For some reason as we've gone deeper into the season, my picking ability has gotten worse. Last week I wasn't terrbile but I definitely wasn't good. My record was 8-6, which brings my season record to 60-44. Compared to the ESPN NFL experts, I'm in fourth place which isn't too terrible being I don't have much time to analyze the games. This week we have a great lineup of matchups; it should be interesting to see who emerges from the pack. So without further ado, here are my Week 8 picks.
Packers at Jets: Jets
I think this is the worst matchup possible for the Green Bay Packers. The Packers have a shaky offensive line when the Jets thrive in getting pressure on the quarterback. Also, Green Bay isn't balanced offensively and just throws the football. You won't be able to do that against the Jets since they have one of the best pass defenses in the league. This Sunday, I see the Jets making a huge statement and winning this game convincingly.
Vikings at Patriots: Patriots
This game is being touted as America's Game of the Week and for a good reason. We get to see quarterbacks Brett Favre and Tom Brady go against each other. I think what has everyone excited is that wide receiver Randy Moss will be returning to New England, this time in a Vikings uniform. With that said, I feel like the Patriots will win this game because they're at home and much more disciplined than the Vikings. Watch out for Favre ankle as well, it may not hold up throughout the game.
Steelers at Saints: Steelers
The Sunday Night Football matchup should be an entertaining one. Two teams with contrasting styles is always fun to watch. Give me the Steelers in this one though because I love what their defense brings to the table. Saints running back Reggie Bush may be active in tonight's game but I think the Steelers are just too much for the defending champions to handle.
Texans at Colts: Colts
Last time these two teams played the Colts were absolutely dominated. I just don't see that happening again since they'll be coming off their bye week well rested and they'll be playing at home. Quarterback Peyton Manning will be licking his chops when looking at the Texans pass defense. I feel as though this game will be very high scoring because both teams have great offenses, but in the end, I like the Colts to win a close one.
***Upset Special***
Titans at Chargers: Chargers
Those who know me, know how much I love what the Tennessee Titans are doing as a football team. Me picking against them this week doesn't change any of that. I just think the odds are not in their favor this Sunday. Having to make that trip out to the west coast is very difficult for east coast ball clubs. Also, the Chargers are a desperate team and are in need of a win. Look for San Diego to empty their playbook and sneak out a close win in this one.
The rest of the weeks picks:
Dolphins at Bengals: Bengals
Jaguars at Cowboys: Jaguars
Redskins at Lions: Redskins
Bills at Chiefs: Chiefs
Panthers at Rams: Panthers
Broncos at 49ers: 49ers
Seahawks at Raiders: Raiders
Buccaneers at Cardinals: Buccaneers
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
DTTWSB Week 8 NFL Power Rankings
Halloween weekend is where you start to see teams separate from the pack. Clearly the AFC is the superior conference this season. My eye is on the AFC South, as I have three teams from that division in my top 10. A quality team will be left out of the playoffs in the AFC so the level of play should be high down the stretch. With that said, here are the Week 8 power rankings.
1. New York Jets (5-1): Coming off the bye week, I expect the Jets to continue their dominance. Right now they're clicking on all cylinders, and have the formula of a championship team.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1): The Steelers don't make it pretty but they just find ways to win. That's how they've played for the past decade. Just when you count them out, they sneak up on you and start the season 5-1 when nobody (except me) had them making noise this season.
3. New England Patriots (5-1): Even without wide receiver Randy Moss, the Patriots are one of the best teams in the league. They don't have as much talent as they used to but they have one of the best head coaches in the league.
4. Baltimore Ravens (5-2): The bye week couldn't have come at a better time for the Ravens. After they lost to New England two weeks ago and barely beat a winless Buffalo Bills team they need to gather themselves.
5. Tennessee Titans (5-2): I keep saying this every week but it's true. The Titans are dangerous team that you do not want to see because now they have found a passing game with wide receiver Kenny Britt. I see this team as definite contender come January.
6. Indianapolis Colts (4-2): Last week the Colts had a bye week and should come back refreshed. Any team that has quarterback Peyton Manning at the helm is always in contention. I'm not high on them but I don't think they'll go away lightly.
7. New York Giants (5-2): The Giants are arguably the best team in the NFC. Quarterback Eli Manning has great chemistry with his young wide receivers and their running game is good as usual. I think the reason the Giants have returned to form though is because of their defense. They're knocking quarterbacks out left and right.
8. Houston Texans (4-2): Now that we're almost in November, this is where I want to see if the Texans can really make move and be a contender. They play in a tough division so it will be interesting to see how it plays out. My money says, "Maybe next year Houston, you aren't ready yet."
9. Atlanta Falcons (5-2): I've been very critical of the Atlanta Falcons because every year they seem to start off hot and then fall off in the end. I still think their defense is very suspect but if quarterback Matt Ryan and wide receiver Roddy White keep up their high level of play, look out for this team because they can put up points.
10. Green Bay Packers (4-3): Last week the Packers got a huge win against the division-rival Minnesota Vikings. The Green Bay offensive line is still an issue but they keep finding ways to generate points. Outside linebacker Clay Matthews is playing at a Pro-Bowl level which has sparked the defense as well.
1. New York Jets (5-1): Coming off the bye week, I expect the Jets to continue their dominance. Right now they're clicking on all cylinders, and have the formula of a championship team.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1): The Steelers don't make it pretty but they just find ways to win. That's how they've played for the past decade. Just when you count them out, they sneak up on you and start the season 5-1 when nobody (except me) had them making noise this season.
3. New England Patriots (5-1): Even without wide receiver Randy Moss, the Patriots are one of the best teams in the league. They don't have as much talent as they used to but they have one of the best head coaches in the league.
4. Baltimore Ravens (5-2): The bye week couldn't have come at a better time for the Ravens. After they lost to New England two weeks ago and barely beat a winless Buffalo Bills team they need to gather themselves.
