S

A F C

F O R E C A S T

EAST: FAVRE PILOTING JETS ON

COLLISION COURSE WITH PATS
NORTH: BROWNS COULD BE
READY TO KNOCK OFF STEELERS
SOUTH: WILL COLTS INJURIES
OPEN DOOR FOR NEW CHAMP?
WEST: CHARGERS AMPED FOR
A SERIOUS SUPER BOWL RUN

IL

NFL

Kickoff 08
08

l VOL. XXIII, NO. 9 l SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

N F C

F O R E C A S T

EAST: DEFENDING CHAMP GIANTS

TOIL IN SUPERTOUGH DIVISION
NORTH: ALLEN, PETERSON HAVE
NFL WORLD FEARING MINNESOTA
SOUTH: CAN THE EXPLOSIVE
SAINTS OFFENSE BE STOPPED?
WEST: CARDS HOPING DESERT
HEAT SHRIVELS SEATTLES REIGN

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JAMES D. SMITH (ROMO)

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

http://www.profootballweekly.com

In this
edition of

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

Volume XXIII KICKOFF 2008

After polling all of PFWs editors
No. 9

10

CREATORS & FOUNDERS

Arthur Arkush, Robert Drazkowski

and Joel Buchsbaum

Publisher/Editor Hub Arkush

General manager Mike Waters

Art director Bob Peters

Managing editor Mike Holbrook

NFL TEAM PREVIEWS

Executive editors Dan Arkush

Neil Warner

AFC EAST .......... PG. 16

AFC NORTH ...... PG. 20
AFC SOUTH ...... PG. 24
AFC WEST ........ PG. 28

Senior editors Nolan Nawrocki

Eric Edholm
Mike Wilkening
Associate editors Matt Sohn
Dan Parr
Michael Blunda

NEW MEDIA
Publisher Sue Nemitz
Web developer Tom OBrien

DEPARTMENTS
The Way We Hear It ................................Pg. 6
Handicappers Corner............................Pg. 48
Week One game previews ....................Pg. 49
Fantasy football: Breaking down
PFWs free fantasy game....................Pg. 55
Fantasy draft board..................................Pg. 58
Audibles ..................................................Pg. 60
NFL transactions ....................................Pg. 61
PFW Slant with Dan Arkush ..................Pg. 63

Business manager Christine Klimusko

Network support tech. Bob Boklewski
Distribution manager Arthur Arkush
Subscription manager Kristine Carlsson

ADVERTISING SALES
VP, Marketing Phil Hornthal
National sales manager Chris Belec
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Pro Football Weekly (ISSN: 0032-9053, USPS Pub.
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COLUMNISTS
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Stephen Nover ........................................Pg. 15
JAMES D. SMITH

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PORTRAIT OF STRENGTH:

Upshaws leadership benefited players, league too

HUB ARKUSH

PUBLISHERS PEN

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Tom Danyluk, Matt Duffy, Art Edelstein,
Pat Fitzmaurice, Court E. Mann, Rick Matsumoto

We pay tribute to one

of the most important
figures in professional
sports over the past
several decades.

PROCASE

Production assistant Matt Quinnan

NFC REPORTERS
Arizona Cardinals Kent Somers
Atlanta Falcons Steve Wyche
Carolina Panthers Charles Chandler
Chicago Bears Bob LeGere
Dallas Cowboys Mickey Spagnola
Detroit Lions Nicholas J. Cotsonika
Green Bay Packers Bob McGinn
Minnesota Vikings Sean Jensen
New Orleans Saints Mike Triplett
New York Giants Paul Schwartz
Philadelphia Eagles Dave Weinberg
St. Louis Rams Jim Thomas
San Francisco 49ers Kevin Lynch
Seattle Seahawks Dave Boling
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Katherine Smith
Washington Redskins John Keim

NFC EAST ........ PG. 32

NFC NORTH ...... PG. 36
NFC SOUTH ...... PG. 40
NFC WEST ........ PG. 44

GENE UPSHAW: 1945-2008

Editorial assistant Matt Feminis

AFC REPORTERS
Baltimore Ravens Jamison Hensley
Buffalo Bills Chuck Pollock
Cincinnati Bengals Mark Curnutte
Cleveland Browns Tony Grossi
Denver Broncos Frank Schwab
Houston Texans Megan Manfull
Indianapolis Colts Tom James
Jacksonville Jaguars Vito Stellino
Kansas City Chiefs Rick Dean
Miami Dolphins Harvey Fialkov
New England Patriots John Tomase
New York Jets Mark Cannizzaro
Oakland Raiders Michael Wagaman
Pittsburgh Steelers Jim Wexell
San Diego Chargers Chris Jenkins
Tennessee Titans Jim Wyatt

COWBOYS
OVER
OV PATRIOTS

PFW power rankings............Pg. 11

PFW staff predictions ..........Pg. 12

Editor-in-chief Keith Schleiden

COLUMNISTS
Ron Borges, Jim Campbell, Bob Carroll,
Glenn Dickey, Barry Jackson,
Jerry Magee, Bill Wallace

and correspondents, we are

prepared to announce our official
prediction for Super Bowl XLIII:

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

irst came the absolute shock of the news:

We can now confirm that Gene Upshaw
has died at the age of 63 due to pancreatic cancer. It wasnt just that for over five
decades Upshaw had been the definition of
toughness and indestructibility on the NFL
landscape, it seems nobody even knew he
was ill.
I was sitting next to PFW editor-in-chief
Keith Schleiden last February at the NFL
Players Association press conference at
Super Bowl XLII when Gene Upshaw
entered the room, and we were taken aback
by his appearance. Its not that he looked
sick, but he was noticeably thinner than
wed seen him before. The adjective Id
choose is gaunt. But when I got to speak
with him briefly the next day, he said he felt
great and that hed been working out to keep
his weight as low as he could. As we quickly hit the highlights of his comments the day
before about CBA trouble on the horizon,
there was absolutely no reason to doubt he
was prepared for the fight ahead.
Gene was a friend, but I wasnt in the top
two or three hundred in his Rolodex. It was a
relationship of peers in the same industry
whod shared a few joyous moments, a few
very difficult ones and a handful or two of
personal exchanges or accomplishments over
30 years that made him someone I knew I
could count on and whom I deeply respected. A man I was positive would be a fixture
in the NFL for as long as I covered it. While
I am a bigger and bigger Roger Goodell fan
with each passing day, I actually thought
Upshaw would have been a better choice
when Goodell got the commissioners job.
Now, as a few days have passed since that
first horrible 6 a.m. call last Thursday, Aug.
21, I and the rest of the PFW staff have

reached out to countless of those who were

a great deal closer to Upshaw than us, and
all have recounted similar thoughts and
experiences yes, he looked thin, but I
had no idea he was sick. As incredible,
almost inconceivable as it seems, it appears
he may have, in fact, first received the horrid
diagnosis of pancreatic cancer just four days
before he died. We thought wed seen tough
before, yet how many months and how
much discomfort must he have endured
before facing his reality?
I guess its what we should expect from
the man who, along with former commissioner Paul Tagliabue, defined the business
of professional football as we know it today.
There are a number of reasons that the NFL
is the runaway leader in popularity among
professional sports leagues in America and
throughout the world. I understand that soccer is more popular in many parts of the
world, but is there a single league that rivals
the success of the NFL? The main reason
for that success is that Upshaw and Tagliabue understood that in order for the NFL to
flourish, there had to be a level of comfort
for both sides. Thus, in the Collective Bargaining Agreement they struck in 1993, free
agency for the players was married to a hard
salary cap for the owners. The labor peace
those two delivered in the 15 seasons leading up to this past spring, when the owners
elected to opt out of the current agreement
early, has been the main driver of the growth
and riches the game has enjoyed at levels
that were unfathomable when Upshaw took
over the players union in 1983.
1982 was one of the lowest points of my
time here at PFW. There simply was no map
for the first prolonged work stoppage in
American sports history, and when the play-

ers went back to work, it was a beaten union

that had gained little of what it sought. That
was the union Upshaw took over from Ed
Garvey a year later, and the group that he
led out of work again, this time for 24 days,
in 1987. As in 82 the strike was basically
for naught, and this time the union was
practically bankrupt.
But Upshaw was unfazed. Attaining a reasonable and unfettered free agency for his
workers was the only measure by which he
could consider himself a success, and so he
plowed forward. Working for periods of
time without pay but never without hope, he
championed the strategy of first decertifying
his union and becoming an association and
then kicking managements butts in court
with lawsuits made possible by the decertification. Would you have the courage to save
your own union or business by first destroying it and then rebuilding it, bigger and better than ever? Thats what Upshaw did for
his fellow players.
Near the end, success was unkind to
Upshaw. He was devastated by the appearance that his union had failed many of its
oldest members and founders in need, and
when he would have been better-served by
dialogue with his accusers, he lashed out
angrily instead. It was the only time in his
25 years as the first African-American
leader of a major union in this country that I
witnessed him allowing his anger to get the
better of his greatness. It was a mistake I am
positive he would have corrected had he not
been stolen from us so soon.
Gene Upshaw was a man, not a god, so
perfection was never an option. But he was
a really good man. And for all he did for so
many, and the example he set for us all, the
world is a much poorer place without him.

YOUR FAVORITE
FOOTBALL MAG
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PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

GENE UPSHAW: 1945-2008

LOSS
OF A
LEADER
Players union head
dies suddenly,
leaves huge void
By

MIKE HOLBROOK

Gene Upshaw did everything

with great dignity, pride, and
conviction. He was the rare
individual who earned his place
in the Pro Football Hall of Fame
both for his accomplishments
on the field and for his
leadership of the players
off the field. He fought hard
for the players and always
kept his focus on what
was best for the game.
NFL COMMISSIONER
ROGER GOODELL

PROCASE

hock and sadness filled the NFL

on Aug. 21 as it was learned that
Pro Football Hall of Famer and
longtime NFL Players Association executive director Gene
Upshaw had passed away suddenly from pancreatic cancer.
Most throughout the league
had no idea that Upshaw was ill.
In fact, according to the
NFLPAs statement regarding
the Loss of Our Leader, Upshaw only
learned of his illness on Aug. 17.
He died at his home in Lake Tahoe, Calif.,
surrounded by his wife, Terri, and his sons
Eugene Jr., Justin and Daniel.
Ed Garvey, the NFLPAs executive director from 1971-83 and Upshaws friend, told
PFW that Upshaw had complained of back
pain while playing golf but had chalked it up
to another old football injury.
This is disheartening news for my family
and me, Chargers president/CEO Dean
Spanos said. Gene was familiar to all
Chargers fans because of his Hall of Fame
playing career with the Raiders and our
annual rivalry with his team. During his
years as player union chief, he was a tough,
relentless negotiator but most important, his
top priority was the game itself. He fought
hard for his Players Association but never at
the expense of the fans or the game. Everyone associated with the NFL today owes a
debt of gratitude to Gene Upshaw.
Spanos reaction was the norm around the
league as players, coaches, management and
media members, who remembered Upshaw
as a commanding, intimidating presence
who fought like a bulldog in negotiations for
his union, were stunned to hear that a force
such as Upshaw was gone.
The Raider Organization, the National
Football League, and the world have lost a

great man, said Raiders owner Al Davis.

Gene Upshaws career successes as a professional football player and a union leader
are unparalleled. He is as prominent a sportsman as the world has known. He was and
will remain a part of the fabric of our lives
and of the Raider mystique and legacy. We
loved him and he loved us. Well miss him.
Upshaw had a profound impact on the
sport he loved and to which he devoted most
of his 63 years first as a player, then in his
role as the leader of the players union.
He came into the NFL in 1967 as a 6-3,
255-pound offensive guard out of Texas A&I
of the NAIA and went on to play 15 memorable seasons with the Raiders, starting 207
consecutive games and helping the Raiders
to 11 playoff appearances and eight division
titles. He is the only player in NFL history to
participate in Super Bowls in three different
decades (after the 1967, 76 and 80 seasons), and was on the winning side in the last
two of those Super Bowls. He was voted to
the Pro Bowl six times.
He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of
Fame in his first year of eligibility, 1987.
Later that year, in his role as NFLPA executive director, a position he had ascended to
in 1983, he oversaw the players second inseason strike in five years.
In 89, with the union pressing for free
agency through the court system, the league
relented and instituted a limited form of free
agency, called Plan B. That helped lay the
groundwork for the league to adopt a Collective Bargaining Agreement in 93, in
which the players were given the right to free
agency in exchange for a salary cap.
Without question, that agreement played a
large part in the sports explosion in popularity and brought in unprecedented earnings
for teams and players and exponentially bolstered the net worth of NFL franchises.

In fact, the last contract extension that was

hammered out between Upshaw and former
NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue in 2006
was so favorable to the players giving
them more than 60 percent of the 32 teams
total revenues that the owners chose to
opt out of the agreement.
When you focus on his role as the head
of the Players Association, I think hes as
good as anybody has ever been in any league
in terms of what hes accomplished for the
players. Theres no argument really, Tagliabue told PFW. You know, he visited every
team every year and, more than once on a
regular basis, talked to the players. But he
also reached out to every owner when he was
in those cities, whether it was at training
camp in the summer or at the permanent
facility in the fall or winter. And he could
talk to Jerry Jones one day and Mike Brown
the next day. And Pat Bowlen one day and
Paul Allen the next day. And he understood
that every guy had a different perspective,
every owner had a different point of view as
to where the right deal was, how much revenue sharing, how little revenue sharing. But
he was always out there intelligently making
his case because he had this extraordinary
understanding. I dont know anyone else on
the players side in any professional sports
league who had that kind of an understanding of the constituency on the other side of
the table.
One of Upshaws greatest legacies was
helping to push the league to adopt the
Rooney Rule, which requires teams to
interview minority candidates when filling
their head-coaching position.
Leadership comes in many forms, and
Gene was willing to be out front on the
issues once we decided what the issues
were, Garvey said. As I look back at our
efforts to force the NFL to hire African-

American coaches, I think it was a major

contribution and an important one.
Upshaw often was the target of critics who
said he wasnt getting as good of a deal as he
should for the players. In fact, there were
rumblings earlier this year that some players
were ready to begin the process of looking
for Upshaws successor. He quashed that
potential uprising forcefully.
He also was sharply criticized by retired
players such as Mike Ditka for not doing
enough to take care of the medical needs of
retired players.
Garvey told PFW that he and Upshaw had
spoken on several occasions in recent
months about alumni relations as they talked
about what the owners responsibility should
be toward the retired players.
I think it was a massive misunderstanding. And I hate to blame the media because
if we dont explain it, we cant blame the
media, Garvey said. The United States
Supreme Court decided that it is not a
mandatory subject of bargaining if you raise
issues regarding former employees. The
retired players before 1959 were no longer
employees. And the NFL refused to bargain.
What I said to Gene was, How does it end
up with you being the goat when its the
NFL with all their money that gets off the
hook? It doesnt make any sense to me.
Upshaws former coach and current NBC
football analyst John Madden summed up
the loss being felt throughout the league.
He was respected by everyone, because
as a player he was a tough guy, and as the
union head he was a tough guy, Madden
said. But he was also smart, and he could
compromise, and he could make things happen. This is deeper than a head of the union
passing away, and its deeper than an explayer. This is missing someone that is and
was like family. Its a tough day for all of us.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

http://www.profootballweekly.com

GENE UPSHAW: 1945-2008

DEEP IMPACT:

NFL experienced dramatic growth under Upshaws watch

JERRY MAGEE

hrough Gene Upshaws time with the Oakland Raiders,

the team had a decidedly leftward lean, generally aiming its plays to the left, with Upshaw, a guard who
could pull, out in front, leading.
Its how I think of Upshaw, dead at 63: not as the executive director of the NFL Players Association but as a player
serving a franchise that too often has had to accept the reality that is death.
No man associated with the NFL is more mindful of how
life concludes than Al Davis, the Raiders owner. I attended
Sugar Ray Robinsons funeral in the Crenshaw district of
Los Angeles. Davis was among the speakers. He was there
for the funeral of Vince Lombardi at St. Patricks Cathedral
in New York. When anyone prominent in the football community succumbs, Davis is either present for the obsequies
or he has someone from his organization representing him.
From his own experience, Davis has had to deal with the
deaths of a number of persons, among them Sid Gillman,
who introduced Davis to pro football when he appointed him
to the coaching staff of the then-Los Angeles Chargers in
1960. Now Davis, 79, has to accept the passing of Upshaw,
whom he termed, simply, a great man.
According to Willie Brown, the Hall of Fame pass defender of the Raiders teams of the 70s and 80s, Davis had a
good deal to do with Upshaw becoming the NFLPAs ranking executive. By Browns account, it was Davis who fought
for Upshaws retention after the leagues owners took the
position that they could not talk to Upshaw, that he was
unfair.
Mr. Davis is the one who stepped in and said, Wait a
minute. We can talk to him, Brown said. Nobody knew
him better than Mr. Davis, and that is one of the reasons they
had a labor agreement: because of the relationship that Gene
had with Mr. Davis and the relationship he had with (former
commissioner) Paul Tagliabue.
For all the NFLs growth under Upshaws watch, some

have contended that Upshaw was too cozy with Tagliabue.

Further, Upshaw has been the subject of critiques that he was
not sufficiently mindful concerning the status of retired players, a forgotten legion.
Wanting a source from outside the league to assess
Upshaws legacy, I sought out football historian David Neft.
I think Upshaw will be positively remembered, except for
certain owners who always want to return to the good old
days, which werent so good, Neft said.
Neft noted that by comparison to other sports, the NFL
has been relatively free of player-owner disruptions. Because
of Upshaw, the current system works. He had defended the
practice of teams assigning whopping sums to draft choices,
his rationale being that rookies being made wealthy had a
trickle-down effect that enhanced the status of veterans.
In his final months, Upshaw was adamant that the players
union would not accept any reduction in the percentage of
the leagues revenues they are paid. Commissioner Roger
Goodells position is that the increased costs of stadium
operations and of building stadiums have made it burdensome for teams to continue to pay players 60 percent of the
leagues gross revenues, as required by the current Collective
Bargaining Agreement.
Underscoring this point, the NFL has determined that
unless the bargaining agreement is renewed by March 2010,
that season would be played without a salary cap. Such a situation could lead to chaos, with some teams spending lavishly for talent and others acting in a more frugal manner.
A number of our owners are concerned with many
aspects of the labor deal. Thats something we need to
improve, Goodell said during his state of the league news
conference prior to Super Bowl XLII. I believe we will be
able to come to a resolution that is good for the game, good
for the players, good for the owners and good for the fans.
While Goodell and Upshaw were apart on this issue, in a
statement the commissioner said Upshaws leadership

played a crucial role in taking the NFL and its players to

new heights.
Tagliabue agreed. Few people in the history of the NFL
have played the game as well as Gene and then had another
career in football with so much positive impact on the structure and competitiveness of the entire league, the former
commissioner said. In both careers, if you hit him hard, he
could hit you back twice as hard but he didnt always do
so. He was very tough, but also a good listener.
Among the tangible developments that had at least shades
of Upshaws imprint was the NFLs broadcasting explosion.
When Upshaw came in, there were two (NFL) television
outlets, Neft said. Now they are all over the place.
My thinking is that fixing Upshaws place in the game,
both as a player and a union official, is a tricky matter. Yes,
he was an accomplished guard. (Brown: When he was
pulling, he wiped out the right side like a hurricane.)
Yes, the status of players appreciated strongly during
Upshaws term with the union. But one can think that this
would have occurred had Upshaw not been in office. Football was on a forward course, with new stadiums popping up
everywhere and revenues multiplying.
Men such as former NFLPA president Troy Vincent and
agent Tom Condon have been mentioned as possible successors. Both would have a lot of work to match Upshaws 41
years of NFL service.
Davis drafted the 6-foot-5, 255-pound Upshaw in 1967
primarily for one reason to block Buck Buchanan, a
dreadnought defensive tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Buchanan, like Upshaw a Hall of Famer, died in July 1992
at the age of 51.
Ill bet Davis was at his funeral.
Jerry Magee has covered pro football for the San Diego
Union-Tribune since 1961 and for PFW since its inception in
1967.

LARGER THAN LIFE:

As player and spokesman, Upshaw stood out in Oakland

GLENN DICKEY

ene Upshaw was a giant, not only in

physical stature but in intelligence and
integrity.
Gene and I started together in pro
football in 1967, he as the first-round choice
of the Oakland Raiders, me as the Raiders
beat writer for the San Francisco Chronicle.
We share one other distinction: We both had
sons born during training camp in 1970.
Genes son was a whopping 13 pounds at
birth, mine about half that, reflecting the difference in our sizes.
Al Davis, then and now managing general
partner of the Raiders, drafted Upshaw to
block Buck Buchanan, the huge defensive
tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Upshaws first attempt was a resounding
failure: He was beaten like a drum by
Buchanan as the Chiefs demolished the
Raiders, 48-0, in an exhibition game. But he
learned quickly, and he played a significant
role as the Raiders went 13-1, including two
wins over the Chiefs, as they went to their
first Super Bowl.
By 1969, Upshaw was playing between C
Jim Otto and OT Art Shell; all three of them
are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Upshaw and Shell also had adjoining
lockers in the Raiders dressing room.
Though Shell is quite intelligent, few writers
ever discovered that because he was so quiet.
Upshaw was not. Almost from the begin-

ning, he was an articulate, voluble speaker.

Writers and broadcasters gravitate naturally
to players like that because they provide the
needed quotes and sound bites, so the crowd
around Upshaws locker was as big as the
one around QBs Daryle Lamonica, Ken Stabler or George Blanda, all of whom started
at some point of Upshaws Raider career.
At the time, many of the Raiders black
players had come out of all-black schools,
and they were obviously uncomfortable talking to what was an all-white writing contingent in Oakland. Upshaw, though, had graduated from Texas A&I (now Texas A&MKingsville), which had a racially mixed student body, so he was quite comfortable with
the writers.
Upshaw was also representative of a
nucleus of star players on the Raiders who,
though the colorful characters like Stabler
and John Matuszak got more public notice,
were the basis for the teams success. The
offensive linemen, for instance, were all in
that mode, as were Tom Keating and Ben
Davidson on the defensive line, and Hall of
Famers Fred Biletnikoff and Willie Brown.
In my five years on the Raiders beat, I
talked frequently with Upshaw, both during
the week and after the games. Our conversations were mostly pleasant because I often
complimented him on his play and was usually writing about a Raiders win; the Raiders

lost only four regular-season games in my

first three seasons on the beat and four in
each of my last two seasons.
There was one episode, though, during the
1971 season. Writing about a loss to Kansas
City, I had put much of the blame on ineffective pass blocking, especially by Upshaw
and Shell. After a practice the next week,
Upshaw and Shell marched me to a bench on
the sideline and sat me down between them.
As usual, Upshaw did the talking, telling
me that I didnt know the blocking assignments (which was true) and that they werent
the only ones to blame for the poor pass protection.
I told him, I can understand Art being
upset at my criticism because Ive hardly
written anything about him before this. But
Ive written a ton of complimentary articles
about you.
This one article wipes out all the good
ones, said Upshaw, in a perfect example of
the Athletes Creed.
Given his ability to articulate issues, it was
no surprise that Upshaw became executive
director for the Players Association after his
retirement from playing.
The NFL was torn by a bitter labor dispute in the 80s. There was a hard-line element in the league, headed by Dallas general
manager Tex Schramm (a longtime friend of
commissioner Pete Rozelles) and Tampa

Bay owner Hugh Culverhouse, which totally

opposed free agency for the players.
Meanwhile, Ed Garvey, head of the Players
Association, proposed a wage scale for players, depending on positions. In retrospect,
that would have been better for the owners
than what they eventually got, but owners
condemned it as a communistic plan.
Garvey was a confrontational leader, in
the mold of the union heads of the 1930s.
But the owners seemed to hold all the cards.
When Upshaw became head of the Players
Association, he decertified the union, which
allowed individual players to successfully
sue the league.
Then, Upshaw negotiated with owners,
working out a compromise that has stablized
the NFL while enabling the star players to
negotiate as free agents and get contracts
they could only dream of before. He also
insisted on a minimum salary cap that forced
teams like Tampa Bay and Cincinnati to
greatly upgrade their team payrolls.
His success didnt surprise me. From the
start of his career, I could see he was destined for success even beyond the playing
field. He was a true giant.
Glenn Dickey has been covering pro football since 1967 and now has his own website, www.GlennDickey.com. E-mail him at
glenndickey@hotmail.com.

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

WAY
WE

in finding replacement for Upshaw

it...

MICHAEL BLUNDA ERIC EDHOLM NOLAN NAWROCKI

DA N PA R R M AT T S O H N M I K E W I L K E N I N G

NEW YORK GIANTS

The Giants got great news on
Aug. 20 when WRs Amani
Toomer, Steve Smith and Mario
Manningham the would-be
second, third and fourth receivers
returned to practice after
injuries kept them off the field for
various times. The bright
side was that Sinorice
Moss made a strong statement for a roster spot after
a few seasons of dormancy,
and unheralded guys such
as Domenik Hixon and Brandon
London also played very well.
Assuming there are no serious
injuries and Plaxico Burress
(ankle) returns as expected before
the opener, it leaves the Giants in
a bind as to who to keep. And
dont forget that Super Bowl hero
and special-teams ace David Tyree
(knee) hopes to return soon, as
well. Burress, Toomer, Smith and

tom berg

N F C lE A S T
Cowboys LB depth
suddenly comes
into question
The injuries to OLB Anthony
Spencer and ILB Kevin Burnett
suddenly have crippled the Cowboys LB depth for at least the regular-season opener, perhaps
longer. Both players are trying to
get back for the Week One game
against the Browns. But
there is a chance neither
will be available, which
would leave only Bobby
Carpenter and Justin
Rogers as the experienced
backups at linebacker and could
push sixth-round OLB Erik
Walden onto the roster for a week
or two. One big effect it could have
is really messing with the nickel
and dime defensive packages. Burnett moves to the inside, and
Spencer often goes into a threepoint stance on the four-man front.
It remains to be seen if the
remaining players could fit in there;
they havent stood out in preseason action to date.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

Late bloomer: Sinorice Moss has

shown signs of life this preseason
Manningham are locks. Hixon, the
primary kickoff returner who also
caught two TD passes the other
night, appears solid. If the Giants
keep six receivers, it could come
down to perhaps keeping Tyree on
the PUP list and choosing between
Moss and London. Given that
Moss is a former second-rounder,
youd have to think that London
would be the odd man out.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS
The makeup of the 53-man roster has yet to be decided, but the
preseason injuries to rookie WRs
Devin Thomas and Malcolm
Kelly has slowed their development and kept them off the
field more than the coaches were prepared for. They
were being counted on this
season to be no worse
than the third and fourth
receivers in an offense that plans
on using more two-, three- and
four-WR sets. And as a result of
their slowed learning curve, the
team might be forced to keep an

The way we hear it, it could be well into the 2008 season before the NFL Players Association seriously begins
the arduous task of replacing departed union leader
Gene Upshaw, whose sudden death Aug. 20 at the age
of 63 generated shock waves leaguewide that are
expected to linger for the foreseeable future.
I think the key thing is for everyone to recognize that
there has got to be a period of mourning, where people
get past their emotions, former NFL commissioner Paul
Tagliabue told PFW.
I think its going to be very difficult, compounded by
the fact that youre into the season already so, on the
players side, the player reps are going to be playing
football. I think it will be very challenging, but I think
people are going to be smart enough to understand
that.
Within 24 hours after learning of Upshaws death, current NFLPA president and Titans C Kevin Mawae said
it could be March 2009 and even beyond before a new
executive director would be named.
In the meantime, the players union is in the capable
hands of NFLPA general counsel Richard Berthelsen,
who has been named interim executive director and,
based on his close involvement in pro football labor
negotiations the past 37 years, is considered a viable
candidate to replace Upshaw full time in the eyes of
many close to the union scene.
The most logical successors are Dick Berthelsen or
(NFLPA outside counsel) Jeff Kessler, one league
source told PFW. They understand the difference
between the real issues and the superficial issues. The
players will get massacred if they dont have someone
strong in position to replace him (Upshaw).
Former NFLPA executive director Ed Garvey, who
went to law school with Berthelsen and originally hired
him as a general counsel, hedged a bit when asked by
PFW if Berthelsens vast experience would make him a
favorite to replace Upshaw.
Oh, I dont know, Garvey said. The one nice thing
with labor relations is that everything changes, new people come in, new ideas. Who knows? They might hire a
head-hunting firm or do it themselves.
Aside from Berthelsen and Kessler, four former NFL
players were being mentioned as the early favorites to
eventually replace Upshaw, in alphabetical order:
Former NFLPA president Trace Armstrong, who
served as the union head during what is widely considered its most prosperous period.
Former Chiefs OL Tom Condon, currently a highprofile agent who represented Upshaw and was a close
extra receiver early this season.
James Thrash is likely to open as
the third wideout in the NFL season opener against the Giants. He
was likely to make the roster
regardless of the rookies development, but a player such as Billy
McMullen was not. Now, with as
many as six wideouts possibly
making the 53-man opening-week
roster, McMullen who has

JIM McISAAC / GETTY IMAGES

By DAN ARKUSH

http://www.profootballweekly.com

State of
the major challenge
union
NFLPA faces

THE

HEAR
HEAR

Interim executive director: Richard Berthelsen

friend.
Ex-Vikings RB Robert Smith, a bright up-andcomer who has become increasingly involved in league
matters.
Former NFLPA president Troy Vincent, who was
widely rumored by many to be the brains behind a
movement early this offseason to replace Upshaw.
Of the four, Vincent has outwardly made his presence
felt the most but not always in a positive way.
There is no way Troy Vincent is ready for the job, a
league source told PFW. He is an ego-driven guy who is
always the smartest guy in the room.
As for Condon, although its more likely he is too
established in his profession to consider abandoning it
for the unions sake, we hear he is expected to have a
strong voice in the replacement process, which just
might tip the scales in the direction of Armstrong, who
has had mild success thus far in the agent industry.
Its worth noting that Armstrong and Smith were handpicked by Upshaw to serve on an advisory committee to
keep Vincent in his place, according to league sources.
As for negotiations for a new Collective Bargaining
Agreement, they appear to have been collectively put on
hold until further notice, as both the NFL and NFLPA concentrate on paying Upshaw the respect he so genuinely
deserves.
That said, it will be business as usual for both sides
before we know it.
All of a sudden, the period of unity where everyone
feels like weve got to be unified to keep (Upshaws)
legacy going disappears, and you get back to the normal kinds of disagreements you have when you have
multiple points of view, Tagliabue told PFW.
Im sure Roger (NFL commissioner Roger Goodell)
will manage it well and just try to make sure that nobody
tries to take advantage of an interim phase.

earned praise from head coach

Jim Zorn recently could benefit from the rookies slow starts.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Team sources said that Tony
Hunt, a 2007 third-round pick, was
fighting an uphill battle for a roster
spot before his nice performance
against the Panthers in the second
preseason game (five rushes, 79
yards), which included a 51-yard
TD run. But everything has
changed now that Hunt is being
tried at fullback, a position the

DAN ARKUSH
team clearly isnt enamored with
right now. Hunt will be asked at his
new position to mostly block, catch
an occasional pass and star on
special teams that is,
when hes on the field. The
Eagles deploy a fullback no
more than 35-40 percent of
the offensive snaps. And
seldom does the fullback
carry the ball; last seasons starter,
Thomas Tapeh (now in Minnesota), had only five rushing attempts
in 16 games and eight starts. Hunt
will compete with FBs Jason

There are concerns within the

Chargers organization that LB
Shawne Merrimans knee issues
could be career-threatening. The Pro
Bowler recently visited a number of
specialists, and it was determined that
he has serious ligament damage. If he
opts to undergo reconstructive
surgery, hell miss the entire season. If

he tries to fight through the pain and

injures the knee further, it could lead
to the end of his playing days.
For as much hype as Dolphins
rookie OLT Jake Long has generated, sixth-round OG Donald Thomas
has been awfully impressive in his
own right. Thus far, Thomas has easily
represented to be the best value

SPORTPICS

W H I S P E R S

Greg White

among the Dolphins rookie class.

