Matt’s Week Three NFL Power Rankings

Week three of the NFL season is in the books and the teams are still positioning themselves. The Bills, Lions and Packers all stayed unbeaten and the Dolphins, Colts and Chiefs still can’t buy a break. Let’s see how the teams stack up from 32 to 1.

32. Kansas City Chiefs (0-3) – There is still nothing really to say about the Chiefs. They gave a valiant effort against an uninspired Chargers team. Next up is Minnesota, will anyone watch?

31. Minnesota Vikings (0-3) – If only NFL games were 30 minutes long, then the Vikings would be 3-0, but you have to play the entire 60 minutes and that is why the Vikings are 0-3. The offense doesn’t give the ball to their playmakers (Adrian Peterson and Percy Harvin) enough in the second half and there defense becomes non-existent.

30. St. Louis (0-3) – No heart. That is what I saw against the Ravens. That was embarrassing.

29. Miami Dolphins (0-3) – Had the lead until the final minute and let it slip away, just like their season. Tony Sporano better update his resume because his time in Miami is almost up.

28. Indianapolis Colts (0-3) – I was impressed with the Colts defense against the Steelers but their offense looks horrendous. They can’t play that way and beat good teams.

27. Seattle Seahawks (1-2) – Their defense played strong against the Cardinals but their offense is very poor. Will they be able to score enough points to win? We shall see.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-2) – They had a chance to win a rain soaked game against the Panthers and couldn’t get it done. Expect more growing pains with rookie quarterback Blaine Gabbert.

25. Cincinnati Bengals (1-2) – The offense has to play better if they are going to win games. They are young and will have to figure it out in a hurry.

24. Carolina Panthers (1-2) – The Panthers have impressed me early on this year. Their defense is hard hitting and their offense can move the ball and they have a leader at the quarterback position.

23. Arizona Cardinals (1-2) – Bad loss in Seattle to a division opponent. Kevin Kolb has to play better and not turn the ball over at the end of the game.

22. Cleveland Browns (2-1) – I like the way the Browns are playing. Colt McCoy leads the way and with him playing well this could be a good year for the Dog Pound.

21. Denver Broncos (1-2) – They played the Titans tough in Tennessee but came away empty handed. The road doesn’t get any easier with a trip to Lambeau and the defending champs. Could we get a #Tebow sighting?

20. San Francisco 49ers (2-1) – Their offense was shaky against the Bengals but they found a way to win and in the NFC West that is all you have to do to win that division.

19. Washington Redskins (2-1) – Rex Grossman has got to protect the football and the offense has got to learn to move the ball down the field better. Red Zone offense is a weakness for this team also. The defense will have to keep playing like they are to keep the Redskins in the NFC East race.

18. Atlanta Falcons (1-2) – The Falcons are a Jeckel and Hyde team. Can’t play on the road and looked good at home. They need to figure out how to get Julio Jones the ball more.

17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1) – They got a huge divisional win against the Falcons at home. Can they build on it and start rolling? We shall see.

16. Oakland Raiders (2-1) – That was a really good win against the Jets but let’s see the Raiders put it together. Beat the Pats on Sunday and I think you may have something brewing in Oakland.

15. Dallas Cowboys (2-1) – Sorry Dallas but I am not buying what you are selling. Too many mistakes by the offensive line and the receivers. They couldn’t get the ball in the end zone and had to rely on a rookie kicker for all of their points. If they continue to do that they will be disappointed.

14. Philadelphia Eagles (1-2) – Philly, you looked bad in the fourth quarter last week. Can Michael Vick stay healthy all year? That is the big question. So far through three games, he hasn’t been able to finish two of them.

13. Buffalo Bills (3-0) – Buffalo got a huge win against the Patriots but I am still not sold on them. In their last two games they have had to comeback from 18 or more points to win. They have to shore up their defense and then they will be a top ten team.

12. Chicago Bears (1-2) – The Bears had the toughest start to the season and came out of it 1-2. They need more balance on offense and the defense has to take the ball away more. Jay Cutler just doesn’t look comfortable back in the pocket; he may be seeing ghosts out there.

11. Tennessee Titans (2-1) – Good comeback win against the Broncos. Their defense played really well and Matthew Hasselbeck made just enough plays to win. Losing wide receiver Kenny Brit for the year with a torn ACL is a big loss though.

