The Monuments Men: NFL

Over the past few weeks there has been a lot of talk because of an interview that LeBron James gave with NBATV where he was asked which 4 NBA players would be on his Mt. Rushmore of the best to ever play the game. The discussion that has swirled around this got me thinking. And, I want to present my Mt. Rushmore for each of the 4 major American sports: NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB. This will be the first part of a five part series. In this first presentation I will choose my NFL Monuments Men. My criteria for choosing each player depends on stats, winning, era played in, and contribution to the game. Without jumping directly into who I choose, I want to touch on some guys who barely missed the list along the way.

The Architects

There are leagues of men who made major contributions to the game of football. They go beyond being the best at their position during a period and truly make a change to how the game is played. One of the names that comes to mind is Walter Camp, the guy who literally wrote the book on American Football. Another is Teddy Roosevelt, the 26th President of this great country, with his political influence making the game safer and ushering in the forward pass. (Ironic that the guy on the real Mt. Rushmore has a chance to make this one, too.) Vince Lombardi is another name that makes the finalists in the architects of the game. If this was a Green Bay Mt. Rushmore then he'd have his face on it 4 straight times, but it isn't. So, while Lombardi transformed a field in Wisconsin into a NFL powerhouse, others made bigger impacts. The same goes for Hank Stram, who made my list as a finalist and one of the most cerebral coaches to ever lead a football team. While all of these architects made major impacts to the game of football, the one who I am choosing from this group to grace the NFL Mt. Rushmore is Bill Walsh. 

Bill Walsh started in the NFL as an assistant to Paul Brown and after proving to be brilliant with offenses he found trouble finding his opportunity at head coaching because Brown told people he was too soft in his approach to football. This sent Walsh to coach at Stanford University. During this time he started to fine-tune his quick hitting pass attack. Walsh utilized an approach of short passes that he saw equally as risky as handing off to a running back. This offensive style moved the chains with quick routes, and allowed the deep passing and running game to play off of the quick slant routes. Famously, the style became known as the West Coast Offense, and revolutionized the game of football. Why did this beat out the introduction of the forward pass? The forward pass was done out of necessity as an attempt to save the game. It was an extremely bold move and deserves a ton of praise sent toward Theodore Roosevelt for it. But, the West Coast Offense was ingenuity from a man to revive the forward pass. The rules and mentality at the time allowed defensive backs to manhandle receivers who ran deep patterns. With Walsh's change, passing was once again a true weapon against defenses. Add to Walsh's ingenuity, his reach into the sport today are still staggering. Below is a list of the assistants that became head coaches that stem from the Bill Walsh School of Coaching.

Source: Wikipedia

You can take each guy under Bill Walsh and assign one to each NFL team. Yes, his 6 most prominent assistant coaches had 26 assistants who all became head coaches in the NFL. Add to it how many have won Super Bowls or made appearances and if that's not enough to get a place on Mt. Rushmore, then what is?

The Obvious Choice

I open argument for every other selection that I make on the list of NFL's Mt. Rushmore but this one isn't debatable. This is the best player to ever step on a NFL field. He wasn't the most athletic. He wasn't the fastest nor smartest. He was simply the best. He was the best because of his work ethic. Who is it that I'm talking about? Jerry Rice, of course.

Rice has almost 7,000 more receiving yards (22,895) than any other WR to ever step on the field. He has 41 more TDs (195) than any other receiver. He was a 13 time Pro Bowler, won 3 Super Bowl rings, and got to work with a guy named Bill Walsh to help both of them make this Mt. Rushmore. 

The case is pretty clear that Jerry Rice's contribution to the game of football is a monumental one. He has the stats to make the list, the wins to make the list, and he was the father to the era of glamorizing the WR position. Without Jerry Rice, those guys who were stretching for his heels in the record books wouldn't have ever become receivers. Jerry ushered in an era of Randy Moss, Larry Fitzgerald, Terrell Owens, Cris Carter, Calvin Johnson, Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce, Tim Brown, Marvin Harrison and every other receiver that's stepped on a field since Sept. 5, 1994 when Jerry Rice broke Jim Brown's career touchdown record. Many of these receivers were finalists on my list of potential Mt. Rushmore representatives, but I couldn't put another on the list with Jerry Rice. He's the best receiver, hands down. Special mention to the No. 2 leader in receptions, Tony Gonzalez. Similar to how Jerry Rice became a truly dominant receiver and opened the door for those to follow, Gonzalez made the basketball to tight end transition one that happens more and more each year because of his performance as a TE in the NFL. Currently in the NFL today are Jimmy Graham, Julius Thomas, and Antonio Gates, who all have basketball backgrounds. That gets Tony Gonzalez special mention as a player who narrowly misses making my Mt. Rushmore.

The Golden Position

Since the invention of the forward pass, one position has become the sexiest in sports: Pro Football Quarterback. From "Broadway" Joe Namath guaranteeing victory in Super Bowl III, to Joe Montana thriving in Bill Walsh's West Coast Offense, and John Elway and Dan Marino going in the same draft and dominating the sport for a decade, the QB is the ultimate glamour spot. All of the aforementioned guys deserve a thought at getting a spot on the list. Marino held almost every passing record until Brett Favre, Drew Brees, Tom Brady and Peyton Manning dethroned him in recent years. Joe Namath made a statement for the AFL, and Montana and Elway added championships with great stats. But one guy has beaten all of the odds. Every other QB that I've mentioned so far was a first or second round pick. Except one. That one is Tom Brady. He was selected in the sixth round with the 199th pick. He was kept on the New England Patriots roster as a No. 4 QB in his rookie season. He worked like crazy to become the back-up, and when he got his chance, he wasn't giving it back. Minus one season of Randy Moss, Brady hasn't had a Hall of Fame receiver to throw to. He's barely even had Pro Bowl receivers to throw to. That hasn't stopped him from winning 3 Super Bowls and leaving the field with his team leading in 2 others. He found a way to will a injury riddled team to the AFC Championship this season and displays a work ethic rivaled by few. The logic of making Tom Brady one of four on the NFL Mt. Rushmore is this: I knew I was going to put a QB on the list, and the QB that I put at the top on my all-time list is Tom Brady. When it's all said and done after Brady plays another 5-6 years, he might have 4 Super Bowl wins and 7 appearances. He'll be Top-5 in every QB category, be among the most winning QBs in the game, and has a work ethic to be idolized by everybody. 

First Down vs Sweetness

The final piece of the stone to be chiseled in the metaphorical mountain comes down to Jim Brown and Walter Payton. Two NFL running backs that did it anyway necessary. They worked hard, ran hard, and made defenses look silly. Walter had more rush yards than Brown but he also played 70 more games. The way Walter ran was something special, though. He did things on the field that were unheard of. He also started his career 10 years after Brown's ended. So a certain amount of comparison is difficult because defenses, offensive lines, the passing game, and so many other factors changed from 1957 when Brown entered the league to 1987 when Payton exited it. Add to it the fact that other than highlight reels, I didn't get to see either of them enough to really pick out nuances that puts one above the other. After watching several packages of highlights, I've come to a conclusion: If they were both wearing the same uniform, I couldn't differentiate between the two of them. They both ran angry with a bizarre elegance. They'd hit three guys head on and then do a bit of a twist and bend that would score a 10 from even the Russian judge. Their abilities from the eye test are so even that it's hard to pick one over the other. So, I have to rely on the stats in front of me and go with the original. With more yards per game, yards per attempt, and overall touchdowns in fewer games, the final portrait hammered into my NFL Mt. Rushmore is Jim Brown. 

If they all played together, one ball wouldn't be enough

There you have it. My four selections to be etched on the NFL Mt. Rushmore are Bill Walsh, Jerry Rice, Tom Brady, and Jim Brown. Could you imagine if these four played in the same era on the same team. They'd have to have two balls. One for Brady to throw to Rice and another one he'd hand to Brown. All while Bill Walsh was working his schemes of the West Coast Offense to run his team like a well oiled machine. Now that the NFL Mt. Rushmore has been selected, tomorrow you'll get the NBA version, Wednesday the NHL, Thursday the MLB, and Friday the top from each sport will be selected to create the Major American Sports Mt. Rushmore. Now we just need some mountains in Canton, Ohio to build this football one..

It's All About the QB

There is one position that is sensationalized, scrutinized, marginalized, and overall more important than any other position in football. The QB in the NFL can change a team's future overnight. Add one amazing talent and you have the ability to change everything. Heading into the Wild Card round of the NFL playoffs, I want to rank all 32 teams at the QB position to see what they have, and for those near the bottom, if drafting a QB would make any improvements.

32. Cleveland Browns - Jason Campbell / Brandon Weeden / Brian Hoyer
This QB situation is the definition of a debacle in the Ohio city near Lake Erie. They started the year with some shaky thoughts on Brandon Weeden and how he'd perform. Once he was injured, Brian Hoyer led them on a 3-game winning streak and even made me somewhat of a believer that they could contend in a weak AFC for the No. 6 seed. Once Hoyer went down, Jason Campbell stepped in and performed averagely. Now the Browns look to the future and they're going to have to take a shot on a QB with a Top-5 pick. My issue - I'm not sure how well any of these QBs will survive in Cleveland when they're getting bashed by defensive ends and linebackers each week. Both Johnny Manziel and Teddy Bridgewater lack the girth that I'd like to see from an NFL QB. It looks like the Browns will once again slum through the sludge of mediocrity and ineptitude.