Hes already locked down the starting
ORG job.
After a failed preseason experiment on the D-line, word is the Bucs
will move Greg White from left end
back to his natural position on the
right, as a backup. Tampa envisioned
White on the left, disrupting quarter-

backs rhythm with his pass rush and

complementing Gaines Adams talents at right end. The defensive
coaching staff didnt see the results
they hoped for, and it appears veteran Kevin Carter will return to his
starting role at left end. This isnt a

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

N F C lN O R T H
Vikings passing game
slowed by injuries
The Vikings have suffered
injuries recently to what they hope
will be a successful pitch-andcatch battery this season. QB Tarvaris Jackson remains on the
mend from what is being
called a strained MCL, and
WR Bernard Berrian has
a painful turf toe that kept
him out of the last two preseason games. They have
worked together extensively this
offseason, and the team plans on
using them quite often together,
but the preseason results have
been fairly lean thus far two
connections for 43 yards. However, neither has been ruled out for
the Steelers game, and both are
expected to be fine for the Monday Night Football opener at
Lambeau Field. But having both
out appears to have slowed things
in the passing game in practice
recently, especially with fellow
starting WR Sidney Rice missing
time with a stomach ailment.

GREEN BAY PACKERS

We hear the Opening Day availability of two key starters on opposite sides of the ball fifth-year C
Scott Wells and third-year WLB
A.J. Hawk could be a growing
concern. Wells, who missed
almost two weeks of practice and
the Packers preseason opener
with what was diagnosed as a
lower abdominal strain, suffered
the same injury on the
other side of his body after
playing most of the first half
in the teams second preseason game. Hawk, a former first-round draft pick
who is being counted on this season to become more of an impact
playmaker, currently is sidelined
with a sprained chest injury suffered after tackling Bengals TE
Ben Utecht in the preseason
opener. Hawks uncertain status
word is he has been told to rest
the injury until further notice is
particularly noteworthy, considering that he previously had never
missed a single practice, let alone
a game, in four years at Ohio
State and two years with the Packers. With Wells and Hawk being
replaced in the starting lineup for
the time being by Jason Spitz
and newly acquired Brandon
Chillar, respectively, team insiders
tell us the Packers believe the
center and WLB positions are in
capable enough hands. Regarding
Spitz, who graded out as the
teams best guard in 2007, a longtime team insider told PFW,
There are some in the organization that actually believe center is
the best position for him. As for
Chillar, the Rams starting strongside linebacker much of last season, word is he has looked very
good this offseason operating primarily on the strong side, but not
quite as good as holdover starter
Brady Poppinga, who team insid-

http://www.profootballweekly.com

ers believe had one of the best

training camps of any player.

DETROIT LIONS
An intriguing battle had been
developing at the backup QB spot
in Detroit between steady Dan
Orlovsky and Drew Stanton. But
that was undercut for now following
Stantons bruised and sprained
thumb that is expected to leave
him out of action for four weeks,
which would force him to
miss the first two regularseason games. That means
the Vikings are likely to
keep Jon Kitna, Orlovsky
and Stanton on the roster,
and if they sign another quarterback, hes not likely to make the
53-man roster. Stantons strong
performance in the preseason win
over the Bengals displayed his
good athleticism and some precision in the passing game. Orlovsky
has been pretty steady this preseason, but he struggled against the
Bengals. At the beginning of camp,
the idea of Stanton pushing for the
backup spot appeared unimaginable. He struggled mightily, and
offensive coordinator Jim Colletto
wasnt afraid to say so. Despite the
injury, we hear team officials are
excited about the way Stanton has
improved, and his good mobility
appears to be a nice match for an
offense that is using more quick
throws, rollouts and bootlegs.

CHICAGO BEARS
Daily team observers all agree
that the Bears would be making an
obviously huge mistake if they significantly reduced Devin Hesters
roles as a punt and kickoff returner
moving forward. But even though
there isnt a return specialist in the
league anywhere near as special
as Hester, who has set league
records for return touchdowns the last two seasons, it stands to reason
that his return role will be
somewhat reduced in proportion to his playing time
as a wide receiver. Game situations will be the No. 1 factor in dictating how much Hester is used on
kicks, a team insider told PFW.
But if hes on the field all the time
as a pass catcher, which still
remains to be seen, obviously
other guys will have to get
involved. The way we hear it, the
other guys most likely to fill the
return bill in Hesters absence are
third-year man Danieal Manning,
fourth-year player Rashied Davis
and rookie Earl Bennett, who had
some problems fielding kicks in
training camp but came up big in
the Bears second preseason
game with an impressive 75-yard
punt return for a TD. Danieal Manning could be in the mix for more
kick returns, the insider said,
since it looks like his playing time
at safety could be on the decline.
In fact, Manning was very impressive in that role in a Thursday-night
loss to the 49ers, returning a pair
of kickoffs for 75 and 60 yards.

N F C lS O U T
Saints CB David
in danger of
unemployment

The Saints defense as a whole

has been disappointing thus far,
after it was expected to be vastly

SPORTPICS

Davis and Jed Collins for likely

one spot on the roster. Head coach
Andy Reid said Hunt did pretty
well in his first game action at fullback, against the Patriots, and he
could have the edge because he
plays running back as well.

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

improved based on an offseason

retooling. However, no individual
has stood out more as a culprit in
the teams woes than CB Jason
David. Sources say theres a
chance he could be cut before the
season begins. David appears to
be a liability whenever hes on the
field, whether its getting beat deep
or giving receivers too much of a
cushion. We hear defensive coordinator Gary Gibbs, who typically remains pretty quiet,
was publicly critical of
David recently and said
David missed assignments
in a preseason loss to the
Texans. Close observers of the
squad expect Randall Gay and
Mike McKenzie, assuming the latter can recover from the torn ACL
he suffered last December, to be
the starters in Week One. Usama
Young and Jason Craft look to be
secure as backups. Although he
looks good in practice, Davids failure to deliver in games could cost
him a roster spot if he doesnt
quickly get things figured out.

CAROLINA PANTHERS
One of the Panthers most-prized
free-agent signings from the offseason, WR D.J. Hackett, has yet
to participate in a preseason game
and missed much of training camp
with a toe injury. Its not expected
to keep him sidelined into the regular season, although the
fifth-year veteran does have
a reputation of being injuryprone. The larger concern,
the way we hear it, is that
Week One could be the first
time he takes the field with QB
Jake Delhomme in a game situation. Carolinas top target, WR
Steve Smith, will be out for the
first two regular-season games
serving a suspension, and the
team is counting on Hackett to help
fill the playmaking void. With a lack
of familiarity and preparation time,
Hackett and Delhomme may find it
hard to connect with each other

early on. Delhomme isnt expected

to play in the final preseason
game, so Hackett and Delhomme
will not have played together in a
game prior to the start of the regular season. Hackett isnt the only
member of the Panthers wide
receiving corps who has been
beaten up. Veteran Muhsin
Muhammad has been nursing an
injury to his ribs, but hes expected
to be the squads No. 1 target with
Smith out.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

The depth on the left side of the
Bucs offensive line took a hit when
OLT Luke Petitgout was recently
released, and the right side suffered an even more devastating
blow Aug. 18 as ORG Davin
Joseph underwent surgery on his
broken foot, which he suffered in a
preseason game the previous day. There is no set
timetable for his return, but
it has been estimated the
injury will keep him out 4-8
weeks and he could miss
the first couple of games of the
regular season. Tampa does have
some depth at guard, unlike at
tackle, and the coaching staff
would like rookie Jeremy Zuttah to
take over for Joseph. Although Zuttah has shown versatility and can
play anywhere on the line, word is
he can be overmatched on the
right side and would be a better fit
at center. Another option to fill in
for Joseph is veteran Dan Buenning, but he may be better off as a
backup at guard and center.
Josephs absence will likely have
the biggest impact on the ground
game, where the third-year veteran
excelled at run blocking. The early
part of the season should be much
tougher for RBs Earnest Graham,
Warrick Dunn and Michael Bennett with Joseph out.

ATLANTA FALCONS
Although he has yet to be
named the Falcons starting middle

His turn: Underrated Leroy Hill might

be the next Seattle star to cash in
linebacker, we hear the job
belongs to rookie Curtis Lofton.
On the teams unofficial depth
chart, Tony Taylor is listed at the
top of the depth chart, but Lofton,
an Oklahoma product, has
shown he can be the lowto-the-ground thumper
Atlanta needs in the middle
and sources long have
been confident that he
would move to the front of the
pack before the regular-season
opener. Lofton, who left school
after his junior year, will be counted on to blow up lead blocks and
clear the way for his fellow starting
linebackers, Michael Boley and
Keith Brooking, to make tackles.
The Falcons will need Lofton to
clog things up in the middle,
because their corps of defensive
tackles is fairly undersized and
might struggle to keep interior
blockers eyeing the second level
on the line.

N F C lW E S T
Hill making strong
case for sweet new
deal from Seahawks
After finally nailing down a contract extension for franchise CB
Marcus Trufant earlier in the offseason, the Seahawks indicated
that their next priority was to take
care of starting LBs Lofa
Tatupu and Leroy Hill in
the salary department. The
team proceeded to sign
team leader Tatupu to an
equally well-deserved new
deal. However, as was the case
with Trufant, who was in his contract year last season, it looks like
it will wait until after the 2008 season to deal with Hill, the under-the-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

W H I S P E R S
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
good development for White, who
has been clamoring to cash in on a
long-term contract since his breakout year last season, when he led the
Bucs in sacks (eight) and forced
seven fumbles.
The Falcons are easing ORT
Todd Weiner along in the hopes hell
be prepared to anchor down the right
side of the O-line by Week One, but
we hear the team isnt counting on
him being absolutely healthy this season. Weiner is recovering from major
knee surgery, and its not yet clear
how hell hold up. If hes able to play,
he helps Atlantas young, inexperienced line immensely. Tyson Clabo
has been running with the first-team
offense during Weiners absence, but
hes not very agile off the edge and
could have trouble fending off a pass
rush.
Panthers WR Jason Carter, once
an afterthought when it came to making the team, has a good shot to
remain on the roster because of a
strong training camp, Steve Smiths
suspension and a banged-up receiving corps. Carter entered camp as
the No. 6 receiver, but he impressed
head coach John Fox and he could
continue to see a good chunk of playing time if D.J. Hackett, Ryne
Robinson, Dwayne Jarrett and
Muhsin Muhammad, who have all
missed time recently, continue to be
nagged by injuries.
Injuries to Saints DTs Brian
Young (knee) and Hollis Thomas
(shoulder) have opened the door for
Orien Harris, and hes taken full
advantage of the opportunity, the way
we hear it. New Orleans considered
its DT corps deep when camp began,
and Harris appeared to be on the outside looking in. That has changed,
and his strong showing in the preseason games will make it hard for the
Saints to move on without him when
its time to trim the roster.
Perhaps the biggest surprise at
Rams Park this preseason has been
the emergence of undersized Nick
Leckey as a serious contender for
the starting center job. Nobody
expected him to even make the
team, one source close to the team
told PFW. Hes gotten more playing
time because Brett Romberg fractured his non-snapping hand, and
hes really done well. In the San Diego
game, he had a (defensive) tackle in
his face the entire time and more than
held his own.
A Rams offensive line that had
already been dealt an early blow with
season-ending injuries to backups
Mark Setterstrom and Brandon
Gorin could be cause for even
greater concern with the news that
starting OLT Orlando Pace reinjured his right shoulder in the teams
second preseason game. If theres
good news, its that he says he hurt a
different part of the shoulder (than the
part that was injured in Week One in
2007 and ended his season), a team
insider told PFW. But you just dont
know about him. Its still a real waitand-see type situation.
The Cardinals are saying the high
ankle sprains recently suffered by FS
Antrel Rolle and TE Ben Patrick
should take about a week to fully
recover, but our sources in the desert
believe that recovery date could be a

bit premature in the case of Patrick,

who looks like he might be sidelined
for a spell.
Dont be surprised if Niners OG
David Baas, who we hear is ahead
of schedule in his recovery from a
torn pectoral muscle suffered while
weightlifting, switches over from right
guard to left guard with projected
starting OLG Adam Snyder currently out with a right ankle injury suffered in practice. Word is Snyder was
really struggling, primarily with his
pass protection, even before hurting
his ankle.
Heading into the Cardinals third
preseason game in Oakland, it
appeared that newly acquired
Travis LaBoy had moved past veteran Bertrand Berry for the starting
WOLB job. Cardinals LB coach Bill
Davis recently told PFW that LaBoy is
relentless. He has only one speed,
and its full-throttle.
Daily Seahawks observers tell us
no defender was as impressive in
training camp as second-year CB
Josh Wilson, who were told has
made great strides in his ability to
cover opposing slot receivers. In
addition to growing up on the field,
word is Wilson has become much
more mature off the field, displaying a
much more conscientious work effort
than in his rookie season, when he
was widely considered too cocky and
a bit of a cut-up.
Dont be alarmed or surprised
that Lions first-round pick Gosder
Cherilus has taken snaps at both OT
spots. If anything, it shows the team is
willing to give extra reps and looks to
the rookie, who should overtake
George Foster for the starting ORT
spot. Cherilus perhaps has OLT starting potential down the line, but hes
slated for the right side as a rookie,
barring a major injury to Jeff
Backus.
Did the Niners and head coach
Mike Nolan go out of their way to
make Packers QB Aaron Rodgers
look bad in their recent preseason
encounter because they had passed
over Rodgers in the draft three years
ago in favor of Alex Smith? They
were in an all-out blitz mode bigtime, a longtime Packers insider said
of the Niners amped-up defense in
the second preseason game, which
sacked Rodgers four times in the first
half. Id like to think pettiness doesnt
exist at the pro level, but theres no
doubt it does.
Our Packers sources tell us its
quite possible the team could go out
of its way to pick up a veteran tight
end off the waiver wire, with rookie
Jermichael Finley looking like a
major work in progress and thirdyear pro Tory Humphrey continuing to be a major injury risk behind
starting TE Donald Lee.
Our Bears sources were quick to
mention after the teams preseason
loss to the Niners that second-year RB
Garrett Wolfe might have very well
put himself on the bubble following
his fumbled kickoff return that set up
a Niners TD in that game. The fact that
newcomer Kevin Jones looked
impressive in his first preseason
action vs. the Niners certainly doesnt
help Wolfes cause.
Bears sources who have been
dealing with starting LBs Brian
Urlacher and Lance Briggs on a
regular basis report that the two play-

ers relationships with the local media

have made a 360-degree turn for the
better this season. On the field, meanwhile, although Urlacher has looked
pretty sharp most of the time, were
told Briggs has been uncharacteristically sloppy and slow to reach his
normal All-Pro form.
There are some in Cowboys land
who feel that second-year S Courtney Brown might be a player to
watch. Sure, Roy Williams is in no
danger of losing a starting spot. But
Brown has opened some eyes, and
hes working both in the nickel
defense and being used as a backup
at both safety spots. If Williams is in
his final season in Dallas, Brown
could be a starting possibility down
the line.
The Eagles have a glut at linebacker. Right now, Chris Gocong,
Stewart Bradley and Omar
Gaither are starters and locks to
make the team. Veterans Akeem Jordan and Rocky Boiman are likely to
make it, and rookie Joe Mays has
shown enough to earn a roster spot.
But that leaves Andy Studebaker,
who also has impressed, as the likely
odd man out. Sources say it might be
tough to sneak him back on the practice squad, as some team might claim
him.
Not only do the Giants have one
of the best starting fives on their
offensive line, but they are feeling
good about the depth, too. Among
the backups, young OLs Kevin
Boothe and Guy Whimper have
fared fairly well when given the
chance, though Adam Koets might
be sliding a little.
Redskins DT Anthony Montgomery doesnt get low enough in
his stance and appears to have fallen
back to the second team in favor of
Kedrick Golston. Although Montgomery has the ability to make more
plays and occupy two blockers, Golstons consistency appears to have
given him the edge.
The Colts are willing to suffer the
inevitable growing pains and mental
mistakes of second-year LB Clint
Session, who has been thrust into the
starting SLB role with Tyjuan
Hagler rehabbing a torn pectoral
muscle. Session is more natural on
the weak side, but the feeling is that
his knack for the big play could make
him a star on either side if he can
learn to harness his energy.
There are whispers that if Texans RB Ahman Green does not
prove hes healthy before Week
One, he could be in danger of not
making the final roster. Green
injured his groin on the first play of
the preseason and hasnt been back
in action since. Houston is likely to
use a committee approach regardless, but theyd certainly prefer to
have Greens experience as part of
their backfield.
We hear the Broncos have been
very impressed with SS Marquand
Manuel in training camp and in preseason games. He has passed up the
presumed starter heading into camp,
Hamza Abdullah, and sources say
its Manuels job to lose at this point.
Strong safety will become an even
more important position in Denvers
defense this season since first-year
defensive coordinator Bob Slowik
plans to move him up into the box
much more often to help stop the run,

which was a major weakness of the

team in 07.
Although rookie OLT Branden
Albert had been expected to miss
only a few weeks with his foot injury,
were hearing that his status for Week
One is uncertain. All hes been able to
do thus far is walk around in a boot,
meaning it could be some time
before he can return to contact drills.
With starting ORT Damion McIntosh also banged up, the Chiefs may
enter the season with fill-ins at both
tackle spots.
The Raiders are having a difficult
time finding a replacement at kick
returner for Chris Carr, who departed for the Titans in the offseason. Second-year veteran Johnnie Lee Higgins has received most of the looks
thus far, but he has shown no consistency and seems to alternate
between making big plays and boneheaded mistakes. Oakland doesnt
have many other options it drafted
Tyvon Branch to compete for the
job, but he had thumb surgery
recently and may not be ready when
Week One rolls around.
Sources in Baltimore say the
Ravens are losing hope that Pro Bowl
FS Ed Reed will be ready for their
season opener Sept. 7 against the
Bengals. Reed missed the teams first
two preseason games with a shoulder injury and has been practicing
with a red jersey on, meaning he cant
do any hitting. Head coach John Harbaugh remains optimistic that Reed
will be prepared to play in Week One,
but we hear backup Jim Leonhard
will likely be getting the start at free
safety.
Recently acquired Browns CB
Travis Daniels was a player whom
Cleveland GM Phil Savage had
been eyeing for a long time, a source
close to the team tells us. Hes likely
to be the primary backup corner but
wont be seeing time as the nickel
back. Because Daniels is new to the
system, the Browns dont want to burden him with learning slot responsibilities.
CB Jabari Greer saw the writing on the wall when the Bills
grabbed CB Leodis McKelvin in
the first round. But hes done an
admirable job of erasing the message (back to the bench) with his
scrappy play through the preseason.
Sources say McKelvins superior athleticism is mitigated by his slow
absorption of the defensive playbook, and that the Bills feel more
comfortable right now with Greer
holding down the fort.
Given the high-flying tendencies
of the Patriots passing attack, it
would seem as though running
backs would be deemed expendable. Yet word out of Foxborough is
that five backs Laurence
Maroney, Sammy Morris, LaMont Jordan, Kevin Faulk and
Heath Evans could end up making the roster. If one is to get cut, its
likely to be either Jordan or Morris,
who play very similar roles.
As good as rookie OLB Keith
Rivers has looked thus far, the Bengals won't be asking him to add much
to their maligned pass rush. The linebacker they're targeting to turn up
the heat on quarterbacks is Ahmad
Brooks, who has impressive physical
gifts that mask his poor football IQ in
a pass-rush specialist role.

WWHI
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7
radar link in arguably the leagues
best starting LB corps. Hill claims
hes not dwelling on his contract
situation, but it certainly appeared
to be a motivating factor halfway
through the preseason. Although
he was operating against a patchwork Bears offensive line, Hill was
hard to ignore in the Seahawks
second preseason game, firing up
the middle on a blitz to sack Bears
QB Rex Grossman for a nine-yard
loss in the games opening series
and later showing his coverage
skills with a nifty interception. He
doesnt do it much, but hes the
best blitzer on the team, a longtime daily team observer told PFW.
When hes focused and tuned in,
he really could be the teams best
backer, like Tatupu said he was
recently, but the key is for Leroy to
keep the switch on all the time.
The guy is also just a flat-out great
tackler. Everybody he hits, he just
blows up.

ARIZONA CARDINALS
Anquan Boldin is back on the
warpath. A few days after the Cardinals second preseason game,
the disgruntled receiver told NFL
Network that he considered his
relationship with the Cardinals
organization done. Meanwhile,
Boldins agent, Drew Rosenhaus,
renewed a request to the team
that it trade Boldin and was once
again told that the Cardinals had
no intention of doing so and
remained hopeful of signing
Boldin to a contract extension down the road.
Sources close to the situation have told team insiders
that Boldin is no longer talking to
head coach Ken Whisenhunt
an assertion Whisenhunt was
quick to deny and that Boldin is
so angry that he might consider
bolting training camp. Its gotten
very ugly, especially since for so
long the Cardinals portrayed
Anquan as the prototype guy, playing up his character and heart, a
longtime team insider told PFW. I
would be stunned by a trade now,
though. The draft would have been
the time to make a deal, and if
Larry Fitzgerald gets hurt, who
would be left if Anquan is also
gone? Beyond that, the three
teams that have outwardly
expressed the most interest in
Boldin (Washington, Philadelphia
and Dallas) are all on the 2008
schedule. There are just way too
many moving parts for a deal, plus
thats just not (Cardinals owner)
Bill Bidwills style. If theres still as
big an impasse after the season,
though, it could be a much different story.

ST. LOUIS RAMS

After ending his 27-day holdout
and signing a new six-year contract that team sources tell us will
earn him up to $44 million
with a little more than $20
million in guaranteed
money, the hot topic at
Rams Park immediately
switched to Steven Jacksons degree of readiness for the
fast-approaching regular season.
The Rams offensive centerpiece,

CONTINUED ON PAGE 59

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

O V E R V I E W

TICKET TO STARDOM
By ERIC

EDHOLM

SENIOR EDITOR

here has been a trend in the NFL of recent Super

Bowl teams having come up just short in one
season and making the big game the following
year.
The Steelers lost in the 2004 AFC title game
at home but won the Super Bowl the following
season. The team they beat, Seattle, was
bounced the year before by the 8-8 Rams. The
Colts and Bears both suffered tough playoff
losses the year before meeting in Super Bowl
XLI. And the Giants ended a
recent string of playoff misery by
shocking the world with a chamEDITORS NOTE: Divipionship run last season.
sional standings are based
Our editors and correspondents
on the votes of PFW editors
41 voters in all predict a
and correspondents.
similar trend in 08.
AFC EAST
The Cowboys are PFWs over1. New England Patriots
whelming favorite to win the
2. New York Jets
3. Buffalo Bills
NFC and also Super Bowl XLIII.
4. Miami Dolphins
The Patriots just edge out the
AFC NORTH
Chargers for the AFC title.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers
Based solely on the path of the
2. Cleveland Browns
Cowboys (a 12-year run with no
3. Cincinnati Bengals
playoff wins and last seasons
4. Baltimore Ravens
haunting home loss) and Patriots
AFC SOUTH
(a final-minute defeat in the
1. Indianapolis Colts
Super Bowl, their three-year
2. Jacksonville Jaguars
Lombardi Trophy-less streak and
3. Tennessee Titans
a fall from grace in the wake of
4. Houston Texans
the Spygate accusations), this
AFC WEST
XLIII matchup in Tampa, Fla.,
1. San Diego Chargers
indeed would represent a day of
2. Denver Broncos
3. Oakland Raiders
reckoning.
4. Kansas City Chiefs
But there is more than fate in
NFC EAST
our voters minds when it comes
1. Dallas Cowboys
to these teams.
2. New York Giants
The Cowboys made strong
3. Philadelphia Eagles
statements this offseason with the
4. Washington Redskins
return of sought-after headNFC NORTH
coaching candidate Jason Garrett,
1. Minnesota Vikings
plus the big-name additions of LB
2. Green Bay Packers
Zach Thomas, CB Adam Jones,
3. Chicago Bears
RB Felix Jones and CB Mike
4. Detroit Lions
Jenkins. They lost some key
NFC SOUTH
coaches, including new Dolphins
1. New Orleans Saints
coach Tony Sparano, but added
2. Carolina Panthers
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
highly regarded OL coach Hud4. Atlanta Falcons
son Houck, among others. They
NFC WEST
maintained their tenuous support
1. Seattle Seahawks
for head coach Wade Phillips,
2. Arizona Cardinals
who won 13 games in his debut
3. St. Louis Rams
season but faced uncertainty with
4. San Francisco 49ers
the playoff loss.
AFC CHAMPION
The Patriots remain a supremeNEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
ly talented but aged team, and
NFC CHAMPION
though they were not nearly as
DALLAS COWBOYS
dramatic in their offseason addiSUPER BOWL CHAMPION
tions as the Cowboys or as
DALLAS COWBOYS
aggressive as they were themOFFENSIVE MVP
selves in 2007 they added
LaDAINIAN TOMLINSON
potential starters in rookie LB
DEFENSIVE MVP
Jerod Mayo and CB Fernando
DeMARCUS WARE
Bryant and continued to add vet-

2008 PREDICTIONS

ers third- and fourth-place teams, Tennessee and Houston,

respectively, could end up being very good clubs in a stacked
division. Both teams should be better offensively, with Titans
offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger diligently tutoring
QB Vince Young and Texans QB Matt Schaub perhaps on the
verge of a breakthrough season. But it might end up being
defense that decides who finishes third in the division and
perhaps contends for the wild card. The Titans won with
defense last season, but the Texans have budding stars in DE
Mario Williams and MLB DeMeco Ryans.
AFC WEST The Chargers were not unanimous picks to
win the division (one voter chose the Broncos), but they
clearly are the overwhelming favorites in the West. And why
not? The Chargers gave the Patriots all they could handle in
last seasons AFC championship game and return the meat
and potatoes of that group. With young and established talent
on both sides of the ball, its
easy to see why they were a
whisker behind the Patriots in
PFWs Super Bowl voting.
Along with Tomlinson, the
Chargers feature three other
PFW Top 50 players TE
Antonio Gates, OLB Shawne
Merriman (if can play on his
injured knee) and CB Antonio
Cromartie and some of their
best depth in years. Last seasons playoff success also
appeared to dispel temporarily
LaDainian Tomlinson
the popular notion that Norv
Turner cant coach in big games. The Broncos are an intriguing, well-coached team, and QB Jay Cutler just might carry
this no-name offensive unit on his back to a run at the postseason. But critics agree that the defense will need to rise up
for Denver to make any kind of challenge to the Chargers.
The Raiders were among the busier teams in the offseason,
but their maneuvers werent praised universally. There is also
the issue of an unknown quantity in QB JaMarcus Russell
and a porous run defense that made voters pick them third in
the division. Bringing up the rear were the Chiefs, but a number of voters cast them finishing ahead of Oakland. Still,
Herm Edwards will have to do a masterful coaching job to
coax this exceptionally young and untested roster to play
beyond its ability and experience.
VIC MILTON

Cowboys have what

it takes to top Patriots
in Super Bowl XLIII

eran leadership with the arrival of John Lynch.

And of course, as is a prerequisite for a championship
club, both teams have the quarterbacks to win a title.
Tom Brady already has three rings and has played in five
AFC championship games. Cowboys QB Tony Romo has
thrown for 55 TDs in his 26 regular-season starts and is one
of the NFLs up-and-coming stars.
Not surprisingly, Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson was
PFWs preseason choice for Offensive MVP. Hes joined by
Cowboys OLB DeMarcus Ware as the defensive counterpart.
Tomlinson was hobbled in the playoffs and spent time this
offseason rehabbing his right knee injury, but he appears
poised for another eye-popping statistical season. Ware
turned the corner as a player last season, becoming a twoway menace and often the focus of opposing offensive game
plans. He could post a 20-sack season one of these years.
AFC EAST The Patriots five-year run as division champs
(plus six titles in seven years) is not expected to end. In fact,
all 41 voters predicted New England to retain its division
clutch, likely based on the teams long track record of success and the fact that based on 07 winning percentages, the
Patriots face the easiest schedule in the NFL. (They do, however, face their playoff nemesis Chargers at San Diego in
Week Six could it be another AFC title game preview?)
The Jets look to bounce back from a 4-12 campaign, and our
voters think they will, narrowly picking them second in the
East, ahead of the plucky Bills. The Jets were among the
busiest teams this offseason, and no move was bigger than
their most recent acquisition of QB Brett Favre, whose
arrival adds intrigue to a division that has lacked some spice
other than the heated Patriots-Jets rivalry. The Dolphins
might have executive vice president of football operations
Bill Parcells and a new coaching staff led by the no-nonsense Sparano in place, but voters remained skeptical for this
seasons prospects; they were nearly a unanimous choice to
finish last in the division.
AFC NORTH There is no more popular national pick of
non-postseason teams making the playoffs this season than
the upstart Browns, with their explosive offense and what
appears to be an improved defense. Our voters agree as
a wild card. The Steelers barely edged out the Browns as
our pick in the North. The Browns made waves when they
traded draft picks for veteran defensive help in the form of
DLs Shaun Rogers and Corey Williams. If they can build on
a 10-6 season and survive with superior depth at a few
spots, the playoffs should be within reach. The Steelers suffered a big loss when OL anchor Alan Faneca signed with
the Jets. Protection already was a problem for Pittsburgh
last season. But if QB Ben Roethlisberger remains upright,
he showed last season he can be as productive as almost
anyone in the league. And with some young offensive talent
and a veteran defense, the Steelers should remain very
strong. Voters picked the Bengals, despite a few first-place
votes, and the Ravens to finish third and fourth, respectively. Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis is dealing with
injuries at wide receiver and might not be able to reverse his
teams downward trend unless the defense makes a major
jump. And new Ravens head coach John Harbaugh must
deal with a tricky QB situation and a defense that once was
an elite unit but might be slowing down with injury and age.
AFC SOUTH Indianapolis has held a Patriot-esque grip on
its division, and PFWs panel predicts that run will continue.
Despite questions over the health of QB Peyton Manning,
WR Marvin Harrison, DE Dwight Freeney and S Bob
Sanders among others, our voters predict the Colts will continue to be the class of the South. Nipping at their heels, as
they were last season, are the Jaguars, who have all the elements to be a frightening opponent and potential wild-card
spoiler. With QB David Garrard establishing himself last season as a top-shelf leader, plus a stout running game and a
respected defense, the Jaguars have the pieces to vie for a
division title. But getting past the Colts has proven to be a
problem, as the Jaguars have lost five of the past six head-tohead matchups with their rivals. Its little solace, but the vot-

AFC WILD CARDS

CLEVELAND AND JACKSONVILLE

NFC EAST If its not the toughest division, the East at

least boasts four teams that have a crack at making the postseason. The Giants, Cowboys and Redskins all made it in
07, and the Eagles finished strong at 8-8. The Cowboys were
the voters overwhelming pick to win both the division and
the Super Bowl, but there was strong playoff support for both
the Giants and Eagles. As predicted by many (including the
Giants themselves), the champs would open as underdogs to
the confident Cowboys. Many feel its a matter of course that
Dallas talent will lead to a division title. But the Giants
should not be overlooked not after QB Eli Mannings
spellbinding playoff run and the emergence of a swarming
D and our voters agree. They picked last years wildcard entrants to finish second in the East again and make the
playoffs. But only one voter thought the Giants are good
enough to return to the Super Bowl and, coincidentally, win
it again. The Eagles sit perched as a third-place team in this
stacked division, but one voter thought enough of the Eagles
to make them a Super Bowl team. History shows that Andy
Reids clubs typically bounce back after missing the playoffs, and they might with an improved defense, a healthy
Donovan McNabb and star RB Brian Westbrook. Sitting in
fourth in PFWs rankings are the talented but transitionary
Redskins. Voters clearly were concerned about the move
from Joe Gibbs to untested rookie head coach Jim Zorn and

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11

Preseason

POWER RANKINGS
PFWs editors tried their best to sort out all the last-minute happenings in the allimportant third preseason games before making their picks, and with all the injuries
(e.g. Osi Umenyiora) and shakeups (Kurt Warner over Matt Leinart), it proved tough.

