Comeback Joke of the Year

At the end of the 2008 season Chad Pennington was named the Associated Press' Comeback Player of the Year for a second time in his career. I am certain I am not the only person who is confused by this. How can an NFL player make a comeback twice? Would that just make him a candidate for the Most Inconsistent Player award? I am not trying to knock the incredible job Chad Pennington did for turning around the Miami Dolphins from a 1-15 team to division champs in just his first season. I am just saying that consistent inconsistency should not be rewarded, especially when there were several other far more deserving candidates out there, one of them was Chaddy P'steammate.

Dolphins LB Joey Porter followed up a pedestrian 2007 season where he could barely stay on the field for the hapless Dolphins, with a dominating performance leading the NFL in sacks for most of the year finishing with 17.5 sacks and being atop the AFC all while terrorizing offensive players all over the field. Yet Porter only gathered 3 votes in the comeback player of the year category.

QB Kerry Collins who received only 6 votes has been hiding on the bench as a back-up for the last few years stepped in for Vince Young and the Tennessee Titans and has them as the #1 seed in the playoffs. His numbers were not off the charts in terms of production (2,676yrds, 12 TD’s, 7 Ints) but was a solid contributor who won games with his arm when he had to.

Finally, the player who would have won my vote as Comeback Player of the Year and received only 4 votes from the Associated Press, is WR Antonio Bryant of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Bryant, was not even on an NFL roster in 2007, he came back to football focused and was in integral part of the Bucs offense, so much so that he beat out former starter Joey Galloway and buried him on the bench. Bryant finished the season with 83 catches for 1,248 yards and 7TD’s, and had a knack for making some unbelievable catches, all while being the only offensive weapon on a team that struggled to get a running game going allowing teams to focus on stopping the pass, where Bryant was almost unstoppable.

I will leave you with a few thoughts.... What criteria do the AP voters use when deciding their choices, do they base their decisions on facts or who would make the better story? Also, how many more years do you think Pennington will have to wait until he can win his 3rd comeback player of the year? I guess we'll have to wait and see.

(Update) In support of my stance on the AP voters I have further proof that those at the Associated Press know nothing about football, when the AP All Pro team was announced today OLB James Harrison recieved 38 votes at OLB and bizarrely 1 vote at Inside Linebacker a position he does not play. Eagles CB Asante Samuels was given credit for playing for the New England Patriots, along with a few other players voted out of position.

AFC/NFC News Blitz

AFC

• Buffalo Bills (7-9-0): Three Bills have made the cut and are Hall of Fame finalists.
• Miami Dolphins (11-5-0): Dolphins great season came to an end at the hands of Ed Reed.
• New England Patriots (11-5-0): Offensive Coordinator Josh McDaniels' next Head Coaching interview is with the Rams.
• New York Jets (9-7-0): Jets fans are getting tired of team management.

NFC

• Dallas Cowboys (9-7-0): Game over for Pacman in Dallas
• New York Giants (12-4-0): Fired up Giants excited for rematch after a December loss.
• Philadelphia Eagles (9-6-1): Eagles defense is preparing itself for a two-headed running back attack.
• Washington Redskins (8-8-0): Head Coach Jim Zorn is showing everyone that the truth hurts, but it will make you better.

Steelers' Harrison wins DPOY

Steelers LB James Harrison was awarded the Associated Press 2008 Defensive Player of the Year award today becoming the 5th Steeler to win the award. The Award caps off a regular season for Harrison that saw him register 101 tackles, 16 sacks, 7 forced fumbles and 1 interception as a key component of the NFL's stingiest defense. For a breakdown of the voting.

• James Harrison 22votes
• Demarcus Ware 13 votes
• Ed Reed 8 votes
• Albert Haynesworth 5 votes
• Troy Polamalu 2 votes

AP awards have been a bit of a curse this season as all this years AP winners lost in the wildcard round except for Harrison whose team did not play yet.

Atlanta Falcon's Head Coach Mike Smith wins Coach of the year

Head Coach Mike Smith of the Atlanta falcons won the AP Coach of the Year award after his rookie season of coaching. Slightly edging out Miami Dolphins coach Tony Sparano by one vote.
Here is a breakdown of the voting.

• Mike Smith 23.5 votes
• Tony Sparano 22.5 votes
• Jeff Fischer 3 votes
• Bill Belichick 1 vote

The Atlanta Falcons scooped up 2 Associated Press awards this weekend as Rookie QB Matt Ryan won the Rookie of the Year award.

Peyton Manning MVP times 3

Indianapolis QB Peyton Manning has won his 3rd MVP award, joining QB Brett Favre as the only players to win this award 3 times. Here is a break down of the votes.

• Peyton Manning, (32) votes
• Dolphins QB Chad Pennington (4)
• Falcons RB Michael Turner(4)
• Steelers LB James Harrison (3)
• Vikings RB Adrian Peterson (3)
• Chargers QB Philip Rivers (2)
• Titans rookie RB Chris Johnson (1)
• Arizona Cardinals QB Kurt Warner (1)
  
  
  
  Click Here to read why I thought Manning should be MVP in a previous post.

