NFL 2007 Season Thread

[quote name='HuskerFan31']
You do realize that there are many people that have children and don't get married right? For example the new NFL hero Shawn Taylor.[/quote]

Wow. I don't know which is worse, your timing or your taste.
 
The cheating thing has to go on Bellicheck, I don't hold it against the players.

Bruschi comes across as an a-hole to me but I don't have a problem with Brady. I think I read a quote about him defending BB running up the score, but it wouldn't be very classy of the guy to slam his coach to the media.
 
[quote name='javeryh']I can't believe there aren't more non-Pats fans rooting for the perfect season. I'm so sick of the '72 Dolphins and their stupid toast and now Don Shula has to be in the booth? Please go 19-0 and end this nonsense.*


* Although I wouldn't mind 2 losses this season in Week 16 and Week 19 - both to the NY Football Giants.[/quote]But then the Patriots will be those new jackasses. It would be laughs if they ended up losing to the Dolphins in week 16.

Also San Diego sucks ass, they are showing the Denver - KC game instead of the NE - Pittsburgh game.

http://www.the506.com/nflmaps/2007-14-CBS2.html
 
[quote name='pittpizza']...I guess the worst thing about the Pats and Bill Bellicheater is how unapologetic they are. Their policy reminded me of Nixon's. Acting as if they were above the law, then claiming it was simply an error of misinterpreting rules (COMPLETE BULLSHIT b/c the rules say no taping other teams signs whatsoever). I won't even go into detail about how the fact that they tried to hide it proves that they knew it was illegal. The reaction is really what pisses everyone off the most: We're not sorry, it was an accident, I wont answer any more quesions about it ever, drop it. As far as Bellicheater's bad sportsmanship goes, well thats not exactly a good role model either.

I'm personally sort of happy this spygate shit happened. After all, we wouldnt want an asterick-less Barry Bonds to hold all those records would we? Better the cheaters get found out so that people know to discount and discredit their success...[/quote]

For a guy that isn't sorry, he sure had a nice apology:

"I accept full responsibility for the actions that led to tonight's ruling. Once again, I apologize to the Kraft family and every person directly or indirectly associated with the New England Patriots for the embarrassment, distraction and penalty my mistake caused. I also apologize to Patriots fans and would like to thank them for their support during the past few days and throughout my career.

As the commissioner acknowledged, our use of sideline video had no impact on the outcome of last week's game. We have never used sideline video to obtain a competitive advantage while the game was in progress.

Part of my job as head coach is to ensure that our football operations are conducted in compliance of the league rules and all accepted interpretations of them. My interpretation of a rule in the Constitution and Bylaws was incorrect.

With tonight's resolution, I will not be offering any further comments on this matter. We are moving on with our preparations for Sunday's game."

- Bill Belichick

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3018587
 
[quote name='pittpizza']...Wow. I don't know which is worse, your timing or your taste.[/quote]

How is that in bad taste? He had a child with his girlfriend, and they weren't married...

It seemed like the guy really turned his life around, and it's truly a shame he was killed.
 
[quote name='DT778']But then the Patriots will be those new jackasses. It would be laughs if they ended up losing to the Dolphins in week 16.

Also San Diego sucks ass, they are showing the Denver - KC game instead of the NE - Pittsburgh game.

http://www.the506.com/nflmaps/2007-14-CBS2.html[/quote]

That's what I was thinking. Miami gets thier first win and NE gets thier first loss all in the same game. Stranger things have happened. These last two games against the Eagles and Ravens were supposed to be cake walks and NE was pushed to the brink by the likes of A.J. Feeley and Kyle Boller.
 
[quote name='HuskerFan31']For a guy that isn't sorry, he sure had a nice apology:

"I accept full responsibility for the actions that led to tonight's ruling. Once again, I apologize to the Kraft family and every person directly or indirectly associated with the New England Patriots for the embarrassment, distraction and penalty my mistake caused. I also apologize to Patriots fans and would like to thank them for their support during the past few days and throughout my career.

As the commissioner acknowledged, our use of sideline video had no impact on the outcome of last week's game. We have never used sideline video to obtain a competitive advantage while the game was in progress.

Part of my job as head coach is to ensure that our football operations are conducted in compliance of the league rules and all accepted interpretations of them. My interpretation of a rule in the Constitution and Bylaws was incorrect.

With tonight's resolution, I will not be offering any further comments on this matter. We are moving on with our preparations for Sunday's game."

- Bill Belichick

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3018587[/quote]Words are great, but it's his constant tone and demeanor that really irritates me. It's as if he's above everyone and no one is worthy of being in his presence. He just has that aura about him. That "I'm a huge asshole" aura.
 
[quote name='HuskerFan31']Merriman took an anabolic steroid, and Rodney used HGH, they are two different things. Also, Rodney stepped up and admitted his use while never actually testing positive for it. It's hard to defend what Rodney did, because he was wrong, but atleast he went about it the right way.