JAMES D. SMITH

RANK

his West Coast system, as well as their annuthe NFCs second wild-card team. Theyll be
Defensive MVP:
al injury problems and lack of depth. But
without WR Steve Smith (suspension) for the
DeMarcus Ware
even they loom as a club to revere, finishing
first two games and have to hope that QB
could push for a
20-sack season
07 with a flourish and looking good in the
Jake Delhommes repaired elbow holds up,
preseason to date.
but a manageable schedule and a beefed-up
offensive line should point the team back
NFC NORTH The balance of power
toward the playoffs. The Bucs didnt suffer any major
appears to have shifted from the Packers, the reigning
losses following a 9-7 season, but the home playoff loss
champs, to the Vikings, with Favre leaving Packerland
to the Giants surely cast doubt about the teams true
and DE Jared Allen joining a line that could be more
value heading into this season. The team needs more
feared than the Purple People Eaters. Considered perpunch on offense and a better red-zone defense to chalhaps the single biggest personnel addition of the offsealenge the Saints and Panthers for supremacy. The lastson, Allen cost the Vikings a lot, but his impact could be
place Falcons are coming off a nightmarish season and
dramatic. He should make a very good defensive line
will hand the reins to rookie QB Matt Ryan in what
outstanding, and his his pass-rush skills could transform
should be a rebuilding year. But dont overlook this team
a leaky pass defense into a stronger one. What likely
completely, not with free-agent RB Michael Turner and
held voters back from proclaiming the Vikings as an
a few other budding stars dotting new head coach Mike
elite team they were the runaway North choice, but
Smiths roster. The Falcons might not win a lot of games,
no one had them in the Super Bowl is the presence
but they could be tough customers by seasons end.
of QB Tarvaris Jackson, who had an 8-4 record as a
NFC WEST If our voters are correct, the Seahawks
starter last season but also a 9-12 TD-INT ratio. Replacwill win the division in Mike Holmgrens swan-song
ing Favre is Aaron Rodgers, who endured months of
season, and the Cardinals will come up just short of
speculation about the future whereabouts of his predeearning a wild-card berth. The Seahawks might not be
cessor but also faces the ridiculous pressure of replacthe sexiest team, but their fluid offense and Pro Bowling a legend. A stout O-line and upper-tier D must
laden defense are what led PFWs pollsters to pick them
help Rodgers out immensely, as must the burgeoning
first. And two voters thought the Seahawks had enough
run game. The Bears, our third-place pick, are going
talent and improvement in the run game to make it all
with QB Kyle Orton, who has a 12-6 record as a starter,
the way to the Super Bowl. The Cardinals are perennibut there are offensive holes that create cause for serially on the verge of improvement, and there is noteworous doubt. Plus, the world-class defense fell hard and
thy talent on both sides of the ball, but a QB derby
fast last season after Ron Rivera was pushed out the
could develop and the trade demands of WR Anquan
door. The Lions bring up the rear following numerous
Boldin could lead to some tense times for head coach
offseason changes, most notably the change from Mike
Ken Whisenhunt. The Rams got good news when RB
Martz to Jim Colletto as offensive coordinator. An interSteven Jackson returned to the team and was given a
esting corps of young players will determine if Detroit
new contract, but hell have no part in improving one of
can surprise people and move up in the rankings.
the worst defenses. Still, PFW thinks theyll finish
NFC SOUTH In the six-year history of the division,
ahead of the 49ers, who might have some offensive firethere never has been a back-to-back champion, and most
works for once under Mike Martzs watch but also need
appear to think that trend will continue. Voters believed
vast improvement to escape the cellar.
the Saints made enough offseason improvements to win
the divisional title, and they actually were somewhat of a
NFC WILD CARDS
runaway choice. LB Jonathan Vilma and DT Sedrick
N.Y. GIANTS AND CAROLINA
Ellis should upgrade a lackluster defense, and TE Jeremy
Shockey has the talent to make a very good passing
(Editors note: The grades attached to each position in
attack that much better. The second-place Panthers barethe team reports over the following pages were assigned
ly edged out the Buccaneers, last years South champs, in
by the correspondents who cover the teams, not by the
PFW editorial staff.)
our voting. But the Panthers also got the voters nod as

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
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14
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18
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22
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TEAM
Dallas

COWBOYS
New England

PATRIOTS
San Diego

CHARGERS
Indianapolis

COLTS
Minnesota

VIKINGS
Jacksonville

JAGUARS
New York

GIANTS
Pittsburgh

STEELERS
Cleveland

BROWNS
New Orleans

SAINTS
Seattle

SEAHAWKS
Carolina

PANTHERS
New York

JETS
Philadelphia

EAGLES
Green Bay

PACKERS
Arizona

CARDINALS
Cincinnati

BENGALS
Houston

TEXANS
Tampa Bay

THE SKINNY

Rookie Felix only the third-highest-paid

Jones in Dallas, but hes a keeper.
O-line might be their Achilles heel. Anything that doesnt protect Brady is bad.
Shawne Merriman injury could be
difference between great and very good.
Manning injury underscores the scores of
injuries the team already has suffered.
One man could make this team great
Tarvaris Jackson, not Jared Allen.
Still in the Colts shadow? Hey, wild-card
teams have won Super Bowls recently.
Dont forget the name of Dave Tollefson
when considering who will replace Osi.
Like the Patriots, the offensive line could
define the season.
One-year wonders or the start of something special? Well find out quickly.
If Drew Brees throws for 5,000 yards, it
just means the defense still stinks.
Being the best out West is like being the
president of Eritrea.
Julius Peppers should dominate again
after snoozing through most of 2007.
Brett Favres new endorsement should be
from the Just For Men people.
Last week, Eagles fans hated Kevin Curtis
as a No. 1. Now they wish they had him.
Troubles on the O-line is not what any
young QB needs, much less this one.
Admit it: You wanted to see Kurt Warner
again full time, didnt you?
Mike Brown is praying that Chris Henry
gets all Pacman and plays nice.
This team might be a few players from
being very interesting.

BUCCANEERS

Nothing mighty about (Donald) Penn at

left tackle.

Buffalo

Losing big in the Jason Peters battle.

BILLS
Tennessee

TITANS
Washington

REDSKINS
Denver

BRONCOS
Oakland

RAIDERS
Detroit

LIONS
St. Louis

RAMS
Baltimore

RAVENS
Miami

DOLPHINS
Chicago

BEARS
San Francisco

49ERS
Atlanta

FALCONS
Kansas City

CHIEFS

Maybe Chris Johnson could have helped

the U.S. track and field team in Beijing.
Spies say Marcus Washington could be on
verge of big season.
Remember when they had such great
linebackers?
They might be an adventure offensively,
but there is defensive talent.
Prediction: Calvin Johnson will catch 90
passes this season.
Is Marc Bulger losing his touch by
chance?
The veteran D should be able to turn
back the clock for at least a few games.
Usain Bolt could walk in tomorrow and be
this teams No. 2 wideout.
Erik Kramer could walk in tomorrow and
beat out Kyle Orton.
If J.T. throws for 4K yards, can we agree
that Mike Martz is good at what he does?
Team officials opting to let Matt Ryan get
killed now as opposed to in Week Four.
Tony Gonzalez hopes to get his young
teammates all registered to vote by Nov. 4.

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

STAFF PREDICTIONS
HUB

KEITH

MIKE

DAN

ARKUSH

SCHLEIDEN

HOLBROOK

ARKUSH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MANAGING EDITOR

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

2008 PREDICTIONS

2008 PREDICTIONS

2008 PREDICTIONS

2008 PREDICTIONS

AFC CHAMPION

AFC CHAMPION

AFC CHAMPION

AFC CHAMPION

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

NFC CHAMPION

NFC CHAMPION

NFC CHAMPION

NFC CHAMPION

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

DALLAS COWBOYS

DALLAS COWBOYS

DALLAS COWBOYS

SUPER BOWL WINNER

SUPER BOWL WINNER

SUPER BOWL WINNER

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

SUPER BOWL WINNER

OFFENSIVE MVP

OFFENSIVE MVP

OFFENSIVE MVP

.............,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,..........,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
DALLAS COWBOYS
,,,....
OFFENSIVE MVP

DONOVAN McNABB

TOM BRADY

LaDAINIAN TOMLINSON

LaDAINIAN TOMLINSON

DEFENSIVE MVP

DEFENSIVE MVP

DEFENSIVE MVP

DEFENSIVE MVP

MARIO WILLIAMS

DeMARCUS WARE

DeMARCUS WARE

JULIUS PEPPERS

AFC EAST

AFC EAST

AFC EAST

AFC EAST

1. NEW ENGLAND Breakout season for Maroney,

Brady and Moss are Brady and Moss and defense still
stacked up front.
2. BUFFALO Love the young talent at skill positions
and head coach worth two wins by himself.
3. N.Y. JETS Look good but you cant buy it in NFL.
4. MIAMI Typical Parcells rebuilding, look out by
middle of next year when Henne takes over.

1. NEW ENGLAND Will be 4-0 when they reach their

Week Six showdown vs. the Chargers. Well learn a lot
in that game.
2. N.Y. JETS Favre boosts win total by a few games.
3. BUFFALO Get slotted one space back after the
Jets improved at quarterback.
4. MIAMI Even Michael Phelps himself could not
get these Dolphins swimming right in 2008.

1. NEW ENGLAND How great was last season? Even

if theyre four games worse in 08, they still win 12.
2. N.Y. JETS Brett Favre addition a boost to QB position but wonder how long he can stay healthy.
3. BUFFALO Will play hard and defense should be
better but O-line is big concern.
4. MIAMI Finally on right track but this will take a
couple years to turn around.

1. NEW ENGLAND Best team, by far, in what has

become a relatively weak division.
2. BUFFALO Interesting sleeper. New Canadian connection makes Bills a lot more intriguing at least.
3. N.Y. JETS Hard as hell try, No. 4 is not nearly
enough to turn Jets into a bona fide contender.
4. MIAMI The Tuna will need another year or two
to generate true tropic thunder in South Beach.

AFC NORTH

AFC NORTH

AFC NORTH

AFC NORTH

1. CLEVELAND DBs scary but all those weapons on

offense. Dont be surprised if Quinn ends up on field.
2. PITTSBURGH Looks to me like a club headed in
wrong direction.
3. CINCINNATI At what point do you stop looking at
all the bad actors and focus on the coach?
4. BALTIMORE Hard to doubt Ozzie Newsome but
trading up for Joe Flacco? How is this club better?

1. CLEVELAND Do these Dawgs have more bark

than bite? Nope. Theyre the real deal.
2. CINCINNATI Bengals will wind up with a familiar 88 record.
3. PITTSBURGH Heres hoping this isnt the final year
of Steelers ownership for the Rooney family.
4. BALTIMORE Too many questions on offense for
John Harbaughs club to surprise.

1. PITTSBURGH Need O-line to cut down on sacks

allowed, Troy Polamalu to stay healthy.
2. CLEVELAND Not a fan of Derek Anderson; want to
see them prove last season was start of a trend.
3. CINCINNATI Success again will rest on Carson
Palmers powerful arm, but he only can do so much.
4. BALTIMORE New coaching staff a plus but QB situation not good enough to lift team out of cellar.

1. PITTSBURGH Big Ben has what it takes to overcome tough schedule and carry team into playoffs.
2. CLEVELAND Theyll be in the hunt, but I really think
sexy pick Browns are greatly overrated.
3. CINCINNATI Defense must be a lot better for Bengals to contend. Lewis could finally lose job if they dont.
4. BALTIMORE Offense looks like it could be a major
work in progress.

AFC SOUTH

AFC SOUTH

AFC SOUTH

AFC SOUTH

1. INDIANAPOLIS If Manning, Freeney and Sanders

are healthy the rest all falls into place.
2. HOUSTON Team on the verge arrives with young
studs on defense all arriving together.
3. TENNESSEE Until I see Vince Young do it on the
field I cant rate these guys any higher.
4. JACKSONVILLE Not at all sold on Garrard yet and
what if Fred Taylor is done and WRs still stink?

1. JACKSONVILLE Gained key postseason experience a year ago, which will serve them well in 2008.
2. INDIANAPOLIS Mannings mysterious knee injury
is concerning enough to downgrade the Colts a spot.
3. HOUSTON A sleeper pick in what could be the
NFLs deepest division.
4. TENNESSEE Never count out a Jeff Fishercoached team. The Titans could surprise.

1. JACKSONVILLE Like the toughness they showed

in playoffs and believe theyre ready to take next step.
2. TENNESSEE Mike Heimerdinger will get most out
of Vince Young and rising defense will play well.
3. INDIANAPOLIS Peyton Manning injury a concern
early on, other injuries a concern throughout.
4. HOUSTON Getting closer to being really, really
good. Tough to pick them last in tough division.

1. INDIANAPOLIS All the injuries to key players scare

me, but is there a more proven commodity than Indy?
2. HOUSTON Texans are my sleeper pick to click. I
especially love whats happening on D-line.
3. JACKSONVILLE Early injuries a bad omen. I see
Jags slipping a peg. WR corps looks really lackluster.
4. TENNESSEE Disrespecting Jeff Fishers troops is
never a good idea, but I guess thats what Im doing.

AFC WEST

AFC WEST

AFC WEST

AFC WEST

1. SAN DIEGO Merrimans knee a concern but theyre

stacked enough to win without defensive MVP candidate.
2. OAKLAND Would be my worst-to-first this year on
strictly a hunch, but cant put them ahead of Chargers.
3. DENVER I suspect Shanahan is still a good coach
but boy, hes really weak on the talent evaluator side.
4. KANSAS CITY Will improve as much as first seven
draft choices can contribute.

1. SAN DIEGO Norv won two more playoff games last

year than Marty won in five years in San Diego.
2. DENVER A third straight year without a playoff
appearance could spell trouble for Shanahan.
3. OAKLAND Spent a mint in the offseason to win
now. Probably not gonna happen.
4. KANSAS CITY A universally praised draft isnt
going to be enough to right the ship for this season.

1. SAN DIEGO Great depth of talent. Easy schedule

means AFC road to Tampa should go through S.D.
2. DENVER Jay Cutler will find a way to produce
more wins than this team probably deserves.
3. OAKLAND Dysfunctional front office continues to
hold Raiders back.
4. KANSAS CITY Too young to mount a challenge in
08, but pieces getting put in place for future.

1. SAN DIEGO Superior talent wins out. L.T. should

have Super Bowl-sized chip on shoulder.
2. DENVER Steadily improving Cutler somehow will
keep Broncos in hunt, but this team has a lot of issues.
3. OAKLAND McFadden seems like he might be the
real deal, but Raiders will struggle to break even.
4. KANSAS CITY Great rookie crop, but Chiefs still
look like bottom-feeders with Croyle under center.

NFC EAST

NFC EAST

NFC EAST

NFC EAST

1. PHILADELPHIA Worst-to-first will happen somewhere and Philly most talented last-place team of 07.
2. DALLAS If everyone stays out of trouble and keeps
their mouths shut, sure but what are the odds?
3. N.Y. GIANTS NFLs best team last two weeks and
playoffs of 07 but 17 weeks this year another story.
4. WASHINGTON Dan Snyders track record with
head coaches doesnt bode well for Jim Zorn.

1. DALLAS If Cowboys fall short of title game, itll be

goodbye Wade Phillips, hello head coach Jason Garrett.
2. N.Y. GIANTS Fairy tale ending to last season was
enjoyable to watch. But this fairy tale is over.
3. PHILADELPHIA McNabbs last season (potentially)
in Philly isnt going to end the way hed like it to.
4. WASHINGTON Players responding favorably to Jim
Zorn. This team could be much better than anticipated.

1. DALLAS Talented and poised for another big season, but can Wade Phillips win the big one?
2. PHILADELPHIA If Donovan McNabb stays healthy
(a big if), this team can bounce back after down 07.
3. N.Y. GIANTS Defending champs deserve more
respect, but tough division could take toll.
4. WASHINGTON Redskins fans need to be patient
as Jim Zorn molds Jason Campbell into a pro QB.

1. DALLAS Tony Romos star status grows, T.O.

scores lots of TDs and potent D seals Super deal.
2. N.Y. GIANTS Still a very good team. But not as
good as the Cowboys.
3. PHILADELPHIA Eagles always look like they could
be a factor before season starts. Division is just too
stacked, though. Injury to Curtis doesnt help matters.
4. WASHINGTON Somebody has to bring up the rear.

NFC NORTH

NFC NORTH

NFC NORTH

NFC NORTH

1. MINNESOTA QB a huge problem, but tons of talent almost everywhere else except secondary.
2. GREEN BAY Is Ryan Grant for real, interior O-line
good enough and can D-line get healthy?
3. CHICAGO If preseason is any indicator Ive got
them one spot too high, even in NFC North.
4. DETROIT Will struggle to play any better than they
did in second half of 07.

1. GREEN BAY Its going to be just plain weird watching the Packers take the field without No. 4.
2. MINNESOTA The Ravens won a Super Bowl in
2000 with Trent Dilfer at QB. So maybe there is hope
for the Vikings with Tarvaris Jackson under center.
3. CHICAGO Lets see what Kyle Orton can do.
4. DETROIT Last winning season was 2000. It says
here the streak will extend to eight losing seasons.

1. MINNESOTA Great defense, running game are the

givens, this team will excel if it can pass, stop the pass.
2. GREEN BAY Was Aaron Rodgers set up to fail?
Theres enough talent to help him succeed if he stays
healthy.
3. CHICAGO With so many trouble spots its easier to
say what I like about the Bears PK Robbie Gould.
4. DETROIT Calvin Johnson is a big-time talent.

1. GREEN BAY Still the best team in the division without Favre, but not by much.
2. MINNESOTA Another overrated team. But Peterson is first in line to replace L.T. as NFLs top back
down the road.
3. DETROIT Mediocrity in Motor City prevails.
4. CHICAGO Baseball bliss turns into football futility
in Chi-town, but D will spearhead an upset or two.

NFC SOUTH

NFC SOUTH

NFC SOUTH

NFC SOUTH

1. NEW ORLEANS Secondary is the Achilles heel,

otherwise theyre loaded.
2. CAROLINA Jonathan Stewart will be rookie of
year, but Delhomme and Smith scare me a bit.
3. TAMPA BAY Injury to OG Joseph hurts and on D
how much tread left on Brooks and Barbers tires?
4. ATLANTA In the hunt for No. 1 overall draft choice
again.

1. NEW ORLEANS Offense not quite in Patriots

league, but still explosive enough to top 450 points.
2. TAMPA BAY Bucs are up and down from year-toyear. Made the playoffs last year, wont this year.
3. CAROLINA Getting Jake Delhomme back wont be
enough to save Panthers, or ultimately John Fox.
4. ATLANTA Fixing this floundering franchise will
take Tom Dimitroff and Mike Smith more than one year.

1. NEW ORLEANS Shockey addition makes offense

even more explosive. Secondary still worries me.
2. CAROLINA Jake Delhomme must stay healthy for
offense to have a chance.
3. TAMPA BAY Defense should be good but lack of
quality receivers on offense limits scoring potential.
4. ATLANTA Rebuilding season means young talent
will be relied on heavily. Matt Ryan will get his chance.

1. CAROLINA Delhomme has to stay healthy, and

Steve Smith must deliver positive impact.
2. NEW ORLEANS Reggie Bush needs to turn it up a
notch and move into Brian Westbrooks neighborhood.
3. TAMPA BAY Not enough horses to advance past
December, but Bucs will make presence felt for a while.
4. ATLANTA Give this team some time. Turner-Norwood RB combo eventually could be first-rate.

NFC WEST

NFC WEST

NFC WEST

NFC WEST

1. SEATTLE Seahawks have most complete roster in

NFC; Holmgren goes out on top.
2. ARIZONA Dont know what to make of them with
Boldin, Wilson and Dockett all upset with contracts.
3. ST. LOUIS Scott Linehan starts year on top of the
head coachs bubble, except, of course, for Mike Nolan.
4. SAN FRANCISCO Has anyone yet told Mike Martz
hes not the head coach?

1. SEATTLE Mike Holmgrens club could challenge

for a Super Bowl berth in his farewell tour.
2. ARIZONA Showed improvement in Year One under
Ken Whisenhunt. Will make playoff push in Year Two.
3. ST. LOUIS Maybe Steven Jackson will get his
2,000 yards this season in a losing effort.
4. SAN FRANCISCO Cluttered QB situation doesnt
bode well for teams chances.

1. ARIZONA Time for coaching staff to get most from

talent accumulated in recent drafts and win division.
2. SEATTLE Mike Holmgrens swan song should end
with playoff defeat. Special teams will be downfall.
3. SAN FRANCISCO QB mess not pretty. Will Niners
do enough to save Mike Nolans job?
4. ST. LOUIS Steven Jacksons holdout, Torry Holts
knee, O-lines struggles. It doesnt look good for Rams.

1. SEATTLE Solid defense is enough to earn Hawks

another division title barely.
2. ARIZONA That isnt a mirage in the desert. This is
an improving team with real a shot at a wild-card berth,
and maybe more.
3. ST. LOUIS Injuries already taking their toll, again.
4. SAN FRANCISCO Another screwed-up QB situation
sends Nolan packing as Martz magic fails to materialize.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

http://www.profootballweekly.com

13

STAFF PREDICTIONS
NOLAN

ERIC

NAWROCKI

EDHOLM

SENIOR EDITOR

SENIOR EDITOR

2008 PREDICTIONS

2008 PREDICTIONS

AFC CHAMPION

AFC CHAMPION

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

NFC CHAMPION

NFC CHAMPION

DALLAS COWBOYS

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

SUPER BOWL WINNER

SUPER BOWL WINNER

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

OFFENSIVE MVP

OFFENSIVE MVP

TONY ROMO

BRIAN WESTBROOK

DEFENSIVE MVP

DEFENSIVE MVP

ANTONIO CROMARTIE

JULIUS PEPPERS

AFC EAST

AFC EAST

1. NEW ENGLAND Top coach-QB combo in football

adds fresh legs to aging back seven that fell apart late
last season. Soft schedule should make 13 wins easy.
2. NEW YORK JETS Rebuilt O-line, veteran rifler and
more key pieces on D bring reason for optimism.
3. BUFFALO Good, not great. Solid .500 team.
4. MIAMI Fins roster still too thin to contend, but
division rivals will not be able to eat Tuna for long.

1. NEW ENGLAND Schedule reveals minimum of 12

wins and a decent shot at 14 or 15.
2. N.Y. JETS It might not be pretty, but improved D
and downfield passing game could lead to wild card.
3. MIAMI This will be one team you dont want to
face in December. Theyll be better by then.
4. BUFFALO Too many unknowns for this scrappy
club to finish higher than .500.

AFC NORTH

1. CINCINNATI Sure, a few things have to break

right, but I have a feeling theyll surprise people.
2. CLEVELAND The hype doesnt quite lead up to
wins as defense is still a step behind the offense.
3. PITTSBURGH Nasty schedule, questions on O-line
have me second-guessing Steelers potential.
4. BALTIMORE Veterans, good coaching could lead
to a competitive team to watch in 2009.

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AFC NORTH

1. CLEVELAND More big bodies on defense, bevy of

offensive playmakers help Crennel capture division.
2. BALTIMORE Questions at QB and protecting passer could negate coaching talent, aggressive defense.
3. CINCINNATI Ownership is its own biggest enemy
and will struggle to field .500 team irrelevant of coach.
4. PITTSBURGH NFLs toughest schedule, declining
O-line, soft backfield bring Tomlins sophomore slump.

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AFC SOUTH

AFC SOUTH

1. INDIANAPOLIS Could be challenged to win six

games without No. 18. With him, the division is theirs.
2. HOUSTON Kubiaks reconfigured lines, return of
OL mastermind Alex Gibbs brings 10 wins within reach.
3. JACKSONVILLE Took a step back in the offseason
and already hit hard by injuries in preseason.
4. TENNESSEE Never rule out Jeff Fisher, but injuryprone lineup could be reeling by seasons end.

1. JACKSONVILLE This is finally the year that the

Jags get over the hump in the division.
2. INDIANAPOLIS This team still has double-digit win
potential, but not the lethal, healthy outfit of years past.
3. TENNESSEE Another scary, well-coached team,
but it will come up just short.
4. HOUSTON This is no knock on a good club, but
division is just too tough for Gary Kubiak and Co.

AFC WEST

1. SAN DIEGO Following the recent trend of playoffdisappointments-turned-champs (Steelers, Colts,

Giants), the supertalented Chargers will win it all.
2. OAKLAND Everything rests on JaMarcus Russells
extra-large shoulders.
3. DENVER Jay Cutlers breakout season might have
me second-guessing this low a spot.
4. KANSAS CITY With the first pick in the 09 draft

NFC EAST

NFC EAST

1. DALLAS A rare collection of talent could struggle

to focus with distractions invited by flashy owner.
2. NEW YORK Creative coaching, dominant trench
play, team chemistry could keep Giants in contention.
3. PHILADELPHIA Could be McNabbs Philly farewell
tour on what is always a well-coached squad.
4. WASHINGTON Lack of depth tends to leave preseason as Skins highlight. Let the Cowher watch begin.

1. PHILADELPHIA It wouldnt shock me if the Cowboys win the division, but the Eagles will go farther.
2. DALLAS Wade Phillips playpen wont remain
copacetic forever.
3. WASHINGTON Health is such a key issue, but I
think Jim Zorns boys will finish strong again.
4. N.Y. GIANTS First to worst? Giants will be victims
of NFLs toughest division, unreal expectations.

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AFC WEST

1. SAN DIEGO Very loaded roster in weak division,

yet they lack killer instinct to advance all the way.
2. DENVER If Shanahan had a GM who could secure
talent the way he coaches, hed have a dynasty.
3. KANSAS CITY Youth movement will require
patience that new owner may not be willing to provide.
4. OAKLAND Lack of organizational stability leaves
Raiders spinning wheels.

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NFC NORTH

NFC NORTH

1. MINNESOTA NFLs best backfield and defensive

front four should control clock, grind out victories.
2. GREEN BAY Even a QB connoisseur such as
McCarthy will struggle to maximize Rodgers talent.
3. DETROIT Observing Millen trying to field a winning
roster has been like watching a monkey playing chess.
4. CHICAGO Marginal to poor offensive talent will
seriously challenge an injury-prone D lacking identity.

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1. MINNESOTA Less enthusiastic about this team

than I was a month ago, but it plays well in trenches.
2. GREEN BAY All the earmarks of an 8-8 season,
which isnt up to snuff since you know who left.
3. DETROIT Hard team to handicap but Ill call for the
opposite of 07: slow start, stronger finish.
4. CHICAGO Respectable defense, strong special
teams cant bail out lack of playmakers on offense.

NFC SOUTH

NFC SOUTH

1. CAROLINA Should dominate line of scrimmage

with reconstructed, power O-line vs. a soft schedule.
2. TAMPA BAY Jon Gruden could extract water from
a rock and is a 10-win per season-type coach.
3. NEW ORLEANS Could take the division if they get
into a rhythm and more consistently stop the run.
4. ATLANTA Dont have a lot that scares opponents
other than their backfield.

1. CAROLINA Hard-nosed O-line should dominate

offensive side while Julius Peppers has career season
on the defensive side.
2. NEW ORLEANS There are great passing-game
options all over, but they are still short a few defenders.
3. TAMPA BAY Vanilla offense will show true flavor,
and aged defense will wear down.
4. ATLANTA Nice, young corps, but miles from first.

NFC WEST

NFC WEST

1. SEATTLE Holmgrens final season could bring out

his best but will need big assist from stingy defense.
2. ARIZONA Could start season on fire and find playoffs if they finish strong in November and December.
3. ST. LOUIS Easily could be the last hurrah for Scott
Linehan if O-line is as shaky as it was last season.
4. SAN FRANCISCO Revolving coordinators, lack of
playmakers, average O-line invites mediocrity.

1. SEATTLE This team is not exciting at all, but 10

wins yawn should send Coach Mike out in style.
2. ARIZONA Cant pull the trigger on a division title
just yet, but they are close.
3. SAN FRANCISCO Prediction: J.T. OSullivan will
have more passing yards than Ben Roethlisberger.
4. ST. LOUIS Disgusting early schedule makes me
hurt for Scott Linehan. Could they start 0-7? Worse?

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PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

14

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

STAFF PREDICTIONS
MIKE

MICHAEL

DAN

MATT

WILKENING

BLUNDA

PARR

SOHN

SENIOR EDITOR

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

2008 PREDICTIONS

2008 PREDICTIONS

2008 PREDICTIONS

2008 PREDICTIONS

AFC CHAMPION

AFC CHAMPION

AFC CHAMPION

AFC CHAMPION

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

NFC CHAMPION

NFC CHAMPION

NFC CHAMPION

NFC CHAMPION

DALLAS COWBOYS

DALLAS COWBOYS

DALLAS COWBOYS

DALLAS COWBOYS

SUPER BOWL WINNER

SUPER BOWL WINNER

SUPER BOWL WINNER

SUPER BOWL WINNER

DALLAS COWBOYS

DALLAS COWBOYS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

DALLAS COWBOYS

OFFENSIVE MVP

OFFENSIVE MVP

OFFENSIVE MVP

OFFENSIVE MVP

TONY ROMO

TONY ROMO

DREW BREES

TOM BRADY

DEFENSIVE MVP

DEFENSIVE MVP

DEFENSIVE MVP

DEFENSIVE MVP

JARED ALLEN

JARED ALLEN

DeMARCUS WARE

PATRICK WILLIS

AFC EAST

AFC EAST

AFC EAST

AFC EAST

1. NEW ENGLAND Is a letdown coming after 2007

ended with such a thud? Does it even matter in this
division?
2. N.Y. JETS Expect moments of brilliance and
unevenness.
3. BUFFALO A team due for some breaks.
4. MIAMI Another season, another new-andimproved set of architects and blueprints.

1. NEW ENGLAND The Pats potent offense and easy

schedule will result in another gaudy record.
2. N.Y. JETS Addition of Brett Favre and other
proven vets should lead to huge improvement.
3. BUFFALO A team on the rise, but theyre still shorthanded on offense.
4. MIAMI Bill Parcells has them headed in the right
direction, but 08 could be a long season.

1. NEW ENGLAND No hangover, but parity sets in

and keeps Pats from return to Super Bowl.
2. N.Y. JETS Were already vastly improved before
Favre trade. He makes them a wild-card contender.
3. BUFFALO Lots of effort, but not enough talent to
compete in tough division, eh?
4. MIAMI Who wouldve thought Ricky Williams and
Bill Parcells could tolerate each other?

1. NEW ENGLAND Loss of Samuel more than offset

by the return of Brady, Moss and Welker.
2. N.Y. JETS Amazingly, the defense will be even
more improved than the Favre-led offense.
3. BUFFALO Edwards, Lynch and OC Schonert bring
California cool to Upstate New York.
4. MIAMI In Ricky and Ronnie, I believe. In everyone else, well I dont.

AFC NORTH

AFC NORTH

AFC NORTH

AFC NORTH

1. CLEVELAND Loaded on offense and improved on

defense.
2. PITTSBURGH Fact: Steelers havent lost to the
Browns since 2003.
3. CINCINNATI The lack of punch in the running
game is a problem.
4. BALTIMORE Unsettled at QB and perhaps not
quite as dominant on D.

1. CLEVELAND Have offensive weapons aplenty and

a beefed-up D-line.
2. PITTSBURGH Always a contender, but loss of OG
Alan Faneca will hurt.
3. CINCINNATI Offense wont be able to score
enough points to cover for bad D.
4. BALTIMORE Dont have a true No. 1 QB, and Oline could be porous.

1. CLEVELAND Hype makes me skeptical, but with

improvements on defense should contend in AFC.
2. CINCINNATI Bounce-back season in the making if
Housh and Johnson can stay healthy.
3. PITTSBURGH Ridiculously difficult schedule sinks
hopes of back-to-back playoff appearances in a hurry.
4. BALTIMORE Uncertainty at QB and an aging
defense will lead to a woeful campaign.

1. CLEVELAND Been a long time since the Dawg

Pound had reason to bark this loud.
2. PITTSBURGH Roethlisberger still tops Eli and
Rivers in QB class of 2004 hierarchy.
3. CINCINNATI Just when you thought they were
turning the page, they re-sign Chris Henry. Ugh.
4. BALTIMORE Baltimore native Michael Phelps to
help Ravens D-linemen perfect their swim technique.

AFC SOUTH

AFC SOUTH

AFC SOUTH

AFC SOUTH

1. TENNESSEE Why not? Titans play everyone in this

division tough.
2. JACKSONVILLE Jaguars do a lot of things well,
and the schedule is favorable.
3. INDIANAPOLIS Colts will have to overcome
injuries, challenging schedule.
4. HOUSTON Defense needs to take a big step forward for Texans to make run at the playoffs.

1. INDIANAPOLIS Peyton Manning and other injured

stars should all be back by Week One.
2. JACKSONVILLE Receivers are banged up, but
Jags have running game and D to make a playoff run.
3. HOUSTON QB Matt Schaub is ready to break out,
and defense has a bunch of young playmakers.
4. TENNESSEE Certainly can run the ball, but Vince
Young needs to make a giant leap after a dismal 07.