AFC/NFC East News Blitz

AFC

• Buffalo Bills (7-9-0): Bills owner declares Head Coach Dick Jauron will remain with team in 2009.
• Miami Dolphins (11-5-0): Unselfish Dolphins have propelled a 1-15 team to division champs.
• New England Patriots (11-5-0): Patriots LB Jerod Mayo wins DROY with 49/50 votes.
• New York Jets (9-7-0): Jets GM Tannenbaum still in, Bill Cowher is not.

NFC

• Dallas Cowboys (9-7-0): Despite numerous critics QB Tony Romo still has support of Jones and Phillips.
• New York Giants (12-4-0): Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnolo is a hot commodity for the vacant Head Coaching positions around the league. But will this be a distraction to the teams Playoff run?
• Philadelphia Eagles (9-6-1): Eagles DE Chris Clemons uses painful past as motivation.
• Washington Redskins (8-8-0): After mediocre first season Head Coach Jim Zorn feels a few changes are all that is needed.

2009 First Round Draft Order

2009 FIRST ROUND DRAFT ORDER

Team	Record	Opp. Win %	Opp. W-L Record
1. Detroit	0-16-0	.559	143-113-0
2. St. Louis	2-14-0	.533	136-119-1
3. Kansas City	2-14-0	.537	137-118-1
4. Seattle	4-12-0	.498	127-128-1
5. Cleveland	4-12-0	.572	145-108-3
6. Cincinnati	4-11-1	.553	141-114-1
7. Oakland	5-11-0	.520	133-123-0
8. Jacksonville	5-11-0	.537	137-118-1
9. Green Bay	6-10-0	.504	129-127-0
10. San Francisco	7-9-0	.447	114-141-1
11. Buffalo	7-9-0	.453	116-140-0
12. Denver	8-8-0	.457	117-139-0
13. Washington	8-8-0	.479	121-132-3
14. New Orleans	8-8-0	.496	127-129-0
15. Houston	8-8-0	.518	132-123-1
16. San Diego *	8-8-0	.516	132-124-0
17. New York Jets	9-7-0	.471	120-135-1
18. Chicago	9-7-0	.475	121-134-1
19. Tampa Bay	9-7-0	.480	123-133-0
20. Detroit (from Dallas)	9-7-0	.498	126-127-3
21. Arizona *	9-7-0	.486	124-131-1
22. Philadelphia *	9-6-1	.514	131-124-1
23. Minnesota *	10-6-0	.504	129-127-0
24. New England	11-5-0	.480	123-133-0
25. Atlanta *	11-5-0	.459	117-138-1
26. Miami *	11-5-0	.461	118-138-0
27. Baltimore *	11-5-0	.521	132-121-3
28. Philadelphia (from Carolina) *	12-4-0	.488	125-131-0
29. Indianapolis *	12-4-0	.498	127-128-1
30. New York Giants *	12-4-0	.502	127-126-3
31. Pittsburgh *	12-4-0	.525	133-120-3
32. Tennessee *	13-3-0	.459	117-138-1

* Subject to playoffs

AFC/NFC South News Blitz

AFC

• Houston Texans (8-8-0): Texans' Offensive Coordinator Kyle Shanahan got his first taste of running the offense and looks good for the future.


• Indianapolis Colts (12-4-0): Colts are heading to San Diego, in what they hope is their first stop on their way to Tampa.


• Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11-0): Jacksonville begin to take a closer look at unsuccessful season.


• Tennessee Titans (13-3-0): With a week off, the Titans have begun preliminary contract talks with Haynesworth.

NFC

• Atlanta Falcons (11-5-0): Improbable Falcons finish season with a win and earn a post season trip to Arizona.


• Carolina Panthers (12-4-0): Fans are seeing alot of similarities between this years Panthers and the 2003 squad.


• New Orleans Saints (8-8-0): Head Coach Sean Payton preparing to clean house on his defense.


• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7-0): Carnell "Cadillac" Williams' knee injury appears less serious then originally predicted.

AFC/NFC North News Blitz

AFC

• Baltimore Ravens (11-5-0): With a win, they are in. Ravens clinch final playoff spot.
• Cincinnati Bengals (4-11-1): There's hope for the future as Bengals finish season on 3-game winning streak.
• Cleveland Browns (4-12-0): Browns are cleaning house as Crennel follows Savage out the door.
• Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4-0): Steelers fans nervous as Big Ben is carted off due to head injury in meaningless game.

NFC

• Chicago Bears (9-7-0): They needed help to get in, but Bears couldn't even help themselves as season comes to a close in Houston.
• Detroit Lions (0-16-0): Motown became "Woetown" as Lions are completely winless.
• Green Bay Packers (6-10-0): Statistically Aaron Rodgers had a great season, unfortunately the record did not reflect that.
• Minnesota Vikings (10-6-0): Adrian Peterson rumbled his way to become the league's leading rusher, and also joined an Elite group of 2nd year running backs.

