NFL Power Rankings: End of the season

1. (1) Green Bay Packers (15-1) – Clearly the Packers were the best team all season and I really thought they would go undefeated. But they look poised to make another Super Bowl run if their defense can rise to the occasion.

2. (2) New Orleans Saints (13-3) – Drew Brees carried this team all year long with one of the greatest season a QB could ever have. It is tough to beat the Saints at home, but they are a completely different team on the road which is where they will be after the wild card round.       
3. (4) San Francisco 49ers (13-3) – The 49ers secured themselves a 1^st round bye which is huge because they have some significant injuries at WR/TE. They can take this week to get healthy and ready for a home playoff game. 
4. (3) New England Patriots (13-3) – Again the Patriots looked done after going down 21-0 early but showed that their high powered offense can bail them out. I’m not so sure if this method will get them wins in the playoffs with bad weather and strong defenses. 
5. (6) Baltimore Ravens (12-4) – The Ravens came away with a 1^st round bye in their win against the Bengals. I picked this team before the season to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl and I still believe they had a good shot at making it with all the question marks in the AFC.
6. (5) Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4) – The Steelers are literally limping into the playoffs but they are in and that is enough. The Steelers are a tough matchups in the playoffs because of their defense, watch out Tebow!  
7. (7) Detroit Lions (10-6) – The Lions offense looks to be on schedule, but their defense gave up 45 points to Matt Flynn, that isn’t going to cut it in the playoffs.

8. (9) Atlanta Falcons (10-6) – The Falcons could be a dangerous team in the playoffs but will only go as far as their defense takes them. We all know what their offense is capable of, but their defense has to get after the QB if they want to win.

9. (10) New York Giants (9-7) – I am excited to see what Eli can do in the playoffs. This Giants team could be dangerous because of their ability to get after the QB without blitzing. 


10. (8) Cincinnati Bengals (9-7) – The Bengals made the playoffs despite their loss to the Ravens. This is an unusual scenario where I believe being the #6 seed has an advantage because of all the injuries the Texans have suffered. I like their chances in the wild card round
11. (12) Houston Texans (10-6) – Houston attempted to rest some players but still couldn’t break their injury streak when T.J Yates went down with a shoulder injury. We can all hope that he will be back for the playoffs this weekend in what could be a rare rookie QB matchup.
12. (14) Philadelphia Eagles (8-8) – The Eagles season wasn’t an entire failure though they should’ve made the playoffs at least. The future looks good in Philly though if they can get some steady play out of their defense.
13. (16) Tennessee Titans (9-7) – The Titans did their job and beat Houston, though they got some help from the center snapping the ball straight over Delhomme’s head. But in the end it wasn’t enough to make the playoffs.
14. (15) San Diego Chargers (8-8) – The Chargers ended their season on a high note by spoiling the Raiders chances of making the playoffs. But all in all, this season was a tough one for Phillip Rivers and it may end up costing Norv Turner his job.    
15. (17) Denver Broncos (8-8) – There was no Tebow time versus Kansas City but say what you want, the Broncos made the playoffs. They will have their hands full against the Steelers though. Tebow will have to have the game of his career if they want to beat the Steel Curtain.
16. (11) Dallas Cowboys (8-8) – Once again the Cowboys showed their inability to win tough games and will be sitting at home watching the playoffs this year.
17. (13) New York Jets (8-8) – The Jets are a mess from top to bottom whether it be Rex Ryan disrespecting players, Santonio Holmes quitting on his team midgame or the overall terrible play from Mark Sanchez. There needs to be some big changes in New York if they want to compete.

18. (20) Arizona Cardinals (8-8) – Larry Fitzgerald was coughing up blood before their game against the Seahawks and still managed to will his team to victory with a spectacular one-handed diving grab in OT to set up the GW FG. Good year for the Cardinals who finished the season strong.
19. (19) Oakland Raiders (8-8) – The Raiders season ends up disappointing as they failed to make the playoffs after such a great start. However, I think the future is bright in Oakland and fans should be excited about next season with McFadden back healthy.