5. Tennessee Titans (5-2): I keep saying this every week but it's true. The Titans are dangerous team that you do not want to see because now they have found a passing game with wide receiver Kenny Britt. I see this team as definite contender come January.
6. Indianapolis Colts (4-2): Last week the Colts had a bye week and should come back refreshed. Any team that has quarterback Peyton Manning at the helm is always in contention. I'm not high on them but I don't think they'll go away lightly.
7. New York Giants (5-2): The Giants are arguably the best team in the NFC. Quarterback Eli Manning has great chemistry with his young wide receivers and their running game is good as usual. I think the reason the Giants have returned to form though is because of their defense. They're knocking quarterbacks out left and right.
8. Houston Texans (4-2): Now that we're almost in November, this is where I want to see if the Texans can really make move and be a contender. They play in a tough division so it will be interesting to see how it plays out. My money says, "Maybe next year Houston, you aren't ready yet."
9. Atlanta Falcons (5-2): I've been very critical of the Atlanta Falcons because every year they seem to start off hot and then fall off in the end. I still think their defense is very suspect but if quarterback Matt Ryan and wide receiver Roddy White keep up their high level of play, look out for this team because they can put up points.
10. Green Bay Packers (4-3): Last week the Packers got a huge win against the division-rival Minnesota Vikings. The Green Bay offensive line is still an issue but they keep finding ways to generate points. Outside linebacker Clay Matthews is playing at a Pro-Bowl level which has sparked the defense as well.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
DTTWSB Week 7 NFL Picks
The NFL is truly a week-to-week league. Earlier in the season, I was picking games like they were nothing. Last week I couldn't even pick half the games correct. My record was an awful 6-8 which puts me at 52-38 for the season. For the purpose of keeping score, I've dropped to being tied for third place in comparison to the ESPN NFL experts. I'm feeling better about my picks this week than I was last week. Hopefully that's shown in my record come Tuesday. Here are the Week 7 picks.
Bengals at Falcons: Bengals
Coming off the bye week, I expect the Bengals to be able to go down to the Atlanta and win the game. I'm not sold on the Falcons at all. There defense will have a hard time slowing down the Bengals weapons. If the Bengals offensive line can protect Carson Palmer, they should be able to move the ball up and down the field on the Falcons defense. Give me the Bengals in this one.
Eagles at Titans: Titans
These two teams have very contrasting styles which should make for a good game. The Eagles are a more finesse team that likes to pass the ball, while the Titans are a more physical team that likes to the run the ball. I feel like the Titans being at home should be able to dictate the pass of the game. Kevin Kolb will be running for his life because the Titans defensive line is a menace. I'll take the Titans every day of the week.
Steelers at Dolphins: Steelers
This is one of the more intriguing games of the week because you never know which Miami Dolphins team will show up on Sunday. If quarterback Ben Roethlisberger wasn't playing in this game I would take the Dolphins but with him in the lineup, it's hard not to take the Steelers against any team in the league. I think their defense will confuse Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne. I like what the the Steelers have been doing of late and I think it will continue this Sunday.
Vikings at Packers: Vikings
NBC has a great game on tap for the national audience to enjoy. Vikings quarterback Brett Favre is returning to Lambeau Field to take on his former team the Green Bay Packers. With all the distractions surrounding Brett Favre, I still think he and the Vikings will have their way with the Packers. Green Bay is hurt with injuries and the Vikings are coming off a big win against Dallas. These are two teams that are going in the opposite directions and fast. Give me Minnesota.
***Upset Special***
Giants at Cowboys: Cowboys
For the second week in a row, I'm picking the Cowboys as my upset special. In August I picked them to make it to the Super Bowl so I guess I'm going down in flames with this team since I've picked them to win every game this season. The Giants are one of the hottest teams in the league and are on a roll but I think their three-game winning streak comes to an end this Monday night against the rival Cowboys. Dallas is a desperate team right now and they need a win. A team like that is very dangerous.
The rest of the weeks picks:
Redskins at Bears: Redskins
Jaguars at Chiefs: Chiefs
Browns at Saints: Saints
Rams at Buccaneers: Buccaneers
49ers at Panthers: 49ers
Bills at Ravens: Ravens
Cardinals at Seahawks: Seahawks
Raiders at Broncos: Broncos
Patriots at Chargers: Patriots
Bengals at Falcons: Bengals
Coming off the bye week, I expect the Bengals to be able to go down to the Atlanta and win the game. I'm not sold on the Falcons at all. There defense will have a hard time slowing down the Bengals weapons. If the Bengals offensive line can protect Carson Palmer, they should be able to move the ball up and down the field on the Falcons defense. Give me the Bengals in this one.
Eagles at Titans: Titans
These two teams have very contrasting styles which should make for a good game. The Eagles are a more finesse team that likes to pass the ball, while the Titans are a more physical team that likes to the run the ball. I feel like the Titans being at home should be able to dictate the pass of the game. Kevin Kolb will be running for his life because the Titans defensive line is a menace. I'll take the Titans every day of the week.
Steelers at Dolphins: Steelers
This is one of the more intriguing games of the week because you never know which Miami Dolphins team will show up on Sunday. If quarterback Ben Roethlisberger wasn't playing in this game I would take the Dolphins but with him in the lineup, it's hard not to take the Steelers against any team in the league. I think their defense will confuse Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne. I like what the the Steelers have been doing of late and I think it will continue this Sunday.
Vikings at Packers: Vikings
NBC has a great game on tap for the national audience to enjoy. Vikings quarterback Brett Favre is returning to Lambeau Field to take on his former team the Green Bay Packers. With all the distractions surrounding Brett Favre, I still think he and the Vikings will have their way with the Packers. Green Bay is hurt with injuries and the Vikings are coming off a big win against Dallas. These are two teams that are going in the opposite directions and fast. Give me Minnesota.
