After one week of exciting play, let’s see where the teams rank up.
1. Green Bay Packers (1-0) – The defending champs picked up right where they left off beating a team which they may see again in the NFC Finals. Aaron Rodgers once again had it rolling.
2. Baltimore Ravens (1-0) – No one had a bigger statement win than the Ravens the first week after beating their division rival Steelers. Their defense was back at it again forcing 4 sacks, 4 fumbles, and 3 interceptions. The Ravens look like they can go deep.
3. New England Patriots (1-0) – Tom Brady stole the night with his 517 passing yards with 4 TDs. This offense looks unstoppable.
4. Philadelphia Eagles (1-0) – After having a rough preseason, the Eagles looked good in their regular season debut, beating up on the Rams. Both Vick and McCoy rushed for 100 yards – scary thought.
5. New York Jets (1-0) – The Jets got the big win they needed on Sunday night, and we were once again reminded not to throw the ball to Revis Island (*cough cough* Tony Romo).
6. Chicago Bears (1-0) – I’ll be the first to admit it; I was surprised by the Bears. They came out with a statement to the league that their NFC Finals birth last year was no fluke. The Bears are legit, and the NFC North is the best division in football.
7. San Diego Chargers (1-0) – The Chargers overall had a pretty disappointing game, but Philip Rivers came to the rescue. Hopefully they can avoid their “slow start” this year so they don’t have to win 7 or 8 in a row to make it to the postseason with no gas left in the tank. Next week’s matchup at New England should be fun to watch.
8. New Orleans Saints (0-1) – The Saints had to play the toughest game this week: in Lambeau against the defending champs, and they were a couple plays away from stealing the night. Darren Sproles has made people forget all about Reggie Bush. Only concern is that Colston is once again injured with a separated shoulder.
9. Houston Texans (1-0) – The most important thing to take from last week’s game against the Colts is that Mario Williams looked good in Wade Phillips’ 3-4 defense, picking up 2 sacks. Although the Texans were missing Arian Foster, Ben Tate and Derrick Ward look like they can certainly fill the void.
10. Detroit Lions (1-0) – Matthew Stafford to Calvin Johnson is one of the deadliest combinations in the league, as long as Stafford stays healthy that is. The Lions came out against the much-talked-about Buccaneers and took care of business.
11. Dallas Cowboys (0-1) – The Cowboys should have won the game against the Jets, a game “which they had no business winning.” Rob Ryan’s defense looked better than expected. Fans in the Big D better hope the Tony Romo 4th quarter comparisons to Lebron James aren’t true.
12. Arizona Cardinals (1-0) – The Cardinals may be flying a bit under the radar, because all the talk coming out of the game was about Cam Newton’s 400+ yard debut. Reminder: the Cardinals won the game. They were able to take that passing onslaught and still pull out a victory. Kolb looked solid in his debut.
13. Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1) – The Steelers couldn’t hold the ball if it had glue on it. Never seen that many turnovers from Big Ben, and quite frankly, he looked rattled. They had a bad first outing, but count on this team to bounce back against the Seahawks next week.
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-1) – It took a long time for Josh Freeman to get started, and it proved to be too long. The Lions shut the Buccaneers down in the first half, limiting them to about 4:00 of possession time in the first half. Blount was also surprisingly a non-factor in the game.
15. Washington Redskins (1-0) – Rex Grossman simply outplayed Eli Manning in this one, and the Skins got a good win that they needed in the division. Tim Hightower also had a decent game in his debut for Washington.
16. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-0) – After the David Gerrard controversy earlier in the week, the Jaguars and Luke McCown got a good win. MJD looked normal again as well. I don’t expect the Jaguars to remain this high in the rankings though in the next coming weeks.
17. Miami Dolphins (0-1) – Chad Henne came out slinging, but it wasn’t enough against the Patriots. New addition Reggie Bush got 11 carries for 38 yards and 9 receptions for 56 yards and a TD. It is a little different look for the Dolphins with only 98 total rushing yards in this game.
18. Buffalo Bills (1-0) – The Bills pulled out the surprise of Week 1 led by Ryan Fitzpatrick and his 4 passing TDs. People are still sleeping on Fred Jackson who ran for 112 yards.
19. Oakland Raiders (1-0) – The Raiders went to mile high and pounded the ball on the ground all night long with Run DMC and Bush, racking up 190 yards total on the ground. The defense gave Kyle Orton more than he could handle, and continued their undefeated division game record from last year.