10. San Diego Chargers (2-1) – I was really not impressed by the way San Diego played against the Chiefs. They looked like they were just going through the motions out there. In the NFL, you cannot take any opponent lightly.

9. New York Giants (2-1) – Great win in Philly. Defense came to play and pressured Michael Vick and Mike Kafka all day. Eli Manning needs to play turnover free like he did and the Giants will be tough to beat.

8. Pittsburgh Steelers (2-1) – Big Ben is turning the ball over too much, which will come back to haunt them when they start playing the really good teams in the AFC. The defense is starting to come together and getting pressure on the other team’s quarterbacks.

7. New York Jets (2-1) – The Jets jumped out to a early lead but gave it back in the second half. Where was the hard-nosed Jets defense? The Raiders ran all over them. Expect Rex Ryan to address that this week in practice and for them to clean it up.

6. Houston Texans (2-1) – Even with the loss on the road to the Saints, the Texans did a lot of things well. They had the lead in the fourth quarter and had their opportunities to win the game. Gotta learn to finish those games out and get wins.

5. Detroit Lions (3-0) – Great comeback win in a building the Lions haven’t won in since 1997. Calvin Johnson looks like no one could cover him and the offensive line has played well, minus the first half against the Vikings.

4. Baltimore Ravens (2-1) – They did what they had to do in St. Louis. Go and dominate. Big test against the Jets this Sunday.

3. New England Patriots (2-1) – Tom Brady gave the game away with his four interceptions, my bet is Brady doesn’t throw four more all year.

2. New Orleans Saints (2-1) – Great comeback win against the Texans. Drew Bress is playing lights out and the defense is starting to take the ball away. The Saints are firmly on track.

1. Green Bay Packers (3-0) – Good win in Chicago against a tough division opponent in the Bears. Gotta clean up the penalties and giving up big plays on defense. Jermichael Finley is unstoppable.
 
Matt
 
Editors note: See how teams are trending, through Matt's eyes, by comparing to his Week Two Power Rankings.

Broncos vs. Packers Early Week Report

The Packers come into this game at 3-0 and facing their first AFC opponent of the season. Last week against the Bears, the Packers ran a lot of their plays out of shotgun, and were effective. The Broncos are a middle of the road defense and I would expect the Packers to attack their secondary because of the injured Champ Bailey (hamstring) and the slow play of Andre Goodman. The Broncos also have been vulnerable with safeties Brian Dawkins and Rahim Moore. Expect for Jermicheal Finley to be a major focal point down the middle of the field for Aaron Rodgers. For the Packers defense, they will have to get pressure of Kyle Orton and stop the running of Willis McGahee. Pass rush will be key. The Packers will most likely be without starting right tackle Brian Bulaga (Bruised Knee) and running back Ryan Grant (Bruised Kidney) for the game. Also look for Derrick Sherrod to be active for the first game of his career in a backup role to Marshall Newhouse on right tackle. Newhouse did a great job against the Bears in both run blocking and pass protection. Also expected to be out will be Frank Zombo (Scapula) and Mike Neal (Knee).

The Broncos come into this game at 1-2, after losing a heartbreaker to the Tennessee Titans, 17-14. Head Coach John Fox came under fire for his fourth and one call late in the game against the Titans. This was a game the Broncos should have won but couldn’t deliver late. With the loss, Kyle Orton has now lost 17 of his last 25 starts for the Broncos. The fans want Tim #Tebow but I think he will stay on the sidelines for one more week. Orton is a good passer and the Broncos will look to get Charlie Peprah in one on one coverage against Daniel Graham and try to exploit him. Also look for the Broncos to incorporate Knowshon Moreno in the passing game and single him up on either AJ Hawk or Desmond Bishop, both of whom have had trouble in coverage. The Broncos will try to take advantage of Marshall Newhouse and throw multiple looks at him. Expect Elvis Dumervil to play and go against Newhouse as well as stud rookie Von Miller. As far as injuries for the Broncos, it looks pretty good. Champ Bailey was held out of the Titans game but is expected to play, the same goes for Dumervil and Moreno. We will get a better gauge later in the week when the injury report is released.

Matt

Packers Top Bears in Sloppy Game, Improve to 3-0

This game was nowhere near as close as the score indicates.  The Packers thoroughly outplayed the Bears on Sunday afternoon at Solider Field.  It was at times your classic, hard hitting Bears and Packers game and at other times it was Green Bay talent overload.  The Bears defense did all they could but at the end they were no match for all of the playmakers on the Packers offense.  