Alldayfootball.com NFL MVP award

The NFL regular season is coming to a close and as we all prepare for "The Tournament" I figured that Alldayfootball.com should discuss our choice for the league MVP. A few weeks ago the list of candidates was very different with names like Warner and Brees as popular choices, and if there was an award for mid-season MVP either of those two would have had my vote. As we all know the award is for a complete seasons worth of work and late season collapses in the Bayou and the Desert have eliminated those two players from the running.

After hours of evaluation and careful following there are two remaining candidates and one clear winner. Peyton Manning and Adrian Peterson are both offensive superstars who are carrying their respective teams late into the season.

An uncharacteristic slow start in Indy because of two off season knee surgeries kept Peyton off this list for most of the season, but he has fully recovered and rebounded to Pro-bowl form. A master of deciphering opposing defenses, Manning will figure you out and slice you apart with surgeon-like precision. A struggling Addai/Rhodes backfield has provided very little support in the running game so Peyton Manning has put the Indianapolis on his shoulders and carried them back from a rocky 3-4 start to an 8 win streak and an 11-4 record along with a guaranteed 7th consecutive playoff appearance.

Peterson on the other hand doesn't have the supportive cast of Offensive playmakers like Manning does as evidence by his squad still struggling to lock up a playoff berth. His teams struggles should not take away from the dominating impact that Peterson brings every Sunday. Leading the NFL in Rushing yards when teams are constantly stacking the box with no fear of the Vikings lackluster pass attack is no small feat. Peterson's upright punishing style and blazing speed make him a threat to go the distance on any carry. A match-up nightmare in just his second season, his impact will not be truly felt until the rest of the offense can bring some balance.

When the season comes to a close and the awards are handed out, Peyton Manning will be clearing a spot for another piece of hardware. A 3rd NFL MVP trophy whose team would be at the bottom of the division without him. An irreplaceable conductor who orchestrates an offense beautifully from the line of scrimmage.

AFC Pro Bowl Rosters

Here are the AFC Pro Bowl rosters Starters names are in RED

Offense

• QB: Peyton Manning, Colts; Brett Favre, Jets; Jay Cutler, Broncos.
• RB: Thomas Jones, Jets; Chris Johnson, Titans; Ronnie Brown, Dolphins.
• FB: Le’Ron McClain, Ravens.
• WR: Andre Johnson, Texans and Brandon Marshall, Broncos; Reggie Wayne, Colts; Wes Welker, Patriots.
• TE: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs; Antonio Gates, Chargers.
• T: Joe Thomas, Browns and Jason Peters, Bills; Michael Roos, Titans.
• G: Alan Faneca, Jets and Kris Dielman, Chargers; Brian Waters, Chiefs.
• C: Kevin Mawae, Titans; Nick Mangold, Jets.
  

Defense

• DE: Mario Williams, Texans and Dwight Freeney, Colts; Robert Mathis, Colts.
• DT: Albert Haynesworth, Titans and Kris Jenkins, Jets; Shaun Rogers, Browns.
• OLB: James Harrison, Steelers and Joey Porter, Dolphins; Terrell Suggs, Ravens
• MLB: Ray Lewis, Ravens; James Farrior, Steelers.
• CB: Nnamdi Asomugha, Raiders and Courtland Finnegan, Titans; Darrelle Revis, Jets.
• S: Ed Reed, Ravens and Troy Polamalu, Steelers; Chris Hope, Titans.
  

Special Teams

• K: Stephan Gostkowski, Patriots.
• P: Shane Lechler, Raiders.
• KR: Leon Washington, Jets.
• ST: Brendon Ayanbadejo, Ravens.

NFC Pro Bowl Rosters

Here are the NFC Pro Bowl rosters. I hope you all put in your vote. Starters will be in Blue

Offense

• QB: Kurt Warner, Cardinals; Drew Brees, Saints; Eli Manning, Giants.
• RB: Adrian Peterson, Vikings; Michael Turner, Falcons; Clinton Portis, Redskins.
  FB: Mike Sellers, Redskins.
• WR: Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, Cardinals; Steve Smith, Panthers; Roddy White, Falcons
• TE: Jason Witten, Cowboys; Chris Cooley, Redskins.
• T: Jordan Gross, Panthers and Walter Jones, Seahawks; Chris Samuels, Redskins.
• G: Chris Snee, Giants and Steve Hutchinson, Vikings; Leonard Davis, Cowboys.
• C: Andre Gurode, Cowboys; Shaun O’Hara, Giants.

Defense

• DE: Justin Tuck, Giants and Julius Peppers, Panthers; Jared Allen, Vikings.
• DT: Kevin Williams, Vikings and Jay Ratliff, Cowboys; Pat Williams, Vikings.
• OLB: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys and Lance Briggs, Bears; Derrick Brooks, Buccaneers.
• ILB: Patrick Willis, 49ers; Jon Beason, Panthers.
• CB: Charles Woodson, Packers and Antoine Winfield, Vikings; Asante Samuel, Eagles.
• S: Nick Collins, Packers and Adrian Wilson, Cardinals; Brian Dawkins, Eagles.