31. Oakland Raiders - Terrelle Pryor / Matt McGloin
If things weren't absolutely terrible in Cleveland, let's visit Oakland for even more dysfunction. The battle of two Big-10 QBs who did little to impress me or give me hope for their NFL futures. McGloin is a fighter and an over-comer who has never been picked for anything. Seriously. I don't think he was picked in gym class for dodgeball in 8th grade. He walked on at Happy Valley, went undrafted to the Raiders and sat behind Pryor and Matt Flynn until Flynn flew away and Pryor got hurt. Now, the Raiders have to choose between athletic or average at the QB position. Maybe that No. 5 pick will be used to take a QB, I think they'd be better off playing a different sport, though.

30. Minnesota Vikings - Matt Cassel / Christian Ponder / Josh Freeman
I'm beginning to see a trend through the teams that were bad this season: more than one QB started. A fall from grace was expected from the Vikings this season, they somehow went 10-6 and made the playoffs last season...oh that's right, AP nearly broke the NFL rushing record. This season, a slow start, a family tragedy and injury led to AP barely eclipsing 1,200 yards rushing. With no running back to rely on, the carousel wound up and churned out bad performances all around. Cassel would be my choice for next season. Give up on Ponder and Freeman and bring in a young QB with some potential. Let him sit for a year behind Cassel and then polish him to fit into the system. I'd personally take someone like A.J. McCarron in the 2nd round. He's a winner and solid playmaker, sometimes that's what you need more than the sexy pick.

29. Jacksonville Jaguars - Chad Henne / Blaine Gabbert
Please don't select Johnny Manziel. That's all I ask from Jacksonville. They're better off taking Tebow. Honestly, I don't care what Jacksonville does. I think they're the most pointless team in the NFL. They should hire someone who has a background with a moving company. Get someone who knows how to pack up a semi that'll help them move to LA or London or Toronto or wherever the NFL sends them because the franchise in Jacksonville isn't working out. On a serious note about QBs, I think Henne will be a fine fit for getting 4 wins next season.

28. New York Jets - Geno Smith
There was a stretch where I had a better QBR than Geno Smith this season. That's barely a joke. He had 12 TDs and 21 INTs in his rookie campaign. There was a span where he had 4 straight games with less than 10 completions (8,8,9,4). That's a total of 29 completions over a 4 game period. Peyton Manning had 7 games this season where he completed 29 or more passes. To Smith's defense, the Jets have the worst offensive talent I have seen in years. If the Jets decide to draft a couple good talents at WR and TE then Geno might actually have reason to complete 29 passes in a game instead of in a quarter of the season.

27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mike Glennon
Greg Schiano seemed to think that Glennon had the potential to be the QB of the future but none of that matters now. Lovie Smith is now the head coach with the Bucs and the rest of the management around him is shaken up as well. Glennon looked solid at times once he got comfortable in the offense and had no issue slinging the ball all over the field. I'm not sure he has the intangibles to be a franchise guy and Lovie Smith definitely isn't going to help him improve on that. If Glennon takes care of the ball, Tampa could win 7-8 games next season, but who knows if he'll be the commander guiding the ship for the Bucs.

26. Houston Texans - Matt Schaub / Case Keenum
The chaos in Houston is more of an issue than the talent at the QB position. Keenum and Schaub both have some raw talent that is higher than 26th best in the NFL. The issue is that the team spiraled out of control and once they hit about 2-6, it was pretty obvious they wouldn't win another game this season. I don't see how Matt Schaub can come back and i'm excited to see how Bill O'Brien evaluates Case Keenum as his franchise talent.  

25. Tennessee Titans - Jake Locker / Ryan Fitzpatrick
My prediction is that if Jake Locker stayed healthy all season then they'd be the No. 6 seed instead of San Diego. That's the issue, though. I'm not sure how durable Jake Locker is. Locker, Ponder and Sam Bradford all feel like the same QB to me. They have B-quality abilities, can make some plays, but seem to be injury prone. Overall, I wouldn't put any money on Jake Locker to take the Titans anywhere beyond a No. 6 seed in a shaky AFC.

24. St. Louis Rams - Sam Bradford / Kellen Clemens
(See 25). Seriously, Sam Bradford and Jake Locker tie for 25th in my book. They both are capable of doing exactly the same thing. They're quality talents but they're nowhere near the top of the NFL. The reason St. Louis is above Tennessee is because the Rams are a serious contender if they could get a healthy QB that took care of the ball.

23. Washington Redskins - Robert Griffin III / Kirk Cousins
Thank you for visiting the infirmary section of our blog today. We will soon be leaving the Dr. James Andrews section and talking about teams with quality professional QBs who don't get hurt every season. First, let's talk about RGIII. His talent is B+ to A-. If he wasn't injury prone I would put him up in the Top-15, breaching on Top-10. That isn't the case, however. RGIII was hurt in college, hurt as a rookie and never fully recovered. He sat out the final three games this season and will have a new coach to sabotage in 2014. The Redskins gave up way too much to get Griffin and it's going to hurt them in the future. Then they decided to pick Kirk Cousins in the same draft as his back-up. What a mess the Redskins are. On the plus side, the salary cap fines are done for Washington and they can fill in some pieces around Griffin. It's worth seeing what Griffin can do if he's healthy next season, which is all we can hope for.

22. Arizona Cardinals - Carson Palmer
It's time to start looking toward the future Arizona. Carson Palmer played plenty well enough this season to get the Cardinals the 5th best record in the NFC but Seattle and San Francisco ruined a playoff spot for the Cards. While this was a nice season for Arizona, Carson Palmer is past his prime. He isn't going to ascend your team to new heights, he's going to give you 1-2 more seasons of solid play but that's all he has left. He isn't going to pull a Kurt Warner and get you to the Super Bowl, but another 10-6 season will have the Cards right there for a No. 6 seed in 2014. I'd draft a 2nd to 4th round QB, maybe a Tajh Boyd or Aaron Murray to sculpt behind Palmer for a season or two.

21. Buffalo Bills - E.J. Manuel
He was a bit too injured in his rookie season and that worries me. His talent and resiliency seem top-notch and if he can get healthy and continue to grow, he'll breach the Top-15 in a few years. The Bills have some pieces that need to be improved to make it above mundane and average but Manuel has the traits. If he can be developed similarly to how Cam Newton has been groomed in Carolina, then the Bills could make some noise in the next few years. Get E.J. healthy and prepare for 2014 Buffalo.

20. Miami Dolphins - Ryan Tannehill
I might be selling Tannehill short at No. 20, but if I do this list again next season, he'll be closer to 15 than 25. He is a better version of Locker/Ponder/Bradford and through a year of insanity in Miami posted decent numbers. He had almost 4,000 yards and posted 24 TDs to 17 INTs. Those numbers should improve next season to something like 28 TDs and 12 INTs. Those numbers would be good enough to compete for a Wild Card spot if the rest of the team performs around him. Don't sell Tannehill short, he might be the 6th best QB drafted in the past 2 seasons, which is better than a good portion of the league.

19. San Diego Chargers - Phillip Rivers
It's not how you start, it's how you finish. The Chargers know that statement better than almost anyone. Over the past several seasons they've notoriously been the 7-3 team that misses the playoffs. This season they're the 5-7 team that makes the playoffs. Rivers has been curious, to say the least, with cases of fumblitis and the interception over the past few seasons but 32 TDs, 11 INTs and a 105.5 passer rating is what the fans of San Diego have been waiting for since 2008.

18. Cincinnati Bengals - Andy Dalton
Will the real Andy Dalton please appear in a stadium outside of Cincinnati? Or maybe, has the real Andy Dalton appeared outside of Cincinnati? If Dalton is going to ascend to elite levels then we need to see consistency. He's been great in Cincinnati with an undefeated record this season but away from home struggles have ensued. Throwing 20 INTs in 2013 is a bit much and to be elite he needs to get that number into the low teens. If Dalton can run off 3 great games then the Bengals could be Super Bowl bound. If Dalton lays an egg against San Diego then many of us will question him even stronger than we have so far.

17. Kansas City Chiefs - Alex Smith
They say he doesn't have the NFL caliber arm, they say he doesn't make the throws necessary to be elite, San Francisco sent him out of town for a kid who struggles to make reads, and yet he keeps winning. Alex Smith helped a team go from 2 to 11 wins. He did it with an 89.1 passer rating and a 23-7 TD to INT ratio. I'll take those numbers. Those are numbers that can win a Super Bowl if your defense and running game help guide the troops. Then why is Alex Smith at 17 on this list? Well, it's a mix of where your ceiling is at and what have you done in the past. Maybe you don't remember, but until Jim Harbaugh came to town, Alex Smith was all but written off as an NFL bust. He's had a great season of not being asked to do too much for KC and he's had success. Alex Smith is pretty much at his pinnacle, though. He's reached the peak of his talent. It's good enough to win a Super Bowl in a Trent Dilfer-type way. We'll see if KC can make it happen this season.

16. Philadelphia Eagles - Nick Foles
Speaking of taking care of the ball and doing what your team needs to get the job done, please visit exhibit A. Nick Foles posted the 2nd best passer rating in NFL history. He threw 27 TDs to only 2 INTs. That's an absurd 13.5:1 ratio. Peyton Manning had a 5.5:1 ratio and he's going to win the MVP. Chip Kelly looks like a genius from how well the Eagles have played on offense and Nick Foles should have a nice career if he can stay with Chip for 5-6 seasons and come anywhere close to this production.

15. Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan
Let's write this season off as an anomaly for Matt Ryan. He still had an 89.6 passer rating and 26 TDs but the 17 INTs were a bit high for what we expect from Ryan. The injuries to Roddy White and Julio Jones didn't help but something was never there this season with Atlanta. I'm not sure if the Falcons will return next season and run off 13 wins but they should definitely be competitive with 8-10. Matt Ryan dropped some stock for me but if he returns to form, he'll be somewhere around No. 11 next season.