1. INDIANAPOLIS They have their share of concerns,

but Indy still the best this division has to offer.
2. JACKSONVILLE Im sold on Garrard, but not as
much on the new-look defensive line.
3. HOUSTON Keep waiting for that breakout year, but
they still arent ready to make leap.
4. TENNESSEE If Young gets things figured out, this
prediction could turn out to be off base.

1. INDIANAPOLIS Few teams sustain this many

injuries in a season. Still, Dungy gets it done yet again.
2. HOUSTON These days, having just one QB to
believe in isnt enough. Texans living large with two.
3. JACKSONVILLE Too many OL and WR problems
for Jags to make the Super Bowl run many foresee.
4. TENNESSEE Defensive coordinators instituting 55-1 alignment against vertically inept Titans.

AFC WEST

AFC WEST

AFC WEST

AFC WEST

1. SAN DIEGO Like New England, this is a team that

might not be fully cranked up for the regular season.
2. KANSAS CITY Have a hunch the Chiefs will be
better than expected.
3. OAKLAND Raiders will be in a lot of close games,
but how many can they finish off?
4. DENVER Defense will have its problems, and the
O-line is a concern, too.

1. SAN DIEGO Immensely talented on both sides of

the ball; will run away with this division.
2. OAKLAND Al Davis offseason spending spree
should have Raiders back to respectability.
3. DENVER Have failed to surround Jay Cutler with
enough quality players, plus the defense has holes.
4. KANSAS CITY Chiefs in very early stages of a
lengthy rebuilding process.

1. SAN DIEGO The best team in the AFC should have

no trouble marching to another division title.
2. DENVER Cutler has the talent, but does he have
enough around him to make a playoff push?
3. OAKLAND Al Davis offseason spending spree
should get the Raiders back to .500.
4. KANSAS CITY Growing pains are going to hurt in
first season of youth movement.

1. SAN DIEGO AFCs most loaded team playing in

conferences most watered-down division. Unfair.
2. DENVER Will struggle to break .500. Outside of
the secondary, theres nothing to feel inspired about.
3. OAKLAND Efficient quarterbacking from Russell
could make Raiders surprisingly decent.
4. KANSAS CITY Trading Jared Allen the most egregious personnel decision in NFL this decade.

NFC EAST

NFC EAST

NFC EAST

NFC EAST

1. DALLAS The only thing that worries me is the

depth of the WR corps behind T.O.
2. N.Y. GIANTS Defending champions play the no
respect card easily and rightfully.
3. PHILADELPHIA Some say Eagles are ready to
explode after frustrating 07, and they could if top two
rivals falter.
4. WASHINGTON Not a pushover by any stretch.

1. DALLAS The class of the NFC got even better this

offseason. A Super Bowl is very much within reach.
2. N.Y. GIANTS Magical 07 title run should carry
over into solid 2008, even without Michael Strahan.
3. PHILADELPHIA Added CB Asante Samuel, but
injuries on offense and tough division doom Eagles.
4. WASHINGTON Jim Zorns West Coast offense will
take time for Jason Campbell and company to master.

1. DALLAS Arguably the NFLs most talented team,

but its time to show it in the postseason.
2. N.Y. GIANTS It wont take long for them to get
back into their favorite role as the underdog.
3. PHILADELPHIA Reid will get Eagles back on track,
but it might not be enough in stacked division.
4. WASHINGTON Still sleeping on the Skins, but I
dont think theyll prove me wrong this time.

1. DALLAS Outside of complementary WR to T.O.,

Boys stacked everywhere for Super Bowl saunter.
2. N.Y. GIANTS Strahan-less D-line not nearly the
force it was. But Mannings got me sold.
3. PHILADELPHIA Over-under until Kevin Kolb
assumes starting role: Week Eight.
4. WASHINGTON QB, receivers too inexperienced to
make Zorns offense hum in Year One.

NFC NORTH

NFC NORTH

NFC NORTH

NFC NORTH

1. MINNESOTA Cant be considered a title contender

until it starts winning consistently on the road.
2. GREEN BAY Some Packers fans might hate Ted
Thompson, but they have to like the roster he has built.
3. CHICAGO This was the NFCs third-worst defense
last season. Im just saying
4. DETROIT Late-season collapse in 07 was troubling and could be a sign of things to come.

1. MINNESOTA Can run the ball with A.P., stuff the

run with the Williamses and sack the QB with Allen.
2. GREEN BAY Favre-less Pack takes a step back as
Aaron Rodgers learns the ropes.
3. DETROIT Calvin Johnson rises to the next level in
Year Two, but not enough impact players around him.
4. CHICAGO From top to bottom, the Bears offense
clearly looks like the worst in football.

1. MINNESOTA Defense and running game are good

enough to make up for QB Jacksons deficiencies.
2. GREEN BAY New era gets off to so-so start with
Rodgers at the helm.
3. DETROIT Commitment to the ground game wont
lead to different results for Marinellis crew.
4. CHICAGO Smith and Angelo, not Hester, are
ridiculous for the way they constructed this team.

1. MINNESOTA You heard it here first: Jared Allen

breaks Strahans single-season sack record.
2. GREEN BAY Aaron Rodgers to either become cult
hero or goat.
3. DETROIT Enough individual talent to muster
enough wins to save Matt Millens job.
4. CHICAGO Half the Big Ten has a better offense.
Same with a half-dozen Chicago-area prep schools.

NFC SOUTH

NFC SOUTH

NFC SOUTH

NFC SOUTH

1. NEW ORLEANS I just think they have more upside

than the Panthers and Buccaneers.
2. CAROLINA Panthers were pretty game last season given all they endured.
3. TAMPA BAY Didnt finish 07 all that strongly and
might not have much room for improvement.
4. ATLANTA Dimitroff and Smith are building a
potent offense for the future.

1. NEW ORLEANS Brees, Bush, Colston and Shockey will score in bunches and bail out shaky defense.
2. CAROLINA Added key pieces to make an 08 run,
but Jake Delhomme absolutely must stay healthy.
3. TAMPA BAY Aging club with a lack of offensive
firepower. The defense can only do so much.
4. ATLANTA Rookie Matt Ryan will take his lumps,
but Falcons look promising for the future.

1. NEW ORLEANS I like the offseason upgrades,

except in the secondary, which could hold them back.
2. TAMPA BAY Garcias efficient and the defense is
sound, but Bucs are missing explosive playmakers.
3. CAROLINA Young additions could inject some life
into struggling offense, but Im not quite sold.
4. ATLANTA Rebuilding could be set back if Falcons
throw Ryan to the wolves behind bad O-line.

1. NEW ORLEANS Shockey will make waves, but no

newcomer will make more plays than Jon Vilma.
2. CAROLINA Delhommes health the difference
between postseason and John Foxs termination.
3. TAMPA BAY Too old, too slow to expect an encore
to surprising 07. Bucs have defied age before, though.
4. ATLANTA With even-keeled Mike Smith and Matt
Ryan, Falcons at least devoid of off-field drama.

NFC WEST

NFC WEST

NFC WEST

NFC WEST

1. SEATTLE Have to think Seahawks will be sharp in

Mike Holmgrens final season.
2. ARIZONA Cardinals are likely to be in the playoff
mix.
3. SAN FRANCISCO Too much uncertainty swirling
around this team and too little talent to overcome it.
4. ST. LOUIS If Rams can get through tough early
schedule, they could surprise, but I cant see it.

1. ARIZONA Fitzgerald and Boldin thrive in spite of

QB carousel, and the Cards finally dethrone Seattle.
2. SEATTLE Too many offensive guys hurt for the
Hawks to keep dominating the division.
3. ST. LOUIS Marc Bulger and Torry Holt could be on
their last legs, and the defense cant stop anybody.
4. SAN FRANCISCO Mike Martzs offense wont work
if he doesnt have a reliable QB to run it.

1. SEATTLE Tempted to knock them off pedestal, but

they should have one more year on top.
2. ARIZONA Cards should compete for a wild-card
slot. If not, Whisenhunt is burning on hot seat.
3. SAN FRANCISCO Martz adds intrigue, but far too
many question marks to rank this team any higher.
4. ST. LOUIS Steven Jackson finally reports to camp
and he probably doesnt like what he sees.

1. ARIZONA Cards need to find a way to please

Boldin. Too many positives to let him ruin everything.
2. SEATTLE Lofa Tatupu: Leroy Hills our best linebacker. Gotta love that Seattle humbleness.
3. ST. LOUIS Defense still littered with holes. After
all, Chris Longs only one man, right?
4. SAN FRANCISCO Alex Smith. J.T. OSullivan.
Shaun Hill. Case closed.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

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15

LAS VEGAS CALLING:

Examining odds to win Super Bowl; over/under win totals

STEPHEN NOVER

AS VEGAS Super Bowl champions

they are, but the New York Giants are
not fooling anyone this season, least of
all Nevada bookmakers.
Bookmakers are not big believers in the
Giants. The proof is in the odds.
The Giants currently are 15-1 at the Las
Vegas Hilton to repeat their Super Bowl title
with a regular-season over/under win total of
just 812.
At one point, the Hilton bookmakers had
the Giants as high as 30-1. Yes, at that price,
gamblers were taking the Giants.
But Hilton race and sports book director
Jay Kornegay isnt overly worried, even
though his place now has more futures
money invested on the Giants than any other
NFL team.
From the very beginning, even after they
won the Super Bowl, we never thought the
Giants were the best club, Kornegay said.
They were just the hottest club.
If the Giants were to play the Patriots
five times, they would probably lose four or
even five times. There are about five or six
teams we think are better than the Giants.
New England has the shortest Super Bowl
XLIII odds at 7-2 and the highest over/under
win total at 12. Dallas is next at 6-1 to win
the Super Bowl followed by Indianapolis
and San Diego, each at 7-1. Every other
team has double-digit Super Bowl odds with
Jacksonville next at 12-1.
Drawing heavy futures play are Pittsburgh

(15-1), Minnesota (20-1) and Washington

(50-1).
The Vikings are the sexy pick this year,
Kornegay said. They are well-equipped at
every position except quarterback.
Some of this Vikings money came during
the Brett Favre trade talks when Minnesota
was mentioned as a possible destination. The
Hilton lowered the New York Jets Super
Bowl odds from 40-1 to 30-1 after the team
acquired Favre. The Jets also had their regular-season over/under win total moved from
712 to eight when they got Favre.
The Jets are the only team to have their
win total moved at the Hilton. All the rest of
the line adjustments on victory totals have
been on the money line, where the vigorish
(bookies juice) has moved up or down.
Green Bays Super Bowl odds remain
unchanged at 25-1 since Kornegay never
thought Favre would play again for the
Packers.
Every team has drawn some Super Bowl
action, even the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons have the highest odds of winning the
Super Bowl at 200-1. The Hilton had written
47 future book tickets on the Falcons before
mid-August. Kornegay isnt exactly sweating
those tickets.
Thats a lot of tickets for a team that has
no shot, he said of the Falcons.
The Hilton could have some jeopardy if
the Baltimore Ravens were to win the Super
Bowl. Baltimores odds were 100-1 before

dropping to 75-1.
Ill have to update my rsum if the
Ravens should win it, Kornegay.
As of yet, no visits to Kinkos for Kornegay.
The Hilton had written nearly 100 future
book tickets on the Miami Dolphins before
mid-August. The Dolphins currently are
100-1 after being as high as 300-1.
Pro football is so popular that youre
always going to write triple digits (Super
Bowl future book tickets) on every team,
Kornegay said.
Along with Miami at 100-1 are Detroit,
San Francisco and Kansas City. Las Vegas
bookmakers are reluctant to put out odds
higher than 100-1 after hotels lost millions
on future book wagers in 1999 when the St.
Louis Rams came out of nowhere to win the
Super Bowl. The Mirage, for instance, had
the Rams at 300-1 for a while that season.
The Patriots (12), Colts (11), Chargers
(1012) and Cowboys (1012) are the only teams
to have double-digit regular-season win
totals. Parity is reflected in the fact that 19
of the 32 teams have victory totals between
seven and nine wins.
The Falcons have the lowest over/under at
412 wins. The Chiefs and Dolphins are next
at 512.
Teams that have drawn the most
over/under action are the Patriots over 12,
Falcons over 412, Vikings over 812, Saints
over 812 and Raiders under six.

Kornegay said there are three types of

gamblers who like to invest in over/under
regular-season wagering.
The first are the professionals, the socalled wise guys. Theyre the ones shopping
around trying to find gaps among different
books. If they find a place, for example, that
has a 712 win total on the Jets and another
book using an eight on the Jets, theyll bet
over 712 and under eight at the other book
hoping the Jets finish 8-8. That way theyll
win one play and push on the other. This is
called siding.
The next type is what Kornegay calls second-tier wise guys. Theyre the ones with
strong opinions. They arent necessarily
seeking middles or sides. They just want to
bet their opinion.
The third type is the casual fan. They get
involved in these types of proposition wagers
because they have a rooting interest in a certain team.
Its tough, Kornegay said about the house
making money on over/under win totals.
You have to squeeze a lot out. Were doing
all the teams, while bettors might really know
one specific team. They have choices.
Writer, analyst and handicapper Stephen
Nover has been covering the Las Vegas
sports betting scene since 1984. He is the
author of three books, Las Vegas Sportsbeat,
Sports Gamingbeat and Winning Fantasy
Football.

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16

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PFW PREDICTIONS

1 NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

2 NEW YORK JETS
3 BUFFALO BILLS
4 MIAMI DOLPHINS
WRITERS PREDICTIONS
MARK CANNIZZARO

HARVEY FIALKOV

CHUCK POLLOCK

New York Post

South Florida Sun-Sentinel

The Times Herald (Olean, N.Y.)

Boston Herald

1. NEW ENGLAND Still have Brady and

Moss, so still the Super Bowl favorites.
2. N.Y. JETS Theyll make a run with
Favre and other additions. Should be a wildcard team.
3. BUFFALO Should push to .500 or better with an improved offense, tough defense.
4. MIAMI Chad Pennington addition
should help win a few more games.

1. NEW ENGLAND Stoked by last years

Spygate fallout and the imperfect ending,
the Brady Bunch will be motivated.
2. N.Y. JETS Favre, aided by rebuilt O-line
and with chip on his shoulder, should have
enough to capture a wild card.
3. MIAMI Tunas track record for turning
around franchises cant be overlooked.
4. BUFFALO Edwards and Lynch arent
enough to end eight-year playoff drought.

1. NEW ENGLAND Just missed a fourth

Super Bowl victory and graduated no
seniors.
2. BUFFALO What are the odds of placing 17 players on injured reserve a second
straight year?
3. N.Y. JETS Favre signing outpublicized
other shortcomings on a flawed roster.
4. MIAMI Bill Parcells, Ricky Williams,
Chad Pennington ... what is this, 2000?

1. NEW ENGLAND Patriots hoping to

keep their one loss to the regular season this
time.
2. BUFFALO Brett, schmett. No one gets
more out of less than Dick Jauron.
3. N. Y. JETS The Jets offseason was an
act of desperation, not hope.
4. MIAMI Just give the Tuna two years
and then watch out.

Back for more: Tom Brady aims to vault the Patriots back to the Super Bowl

NEW ENGLAND

PATRIOTS
By JOHN TOMASE

SPORTPICS

This is what it looks like when a

dynasty reaches a crossroads. One path
leads to further Super Bowl glory. The
other winds its way to obscurity.
Which way will the 2008 Patriots
choose? If Bill Belichicks history is any
indication, Option A is a lot more likely
than Option B. But these arent normal
circumstances.
Seven of the past 10 Super Bowl losers
have failed to even qualify for the playoffs
the following season. And its fair to say
that none of the 10 lost the Super Bowl in
a fashion quite like the Pats, who were just
moments from the first 19-0 season in history until Eli Mannings arm, David
Tyrees helmet, and Plaxico Burress
hands intervened.
The Pats followed the crushing defeat
by returning to their wallflower roots in
free agency, losing All-Pro CB Asante
Samuel and making bargain-basement
acquisitions like CB Fernando Bryant and
S John Lynch.
It might turn out that most of their talent arrived in the draft, where LBs Jerod
Mayo and Shawn Crable and CB Terrence
Wheatley have the look of potential NFL
starters.
They also re-signed WR Randy Moss.
Whether all of that is enough to overcome
the Super Bowl hangover remains to be
seen, but ask yourself this: Would you bet
against Belichick and Co.?

QUARTERBACKS Tom Brady. Enough

said. OK, fine. Some analysis. Brady was
already considered the leagues win-

JOHN TOMASE

ningest winner at the start of last season,

and then he simply rewrote the record
books. Hes unlikely to throw another 50
TD passes. The Patriots would be happy
with fewer TDs, a couple of losses during
the regular season, and a perfect postseason. Bradys right foot became an issue
midway through the exhibition schedule,
although it wasnt expected to delay the
start of his season. Its still worth watching, because thats the same leg he suffered a high ankle sprain on before Super
Bowl XLII. Grade: A.

RUNNING BACKS The Patriots passed

on Joseph Addai in the 06 draft because
they believed Laurence Maroney was the
better back. Its time for Maroney to prove
it. Maroney was outstanding down the
stretch last season after tap dancing his
way through a frustrating fall. He rushed
for more than 100 yards in four of his final
six games, including two playoff games.
If he carries that momentum into this season, the Pats offense could be even more
dynamic than last seasons; it certainly
will be more balanced. Theres a chance
the Pats carry five running backs into the
season: Maroney, third-down back Kevin
Faulk, principal backup Sammy Morris,
FB-special-teams standout Heath Evans
and jack-of-all-trades LaMont Jordan.
Grade: B.
RECEIVERS Theres no better insideoutside tandem in the NFL than Wes
Welker and Moss. And heres the scary
part now that theyve got a year in the
system under their belts, they expect to be
even better. It would seem nearly impossible. The two combined for 210 receptions
and Moss set an NFL record with 23
touchdowns in 07. Theyre the perfect
complements. Moss stretches the field,
and Welker works his magic underneath.
The Patriots probably arent going to ask
Moss to run 40- and 50-yard sprints on
every snap like they did last season, but
hes still going to be on the field a ton.
Backing them up are Jabar Gaffney, Chad
Jackson and Kelley Washington. Jackson

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

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17

NEW YORK

JETS

By MARK CANNIZZARO

AL PEREIRA / GETTY IMAGES

How do you go from being a 4-12 disappointment to a playoff contender? Let

us show you the blueprint the Jets used in
hopes of doing just that:
Spend $140 million on new talent to
improve weaknesses from the previous
season and then trade for a Hall of Fame
quarterback who still appears to have a bit
left in his tank.
Meet the 2008 Jets, who ditched the
weak links on their offensive line by signing two veterans with a history of success
in the league (Alan Faneca and Damien
Woody), who bolstered their poor pass
rush with the signing of OLB Calvin Pace
and drafting of OLB Vernon Gholston and
who boosted their poor run defense by
trading for NT Kris Jenkins.
Oh yes, then there was the 11th-hour
trade for Brett Favre.
On paper, the Jets look like a legitimate
playoff team. In fact, if paper doesnt turn
to fact come January then this furious offseason flurry will have turned into one of
the leagues most colossal busts.

Armed and ready: Brett Favres arrival in the Big Apple has Jets Nation believing their disastrous 2007 season is a thing of the past

has boom-or-bust potential. His physical

skills are elite, but he never has seemed on
the same page with Brady. Given the frequency that the Pats line up in three- and
four-WR sets, quality depth is critical. TE
Ben Watson boasts incredible athleticism,
but David Thomas is more natural catching the ball. Grade: A.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Stupid Super
Bowl. C Dan Koppen, OLG Logan Mankins and OLT Matt Light each made the
Pro Bowl last season, but theyve got
something to prove thanks to their last
game. The O-line was manhandled by the
Giants in the Super Bowl and needs to reestablish itself. The only problem is,
things appear to be in flux. ORG Stephen
Neal opened training camp on the physically-unable-to-perform list, and Light
missed a good chunk of time himself. If
either one isnt ready to go, the Pats will
have to mix and match, with Wesley Britt
a possibility at left tackle and Russ
Hochstein the likely choice at guard.
Grade: B-plus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN What Brady,
Moss and Welker are to the offense, Ty
Warren, Richard Seymour and Vince Wilfork are to the defense. The group does it
all. Seymour is a five-time Pro Bowler
whos finally healthy and ready to resume
dominating after two frustrating seasons.
Wilfork earned the first of what presumably will be many Pro Bowl appearances

last season. Hes the best nose tackle in

the game. Then theres Warren, who
might be the best of them all. Soft-spoken
but beastly, his mix of power and quickness is too much for most right tackles to
handle. Jarvis Green rounds out the unit as
a pass-rushing specialist who also can
slide in at defensive tackle in the 4-3.
Grade: A.
LINEBACKERS Speaking of crossroads,
this units at one, too. Tedy Bruschis days
are numbered, and while Mike Vrabel and
Adalius Thomas still can bring it, theyre
both on the wrong side of 30. But help is
on the way in the form of first-rounder
Mayo, who should make an immediate
impact inside next to Bruschi, and thirdrounder Crable, a pass rusher whose
biggest contributions likely will come
down the road. Mayo was the revelation
of training camp, an active defender in
both run support and coverage who also
showed a bit of a mean streak. If hes the
real deal, the front seven will be stronger
than it was in 07. Newcomer Victor Hobson provides depth inside, while Pierre
Woods should crack the rotation on the
outside. Grade: B.
DEFENSIVE BACKS This is where
things could get a little dicey. With
Samuel and slot man Randall Gay lost
during free agency, the Pats have some
work to do. Bryant likely will start at corner opposite Ellis Hobbs. Bryant has been

the definition of solid throughout his

career, although its always a red flag
when a defense-starved team like the
Lions deems you expendable. Bryant
eventually should be pushed by secondrounder Wheatley, a smart, speedy player
out of Colorado who can change direction
on a dime. Safety is the spot for graybeards Rodney Harrison and Lynch, who
have 31 years of NFL experience between
them. Both have reached retirement age
and while they each have lost a step, they
compensate with smarts and toughness.
The jury is still out on whether James
Sanders is anything more than an average
free safety or if second-year man Brandon
Meriweather can thrive in this system.
Grade: B-minus.

SPECIAL TEAMS PK Stephen Gostkowski was dependable throughout 07,

but he was sidelined on what would have
been a 48-yard FG attempt in the Super
Bowl after shanking a kickoff.
Gostkowski has a huge leg and the confidence to go with it, however, so he
should be fine. Hed be helped by a few
more long-distance attempts during the
season. P Chris Hanson is excellent
directionally, which is what the Patriots
value most. Kickoff-returning duties
could fall to either Hobbs or rookie
Matthew Slater, a star returner at UCLA,
while Welker and Faulk are solid punt
returners. Grade: B.

QUARTERBACKS In their enormous offseason haul, the biggest catch of all came
early in training camp when they landed
Favre. Although he has been in a full-on
cram session with the playbook, the new
offense and learning his teammates
names, Favre appears to still have it. After
all, hes coming off a Pro Bowl season,
having thrown for 4,155 yards, 28 touchdowns and 15 interceptions and a careerhigh 66.5 completion percentage. No
quarterback in Jets history has thrown for
as many yards in a season as Favre did last
season in Green Bay. You have to go back
to 1967 when Joe Namath threw for 4,007
yards to find the only Jets quarterback to
eclipse the 4,000-yard mark. Favres
backup appears to be Kellen Clemens,
who was competing for the starting job
before Favre arrived. Brett Ratliff, however, has pushed Clemens for the No. 2 job
with a solid summer. Grade: B-plus.
RUNNING BACKS Thomas Jones rushed
for the quietest, least-impactful 1,119
yards in NFL history. He scored only one
touchdown, an unacceptable number for a
featured back. That, however, was a result
of a porous and inconsistent offensive line.
The revamped line should give Jones more
lanes to run through and it should allow
the Jets to get Leon Washington (353 rushing yards, three touchdowns and 36 receptions in 07) in space more with pitches,
shovel passes and screen passes. Former
Dolphin Jesse Chatman is a good utility
backup. Grade: B.
RECEIVERS Laveranues Coles (55
catches, six touchdowns) was hampered
by injuries in 2007 and was slowed with a
hamstring injury in camp. Favre, who has
compared Coles to Packers WR Donald
Driver, needs him to return to form. Favre
already has built some game chemistry
with Jerricho Cotchery (82 catches, 1,130
yards, two touchdowns). After Coles and
Cotchery, it gets a bit unproven and thin.
Brad Smith, a converted quarterback, still
(Continued on Page 18)

AFC EAST

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

(Continued from Page 17)

is making the transition. After Smith, its a
bunch of young guys trying to fill the Nos.
4 and 5 spots. Tight end should be a
strength. Incumbent Chris Baker (41
catches, three touchdowns) has the best
hands on the team and is an excellent
blocker. Hell be complemented by rookie
Dustin Keller, whos not a blocker but a
terrific receiver who should provide
matchup problems for opposing defenses.
And then theres Green Bay castoff Bubba
Franks, a frequent target of Favre during
their Packer days. Grade: B-minus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN This is where the
Jets made their biggest move toward
improving. Gone are OLG Adrien Clarke
and ORT Anthony Clement, two weak
links from last years line. To take their
place, the Jets aggressively spent big
money on former Steelers OLG Faneca
(five years, $40 million) and ORT Damien
Woody (five years, $25 million). Their
veteran leadership should help improve
the disappointing OLT DBrickashaw Ferguson. C Nick Mangold has been solid
since he was drafted and ORG Brandon
Moore is unsung but steady. These guys
better stay healthy, though, because
theres not much proven depth. Grade: B.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Biggest (literally) offseason acquisition here was Jenkins, the former Panther. He looked very
good in camp, trimming down to about
350 pounds from the nearly 400 pounds
he got up to last season. Hes motivated,
hungry and rejuvenated with his new
opportunity in New York. Hell provide
the bulk in the middle of this 3-4 defense
that departed Dewayne Robertson never
did. DE Shaun Ellis, who was invisible in
07 (five sacks), needs to be better. DE
Kenyon Coleman (83 tackles, 112 sacks) is
more of a run stopper. Grade: C.
LINEBACKERS Pace, who had a
career-high 612 sacks last season in Arizona, should help a weak pass rush. So,
too, should first-round draft pick Gholston. Another player, like Ellis, who was
nonexistent last year was Bryan Thomas,
who followed his career best 06 season
with 212 sacks as an encore. Hell be
pushed by the presence of Gholston and
Pace, both of whom play his position.
David Harris, who led the team with 127
tackles and had five sacks as a rookie last
season, is one of the best up-and-coming
inside linebackers in the game. ILB Eric
Barton is a heady player who plays with
emotion. Similar to the offensive line, the
Jets are thin on backups with Matt
Chatham as one of the few with decent
experience. Grade: B.
DEFENSIVE BACKS Kerry Rhodes is one
of the best and most underrated safeties in
the game. Second-year CB Darrelle Revis
also has Pro Bowl potential. Opposite of
Revis at corner probably will be a committee, with Justin Miller and rookie
Dwight Lowery, a terrific ballhawk, sharing time. Eric Smith is the other starting
safety, a smart, tough but not flashy player. There is a lot of depth at corner (David
Barrett, Hank Poteat, Drew Coleman) but
not a lot at safety, with youngsters vying
for spots. Grade: C-plus.
SPECIAL TEAMS PK Mike Nugent
made 29-of-36 FG attempts in 07, a terrific success rate. Hes a consistent kicker
who has improved his range. P Ben Graham has a strong leg, although he is coming off a so-so season (43.3-yard gross
average). His forte is dropping knuckleball punts inside the 20. Washington
(27.5-yard average, three touchdowns) is
one of the best kickoff returners in the
game. Miller, who missed last season with

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

a knee injury, went to the Pro Bowl before

Washington took over, so they have a
great one-two punch back there. Washington also returns punts (9.2-yard average),
but Lowery has shown potential doing it
in the preseason. Grade: B.

BUFFALO

BILLS

By CHUCK POLLOCK

Talk about an offseason of change.

Barely a week after the Bills 7-9 campaign ended, general manager Marv Levy,
at age 82, stepped down after two years on
the job.
Levy, Buffalos Hall of Fame coach,
specifically had been hired to smooth the
front office unrest that had marked the
tense administration of former team president Tom Donahoe.
That job accomplished, Levy, who had
left the player decisions to a pair of vice
presidents John Guy (pro personnel)
and Tom Modrak (college scouting)
stepped aside for 41-year-old Russ Brandon.
With a background in development and
marketing and most recently serving as
the teams executive vice president of
business operations, Brandon was named
the teams chief operating officer.
As such, hes in charge of the Bills
day-to-day operations, and although he
has the final say on personnel, Brandons
decisions are heavily impacted by Guy
and Modrak.
Business is quite another issue.
In March, he stunned the Buffalo region
by announcing a five-year agreement to
play eight games five regular-season,
three exhibitions in Toronto.
The deal with Blue Jays owner Ted
Rogers pays the Bills $78 million over its
duration, money Brandon maintains is
critical to the franchise remaining viable
in the NFLs rapidly-changing financial
landscape.
To be sure, Buffalos population is
shrinking its the NFLs third-smallest
market and its economy is in steep
decline.
Yet the Bills play in the leagues sixthlargest stadium to say nothing of one
of the oldest and have the lowest average ticket price, so fans were left to conclude the Toronto arrangement was merely the first step in moving the franchise to
Canada.
Owner Ralph Wilson, who turns 90 in
October, swears the deal, which ends in
2012 with the Bills stadium lease, merely
helps the team stay in Western New York.
But he also has decreed the franchise will
be sold to the highest bidder upon his
death.
Meanwhile, on the field or more correctly off it Pro Bowl OLT Jason
Peters, with three years remaining on his
contract, skipped OTAs, minicamp and
training camp, presumably because hes
the teams third-highest-paid offensive
lineman. Nobody knows for sure because,
reportedly, neither Peters nor his agent
have had any contact with the Bills.

QUARTERBACKS Second-year pro

Trent Edwards was the leagues most productive rookie QB last season. Accurate

JEFF FISHBEIN

AFC EAST

18

Rookie to the rescue: CB Leodis McKelvin bolsters a Bills secondary that was a primary concern

and a good decision-maker, he had a 5-4

record as a starter, wresting the job away
from disappointing fourth-year pro J.P.
Losman. Losmans trade request never
materialized and the former first-round
draft choice remains as a veteran backup.
Grade: C.
RUNNING BACKS Starter Marshawn
Lynch rushed for 1,115 yards and seven
TDs in 13 games as a rookie, missing
three games with a sprained ankle. However, his reputation as a pass receiver
never materialized, making only 18 catches. During the offseason, Lynch was
involved in a hit-and-run accident with a
pedestrian, and while the violation was
pleaded down, his reputation took a major
hit and he hasnt spoken to the media
since the mishap. Backup Fred Jackson
gained more than five yards per carry and
had more receptions than Lynch. New
Buffalo offensive coordinator Turk
Schonert has returned to a two-back
attack with Darian Barnes, on his fifth
NFL team in seven seasons, at fullback.
Grade: B.
RECEIVERS With the QB roulette
(Edwards started nine games, Losman
seven), Lee Evans numbers tumbled from
82 receptions for 1,292 yards and eight
TDs in 2006 to 55-849-5 a year ago. He
has Pro Bowl talent. The Bills hope 6foot-512 second-round draft pick James
Hardy, who caught 191 passes for 36 TDs
in three seasons at Indiana, will be the No.
2 wideout and stop opponents from double-teaming Evans. Roscoe Parrish is tiny
(5-9, 168) but incredibly quick and explosive and functions best in the slot, as does
veteran Josh Reed. The Bills improved

their tight ends receptions to 56 last season, from 31 in 06, but the position
remains underutilized. Grade: C-plus.