The Packers starting the game the same way they began the NFC Championship in January.  They took the ball and behind a red hot Aaron Rodgers marched right down the field and scored.  This time around it was Rodgers finding Jermichael Finley on a free play (the Bears jumped offsides) for a quick touchdown.  Finley was on his way to a career day with three touchdowns.  The offense at times looked unstoppable against a very good defense but at other times looked sluggish and lack-a-daisical.  Ryan Grant showed a great burst throughout the entire game and made up for two lackluster games prior.  The Packers rushed for 100 yards on the dot and that is the third straight game at or over 100 yards rushing.  The Packers did a good job of opening big holes and getting blocks on the second level by guards Josh Sitton and TJ Lang.  The Packers did get another injury scare to one of their starters.  Right tackle Brian Bulaga left the game and did not return with a knee injury.  We will see what the injury is on Monday when Coach McCarthy speaks to the media; the early reports are a bruised knee.  My player of the game on offense was Jermichael Finley with 7 catches for 85 yards and 3 touchdowns.

The Packers defense was brutal in the first half.  Yes I know they only gave up 10 points but those 10 points came in a ten minute span in the second quarter and there were too many big (plays of 20 yards or more) plays.  Also there was very little pass rush against Jay Cutler and they gave him way too much time to find his receivers downfield.  After halftime the defense made the adjustments and got into gear.  Sacks by Jarius Wynn and Jarrett Bush gave them three for the game.  The defense did an amazing job against the run and held Matt Forte to 2 yards on nine carries.  For the game the Bears had 13 yards rushing their lowest total since 1950.  Clay Matthews did a great job on stopping the run and blasted three running plays in the backfield in the first half.  That was believed to be the only weakness in Matthews’ game and if this game is an indicator of things to come, he may be unstoppable.  Morgan Burnett also had two interceptions and five tackles.  My player of the game on defense was Morgan Burnett.

Some problems for the Packers to work on are penalties, pass rush, turnovers and giving up too many big plays.  They had 7 penalties for 35 yards but most of those penalties killed drives and put the offense in 1st and 15 or 1st and 20 holes.  The Packers have got to clean up the penalties, stop me if you’ve heard that before.  After the first half the pass rush increased and Jay Cutler hit the ground a few times but they have to get it done from the opening kickoff.  The offense had two big turnovers (their first turnovers of the year) in the fourth quarter that made this game closer than it should have been.  Leading 27-10, James Starks fumbled on a great play and read by Lance Briggs.  Julius Peppers recovered the ball and set up the Bears with great field position, which it took them one play to score and bring the score to 27-17.  The next possession ended with Aaron Rodgers first interception of the season.  Brian Urlacher faked a blitz and dropped off into coverage on Finley.  Rodgers didn’t see him and throw a bullet that was picked by Urlacher.  The defense also has given up a lot of big plays so far this season.  

The Bears were able to exploit some of the coverage and made some big plays down the field.  I was really impressed with the Packers special teams play.  They covered punts and kickoffs well and had some good punt returns by rookie Randle Cobb.  Probably the play of the game was that crazy punt return by Johnny Knox in the final minute that was returned for a touchdown but brought back because of a holding penalty.  Devin Hester looked like he was going to make a fair catch and run to the sideline.  Then entire coverage team followed but the ball was at the far sideline and caught by Knox and he had nothing but green to the end zone.  It was a bizarre play and would have worked brilliantly if not for the holding penalty that negated it.  Aaron Rodgers said, “That was the most amazing play I’ve ever seen.”   

This was a huge game because the Packers beat a division rival.  They had to keep up with the Lions who won and are 3-0 also.  The Bears fall to 1-2 and 0-1 in the division which will come into play for tiebreakers at the end of the season for playoff seeding.  The Packers are 3-0 for the second time under McCarthy and are still looking for their best defensive game.  They come home and will face a underachieving Denver Broncos team next Sunday.  Can’t wait!

Matt

Packers up 17-10: Half Time Update

 

Rodgers cadence, arm propels Packers 80 yards to six points on their opening drive.  Two off-side penalties by the Bears, one coming on the short touchdown pass to Finley.  We don’t have to @MikePeriera on that touchdown.

Crosby gives Hester a present, can’t get it to the back of the end zone, but Hester can’t capitalize.  How could you when going up against the Packers’ special teams.