20. San Francisco 49ers (1-0) – Jim Harbaugh’s campaign with the Niners started well, as he defeated Pete Carroll once again. Ted Ginn’s special teams explosion in the 4th quarter was unbelievable to see.
21. Carolina Panthers (0-1) – Cam Newton did everything but win the game. Newton set the record for the best game by a QB in his rookie debut with 422 passing yards. We also found out Steve Smith still has game. Panthers are definitely looking up.
22. Atlanta Falcons (0-1) – The disaster of a game the Falcons put up in Week 1 made my preseason prediction that the Falcons are pretenders look really good. Chicago completely smashed the Falcons all around. It is time to go back to the drawing board.
23. Minnesota Vikings (0-1) – The Vikings played a good game against the Chargers, but simply were not able to close out. Jarred Allen looked great once again, proving he’s one of the best in the game.
24. New York Giants (0-1) – So much for Eli’s promise of less turnovers this year. The Giants have too many things to work out.
25. St. Louis Rams (0-1) – Injuries to Sam Bradford and Stephen Jackson could prove to be a very bad omen for the Rams season. On a brighter note, Cadillac Williams came in and showed that he is a strong back up to Jackson.
26. Tennessee Titans (0-1) – Where is Chris Johnson? If you find him, let him know he needs to play like one of the best in the league to be paid like the best in the league. I wonder how much Week 1 cost him.
27. Cincinnati Bengals (1-0) – This may be the only game the Bengals win all year, because it came against the one team that’s worst than them this year.
28. Denver Broncos (0-1) – The Broncos offense fell apart. TEBOW! TEBOW! TEBOW!
29. Kansas City Chiefs (0-1) – Did not look like the division winners from last year. This looks like the case of “one step forward, two steps back.” Matt Cassel really needs to be more consistent.
30. Seattle Seahawks (0-1) – No Robert Gallery, no Sidney Rice = a rough day at the office for Tavaris Jackson. Does Harbaugh really have Carroll’s number?
31. Indianapolis Colts (0-1) – Calling Brad Childress for the number of some guy down in Mississippi.
32. Cleveland Browns (0-1) – Colt McCoy had so much hype as a sleeper coming into this season. 19-40 passing attempts made it look more like he fell asleep on the job.
Big Ben is back to lead the Steelers, photo courtesy of blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com
1. Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1), Last Week Ranking: 3
The Steelers look like the team to beat right now. Ben shook off some rust against Cleveland last week, but it was clear he was ready to go.
2. New York Jets (5-1), Last Week Ranking: 1
The Jets enter the bye week atop the league; they need to pick up where they started after this week.
3. New England Patriots (4-1), Last Week Ranking: 6
The Patriots got a big win against the Ravens last week at home in OT that they needed. Their road test comes again this week against San Diego.
4. Baltimore Ravens (4-2), Last Week Ranking: 2
After starting the season with 6 challenging games, the Ravens finally get a nice breather with Buffalo coming into town.
5. New Orleans Saints (4-2), Last Week Ranking: 9
The Saints are lucky the NFC is terrible so far, they can still survive and ride it through to the playoffs.
6. Indianapolis Colts (4-2), Last Week Ranking: 5
The Colts are barely surviving so far, and this bye week is much need to regroup. This is not the same Colts team we are used to.
7. Tennessee Titans (4-2), Last Week Ranking: 8
Tennessee rolled over Jacksonville on Monday night, and they look to keep the ball rolling with Philly coming into town this week.
8. Philadelphia Eagles (4-2), Last Week Ranking: 14
Kevin Kolb heard all the haters and came back throwing for 300+ last week to be one of the top QBs of the week. Hey Andy Reid, who you going to start now?
9. Atlanta Falcons (4-2), Last Week Ranking: 4
The lucky strike may have ended for Atlanta last week when they got a reality check from the Eagles. The Falcons need to keep fighting; they have a great division race going.
10. New York Giants (4-2), Last Week Ranking: 12
The G-men keep fighting and are finally putting things together. The Giants need a big Monday night win in Dallas this week.
11. Houston Texans (4-2), Last Week Ranking: 16
Texans got a much needed win against Kansas City right before their bye week this week.
12. Kansas City Chiefs (3-2), Last Week Ranking: 11
The Chiefs played tough against the Texans but fell short. This week the Chiefs need a win against the Jags.
13. Chicago Bears (4-2), Last Week Ranking: 13
Last week was a disappointing loss to Seattle and it may be the point where the Bears come back down to earth. The Bears have another challenging matchup against the Redskins this week.