20. (18) Seattle Seahawks (7-9) – Even though the Seahawks have been eliminated from playoff contention, this team looks to be heading in the right direction under the direction of Pete Carroll.
21. (21) Kansas City Chiefs (7-9) – The Chiefs led by Kyle Orton successfully shut down Tebow time but it all went for nothing as Oakland handed the Broncos the AFC West crown. The Chiefs look like a completely different team with Orton at QB. Not sure what they will do about Matt Cassel this upcoming season.
22. (23) Miami Dolphins (6-10) – The Dolphins ended the season strong with another clutch win after what was a horrible start to the year. Reggie Bush seems to have found his home and the Dolphins will look to build around him in the years to come.
23. (25) Chicago Bears (8-8) – Considering all the injuries the Bears had to endure, it was a great year for them and I believe they can be a very dangerous team next season with Cutler and Forte back healthy.  
24. (22) Carolina Panthers (6-10) – I think this was a good year for Carolina because their record isn’t indicative of how well they played this season. Cam Newton has sparked this team and they were in so many close games that could’ve gone either way.   
25. (26) Washington Redskins (5-11) – Turns out Rex Grossman was wrong in his prediction and he nearly lost his job this year. Don’t talk the talk if you cannot walk the walk buddy. Who knows, maybe the Redskins will draft RGIII or Andrew Luck?
26. (27) Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11) – The Jaguars spoiled the year they had the best chance of taking the division title with Peyton out for the season. Despite their record, I think this team is headed in the right direction with Gabbert and MJD leading the way.
27. (24) Buffalo Bills (6-10) – The Bills had the Patriots all but defeated up 21 points but completely shut down and got ran over by Brady and the bunch. Sadly, that basically sums up their entire season that started off looking so promising.   
28. (28) Cleveland Browns (4-12) – The Browns clearly are in need of more talent and depth at nearly all positions. Their defense is solid but their offense is just horrible. It may be time to move on from Colt McCoy.  

29. (29) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12) – The Buccaneers are easily the biggest disappointment of the 2011 NFL season for me. This team has so much young talent and potential it’s just embarrassing how terribly they played this season. I really hope they turn things around next year.  
30. (30) Minnesota Vikings (3-13) – The Vikings will have the #3 overall selection in the draft and should consider Andrew Luck if the Colts and Rams decide to pass him up. Ponder has looked good, but a talent like Luck paired with AP could be extremely dangerous for many, many years to come.
31. (32) Indianapolis Colts (2-14) – The Colts season was obviously a disappointment with Manning out the whole year, but they managed to get 2 wins and not cement themselves in the wrong side of the record books. I believe the Colts should draft Andrew Luck and secure themselves for the years to come with Peyton mentoring him a few years just like Favre did with Aaron Rodgers.
32. (31) St. Louis Rams (2-14) – The Rams showed heart against the 49ers in their loss and I will say that I hope Steve Spagnolo keeps his job. He deserves to stay; this team was just decimated by injuries, especially at the CB position with 10 separate players all on the IR. I think the Rams should NOT draft Andrew Luck, keep Sam Bradford, and instead pair Brandon Lloyd with Justin Blackmon if he decides to come out. 

NFL Power Rankings: Week 16

1. (1) Green Bay Packers (13-1) – Yes, the Packers pursuit of perfection is over. And to all the Packers fans that are saying this could be a good thing, shut your face! You are still the best team in the NFL, but don’t start making excuses.

2. (3) New Orleans Saints (11-3) – The Saints continue to keep their hot streak rolling. I am not sure if anyone is going to be able to slow down Drew Brees.    


3. (5) New England Patriots (11-3) – Brady is Tebow’s kryptonite! The Pats defense looked decent after the 1^st quarter which is good to see heading into the playoffs.


4. (6) San Francisco 49ers (11-3) – The 49ers stepped up on the national stage to knock the Steelers lights out. They have a great shot at the #2 seed in the NFC with 2 division games left.      

5. (2) Baltimore Ravens (10-4) – The Ravens proved yet again how inconsistent they truly are. One week they look like a super bowl team and the next a team who forgot what defense is.  

