Three Coaches, Three Very Different Futures

Today could be the day, the day in which three NCAA football coaches have their fate determined. Even if Florida State's Bobby Bowden, Notre Dame' Charlie Weis and Kansas' Mark Mangino are all let go, they are all heading in vastly different directions.

Bobby Bowden is the highest profile among these three. According to the Orlando Sentinel, Bowden wants to return as FSU's head coach. But this season has been anything but sunny for the 80 year old Bowden. The Seminoles finished 6-6. FSU suffered yet another embarassing loss to rival Florida. And there were times as if Bowden was unaware of his team's situation.

Some want him out and some think Bowden has earned the right to determine when he walks away. As much as the Florida State administration wanted to plan for Bowden's departure, it might be that exact reason the decision becomes complicated.

Jimbo Fisher is to be the next head coach at FSU. Long time defensive coordinator Micky Andrews is leaving. Who will pick Andrews' replacement? If you want to move on with the program, you let Fisher make that choice, and not Bowden. Let me make this clear, I am a big fan of Bobby Bowden. He is the reason I ever watched a Florida State game. But it is time.

Charlie Weis' future is already defined. The odds of him being retained by Notre Dame are slim. Very slim.

After a 45-38 loss to Stanford on Saturday night, Weis was to travel with his team (maybe for the last time) back to Sounth Bend to meet with Notre Dame AD Jack Swarbrick. Most feel Weis is gone. And most feel that is why QB Jimmy Clausen will be leaving. The fact the Clausen home has been sold is a major indicator. But what if Swarbrick has a change of heart and decides to let Weis have another year?

Who am I kidding! We all know Charlie's history. And we all know what his future holds. It was reported yesterday on Sunday NFL Countdown that 6 NFL teams have already contacted Weis about being an offensive coordinator. Yes, Charlie Weis will be back in the NFL.

Kansas' Mark Mangino's future may have been written more by those actions off the field as much as on. Former players have alledged that Mangino has been physically and verbally abusive. Current players have Mangino's back.

Mangino has pointed out that when Kansas hired him, the program needed discipline and he has given the Jayhawks program that...and then some. And Mangino has delivered winning seasons on top of the "discipline" he was asked to deliver.

This fact doesn't help Mangino's case. After starting out 5-0, Kansas lost its last 7 games. And the Kansas loss in the Border War on a last second field goal won't sit well either. The Jayhawks had the game and let it slip away...or they threw it away, literally.

Regardless of which side you're on, Mangino may not return to Lawrence. And if he's not there, where will he end up?

That's a big question in which there is currently no answer.

If any of these three were to keep their positions, I'd be surprised. But I'm on the record for saying I'd let any of them coach my team.

Anytime, anywhere.

NFL Week 12 - Late & Monday Night Previews

Kansas City (3-7) @ San Diego (7-3)

Chiefs: Did you think last week was an illusion? Me too. But this game against San Diego is different from the Pittsburgh game only because it's a divisional game. Sometimes, we never know what's going to happen. Kansas Citrry has a new RB in Jamaal Charles. A new WR in Chris Chambers. Things are starting to look up for KC fans.

The difference will be if the Chiefs can stop the new found Bolts running game. But even if they can stuff the run, KC will have to contend with the Charges passing game. All I can say is this...good luck today.

Chargers: RB LaDainian Tomlinson (left) is channelling his inner self of a few years ago. Since San Diego's bye in week 5, LT has been slowly building a season. He hasn't eclipsed 100+ yards yet, but I feel this is the week for that. QB Philip Rivers has a new target in WR Legedu Naanee. Naanee has a TD in each of th elast two weeks. That's another trend I see continuing. I see the Bolts putting up a lot of points.

LB Shawne Merriman's status is a gametime deal. He has had a knee, groin and foot problem. If there's a week where Merriman can sit, it might be this week. But DE Luis Castillo is unavailable and he isn't going to play. All the Chargers have to worry about on defense is the Chiefs finding confidence and rhythm.

Jacksonville (6-4) @ San Francisco (4-6)

This game is the easiest to breakdown. Whichever team can stop the run will win. Why? The game will be in the hands of the QB. Ask yourself: who does that favor?

One last thing: if the Niners lose, playoffs are out of the question. If the Jags lose, they still have hope.

Chicago (4-6) @ Minnesota (9-1)

Bears: Chicago may have something for the Vikings. Who am I kidding? QB Jay Cutler has been an easy target from everyone, but he's not the only culprit. RB Matt Firte has not even been a quarter of what he was last year. There's no go-to, #1 receiver. The TEs, which was a strong point during the preseason, have sort of disappeared. Cutler's haters need to back off. You can be a good QB, but if you don't have the help, you're going to look bad.

The same for the defense. Sure, the loss of LB Brian Urlacher has stung, but has anyone stepped up in his absence? I sure haven't seen it.

Vikings: There's a question about RB Adrain Peterson's (right) status. He is suffering from the flu and he's also dealing with bum ankle. If Peterson can't go, I think the Vikes will be okay with Chester Taylor. In fact, Taylor will have AD like numbers if he starts.

The best news for Minnesota is the return of CB Antione Winfield. All he needs to do is find WR Devin Hester and shadow him. Or find WR Johnny Knox and do the same. Getting after Cutler has to be priority #1. We all know that Cutler is prone to picks.

NFL Week 12 - Early Games Preview

Time to ramp it up for the playoff push and the early games have severe playoff implications. Houston gets another crack at Indy. The Battle of Ohio, Part II, and The Panthers and Jets play in what might be a "loser's out" game.

Tampa Bay (1-9) @ Atlanta (5-5)

Bucs: You got to believe that the Bucs first year head coach Raheem Morris is already scambling for his job. Just before the season began, Morris fired offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski. Now, Morris has demoted defensive coordinator Jim Bates and Morris has changed the Bucs defensive scheme. The blame has to go somewhere and it looks like Morris may be the one pointing the finger.

Morris has also already made two quarterback changes. Byron Leftwich to Josh Johnson to Josh Freeman (right). With Freeman, turnovers have been a concern. In his first start, Freeman had only 1 INT. He had 3 last week in the Bucs 38-7 loss to New Orleans. Freeman has also fumbled 7 times, but only lost 2. Still, ball security is at a premium for the offensively challenged (29th overall) Buccaneers. Also, consider that Tampa Bay is 29th in time of possession, and you can see part fthe reason the Bucs are 1-9.

