My (attempt at an unbiased) Comparison of the Super Bowl Teams

As most know, I am a 49ers fan, so I'm not going to do any winner predictions or score predictions or anything like that.  You already know those would be biased.  Instead I am going to do an attempt to compare different elements of these very well matched Super Bowl teams.  Maybe they are well matched because they have similar minds running the teams (Harbowl 2).  The first Harbowl was close the Ravens won that game and sacked Alex Smith 9 times.  There was also an Alex Smith TD that was called back on what most would consider a nonsense call.  But in the long run if you keep a game close enough for the refs to decide your fate then it's your fault.  The best way to win a game is to do it convincingly.  Both teams are somewhat different since that meeting.  The 49ers brought back the majority of their starters from last year, but added more on the WR end, too bad two of the WR's went on IR earlier this season.  The self proclaimed GOAT Randy Moss is still part of the receiving core the 2nd round pick AJ Jenkins hasn't really been an impact this season but Crabtree has become the WR that 49ers fans have hoped for since drafting him.  The biggest change for the 49ers since that game last season is at the QB position and the biggest difference for the Ravens is the Offensive Coordinator.  After a roller coaster season of trying to put more focus on Joe Flacco the Ravens fired their Offensive Coordinator and promoted former Colts Head Coach to the position.  It started off rocky, but after entering the playoffs the move seems genius.  Somewhat of a similar thing for the 49ers.  Alex Smith went out due to injury Colin Kaepernick came in to finish a game in a tie.  He lost two divisional match ups later on to the Seahawks and the Rams, but beat the Beats, Saints, Cardinals, and the Patriots on his way to a playoff bye week.  In the playoffs Colin sealed the deal by beating the Packers with his feet and leading a comeback against the Falcons with his arm to put his team in the Super Bowl for the first time since the 1994 Super Bowl.  Now that the intro is done, lets compare the teams.  I will give a report card for each position from 1 - 5, 5 being 100% and 1 being 20%.  The two teams are probably the most evenly matched Super Bowl teams in a long time, which should lead to a great, edge of your seat game.

This game can easily be about the coaches, but I don't think it should be about Kaepernick and Ray Lewis.  The leader of the 49ers offense is Frank Gore and the guy on the Ravens defense that is the biggest threat is Ed Reed.  Those two quiet guys should be the headliners of this match up.

Quarterback: 49ers = 4, Ravens = 4.5.  I'm not really saying that Flacco is that good, but I will say that he has a cannon.  Kaeprnick has an arm too, but I'm giving Flacco the edge off of experience.

Running Back: 49ers = 4.5, Ravens= 4.  Ray Rice and Bernard Pollard are great, but I will have to say that the 49ers rushing attack have the edge with Frank Gore, LaMichael James, and Colin Kaepernick running the ball.

Wide Receivers: 49ers = 4, Ravens = 4.  Crabtree has been great this year, Randy Moss can be the old Randy at any time but who's the #3 Ted Ginn Jr? He's fast but as a WR he's always been a question mark.  The Ravens have a 2nd year phenom in T.Smith, he has speed and hands, Boldin is slow but has great hands and they have a surprise #3 attack from Jacoby.  I'll just call it even here.  Neither team has the WR core that Atlanta, Green Bay, Patriots, or Denver have but we see how far that got them.

Tight Ends: 49ers = 4.5, Ravens = 3.5.  Don't get me wrong Pitta has had a great season, but at best he's the Raven's Delanie Walker, but the 49ers still have Vernon Davis who has great hands, speed, and size.  Vernon makes it tough for defenders to cover him, I'm not sure that Pitta has the same effect.

Offensive Line: 49ers = 4.5, Ravens = 4.  Both are great, I'm just going to give the edge to the 49ers based on what I've seen them do in protection and in the running game all season.

Defensive Line: 49ers = 4.5, Ravens = 4.5.  It took a took a lot for me to rank these evenly, but the Ravens defensive line has stepped it up towards the end of the season when they got some people healthy.  They have created a pass rush that they missed all season.

Linebackers: 49ers = 4.5, Ravens = 4.  We know the Ravens very popular bunch of Linebackers and the one who was decided to retire to help inspire his team.  Against any other team they would probably be the higher rated bunch, but the 49ers have an all pro core of linebackers.  I'm going to give the 49ers the edge do to youth, speed, and health.  Patrick Willis, NaVarro Bowman, Ahmad Brooks, and (depending on the formation) Aldon Smith have been the best linebacker core in football.

Corner Backs: 49ers = 4, Ravens = 3.75.  Not a big difference.  I will say that man to man, the 49ers CBs have proven themselves this season, but in the same instance if they faced faster WRs and didn't have Safety help they seemed to get into trouble.  The Raven's CBs have has some issues on and off most of the season.

Safeties: 49ers = 4, Ravens = 4.5.  Ed Reed is sick back there, even with the 49ers getting Pro Bowl selections, Ed Reed is a quiet assassin for that positions.

Kickers: 49ers = 3.5, Ravens = 3.75.  Ravens get the edge, last year the 49ers would have gotten the edge, but since Akers re-injured his groin injury last time he was in the Super Dome he has been very inconsistent. I would take both kickers over Cundiff though.

Special Teams: 49ers = 4, Ravens = 4.5.  Ginn Jr has the ability, but hasn't really shown it this season, LaMichael James has shown his ability to make big returns since emerging late in the season... BUT Jacoby has probably been the most explosive returner on special teams all season, so they deserve the edge on this.


Ok I'm done, I'm leaving it at that.  Looks like an even match up and it should be a good game.  You tally it up and let me know what it looks like +Michael Carroll then let me know if you change your picks.

My Week 2 NFL Picks

Week 1 I didn't do a post for my picks but I did tweet them.  I did pretty good, I'm on top of my pick 'em league, and was one Raiders win away from winning the pot in my weekly pick 'em.  My losing picks were the Giants, Saints, Bills, Seahawks, and Raiders. 

So lets not even get into much of a story lets go right into the picks for week 2.

Green Bay over Chicago - this pick worked out, but definitely didn't look anything like I thought it would.  I thought it was going to be more of a shout out until the end.

Cincy over Cleveland - I'm going with the better defense, better offense at home.  Seems like a no-brainer.

Philly over Baltimore - I don't think Philly is going to stink it up twice nor do I think Baltimore is going to go ham again like they did last week.  However this is definitely a possible Super Bowl match up.

New England over Arizona - I really can't see this going any other way.

Minnesota over Indy - This could go either way I'm just going to go with the team with better Running Game and better Defense.

KC over Buffalo - Even though KC lost last week, they looked like they could beat a team that looked as bad as the Bills last week.