14. Detroit Lions - Matthew Stafford
Why can't Detroit be successful? Seriously, that isn't one of those questions I'm going to answer for you. I don't understand how you can have a QB that has a rocket attached to his arm that fires footballs to a machine of a wide receiver named Megatron (Calvin Johnson), with a defensive line that should get 80 sacks per season. Enough about the struggles of Detroit, actually, I think Detroit is at fault for why Stafford is only 14th on my list. He has all of the tools but doesn't quite understand his craft. That's the best way I can put it. He's ready to build a house but I don't think he knows exactly how to make one that'll withstand a storm. Too many years as a Detroit Lion will do that to you, though.

13. San Francisco 49ers - Colin Kaepernick
After last season ended, the media was ready to anoint Kaepernick as the new savior of football. I still haven't been sold on Kaepernick's abilities from the pocket. The reason he makes the Top-15 is because of his ceiling. He has the raw ability to dominate the field with his legs and strength. That last line is something I should be saying about a running back, not a QB. If Kaepernick can figure out how to read a defense more effectively and get beyond his first option, then he can be a transcendent talent. He might be able to make it to back-to-back Super Bowls and even win this one, but it won't be because he carried the team in a Peyton Manning or Tom Brady manner, it'll be because the defense causes havoc against Green Bay, Carolina and Seattle.

12. Baltimore Ravens - Joe Flacco
He had a year that wasn't quite on the level of a brand new shiny, Top-3 salary but he has a clutch "gene" that always seems to find a way to win. The Ravens fielded a brand new defense this season that struggled early, the running game was nonexistent because of Ray Rice's injuries, and that put Flacco in a hole where he had to toss the ball all over the field so he wouldn't get sacked 18 times a game. This was one of Flacco's worst seasons, he had a 19:22 TD-INT ratio, the most INTs in his career by 10, and least TDs since his rookie season. Flacco has been solid and clutch throughout his career and this year will be marked as an outlier.

11. New York Giants - Eli Manning
You're probably asking how Eli Manning can be anywhere near 10th after the season he had. It goes back to the what you've done and what you have in the future. Eli has won 2 Super Bowls and was a 4th Quarter, 2 Minute Drill machine the past several seasons. While Eli has never been a guy to get through a season with only 8 INTs, he has always had a positive ratio. This is the first season that ratio was negative. Much like Flacco, Eli had issues with a bad offensive line and poor running attack. The Giants will get those fixed and Eli's numbers will flip back to 27 TDs and 18 INTs instead of the opposite.

10. Pittsburgh Steelers - Ben Roethlisberger
Mr. Past His Prime is still a Top-10 QB because of his past. He's accomplished amazing things in Pittsburgh. He makes plays that he has no business making but now his capability to make those plays is behind him. He's relying more on being a quick pocket passer. He's been efficient at it, but he isn't a dominating force anymore. He passed for 4,200 yards, 28 TDs and 14 INTs, and after a horrendous start, the Steelers almost made the playoffs. The legacy and aura in Pittsburgh is winning and Big Ben has done that since 2004. He's closer to the end than the beginning, but 3-4 solid years still remain for Roethlisberger.

9. Chicago Bears - Jay Cutler
Mr. New Contract is ready to turn some heads. Yes, he's 30 years old. Yes, he's only won one playoff game and one game against the Packers. Yes, he's cocky, arrogant and a bit of a cry baby. But, he has the QB whisperer guiding him along the way. He had his best passer rating of his career, and threw as many TDs this season in 11 games as he did in 15 last season. With a monster contract in his pocket and people questioning if he's worth it, Cutler will be hellbent on proving that he's a Top-10 QB and can win playoff games and a Super Bowl. His arms a rocket and his weapons are real. Alshon Jeffrey, Martellus Bennett and Brandon Marshall are capable of making Cutler look even better than he actually is, and that's something the NFL should fear.

8. Dallas Cowboys - Tony Romo
This is an No. 8 ranking, pending a back surgery that could ruin him ever being the QB he was again. If Romo makes a full recovery and doesn't have this lingering back problem then he'll be a Top-10 QB in this league for years. Nobody gives Romo the credit he deserves for being astounding 98% of the time because when there are 2 minutes left, he makes a vital mistake. My theory - Romo is the sanity in the asylum. Dallas is managed horribly. Jerry Jones is a great owner, not a great GM. So, when Romo has to do everything all game some mistakes are going to happen. I'm not sure if Romo will ever break out of this mold because I don't think Dallas will ever be run well enough to show Romo's full potential.

7. Carolina Panthers - Cam Newton
Last year I would have placed Cam around 15th on this list. He was trying too hard for the first 12 weeks of 2012 and when it started to click late, they turned it on. Since then, Carolina has been fantastic. He regressed a bit in the first few games this season but finally bought into the system and realized he didn't have to do it all. Since he's learned his place in the offense, he's been amazing. The defense is good enough to give them a chance to beat anyone and Cam has the highest ceiling in the league. Every week, Cam makes a few plays that make you think he's a superhero. In a structured environment where he takes care of the ball then shows those moments of excellence, the Panthers can achieve great heights.

6. New Orleans Saints - Drew Brees
All this guy does is throw for 5,000+ yards. While Peyton Manning is over there breaking his record by 1-yard, he's saying, "that's fine, I've done it 4 times." Size doesn't matter because Brees throws one of the prettiest passes I've ever seen. He's a Super Bowl champ and one of the best passers in NFL history. His 51,081 yards ranks 5th all-time and at 33 years old, another 4-5 seasons of 4,500+ yards will place him 2nd or 3rd on the list. The reason he's not 2nd or 3rd on my list is because there is a bit more future-casting involved that puts these next two guys in front of him.

5. Seattle Seahawks - Russell Wilson
I've been talking about what you've done for me and what you're doing in the future and in this case, the latter outweighs the former. A few years ago when Wilson was at Wisconsin, I watched one of his games with my college roommate and marveled at his ability. He never gets rattled. He always knows what to do and keeps his eyes downfield. He progresses through his options and rarely makes a bad decision. A 26:9 TD-INT ratio and a 101.2 passer rating makes him one of the most consistent QBs in the league. He doesn't have to throw 50 times a game, put up 4,800 yards in a season and throw 50 TDs to be successful. He makes smart plays that help his team be successful. He has one of the brightest futures of any player currently in this league.

4. Indianapolis Colts - Andrew Luck
Speaking of young kids with bright futures, meet Andrew Luck. From day one in the NFL, he's looked like a 5 year pro. He has no fear about being the leader and taking all the blame for what he does. He's extremely cerebral and has such a high IQ. He is everything that Indianapolis could hope for. They got Peyton Manning in 1998, he got injured and old, so what happens...they get a young guy named Andrew Luck who can do everything Manning did but will be in the league until 2025 instead of 2015. Like Wilson, he put together a great TD-INT ratio at 23:9. Luck and Wilson have the opportunity to run this league into the 2020s and I have all the faith that they will.

3. Green Bay Packers - Aaron Rodgers
Something that never happens anymore was the best thing that ever happened to Aaron Rodgers. He sat behind Brett Favre for 3 seasons before being handed the reins. Since that time he has proven to be one of the best all-around QBs to ever grace a football field. He plays with a chip on his shoulder because he's done a lot of waiting in his life: from being passed over by team after team in the draft, then hanging out behind Favre for 3 seasons, all help Rodgers be the player he is. I think he has the best mix of skills at the QB position in the NFL today. He can throw the ball wherever needed, make the adjustments necessary, and breakdown a defense effectively. Even though he missed a large chunk of football this season, don't be surprised if he gets those extra reps in the playoffs by playing into mid or late January.

2. Denver Broncos - Peyton Manning
Is there anything else to say about Peyton Manning that hasn't already been said? Actually, I have quite a lot to say about Peyton Manning. I hold all judgment for him on how he plays over the next month. I know he can throw for almost 5,500 yards, 55 TDs and a 115.1 passer rating. That's all great. He studies the game every minute like someone is going to take the information away from him if he doesn't absorb it constantly. When he's on the field he always makes the adjustments to succeed...unless it's 20 degrees and windy. Then he loses to the Patriots. Statistically, Peyton Manning is the best QB to ever grace the field. He is a fantasy football gem. Seriously, I think every fantasy football team that had Peyton Manning this season won their league. That isn't what really matters, though. But, Peyton knows that. He puts up the pretty numbers and places his name in all the record books but his kryptonite is the fact that he is playing in the era of Brady. He throws 5 more TDs in a season than Brady's best and 252 more yards this season than in Brady's best year but that doesn't matter. Brady has 3 rings to Manning's 1 and Brady has owned Peyton in head to head battles, 10 to 4.

1. New England Patriots - Tom Brady
Here is why Tom Brady is ahead of Peyton Manning. Tom Brady is 17-7 in the playoffs. Manning is 9-11 with eight one-and-down losses. Brady has 3 Super Bowl rings and if not for two amazing catches by Giants' receivers, he'd have 5. We won't focus on what could have been though. We'll focus on what is. Brady started full time in 2001, he's averaged 27.6 TDs per season, Manning has 30.8. Interceptions: Brady -10.6 per season, Manning -13.3. Career Passer Rating: Brady - 95.7, Manning - 97.2. You're probably looking at these numbers and saying, "Brady isn't putting up better numbers in these categories, why is he better?" He's better because their stats are so close but when the two QBs end up on the same field against each other, Brady finds a way to win 72% of the time. I know it's a team sport and there are 21 other guys starting for each team that contribute to success but while Brady's style helps to improve and exalt the team to new heights, Manning boosts the offense to another level and watches his defense get softer and weaker each game. Manning might go down as the second best QB of all-time but he'll be second behind Tom Brady. Brady doesn't need another Super Bowl ring, passing TD, or playoff win, he's locked it up in my book. Brady isn't only the best QB in the league right now but the best QB to ever play.