Now, the defense. The Bucs once had one of the NFL's most feared units. I said "once had". Being last against the run, next to last in scoring and 27th overall does give you a reputation...a bad one. The one shining piece is the pass defense, ranked 13th, right? They have the 6th most INT. Not so fast, my friend (I'm channelling my inner Lee Corso). The Bucs has allowed the third most passing TD. And tehy have 17 sacks, rating them 28th. Bucs fans, it has to get better, doesn't it?

Falcons: What has happened to the Dirty Birds? They've dropped four of their last five and have fallen to 5-5. Of those four losses, QB Matt Ryan has had only one game where he had more TD than INT and that was last week against the Giants. Here's Ryan's numbers over those five games: 103-188 (54.8%), 1,114 yards, 7 TD and 8 INT. Has Ryan lost a bit of his edge?

That can be corrected a bit as RBs Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood are listed as questionable for this game. Having these guys on board will help Ryan tremendously.

But the defense can shoulder a lot of the blame, too. In Atlanta's last five games, only the Washington Redskins were held below 20 points and the Falcons won that game. In the four losses, it's a different story. Dallas - 37, New Orleans - 35, Carolina - 28, New York Giants - 34. That's 33.5 points a game. They're now bending and breaking.

Miami (5-5) @ Buffalo (3-7)

Dolphins: A long work week is exactly what the doctor ordered for Miami. RB Ricky Williams may be a physical specimen, but he cannot take the pounding he did against Carolina last Thursday. Is it time to ask just a bit more from QB Chad Henne and the 30th ranked passing game? Not necessarily this week, but the time is drawing very close. The Fins are 4th in rushing and the Bills are 31st in defending the run. Look for this possibility: the unwrapping of QB Pat White. If one player can help to limit Williams' workload, it's White. I was a bit surprised that Whit was not even a thought in Miami's last game, but who's to question Tony Sparano.

If you're going to attack Miami, do it through the air. They're mediocre at best (22nd). Plus, Miami has allowed 9 pass plays of 40+ yards, 6th most. But be prepared for a ferocious pass rush as teh Dolphins have 29 which is 5th most. Looks to me like it's hit or miss with the Dolphins pass defense. If you get them one play, they get you the next.

Bills: Did I see that right? T.O. had a phenominal game last week against the Jaguars, 9 cathces for 197 yards and a TD. Yet, the Bills lost. Isn't time the running game got invlved? I mean, Buffalo only has 2 rushing TD. I have to think that RB Marshawn Lynch has not "recovered" from missing the first 3 games of the season due to suspension. In fact, the Bills have not had the leading rusher in any of their own games since RB Fred Jackson way back in week 2 (163 yards v. Tampa Bay).

Something else to keep in mind about the Bills offense. The Bills have had the leading passer three times in their games this season (Trent Edwards twice and Ryan Fitzpatrick last week). In those three games, Buffalo is 0-3. Hmmmm.

For the Bills to have any hope against Miami, stop the run. DT Marcus Stroud's health will be a key. Stroud is listed as questionable and having him available to clog the middle of the field would be a major asset to Buffalo's defense. Add CB Terrence McGee and S Jairus Byrd as important defensive assets. They are two of the reasons the Bills are 9th against the pass. Only the Saints (20) and the Packers (18) currently have more INT than Buffalo (17). Another impressive stat, only the Saints (57.8) allow opposing QB passer rating lower than the Bills (64.5).

Thanksgiving Day NFL Recap

Happy Friday. I hope eveyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I also hope you could find a way to enjoy the NFL games yesterday. I know, not much excitement. But there was if you were Lions QB Duante Culpepper. Read on if you're not sure what I mean.

 Packers (7-4) 34, Lions (2-9) 12

During pregame, Culpepper was informed that he would not be starting, and that Matthew Stafford would. Culpepper did not appear to be too pleased with the team's decision. He did practice with the first team for the short week. Remember, Stafford suffered a separated shoulder during Sunday's 38-37 win over the Cleveland Browns.

Maybe, Culpepper would have been the better selection based on the game Stafford had. 20 of 43, 213 yards, 1 TD, 4 INT. One of Stafford's INT was a pick 6 by Packers CB Charles Woodson. Overall the Lions had five turnovers.

One last quick (maybe not so quick) note from the game. There's 2:51 left in the game and the score is 34-12, Green Bay. Detroit has the ball on their own 28. It's 2nd and 10 and Stafford completes a pass to backup TE Casey Fitzsimmons. Upon being tackled, it appears that Fitzsimmons fumbles the ball but the officials ruled that Fitzsimmons was down by contact.

I know...not so quick. Sorry. I have to say this next part though. Packers head coach Mike McCarthy (left) challenged the play. It was reversed and Geen Bay got the ball. I am massively irritated with McCarthy's decision to challenge that play. You're already winning 34-12 and there's less than three minutes left. What a heartless call by McCarthy. Happy Thanksgiving, Coach. You are no doubt, my Turkey of the Day. Congrats!

Some may say I'm off base. I say to you that you're as heartless as McCarthy. You already have the "W". What more do you need?

Game ball: Packers QB Aaron Rodgers: 28-39, 348 yards, 3 TD

NFL Week 12 - Thanksgiving Day Games

Since tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day, I would like to take this opportunity to wish each of you a Happy Thanksgiving. I deeply appreciate those that have been with me for these short few months. And I hope your holiday week is a pleasant one.

The games...we have our two traditional Thanksgiving hosts in Detroit and Dallas. Denver will be hosting the evening game.

All games have important playoff ramifications attached to them. So if you're saying they need to take the Thanksgiving Day game away from Detroit, guess again. It's not going to happen.

Green Bay (6-4) @ Detroit (2-8)

Packers: The biggest point with the Packers is right now on the defensive side of the ball. Both CB Al Harris and LB Aaron Kampman are lost for the season. Kampman's loss can be filled with Clay Matthews or Brady Poppinga or Brandon Chillar or a combination of the three depending on situations. Losing Harris is a totally different issue. Not that Kampman won't be missed (a Pro-Bowler as a DE), but Harris, even at 34, is one of the NFL's best corners. The loss of Harris makes the health of CB Charles Woodson a much greater concern. Woodson was limited in practice,  so he will go.

The Packers offense had a bit of a revival against San Francisco last week. QB Aaron Rodgers had 344 yards passing. RB Ryan Grant had 129 yards rushing. WR Greg Jenning had 126 yards receiving. That exactly what ther Packers offense needed. Now, can they have those same numbers two games in a row. It is the Lions across the line, you know.