Special Teams

• K: John Carney, Giants.
• P: Jeff Feagles, Giants.
• KR: Clifton Smith, Buccaneers.
• ST: Sean Morey, Cardinals.

Week 16 Picks

Hey Everyone, my picks are up a day early because I will be travelling tomorrow for the Holidays. Enjoy!

Indianapolis Colts (10-4) at Jacksonville Jaguars (5-9)

Thursday, 8:15 ET Weather
Injuries:

• Colts: OUT: RB Mike Hart (IR), OT Tony Ugoh, G Ryan Lilja, DT Anthony McFarland (IR), OLB Tyjuan Hagler, CB Marlin Jackson (IR), KR T.J. Rushing (IR).
• Jaguars: OUT: RB Fred Taylor (IR), FB Greg Jones (IR), WR Matt Jones (SUSP), G Vince Manuwai (IR), G Maurice Williams (IR), G Chris Naeole (IR), CB Rashean Mathis (IR), P Adam Podlesh (IR).

WINNER: COLTS

Baltimore Ravens (9-5) at Dallas Cowboys (9-5)

Saturday, 8:15 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Ravens: OUT: QB Kyle Boller (IR), WR Demetrius Williams (IR), TE Quinn Sypniewski (IR), OT Marshal Yanda (IR), OT Adam Terry, DT Kelly Gregg (IR), DT Dwan Edwards (IR), ILB Tavares Gooden (IR), ILB Prescott Burgess (IR), CB Chris McAlister (IR), S Dawan Landry (IR).
• Cowboys: OUT: RB Felix Jones (IR), WR Sam Hurd (IR), G Kyle Kosier (IR), CB Pacman Jones, S Roy Williams (IR), P Mat McBriar (IR).

WINNER: RAVENS

Miami Dolphins (9-5) at Kansas City Chiefs (2-12)

Sunday, 1:00 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Dolphins: OUT: WR Greg Camarillo (IR), G Donald Thomas (IR), CB Michael Lehan (IR).
• Chiefs: OUT: QB Brodie Croyle (IR), QB Damon Huard (IR), RB Kolby Smith (IR), DE Turk McBride (IR).

WINNER: DOLPHINS

New Orleans Saints (7-7) at Detroit Lions (0-14)

Sunday, 1:00 ET Weather (Dome)

Injuries:

• Saints: OUT: RB Aaron Stecker (IR), TE Jeremy Shockey, TE Mark Campbell (IR), DE Charles Grant (IR), DT DeMario Pressley (IR), ILB Mark Simoneau (IR), CB Mike McKenzie (IR), CB Tracy Porter (IR), CB Aaron Glenn (IR), S Kevin Kaesviharn (IR), K Martin Gramatica (IR), KR Courtney Roby (IR).
• Lions: OUT: QB Jon Kitna (IR), WR Mike Furrey (IR), DE Jared DeVries (IR), DT Cory Redding (IR), CB Stanley Wilson (IR), S Gerald Alexander (IR).

WINNER: LIONS

Cincinnati Bengals (2-11-1) at Cleveland Browns (4-10)

Sunday, 1:00 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Bengals: OUT: QB Carson Palmer, RB Kenny Irons (IR), G Andrew Whitworth (IR), OLB Keith Rivers (IR), CB Jonathan Joseph (IR), S Dexter Jackson (IR), S Marvin White (IR).
• Browns: OUT: QB Brady Quinn (IR), QB Derek Anderson (IR), WR Joe Jurevicius (IR), OT Ryan Tucker (IR), G Lennie Friedman, DE Robaire Smith (IR), OLB Antwan Peek (IR).

WINNER: BENGALS

San Diego Chargers (6-8) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-5)

Sunday, 1:00 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Chargers: OUT: WR Eric Parker (IR).
• Buccaneers: OUT: RB Earnest Graham (IR), FB Byron Storer (IR), CB Torrie Cox (IR), CB Sammy Davis (IR).

WINNER: BUCCANEERS

San Francisco 49ers (5-9) at St. Louis Rams (2-12)

Sunday, 1:00 ET Weather (Dome)

Injuries:

• 49ers: OUT: QB Alex Smith (IR), FB Zak Keasey (IR), WR Arnaz Battle (IR), OLB Jay Moore (IR), CB Shawntae Spencer (IR).
• Rams: OUT: FB Brian Leonard (IR), WR Drew Bennett (IR), TE Randy McMichael (IR), OT Orlando Pace, OT Brandon Gorin (IR), G Mark Setterstrom (IR), CB Tye Hill (IR), CB Justin King (IR), CB Ricky Manning Jr., KR Dante Hall (IR).

WINNER: 49ERS

Pittsburgh Steelers (11-3) at Tennessee Titans (12-2)

Sunday, 1:00 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Steelers: OUT: QB Charlie Batch, RB Rashard Mendenhall (IR), G Kendall Simmons (IR), P Daniel Sepulveda (IR), LS Greg Warren (IR).
• Titans: OUT: DT Albert Haynesworth, CB Reynaldo Hill, CB Eric King. DE Kyle Vanden Bosch.

