Showing posts with label Titans. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Titans. Show all posts
Thursday, October 4, 2012
NFL Week 4 Power Rankings
1) Houston Texans (4-0) Previous Rank 1 - The undefeated Texans have made it through another week displaying why they are the best team in football. Their offense is rolling and their defense is holding their own. In a absolute performance of dominance over Tennessee
this past Sunday, the Texans offense showed complete control with a balanced attack. The Texans' defense forced a fumble and two interceptions, returning both of them for touchdowns. They face a struggling Jets team this coming Monday night and are ready to show the world why they are for real this season.
2) Atlanta Falcons (4-0) Previous Rank 2 - They pulled it off this past Sunday, it's another win for the Falcons, regardless of how much the game seemed like a loss. Cam Newton stood on the sideline and watched Matt Ryan complete just three passes to get the Falcons setup for a Matt Bryant 40-yard game winning field goal. Falcons should consider themselves fortunate for beating the struggling Carolina Panthers as they gave up a 24-14 lead. Attlanta face RG3 in Washington this week.
3) Arizona Cardinals (4-0) Previous Rank 3 - Arizona gets another win even though they
gave up 480 total yards. They were able to force four turnovers and come back in the fourth quarter to force overtime. The Cardinals aren't exactly rolling over the competition, my best explanation for the 4-0 start is that they just find a way to win. How long can they can keep this up? Your guess is as good as mine.
4) San Francisco 49ers (3-1) Previous Rank 5 - They completely shutdown the Jets this
past sunday. Embarrassed Mark Sanchez (only a QBR of 2.8) and held the Jets to 45
total rushing yards. Their defense is either that good or the Jets are really that bad.
Alex Smith didn’t need to contribute too much as nine different players combined for a total of 245 rushing yards. At one point it felt as if the 49ers where running all their trick plays in a practice situation. That's how much control they had over the Jets.
5) Baltimore Ravens (3-1) Previous Rank 4 - Joe Flacco now has thrown for over 300 yards in three consecutive games. Baltimore's offense continues to look productive, but their defense continues to show small signs of decline — only one sack this past week — and allowed rookie Brandon Weeden to throw for 320 yards. Im only nit picking Baltimore at this point, overall they look solid and are still a very hard hitting bunch. The Ravens face a demoralized Kansas City Chiefs this week and look to improve their record to 4-1.
6) Philadelphia Eagles (3-1) Previous Rank 7 - This is my benefit of the doubt team — Jose thinks they should be ranked higher, but he is a jackass and this is my Power Rankings. They are 3-1 and have pulled out every victory by a margin of 1.33 points. In any of their games do they seem in control but yet they play as if they are going to win. By far the strangest team to watch this season. The Eagles rank in the top 10 in passing, rushing, and defensive passing yards allowed — And rank 12th in defensive rushing yards allowed. Most impressive is the team's offensive line during rushing plays, they provide plenty of holes for LeSean McCoy to explode around or through. They had zero turnovers this week against the New York Giants, taking good care of the ball and will need to do the same as they head into Pittsburgh this Sunday.
7) Green Bay Packers (2-2) Previous Rank 8 - Aaron Rodgers picks up his first four touchdown game of the season as he and Drew Brees had a shootout this past Sunday. The Packers offensive weapons are clearly there and are beginning to click, facing the Colts this week should help get them above .500.
8) New York Giants (2-2) Previous Rank 6 - The Giants fell short this past Sunday, literally. Missing a 45-yard field goal in the final seconds and Eli Manning threw a red-zone interception to start the 4th qtr. Those two key self inflicting wounds is what cost the Giants the game and some ground to their rival Philadelphia Eagles. They host the Cleveland Browns this week and will need a crucial victory to avoid losing anymore ground in the NFC East.
9) New England Patriots (2-2) Previous Rank 9 - They lit up Buffalo for 52 points, 31 of them in the 4th quarter alone. New England’s offense was sizzling as Tom Brady passed for 340 yards and three TDs. Running backs Brandon Bolden and Stevan Ridley both rushed for over 100 yards and combined for 3 TDs. New England hosts Peyton Manning and his Denver Broncos this week as what looks to be a promising shootout.
10) Chicago Bears (3-1) Previous Rank 12 - The Bears are now 3-1 after picking off Romo five times. Chicago has gained some confidence. Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall connected for some big plays, 138 yards and a TD for Marshall. Definitely a statement game for the Bears
especially to do it on the road in Dallas. They head to Jacksonville this Sunday to face the struggling Jaguars.
11) San Diego Chargers (3-1) Previous Rank 14 - San Diego’s defense forced six turnovers this week and carried the Chargers to a easy victory this past Sunday. The offense still has yet to prove that it has enough weapons to take control of the AFC West. San Diego now travels
to New Orleans to face a pissed off Saints team that is just looking for a team to trample over. Good luck Phillip Rivers, you're gonna need it.
