Making it's return just before the 2013 season opens up, its the top ten right now series. For the mighty return of the series, I take a look at the defensive side of the ball for the first time. Pass rusher is a term that is pretty obvious the role is, they rush the quarterback. But in today's NFL, pass rushers aren't only coming from the defensive end position. The popularity of the 3-4 defense has allowed more players to become elite pass rushers, primarily from an outside linebacker. So here is the list of the best pass rushers in the NFL in 2013:
10. Geno Atkins, DT, Cincinnati Bengals
9. Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Washington Redskins
8. Terrell Suggs, DE/OLB, Baltimore Ravens
7. Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, New York Giants
6. Clay Matthews, OLB, Green Bay Packers
5. Von Miller, LB, Denver Broncos
4. Demarcus Ware, DE, Dallas Cowboys
3. JJ Watt, DT/DE, Houston Texans
2. Aldon Smith. OLB, San Francisco 49ers
1. Jared Allen, DE, Minnesota Vikings
Monday, September 2, 2013
Friday, August 30, 2013
NFL Predictions: Awards for 2013
Well, NFL fans, the regular season is just over a week away, are you excited? We all know that I am since I am shaking in anticipation for football to return. I have so much anticipation for the season that I am actually bored. To kill time for right now, I have decided to add onto my regular season and postseason predictions to the NFL with picks as to who will win the major awards at the end of the season. These awards include MVP, offensive and defensive player of the year, offensive and defensive rookie of the year, comeback player of the year, and coach of the year. As always, I will give full analysis of each pick, so here you go:
MVP: Peyton Manning, QB, Broncos
This is the pick here because why not? Manning already owns the most MVPs in NFL history, and he will lead what looks like could finish as the best team in the NFL. How often have we heard "Peyton Manning will have to carry his team" throughout his career? Well, it looks like this year won't be any different with a plethora of injuries and a suspension to defensive star Von Miller. Manning looks to own another piece of hardware for his already hall-of-fame career.
Offensive Player of the Year: Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions
How can you follow up on a season in which you break the NFL record for receiving yards? Well, as a Lions fan, a few more touchdowns would be nice too. With all of those receiving yards, Johnson only recorded five touchdowns. The touchdown total (and yes, the very small amount of wins for his team) were the reasons Johnson didn't get as much attention as he normally would for his accomplishment. Breaking receiving records is harder than breaking rushing records because with running the football, all the runner has to do is take a handoff and run. A receiver has to get open and hope his quarterback can get the ball to him. With that in mind, Calvin Johnson should edge out players like Adrian Peterson this season.
Defensive Player of the Year: Jared Allen, DE, Vikings
Perhaps the best pass rusher in the NFL. He was half a sack short of the NFL record with 22 sacks in 2011 and was snubbed for the award, partly due to the Vikings 3-13 record. Now the team should be fighting for a playoff spot, which means Allen will get more recognition for his performance. Don't expect a 22 sack performance this year, but he should win a close race against the likes of JJ Watt and Luke Kuechly.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Tavon Austin, WR, Rams
The most explosive player coming out of college brings that explosive play to the NFL. The big play threat the Rams offense sorely needed, expect Austin to put up some big numbers this season. Very comparable to Percy Harvin as a player, and Austin should be used in the role that the Vikings used Harvin in. Small little note, Percy Harvin was the offensive rookie of the year in 2009, so if Austin follows in those footsteps, the award is his.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Ezekial Ansah, DE, Lions
They are plenty of defensive rookies that may earn this spot, but Ansah is in the best situation as a player. A very raw prospect with little football experience, but he makes up for it with extreme athleticism. That and having his hand on the ground next to the dominant duo of Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley helps his cause. With those two next to him, Ansah will get plenty of one-on-one situations to show his worth. Should be a tough race with Rams LB Alec Ogletree, Dolphins DE Dion Jordan and Browns DE/LB Barkevious Mingo.
Comeback Player of the Year: Robert Griffin III, QB, Redskins
I know I have predicted the Redskins missing the playoffs, but what other high-profile player is coming off of a big injury? So much speculation has been made on whether he will be ready for the season opener and if he can stay healthy all season. I know Griffin only missed the end of the playoff loss to the Seahawks, but he might earn the honors if he comes back playing the way he played in his rookie campaign, it wouldn't matter if Washington makes the playoffs or not for him to earn this award.
MVP: Peyton Manning, QB, Broncos
This is the pick here because why not? Manning already owns the most MVPs in NFL history, and he will lead what looks like could finish as the best team in the NFL. How often have we heard "Peyton Manning will have to carry his team" throughout his career? Well, it looks like this year won't be any different with a plethora of injuries and a suspension to defensive star Von Miller. Manning looks to own another piece of hardware for his already hall-of-fame career.
Offensive Player of the Year: Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions
How can you follow up on a season in which you break the NFL record for receiving yards? Well, as a Lions fan, a few more touchdowns would be nice too. With all of those receiving yards, Johnson only recorded five touchdowns. The touchdown total (and yes, the very small amount of wins for his team) were the reasons Johnson didn't get as much attention as he normally would for his accomplishment. Breaking receiving records is harder than breaking rushing records because with running the football, all the runner has to do is take a handoff and run. A receiver has to get open and hope his quarterback can get the ball to him. With that in mind, Calvin Johnson should edge out players like Adrian Peterson this season.
Defensive Player of the Year: Jared Allen, DE, Vikings
Perhaps the best pass rusher in the NFL. He was half a sack short of the NFL record with 22 sacks in 2011 and was snubbed for the award, partly due to the Vikings 3-13 record. Now the team should be fighting for a playoff spot, which means Allen will get more recognition for his performance. Don't expect a 22 sack performance this year, but he should win a close race against the likes of JJ Watt and Luke Kuechly.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Tavon Austin, WR, Rams
The most explosive player coming out of college brings that explosive play to the NFL. The big play threat the Rams offense sorely needed, expect Austin to put up some big numbers this season. Very comparable to Percy Harvin as a player, and Austin should be used in the role that the Vikings used Harvin in. Small little note, Percy Harvin was the offensive rookie of the year in 2009, so if Austin follows in those footsteps, the award is his.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Ezekial Ansah, DE, Lions
They are plenty of defensive rookies that may earn this spot, but Ansah is in the best situation as a player. A very raw prospect with little football experience, but he makes up for it with extreme athleticism. That and having his hand on the ground next to the dominant duo of Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley helps his cause. With those two next to him, Ansah will get plenty of one-on-one situations to show his worth. Should be a tough race with Rams LB Alec Ogletree, Dolphins DE Dion Jordan and Browns DE/LB Barkevious Mingo.
Comeback Player of the Year: Robert Griffin III, QB, Redskins
I know I have predicted the Redskins missing the playoffs, but what other high-profile player is coming off of a big injury? So much speculation has been made on whether he will be ready for the season opener and if he can stay healthy all season. I know Griffin only missed the end of the playoff loss to the Seahawks, but he might earn the honors if he comes back playing the way he played in his rookie campaign, it wouldn't matter if Washington makes the playoffs or not for him to earn this award.
Monday, August 19, 2013
NFL Predictions 2013: Postseason
The stage is set for another postseason run. Who will hold up the Lombardi Trophy in February in New York/New Jersey? Here are the teams competing for that prize if you have forgotten (Or just too lazy to scroll down to see again):
NFC: AFC:
1. Seattle Seahawks 1. Denver Broncos
2. Atlanta Falcons 2. Cincinnati Bengals
3. Green Bay Packers 3. Houston Texans
4. New York Giants 4. New England Patriots
5. San Francisco 49ers 5. Baltimore Ravens
6. New Orleans Saints 6. Kansas City Chiefs
Wildcard Round:
NFC:
49ers over Giants
Packers over Saints
AFC:
Ravens over Patriots
Texans over Chiefs
The Wildcard Round of the playoffs shows some pretty exciting matchups. First we have the Super Bowl runner-up, the 49ers taking care of business against the Giants. Then, the Super Bowl champion Ravens taking down the Patriots again in Foxboro. Further north, we see the Packers overwhelm the Saints in the cold of Lambeau Field. And the final matchup has the Texans getting their third straight opening playoff game win, with a victory of the Chiefs. Now onto the Divisional Round.
Divisional Round:
NFC:
Seahawks over 49ers
Packers over Falcons
AFC:
Broncos over Ravens
Bengals over Texans
The second round gives plenty of intrigue. The Broncos get revenge on the Ravens for last year's divisional round game, while the other number one seed Seahawks handle their division rival 49ers. The Falcons continue to struggle in the playoffs despite playing at home, and the Bengals finally defeat the Texans in the playoffs, as Houston fails yet again to get past the second round. Next is the conference championships.
Conference Championship:
NFC:
Seahawks over Packers
AFC:
Broncos over Bengals
And the matchup is set for Super Bowl XLVIII. Who will come out on top?
The 2013 Super Bowl champion is:
The Denver Broncos.
That's right ladies and gentlemen, the Denver Broncos are your Super Bowl XLVIII champs. Peyton Manning wins his second title, and will the first quarterback to win a Super Bowl for two different teams. The Broncos are a very fun team to watch, as are the Seahawks, but it is Denver who wins because someone has to in this great matchup. Just a great finish to what should be a great football season.