WINNER: STEELERS

Arizona Cardinals (8-6) at New England Patriots (9-5)

Sunday, 1:00 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Cardinals: OUT: C Scott Peters (IR).
• Patriots: OUT: QB Tom Brady (IR), RB Laurence Maroney (IR), OT Ryan O'Callaghan (IR), OT Oliver Ross, OT Anthony Clement (IR), G Stephen Neal, DE Ty Warren, DE/OLB Adalius Thomas (IR), ILB Tedy Bruschi (IR), CB Terrence Wheatley (IR), S Rodney Harrison (IR), S Tank Williams (IR).

WINNER: PATRIOTS

Houston Texans (7-7) at Oakland Raiders (3-11)

Sunday, 4:05 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Texans: OUT: RB Ahman Green (IR), RB Chris Brown (IR), RB Chris Taylor (IR), G Fred Weary (IR), OLB Zach Diles (IR), CB Jimmy Williams (IR), S C.C. Brown, KR Andre Davis.
• Raiders: OUT: FB Justin Griffith (IR), WR Drew Carter (IR), G Paul McQuistan (IR), C Jake Grove, S Tyvon Branch (IR).

WINNER: TEXANS

New York Jets (9-5) at Seattle Seahawks (3-11)

Sunday, 4:05 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Jets: OUT: RB Jesse Chatman (IR), ILB Brad Kassell (IR).
• Seahawks: OUT: QB Matt Hasselbeck, WR Deion Branch*, WR Nate Burleson (IR), WR Ben Obomanu (IR), WR Logan Payne (IR), OT Walter Jones (IR), G Rob Sims (IR), G Mike Wahle (IR), C Chris Spencer (IR), DE Patrick Kerney (IR).

WINNER: SEAHAWKS

Buffalo Bills (6-8) at Denver Broncos (8-6)

Sunday, 4:05 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Bills: OUT: DE Aaron Schobel, OLB Angelo Crowell (IR), ILB John DiGiorgio (IR), CB Ashton Youboty (IR).
• Broncos: OUT: QB Patrick Ramsey (IR), RB Peyton Hillis (IR), RB Michael Pittman (IR), RB Andre Hall (IR), TE Nate Jackson (IR), OT Erik Pears, C Tom Nalen (IR), OLB Boss Bailey (IR).

WINNER: BRONCOS

Atlanta Falcons (9-5) at Minnesota Vikings (9-5)

Sunday, 4:15 ET Weather (Dome)

Injuries:

• Falcons: OUT: CB Von Hutchins (IR).
• Vikings: OUT: DE Kenechi Udeze (IR), DT Pat Williams, DT Kendrick Allen (IR), ILB E.J. Henderson, CB Charles Gordon (IR), S Madieu Williams, S Michael Boulware (IR).

WINNER: VIKINGS

Philadelphia Eagles (8-5-1) at Washington Redskins (7-7)

Sunday, 4:15 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Eagles: OUT: G Shawn Andrews, G Max Jean-Gilles (IR), CB Jack Ikegwuonu (IR).
• Redskins: OUT: OT Chris Samuels (IR), DE Phillip Daniels (IR), S Reed Doughty (IR).

WINNER: EAGLES

Carolina Panthers (11-3) at New York Giants (11-3)

Sunday, 8:15 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Panthers: OUT: LB Dan Connor (IR).
• Giants: OUT: QB Anthony Wright (IR), WR Plaxico Burress, WR David Tyree (IR), DE Osi Umenyiora (IR), ILB Jonathan Goff (IR), S Sammy Knight (IR).

WINNER:GIANTS

Green Bay Packers (5-9) at Chicago Bears (8-6)

Monday, 8:30 ET Weather

Injuries:

• Packers: OUT: OT Mark Tauscher (IR), DT Justin Harrell, ILB Nick Barnett (IR)
• Bears: OUT: OT Fred Miller (IR), DT Dusty Dvoracek (IR), CB Nathan Vasher (IR), CB Zackary Bowman (IR), S Brandon McGowan (IR).

WINNER: BEARS

AFC/NFC South News Blitz

AFC

• Houston Texans (7-7-0): Texans make is four-straight with win over division foe.
• Indianapolis Colts (10-4-0): Hot streak Colts need 1 more win to secure 7th straight playoff appearance.
• Jacksonville Jaguars (5-9-0): Northcutt and deep passing game found hiding on the bench.
• Tennessee Titans (12-2-0): Titans are hopeful that Haynesworth will be available for playoffs.
  

NFC

• Atlanta Falcons (9-5-0): Despite win, Falcons still not guaranteed playoff spot.
• Carolina Panthers (11-3-0): Panthers "space eater" Kemoeatu on crutches, in protective boot
• New Orleans Saints (7-7-0): Brees dominates fan voting for Probowl, like he dominated defenses this season.
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-5-0): Even with two back to back divisional Losses, the Bucs still control playoff destiny.