***Upset Special***
Giants at Cowboys: Cowboys
For the second week in a row, I'm picking the Cowboys as my upset special. In August I picked them to make it to the Super Bowl so I guess I'm going down in flames with this team since I've picked them to win every game this season. The Giants are one of the hottest teams in the league and are on a roll but I think their three-game winning streak comes to an end this Monday night against the rival Cowboys. Dallas is a desperate team right now and they need a win. A team like that is very dangerous.
The rest of the weeks picks:
Redskins at Bears: Redskins
Jaguars at Chiefs: Chiefs
Browns at Saints: Saints
Rams at Buccaneers: Buccaneers
49ers at Panthers: 49ers
Bills at Ravens: Ravens
Cardinals at Seahawks: Seahawks
Raiders at Broncos: Broncos
Patriots at Chargers: Patriots
Friday, October 22, 2010
DTTWSB Week 7 NFL Power Rankings
After another week in the NFL, we saw some teams step up to challenges while we saw others take signiificant steps back. The little things is what's hurting teams like Green Bay and Dallas. Well-coached teams don't make silly mental errors. What I took away from Week 6 is that the right now the AFC is far and away better than the NFC. We'll see if a team from the NFC wants to emerge from the pack. Here are this week's power rankings.
1. New York Jets (5-1): The Jets are going into the bye week with a five-game win streak. They are the hottest team in the NFL right now. Quarterback Mark Sanchez is definitely coming into his own and that is being shown by the productivity of the offense. You also can't say enough about running back Ladanian Tomlinson who has found the fountain of youth. If they keep this up, I'm not sure if anyone can beat them.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1): Getting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger back will serve as a steroid shot in the arm to a team who has only lost once all season. At this point in the season I thought they'd have more losses than this. I can see the Steelers winning 12 or 13 games this season because they have the necessary pieces in place to do so. My Super Bowl pick from the AFC is making look like a genius.
3. Baltimore Ravens (4-2): Last week the Ravens disappointed by not being able to close out the Patriots after being up 10 points on two different occasions in the game. Looking at them on a big-picture scale, I still like this team but the question marks that I have about them were definitely exposed last Sunday. Let's see if they can get it corrected.
4. New England Patriots (4-1): I don't know why I keep doubting a team that is coached by Bill Belichick. Somehow he keeps finiding ways to win. Historically the Patriots under Belichick have been great coming off the bye week. I'll be interested to see if they will be able to keep up the offensive production without wide receiver Randy Moss. Wide receiver Deion Branch seems to have not lost any chemistry with quarterback Tom Brady which is not good for the rest of the league.
5. Indianapolis Colts (4-2): Last Sunday night the Colts had a very impressive win against what I think is a very good Washington Redskins team. Quarterback Peyton Manning has looked sharp all season, which really isn't a surprise if you ask me. This week they lost tight end Dallas Clark to a season-ending wrist injury. That puts more pressure on the wide recievers, but knowing how Manning prepares, I'm sure they won't miss a beat.
6. Tennessee Titans (4-2): With back-to-back road wins, the Titans have improved their record to 4-2. They are a team that doesn't beat themselves and they're physical. I could very easily see this team win the AFC South if they keep playing good football. Like I've said before, don't let this team get an early lead in a game because with their running game and defense they won't give the lead back.
7. New Orleans Saints (4-2): The Saints are the highest rated NFC team that I have in my power rankings and I have them at seven. That speaks to how poorly the teams in the NFC have been playing. If the Saints can keep winning until they get running backs Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas back, they may be able to hit their stride late. They had a quality win last Sunday on the road against Tampa Bay.
8. New York Giants (4-2): For the first time this season, the Giants are making an appearance on the DTTWSB power rankings. After the first three games of the season, the Giants have played at a high level. Quarterback Eli Manning is putting his foot down as a top 10 quarterback in the league. The biggest improvement has been their defense, if they can keep getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks this team can make a deep run in the playoffs.
9. Houston Texans (4-2): I was barely able to put the Texans on the list because I just don't trust teams that aren't used to success. Like the Falcons did last year, I'm waiting for the Texans to fall flat on their faces at some point this season. Running back Arian Foster has been a beast so far. The loss of linebacker Demeco Ryans will hurt this team throughout season. Time will ultimately tell what the Texans are all about.
10. Minnesota Vikings (2-3): Yes, I have a 2-3 team in my power rankings. The Vikings are not an ordinary 2-3 team and I think they'll show that this Sunday night. They have way too much talent and because of the poor Green Bay offensive line, they will most likely win the NFC North. Wide receiver Randy Moss has opened things up for their entire offense. With a big win last week at home against Dallas, the Vikings need to focus on the little things so that they don't get into a hole once again.
1. New York Jets (5-1): The Jets are going into the bye week with a five-game win streak. They are the hottest team in the NFL right now. Quarterback Mark Sanchez is definitely coming into his own and that is being shown by the productivity of the offense. You also can't say enough about running back Ladanian Tomlinson who has found the fountain of youth. If they keep this up, I'm not sure if anyone can beat them.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1): Getting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger back will serve as a steroid shot in the arm to a team who has only lost once all season. At this point in the season I thought they'd have more losses than this. I can see the Steelers winning 12 or 13 games this season because they have the necessary pieces in place to do so. My Super Bowl pick from the AFC is making look like a genius.
3. Baltimore Ravens (4-2): Last week the Ravens disappointed by not being able to close out the Patriots after being up 10 points on two different occasions in the game. Looking at them on a big-picture scale, I still like this team but the question marks that I have about them were definitely exposed last Sunday. Let's see if they can get it corrected.