Cutler threw a 30 yard pass to a wide open Morgan Burnett.  It was his second interception of the season and the second one thrown by Cutler.

Packers fail to capitalize on the interception, as Bulaga went down with a potentially scary injury to his leg.  Immediately after Bulaga goes out, Sitton gets a false start and Clifton tries to prevent an inevitable sack as he gets called on a holding penalty.  Our line looks shaky.  I don’t know whether it is Starks, or our line, that has been making Starks looks horrible this first game.  I count 6 rushes for maybe as many yards.

No sacks yet surprisingly.  Early blitzes have shown promise, with Clay Mathews taking out Forte 4 yards behind the line.  Cutler not looking sharp as he horribly overthrows his 3^rd down target.

Cobb, not Hester, has been providing the entertainment thus far as it relates to returns, as he juked his way 20 yards downfield after a Bear three and out.  Heck, Cobb almost provided even more entertainment, and not the good kind, but not calling fair catch on the punt before that one.

Another off-sides by the Bears.  We are liking these free yards.  Grant takes over as starting running back, and shows why.  A couple of very nice gains as he showcases his experience, and his lack of speed as he hits the hole, but can’t find the break-away corner.  Rodgers shows why he has the most jersey sales in the NFL as he makes it look easy, connecting to Finley a couple of times, including his second touchdown pass of the game.  This is Finley’s 6^th multi-touchdown game of his short, but very promising career.

Crosby must have read my mind as he shows the leg I’ve been looking for, knocking it into the back of the end zone for a touchback. 

Cutler finally shows up, shows why he is the starting quarterback of the Bears, and completes a fury of long 20+ yard passes to a wide range of players: first 37 yards to Hester, then Sam Hurd 20 yards, Knox another 20+ yards, and then an almost impressive stand by the Packer’s defense turns into six points as Cutler finds Sanzenbacher in the end zone(Born in 1988, guy is younger than I am).

This cadence is starting to backfire a little bit, with a false start, followed by a delay of game threatening to de-rail a late first half drive.  The Bears don’t seem to respect Ryan the way they have been Starks, as Ryan runs through the Bears defense for another big run.  Nelson, Jones, Finley all make catches as the Packers now threaten again with 2 minutes to go in the half.  Not even the metallic coil sticking out (at this point, you probably know more than I on that one!) will deter this offense from scoring.  Actually Starks deterred it for us, as Crosby knocks in a short field goal.  

Cutler threatens again, throwing a 40 yard pass to Knox after Crosby did his part in knocking another kick off into the back of the end zone. What I thought was a done post turns into a late first half attack by the Bears, Forte wide open for another 40 yard gain and the Bears are in the Packers red zone.  Still hasn't been sacked. Thank goodness it's Cutler back there and they have to settle for a field goal.

Last Minute Fantasy: Cam Newton

It has been one week since the Packers marched into Bank of America Stadium and left the broken Carolina Panthers with their second loss in two games.  Yet, all the football “experts” are talking about is how Cam Newton is 2^nd in NFL passing yards and is destined for greatness.  Really?  It was hard enough hearing Jim Mora Jr. pine over this fraud of a quarterback during the game (thank God Gruden wasn’t around), but even the days following held nothing but praise for the 0-2 QB who has more picks thrown than TDs.  Without even considering this young man’s serious character flaws, I can’t help but question why he is getting this unwarranted praise.  Many of you are thinking, “Hey guy, the numbers don’t lie.  Only Tom Brady has thrown for more yardage than Cam.”  I can’t argue that, but I can say that Cam Newton hasn’t proven a damn thing. 

In college, Cam was great in the non-pro system of Auburn.  In the NFL, he is nothing more than another rookie quarterback who isn’t ready to start.  He threw three picks last Sunday, and the Packers dropped three more.  He could not make a play when it mattered and had several off-target throws to wide open receivers.  The Packers won by a touchdown, but should have lost by two.  After making the errors that ultimately doomed his team, Cam could be seen sulking on the sidelines in solitude with a Gatorade towel covering his face instead of being a leader and preparing his team to march down the field when they got the ball back.  Real team player.  Fact: Cam Newton led Auburn to a national championship.  Fact: Auburn doesn’t run an offense that can be applied to the NFL.  Newton is a beast of an athlete, but that’s about it.  Cam Newton may lead the Panthers to a victory next Sunday (and I hope they do as I have 8 points on them in my pick ‘em pool), but it will only be because he’s at home, facing the Jaguars, and going up against another rookie QB, Blaine Gabbert, who is making his first NFL start.