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN In 2006, the Bills

surrendered 47 sacks, 26th in the league.
Last season, with the addition of pricey
OLG Derrick Dockery and ORT Langston
Walker, plus the blossoming of Peters, QBs
went down only 26 times, 11th-best in the
NFL. Buffalo is an improved rushing team
from two years ago from 27th to 15th
but Peters absence severely devalues
this unit. Grade: B. Without Peters: C.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Free agency has
bolstered this run-vulnerable unit. Aaron
Schobel is a Pro Bowler at end and Chris
Kelsay and Ryan Denney are solid in this
undersized trio. The addition of massive
former All-Pro Marcus Stroud (Jacksonville) and versatile Spencer Johnson
(Minnesota) upgrade the DT spot where
Kyle Williams and John McCargo return.
Grade: B.
LINEBACKERS A returning player and
a free-agent change the look of this crew
from last season. MLB Paul Posluszny,
off to a great start his rookie season, was
lost in Week Three with a broken arm, but
is back healthy. Undersized OLB Keith
Ellison (6-0, 228) has been replaced by
Kawika Mitchell (6-1, 253), fresh from
the Giants Super Bowl win. Underappreciated Angelo Crowell is on the strong
side and experienced John DiGiorgio,
Ellison and Donnie Spragan are in
reserve. Grade: B-minus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS Leodis McKelvin
was drafted in the first round to beat out
Jabari Greer for the CB spot opposite Ter-

MIAMI

DOLPHINS
By HARVEY FIALKOV

No matter how redundant the Dolphins

slogan this season is A New Beginning its pretty accurate with 43 new
players, including 24 rookies, along with
nearly an entirely overhauled coaching
staff led by the franchise-fixer himself,
Bill Parcells.
Parcells, a firm believer in bringing in
his guys, and dumping leftover veterans
like Jason Taylor, Zach Thomas, Marty
Booker and Jay Feely, raided his last stop,
the Cowboys, for nine of their players and
most of the coaching staff, including firstyear head coach Tony Sparano and defensive coordinator Paul Pasqualoni.
Parcells likes them beefy and long on
both sides of the ball. He insists on playing a straight 3-4 defense, so he brought in
NTs Jason Ferguson and Randy Starks to
clog the lanes, as well as tacklingmachine linebackers like Akin Ayodele
and Reggie Torbor, along with Charlie
Anderson to help bolster the leagues
worst run defense.
On offense, Parcells disciple GM Jeff
Ireland drafted mammoth OLT Jake Long,
OGs Shawn Murphy and Donald Thomas,
as well as Michigan QB Chad Henne, who
will soak up knowledge from recently
acquired Jets QB Chad Pennington. They
added former Cowboys TE Anthony
Fasano to assist coordinator Dan Hennings double-TE set for the power running game behind Ronnie Brown and
Ricky Williams, both coming off seasonending injuries.
They signed 6-foot-4 WR Ernest Wilford to add height and experience to an
unproven kiddie corps led by Ted Ginn Jr.,
Derek Hagan and undrafted rookie
Davone Bess.
Improve special teams, stop the run and
run the ball while cutting down on
turnovers are Parcells keys to turning 115 teams into a Super Bowl contender in
his second or third season. Time will tell

if the new beginning means averting the

same old finish.

http://www.profootballweekly.com

19

Pro Bowler. The unearthed gem has to be

sixth-round rookie Donald Thomas, a
former walk-on at Connecticut, at right
guard. Veteran OT Vernon Carey looks
right at home on the right side, while offseason acquisition Justin Smiley brings
experience and nastiness to what could
be a formidable unit under new O-line
coach Mike Maser, who directed a Super
Bowl line in Carolina. Last years
mediocre front had Brown gaining more
than five yards per carry before his injury
in Week Seven, so the fortifications clearly should be visible in the box score.
Grade: B-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Bringing in Ferguson, an affable 300-pounder, from Dallas to take over for ancient warrior Keith
Traylor to plug the 3-4 A gaps is an
upgrade in the run defense. It will be difficult to replace Taylors double-digit
sacks, but a hungry Vonnie Holliday,
along with Starks, should benefit from the
penetration of blossoming rookie DEs
Phillip Merling and Kendall Langford,
who add youth, energy and speed to the
pass rush. More depth at the nose could be
used unless second-year pro Paul Soliai
suddenly shows up. Grade: C-plus.
LINEBACKERS Zach Thomas Pro
Bowl shoes will be tough to fill, but the
combination of Channing Crowder and
Akin Adoyele on the inside should suffice. A seemingly motivated Joey Porter
appears ready to earn some of the $20
million bonus the last regime doled out to
him, if he proves hes over the injuries
that have plagued him. His counterpart
on the outside will be some combination
of Anderson, Quentin Moses and converted DE Matt Roth, all whom have the
speed to get to the opposing QB off the
edges. Depth on the inside will come
from Torbor, who came of age during the
Giants Super Bowl run last season, and

QUARTERBACKS This unit was upgraded instantly with the recent addition of jettisoned Jet Pennington, who is the perfect
mentor for Henne, the second-round pick
who has displayed poise under fire and a
rocket arm not seen in Miami since Dan
Marino was licking his fingers. Pennington might have a popgun arm, but its an
accurate one as his NFL-best career completion percentage attests. It looks like
veteran Josh McCown will be an insurance policy for the fragile Pennington
until Henne is ready. Grade: B-minus.
RUNNING BACKS Ricky Williams
might be 31, but hes playing on fresh legs
with just six NFL carries since 2005
and has flashed his vintage form of 02,
when he was the rushing champion. Hes
focused, needs the dough in his last contract year and is in the best shape of his
life. With Ronnie Brown still showing
some rust and the mental effects of his
torn ACL, he probably will start the season as a complement to Williams and not
the other way around like it was in 05,
when the two combined for 1,650 yards.
Playing behind a young, revamped offensive line and an inspiring lead blocker in
FB Boomer Grigsby, the Ricky and Ronnie Show should be a big hit this season.
Grade: B-plus.
RECEIVERS Penningtons accuracy
will help Ginn live up to his first-round
draft status and underachieving Derek
Hagan shed his inconsistency label. Ginn
gained 12.4 yards per catch in 07 and
drastically has improved his route running
this offseason. Bess has carved his niche
in the slot with his glue-like hands and
ability to create separation. Wilford has
been invisible this summer but should
provide Pennington with a go-to-guy in
the red zone once the lights go on. Anthony Fasano is no longer overshadowed by
Cowboys Pro Bowl TE Jason Witten, and
he forms a decent duo with David Martin
or Jason Peelle. Grade: C-minus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Parcells and
Sparano believe in building from the
inside out, and they have renovated this
unit by drafting Long to be the franchise
cornerstone left tackle not seen since
Richmond Webb was Marinos bodyguard. Second-year C Samson Satele has
the smarts and strength to be a perennial

Edmond Miles. Grade: B.

DEFENSIVE BACKS The new regime surprisingly kept this veteran group largely
intact, possibly because it spearheaded the
leagues fourth-ranked pass defense. That
stat certainly is skewed because the opposition was running at will, negating the
need to air it out. However, starting CBs
Andr Goodman and Will Allen are lockdown warhorses who need to come up with
more interceptions. Theyre backed up
capably by Joey Thomas, nickel back Nate
Jones and incumbent starter Michael
Lehan, who fell behind in the preseason
with an ankle injury. At safety, Yeremiah
Bell is a Pro Bowler in waiting if only he
could stay on the field and out of the training room. Late-bloomer Jason Allen finally has grasped the Xs and Os, but if he falters, Ireland brought in hard-hitting Chris
Crocker from Atlanta and Keith Davis
from Dallas. Grade: B-minus.
SPECIAL TEAMS Jay Feely was booted
after the first preseason game partly
because of his groin injury but mostly
because of his mouth and media-friendly
ways. He was coming off a franchiserecord season in which he converted 21of-23 FG attempts. His two misses came
on torn-up, sloppy fields. Taking his place
is unheralded rookie Dan Carpenter out of
Montana, who displayed a bionic, accurate
leg in the preseason, but he needs to do it
when it counts. P Brandon Fields averaged
a respectable 43.2 yards per punt and
placed 10 inside the 20-yard line. He
should improve with age. LS John Denney
was invisible last season, a positive
attribute at his position. Ginn should be
electric on returns with improved blocking. The coverage units, which were horrific in 07, should be bolstered by fiery
special-teams coordinator John Bonamego
and newcomers Davis, Grigsby and Miles.
Grade: C.

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AFC EAST

rence McGee. That hasnt happened, but

McKelvin will be the nickel back. Free
agent Will James is bidding with Ashton
Youboty for the dime position. At strong
safety, Donte Whiter, a budding star, is a
team leader, and 2006s starter at free
safety, Ko Simpson, is back after missing
last season with a broken ankle suffered in
the opener. George Wilson and Bryan
Scott, who both got starts last season, are
in reserve. Grade: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS P Brian Moorman,
the master of hang time, is a two-time Pro
Bowler, and PK Rian Lindell has made
100-of-115 attempts (.870 pct.) the past
four seasons, 7-of-8 from 50 yards-orlonger. McGee has five kickoff-return
TDs since 2004, has made a Pro Bowl and
gained nearly 27 yards per return over that
span. Parrishs 16.3-yard punt-return average led the NFL last season. Waiting his
chance is McKelvin, who tied the NCAA
Division I-A record with eight kick
returns for touchdown (seven punts, one
kickoff). In addition, year-in and year-out,
Bobby Aprils coverage teams are among
the leagues best. Grade: A.

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

HARRY SCULL, JR.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

AFC NORTH

20

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PFW PREDICTIONS

1 PITTSBURGH STEELERS
2 CLEVELAND BROWNS
3 CINCINNATI BENGALS
4 BALTIMORE RAVENS
WRITERS PREDICTIONS
MARK CURNUTTE

TONY GROSSI

JAMISON HENSLEY

JIM WEXELL

Cincinnati Enquirer

Cleveland Plain Dealer

Baltimore Sun

SteelerCityInsider.com

1. PITTSBURGH Divisions most stable

organization with solid defense and QB.
2. CINCINNATI Nobody looks for much
from Bengals, which is better than great
expectations.
3. CLEVELAND Wont be able to weather pressure of huge buildup.
4. BALTIMORE Team in transition with
new coach and no clear quarterback.

1. CLEVELAND Poised to take the next

step. It all rests on ending a nine-game losing streak to the Steelers.
2. PITTSBURGH Age on the D-line, holes
on the O-line will knock them off the top.
3. CINCINNATI A candidate to surprise.
Of course, it would be a major surprise if the
Bengals played some defense.
4. BALTIMORE The defense is ready to
win. The offense isnt.

1. CLEVELAND Bolstering their defensive front will push them to the top.
2. PITTSBURGH Strange to say, but
defense will keep Steelers from playoffs.
3. CINCINNATI Their biggest worry
remains the defense, not Chad Johnson.
4. BALTIMORE They have a new coach
but an old problem no proven quarterback.

1. PITTSBURGH Underrated and written

off for no good reason. Roethlisberger has
the weapons.
2. CLEVELAND Questions remain at QB
and coach, as underdog tag no longer applies.
3. CINCINNATI Leadership at skill positions, but not enough help added to defense.
4. BALTIMORE Losses of Ogden, McNair
will be felt, but its time to turn it over.

Man behind the curtain: Troy Polamalus health is a key for the Steelers

PITTSBURGH

STEELERS
By JIM WEXELL

Over the last two seasons, counting last

seasons playoff game, Steelers QB Ben
Roethlisberger has been sacked 99 times.
The offensive line has taken the brunt of
the criticism, and that line lost its best
player, Alan Faneca, last March, and
added only Justin Hartwig, a street free
agent. But for several reasons, the Steelers
expect the sacks to decrease.
The defense is said to be getting older
and slower, but the emergence of
Lawrence Timmons and LaMarr Woodley,
and the return to health of Troy Polamalu,
just might make this one of defensive
coordinator Dick LeBeaus best units
since the Blitzburgh days of the mid1990s.
The Steelers have a brutal schedule and,
because of the populist opinions listed
above, are being viewed in a negative light
by the national media. But they could surprise, considering their offensive playmakers and defensive speed. In fact, its a
team that could contend for another title
this season.

QUARTERBACKS Charlie Batch was

injured in training camp and replaced by
Byron Leftwich, whos in the best shape
of his professional career and claims to
be free of the ankle problems that
plagued his time in Jacksonville and
Atlanta. Roethlisberger, of course, is
continuing his upward climb. Fantasy
players who believe his 32-touchdown
season last year was a fluke will be in for
a surprise this season again. Thirdteamer Dennis Dixon is flashing the

speed he had before tearing his ACL at

Oregon, and the Steelers believe the
fifth-rounder is a bona fide draft steal.
Hes looked like one this preseason. If
active on game day, Dixon could run an
occasional spread package for coordinator Bruce Arians. Grade: A.

RUNNING BACKS Willie Parker has

recovered from his broken fibula, and the
speedy one will receive help as the lead
back this season from first-round pick
Rashard Mendenhall. Mendenhall has displayed power, speed and explosiveness in
the open field. The third-down back will
be free-agent acquisition Mewelde
Moore, and the short-yardage back if
active on game day will be Gary Russell. FB Carey Davis has playmaking
skills, but more importantly, he has
improved his lead blocking over the last
year. Grade: A-minus.
RECEIVERS Hines Ward remains the
savvy vet possession man with run-aftercatch ability and lethal blocking skills.
Santonio Holmes enters his third season
in the best shape of his life, with skills
honed by Jerry Rice. Holmes routes are
precise and hes flashed deep speed in
preseason games. The No. 3 receiver is
Nate Washington, another deep threat
whos been inconsistent the last two years
while remaining a favorite of Roethlisbergers. Depth could be a problem, since
No. 4 receiver Limas Sweed likely wont
blossom for another year or two. The No.
5 spot was still being contested at
presstime. A big asset for this group will
be all the work put into the hot reads
since spring workouts. They should help
cut down on the number of sacks. At tight
end Heath Miller remains a middle-ofthe-field weapon with sneaky deep speed,
and 6-foot-7 Matt Spaeth is developing
into another effective release valve and
goal-line weapon for Roethlisberger.
Grade: B-plus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Theres optimism among the coaching staff that the
line will exceed popular expectations.

CLEVELAND

BROWNS
By TONY GROSSI

The Browns may be this seasons overnight sensation, 10 years in the making.
In the 10th year since re-entering the
league, the Browns have been pegged as a
team to watch. The NFL scheduled them
for five national prime-time games. Its an
honor usually reserved for a defending
champion, but the Browns didnt even
make the playoffs last year.
So whats the attraction?
Theyve developed a potent offense
with a gunslinger quarterback throwing to
numerous young playmakers. Six Browns
made the Pro Bowl last year five more
than in their previous eight seasons combined. They also play a marquee schedule,
featuring seven playoff teams from a year
ago, including the last three Super Bowl
champions.
What they dont have is a proven
defense. Thus, the key moves in the offseason focused on catching up the defense
to their state-of-the-art offense.
The Browns hoped to beef up their tra-

http://www.profootballweekly.com

ditionally poor run defense by adding DLs

Corey Williams and Shaun Rogers via
trades.
If those efforts have the same domino
effect on the rest of the defense that the
offensive line had last season on the
offense, then this team will be ready for
prime time.

QUARTERBACKS Derek Anderson

came out of nowhere last year to direct
what is truly a high-wire passing game. At
6-foot-6, Anderson throws the ball at a
higher plane than most. But he has a
remarkably quick release for a big man
and one of the strongest arms in the
league. Anderson faltered down the
stretch last year. Team officials point out
he has only 18 career starts and should
improve. In fact, he looked better in preseason in making the short touch passes.
His vertical game is among the best.
Andersons improvement quelled any hint
of a controversy with backup Brady
Quinn, who enters his second season as an
inordinately huge fan favorite. Quinns
short game may be better than Andersons, but the offense would have to adjust
its vertical mentality if he played for an
extended time. No. 3 Ken Dorsey is a
mentor to both. Grade: B-plus.
RUNNING BACKS After rushing for
1,304 yards in his first year in Cleveland
and earning a new three-year contract,
Jamal Lewis reported to camp 15 pounds
lighter at about 235 pounds. Lewis turned
29 in August and is bearing down on

21
10,000 career yards. He professes to be
quicker and more energized than ever.
Backup Jason Wright is unheralded but
loved by coaches for his special-teams play
and ability to pick up the blitz. He doesnt
get a lot of time because Lewis needs 20
carries to be most effective. Jerome Harrison is too small to carry a starters role.
Lawrence Vickers and Charles Ali are two
fullbacks who have earned Lewis respect.
They also are versatile enough to shift outside in coodinator Rob Chudzinskis myriad formations. Grade: B.
RECEIVERS Braylon Edwards, 6-3 and
215 pounds, benefits from Andersons
strong arm. Edwards stepped into the elite
category last year with franchise records
of 1,289 yards and 16 touchdowns. He
outshone freakish TE Kellen Winslow,
who also topped 1,000 yards and frequently lines up as a wideout. The biggest
upgrade on offense will be at the other
wideout spot with Dont Stallworth.
Coaches feel he will take defensive pressure off Edwards and Winslow and also
improve the teams surprisingly poor performance in yards after catches. Stallworths signing in free agency loomed
more important because veteran Joe Jurevicius future was uncertain after he needed three surgeries in the offseason to
arrest a staph infection in his knee. In Josh
Cribbs, a converted college quarterback
now entering his third year as a receiver,
coaches envision an enlarged Slash
role. Behind Winslow, Steve Heiden (270
(Continued on Page 22)

SPORTPICS

Strongman Chris Kemoeatu replaces

Alan Faneca at left guard, and Hartwig
replaces Sean Mahan at center. ORT
Willie Colon enters his third season
expecting to improve, and OLT Marvel
Smith had his back and neck problems
straightened out to the point where hes
actually smiling on and off the field these
days. The right guard is Kendall Simmons, an experienced vet. The depth is
surprisingly solid. The Steelers have Max
Starks and veteran Trai Essex ready as
backup tackles. Essex can also play
guard, and Mahan is a reserve
center/guard, as is second-year man Darnell Stapleton. Rookie OT Tony Hills was
on the cut list early in camp but has made
strides of late. Grade: C-plus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Aaron Smiths
biceps injury may have been the teams
death knell last season. The Steelers
allowed nearly five yards per carry without the leagues best 3-4 defensive end.
Smith is back and healthy, and the team
hopes NT Casey Hampton is motivated by
a summer conditioning tiff with the
coaching staff. Brett Keisel at the other
end adds pass-rushing speed not usually
found in 3-4 ends. Depth is a problem. At
presstime, the front office was still scrambling to add players due to the failure of
07 fourth-round pick Ryan McBean to
develop. Grade: B.
LINEBACKERS James Harrison was
supposed to be a stopgap in the teams
attempt to turn over a corps that had aged
rapidly. Clark Haggans and Larry Foote
were a step slow, and James Farrior turned
33. Well, Captain Farrior hasnt lost a
step; Haggans has been replaced by power
rusher Woodley; Foote is on the verge of
being replaced by camp phenom Timmons; and Harrison has become more
Greg Lloyd than stopgap. This corps has
once again become the backbone of what
could be another great Steelers defense.
Grade: A-minus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS Knowing that
Deshea Towsend will turn 33 in less than
a month, and that Bryant McFadden is
entering the final year of his contract, the
Steelers still opted to keep Townsend as
the starting right cornerback. The move
or lack of one means the team is
willing to say goodbye to the young
McFadden after this season. Hes still the
nickel back, with Ike Taylor manning left
cornerback. William Gay is the fourth corner and can also play safety. Polamalu
brings 10 extra pounds back to strong
safety after an intense summer conditioning program. Ryan Clark for the first time
is not being rotated with Anthony Smith at
free safety, and its turned Clark into a
legitimate team leader. Smith is being
taught the strong safety position in order
to become a more valuable backup.
Grade: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS PK Jeff Reed last season missed only a 65-yard attempt in Denver and a 44-yard attempt in the Mondaynight Muck Bowl against Miami. Reed
has a feel for the playing surface and conditions of Heinz Field that gives the team
an edge every home game. Talented P Dan
Sepulveda is out for the year with an ACL
injury, and the Steelers responded by
bringing in veterans instead of stronglegged youngsters. Mitch Berger was
leading Paul Ernster in the punting duel at
presstime. The return game remains a
mess. Eddie Drummond is this years
Allen Rossum, but Tomlin hopes to use
Holmes as a punt returner to electrify the
crowd at critical junctures. LB Keyaron
Fox was the only significant upgrade to
the coverage units. Grade: C-plus.

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

AFC NORTH

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

Bark is back: After Braylon Edwards breakout year and a surprise 10-6 campaign, the Browns are eyeing a run to the playoffs for the first time since 2002

AFC NORTH

(Continued from Page 21)

pounds) is used like a sixth offensive lineman, and Darnell Dinkins can block and
catch. Rookie fourth-round TE Martin
Rucker was an impressive pass catcher in
camp until needing minor knee surgery.
Grade: B-plus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN A historical weak
link has turned into perhaps the strength
of the entire team. The pairing last year of
rookie OLT Joe Thomas and free-agent
OLG Eric Steinbach proved ingenious.
Thomas lined up for every offensive snap,
and Steinbach taught him the ropes. With
blue-collar anchor Hank Fraley at center,
Ryan Tucker at right guard and Kevin
Shaffer at right tackle, the line coalesced
into one of the leagues best units. It
allowed only 19 sacks tied for thirdfewest and five came in the first game.
Tucker was rehabbing from offseason hip
surgery and may start the year on the
bench. But newcomer Rex Hadnot
meshed seamlessly into the unit in preseason at right guard. Lennie Friedman and
Seth McKinney are versatile backups who
can play center and either guard spot.
Coaches want to see the line take the
offense on its back and ice games on the
ground in the fourth quarter. It wasnt able
to do that last year. Grade: A-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN In Corey
Williams and Shaun Rogers, the Browns
believe theyve acquired two stout linemen
still in their prime. And in Rogers case,
they feel the change of scenery from
Detroit will keep him interested over the
entire 16-game schedule. Both, however,
may need time adjusting to coach Romeo
Crennels two-gap, 3-4 defensive system.
Shaun Smith and Robaire Smith round out
the rotation on the three-man line. Shaun
Smith and Rogers alternated between nose
and end in camp, while Williams stayed
mostly at left end and Robaire Smith at
right end. All four figure to play roughly
the same number of snaps in games. The
Browns feel if the starting line which
totals about 1,000 pounds no matter which
three are in there does its job in stopping the run, the linebackers and secondary will show marked improvement.
The Browns have not ranked better than
23rd in run defense in the nine years back
from expansion. Grade: C-plus.
LINEBACKERS In theory, ILBs Andra
Davis and DQwell Jackson will benefit
from the double-teaming expected up
front. But the one player counted on to
take the most advantage is Kamerion
Wimbley, the weak-side outside linebacker who is the teams best pass rusher. Wimbleys sack total dropped from 11
as a rookie to five last year when the
Browns failed to complement him
enough. Willie McGinest will start on the
strong side in his 15th, and final, NFL
season. The plan was to have Antwan
Peek replace McGinest on passing
downs. Peek missed all of camp after
knee surgery but is expected back. The
Browns used two of their five draft picks
on linebackers, but the one to watch was
their last pick, Alex Hall, not their first,
Beau Bell. Halls athletic abilities have
the look of a designated pass rusher. Bell
struggled inside before needing knee
surgery. Grade: C.
DEFENSIVE BACKS If they werent concerned about injuries, the Browns would
feel comfortable about CBs Eric Wright
and Brandon McDonald and safeties Sean
Jones and Brodney Pool. Its the backups
who concern them. The cornerback crew
grew scary-thin after the team included
Leigh Bodden in the trade for Rogers.

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Then in May, Daven Holly suffered a season-ending knee injury. Terry Cousin, a
12-year veteran signed in free agency, was
battling backup S Mike Adams for the
nickel back role. Trading for the Dolphins Travis Daniels should help. Jones,
entering his fifth season, would be the
likeliest breakout player on defense. He
and Pool both can play in the box or deep.
Crennel likes his safeties to be interchangeable. Grade: C-plus.
SPECIAL TEAMS Cribbs is a unique
commodity, the only player to lead his
team in kickoff and punt returns and special-teams tackles. Taller and bigger than
most specialists, he led the NFL with a
30.7-yard kick-return average and was
third in punt returns at 13.5. Phil Dawson
is the NFLs fourth-most accurate kicker
and has developed into a bad-weather specialist. Punter-holder Dave Zastudil
should rebound from an off year caused
by an oblique muscle injury. Ryan Pontbriand was the AFCs long-snapper in the
Pro Bowl. Grade: A-minus.

CINCINNATI

BENGALS
By MARK CURNUTTE

In their efforts to strengthen their team,

most of the Bengals attention this past
offseason and rightfully so was
focused on defense.
After all, the Bengals finished with a
27th overall ranking, up from 30th and
28th in the two previous seasons. They
were last in the NFL in sacks.
So sixth-year head coach Marvin Lewis
fired his second defensive coordinator,
Chuck Bresnahan, and hired his third,
Mike Zimmer. For the fourth year in a
row, the Bengals spent their first-round
draft pick on a defensive player, OLB
Keith Rivers, and made their biggest
splash in free agency on pass-rush DE
Antwan Odom, who had eight sacks for
the Titans in 2007.
The Bengals didnt ignore their 10thranked offense. They drafted two wide
receivers with their first four picks and
signed restricted free-agent TE Ben
Utecht to give Carson Palmer another toy.
Theyre also counting on the return to
health of OTs Levi Jones and Willie
Anderson and RB Chris Perry to help
improve time of possession and strengthen the run game.
In 07, the Bengals spent more of their
payroll on the offensive side of the ball
than any other NFL team. The star-studded skill players and expensive line must
carry the team while the young defense
develops.

QUARTERBACKS Palmer might do

more with less, if coaches have their
way. He threw for a single-season franchise-record 4,131 yards in 07 because
the Bengals couldnt run the ball consistently. The plan this season is to run the
ball early and often with healthy RBs
Rudi Johnson (hamstring) and Perry
(ankle). Still, Palmer is an elite player
with stars on the outside in Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh. And for
its problems run blocking last year, the
line allowed just 17 sacks, another franchise record. Ryan Fitzpatrick is a smart,

productive backup. Grade: A.

RUNNING BACKS The previously
durable Rudi Johnson missed five games
because of a hamstring injury in 07. He
was slowed by the other hamstring early
in the preseason this year, but he bulked
back up to 230 pounds and looks more
like the between-the-tackles force who
could be counted on for 1,400 yards and
12 touchdowns earlier in his career.
Perrys return to health for the first time
since November 2006 would give the
Bengals a wild card on offense who is as
strong a receiver (51 receptions in 05) as
he is a runner. Solid Kenny Watson is No.
3 and contributes on special teams.
Grade: B-plus.
RECEIVERS Houshmandzadeh tied
with New Englands Wes Welker for the
league lead in receptions with 112 in 07
and made the Pro Bowl for the first time.
Chad Johnson had 93 receptions and a
franchise-record 1,440 receiving yards
en route to his fifth all-star game. After
releasing Chris Henry in April following
his fifth arrest as a Bengal, the team
decided to re-sign the talented but troubled player last week. The Bengals
added rookie receivers Jerome Simpson
(second round) and Andre Caldwell
(third) in the draft but expect to bring
them along slowly. Veteran Antonio
Chatman adds depth to a loaded unit.
The Bengals might not be so dependent
on their wide receivers this season with
the addition of Utecht, who should be a
middle-of-the-field target Palmer did not
have in his previous four seasons as
starter. Grade: A.
OFFENSVE LINEMEN OLT Jones and
ORT Anderson started last season with
injuries. Anderson missed nine games
because of foot and knee ailments and is
working as the No. 2 right tackle behind
Stacy Andrews in the preseason; Andrews
was the teams franchise player. Jones is
healthy and protects Palmers blind side.
OGs Andrew Whitworth and Bobbie
Williams are versatile interior linemen

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

who flank C Eric Ghiaciuc. The line is

deep and talented but must not rest on its
reputation. It needs to vastly improve on
its run blocking while still giving strongarmed Palmer the time to go downfield.
Grade: B-plus.

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Odoms sprained

foot on the first day of training camp hurt
the team as much as any injury, and there
is no timetable on his return. He was to
team with fellow DE Robert Geathers
(1012 sacks in 06) to bolster the leagues
worst pass rush. Geathers, a team-oriented
player, had to play linebacker at midseason last season, which reduced his sack
opportunities. Inside, DT Domata Peko
has to earn his big contract extension
while rookie Pat Sims develops. Lewis
has said that the defensive line has not
been the major problem with leaky, inconsistent run defense. Rather, the issue was
tackling on the outside. Grade: C-minus.
LINEBACKERS Rivers looks like an
impact player for many years. He is a sure
tackler and smart. The rest of the position
group is retreads, though the likes of
Dhani Jones, Brandon Johnson and Darryl
Blackstock should play the disciplined,
assignment-oriented style that coaches
want. Grade: C.
DEFENSIVE BACKS First-round picks
Johnathan Joseph and Leon Hall at cornerback will be expected to be the
strength of a young defense. Joseph, in his
third season, appears ready to play at a
Pro Bowl level now that both of his feet
(stress fractures) are healthy. Zimmer
wants them to play press coverage and
handle receivers in one-on-one situations,
which would allow him to send more
defenders at the quarterback. Second-year
S Marvin White will have to learn on the
job. The lower leg injury to backup S
Chinedum Ndukwe puts a lot of pressure
on the aging Dexter Jackson to stay
healthy. Grade: B-minus.
SPECIAL TEAMS Specialists Shayne
Graham (kicker) and Kyle Larson (punter)

ROBERT WATROBA

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

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Balancing act: Carson Palmer leads a potent offense, but hell need some help from the defense in 08

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23

are solid, bordering on stardom, especially Graham, the second-most accurate

kicker in league history. Coach Darrin
Simmons wants upgrades in both return
games after the Bengals ranked last in
punt returns at 4.9 yards. Chatman and
Deltha ONeal need to bring more pop
returning punts. An array of backup wide
receivers will handle kickoffs. The coverage units are well rehearsed and shouldnt
suffer the injury-related dip that hammered them early in '07. Grade: B.

BALTIMORE

RAVENS
By JAMISON HENSLEY

New coach, new offensive system,

same old players.
The Ravens have taken an unusual road
in trying to rebound from last seasons
disastrous 5-11 record, hiring John Harbaugh to take over as coach while keeping
most of the team intact.
Harbaugh, a longtime assistant with the
Eagles, brings a no-nonsense approach to
a veteran team that lacked discipline in
2007 under Brian Billick, who was fired
after nine seasons.
This coaching change could be a muchneeded wake-up call for the Ravens, who
went from AFC North champions in 2006
to last place in 07. Projected to return 19
of 22 starters, the Ravens are hoping a
new coach and a new mindset will make
them a playoff team once again.
There are three important things in
putting together a football team: No. 1 is
the team, the second-most important thing
is the team and third-most important thing
is the team, Harbaugh said. Were going
to stick with that through and through,
beginning to end, and thats what it is all
about.
If the Ravens want to win their first
playoff game since 2001, they need to
jump-start an offense to complement a traditionally strong defense.
Even with Billick gone and coordinator
Cam Cameron taking over the offense, the
long-standing problem at quarterback
remains. Kyle Boller and Troy Smith are
unproven as starters, and first-round pick
Joe Flacco isnt ready to take over the job
yet.
Still, the Ravens refuse to write off the
season.
Any team can contend, just like the
New York Giants, LB Ray Lewis said.
Nobody gave the Giants a chance last
year. Any team that comes together wins
the Super Bowl.

QUARTERBACKS Like most seasons,

this is the biggest question mark on the
Ravens. Steve McNairs abrupt retirement
in April left the Ravens to decide between
Boller and Smith as their starter. Boller, a
former first-round pick, has the experience and arm strength, but he continues to
make critical turnovers. Smith, a former
Heisman Trophy winner, has earned the
respect from veterans with his poise, but
he struggles with his accuracy. First-round
pick Joe Flacco, who is expected to start
the season at No. 3 on the depth chart,
could take over the starting job by the
midseason bye week. Grade: C-minus.
RUNNING BACKS Willis McGahee is

SPORTPICS

ILB Ray Lewis still is strong against the

run but isnt the same dominating playmaker from years ago. Harbaugh mentioned that Lewis could be taken off the
field in obvious passing situations. If the
Ravens want to get back to their highpressure defense, they need for ILB Bart
Scott and OLB Terrell Suggs to get to the
quarterback this season. They disappeared as a tandem last season, totaling
six sacks after combining for 19 in 2006.
OLB Jarret Johnson, who replaced Adalius Thomas last season, isnt a spectacular player, but doesnt make too many
mistakes. Grade: B-plus.