12) Denver Broncos (2-2) Previous Rank 15 - Peyton Manning’s arm looked great this weekend, he was throwing darts, every pass had plenty of zip on it, and at the expense of the Raiders awful secondary - Manning and the Broncos got the tune up game they needed. Now that they've got some kinks out of the way, Manning and the Broncos head to face Manning's old buddy in New England, you might know him, Tom Brady.
13) Cincinnati Bengals (3-1) Previous Rank 17 - Riding a three game winning streak, the Bengals now look to keep the ball rolling as they host the Dolphins on Sunday. Andy Dalton finishes the first quarter of the season with 1,111 yards, eight TDs, and a QBR of 78.3. Wide Receiver A.J. Green now has 428 yards and three touchdowns. The Bengals couldn't have asked for a better start to their season.
14) Minnesota Vikings (3-1) Previous Rank 23 - Moving up 9 spots this week, the Vikings did enough for me to give them the biggest leap of improvement as they now have a 3-1 record. Minnesota has been stopping the run ranking 7th in rushing yards allowed. One thing that must be pointed out is that Christian Ponder seems to be getting worse as the season progress, yardage and completion percentage has come down significantly from week 1. Adrian Peterson’s contribution will clearly determine how far the Vikings can go.
15) Washington Redskins (2-2) Previous Rank 22 - Unable to defend the big play and unable to hold on to leads, the Redskins finish the first quarter of the season ranked first overall in rushing yards at a impressive 175.5 yards per game. RG3 is exceeding expectations for a Rookie at 1,070 yards and eight total TDs. If his defense can step it up, Washington can be a serious contender in the NFC East. They host Atlanta this week and if RG3 can survive a shootout with Matt Ryan, I will start to believe the RG3 is for real chants.
16) Pittsburgh Steelers (1-2) Previous Rank 16 - Coming off a much needed bye-week, the Steelers now expect Troy Polamalu, James Harrison and the much needed Rashard Mendenhall’s return. Three aging stars return and the Steelers can only hope that they can contribute enough to get them a win as they host the Philadelphia Eagles.
*Editor's note - Philly wins by 10*
17) Dallas Cowboys (2-2) Previous Rank 10 - If I could give a #TheStupidSanchez award to Tony Romo I would. What the hell? It's my power rankings. Tony Romo you have earned a #TheStupidSanchez award. Dallas looked terrible on both sides of the ball on Monday night. Giving up big plays to Jay Cutler. Really? It's only Jay Cutler. Romo threw five interceptions, not even Dallas fans could come up with that many excuses for this loss. Enough picking on the Cowboys, I’m sure Jerry Jones is looking into pulling Brett Favre out of retirement to save the Cowboys season.
*Editor's note - #TheStupidSanchez is an award created during our fantasy basketball season. Jose Sanchez, the dumbass of our league, had Pau Gasol on the bench as he recorded a triple-double. That night, we created #TheStupidSanchez award and it has been a staple of our fantasy sports since it's creation.
18) Seattle Seahawks (2-2) Previous Rank 13 - Replacement refs are long gone and now the Seahawks must figure out legitimate ways to earn points - their dead last passing attack isn’t gonna cut it. They travel to Carolina this week and will need to do everything they can to keep Cam Newton and the Panthers out of the end-zone.
19) St. Louis Rams (2-2) Previous Rank 25 - The Rams got a much needed victory over Seattle to get themselves back to .500 and will host the 4-0 Arizona Cardinals. Sam Bradford’s QBR of 37.2 after four games is not very impressive. For now it's a work in progress in St. Louis.
20) Detroit Lions (1-3) Previous Rank 18 - Dropping three straight, the Lions rank first in passing yards but can’t seem to find the end-zone. They are definitely a 20/20 team meaning they play great in between the 20-yard marks. They have the weapons and with the bye week coming up, the Lions will need to look at what's going wrong offensively and come back strong as they will travel to Philadelphia in Week-6.
*Editor's note - Philly is going to tap that ass :)
21) Buffalo Bills (2-2) Previous Rank 19 - Giving up an astonishing 52 points to New England this past Sunday, the BIlls' defense was picked apart and left for dead. Buffalo now travels to San Francisco. The Bills are suffering from injuries and will now face a relentless hard hitting 49ers defense. Buffalo’s defense now ranks 23rd in passing yards allowed and 28th in rushing yards allowed.
22) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-3) Previous Rank 21 - Out of all the 1-3 teams Tampa Bay should be the only ones to hold their heads up high as they have been competitive in every game thus far. They have a bye week coming up before they host Kansas City. Two weeks to prepare for the Chiefs should be plenty. Note Josh Freeman has a QBR of 33.1.
23) Carolina Panthers (1-3) Precious Rank 24 - Even with another loss, I'm moving the Panthers up a spot. Not because they deserve it but because I'm gonna destroy the Jets in this weeks power rankings. Cam Newton has 167 rushing yards and so does DeAngelo Williams. Steve Smith still is the only one producing on a weekly basis. Carolina's defense is awful and unable to stop anybody. The Panthers now find themselves in a bit of a hole.