I don't know about you, but when I was young I liked to look up to players, not 55 year-old coaches. Bill Belichick is a jerk, but he is also the best coach in the NFL.

There is no running up the score in the NFL. If you don't want a bunch of points put up on you, play DEFENSE. You're just a pissed Skins fan that can't get over the 52-7 game.

You do realize that there are many people that have children and don't get married right? For example the new NFL hero Shawn Taylor.[/quote]

Right, he's the best coach in the league...my ass. More like most overrated coach in the league. Leaving your star QB (and the reason you look like a genius) to run it on 4th down when you're up by 30 points is not only an asshole move (running it on 4th down) but also probably one of the dumbest things I've seen in recent NFL history.

Yeah, Taylor had a kid and was unmarried, but he was with the same woman for 7+ years, not to mention that I'm talking trash on message boards acting like all of the players on my team are some sort of saints. Hardly anyone points out the fact that Brady sleeps around like Wilt Chamberlain, and has an illegitmate child, yet many other athletes take a lot more flak for things on the same level. The NFL loves Brady, and it's blatantly obvious.

And of course Bruschi is one of the cockiest players I've ever seen. Every time he makes a tackle he acts like it's the first time he's ever made one. He's a douchebag on the field, and I certainly wouldn't want a child of mine idolizing him. Not only that but he's purely a product of the Pats defensive system, you could plug any 1 of dozens of linebackers in that spot and they'd put up numbers just as good, which makes his cockiness even more obnoxious, because he's honestly not a very good individual player (ala Urlacher, Thomas, TAYLOR)

Like I said, get off of the jock. Belicheck is overrated, Brady makes him look incredible. Without Brady he'd be nothing. Sure he's a good coach, but just like Dungy his QB makes him look downright brilliant. Doing 5 wideouts over and over and over again and failing (Eagles game), yet continuing to try it isn't exactly what I would call "smart"...but take that as you will.
 
[quote name='bil4ltool']Right, he's the best coach in the league...my ass. More like most overrated coach in the league. Leaving your star QB (and the reason you look like a genius) to run it on 4th down when you're up by 30 points is not only an asshole move (running it on 4th down) but also probably one of the dumbest things I've seen in recent NFL history.

Yeah, Taylor had a kid and was unmarried, but he was with the same woman for 7+ years, not to mention that I'm talking trash on message boards acting like all of the players on my team are some sort of saints. Hardly anyone points out the fact that Brady sleeps around like Wilt Chamberlain, and has an illegitmate child, yet many other athletes take a lot more flak for things on the same level. The NFL loves Brady, and it's blatantly obvious.

And of course Bruschi is one of the cockiest players I've ever seen. Every time he makes a tackle he acts like it's the first time he's ever made one. He's a douchebag on the field, and I certainly wouldn't want a child of mine idolizing him. Not only that but he's purely a product of the Pats defensive system, you could plug any 1 of dozens of linebackers in that spot and they'd put up numbers just as good, which makes his cockiness even more obnoxious, because he's honestly not a very good individual player (ala Urlacher, Thomas, TAYLOR)

Like I said, get off of the jock. Belicheck is overrated, Brady makes him look incredible. Without Brady he'd be nothing. Sure he's a good coach, but just like Dungy his QB makes him look downright brilliant. Doing 5 wideouts over and over and over again and failing (Eagles game), yet continuing to try it isn't exactly what I would call "smart"...but take that as you will.[/QUOTE]

I see no problem with the way the Pats "run" up the scorebaord. maybe the opposing Defense should make a play and shut them down. It's pretty much part of the game to win Decisively. You don't want to squeak by and blow wins just like the Redskins did all year.

Also I loved when the Pats beat the Redskins 52-7 though. Everyone was talking mad shit that the Redskins 4th ranked Defense would be able to shut down the WR's. Ha. I think thats why you have so much hatred towards the Pats right now.

Also Belicheck is a pretty good coach. He might not be the best coach in the League but you saying Brady makes him look good is un true. Look at when he took those shitty Pats to the Super Bowl with Bledsoe back in 96 I believe.

Also Tedy Brushci is a solid player. Who cares if he celebrates after each tackle. Taylor was the same way so get off of that. Maybe when Tedy gets mad he should spit in the opposing players faces? Taylor loved to that!
 
He took em' in 97, but the Packers beat em :D

Regarding the Packers, things are getting interesting. Favre might have no choice but to start on Sunday anyways, but we were all expecting him to start anyways ;)

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/7509786

What is a bummer and kinda odd is that Aaron Rodgers hurt his hamstring on Tuesday, second time he's been injured after playing in a game :roll:

Great, now that I was satisfied on his abilities as a QB, now I have to question his durability.
 
people people people.. he never said those words... he said he felt the Steelers could beat the Pats if they play their game and limit their mistakes...my god the media is ridiculous...
 
[quote name='pimpinc333']Ah yes. Lets take it from Anthony Smith. A no name DB in the NFL. Good Job Smith!