Dan

End of the Week NFL Picks – Week Three

This is my first set of picks for week three of the NFL Season.  See if you agree or think I am crazy!  Enjoy!

Panthers 27 Jaguars 17
12.00 CBS Charlotte, North Carolina
 
Cam Newton makes more plays then his rookie counterpart Blaine Gabbert and the Panthers record their first win of the season.

Saints 34 Texans 31
12:00 CBS New Orleans, Louisiana
 
The Texans are almost there but they can’t get past a really good team like the Saints.  Drew Brees sets up the game winning field goal and the Saints go to 2-1.
 
Patriots 42 Bills 31
12:00 CBS Orchid Park, New York
 
The Bills are surprising a lot of people, myself included, but that will end this week.  The Pats are playing like they are on a mission to dominate every team in the league.  Tom Brady is a machine and shows it again against Buffalo.
 

Browns 21 Dolphins 17
12:00 CBS Cleveland, Ohio
 
Tony Sparano and the Dolphins need a win but will not find one in Cleveland.  Colt McCoy does just enough and the Miami offense still can’t get on track.
 
Titans 20 Broncos 14
12:00 CBS Nashville, Tennessee
 
The Broncos are a mess and Tennessee is coming off a huge win against the Ravens.  The Titans stay hot and the Tebow chants grow in Denver.
 
Eagles 24 Giants 14
12:00 FOX Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
 
I have a funny feeling that Michael Vick plays after his concussion against the Falcons.  Vick plays and has success against an injury depleted Giants secondary.  Eli Manning also turns the ball over way too much and that will continue against the Eagles.
 
Lions 35 Vikings 20
12:00 FOX Minneapolis, Minnesota
 
The Lions are favored on the road against the Vikings.  Doesn’t happen often but there is good reason why they are.  Their offense stays hot and Minnesota and Donovan McNabb are left to keep looking for their first win.
 
49ers 26 Bengals 14
12:00 FOX Cincinnati, Ohio
 
The 49ers let one slip away against the Cowboys.  I like the way the Bengals are playing with all the youth on that team.  The youth will show this week and they will have to endure some more growing pains but the Bengals are on the right track. 

Jets 23 Raiders 7
3:05 CBS Oakland, California
 
The Jets are playing really good football and that will continue in Oakland.  Expect a rusty start because of the cross country flight, but then the Jets will pull away in the second half and cruise to a 3-0 start.
 
Chargers 38 Chiefs 10
3:05 CBS San Diego, California
 
There are few words to describe how bad the Chiefs are.  Horrendous is my favorite word to use.  The Chargers will destroy the Chiefs and Todd Haley’s future in Kansas City may be running out.

Ravens 31 Rams 17
3:05 CBS St. Louis, Missouri
 
The Ravens were shalacked by the Titans last week and I am sure John Harbaugh let his team hear about it all week in practice.  A lot of Ray Rice is expected and also look for a bounce back game from that vaunted Ravens defense.
 
Packers 28 Bears 13

3:15 FOX Chicago, Illinois
 
See Packers vs. Bears Late Week Report for summary of my prediction.
 
Cardinals 35 Seahawks 21
3:15 FOX Seattle, Washington
 
This is the home opener for the Seahawks and they will play hard for a little bit but this game will be all Cardinals.  Kolb to Fitzgerald, get used to hearing that those names because you will hear them all game.
 
Falcons 34 Buccaneers 14
3:15 FOX Tampa, Florida
 
The Falcons have momentum after their come from behind win against the Eagles and will take Tampa Bay out of it early.  Look for the Atlanta defense to make life tough for Josh Freeman and the Falcons to roll over the Bucs.
 
Steelers 20 Colts 10
7:20 NBC Indianapolis, Indiana
 
The Colts offense is like a high school offense with Kerry Collins running the show.  Look for that to continue this week against the Steelers.  Big Ben will be off a little but will still have enough to send the Colts to their first 0-3 start since 1998.
 
Redskins 17 Cowboys 14
7:30 ESPN Arlington, Texas
 
Will Tony Romo play or won’t he?  That is the big question around the Monday night showdown in Big D.  I say he doesn’t play and the Redskins sneak out of Dallas with a close win.