NFC: AFC:
1. Seattle Seahawks 1. Denver Broncos
2. Atlanta Falcons 2. Cincinnati Bengals
3. Green Bay Packers 3. Houston Texans
4. New York Giants 4. New England Patriots
5. San Francisco 49ers 5. Baltimore Ravens
6. New Orleans Saints 6. Kansas City Chiefs
Wildcard Round:
NFC:
49ers over Giants
Packers over Saints
AFC:
Ravens over Patriots
Texans over Chiefs
The Wildcard Round of the playoffs shows some pretty exciting matchups. First we have the Super Bowl runner-up, the 49ers taking care of business against the Giants. Then, the Super Bowl champion Ravens taking down the Patriots again in Foxboro. Further north, we see the Packers overwhelm the Saints in the cold of Lambeau Field. And the final matchup has the Texans getting their third straight opening playoff game win, with a victory of the Chiefs. Now onto the Divisional Round.
Divisional Round:
NFC:
Seahawks over 49ers
Packers over Falcons
AFC:
Broncos over Ravens
Bengals over Texans
The second round gives plenty of intrigue. The Broncos get revenge on the Ravens for last year's divisional round game, while the other number one seed Seahawks handle their division rival 49ers. The Falcons continue to struggle in the playoffs despite playing at home, and the Bengals finally defeat the Texans in the playoffs, as Houston fails yet again to get past the second round. Next is the conference championships.
Conference Championship:
NFC:
Seahawks over Packers
AFC:
Broncos over Bengals
And the matchup is set for Super Bowl XLVIII. Who will come out on top?
The 2013 Super Bowl champion is:
The Denver Broncos.
That's right ladies and gentlemen, the Denver Broncos are your Super Bowl XLVIII champs. Peyton Manning wins his second title, and will the first quarterback to win a Super Bowl for two different teams. The Broncos are a very fun team to watch, as are the Seahawks, but it is Denver who wins because someone has to in this great matchup. Just a great finish to what should be a great football season.
Sunday, August 18, 2013
NFL Predictions 2013: AFC
The NFC predictions are done, now for the other half of the NFL in the AFC. The AFC isn't as strong as the NFC, but there are some very good teams. The AFC will have great battles in between divisions just like the NFC has.
AFC East:
1. New England Patriots: 10-6
The window is beginning to close on the Patriots to win now. The many offseason distractions further hurts the team. The team will be without Aaron Hernandez after he was charged with murder and later released by the team. Rob Gronkowski is also likely done for the year with constant health concerns after undergoing multiple surgeries. So with those two issues and the offseason departure of Wes Welker, that leaves very few legitimate options receiving the ball from Tom Brady. The offensive line will give him more than enough time that it probably won't matter though. The defense is feast or famine, they can either be lights out or will give up yards in bunches. The development of the young talent on the defense is the true key for the Patriots to win another division title
2. Miami Dolphins: 9-7
It seemed like there wasn't a day in the offseason that include a move made by the Dolphins. The Dolphins made a ton of moves, including signing WR Mike Wallace and LB Dannell Ellerbe and then moving up to the third pick in the draft to select Oregon pass rusher Dion Jordan. Question is now, will the Dolphins find immediate success? Well, as the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins have both proved that you cannot build a team through free agency. The Dolphins might find a little success with their acquisitions. The division is very weak and second year quarterback Ryan Tannehill has weapons around him, so only time will tell whether this group of men can come together and play as one unit.
3. Buffalo Bills: 6-10
Buffalo hasn't made the playoffs in over a decade, and that streak will probably continue, as the team looks to start over again. Quarterback will be between rookie EJ Manuel and veteran Kevin Kolb. Neither are expected to be outstanding this season, so that gives the team a hit in that regard. Offensive line is very weak and there are very few offensive weapons other than running back CJ Spiller and receiver Stevie Johnson, so both quarterbacks will receive very little help around them. The defense had high hopes last year after all the moves the team made to improve that unit. The Bills though finished last in most defensive categories. If the team can make all those moves and still finish last on defense, it will be hard to predict the Bills will finish better the next season. Buffalo fans have had a long time waiting to see their team succeed again, and that will unfortunately continue.
4. New York Jets: 3-13
Last year got so bad for the Jets that their famous fan "Fireman Ed" gave up on the team and sold the rest of his season tickets. This season, he might as well not even buy season tickets. This team was very bad last season, and now the roster has been gutted up and down. The problems begin with a lot of dissension brewing at the quarterback after drafting West Virginia's Geno Smith to compete with former fifth overall pick Mark Sanchez. Sanchez has had back-to-back terrible seasons, leading to the selection of Smith. Other than Santonio Holmes, the receivers won't help either of the quarterbacks. The offensive line has some bright spots with left tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson and center Nick Mangold, but there is a huge hole on the right side of the line. The defense has nobody that will stand out, as the Jets will depend on two rookies to make a huge impact. Needless to say the Jets will be in on the Jadeveon Clowney sweepstakes for next April.
AFC North:
1. Cincinnati Bengals: 12-4
The Rams are my darkhorse team of the NFC, and the Bengals are my darkhorse team of the AFC. Difference is is that the Bengals will make the playoffs. Not just that, but the Bengals may have a good chance to make a Super Bowl run. The key, like every other team, is the quarterback position. Andy Dalton now needs to go from a good quarterback to a great one. There are plenty of weapons around him in receiver AJ Green, tight end Jermaine Gresham and rookie running back Giovanni Bernard. Add them with a solid offensive line, and this is a very good offense. The defense is just as good as the offense too. When a defensive tackle has over 12 sacks, which Geno Atkins did do last season, that sets a very good tone for the rest of the defense. Even with the defending champions in the same division, expect the Bengals to begin a reign of dominance.
2. Baltimore Ravens: 10-6*
For a defending Super Bowl champion, the Ravens underwent a lot of changes this offseason. Gone are future hall of famers Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, along with key starters Matt Birk, Anquan Boldin, Bernard Pollard, Dannell Ellerbe and Paul Kruger. Needless to say there will be a lot of new starters. A great draft and a couple key free agent signings do help replace all the departures, but it may take some time for all the new pieces to gel with the players already there. The Ravens will still be good though, as it should be expected that Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco should continue to prove himself as he did on that playoff run.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: 7-9
The Steelers are in a sort of a rebuild mode as they continue to get younger. Ben Roethlisberger continues to play hard-nosed and takes a lot of hits in the process. Big Ben is now 31 and has a lot of tread on his tires, so to be more efficient is key. The receiving corps is very weak around him, but Roethlisberger cannot afford to stand in the pocket for very long and take the amount of hits he has taken in his career. Le'Veon Bell will bring back a toughness factor to the running game that has lacked for a while. If healthy, Jarvis Jones will be the steal of the draft and can bring youth to the pass rush. Other than that, the defense needs to stay healthy if Pittsburgh will find any success in 2013.
4. Cleveland Browns: 5-11
The Browns are starting over, again. They have a new head coach, but that isn't even the best hire they made. Rob Chudzinski might be the head coach, but hiring Ray Horton as defensive coordinator is even better. Horton learned under Dick Lebeau and put together a very good defense out in Arizona and should do the same in Cleveland. The problem is is the offense. Trent Richardson is a very good running back, but beyond him, there isn't much that will scare defensive coordinators. Brandon Weeden is going into his second season in the NFL, but will turn 30 in the middle of the season, so he has no room for development in his career. But Weeden is one of many Browns that are in a make or break year on the roster, and the offense will hold this team back. The Browns may be good, but may continue to be bad, so officially this prediction will be a "prove me wrong" pick.
AFC South:
1. Houston Texans: 11-5
The pressure is on in Houston. The last two seasons have seen the franchise win their first two division titles and playoff appearances. Now the Texans are looking to get past the divisional round of the playoffs (and to beat a playoff team other than just the Cincinnati Bengals). I have never been too certain if Matt Schaub can be the quarterback that can lead the team on a long playoff run. The window is slowly closing on star receiver Andre Johnson. Surprisingly, it took the team up til this year to draft a receiver to compliment Johnson, but it might be too late. The running game is still perhaps the best in the NFL, so there is no problem there. The defense will again be led by JJ Watt, who looks to continue on his unbelievable 2012 season. There are question marks to the rest of the defense, starting with the linebacking corps. Brian Cushing is very solid, if he stays on the field. The Texans need to find others to stand out along with Watt and Cushing to take the next step for this franchise.
2. Indianapolis Colts: 8-8
Last season's Colts team was perhaps the best Cinderella story the in the last few years. Rookie quarterback replacing a first ballot hall of famer with a young team around him, playing hard for their head coach who underwent a life changing chemotherapy to battle leukemia. Now how does Chuck Pagano, Andrew Luck and company follow that up? There should be some doubt as to the Colts making the postseason this year because the motivation the team played with last season to continue this season. Andrew Luck led the league in turnovers last year but the team still managed to win 11 games. Can't expect that total if the turnovers continue. The defense is still a work in progress as the "in with the new, out with the old" continues as former playmakers like Dwight Freeney departs and is replaced by others such as first round pick Bjoern Werner. A lot went right last year in Indianapolis, but a repeat of that will be tough.