Added Fun - Playoff Predictions - Wild Card Week

Kansas City Chiefs vs Indianapolis Colts

A rematch of a Week 16 beatdown by the Colts is expected to be a toss-up this time around. The Chiefs made major mistakes in that matchup and lost the turnover battle but I wouldn't put it past Andy Reid that he knew there was a good chance these two teams would play again this week and kept some tricks up his sleeve. If you look at my QB matchup, its' my No. 4 guy Andrew Luck against No. 17 Alex Smith. The plus for Smith is that he's extremely consistent. If the Chiefs defense could force a turnover early and get a 10 to 14 point lead then I'm all in for Smith managing the game and getting the Chiefs a win. If it comes down to a tie game in the 4th quarter, I'm putting all my chips in on Luck to make the big plays down the stretch. 

Prediction: Colts 27, Chiefs 24

New Orleans Saints vs Philadelphia Eagles

The Saints haven't been the same on the road but they've played tough defenses in their 3 latest home losses. Philly doesn't have a stout defense. Philly is going to have to score early and often to win this one. They'll rely on LeSean McCoy and ball control to take away possessions from the Saints. I don't think it's out of the realm of possibility for the Eagles to win this game but the Saints are the better team on paper. Drew Brees has so many targets on offense and it'll be hard for the worst defense in the playoffs to stop him. Chip Kelly has been a master this season on offense and winning this game will depend on his offense being his defense. It doesn't look like it will be enough, unless that arctic blast gets to Philly from Green Bay and freezes the Saints offense. 

Prediction: Saints 34, Eagles 28

San Diego Chargers vs Cincinnati Bengals

The Chargers have finally finished a season properly. They've had so many struggles of completely falling apart down the stretch, they've won 4 straight to make the playoffs but I think this will be a short lived celebration. The Bengals have dominated teams at home this season. They haven't played cupcakes at home, either. They broke Tom Brady's streak of consecutive games with a TD pass and beat the Pats. They defeated the Packers early in the season when Rodgers was healthy. And they shredded the Colts, 42-28, a few weeks ago. If there is one game this weekend that'll let us down, it'll be this one. The playoff excitement for San Diego will be over quickly.

Prediction: Bengals 31, Chargers 17

San Francisco 49ers vs Green Bay Packers

Here's a quick message from the national weather service. It'll be -5 degrees air temperature at game start. The temperature will then drop throughout the game to a low of -18. Once the wind chill is factored in the temperature will feel like -25 to -35 degrees. You know what the record low in San Francisco is for January? 32 degrees. That's close to the record high for Green Bay in January. We're talking about two very different worlds colliding in Wisconsin. On paper the 49ers are head and shoulders above the Packers but a few game changers reside on the Packers that could alter this outcome greatly. This game is the hardest one for me to figure out because it's hard to predict how the weather will affect San Francisco. I'm going to say this will be a sloppy, hard fought game. 

Prediction: 49ers 19, Packers 17

Neanderthal Hockey League

"It is not the strongest of the species that survives...It is the one that is the most adaptable to change." - Charles Darwin.

This is some advice that the NHL needs to take immediately or they're in serious trouble of becoming extinct. Over the weekend, the Boston Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins showed the pure brutality that surrounds the NHL. A brutality that is accepted and promoted by the league. The league that has people like Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly who says he's "completely satisfied" with how player safety has been handled in situations dealing with concussions. Add to it the mass of clowns, such as, Digital Journal's Rocco Pendola, who blames Orpik for the incident. Claiming "if Orpik fought Thornton the first time he "asked" him to, the ugly incident...never would have happened."

Are you kidding me?!? 

Is that the type of rationale that should be utilized in the NHL? Welcome to the "Let's Blame the Victim" Hockey League. I know that Rocco Pendola isn't directly linked to the NHL, at least that I know of, but I'm positive he isn't the only one who possesses that view. How does that reasoning work in other situations? 

Yes, I understand your car was stolen, sir. Did you ever think that if you wouldn't have left it that it might not have been stolen? 

Here's another one:

So he robbed your purse from you, Ma'am? I see. Were you carrying a weapon? No? Well there's nothing we're going to do about it. You should have been carrying a gun and taken action yourself.

I'm all for personal responsibility. You shouldn't blame someone else for opportunities that you missed out on. But, let's get serious. If someone doesn't have enough self-control of their own to restrain themselves from going American History X on you, then I don't think the problem is on your end. Brooks Orpik is a very intelligent player. He knows how to rough guys up during the action of the game. There is no reason for him to be forced to fight, a.k.a hold another man's jersey and throw hay-makers to their head for 45 seconds until the refs step in. The goon culture of hockey is repulsive and outdated. In a period of evolution in sports pertaining to head and spinal injuries, how can a professional league continue to allow it's players to take fists to the temple to follow some meat-headed "code". 

Hybrid Icing - Yeah they're making a stance.

Falling perfectly in line with the issue the NHL has, is it's acknowledgement of not wanting players to crash viciously into the boards racing to beat an icing call. But apparently, there is no major issue with guys crashing into another player's fists in a fight, that can be just as damaging, if not worse. The vote to change how icing is called is a minor step in the right direction. My next request of the NHL is that they step up in the face of their die-hard fans and evolve. It's time to take this gladiator style out of sports. There needs to be a strict change to hockey, or it's going to die off like boxing has. 

Fighting is an integral part of the game that is a momentum changer to games and fuels rivalries, etc, etc.

I don't care. Fighting isn't tolerated in Olympic hockey and that never hurts the quality of the game. We don't need these goons dropping their gloves at the opening drop of the puck to "change momentum" and "make a statement". The NHL has to start an outlaw of fighting. If you get in a fight it's an automatic suspension. Also, the refs should break all fights up, immediately. Don't tell me that it gives anything positive to the game by watching two clowns skate around for 25 seconds looking at each other and holding jerseys. As soon as the gloves drop, the whistle should blow and the refs step in. This mindset that fighting is a core component of the NHL is ludicrous. It's time for the NHL to stop acting like they care about players with hybrid icing and start actually caring by taking away fighting and the behavior of these goons in hockey.

I love hockey as much as the next guy, maybe even more, but I hope all of the goons lose their jobs and the NHL makes the sport more focused on excellent play during game action. It's time to change the rules to protect players and evolve beyond a gladiator sport.

NFL Future Rankings: Week 11

Here is the 3rd installment of the NFL Future Rankings. A full analysis, including final record and playoff picture is included with this post. Enjoy!

32. Atlanta Falcons 2-8 (-1) 
This team has completely collapsed. If they're able to win another game then I'd be shocked. They got throttled by the Tampa Bay Bucs who until last week didn't know if they'd win a game all season. They have a ton of injuries, but as I said last week, so does New England. This is a year that has been completely shocking to Atlanta because they had so much promise and everyone expected them to contend with New Orleans for the NFC South. Final Record Prediction: 2-14

31. Houston Texans 2-8 (-3)
I tried to stay positive for Houston. I tried to hold off on saying that they completely collapsed and have no hope. I'm done trying. If Andre Johnson stops trying, then there is no reason for me to believe in Houston. When you give 10 years to a start-up franchise and it looked like it was finally going to pay off, then it didn't, Johnson has to feel like you put everything into a relationship and then found out you were dating a habitual liar. From what I saw on Sunday, Johnson thinks he and Houston should see other people. Final Record Prediction: 3-13

30. Jacksonville Jaguars 1-9 (No Change)
The Jaguars are kinda getting something figured out and hung around with a solid Arizona team for 3 quarters. I don't see anything amazing happening the rest of the season for Jacksonville and don't have much to say about them. My expectations were that they'd get the top pick in the draft but they have some easy games remaining and could get as low as a 4th pick in the draft. Final Record Prediction: 3-13

29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2-8 (No Change)
I see a bit of light shining for the Buccaneers but they don't have many easy games coming up like dysfunctional Miami or hopeless Atlanta. They could steal one against St. Louis, Buffalo, or even Detroit but that'd be a stretch for the Bucs. I think they've found something in a QB with Glennon and it's apparent that their O-line is solid because they can put in whoever from wherever and he can put up a career day. I like what Tampa has done the past two weeks but don't see any more W's in the win-loss column. Final Record Prediction: 2-14

28. Minnesota Vikings 2-8 (-1)
It's now clear that Adrian Peterson might be out for some time and is clearly banged up. AP is the only bright light from a skill position for Minnesota. If he decides to call it a year because we're already out of the playoff picture and I don't want to risk a more serious injury, then Minnesota is done. They become just as hopeless as Tampa, Houston and Atlanta. Even if AP plays again this year, they're done. Final Record Prediction: 2-14

27. Washington Redskins 3-7 (-1)
The past two weeks were opportunities for Washington to get back on track and control their fate in the NFC East. That time has passed. RGIII has appeared to regress once again and made an arid heave to the endzone on a 3rd & 1 that was intercepted. It seemed like Griffin thought it was 4th down by how he tossed it to the endzone. The Redskins are done this season and change is coming. Final Record Prediction: 4-12

26. Tennessee Titans 4-6 (-1)
For two weeks in a row, Tennessee has had a great chance to take control of the AFC Wild Card race and failed to do so. They had Indianapolis dead to rights and then in a span of about 1 minute, they lost the lead and the game was over. With Jake Locker out for the season, Ryan Fitzpatrick is doing a decent job keeping Tennessee in the games but they're still losing. They have an opportunity to win about 3 more games this season and go 7-9, they'll fall short of that though. Final Record Prediction: 5-11

25. San Diego Chargers 4-6 (-6)
Once again we look at a San Diego team that has had many opportunities to be contenders and failed. With Denver once and Kansas City twice on the remaining schedule, San Diego will be lucky to get to 6-10. It might be time to start a full rebuilding process. There should be a franchise potential QB for the future sitting there if San Diego can get a Top 10 pick. Final Record Prediction: 5-11