Lions: In just his rookie season, QB Matthew Stafford (right) has already etched his name in Lions lore with his TD pass to TE Brandon Pettigrew to give the Lions their last second victory against Cleveland last week. The image of throwing that TD pass with a separated left shoulder will be a lasting image for the rest of this season. But with that, Stafford will most likely not be playing against Green Bay. Get ready, Daunte Culpepper. You're in! Wait...we didn't tell you. You might not have WR Calvin Johnson. He didn't practice on Tuesday. And the Lions need to get all the offense possible as the Packers shutout the Lions back in week 6.

But what can Detroit do to stop the Packers? We've seen that pressuring Aaron Rodgers isn't necessarily good. You may sack him (an NFL leading 43 times), but Rodgers can get back at you on the next play. Turnoves aren't a major part of Detroit's game: 7 INT and 7 fumble recoveries. If the Lions have any hope, they must force the Packers into tose turnoves. That may slow the offense down.

Oakland (3-7) @ Dallas (7-3)

Meyer and the Golden Dome; Clausen Sucker Punched

The rumor mill is up and running again.

Florida head coach Urban Meyer is quickly dispelling any rumors that he is leaving Gainesville for South Bend.



I can see Meyer leaving for Notre Dame. If Florida wins the National Championship that would give the Gators three National Championships within the last four years. Wouldn't that be enough to compel anyone to stay where they're at?

Not necessarily.

Ponder this: Tim Tebow will be gone. Brandon Spikes will be gone. Besides, what more could Meyer accomplish at Florida escpecially if the Gators do win that third National Championship in four years? Meyer has spent time in South Bend, so he knows the landscape, both geographically and athletically. But could it be Notre Dame's academic standards that keeps him in Gainesville?

Silly to suggest that, I know. Or is it? All those "higher" standards do is present a greater challange to Meyer. And throw this into the mix.

Let's say Charlie Weis is let go and Urban Meyer does accept the job. What will become of Jimmy Clausen? Does he leave early for the NFL or does he stay for his senior year and get the chance to work with and learn from Meyer? Clausen would have an exceptionally hard decision to make.

And speaking of Clausen...You're out with your family having a meal and someone comes up and sucker punches you in the eye. An irate fan is alledged to have not only hit Clausen, but had some words for Clausen and a female attending the family get together at a South Bend establishment.

And to that "fan", I say...Get a grip. And I also say...Get a life. Just because the Irish have no met your (or Lou Holtz's) expectations gives you no right to hit any member of the team.

One last thing. You're not a fan. A fan would support his/her team no matter what the circumstances are.

Is Tim Tebow Heisman Worthy?

It’s a question that needs to be explored. The ever growing hype machine has Tebow as the Heisman favorite. But how? I, for one, am not buying it. To understand my opinion (and we all know about opinions), we must first look into the trophy itself.

If you go to the website for the Heisman, the trophy is presented to “the Most Outstanding College Football Player in the United States.” Tebow is a former winner, but the season he had when he won, was phenomenal to say the least.

Now that we know whom should win the trophy, we must now look at the statistical realm.

Here are Tebow’s stats from his sophomore year when he won.
Passing: 234 for 350, 66.9%, 3,286 yds., 32 TD, 6 INT, 172.47 QB rating
Rushing: 210 rush, 895 yds., 23 TD

That’s impressive. And a deserving season. He was the best player in the United States that year. Let’s fast forward to this season. He are Tebow’s 2009 stats:
Passing: 145 for 223, 65.0%, 1,945 yds., 14 TD, 4 INT, 155.42 QB rating
Rushing:  178 rush, 706 yds., 11 TD

Tebow does have two games remaining (Florida State and SEC Championship v. Alabama). The stats from his bowl game will not be included as the presentation will have already taken place.

But I have two other quarterbacks that have comparable, if not, better numbers. These stats and the QBs are legit college players. They are not fabricated.

Exhibit A: (10 games played)
Passing: 154 for 264, 58.3%, 1,865 yds., 14 TD, 4 TD, 132.14 QB rating
Rushing: 105 rush, 619 yds., 12 TD
Exhibit B: (11 games played)
Passing: 230 for 321, 71.7%, 2,533 yds., 22 TD, 5 INT, 157.44 QB rating
Rushing: 151 rush, 626 yds., 14 TD

If you compare Tebow’s stats to Exhibit A, there are pretty much the same. The two main differences are completion percentage and QB rating, and those two stats go hand-in-hand.

But, compare Tebow’s ‘09 campaign to Exhibit B. Tebow is below Exhibit B in passing yards, completion percentage,  passing TD, QB rating, and rushing TD. Granted our player in Exhibit B has more pass attempts and completions and that could transfer to more yards and passing TD. You cannot deny the rushing comparison. Exhibit B has less rushes, less rushing yards, but more rushing TD.

In other words, the stats from Exhibit B are better than Tebow’s overall. He’s accounted for more total TD (36 to 25). I say that’s another reason for selecting Exhibit B over Exhibit A and Tebow.

NFL Week 11 Sunday Recap

The early games provided a lot more excitement than I originally thought. The Steelers dropped their second straight, losing in overtime to KC. Washington pushes Dallas to the lmit. A pass interference call proves pivotal in the Browns/Lions outcome. But both undefeated teams, stay undefeated.

A surprising Cincinnati loss in Oakland highlighted the late games. Cincy is now 0-10 lifetime in Oakland.

Indianapolis (10-0) 17
Baltimore (5-5) 15
Indy escapes to remain perfect
Game ball: Colts WR Pierre Garcon: 6 rec., 108 yds. (career high in both)

Dallas (7-3) 7
Washington (3-7) 6
4th quarter heroics for Cowboys
Game ball: Redskins RB Rock Cartwright: 13 car., 67 yds., 7 rec., 73 yds.

Detroit (2-8) 38
Cleveland (1-9) 37
Untimed down after defensive penalty spells doom for Browns
Game ball: Lions QB Matthew Stafford: 26-43, 422 yds., 5 TD, 2 INT

Green Bay (6-4) 30
San Francisco (4-6) 24
Packers survive Niners second half rally
Game ball: Packers QB Aaron Rodgers: 32-45, 344 yds., 2 TD

Jacksonville (6-4) 18
Buffalo (3-7) 15
Another last minute Jaguars score
Game ball: Bills WR Terrell Owens: 9 rec., 197 yds, TD

Kansas City (3-7) 27
Pittsburgh (6-4) 24/OT
Steelers lose second straight
Game ball: Chiefs RB Jamaal Chrles: 17 car., 58 yds., 2 rec., 8 yds., TD, 97 yd. KO ret TD

Minnesota (9-1) 35
Seattle (3-7) 9
Vikes in total control and pull Favre for 4th
Game ball: Vikings QB Brett Favre: 22-25, 213 yds., 4 TD

New York Giants (6-4) 34
Atlanta (5-5) 31/OT
Giants get back on track
Game ball: Giants TE Kevin Boss: 5 rec., 76 yds., 2 TD

New Orleans (10-0) 38
Tampa Bay (1-9) 7
Balanced Saints offense provides another win
Game ball: Saints RB Mike Bell: 13 car., 75 yds., 2 TD

Oakland (3-7) 20
Cincinnati (7-3) 17
Turnovers, missed opportunities haunt Cincy
Game ball: Raiders TE Zach Miller: 5 rec., 65 yds, TD

New England (7-3) 31
New York Jets (4-6) 14
Pats get revenge
Game ball: Patriots WR Wes Welker: 15 rec., 192 yds.