I hope the Pats beat....no no no.... I hope they crushthose Shitty Steelers. The Steelers have been squeaking by just about every week on their soft schedule.[/quote]

such a hater... your boys would be nothing in the AFC...
 
[quote name='Inf^Shini']He took em' in 97, but the Packers beat em :D

Regarding the Packers, things are getting interesting. Favre might have no choice but to start on Sunday anyways, but we were all expecting him to start anyways ;)

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/7509786

What is a bummer and kinda odd is that Aaron Rodgers hurt his hamstring on Tuesday, second time he's been injured after playing in a game :roll:

Great, now that I was satisfied on his abilities as a QB, now I have to question his durability.[/quote]


How ironic would that be if the Pack went from having the most durable QB in NFL history to the most fragile?
 
bellicheck didnt take the patriots to the super bowl agains the packers, parcells did. so he wasnt the one to take the patriots out of the perennial loser category.
and if hes so great, what happened in cleveland?
didnt seem very great there
 
[quote name='ryanbph']well there is a member of the steelers guaranteeing a win on sunday

http://www6.comcast.net/sports/articles/nfl/2007/12/05/Patriots-Steelers.Guarantee/[/QUOTE]

What a moron.

[quote name='DJSteel']people people people.. he never said those words... he said he felt the Steelers could beat the Pats if they play their game and limit their mistakes...my god the media is ridiculous...[/QUOTE]

`We're going to win,'' Smith said. ``Yeah, I can guarantee a win."

Yes he went on to clarify with the points you lay out, but there are his words (at least as reported on that link.) Coaches twist MUCH tamer comments into motivational bulletin board material.
 
watch sportscenter.. see what he says.. it's pretty funny how people twist words.. it doesn't matter at this point though.. I hope to god that the Steelers beat them..I'm sick of the 45 min blowjob Sportscenter gives them everyday...
 
[quote name='bil4ltool']Right, he's the best coach in the league...my ass. More like most overrated coach in the league. Leaving your star QB (and the reason you look like a genius) to run it on 4th down when you're up by 30 points is not only an asshole move (running it on 4th down) but also probably one of the dumbest things I've seen in recent NFL history.

Yeah, Taylor had a kid and was unmarried, but he was with the same woman for 7+ years, not to mention that I'm talking trash on message boards acting like all of the players on my team are some sort of saints. Hardly anyone points out the fact that Brady sleeps around like Wilt Chamberlain, and has an illegitmate child, yet many other athletes take a lot more flak for things on the same level. The NFL loves Brady, and it's blatantly obvious.

And of course Bruschi is one of the cockiest players I've ever seen. Every time he makes a tackle he acts like it's the first time he's ever made one. He's a douchebag on the field, and I certainly wouldn't want a child of mine idolizing him. Not only that but he's purely a product of the Pats defensive system, you could plug any 1 of dozens of linebackers in that spot and they'd put up numbers just as good, which makes his cockiness even more obnoxious, because he's honestly not a very good individual player (ala Urlacher, Thomas, TAYLOR)

Like I said, get off of the jock. Belicheck is overrated, Brady makes him look incredible. Without Brady he'd be nothing. Sure he's a good coach, but just like Dungy his QB makes him look downright brilliant. Doing 5 wideouts over and over and over again and failing (Eagles game), yet continuing to try it isn't exactly what I would call "smart"...but take that as you will.[/QUOTE]

Let's not forget his need to go for it on 4th down and anything less than 5 yards regardless of the score. At first I thought it was cockyness but I'm beginning to just think Belicheck hasn't grasped the fact that if you don't get the first down then you have to give the ball to the other team.
 
[quote name='Krunks']bellicheck didnt take the patriots to the super bowl agains the packers, parcells did. so he wasnt the one to take the patriots out of the perennial loser category.
and if hes so great, what happened in cleveland?
didnt seem very great there[/quote]

That's what I was thinking, but I just went on what pimpininc said :/
 
[quote name='DJSteel']watch sportscenter.. see what he says.. it's pretty funny how people twist words.. it doesn't matter at this point though.. I hope to god that the Steelers beat them..I'm sick of the 45 min blowjob Sportscenter gives them everyday...[/quote]

It's actually more like a 5 minute segement, and they have to cover the biggest story in sports. Atleast they are talking about a team that has played in this millenium, I absoulutely hate the '72 Dolphins team, and I'm really getting sick of Mercury Morris showing up and screaming at the camera. It was 35 years ago, and although there hasn't been an undefeated team since, there have been better teams.
 
[quote name='DJSteel']watch sportscenter.. see what he says.. it's pretty funny how people twist words.. it doesn't matter at this point though.. I hope to god that the Steelers beat them..I'm sick of the 45 min blowjob Sportscenter gives them everyday...[/quote]

It's actually more like a 5 minute segement, and they have to cover the biggest story in sports. Atleast they are talking about a team that has played in this millenium, I absoulutely hate the '72 Dolphins team, and I'm really getting sick of Mercury Morris showing up and screaming at the camera. It was 35 years ago, and although there hasn't been an undefeated team since, there have been better teams.
 