4. New England Patriots (4-1): I don't know why I keep doubting a team that is coached by Bill Belichick. Somehow he keeps finiding ways to win. Historically the Patriots under Belichick have been great coming off the bye week. I'll be interested to see if they will be able to keep up the offensive production without wide receiver Randy Moss. Wide receiver Deion Branch seems to have not lost any chemistry with quarterback Tom Brady which is not good for the rest of the league.
5. Indianapolis Colts (4-2): Last Sunday night the Colts had a very impressive win against what I think is a very good Washington Redskins team. Quarterback Peyton Manning has looked sharp all season, which really isn't a surprise if you ask me. This week they lost tight end Dallas Clark to a season-ending wrist injury. That puts more pressure on the wide recievers, but knowing how Manning prepares, I'm sure they won't miss a beat.
6. Tennessee Titans (4-2): With back-to-back road wins, the Titans have improved their record to 4-2. They are a team that doesn't beat themselves and they're physical. I could very easily see this team win the AFC South if they keep playing good football. Like I've said before, don't let this team get an early lead in a game because with their running game and defense they won't give the lead back.
7. New Orleans Saints (4-2): The Saints are the highest rated NFC team that I have in my power rankings and I have them at seven. That speaks to how poorly the teams in the NFC have been playing. If the Saints can keep winning until they get running backs Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas back, they may be able to hit their stride late. They had a quality win last Sunday on the road against Tampa Bay.
8. New York Giants (4-2): For the first time this season, the Giants are making an appearance on the DTTWSB power rankings. After the first three games of the season, the Giants have played at a high level. Quarterback Eli Manning is putting his foot down as a top 10 quarterback in the league. The biggest improvement has been their defense, if they can keep getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks this team can make a deep run in the playoffs.
9. Houston Texans (4-2): I was barely able to put the Texans on the list because I just don't trust teams that aren't used to success. Like the Falcons did last year, I'm waiting for the Texans to fall flat on their faces at some point this season. Running back Arian Foster has been a beast so far. The loss of linebacker Demeco Ryans will hurt this team throughout season. Time will ultimately tell what the Texans are all about.
10. Minnesota Vikings (2-3): Yes, I have a 2-3 team in my power rankings. The Vikings are not an ordinary 2-3 team and I think they'll show that this Sunday night. They have way too much talent and because of the poor Green Bay offensive line, they will most likely win the NFC North. Wide receiver Randy Moss has opened things up for their entire offense. With a big win last week at home against Dallas, the Vikings need to focus on the little things so that they don't get into a hole once again.
Friday, October 15, 2010
DTTWSB Week 6 NFL Picks
This past week was definitely my roughest week for picking games. My record was a pathetic 7-7. I think everyone was shocked by most of the results from last weekend's action. The funny thing is that my season record is 46-30, which would put me in second place compared to the ESPN NFL experts. I feel like I should be able to get on track this week and end with a pretty good record. For some teams, this is a defining week in the season, for others, this is just another week to stack one more wins. With that said, here are the Down To The Wire Sports Blog Week 6 NFL picks.
Dolphins at Packers: Packers
This will be an interesting game since the Packers have been depleted with all sorts of injuries. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers will play so that should help them a lot. I'm intrigued to see if he's fully recovered from that concussion he had in last week's game against the Redskins. If they don't beat themselves, the Packers should win this game.
Ravens at Patriots: Ravens
This will be the Patriots first game without wide receiver Randy Moss and they have to play the Baltimore Ravens, arguably the hottest team in football. I like the Ravens to win this game because they are physically tougher than the Patriots. They will continually hit New England in the mouth. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick always wins when he's coming off a bye week but this time I think they ran into the wrong team.
Falcons at Eagles: Falcons
If Eagles quarterback Michael Vick was able to play this game I would like the Eagles to win but since it's going to be Kevin Kolb give me the Falcons in a close one. This game is important for the Falcons because they will be able to separate themselves from the rest of the NFC if they can start the season 5-1. I expect to see a lot of points scored in this game but at the end of the day Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan will prove to be too much for the Eagles to handle.
Colts at Redskins: Redskins
If this was the first game of the season, me picking the Redskins would definitely be an upset. The Colts this haven't proven to me that they are ready to start playing championship football. I think they will struggle to score like the Packers did last week. If you can't be balanced on offense you have no shot to beat the Redskins. It will be a good game but give me the Redskins in this one.
***Upset Special***
Cowboys at Vikings: Cowboys
My upset special features two teams that are 1-3. This game should be called the Underachievers Bowl. The loser of this game will likely miss the playoffs so this should be a great game. In this one I'm sticking with my preseason Super Bowl pick. I think this is the week that the Cowboys finally get it together. The Vikings are a very dangerous team especially with the addition of wide receiever Randy Moss, but quarterback Brett Favre seems to have a hurt elbow. We'll see if that has any effect on the game.
The rest of the weeks picks:
Seahawks at Bears: Bears
Chargers at Rams: Chargers
Lions at Giants: Giants
Browns at Steelers: Steelers
Saints at Buccaneers: Buccaneers
Chiefs at Texans: Texans
Jets at Broncos: Jets
Raiders at 49ers: 49ers
Titans at Jaguars: Titans
Dolphins at Packers: Packers
This will be an interesting game since the Packers have been depleted with all sorts of injuries. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers will play so that should help them a lot. I'm intrigued to see if he's fully recovered from that concussion he had in last week's game against the Redskins. If they don't beat themselves, the Packers should win this game.
Ravens at Patriots: Ravens
This will be the Patriots first game without wide receiver Randy Moss and they have to play the Baltimore Ravens, arguably the hottest team in football. I like the Ravens to win this game because they are physically tougher than the Patriots. They will continually hit New England in the mouth. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick always wins when he's coming off a bye week but this time I think they ran into the wrong team.