24) New York Jets (2-2) Previous Rank 11 - Its official Tebow-Mania is just weeks away and the implosion of the New York Jets will begin. Mark Sanchez in his past three games: 44-of-101 (43.5 percent) for 547 yards passing. QBR(2.8) against the 49ers this past week. The 49ers exposed the Jets for what they are, a team with no offensive weapons and a defense that is beginning to decline. A positive for the Jets - Rex Ryan seems to have lost some weight.
25) Miami Dolphins (1-3) Previous Rank 27 - Ryan Tannehill coming off a big game of 431 passing yards and one TD. Last week I couldn't name a Dolphins wide receiver but I can now. Brian Hartline had a 12 reception, 253 yard monster game this past week. Aside from the extraordinary statistics this past week the Dolphins still lost. The Dolphins travel to Cincinnati this week looking to bounce back after the tough loss.
26) Tennessee Titans (1-3) Previous Rank 29 - I knew Chris Johnson would do this to me. I knew he was gonna have a good game only to sucker me into starting him again this week. They face a stingy rushing defense in Minnesota this week. The Titans have offensive problems but at least now have Matt Hasselbeck at QB which could be a bit of an improvement over Jake Locker.
27) New Orleans Saints (0-4) Previous Rank 28 - Another weird loss for the Saints. It's not looking good for New Orleans' season who are four games back. They will need to come out strong and win four straight just to get back to .500. Drew Brees had his best game this past week but it's still not enough as the Saints defense is giving up huge plays and a ridiculous amount of yardage.
28) Kansas City Chiefs (1-3) Previous Rank 26 - Jamaal Charles contributed enough for a win but Matt Cassel threw the game away. Cassel now ranks 32 among all QBs and there is no better option for the Chiefs right now.
29) Oakland Raiders (1-3) Previous Rank 20 - Peyton Manning ripped them apart, who's next in line to have their way with the weak secondary of Oakland? Oh! It's Matt Ryan and the Falcons. The Raiders get a bye this week and will have to come up with a game plan to put some points up and stop Matt Ryan from lighting them up. Oakland ranks dead last in rushing offense and have one of the worst defenses ranking in the 20's in both passing and rushing categories.
30) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-3) Previous Rank 30 - Unable to get anything going offensively against Cincinnati this past Sunday, the Jaguars find themselves without any weapons in the passing game. It doesn't get any easier for them as now they face the Chicago Bears.
31) Indianapolis Colts (1-2) Previous Rank 31 - Hopefully the Colts have come up with a way to slow down Mr. "Discount Double Check" Aaron Rodgers and his high powered Packers Offense. Andrew Luck is under a microscope this season. Being highly praised coming in as a rookie doesn't have it's rewards as every pass thrown is analyzed and every loss is easily put on him.
32) Cleveland Browns (0-4) Previous Rank 32 - As predicted another loss for the Browns and now face a the Giants who are coming off a tough loss. It's a long season in Cleveland for sure. Brandon Weeden now has a QBR of 10.1 for the season. No receiver has cracked the 200 yards receiving mark yet. There's always next year, Browns fans.
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Thursday, September 27, 2012
NFL Week 3 Power Rankings
NFL Power Rankings
1) Houston Texans (3-0) - Undefeated with two very convincing road
victories under their belt, The Texans did exactly what they had to do
during their visits in Denver and Jacksonville. With a strong
running-game from the tandem of Arian Foster and Ben Tate, Houston is
looking every bit the power-house that was expected. Matt Schuab has
thrown five touchdowns - four in his last game against Denver. They
face Tennessee this week following intriguing match ups against the
New York Jets, Green bay, and Baltimore. The next four weeks will
indicate if Houston is for real.
2) Atlanta Falcons (3-0) - Also undefeated, the Falcons are coming off
a 27-3 victory over San Diego. This week Atlanta will face the
struggling Carolina Panthers. Matt Ryan has a QB rating of 91.6 to go
along with eight TDs to start the 2012 campaign. The biggest surprise
so far for Atlanta has been tight end Tony Gonzalez. Tony G. is still
productive, reeling in a TD in each of the first three games. Gonzalez
has been spreading the field for wide receivers Roddy White and Julio
Jones, making Atlanta’s passing game one of the best in the league.
3) Arizona Cardinals (3-0) - The Cardinals are the least convincing of
the undefeated teams, but have been getting it done mostly in part to
their passing defense - ranked 7th overall. Arizona has held opponents
to a impressive 4.7 yards per pass-play. They dodged a bit of a bullet
in Week-2 against New England when the Patriots failed to convert a
game tying two-point conversion late in the fourth quarter. The
Cardinals are coming off their most convincing victory over Kevin
Kolb’s former team. Against the Philadelphia Eagles, Kolb completed 17
of 24 passes including a pair of TDs. Arizona's defense should not
have a problem against Ryan Tannehill (31.9 QB rating) and the Miami
Dolphins this week.