3. Tennessee Titans: 8-8
I am not getting a good read on the Titans as a team. Last year I picked them to make the postseason, but they obviously disappointed. There are no more excuses for Chris Johnson to get going with the running game. The Titans spent the offseason building the offensive line on the interior, so Johnson needs to return to an elite level as a runner. Another Titan in need of improvement is quarterback Jake Locker. The former eighth overall pick is entering his third season in the league and has only earned four wins as a starter. Tennessee needs Locker to become more fluid and consistent to find any success. The defense has good potential, but it hasn't come together yet. The defense gave up 30 points or more eight times. Obviously a pretty unacceptable number. No way the Titans will win many games unless the defense stops the opponent from scoring that many times.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars: 2-14
It has been a long couple of years for Jaguars fans. Unfortunately, this year won't change any emotions for Jaguars fans. When the starting quarterback battle is between Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne, that is the first indicator of what is to come. The team had a very nice draft, getting good players such as tackle Luke Joeckel, safety Jonathan Cyprien and "offensive weapon" Denard Robinson. The rebuilding process gets a nice start, but that is all it is, a start. There is really nothing more to say about this team.
AFC West:
1. Denver Broncos: 13-3
By far the best team in the AFC. Should be the favorite to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. Peyton Manning showed little to no signs of rust or age as he added onto his hall of fame career. Pretty weird how Demariyus Thomas and Eric Decker's receiving numbers went up when Manning took over at quarterback over Tim Tebow, isn't it? The defense takes a hit with the potential loss of Von Miller the first four games, but Peyton Manning never had a great defense in Indianapolis and won games. The Broncos have a well-oiled machine on offense and should finish top five on offense again and have plenty of talent on defense that Denver fans will have fun again this season.
2. Kansas City Chiefs: 9-7*
Not very often does the team that selects first overall makes the playoffs the very next year, but the Chiefs has too much talent to be 2-14. 2012 was an example of how important quarterback play is in the NFL. The Chiefs only had eight touchdown passes. Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne both had at least nine touchdown passes for the Jaguars, who also finished 2-14. Alex Smith isn't exactly going to cut opposing defenses up, but is much more competent as a quarterback and won't make throws that can lose games. But with a lack of explosive plays, the Chiefs may be held back again by the quarterback position. But the talent in the running game and on defense, along with bringing in a good coaching staff, will put this team in the playoffs.
3. San Diego Chargers: 7-9
A new regime enters in San Diego as there are finally replacements at general manager and head coach. San Diego had perhaps the best draft, able to snag three potential all-pros with their first three selections in tackle DJ Fluker, linebacker Manti Teo and receiver Keenan Allen. But even with those additions, there are still big holes among those position groups. Quarterback Phillip Rivers has little time to throw behind a porous line and has little options to throw to. This is an evaluation year for Rivers as the starting quarterback, which is pretty unfair given the circumstances. It will be a tough year in San Diego, but the Chargers are moving in the right direction.
4. Oakland Raiders: 1-15
Finally, we get to the Raiders. The Raiders have been among the worst teams in the NFL for over a decade, and it is about to get worse for fans out by the bay. It is hard for myself to pick a team to only win one lone game, but looking at the roster, there is no way I can predict any more than that. Starting with the quarterback, it is between Matt Flynn and Terrelle Pryor. I don't see many defensive coordinators cringing in fear over them. If Darren McFadden can stay healthy, he very well might be the best running back in the league, but that is a big if. I was about to say the offensive line is a bright spot for this team, but in the middle of me writing this, left tackle Jared Veldheer is out for a substantial amount of time, so there is even question marks there. There is really nothing more I can say about this team, because most of the players won't be making much of an impact anyways.
*denotes wildcard team
Playoff seedings:
1. Denver Broncos
2. Cincinnati Bengals
3. Houston Texans
4. New England Patriots
5. Baltimore Ravens
6. Kansas City Chiefs
AFC East:
1. New England Patriots: 10-6
The window is beginning to close on the Patriots to win now. The many offseason distractions further hurts the team. The team will be without Aaron Hernandez after he was charged with murder and later released by the team. Rob Gronkowski is also likely done for the year with constant health concerns after undergoing multiple surgeries. So with those two issues and the offseason departure of Wes Welker, that leaves very few legitimate options receiving the ball from Tom Brady. The offensive line will give him more than enough time that it probably won't matter though. The defense is feast or famine, they can either be lights out or will give up yards in bunches. The development of the young talent on the defense is the true key for the Patriots to win another division title
2. Miami Dolphins: 9-7
It seemed like there wasn't a day in the offseason that include a move made by the Dolphins. The Dolphins made a ton of moves, including signing WR Mike Wallace and LB Dannell Ellerbe and then moving up to the third pick in the draft to select Oregon pass rusher Dion Jordan. Question is now, will the Dolphins find immediate success? Well, as the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins have both proved that you cannot build a team through free agency. The Dolphins might find a little success with their acquisitions. The division is very weak and second year quarterback Ryan Tannehill has weapons around him, so only time will tell whether this group of men can come together and play as one unit.
3. Buffalo Bills: 6-10
Buffalo hasn't made the playoffs in over a decade, and that streak will probably continue, as the team looks to start over again. Quarterback will be between rookie EJ Manuel and veteran Kevin Kolb. Neither are expected to be outstanding this season, so that gives the team a hit in that regard. Offensive line is very weak and there are very few offensive weapons other than running back CJ Spiller and receiver Stevie Johnson, so both quarterbacks will receive very little help around them. The defense had high hopes last year after all the moves the team made to improve that unit. The Bills though finished last in most defensive categories. If the team can make all those moves and still finish last on defense, it will be hard to predict the Bills will finish better the next season. Buffalo fans have had a long time waiting to see their team succeed again, and that will unfortunately continue.
4. New York Jets: 3-13
Last year got so bad for the Jets that their famous fan "Fireman Ed" gave up on the team and sold the rest of his season tickets. This season, he might as well not even buy season tickets. This team was very bad last season, and now the roster has been gutted up and down. The problems begin with a lot of dissension brewing at the quarterback after drafting West Virginia's Geno Smith to compete with former fifth overall pick Mark Sanchez. Sanchez has had back-to-back terrible seasons, leading to the selection of Smith. Other than Santonio Holmes, the receivers won't help either of the quarterbacks. The offensive line has some bright spots with left tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson and center Nick Mangold, but there is a huge hole on the right side of the line. The defense has nobody that will stand out, as the Jets will depend on two rookies to make a huge impact. Needless to say the Jets will be in on the Jadeveon Clowney sweepstakes for next April.
AFC North:
1. Cincinnati Bengals: 12-4
The Rams are my darkhorse team of the NFC, and the Bengals are my darkhorse team of the AFC. Difference is is that the Bengals will make the playoffs. Not just that, but the Bengals may have a good chance to make a Super Bowl run. The key, like every other team, is the quarterback position. Andy Dalton now needs to go from a good quarterback to a great one. There are plenty of weapons around him in receiver AJ Green, tight end Jermaine Gresham and rookie running back Giovanni Bernard. Add them with a solid offensive line, and this is a very good offense. The defense is just as good as the offense too. When a defensive tackle has over 12 sacks, which Geno Atkins did do last season, that sets a very good tone for the rest of the defense. Even with the defending champions in the same division, expect the Bengals to begin a reign of dominance.
2. Baltimore Ravens: 10-6*
For a defending Super Bowl champion, the Ravens underwent a lot of changes this offseason. Gone are future hall of famers Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, along with key starters Matt Birk, Anquan Boldin, Bernard Pollard, Dannell Ellerbe and Paul Kruger. Needless to say there will be a lot of new starters. A great draft and a couple key free agent signings do help replace all the departures, but it may take some time for all the new pieces to gel with the players already there. The Ravens will still be good though, as it should be expected that Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco should continue to prove himself as he did on that playoff run.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: 7-9
The Steelers are in a sort of a rebuild mode as they continue to get younger. Ben Roethlisberger continues to play hard-nosed and takes a lot of hits in the process. Big Ben is now 31 and has a lot of tread on his tires, so to be more efficient is key. The receiving corps is very weak around him, but Roethlisberger cannot afford to stand in the pocket for very long and take the amount of hits he has taken in his career. Le'Veon Bell will bring back a toughness factor to the running game that has lacked for a while. If healthy, Jarvis Jones will be the steal of the draft and can bring youth to the pass rush. Other than that, the defense needs to stay healthy if Pittsburgh will find any success in 2013.
4. Cleveland Browns: 5-11
The Browns are starting over, again. They have a new head coach, but that isn't even the best hire they made. Rob Chudzinski might be the head coach, but hiring Ray Horton as defensive coordinator is even better. Horton learned under Dick Lebeau and put together a very good defense out in Arizona and should do the same in Cleveland. The problem is is the offense. Trent Richardson is a very good running back, but beyond him, there isn't much that will scare defensive coordinators. Brandon Weeden is going into his second season in the NFL, but will turn 30 in the middle of the season, so he has no room for development in his career. But Weeden is one of many Browns that are in a make or break year on the roster, and the offense will hold this team back. The Browns may be good, but may continue to be bad, so officially this prediction will be a "prove me wrong" pick.
AFC South:
1. Houston Texans: 11-5
The pressure is on in Houston. The last two seasons have seen the franchise win their first two division titles and playoff appearances. Now the Texans are looking to get past the divisional round of the playoffs (and to beat a playoff team other than just the Cincinnati Bengals). I have never been too certain if Matt Schaub can be the quarterback that can lead the team on a long playoff run. The window is slowly closing on star receiver Andre Johnson. Surprisingly, it took the team up til this year to draft a receiver to compliment Johnson, but it might be too late. The running game is still perhaps the best in the NFL, so there is no problem there. The defense will again be led by JJ Watt, who looks to continue on his unbelievable 2012 season. There are question marks to the rest of the defense, starting with the linebacking corps. Brian Cushing is very solid, if he stays on the field. The Texans need to find others to stand out along with Watt and Cushing to take the next step for this franchise.