Falcons at Eagles: Falcons
If Eagles quarterback Michael Vick was able to play this game I would like the Eagles to win but since it's going to be Kevin Kolb give me the Falcons in a close one. This game is important for the Falcons because they will be able to separate themselves from the rest of the NFC if they can start the season 5-1. I expect to see a lot of points scored in this game but at the end of the day Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan will prove to be too much for the Eagles to handle.
Colts at Redskins: Redskins
If this was the first game of the season, me picking the Redskins would definitely be an upset. The Colts this haven't proven to me that they are ready to start playing championship football. I think they will struggle to score like the Packers did last week. If you can't be balanced on offense you have no shot to beat the Redskins. It will be a good game but give me the Redskins in this one.
***Upset Special***
Cowboys at Vikings: Cowboys
My upset special features two teams that are 1-3. This game should be called the Underachievers Bowl. The loser of this game will likely miss the playoffs so this should be a great game. In this one I'm sticking with my preseason Super Bowl pick. I think this is the week that the Cowboys finally get it together. The Vikings are a very dangerous team especially with the addition of wide receiever Randy Moss, but quarterback Brett Favre seems to have a hurt elbow. We'll see if that has any effect on the game.
The rest of the weeks picks:
Seahawks at Bears: Bears
Chargers at Rams: Chargers
Lions at Giants: Giants
Browns at Steelers: Steelers
Saints at Buccaneers: Buccaneers
Chiefs at Texans: Texans
Jets at Broncos: Jets
Raiders at 49ers: 49ers
Titans at Jaguars: Titans
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
DTTWSB Week 6 NFL Power Rankings
This year in the NFL has been difficult to get a finger on who is a contender and who is a pretender. Teams like Minnesota and Dallas have vastly underachieved, while teams like Chicago and Tampa Bay only have one loss so far. Now is the time where teams must separate themselves from the pack. We'll see if that starts to happening this Sunday. Here are the power rankings for the upcoming Week 6 of the NFL.
1. New York Jets (4-1): Each week this team begins to look better and better. Wide receiver Santonio Holmes coming back gives them even another playmaker, as if they didn't have enough. Running back Ladanian Tomlinson has definitely found the fountain of youth. It's a toss up between them and the Steelers as to who is the best in the league, I'm going with the Jets this week.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1): This past week the Steelers had a much-needed bye week so that quarterback Ben Roethlisberger could regain chemistry with those wide receivers. That defense will continue to look good if they can stay healthy. The sky is the limit for this team. The only team that could get in their way are the Jets, but as you saw in my preseason predictions I have the Steelers beating the Jets in the AFC Championship game.
3. Baltimore Ravens (4-1): What's there left to say about the Ravens? They have a great organization and that shows every Sunday when they step onto the field. It's going to be exciting seeing them and Pittsburgh battle for that AFC North division title. If quarterback Joe Flacco can continue to get better and safety Ed Reed comes back 100 percent healthy, this team will be a very tough out come January.
4. Indianapolis Colts (3-2): After the top 3 teams there is a significant drop off. I'm not impressed with this Colts but I couldn't find anyone other than the "Big 3" to put ahead of them. A lot of teams have gaping holes. The Colts defense looked good this past Sunday because they were going up against a terrible Chiefs offense. I don't expect much from this team come playoff time.
5. Atlanta Falcons (4-1): The Falcons are in the exact same place they were last season. We'll see if they can continue to improve or if they'll become complacent. They haven't played tough competition so far. It will be interesting to see how they do against the Eagles if Michael Vick plays.
6. Washington Redskins (3-2): This is the surprise team in this weeks power rankings. If it wasn't for becoming complacent against the Texans in Week 2, this team would be 3-2. The 'Skins are built to beat teams that are not balanced, like Dallas and Green Bay. Quarterback Donovan McNabb and head coach Mike Shanahan will continue to get better chemistry throughout the season.
7. New England Patriots (3-1): It's going to be interesting to see how good the Patriots are without deep threat wide receiver Randy Moss. They picked up wide receiver Deion Branch from the Seattle Seahawks this week but I don't expect him to be a major factor. All the pressure will be on wide receiver Wes Welker and the two rookie tight ends to pick up the production. Let's see if they can do it.
8. Tennessee Titans (3-2): The Titans are a very physical football team. Being tough and physical translates great to the postseason when the weather gets colder. They are an excellent rushing football team because they have the best running back in the league in Chris Johnson. If you fall behind this team, you will struggle stopping them. If you want proof ask the Dallas Cowboys.
9. Green Bay Packers (3-2): I had a feeling the Packers inability to run the football and block up front was going to haunt them. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is a flat out stud but it's hard to throw the ball from your back. Other than running back Brandon Jackson's 70-yard run, the Redskins shut down their running game. They better stack wins in a hurry otherwise the Vikings will be breathing down their neck.
10. Minnesota Vikings (1-3): I think I'm the only person in the country that has the Vikings in his top 10 power rankings. I see way too much talent on this team for them to just go away quietly. They have an early playoff game this Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys, another underachieving team. We saw the potential that this Favre-Moss connection has. If they're in the playoffs, I don't think anyone will want to see them.
1. New York Jets (4-1): Each week this team begins to look better and better. Wide receiver Santonio Holmes coming back gives them even another playmaker, as if they didn't have enough. Running back Ladanian Tomlinson has definitely found the fountain of youth. It's a toss up between them and the Steelers as to who is the best in the league, I'm going with the Jets this week.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1): This past week the Steelers had a much-needed bye week so that quarterback Ben Roethlisberger could regain chemistry with those wide receivers. That defense will continue to look good if they can stay healthy. The sky is the limit for this team. The only team that could get in their way are the Jets, but as you saw in my preseason predictions I have the Steelers beating the Jets in the AFC Championship game.
3. Baltimore Ravens (4-1): What's there left to say about the Ravens? They have a great organization and that shows every Sunday when they step onto the field. It's going to be exciting seeing them and Pittsburgh battle for that AFC North division title. If quarterback Joe Flacco can continue to get better and safety Ed Reed comes back 100 percent healthy, this team will be a very tough out come January.