4) Baltimore Ravens (2-1) - Joe Flacco has been rolling and Ray Rice
is doing what he does best. Fot the first time in team history, The
Ravens have an offense that is actually better than it's defense. An
emotional Torrey Smith scored TDs less than 24 hours after the loss of
his brother in a motorcycle accident in Sundays victory over New
England. Baltimore looks to gain a lead as they host division rival,
the Cleveland Browns, in Thursday night's game of the week.
5) San Francisco 49ers (2-1) - Many believe this is the best team in
football, but after being upset by Minnesota, the 49ers have regressed
in my book. Frank Gore has been impressive averaging 5.9 yards per
rush. Michael Crabtree has converted 12 1st-downs, but has failed to
find the end-zone. Vernon Davis has been Alex Smith’s security blanket
catching four of Smith’s five TDs. San Francisco faces a Darrelle
Revis-less New York on Sunday, that should open things up for
Crabtree.
6) New York Giants (2-1) - After losing to Dallas in Week-1, the
defending Super Bowl champs bounced back with a shootout in Tampa Bay
where Eli manning exploded for 510 yards. The New York football Giants
are coming off a another victory, this time shutting down Carolina's
Cam Newton (three interceptions). With Hakeem Nicks questionable for
Sunday’s divisional match-up against Philadelphia (3rd overall passing
defense), Manning and the Giants might have a hard time getting things
done.
7) Philadelphia Eagles (2-1) - Michael Vick has thrown six picks and 3
TDs, but yet his team managed victories over Cleveland and Baltimore.
Against Arizona, Vick didn't have throw a TD or a INT, and the Eagles
failed to find the end-zone. Their upcoming game against New York will
be a good test as to what the 2012 Eagles are about.
8) Green Bay (1-2) - Even though the NFL can’t overturn the clear
interception that has tainted the Packers record, we all know what we
witnessed on Monday Night Football. The Packers don’t seem to be
moving the ball very well, but they still have Aaron Rodgers and a lot
of weapons at his disposal. Their offensive line has not been playing
up to par allowing an astonishing 16 sacks. If adjustments are made,
Green Bay can most definitely return to form. The controversial loss
to Seattle may have been the very thing that will kick start Green
Bay’s season.
9) New England Patriots (1-2) - Barely losing to Baltimore and
Arizona, New England seems to be trying to figure things out. With the
loss of TE Aaron Hernandez due to injury, The Patriots have signed WR
Deion Branch and TE Kellen Winslow. Not the power house they once were
but still a very competitive group looking for another ticket to the
playoffs.
10) Dallas Cowboys (2-1) - Tony Romo and the Cowboys came out shooting
Week-1, hit a brick wall in Seattle, and looked a bit sluggish against
Tampa Bay. But I will give Dallas the benefit of the doubt and let
them play the "Replacement Refs Had Their Hand in the This" card - 13
penalties for 105 yards. The penalties may have been the reason the
cowboys failed to produce on offense. Whether or not, the Cowboys
season will based on how the O-Line holds up and if Romo can avoid
turning the ball over.
11) New York Jets (2-1) - After three weeks, Mark Sanchez has
prevented divine intervention by keeping Tim Tebow on the bench, aside
from wild-cat formations. The loss of Darrelle Revis will definitely
affect their ability to prevent the deep-threat. Sanchez will now need
contribute more production in upcoming games against San Francisco and
Houston in the coming weeks.
12) Chicago Bears (2-1) - Jay Cutler has thrown a pick in each game
this season, including four against Green Bay in Week-2. Chicago’s
neither a defensive or offensive team, having problems on both sides
of the ball. Their biggest flaw might be the offensive line which has
allowed 11 sacks and has not been there long enough to let Jay Cutler
and his receivers to get anything done.
13) Seattle Seahawks (2-1) - Receiving a present from the replacement
refs aside, the Seahawks sit at 2-1. Mostly due to the fact that they
have managed to keep teams out of the end-zone. Seattle has allowed
the least amount of points thus far and are shutting down opposing
team's run-game. The Seahawks are dead last in passing-offense at
127.7 yards per game , but they have managed to beat Green Bay and
Dallas, and now go on the road to face St. Louis and Carolina.
14) San DIego Chargers (2-1) - San Diego dominated Oakland and
Tennessee, but come on, it's only the Raiders and Titans. Atlanta came
to San Diego and held them to just a field goal. The Chargers look to
rebound this Sunday as they head to Kansas City.
15) Denver Broncos (1-2) - After the coming out party in Week-1 for
Peyton Manning against Pittsburgh, the "Peyton Manning is Going to
Bail us Out" Kool-aid has become the beverage of choice in Denver.
Manning has been better than expected, but he is not the Manning of
old. The Broncos will need that Manning if they are going to have a
chance of winning their division.