24. Buffalo Bills 4-7 (No Change)
I like the rest of the season for Buffalo. They have their star rookie QB back who has the potential to play well and bring Buffalo back to a playoff opportunity. Their remaining schedule includes no good teams other than New England week 17. I'm very confident that Buffalo can beat Atlanta, Tampa Bay, Jacksonville, and Miami. Final Record Prediction: 8-8

23. Oakland Raiders 4-6 (No Change)
I think Oakland has one more win left in them. Matt McGloin looked very good against Houston and while Terrelle Pryor has the athleticism, I think Oakland needs to look for a stable QB like a McGloin. The kid walked on in Penn State, then pretty much walked on to the Raiders. He's a hard worker. Final Record Prediction: 5-11

22. Miami Dolphins 5-5 (+10)
I took matters in to my own hands and punished Miami for their absolute lack of leadership, pure dysfunction, and complete idiocy. They beat San Diego and are still in playoff contention. They don't have an easy road the rest of the way as they face Carolina, Pittsburgh and New England, which should all be losses. I still think Miami is completely dysfunctional and won't win another game, but they got moved up 10 spots because they're slightly better than the mediocrity below them. Final Record Prediction: 5-11

21. Cleveland Browns 4-6 (-3)
I'll say it now. I was wrong. Cleveland couldn't hold on to the ball or get their offense going. They gave up 31 straight to Cincinnati and dropped themselves out of the playoff race. The road doesn't get easier for Cleveland and as I said before, they're still a year away. Final Record Prediction: 5-11

20. St. Louis Rams 4-6 (+1)
The Rams have a fantastic D-Line that make them capable of contending. The issue is that their schedule gets very hard in the coming weeks with San Francisco, New Orleans, Seattle, and Chicago this week. They have a chance to steal a game against one of these teams and should beat Tampa Bay. If St. Louis could get a franchise QB or possibly just a healthy Sam Bradford, then they could win some games next year. But, they'll have to wait until next year to get those wins. Final Record Prediction: 5-11

19. Baltimore Ravens 4-6 (-3)
The champs have struggled mightily this season and I think this is who they are this year. Flacco doesn't have the receivers that he needs to have big games, his offensive line has struggled, giving him no time to throw and having an inept running game. The defense is a glimpse of what they were last year. I think Baltimore  has a handful of games they'll win the rest of the way out. Final Record Prediction: 7-9

18. Pittsburgh Steelers 4-6 (+4)
Other than a blowout loss to New England, Pittsburgh has looked good the past few weeks. It helped that they faced Buffalo the week E.J. Manuel came back and then took on the Lions who never live up to expectations, but they are improved from their initial start. The Steelers have 4 division games remaining and then face Miami and Green Bay. The Steelers will have to win all 6 of those to make the playoffs. They'll fall a little short, though. Final Record Prediction: 8-8

17. New York Giants 4-6 (+3)
Is this a team of destiny? No. They don't do anything well. They're extremely shaky in every aspect of the game and because of a cupcake schedule the past 4 weeks they pulled back into contention. Eli stopped throwing 3 INTs a game and the defense found a way to stop someone. Also, the running game is getting more than 14 yards per game. People think this team will win 6 more and make the playoffs. I'm not going nearly that far. They'll win a few more and miss the playoffs. Final Record Prediction: 7-9

16. Dallas Cowboys 5-5 (+1)
Coming off of a bye week Dallas plays their most important game of the year. If they lose to the Giants they'll be tied with them for second in the NFC East. I couldn't be disappointed since the Cowboys didn't play this week but if they lose to the Giants I might have to put them No. 32 in the rankings. Three weeks ago, the Cowboys had the NFC East locked up but after losing two of three, the Eagles control the East. The Cowboys have been extremely average over the past 10+ years so I don't see that changing. Final Record Prediction: 8-8

15. Green Bay Packers 5-5 (-1)
Can they win a game with Scott Tolzien? So far the answer is no. They get Minnesota before a Thanksgiving match-up against Detroit and Tolzien is starting again. Aaron Rodgers should be back the week after that but the Packers may be too far out of the playoff race to have a chance. Once Rodgers comes back, I think they make a valiant effort but it won't be enough to make the playoffs. Final Record Prediction: 10-6

14. New York Jets 5-5 (-4)
This will be the only other time you hear me say I'm wrong in this ranking. I said Geno Smith wouldn't have another 3+ turnover game, well he surpassed my expectations and had 4. I thought maybe he had something figured out and was heading in the right direction but the inconsistency continues. One thing I stand by is that the Jets will eclipse .500 this season and make the playoffs as the No. 6 seed. Final Record Prediction: 9-7, AFC WILD CARD

13. Arizona Cardinals 6-4 (+2)
I pointed out last week that Arizona has quietly won 4 of 6. After beating the Jags by 13 they've now won 3 straight and are tied with San Francisco for 2nd in the NFC West. They get an Indianapolis team that hasn't looked great since beating Denver. If Arizona could win this week they'll have a chance of making the playoffs. They'll get close to sneaking in this year but fall short. Final Record Prediction: 9-7

12. Cincinnati Bengals 7-4 (+1)
I went bold and said Cincinnati would collapse and miss the playoffs. While the Steelers are coming on, they're too far back and I don't see it happening. Cincinnati got nothing from Andy Dalton this week and found 2 defensive TDs to accelerate a 31-0 run to beat Cleveland. The Bengals head into a bye week and come back with 5 games they could easily win. Bengals will get things figured out enough to make the playoffs. Final Record Prediction: 11-5, AFC NORTH CHAMPIONS

11. Chicago Bears 6-4 (+2)
Wind, rain and tornadoes couldn't stop the Bears on Sunday. Neither could the Baltimore Ravens. Josh McCown has been a great fill-in with Jay Cutler still injured and the Bears look like they're a formidable team. The sad part is that the NFC is better than the AFC and the Bears are going to finish on the outside looking in again. It won't be because they falter mightily down the stretch, they just don't have enough to get in. Final Record Prediction: 10-6

10. Detroit Lions 6-4 (-4)
They let me down but I keep the faith in the Lions. They should be able to win every game the rest of the way with their biggest test on Thanksgiving against the Packers where the Lions usually win. I'm going bold with these Lions and saying that they get the message about what happened in Pittsburgh and don't let it happen again. They have the best WR in the league and a huge weapon in Reggie Bush who can make big plays. Only two of their remaining games are on the road and they're at Philadelphia and Minnesota. This is probably the worst decision I've made in a while but, I'm fully supporting the Lions. Final Record Prediction: 12-4, NFC NORTH CHAMPIONS

9. Philadelphia Eagles 6-5 (+2)
This offense heads into a bye week on fire. Hopefully resting for a week doesn't extinguish it. Nick Foles looks great running that offense. He's got Riley Cooper and DeSean Jackson rolling and the best running game in the league thanks to LeSean McCoy. This team has figured it out and they'll get the job done down the stretch and make the playoffs. Final Record Prediction: 10-6, NFC EAST CHAMPIONS

8. Kansas City Chiefs 9-1 (No Change)
How about the great defensive line? I guess not. They got zero pressure on Peyton Manning and once they fell behind, the receivers couldn't catch the ball from Alex Smith. Don't fret though Chiefs fans. I think they'll beat Denver in two weeks and finish 14-2 and have home-field advantage in the playoffs. Final Record Prediction: 14-2, AFC WEST CHAMPIONS

7. San Francisco 49ers 6-4 (No Change)
What's going on with Colin Kaepernick? He seems to be struggling more and more each week. Since his 412 yard performance week 1 against Green Bay, Kaepernick has thrown for 154 yards per game. He's also thrown 8 TDs to 7 INTs during the stretch. These aren't the expected numbers of someone who people said would revolutionize QB position. It seems like the tape on him has allowed people to find his weaknesses and stop him. Also, the team around him and coaches deserve some blame because they've struggled the past few weeks. The 49ers need to get the running game going with Frank Gore, too. That week 1 win over Green Bay is what's going to give them the tie-breaker to be the 6th seed. Final Record Prediction: 10-6, NFC WILD CARD

6. Indianapolis Colts 7-3 (+3)
For a team that's been outscored by 60 points in the first half the past 3 games, they keep finding a way to win. The Colts have a few tough ones down the stretch but they always seem to come through strong when it matters and play to the potential of their opponents. They face the Chiefs in week 16 and that game will tell us how Indy matches up against the tops of the AFC without Reggie Wayne. A weak division will put the Colts at the No. 3 seed in the AFC. Final Record Prediction: 12-4, AFC SOUTH CHAMPIONS

5. New England Patriots 7-3 (-2)
Was it a penalty? Should they have played an un-timed down from the 1-yd line? I heard explanations that make the ruling acceptable and as Tom Brady said "that play isn't where we lost the game." With a tough loss to Carolina and Denver on the horizon, New England's defense needs to get healthier. The positive for New England is that Peyton always struggles when he has to go to Foxboro. I think New England once again finds a way to get a win at home against Denver and helps Kansas City become the No. 1 seed in the AFC. The Patriots are fine to make the playoffs and go in as the No. 2 seed. Final Record Prediction: 13-3, AFC EAST CHAMPIONS

4. Carolina Panthers 7-3 (+1)
Amongst all of this debate over the call at the end of the game is the fact that Cam Newton led a comeback game-winning drive against New England in the final minutes. I'm not sure what Carolina will have to do next to prove their legitimate but taking one of two against New Orleans will surely help. The Panthers can't have a hangover effect heading into two very easy games against Miami and Tampa Bay, though. If they get to 9-3 heading into their first battle against New Orleans, they should essentially have the No. 5 seed locked up. They'll take one of two against New Orleans and be the No. 5 seed. Final Record Prediction: 12-4, NFC WILD CARD