14. Washington Redskins (3-3), Last Week Ranking: 10
Redskins played the Colts tough but didn’t get the win to show for it. This week the Redskins really need a win in Chicago.
15. Green Bay Packers (3-3), Last Week Ranking: 7
The injury bug has struck.
16. Minnesota Vikings (2-3), Last Week Ranking: 21
Boy, did the Vikings need that win. All eyes will be on Favre this week as he goes back to Green Bay.
17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2), Last Week Ranking: 15
I am interested to see if the Bucs can recover in Arizona this week after being torn up by the Saints last week. This is a young team that was brought back to earth by the champs.
18. Miami Dolphins (3-2), Last Week Ranking: 18
The Dolphins got the win they needed against Green Bay, but it is going to be hard to compete in this division. The Fish have another game against a struggling team in Cincinnati this week.
19. Arizona Cardinals (3-2), Last Week Ranking: 19
The Cards may need a win for security with the Niners charging now.
20. St. Louis Rams (3-3), Last Week Ranking: 27
Great bounce-back win against San Diego after losing to Detroit the week before.
21. Cincinnati Bengals (2-3), Last Week Ranking: 23
Let’s see how the Bengals come out of the bye week going into Atlanta. This could be a great judgment of what the Bengals are going to do the rest of the season.
22. Seattle Seahawks (3-2), Last Week Ranking: 24
The Seahawks may have themselves a 2-headed beast with Lynch and Forsett.
23. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-3), Last Week Ranking: 17
Garrard suffered from a concussion last week, they will definitely need a big day from him with Kansas City this week.
24. Denver Broncos (2-4), Last Week Ranking: 26
No real reason to move up the Broncos, I wish I could have moved them down somehow.
25. San Diego Chargers (2-4), Last Week Ranking: 20
On the bright side of things, still only one game out of the division.
26. Dallas Cowboys (1-4), Last Week Ranking: 25
The D-town Ugly.
27. San Francisco 49ers (1-5), Last Week Ranking: 30
Finally the Niners got a win.
28. Oakland Raiders (2-4), Last Week Ranking: 22
The Raiders missed a big opportunity by not capitalizing against the Niners.
29. Detroit Lions (1-5), Last Week Ranking: 28
Lions really need this bye week to get things right.
30. Cleveland Browns (1-5), Last Week Ranking: 29
Colt McCoy is getting valuable experience that the Browns can really build on.
31. Carolina Panthers (0-5), Last Week Ranking: 31
San Francisco coming into town this week, maybe the first win?
32. Buffalo Bills (0-5), Last Week Ranking: 32
Can the Bills just forfeit against the Ravens this week?
Turner and the Falcons have surprised many, photo courtesy of http://blogs.ajc.com
1. Baltimore Ravens (4-1) – Last Week Ranking:3
The Ravens are playing smash mouth football and Ray Rice finally had a breakout game last week. Next week the Ravens got another tough matchup in New England.
2. New York Jets (4-1) – Last Week Ranking: 2
The Jets had a big win on Monday night and have shocked many so far. Sanchez isn’t playing great football, but he is managing the game properly and still has not turned the ball over. Cromartie had a great game against Moss while Revis is still recovering from the hammy.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1) – Last Week Ranking: 1
After a bye week, the Steelers get back Big Ben. Ben should have a nice warm up with the Browns coming into town, but they shouldn’t sleep on them because they have played teams tight.
4. Atlanta Falcons (4-1) – Last Week Ranking: 5
The Falcons have surprised many but they have the roster to get some big wins. The Falcons need to keep it up and they’ll find themselves on top of the division. Turner had a big game with 140 yards.
5. Indianapolis Colts (3-2) – Last Week Ranking: 9
The Colts are struggling big time. The defense has to step it up but with Manning under the gun I’m not worried yet. This is not the Colts of the last 5 years, they can be beaten.
6. New England Patriots (3-1) – Last Week Ranking: 8
Peace out Randy Moss, bring back Deon Branch. This trade may seem dumb on paper, but Branch addresses the intermediate game that Patriots have began concentrating their offense on.
7. Green Bay Packers (3-2) – Last Week Ranking: 4
The injury bug has hit the Packers harder than any other team so far. Grant was lost earlier in the season, they lost Jermichael Finely this week, and Rodgers got hit with a concussion. The offense is struggling, and they will need to find different options to get it done.
8. Tennessee Titans (3-2) – Last Week Ranking: 15
I haven’t seen Vince Young throw the ball like that in a long time. Big win going into Dallas.
