You also want to win. On the flip side, Vincent has performed and is an outstanding receiver. He probably deserves a new deal. His biggest mistake was coming out and complaining to the media. I don't want to hear you bitch about how many millions you deserve. Shut up be a good citizen and he might be on the field. Now he sounds like an ass-hat and on the verge of not playing a down in 2010. How much money are we talking anyway? You need paid but don't look for sympathy when my bank account says -($45.00). Hopefully Jackson didn't take any advice from former teammate Antonio Cromartie and kept it in his pants. That guy has more kids than that Kate who popped out 8.

I normally talk about the Cowboys since we are based out of Dallas so here goes: this is to easy. You missed your chance for Shanahan and he's the guy leading a surprisingly competitive team. In fact, my brother who saw them against the Texans thought Washington was good enough to win the East. Wade's going to be fired if he loses to Houston. Come on down Jason Garrett, the fans love you. Chin up Cowboy fans, you still got the Super Bowl. You won't play in it but it's coming to your city.

Finally let's dive into my Oakland Raiders. The Campbell era was about as good as the Russell era. I like Bruce Almighty since he reminds me of my favorite Oakland QB, Richie Gannon. Bruce is a vocal leader, fiery and a will to win. I can't see him a the man for Da Raiders future. I'm actually thankful Oakland doesn't have their 1st rounder in 2011. I'd be staring at the Jake Locker era. I saw enough of him against Nebraska to know he's overrated. I'm nervous though. Crazy Al hasn't had a spending spree for a few years and Vick the dog fighter is a free agent. That's what happens when you deal with the devil or a dead owner. The lockout will save me from the embarrassment of seeing Vick in black and silver. Then again, Philly fans don't mind. They love Vick as long as he produces. Maybe Philly will find comfort when McNabb is once again in the playoffs and they are sitting on the couch wondering what happened. Karma happened.

J Call

Big Bad NFL Preview

I've been asked several times by readers and friends, "Why would you preview the entire NFL when only 12 teams are going to make the playoffs." You tell me which 12 and then I would only do 12. I guarantee I would not receive the same 12 teams from every single one of you. I do it for that reason and because I love the NFL and knowing about all the teams makes me knowledgeable for the entire season and also for my fantasy draft. Actually, I don't give a crap about fantasy football and only care about the real deal. Everyone has hope for their team and that's a good thing until Week 9 and your team is a nominee for top ten pick. For now, keep your hopes high and I won't drag you down in this huge NFL preview. I'm ready for some football.

This will be a little different then last year. I am choosing the most important player or group I believe that gives the team the best chance for success. I will also give my prediction on their record as I did last year. I wasn't that bad with many of my picks last year. Honestly, if you read other "experts" they didn't have the Saints making the playoffs or winning it all either.

NFC West

San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers are ready to take this division with Warner gone in Arizona, Pete Carroll in Seattle and the Rams rebuilding, this young 9er team is ready for the leap. Mike Singletary is proving to be a great hire. San Fran had to be shocked when Glen Coffee abruptly retired but they got a good back up with Westbrook. My most important is the young linemen from the draft. They spent two high draft picks on Anthony Davis and Mike Iupati. These two have to perform and keep Alex Smith up right and make holes for Gore. Again with this division, I think they will. I only like one team in West to make the playoffs and it's the 49ers.
San Francisco: 10-6 NFC West Champs.

Arizona Cardinals
It's not that I don't like Leinart, more like I don't like him as much as Warner. Who does? Maybe half the team should have went begging Warner to come back like the Vikings did to get their old man back. Forget all the offensive stats from last year, because this is a different team. Kurt, Bolding and Dansby are gone and need replaced. You can't fill it all in one year. Most important is the running game. Beanie and Hightower have to step up in order for Leinart to get comfortable. He won't be able to put up the numbers Warner did and those yards have to be made up somewhere. This team has never devoted enough time to the ground game and Coach Wisenhunt should take a play out of Pitts book and run the damn ball. I still like .500 for this team and fall just shy of playing meaningful football in January.
Arizona Cardinals: 8-8