16) Pittsburgh Steelers (1-2) - The Steel Curtain is far from being
your Father's Steel Curtain. The Steelers gave up 31 points to Denver
in Week-1 and 34 to Oakland this past Sunday. The Steelers are
suffering from injuries - Troy Polumalu and James Harrison out of the
lineup definitely opens things up for opposing offenses. The tandem of
Antonio Brown and Mike Wallace has been very productive, Big Ben has
taken nine sacks but has thrown eight TDs and only one INT.
17) Cincinnati Bengals (2-1) - After Baltimore had their way with them
in Week-1, the Bengals have won two straight, doing so scoring over 30
points both times. The onslaught stems from getting nice production
from "The Law Firm" BenJarvus Green-Ellis and having four receivers
with over 100 yards. "The Red Rifle" Andy Dalton and the Bengals have
found themselves tied for 1st in the AFC North to start the 2012
season.
18) Detroit Lions (1-2) - Detroit has the most efficient passing game
in the league at 334 passing yards per game. Calvin Johnson has over
300 yards on the season, but has only one TD. The Lions can put up
points but find themselves giving up just as many. Their defense isn't
the force it was last season, and will probably have Matt Stafford out
at least a game due to injury. Shaun Hill will have to step up big if
the Lions look to stay relevant in their division.
19) Buffalo Bills (2-1) - Fred Jackson has been out since Week-1 with
a sprained right knee, C.J. Spiller promptly put the Bills on his
back. Enter Week-4, he too is suffering from a shoulder injury,
possibly leaving Buffalo without a strong running game for the weeks
to come. Spiller is listed as doubtful and Jackson questionable. Ryan
Fitzpatrick and third-string RB Tashard Choice will need to step it up
in order to keep their winning streak alive. The Bills faces new
England looking to rebound after consecutive tough-losses.
20) Oakland Raiders (1-2) - Oakland’s offense came to life this past
Sunday against a banged up Steeler’s defense. Darrius Heyward-Bey
suffered a vicious helmet to helmet hit that landed him in the
hospital and is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s matchup against
Denver. Carson Palmer proved that he can connect with his other
receivers and is starting to look more comfortable in the pocket. The
Raiders will face a tougher defense task, and will give indication as
how far they have come since trading for Palmer last season.
21) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-2) - Tampa Bay's defense is ranked first
against the run, but ranking dead last in passing yards, allowing
353.3 yards per game. Their offense isn’t impressive at all ranking
30th in passing yards and 21st in rushing. This teams lacks weapons
and lacks defensive play making ability. The lone bright spot has been
rookie RB Doug Martin taking over the backfield after demonstrating
the skill-set we saw in his years at Boise State.
22) Washington Redskins (1-2) - Robert Griffin III has a QB rating of
69.3, 209 rushing yards, and seven total touchdowns. Washington leads
the league in points scored but the defense hasn’t been able to hold
leads. If Washington's D could put together some stops late in the
game, the Redskins could see themselves in contention for a Wild-Card
spot if not the Division.
23) Minnesota Vikings (2-1) - Coming off a very impressive win over
San Francisco, the Vikings have a favorable schedule for the next
seven games before their Week-11 Bye. Christian Ponder has yet to
throw a pick this season and Adrian Peterson has proved all doubters
wrong.
24) Carolina Panthers (1-2) - Cam Newton has yet to show any
progression this season. Steve Smith is still proving that he is a
premier receiver in the league with six receptions of 20 yards or more
and 11 1st-down conversions. Carolina is a pass first team and the
lack of balance could be holding them back.
25) St. Louis Rams (1-2) - The magic number was six this past Sunday.
Six points and six sacks. Sam Bradford was hurried too often and was
unable to get anything going. Their offense ranks 27th in passing and
20th in rushing. Upcoming games at home against Seattle and Arizona
can give St. Louis some opportunities to figure things out with their
offensive line.
26) Kansas City Chiefs (1-2) Jamaal Charles is coming off a monster
game and has propelled the Chiefs to the Number 1 ranked rushing
offense in the league. Matt Cassel hasn’t been great with a QB rating
59.3 and four picks to go with three TDs.
27) Miami Dolphins (1-2) - Reggie Bush looks to be starting off his
season on the right foot. Ryan Tannehill has one TD, four INTs, and an
awful QB rating of 31.9. With a receiving corp made of Brian Hartline,
Davone Bess and Anthony Fasano, you can’t put all the blame on the
rookie QB. it's going to be a long season for the Dolphins, maybe they
can focus on getting a rushing title.
28) New Orleans Saints (0-3) - I feel like their record could be 3-0,
but it's not. New Orleans is suffering with out head coach Sean
Payton. Losing to Kansas City in OT and were unable to comeback
against Washington and Carolina. The Saints could be a few adjustments
away to getting back on track but who is going to make the necessary
adjustments? They face the Green Bay Packers this week, both teams
need a big win under their belt after disappointing starts to their
respective seasons.