9. New Orleans Saints (3-2) – Last Week Ranking: 6
Saints haven’t beaten any good teams, and even some of those games were close. I doubt the Saints make the playoffs if they keep this up.
10. Washington Redskins (3-2) – Last Week Ranking: 13
McNabb is simply getting the job done. He’s keeping the Redskins in contention for the division which is totally up for grabs.
11. Kansas City Chiefs (3-1) – Last Week Ranking: 10
Kansas City played really well against the Colts and did not allow their offense to run all over them. I like the fight I saw from the Chiefs.
12. New York Giants (3-2) – Last Week Ranking: 21
This was an impressive showing by the Giants going into Houston who has been totally hot to start the season. Coughlin is finally getting his team to listen to him.
13. Chicago Bears (4-1) – Last Week Ranking: 12
Throwing 5 INTs and winning a game is impressive, but it was Carolina.
14. Philadelphia Eagles (3-2) – Last Week Ranking: 14
Eagles really hope to have Vick back, they need him. Should be interesting to see the reception he gets in Atlanta.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1) – Last Week Ranking: 23
Freeman has this team believing in him and it is paying off.
16. Houston Texans (3-2) – Last Week Ranking: 7
Texans with a huge slip this week giving a game up to the Giants. Arian Foster had a terrible outing for the first time this season.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-2) – Last Week Ranking: 19
Took care of business in Buffalo to keep themselves competitive in the division.
18. Miami Dolphins (2-2) – Last Week Ranking: 11
A bye week and two division losses later, we’ll see what this Dolphins team is really made of. Miami goes into a banged up Green Bay team, this could be a huge opportunity for the Dolphins.
19. Arizona Cardinals (3-2) – Last Week Ranking: 26
Not buying this team still. Where is Larry Fitzgerald?
20. San Diego Chargers (2-3) – Last Week Ranking: 17
What a debacle in Oakland. I guess the Chargers like this whole 2-3 start stuff since they’ve done it the last two seasons.
21. Minnesota Vikings (1-3) – Last Week Ranking: 18
Vikings looked good in the second half just to have it end in typical Favre fashion–pick 6. Favre complaining about his elbow too now, says he might miss some games.
22. Oakland Raiders (2-3) – Last Week Ranking: 27
Breaking a 13-game losing streak to a division team is always good. Big ups to the special teams as well, they came to play.
23. Cincinnati Bengals (2-3) – Last Week Ranking: 20
TO meltdown approaching. Carson Palmer unemployment check following soon.
24. Seattle Seahawks ( 2-2) – Last Week Ranking: 25
Still on the fence with this team, but I’m leaning towards the same Hawks as the last few seasons.
25. Dallas Cowboys (1-3) – Last Week Ranking: 16
Can someone ask Jerry Jones what the problem really is if it wasn’t Wade Phillips.
26. Denver Broncos (2-3) – Last Week Ranking: 22
See Seattle.
27. St. Louis Rams (2-3) – Last Week Ranking: 24
Rams got destroyed by Detroit after showing a lot of promise the first 4 weeks.
28. Lions (1-4) – Last Week Ranking: 29
Finally!!!!
29. Cleveland Browns (1-4) – Last Week Ranking: 28
Something tells me the Browns won’t be bringing the cake for Big Ben’s return party this week. Have fun Colt McCoy
30. San Francisco 49ers (0-5) – Last Week Ranking: 31
You can deny it if you want, but its Singletary, not Smith.
31. Carolina Panthers (0-5) – Last Week Ranking: 30
Jimmy Clausen, Matt Moore, enough said.
32. Buffalo Bills (0-5) – Last Week Ranking: 32
Man, are you serious?
1. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1) Last Week Ranking: 1
The Steelers are playing great football and they have their bye week this week. After the bye, they get back Big Ben which is dangerous.
2. NY Jets (3-1) Last Week Ranking: 4
The Jets are simply playing the best football right now. Mark Sanchez has thrown for 8 TDs this season, and more importantly 0 INTs. The defense is clicking as well. Jets get a good test with Minnesota coming in Monday Night, and the Vikes are hungry. Revis gets another shot at Moss, and Santonio Holmes is back.
3. Baltimore Ravens (3-1) Last Week Ranking: 8
Joe Flacco got the big win on the road that he really needed to solidify the Ravens as a real contender in my book. Going on the road against Pittsburgh and that defense who have been on absolute fire and coming out with a win is a big accomplishment. Road division wins carry big weight.