Under the radar: Expectations are low for Trevor Pryce and the Ravens after a disappointing 2007

the X-factor on the offense. The Ravens

want him to become an every-down back,
but its uncertain whether he knows the
offense. Like he did for years in Buffalo,
McGahee decided to skip most of the offseason minicamps. He then missed a
majority of training camp because he
needed arthroscopic knee surgery. If
McGahee struggles this season, the
Ravens offense could be running on
empty. There is hope in Ray Rice, the second-round pick out of Rutgers. The undersized back runs with toughness between
the tackles and is dangerous catching
passes in the flats. LeRon McClain has
the potential to be one of the NFLs top
fullbacks but lacks work ethic. The
Ravens signed hard-nosed FB Lorenzo
Neal near the end of training camp to
become a role model for these young
backs. Grade: B.
RECEIVERS Outside of TE Todd Heap,
the receiving corps lacks playmakers.
Derrick Mason has the best hands on the
team, but he lacks speed to beat cornerbacks deep. Mark Clayton and Demetrius
Williams both disappeared last season,
combining for zero touchdowns. Return
specialist Yamon Figurs and rookie
fourth-round pick Marcus Smith are other
options. Heap has the potential to deliver
a career year under Cameron, who centered his passing game in San Diego
around TE Antonio Gates. The biggest
challenge for Heap is staying healthy. He
missed 10 games last season with hamstring injuries. Grade: C.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The Ravens overhauled their offensive line after losing two
longtime starters OLT Jonathan
Ogden, a future Hall of Fame player,
retired and C Mike Flynn was cut. OLT
Jared Gaither, who missed nearly all of
training camp with an ankle injury, has the
size of Ogden but not the same commitment. OLG Ben Grubbs, a former firstround pick, moves from right guard to
left. Jason Brown shifts to center after
starting the past two seasons at left guard.
Marshal Yanda slides from right tackle to
right guard. And Adam Terry, who was
unseated by Yanda last season, gets his
starting job back at right tackle. Grade: C.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN When healthy,
this defensive front could be the best in
the NFL. In fact, much of the success of
the Ravens D will depend on DE

Trevor Pryce. Injuries forced him out of

the lineup last season, and the Ravens
never had the same pass rush without him.
Pryce changes games with his ability to
penetrate up the middle. The Ravens still
were strong at stopping the run because of
NT Kelly Gregg and DT Haloti Ngata,
two linemen who had Pro Bowl-type seasons. Gregg controls the line with leverage, and Ngata is one of the more agile
linemen in the NFL. Grade: A.
LINEBACKERS An underachieving
group last season, the Ravens linebackers
are determined to redeem themselves.

DEFENSIVE BACKS This proud secondary could take a major step backward
depending on the status of FS Ed Reed,
who was held out of contact drills in
training camp because of a shoulder
injury. After Reed expressed uncertainty
whether he would be ready to start the
regular season, Harbaugh said he expected Reed to play. Reed has been the
defenses most consistent playmaker. SS
Dawan Landry provides a physical presence over the middle of the field. CBs
Chris McAlister and Samari Rolle both
were sidelined with medical problems
for most of last season and have begun to
show their age. Fabian Washington, who
was traded from the Raiders, will press
Rolle for his starting job throughout the
season. Grade: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS PK Matt Stover wont
convert many kicks beyond 50 yards, but
he remains one of the most accurate from
40 yards and in at the age of 40. P Sam
Koch is a solid punter who needs to
improve his touch inside the 20-yard line.
Figurs is a boom-or-bust type of returner.
He has the ability to return kicks for a
touchdown, but he often struggles at fielding them. Grade: B.

AFC NORTH

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

AFC SOUTH

24

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PFW PREDICTIONS

1 INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
2 JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
3 TENNESSEE TITANS
4 HOUSTON TEXANS
WRITERS PREDICTIONS
TOM JAMES

MEGAN MANFULL

VITO STELLINO

JIM WYATT

Terre Haute (Ind.) Tribune-Star

The Houston Chronicle

Florida Times-Union

The Tennessean

1. INDIANAPOLIS Rest of division is getting closer, but Indy remains the best team.
2. JACKSONVILLE Again the Jaguars
come close, but not close enough.
3. HOUSTON Rapidly improving team
with one of the leagues best young defenses. Not there yet, though.
4. TENNESSEE If they diversify offense,
it will make things interesting.

1. INDIANAPOLIS Manning gets Colts

back into Super Bowl contention after offseason surgery.
2. JACKSONVILLE Poses the biggest
threat to taking South crown from Indy.
3. HOUSTON With an improved defense,
the Texans will edge out the Titans.
4. TENNESSEE Offseason acquisitions
wont be enough to get back to playoffs.

1. JACKSONVILLE Mannings injury

opens the door for the Jaguars.
2. INDIANAPOLIS Missing camp might
mean Manning will get off to a slow start.
3. TENNESSEE A strong D, but Vince
Young is the worst quarterback in the division.
4. HOUSTON Improving but still a year
away.

1. INDIANAPOLIS Manning and his

offensive weapons still too much for foes.
2. JACKSONVILLE The pressures on
Garrard. If he slips, Jags could get passed.
3. TENNESSEE The D will be just as
good, if not better. Can Young do the same?
4. HOUSTON Even if they do make an
improvement, still will be hard-pressed to
climb out of the basement.

On the mend: Peyton Manning is recovering from offseason knee surgery

HARRY SCULL, JR.

INDIANAPOLIS

COLTS

By TOM JAMES

Staying healthy will be key to the Colts

chances of success in 2008.
Indianapolis was hit hard by injuries to
key players a year ago, such as WR Marvin Harrison (knee), DE Dwight Freeney
(foot) and DE Robert Mathis (knee). Also,
S Bob Sanders the 2007 NFL Defensive Player of the Year had offseason
surgery on his right shoulder.
Add to that list SLB Tyjuan Hagler,
who suffered a torn pectoral muscle while
lifting weights before the start of training
camp, and QB Peyton Mannings recent
surgery to remove an infected bursa sac in
his left knee.
Perhaps the key addition was the return
of veteran RB Dominic Rhodes after a
one-year absence. Rhodes signed a freeagent contract with the Raiders after the
Colts run to the Super Bowl XLI championship. Having Rhodes back to spell
starter Joseph Addai will bolster the Indianapolis running game.
In terms of replacing players from a
year ago, veteran Charlie Johnson and
rookie Mike Pollak will fight it out to see
who will replace Jake Scott as the Colts
starting right offensive guard.
Also, with Ben Utecht now in Cincinnati and Bryan Fletcher being released
prior to training camp, Indianapolis hopes
that a pair of rookies Jacob Tamme and
Tom Santi can add valuable TE depth
behind starter Dallas Clark.

QUARTERBACKS Manning remains the

man under center for the Colts. His productivity has not diminished during his

past 10 years in the league, and he continues to be the face of the franchise in Indianapolis. Jim Sorgi remains as the primary backup and will get most of the preseason work in practice while Manning
recovers. Quinn Gray and Jared Lorenzen
were signed prior to training camp. One of
them could end up as the teams No. 3
quarterback. Grade: A.

RUNNING BACKS Addai has been very

productive since he came into the league
as a rookie two years ago. He split playing
time with Rhodes in 2006 and did the
same with Kenton Keith last year. Now he
has both Rhodes and Keith to share the
workload, although Rhodes may end up
getting the bulk of the backup duty. Keith
figures to fight for a roster spot along with
rookie Mike Hart, second-year man
Clifton Dawson and undrafted rookie
Chad Simpson. There are no true fullbacks on the roster. Grade: A.
RECEIVERS Harrison missed most of
the 2007 season with a knee injury. But
the early returns look good. Reggie
Wayne, meanwhile, has become one of
the best overall receivers in the game.
Anthony Gonzalez got off to a slow start
as a rookie due to injuries but started to
come on late. Roy Hall is a bit of a project, but his size (6-3, 240) and athleticism have impressed the coaching staff.
Devin Aromashodu and Courtney Roby
are also in the mix, as are rookies Pierre
Garcon and Sam Giguere. Clark became
the highest-paid tight end in the league
during the offseason. But that bump in his
wallet shouldnt be a problem for the former Iowa standout. The big question is:
Who will end up as his primary backups?
Gijon Robinson spent his rookie season
on the practice squad but could end up as
the teams H-back. Tamme and Santi both
fit the molds of Fletcher and Utecht.
Grade: A.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Gone is ORG
Jake Scott, who signed with Tennessee as
an unrestricted free agent. But the rest of
the offensive line remains virtually intact.

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2007. Smith has become valuable both as

a punter and as one of the leagues most
dependable holders. Rushing did a nice
job handling both the punt- and kickoffreturn duties last year. Rhodes may get
some work returning kickoffs this season.
Grade: B.

HARRY SCULL, JR.

Cashing in: David Garrard received a lucrative contract extension after leading the Jags to the playoffs

Tony Ugoh continues to develop into a

topflight left tackle while veterans Jeff
Saturday, Ryan Lilja and Ryan Diem provide a firm foundation. Rookies Pollak,
Steve Justice and Jamey Richard will fight
for playing time. Grade: A-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN If Freeney and
Mathis can return to 100 percent, the front
four appears to be in pretty good shape.
Ed Johnson was a major surprise at defensive tackle as an undrafted rookie a year
ago and should improve with his added
experience. Keyunta Dawson, a seventhround pick in 2007, may start alongside
Johnson. Raheem Brock has returned to
defensive end to help bolster the outside
pass rush but will continue to see some
work inside. Josh Thomas and Jeff
Charleston are the primary backups to
Freeney and Mathis, but rookies Marcus
Howard and Curtis Johnson could make
things very interesting. Veteran Darrell
Reid is a proven veteran backup who has
become a special-teams demon. Undrafted rookie DT Eric Foster has a chance to
earn a spot on the team. Grade: B-plus.
LINEBACKERS This past spring, the
starting linebacking situation appeared to
be settled with Gary Brackett, Hagler and
Freddy Keiaho as starters. But then
Hagler, who has battled a variety of
injuries throughout his brief NFL career,

suffered a torn pectoral muscle lifting

weights. Clint Session who played relatively well in a limited role as a rookie
last year figures to be a prime candidate to step in on the strong side, but
rookie Philip Wheeler or second-year pro
Victor Worsley might end up there at
some point. Wheeler had minor knee
surgery in training camp but is expected
to be fine for the start of the season.
Grade: B-plus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS CBs Kelvin Hayden
and Marlin Jackson, and safeties Antoine
Bethea and Bob Sanders are as good a
group of defensive backs as there is in the
league. Bethea and Sanders both earned
trips to the Pro Bowl a year ago, and a
good case could have been made for Jackson and Hayden, as well. Matt Giordano
provides quality depth at both safety spots,
and Melvin Bullitt has quickly developed
into a strong backup at safety. The same
can be said of Keiwan Ratliff and T.J.
Rushing at cornerback. Now its time for
Tim Jennings, Dante Hughes and Brannon
Condren to show that same kind of development and consistency. Grade: A.
SPECIAL TEAMS It doesnt get much
better, in terms of special teams, than
Adam Vinatieri and Hunter Smith at
placekicker and punter, respectively.
Vinatieri had another strong season in

JACKSONVILLE

JAGUARS
By VITO STELLINO

Super Bowl or Bust.

That was the declaration from veteran
RB Fred Taylor during the offseason that
has set the tone for the Jaguars this year.
After winning their first playoff game
since 1999 last January, the Jaguars have
the Super Bowl in their sights.
We can compete with anybody, coach
Jack Del Rio said.
Their first task is to end the Colts dominance in the AFC South, and they could
be helped if Peyton Manning, who recently underwent bursa sac surgery, isnt in
top form when they meet in the third week
of the season. Manning is 5-1 against the
Jaguars the past three years.
The Jaguars bandwagon was slowed
when the first-stringers struggled in their
first two preseason games, but the Jaguars
hope to have a fast start once the regular
season begins.
They think theyve upgraded their team
by signing a pair of big-money free
agents, CB Drayton Florence and WR
Jerry Porter, although Porter missed camp
after undergoing hamstring surgery.
If Porter is slow rounding into top form,
QB David Garrards ability to spread the
ball around can compensate for the lack of
a go-to receiver.
They suffered another setback when top
draft choice Derrick Harvey skipped camp
in a holdout, but the Jaguars hope the
blitzing schemes of new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams will improve the
pass rush.
The key to the Jaguars success will
continue to be their strong defense and
running game.

QUARTERBACKS Garrard, who became

the starting quarterback when Byron Leftwich was cut nine days before the 2007
season started, led the team to the playoffs
and earned a $60 million contract extension. Garrard is now out to prove he
deserved the big money. He is an accurate
passer who threw only three interceptions
last year. He also has the ability to scramble. The Jaguars revamped the rest of their
QB corps in the offseason when they
signed Cleo Lemon and veteran Todd
Bouman to hold the No. 2 and No. 3 jobs,
respectively, but if Garrard stays healthy,
neither will play. Grade: B-plus.
RUNNING BACKS Taylor and Maurice
Jones-Drew give the Jaguars an explosive
1-2 RB combo. Taylor ran for 1,202 yards
last year, and Drew added 768 yards as the
Jaguars were second in the league in rushing. Drew also helps the team chemistry
because hes content to be the backup
behind Taylor, whos 32 and shows no
signs of slowing down. Hes currently
17th on the NFLs all-time rushing list.
They also have a dependable fullback in
Greg Jones, a solid blocker who has over-

25
come a knee injury that sidelined him for
the 2006 season. Grade: A.
RECEIVERS The Jaguars receiving
corps is once again an area of concern.
Reggie Williams and Matt Jones were
drafted in the first round in 2004 and
2005, respectively, but both have been disappointments. Porter is a question mark
because of his offseason hamstring
surgery. Then theres second-year WR
Mike Walker, who missed his rookie season with a knee injury, and Troy
Williamson, who has blazing speed but
has a history of dropping passes. They
also have Dennis Northcutt, whos noted
for dropping critical passes in playoff
games. The best target could be TE
Marcedes Lewis, who may be reaching
his prime in his third season. Grade: C.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The Jaguars have
had to revamp their line on the run during
training camp. Brad Meester was sidelined for at least two months with a biceps
injury, and Dennis Norman was moved
into his spot for the third time in four
years because of injuries. Vince
Manuwai, after a tryout at right guard,
where he wasnt comfortable, was moved
back to left guard, and Mo Williams, who
had switched to left guard, was moved
back to the right side. Khalif Barnes is a
question mark at left tackle, but Richard
Collier failed to challenge him, so he kept
the job almost by default. The only
anchor in the line is Tony Pashos at right
tackle, and it lacks depth until Meester
returns. Grade: B-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Harvey and
Quentin Groves were drafted in the first
two rounds to upgrade the DE rotation,
but Harvey missed camp in a holdout, and
Groves showed he may be strictly a pass
rusher when he started against Miami and
was ineffective against the Dolphins firststringers. Reggie Hayward missed much
of camp with a hamstring problem, James
Wyche is out for the season with a torn
Achilles and Jeremy Mincey missed camp
with a wrist injury. So the starting left end
is currently journeyman Kenny Pettway.
Paul Spicer is dependable at right end, but
they now lack depth at the position.
Theyre stronger at tackle with John Henderson and Rob Meier, and theyre backed
up by Tony McDaniel. Grade: C.
LINEBACKERS This may be the
strongest position on the team. Del Rio
said hed compare OLB Daryl Smith to
any linebacker in the league. Justin
Durant and Clint Ingram are fighting for
the other outside spot, and veteran Mike
Peterson returns from a broken hand at
middle linebacker and is usually the
teams leading tackler. But since the
Jaguars have three young linebackers,
they havent offered Peterson, in the final
year of his contract, a contract extension,
so Smith will move into the middle next
year if Peterson departs. Grade: A.
DEFENSIVE BACKS The Jaguars think
they upgraded this position by signing Florence, who stepped into Brian Williams
CB position so Williams could be switched
to strong safety. Rashean Mathis at the
other corner is expected to return to his Pro
Bowl form of 2006 after being slowed by
injuries last year. And FS Reggie Nelson is
likely to do a lot of blitzing in Gregg
Williams defense. On nickel downs, Gerald Sensabaugh will come in at safety, and
Brian Williams will be the nickel back.
Scott Starks also gives them depth and can
play in dime situations. Grade: B-plus.
SPECIAL TEAMS PK Josh Scobee, P
Adam Podlesh and LS Joe Zelenka had no
competition in camp, so theyll be han(Continued on Page 26)

AFC SOUTH

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

(Continued from Page 25)

dling the kicking duties. Scobee made 12of-13 field-goal attempts in half a season
after having been sidelined in pregame
warmups before the opener with a quad
injury. Podlesh struggled at times last year
as a rookie and ranked 25th in the NFL
with a 36.9 net average. Jones-Drew and
Northcutt were the kickoff and punt returners, respectively, last year, although the
Jaguars looked at rookie speedster Brian
Witherspoon in that role in camp before he
sprained an ankle in the second preseason
game. The coverage teams tend to be solid,
although Chad Nkang, who set a franchise
record with 30 special-teams tackles, was
injured much of camp. Grade: B.

TENNESSEE

TITANS

By JIM WYATT

The Titans didnt do what most of the

so-called experts said they should have
done this offseason get a big-time
receiver to help QB Vince Young.
They didnt spend big money in free
agency, and then they passed on all the
receivers early in the draft.
But the Titans still made upgrades on
the offensive side of the football, and the
team believes it has the offensive firepower to not only make it into the playoffs this
season, but to make a deep run in the postseason.
TE Alge Crumpler has been the most
impressive of the veteran newcomers on
offense, and he should make a big difference in the red zone. Rookie RB Chris
Johnson, the teams first-round pick,
looks like he could be an instant playmaker, as well.
Throw in veteran WR Justin
McCareins, who played the past four
years with the Jets, and the Titans definitely have given Young more options.
On the defensive side of the ball, the
return of The Freak DE Jevon Kearse
was the most notable move. He joins a
unit that finished last season ranked fifth
overall in total defense.

QUARTERBACKS Young took a step

back in his second NFL season, throwing
for twice as many interceptions (18) as
touchdowns (nine), including the playoff
game. He didnt run the ball as much as
he did during his rookie season, in part
because of a troublesome quad injury. As
a result of those two factors, the Titans
scored one touchdown or less in 9-of-16
games, and they were last in red-zone
offense. The Titans think Young will elevate his game under new offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger. Young and
Heimerdinger spent the early part of the
offseason working on Youngs footwork,
making sure his feet are planted when he
throws the football. Too many times last
season he threw off one foot, on the
move. And while the Titans focused more
on a short passing attack last season,
Young is expected to throw the ball
downfield more this fall. Veteran Kerry
Collins proved his worth last season when
he filled in for Young, and he remains a
capable backup. Grade: C-plus.
RUNNING BACKS LenDale White
rushed for 1,110 yards in his second NFL

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season, and he was healthy enough to play

in all 16 games. Hes a bruising runner
who can get the tough yards. But in Johnson the Titans have a back capable of providing a home-run threat. And they plan to
use him plenty this fall not just as a situational guy in the slot. Johnson will
oftentimes be in the backfield on first and
second downs, in place of White. Its a 12 punch that should give the Titans something they havent had in years. Chris
Henry, drafted in the second round in
2007, is still a work in progress. FB
Ahmard Hall has proven to be a dependable blocker, but the Titans will take
advantage of his athleticism this fall and
give him more opportunities with the ball
in his hands. Grade: B.
RECEIVERS Exactly how much did
Tennessees receiving corps struggle last
season? This stat tells it all: Patriots WR
Randy Moss scored 23 touchdowns on
his own last year, while Titans receivers
combined for eight. McCareins, reunited
with Heimerdinger, should help. He has a
good size-speed combination and has
looked good all offseason. Returning veteran Justin Gage is tall and strong, and
hes capable of going up to get the ball in
traffic. It looks like Brandon Jones will be
the No. 3. Jones has made plays in the
past, but he has been inconsistent. He
seems to have settled down this offseason, however, while working his way up
the depth chart. Meanwhile, WRs Biren
Ealy, Chris Davis and Paul Williams are
battling with fourth-round pick Lavelle
Hawkins of California, while veteran

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

Roydell Williams, who tied for the team

lead in receptions last season with 55, has
struggled in his comeback from a broken
ankle. At tight end, Crumpler is a big
body who quickly has emerged as
Youngs favorite target this offseason. He
has great hands, and hes valuable in the
red zone because he knows how to get
open. And so far, Crumplers troublesome
knee from a year ago in Atlanta doesnt
seem to be an issue. Returning TE Bo
Scaife has good chemistry with Young
and will get plenty of passes thrown to
him, as well. And hell certainly benefit
from Crumplers presence. Third-round
pick Craig Stevens from Cal could make
an impact as a blocker and pass catcher.
Grade: C-plus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The Titans will
have some new faces in the trenches this
fall after OLG Jacob Bell departed in free
agency to St. Louis and ORG Benji Olson
retired after 10 seasons. OG Jake Scott, a
former Colt, will play the right side. Hes
big and strong, and the Titans believe
hell be even better-equipped to take on
some of the leagues more physical
defensive tackles. Eugene Amano is in
line to take over for Bell. Amano is a
smart player who doesnt get rattled
under pressure, and he has played well
when playing previously at both guard
and center. In the middle of the line is 15year veteran Kevin Mawae, who still
moves well. But the strength of the offensive line is on the outside at tackle. OLT
Michael Roos is a great athlete with good
feet, and ORT David Stewart is more of a

TENNESSEE TITANS

AFC SOUTH

26

Quick fix: Chris Johnson is expected to add some explosiveness to the Titans offense as a rookie

mauler with a mean streak. The Titans

also have depth with OG-C Leroy Harris
and OG-OT Daniel Loper. Grade: B.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN After signing a
two-year deal with the Titans, Kearse has
looked good so far, but time will tell.
Kearse also looked good in the early
stages of last season in Philadelphia, but
he eventually wore down. He should
benefit from having Kyle Vanden Bosch
line up on the right side of the defensive
line at end. Vanden Bosch is a highmotor guy who sets the tone on defense,
and his presence should give Kearse
more one-on-one opportunities, especially when you consider All-Pro DT
Albert Haynesworth will be right there
beside him. Haynesworth is a run stuffer
who was arguably the biggest reason the
team made such an improvement last
fall, and fellow DT Tony Brown also has
been solid over the past few seasons. The
Titans depth is talented but mostly
untested. At defensive end, Jacob Ford
and William Hayes will be in the rotation. Ford spent last season on injured
reserve, while Hayes is a rookie. At tackle, Antonio Johnson and Jason Jones will
be in the mix. The Titans think Jones, a
rookie, has a chance to be special.
Grade: A-minus.
LINEBACKERS OLBs David Thornton
and Keith Bulluck are playmakers, while
Ryan Fowler is prepared to man the middle. Thornton emerged as a big-time player in his second season with the Titans in
07, giving the team two speedy and productive outside linebackers. Bulluck had
been a tone-setter for years, and that
should continue this fall even though hell
line up behind Haynesworth and Vanden
Bosch. Fowler proved to be a solid tackler
last season, and his physicality helped in
the run game last year, although his season was cut short because of a shoulder
injury. Stephen Tulloch had a great offseason and will play a role in situational
packages and near the goal line. The
Titans signed former Bills LB Josh
Stamer for depth, and fourth-round pick
Stanford Keglar will play a role on special
teams. Grade: B.
DEFENSIVE BACKS CBs Cortland
Finnegan and Nick Harper have similar
styles of play theyre physical in the
run game and in coverage. At safety, veteran Chris Hope is back at full strength
after having his 07 season cut short
because of a neck injury that later
required surgery. The player hell be
paired with rising second-year player
Michael Griffin is expected to be a bigtime playmaker this fall. Griffin has great
range and plays physical, and the Titans
believe with a year under his belt and a
better knowledge of the defense, Griffin
will make a ton of plays this fall. Vincent
Fuller was the nickel back last season, and
hell be back in that role, while DBs Eric
King, Chris Carr and Calvin Lowry also
provide depth. Grade: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS PK Rob Bironas is
coming off a Pro Bowl season, and while
he was slowed in camp by a groin injury,
he should be back at full strength. Bironas
displayed a strong leg not only on field
goals but on kickoffs as well, consistently
booming the ball into the endzone for
touchbacks. P Craig Hentrich had offseason surgery to repair a nerve problem. He
continues to be very effective pinning
opponents inside the 20. If theres an area
where the Titans desperately need to
improve, its here they struggled mightily in 2007 following a season in which
Pacman Jones provided excitement on
both punt and kickoff returns. With Jones

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

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27

suspended, the Titans werent very good in

those areas. Carr was successful in his
three seasons with the Raiders returning
kicks, and he should land at least one of
the jobs, maybe both. But Johnson, who
has 4.24 speed, will also get a chance to
return kicks. Grade: B-minus.

TEXANS
By MEGAN MANFULL

The Texans focus in the offseason was

to attack a running game that has been a
weakness since head coach Gary Kubiak
arrived two years ago. Alex Gibbs was
hired as the teams assistant head
coach/offense with the task of implementing his zone blocking scheme and
revamping the running game.
The key now is for the Texans to keep
their top backs Ahman Green and
Chris Brown healthy. Injuries have
depleted the unit the past two seasons, and
Green and Brown both missed significant
time in training camp with injuries.
While their passing game is arguably
the strength of the team, the Texans know
they cant have a one-dimensional offense
if they are going to achieve their first winning record in franchise history.

QUARTERBACKS Few teams in the

league have as much confidence in their
top two quarterbacks as the Texans. Matt
Schaub and Sage Rosenfels each were
responsible for four of the teams victories
last season, and they have played extremely solid in the preseason. Neither quarterback is very mobile, but they have good
arms and are very good decision makers.
The main concern surrounds Schaubs
durability. He missed five starts last season and left three other games early with
injuries. In his second season as a fulltime starter, the Texans would like to see
him hold up much better. Grade: B-plus.
RUNNING BACKS The Texans hope that
Green and Brown can overcome past
injury issues to lead a young group of
backs. If they are healthy, Green will get
the bulk of carries and Brown will spell
him in games. Rookie Steve Slaton is the
wild card of the mix. While Chris Taylor
and Darius Walker are also fighting for
carries, Slaton has shown the burst and
playmaking ability that led to the Texans
using a 2008 third-round draft pick on
him. Ideally, they will use him as a thirddown situational back capable of
catching the ball out of the backfield and
providing a burst of speed to throw off
defenses. Vonta Leach returns as a reliable, solid fullback. Grade: C.
RECEIVERS This is one of the teams
strongest and most reliable positions.
Andre Johnson returns from offseason
knee surgery as the leader of the group.
Kevin Walter, who is coming off a
career season, will start opposite Johnson for the second year in a row. Andr
Davis, whose 17.7-yard average placed
him third in the league last season
among players with more than 20 catches, is a strong No. 3 option, and David
Anderson has taken over as the teams
No. 4 receiver. TE Owen Daniels is
emerging as one of the leagues best

TIM SDALON

HOUSTON

On the prowl: Mario Willams could finally lead the Texans out of the AFC South basement this season

young tight ends. Grade: A.

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The Texans

return only two starters from last years
season opener OLG Chester Pitts and
ORT Eric Winston. Rookie Duane Brown
will take over at left tackle, free agent
Chris Myers enters as the new center, and
Mike Brisiel retains the job at right guard
that he held at the end of last season. The
group is trying to adapt to the new zone
blocking scheme with a focus on improving the run blocking. How quickly they
are able to adjust will be critical in the
opening month of the season for the Texans. Grade: C.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN This will be a
focal point of the defense with DE Mario
Williams coming off a 14-sack performance a year ago. Former first-round draft
picks DTs Amobi Okoye and Travis
Johnson will start alongside Williams.
Anthony Weaver is entering his third season at left end for Houston. The Texans are
determined to improve the pass rush and
their run defense. They signed LB
Rosevelt Colvin to help pressure opposing
quarterbacks, and N.D. Kalu returns with
that as his specialty. The team will continue to use an eight-man rotation to keep the
linemen fresh in games. Earl Cochran,
Anthony Maddox and rookie Frank Okam
figure to play key roles. Okam was drafted
to be the big-body run stopper in the middle that the Texans consistently have
lacked. Grade: B.
LINEBACKERS MLB DeMeco Ryans
is the unquestioned leader of the defense.
Ryans will wear the defensive transmitter
in his helmet, and he is as durable as they
come. He hates leaving the field, and hes
known to play through injuries that would
sideline others. Morlon Greenwood is his
sidekick. The two have started alongside
each other the past two seasons, and
Greenwoods strong play often is overshadowed by Ryans consistency. Second-year LB Zac Diles is the newcomer
to the mix. He stands just 6 feet tall, but
he uses his quickness and athleticism to

make plays. Kevin Bentley and Xavier

Adibi will be the top backups. All of the
Texans linebackers are taught to play all
three positions, giving them versatility.
Grade: B-plus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS CB Dunta Robinson (hamstring/knee) is expected to start

the season on the physically-unable-toperform list, creating a major void at corner. He should return midway through the
year, leaving Fred Bennett and Jacques
Reeves as the likely leaders until then.
Rookie Antwaun Molden has shown
tremendous skill but has been slowed
early by injuries. He has the potential to
win a starting job as the season progresses. Jamar Fletcher and DeMarcus Faggins
could play a role at nickel back. With Will
Demps and C.C. Brown returning to their
starting jobs, the Texans could have
arguably their strongest group at safety.
Demps is a smart player who is rarely out
of position. Brown is a physical tackler
who is poised to have a solid season in the
final year of his contract. S Glenn Earl,
who has considerable experience, is
returning from a year on injured reserve,
and Nick Ferguson has played tremendously during the preseason. The Texans
hope the group forces more turnovers than
in the past. Grade: C-plus.
SPECIAL TEAMS Houston re-signed P
Matt Turk in the offseason after the 40year-old put together one of the strongest
seasons of his career. He consistently is
able to land his punts inside the 20-yard
line. PK Kris Brown remains one of the
most reliable kickers in the game. He was
5-for-5 from beyond 50 yards in 07.
Long-snapper Bryan Pittman has missed
only one snap in his five seasons with the
Texans. Coordinator Joe Marciano always
makes this one of the strongest specialteams units in the league. He will lean on
Andr Davis for kickoff returns. Davis
returned three for touchdowns in 07.
Jacoby Jones is trying to retain his job as
the teams main punt returner, but the second-year player is struggling to field
punts. He is instead more focused on making big plays and, therefore, forgetting the
basics. Grade: B-plus.

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AFC SOUTH

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

AFC WEST

28

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PFW PREDICTIONS

1 SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

2 DENVER BRONCOS
3 OAKLAND RAIDERS
4 KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
WRITERS PREDICTIONS
RICK DEAN

CHRIS JENKINS

FRANK SCHWAB

MIKE WAGAMAN

Topeka Capital-Journal

San Diego Union-Tribune

Colorado Springs Gazette

Silver & Black Illustrated

1. SAN DIEGO A defense strong enough

to support Philip Rivers loose lips.
2. DENVER With a break here or there,
breakeven is possible.
3. KANSAS CITY Kindergarten Kids will
test their fans patience.
4. OAKLAND Can Darren McFadden stabilize Team Turmoil? Not just yet.

1. SAN DIEGO So many weapons and

so little competition.
2. DENVER Broncos need a lot more than
a shot of insulin, though.
3. OAKLAND Run, Raiders, run. And stop
the run for a change.
4. KANSAS CITY Twenty-seven rookies
in camp. That cant be good.

1. SAN DIEGO Chargers are the clear

class of the division.
2. OAKLAND Good running game should
help JaMarcus Russell.
3. DENVER Offense will score, but still
too many questions on defense.
4. KANSAS CITY Youth movement will
serve Chiefs well. Eventually.

1. SAN DIEGO L.T. might be the best

player on the planet.
2. OAKLAND Offseason turmoil might be
too much to overcome.
3. DENVER Is it time for Mike Shanahan
to go?
4. KANSAS CITY Will Tony Gonzalez
ever win a playoff game? Not this year.

All smiles: LaDainian Tomlinsons Chargers look like a contender this season

HARRY SCULL, JR.