NYG over Tampa Bay - This could be tough match up, so I'm going with the home team and the reigning champs.

New Orleans over Carolina - A close game, a lot of offense, but I believe that Drew Brees will remember how to finish a game by playing a familiar opponent.

Oakland over Miami - The Dolphins just don't seem like they have a complete team on either side of the ball, its hard not to pick against them.

Houston over Jacksonville - I don't think there is a reason that a healthy Houston team should lose any of their divisional match ups.

Dallas over Seattle - Dallas seemed like more of a complete team last week, but I think playing in Seattle will show some of their true colors and some mistakes will happen.  However I don't think it will be enough for them to lose this game without Russell Wilson having a RG3-like game.

Washington over St. Louis - The Skins looks like the better team in this match up as long as they stay clean and low on the mistakes they should be able leave St. Louis as winners by two scores.  The Rams actually have a better defense than the Saints, but a much worse offense.  So this favors the Redskins.

San Diego over Tennessee - I'll take the vet QB and the home team in this one.  CJ0K would have to get back into form and have a 200 yard game to win this one for the Titans.

Pittsburgh over NYJ - Better defense better offense wins.  I wouldn't bet my life savings on this game though, its a toss up.

The San Francisco 49ers over Detroit - The 49ers are at home, their defense should keep the Lions in check enough to allow the 49ers offense to win this game.

Denver over Atlanta - again, I wouldn't bet my life savings on this, the Falcons looked great last week.  I'm just going to go with Peyton Manning on this one.  Ryan has the advantage at home so again this is a toss up.

With All The Other Drama Going On...I Must Say, Welcome Back...

Welcome Back Alex Smith!!!

Ok Ok, I know he isn't a proven elite QB like Peyton, Drew, Aaron, or Tom, and that he's been a bust as a #1 overall draft pick for most of his career.  But you know what, I'll take him over most of the QBs in the league right now and defintely another overall #1 pick, JaMarcus Russell.  Sure he's not Aaron Rodgers who wanted to be a 49er QB growing up.  But who's to say Aaron would be who he is without the QB training programs they have in Green Bay plus his time learning under a legend.  Who would he have been in Alex's shoes?  Alex had one great year of college football (32 Passing TDs, 10 Rushing TDs, 4 INTs, a 68% Completion Percentage, 3604 total yards), then came to the league and for the his first 3 years he was in out of the starting position, threw more INTs than TDs. His 2nd year was the only year prior to 2011 that he started all 16 games and his TDs & INTs were dead even at 16, not to mention a year off in 2008 (his 4th year) due to injury.  Prior to 2011 he hadn't come close to 3,000 yards passing or 3,000 yards total.  A different offensive coordinator every year, a carosel of couches, but each one gave him a chance.  They could have easily discarded him like Tebow or and of the numorous Browns QBs when a new coach came in. They didn't draft him, he wasn't their guy.  But some how, some way this dude charmed each one of them into believing that he could be that guy.  Until last year he didn't prove that to be true, but last year his coach was a former QB and maybe they had a better understanding than had been there before.  Definetly better than his former coach, you know that Hall of Fame Linebacker from the Bears...

But hey...we're glad thats over and the Alex Smith and Jim Harbaugh have a great working relationship...

I'm not saying that I would take Alex over Peyton, but I do think Alex is a better fit under the current coach than Peyton would be.  Do we have a better chance at a Superbowl with Peyton, absolutely.  But Peyton didn't like the pressure of the "Super Bowl or bust" weight on his shoulders with a team that appeared to be a few precise passes and two fumbled punt returns away from being there last year.  We were obviously late to the Peyton party, I'm sure it was due to some indecisiveness on our part.  Maybe Jim and the Yorks going back and forth about it, but who knows.  Last time I saw a Owner go over the Coach and pick and older QB that experiment went pretty bad (McNabb/Skins), so with that said I'd rather all parties agree on the managers of the team, Owner, GM, Coach, O-Cord, D-Cord, QB, and MLB.  Thanks Peyton for considering the 49ers, but I do think you made the best decision by going to the Broncos.

Unfortunately for Alex this year he will be under a microscope even more so than last year.  He had a pretty decent year last year with a schedule that seemed hard at first but turned out to be a lot easier than it appeared.  This outside of the divisional match ups that will include Matt Flynn, Sam Bradford, and Kevin Kolb (I think he's still a Cardinal *shrugs*), we will be facing the Saints (Drew Brees), Giants (Eli Manning), NFC North (Rodgers, Stafford/Megatron, Cutler/Marshall) and the AFC East (Brady, Fitzpatrick).  With those match ups alone, minus a stellar Defensive performance, Alex will have to put up numbers to win.  To his advantage it looks like the organization has decided to put some WRs around him.  Braylon Edwards was a fail experiment, Crabtree hasn't really lived up to his draft status or his wannabe diva status, Josh Morgan showed some flashes of being a #1 guy then got injured and is now a Redskin, Ted Ginn Jr really wasn't supposed to be a starting WR, more so a returns guy, but he helped out some last year when he wasn't injured, who else is there Kyle Williams and Bret Swain, I'll leave those two alone.  The 49ers went out and resurrected Randy Moss who hopefully is hungry for TDs and signed Super Bowl hero David Tyree Mario Manningham to add to the weapons for Smith. Most likely they will draft a WR in the 1st round or early 2nd round as well.  Previous to this year here's a list of his "top" WRs (RBs & TEs not included); Michael Crabtree 2009-11, Josh Morgan 2009-11, (Old) Isaac Bruce 2009, Darrell Jackson 2007, Arnez Battle 2005-07, Antonio Bryant 2006, and Brandon Lloyd for his very few starts in 2005.  So yes we have had QB problems since Garcia, but I'd have to also so that we have had WR problems since T.O.  Maybe that will change, the best WRs either want to be on a team with good QBs or a team that is actually winning, prior to last year we had neither.  Smith just got a 3 year deal, which means if he doesn't show and prove this year then Colin Kaepernick or a Free Agent QB (hopefully not Tebow) will end up taking his place in 2013.  Good luck 49ers and good luck Alex Smith.  I don't expect a 13 win season, I'd be a fool to do so, I expected 6 to 8 wins last year based on the schedule and the schedule looks worse this year.  I think we can win the division with 9 wins and the fans will be happy and everyone keeps their jobs.  Just don't let the defense get Steelers old without us at least getting to the big show...

So for now...

Because... "That's My Quarterback"

And I'm OUT! Hopefully no more 49er posts until PreSeason.