4. Green Bay Packers (3-1) Last Week Ranking: 7
The Packers have played somewhat sloppy escaping with a win against Detroit last week. The Packers haven’t really been challenged aside from the Monday Night game against the Bears, but they still look great. That offense is really letting it fly.
5. Atlanta Falcons (3-1) Last Week Ranking: 5
The Falcons have had some late game heroics against the Saints and 49ers which has landed them this high on the chart. Winning games late can come up big for the Falcons as they make a push for the playoffs.
6. New Orleans Saints (3-1) Last Week Ranking: 3
The Saints have been struggling. The offense is looking sluggish. They were barely able to escape the Carolina Panthers last week. New Orleans has to pick up their level of play.
7. Houston Texans (3-1) Last Week Ranking: 10
Arian Foster has continued looking very impressive and Andre Johnson should be back next week.
8. New England Patriots (3-1) Last Week Ranking: 9
It will be interesting to see how the offense changes without Moss in the lineup now. Other receivers will have to step it up.
9. Indianapolis Colts (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 2
The Colts can’t expect to win games without playing any defense. This should be a wake up call for the Colts who found themselves tied atop the division with the Jags.
10. Kansas City Chiefs (3-0) Last Week Ranking: 13
It should be interesting to see if the Chiefs can carry their hot streak into Indy. Only unbeaten team left, who saw that coming?
11. Miami Dolphins (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 12
Miami gets a week off this week to regroup after two tough losses. The Fish could really use a big win to stay in reach of the AFC East when they return to face the Packers.
12. Chicago Bears (3-1) Last Week Ranking: 6
They didn’t really look right in the top 10 anyways, sorry Bears fans. No Cutler next week because of the concussion should make for an interesting matchup with Seattle, I’ll take the Hawks.
13. Washington Redskins (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 20
I wonder what team will show up as they host Green Bay this week. Inconsistency is killer.
14. Philadelphia Eagles (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 14
Right when Vick got back in the groove of things too, what a shame. This is a “quarterback controversy” if I’ve ever seen one.
15. Tennessee Titans (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 15
This might be the wrong week to be in Dallas. The Cowboys are the best team with a losing record right now and the Titans haven’t showed much to me so far.
16. Dallas Cowboys (1-2) Last Week Ranking: 17
Dez Bryant is playing really well and looks like he will be a star. With Courtland Finnegan all over Miles Austin, this could be a breakout week for Bryant.
17. San Diego Chargers (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 18
Chargers better hope they don’t slip up in Oakland this week, but the way the season has gone so far, anything can happen.
18. Minnesota Vikings (1-2) Last Week Ranking: 19
The Vikings showed their commitment that they are serious by bringing in Randy Moss. Moss has a chip on his shoulder, and Favre finally has a target. The old guys could make some noise.
19. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 26
The Jags are tied for the division!! Yeah, I didn’t see that coming either…
20. Cincinnati Bengals (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 11
C-I-N-C-I-N-N-A-T-I B-E-N-G-A-L-S. Yeah, I didn’t see a D in there either.
21. New York Giants (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 24
Houston could show every flaw this defense has with Arian Foster and Andre Johnson.
22. Denver Broncos (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 23
The Broncos got done with the Titans nasty defense just to find the Ravens defense waiting for them. Kyle Orton, wanna get away?
23. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1) Last Week Ranking: 21
The Bucs could easily come in and take advantage of an inconsistent Bengals teams.
24. St. Louis Rams (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 25
If the Rams win this week with the Lions, expect them to be around 15. Rams looking good.
25. Seattle Seahawks (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 16
Seattle still looking for some kind of identity, we shall see with the Marshawn Lynch trade does for them. Forsett and Lynch could make a nice 1-2 punch in a division that’s garbage.
26. Arizona Cardinals (2-2) Last Week Ranking: 22
The Cards are lucky they’re in the NFC West.
27. Oakland Raiders (1-3) Last Week Ranking: 28
That’s two weeks in a row where closing a game became an issue.
28. Cleveland Browns (1-3) Last Week Ranking: 31
The Browns finally picked up a game after three tough losses, good for them.
29. Detroit Lions (0-4) Last Week Ranking: 30
This could be the chance to get that first win against the Rams.
30. Carolina Panthers (0-4) Last Week Ranking: 29
Carolina almost beat the champs, but Jimmy Clausen definitely has some learning to do. Beating the Bears without Cutler may be possible.
31. San Francisco 49ers (0-4) Last Week Ranking: 27
Most disappointing team of the first quarter of the season. If they don’t beat Philly at home, things could get really ugly.