Seattle Seahawks
I'm not a fan of Pete Carroll and think he's over matched in the NFL. Some guys have what it takes and Pete, in my eyes, doesn't have it. Young Okung has to help Hasselback from having the same scenario as last year. In fact, most important is Hasselback. I don't like picking quarterbacks because every team's QB is important. However, Matt has to stay healthy and find the overpaid Wide Receivers and establish a good tight end, John Carlson into a dominant tight end. Matt won't play all year and will go down at some point which will hurt their bid for .500. Let the Carroll era begin.
Seattle Seahawks: 6-10

Saint Louis Rams
The last few years have been atrocious with less than 5 wins in 3 seasons. I'll admit since I'm an OU homer, I like Bradford but don't start him. Throw Feely in and let him get his butt kicked. They won't win many games this year much like the past few. The most important thing about the Rams, development. Young players need to develop so in 3 years we are talking about playoffs again in STL. They are going to improve but I think we all know this year is growing pains.
St. Louis Rams: 3-13 but improve

NFC North

Green Bay Packers
I'm in the minority according to most experts, I like the Pack in the North even with number 4 returning for his 75th season. Aaron Rodgers did his best David Carr impression by taking the most sacks last season. Even with the sacks, Rodgers led this team to a top 6 offense. I know the o-line will be talked about a lot and has already. The most important to me is the secondary. This secondary is very young and at the same time old. Charles Woodson and Al Harris combine for a quarter of a century experience. The rest of the secondary are young and inexperienced. If Woodson or Harris go down, it will really test how the new kids on the block. The young and old have to come together and have more special year. I like this team a lot
.Green Bay Packers: 12-4 NFC North Champs

Minnesota Vikings
As you read in the Favre blog, I'm not a fan and that's putting it mildly. I still love this team for it's ground game and front 7 on defense. The thing with Favre is can he keep the magic going from last year and if he has a chance to redeem himself, will he throw it to the right freaking team? He doesn't make one stupid throw in the NFC Championship game, the Vikings make the Super Bowl. However, Adrian is at fault because of his fumbling problems. He needs a big year with less turnovers so he can stay on the field more. The front 4 are most important. Jared Allen, Williams wall and Edwards or rookie Griffen need that same fire and intensity to keep hounding the QB. Wild card is theirs for the taking.
Minnesota Vikings: 11-5 wild card

Chicago Bears
Mike Martz should tell Cutler, teammates are who we throw to and not opposing cornerbacks. Cutler was god awful in his first year in Chi-town. The supposed franchise QB still has a losing career record and I'm tired of the excuses. I've heard a million of them. He didn't have a defense in Denver or he didn't have wide receivers last year. Here's one for you: maybe he isn't that good of an NFL QB. Julius Peppers was a nice addition if he plays like he gives a crap. Urlacher will get hurt at some point so the defense will struggle. I talked to the only Bears fan I know and she said most important player is Matt Forte. I couldn't agree more. Martz system won't allow for much running so Forte has to make plays when he has the opportunity. If he plays well, he takes pressure off Cutler. I think Forte comes close to 1,000 yards. Cutler on the other hand will throw up more picks and stink up the joint.
Chicago Bears: 7-9

Detroit Lions
As I said with the Rams, the Lions are developing into a nice team. Suh is a great addition and will be the motor and play maker this defense desperately needs. With that said on the defense, the most important are the wide outs. For Stafford to improve on last year's solid performance, he he needs more than Calvin Johnson and Brandon Pettigrew. Can you name another weapon in the passing game? I struggled to remember Nate Burleson. The weapons got to find ways to separate from the defense and get open other than Calvin. Defenses are going to target him. Scheffler is a nice piece and another solid security blanket. A slot receiver or possession receiver need to do their part and I think they don't have one on the roster. One more year and then this team starts talking about getting out of the basement.
Detroit Lions: 5-11

NFC South

New Orleans Saints
The defending World Champion New Orleans Saints! I haven't written that out before and it feels weird to read it. I like Brees and the magical Saints to return to the playoffs to defend their crown. The number one offense has to get the kind of play from the defense it did in the post season. Darren Sharper returns but the loss of Fujita hurts a little. The defense is important, more important than them is the attitude. The Saints must continue that same attitude as an underdog. They can't fall victim to hype, instead listen to Brees and keep attacking. With Sean Payton and Brees as the leaders, this team won't get lazy.
New Orleans Saints: NFC South Division Champions 12-4