SAN DIEGO

CHARGERS
By CHRIS JENKINS

Put it this way. No introductions were

necessary.
The team you saw lose the AFC championship game? Thats pretty much what
youre getting in the San Diego Chargers
of 2008, although theres a very good
chance that LaDainian Tomlinson will
play more than he did in that frozen affair.
The knee? The one that limited him to just
two carries that day? All better now.
There has been so little change in the
Chargers, seemingly the only things that
look different about these guys are some
of the fresh surgical scars, like the kind
found on QB Philip Rivers (knee), TE
Antonio Gates (toe), LB Shawne Merriman (knee), NT Jamal Williams (knees,
plural), C Nick Hardwick (foot), FB
Andrew Pinnock (knee), OG Mike Goff
(knees, both) and OTs Marcus McNeill
(shoulder) and Jeromey Clary (shoulder).
Call it Team Owwie. Since the
Chargers finally adapted to head coach
Norv Turners system in the middle of last
season, and since its apparent that just
about the only thing that can stop them is
a rash of bad health, San Diego has been a
summer place for R & R for more than
just locals and tourists. Admittedly, the
Chargers have been babying their players
to keep them healthy for the regular season, and who can blame them?
Were it not for the injuries to Tomlinson
and the All-Pro Gates who combined
to score 17 touchdowns in San Diegos 28
red-zone situations the Chargers might
well have defeated the Patriots to end New

Englands unbeaten season. No wonder,

too, that the Chargers routinely sat their
starters through the preseason games.
We came into camp with some unique
circumstances, Turner said. Weve had
to handle that in a unique way. I dont
think were taking a safe approach. I think
were taking a smart approach. Were taking an approach thats going to allow our
guys to play once the regular season
starts.
Beyond caution, however, is the concern about Pro Bowl LB Shawne Merriman and his troublesome knee. Merriman
was taking a day off here and there as an
ounce of prevention, but it became far
more than a pound of worry when Merriman left camp and flew to Alabama, consulting with renowned surgeon Dr. James
Andrews to determine how much or
whether he can play in 2008. The Chargers are still holding their breath.

QUARTERBACKS Theres a brace on the

right knee of Rivers, which is about the
only apparent reminder that the quarterback had a knee operation a few days
before an AFC championship game in
which he proved himself as brave as he is
brash. Three days after that title game,
Rivers had reconstructive surgery on the
anterior cruciate ligament, but there is no
evidence of that, judging from the way he
has performed throughout offseason
camps and the preseason. Just as he has
won over critics and teammates who wondered about that peculiar delivery of his,
Rivers has elevated himself to near Favrelike status in the Chargers eyes with the
courage he showed last January. Likewise,
there are no doubts about Billy Volek as a
capable backup after he had a big hand in
San Diegos playoff victory over Indianapolis. Grade: A-minus.
RUNNING BACKS L.T. Nuff said?
Since the start of camp, nary a hand has
been laid on Tomlinson, whos such a
gamer that he actually said he practiced
warming up for preseason games in
which he barely appeared. Hes the two-

Merriman detracts from the fact that

Shawn Phillips can be just as tough on
quarterbacks when coming from the other
side. The two have compiled a half-sack
short of 50 over the past two seasons
alone. Still developing is the middle duo,
Matt Wilhelm and Stephen Cooper, and
the latter is sidelined the first four games
by suspension for a failed drug test. To fill
that gap, the Chargers signed Derek
Smith, an 11-year veteran who distinguished himself with the 49ers. Grade: Bplus (with Merriman) or C (without).
DEFENSIVE BACKS The Chargers have
two new starters the incomparable
Antonio Cromartie at corner, Eric Weddle
at safety and already are considered
much better for the changes. Now, consider that as it was, San Diego led the NFL
with 30 interceptions, 22 of which were
picked off by the secondary, including a
team-record 10 by Cromartie. It probably
wont take offenses long into this season
to stop going Cromarties way, putting
more pressure on CB Quentin Jammer,
who might have been the most impressive
defensive performer throughout camp.
Clinton Harts the strong safety youd
never guess hes an alum of the Arena
Football League and first-round draft
choice Antoine Cason quickly established
himself as the top candidate for the nickel
corner. Cletis Gordon makes plays, too, as
the fifth corner. Grade: A.
SPECIAL TEAMS The whole country
got to see what Sproles could do after
catching a kick he scored on both a
kickoff and punt return in a Sunday
Night Football victory over the Colts
and saw replay after replay of Cromartie
returning a just-short FG attempt 10934
yards for a TD at Minnesota. Less visible
is the work of David Binn, who has made
a Pro Bowl as a designated long-snapper,
and Mike Scifres is forever being underappreciated as one of the games best
punters. Nate Kaeding shook that rap
about not being able to hit a postseason
field goal last season and, after working
hard to strengthen both his broken left leg
and mental approach in the offseason,
opened the preseason with a 53-yarder.
There simply isnt a better return-cover
man in the NFL than Kassim Osgood.
Grade: A.

DENVER

BRONCOS
By FRANK SCHWAB

Mike Shanahan caused a stir when he

went on a Denver radio station and
claimed that his Broncos would not miss
the playoffs in 2008.
In previous years, that wouldnt have
been a big deal. Since Shanahan took over
as head coach in 1995, the Broncos have
been considered playoff contenders
almost every season. National expectations are different this year. Denver went
7-9 in 07 and didnt make huge waves in
free agency this offseason.
The biggest free-agent acquisitions
were WRs Darrell Jackson and Keary
Colbert, MLB Niko Koutouvides, safeties
Marlon McCree and Marquand Manuel
and C Casey Wiegmann. The Broncos
also traded for former Jets DT Dewayne

http://www.profootballweekly.com

29

AFC WEST

time defending NFL rushing champion,

even though last year actually was San
Diegos worst rushing season since L.T.s
rookie year of 2001, mostly attributable to
a rocky first few weeks of transition under
Turners play-calling. While Tomlinson
continues his climb up the all-time rushing and touchdown charts, hell have to do
it without supreme backup Michael Turner (now with Atlanta) and the irreplaceable Lorenzo Neal (Baltimore) creating
holes and taking the heat off him as fullback. Tiny but swift and jitterbuggy, Darren Sproles will take over Turners carries,
along with third-round draft choice Jacob
Hester. Microfracture surgery in the offseason limited FB Andrew Pinnocks
availability and created more time for
Mike Tolbert to impress, which he has.
Grade: A-minus.
RECEIVERS You might have to go
back to the days of Kellen Winslow,
Charlie Joiner and John Jefferson/Wes
Chandler to find a collection of targets in
San Diego like the combination of Gates,
Chris Chambers and Vincent Jackson,
not to mention the occasional diversions
of Buster Davis and Legedu Naanee.
Only when the Chargers made their inseason trade for Chambers an
absolute sure thing with the ball in his
general vicinity did they snap out of
their offensive doldrums. Perhaps the
single greatest concern is one big toe, the
one Gates injured in last years playoffs
and the one that basically kept him out of
team drills through most of camp.
Grade: A.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The Chargers
turned a big problem into a big plus last
year, effectively subtracting Shane Olivea
and his quite obvious diversions (an
addiction to painkillers, he now admits as
a New York Giant) in the middle of last
season and replacing him at right tackle
with Clary, who shored up the line nicely.
Theres another Jeremy in the picture
now, too, as veteran C Jeremy Newberry
was brought in as insurance against the
recovery of Pro Bowler Hardwick from
foot surgery. Hardwick likely wont return
until September or October. The left side
of the line, OT Marcus McNeill and OG
Kris Dielman, both were selected to play
in Hawaii after last season, although the
former was rehabbing a neck problem
throughout much of camp. ORG Mike
Goff hasnt missed a start in four years.
Throw in the wide load that is TE Brandon Manumaleuna, and both Tomlinson
and Rivers should have room to operate.
Grade: B.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN The heart and
soul of the defense in fact, of the
Chargers is NT Jamal Williams. The
key is to keep him and his achy-breaky
knees on the field. Without him for too
many plays last season, the Chargers
became more susceptible to the run like
no time before in the previous three seasons. (Adrian Petersons 296-yard game
against the Chargers was ample evidence
of that.) DE Luis Castillo is playing with
troublesome ankles, a sore back and a new
contract, the latter of which is something
that fellow DE Igor Olshansky is playing
for now, since his deal runs out after 2008.
Backups at both nose and end are Ryon
Bingham and Jacques Cesaire, who are
solid. Grade: B.
LINEBACKERS So much depends on
Merriman, both in the Chargers defensive scheme and the overall picture now.
Even while playing on pained pins, hes
amassed a league-best 3912 sacks since
2005, and he simply cannot be replaced.
All the attention that naturally falls on

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

TIM SADLON

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

Breakout: Jay Cutler could be in for a big year as he tries to lead the Broncos back to the playoffs

Robertson. Each of those players fills a

role, but none of the moves caused much
commotion.
The Broncos hope that another year of
maturation from a young offense and a
change in defensive schemes with
coordinator Bob Slowik taking the reins
from Jim Bates will help get the team
back in the playoff mix.

QUARTERBACKS Jay Cutler seems

poised to take a big step in his third season. He feels much better than last year,
when he lost about 30 pounds due to undiagnosed diabetes. His weight is back, as is
the zip on his passes. He also has shown a
good command of the offense, which
shouldnt be a surprise. The third year in
Shanahans system was great for John
Elway (won his first Super Bowl), Brian
Griese (made his first Pro Bowl) and Jake
Plummer (advanced to AFC championship game). Patrick Ramsey is the
backup. Grade: B.
RUNNING BACKS Travis Henry was
brought in last year to be a workhorse, but
he flamed out, and the Broncos will probably go back to a timeshare at tailback.
Selvin Young emerged as the clear starter
after Henry was released. He showed
some flashes of talent as a rookie last year,
but there is some concern about him holding up physically. Andre Hall could spell
Young. Like Young, Hall has big-play
ability. He is also surprisingly tough to
bring down. Rookie Ryan Torain was on

his way to being part of the committee,

but hell be out until at least midseason
with an elbow injury. Grade: C.

RECEIVERS Brandon Marshalls offfield issues cost him a three-game suspension that may be reduced to two. He might
not reach 102 catches like he did in his
breakout season last year, but he is a rising
star. He is over the arm injury that was a
major concern this offseason. The Broncos
hope rookie Eddie Royal carries his great
training-camp performance over to the regular season. Royal, who was given a starting job before the first preseason game, is
undersized but can get open and has sure
hands. Darrell Jackson should take Marshalls spot during his suspension. Keary
Colbert hasnt made a move up the depth
chart yet. Reliable slot receiver Brandon
Stokley wore down last year when he had
to replace Javon Walker as a starter, but he
should stay fresh playing inside. Once
again, the Broncos will have specific roles
at tight end. Daniel Grahams great blocking ability is his biggest asset. The Broncos
use a second tight end to get mismatches in
the passing game. Tony Scheffler should
have that role this season, and he has a lot
of potential, but Nate Jackson is a favorite
of the coaches and could get some playing
time. Grade: B.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The Broncos
line will have some new faces. Rookie
OLT Ryan Clady, a first-round pick, and
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PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

(Continued from Page 29)

ORT Ryan Harris, an 07 third-round
pick, should each make their first NFL
start in the season opener. They have a lot
of talent, but there could be some bumpy
games. Chris Kuper could play right tackle or right guard. He was at guard during
the preseason because Montrae Holland
reported to camp overweight and lost his
job. If Kuper or Harris falters, Holland
could go back in the starting lineup. A
knee injury caused C Tom Nalen to miss
most of training camp, but Wiegmann
provides veteran depth. Grade: B-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN The defensive
line failed the Broncos last year. The pass
rush was poor, aside from rising star Elvis
Dumervil, as was run support. Free-agent
experiments Sam Adams and Simeon
Rice produced almost nothing. This offseason the Broncos added former Jets
first-round pick Robertson at tackle, and
they hope some of their young linemen
can take a step forward. Among a trio of
second-year linemen, Marcus Thomas
was the only starter when camp broke.
Denver hopes Jarvis Moss, an 07 firstround pick, can provide a pass rush off the
bench. If talented 07 second-round pick
Tim Crowder can overcome a slow start to
training camp, he could be a factor this
year, as well. Grade: D-plus.
LINEBACKERS D.J. Williams had a
tremendous rookie season at weak-side
linebacker in 04, then spent the next
three years out of position. Williams is
back on the weak side after a one-year
experiment in the middle and could have
a career year. Boss Bailey was signed to
play the strong side. In the middle, Niko
Koutouvides and Nate Webster battled for
the starting spot through camp. Koutouvides doesnt have much experience at
linebacker after having played behind
Lofa Tatupu for years. Webster impressed
the coaches by getting in great shape this
offseason. Grade: C-plus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS Cornerback is a
strength for the Broncos. Although
Champ Baileys numbers were down last
year, he is still one of the best cornerbacks
in the NFL. Dr Bly is a solid second
starter, and Domonique Foxworth looks

http://www.profootballweekly.com

like he could have a good season at nickel

cornerback. Both safety positions have
been turned over since John Lynch and
Nick Ferguson started last season. Marlon
McCree, a free-agent addition from San
Diego, is the free safety. Hamza Abdullah
was penciled in to start at strong safety,
but a groin injury cost him some time in
training camp and Marquand Manuel
made a move for the starting job. Whether
Abdullah or Manuel starts, theyll spend
plenty of time lining up in the box in Denvers new scheme. Grade: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS The Broncos have
almost no experience at kicker or punter.
Matt Prater, who has four NFL field-goal
attempts, has a huge leg and will replace
Jason Elam. He needs to prove he can be
consistently accurate. Brett Kern and Sam
Paulescu each showed some positive
signs when they battled for the punter
position in camp, but theres only one
game of NFL experience between them.
The Broncos like the potential of Royal
and Hall lining up deep for kickoff
returns, and Royal should return punts.
Grade: D.

hiring an assistant WR coach James

Lofton who was twice previously a
finalist for the top job in Oakland.
As if that werent enough, Davis OKd
a $200 million spending spree in free
agency that included head-scratching
deals like the $55 million contract handed
to WR Javon Walker and $50 million to
DT Tommy Kelly, who was coming off a
major knee injury.
Walker somehow managed to trump all
of that himself. The veteran wideout, who
bounced himself out of jobs in Denver and
Green Bay before signing in Oakland, was
attacked, beaten and found unconscious
on a Las Vegas street in late July. Then,
after less than two weeks of training
camp, Walker told the Raiders he wanted
to retire and offered to return his $11 million signing bonus, only to be talked into
staying by Davis.
In addition to Walker, Oakland traded
for disgruntled Atlanta CB DeAngelo Hall
and signed S Gibril Wilson away from the
Giants, and then it used the fourth overall
pick in this years draft to grab RB Darren
McFadden, with the vision of pairing him
with second-year QB JaMarcus Russell to
form the cornerstones of the offense.

QUARTERBACKS Russell was the first

overall pick in 2007, but he rarely came
off the bench, playing in only three games
and starting the season finale against San
Diego. Russell, who missed all of training
camp and the preseason as a rookie due to
stalled contract negotiations, spent almost
the entire offseason in Oakland trying to
get up to speed with the offense. At his
best, Russell has shown he can be an
effective quarterback in the pros.
Although he played minimally in the
Raiders first two preseason games, the 6foot-6, 255-pounder seemed comfortable
in the pocket, moved well on the run and
didnt force many throws into coverage.
At his worst, Russell still figures to be
better than either of his predecessors, Josh
McCown and Daunte Culpepper, who
combined for 16 interceptions and 20
fumbles in 07. Andrew Walter, nearly
traded a year ago, appears more comfortable in a backup role, and Marques Tuiasosopo will be the No. 3. GRADE: C-plus.
RUNNING BACKS The addition of
McFadden gives the Raiders one of the
most talented backfields in the NFL and
easily the deepest. With last seasons
starter, Justin Fargas, and second-year
player Michael Bush, Oakland has a 1-23 punch that could be dynamic. McFadden was a do-it-all threat at Arkansas and
will fill the same role with the Raiders,
who plan to have the rookie line up in the
backfield, as a wide receiver and occasionally at quarterback. Fargas had the
first 1,000-yard season of his career in 07
and appears ready to pick up where he left
off, and Bush will be the teams shortyardage back after sitting out all of 07
while rehabbing from a broken leg. Oren
ONeal suffered a season-ending knee
injury in the third preseason game, so
Justin Griffith will likely handle all fullback duties. GRADE: B-plus.
RECEIVERS Walker was signed to be
the No. 1 receiver after Jerry Porter signed
with Jacksonville, but his retirement talk
has unsettled many in Oakland, including
Kiffin, who has criticized the veteran
wideout numerous times in the offseason
for his weight and often lackadaisical
approach. The problem is that the Raiders
dont have much else to choose from.
Ronald Curry led the team in dropped
passes last season and is coming off foot
surgery, and Drew Carter, who had established a rapport with Russell, is likely out

OAKLAND

RAIDERS
By MICHAEL WAGAMAN

For a franchise that hasnt been to the

playoffs since 2002 and hasnt won a
Super Bowl in 25 years, the Raiders
havent offered much in terms of entertainment on the field. Off the field, however, few teams have been more compelling.
This past offseason, owner Al Davis,
miffed at head coach Lane Kiffins
attempts to land a job in the college ranks,
tried to get Kiffin to resign. When Kiffin
refused, Davis responded by stripping the
head coach of some of his authority and

KEITH SCHLEIDEN

AFC WEST

30

Under pressure: JaMarcus Russell will need help from his supporting cast in his sophomore season

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

for the season with a knee injury. Beyond

that, Oakland doesnt have another receiver with more than two years experience in
the NFL. Fortunately, the Raiders do have
a proven tight end in Zach Miller, who set
a franchise record and led all NFL rookie
tight ends with 44 catches in 07. Miller
has looked strong in the preseason and
appears to have formed a good rhythm
with Russell. GRADE: C-plus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Whatever success
Russell has will be determined by how
well the Raiders can protect him, a serious
question mark considering whom they
have along their offensive line. OLT
Kwame Harris, signed in the offseason to
replace Barry Sims, is a reclamation project, and ORT Cornell Green has had his
share of problems in the preseason. While
Cooper Carlisle was steady at right guard,
there are lingering concerns with OLG
Robert Gallery and at center, where Jake
Grove will likely start over newcomer
John Wade. Although their ability to pass
is in doubt, the Raiders offensive line
paved the way for the NFLs sixth-best
running game last season, a result of the
zone blocking schemes brought over by
OL coach Tom Cable. With little depth
behind the starters, injuries could be devastating. GRADE: C.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Once the
strength of Oaklands defense, the front
line is a series of question marks heading
into 08. With the exception of two-time
Pro Bowl DE Derrick Burgess, the
Raiders have few proven commodities.
Kelly, who replaces the retired Warren
Sapp at the three-technique spot, played
in only seven games last season before
tearing the ACL in his right knee. NT
Gerard Warren played well at times but
wasnt consistent enough against the run.
Neither was his backup, Terdell Sands.
Losing Sapp will hurt, as will the freeagency loss of DE Chris Clemons, who
tied Burgess for the team lead in sacks in
07 before signing with Philadelphia in
the offseason. The Raiders brought in
former first-round pick William Joseph
and signed Kalimba Edwards and Greg
Spires to help, but for a unit that generated only 27 sacks and finished 31st
against the run, it might not be enough.
GRADE: C-minus.
LINEBACKERS Kirk Morrison and
Thomas Howard cemented themselves as
two of the top young linebackers in the
NFL with their breakthrough performances a season ago. Although both
struggled at times against the run, Morrison tied for 12th in the league in tackles,
and Howard tied for third in the AFC with
six interceptions. Third-year player Ricky
Brown, who began his NFL career on
Oaklands practice squad in 06, replaces
Robert Thomas at strong-side linebacker,
although the Raiders frequently will go to
a 4-2-5 alignment without a third linebacker. Depth could be an issue, especially since the team released Edgerton
Hartwell midway through training camp.
GRADE: B.
DEEFENSIVE BACKS Trading for Hall
and then signing him to a $70 million
deal seemed like a stroke of genius,
except that it might have left a bitter taste
in the mouth of fellow CB Nnamdi Asomugha. Widely respected as one of the
top cover corners in the game, Asomugha
skipped the teams offseason workouts
after having been slapped with the franchise tag, and he called off negotiations
on a long-term deal because he isnt convinced the franchise is headed in the right
direction. Nevertheless, the pairing of
Hall with Asomugha should provide

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

KANSAS CITY

CHIEFS

By RICK DEAN

They knew this season was coming

eventually.
The Chiefs, who for years competed
successfully using one of the NFLs oldest
rosters, understood that someday they
must inevitably rebuild, take a step back
and get younger in order to get better.
They just didnt say anything about
becoming embryonic one year after a 4-12
breakdown.
When they open the season Sept. 7
against (gulp) defending AFC champion
New England in Foxborough, the Chiefs
could have as many as six rookies either
starting or playing in situational formations or defenses. Another rookie or two
could be among their top specialists.
In a headlong dive to become younger,
the Chiefs made one of the offseasons
biggest deals trading disgruntled
franchise player and NFL sack leader
Jared Allen to Minnesota for one firstround draft pick and two third-rounders.
Consequently, Kansas City had three of
the first 35 picks last April, and they
used them well to secure DT Glenn
Dorsey (No. 5), OT Branden Albert (No.
15) and CB Brandon Flowers (No. 35).
All immediately were cast into the starting lineup.
For public consumption, anyway, coach
Herm Edwards says he likes this blend of
first- and second-year players with
accomplished veterans like TE Tony Gonzalez, OG Brian Waters, RB Larry Johnson and LB Donnie Edwards.
I like their energy, Edwards said. I
like their enthusiasm. I like their willingness to listen, their attention to
detail. Theyve been very good in meetings and in transferring that information
to the field.
Do they make errors? Yeah. Do you
anticipate that? Yeah. But the best way
they can learn is by playing. The more
we can put them in those situations, the
better.
Now, can they win games? Thats the

http://www.profootballweekly.com

31

tougher question.

QUARTERBACKS Despite posting an 06 record as a starter last season and

putting up puny numbers (six TDs, six
interceptions, a 69.9 passer rating), thirdyear man Brodie Croyle knows this job is
his for as long as he can stay upright a
big issue given his injury history. Hell
work with new coordinator Chan Gaileys
power-running, rollout-passing offense. It
is slimmed down in volume from the thick
Dick Vermeil/Al Saunders playbook K.C.
still ran two years after their departure,
but Croyle will have more check-with-me
options than K.C. quarterbacks have had
in years. Determined to develop a young
QB somewhere, K.C. elevated untested
second-year scrambler Tyler Thigpen
ahead of proven vet Damon Huard for the
backup job. Grade: C-minus.
RUNNING BACKS Larry Johnson
appears fully recovered from the foot fracture that knocked him out of eight games
during the Chiefs season-ending ninegame losing streak last year. Hes running
hard and is confident again, although it
remains to be seen whether his rebuilt
offensive line can open more holes than it
did in 07, when L.J. averaged only 3.5
yards and K.C. was a stunning dead last in
the NFL in rushing. At least hell have a
true fullback this season. Undrafted rookie Mike Cox played for Gailey at Georgia
Tech last year and knows this offense
well. Backup candidates Jackie Battle and
Kolby Smith can run with power, and
third-round rookie Jamaal Charles adds
the threat of pure speed. Grade: B.
RECEIVERS TE Tony Gonzalez
remains one of the leagues most dependable receivers, even at age 32. Continually fighting through double-teams, he has
been the teams leading receiver the past
four seasons. Already the NFL leader in
career receptions among tight ends (820),
he needs just 179 more yards to pass
Shannon Sharpe for the most receiving
yards ever by a tight end. WR Dwayne
Bowe led all NFL rookies last year with
70 catches and 995 yards. He looks ready
to step up even more as a sophomore. The
Nos. 2 and 3 spots are shaky, with exRaven Devard Darling having come to
K.C. with only 20 catches in four previous
seasons. Local rookie favorite Will
Franklin (Missouri) could get the No. 3
spot. Grade: B-minus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Of five potential
starters, only three-time Pro Bowl OG
Brian Waters has played more than a few
NFL snaps at his prospective position.
Rookie OLT Albert was a career guard at
Virginia and then missed most of training
camp with a foot injury. Replacement
Herb Taylor is an untested second-year
guy. ORT Damion McIntosh is a nineyear vet, but he played eight years at left
tackle. ORG Adrian Jones was mainly a
tackle for Edwards and the Jets. C Rudy
Niswanger last played center for LSU in
2005. Depth also is a real problem here.
Grade: C-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN DE Tamba Hali,
who had 1512 sacks in his first two seasons, will move to the right side to
replace Allen, who had 1512 sacks last
year alone. Rookie Dorsey ultimately
could provide some of that missing pass
rush in a one-gap defense that should give
the most decorated college lineman of
2007 more freedom to wreak havoc. Second-year man Tank Tyler battled vet Ron
Edwards for the other DT spot after an
unproductive first season. Ditto with DE
Turk McBride, a second-round draft pick
in 2007 who needs to step up when given

TUSP

nightmares for opposing quarterbacks.

Adding Wilson will also help, particularly with the teams tackling problems. Wilsons arrival also opened the door for
Michael Huff to move back to his natural
position of free safety, where he replaces
Stuart Schweigert, who was let go in the
offseason. GRADE: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS Sebastian Janikowski
answered critics who had questioned his
leg power, but he did nothing to quiet the
naysayers about his consistency. He tied a
personal best with 22 touchbacks and
made a career-high six field goals from 50
yards or longer. Pro Bowl P Shane Lechler established career highs in gross average (49.1) and net (41.1), leading the NFL
in both categories while cementing his
reputation as the leagues best punter.
Johnnie Lee Higgins will handle the
return duties but shouldnt get too comfortable. Although he scored on a 53-yard
punt return in the preseason, his lack of
consistency and judgment have been
questioned. GRADE: B-minus.

Derailed: Rookie Branden Alberts foot injury

cost him some precious time in training camp

the chance to be a starter on the left side.

Vet Alfonso Boone will move from tackle to end if McBride isnt getting it done.
Grade: C.
LINEBACKERS Assignment breakdowns in the LB corps were a major factor in the big plays allowed during last
seasons nine-game skid. OLB Edwards, a

one-time sideline-to-sideline playmaker,

is showing his 35 years with recurring
hamstring problems. Free-agent addition
Demorrio Williams could replace him.
Incumbent MLB Napoleon Harris lost his
job to untested Pat Thomas in training
camp. Derrick Johnson will move to the
weak side after three seasons of playing
over tight ends. He has Pro Bowl potential, but he needs to make more plays consistently rather than in flashes. Grade: C.
DEFENSIVE BACKS Second-round pick
Flowers will wear Ty Laws number and
play the spot Law vacated at right corner.
The 5-foot-9 Virginia Tech product is a
battler who likely will have more bad
games than good in his first season. LCB
Patrick Surtain is showing his age (32)
but remains way ahead of possible
replacement Brandon Carr, a fifth-round
pick out of Division II power Grand Valley State. Carr will play extensively as the
No. 1 nickel back, however. FS Jarrad
Page is a decent cover guy, but SS
Bernard Pollard is a better in-the-box
player than he is in deep coverage, where
he misses too many open-field tackles.
Rookie third-rounder DaJuan Morgan
may challenge for Pollards job before the
year is out. Grade: C.
SPECIAL TEAMS P Dustin Colquitt
rapidly is becoming one of the leagues
best, as evidenced by last years 45.5-yard
gross and 39.1-yard net averages. The
Chiefs spent the offseason and camp
wondering if undrafted rookie Connor
Barth or young vet Nick Novak could be
their kicker. They hadnt settled on a
returner, either. B.J. Sams, coming back
from an injury that made him expendable
in Baltimore, was the leading contender,
but undrafted Oklahoma State rookie
Dantrell Savage made a late-camp run.
Grade: C.

IF YOU WANT
ANALYSIS ...

www.ProFootballWeekly.com

ProFootballWeekly.com provides analysis for every aspect

of the NFL, whether its breaking news or rumors,
fantasy football, player ratings, handicapping or the NFL draft.

AFC WEST

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

NFC EAST

32

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PFW PREDICTIONS

1 DALLAS COWBOYS
2 NEW YORK GIANTS
3 PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
4 WASHINGTON REDSKINS
WRITERS PREDICTIONS
JOHN KEIM

PAUL SCHWARTZ

MICKEY SPAGNOLA

DAVID WEINBERG

Washington Examiner

New York Post

DallasCowboys.com

Press of Atlantic City (N.J.)

1. PHILADELPHIA Healthy Donovan

McNabb gives Eagles an edge.
2. DALLAS Most talented, but also possibly most distracted.
3. N.Y. GIANTS Almost as good as 2007,
but tough to duplicate postseason run.
4. WASHINGTON Jim Zorn is a keeper,
but his first year will provide a stiff learning
curve.

1. DALLAS Still the most talented team in

the division.
2. N.Y. GIANTS Eli Mannings ascension
leads to more consistent offensive attack.
3. WASHINGTON Will stay afloat in playoff race thanks to a rugged defense.
4. PHILADELPHIA As Donovan goes, so
go the Eagles. Donovan doesnt go much
anymore.

1. DALLAS Offense will be as good, if not

better in second year under Jason Garrett,
and defense figures to be greatly improved.
2. N.Y. GIANTS Confidence from winning
Super Bowl makes it difficult on rest of East.
3. PHILADELPHIA This could be McNabbs last hurrah, in need of a fine season.
4. WASHINGTON Could all four teams be
over .500? Jason Campbell will decide that.

1. DALLAS The Cowboys have the most

talent, but could fall short.
2. PHILADELPHIA If McNabb and Westbrook stay healthy, they could win the
division.
3. WASHINGTON Maybe Daniel Snyder
will stay out of the way.
4. N.Y. GIANTS Post-Super Bowl hangover will hit them.

All smiles: If WR Terrell Owens stays healthy, the Cowboys will be just fine

DALLAS

COWBOYS
By MICKEY SPAGNOLA

JAMES D. SMITH

This basically is the same team that

won the NFC East last season. The same
team that earned the top seed in the NFC
playoffs. The same team that sent 13 players to the Pro Bowl in 2007.
Unfortunately for the Cowboys, its
also the same team that was eliminated
from the playoffs by the eventual Super
Bowl-champion Giants, extending Dallas
streak of consecutive playoff losses to six,
stretching over the previous 11 years.
So, no matter that the Cowboys have
added veteran LB Zach Thomas, plus the
suspended CB Adam Jones and firstround picks Felix Jones and Mike Jenkins
this team will be judged solely on its
playoff success.
And sometimes the big picture can
become overwhelming, so this team in
Wade Phillips second season as head
coach must mind its business practice
to practice, game to game, play to play
and not get consumed with being Super
Bowl favorites in many circles.

QUARTERBACKS Nothing could be

finer than having Tony Romo back, and to
think he has started a whole 26 NFL regular-season games. Many want to talk
about his inability to win playoff games,
having lost his first two attempts, but there
have been many a successful NFL quarterback who has needed more starts than
that to just win a playoff game. Although
that seems to be a barometer these days
for quarterbacks, dont forget that Romo
set the teams single-season record for
passing yards (4,211) and passing touch-

downs (36) during his first full season as a

starter. Also, regardless of perception, the
Cowboys are quite happy with 17th-year
veteran Brad Johnson as the backup. He
knows how to manage a game without
needing much practice, which backups
rarely get. And chances are, they only will
carry a third quarterback if they can find
one with at least some NFL experience.
Grade: A-minus.

RUNNING BACKS A serious changing

of the guard has taken place here, but as a
group, this might be the best RB corps the
Cowboys have owned in quite some time.
Pro Bowler Marion Barber takes over as
the starter for the departed Julius Jones,
which was the plan all along and the reason the Cowboys allowed Jones to sign in
free agency with Seattle. But they were
able to replace Jones with another Jones,
Felix, who has a similar running style to
Julius, but back during his first two years
in the league when he appeared to be the
real deal. The Cowboys plan to use Felix
Jones all over the offensive formation
at running back, flanked out wide and sent
into the slot. And just in case either of
those guys gets hurt, they also drafted allpurpose back Tashard Choice. Plus, dont
forget second-year FB Deon Anderson, a
nice blocker who brings good hands to the
receiving game. Grade: B-plus.
RECEIVERS Much has been made of
the Cowboys needing another receiver
now that they know for sure this season
they will be without Terry Glenn, who
was released at the start of training camp.
But its the same receiving corps they had
all last season when Romo set those franchise passing records for a team scoring
28 points per game. The key is for Terrell
Owens, who set the club single-season
mark with 15 TD receptions in 07, to
stay healthy. If not, thats when they
would become vulnerable. Although
Patrick Crayton technically is the No. 2
receiver, the real No. 2 target is TE Jason
Witten, who set a club TE record with 96
receptions last season. Behind Crayton at

http://www.profootballweekly.com

33

loss to the Giants. Not the kickers, mind

you, since PK Nick Folk went to the Pro
Bowl and P Mat McBriar nearly went
again. Both are back and kicking well.
Were talking coverage here, and this
needs to be the teams most improved area
if the Cowboys are to take the next step.
The additions of so many defensive backs,
combined with their talented LB corps,
should facilitate the improvement. But the
units have struggled in coverage in two of
the first three preseason games. When it
comes to returns, with a possibly reinstated Adam Jones returning (at least punts),
the Cowboys will have a threat back there
they havent enjoyed since Deion
Sanders days. And Adam Jones might
have to return kickoffs, too, since the top
two guys theyve been working there in
preseason, Austin and Stanback, have suffered injuries. Grade: C-plus.