32. Buffalo Bills (0-4) Last Week Ranking: 32
I think the Bills are listening to me on my blowing up plan. They got rid of Lynch.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-0)
Last Week Ranking: 5
The Steelers have truly shocked me so far this season. They’ve gone through 3 QBs their first 3 games, and bring in another one next week – Big Ben. What the Steelers defense has done so far is nothing short of remarkable. Having Super Bowl hopes should not be doubted from this savvy veteran crew.
Peyton is in control, photo courtesy of http://helmet2helmet.net
2. Indianapolis Colts (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 4
The Colts took care of the Broncos on the road in what was labeled to be offensive slugfest. Austin Collie is coming along nicely finishing with 171 yards, more than any other receiver in week 3.
3. New Orleans Saints (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 1
The Saints took a tough loss at home to division rivals Atlanta Falcons this week, but I’m not going to kill the Saints just yet. Primary concern is the kicker Garret Hartley who missed the FG in OT that would have won the game for the Saints. Hartley showed some troubles in week 1 as well. I look for the Saints to bounce back at home next week against Carolina.
4. New York Jets (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 6
The Jets showed a lot in a gutsy victory against a divisional team on the road. Sanchez is coming into his own throwing 3 TDs, and more importantly not turning the ball over. It’s easy to hate on the Jets, but they got one hell of a team. LT looks absolutely rejuvenated.
5. Atlanta Falcons (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 13
The Falcons proved that they are truly a contender after a week 1 debacle. Going into New Orleans and coming out with the win is no easy task. Atlanta has to continue to win games they’re supposed to and we should be set for an epic rematch with the Saints week 16.
6. Chicago Bears (3-0)
Last Week Ranking: 12
Yeah, you read it right; it’s DA BEARS at number 6. Am I still skeptical? You’re damn right I am, but beating a division rival on Monday Night and Dallas last week puts you right up here. One of three teams still undefeated. The Bears got another test Sunday night on the road against the G-men.
7. Green Bay Packers (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 2
The Packers lost a tough game on the road on Monday night against a division rival. The Bears are no joke either. Don’t forget that Ryan Grant wasn’t playing either. I still like the Packers.
Boldin caught 3 TDs last week, photo courtesy of http://www.baltimoresun.com
8. Baltimore Ravens (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 10
Hello Anquan Boldin, welcome to Baltimore. Boldin had a huge game in the home opener catching 3 TDs from Flacco. B’more gets a real test next week going into Pittsburgh. The NFL gave the Ravens no breaks in the beginning of the season when it came to scheduling.
9. New England Patriots (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 7
Patriots are putting up more points than any other team in the league. It will be interesting to see if they can get the road monkey of their backs on Monday Night as they go into Miami.
10. Houston Texans (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 3
Don’t jump off the Texans just yet. They are still a great offensive team that got beat by a desperate and hungry Cowboys team. Next week they go into Oakland to face another hungry and desperate Raiders team. These are the type of games that the Texans can’t sleep on if they want to be a contender in January.
11. Cincinnati Bengals (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 9
You would think that the offense would be killing it by now with Batman and Robin, but it’s actually the defense that is getting that job done for the Bengals. That offense will have to show up at some time though. Wake up Mr. Palmer.
12. Miami Dolphins (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 8
The Dolphins almost crawled their way back into the game against the Jets which was a positive sign. Miami has another big test against another division foe Monday night with the Patriots coming into town. This game will really help determine which two teams are the real contenders for the AFC East.
13. Kansas City Chiefs (3-0)
Last Week Ranking: 15
The Kansas City Chiefs might just mess around and find themselves in playoff contention in a division that is so far horrible. Dexter McCluster is the real deal. Next week is a bye week for the Chiefs, which may hurt a team that is on fire and really believes in themselves.
14. Philadelphia Eagles (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 17
That Michael Vick to DeSean Jackson connection is looking deadly. Week 2 the duo paired up for 135 yards and a TD and last week for 153 yards and a TD. It’s hot right now in the Ill-a-delph. Whispers of NFC East champs could soon become shouts.
15. Tennessee Titans (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 18
Yeah that defense is legit. If you don’t know the name by now, learn it: Courtland Finnegan. They are making even Vince Young look good. Home game against the Broncos coming up which they should win.
16. Seattle Seahawks (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 26
The Seahawks are 2-1 through 3? Yeah, I didn’t see that coming either. Looks like this group is buying into what Carroll is selling. Detroit is on hold right now on line 3, they want to know where this Mike Williams was when they drafted him.