29) Tennessee Titans (1-2) - Chris Johnson is on my fantasy teams,
feel my pain. Seriously, watching the Titans offense unable to do
anything is nauseating. They are last in rushing yards at 39 yards per
game, mostly in part that they don’t run with only 45 total attempts -
33 from Johnson. Tennessee has problems and being a one dimensional
offense isn’t helping their cause.
30) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-2) They beat Indianapolis, got crushed by
Houston, and lost in OT to Minnesota. Blaine Gabbert’s QB rating of
42.3 finds himself in a similar situation as Miami’s Tannehill, no
receivers. BUT, at least he has MJD to help carry some of the burden.
31) Indianapolis Colts (1-2) - Andrew Luck isn’t exactly going to save
the Colts all in one shot. The rookie has plenty to learn but is
working through it. Luck is second in total QBR at 82.0 just ahead of
Ben Roethlisberger and behind Matt Ryan, but ranks 26th in actual
passer rating. So the glass can be considered half full or half empty
when it comes to Luck and his rookie campaign thus far. The Colts will
go only as far as Luck can take them. (No pun intended)
32) Cleveland Browns (0-3) - Philadelphia, Cincinnati, and Buffalo to
start the season. Now Baltimore, the New York Giants, and Cincinnati
the next three weeks. 0-6 could be in the Browns' future. Brandon
Weeden isn’t exactly going light up the score board and Trent
Richardson isn’t going to put the Browns on his back and take them
anywhere, anytime soon. Scouting for their first overall pick next
year should be the main thing to focus on now for Cleveland.
-Daniel
-Jose
1) Houston Texans (3-0) - Undefeated with two very convincing road
victories under their belt, The Texans did exactly what they had to do
during their visits in Denver and Jacksonville. With a strong
running-game from the tandem of Arian Foster and Ben Tate, Houston is
looking every bit the power-house that was expected. Matt Schuab has
thrown five touchdowns - four in his last game against Denver. They
face Tennessee this week following intriguing match ups against the
New York Jets, Green bay, and Baltimore. The next four weeks will
indicate if Houston is for real.
2) Atlanta Falcons (3-0) - Also undefeated, the Falcons are coming off
a 27-3 victory over San Diego. This week Atlanta will face the
struggling Carolina Panthers. Matt Ryan has a QB rating of 91.6 to go
along with eight TDs to start the 2012 campaign. The biggest surprise
so far for Atlanta has been tight end Tony Gonzalez. Tony G. is still
productive, reeling in a TD in each of the first three games. Gonzalez
has been spreading the field for wide receivers Roddy White and Julio
Jones, making Atlanta’s passing game one of the best in the league.
3) Arizona Cardinals (3-0) - The Cardinals are the least convincing of
the undefeated teams, but have been getting it done mostly in part to
their passing defense - ranked 7th overall. Arizona has held opponents
to a impressive 4.7 yards per pass-play. They dodged a bit of a bullet
in Week-2 against New England when the Patriots failed to convert a
game tying two-point conversion late in the fourth quarter. The
Cardinals are coming off their most convincing victory over Kevin
Kolb’s former team. Against the Philadelphia Eagles, Kolb completed 17
of 24 passes including a pair of TDs. Arizona's defense should not
have a problem against Ryan Tannehill (31.9 QB rating) and the Miami
Dolphins this week.
4) Baltimore Ravens (2-1) - Joe Flacco has been rolling and Ray Rice
is doing what he does best. Fot the first time in team history, The
Ravens have an offense that is actually better than it's defense. An
emotional Torrey Smith scored TDs less than 24 hours after the loss of
his brother in a motorcycle accident in Sundays victory over New
England. Baltimore looks to gain a lead as they host division rival,
the Cleveland Browns, in Thursday night's game of the week.
5) San Francisco 49ers (2-1) - Many believe this is the best team in
football, but after being upset by Minnesota, the 49ers have regressed
in my book. Frank Gore has been impressive averaging 5.9 yards per
rush. Michael Crabtree has converted 12 1st-downs, but has failed to
find the end-zone. Vernon Davis has been Alex Smith’s security blanket
catching four of Smith’s five TDs. San Francisco faces a Darrelle
Revis-less New York on Sunday, that should open things up for
Crabtree.
6) New York Giants (2-1) - After losing to Dallas in Week-1, the
defending Super Bowl champs bounced back with a shootout in Tampa Bay
where Eli manning exploded for 510 yards. The New York football Giants
are coming off a another victory, this time shutting down Carolina's
Cam Newton (three interceptions). With Hakeem Nicks questionable for
Sunday’s divisional match-up against Philadelphia (3rd overall passing
defense), Manning and the Giants might have a hard time getting things
done.
7) Philadelphia Eagles (2-1) - Michael Vick has thrown six picks and 3
TDs, but yet his team managed victories over Cleveland and Baltimore.