Peyton Manning... On To The Next One

Ok as of 12:00pm 3/7/2012 Peyton Manning is no longer a Colt.  It seemed like it was going to happen but its still hard to believe that it happened.  The question now is where to go? Can he win a Superbowl with another team or will he just come up short? What's the best fit for him? Does he need star WRs, will he take Reggie Wayne with him? Does he need a warm weather team or a team in dome? Does the money even matter to him?  Can he be the first Elite QB to win a Super Bowl with one team then win another with a new team.  Kurt Warner, who wasn't even elite when he went to another team, came the closest to doing this with the Rams and the Cardinals. But remember he left the Rams as a backup and was a backup with the Cardinals at first as well, so this is a different situation.  You have to compare this Manning situation to Joe Montana (49ers to Chiefs), Joe Namath (Jets to Rams), and Johnny Unitas (Colts to Charger).

According to Adam Shefter at ESPN the "Final Four" teams for Peyton are the Redskins, the Jets, the Cardinals, and the Dolphins.  Out of that crew I'd shoot for the Dolphins.  Here's my least likely to most likely breakdown.

Redskins - Not sure the fans want another Vet QB experiment, plus what would happen to that system that they were always talking about, Kyle would have to let Peyton just run things.  Not to mention Peyton would face Eli twice a year and maybe a 3rd time in the playoffs.  That would be good for TV and sales, but Peyton seems too family oriented to want that type of public rivalry on a constant basis.  If it happens its because Snyder has deep pockets.

Jets - Maybe...but does he want to have that two year battle with Brady, both QBs are accustomed to winning their division this would throw a huge wrench in the game plan. Plus what happens to former 1st rounder Mark Sanchez, do they bench him for a couple years to learn behind Peyton or do they try to trade him, can they get any value from a trade for him?  This could happen though, I think the weather and making NY a two Manning town might influence him to go elsewhere. But this has more chance than the Redskins to me.

Cardinals - First off, I don't want this to happen! My 49ers finally get it together and then we gotta face Peyton twice a year. This could add some struggle to our next 2-3 years.  For Manning this is a great location, its warm, he can run the city, and he has Beanie Wells & Fitzgerald to help him and possibly help the Cards get over that hump.  Downfalls, facing a tough 49ers, sack happy, defense twice a year when everyone says you are "one hit away".  Also this is still the NFC so 2 games against Eli a year is very possible.  I don't think that will effect the decision as much as it would in DC.

Dolphins - Still in Brady's division but you are in a warm beautiful place called Miami.  A team that is in need of a QB and a team that is still fairly new as far as talent and coaches.  Doesn't everyone want to take their talents to South Beach?  Brandon Marshall is good WR that can be great with a great QB, Reggie Bush can catch out of the back field to help prevent Manning from getting sacked as much.  The defenses in the AFC East seemed mediocre at best last year, so it might be a safe place to play.

Some other teams that I would keep on the radar are the Seahawks, Titans, Texans, Jaguars, Chiefs, Broncos, 49ers, Rams, and pretty much anyone else who isn't the Patriots, Saints, Chargers, Giants, Eagles, Steelers, or the Packers have a slight chance at surprising people with a big on Peyton.

Seahawks - Need a QB.  They have decent WRs with potential plus the beast Marshawn Lynch.

Titans - Hasselbeck is nice, but Peyton would be a better vet QB to teach their rookie.

Texans - They are almost there, Schaub has been good but injury's slowed him down, if the Texans can trade him to say...the Redskins to link him back up with Kyle Shanahan and "the system", the Texans would open a spot at QB for Peyton and would be immediate Superbowl Contenders. Adarin Foster, Andre Johnson, Peyton Manning...whoa.

Jaguars - They need a QB. Peyton and MJD plus maybe a tag along from Reggie Wayne to go a long with some of the decent WRs that have potential on their team.  They could be a force to be reckoned with.  Plus it would give him a chance to save a franchise, almost Drew Brees like.

Chiefs - Yeah they got a couple good QBs, but they have a lot of weapons in place that a QB like Peyton Manning could easily assist them in winning their division next year, and not an 8-8 division winning record either.  Healthy Jamaal Charles plus Dwayne Bowe, Steve Breston, and emerging star Jonathon Baldwin.  Thats  4000 yard season easily each year in his contract in a very weak division.

Broncos - How do you shut fans up about Tebow Mania you bring in Peyton Manning. Tebow who?  Why wouldn't John Elway want a QB that is more of a traditional style QB to lead his team.  Tim Tebow took them to the second round of the playoffs, WWPD? 

49ers - The team seems to be coming together the defense and special teams can win games, Alex Smith had a decent year with less errors, an elite QB could take the team to the Super Bowl without a problem.  Well wait there is one problem, no WRs to throw to. Josh Morgan might be back, Ted Ginn should be back, Crabtree will be there.  You got some speed, but none of these guys are #1 WRs.  Peyton would need to bring Reggie Wayne with him or the 49ers would have to make a huge play at a Free Agent WR to make this appealing for Manning.  The other thing, Jim Harbaugh was a QB, he lost his job because the Colts drafted Peyton and even though Peyton stunk his first year, he went on to be the greatest Colt of all time.  That being said it would make for a good "full circle" story but who knows if these guys even get a long. Not to mention that Jim Harbaugh as a former QB likes to puppeteer his offense and has claimed that Alex Smith is his guy.  I think this situation is least likely but it has to be brought up due to the lack of a concrete QB.  But as a fan I think that if the Cardinals or Seahawks go after him, then the 49ers need to be active in that bidding process as well.

Rams - Why not? Sam Bradford has potential but we haven't seen it all yet.  He's has rocky moments and injuries.  He has great potential, but didn't they say that about Alex Smith the frist few seasons?  If you can get an elite Hall of Fame QB to take your team over the top or continute an experiement that hasn't gotten you to the playoff yet, then that might be the way to go.  But I also don't think this is that likely, I also don't think they will draft a QB, probably trade their pick to get more 1st rounders.

Ok I'm done, my favorites are the Chiefs, Jaguars, Dolphins, and Texans in that order.  It would be smart to make some Vegas bets on division winners before he goes to his next team and hope you pick the team that he goes to. 

At 4pm Peyton Manning is official a free agent, let the bidding begin!

Tebow Mania is Going Crazy!!!

The picture above was an email that the car salesman who sold my my El Dorado sent me on Friday, if I didn't actually read this I would not have even known this was about selling cars. Everyone is swept up in Tebow Mania. But after last nights performance I doubt Tebow will be coming out of the game anytime soon. No matter what happens in New England, he earned his starting position for next year. Not to mention he broke Elway's playoff debut performance record and a playoff NFL record for averaging 15 yards a completion. Only 3 QBs in the Superbowl era only 3 Quarterbacks have thrown for over 300 yards, run for a TD, and not throw an interception in a Playoff game they are Joe Montana, Aaron Rodgers, and Tim Tebow. He's in great company. Not to mention he currently has the highest QBR in playoff history, passing Aaron Rodgers performance against Atlanta last year.  Oh yeah and a stat to fuel the fire for the media, last night he threw for 316 (3:16) yards...