17. Dallas Cowboys (1-2)
Last Week Ranking: 23
Well it’s about time. Atleast the Cowboys kept some faith from the great state of Texas by beating up on their little ones. Let’s see if this little smoke turns into a fire. Next week is a much needed bye.
18. San Diego Chargers (1-2)
Last Week Ranking: 11
This could be Norv’s last hurrah if they keep this up, which history says they will. Signs all over San Diego : “WANTED – VINCENT JACKSON.” Common Chargers fans, you know you need him. Get that “GM” of yours to make something happen, or at least trade him for something before the season slips out of your hands.
19. Minnesota Vikings (1-2)
Last Week Ranking: 24
Does any team need a bye week more than the Vikings? Does Favre just need some more Mississippi gumbo to get the old engine running? He better do what it takes in this week off because the next game on the calendar is a Monday night matchup in the Meadowlands against the J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS!
20. Washington Redskins (1-2)
Last Week Ranking: 16
Losing to the Rams is just not good. McNabb is not playing bad, but the rest of the team really needs to get going. We also get the homecoming trip to Philly next week, should be interesting.
21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 14
Tampa got rolled on by the Steelers defense, just like all other teams who have faced them so far have. Tampa has a bye week coming up where they can re-evaluate some things and continue to do what has worked for them so far.
22. Arizona Cardinals (2-1)
Last Week Ranking: 22
The Cards got themselves an ugly win in Oakland. Wins like this will keep them in their division at this point. I don’t see any continuing success in the future though.
23. Denver Broncos (1-2)
Last Week Ranking: 21
That ground game has to show up for the Broncos. Through 3 games, they are ranked 30th in rushing. They visit Tennessee next week which could be a big win if the Broncos can pull it off.
24. New York Giants (1-2)
Last Week Ranking: 20
In my preseason previews I said the Giants were in trouble, and Tom Coughlin was on the hot seat. I got a lot of criticism from Giants fans for saying that. Do you believe me now?
25. St. Louis Rams (1-2)
Last Week Ranking: 30
Like I said last week, the Rams are competing. That spirit got them the 30 points for the win over Washington this week. I’m slightly concerned with Steven Jackson’s groin pull.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-2)
Last Week Ranking: 27
The Jags picked up Trent Edwards off the waivers. I don’t see it making too much of a difference.
27. San Francisco 49ers (0-3)
Last Week Ranking: 19
Shocked to say the least. Who saw an 0-4 start coming for the Niners, no way they will beat the Falcons this week.
28. Oakland Raiders (1-2)
Last Week Ranking: 25
The Raiders really let one get away from them in Arizona last week. Those are the games they have to win if they want people to not look at them as the shame of the league.
29. Carolina Panthers (0-3)
Last Week Ranking: 29
Bring on the defending champs this week, yikes.
30. Detroit Lions (0-3)
Last Week Ranking: 28
So close, yet so far. Frustration setting in.
31. Cleveland Browns (0-3)
Last Week Ranking: 32
Three tough losses in a row. Just another one of those seasons.
32. Buffalo Bills (0-3)
Last Week Ranking: 31
Can we just blow it up and start over?
1. New Orleans Saints (2-0)
Last Week Ranking: 1
Saints showed they still got the late game magic winning a big one on Monday Night against a hungry Niners team.
Clay Matthews has 6 sacks, photo courtesy of bleacherreport.com
2. Green Bay Packers (2-0)
Last Week Ranking: 3
It looks like this division is the Packer’s to lose. Clay Matthews is a stud on defense already racking up 6 sacks. The Pack are putting up big points.
3. Houston Texans (2-0)
Last Week Ranking: 6
The Texans forced me to put them here. They pulled out an amazing win, with some shenanigans from Gary Kubiak on the timeout call. But a win is a win. How ‘bout them cowboys – no scratch that – how ‘bout them Texans!
4. Indianapolis Colts (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 7
Indy took care of business Sunday night and finally looked like the Colts again. Freeny and Matthis were nasty all night not giving Eli any time in the pocket.
Polamalu is creatving havoc on defense, photo courtesy of http://fantasyknuckleheads.com
5. Pittsburgh Steelers (2-0)
Last Week Ranking: 10
Do the Steelers even need a quarterback? I think the defense would be ready to go all 60 minutes. Let’s see how much water the Steelers can keep treading without Ben.
6. New York Jets (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 7
Guess “Sanchize” can throw which answered a big concern of mine. Big division win for the Jets, one that can carry some momentum.