2. Indianapolis Colts: 8-8
Last season's Colts team was perhaps the best Cinderella story the in the last few years. Rookie quarterback replacing a first ballot hall of famer with a young team around him, playing hard for their head coach who underwent a life changing chemotherapy to battle leukemia. Now how does Chuck Pagano, Andrew Luck and company follow that up? There should be some doubt as to the Colts making the postseason this year because the motivation the team played with last season to continue this season. Andrew Luck led the league in turnovers last year but the team still managed to win 11 games. Can't expect that total if the turnovers continue. The defense is still a work in progress as the "in with the new, out with the old" continues as former playmakers like Dwight Freeney departs and is replaced by others such as first round pick Bjoern Werner. A lot went right last year in Indianapolis, but a repeat of that will be tough.
3. Tennessee Titans: 8-8
I am not getting a good read on the Titans as a team. Last year I picked them to make the postseason, but they obviously disappointed. There are no more excuses for Chris Johnson to get going with the running game. The Titans spent the offseason building the offensive line on the interior, so Johnson needs to return to an elite level as a runner. Another Titan in need of improvement is quarterback Jake Locker. The former eighth overall pick is entering his third season in the league and has only earned four wins as a starter. Tennessee needs Locker to become more fluid and consistent to find any success. The defense has good potential, but it hasn't come together yet. The defense gave up 30 points or more eight times. Obviously a pretty unacceptable number. No way the Titans will win many games unless the defense stops the opponent from scoring that many times.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars: 2-14
It has been a long couple of years for Jaguars fans. Unfortunately, this year won't change any emotions for Jaguars fans. When the starting quarterback battle is between Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne, that is the first indicator of what is to come. The team had a very nice draft, getting good players such as tackle Luke Joeckel, safety Jonathan Cyprien and "offensive weapon" Denard Robinson. The rebuilding process gets a nice start, but that is all it is, a start. There is really nothing more to say about this team.
AFC West:
1. Denver Broncos: 13-3
By far the best team in the AFC. Should be the favorite to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. Peyton Manning showed little to no signs of rust or age as he added onto his hall of fame career. Pretty weird how Demariyus Thomas and Eric Decker's receiving numbers went up when Manning took over at quarterback over Tim Tebow, isn't it? The defense takes a hit with the potential loss of Von Miller the first four games, but Peyton Manning never had a great defense in Indianapolis and won games. The Broncos have a well-oiled machine on offense and should finish top five on offense again and have plenty of talent on defense that Denver fans will have fun again this season.
2. Kansas City Chiefs: 9-7*
Not very often does the team that selects first overall makes the playoffs the very next year, but the Chiefs has too much talent to be 2-14. 2012 was an example of how important quarterback play is in the NFL. The Chiefs only had eight touchdown passes. Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne both had at least nine touchdown passes for the Jaguars, who also finished 2-14. Alex Smith isn't exactly going to cut opposing defenses up, but is much more competent as a quarterback and won't make throws that can lose games. But with a lack of explosive plays, the Chiefs may be held back again by the quarterback position. But the talent in the running game and on defense, along with bringing in a good coaching staff, will put this team in the playoffs.
3. San Diego Chargers: 7-9
A new regime enters in San Diego as there are finally replacements at general manager and head coach. San Diego had perhaps the best draft, able to snag three potential all-pros with their first three selections in tackle DJ Fluker, linebacker Manti Teo and receiver Keenan Allen. But even with those additions, there are still big holes among those position groups. Quarterback Phillip Rivers has little time to throw behind a porous line and has little options to throw to. This is an evaluation year for Rivers as the starting quarterback, which is pretty unfair given the circumstances. It will be a tough year in San Diego, but the Chargers are moving in the right direction.
4. Oakland Raiders: 1-15
Finally, we get to the Raiders. The Raiders have been among the worst teams in the NFL for over a decade, and it is about to get worse for fans out by the bay. It is hard for myself to pick a team to only win one lone game, but looking at the roster, there is no way I can predict any more than that. Starting with the quarterback, it is between Matt Flynn and Terrelle Pryor. I don't see many defensive coordinators cringing in fear over them. If Darren McFadden can stay healthy, he very well might be the best running back in the league, but that is a big if. I was about to say the offensive line is a bright spot for this team, but in the middle of me writing this, left tackle Jared Veldheer is out for a substantial amount of time, so there is even question marks there. There is really nothing more I can say about this team, because most of the players won't be making much of an impact anyways.
*denotes wildcard team
Playoff seedings:
1. Denver Broncos
2. Cincinnati Bengals
3. Houston Texans
4. New England Patriots
5. Baltimore Ravens
6. Kansas City Chiefs
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
NFL Predictions 2013: NFC
It's getting closer and closer to another football season. Isn't that a grand feeling? With training camp finally arriving, now might be a good time to get another full slate of predictions in. Just like last year, I will split this into three parts; covering both conferences and the playoffs. Leading off in the forecast is the NFC.
NFC East:
1. New York Giants- 10-6
The Giants return to the playoffs two years removed from winning their fourth Super Bowl. The East is perhaps the weakest division in an otherwise powerful conference. Eli Manning is the key to this offense, as should any quarterback be, but him especially to follow up and prove he is consistent. The running game will be solid with a real feature back in David Wilson starting, and the receivers will be solid again this year if they can stay healthy. Defense may hold a problem, but if the front four stay healthy and consistent, they will be fine.
2. Dallas Cowboys- 7-9
Seven victories may be too many for a team in transition on defense, but it is the ceiling. Switching from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense is very difficult to have succeed in the first season of installment, regardless of how good the defensive coordinator is. Tony Romo is still an underrated quarterback and will carry this offense and will probably be the reason the Cowboys will make it this far.
3. Washington Redskins- 7-9
This season for the Redskins will depend solely on the health of Robert Griffin III. He as of right now has been cleared to play, but he was banged up pretty bad last season, and that could affect things. Running game remains solid because Mike Shanahan will always have his team run successfully, and the defense is still solid. However, Griffin's health is still the key. With him, this team perhaps makes another run at the playoffs. If not, it will be a struggle for Washington to reach a .500 record.
4. Philadelphia Eagles- 4-12
Oh boy is it going to be another long year in Philadelphia. After a decade and a half of playing under Andy Reid, the Eagles have switched to a new regime under former Oregon coach Chip Kelly. Micheal Vick is getting older and can't seem to stay healthy, and is also not the certain starting quarterback to begin with. Jeremy Maclin's ACL tear puts a lot more pressure on Desean Jackson on proving he is among the best receivers. Despite the addition of left tackle Lane Johnson, the offensive line is still a weak point. And so is the defense, which is now in the process of switching to a 3-4. Mychal Kendricks and Demeco Ryans are the only realy bright spots of the defense, but the roster is overall unappealing on this side of the ball.
NFC North:
1. Green Bay Packers- 12-4
Regardless of what people think of the defense, this division is the Packers' until another team rises up and takes it from them. It also helps when the best quarterback in the league is on this team. Aaron Rodgers will easily give this team double digits in the victory column every season. The focus for Green Bay should be giving Rodgers some protection as he is the most sacked quarterback in the league the last couple of years. Defensively, the keys will remain to be if a pass rusher opposite Clay Matthews emerges and the linebackers can turn out to be very good as a unit. Despite the problems on defense and the offensive line, you can pencil the Packers to be contending every year as long as they have Mike McCarty as head coach and Aaron Rodgers at quarterback.
2. Detroit Lions- 10-6
Last season was a struggle in Detroit, falling apart from a 10-6 season to a dismal 4-12 season that ended on an eight game losing streak. Things are looking up for the team however after a promising offseason. The running game and defense should see some nice improvements. The key is quarterback Matthew Stafford to perform better than last year. Stafford's poor play was a key problem last season and for the Lions to find success, he has to perform up to his capabilities. The Lions are one of two teams that I predict from the NFC to finish with ten wins but miss the playoffs, mostly because this conference is loaded with good teams.
3. Minnesota Vikings- 9-7
Minnesota follows up a surprising 2012 playoff campaign with a respectable 9-7 record. Adrian Peterson set the bar extremely high after his MVP season where he came nine yards short of Eric Dickerson's rushing record. How does he follow up that season? Well, for his sake and the sake of the team, it would be finding more of a balanced offense where Peterson isn't carrying the team. Quarterback Christian Ponder must take control and be an NFL quarterback rather than just a game manager. Newly acquired receivers Greg Jennings and rookie Cordarelle Patterson should help him in that regards, but it is up to Ponder to prove he has arm strength to be successful in the passing game. The defense is very solid with stars like defensive end Jared Allen and linebacker Chad Greenway being the key cogs.
4. Chicago Bears- 6-10
Another team in the middle of transition. After nearly a decade under Lovie Smith, the Bears
have brought in former CFL coach Marc Trestman. Jay Cutler has the talent to be an NFL quarterback, but in seven NFL seasons, he has yet to prove he can lead a group of men. Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery do make a respectable receiving corps despite their off-field issues. The offensive line is still not great despite making moves to bring in Jermon Bushrod for left tackle and drafting Kyle Long to play guard. The defense is now old and has to run under a new scheme. There is talent in Chicago, but a transition year and lack of leadership on offense will hurt the team for now.