The Steelers have been hurting since the Cleveland game at the beginning of December.  As a 49ers fan, I've said a few times that if Ben was healthy in that MNF game against us he would've completed a few of his big passes and threw less INTs and would've had a better chance to beat us.  Big Ben hasn't been the same and in the game last night there were a number of injuries. With that said, the Steelers have always been known for toughness and having defense that could make great stops no matter who was playing or hurt and they completely gave this game away with single coverage on the WRs in attempt to stop the rush.  Good game Tebow.  Next week should be tougher, not because of a defense, but because of an offense that has the ability to score on every play.  Next week in New England will fall more on the Bronco's defense than it will on Tebow's shoulders.

Week 17 Picks & Final Playoff Placement

Ok here's my final picks for the regular season.

Lions over Packers - I think the Packers will end up resting some of their key players to avoid injuries, and the Lions want to go into the playoffs still hot.

49ers over Rams - Unless the Niners decide to rest players because they don't value the bye week, then I believe that they should win this game w/o any issues.

Dolphins over Jets - The Dolphins have been hot lately, I'm rolling with them. Not sure about Sanchez when the pressure is on, especially if the run game and defense aren't backing him up.

Vikings over Bears - Bears seems depleted, Vikings seems to have some steam behind them.

Patriots over Bills - Can't see them losing to the Bills twice in one season even if their starters don't play the whole game.

Panthers over Saints - this is a selfish pick, I just want to make sure the Niners get the #2 seed. Plus I like Super Cam as much as I like Brees.  I want him to finish his year off strong and this is an important divisional win to have under his belt.

Eagles over Redskins - I'm just really picking the home team, its nasty up in Philly, plus the Eagles have slowly been coming into their own lately.  So finishing the season with a couple wins to end at .500 would make sure Andy keeps his job. I say they are playing for him.

Jaguars over the Colts - The Jags are still playing to find their identity, the Colts should be playing for Andrew Luck, even if they end up trading the pick or something, that #1 pick holds a lot of weight.

Titans over Texans - The Texans playoff position is set, I'm sure they should be resting their stars for the playoffs.

Bengals over Ravens - The Ravens have been up in down, usually losing the game they should win, but winning the big games.  Not sure what category this one falls in for them, but its a big game for the Bengals and I think they will show up today.

Browns over Steelers - I'm picking this game because I picked against the Ravens above, but I still want them to win the division.  Plus I think the Steelers should be resting Ben and some other players instead of worrying about the bye.

Falcons over Buccs - The Buccs suck and the Falcons playoff positions isn't solidified so a win helps them somewhat.

Broncos over Chiefs - Tebow time, I guess... Orton is a better QB but the Broncs defense has been tough, I would actually like to see the Chiefs win, but I'm going to say based on the press behind this and the magnitude of this game that Buffalo Wild Wings will have the final decision in this game to help the Broncos get the win.

Raiders over the Chargers - the Raiders are still actually playing for a playoff spot so I think they will bring their best today at home to get that final playoff push.

Cardinals over Seahawks - who knows... I just picked the home team.  The Niners may have cooled the Seahawks down a lil last week so maybe they won't bring it like they have the past few weeks.

Giants over Cowboys - I'm picking the home team, the team that plays better later in the season, the team with the better clutch QB.  I think this game will be a shoot out, least turnovers and last to score wins, I'm going with the G-Men.  Although with my team in the playoffs I think I'd rather see the Cowboys win this one but I'm stick with the Giants as my pick.

Asher Roth has felt my pain and now understands my Joys...

Asher Rother wrote an article for ESPN about how similar his career and Alex Smith's career has been.  I'm still not convienced that Alex Smith is the end all be all, but he seems to be managing the offense better this year. So if he can continue to do that and a rookie can learn the system on the bench behind him I think the future will be bright.  Asher also goes down a brief timeline of being a 49ers fan.  I believe he is a bit younger than me based off of the timeline that he gives, but much like me he was raised in a NFC East town and choose to send his fanship to the West Coast Bay Area.  The link to the full article is below and a few quotes that stood out to me.

"Raised close by the sports-crazed city of Philadelphia I had no choice but to become a devoted fan. As attractive as it was to root for Rodney Peete, Bobby Hoying and the Detmer Bros. it wasn't enough to uproot my allegiance to my father and his love for Bill Walsh. Both with ties to Stanford and an admiration for the West Coast Offense, I inherited a 49ers ballclub and a Jerry Rice jersey before I even knew how to play the game."

"I vividly remember watching Terrell Owens and "The Catch II" to finally beat Brett Favre in '99. The miraculous comeback to beat the New York Giants in the 2002 wild-card game was witnessed in the Oxford Valley Mall food court and then … that was it. After watching Jeff Garcia complete 68 percent of his 6-yard passes, I was forced to root for the likes of Tim Rattay, Ken Dorsey, Cody Pickett (I liked rooting for Cody), Trent Dilfer, Shaun Hill, Chris Weinke, J.T. O'Sullivan and Troy Smith. Ugh."

"And of course, Alex Smith. Ask any of my college buddies. I have a soft spot for Mr. Smith. Drafted No. 1 overall in '05 out of Utah, he came into the league around the same time I was pursuing a rap career. I was a sophomore in college and was being "scouted" by "talent agents" while Smith was taking the starting job from Rattay. Smith had a productive year under Norv Turner, and I signed a record deal with a hit single. Here we go. Ups and downs, lefts and rights, B, A, B, A, select, start. Seven offensive coordinators in seven years and never a head coach that really spoke the language. It was a direct correlation to what was happening in my professional career. Sure we had the talent, sure we had the wits, but for some odd reason it was not translating. The losing seasons weren't all our fault but it sure felt like it. Lines were crossed. Something was off."

Click Here for the Full Article



Week 6 NFL Picks

Its two games that I'm going to spotlight for two different reasons.  The Eagles vs The Redskins and The 49ers vs The Lions.

The Eagles are 1-4 and look pretty down and out, this game is important for them to get back on track and for Andy Reid to keep his job, not to mention its a divisional matchup.  Vick had great success on this field last year on MNF, I'm sure most of you remember that.  For that reason this game is important to the Skins, their defense has looked strong this year and this rematch will feel more like revenge for exposing them to be weak last year.  For the defense this will be a proving moment.  For the whole team this is what is needed to hold down the top of the division.  I'm picking Washington over Philly at home.