7. New England Patriots (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 4
New England definitely got a tough draw to open the season with their first two games against playoff teams. The road loss hurts because it favors the argument that the Pats can’t win on the road after last year’s 2-6 road record.
8. Miami Dolphins (2-0)
Last Week Ranking: 17
Surprised to see the fish up here? Yeah, you should be, but they earned it. A big road win in Minnesota got them here. The Dolphins are trying to make a run for the division a la 2008.
9. Cincinnati Bengals (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 19
It was a nice recovery for a team that chastised last week for putting up all out fluke job against the Pats. You have to win division games at home to win the AFC North.
10. Baltimore Ravens (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 2
The NFL didn’t do the Ravens any favors by giving them two road games against playoff teams to start the season. Joe Flacco looked terrible for the first time, and I think they can write this loss off on him just having a bad day at the office.
11. San Diego Chargers (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 13
The Chargers took care of business the way they should have. Too bad they didn’t do that week 1.
12. Chicago Bears (2-0)
Last Week Ranking: 24
I had to move the Bears up after they started the season 2-0. The Bears got the job done going into Dallas and taking care of business. The Mike Martz offense had some bright spots.
13. Atlanta Falcons (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 15
The Falcons have a real concern with Michael Turner and his health on their hands. Next week’s matchup with the Saints is a crucial one because game 2 against New Orleans comes in week 16.
14. Tampa Buccaneers (2-0)
Last Week Ranking: 29
I am impressed with the win in Carolina. The Bucs are buying into Josh Freeman and he’s making them look good. Freeman looks like a young Rothlisbeger.
15. Kansas City Chiefs (2-0)
Last Week Ranking: 23
The Chiefs got a road win they needed in Cleveland to keep building the momentum from the week 1 victory against San Diego. Next week is a big home game against the Niners.
16. Washington Redskins (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 11
The Redskins played well until they just had a collapse. I like what I saw from McNabb and the offense, but the defense has to pick it up. Lucky for them, the rest of the division isn’t any better.
17. Philadelphia Eagles (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 18
Whether you want to admit it or not, Vick looks good. He should be the starter if the Eagles are serious about winning this division.
18. Tennessee Titans (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 8
I was hesitant to give the Titans as much credit as I did last week because I saw their stock dropping in the near forecast just because of the inconsistency of Vince Young. Fisher isn’t going to sit there and let you screw up again and again.
19. San Francisco 49ers (0-2)
Last Week Ranking: 20
I’m going to say it right now – if the Niners don’t win in Kansas City next week, they have a serious problem on their hands. Not too many must win week 3 games, but if I’ve ever seen one, its next week for San Fran. Only reason they didn’t drop this week was because they really almost beat the defending champs.
20. New York Giants (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 12
The Giants got jacked up by big Manning. That O-line has to give Eli more time in the pocket if they want to win games.
21. Denver Broncos (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 27
Beating a team who’s riding a big win in the previous week at home is always a positive sign.
22. Arizona Cardinals (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 22
Kart Warner…PLEASE COME BACK!!
23. Dallas Cowboys (0-2)
Last Week Ranking: 14
The Cowboys look bad, really bad. Only positive is Ware who is tearing it up.
24. Minnesota Vikings (0-2)
Last Week Ranking: 5
Favre needs to be looking at AARP brochures instead of playbooks. I’m going to start the campaign right here, right now: “BRING IN T-JACK!!”
25. Oakland Raiders (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 26
Ugly win against St. Louis but Raiders Nation will take it.
26. Seattle Seahawks (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 16
I’d love to see the current USC team play the Seahawks since they can’t go to a bowl game.
27. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-1)
Last Week Ranking: 21
Surgeon General Warning on David Gerrard still in full effect.
28. Detroit Lions (0-2)
Last Week Ranking: 28
I’m cheering for you Detroit, I’m cheering for you. Another close loss.
29. Carolina Panthers (0-2)
Last Week Ranking: 25
Carolina had a disappointing loss to the Bucs and next week play the Bengals. Write them in for 0-3.
30. St. Louis Rams (0-2)
Last Week Ranking: 30
Rams are still competing. I like Bradford, he looks like he can develop into something special.
31. Buffalo Bills (0-2)
Last Week Ranking: 31
The Bills O-line got drilled by Clay Matthews all day long. It got ugly.
32. Cleveland Browns (0-2)
Last Week Ranking: 32
I can’t even muster up something positive to say about the Browns.