NFC South:
1. Atlanta Falcons- 12-4
The Falcons have been dubbed the most complete team in the NFC. I do have to disagree, but I won't deny that Atlanta is among the top of the conference. Matt Ryan cashed in this offseason with a big contract, that he very well earned. Julio Jones has emerged as a top five wide receiver, and will show that yet again this season. The Falcons have new motivation to win for tight end Tony Gonzalez, whom will probably retire at seasons end. The defense is solid along the front seven, but nothing that would stand out as great. Overall, the pressure just keeps mounting in Atlanta to produce a championship, as this season will be dubbed a Super Bowl or bust.
2. New Orleans Saints- 11-5*
The return of head coach Sean Payton from a year long suspension boasts the question if the Saints can return to normalcy and dominate the league. Payton and quarterback Drew Brees do make the best quarterback-coach combinations in the NFL, so the Saints should come back and possibly with a vengeance. The key will be the defense under new coordinator Rob Ryan, and yes another team switching schemes to a 3-4. However, the Saints weren't a good defense a couple years ago when they were among the league's best teams. So all this defense has to is get a stop here and there and the offense will protect them.
3. Carolina Panthers-8-8
I really wanted to give the Panthers a winning season. They made very good moves the last two years to make this defense pretty good. However, Cam Newton's maturity will hurt. Great talent, but his attitude has little leadership qualities. The season, and head coach Ron Riveria's job depends on if Newton can grow up and become a quarterback rather than an athlete. But other than that, the team is starting to become pretty good. The front seven has seen some drastic improvments and should keep the Panthers close in many games. The strength of the division and the NFC will hurt Carolina the most in the hunt for the playoffs.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- 7-9
Tampa Bay is one of the teams that I am not buying the hype surrounding them. The team may have drastically improved the secondary with additions of cornerback Darelle Revis via trade, safety Dashon Goldson via free agency, and cornerback Johnthan Banks via the draft. However, they ignored a weak pass rush and that is what will hurt the Bucs severely. The offense is either really good, or just mediocre. No denying how good running back Doug Martin is, but how good his supporting cast will be the hinges of success for the Buccaneers in 2013.
NFC West:
1. Seattle Seahawks- 13-3
The Seahawks have put together a fantastic team under head coach Pete Carroll. Russell Wilson was by far the steal of last year's draft and should get even better this year. The biggest addition to the team, WR Percy Harvin, will perhaps miss the entire 2013 season due to hip issues. That doesnt change the fact the Seahawks are one of the best teams in the league. The running game is perhaps the best with Marshawn Lynch leading the way. The defense will get a boost in terms of pass rush by adding defensive ends Cliff Avril and Micheal Bennett. With those additions, this defense is going to be lights out and needs to be with quarterbacks like Colin Kaepernick and Aaron Rodgers in the NFC. Seattle fans are going to have a team to enjoy this year.
2. San Francisco 49ers- 11-5*
Coming off an appearance in the Super Bowl in which the franchise lost for the first time in the big game, the 49ers look to repeat the success the team has had the last two years. Colin Kaepernick goes into training camp as the starter this year after being Alex Smith's backup his first two seasons. During the playoff run, Kaepernick proved that he can be the second coming of Steve Young both throwing and running the football. Only problem is is now he has to go through an entire season as the starter as opposed to only half a season. Going through an entire season grind is a different animal to the human body and will be tough to for Kaepernick to have success for 16 games rather than just seven games. The defense is still very solid, so there is not much to discuss there.
3. St. Louis Rams- 10-6
The Rams are my darkhorse pick this year to be a very good team that could surprise the NFL. Sam Bradford finally has a few weapons around him in Tavon Austin and Stedman Bailey, both drafted out of West Virginia. Both receivers bring great speed and athleticism that the Rams have lacked since they drafted Bradford. The defense is perhaps the most underrated unit in the league. Chris Long is just as good, if not better, than his father, hall-of-famer Howie. Long and opposite end Robert Quinn make for a fearsome pass rush. First round pick Alec Ogletree will make a great addition next to stalwart James Laurenitis and make the corps among the best. If the Rams can stay consistent, sky's the limit for this team. Unfortunately, as of right now, the Rams are the other 10-6 team to miss the playoffs.
4. Arizona Cardinals- 3-13
Fans in Arizona has had plenty of tough seasons. 2013 won't be any different. Still uncertainty at quarterback, as they are depending on a washed-out Carson Palmer and career backup Drew Stanton. Larry Fitzgerald is still one of the best receivers, and only time will tell if 2013 will be a great campaign for him. The offensive line is still one of the weakest in the NFL, despite the selection of North Carolina guard. Perhaps the dumbest move of the offseason was the Cardinals not retaining defensive coordinator Ray Horton. Horton, who left to be Cleveland's defensive coordinator, was mentored by Dick Lebeau and put together a good unit in Arizona. His loss will be felt by the Cardinals defense for certain.
*denotes wildcard team
Playoff seedings:
1. Seattle Seahawks
2. Atlanta Falcons
3. Green Bay Packers
4. New York Giants
5. San Francisco 49ers
6. New Orleans Saints
NFC East:
1. New York Giants- 10-6
The Giants return to the playoffs two years removed from winning their fourth Super Bowl. The East is perhaps the weakest division in an otherwise powerful conference. Eli Manning is the key to this offense, as should any quarterback be, but him especially to follow up and prove he is consistent. The running game will be solid with a real feature back in David Wilson starting, and the receivers will be solid again this year if they can stay healthy. Defense may hold a problem, but if the front four stay healthy and consistent, they will be fine.
2. Dallas Cowboys- 7-9
Seven victories may be too many for a team in transition on defense, but it is the ceiling. Switching from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense is very difficult to have succeed in the first season of installment, regardless of how good the defensive coordinator is. Tony Romo is still an underrated quarterback and will carry this offense and will probably be the reason the Cowboys will make it this far.
3. Washington Redskins- 7-9
This season for the Redskins will depend solely on the health of Robert Griffin III. He as of right now has been cleared to play, but he was banged up pretty bad last season, and that could affect things. Running game remains solid because Mike Shanahan will always have his team run successfully, and the defense is still solid. However, Griffin's health is still the key. With him, this team perhaps makes another run at the playoffs. If not, it will be a struggle for Washington to reach a .500 record.
4. Philadelphia Eagles- 4-12
Oh boy is it going to be another long year in Philadelphia. After a decade and a half of playing under Andy Reid, the Eagles have switched to a new regime under former Oregon coach Chip Kelly. Micheal Vick is getting older and can't seem to stay healthy, and is also not the certain starting quarterback to begin with. Jeremy Maclin's ACL tear puts a lot more pressure on Desean Jackson on proving he is among the best receivers. Despite the addition of left tackle Lane Johnson, the offensive line is still a weak point. And so is the defense, which is now in the process of switching to a 3-4. Mychal Kendricks and Demeco Ryans are the only realy bright spots of the defense, but the roster is overall unappealing on this side of the ball.
NFC North:
1. Green Bay Packers- 12-4
Regardless of what people think of the defense, this division is the Packers' until another team rises up and takes it from them. It also helps when the best quarterback in the league is on this team. Aaron Rodgers will easily give this team double digits in the victory column every season. The focus for Green Bay should be giving Rodgers some protection as he is the most sacked quarterback in the league the last couple of years. Defensively, the keys will remain to be if a pass rusher opposite Clay Matthews emerges and the linebackers can turn out to be very good as a unit. Despite the problems on defense and the offensive line, you can pencil the Packers to be contending every year as long as they have Mike McCarty as head coach and Aaron Rodgers at quarterback.
2. Detroit Lions- 10-6
Last season was a struggle in Detroit, falling apart from a 10-6 season to a dismal 4-12 season that ended on an eight game losing streak. Things are looking up for the team however after a promising offseason. The running game and defense should see some nice improvements. The key is quarterback Matthew Stafford to perform better than last year. Stafford's poor play was a key problem last season and for the Lions to find success, he has to perform up to his capabilities. The Lions are one of two teams that I predict from the NFC to finish with ten wins but miss the playoffs, mostly because this conference is loaded with good teams.
3. Minnesota Vikings- 9-7
Minnesota follows up a surprising 2012 playoff campaign with a respectable 9-7 record. Adrian Peterson set the bar extremely high after his MVP season where he came nine yards short of Eric Dickerson's rushing record. How does he follow up that season? Well, for his sake and the sake of the team, it would be finding more of a balanced offense where Peterson isn't carrying the team. Quarterback Christian Ponder must take control and be an NFL quarterback rather than just a game manager. Newly acquired receivers Greg Jennings and rookie Cordarelle Patterson should help him in that regards, but it is up to Ponder to prove he has arm strength to be successful in the passing game. The defense is very solid with stars like defensive end Jared Allen and linebacker Chad Greenway being the key cogs.
4. Chicago Bears- 6-10
Another team in the middle of transition. After nearly a decade under Lovie Smith, the Bears
have brought in former CFL coach Marc Trestman. Jay Cutler has the talent to be an NFL quarterback, but in seven NFL seasons, he has yet to prove he can lead a group of men. Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery do make a respectable receiving corps despite their off-field issues. The offensive line is still not great despite making moves to bring in Jermon Bushrod for left tackle and drafting Kyle Long to play guard. The defense is now old and has to run under a new scheme. There is talent in Chicago, but a transition year and lack of leadership on offense will hurt the team for now.