San Diego (7-3) 32
Denver (6-4) 3
Chargers rout Broncos to take over AFC West lead
Game ball: Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson: 20 ca., 73 yds., TD

Arizona (7-3) 21
St. Louis (1-9) 13
Another stout Rams effort falls short
Game ball: Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin: 8 rec., 103 yds., TD

Philadelphia (6-4) 24
Chicago (4-6) 20
Eagles road win enhances playoff spot
Game ball: Eagles RB LeSean McCoy: 20 car., 99 yds., TD

NFL Week 11 - Late Games

A couple of divisional battles are included in this week's late games. The lead in the AFC West is up for grabs in one. A fierce rematch provides another.

To check out my first part of Sunday's games, go here. For the second part, you can go here.

Arizona (6-3) @ St. Louis (1-8)

Cardinals: QB Kurt Warner returns. You know he'll be a bit emotional because St. Louis gave Warner a shot when nobody else would. All he did was lead the Rams to a Super Bowl victory (left) and another Super Bowl appearance. This game may the most unnerving game Warner plays all year. RB Chris "Beanie" Wells had a bit of a coming out party last week against the Seahawks. 108 total yards and 2 TD. If Wells can continue that type of play, the Cards will once again pose a major threat in the NFC.

Earlier this season, nobody could run on the Cardinals. In two of the last three Cardinals games, they have permitted a 100+ yard rusher (158 to Carolina's DeAngelo Williams and 123 to Seattle's Justin Forsett). The Cards better pull it together as the league's best pure running back, St. Louis' Steven Jackson, will be lining up on the opposite side of the ball.

Rams: One thing is for sure. The Rams will run the ball with RB Steven Jackson. The issue becomes scoring and Jackson only has 2 TD, but he has produced three straight 100+ yard efforts. The Rams offense has been very slowly getting better. Opponents key on Jackson and that gives the Rams a chance when passing. But Jackson leads the Rams in receptions. Another problem is that the team's #2 receiver, WR Donnie Avery, has only 26 catches. The #3, WR Keenan Burton, had his season ended due to a knee injury.

The defense ranks in the bottom six in every major category: scoring (29th), total yards (28th), passing (26th), and rushing (28th). Can anything else be said?

Cincinnati (7-2) @ Oakland (2-7)

Bengals: Did you ever think the Bengals (not the Bungles) would be leading the AFC North? If you're an NFL realist, the answer is no. And the Bengals thank you for continuing to doubt them. It has served them well. I get the feeling that opposing teams are still not taking them seriously enough and underestimating them. All that does is put more fire in QB Carson Palmer's (right) belly. And then it spreads to RB Cedric Benson (doubtful - hip) and WR Chad Ochocinco. With Benson's hip being an issue, newly signed RB Larry Johnson may see a lot of playng time. He won't need to be brought up to speed as far as the Raiders go.

The one thing people are just now giving Cincy credit for is their defense. They are second in scoring defense (16.3 points a game) and only the Indianapolis Colts allow less. And that can get better due to the Raiders inability to produce offensively. But the guys in stripes better not fall asleep.

Raiders: Head coach Tom Cable finally did the right thing and benched QB JaMarcus Russell. It only took him about a month and a half too long. QB Bruce Gradkowski gets the start in what may be an audition for a 2010 roster spot. The one thing the Raiders can kind of do well is run the ball with RBs Michael Bush and Justin Fargas. The big issue is that Cincinnati is second against the run. That leaves an inept passing game and Gradkowski is starting his first game this season. He's had previous starts (1 in Cleveland in 2008 and 11 in Tampa Bay in 2006), but his only start last year yielded a QB rating of 1.0.

The biggest matchup will be CB Nnamdi Asomugha on WR Chad Ochocinco. Asomugha is among the league's best corners and team's go out of there way to avoid him. He's that good! Watch this. It might be better than the actual game.

NFL Week 11 Preview - Early Games, Part II

Here's the second part to the 1:00 previews. If you didn't catch Part I, you can go here and see it. Off to the games!

San Francisco (4-5) @ Green Bay (5-4)

49ers: Run, Frank, Run. Frank Gore (left), that is. It might be the Niners best shot for a road win. I say that not only because we all know Gore can, well, gore a defense, but QB Alex Smith will see a pair of crafty corners (Charles Woodson and Al Harris) on the other side of the ball. When Smith does throw, he usually looks for TE Vernon Davis. Davis leads all TE with 7 TD and he ranks in the top 10 in all other TE receiving categories. He's writing a Pro-Bowl worthy resume', that's for sure. But the 49ers will be without T Joe Staley for yet another week.

The Niners get most of their pub for being a defensive team, due in part because of head coach Mike Singletary. The D will not have the services of CB Nate Clements for another week so that will leave a larger then normal crack in the pass defense. A pass defense that has been expolited many times this season. You can't run on San Francisco (3rd against the run), but if you have a decent passing attack, you can move the ball on the Niners (29th v. the pass).

Packers: QB Aaron Rodgers, RB Ryan Grant, WRs Donald Driver and Greg Jennings. What more could the Packers need? Two things. One is protection for Rodgers. He's been sacked an NFL leading 41 times. The next closest is KC's Matt Cassel, 29 sacks. A healthy Jermichael Finley will also help. It's not that TE Donald Lee isn't doing his job, but Finley can stretch a defense with his raw talent. And Driver is 14th in receiving yards. And there's Grant. He's 10th in rushing.

The one area the Green Bay improved the most during the offseason was the defense as a whole. New DC Dom Capers has these guys, and all their youth, playing inspired football to the tune of 4th overall, 6th against the pass, 4th against the run, and 10th in scoring defense. And the Pack is healthy defensively. They weren't last week against Dallas and managhed to limit the Cowboys to a meaningless late 4th quarte score in a 17-7 win.