[quote name='Chitown021']How ironic would that be if the Pack went from having the most durable QB in NFL history to the most fragile?[/quote]

Oh man, that's exactly what I was thinking, heh. Maybe he's just getting all the injuries out of the way so he doesn't have to worry about them when he becomes the starter lol ;)
 
[quote name='bil4ltool']Right, he's the best coach in the league...my ass. More like most overrated coach in the league. Leaving your star QB (and the reason you look like a genius) to run it on 4th down when you're up by 30 points is not only an asshole move (running it on 4th down) but also probably one of the dumbest things I've seen in recent NFL history.

Yeah, Taylor had a kid and was unmarried, but he was with the same woman for 7+ years, not to mention that I'm talking trash on message boards acting like all of the players on my team are some sort of saints. Hardly anyone points out the fact that Brady sleeps around like Wilt Chamberlain, and has an illegitmate child, yet many other athletes take a lot more flak for things on the same level. The NFL loves Brady, and it's blatantly obvious.

And of course Bruschi is one of the cockiest players I've ever seen. Every time he makes a tackle he acts like it's the first time he's ever made one. He's a douchebag on the field, and I certainly wouldn't want a child of mine idolizing him. Not only that but he's purely a product of the Pats defensive system, you could plug any 1 of dozens of linebackers in that spot and they'd put up numbers just as good, which makes his cockiness even more obnoxious, because he's honestly not a very good individual player (ala Urlacher, Thomas, TAYLOR)

Like I said, get off of the jock. Belicheck is overrated, Brady makes him look incredible. Without Brady he'd be nothing. Sure he's a good coach, but just like Dungy his QB makes him look downright brilliant. Doing 5 wideouts over and over and over again and failing (Eagles game), yet continuing to try it isn't exactly what I would call "smart"...but take that as you will.[/quote]

If Bill isn't the best coach in the NFL, who is?

I believe the reason he is considered a genuis is the fact he has won three Super Bowls as a head coach, and two more as a defensive coordinator.

One of the dumbest things I've seen in recent NFL history is Joe Gibbs calling consecutive timeouts to give Buffalo an easy field goal attempt to win the game.

Tom Brady has a child with someone his is no longer with, and currently has a girlfirend...who cares? It's not like he isn't supporting his kid.

I can see being jealous of Tom Brady, but I am shocked at all of the hate for Tedy Bruschi. He is a geart player and a great man. He sure as hell doesn't celebrate any more than the next guy, and he is far from a sytem player. Everyone called Tom Brady a system QB, but now after consistantly playing at a high level over the last seven years that stigma has gone away.

The Patriots didn't use 5 WR at all in the Eagles game:

4 WR/1 RB -- 31 of 73 snaps
3 WR/1 TE/1 RB -- 29 of 73
2 WR/2 TE/1 RB -- 8 of 73
1 WR/2 TE/1 FB/1 RB -- 4 of 73
3 TE/1 FB/ 1 RB -- 1 of 73

Have you even watched New England this season? Or are you basing everything you "know" on the Pats - Skins "game"?
 
[quote name='DJSteel']such a hater... your boys would be nothing in the AFC...[/QUOTE]

This year the AFC isn't as good as the AFC of the past years. I would disagree.
 
[quote name='pimpinc333']This year the AFC isn't as good as the AFC of the past years. I would disagree.[/quote]

would you agree you division is pathetic this year???
 
[quote name='DJSteel']would you agree you division is pathetic this year???[/QUOTE]

At first No. Now I would NFC East is usually one of the top divisions every year. It started to look that way for the first 5 games of the season then with the Redskins and Eagles sucking it up now it's not looking to hot. But thats better for me, Playoff spot for Dallas. :D. But still, out division is stronger then Pitts ;)

EDIT: Wait did you mean the Conference? NFC? Or Dallas's NFC East Division? When you said division I'm pretty sure you mean the NFC East since the NFC in general is a Conference.
 
ESPN has far more Pats hate than love currently. It either builds up an "I Told You So" if they lose, or a "HOLY CRAP THEY WON" if they go undefeated. They did the same thing with the Colts a few years ago.

Mercury Morris playing up a year in which a dominant team played a mickey-mouse schedule and won it all is really getting old. If the Dolphins weren't winless this year, it would not be anywhere near as bad as it is.

The best part about what smith said is that the Bengals have the best receivers in the league (better than the Pats). [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]"But they're not like Cincinnati." You mean they're not below .500?[/FONT]
 
if you want to talk about weak divisions, talk about the AFC East, 9-27 aside from the patriots.
Must be real tough to succed when you have a garaunteed 6 wins.
I really hope someone on the dolphins shows some pride and beats the living daylights out of the patriots for running up the score on them earlier in the season
 
[quote name='Krunks']I really hope someone on the dolphins shows some pride and beats the living daylights out of the patriots for running up the score on them earlier in the season[/QUOTE]

That's as likely to happen as a hot 80 degree day in Minnesota during December is.
 