4. Indianapolis Colts (3-2): After the top 3 teams there is a significant drop off. I'm not impressed with this Colts but I couldn't find anyone other than the "Big 3" to put ahead of them. A lot of teams have gaping holes. The Colts defense looked good this past Sunday because they were going up against a terrible Chiefs offense. I don't expect much from this team come playoff time.
5. Atlanta Falcons (4-1): The Falcons are in the exact same place they were last season. We'll see if they can continue to improve or if they'll become complacent. They haven't played tough competition so far. It will be interesting to see how they do against the Eagles if Michael Vick plays.
6. Washington Redskins (3-2): This is the surprise team in this weeks power rankings. If it wasn't for becoming complacent against the Texans in Week 2, this team would be 3-2. The 'Skins are built to beat teams that are not balanced, like Dallas and Green Bay. Quarterback Donovan McNabb and head coach Mike Shanahan will continue to get better chemistry throughout the season.
7. New England Patriots (3-1): It's going to be interesting to see how good the Patriots are without deep threat wide receiver Randy Moss. They picked up wide receiver Deion Branch from the Seattle Seahawks this week but I don't expect him to be a major factor. All the pressure will be on wide receiver Wes Welker and the two rookie tight ends to pick up the production. Let's see if they can do it.
8. Tennessee Titans (3-2): The Titans are a very physical football team. Being tough and physical translates great to the postseason when the weather gets colder. They are an excellent rushing football team because they have the best running back in the league in Chris Johnson. If you fall behind this team, you will struggle stopping them. If you want proof ask the Dallas Cowboys.
9. Green Bay Packers (3-2): I had a feeling the Packers inability to run the football and block up front was going to haunt them. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is a flat out stud but it's hard to throw the ball from your back. Other than running back Brandon Jackson's 70-yard run, the Redskins shut down their running game. They better stack wins in a hurry otherwise the Vikings will be breathing down their neck.
10. Minnesota Vikings (1-3): I think I'm the only person in the country that has the Vikings in his top 10 power rankings. I see way too much talent on this team for them to just go away quietly. They have an early playoff game this Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys, another underachieving team. We saw the potential that this Favre-Moss connection has. If they're in the playoffs, I don't think anyone will want to see them.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
DTTWSB Week 5 NFL Picks
In Week 5, I had a pretty solid record of 9-5 with my picks. That brings my season record to 39-23 and for the record, I have the second-best record amongst the ESPN NFL experts. There is a great slate of ball games to watch this Sunday and Monday. If you want to pick a Sunday to be lazy and sit on the couch, this would be the one. There are a lot of toss up games this week, so we'll see how my record is looking when the fifth week is complete. Here are the picks.
Giants at Texans: Texans
The Houston Texans have another chance to flex their muscles on the NFC East this Sunday when they take on the New York Giants. I believe Houston will pull this game out because the Giants look like a team that doesn't bring it week in and week out. I expect quarterback Matt Schaub and the Texans offense should be able to move the ball well enough to win.
Titans at Cowboys: Cowboys
Titans quarterback Vince Young will make another appearance to his native state of Texas. He always puts on a show when he goes down to the Lone Star State. This Sunday I think the day will belong to quarterback Tony Romo and the Dallas Cowboys. Even though the Cowboys beat a good Texans football team, they're still 1-2 and need to get out of that hole before any further damage is done.
Eagles at 49ers: 49ers
The Sunday Night Football matchup has two quarterbacks that are under an enormous amount of pressure going up against each other. I think this will be the week that the 49ers get their first win of the season. The NFL is a league of matchups and the 49ers matchup beautifully with the Eagles. Look for the Niners defense to cause Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb some problems.
Vikings at Jets: Jets
The game of the week is definitely on Monday Night Football. I cannot wait to see this game! The Jets are playing the best ball in the league right now and the Vikings just traded for wide receiver Randy Moss. We get to see Moss vs. Revis part two earlier than we thought we would. Ultimately I think the Jets defense will control the pace and allow them to win their fourth straight game.
***Upset Special***
Packers at Redskins: Redskins
For the second straight week, I'm picking the Redskins as my upset special. They matchup beautifully with the Green Bay Packers. Even though defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth will miss the game due to a death in his family, the Redskins secondary should slow down quarterback Aaron Rodgers and that passing attack. Also, Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan should have a great scheme ready for the Packers 3-4 defense. I like Washington in this one.
The rest of the weeks picks:
Jaguars at Bills: Jaguars
Buccaneers at Bengals: Bengals
Falcons at Browns: Falcons
Rams at Lions: Lions
Chiefs at Colts: Colts
Bears at Panthers: Panthers
Broncos at Ravens: Ravens
Saints at Cardinals: Saints
Chargers at Raiders: Chargers
Giants at Texans: Texans
The Houston Texans have another chance to flex their muscles on the NFC East this Sunday when they take on the New York Giants. I believe Houston will pull this game out because the Giants look like a team that doesn't bring it week in and week out. I expect quarterback Matt Schaub and the Texans offense should be able to move the ball well enough to win.
Titans at Cowboys: Cowboys
Titans quarterback Vince Young will make another appearance to his native state of Texas. He always puts on a show when he goes down to the Lone Star State. This Sunday I think the day will belong to quarterback Tony Romo and the Dallas Cowboys. Even though the Cowboys beat a good Texans football team, they're still 1-2 and need to get out of that hole before any further damage is done.
Eagles at 49ers: 49ers
The Sunday Night Football matchup has two quarterbacks that are under an enormous amount of pressure going up against each other. I think this will be the week that the 49ers get their first win of the season. The NFL is a league of matchups and the 49ers matchup beautifully with the Eagles. Look for the Niners defense to cause Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb some problems.