3. New Orleans Saints 8-2 (No Change)
They squeezed one out against the 49ers and control their own destiny heading into 3 games that will show where they truly stack up against the NFC. They travel to Seattle and then have two games against Carolina. They're a legitimate Super Bowl contender but they'll go 1-2 in those three games by beating Carolina once. Due to conference record, the Saints will beat out the Panthers for the NFC South. Final Record Prediction: 12-4, NFC SOUTH CHAMPIONS

2. Denver Broncos 9-1 (No Change)
The offensive line looked like the Berlin Wall in the early 1980s and let nothing through. For now they've proven they're the top team in the AFC but Kansas City showed me that the gap isn't very large. A few plays would have Denver sitting at 8-2. A rematch against Kansas City in two weeks after a tough game against New England will result in two losses for the Broncos and make them the best No. 5 seed in a long time. Final Record Prediction: 13-3, AFC WILD CARD

1. Seattle Seahawks 10-1 (No Change)
Nobody is close to the Seahawks. They destroy teams with their defense and have an offense that is only getting stronger with Percy Harvin back. I don't see anyone touching the Seahawks and they'll run straight to the Super Bowl with the No. 1 seed. Final Record Prediction: 15-1, NFC WEST CHAMPIONS

NFL PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS

NFC

1. Seattle Seahawks - Bye Week

2. New Orleans Saints - Bye Week

6. San Francisco 49ers @ 3. Detroit Lions

5. Carolina Panthers @ 4. Philadelphia Eagles

AFC

1. Kansas City Chiefs - Bye Week

2. New England Patriots - Bye Week

6. New York Jets @ 3. Indianapolis Colts

5. Denver Broncos @ 4. Cincinnati Bengals

Next week I'll make my selections for who will win the NFL Wild Card Weekend and set up for the NFC Divisional Round. This will be the last Future Ranking. Next week will be analysis if my playoff selections are still holding up or if things have changed. 

Feel free to comment! 

NFL Future Rankings: Week 10

For the second week in a row, here are the NFL rankings for all 32 teams. There are some movers and shakers and I'll show the ups and downs for each team next to their record! I would love to hear some comments and insight into your thoughts.

32. Miami Dolphins 4-5 (No Change) 
I hate to play the "I told you so" card but if you didn't see Miami struggling against Tampa then you weren't paying attention to all the nonsense that has surrounded this team over the past week and a half. I don't see things getting better for Miami because it seems like the organization is unable to admit their issues and clean this up quickly. When it came out that Aaron Hernandez was involved in a murder case, the Patriots cut all ties with him. This issue with Incognito isn't as serious, but if you keep him on your team and he's just suspended then you have to keep talking about him. If you cut him then your response is "he no longer plays for us, next question." Bold Prediction: Miami doesn't win more than 6 games.

31. Atlanta Falcons 2-7 (-7)
This team has completely flat-lined. They're done for the season and I can't keep blaming it on injuries. Matt Ryan has under-performed all season but we've tried to say he hasn't. Their top 2 receivers are injured was the excuse but New England managed through their top 5 receivers out of the lineup for 6 weeks and they survived it. Honestly, I don't think Atlanta was as good last year as we thought they were, they just fooled us with close wins. Now, I'm not sure they'll beat Tampa Bay this coming week. Bold Prediction: Atlanta finishes last in the NFC South at 3-13.

30. Jacksonville Jaguars 1-8 (+1)
If the game would have ended at halftime I would have moved Jacksonville up above 30 but they barely held on to get their first win of the season. I don't see them getting much more than 3 wins on the season and they'll probably be right there in contention for the No. 1 draft pick. Let's just hope they make a smart decision with that selection. Bold Prediction: Jacksonville moves to London or L.A. in the next 5 years. 

29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 1-8 (+1)
Congratulations to the 2008 Detroit Lions, you're still the only team to make it through a 16 game season without a win. Also, Congratulations to the Bucs for getting a win against the most dysfunctional team in the league. Too bad you couldn't play Miami every week. On the good side, you get a terrible Atlanta team who seems to have given up on the season. If you can beat the Falcons, you'll have a great chance to not be the worst team in the NFC South. Bold Prediction: Mike Glennon is the QB of the future and plays Tampa out of a Top 2 draft choice. 

28. Houston Texans 2-7 (-5)
I had faith that the Texans could get things going in the right direction and beat the Arizona Cardinals. They came close but once again fell short. This team and Atlanta are mirror images to me. Both had great aspirations for this season. Some people had the two facing each other for a Super Bowl. Well, now they're facing off for the best draft choice. In all of this, I'm pretty sure that Case Keenum has kicked Matt Schaub out of town. Anyone remember when Schaub was backing up Vick in Atlanta? Hey, we made it full circle! Ed Reed also thinks the Texans have been getting out coached. I agree. Bold Prediction: The Texans salvage something this season and win 7 games. 

27. Minnesota Vikings 2-7 (+1)
While they got their second win against the Redskins this weekend, I don't see brighter days ahead of the Vikings. With Christian Ponder getting banged up again, it looks like Matt Cassel could get another go at QB, either way it doesn't matter. They need to give Adrian Peterson 30+ touches a game but their schedule doesn't get any easier from here. Bold Prediction: While I moved them up, I don't see them getting more than 3 total wins this season. 

26. Washington Redskins 3-6 (-11)
I held the Redskins in high regard last week and saw them getting to 4-5, but they failed to beat the lowly Vikings. They probably should have dropped lower but if they reel off two or three wins they'll be right there in the NFC East. I don't see that happening, though. Bold Prediction: Redskins see some changes, not to the name, but to the coaching staff. Mike Shanahan will be fired. 

25. Tennessee Titans 4-5 (-8)
They had an opportunity to be handed an AFC Wild Card spot and control their own destiny the rest of the way with a win over the worst team in the league. Instead, Jake Locker got a season ending injury, and with one-loss, Tennessee has collapsed out of the playoff picture. Bold Prediction: Jacksonville beats Tennessee again in Week 16. The Titans falter and finish below .500. 

24. Buffalo Bills 3-7 (-2)
While the offense punted about 50 times against the Steelers, I think Buffalo has a very easy road after their Week 12 bye week. If they could find a way to beat the Jets this week, they'll be 4-7 and have a real possibility to get to 8-7 against Atlanta, Jacksonville, Tampa Bay and Miami. Bold Prediction: E.J. Manuel gets his timing back and the Bills get to 8-8 and contend for a playoff spot.

23. Oakland Raiders 3-6 (+2)
A 4-point loss improved them two spots. No credit goes to the Raiders for improving in my power rankings, it goes to the Redskins and Titans for being so perplexingly bad. As I said last week, the road for the Raiders gets very difficult in the final weeks. Bold Prediction: The Raiders will get 5 wins this season and Terrelle Pryor's guarantee will come true. 

22. Pittsburgh Steelers 3-6 (+7)
The defense looked fantastic against a rookie who hasn't play in several weeks. I can't give too much credit to the Steelers but in a very shaky AFC North, they have a chance to upset some playoff chances for their rivals. With 4 of their final 6 against division opponents, the Steelers will decide who makes the playoffs in the AFC North. Bold Prediction: The Steelers will play a part in eliminating the Bengals from the playoffs.

21. St. Louis Rams 4-6 (+6)
This is a legitimate defense in St. Louis. If they could only find a QB who could make plays for them then they'd be a serious contender. What they did to the Colts was impressive. They have some tough NFC West games down the stretch with one game against each division opponent. Bold Prediction: Just like the Steelers, the Rams will decide the NFC West and keep San Francisco out of the playoffs.

20. New York Giants 3-6 (+6)
They didn't destroy the Raiders but they've won 3 straight. They still have a litany issues but they're in the NFC East, they're not out of a playoff spot by any means. They could win 6 of their final 7 games and be right there week 17 to get into the playoffs. The Giants really stretched their "start slow, get hot late" M.O. this season. Bold Prediction: The Giants will finish 9-7 but miss the playoffs. 

19. San Diego Chargers 4-5 (No Change)
They kept it close with the Broncos and may have helped their rival Kansas City out by aggravating Peyton Manning's ankle injury late in the game. The Chargers are the Cowboys of the AFC to me. They have a ton of talent, win games they shouldn't, then lose games they should win. They'll finish somewhere around .500 and if they can get their act together they might vie for a playoff spot. Bold Prediction: I don't have one for this team. They just anger me. 

18. Cleveland Browns 4-5 (No Change)
The Browns have Bengals, Steelers and Jaguars coming up next. If they beat the Bengals then they could be 7-5 and in control of the AFC North in 3 weeks. They'll need help from the Steelers and Ravens but their defense is legit. Bold Prediction: The Cleveland Browns make the playoffs.

17. Dallas Cowboys 5-5 (-5)
I said that I learned to never rank them too high last week but apparently I still ranked them too high. I didn't think they'd lose like that to New Orleans. They gave up the most first downs in league history and looked atrocious on defense. Also, Sean Lee might be out for the rest of the season. If that's the case then the Cowboys are done. They have a bye week coming up, then the Giants. Bold Prediction: The Cowboys once again finish .500 and miss the playoffs. 

16. Baltimore Ravens 4-5 (+5)
They fought off an improbable Hail Mary that forced overtime against Cincinnati and have the opportunity to get hot and make a run for the AFC North. Their schedule leaves the possibility to get to 9-7 but it could come down to a week 17 rematch against Cincinnati for the AFC North. Bold Prediction: The Ravens beat the Bengals week 17, which gives the Cleveland Browns a playoff berth. 