Matt

The Good ol’ Boys (Gobs) on 5 Important Steps to Fantasy Football

Do you remember your first fantasy football league?  Who your big players were; and who the “champ” of the league was?  Your fond memories of those big players back then might be the high risk (via injury prone, old vets, etc.), starters on your team this year. 

I set my team in five steps.  

1.       (Annually)               I draft them.

      Every year I draft them.  I may purchase a magazine, or look up online rankings.  Before the draft, I input my personal favorites on the queue.  During the draft, I will weigh the best ranked available, against my personal favorites (usually I opt for next best ranked available.)

·         I try to stay ‘til the end, just to make sure nobody has to wait my full turn.

2.       (Weekly)                I pre-set them to their projections (highest points play).

I pre-set them to their projections. (highest points play)

Pretty self explanatory.

3.       (Weekly)                I compare the away teams’ defense (matchups).

I compare the away teams’ defense (matchups).

You can go off either ranking matchups, or your gut on this one.  Defenses are pretty easy to decide whether they will be good.  Inversely difficult defenses you might have to face.

4.       (Daily)                   I use a little judgment on the close calls. (constraint: small margin of point difference).

I use a little judgment on the close calls. ( constraint: small margin of point difference).

Pretty self explanatory.

5.        (Daily)                   I monitor, and make changes if necessary (injuries, weather conditions, gut feelings).

I monitor, and make changes if necessary (injuries, weather conditions, gut feelings)

Pretty self explanatory.

The time of the week on the daily and weekly is up to you.  I know how hectic work and personal life can be. 

Now, do I or don’t I play the Packer’s Defense this week?

Kevin

Packers vs. Bears Late Week Report

The Packers and the Bears are deep in preparation for a huge NFC North match-up on Sunday.  The Packers come into the game with a 2-0 record, after surviving a scary trip to Carolina in week two.  The Bears had a great game and victory in week one against the Falcons but came up short in New Orleans last week.  This game is big for both teams if only for the reason it is Packers v. Bears.  It is the oldest rivalry in the National Football League.  It harkens back to the days of Halas and Lambeau.  Great coaches like Lombardi, Ditka and Holmgren have coached in these games.  We are entering another golden age of the Packers and Bears rivalry with the emergence of Aaron Rodgers and the belief by the Chicago faithful that Jay Cutler will bring another Championship to Chicago.
 
This is the 183rd time the teams will play against each other and both teams come in a little dinged up.  For the Packers; Nick Collins, Frank Zombo, and Mike Neal have all been declared out for this game.  Collins is out for the season with a neck injury and will be place on Injured Reserve next week.  Zombo continues to rehab a scapula injury and is still a couple weeks away.  Mike Neal underwent knee surgery a week ago and will miss “significant time” as Mike McCarthy said last week.  Starting cornerback Tramon Williams and linebacker Vic So’oto both returned to practice in a limited compactly this week.    They are both expected to play on Sunday against the Bears.  Clay Matthews and Charles Woodson were both added to the injury report and did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday with a thigh and foot injury respectively.  Both are expected to practice Friday and play on Sunday.  Look for the Packers to run the ball more in this game and open some big holes against the Bears.  The defense should get a lot of pressure on a make shift offensive line like the Bears have.  Charlie Peprah will get the start for Nick Collins and should provide stability through this injury to Collins.

The Bears have suffered some major blows for early in the year.  They will be without first round draft pick and starting right tackle Gabe Carimi, who dislocated his knee in last week’s loss to the Saints.  They may also be without starting safeties Chris Harris, who missed last week’s game with a hamstring, and Major Wright, who suffered a head/neck injury against the Saints.  Look for the Bears to be more balanced on offense and relay on Matt Forte a lot against the Packers.  Their defense always plays Aaron Rodgers well and I expect that to continue, but can they stop James Starks and Ryan Grant?  If they can then it will be close, but if they can’t it could be a long afternoon for the Bears.

My prediction: I predict the Packers will control the line of scrimmage and control the game.  Cutler will get hit hard and often, and the Packers will leave Chicago on Sunday evening with a victory and a 3-0 record.     