6. (4) Pittsburgh Steelers (10-4) – Big Ben is human! The Steelers lost a tough game on the road but still have a chance for the division thanks to Baltimore.  

7. (9) Atlanta Falcons (9-5) – The Falcons offense seems to be clicking at the right time of the year as they demolished the Jaguars. This is a dangerous team that can still win the NFC South.

8. (11) Detroit Lions (9-5) – Somehow the Lions pulled out another late win against the Raiders. I’m concerned with their defense and lack of a running game come playoff time.

9. (7) Houston Texans (10-4) – The Texans were finally exposed by the Panthers? What shocked me most was how their defense gave up so many points to rookie QB Cam Newton.

10. (13) Dallas Cowboys (8-6) – The Cowboys showed that they can still win games without Murray in the backfield. They control their destiny from this point on so let the Romo show begin!

11. (10) New York Jets (8-6) – So much for Rex and his defense. The Eagles ran all over the Jets and Sanchez went back to his old ways turning the ball over. New Meadowlands showdown this weekend though!

12. (14) Cincinnati Bengals (8-6) – The Bengals did win but barely against the Rams led by 3^rd string QB Kellen Clemens. But this is the style of play they are built for. 2 big games down the stretch will determine their playoff lives.

13. (8) New York Giants (7-7) – Eli Manning looked of old with his 3 turnovers. This team is way too inconsistent to be a lock for the playoffs. Good luck against Rex and the boys!

14. (16) San Diego Chargers (7-7) – The Chargers are continuing their trend of catching fire late in the season. I think they can win the AFC West if they keep playing at this high of a level on both sides of the ball.   

15. (12) Denver Broncos (8-6) – Tebow just….couldn’t get it done. He played well in the 1^st quarter and declined from there on out. I still think this team can win the AFC West.

16. (17) Seattle Seahawks (7-7) – Seattle has quietly hung around in the playoff picture and could end up with a better record than last year and NOT make the playoffs!

17. (19) Arizona Cardinals (7-7) – Just like the Seahawks, the Cardinals are hanging around in the playoff picture. Their defense has emerged as one of the best out of nowhere.

18. (21) Philadelphia Eagles (6-8) – The Eagles continue their hot and cold streak with a HUGE win against the Jets. This may sound crazy, but I believe they will win the NFC East.

19. (15) Tennessee Titans (7-7) – The Titans are now the joke of the NFL after being once considered a possible playoff contender. That is all. P.S – Play Jake Locker!

20. (22) Kansas City Chiefs (6-8) – Fitting that this team would be the one to take down Aaron Rodgers. Countless injuries across the board, fired head coach of course they would! Congrats!

21. (18) Oakland Raiders (7-7) – The Raiders had their division in a choke hold a few weeks back but have managed to go backwards while every other team is driving forward. Put a fork in em!

22. (23) Miami Dolphins (5-9) – Reggie Bush looks like the USC RB we all marveled over and that is propelling this team to new heights. Just a month back they were considered to be just as bad as the Peyton Manningless Colts…

23. (20) Chicago Bears (7-7) – The Bears clearly and understandably are struggling without Cutler and Forte on offense. Scary accident with Johnnie Knox as well, my prayers go out to him.  

24. (25) Carolina Panthers (5-9) – Carolina showed what they are capable of doing when they play defense. Not good defense, but just any defense in general.  

25. (28) Washington Redskins (5-9) – After nearly outdueling Tom Brady, Grossman put Eli to shame despite 2 early INT’s. Grossman guarantees the playoffs…yeah that didn’t happen.  

26. (24) Buffalo Bills (5-9) – The Bills hot streak at the beginning of the year has completely faded away and is going in the opposite directions. Anti-Chargers much?   

27. (27) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-10) – This team looks lost from last year and can’t seem to find their stride. Sad story because this team has a lot of young talent with a good young head coach.

28. (26) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-10) – Yay we destroyed the Buccaneers 41-14! Ah dang we lost to the Falcons 14-41. What is with the 1’s and 4’s, that’s what I’m interested in?