NFC South:
1. Atlanta Falcons- 12-4
The Falcons have been dubbed the most complete team in the NFC. I do have to disagree, but I won't deny that Atlanta is among the top of the conference. Matt Ryan cashed in this offseason with a big contract, that he very well earned. Julio Jones has emerged as a top five wide receiver, and will show that yet again this season. The Falcons have new motivation to win for tight end Tony Gonzalez, whom will probably retire at seasons end. The defense is solid along the front seven, but nothing that would stand out as great. Overall, the pressure just keeps mounting in Atlanta to produce a championship, as this season will be dubbed a Super Bowl or bust.
2. New Orleans Saints- 11-5*
The return of head coach Sean Payton from a year long suspension boasts the question if the Saints can return to normalcy and dominate the league. Payton and quarterback Drew Brees do make the best quarterback-coach combinations in the NFL, so the Saints should come back and possibly with a vengeance. The key will be the defense under new coordinator Rob Ryan, and yes another team switching schemes to a 3-4. However, the Saints weren't a good defense a couple years ago when they were among the league's best teams. So all this defense has to is get a stop here and there and the offense will protect them.
3. Carolina Panthers-8-8
I really wanted to give the Panthers a winning season. They made very good moves the last two years to make this defense pretty good. However, Cam Newton's maturity will hurt. Great talent, but his attitude has little leadership qualities. The season, and head coach Ron Riveria's job depends on if Newton can grow up and become a quarterback rather than an athlete. But other than that, the team is starting to become pretty good. The front seven has seen some drastic improvments and should keep the Panthers close in many games. The strength of the division and the NFC will hurt Carolina the most in the hunt for the playoffs.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- 7-9
Tampa Bay is one of the teams that I am not buying the hype surrounding them. The team may have drastically improved the secondary with additions of cornerback Darelle Revis via trade, safety Dashon Goldson via free agency, and cornerback Johnthan Banks via the draft. However, they ignored a weak pass rush and that is what will hurt the Bucs severely. The offense is either really good, or just mediocre. No denying how good running back Doug Martin is, but how good his supporting cast will be the hinges of success for the Buccaneers in 2013.
NFC West:
1. Seattle Seahawks- 13-3
The Seahawks have put together a fantastic team under head coach Pete Carroll. Russell Wilson was by far the steal of last year's draft and should get even better this year. The biggest addition to the team, WR Percy Harvin, will perhaps miss the entire 2013 season due to hip issues. That doesnt change the fact the Seahawks are one of the best teams in the league. The running game is perhaps the best with Marshawn Lynch leading the way. The defense will get a boost in terms of pass rush by adding defensive ends Cliff Avril and Micheal Bennett. With those additions, this defense is going to be lights out and needs to be with quarterbacks like Colin Kaepernick and Aaron Rodgers in the NFC. Seattle fans are going to have a team to enjoy this year.
2. San Francisco 49ers- 11-5*
Coming off an appearance in the Super Bowl in which the franchise lost for the first time in the big game, the 49ers look to repeat the success the team has had the last two years. Colin Kaepernick goes into training camp as the starter this year after being Alex Smith's backup his first two seasons. During the playoff run, Kaepernick proved that he can be the second coming of Steve Young both throwing and running the football. Only problem is is now he has to go through an entire season as the starter as opposed to only half a season. Going through an entire season grind is a different animal to the human body and will be tough to for Kaepernick to have success for 16 games rather than just seven games. The defense is still very solid, so there is not much to discuss there.
3. St. Louis Rams- 10-6
The Rams are my darkhorse pick this year to be a very good team that could surprise the NFL. Sam Bradford finally has a few weapons around him in Tavon Austin and Stedman Bailey, both drafted out of West Virginia. Both receivers bring great speed and athleticism that the Rams have lacked since they drafted Bradford. The defense is perhaps the most underrated unit in the league. Chris Long is just as good, if not better, than his father, hall-of-famer Howie. Long and opposite end Robert Quinn make for a fearsome pass rush. First round pick Alec Ogletree will make a great addition next to stalwart James Laurenitis and make the corps among the best. If the Rams can stay consistent, sky's the limit for this team. Unfortunately, as of right now, the Rams are the other 10-6 team to miss the playoffs.
4. Arizona Cardinals- 3-13
Fans in Arizona has had plenty of tough seasons. 2013 won't be any different. Still uncertainty at quarterback, as they are depending on a washed-out Carson Palmer and career backup Drew Stanton. Larry Fitzgerald is still one of the best receivers, and only time will tell if 2013 will be a great campaign for him. The offensive line is still one of the weakest in the NFL, despite the selection of North Carolina guard. Perhaps the dumbest move of the offseason was the Cardinals not retaining defensive coordinator Ray Horton. Horton, who left to be Cleveland's defensive coordinator, was mentored by Dick Lebeau and put together a good unit in Arizona. His loss will be felt by the Cardinals defense for certain.
*denotes wildcard team
Playoff seedings:
1. Seattle Seahawks
2. Atlanta Falcons
3. Green Bay Packers
4. New York Giants
5. San Francisco 49ers
6. New Orleans Saints
Monday, June 17, 2013
Top 10 Right Now: Wide Receivers
Not as many diva wide receivers as their use to be, but the receivers have gotten better than they use to be as well. So the only question is, who tops the list? Well, we know who tops the list, but which order should they be in?
10. Percy Harvin, Seahawks
9. Wes Welker, Broncos
8. Torrey Smith, Ravens
7. Demaryius Thomas, Broncos
6. Dez Bryant, Cowboys
5.Greg Jennings, Vikings
4. Julio Jones, Falcons
3. AJ Green, Bengals
2. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
1. Calvin Johnson, Lions
10. Percy Harvin, Seahawks
9. Wes Welker, Broncos
8. Torrey Smith, Ravens
7. Demaryius Thomas, Broncos
6. Dez Bryant, Cowboys
5.Greg Jennings, Vikings
4. Julio Jones, Falcons
3. AJ Green, Bengals
2. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
1. Calvin Johnson, Lions
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Top 10 Presidents of the United States
I have decided to revise my list of the top ten presidents that I put together around Presidents' Day. Not many changes were made, just an add and subtract with one spot and reshuffling a little bit on the rankings. Enjoy.
10. William McKinley/Woodrow Wilson
9.Calvin Coolidge
8. James Madison
7. James Monroe
6. Franklin Roosevelt
5. Ronald Reagan
4. George Washington
3. Thomas Jefferson
2. Theodore Roosevelt
1. Abraham Lincoln
Not as difficult to pick the members of this list, as there were the obvious names that had to be on this list, and the fact that there were many useless presidents in office from 1837-1860 and again from 1865-1896.
We start out the countdown with a tie. William McKinley was the president just at the turn of the twentieth century. His term was best known for the Spanish-American War and the annexation of the islands of Hawaii and Guam. The war was more of a cause of yellow journalism and propaganda against Spain, but the public doesn't ask for a declaration of war, the president does. The victory allowed the US to be more seen as a world power that was further brought up from his successor, Teddy Roosevelt. Wilson is part of my little mantra for war presidents getting the benefit as the leaders during conflicts as such. Wilson was president in 1917, the year the United States entered World War I in Europe. Wilson will also get credit for being among the first US presidents to call for a united world, which many of his ideas would evolve into building the United Nations.
Calvin Coolidge led the nation through its greatest economic period in the Roaring Twenties. Not just that, Coolidge repaired the image of the presidency from the previous regime of Warren Harding. Coolidge's presidency proves that being a great speaker doesn't make a great leader, as described by his nickname "Silent Cal."
James Madison was another of many war presidents, leading the nation through the War of 1812, which did help lead us to complete independence, if you want to call it that, from Great Britain and led the country into "The Era of Good Feelings" which gave the nation its first real taste of economic prominence. James Monroe was the fifth President of United States, following Madison, and made the first steps to making the US into a world power with the Monroe Doctrine. The doctrine made the US into a police state to aid the Central American countries that just declared independence, and also prevented from European countries to create any new colonies in the area.
Franklin Roosevelt is considered by many to be the best president. However, many of his policies were unconstitutional and were in the socialist ideals. The Civil Conservation Corps and sending the Japanese to interment camps are among those unconstitutional policies. Though, leading the nation through one of the darkest times in world history with the Great Depression
and World War II does redeem him greatly. However, the significant root of what makes FDR great is that he was what a president should be, a leader. A man the country can look up to in dark times and see his great strength and bravery. Ronald Reagan's
policies also led the nation back into economic growth. Reagan also
gave the steps for the Cold War to end.
George Washington deserves the title "Father of the Country." Washington did an excellent job building the US from the early years. The greatest achievement of his presidency was building the government that followed the idea of the government for the people. Washington set precedents for the presidency that are still followed today. Thomas Jefferson began the first real expansion in America after purchasing the Louisiana Territory from France. Jefferson was the top advocate for the freedoms that the country is built on.
If James Monroe began to make the country a world power, Theodore Roosevelt completed that idea. Ironically, Roosevelt accomplished that feat by adding a corollary to the Monroe Doctrine, making the US to exercise the police action to aid the smaller countries. Roosevelt also built the Panama Canal to help increase trade and helped the navy by making faster routes between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Speaking of the navy, Roosevelt built a stronger standing army to make the United States the power that it is. A big issue occurring in the country at the time was the power of monopolies in corporate business. Businesses like Standard Oil and US Steel were running the economy on their own, and eliminated all competition. Roosevelt took the battle to the business tycoons with his anti-trust suits, taking down monopolies and creating opportunities for competition to build on the free market system. Other policies include reforming the workplace and creating restrictions on child labor. Roosevelt should not have been president, but the assassination of William McKinley forced him into office, but he took the opportunity and ran with it.