Next up, 49ers in Detroit against the Lions. This game is important for both teams, the Lions need to win to keep that battle in the NFC North alive especially since the Packers should win their game today.  But a loss doesn't hurt them too much.  The 49ers need this win for recognition.  They are still under the radar, the teams that they have beaten aren't highly rated teams, also this is the first of a few tough games they will have (Washington, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, NYG). For confidence reasons to keep rolling this is a needed win.  I am picking the San Francisco 49ers over Detroit, why because that's my team and they have proved a lot to me so far this year, I believe they can keep that rolling into the bye week.

Atlanta over Carolina - I'm giving ATL this only because they are at home, I think they will get beat when they go to Carolina.

Cincy over Indy - Cincy's is at home and their defense is looking good on the low.  I think they keep this a low scoring game.

Green Bay over St. Louis - Why would I pick any differently?

Buffalo over NYG - I think the Bills will prove that they are New Yorks team this year. Better defense and a more consistent offense wins the game.

Pittsburgh over Jacksonville - The Steelers better win this game, this should be a gimmie.

Oakland over Cleveland - The Browns haven't proven to be good enough to really compete this year and the Raiders have a lot of talent, they should win this game at home.

Baltimore over Houston - The Texans are a little banged up and the Ravens have fresh legs after the bye, I think they can pull this one out at home.

New England over Dallas - If this were in Dallas I think I would pick them for the upset after their bye, but I don't see them beating Brady and the Pats at home.

New Orleans over Tampa Bay - The Buccs need this to bounce back but the Saints look like they are gaining a lot of momentum, I think they will keep that running today in Sunny Florida.

Chicago over Minnesota - I don't think this will be an easy win, despite the Viks record they have played good games just not finished them.  But I think the Bears will make this much needed divisional win happen at home.

NJY over Miami - Neither team really has an identity this year but I think the Jets are still the better of the two and they are at home.

My NFL Week 5 Picks - For the Birds...

I feel like I've used this picture before, but now its completely different. Mentor and Mentee from the Philly Byrd Gang will get a chance to square off and the only thing on the line is their future.  McNabb may think its Kolbs fault he got the boot from Philly, but wouldn't it be justice served if the guy that McNabb co-signed to come to Philly (Vick) is the reason that Kolb got the boot as well.  The bad thing is that none of the Byrd Gang QB's from 2 years ago are off to a good start.  Although Vick is putting up great fantasy numbers, real fans are getting their hearts broken at 1-3.  The Arizona Cardinals are sitting at 1-3 as well, they haven't played bad but they haven't finished games.  Then the Minnesota Vikings, who have become the choke artist team for the first quarter of the season, losing most of their games after having a nice lead at the half, are 0-4.  When teams are 0-4 usually you see coaches get fired or QBs get replaced.  With Christian Ponder already stating that he's excited to learn from a Pro Bowler but he wants that #1 spot, not later but right now, I think McNabb might have the most at stake right now.

Therefore in the battle of the former Eagles I'm picking Minnesota over Arizona

Here's my quick run down for the rest of the games:

Philly over Bills - I think the emotions and anger from last weeks game that was theirs for the taking that they ended up losing will fuel the Eagles to come together as a team and win this pivotal game on the road.

Carolina over  New Orleans - This is one of my underdog picks, I'd just like to see Cam win this divisional match up, plus its a home game, so I'll use that as my reason for giving them the advantage on this one.  On paper its seems like Carolina has the better pass defense thus far.  Not that they can stop Brees, but maybe they can make them rely on the run more than usual.  The bad thing is that I have both QBs on one of my Fantasy Teams, I haven't started Cam yet, but I'm considering it.

Houston over Oakland -  this might be the first time I picked against the Raiders, but the Texans have their running game back and even with out Andre Johnson I think they will have enough of a passing game to make the difference.  Plus their pass rush is pretty good, Campbell will be under pressure.

Indy over  KC - Honestly even though Indy lost on Monday, they looked like a better team than the Kerry Collins lead team.  I'm going with them for the win at home.

Cincy over Jacksonville - Just don't believe that the Jags can win games and Cincy has a nice defense.

NYG over Seattle - The Seahawks appeared to develop a passing game with Sidney Rice healthy, but the Giants have a much better passing game, as long as they don't leave this win up to chance and actually play like the team that they are, this should be an easy win.

Pittsburgh over Tennessee - this won't be an easy win, I'm giving Pitt the home field advantage on this one.  The Titans seem like a great improvement over last year, while the Steelers seem to still be on their Superbowl hangover.  Hopefully for them this home game can help them shake it off.

San Francisco 49ers over Tampa Bay - My reasons are this. I'm a 49ers fan. The Buccs had a short week. Last year Tampa came to town and held the 49ers scoreless at home for the first time since the 70s, which also lead to the firing of Singleterry.  Not that Harbaugh is anywhere near a hot seat of any sort, but this will be big redemption game for him at home for 1 the overtime loss against the Cowboys at home and for 2 to show that he's here to clean up the mess of the past 7 years.  Last reason is that Tampa is better when their run game is thriving, the 49ers have one of the toughest Run Defenses in the league, if McCoy had a bad game imagine how Blount will do.

San Diego over Denver - The Chargers are just a better all around team, I would be shocked if the Broncos win, even though they are at home.

New England over NYJ - I can't see Brady and the gang getting beat at home by the No Offense Jets.  Not to mention the Jets defense doesn't look as well put together as it did last year.

Green Bay over Atlanta - Sure the Falcons have home field advantage, but this isn't last years Falcons or the Matty Ice that we've seen in the past, furthermore Aaron Rodgers has become unreal this year, this is a career year.  On top of that they know that in order to win their division this year that have to be flawless.  The Packers have 5 more games that could be tough, including this one (ATL, SD, DET, NYG, DET) but at the rate they are going this looks like undefeated team that might do what the Patriots could do against the Giants in the Superbowl a few years ago. Yeah I Said It, someone alert the '72 Dolphins. LOL.

Detroit over Chicago - This hasn't really been an exciting match up in awhile but I think the Lions won't need to make any comebacks to win this game.  I think it will be close but I'll give Detroit the advantage for being at home and for having a better Passing Game.

Update: ESPN decided to highlight the Eagles QBs in an article as well, I guess great minds think a like. All three are having a tough year.  But the season is far from over for either of them, well at least not yet.

My NFL Week 2 Picks...the Breakdown

Maybe I'm reaching with one of them, but hey I'm a fan.  Plus I've heard several other sports analyst make similar predictions about that Renewed Rivalry game between the 49ers and the Cowboys.