ESPN's first mock draft:
(spoilers since its Insider right now)

Underclassmen dominate first mock draft

Updated: December 6, 2007, 1:06 PM ET

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* Print

In the first of many mock drafts to come, a few things jumped out. The first is that New England, which was forced to forfeit its 32nd pick, made out just fine by having San Francisco's pick, which the Pats received in a draft-day trade last April and right now is the second overall. That means there will be high drama; Bill Belichick and Co. will have to decide whether to take Darren McFadden or trade down as the Patriots look to continue their run of great drafts.

Another thing is the abundance of underclassmen here (they're the ones with the * next to their name). Just to be clear, we never promote juniors leaving early, but it's a fact of life that they do. So instead of ignoring it, we add those players who belong in the first round. Obviously, there are lot of decisions to be made between now and Jan. 15 -- the early entry deadline -- as the process goes on and players officially declare their intentions, we'll adjust the mock draft accordingly. But for now, 16 of the 31 picks are underclassmen.

A couple other notes:

LSU's Glenn Dorsey would become the first defensive tackle selected No. 1 overall since Cincinnati took Dan Wilkinson first in 1994.

A case of mock draft vs. my personal rankings jumps out with Atlanta taking Brian Brohm. I think Boston College's Matt Ryan is the best QB prospect, but Atlanta would take Brohm based on his ties with his former coach at Louisville Bobby Petrino.

Finally, while Atlanta and St. Louis and Oakland and Kansas City would flip a coin to determine their slot based on being tied in record and opponents winning percentage, the players they are projected to take wouldn't change.

Remember, this is the first of many mock drafts and things will change as we move closer to the 2008 draft, but if the draft were today, here's how it would shake out.

NFL Mock Draft

1. Miami Dolphins
Current record: 0-12
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OT, OG, DT
Projected pick: Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
One of the Dolphins' top priorities is to upgrade the talent level along the offensive and defensive lines with an injection of youth. Dorsey played most of the second half of the season with a minor knee injury and a back injury and was still the most disruptive defensive tackle in the country. He should be ready to contribute immediately in the NFL.

2. New England Patriots (from 3-9 San Francisco)
Current record: 12-0
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: ILB, CB, OLB
Projected pick: Darren McFadden*, RB, Arkansas
This hardly seems fair. The league's best team lands the draft's top talent -- or strikes another lucrative draft-day deal for him. Both McFadden and Laurence Maroney split carries in college. A two-back rotation would make both last longer, not to mention the possibilities for an offense already overloaded with talent.

3. New York Jets
Current record: 3-9
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: WR, NT, ILB
Projected pick: James Laurinaitis*, ILB, Ohio State

There simply is not a wide receiver to get excited about with the third overall pick and USC DT Sedrick Ellis is not a good fit as a two-gap NT in this scheme. McFadden should be the pick, if he falls to the Jets, but in this scenario, Laurinaitis makes the most sense. He would solidify the linebacker corps next to another young talent in David Harris (2nd round pick in '07). Michigan OT Jake Long is a possibility, as well.

4. Atlanta Falcons
Current record: 3-9
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: QB, OL, DT
Projected pick: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
It almost makes too much sense. The Falcons, in desperate need of a franchise quarterback in the wake of the Michael Vick mess, use their first-round selection on a signal-caller who played for current Atlanta head coach Bobby Petrino at Louisville from 2004-06.

5. St. Louis Rams
Current record: 3-9
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OT, CB, DE
Projected pick: Jake Long, OT, Michigan
The season-ending injury to perennial Pro Bowl tackle Orlando Pace and the Rams' overall poor play along the offensive line this season make Long a real possibility with this pick. He is unquestionably the most dominant offensive-line prospect in the 2008 class.

6. Cincinnati Bengals
Current record: 4-8
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: DT, LB, OT
Projected pick: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
It would be tough to pass on DE Chris Long, but the Bengals have a much bigger need for interior help. Ellis is a quick, tough and relentless defensive tackle. He has the potential to disrupt plays in the backfield while occupying blocks, which would make the Bengals' entire front-seven better.

7. Oakland Raiders
Current record: 4-8
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OL, WR, DL
Projected pick: Chris Long, DE, Virginia
Outside of McFadden, there isn't a player I value more in the 2008 class than Chris Long. He plays the game with rare passion and nearly flawless technique. In addition to controlling blockers as a 3-4 end in college, Long also disengages from blocks and makes big play after big play. The fact that he finished the regular season with 14 sacks playing in that scheme tells you all you need to know about his talent and motor. Raider Nation would certainly welcome another Long with open arms.