Packers 28 Bears 13

Matt

Matt’s Week Two NFL Power Rankings

Week two of the NFL season is in the books and the teams are still positioning themselves.  There have been some pleasant surprises (Lions, Bills, and Redskins all 2-0) and some disappointing surprises (Chiefs, Colts, and Rams all 0-2).  Let’s see how the teams stack up from 32 to 1.
32. Kansas City Chiefs (0-2) - There is not much to say about the Chiefs right now.  They stink.  Being outscored 89 to 10 in two games is pitiful.  It doesn’t get any easier for the Chiefs, having to travel to San Diego to take on the Chargers this Sunday.  Todd Haley better watch himself because more losses like the first two will result in a visit to the Unemployment Office.
31. Indianapolis Colts (0-2) – Who knew Peyton Manning played offense, defense and special teams.  Can’t stop the run, can’t stop the pass and can’t get anything going offensively.  Kerry Collins looks every bit of 38 years old and the so called playmakers (Reggie Wayne, Pierre Garcon, Dallas Clark, Dwight Freeny, and Robert Mathis) are not making any plays.  Manning better return fast or there won’t be a season left to save with a huge game coming up this weekend with the Steelers.
30. Minnesota Vikings (0-2) – Blowing a 17 point lead against the Buccaneers in the second half is not the only problem the Vikings have.  They have a major problem at the quarterback position for a second straight year.  Donovan McNabb was brought in to push the ball downfield and relay on Adrian Peterson to set up the pass.  Well one of those things is true with Adrian Peterson started the season fast and strong but the other is far from true.  In two games McNabb has 267 yards passing and 1 touchdown.  The offense as a whole is ranked 27 in the league in total yards and second to last in passing yards per game.  They better watch themselves because they have a hungry Lions team going to Minneapolis this weekend to try and keep the Vikes down.
29. Seattle Seahawks (0-2) – The Seahawks just look like a lost team that doesn’t have an identity on offense or defense.  Just when you think they will be a running team with Marshawn Lynch they start chucking the ball around with Tavaris Jackson.  Are they a pressure or coverage defense?  They have a lack of playmakers and that is magnified by their quarterback Jackson.  They have three very losable games ahead with Arizona, Atlanta and at the New York Giants.  The Seahawks are a far cry from the division champs of a year ago.
28. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-1) – The Jags have only scored 19 points so far this season.  That is not going win many games in the National Football League.  Now add to the mix a rookie quarterback making his first start this weekend and you could see an all-time low offense in Jacksonville.  Blaine Gabbert may be the future in Jacksonville but he should not be the present yet either.
27. Cleveland Browns (1-1) – In order to win more games like they did in Indianapolis last week they have to keep giving the ball to Peyton Hillis.  Colt McCoy has shown sparks but is still too inconsistent at this point.
26. Denver Broncos (1-1) – With all the cries for Tim Tebow, it was lost that the Broncos won last week against the Bengals.  Kyle Orton remains the starter going to Tennessee but this game is big.  Orton needs to silence some of his critics this weekend.

25. Carolina Panthers (0-2) – They had a chance to knock off the defending champs in their home opener but couldn’t get it done.  They are a young team, but a young team that is getting better.  Cam Newton looks like the real deal but he just doesn’t have enough playmakers on the outside.
24. Miami Dolphins (0-2) – Miami has played tough in their first two games against the Patriots and the Texans respectively but that got them the same results, losing.  When they get in the red zone they have to come out with any points and yes I am talking to you Dan Carpenter, make your kicks!