15. Arizona Cardinals 5-4 (+5)
Arizona might be the worst team in the NFC West but that still makes them a pretty good team. They've hung close with Seattle and San Francisco this season and they'll face them week 16 and 17, respectively. Arizona has quietly won 4 of 6 and have some favorable matchups against Jacksonville, Indy and Philadelphia. Watch out for the Cardinals to be contenders for the 6th playoff spot in the NFC. Bold Prediction: Arizona helps to knock the 49ers out of the playoffs, and potentially take a spot themselves.

14. Green Bay Packers 5-4 (-1)
They take a small drop with their loss to the Eagles and with Scott Tolzien as QB for at least two more weeks, it looks like the Packers are going to fall out of the playoff picture. They have a chance to control their own destiny with Chicago and Detroit still on the schedule but both games are on the road and we don't know what form Aaron Rodgers will return in. Bold Prediction: The Packers miss the playoffs this season.

13. Cincinnati Bengals 6-4 (-2)
Oh, Andy Dalton. We thought you might finally be stepping into an elite level of play. We were wrong. The Bengals have looked terrible over the past two weeks and barely salvaged an OT loss with a miracle tip drill catch by A.J. Green. They face Cleveland before a bye week and if they go into the bye at 6-5, they're in serious trouble of missing the playoffs and losing the AFC North to the Ravens or Browns. Bold Prediction: I hinted at it earlier, the Bengals will miss the playoffs and complete a total collapse that started with an OT safety loss to the Dolphins.

12. Chicago Bears 5-4 (-4)
A loss after a failed 2-point conversation attempt puts them a game back of the Lions for the NFC North. Jay Cutler may miss several weeks with a high ankle sprain and while Josh McCown is a great backup, he's still a backup. The Bears will hang around in the NFC North and Wild Card playoff discussion but we might see another strong start go to waste if they miss the playoffs again. Bold Prediction: Jay Cutler doesn't play another game the rest of the season.

11. Philadelphia Eagles 5-5 (+5)
Chip Kelly has the NFC East sitting in his lap and he has a great chance to look like a genius and have a successful first year as coach and make the playoffs. They could get in with 4 more wins if the Giants, Cowboys, and Redskins all knock each other off. Bold Prediction: The Eagles make the playoffs and win the NFC East with Nick Foles as QB the rest of the season.

10. New York Jets 5-4 (+4)
A bye week was just what the Jets needed. This was Geno Smith's week to have a bad game so if they skip a bad week, the back and forth rotation of bad and good from Geno Smith will give the Jets a 9-7 finish. That great defense gives them a chance to win every game. They gain four spots because the AFC Wild Card contenders around them have all been shaky as of late. Bold Prediction: Geno Smith won't throw 3 interceptions in another game this season.

9. Indianapolis Colts 6-3 (-5)
Even Reggie Wayne wouldn't have helped the Colts to beat St. Louis. The Rams dominated Indy and pointed out some major flaws for the Colts. Their offensive line isn't very good, and they have had some serious injuries hurt them this season. Kansas City is the only real tough test left on their schedule and nobody in the AFC South will catch them. Bold Prediction: There isn't much bold to say. The Colts will make the playoffs, and will lose to either Denver or New England in playoffs.

8. Kansas City Chiefs 9-0 (-1)
This week is the ultimate test for the Chiefs. If they can beat the Broncos then I will respect them and put them in the top 5. If not, then they are who I think they are. A fantastic defense that isn't doing enough on offense to be elite. Bold Prediction: The Chiefs beat the Broncos because Peyton Manning goes out of the game with an injury.

7. San Francisco 49ers 6-3 (-2)
Where'd you go, Colin Kaepernick? People were talking that you were the hardest QB to defend in the league. Carolina made it look pretty easy, holding you to 91 passing yards and keeping the Niners out of the endzone. If Kaep doesn't start performing better then the 49ers are in serious trouble. Even if he does play well they have four tough games coming up. Bold Prediction: The 49ers miss the playoffs and Jim Harbaugh is wondering why he sent Alex Smith away.

6. Detroit Lions 6-3 (+4)
Detroit's offense is explosive and their defense is capable of stopping opponents enough times to get wins. This looks like it could easily be the year that the Lions win the NFC North and make the playoffs. The Lions final 7 are all games where they could put check marks in the win column. Bold Predictions: Detroit wins the NFC North and finally live up to their expectations of the past years.

5. Carolina Panthers 6-3 (+4)
A cross-country trip to San Francisco resulted in a strong defensive performance and a 10-9 win. There is no rest for Carolina in their pursuit to be considered legitimate as they'll face New England on Monday Night Football. Cam Newton needs to continue to play well and get the offense about 21 points per game and let that defense go to work. Bold Prediction: The Panthers will make the playoffs as a Wild Card. 

4. New Orleans Saints 7-2 (+2)
At home this offense is deadly. The New Orleans Saints dominated the Cowboys and continue to dominate at home. The Saints still have 4 road games remaining on their schedule including a trip to Seattle. They'll have a home and road game against Carolina which will likely decide the NFC South, and this week face San Francisco. Bold Prediction: The Saints will finish 11-5 but still take the NFC South.

3. New England Patriots 7-2 (No Change)
They have two tough tests in the next two weeks then face cupcakes the rest of the season. If they can beat Carolina and Denver then they have a likely chance of going 14-2 and being the top seed in the AFC once again. Bold Prediction: The Patriots will make their way back to the Super Bowl again. 

2. Denver Broncos 8-1 (-1)
Peyton's ankle is what dropped the Broncos from the top spot. I know he has one of the most fierce work ethics in the league, but his age can restrict him and the Chiefs defense could leave him watching from the sidelines. Bold Prediction: Peyton Manning really messes up his ankle and misses more than just the rest of the game against the Chiefs.

1. Seattle Seahawks 9-1 (+1)
After two shaky games, it looks like the Seahawks got things back on track. With 4 of the final 6 games at home, Seattle has a great shot at getting the top spot in the NFC with a 14-2 or 13-3 record. The Seahawks face Minnesota then head into a bye week which comes at a perfect time. They'll come back and face New Orleans and San Francisco, wins in those games will secure the NFC for the Seahawks. Bold Prediction: The Seahawks secure home-field advantage and make it to the Super Bowl.

I'm going to hold off on a playoff standings this week because so much is up in the air right now. Next week, I will analyze the remainder of the schedule and give an in-depth analysis of the playoff picture.

Biggest Gain: Pittsburgh Steelers +7
Biggest Loser: Washington Redskins -11

NFL Future Rankings

A True Ranking of all 32 Teams in the NFL

In this power ranking, I am not focused on records and how each team has played to this point in the season. I am looking forward at what will be accomplished by the teams in the remainder of the NFL season and who are the top teams heading into the playoffs. I am ranking based off of who I think would win the majority of games against every other team in the NFL week by week. My top team will be a team that I feel could beat the other 31 teams 8 or 9 times out of 10. So, here is the official ranking from 32-1. Enjoy and feel free to comment.

32. Miami Dolphins 4-4

Yes, I know that they have a .500 record and are in playoff contention in the AFC right now, but a bomb just exploded in that locker room that I don't think they will be able to recover from. When you have two of your offensive lineman now off the team and a clearly disrupted and separated locker room, then you are in a terrible place to achieve anything throughout the rest of the season. Add into that the complete lack of leadership and you have the worst team in the NFL.

31. Jacksonville Jaguars 0-8

 I know that the obvious choice for worst team is the Jacksonville Jaguars but I had to go with Miami after my dissatisfaction of how much leadership they lack. Miami would probably beat Jacksonville by 10 points but I would rather be on the Jacksonville Jaguars than the Miami Dolphins.

30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 0-8

One of two winless teams in the NFL and after such a heartbreaking defeat with a 21 point lead against Seattle makes it hard to believe that the Buccaneers will have anything left the rest of the season. If this team goes better than 1-15, I'd be very surprised. The only statement they have is that we held close with the top team in the NFC and maybe we can pull off a couple wins. At least they're my top Florida team. 

29. Pittsburgh Steelers 2-6

Oh how the mighty have fallen. The Pittsburgh Steelers were once noted for having the most dominant defense. The Steel Curtain, and the great defenses under Bill Cowher. We never give up a 100-yd rusher, etc. Well, times have changed. These days teams run wherever they want against the Steelers and on Sunday they gave up 55 points, the most in team history. The Steelers spent too much money in past years to keep aging players, their drafting has been horrible and I don't think the next few years bold well for them to be successful. 

28. Minnesota Vikings 1-7

They have one win this season and it was against the No. 29 Steelers. That isn't why I put them in front of Pittsburgh, though. I think that they realized that they have no leadership at QB so Adrian Peterson should see a ton of carries the rest of the season which gives them better chances to get a couple wins through the remainder of the season. It seems obvious now that the Josh Freeman experiment failed, so let Christian Ponder manage the rest of this season and head into the off-season hoping AP sticks around through a shaky rebuilding process.

27. St. Louis Rams 3-6

I don't really know where to put St. Louis and their almost successful play over the past two weeks. I know that they're better than the teams below them but I think Houston, the Giants, and the next teams right in this 6 or more loss category would beat them. Well that's about all I  have to say about the Rams...

26. New York Giants 2-6

Two straight wins before their bye week made the Giants look a little above mediocre and their future schedule could give them two more wins against a shaky Raiders team and an Aaron Rodgers-less Packers team. 

25. Oakland Raiders 3-5

The Raiders have shown glimmers of hope this season and Terrelle Pryor guaranteed they'd win more than 4 games this season. In order to do that they're going to have to win in the next few weeks before getting Kansas City, San Diego and Denver to end the season. I think they have a chance to show up and beat the Giants this week. 