Week 15 Power Rankings

• 
  1.Pittsburgh Steelers (11-3): Steelers looking at shot for 1st seed in playoffs as they prepare for wounded Titans.
• 2.Carolina Panthers (11-3): Running all over anybody and Homefield advantage throughout the playoffs in sight.
• 3. Tennessee Titans (12-2): Key Defensive line losses and the Steelers coming to town, the Hottest team in the NFL cooling down quickly.
• 4. Indianapolis Colts (10-4): Looking to avenge an earlier loss and lock up 5th seed in the playoffs next week.
• 5. New York Giants (11-3): G-men need to get Brandon Jacobs healthy in a hurry if they want the road to the Super Bowl to go through New York.
• 6. Baltimore Ravens (9-5): Still hurting from controversial loss, Ravens better get ready for tough Saturday night matchup in Dallas.
• 7. Dallas Cowboys (9-5): Winning when it counts, but how long will they be able to ignore the T.O. distractions?
• 8. Atlanta Falcons (9-5): Strong running game and good defense important in huge overtime win.
• 9. Miami Dolphins (9-5): After quick start Offense fell asleep in important win.
• 10. New England Patriots (9-5): Cassell showed some real grit and went from tough week to easy win.
• 11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-5): Losing two-straight within the division is not how you make the playoffs.
• 12. Minnesota Vikings (9-5): Dominant win in Arizona might make the 1999 NFC championship loss (DAMN) a little easier to forget.
• 13. New York Jets (9-5): Late defensive TD keeps NYJ in the Hunt.
• 14. Denver Broncos (8-6): Denver needs to find consistency in the Running game and keep their backs off IR.
• 15. Philadelphia Eagles (7-5-1): Impressive win at home, but multiple Red Zone turnovers will not win you many games.
• 16. Arizona Cardinals (8-6): Cards were completely dismantled at Home, look like a lock to be a first round playoff loser.
• 17. Houston Texans (7-7): Hot streak Texans 2 wins away from winning season.
• 18. Chicago Bears (8-6) : Nice tough December win but its an uphill battle chasing the Vikings.
• 19. New Orleans Saints (7-7): From Super Bowl prediction to the bottom of their division. When will they fix that defense?
• 20.Washington Redskins (7-7): Words cannot describe how quickly this team has fallen apart.
• 21. San Francisco 49ers (5-9): They were given plenty of opprotunities but couldn't finish against Miami.
• 22. San Diego Chargers (6-8): Miracle Two-minute drill produced 2 scores and a win.
• 23. Green Bay Packers (5-9): Are the Packers playing for a better draft position?
• 24. Buffalo Bills (6-8): Had the win in hand until the ball was taken out of J.P. "Lossman's".
• 25. Cleveland Browns (4-10): 16 quarters without a TD is not a suggested strategy for players on a team looking to clean house.
• 26. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-9): Maybe Dennis Northcutt read my blog last week, did not look like a quitter.
• 27. Oakland Raiders (3-11): Interim Head Coach Cable should worry less about Kiffin and more about how bad his team is.
• 28. Seattle Seahawks (3-11): Playing for Pride, playing for jobs.. it doesn't matter, they are finally playing.
• 29. Cincinnati Bengals (2-11-1): Nice team win against Washington, but still a bad team.
• 30. Kansas City Chiefs (2-12): Tamba Hali was a beast but kicker was not.
• 31. St Louis Rams (2-12): Rams could close in tough divisional matchup, looking like a lock for the #2 overall pick.
• 32. Detroit Lions (0-14): Another week, another loss despite Calvin Johnson's brilliance.

AFC/NFC North News Blitz

AFC
• Baltimore ravens (9-5-0): Raven's lose game vs Steelers by the Nose of a ball or an Officiating error.

• Cincinnati Bengals (2-11-0): Bengals finally put together a team effort and get 2nd win.

• Cleveland Browns (4-9-0): Can the Browns possibly make it 3-0 on Monday night?

• Pittsburgh Steelers (11-3-0): Controvesial Holmes TD seals up AFC North title


NFC
• Chicago Bears (8-6-0): Still scratchin' and survivin': The Bears need a lot of help to make the playoffs.

• Detroit Lions (0-14-0): Lions are adding injury to insult, and former Mr. Irrelevant proves to be in another Detroit loss.

• Green Bay Packers (5-9-0): The Packers held on for as long as they could but the season is finally over in Green Bay.

• Minnesota Vikings (9-5-0): Viking finally playing to their potential and crush the Cardinals.

AFC/NFC West News Blitz

AFC

• Denver Broncos (8-5-0): Cory Boyd becomes the 7th starting RB for Denver this season.
• Kansas City Chiefs (2-11-0): Why is Tyler Thigpen trying to put doubt in people's minds about a position that is his for the taking?
• Oakland Raiders (3-10-0): The Moss vs Asomugha match-up might make this game worth watching.
• San Diego Chargers (5-8-0): In a clear sign that things are not going well for the Chargers their Dec. 21 game has been "Flexed" from the Primetime slot for a more competitive Match-up.
  

NFC

• Arizona Cardinals (8-5-0): Arizona is experiencing culture shock as Cardinals lock up NFC West.
• St. Louis Rams (2-11-0): Struggling rams may cost Haslett his job.
• San Francisco 49ers (5-8-0): 49ers might be going "Wild" this weekend.
• Seattle Seahawks (2-10-0): Bad getting worse two more Seahawks to have surgery.