29. (29) Cleveland Browns (4-10) – Seneca Wallace nearly got the Browns a win, until he got injured. If anything at least Wallace had them in a close game that could’ve gone either way.

30. (30) Minnesota Vikings (2-12) – The Vikings hung with the Saints for a while there, but showed that they have a serious lack of depth and talent on this team.

31. (31) St. Louis Rams (2-12) – The Rams injury woes continue to haunt them as they lost yet again this week. Boo-hoo! At least you have a World Series ring! Not Pujols though…

32. (32) Indianapolis Colts (1-13) – THE COLTS WIN, THE COLTS WIN! Dan Orlovsky has been playing well and Donald Brown sealed the deal with a BEASTLY run into the endzone at the end of the game. Everyone in Indianapolis can breathe a sigh of relief! No defeated season here! But don’t win too many games; you still want Luck I MEAN the #1 overall selection in the 2012 NFL Draft.  

NFL Power Rankings: Week 11

1. (1) Green Bay Packers (9-0) – Let’s face it, the Packers are just unstoppable at this point. Aaron Rodgers can do it all and is carrying the Pack to what might be an undefeated season.

2. (2) San Francisco 49ers (8-1) – Alex Smith and the 49ers came through on national television and beat Eli Manning and the 6-3 Giants. Not only did the 49ers beat a good team, but they proved they can win even when their run game is shut down. Alex Smith is NOT a game manager and the 49ers are NOT playoff pretenders.

3. (4) Pittsburgh Steelers (7-3) – The Steelers defense was clutch in a huge divisional win over the Bengals after a tough loss to the Ravens the week before. The Steelers continue to show that they can win games in a variety of different ways, which is what makes them such a great football team.

4. (5) New Orleans Saints (7-3) – Once again the Saints played tough when it mattered against a very good Falcons team. Their defense came up big for them when they needed it on 4^th and inches in OT. If there is a knock on the Saints it is their defense, but they proved they can make big plays when it matters. Matt Ryan, WHO DAT?

5. (6) New England Patriots (6-3) – When Ochocinco is catching passes from Tom Brady, you know something is going right! Last week I said I was concerned with this Patriots defense, well Andre Carter and Rob Ninkovich came to play combining for 4.5 sacks and 2 INT’s respectively. Brady and the bunch are back!

6. (8) Chicago Bears (6-3) – The Bears absolutely dominated the Lions in all 3 phases: offensively, defensively and special teams. Question, why do teams continue to kick to Hester?

7. (9) Houston Texans (7-3) – Not having Andre Johnson or Super Mario hasn’t slowed this team down, but not having Matt Schuab for the rest of the year may. Arian Foster and Ben Tate are going to start to see stacked fronts as Matt Lienart commands this offense.


8. (3) Baltimore Ravens (6-3) – There are weeks where the Ravens look like they could easily contend with any team in football, and then they let one slip away. The Ravens offense showed their inconsistency once again and that is a major concern of mine.

9. (10) New York Giants (6-3) – Eli Manning is showing flashes of brilliance, but can’t seem to hold it together for an entire game. The Giants will bounce back and win the NFC East battle.

10. (11) Atlanta Falcons (5-4) – The Falcons played the Saints tough, but in the end bad coaching cost them the game. They had their chances and didn’t convert when they needed it.

11. (16) Dallas Cowboys (5-4) – Tony Romo had the game of his career in route to a beating of the Bills. This Cowboy offense is very dangerous, despite not having Miles Austin or Felix Jones. I sense a 2 way battle for the NFC East title.

12. (7) Detroit Lions (6-3) – I thought the bye week would help the Lions, it did anything but that. Seems like Megatron covered up some big holes that this Lions team needs to address. 

13. (12) New York Jets (5-4) – The Jets let a big opportunity slip out of their hands against the Patriots. Brady continues to dominate this Jets defense while Sanchez continues to find ways to lose games.

14. (13) Cincinnati Bengals (6-3) – Even though the Bengals lost, they showed me that they are a good football team hanging with the Steelers. Andy Dalton and AJ Green have formed a great combination and the defense is very solid. 