Finally, the greatest president in American history: Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln led the nation through a crisis greater than both the Great Depression and
the Cold War combined. Lincoln dealt with the country splitting right in half
with the southern states seceding from the Union. The difference
between war time presidents like Wilson and FDR, Lincoln had to fight a
war against his own country. In doing so, Lincoln was forced to do
something that has rarely happened, he took total control of the
country. Many would describe this as an abuse of power, especially with
Lincoln suspending Habeas Corpus. This action is justified though, as
Lincoln's main objective was to preserve the Union. During these acts,
Lincoln also abolished slavery by signing the Emancipation Proclamation.
Unfortunately, Lincoln was assassinated before history can see what
type of president he would be in a time of peace. However, Lincoln's
ability to lead during crisis and his actions to keep a nation together
makes him the greatest president in American history.
It is not just coincidence that the top four presidents on this list are the presidents on Mt. Rushmore. The fact is is that those four men earned the image of greatness, as is the other men on this list. All ten of these men shaped one of the greatest nations in the world.
10. William McKinley/Woodrow Wilson
9.Calvin Coolidge
8. James Madison
7. James Monroe
6. Franklin Roosevelt
5. Ronald Reagan
4. George Washington
3. Thomas Jefferson
2. Theodore Roosevelt
1. Abraham Lincoln
Not as difficult to pick the members of this list, as there were the obvious names that had to be on this list, and the fact that there were many useless presidents in office from 1837-1860 and again from 1865-1896.
We start out the countdown with a tie. William McKinley was the president just at the turn of the twentieth century. His term was best known for the Spanish-American War and the annexation of the islands of Hawaii and Guam. The war was more of a cause of yellow journalism and propaganda against Spain, but the public doesn't ask for a declaration of war, the president does. The victory allowed the US to be more seen as a world power that was further brought up from his successor, Teddy Roosevelt. Wilson is part of my little mantra for war presidents getting the benefit as the leaders during conflicts as such. Wilson was president in 1917, the year the United States entered World War I in Europe. Wilson will also get credit for being among the first US presidents to call for a united world, which many of his ideas would evolve into building the United Nations.
Calvin Coolidge led the nation through its greatest economic period in the Roaring Twenties. Not just that, Coolidge repaired the image of the presidency from the previous regime of Warren Harding. Coolidge's presidency proves that being a great speaker doesn't make a great leader, as described by his nickname "Silent Cal."
James Madison was another of many war presidents, leading the nation through the War of 1812, which did help lead us to complete independence, if you want to call it that, from Great Britain and led the country into "The Era of Good Feelings" which gave the nation its first real taste of economic prominence. James Monroe was the fifth President of United States, following Madison, and made the first steps to making the US into a world power with the Monroe Doctrine. The doctrine made the US into a police state to aid the Central American countries that just declared independence, and also prevented from European countries to create any new colonies in the area.
Franklin Roosevelt is considered by many to be the best president. However, many of his policies were unconstitutional and were in the socialist ideals. The Civil Conservation Corps and sending the Japanese to interment camps are among those unconstitutional policies. Though, leading the nation through one of the darkest times in world history with the Great Depression
and World War II does redeem him greatly. However, the significant root of what makes FDR great is that he was what a president should be, a leader. A man the country can look up to in dark times and see his great strength and bravery. Ronald Reagan's
policies also led the nation back into economic growth. Reagan also
gave the steps for the Cold War to end.George Washington deserves the title "Father of the Country." Washington did an excellent job building the US from the early years. The greatest achievement of his presidency was building the government that followed the idea of the government for the people. Washington set precedents for the presidency that are still followed today. Thomas Jefferson began the first real expansion in America after purchasing the Louisiana Territory from France. Jefferson was the top advocate for the freedoms that the country is built on.
If James Monroe began to make the country a world power, Theodore Roosevelt completed that idea. Ironically, Roosevelt accomplished that feat by adding a corollary to the Monroe Doctrine, making the US to exercise the police action to aid the smaller countries. Roosevelt also built the Panama Canal to help increase trade and helped the navy by making faster routes between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Speaking of the navy, Roosevelt built a stronger standing army to make the United States the power that it is. A big issue occurring in the country at the time was the power of monopolies in corporate business. Businesses like Standard Oil and US Steel were running the economy on their own, and eliminated all competition. Roosevelt took the battle to the business tycoons with his anti-trust suits, taking down monopolies and creating opportunities for competition to build on the free market system. Other policies include reforming the workplace and creating restrictions on child labor. Roosevelt should not have been president, but the assassination of William McKinley forced him into office, but he took the opportunity and ran with it.
Finally, the greatest president in American history: Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln led the nation through a crisis greater than both the Great Depression
and
the Cold War combined. Lincoln dealt with the country splitting right in half
with the southern states seceding from the Union. The difference
between war time presidents like Wilson and FDR, Lincoln had to fight a
war against his own country. In doing so, Lincoln was forced to do
something that has rarely happened, he took total control of the
country. Many would describe this as an abuse of power, especially with
Lincoln suspending Habeas Corpus. This action is justified though, as
Lincoln's main objective was to preserve the Union. During these acts,
Lincoln also abolished slavery by signing the Emancipation Proclamation.
Unfortunately, Lincoln was assassinated before history can see what
type of president he would be in a time of peace. However, Lincoln's
ability to lead during crisis and his actions to keep a nation together
makes him the greatest president in American history.It is not just coincidence that the top four presidents on this list are the presidents on Mt. Rushmore. The fact is is that those four men earned the image of greatness, as is the other men on this list. All ten of these men shaped one of the greatest nations in the world.
Monday, June 10, 2013
Top 10 Right Now: Running Backs
With the quarterbacks out of the way, the next will be the running backs.
10. Darren McFadden, Raiders
9. Marshawn Lynch, Seahawks
8. Jamaal Charles, Chiefs
7. Chris Johnson, Titans
6. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars
5. Matt Forte, Bears
4. Arian Foster, Texans
3. Ray Rice, Ravens
2. Lesean McCoy, Eagles
1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings
If Darren McFadden and Jamaal Charles can stay healthy, they would easily be higher on this list. Same goes for not playing up to par, looking at you Chris Johnson.
10. Darren McFadden, Raiders
9. Marshawn Lynch, Seahawks
8. Jamaal Charles, Chiefs
7. Chris Johnson, Titans
6. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars
5. Matt Forte, Bears
4. Arian Foster, Texans
3. Ray Rice, Ravens
2. Lesean McCoy, Eagles
1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings
If Darren McFadden and Jamaal Charles can stay healthy, they would easily be higher on this list. Same goes for not playing up to par, looking at you Chris Johnson.
Top 10 Right Now: Quarterbacks
Now that I have listed the perfect roster for three of the big four sports, I will turn my attention back to the NFL. Quite simply, this will be just a list of the top ten current players at each position on a football field. I will stray from explaining my picks for this series because explaining these over and over again tends to get a little tiring. So without further adieu, my top ten quarterbacks currently in the NFL:
10. Jay Cutler, Bears
9. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers
8. Matt Ryan, Falcons
7. Russell Wilson, Seahawks
6. Robert Griffin, Redskins
5. Eli Manning, Giants
4. Peyton Manning, Broncos
3. Joe Flacco, Ravens
2. Drew Brees, Saints
1. Aaron Rodgers, Packers
10. Jay Cutler, Bears
9. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers
8. Matt Ryan, Falcons
7. Russell Wilson, Seahawks
6. Robert Griffin, Redskins
5. Eli Manning, Giants
4. Peyton Manning, Broncos
3. Joe Flacco, Ravens
2. Drew Brees, Saints
1. Aaron Rodgers, Packers
The Perfect Team: NHL
Now that I have listed the rosters for the two sports that I actually pay close attention to for their rosters for the perfect teams. So with the NFL and MLB rosters out of the way, I allowed Andrew Welch, one of my many twitter buddies, create a roster for the NHL's perfect team.
So without further adieu, here is word for word his roster and arguments for these players that he emailed me:
So without further adieu, here is word for word his roster and arguments for these players that he emailed me:
NHL Roster:
by Andrew Welch
When I saw Thomas saying that he was looking for someone to
make a dream NHL team, I jumped at the bit. I love trying to make dream teams
in both the NHL and MLB as it’s always entertaining. Unlike the MLB though, NHL
dream teams are going to have to contain one thing unlike the other, chemistry.
Chemistry plays an integral part of any team. Chemistry allows the players to
know where their linemates are without having to look around the ice.
To make
the perfect dream team, you look for two more important factors, playmaking and
scoring. You want the passers and stickhandlers coupled with the best snipers
in the game who aren’t selfish, *cough* *cough* Ovechkin. So without further adieu, your perfect dream
team.
LW James Neal C Sidney Crosby RW Evgeni Malkin
Not much of a surprise with this
line, Neal has shown himself to be a premier scorer the last two years playing
alongside Malkin. Sidney is arguably the best player in the NHL and Malkin is
in the same conversation. Malkin does have experience playing the right wing
alongside Crosby and that makes this the top line for the dream team.