Eric's Week 15 Picks

Winners will be BOLD

________________________________________________

________________________________________________
New Orleans Saints (7-6) at Chicago Bears (7-6) Thursday Night 8:15pm Weather

Injuries:

• Saints: OUT: RB Aaron Stecker (IR), TE Jeremy Shockey, TE Mark Campbell (IR), DE Charles Grant (IR), DT DeMario Pressley (IR), ILB Mark Simoneau (IR), CB Mike McKenzie (IR), CB Tracy Porter (IR), CB Aaron Glenn (IR), S Kevin Kaesviharn (IR), K Martin Gramatica (IR), KR Courtney Roby (IR).
• Bears: OUT: OT Fred Miller (IR), DT Dusty Dvoracek (IR), CB Nathan Vasher (IR), CB Zackary Bowman (IR), S Brandon McGowan (IR).

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Buffalo Bills (6-7) at New York Jets (8-5) Sunday 1pm Weather

Injuries:

• Bills: OUT: DE Aaron Schobel, OLB Angelo Crowell (IR), ILB John DiGiorgio (IR), CB Ashton Youboty (IR). QUESTIONABLE: DE Aaron Schobel, CB Jabari Greer.
• Jets: OUT: RB Jesse Chatman (IR), ILB Brad Kassell (IR).

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San Francisco 49ers (5-8) at Miami Dolphins (8-5) Sunday 1pm Weather

Injuries:

• 49ers: OUT: QB Alex Smith (IR), FB Zak Keasey (IR), OLB Jay Moore (IR), CB Shawntae Spencer (IR).
• Dolphins: OUT: WR Greg Camarillo (IR), G Donald Thomas (IR), CB Michael Lehan (IR).
  

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San Diego Chargers (5-8) at Kansas City Chiefs (2-11) Sunday 1pm Weather

Injuries:

• Chargers: OUT: WR Eric Parker (IR).
• Chiefs: OUT: QB Brodie Croyle (IR), QB Damon Huard (IR), RB Kolby Smith (IR), DE Turk McBride (IR).
  

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Green Bay Packers (5-8) at Jacksonville Jaguars (4-9) Sunday 1pm Weather

Injuries:

• Packers: OUT: OT Mark Tauscher (IR), DT Justin Harrell, ILB Nick Barnett (IR).
• Jaguars: OUT: WR Matt Jones (SUSP), WR Jerry PorterG Vince Manuwai (IR), G Maurice Williams (IR), G Chris Naeole (IR), CB Rashean Mathis (IR), P Adam Podlesh (IR).
  

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Detroit Lions (0-13) at Indianapolis Colts (9-4) Sunday 1pm Weather (Dome)

Injuries:

• Lions: OUT: QB Jon Kitna (IR), WR Mike Furrey (IR), DE Jared DeVries (IR), CB Stanley Wilson (IR), S Gerald Alexander (IR).
• Colts: OUT: RB Mike Hart (IR), OT Tony Ugoh, G Ryan Lilja, DT Anthony McFarland (IR), OLB Tyjuan Hagler, CB Marlin Jackson (IR), KR T.J. Rushing (IR). QUESTIONABLE: C Jeff Saturday.
  

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Washington Redskins (7-6) at Cincinnati Bengals (1-11-1) Sunday 1pm Weather

Injuries:

• Redskins: OUT: OT Chris Samuels (IR), DE Phillip Daniels (IR), S Reed Doughty (IR).
• Bengals: OUT: QB Carson Palmer, RB Kenny Irons (IR), G Andrew Whitworth (IR), OLB Keith Rivers (IR), CB Jonathan Joseph (IR), S Dexter Jackson (IR), S Marvin White (IR). DOUBTFUL: OT Levi Jones, DE Antwan Odom.
  

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Seattle Seahawks (2-11) at St. Louis Rams (2-11) Sunday 1pm Weather (Dome)

Injuries:

• Seahawks: OUT: WR Deion Branch, WR Nate Burleson (IR), WR Ben Obomanu (IR), WR Logan Payne (IR), G Rob Sims (IR), G Mike Wahle (IR), C Chris Spencer (IR), DE Patrick Kerney (IR).
• Rams: OUT: FB Brian Leonard (IR), WR Drew Bennett (IR), TE Randy McMichael (IR), OT Orlando Pace, OT Brandon Gorin (IR), G Mark Setterstrom (IR), CB Justin King (IR), CB Ricky Manning Jr., KR Dante Hall (IR).

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Tennessee Titans (12-1) at Houston Texans (6-7) Sunday 1pm Weather (Dome)

Injuries:

• Titans: OUT: CB Reynaldo Hill, CB Eric King.
• Texans: OUT: RB Ahman Green (IR), RB Chris Brown (IR), RB Chris Taylor (IR), G Fred Weary (IR), OLB Zach Diles (IR), CB Jimmy Williams (IR), S C.C. Brown, KR Andre Davis.