Vikings at Jets: Jets
The game of the week is definitely on Monday Night Football. I cannot wait to see this game! The Jets are playing the best ball in the league right now and the Vikings just traded for wide receiver Randy Moss. We get to see Moss vs. Revis part two earlier than we thought we would. Ultimately I think the Jets defense will control the pace and allow them to win their fourth straight game.
***Upset Special***
Packers at Redskins: Redskins
For the second straight week, I'm picking the Redskins as my upset special. They matchup beautifully with the Green Bay Packers. Even though defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth will miss the game due to a death in his family, the Redskins secondary should slow down quarterback Aaron Rodgers and that passing attack. Also, Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan should have a great scheme ready for the Packers 3-4 defense. I like Washington in this one.
The rest of the weeks picks:
Jaguars at Bills: Jaguars
Buccaneers at Bengals: Bengals
Falcons at Browns: Falcons
Rams at Lions: Lions
Chiefs at Colts: Colts
Bears at Panthers: Panthers
Broncos at Ravens: Ravens
Saints at Cardinals: Saints
Chargers at Raiders: Chargers
Thursday, October 7, 2010
DTTWSB Week 5 NFL Power Rankings
The fourth week of the NFL season is now in the books, so I will now turn my attention to Week 5. Now it's still early in the season but we're starting to see the cream rise to the top. With that said, I would like to remind everyone the NFL season is a marathon. A lot of times the first half of the season feels completely different than the second half. So here is the Week 5 edition of the Down To The Wire Sports Blog power rankings.
1. New York Jets (3-1): Boy this team is really starting to look real good. They're coming off a three-game winning streak where they beat their division. Now they will be adding wide receiver Santonio Holmes to their offensive attack. All the pieces are falling together nicely.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1): The Steel Curtain is definitely alive once again. Now they get quarterback Ben Roethlisberger back from a four-game suspension so that should allow them to be more explosive on offense. Head coach Mike Tomlin has this team playing inspired ball, I'll take them everyday of the week.
3. Baltimore Ravens (3-1): There are a lot of things to love about the Ravens. They have a great head coach, a great defense, a great offsensive line, a great rushing attack and an up and coming young quarterback. They are unfortunate to play in a tough conference otherwise I could see them getting home-field advantage.
4. New Orleans Saints (3-1): The defending champs have been struggling lately on offense but they still find ways to win. The absence of running backs Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas is huge. They are less explosive without those playmakers on the field. I'm not sure if they can keep on winning, we'll have to wait and see.
5. Dallas Cowboys (1-2): Coming off the bye week, the Cowboys should be energized to take on the tough portion of their schedule. This team cannot afford to beat themselves if they want to win the NFC East. They showed a lot of grit by beating up the Texans on their home field. Let's see if they can carry that over to their upcoming games.
6. Green Bay Packers (3-1): Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has the Packer offense looking explosive. Their passing attack is loaded with weapons. Tight end Jermichael Finley is a flat out stud. My worry with the Packers is that they can't run the ball and they are suspect on defense, not to mention that their offensive line lets more things through than a New Orleans levee.
7. Minnesota Vikings (1-2): What a bye week for the Minnesota Vikings! They just traded for wide receiver Randy Moss who will be a much needed deep threat. Moss should open up the offense. If the Vikings fall short of the playoffs, it will be on quarterback Brett Favre because he has so many weapons to play with now.
8. Houston Texasn (3-1): Houston bounced back nicely last Sunday by beating Oakland. Running back Arian Foster has played with his hair on fire this season. Head coach Gary Kubiak has built an offensive juggernaut down there. I'm not sure if they can keep up this success cause they have some glaring holes but it's fun to watch while it's going on.
9. Indianapolis Colts (2-2): This team is in serious trouble. They play in a division where all the teams are good at running the football and they can't stop the run. They've already lost two division games this season. I'm not sure if quarterback Peyton Manning can bail them out this season like he always does.
10. Atlanta Falcons (3-1): I'm not really sold on the Falcons like everyone else is. They were in the same situation last year and they fell of the map real quick. I want to see them sustain some success before I put them higher than 10 on my power rankings.
1. New York Jets (3-1): Boy this team is really starting to look real good. They're coming off a three-game winning streak where they beat their division. Now they will be adding wide receiver Santonio Holmes to their offensive attack. All the pieces are falling together nicely.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1): The Steel Curtain is definitely alive once again. Now they get quarterback Ben Roethlisberger back from a four-game suspension so that should allow them to be more explosive on offense. Head coach Mike Tomlin has this team playing inspired ball, I'll take them everyday of the week.
3. Baltimore Ravens (3-1): There are a lot of things to love about the Ravens. They have a great head coach, a great defense, a great offsensive line, a great rushing attack and an up and coming young quarterback. They are unfortunate to play in a tough conference otherwise I could see them getting home-field advantage.
4. New Orleans Saints (3-1): The defending champs have been struggling lately on offense but they still find ways to win. The absence of running backs Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas is huge. They are less explosive without those playmakers on the field. I'm not sure if they can keep on winning, we'll have to wait and see.
5. Dallas Cowboys (1-2): Coming off the bye week, the Cowboys should be energized to take on the tough portion of their schedule. This team cannot afford to beat themselves if they want to win the NFC East. They showed a lot of grit by beating up the Texans on their home field. Let's see if they can carry that over to their upcoming games.
6. Green Bay Packers (3-1): Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has the Packer offense looking explosive. Their passing attack is loaded with weapons. Tight end Jermichael Finley is a flat out stud. My worry with the Packers is that they can't run the ball and they are suspect on defense, not to mention that their offensive line lets more things through than a New Orleans levee.
7. Minnesota Vikings (1-2): What a bye week for the Minnesota Vikings! They just traded for wide receiver Randy Moss who will be a much needed deep threat. Moss should open up the offense. If the Vikings fall short of the playoffs, it will be on quarterback Brett Favre because he has so many weapons to play with now.