8. Kansas City Chiefs
Current record: 4-8
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OL, WR, CB
Projected pick: Ryan Clady*, OT, Boise State
Clady only makes sense here if Chiefs QB Brodie Croyle makes strides during the final few weeks of the season. If not, QB Matt Ryan would have to be a possibility with this pick. Clady is still improving his strength but he possesses impressive feet to go along with his enormous wingspan.

9. Baltimore Ravens
Current record: 4-8
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: QB, CB, LB
Projected pick: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
Ryan is the top quarterback prospect in the 2008 class. In this scenario, the Ravens would send a thank-you letter to the Falcons and gladly take Ryan with the ninth overall selection.

10. New Orleans Saints
Current record: 5-7
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: MLB, TE, DT
Projected pick: Keith Rivers, LB, USC
This is a bit high for Rivers, but the Saints need linebacker help and could fall in love with his leadership and tempo. Rivers could possibly play inside in the NFL, but his more natural fit is on the weakside. Regardless, he is a first-round talent with very good instincts, quickness and tackling skills.

11. Houston Texans
Current record: 5-7
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: DB, OG, RB
Projected pick: Malcolm Jenkins*, DB, Ohio State
Jenkins spends most of his time in soft-zone coverage at both corner and safety at Ohio State. It's unlikely he will ever emerge as a shutdown man-to-man cover corner in the NFL, but Jenkins is a ball hawk with excellent size and straight-line speed. His versatility could help solidify the Texans' secondary.

12. Denver Broncos
Current record: 5-7
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OL, DT, S
Projected pick: Kenny Phillips*, S, Miami (Fla.)
Phillips had a substandard season, and it would say a lot about his character if he returns to Miami for his senior season and take on a leadership role. On the flip side, Phillips is likely to be the top safety selected if he bolts school early for the 2008 draft. Denver is aging at the position, making it one of Phillips' potential first-round landing spots. His speed and athleticism would be a good complement to the Broncos' existing group of comparatively slow-footed tough guys.

13. Carolina Panthers
Current record: 5-7
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: QB, WR, DE
Projected pick: Andre Woodson, QB, Kentucky
Woodson has the size, arm strength and accuracy as a passer to develop into a good starter in the NFL. Some teams will be concerned about his occasional lapses in decision-making and lack of mobility. However, I would consider the Panthers fortunate if Woodson drops to them at No. 13 overall. In this scenario, Woodson would be the third and final quarterback off the board in the first round, leaving the Bears to adjust their plans quickly.

14. Chicago Bears
Current record: 5-7
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: QB, OT, S

Projected pick: Mike Jenkins, DB, South Florida
If the team can't get one of the top three quarterbacks, it likely will look for help along the offensive line and at safety. Jenkins plays mostly corner at South Florida but he may be a better fit at free safety in the NFL. Regardless, Jenkins has excellent speed and ball skills for his size. He has shown much better discipline and technique as a senior, which is why he is shooting up many NFL draft boards.

15. Philadelphia Eagles
Current record: 5-7
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OT, S, WR
Projected pick: DeSean Jackson*, WR, Cal
Sam Baker would be a possibility, but will the Eagles really take another USC tackle considering Winston Justice's struggles thus far? From my vantage point, Jackson would be tough to pass on here if he leaves following a disappointing junior season at Cal. Sure, critics will attack Jackson for being lean and struggling to stay healthy. But none of his injuries project to have long-term ramifications. Plus, he's a better pure wide receiver than Ted Ginn Jr. (picked by Miami No. 10 overall in 2007) and Jackson is just as explosive in the return game.

16. Washington Redskins
Current record: 5-7
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: WR, DE, S
Projected pick: Derrick Harvey*, DE, Florida
Harvey could use another season in Gainesville to improve his bulk and strength, but don't count on him returning. The 6-foot-4, 255-pound junior notched 17.5 sacks the past two seasons and will wow scouts with his speed and athleticism during workouts. Harvey could upgrade the Redskins' perimeter pass rush immediately.

17. Arizona Cardinals
Current record: 6-6
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OT, DT, RB
Projected pick: Sam Baker, OT, USC
Baker has the feet and balance of a future Pro Bowl left tackle. Unfortunately, he is neither aggressive nor strong enough to start in the NFL right now. Depending on how many underclassmen come out, Arizona could have more to choose from with this pick -- at both the offensive and defensive tackle positions.

18. Buffalo Bills
Current record: 6-6
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: TE, CB, OLB
Projected pick: Ali Highsmith, LB, LSU
Paul Posluszny, Buffalo's second-round pick in 2007, showed lots of promise prior to his season-ending injury. The Bills, however, could still use help at the position even if Posluszny returns to form. Cornerback and tight end are bigger needs, but Highsmith is rated higher than the next-best prospect at either position. Highsmith possesses the athleticism and speed to emerge as a playmaking starter in the NFL, but only if his bulk and recognition skills improve.