15. (20) Oakland Raiders (5-4) – Carson Palmer looked like the Carson Palmer we all know and love and the same can be said for the Raiders tough defense. The Raiders did whatever they wanted against the Chargers and put themselves in the driver’s seat of the AFC West race.

16. (21) Tennessee Titans (5-4) – CJ2K finally ran for over 100 yards, and look at the result! The Titans dominated the Panthers on defense and held Cam Newton in check. 

17. (14) Buffalo Bills (5-4) – It seems the Bills have come back down to earth. Fitzpatrick hasn't looking himself since his contract extension and the defense isn’t forcing turnovers. You will not win in this league allowing that many yards on defense every week.


18. (17) San Diego Chargers (4-5) – The Chargers seem to find ways to lose more often than not. There is a lot of talent on this team, but talent doesn’t get wins. (See “Philadelphia Eagles”)

19. (18) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-5) – The Buccaneers haven’t been able to play their style of football all year long. They want to run the ball and play defense but that isn’t an option when you are down multiple scores after 1 quarter. This is a good young team still.

20. (15) Philadelphia Eagles (3-6) – The Dream team has been anything but that. Deshaun Jackson misses a special teams meeting, Vick gets hurt and John Skelton carves up the Eagles secondary. They continue to find ways to lose games.

21. (25) Denver Broncos (4-5) – First the Raiders and now the Chiefs! Tim Tebow is not only winning football games, but he is beating the teams in his division. This is important because believe it or not, the Broncos are only 1 game out of 1^st place in the AFC West! TEBOWING!

22. (19) Kansas City Chiefs (4-5) – This Chiefs football team is the polar opposite of the word, “consistent.” Despite the Broncos losing their top 2 RB’s Kansas City still let Tebow and company control the game and come out with the victory in their own house. 

23. (26) Arizona Cardinals (3-6) – Two weeks in a row the Cardinals have found ways to win without Kevin Kolb. John Skelton doesn’t look half bad and their defense is keeping them in games. It also helps to have a guy named Larry Fitzgerald on your team, just saying.

24. (29) Seattle Seahawks (3-6) – The Seahawks showed great character coming off of a huge loss to the Cowboys by sticking it to the Ravens this past Sunday. If Marshawn Lynch can continue to have success running the ball, this team could gain some steam.

25. (22) Minnesota Vikings (2-7) – The Vikings have good potential with Ponder, Peterson and Harvin on the offense; but they ran into a Packers team that is just too good for everyone.

26. (28) Jacksonville Jaguars (3-6) – Jacksonville came through a won a game that they were expected to win, which doesn’t come about very often. Their defense continues to play great but the offense really needs to get things going.

27. (23) Carolina Panthers (2-7) – The Panthers looked very sluggish and sloppy coming off of their bye week. The icing on the cake was the punt return TD they allowed; if you want to win football games in the NFL you have to do the little things right. 

28. (30) Miami Dolphins (2-7) – I said I smelled 2 in a row last week and what do you know the Dolphins pull it off! Tony Sparano has this football team playing hard, props to Miami!

29. (24) Washington Redskins (3-5) – First the Redskins couldn’t figure out their QB position, then they couldn’t figure out their RB position and now it has gone full circle back to the QB. This team is up in the air trying to figure out who they want to play, doesn’t bode well for wins.

30. (27) Cleveland Browns (3-6) – The Browns will have trouble sleeping tonight knowing that they could’ve very well won their game against the Rams. When it’s all said and done, Colt McCoy and the Browns offense need to put up more than 12 points to win, especially against the Rams less than impressive defense.

31. (31) St. Louis Rams (2-7) – The Rams literally escaped with a win against the Browns this past week. Bradford needs to be more consistent so that Steven Jackson can assert his presence in the running game.

32. (32) Indianapolis Colts (0-10) – The Colts may have lost their best opportunity to get a win this season. However, to my surprise, Dan Orlovsky didn’t look half bad when he came in. This could, and I deeply emphasize the word could, be a sign of better things to come in Indy!