8. Houston Texasn (3-1): Houston bounced back nicely last Sunday by beating Oakland. Running back Arian Foster has played with his hair on fire this season. Head coach Gary Kubiak has built an offensive juggernaut down there. I'm not sure if they can keep up this success cause they have some glaring holes but it's fun to watch while it's going on.
9. Indianapolis Colts (2-2): This team is in serious trouble. They play in a division where all the teams are good at running the football and they can't stop the run. They've already lost two division games this season. I'm not sure if quarterback Peyton Manning can bail them out this season like he always does.
10. Atlanta Falcons (3-1): I'm not really sold on the Falcons like everyone else is. They were in the same situation last year and they fell of the map real quick. I want to see them sustain some success before I put them higher than 10 on my power rankings.
Friday, October 1, 2010
DTTWSB Week 4 NFL Picks
Last week was the best I've had this season picking games. I went 11-5 and hit on both of my upset selections. That put my record for the season to a respectable 30-18. If you compare my picks to the ESPN NFL "experts" I would be tied for second. That's a shame on them because this is their job, they have all day to think about their picks. I'm a damn student for god sake!! Like always I will be looking to go undefeated with my selections this week. So here is the fourth edition of the DTTWSB NFL picks.
Bengals at Browns: Bengals
This seems like an easy pick 'em game but I actually think the Browns are going to put up a strong fight. The Bengals have a shaky offensive line and teams like that tend to struggle on the road. Ultimately I think the Bengals will win but I think it will be a lot closer of a game than people think.
Ravens at Steelers: Steelers
This is definitely the game of the week. It's going to be a headbanger's ball for sure. Both these teams are very physical. I think the Steelers will have enough to pull off what some would say is an upset. Steelers defensive coordinator Dick Lebeau will have a zone blitz scheme ready to confuse Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco. In games like this it's going to be the team that makes the least amount of mistakes that wins.
Bears at Giants: Giants
Even though I think the Bears are a better team, I actually like the Giants to pull this one out. After starting the season 1-2, the Giants are in dire need of a win. If their pass rush can disrupt Bears quarterback Jay Cutler it will make the game a lot easier for them. If the Giants want to win though they need to establish the run because the Bears secondary takes pride in taking the ball away. This one should be a great game.
Patriots at Dolphins: Dolphins
For the second straight week, the Dolphins get a home game at night. Last week they weren't able to get the win against an outstanding Jets team, but I think they will be able to beat the Patriots on Monday night. Miami is a very good running team which should allow them to keep Brady, Moss and Welker on the sideline. If they try and get into a shootout, the Patriots will shred them all day. Being at home though I expect the Dolphins to be able to dictate the pace of the game and get a crucial division win.
***Upset Specials***
Redskins at Eagles: Redskins
This is by the far the most intriguing game of the season so far. Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb returns to his old stomping grounds where he lead the Eagles to five NFC Championship appearances in 11 seasons. Everyone is taking the Eagles to beat the Redskins. I think the Redskins will go into Philadelphia and pull off an upset. Any time McNabb has something to prove he always plays a phenomenal game. I think the other Redskins players will rally around him and take on a "this ones for Donovan" mentality.
The rest of the weeks picks:
49ers at Falcons: Falcons
Jets at Bills: Jets
Lions at Packers: Packers
Broncos at Titans: Titans
Seahawks at Rams: Rams
Panthers at Saints: Saints
Texans at Raiders: Texans
Colts at Jaguars: Colts
Cardinals at Chargers: Chargers
Bengals at Browns: Bengals
This seems like an easy pick 'em game but I actually think the Browns are going to put up a strong fight. The Bengals have a shaky offensive line and teams like that tend to struggle on the road. Ultimately I think the Bengals will win but I think it will be a lot closer of a game than people think.
Ravens at Steelers: Steelers
This is definitely the game of the week. It's going to be a headbanger's ball for sure. Both these teams are very physical. I think the Steelers will have enough to pull off what some would say is an upset. Steelers defensive coordinator Dick Lebeau will have a zone blitz scheme ready to confuse Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco. In games like this it's going to be the team that makes the least amount of mistakes that wins.
Bears at Giants: Giants
Even though I think the Bears are a better team, I actually like the Giants to pull this one out. After starting the season 1-2, the Giants are in dire need of a win. If their pass rush can disrupt Bears quarterback Jay Cutler it will make the game a lot easier for them. If the Giants want to win though they need to establish the run because the Bears secondary takes pride in taking the ball away. This one should be a great game.
Patriots at Dolphins: Dolphins
For the second straight week, the Dolphins get a home game at night. Last week they weren't able to get the win against an outstanding Jets team, but I think they will be able to beat the Patriots on Monday night. Miami is a very good running team which should allow them to keep Brady, Moss and Welker on the sideline. If they try and get into a shootout, the Patriots will shred them all day. Being at home though I expect the Dolphins to be able to dictate the pace of the game and get a crucial division win.
***Upset Specials***
Redskins at Eagles: Redskins
This is by the far the most intriguing game of the season so far. Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb returns to his old stomping grounds where he lead the Eagles to five NFC Championship appearances in 11 seasons. Everyone is taking the Eagles to beat the Redskins. I think the Redskins will go into Philadelphia and pull off an upset. Any time McNabb has something to prove he always plays a phenomenal game. I think the other Redskins players will rally around him and take on a "this ones for Donovan" mentality.
The rest of the weeks picks:
49ers at Falcons: Falcons
Jets at Bills: Jets
Lions at Packers: Packers
Broncos at Titans: Titans
Seahawks at Rams: Rams
Panthers at Saints: Saints
Texans at Raiders: Texans
Colts at Jaguars: Colts
Cardinals at Chargers: Chargers
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