19. Minnesota Vikings
Current record: 6-6
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: DE, S, C
Projected pick: Calais Campbell*, DE, Miami (Fla.)
Yes, it's true. The Vikings are really in the market for another first-round defensive end. Campbell is first-round material despite failing to live up to expectations in 2007. Sure, he could improve his stock to the top-10 range by returning to school and maximizing his talents as a senior. Though something tells me an athletic 6-7, 285-pound end with 4.7-speed and 17 sacks the past two seasons won't slip far -- even if he's not fully developed.

20. Detroit Lions
Current record: 6-6
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OT, CB, TE
Projected pick: Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
It looks like the Lions will be selecting outside of the top 10 for the first time since 2001. Now the trick is to find quality players this far down the line. Otah is a late-rising prospect from Nigeria with quick feet for such a massive frame. Otah will take some time to develop but he might be worth the wait.

21. Dallas Cowboys (from 7-5 Cleveland)
Current record: 11-1
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: S, OT, WR
Projected pick: Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
Sweed is the most naturally gifted receiver in the 2008 class if healthy. Unfortunately, the homegrown product's senior season was cut short by a wrist injury. Although durability is a concern, some team could get a steal in the bottom-half of the first round if Sweed returns to form as expected. Owner Jerry Jones has never been one to shy away from risks.

22. Tennessee Titans
Current record: 7-5
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: WR, DT, CB
Projected pick: Malcolm Kelly*, WR, Oklahoma
The Titans need to surround franchise quarterback Vince Young with better perimeter weapons. Young may be forced to befriend a Sooner if his former teammate, Sweed, is off the board. Kelly could use another season of polishing but word out of Norman is the 6-4, 220-pound glider will take his chances in the upcoming NFL draft.

23. San Diego Chargers
Current record: 7-5
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: ILB, DL, RB
Projected pick: Rey Maualuga*, ILB, USC
Maualuga is finishing strong as a junior. He publicly stated he plans on returning to Southern California next fall, but Maualuga wouldn't be the first to renege on such a promise. A strong showing at the combine could catapult the 250-pound middle linebacker into the top-half of the first round.

24. Seattle Seahawks
Current record: 8-4
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OL, S, TE
Projected pick: Jonathan Stewart*, RB, Oregon
The Seahawks have some tough questions to ponder at the running back position in the upcoming offseason. Will Shaun Alexander return to form? Can Maurice Morris be the full-time load-carrier if not? Stewart has yet to indicate his intentions but it wouldn't be a bit surprising if he followed QB Dennis Dixon out of Eugene. Stewart has the versatility, power and burst to thrive in coach Mike Holmgren's system.

25. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Current record: 8-4
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OT, CB, OLB
Projected pick: Aqib Talib*, DB, Kansas
Talib is a versatile athlete with the size, toughness and ball skills to fit well in the Tampa 2. Who knows, maybe coach Jon Gruden would get him some time at wide receiver like Mark Mangino did at Kansas.

26. New York Giants
Current record: 8-4
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OLB, OT, DB
Projected pick: Dan Connor, LB, Penn State
Connor is a bit overrated, but the Giants would be getting a solid value on him at No. 26 overall. Connor moved inside to middle linebacker as a senior but it seems his better fit in the NFL will be at the Will (weakside linebacker) position.

27. Jacksonville Jaguars
Current record: 8-4
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: WR, OLB, S
Projected pick: Vernon Gholston*, DE/OLB, Ohio State
This would have to be worst-case scenario for Gholston, who has 21.5 sacks the past two seasons, including eight in his last four outings. Gholston is a bit undersized but he is powerfully built with above-average speed. The Jaguars would jump at the opportunity to select the junior here, even if end is not a top priority.

28. Pittsburgh Steelers
Current record: 9-3
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: OL, WR, S
Projected pick: Michael Oher*, OT, Mississippi
The Steelers should use this picks to upgrade their offensive line. Oher is reportedly on the fence in regards to staying in school or turning pro. Should he leave early, Oher has all the physical tools a team looks for in a potential starting left tackle. He comes with some baggage, though, and his technique still needs polishing.

29. Green Bay Packers
Current record: 10-2
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: RB, S, OL
Projected pick: Felix Jones*, RB, Arkansas
Ryan Grant has been a nice story this season but the Packers can't count on him as its premier back moving forward. The verdict is still out on rookie Brandon Jackson, who has failed to meet expectations so far. A proven veteran would be ideal but Jones has proven capable of contributing as a complementary weapon. He brings world-class speed to the table as a runner, receiver and return specialist.

San Francisco 49ers (from 10-2 Indianapolis)
Current record: 3-9
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: WR, OL, S
Projected pick: Early Doucet, WR, LSU
Obviously, the 49ers would like to have that No. 2 pick back from the Patriots, but they'll have to make due with the 30th pick. Doucet has been bothered by a nagging groin injury, which prevented him from emerging as a reliable No. 1 weapon at LSU this fall. But a couple fast 40 times and a big week at the Senior Bowl could help affirm his big-play potential for NFL decision-makers.