24. Atlanta Falcons 2-6

A tough loss to the Carolina Panthers who have been on a roll as of late leaves Atlanta wondering where the magic went. With so many injuries and just an overall shaky performance week to week, it doesn't look good for the Falcons heading into the future. If they get Roddy White back healthy and Steven Jackson shows something from his days with the Rams then they could salvage something of this season. 

23. Houston Texans 2-6

I hope that Gary Kubiak makes a complete recovery and the Texans rally behind him and Case Keenum slinging it everywhere to comeback and get some victories this season. They've had a ton of close losses and I think Keenum is only going to continue to improve. I want to rate them higher but I just couldn't find another team to put below them.

22. Buffalo Bills 3-6

With E.J. Manuel back at starting QB and the solid running back play of Fred Jackon and C.J. Spiller (when healthy), I think the Bills have some opportunity to win games down the stretch. With Pittsburgh, Jacksonville, Miami, and Tampa remaining on their schedule, I see an 8-8 possibility in Buffalo. 

21. Baltimore Ravens 4-4

The defending Super Bowl champs have been anything but superb this season. I don't know if I can blame the loss of leadership on defense on the struggles or Anquan Boldin leaving, but something is wrong with the Ravens. I really don't have any hope for the rest of their season and think Cincinnati is pretty much secured of the AFC North, even if the Bengals only go 10-6. 

20. Arizona Cardinals 4-4

Here is another head scratching team. In their wins it seems like their opponents have beaten themselves. I think Larry Fitzgerald's injuries and Carson Palmer playing like Matt Leinart has really hurt a team with a solid defense and play making potential. I don't see them doing anything above average for the remainder. So, i'm predicting 7-9 or 6-10 type finish for the struggling and confusing Cardinals.

19. San Diego Chargers 4-4

This team has to be crushed after a defeating loss against the Washington Redskins. This team has been on the verge of something special since Week 1 but they haven't been able to do it. With 5 tough opponents remaining, I see the Chargers having another mediocre season and a 7-9 finish. They're so close to being a 6-2 team, but since they aren't, I can't expect them to start closing games now. 

18. Cleveland Browns 4-5

It seems like the Browns are once again a year or so away from making a real playoff run. They have such a strong defense that they always seem to be in contention and with Jason Campbell they seem to be more capable on offense. They have a handful of games they could win throughout the remainder of the season but they fall in the same category as Arizona and San Diego...not quite there.

17. Tennessee Titans 4-4

I like their remaining schedule and I think Jake Locker is becoming a quality QB. If they can get CJ2K going then they have a great chance to make a run for the 6th spot in the AFC. I'm not predicting they get it but they have a chance to be in the running in Week 16 or 17. 

16. Philadelphia Eagles 4-5

I'm not overreacting to the Nick Foles 7 TD performance but I am reacting to the Eagles very easy next 5 games. I have them winning 4 of 5 and getting to 8-7 before a toss up game against Dallas in Week 17 that might be for the NFC East. 

15. Washington Redskins 3-5

After squeaking out a win against the Chargers I think the Redskins may finally be getting things in order and with only two tough games remaining on the schedule, I think 9-7 and competition for another playoff spot is back in the Redskins grasp. 

14. New York Jets 5-4

At the beginning of the season I would have probably marked the Jets as the worst team in the league, at least bottom 3. But, they have found magic...every other week that is. If they can keep Geno Smith from multiple interception games then they have a chance to run off 10 or more wins. With Buffalo, Baltimore, Miami 2x, and Oakland remaining, things look good for the Jets behind their fantastic front 7. 

13. Green Bay Packers 5-3

I was tempted to put them even lower because they've been so injury riddled but without knowing the severity of the Aaron Rodgers injury, i'll have to hold off on a firm ranking for them. Either way I don't see them making the playoffs.

12. Dallas Cowboys 5-4

I learned to never rank the Cowboys too high. They always find a way to falter. I think they have a chance to win the NFC East but that's what we've been saying for the past 3 years. They've steadily been a .500 team the past 6-10 years. I don't know what to say about their future. They'll probably be 8-8.

11. Cincinnati Bengals 6-3

What to do as a Bengals fan? I guess hope for Andy Dalton to be successful and steady. Just when he's on fire, he goes cold as ice. Giovani Bernard had the play of the year in my opinion Thursday night, though. I think this team has the AFC North completely wrapped up but that doesn't mean too much going forward. They'll probably go 10-6.

10. Detroit Lions 5-3

An easy remaining schedule and troubles amongst the Packers means this might finally be the year that the Detroit Lions make it back to the playoffs and are able to host a playoff game! It's a joyous day for Detroit, okay maybe i'm building up too much hope for this frustrating franchise. If they go below 10-6 then something tragic had to happen because they are in a perfect spot with some easy opponents. Bets of luck, Lions!

9. Carolina Panthers 5-3

Their first of back to back tests is this week as they face the San Francisco 49ers and then the New England Patriots. If they could find a way to get to 7-3 I think they have a great chance to compete for the NFC South and make the playoffs. A 6-4 record would keep them in contention. Either way, I think they have the best defense in the NFC and an offense with explosive potential. If Cam stays solid and the run game keeps going, they're legit.

8. Chicago Bears 5-3

With Jay Cutler set to return in the next week or two they have a great chance to take control of the NFC North. I think they'll beat the Lions this week but I wouldn't bet money on it. Whoever wins that game is my choice for the NFC North. Right now i'm betting the Bears.

7. Kansas City Chiefs 9-0

Yep, the 9-0 Chiefs are the No. 7 team on my list. I know they're undefeated but let's look at the wins that they have. They beat Houston by 1, Cleveland by 6, and the Bills by 10 because of two defensive TDs. Getting 2 defensive TDs isn't something you're going to have every week and anyone other than Jeff Tuel would've made a better play than that straight to the defender pick-6. If they get to 12-0 then I'll say they're the best team in the NFL because they will have beaten Denver twice and got past a stingy San Diego team that was sandwiched in the middle. I would have a lot more faith in the Chiefs if they started to spread the field a little more and could do more than get into the redzone and kick field goals every time. We'll learn a lot about this team in the next few weeks. 

6. New Orleans Saints 6-2

If this team only played at home then I would rank them No. 1. They have been dominant at home and bipolar on the road. Darren Sproles, Marques Colston and Jimmy Graham were all out or injured against the Jets which played a factor into the loss against the Jets but the Saints have to do all they can to win road games and make sure they're the No. 1 or 2 seed heading into the playoffs because I don't see them going to Seattle or San Francisco and winning a NFC Championship Game. I still think the Saints are a dominant team moving forward but their two games against the Panthers will be a telling tale for how the two teams match-up.

5. San Francisco 49ers 6-2

The 49ers have been hot as of late but with wins against 5 struggling teams (St. Louis, Houston, Tennessee, Arizona and Jacksonville) none of which have a winning record, how confident can we be that they're for real. This week against Carolina will be the first true test for San Fran and then New Orleans the next week will really inform us of how strong the 49ers really are. 

4. Indianapolis Colts 6-2

They had a huge comeback after the Texans were stunned by the on-field collapse of their head coach. If that doesn't happen, I don't think Indy pulls off the comeback. But, I can't judge on what-ifs. The Colts would probably be the No. 2 team if Reggie Wayne wasn't injured but with him out for the season, I don't see the Colts winning another shootout with the Broncos, or against the Patriots, or even the Bengals in the playoffs. With Andrew Luck's ability to always find a way to win, I wouldn't be surprised if they somehow do beat everyone and make it to the Super Bowl.

3. New England Patriots 7-2

They continue to amaze me every week. It looks like they are fragile and on the verge of falling apart, people are asking if Tom Brady is losing it, and then they come and drop 55 on the Pittsburgh Steelers and Tom Brady looks like...well, Tom Brady. If there is any team that others should strive to be like, it's the New England Patriots. If you want to manage a company properly then look at the Patriots. They lose their top players, get to 5-1, get a couple guys back and are 7-2 and waiting right there in the wings to swoop in and take over the top seed in the AFC. 

2. Seattle Seahawks 8-1

This team has been shaky over the last two weeks but they've pulled off two wins and stay in control of the NFC. I badly wanted to put them as the top team but the injuries to their offensive line and the struggles the defense has had the past two weeks worry me about how great they really are. They should easily get to 12 wins with only two opponents with winning records (San Francisco, New Orleans) the rest of the way. If they can hang on to win the NFC West and take the No. 1 seed into the playoffs, they'll be a force to reckon with in the playoffs.

1. Denver Broncos 7-1

With John Fox requiring aortic heart valve surgery and now out for at least a month or more, none of the top teams in the NFL really stand out as being dominant. But, if there's a team that can get through without their head coach it is the Broncos. As much as I despise Peyton Manning, (don't ask why, I have never liked him, but I respect his talent.) he is a coach on the field and takes care of the offense. Jack Del Rio will fill in as head coach and still control defense. If the Chiefs find a way to stifle their offense then they'll fall from this top spot, but until that time, the Broncos have the best outlook because I think they are the strongest team in the NFL and that they'll beat the Chiefs, at least once, possibly twice.

Playoff Predictions

NFC                                       AFC

1. Seattle Seahawks 13-3                                                                 1. Indianapolis Colts 13-3

2. New Orleans Saints 12-4                                                             2. Denver Broncos 13-3 

3. Chicago Bears 12-4                                                                       3. New England Patriots 12-4

4. Philadelphia Eagles 9-7                                                                4. Cincinnati Bengals 11-5

5. Detroit Lions 11-5                                                                          5. Kansas City Chiefs 12-4

6. Carolina Panthers 11-5                                                                6. New York Jets 10-6

I'll update these if something drastically changes in the playoff race but as of now this is how I see it all ending, heading into the playoffs.