LW Zach Parise C Steven Stamkos RW Martin St. Louis
It’s a
bit difficult to find the perfect match for Stamkos and St. Louis because you
want to find a line that’s likely to be used in Sochi for the 2014 Winter
Olympics. Although Parise is not Canadian, it shouldn’t be a hindrance to this
line. Parise was the most coveted Unrestricted Free Agent last year and is one
of the better scorers in the NHL. Stamkos and St.Louis are the example of
perfect chemistry. They always play on the same line and each player knows
where the other is at all times. St. Louis is one of the best playmakers in the
NHL as he led the league in points and assists, 60 and 43 respectively. This is
St. Louis’s second Art Ross trophy in his career as the highest scorer in the
NHL. Steven Stamkos is the most feared goal scorer too. He’s already won two
Rocket Richard trophies as the player with the most goals in the NHL and he
almost won a third this year. He’s got his own patented shot, called the
Stamkos shot, which is a one timer from the left circle, which he releases on
the Power Play. He also isn’t afraid to go into the crease and pick up the
garbage goals and tip-ins, he’s exactly what you’d wish for when looking for
the perfect scorer.
LW Daniel Sedin C Henrik Sedin RW Henrik Zetterberg
Your all Sweden line. Henrik and
Daniel are twin brothers playing for the Vancouver Canucks. These two are some
of the most fun to watch in the NHL as they literally know where each other is
all the time. It’s like some sort of telepathy! SERIOUSLY, you’ll never see
more no look tape to tape passes end up in the back of the twine than when
you’re watching these two play. It’s just mesmerizing and absolutely fantastic.
Henrik Zetterberg is their perfect compadre. He does it all, he scores, he
passes, he leads, he dekes. He’s the perfect recipient for the passes from
Henrik and Daniel while being the perfect setup guy for either two. This line
is seriously the one you’ll never want to ever see coming at you on a three on
one or three on two.
LW Pavel Datysuk C Ryan Getzlaf RW Corey Perry
It’s hard to argue against this
line, most people will fight you about whether Pavel Datysuk is the best player
in the league or not but he’s obviously the best puck handler. The things he
does with puck should be illegal and get you put in jail. He’s also one of the
best passes as he always goes tape to tape and puts them through and over
players. Getzlaf and Perry are two very good tandems too. Getzlaf is a bigger,
tougher, and more physical forward but he has a certain finesse in his game
when it comes to passing. Perry is still regarded as one of the top goal
scorers in the league as he also has a Richard Trophy to his name.
Defense:
Key to defense isn’t so much chemistry as it is the ability to recognize the
plays from forwards and their tendencies along with having a good sense of
offensive attack
LD:
Erik Karlsson RD Alex
Pietrangelo
Two of the best defenseman on the
face of the Earth and the best offensive defenseman period. Both have the
ability to be forwards if they wanted but they play defense at such a high
level it’s hard to ignore. They both feature active sticks in their own zone
and are able to knock away pucks with ease.
LD
Duncan Keith RD Brent
Seabrook
Teammates and usual partners on the
Blackhawks blueline, Keith and Seabrook are one of the best pairings in the
game. They can both score while playing fantastic defense and their awareness
is close to unparalled as a tandem.
LD
Victor Hedman RD Zdeno Chara
This past season saw Victor Hedman
vault himself into the top ten of defenseman in the league. His ability to join forwards on the rush made
a noticeable difference in the Tampa attack as Hedman scored 3 goals on the rush. He was head and shoulders
above any defenseman in Tampa, and without him, Tampa’s putrid defense would’ve
been among the worst in the league. Zdeno Chara is the tallest player in the
NHL, standing 6’10, his stick is close to being as big as Marty St. Louis and
it likely reaches blue line to blue line. He also contains the fastest shot in
the league and knows how to use it. Hard to argue leaving him off of a perfect
dream team.
Scratches: Jonathon Toews, Patrick
Kane, PK Subban.
Goalies
Starter:
Henrik Lundqvist
Backup:
Pekka Rinne
Don’t get me started on goalies,
it’s too hard to pick who’s better than who with some of the top goalies in the
league. Henrik and Pekka are recognized as being two of the best in the league
at stopping the puck but there many others worthy of being on this team.
Saturday, May 25, 2013
The Perfect Team: MLB
It is now time to turn on the video game console. Now that the NFL roster has been selected, we turn to which players in Major League Baseball would be part of the perfect team. Also to note, I will put mostly starting pitchers in the bullpen.
Starting lineup:
1. LF Austin Jackson, DET
2. RF Andrew McCutchen, PIT
3. 1B Miguel Cabrera, DET Bench:
4. DH Joey Votto, CIN C Matt Wieters, BAL
5. 2B Robinson Cano, NYY OF Mike Trout, LAA
6. CF Matt Kemp, LAD OF Bryce Harper, WAS
7. 3B David Wright, NYM IF Dustin Pedroia, BOS
8. C Brian McCann, ATL
9. SS Manny Machado, BAL
Starting Rotation: Bullpen:
1. RHP Justin Verlander, DET CL Craig Kimbrel, ATL
2. LHP Clayton Kershaw, LAD SU Jim Johnson, BAL
3. RHP Felix Hernandez, SEA RHP Max Scherzer, DET
4. LHP David Price, TB LHP Chris Sale, CHW
5. RHP Yu Darvish, TEX RHP Matt Cain, SF
LHP Cliff Lee, PHI
RHP Sergio Romo, SF
Starting lineup:
1. LF Austin Jackson, DET
2. RF Andrew McCutchen, PIT
3. 1B Miguel Cabrera, DET Bench:
4. DH Joey Votto, CIN C Matt Wieters, BAL
5. 2B Robinson Cano, NYY OF Mike Trout, LAA
6. CF Matt Kemp, LAD OF Bryce Harper, WAS
7. 3B David Wright, NYM IF Dustin Pedroia, BOS
8. C Brian McCann, ATL
9. SS Manny Machado, BAL
Starting Rotation: Bullpen:
1. RHP Justin Verlander, DET CL Craig Kimbrel, ATL
2. LHP Clayton Kershaw, LAD SU Jim Johnson, BAL
3. RHP Felix Hernandez, SEA RHP Max Scherzer, DET
4. LHP David Price, TB LHP Chris Sale, CHW
5. RHP Yu Darvish, TEX RHP Matt Cain, SF
LHP Cliff Lee, PHI
RHP Sergio Romo, SF
The Perfect Team: NFL
There are many good players in the big four sports. Many will go down in history as one of the greatest athletes. But, let's not look to the past or the future, this series of lists are to make the best team made of players actively playing. In layman's terms, this is merely an all-star team. If the video games were real, and teams actually had chances of gathering all-pro caliber, closing in on hall of fame caliber players of today, these lists would be those rosters.
The first perfect team to be put together will be from the NFL.
Offense:
QB: Aaron Rodgers, GB
RB: Adrian Peterson, MIN
FB: Vonta Leach, BAL
WR: Calvin Johnson, DET Reserves:
WR: Larry Fitzgerald, ARI QB: Drew Brees
TE: Vernon Davis, SF RB: Lesean McCoy, PHI
OT: Joe Thomas, CLE WR: AJ Green, CIN
OT: Ryan Clady, DEN WR: Julio Jones, ATL
OG: Carl Nicks, TB TE Rob Gronkowski, NE
OG: Mike Iupati, SF
OC: Alex Mack, CLE
Defense:
DE: Jared Allen, MIN
DE: Jason Pierre-Paul, NYG
DT: Haloti Ngata, BAL
DT: Ndamukong Suh, DET Reserves:
LB: Von Miller, DEN DE/DT: JJ Watt, HOU
LB: Patrick Willis, SF DE: Chris Long, STL
LB: James Laurinaitis, STL LB: London Fletcher, WAS
CB: Darelle Revis, TB CB: Brandon Flowers, KC
CB: Richard Sherman, SEA
S: Earl Thomas, SEA
S: Donte Whitner, SF
Specialists:
K: Sebastian Janikowski, OAK
P: Shane Lechler, HOU
KR: Devin Hester, CHI
The first perfect team to be put together will be from the NFL.
Offense:
QB: Aaron Rodgers, GB
RB: Adrian Peterson, MIN
FB: Vonta Leach, BAL
WR: Calvin Johnson, DET Reserves:
WR: Larry Fitzgerald, ARI QB: Drew Brees
TE: Vernon Davis, SF RB: Lesean McCoy, PHI
OT: Joe Thomas, CLE WR: AJ Green, CIN
OT: Ryan Clady, DEN WR: Julio Jones, ATL
OG: Carl Nicks, TB TE Rob Gronkowski, NE
OG: Mike Iupati, SF
OC: Alex Mack, CLE
Defense:
DE: Jared Allen, MIN
DE: Jason Pierre-Paul, NYG
DT: Haloti Ngata, BAL
DT: Ndamukong Suh, DET Reserves:
LB: Von Miller, DEN DE/DT: JJ Watt, HOU
LB: Patrick Willis, SF DE: Chris Long, STL
LB: James Laurinaitis, STL LB: London Fletcher, WAS
CB: Darelle Revis, TB CB: Brandon Flowers, KC
CB: Richard Sherman, SEA
S: Earl Thomas, SEA
S: Donte Whitner, SF
Specialists:
K: Sebastian Janikowski, OAK
P: Shane Lechler, HOU
KR: Devin Hester, CHI
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