Against Arizona, Vick didn't have throw a TD or a INT, and the Eagles
failed to find the end-zone. Their upcoming game against New York will
be a good test as to what the 2012 Eagles are about.
8) Green Bay (1-2) - Even though the NFL can’t overturn the clear
interception that has tainted the Packers record, we all know what we
witnessed on Monday Night Football. The Packers don’t seem to be
moving the ball very well, but they still have Aaron Rodgers and a lot
of weapons at his disposal. Their offensive line has not been playing
up to par allowing an astonishing 16 sacks. If adjustments are made,
Green Bay can most definitely return to form. The controversial loss
to Seattle may have been the very thing that will kick start Green
Bay’s season.
9) New England Patriots (1-2) - Barely losing to Baltimore and
Arizona, New England seems to be trying to figure things out. With the
loss of TE Aaron Hernandez due to injury, The Patriots have signed WR
Deion Branch and TE Kellen Winslow. Not the power house they once were
but still a very competitive group looking for another ticket to the
playoffs.
10) Dallas Cowboys (2-1) - Tony Romo and the Cowboys came out shooting
Week-1, hit a brick wall in Seattle, and looked a bit sluggish against
Tampa Bay. But I will give Dallas the benefit of the doubt and let
them play the "Replacement Refs Had Their Hand in the This" card - 13
penalties for 105 yards. The penalties may have been the reason the
cowboys failed to produce on offense. Whether or not, the Cowboys
season will based on how the O-Line holds up and if Romo can avoid
turning the ball over.
11) New York Jets (2-1) - After three weeks, Mark Sanchez has
prevented divine intervention by keeping Tim Tebow on the bench, aside
from wild-cat formations. The loss of Darrelle Revis will definitely
affect their ability to prevent the deep-threat. Sanchez will now need
contribute more production in upcoming games against San Francisco and
Houston in the coming weeks.
12) Chicago Bears (2-1) - Jay Cutler has thrown a pick in each game
this season, including four against Green Bay in Week-2. Chicago’s
neither a defensive or offensive team, having problems on both sides
of the ball. Their biggest flaw might be the offensive line which has
allowed 11 sacks and has not been there long enough to let Jay Cutler
and his receivers to get anything done.
13) Seattle Seahawks (2-1) - Receiving a present from the replacement
refs aside, the Seahawks sit at 2-1. Mostly due to the fact that they
have managed to keep teams out of the end-zone. Seattle has allowed
the least amount of points thus far and are shutting down opposing
team's run-game. The Seahawks are dead last in passing-offense at
127.7 yards per game , but they have managed to beat Green Bay and
Dallas, and now go on the road to face St. Louis and Carolina.
14) San DIego Chargers (2-1) - San Diego dominated Oakland and
Tennessee, but come on, it's only the Raiders and Titans. Atlanta came
to San Diego and held them to just a field goal. The Chargers look to
rebound this Sunday as they head to Kansas City.
15) Denver Broncos (1-2) - After the coming out party in Week-1 for
Peyton Manning against Pittsburgh, the "Peyton Manning is Going to
Bail us Out" Kool-aid has become the beverage of choice in Denver.
Manning has been better than expected, but he is not the Manning of
old. The Broncos will need that Manning if they are going to have a
chance of winning their division.
16) Pittsburgh Steelers (1-2) - The Steel Curtain is far from being
your Father's Steel Curtain. The Steelers gave up 31 points to Denver
in Week-1 and 34 to Oakland this past Sunday. The Steelers are
suffering from injuries - Troy Polumalu and James Harrison out of the
lineup definitely opens things up for opposing offenses. The tandem of
Antonio Brown and Mike Wallace has been very productive, Big Ben has
taken nine sacks but has thrown eight TDs and only one INT.
17) Cincinnati Bengals (2-1) - After Baltimore had their way with them
in Week-1, the Bengals have won two straight, doing so scoring over 30
points both times. The onslaught stems from getting nice production
from "The Law Firm" BenJarvus Green-Ellis and having four receivers
with over 100 yards. "The Red Rifle" Andy Dalton and the Bengals have
found themselves tied for 1st in the AFC North to start the 2012
season.
18) Detroit Lions (1-2) - Detroit has the most efficient passing game
in the league at 334 passing yards per game. Calvin Johnson has over
300 yards on the season, but has only one TD. The Lions can put up
points but find themselves giving up just as many. Their defense isn't
the force it was last season, and will probably have Matt Stafford out
at least a game due to injury. Shaun Hill will have to step up big if
the Lions look to stay relevant in their division.
19) Buffalo Bills (2-1) - Fred Jackson has been out since Week-1 with
a sprained right knee, C.J. Spiller promptly put the Bills on his
back. Enter Week-4, he too is suffering from a shoulder injury,
possibly leaving Buffalo without a strong running game for the weeks
to come. Spiller is listed as doubtful and Jackson questionable. Ryan
Fitzpatrick and third-string RB Tashard Choice will need to step it up
in order to keep their winning streak alive. The Bills faces new
England looking to rebound after consecutive tough-losses.