Buffalo (3-6) @ Jacksonville (5-4)

Bills: A busy week in Buffalo. New head coach. New starting quarterback. A line of "who's who" among former coahes the owner is considering bringing to Buffalo. First, Dick Jauron was fired as head coach and Perry Fewell, te Bills defensive coordinator, was promoted to interim head coach. Fewell's first move was to insert QB Ryan Fitzpatrick as the starter over Trent Edwards. The Bills offensive woes go even deeper with the struggling RB Marshawn Lynch and his 3.2 yards a carry. One step further. WR Lee Evans leads Buffalo in receptions...with 27 and this is the 10th game of the season.

The trouble in Buffalo isn't limited to just the offense. The defense hasn't been stopping opponents from running the ball (last). DT Marcus Stroud (knee) will be out and LB Keith Ellison (thigh) was placed on IR and is done for this season. What makes these losses appear even worse is the Bills oppnent, Jacksonville and RB Maurice Jones-Drew.

Jaguars: The last time we saw RB Maurice Jones-Drew (right), he was stopping short of the goal line in a Jags win over the Jets. He received a fair amount of criticism for the move even though he was instructed to do so. The critics were mostly fantasy owners (including MJD) who lost due to move. What could be a better sight than the NFL's worst run defense? Nothing if your MJD.

And the defense? They will be tested despite Bufalo's switch at QB. The key for a Jags win is can they contain Bills RB Fred Jackson? Jacksonville is 22nd against the run and Buffalo is 18th in rushing. If the Jags can stuff the run and make Buffalo have to throw, it should be a win.

NFL Week 11 Preview - Early Games, Part I

Week 11 is already underway. The league has nine 1:00 games slated for this Sunday. We'll cover them, but we're breaking it up into two separate posts this week.

Pittsburgh (6-3) @ Kansas City (2-7)

Steelers: Eveyone's entitled to a bad game, right? Not the Steelers, in their minds anyway. There were a couple of major issues that surfaced during last week's 18-12 loss to Cincinnati. QB Ben Roethlisberger was sacked four times and RB Rashard Mendenhall only managed 36 yards. There's only one place to go to correct both of those...the O line. And I guarantee you they get corrected this week. Or they should. The Chiefs defense has more holes than Swiss cheese. 27th overall, 24th against the pass and 27th against the rush.

Head coach Mike Tomlin said on Tuesday that S Troy Polamalu (knee - PCL strain) is questionable for this game. He's still not been ruled out, but as the days go on and nothing is said, it makes you wonder. The best news is that it's not the same ligament. Same knee, different ligament.

Chiefs: Another win, but here's one bizarre stat. Kansas City is averaging 15 points a game in their two wins, 16 points a game in their seven losses. Sure, their wins are against a horrible Raiders team and a Redskins team that has little going for it. The offense is a stagnant unit at best. And it may get worse as WR Dwayne Bowe will miss the next four games for violating the league's drug policy. RB Jamaal Charles (left) did get the start last week and produced rather well in place of the departed Larry Johnson (18 carries, 103 yards, TD). It's going to bew tough sledding against the Steelers D which ranks 1st against the run and 2nd overall.

Where is the pass rush? 12 sacks (31st)? Where's the turnovers? 5 picks (30th)? A 2-7 record really makes sense now.

Indianapolis (9-0) @ Balitmore (5-4)

Colts: Did you see how the Colts won the game on Sunday night? All kidding aside, Indy did have the offense in gear during the fourth quarter. Especially passing. Wait, they have this guy named Manning and he sure can throw. And he may get a lot more yards this week. Manning has to get a lot of yards since the Colts have yet to have a produce a 100+ yards rushing effort. That's how you get to the Ravens. I say that despite the fact Baltimore is better against the run. Got to keep them honest. Then....forget it. We are talking about Peyton Manning. And WR Reggie Wayne may have yet another field day against a pair of CBs that have tendencies to lax in coverage.

One thing to point out here. Indy had 13 players not participate in prctice on Wednesday. As of Friday, that number had dwindled...to 11.

The matchup of the game will be the Ravens O line against the DEs Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis. While RB Ray Rice is fast becoming a common name around the league, getting pressure on a still young QB Joe Flacco can make the difference.

Ravens: Baltimore stayed alive with a 16-0 win against the Cleveland Browns last Monday night. But it was a costly win as DE Terrell Suggs suffered a knee injury at the hands of Browns QB Brady Quinn after a Raven INT. First tings first. RB Ray Rice is 11th in rushing yards and 10th in receptions. He is definately Pro-Bowl worthy. But Ravens offense has somewhat fizzled as of late. We thought we were seeing Baltimore become a pass happy team...maybe even too pass happy. A lesson learned as when QB Joe Flacco (right) throws multiple INT in a game (he's only done it twice), they lost. Baltimore cannot force the pass, but with Rice thay can force the run.

I said it last week...the Ravens do miss Rex Ryan. No Suggs means less pressure on Peyton Manning. We all know what that means. The secondary will have to hold up tis end of the bargain this week. And that's been a sore spot for Baltimore. CBs Fabian Washington and Dominique Foxworth have been burned many a time this season. And Indy has excellent receivers. Good luck guys.

Williams Leads Way to Dolphins Win

The Miami Dolphins kept their playoff hopes running. And Ricky Williams (left) kept running, too. Williams had 22 carries for 119 yards and 2 TD. Williams also has a receiving TD to pace the Dolphins to a 24-17 over the Carolina Panthers on Thursday night.

Williams had to be the centerpiece of the Dolphins offense with fellow RB Ronnie Brown out for the remainder of the season with a foot injury. And Williams must be that central figure for the remainder of this season. At 32, will Williams be able to take up the slack for the rest of the year?

There's no reason (or sign) that Williams can't. Thirty used to be looked at as the age when the game for running backs started to deteriorate. Not quite so anymore, but the position is primarily fielded by younger players. The main 30+ year old running back other than Williams is Thomas Jones of the New York Jets. He's 31 and he has 170 carries for 781 yards and 8 TD. Williams currently has 127 carries for 677 yards with 8 TD. Jones is 8th in rushing while Williams is now 10th after last night's game.

Even though Williams came into the league in 1999, he's truly only played eight and a half seasons. The New Orleans Saints traded their whole 1999 draft to get Williams. He played for three years and was dealt to Miami.