23. Cincinnati Bengals (1-1) - I was really impressed with the way they went to Denver and battled.  They almost got the win and that will spur this young team forward with three of the next four games at home in Cincinnati.
22. San Francisco 49ners (1-1) – People are double guessing Coach Jim Harbaugh and his decision to leave points on the board and not take a first down penalty that could have closed out the game against the Cowboys last week.  Harbaugh will learn in time that when given the choice of three points or putting your offense back on the field in the fourth quarter, you always go with your offense.  Lesson learned Coach?
21. St. Louis Rams (0-2) – The Rams are hanging by a thread and need to figure out their Red Zone offense.  You have to score touchdowns to win in this league and they are having a hard time with that concept.  They don’t have time to feel sorry for themselves because they have Baltimore and Washington coming in.
20. New York Giants (1-1) – I am still not impressed by the Giants.  They were outplayed on Monday night by the Rams but made the plays when it counted and got turnovers.  They still have no identity on offense and Eli Manning should scare every Giant fan when you goes back to throw.  Injuries are really starting to pile up with the loss of Dominique Hixon to a torn ACL.
19. Oakland Raiders (1-1) – If they could have pulled out that victory in Buffalo, Oakland would be much higher on our list but they couldn’t seal the deal.  This team is on the up but they have to learn to beat a team outside of the AFC West.
18. Arizona Cardinals (1-1) – They like the Raiders were very close to being up in the top 15 if they could have held on in Washington.  Kevin Kolb has been really good in his first couple games in Arizona and they offense is on track.  The defense still needs a little work and I would like to see them get more pressure on the quarterback.
17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-1) – The Bucs are very lucky to be 1-1 and should very well be 0-2 if the Vikings could hold a lead.  I still see youth as the main thing that will hold this team back.  Big game with Atlanta this week will be a good test to see how the Bucs will fare this year.
16. Buffalo Bills (2-0) – In the first two games the Bills have played the JV Chiefs and the cross country traveling Raiders.  This weekend’s game against the Patriots will be a true test to see where the Bills are.  Ryan Fitzpaterick looks like the real deal at quarterback though.
15. Washington Redskins (2-0) – Call me crazy but I love the way Rex Grossmen is playing.  He has confidence and that in turn has his teammates confident.  Their defense has 3-4 personal in place and are running around and making plays.  Dare I say Washington is for real?
14. Tennessee Titans (1-1) – The Titans had a stinker in week one but had a marvelous performance against the Ravens in week two.  What is the true team?  I still like Chris Johnson to find himself and I love the way Matthew Hasslebeck is playing right now.
13. Dallas Cowboys (1-1) – There are some concerns in Big D and it has to do with their defense.  They are giving up a lot of yards and points.  Tony Romo showed you great toughness in getting that win last week in San Francisco.  Can they keep it up with injuries piling up on Romo, Felix Jones and Miles Austin?
12. Detroit Lions (2-0) – Fans in Detroit have every right to be excited about the Lions.  Their offense is firing on all cylinders and their defense are world betters.  Take into account they have played the Bucs and Chiefs.  
11. Atlanta Falcons (1-1) – Atlanta has got to shore up their offensive line because Matt Ryan is under way too much pressure.  They got the huge win against Philly and let’s see if it starts something.
10. Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1) – Temper your excitement Steelers fans.  Yes you pitched a shutout last week; remember it was against the Seahawks.  It will take a couple more games like that to get the taste of the Ravens game out of your mouth.
9. San Diego Chargers (1-1) – For most of their game against the Pats, the Chargers looks like an elite team.  They kept the game within one score but turnovers killed them.  You can’t turn the ball over against the Patriots and the Chargers found that out the hard way.
8. Baltimore Ravens (1-1) – Not going to lie but that was not a good loss to Tennessee.  After completely dominating the Steeler, to follow that up with a stinker against the Titans is unacceptable.  Expect Coach John Harbaugh to communicate that to his team and the Ravens to get back on track.
7. Chicago Bears (1-1) – The Bears went down to New Orleans and kept with the Saints for the first three quarters.  Jay Cutler still gets hit too much and if their defense doesn’t take the ball away they are easy to play.  The game against the Packers this weekend will tell a lot about the Bears and the kind of team they are going to be this season.
6. Houston Texans (2-0) – Houston is playing great football right now.  Their defense under Wade Phillips looks nothing like the defense that got shredded last season.  The ultimate thing is that they are winning without Arian Foster, when he gets healthy this team will just get better.

5. Philadelphia Eagles (1-1) – The Eagles may have suffered a huge blow if Michael Vick can’t play this week against the Giants because of a concussion.  The Eagles looked shaky at times in Atlanta and brilliant at other times.  What team are you going to get, with or without Vick?
4. New York Jets (2-0) – The Jets had an easy win over the Jags but it will get a lot tougher with AFC East games coming up.  It doesn’t help that center Nick Mangold will be out for a while with a high ankle sprain.
3. New Orleans Saints (1-1) – The Saints played well against both the Packers and the Bears.  Dree Bress looks dialed in and the defense got back to form against the Bears.  They need to run the ball more to be balanced but that will come with time.
2. New England Patriots (2-0) – The Pats are the gold standard in the AFC.  They just keep trotting people out there on offense and scoring points.  Tom Brady looks unstoppable and could very well break the single season passing yards record.
1. Green Bay Packers (2-0) – They got a scare in Carolina but won and that is the name of the game.  Aaron Rodgers has to get comfortable and the offensive line needs to pass protect better.  The defense needs to tackle better and work on no giving up the big play.  They are still the champs though and it is hard to argue against the champs.