Atlanta Falcons
To many injuries sealed their fate last year. Matty Ice needs consistency from his receivers as Roddy White was a fantasy points machine one week and the next was outscored by Braylon Edwards. Yikes. I have to say Tony G was a slight disappointment and I thought he would be more helpful. This season Michael Turner gets back on track with a 1,000 yards. Most important is Dunta Robinson and the secondary. Dunta takes his talents to Hotlanta and it's put up or shut up time for the stud corner. He needs to be the leader which is something an athlete who bitches about contracts and money usually isn't the leader of the clubhouse. The passing defense ranked in the bottom of the league. Now with Dunta, it moves up to middle of the pack.
Atlanta Falcons: 10-6 Wildcard

Carolina Panthers
The Panthers have been a complete disappointment in the past years. Delhomme is out and enter Matt Moore or Jimmy Clausen, not sure which one. I don't think it will take long before we see Clausen. A solid ground game with Williams and Stewart helps any QB. Steve Smith is great but they have nobody else. The most important thing is gain experience. Carolina is a very young team overall. They don't need much but another WR and some all around experience. I'd like to see Clausen right away gain a rap pore with Smith and the rest of the receivers.
Carolina Panthers 6-10 but compete.

Tampa Bay Bucs
I'll say it now as I did a year and a half ago, the Bucs made a mistake firing John Gruden. The Bucs are in growing pains although they showed signs of life. Josh Freeman is there guy for the future and I must say, I approve. The kid can be special. I will say they need a veteran, Sage from Minne, as a backup. Three backs should combine to be a three headed monster, Williams, Ward and Graham. They didn't do that and it's time. I could see this team improve and rise even with Raheem. Most important: defensive front 4. Five rookies, Erik Lorig, James Ruffin, Brandon Gilbeaux, Brian Price and Gerald McCoy are competing for playing time. If two or three develop, I like McCoy most of all, then next year they could draft a play maker for Freeman and complement Benn.
Tampa Bay Bucs 4-12 and another year of pain.

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys
If you've picked up the theme, the first team I talk about is the division winner. I'm in pain because this Cowboy team is a real contender for best record in the NFC. I asked John from the John and Eric show, huge cowboy homer, and asked who he felt was most important, "As a Dallas Cowboy fan, the most important player on the team to me is Jason Witten. Sure Romo, and Ware are the best players, but without Witten this team struggles. Whenever Romo needs a 5 yard catch for a first down, he goes to Witten." I agree Witten is a great asset and important. Most important to me, Wade Phillips. I don't think they win it all because of him. He's not the coach to bring home a Super Bowl for Dallas.
Dallas Cowboys 11-5 East Division Champs

New York Giants
Eli is already banged up and we haven't started the regular season. The G-men underperformed last season and should do much better. I have doubt with Coughlin and the staff. Most important to me is new defensive Coordinator Perry Fewell. He replaces Bill Sheridan and rectify the defense that won the Super Bowl only a few years ago. The D-line disappointed after adding Canty with Tuck and Osi should have been enough. Now they spent a high draft pick on Jason Pierre Paul who might be the Vernon Gholston of the 2010 draft. I like the offense and see less problems with them. The G-men fall short of the playoffs and fire Coughlin.
New York Giants 9-7.

Washington Redskins
No surprise, I've written about McNabb twice in my short career and pairing him with Shanahan was huge. Fat Albert isn't worth my time. McNabb must do what he's done before, develop young receivers. Trent Williams seems to be impressive early on. Most important is chemistry. This team needs to develop chemistry with McNabb and Shanahan. I think there are to many egos and characters on this team. Although Shanahan is a great coach and McNabb has good years left, this was hard for me to keep them from making the playoffs.
Washington Redskins 8-8

Philadelphia Eagles
We end our NFC journey with a team gambling on a young QB, Kevin Kolb. They really put their eggs in one basket and went for it and I commend them. Yet, I feel it's a mistake. This team isn't short on talent or play makers. We find out if they were real play makers or if McNabb made them play makers. No, Westbrook or McNabb means the Eagles are young and lacking the most important thing which is finding new leadership. Kolb is a mystery and it's put up time. He'll put up numbers and with the talent, they won't fall to short.
Philadelphia Eagles 8-8.