Williams played for two seasons in Miami when his "troubles" began. He did not play at all during the 2004 season. It was a "retirement" thing. Sort of. Williams came back for the 2005 season but was suspended for the first four games due to violation of the league's drug policy.

Williams would miss yet another entire season (2006) due to another violation of the drug policy. He played in the CFL for the Toronto Argonuats, but Williams did miss two months due to multiple injuries. It's almost like he missed half a season. Williams rejoined the Dolphins (again) in 2007, only to lose that season with a pectoral tear in his first game of the season. So in playing years, Williams is about 29 and a half.

Williams does have enough in the tank. He is known as a fitness nut and for keeping his body in excellent shape. And after watching the last handful of Dolphins games, he doesn't look like a player that's on a downward trend. Ricky is holding a slight resemblance the Ricky of 2002 when he led the NFL in rushing with 1,800+ yards.

One thing for sure, the Dolphins are looking to Williams to lead the way.

If you think about it, it's come full cycle for Ricky.

For all those years, Williams was looking to the Dolphins.

NFL Thursday Night Preview - Dolphins/Panthers

The NFL Network gets another shot to deliver a good game. Last week's Bears/Niners matchup...not memorable by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, it was about the worst game last week and I am taking the Monday night game into consideration.

I'm not totally sold on this week's game either, but both teams sure can run tote the rock! If you like smashmouth football, this just might be your kind of game.

  Miami (4-5) @ Carolina (4-5)

Dolphins: The bulk of Miami's offense was stolen by a foot injury to RB Ronnie Brown. Brown was placed on IR for the second time in his career. Brown's absence will put more of the offensive load on RB Ricky Williams...or will it? One thing to consider is will this be the opportunity to insert QB Pat White more in the offense? Interesting thought. I do think Williams will have more carries, but I also look for White to be more involved. The Dolphins strength (4th in rushing) is the Panthers weakness (25th against the run), and the absence of Brown may not be as striking for this particular matchup.

LB Joey Porter will be active this week after a coach's decision shelved him last week. How much will Porter play? Who really knows since LB Charlie Anderson played in Porter's position last week and had 6 total tackles, 2 sacks and 2 forced fumbles. Porter's action may be somewhat limited.

Panthers: T Jordan Gross' season has been shortened due to surgery on his ankle. QB Jake Delhomme will have to check his backside a bit more now as Gross was the charge to protect it. Speaking of Delhomme, it seems the INT bug has left his system...and it must stay away for Carolina to have a chance in this game and any game going forward. But we all know the RB tandem of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart (right) are the Panthers offense. The issue is the health of both Williams (knee) and Stewart (Achilles), who both are listed as questionable. It's been a short work week and their recovery time was severely limited.

This game will be determined by how well the Panthers D plays against the Dolphins rushing attack. DE Julius Peppers should be good to go this week, and he may play a huge role in stopping the run. We all know Peppers for his pass rush (7.0 sacks this season), but if he can force the run to the inside, the Panthers could actually contain the Fins rush.

A must win for both teams. The winner is 5-5 and still in the playoff picture. The loser is 4-6 and is looking at a real possiblity of having to win out for a chance to make the postseason.

Carwin Defends Lesnar

I'm not yet a huge fan of MMA, but my son-in-law has a major interest and has got me watching. I remember when it was announced that Brock Lesnar was joining the ranks of the UFC. My son-in-law scoffed. I was intriguied as my guilty pleasure (and I fully admit) is watching the WWE.

As his time in the UFC has been stormy and cold, Lesnar has an unexpected backer, so to speak. Shane Carwin, who was scheduled as Lesnar's next opponent for the UFC Heavyweight Title, posted a few lines on the forum of mixedmartialarts.com.  Carwin shows an incredible amount of class in addressing the current health of Lesnar.

My family and I send our thoughts and well wishes to Brock's family, friends and training partners. We are indeed keeping you in our thoughts.

If you sit around bashing Brock or making fun of this because of his antics you might be the very same thing you despise. As an MMA fan, as a human be concerned that one of OUR OWN has fallen and needs our support.

Get well soon UFC Heavyweight Champ Brock Lesnar.

Well put, Shane. Your legion of fans is sure to increase, and deservedly so.

Carwin could've easily taken the low road and called Lesnar out, but he deferred. He took the high road, and the whole MMA world is better for it. It's one thing to want to destroy your opponent while fighting. It's another to want him destroyed while he's fighting for his health.

In case you're not familiar on to what Carwin is referring to, he's referring to a serious health issue that Lesnar is battling. The issue has prompted UFC frontman Dana White to address Lesnar's health. According to MMAfighting.com, Lesnar is recovering from a bacterial infection of his intestinal tract.

White released a vlog on YouTube regarding Lesnar and his status. The whole video is almost ten minutes, but White addresses Lesnar and his status within the first minute. One thing. If you're familiar with White, you know there will be explitives involved. You've been warned.



Lesnar was labeled as The Next Big Thing at the beginning of his WWE career. It could be easily argued that the same applies to the UFC. With his antics in and out of the octogon, Lesnar has not made a ton of friends.

But he has developed some respect from a person you wouldn't think would show it.

Ravens/Browns Wrapup

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So,last night's game was no more exciting than the Eagles-Redskins tilt. In fact, this game had even less happening. But I did manage to take away a thing or two from it.

1. With the exception of two plays, the Browns defense played well. Only a 44 yards pass fom Ravens QB Joe Flacco to WR Derrick Mason and the following Ray Rice TD run were the only plays that the Browns weren't in the game. Especially on Rice's TD run because Cleveland really only had 10 guys on the field. Cleveland held the Ravens almost 75 yards below their average and almost 9 points below their normal scoring.

2. It's a different story on the offensive side of the ball. QB Brady Quinn (left) only had 99 yards passing and the Browns offense only had 160 net yards of total offense. Concerns about Quinn's accuracy and the lack of a downfield passing attack were raised. ESPN's Mike Tirico accurately pointed out that Cleveland does not have the skill position players to possess such an attack. True.

3. Baltimore is once again alive in the playoff picture, but the Ravens are currently on the outside looking in as they currently sit 8th overall in the AFC. That's never a good place to be as a few things need to happen in order to make the postseason. All Baltimore can do is win...and the Ravens have a short week to prepare to host Indianapolis and then Pittsburgh. These next wo games should reveal the real Ravens of '09.

4. The last play of the game could prove to be a horrible memory for Cleveland fans. WR/KR and Pro-Bowler Joshua Cribbs was carted off the field and taken to a local hospital for evalution.

Game ball: Ravens RB Ray Rice - 104 total yards and TD

Heisman Candidate...or Not?