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-4) at Atlanta Falcons (8-5) Sunday 1pm Weather (Dome)

Injuries:

• Buccaneers: OUT: RB Earnest Graham (IR), FB Byron Storer (IR), CB Torrie Cox (IR), CB Sammy Davis (IR). QUESTIONABLE: DT Jovan Haye, DT Chris Hovan.
• Falcons: OUT: CB Von Hutchins (IR).

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Minnesota Vikings (8-5) at Arizona Cardinals (8-5) Sunday 4:05pm Weather (Dome)

Injuries:

• Vikings: OUT: DE Kenechi Udeze (IR), DT Kendrick Allen (IR), ILB E.J. Henderson, CB Charles Gordon (IR), S Madieu Williams, S Michael Boulware (IR). QUESTIONABLE: QB Gus Frerotte, DTs Williams Wall (SUSP).
• Cardinals: OUT: C Scott Peters (IR).

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Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3) at Baltimore Ravens (9-4) Sunday 4:15pm Weather

Injuries:

• Steelers: OUT: QB Charlie Batch, RB Rashard Mendenhall (IR), G Kendall Simmons (IR), P Daniel Sepulveda (IR), LS Greg Warren (IR).
• Ravens: OUT: QB Kyle Boller (IR), WR Demetrius Williams (IR), TE Quinn Sypniewski (IR), OT Marshal Yanda (IR), OT Adam Terry, DT Kelly Gregg (IR), DT Dwan Edwards (IR), ILB Tavares Gooden (IR), ILB Prescott Burgess (IR), CB Chris McAlister (IR), S Dawan Landry (IR).

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Denver Broncos (8-5) at Carolina Panthers (10-3) Sunday 4:15pm Weather

Injuries:

• Broncos: OUT: QB Patrick Ramsey (IR), RB Peyton Hillis (IR), RB Michael Pittman (IR), RB Andre Hall (IR), TE Nate Jackson (IR), OT Erik Pears, C Tom Nalen (IR), OLB Boss Bailey (IR).
• Panthers: OUT: LB Dan Connor (IR).

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New England Patriots (8-5) at Oakland Raiders (3-10) Sunday 4:15pm Weather

Injuries:

• Patriots: OUT: QB Tom Brady (IR), RB Laurence Maroney (IR), OT Ryan O'Callaghan (IR), OT Oliver Ross, OT Anthony Clement (IR), G Stephen Neal, DE Ty Warren, DE/OLB Adalius Thomas (IR), ILB Tedy Bruschi (IR), CB Terrence Wheatley (IR), S Rodney Harrison (IR), S Tank Williams (IR).
• Raiders: OUT: FB Justin Griffith (IR), WR Drew Carter (IR), G Paul McQuistan (IR), C Jake Grove, S Tyvon Branch (IR).

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New York Giants (11-2) at Dallas Cowboys (8-5) Sunday 8:15pm Weather (Dome)

Injuries:

• Giants: OUT: QB Anthony Wright (IR), WR Plaxico Burress, WR David Tyree (IR), DE Osi Umenyiora (IR), ILB Jonathan Goff (IR), S Sammy Knight (IR).
• Cowboys: OUT: RB Felix Jones (IR), WR Sam Hurd (IR), G Kyle Kosier (IR), S Roy Williams (IR), P Mat McBriar (IR).

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Cleveland Browns (4-9) at Philadelphia Eagles (7-5-1) Monday 8:30pm Weather

Injuries:

• Browns: OUT: QB Brady Quinn (IR), QB Derek Anderson (IR), WR Joe Jurevicius (IR), OT Ryan Tucker (IR), G Lennie Friedman, DE Robaire Smith (IR), OLB Antwan Peek (IR). DOUBTFUL: TE Kellen Winslow Jr.
• Eagles: OUT: G Shawn Andrews, G Max Jean-Gilles (IR), CB Jack Ikegwuonu (IR).

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AFC/NFC East News Blitz

AFC

• Buffalo Bills (6-7-0): After their horrible North of the Border debut, many are wondering... will Canada allow the Bills back in Toronto?
• Miami Dolphins (8-5-0): Dolphins continue to surprise fans and now control their Playoff fate.
• New England Patriots (8-5-0): Patriots can't rely on tie breakers to make the playoffs.
• New York Jets (8-5-0): If the Jets want to make the playoffs in their ultra-competitive division they need to "Shake Thing Up".

NFC

• Dallas Cowboys (8-5-0): Despite his terrible play against the Steelers, Dallas still feels that Tony Romo is the man to take them deep into the playoffs.
• New York Giants (11-2-0): The Giants need their Star RB Brandon Jacobs to return for an important matchup against Cowboys.
• Philadelphia Eagles (7-5-1): The Eagles fear that even if they win out, 10 wins won't be enough to get to the post season.
• Washington Redskins (7-6-0): Always a clear sign that things are going wrong Clinton Portis is calling out his Head Coach.
  

Pro Bowl Voting

Hey everyone,

We could not be All Day Football without reminding you to go VOTE for the Pro Bowl. Do you want your favorite players to play in Hawaii? Do your part and Click HERE



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