NFC Playoff Teams 1) Green Bay 2) Dallas 3) New Orleans 4) San Fran
Wild Cards 5) Minnesota 6) Atlanta

AFC

AFC West

San Diego Chargers
I know the hold outs, stories, rookie running back and I still have them winning this weak division. I heard all about the distractions. I also know Rivers is a top ten NFL QB. He needs Vincent Jackson and Gates together. Ryan Matthews and Sproles should be a nice combo and won't make Charger fans regret releasing LDT. Most important is the linebacker core. There's a ton of talent and they have to show it. Merriman isn't the roid rage player anymore. San Diego has 4 rookies contending for spots. Phillips and English are starters and staples in the line up. One guy out of 4 has to play with them.
San Diego 10-6 AFC West Champs

Denver Broncos
Tebowmania is running wild. I'm here to stop the insanity. He's not starting, winning awards or games. Orton is the starter and received an extension. Denver has questions all over but the most important is Demaryius Thomas. Sorry kid, you get to replace an All-Pro Wide Receiver who the media compared you to during the draft. Stupid! You had Marshall and now you have an unknown. The other guy going to be missed is Tony Scheffler. They didn't bother replacing him. I can't wait for Orton to struggle and idiot fans scream for Tebow. Throw him out there and watch him fail. Good times had by all.
Denver Broncos 7-9

Oakland Raiders
My team has received plenty of praise this offseason for their draft and dumping that one fat QB and trading for Campbell. Russell's QB rating a 50.0. Campbells in Washington 86.4 and 14th in yards. Even with all the positives, there are lots of uncertainty. The running backs of McFadden and Bush need to stay healthy, something they haven't done yet. Most important are the Wide receivers. Russell sucked but the wide outs didn't things. Bey, Ford, Schilens and Murphy are the men in black who need to get open. Bey especially has to catch the damn ball so fans can stop making fun of Davis choosing him over Crabtree (never going to happen). Oakland is starting to get stability and that's big on my watch. Defensively, they are a top ten team. The front 7 pressures and the secondary, with Asomugha leading, is solid all over the field. I said to keep hopes high and that's what I'm doing here.
Oakland Raiders 7-9 and a top ten overall defense

Kansas City Chiefs
Matt Cassell didn't deliver in year one, as I expected. He has 5 rookie Wrs and a tight end who could help speed up the process. Jamaal Charles was the highlight of the season. Eric Berry comes in to help a struggling defense. The offensive line is of grave concern as well. I'm going with the entire defense as most important. Berry is rookie of the year material. Dorsey has been nothing but a bust. Tyson Jackson is heading down the same path. Will anyone help or step up? Besides Berry, I don't see it.
Kansas City Chiefs 5-11

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens
Joe Flacco adds two weapons with Boldin and Stallworth (can we call him a weapon?). Flacco is a fantastic QB and I have high hopes for this team. The offensive line is young, talented and perform above their years. My biggest concern is the overuse of Ray Rice. He's the focal point of the offense, rightfully so, and if he goes down, depth is not the Ravens strong point. Most important is a bit of a no brainer, Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. They are getting older and may not make all the plays. I think they have one more year at the top level before they fall and Baltimore will have to replace the irreplaceable.
Baltimore Ravens 13-3 AFC North Champs

Cincinnati Bengals
Calling on the only Bengal fan I know for the break down, "Wide receiver core, fell from top 5 to 27th in offense and haven't had an athletic tight end in 10 years. If the offense scores, the young defense has come together to get them to the next level." I couldn't have said it better myself. If T.O, Greshem, Cinco, Bryant and Shipley can't help, nothing will.
Cincinnati Bengals 10-6 Wild Card

Pittsburgh Steelers
Big Ben is out 4 games and enter Dennis Dixon or Leftwich. You could do much worse. Pitt has talent and could be another wild card. Without Ben for those four games and then try to develop chemistry, they fall short. Defense is still going to be in the top ten. They are aggressive and get to the QB. Most important is those first 4 games. I believe if they get 3 wins, playoffs are possible, anything less and they sit at home. They host Atlanta, visit Tenn then Tampa and end at home against arch rival Baltimore so 2-2 is conceivble. I'm not betting on 3-1.
Pittsburgh Steelers 9-7