We've all been hearing for weeks that this player or that player is worthy of Heisman Trophy consideration.

The list is actually a long one because no one player has really stood out on a national level. The one's we're most hearing about are Florida QB Tim Tebow, Texas QB Colt McCoy, and Alabama RB Mark Ingram. But I've uncovered a few that are receiving little or no buzz about their play this season despite their performances this year.

1. Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State
Seriously, what more can this guy do? Moore leads the nation in QB rating (172.5) and TD passes (32). With all those TD passes, Moore has thrown only 3 INT. Almost a 11:1 ratio. He doesn't have the yardage of Houston's Case Keenum, Notre Dame's Jimmy Clausen, or Texas' Colt McCoy (barely). Sure, he's just a sophomore, but that's not uncommon ground anymore. Wasn't Tim Tebow a soph when he won?

2. Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford
Who leads the nation in rushing TD among running backs? It's Gerhart with 19. Only Navy QB Ricky Dobbs (22) has more. Gerhart also has more rushing yards (1,395) than Alabama's Mark Ingram (1,297). Ingram is being touted as the front runner for the award. Granted, Gerhart has more carries. And some may also argue that Ingram means more to the Crimson Tide than Gerhart means to the Cardinal. I ask you one question...Have you seen him run? Punishing.

3. C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
Spiller's on my list because he is game changer. No so much with his scoring, although he is proficient in scoring, but he flips the field with his returns on punts and more specifically, kickoffs. Spiller is a threat anytime he touvhes the ball to go the distance. In four of Clemson's last 5 games, Spiller has averaged 168.5 yards of total offense. He's the main reason Clemson is on a fivve game winning streak including a 40-37 OT win on the road against Miami (FL).

4. Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame
Some whispers have come out about Texas WR Jordan Shipley for the Heisman. I put Tate ahead of him. Tate has more yards (1,172 to 1,096), more TD (11 to 8), and a higher average in yards per catch (15.8 to 13.5). If you talk about Shipley, you must consider Tate ahead of him despite the Irish's record. One other thought. Where would Irish QB Jimmy Clausen be without Tate?

5. Freddie Barnes, WR, Bowling Green
I know. BGSU is in the MAC. The MAC has given us some exciting NFL players (Miami's Ben Roethlisberger and Kent State's Joshua Cribbs just to name a couple). Barnes could be the next one. A converted QB, Barnes leads the nation in receptions (117), second in receiving yards (1,285) and TD receptions (12). If you're keeping score, that's more yards and TD than the aforementioned Golden Tate. Barnes has eclipsed the 100 yard mark in seven of the Falcons ten games. Not a reach for the senior to be at least in the conversation.

I leave it to you. Who are legit candidates? Did I snub anyone?

The Weekend High 5

This weekend supplied us with a whole lot of stories. Here's a look at five of the best from Friday night to Sunday night.

1. Lakers manage only 23 second half point against Nuggets

No one could have guessed this. We're used to 23 points being a low scoring quarter for the Lakers. But a half? And Kobe doesn't score a single second half point? But it wasn't revelaed by the Lakers until after Sunday night's loss to the Houston Rockets that Bryant has a groin strain. No ups when that groin is bad.

2. Coulmbus Blue Jackets beat Anahiem Ducks in shootout

Doesn't seem like a big deal, does it? Watch.



Blue Jackets winger Rick Nash almost "blew a tire" and still managed to score the shootout goal that gives Columbus the win. Speaking of Columbus...

NFL Week 10 Recap and Ravens/Browns Preview

What a week!! The Bengals pull off the improbable sweep of the Steelers. The Rams push the Saints. Miami gets a FG with 0:14 remaining. Jacksonville does Miami 11 seconds better with a FG with 0:03 left. Green Bay upsets Dallas. A Broncos loss and a Chargers win means a tie in the AFC West. On to the recap...

Atlanta (5-4) 19
Carolina (4-5) 28
Panthers defend home field and keep a pulse for playoffs
Game ball: Panther QB Jake Delhomme - no stats to list but one, NO INT!

Tampa Bay (1-8) 23
Miami (4-5) 25
Dolphins overcome Bucs 14 point 4th quarter
Game ball: Dolphins RBs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams - 32 car., 204 yds., TD (combined)

Detroit (1-8) 10
Minnesota (8-1) 27
Vikes shove aside stubborn Lions for second time this season
Game ball: Vikings RB Adrian Peterson - 18 car., 133 yds., 2 TD

Jacksonville (5-4) 24
New York Jets (4-5) 22
Jets 4th quarter comeback falls short
Game ball: Jags RB Maurice Jones-Drew - 24 car., 123 yds., TD

Cincinnati (7-2) 18
Pittsburgh (6-3) 12
Defensive battle goes to Bengals
Game ball: Bengals defense - 226 net yds., 4 sacks

New Orleans (9-0) 28
St. Louis (1-8) 23
Host Rams prove to be a tough opponent for undefeated Saints
Game ball: Saints RB Reggie Bush - 6 car., 83 yds., TD; 2 rec., 15 yds., TD

Buffalo (3-6) 17
Tennessee (3-6) 41
Titans win third in a row behind QB Vince Young...sort of.
Game ball: Titans RB Chris Johnson - 26 car., 132 yds., 2 TD; 9 rec., 100 yds. Can anyone stop this guy?

Denver (6-3) 17
Washington (3-6) 27
Redskins pull off stunner as Broncos drop third in a row
Game ball: Redskins RB Ladell Betts - 26 car., 114 yds., TD

NFL Week 10 Preview - Late Games

We get the dream matchup of New England and Indianapolis in the Sunday night game. Besides that, there are a couple of 4:00 games that are interesting.

Kansas City (1-7) @ Oakland (2-6)

Chiefs: The days of RB Larry Johnson in KC are no more and the search for a starting running back begins. As of Friday, Chiefs head coach Todd Haley was noncommital on who would start against the hated Raiders. One thing we all know for sure, the Chiefs are severely lacking from an offensive standpoint. 30th overall, 28th in passing, 24th in rushing, and 27th in scoring. Protecting Cassel will be important as he's been sacked 30 times. The last time these old foes clashed, the Chiefs totally dominated the Raiders in every phase of the game...and lost. That one was on he offense.

The defense has been, how do I say this, lackluster at best. KC has only 10 sacks and 3 INT. Only the Jacksonville Jaguars have less sacks and KC is last in INT. Things might change with the equally woeful Raiders offense and a struggling QB JaMarcus Russell.