31. Dallas Cowboys
Current record: 11-1
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: S, OT, WR
Projected pick: Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
The Cowboys can use this pick to bolster their offensive line depth after selecting a wide receiver (Sweed) earlier in the round. Cherilus has struggled in his first year on the left side and in a new system. A team patient enough to rebuild his confidence -- which probably includes moving him back to ROT -- could reap the rewards.

New England Patriots
Current record: 12-0
Scouts Inc.'s three biggest needs: ILB, CB, OLB
Projected pick: Pick forfeited.

Todd McShay is the director of college football scouting for Scouts Inc. He has been evaluating prospects for the NFL draft since 1998.
Click to expand...

McFadden to the Patriots would be like cheating...damn 49ers (49er's pick currently at 2)
 
[quote name='WeLoveDaisuke']

The best part about what smith said is that the Bengals have the best receivers in the league (better than the Pats). [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]"But they're not like Cincinnati." You mean they're not below .500?[/FONT][/quote]

Name me a more talented receiving corps than Cinci's. That team lacks a lot of things, but they definitely don't lack talent at wideout.
 
[quote name='pimpinc333']At first No. Now I would NFC East is usually one of the top divisions every year. It started to look that way for the first 5 games of the season then with the Redskins and Eagles sucking it up now it's not looking to hot. But thats better for me, Playoff spot for Dallas. :D. But still, out division is stronger then Pitts ;)

EDIT: Wait did you mean the Conference? NFC? Or Dallas's NFC East Division? When you said division I'm pretty sure you mean the NFC East since the NFC in general is a Conference.[/quote]

division i.e. philly, washington and NY...
 
[quote name='Illini Jeeper']Anyone with NFL Network watching the Bears Skins game.... why is Grossman out and Griese in? Did he get injured?[/quote]]

I'm not watching but I noticed on gamecast Grossman got injured in the first quarter. I'd be interested to know how severe of an injury he suffered. Also thanks alot Bears. This week you decide to stop the run. The week I enter the FF playoffs and need Portis to get me some yards :bomb:
 
[quote name='Illini Jeeper']Anyone with NFL Network watching the Bears Skins game.... why is Grossman out and Griese in? Did he get injured?[/quote]

Yeah, a lineman rolled up on his leg. Campbell's out now too.
 
[quote name='HuskerFan31']How is that in bad taste? He had a child with his girlfriend, and they weren't married...[/QUOTE]

If you don't know, I can't explain it to you so that you'll understand.
 
[quote name='Inf^Shini']That's what I was thinking, but I just went on what pimpininc said :/[/QUOTE]

BB was the defensive coordinator on that team.
 
[quote name='Krunks']bellicheck didnt take the patriots to the super bowl agains the packers, parcells did. so he wasnt the one to take the patriots out of the perennial loser category.
and if hes so great, what happened in cleveland?
didnt seem very great there[/QUOTE]


Took them to the playoffs and beat the Pats one year. He had his knees cut out from under him when they announced they were moving the team to Baltimore. Plus it was his first head coaching gig. He obviously learned from it and improved
 
Anybody else feel like the Steelers have an excellent shot to ruin the pats perfect season. If the pats keep executing like they have been it might over. I attribute it partially to the age of their entire team personally so even playing well may not be enough if everyone is banged up and tired by now.
 
[quote name='russellgreco']Anybody else feel like the Steelers have an excellent shot to ruin the pats perfect season. If the pats keep executing like they have been it might over. I attribute it partially to the age of their entire team personally so even playing well may not be enough if everyone is banged up and tired by now.[/quote]

I would imagine after two very physical games, the Pats might be hurtin' juuuuuust a liiiiittlee bit
 
[quote name='russellgreco']Anybody else feel like the Steelers have an excellent shot to ruin the pats perfect season. If the pats keep executing like they have been it might over. I attribute it partially to the age of their entire team personally so even playing well may not be enough if everyone is banged up and tired by now.[/quote]


I don't want it to happen but I'm expecting the Pats to blow out the Steelers this week. Generally we get the opposite of whats expected. Everyone predicted that the Eagles and Ravens would get destroyed and both ended up close games. This week everyone is expecting the Steelers to have a close game so we'll probably get another romp.
 
[quote name='Inf^Shini']14-2o Lions. Who saw that coming?[/quote]

And if they called that PI on Williams it may be worse.
 
[quote name='Chitown021']I don't want it to happen but I'm expecting the Pats to blow out the Steelers this week. Generally we get the opposite of whats expected. Everyone predicted that the Eagles and Ravens would get destroyed and both ended up close games. This week everyone is expecting the Steelers to have a close game so we'll probably get another romp.[/quote]



I get nervous every Sunday the Pats play. I'm always expecting them to blow it. Then after they won I realize they aren't Boston College! the only time i wasn't worried was a few week ago when I went to the Buffalo game and was so drunk by the time the game started I didn't even know where I was!
 
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