Cleveland Browns
Poor Cleveland, lost Lebron and Brady Quinn in the same year. All kidding aside, this team hired a great GM with Mike Holmgren. He should right the ship in due time. Colt McCoy, stay off the field and learn, he might have a future. Most important is Jerome Harrison. He needs to show he's not a 1 year wonder. I think he will play well and get close to 1,000 yards.
Cleveland Browns 4-12 Fire Mangini

AFC South

Indianapolis Colts
Does Peyton Manning still QB this team? Yes, so they win the south. Manning is the best quarterback in the league. No secret there. The defense is solid and I hope Bob Sanders stays healthy for them all year. He's the leader on that side of the ball. The biggest concern and most important is the running backs. For all the love for Manning, the running game was dead last in yards. Addai and Brown have to combine for around 1,700 yards when they get their opportunities. Mike Hart is a great weapon on screens and dump offs.
Indianapolis Colts 12-4 and Super Bowl Contender

Houston Texans
If I keep picking them for the playoffs, I have to be right some year. My brother, who lives in Houston, is the go to guy on most important, "Unfortunate rookie Ben Tate is out for the year. Slaton needs to stop fumbling the ball." Well Tate was going to help. Now Slaton and possibly Foster will become a two headed machine for Schaub. The Texans have talent and if Schaub plays 16 games, they will play a 17th.
Houston Texans 10-6 Wild Card

Tennessee Titans
Two Longhorn QBs, Simms and Young and I don't like either. I can't tell if they are rebuilding or trying to sign enough to stay competitive. They are teetering and that's not good. Opposing defenses can stack the box because Johnson is the only threat. The Titans defense has slipped to the bottom half of the league. Jeff Fisher is a good coach, but this should be his last year. He needs a year off and go to a new team, hopefully one with a competant management. Most important, you name it and it's important with this team.
Tennessee Titans 5-11 Fisher fired

Jacksonville Jaguars
Yes Maurice Jones Drew, I'm doubting your team a lot. You don't have any help on offense. They reached for help in the draft for years now to find a decent defensive end or tackle. This year was Alualu. David Garrard doesn't seem to be a franchise QB. I don't have many positives with this team. Most important, I'll say receiver group. Mike Sims Walker and company have to show some sort of life and help this team. I don't like their chances.
Jacksonville Jaguars 3-13

AFC East

New England Patriots
This team is getting older and may fall from the top of the East. Tom Brady is still a top notch QB and leader so I can't pick against them. He should get an extension sometime during the season. Next year, draft a good running back because what they have now is weak. I like rookie McCourty and he should help a disappointing secondary. Most important is another no brainer, Wes Welker. Is he human? He came back awfully fast from knee surgery. He's shown in preseason, he's ready to help this team win another division title and contend.
New England Patriots 11-5 East Division champs

New York Jets
If you haven't figured it out by now, I don't have anymore playoff spots left. The Jets fall in my predictions for a few reason. They have to many mouths, to much hype and to many media members cressing them as a real contender. Mix all that in a blender and you have a team I stay the hell away. The Jets have one thing going for them and that's defense. Revis is a big distraction for this team and young rookie Wilson can't fill his shoes. Most important is the front 7. Jenkins is older as well as Ellis and Gholston is a giant bust. They should throw him on the line instead of linebacker and see if he can do anything. They made the playoffs last year only because teams let them in the final weeks by laying down.
New York Jets 9-7

Miami Dolphins
Put Miami in the AFC West and play KC, Oak and Denver 6 times and they make the playoffs. Henne is going to take the leap with Marshall as his sidekick. I don't trust their running game at all. Ronnie can't stay healthy and Ricky is due for an injury since he's 33. Dolphins are average at best on defense. Most important to me is Vontae Davis and Jared Odrick. Vontae has to become the corner the Dolphins thought they were getting when they drafted him. Odrick is the new anchor on the defensive line and the kid is solid. One more year and this team is ready to get back to the post season.
Miami Dolphins 8-8

Buffalo Bills
We end with a team in full disarray. Fitzpatrick, Edwards, Brohm and rookie Brown are their quarterbacks. I'm not sure if I need to go further. Fred Jackson and Lynch are already hurt so I guess it's a good thing they drafted Spiller even though they have needs at almost every position. They don't have a real QB, Coach or playmaker on either side of the ball. Spiller is one guy. Most important is Chan Gailey. Can he coach? I have no clue. For the sake of arguing, I'll say no and that's the conversation.
Buffalo Bills 2-14 and drafting a QB 1st next year

AFC Playoff Teams: 1)Baltimore 2)Indy 3)New England 4)San Diego
Wild Cards 5)Cincinnati 6)Houston

Time to hand out the Lombardi trophy as well as some awards.