GAME OF THE WEEK

Philly over Atlanta - Honestly, Vick could lose this game for the Eagles if he gets caught up in the emotions of being back there as a starter or trying to get revenge, but this new Michael Vick doesn't seem to be that type of guy.  I think he will be poised and play a great game.  This game will be determined by the defenses. If Philly studied what kept the Falcons wings clipped last week they can win this game without a problem.

Buffalo over Oakland - I'd rather see the Raiders win this one, but the Bills look pretty explosive last week, and West Coast teams tend to have a bad record playing the 10am PST game on the East Coast.

Detroit over KC - KC stunk last week, I need them to do better (fantasy football reasons). But Detroit aren't who we thought they were. Detroit's defense might be nice this year.

Tampa Bay over Minnesota - I don't think the Vikings are put together well right now. Tampa Bay has potential.

Chicago over New Orleans - The Bears looked great last week, as did the Saints.  I just went with an underdog here, hopefully it works out for me.

New York Jets over Jacksonville - Does anyone think differently?

Pitt over Seattle - Do I need to explain this. Forget the Pitt ya'll saw last week, yeah their defense is old, then need a lil more Bengay than most units, but I'm sure that they well get their legs back for this game.

Washington over Arizona - I'm picking this based off of the Skins looking good against the Giants and the Cards defense allowing Cam Newton to get silly on them last week. Hightower might have a career game and a lot of receptions.

Green Bay over Carolina - The person who picks against the Packers in this game and win is paid for life. But this aint Vegas and I'm not gambling so I'm picking the logical pick for this one.

San Fran over Dallas - The QB with the least mistakes (leading to turnovers) will lead his team to victory in this game.  If the game is flawless, and the Special Teams of the 49ers doesn't "do it A-Ginn", then the Cowboys have the best chance to win. But I don't see this being a flawless game and I think Romo will make the most mistakes. 49ers win, 28-27.

Cincy over Denver - Eh... who cares.  I closed my eyes and picked this one.

Houston over Miami - This is a toss up to me, but I think Houston has a better offense and a stronger running game to control the clock. 

San Diego over New England - I wasn't impressed by the Patriots defense allowing a mediocre team to almost score at will, so I believe that a team with a strong running game and passing game should be able to make the game a lot closer than the game was in Miami. On top of that a team with a much better defense should hold Tom Brady to a 200-300 yard game. Chargers win by 4.

St. Louis over New York Giants - Eh... both teams seem to be injured right now, I wouldn't bet my money on either of these teams in this game. I went with the underdog for this one.

My Favorite Time of Year! NFL Week 1 Picks

And tonight, it begins... The NFL Season has returned, the offseason was short, the offseason deals were compounded into a week of pure excitement.  Super teams were created, great teams stayed the same but got healthy, mediocre teams are still trying to figure it out, and Peyton Manning will miss a start of a season and a game for the first time since the 90's.

The past few years have been all about the Quarterback and what better way to start the season than to have the past two Superbowl MVP QBs to face off in what we hope to be a high powered shoot out.

My Picks are below, if you want to go against me week to week join my NFL Pick 'Em Pool http://football.fantasysports.yahoo.com/pickem 

ID: 25761 Password: winning

Packers over Saints - This game could go either way I'm picking the Packers based off of homefield advantage, no injuries, and because they have the least changes to their team from last year.

Falcons over Bears - This isn't a give me either, but I just trust in the offense of the Falcons more than the Bears and their questionable WR Core.

Browns over Bengals - This game doesn't even sound interesting, but the Browns have less change to their team from last year and that team was decent. The Bengals sucked last year with super stars, now they have no one, so I'll let you figure that one out.

Chiefs over Bills - The Chiefs proved last year that they can be a contender, the Bills never seemed like they could finish games.  Chiefs win by two scores.

Eagles over Rams - I pick the Eagles to win this because the have to win this game.  The Dream team can't lose any games to the NFC West, a division that was all .500 and under last year.  This might be a playoff match up for January...

Lions over Buccs - I went back and forth with this pick, but Stafford is back and healthy, the Lions have an offense that can put up numbers and their defense had Tom Brady shaking in his Uggs.

Titans over Jaguars - Both teams are suspect but the Jaguars dropping Garrard made this pick for me. The Titans have a better running game and a veteran QB that beat the former Superbowl Champs in the playoffs not long ago. Titans all day.

Steelers over Ravens - I'd rather the Ravens win but when Big Ben is in the game against Flacco on the other side, they haven't had much luck.

Texans over Colts - No Peyton and the Texans are a pretty good team, so I pick the the Texans.  If Peyton doesn't travel with the team then this might be an easier win than I'm predicting.  If the Colts are smart they will have Peyton at every game mic'd up talking to Kerry in his ear every play.

Panthers over the Cardinals - This is just one of the underdog picks I decided to take a chance with. I'm not sure if either team really knows who they are yet so defense and special teams might decide this one.  I'm not a believer in Kolb.

Chargers over Vikings - The Chargers just have a better team on paper than the Vikings.  They didn't lose many and didn't have to make many changes. They are healthier than last year so I expect them to be stellar this year if they remain that way.

The San Francisco 49ers over Seahawks - Tavaris Jackson is my reason for this pick.  Sike nah, I'm a Niners fan, I think we had a good team last year, we have a better coach this year and a couple more targets for Alex Smith.  I would feel better with someone else under center but with the short offseason Alex knows the team the best at this point.  Seattle still needs some time to get things together, I don't think they are completely sold on their QB situation as of yet.

Giants over Redskins - Its 9-11, its written in the book of (NFL) life for the New York Football Giants to win this game.  I think this game will come down to the 4th quarter and Sexy Rexy making an error large enough to put the nail in the coffin.  The Skins still have some bugs to work out but their schedule looks easy enough for them to do so in the first few weeks. This game will help to point out things that need to change.

Jets over Cowboys - This doesn't have as much of a 9-11 will be the reason for the NY team winning feel to it, but I just don't think the Cowboys will play comfortably until half of the season is gone.  Romo was gone for practically a whole season, he will have some kinks to work out on top of the kinks he had before.

Patriots over Dolphins - Just because they are the Patriots and we know who they are, who are the Dolphins?

Raiders over Broncos - The Raiders were undefeated in the AFC West last year for a reason. The team is fast and high powered, the other teams in the division aren't really built to keep up.  The Bronco's defense is old and the Raiders seems to be able to run the ball with anyone they put in the backfield as well as air it out pretty well.

Thats all for today folks.  Tomorrow I'll post my Fantasy Football lineups.