Raiders: Most would agree that QB JaMarcus Russell has shown absolutely no signs of improving or becoming a team leader. Your QB has to be one of your team leaders, and Russell is by far that. A QB rating of 48.3, 48.4 completion percentage, 2 TD and 9 INT. This translates to a -9 turnover ratio. You're not going to win games with that. But there may be a bit of light at the end of the tunnel as RB Darren McFadden may be back in action this week. The anemic offense needs some good news and having another weapon, provided it's propely used, is a good thing. Right?

Like KC, Oakland has its share of defensive woes, too. But those woes are pretty much limited to the rushing defense (29th), and not the pass D (13th). There is a bright side in Oakland...somewhat. Look at their next three games: Cincinnati, at Dallas for Thanksgiving, and at Pittsburgh.

Fantasy Alert: KC: If Todd Haley were more decisive on who would start at RB, you might consider Jamaal Charles as a start against a bad run defense. OAK: K Sebastian Janikowski could be the difference maker in this game and KC allow 8.5 points a game to kickers, 3rd most.

Seattle (3-5) @ Arizona (5-3)

Seahawks: Before we all atart to get carried away with Seattle's three wins, analyze who they beat. St. Louis, Jacksonville, and Detroit. Only Jacksonville, at 4-4, is at .500 or better. When Arizona vivsited Qwest Field a month ago, the Seahawks sputtered on offense. The best news is that this game is at Arizona. How's that good news you may ask? The Cards are only 1-3 at home, but 4-0 on the road. Despite a sore shoulder and ribs, QB Matthew Hasselbeck will start and he'll have T Sean Locklear for this game. It's simple: the Cards can't stop the pass, but they can stuff the run. WRs Nate Burleson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, and TE John Carlson are a trio to worry about.

It's simple on defense, too: pressure Cards QB Kurt Warner and he will make mistakes. It could be a fumble or a pick. This is a must win for Seattle.

Cardinals: It's no secret that QB Kurt Warner (left) is the leader of this Cards team. And he could even have WR Anquan Boldin back this week. That will provide more headaches for the Seattle defense. RB Beanie Wells has had a couple of decent games over the Cards last three. But with his fumbling, RB Tim Hightower has been the man in the redzone with 5 TD. And Hightower is more involved in the pass offense.

Where the Cards have improved in on the rushing defense, 4th best. If the 27th rated pass defense wants to get pressure on Seattle QB Matthew Hasselbeck, they may have to do it without LB and former Seahawk Chike Okefor due to a back injury. Pass attack against pass defense. But, whoever has more success running, amy come out on top.

Fantasy Alert: SEA: QB Matthew Hasselbeck is a solid start, but it's WRs Nate Burleson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, and TE John Carlson that could shine for you this week. ARI: If you don't start WRs Larry Fitzgeral, Anquan Boldin, and even Steve Breaston, you may miss the bus. QB Kurt Warner is solid as always.

NFL Week 10 Preview - Early Games

Week 10 is the last of the bye weeks. Houston and the New York Giants get the week off. Boy, do the Giants ever need it! Almost every game is important. Here...we...go!

Atlanta (5-3) @ Carolina (3-5)

Falcons: Over the last two games, RB Michael Turner (left) has really started to resemble the Turner of '08. 317 yards on 38 carries with 3 TD. I'd say he's back in the groove. His performance this week will be vital to Atlanta since the Panthers are 23rd against the rush. But what about QB Matt Ryan? He may have a bit of a rough time as Carolina ranks 6th against the pass.

But this game will be in the hands of the Falcons defense. As the case has been all season, you can move the ball on them, but they rarely let you get it in the endzone. Atlanta's focus will be on the duo of RBs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Both are banged up, so Atlanta may get a tad of a breather. This is a critical game for the Dirty Birds and being on the road will make it that much tougher.

Panthers: All of Carolina's hopes of a home upset hinge on RBs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Problem here. They're both listed as questionable. Williams is nursing a bad left knee and Stewart is tending an Achilles tendon issue. As we've observed, Carolina cannot put the game in the hands of QB Jake Delhomme due to his tendency of throwing picks. At this point, Stewart will go, but the health of Williams is a bit up in the air.

The Panthers defense has slowly improved, but their rushing defense is among the third (23rd) in the NFL. Even with the possibility of Williams not playing, Carolina must stop the run and put Atlanta in third and long situations. Then, the front line can pin their ears back and go ater QB Matt Ryan.

Fantasy Alert: ATL: RB Michael Turner is a given. Ryan, White, and Gonzalez are among the top 10 at their positions as far as points, but the Panthers defense does not yield a whole lot to each position (QB - 10.8, WR - 15.1, TE - 5.3). The Falcons D/ST may not be a bad play with the turnover issues that bite the Panthers. CAR: If Williams is a go, he plays. Same with Stewart. Stewart could be a bigger play if Williams doesn't suit up. WR Steve Smith is an interesting option in deeper leagues due to Delhomme's inconsistent play.

Tampa Bay (1-7) @ Miami (3-5)

Buccaneers: A lot of people had last week as a loss for the Bucs, including me. How could anyone thing a rookie QB in his first game would beat the Pack? Raheem Morris and Co. did just that. With some wind in the sails, the Bucs travel south. Two of Tampa Bay's offensive cogs, WR Antonio Bryant (knee) and RB Derrick Ward (knee), may not play. Neither participated in Friday's practice. Losing Ward isn't as much of an issue as Bryant. The Bucs are 28th in total offense and rank 25th in scoring.

The defense won't get much of a break either. Tampa Bay is 30th against the run and Miami is 4th in toting the rock. Weakness against strength. The Bucs D must put this game in QB Chad Henne's hands or they will simply get mowed.

Fantasy Alert: TB: I hesitate to start any Bucs. MIA: Both RBs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Willliams are starts. If you have a weak D/ST, consider the Fins.

NFL Week 10: Bears/Niners Recap

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You hear it every week. "Take care of the ball and we'll win." Or something like it anyway. Then why do I have a sneaking, suspicion that the Bears coaches (offensively) aren't letting QB Jay Cutler (right) in on this small, but crucial piece of advice?

If you watched any of the game last evening, you might have come away with the same question. It's also possible that you came away with this question: What is Cutler thinking? That would be a good choice, too. Of course, Bears fans most likely had an explitive ot two added to it.

Bears QB Jay Cutler amassed over 300 yards passing but contributed 5 INT as the Bears fell to the San Francisco 49ers last night. The loss puts the Bears at 4-5 and in third place in the NFC North. With the win, San Francisco also moves to 4-5 and reside in second place in the NFC West.