MVP: Aaron Rodger, Packers. I love this kid and think he's ready to be the Brees of this year.
Rookie of the Year: Ndamukong Suh. Call him Donkey Kong. He's going to be fun to watch.
Coach of the Year: Mike Singletary. Wins a division and gets the 9ers back to the playoffs.

Super Bowl Match up: Green Bay vs Baltimore.

You're thinking I'm crazy. Well I am and nobody thought the Saints were making it last year. Baltimore's Defense makes enough plays and Ray Lewis retires after the game. Ray Rice is the MVP.

J Call

Favre and the Media

Breaking news, Brett Favre put on his wranglers, took his Geritol, stopped playing with little boys and started playing real football again. Oh boy, big freaking news. If you didn't see this coming, you have been living in a cave for the past 10 years or so. Favre has been talking retirement before those kids he was playing catch with were born. I feel I can speak freely and I normally do. I will try to keep this as politically correct because I don't want to upset anyway with foul language. There's a saying that I think you've heard and it goes something like this: $#it or get off the pot. I can't decide if Farve did or got off the pot. My brother said it all, "it smells bad either way."

We all knew he was coming back for another year. He can't stay away. He needs football to be relevant. Football doesn't need Favre. He reminds me of Lindsey Lohan. Yes, I'm comparing Favre, a 41 year old NFL QB to a 22 year old immature girl. Lohan has to stay relevant so she goes out gets drunk, goes to jail, supposedly cleans up her act until the media isn't talking about her anymore and then the cycle starts over again. Favre saw the game was starting and he was pushed aside. He had to come back so he could be talked about again. The fact is whatever happens off the field doesn't matter, what on it does. The real problem is the media soaks it all up.

I'll give you a great example: I was listening to a national radio show and I quote, "This is good for everyone, the media, fans, story lines and everyone involved." Oh please wise sports talk radio host tell me what is good for me. I beg you because I don't have a clue what's good for myself. I really needed Favre to make this NFL season special and his story for me to enjoy the season. Bull $#it. The media is the one who needed Favre because their to damn lazy to do real research and find good stories, a real story. Nope, no need to do any work, Favre just fell into their lap and now they can talk about him until the regular season starts. You can find stories around the league with every NFL team. In fact, I did just that for my NFL preview blog coming up (cheap plug). Here's a few examples of stories I would rather hear about: Shanahan and McNabb, Cutler and Martz, Kolb and Reid, will the Pats win the East, Saints repeat, is Aaron Rodgers the newest franchise QB and these are the easy ones. You could have great discussion and debate on any of that plus insight from their teammates. The media wants you to feel as they do and that's a mistake.

I differ in the fact I'm not a real journalist and I would never tell you how you should feel about anything. I'm merely giving you my opinion. I give you credit as a reader because I know you're not a mindless moron who are swayed by me or anyone else. You have a brain so make up your own opinion on topics. My guess is you either love Favre, which tells me your a Viking fan, or you hate Favre, which tells me you're most likely a fan of any other NFL team. When John and I had our sports show, we talked story lines and never once did I say that this is good for you. Certain things can be good for some not everyone unless everyone in the world is getting free money, that would be good for everyone. Favre being dominated on every sports site, sports talk radio and newspaper isn't good for me. Hell I didn't want to write this blog because it's all about Favre but I'm trying to make a point and give you a different opinion then this is great, Favre's the greatest and we missed him. I didn't miss him and I wish he would go away forever.

I love sports and always will. Football is my favorite and I'll continue to watch the games. However, I'm not buying into all the Favre talk and how he makes this season great. This season might be the last one as a strike seems highly likely now. I would have loved to have one season without the old man. I'm staying away from the giant 4 letter network unless it's Monday Night Football. You do whatever you want because that's your right as a fan. I won't be watching the specials and the interviews because what happens on the field matters more than anything. By the time February comes around and Favre has thrown another interception to lose another playoff game, the interviews and specials won't matter and all we will hear is will he come back again? The vicious cycle continues.

J Call