The NFL is BACK! 49ers, Redskins, Ravens Predictions

Its that time of year that I love, I'm a summer baby but I've fallen in love with the Fall.  NFL is back, MLB is working towards a World Series, NBA & NHL is getting ready to start back up...Its just a great time of year.  But this post and 80% of what I talk about during this time of year is the NFL, so lets get into it.

Preseason
Preseason means something different to every team, but in the long run it means absolutely nothing.  If you are an established team you get to get your rookies and some others some play time to evaluate if they would be good backups.  But win or lose, you already know who your team is for the most part.  If you are a team with positional controversy then you get a chance to try out all possible options for that position, the only problem is that they don't get to go against other teams playing at full speed so in the long run you won't get a true judge of how the player will play in the regular season.  Winning your games when your 1st team is playing another teams 2nd team means absolutely nothing in the regular season. Last year the 49ers went 4-0 in the preseason and started the season 0-5. So lets get to the things at hand, season predictions...

Predictions
The four teams in the AFC that I think will have a strong run at the Superbowl are Chargers, Patriots, Texans, and Ravens.  The Jets, Steelers, and Raiders will be part of the playoff conversation down the line too.
The four teams I'm picking to win the NFC divisions are the Eagles, Rams, Packers, and Falcons. Wild Card spots will go to another NFC East team (which ever of the other three wins the most NFC West games) and to the Saints.

Ravens

1. PIT - Loss.  It could go either way but I just have a feeling that both Steelers games will be the hardest games for the Ravens this year.
2. @TEN - Win.
3. @STL - Win.
4. NYJ - Win. The better QB will win the battle here, otherwise the teams are pretty evenly matched up.
5. HOU - Win.
6. @JAC - Win.
7. ARI - Win.
8. @PIT - Loss.
9. @SEA - Win.
10. CIN - Win.
11. SF - Loss. I'm a 49ers fan, so I'm hoping the HarBowl works out best for the rookie coach and that the Ravens are so high from all their other wins that they don't prepare properly for this game.
12. @CLE - Loss
13. IND - Loss. Manning will be back and working hard to get his team in the Playoff races by then.
14. @SD - Loss.
15. CLE - Win.
16. @CIN - Win. 

 
Finishing the season 10-6 and winning their division.  At best 12-4 winning against SF and @CLE
 

Redskins

1. NYG - Loss. Its 9-11. Thats my only explaination for this, plus the Giants have had the Skins number the past few years.
2. ARI - Win. A Triumphant win to make up for the previous loss.
3. @DAL - Win. The Cowboys won't really get going full steam until week 6 or so.
4. @STL - Loss. I'm on the fence about this one, I'm just giving STL home field advantage with this pick.
5. PHI - Loss.  I'm saying that the Skins will lose both Philly games unless Vick is injured.
6. @CAR - Win.
7. @BUF - Win.
8. SF - Loss. I told you the deal above. I'm a 49ers fan and I believe that our team isn't much differnt from the Redskins and that we can win this game.
9. @MIA - Win.
10. DAL - Win.
11. @SEA - Win.
12. NYJ - Loss.  The Skins have a possibility to shock the Jets in DC depending on QB play.
13. NE - Loss.
14. @NYG - Loss.  Could go either way.
15. MIN - Loss. If McNabb is still starting at this point.
16. @PHI - Loss.

Finishing the season 7-9.  At best 9-7 if they win @NYG and against MIN.  Not sure were they will be in their division but I'm predicting a 10-11 win year for the Eagles. Not sure about the Giants or the Cowboys, so the Skins could surprise some people.

The San Francisco 49ers (Read these as written by a fan)

1. SEA - Win. Seahawks are still trying to figure it out, and we will take advantage
2. DAL - Win. Like I said above, the Cowboys just won't have it together at this point in the season.
3. @CIN - Win. I don't expect much from Cincy this early in the season either.
4. @PHI - Loss. Back down to reality.
5. TB - Win. Revenge for last year when they destroyed us in our house, but under different management.
6. @DET - Win. Depending on the Lions QB health and their Defense at this point, but I'm not expecting them to be 100%
7. CLE - Win. The 49ers can stop the run, CLE won't really have much else.
8. @WAS - Win. If Gore is healthy this will be Gore vs. Hightower...we already know how that story ends.
9. NYG - Loss.
10. ARI - Win.
11. @BAL - Win. I explained this above as well.
12. STL - Win.  I think we will split games with the Rams, so either we win this one or win the last one.
13. @ARI - Win. Ownership.
14. PIT - Loss. The better QB wins in any defensive battle.
15. @SEA - Loss.  The Seahawks should be more comfortable as a team by this point. Special teams will win the game for them.
16. @STL - Loss - I said we would split games, so here you go.

I'm not even going to tally these up, because its so unrealistic that I would probably be worth A Million Dollars in Vegas.  But it adds up to 10-6, so give none maybe take 3...and they end up 7-9 and 2nd in the division behind the Rams.

49ers (Logically Thinking, so not as a fan)

1. SEA - Win.
2. DAL - Win.
3. @CIN - Win.
4. @PHI - Loss.
5. TB - Loss.
6. @DET - Loss.
7. CLE - Loss.
8. @WAS - Win.
9. NYG - Loss.
10. ARI - Win.
11. @BAL - Loss.
12. STL - Win.
13. @ARI - Loss.
14. PIT - Loss.
15. @SEA - Loss.
16. @STL - Loss.

I didn't put any explainations beside these because the ones that didn't change are the same as what I said above, the others were thought to logically end up as losses and the season ends at 6-10 which is the same as last year.  If anything gives it would be one of the divisional games putting us at 7-9 and still 2nd in the divison behind the Rams. 


Thats all I got.  Lets get this season started already!

Perfect Fit: Summertime Fine...My Latest, My Latest & My Greatest...

Summertime Fine...My Latest, My Latest & My Greatest...

No, this time I'm not talking about my woman, I'm referring to my Spring/Summertime tradition and my new edition.  If you know me then you know that I usually have some sort of hat on, fitted, kangol, soggy pimp hat (prom), cowboy hat, straw hat, Raiden (from Mortal Kombat) hat from Kings Dominion, or whatever I feel fits for the moment.  But the past few years I've been buying a White Sox & a Nationals fitted hat yearly (if you wear them as often as I do they will only last a year) but also adding a new alternative hat from either of the teams.  This years hat, Nationals New Era "59 Fifty MLB Graphite", was the last that they had in stock and it was in my size. I had to get it.  Not to mention its in my favorite color combination being that I grew up a Bulls fan and I went to Suitland High School Red & Black aren't strangers to my closet.  However I do feel inclined to find a certain pair of J's (Jordans) to go with this hat perfectly.  I will be finding a reason to wear this hat as much as possible, but not too much because I usually try to make my "alternates" last me 2 or 3 seasons.