20) Oakland Raiders (1-2) - Oakland’s offense came to life this past
Sunday against a banged up Steeler’s defense. Darrius Heyward-Bey
suffered a vicious helmet to helmet hit that landed him in the
hospital and is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s matchup against
Denver. Carson Palmer proved that he can connect with his other
receivers and is starting to look more comfortable in the pocket. The
Raiders will face a tougher defense task, and will give indication as
how far they have come since trading for Palmer last season.
21) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-2) - Tampa Bay's defense is ranked first
against the run, but ranking dead last in passing yards, allowing
353.3 yards per game. Their offense isn’t impressive at all ranking
30th in passing yards and 21st in rushing. This teams lacks weapons
and lacks defensive play making ability. The lone bright spot has been
rookie RB Doug Martin taking over the backfield after demonstrating
the skill-set we saw in his years at Boise State.
22) Washington Redskins (1-2) - Robert Griffin III has a QB rating of
69.3, 209 rushing yards, and seven total touchdowns. Washington leads
the league in points scored but the defense hasn’t been able to hold
leads. If Washington's D could put together some stops late in the
game, the Redskins could see themselves in contention for a Wild-Card
spot if not the Division.
23) Minnesota Vikings (2-1) - Coming off a very impressive win over
San Francisco, the Vikings have a favorable schedule for the next
seven games before their Week-11 Bye. Christian Ponder has yet to
throw a pick this season and Adrian Peterson has proved all doubters
wrong.
24) Carolina Panthers (1-2) - Cam Newton has yet to show any
progression this season. Steve Smith is still proving that he is a
premier receiver in the league with six receptions of 20 yards or more
and 11 1st-down conversions. Carolina is a pass first team and the
lack of balance could be holding them back.
25) St. Louis Rams (1-2) - The magic number was six this past Sunday.
Six points and six sacks. Sam Bradford was hurried too often and was
unable to get anything going. Their offense ranks 27th in passing and
20th in rushing. Upcoming games at home against Seattle and Arizona
can give St. Louis some opportunities to figure things out with their
offensive line.
26) Kansas City Chiefs (1-2) Jamaal Charles is coming off a monster
game and has propelled the Chiefs to the Number 1 ranked rushing
offense in the league. Matt Cassel hasn’t been great with a QB rating
59.3 and four picks to go with three TDs.
27) Miami Dolphins (1-2) - Reggie Bush looks to be starting off his
season on the right foot. Ryan Tannehill has one TD, four INTs, and an
awful QB rating of 31.9. With a receiving corp made of Brian Hartline,
Davone Bess and Anthony Fasano, you can’t put all the blame on the
rookie QB. it's going to be a long season for the Dolphins, maybe they
can focus on getting a rushing title.
28) New Orleans Saints (0-3) - I feel like their record could be 3-0,
but it's not. New Orleans is suffering with out head coach Sean
Payton. Losing to Kansas City in OT and were unable to comeback
against Washington and Carolina. The Saints could be a few adjustments
away to getting back on track but who is going to make the necessary
adjustments? They face the Green Bay Packers this week, both teams
need a big win under their belt after disappointing starts to their
respective seasons.
29) Tennessee Titans (1-2) - Chris Johnson is on my fantasy teams,
feel my pain. Seriously, watching the Titans offense unable to do
anything is nauseating. They are last in rushing yards at 39 yards per
game, mostly in part that they don’t run with only 45 total attempts -
33 from Johnson. Tennessee has problems and being a one dimensional
offense isn’t helping their cause.
30) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-2) They beat Indianapolis, got crushed by
Houston, and lost in OT to Minnesota. Blaine Gabbert’s QB rating of
42.3 finds himself in a similar situation as Miami’s Tannehill, no
receivers. BUT, at least he has MJD to help carry some of the burden.
31) Indianapolis Colts (1-2) - Andrew Luck isn’t exactly going to save
the Colts all in one shot. The rookie has plenty to learn but is
working through it. Luck is second in total QBR at 82.0 just ahead of
Ben Roethlisberger and behind Matt Ryan, but ranks 26th in actual
passer rating. So the glass can be considered half full or half empty
when it comes to Luck and his rookie campaign thus far. The Colts will
go only as far as Luck can take them. (No pun intended)
32) Cleveland Browns (0-3) - Philadelphia, Cincinnati, and Buffalo to
start the season. Now Baltimore, the New York Giants, and Cincinnati
the next three weeks. 0-6 could be in the Browns' future. Brandon
Weeden isn’t exactly going light up the score board and Trent
Richardson isn’t going to put the Browns on his back and take them
anywhere, anytime soon. Scouting for their first overall pick next
year should be the main thing to focus on now for Cleveland.
-Daniel
-Jose
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