Above are my yearly usuals.  I've been rocking the White Sox hat since Elementary, first it was a Hip-Hop thing, then in 6th Grade my Mom met my Step Father and his cousin is Frank Thomas. So thanks to a few signed baseball cards and other things "The Big Hurt" sent me I have been a White Sox fan ever since.  As for the Nats hat, well its a symbol of my hometown like the Yankees cap is in the five boroughs. I've been rocking this hat from the moment DC got the team and even though the team hasn't fully blossomed yet I'm rooting for them in every game (except against the White Sox).

Below here are my "alternates" from previous years.  Last year I actually bought two, I was looking for the Nationals hat in Dodger colors because of a few shirts that I just bought so the Nats New Era "59Fifty MLB C-Dub" was perfect, but I didn't expect to see this throwback White Sox New Era "59Fifty MLB Cooperstown" hat in the style that I remember as a kid and have baseball cards of players wearing it, I couldn't pass up on it.
The hat from the year before that was a little different from the ones that came to follow, as you can see one year I went with a football hat to rep for my favorite team the 49ers.  I had recently lost my regular 49ers hat and I needed a new one, so I went with this Mitchell & Ness Alternative Logo Throwback just to switch things up, I've only had a few outfits that I've been able to rock this with, but honestly no hat fits better than a New Era...no offense.

...and just as a shout out to two great songs from two different genre's in music, which I used to create the title to this blog.  Teddy Pendergrass "My Latest, My Greatest Inspiration" followed by J.Cole "In the Morning".  You gotta enjoy good music!

My NFL Week 17 Picks & Playoff Predictions

My NFL Week 17 Picks 

& 

Playoff Predictions

Ok here we go with the quick rundown and just so you know my picks are submitted into a pool every week so I do think about my picks before I make them because at the end of the games I like to collect money.  I have only won once this year, but I've been amongst the people battling for the pot on Monday Night several times.  With that said he's the quick rundown.

Atlanta over Carolina: They are in Atlanta, yeah they lost to the Saints but the Saints are the Superbowl champs, who are the Panthers? Road Kill.

Pitt over Cleveland: This will be a tough matchup but I think the Steelers will have the most heart and the most to play for to pull this one out.

Minnesota over Detroit: This could be a close joint, but the Viks looked good last week if they can keep that going they should be able to win without any issues.

Oakland over KC: Oakland has been amazing against divisional opponents this year and they will be the first team to be undefeated in their division but not make the playoffs.

New England over Miami: The Dolphins can't beat the Patriots, unless they decide not to show up today because they got their #1 seed clinched.

New Orleans over Tampa Bay: this was a hard pick for me but I think the Saints will be able to pull this one out mainly because they are at home.  I have a feeling it will be down to the wire though...

NY Jets over Buffalo: The Jets know they need this to make the playoffs and I think they won't allow the Bills to come into NY and play the spoiler role.

Baltimore over Cincy: Cincy has played the Ravens hard in the past few years but I'm confident that the Ravens who are now aware that they have the best WR core, will run the Bengals out of town.

San Diego over Denver: Honestly I picked this because Rivers said its a privilege to play in the NFL and even though his team won't make the playoffs he's going to play today.  And because in one of my fantasy football leagues I'm in the championship with Rivers as my QB (I added Tebow on the bench to give Rivers some encouragement to do better, it worked for Aaron Rodgers in my other Championship I won last week).  

Green Bay over Chicago: The Packers at home will show the Bears why they were predicted to win the division before all of the injures and what not.  Aaron Rodgers has been amazing this year and he will show his talent today against the Bears to give his team playoff hopes.

Indy over Tennessee: The Titans stink and Indy knows if they lose this and the the Jags win, then they are out of the playoffs, its not going to happen.

Philly over Dallas: Vick will use this game as a bounce back game to prove to the people that have started to talk and doubt him based on last weeks performance that him and his young teammates can take this all the way.

San Francisco over Arizona: The Niners beat them in Arizona, I expect nothing less than that from them at home.  Plus I think this year every first game for the new coaches that take over teams, they have won, I expect this to continue for this last game of the season.

NY Giants over Washington: The Giants are an up and down team and have looked more down than anything lately, but I think they will win this game today but it won't be a blow out. I think it will be a game that has a difference of one score in the end.  The win will mean nothing because they still won't make it to the playoffs.

Houston over Jacksonville: If MJD isn't playing I don't think the Jaguars will have what it takes to beat Houston for the 2nd time this year.  They need this win and Indy to lose to make the playoffs, the chances of both happening are probably Vegas odds that could win someone their whole salary by betting just a weeks worth.  

Seattle over St. Louis: I'm only picking this because of home field advantage and as most people know the 12th man in Seattle has helped them win plenty of games.  On top of that the Rams have been horrible on the road this year.  But on the other hand if the Seahawks are smart they will throw this game so that they don't go down in history as the worst team to ever make the playoffs at 7-9, in my opinion.

My NFL Playoff Predictions as of Week 15

NFL Playoff Predictions

as of week 15

My Predictions are exactly the same after week 15, the only thing that is a flip flop, based on week 17 games. I now have Oakland beating KC in week 17 which allows the Chargers to become the #3 seed in the AFC.   Everything else remains the same.

NFL Playoff Predictions

as of week 14

My friend put me on to this playoff predictive page that ESPN is on, and my quick predictions as of now look like this...

click on the image to enlarge

The 49ers will be the first team to enter the playoffs at below .500 based on this prediction.  This is with them losing on Thursday against the Chargers in San Diego but winning in St. Louis then beating the Cardinals in San Francisco to end the season.  Of course in my weekly picks I'm still picking the 49ers to win the game on the Thursday but for this Playoff Predictions page I went with a little more logic than faith.  But honestly the Chargers have lost to a few teams this year that people didn't think they would lose to, and we have had close games with with NFC 3 NFC teams that are for the most part playoff bound.  Greed lost us the game against the #1 seeded Falcons.


No matter how I picked the games the following teams were in it no matter what, Patriots, Steelers, Ravens, Jets, Falcons, and Philly.  The teams that need the most from their own teams and loses by other teams were the Packers, Jacksonville, and Kansas City.  There was one way that I picked it where the NFC playoffs included Atlanta, Philly, Chicago, New Orleans, Tampa Bay, and SF.


The Giants, Chargers, Colts, and Buccaneers were the teams that seemed like they were really on the bubble depending on several factors.