NEW YORK

GIANTS
By PAUL SCHWARTZ

Is there anything left for an encore?

After their surprising playoff surge,
unprecedented success on the road and
one upset after another, the Giants did the
unthinkable when they prevented the
unbeaten Patriots from a date with perfection, coming back to win Super Bowl
XLII in stunning fashion. As improbable
as that triumph was, finding a way to
recapture and repeat that magic is an even
more daunting task for the 2008 Giants.
There is the desired continuity for this
organization, with head coach Tom
Coughlin newly signed to a four-year contract, Eli Manning now entrenched as the
franchise quarterback and second-year
general manager Jerry Reese established
as an executive on the rise.
On offense, the Giants are virtually
intact; it is on defense where the changes
and issues reside. After 15 years with the
team, DE Michael Strahan forged a Hall
of Fame career, but his retirement opens
up a void in the leadership and on-field
production departments. Adding injury to
insult, Pro Bowl DE Osi Umenyiora suffered a torn MCL in the third preseason
game and will miss the season. And freeagent losses at linebacker and safety also
leave defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo looking for new parts to fill key
roles.
Other than the personnel issues, the
greatest challenge awaiting the Giants is
their ability to muster up the underdog
mentality and hunger that helped them
reach such great heights. That they again
are not even favored to win the NFC East
doesnt hurt as far as creating incentive, as
does the memory of a good but not great
07 regular season that hardly was dominating and leaves plenty of room for
improvement.

QUARTERBACKS If Eli Manning is

indeed the player who expertly guided the
Giants through the playoffs and to Super
Bowl glory, the franchise is in good
hands. Manning shrugged off a so-so regular season with spectacular play when it
mattered most, and his game-winning
touchdown drive in Super Bowl XLII was
an all-time classic. Accuracy and consis-

VISUAL IMAGE, INC.

wideout will be Sam Hurd and Miles

Austin, who will miss the first couple of
games with a sprained MCL. And dont
discount Isaiah Stanback, making
progress on his transition from college
quarterback to NFL receiver, although he,
too, suffered a preseason injury (shoulder). Grade: B-plus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Same as last season, with another year of experience. And
when same includes three Pro Bowlers
OLT Flozell Adams, C Andre Gurode
and ORG Leonard Davis thats a good
thing. This will be the first time in quite
some time the Cowboys will have stability on the O-line, starting the same five
guys OLG Kyle Kosier and ORT Marc
Colombo are the other two in the same
five positions. Their only worry would be
a long-term injury to one of their starters
because the projected fives immediate
backups have very little NFL playing
experience, although 07 fourth-round
pick Doug Free has shown significant
improvement at tackle. Grade: A-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN In all likelihood,
same as last season here, too, with Tank
Johnson the only probable exception.
Sure, Johnson played half the 07 season
once his suspension was lifted, but without training camp and an offseason he was
quite rusty. No longer. His game is picking up as he gains more experience playing the nose in the 3-4, and he has looked
so good that the Cowboys have experimented with last years converted NT Jay
Ratliff going back to left defensive end,
opposite DRE Chris Canty, and moving
Marcus Spears inside as a backup nose
tackle. This is a very versatile group, so
much so that the Cowboys use Ratliff and
Canty at defensive tackle as pass rushers
in their nickel when they play four down
linemen. Grade: B-plus.
LINEBACKERS This is the lifeblood of
the defense, which was ranked ninth overall last season. Of the 46 sacks, most since
totaling 47 in 1994, 2912 were provided by
their top three outside linebackers: Pro
Bowler DeMarcus Ware (14), Pro Bowler
Greg Ellis (1212) and last years first-round
pick, Anthony Spencer (three). Ware and
Ellis also put their hand on the ground as
defensive ends in that four-man nickel
line. None of this should change, with the
exception of the Cowboys trying to use
Spencer more, allowing Ellis, 33, to
remain fresh. And while Bradie James
returns inside, as Kevin Burnett will on the
nickel, Thomas, even at 35, appears to be
an upgrade at the weak-side ILB spot, with
his ability to run sideline to sideline and
drop in coverage. Grade: A-minus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS And now for possibly the most improved group on the team,
especially the corners, where injury and
inexperience took their toll last season.
Pro Bowl LCB Terence Newman should
return from his slight groin tear to start in
the opener, opposite RCB Anthony
Henry. But the projected addition of
Adam Jones, along with Jenkins and
fifth-round pick Orlando Scandrick, who
appears to be a player on special
teams, too will finally add the depth
the Cowboys need to play nickel and
dime defenses without as much worry.
Instead of former Cowboys Jacques
Reeves and Nate Jones coming in like last
season, they can choose from Adam
Jones, Jenkins and Scandrick, which is a
significant upgrade. And there appears to
be stability at safety with Ken Hamlin,
Roy Williams, Pat Watkins and possibly
Courtney Brown again. Grade: B-plus.
SPECIAL TEAMS This was the downfall
of the Cowboys, especially in the playoff

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NFC EAST

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

Monkey off his back: Eli Manning should be more confident following the Giants Super Bowl victory

tency have held Manning back, but he is

entering his physical prime and knows the
offense inside and out. He has been
remarkably healthy and hed better stay
that way. Backup David Carr, a former
No. 1 pick, is looking to resurrect a disappointing career. Grade: B-plus.
RUNNING BACKS Are three better than
one? That was the case last season, when
Brandon Jacobs (1,009 yards in only 11
games), Derrick Ward and Ahmad Bradshaw combined to provide yardage,
toughness and productivity. Jacobs (264
pounds) is an absolute brute and cannot be
brought down with one defender. Ward is
excellent catching passes out of the backfield and has enough strength and quickness to carry a full load. Bradshaw took
off late in the season as a rookie and has
great quickness and moves, plus surprising toughness. Grade: A-minus.
RECEIVERS Considering he was
banged up virtually all season, Plaxico
Burress was sensational, with a careerhigh 12 TD catches, a dominating performance in the NFC title game and the
game-winning TD catch in the Super
Bowl. He is so tall and his arms are so
long that his reach makes him difficult to
contain. Burress lingering ankle issues,
though, are troubling. After a dozen
years, Amani Toomer remains a classy

option and is adept at dragging his feet on

the sideline, although at this stage of his
career hes mostly a possession receiver.
Steve Smith made up for an injury-filled
rookie season with huge contributions in
the playoffs. The trading away of Jeremy
Shockey makes tight end less dynamic
but does not leave it devoid of pass-catching ability. Kevin Boss started down the
stretch last season after Shockey broke
his leg and showed he has naturally soft
hands. Boss is a huge target and runs precise routes but needs to become a better
blocker. The coaching staff believes he
can get downfield enough to stretch the
field. Otherwise, its primarily blocking
duties for Michael Matthews and Darcy
Johnson, two youngsters who do not figure prominently in the passing attack.
Grade: A-minus.

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Stability and continuity are the buzzwords here. All five
starters return and are signed to long-term
deals. There are no Pro Bowl players in
the group although the club firmly
believes ORG Chris Snee is at that level
and is a rising star. This is a sturdy, workmanlike and close-knit unit. OLT David
Diehl had some growing pains in his new
spot but always competes and is remarkably durable. OLG Rich Seubert brings a
(Continued on Page 34)

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feisty attitude, and C Shaun OHara and
ORT Kareem McKenzie bring smarts and
consistency. This group excels in the
power running game and usually is solid
in pass blocking, although Diehl does
struggle, at times, against speed rushers.
Grade: A-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN The retirement
of Strahan and Umenyioras injury dont
leave the cupboard bare, but they take
away two talented players and leaders.
Justin Tuck, who actually had more sacks
(10) than Strahan (nine) a year ago, now
has a lot on his shoulders. He likely will
fill Strahans DLE spot. At presstime, it
wasnt clear who would replace
Umenyiora (13 sacks), but the options
include starting SLB Mathias Kiwanuka,
who has played end before, plus backups
Renaldo Wynn and Dave Tollefson. On
the inside, DT Fred Robbins is an unheralded player who, despite his bulk, has a
surprisingly quick first step. He teams
with steady and reliable Barry Cofield to
form a solid twosome in the middle of the
line. Grade: B.
LINEBACKERS The man in the middle
of everything is MLB Antonio Pierce,
who is as sharp as they come in directing
the defense and is the inspirational leader.
The loss of Kiwanuka, a converted defensive end, at midseason to a broken leg
hurt his development. He was coming on
strong and with his huge wingspan and
pass-rush talent could emerge as a major
force, but he must continue to improve his
pass coverage. The weak side could be

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problematic, with Kawika Mitchell

departing for the Bills in free agency. Veteran addition Danny Clark and young but
unproven Gerris Wilkinson are the WLB
options, and it remains to be seen if either
can be considered a playmaker. If
Kiwanuka moves to end, rookie Bryan
Kehl could enter the picture as a major
contributor after a very strong camp.
Grade: B-minus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS The emergence of
CB Corey Webster late in the season and
on into the playoffs provided a huge
boost. If Webster finally has arrived, it
gives the backfield two young, athletic
corners, as Aaron Ross showed tremendous potential as a rookie. To offset the
loss in free agency of FS Gibril Wilson,
Kenny Phillips was drafted in the first
round and veteran SS Sammy Knight was
signed. Those two, plus James Butler and
second-year Michael Johnson, provide
excellent depth, as does second-round
pick Terrell Thomas, a skilled cornerback,
and nickel back Kevin Dockery. As the
talk of training camp, the rangy Phillips
appears to be ready for an immediate
impact. Grade: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS PK Lawrence Tynes
had an adventure-filled first season with
the Giants, culminating in his game-winning field goal in frigid Green Bay in the
NFC title game after two harrowing misses. And he likely will miss 2-3 regularseason games following knee surgery,
expected to be replaced temporarily by
Josh Huston. Jeff Feagles returns for a
21st season as one of the best directional

punters in the league. The kick-return

game was bolstered with the addition of
Domenik Hixon, who is a threat every
time he touches the ball. The same cannot
be said of R.W. McQuarters on punt
returns, as he is more of a ball-security
return man. Grade: B.

Rated rookie: Eagles WR-RS DeSean Jackson has looked terrific and is expected to play a big role

PHILADELPHIA

EAGLES

By DAVID WEINBERG

Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie always predicts his team will be in contention for a
Super Bowl berth.
Im very pumped for this season,
extremely, Lurie said. I have very high
expectations for this team. Im just very
excited about a lot of things.
This time, he might be right.
The Eagles lost some key players during the offseason OLB Takeo Spikes
and DE Jevon Kearse were released; FB
Thomas Tapeh and CB William James left
during free agency but believe they
have a better team than the one that finished in last place in the NFC East at 8-8
a year ago.
Free-agent CB Asante Samuel and
rookie WR-PR DeSean Jackson are
among the additions expected to help QB
Donovan McNabb and RB Brian Westbrook put the Eagles back on top.
We are very used to succeeding at a
significant level and it is disappointing
when we dont or cant, Lurie said. This
isnt about rebuilding, retooling or anything. This is about going for it. Thats our
approach. Its pedal to the metal.

VISUAL IMAGE, INC.

NFC EAST

34

QUARTERBACKS McNabb enjoyed an

outstanding training camp and appears to
be as strong, mobile and healthy as he was
when the Eagles reached the Super Bowl
in 2004. Spending the offseason getting
ready for the season and not rehabbing, as
he has had to do the past few offseasons,
should put him in a position to be great
again. When hes healthy, hes among the
best quarterbacks in the NFC. Kevin Kolb
has moved into the No. 2 spot ahead of
A.J. Feeley and could take McNabbs job
in a year or two. Grade: A.
RUNNING BACKS Westbrook is coming
off his best season and is happier now that
he has a new contract extension. His versatility makes him arguably the best running back in the NFC. Westbrook has
shown he can gain the tough yards inside,
as well as break big plays as an outside
runner and receiver. The Eagles plan to
use Westbrook in a lot of single-back sets,
but also in split backfields with former
Dolphins RB Lorenzo Booker, who could
be a contributor. His speed and receiving
ability should help Westbrook stay fresh
and dangerous. Correll Buckhalter provides a nice alternative to Westbrook as a
decent inside runner. Fullback needs some
sorting out, but its a position the team
uses only sparingly on offense. Grade: A.
RECEIVERS Kevin Curtis, the teams
leading receiver in 2007, had surgery to
repair a sports hernia in mid-August and
will miss part of the regular season. How
long hell be out is unclear, but what is
known is that others must step up. Reggie
Brown remains inconsistent. He had trou-

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

ble getting off the line at times, and traditionally has been a slow starter, but he can
be productive after the catch. Jackson
could become a factor in the offense,
adding a deep threat to a team that lacked
one previously. He has looked terrific in
the preseason and could be the rare Eagles
rookie receiver who is productive out of
the gate. Hank Baskett looks ready to
rebound from a subpar 07. He has
worked in the slot a fair amount and could
use his high-jumping ability to become
more of a red-zone threat. Jason Avant and
Greg Lewis provide depth. TE L.J. Smith
finally is healthy again after a nightmarish
07 season and is playing for a new contract after being franchised this offseason.
Reserve TE Brent Celek surprised as a
rookie last season with some intriguing
receiving skills. Grade: C.

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN ORG Shawn

Andrews is among the best blockers in the
NFL, a true road grader, but he missed all
of training camp while battling what he
and the team are calling depression. His
status remains uncertain, although he
should rejoin the starting lineup. OLG
Todd Herremans is coming off his best
preseason, maintaining his starting spot
after an up-and-down 07 season. Veteran
OTs Tra Thomas and Jon Runyan are
among the best tandems in the NFL, but
they are running against time. When
healthy, both are very tough and skilled
blockers, although Runyan can struggle a
little with speed rushers. C Jamaal Jackson struggled last season but has strength
in the run game. Winston Justice, Max
Jean-Gilles and Scott Young are reliable
backups. Grade: B-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN There is plenty of
depth but also some question marks. DTs
Brodrick Bunkley and Mike Patterson are
a solid pair, but top draft pick Trevor Laws
has to step up as the third tackle. Bunkley
could be on the verge of dominance. DRE
Trent Cole is a Pro Bowl-caliber pass
rusher, but he needs help from starting
DLE Juqua Parker (formerly Thomas),
plus reserves Darren Howard and Chris
Clemons. Clemons was a disappointment
during training camp, but the team
remains hopeful hell start playing more
freely and thinking less. DE Victor Abiamiri could help if he comes back from a
dislocated wrist, but his timetable is not
clear. Grade: B.
LINEBACKERS This is a fast, strong
group that lacks experience. Spikes was
released to make room for Stewart
Bradley, who will start in the middle
alongside WLB Omar Gaither and SLB
Chris Gocong. Bradley came on strong as
a rookie late last season, showing poise,
strength and athleticism. Gocong might
be unleashed more as a pass rusher after
giving the Eagles great play down the
stretch in 07. Gaither is quick and
instinctive. Rookies Joe Mays and Andy
Studebaker were productive in the preseason. Grade: C-plus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS This is the
strongest part of the defense. Samuel,
Sheldon Brown and Lito Sheppard comprise the best trio of cornerbacks in the
league, assuming Sheppard can be satisfied with his role as a nickel back.
Samuel missed much of the preseason
with a hamstring injury, but neither he
nor the coaches appear worried about not
being ready for the season. Brown is
tough, making up for what he lacks in
pure coverage skills. Sheppard is an
instinctive cover corner but must be
healthy to prove his worth. FS Brian
Dawkins has one or two years left, but he
still can make the big play. SS Quintin

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35

Mikell has staked his claim as the starter

next to Dawkins and has good instincts
and ball skills. Grade: A-minus.
SPECIAL TEAMS PK David Akers
made only 2-of-10 FG attempts from 40
yards and longer last season. He has to do
better or this could be his last season. P
Sav Rocca has to be more consistent.
Jackson should be an upgrade at punt
returner. Booker has struggled on kickoff
returns, so rookie Quintin Demps could
replace him. Grade: C-plus.

WASHINGTON

JEFF FISHBEIN

this summer than Washington, who is the

healthiest he has been in three years. It has
shown in his play. Injuries have prevented
him from returning to his 2004 Pro Bowl
form. MLB London Fletcher leads the
defense. His speed is a key, but he has to
guard against wearing down late in the
season. WLB Rocky McIntosh is coming
off knee surgery, making him the biggest
question mark of the group. Khary Campbell is the top backup, but hes more of a
special-teams ace. Grade: B.

REDSKINS
By JOHN KEIM

His name kept popping up in interviews, prompting the Redskins to look

differently at Jim Zorn. They nearly hired
Jim Fassel but were scared away by fan
reaction. They waited for Steve Spagnuolo, who wasnt the right fit. And thats
when Zorn, hired a few weeks earlier as
the Redskins offensive coordinator,
entered the picture.
The Redskins might have stumbled into
the right choice to replace Joe Gibbs.
Although he botched his opening press
conference (referring to the Redskins colors as maroon and black), he has come
across as a potential gem ever since. Hes
demanding and unafraid to criticize any
player on the roster, even those with supposed big names.
One veteran Redskins player said, I
liked Joe. (But) I really like Coach Zorn. I
want to play as well as I can for a lot of
reasons I want to win. But I want him
to succeed so hes here. I really like him
as a coach. I like his offense, I like the
way he deals with us. I like the way the
schedule is going.
Zorns honesty has been refreshing for
the players.
I had coaches that would try to manipulate, Zorn said. I would always say I
can handle it. If Im the lousiest guy
youve ever seen in your life, put me out
of my misery. Tell me. But dont tell me
Im great and then behind the scenes say
you cant wait to get me out of here.
The question becomes: How quickly
can Zorn become a good head coach?
Hes in a rugged division that has proven
coaches and quarterbacks, neither of
which the Redskins have. By seasons
end? Perhaps. But to open the season? No.
If all breaks right, they could become a
contender. A quick start is a must with
three divisional road games among their
first five. They must do so while learning
the West Coast offense.
Outside of Zorn and his offense, the
Redskins wont be much different. There
wont be any starters who werent already
on the roster last season.

QUARTERBACKS Jason Campbell is

learning his seventh offense in the past
eight years, dating back to his freshman
season at Auburn. And its the third system he has learned in four NFL seasons.
Campbells best success came in the West
Coast offense his senior year at Auburn. In
training camp, Campbell looked comfortable running this attack, but he must
improve his accuracy and consistency. His
athleticism and strong arm excite the Red-

Steady as he goes: Jason Taylor should give the Redskins a better pass rush even at age 34

skins. Todd Collins engineered the playoff

run last season, but he is the clear backup.
Colt Brennan already has a following, but
he has a lot to learn. Grade: C-plus.
RUNNING BACKS Clinton Portis cant
wait for the season to start after four years
of serving as more of a downhill runner in
Joe Gibbs offense. Now, he hopes hell
have more holes to pick as the Redskins
use more three-receiver sets. They need
him to be more explosive; in the past two
seasons, he has only a combined six runs
of 20 yards or more. Ladell Betts is an
excellent backup, especially on third
downs, but he has done better as a starter.
Rock Cartwright adds veteran depth. FB
Mike Sellers is a crushing blocker, especially on lead plays. Grade: B-plus.
RECEIVERS If Santana Moss is healthy
a big if lately then nobody will benefit more from Zorns arrival. He has
returned to the X position, where he had
his two best seasons, as the Redskins want
to use him vertically. Antwaan Randle El
has developed into a pint-sized possession
receiver. Washington drafted two receivers
(Devin Thomas, Malcolm Kelly) in the
second round, yet veteran James Thrash
will open as the No. 3 guy. Kelly and
Thomas battled injuries in camp; Kelly
looked much better than Thomas before
hurting his knee. Their impact, at least
early, will be minimal. TE Chris Cooley is
a Pro Bowl talent who should flourish in
this system. The offense provides him the
freedom of finding soft spots against zone
coverage, which is his specialty. The Redskins drafted TE Fred Davis in the second
round as his backup. Todd Yoder is a quality blocker. Grade: B-minus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN This is either a
solid veteran line or an aging one with
questions. Every starter is at least 30 years
old; some have injury issues. ORT Jon
Jansen and ORG Randy Thomas return
from season-long injuries and must work
out the rust. C Casey Rabach anchors the
line along with perennial Pro Bowl OLT
Chris Samuels. OLG Pete Kendall has
been consistent and almost never misses
time despite creaky knees. Rookie Chad
Rinehart provides the youthful depth they
need; hes better-suited for left guard. OG
Jason Fabini is a decent backup. Stephon
Heyer was fine as a rookie fill-in at tackle, but he doesnt look like a future starter.
Depth remains an issue. Grade: B.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN When Phillip
Daniels was hurt during the first practice,
the Redskins wasted no time finding his

replacement: Jason Taylor. Hell provide

the Redskins with the high-level rusher
they need. (His status for Week One,
though, is in doubt after he suffered a
sprained knee in the Redskins fourth preseason game.) He switched to left end with
Andre Carter at right end, although they
will flip sides now and then. DT Cornelius
Griffin remains solid and stout vs. the run,
but he needs to make more plays. There
are question marks at the DT positions,
where Kedric Golston and Anthony Montgomery rotate. Golston doesnt make
plays; Montgomery is more talented but
inconsistent. Outside of DE Demetric
Evans, depth is an issue. Grade: B-minus.
LINEBACKERS The best sight for the
Redskins this season: Marcus Washingtons smile. Nobody is having more fun

DEFENSIVE BACKS This is the most talented unit on the roster, with three former
first-round picks among the top five players. But there are injury concerns. CB
Shawn Springs, capable of playing safety
in a pinch, remains a good corner. FS
LaRon Landry missed much of camp with
a hamstring injury. When healthy, hes a
budding Pro Bowler thanks to speed and
crunching hits much like the late Sean
Taylor. CB Carlos Rogers has returned earlier than expected from two torn knee ligaments. He still hasnt lived up to being the
No. 9 pick in the 2005 draft, however. CB
Fred Smoot is a capable starter, giving the
Redskins three quality corners. SS Reed
Doughty is steady. The Redskins have
potential for good young depth with CB
Leigh Torrence and young safeties Kareem
Moore and Chris Horton. Grade: B-plus.
SPECIAL TEAMS The biggest competition on the team involved the punters,
with rookie draft pick Durant Brooks trying to unseat inconsistent veteran Derrick
Frost. PK Shaun Suisham is fine (29-for35 on FG attempts in 07), and his kickoffs have been deeper this summer. Rock
Cartwright has turned himself into a quality returner and special-teams leader.
Randle El has not done much as a punt
returner in Washington. LS Ethan
Albright made the Pro Bowl last season.
The coverage units were excellent in 07.
Grade: B-minus.

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

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36

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PFW PREDICTIONS

1 MINNESOTA VIKINGS
2 GREEN BAY PACKERS
3 CHICAGO BEARS
4 GREEN BAY PACKERS
WRITERS PREDICTIONS
RICK ALONZO

NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA

BOB LeGERE

BOB MCGINN

St. Paul (Minn.) Pioneer Press

Detroit Free Press

Daily Herald (Ill.)

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

1. MINNESOTA Too much talent makes

up for questions at QB.
2. GREEN BAY Packers wont duplicate
2007 magic without Favre.
3. CHICAGO Super Bowl run seems so
long ago.
4. DETROIT Lackluster offseason keeps
Lions at the bottom.

1. MINNESOTA Strong running game,

good defense, but QB is a question mark.
2. DETROIT Rod Marinelli finally has his
kind of team lean, tough and fast.
3. GREEN BAY Can Aaron Rodgers handle the pressure of succeeding Brett Favre?
4. CHICAGO Yet another season of quarterback issues and solid defense.

1. MINNESOTA Strong enough everywhere else to overcome mediocre QB play.

2. GREEN BAY A young team on the rise
as long as Rodgers doesnt wilt under the
scrutiny.
3. CHICAGO Excellent defense and special teams will have to carry a weak offense.
4. DETROIT Defense will miss Shaun
Rogers; run game and O-line are suspect.

1. MINNESOTA Not a division champion

since 2000. Peterson tips the scales.
2. GREEN BAY Thompson-McCarthyMurphy made their bed at QB. Now its time
for accountability.
3. DETROIT Law of averages suggests a
winning season for Millen.
4. CHICAGO Looks like one of the Bears
worst offenses ever, which is saying a lot.

Sophomore surge: Adrian Peterson looks to pick up where he left off

MINNESOTA

VIKINGS
By RICK ALONZO

SPORTPICS

The Vikings are built to win now,

thanks to a big offseason.
Owner Zygi Wilf put his mark on the
franchise for his third season by opening
his wallet and acquiring free agents, highlighted by WR Bernard Berrian and S
Madieu Williams. But the biggest move
was the trade that landed DE Jared Allen,
the NFLs sack leader in 2007.
Those key additions should make up for
the uncertainties regarding QB Tarvaris
Jackson, whose progress or lack thereof and durability remain the biggest
question marks for the Vikings this season. If Jackson can play efficient football
and minimize his turnovers, while staying
healthy, the Vikings should be contenders
to win the NFC North and advance in the
playoffs.
There are more than enough options on
the team to overcome Jacksons inexperience. Hes entering only his second season as the full-time starter after posting an
8-4 record in 07. With Pro Bowl RB
Adrian Peterson and backup Chester Taylor in the backfield, plus a defensive line
that might be the best in franchise history,
the Vikings appear to have all the pieces in
place for a successful run.

QUARTERBACKS Jackson suffered a

sprained right knee in the second exhibition game at Baltimore but should be
ready to play in the season opener Sept. 8
at Green Bay. He missed four games last
season, so the Vikings need him on the
field. His goal is to keep defenses honest
because opponents will be focused on

stopping the running game. He had a

strong offseason in which he demonstrated that hes no longer searching for
answers when it comes to running the
offense at least thats what the Vikings
hope. He showed in training camp that
hes able to make his reads and go through
his progressions with much more confidence. He had his share of interceptions in
camp, but the Vikings insist thats because
they were asking him to be aggressive.
Jackson threw more interceptions (12)
than touchdowns (nine) last season, so
any sign of progress is encouraging. There
arent many young quarterbacks who
excel running the West Coast offense.
Backup Gus Frerotte might be pressed
into action if Jackson cant stay healthy.
Frerotte, 37, has played for seven different
teams, and he knows whats expected of
him. Brooks Bollinger didnt do himself
any favors when he filled in for the injured
Jackson as the Vikings lost 34-0 at Green
Bay last November. That was likely
Bollingers last appearance in a regularseason game for the Vikings; he appears
to be the odd man out. Rookie John David
Booty is a developmental project for head
coach Brad Childress. Booty, who must
prove he can play in the NFL despite a
lack of arm strength, can mature and
improve the next couple of seasons without the pressure of having to contribute.
Grade: C-plus.
RUNNING BACKS Peterson and Taylor
are the best duo in the league. Peterson is
coming off a record-breaking season in
which he set the NFLs single-game rushing mark (296 yards against San Diego)
and burst into the national spotlight. He
led the NFC with 1,341 yards rushing, the
second-highest total in Vikings history,
despite missing two games with a knee
injury. Petersons downturn after he
returned from the injury he gained 2.7
yards per carry in his final four games
showed that he will have to make adjustments this season. He worked on being
more patient in training camp instead of
trying to hit a home run on every play,

the rotation, able to play either side. The

Vikings need Allen to be a menace for
opposing quarterbacks. The pass defense
ranked last in the NFL last season in part
because quarterbacks had too much time
to throw. Minnesota had the No. 1-ranked
run defense because of the so-called
Williams Wall. Grade: A-minus.
LINEBACKERS The Vikings had seven
Pro Bowlers last season, but MLB E.J.
Henderson wasnt one of them. That
doesnt reflect on his value, however, as
teammates voted him the teams Defensive MVP last season. He led the Vikes in
tackles and also was a key player in the
stout run defense. Ben Leber and Chad
Greenway will start on the outside as the
LB unit hopes to gain more chemistry this
season. Leber started 10 games last season
and Greenway all 16, but Greenways
absence in 06 because of a knee injury
means this group is fairly inexperienced in
terms of playing together. Veteran Derrick
Pope will be a key backup, especially following the loss of Heath Farwell to a season-ending knee injury. Veteran Vinny
Ciurciu also will vie for an opportunity to
contribute. Grade: B.
DEFENSIVE BACKS The loss of FS
Madieu Williams (nerve injury in his
neck) for what could be the first three or
four regular-season games is a big blow to
a team that needed help with its pass
defense. Williams was signed to a sixyear, $33 million deal because of his coverage skills. Second-round pick Tyrell
Johnson will start in place of Williams at
free safety. Johnson is expected to be the
long-term replacement for SS Darren
Sharper, whos in the final year of his contract. But now Johnson will get more
experience than expected right away. Hes
regarded as a solid all-around player and a
good tackler. CB Antoine Winfield
remains one of the best two-way players
in the NFL, able to support the run with
big hits and cover on the outside. Opposite Winfield, Cedric Griffin again should
be a target for opposing quarterbacks until
he proves he can be more dependable.
Grade: C-plus.
SPECIAL TEAMS Losing your best

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37

player in any unit is never good. Farwell

tore a knee ligament in the first exhibition
game against Seattle, creating a void that
will be tough to fill. His combination of
instincts, hustle and a nose for the football
made him one of the best special-teams
players in the NFL. He had 32 specialteams tackles last season, third-highest in
franchise history. PK Ryan Longwell
remains almost automatic from less than
45 yards. He hasnt missed from that
range since joining the Vikings in 06.
Chris Kluwe had a team record with 29
punts of 50 yards or longer last season.
Maurice Hicks was signed to be the primary kickoff returner, although others,
including Allison, could see some time
there. During the preseason, the Vikings
have tried various options to be the punt
returner, including rookie Jaymar Johnson, after having relied on Wade last season. Grade: B.

Bowl.
But then, as a 712-point favorite against
the Giants in the NFC championship
game, the Packers were ambushed in
overtime, 23-20. Favre played pathetically in the final five possessions. The Packers became convinced Favre couldnt lead
them back to the Super Bowl and doubted
his commitment to the team.
Now its Aaron Rodgers turn. As he
tries to replace a legend, no player in the
NFL will be under more pressure or
scrutiny.

GREEN BAY

PACKERS
By BOB McGINN

By saying goodbye to Brett Favre, did

the Packers also say goodbye to what
looked like a chance to win the Super
Bowl?
That was the upshot of the Packers
decision to trade one of their all-time
great players on Aug. 6 to the Jets for a
conditional fourth-round draft choice.
From GM Ted Thompson on down, the
Packers moved on shortly after Favre
offered his retirement in early March and
even when he wanted to return in July.
The Packers are coming off a season in
which they exceeded every expectation.
Favre had one of his finest seasons and
was named the NFC starter in the Pro

New era: Aaron Rodgers shoulders a heavy burden as he takes the helm at quarterback in Green Bay

QUARTERBACKS Rodgers was up and

down throughout camp, befitting his limited experience and average ability. In his
first three seasons, Rodgers took just 121
snaps. Aaron has as much talent as anyone, QB coach Tom Clements maintained. He was a No. 1 draft choice for a
reason. He has a great arm. Hes accurate.
He has a lot of experience in this offense.
Plus, he has the added dimension of
scrambling around. Obviously, there are
going to be some growing pains along the
way. Rodgers, who scored an impressive
35 on the Wonderlic intelligence test, has a
keen grasp of the offense but still needs to
show it. In previous exhibition campaigns,
Rodgers bolted the pocket prematurely.
This summer, he held the ball too long.
Rookies Brian Brohm (second round) and
Matt Flynn (seventh round) were competing neck-and-neck for the No. 2 job.
Brohm doesnt show the ability to drive
the ball into a secondary. Hes more of a
hunt-and-peck passer who is poised and an
OK athlete. Flynn has shown better arm
strength than advertised. Outwardly, hes a
more emotional player than Brohm and a
much better runner. Grade: C-minus.
RUNNING BACKS Ryan Grant was one
of the better backs in the league late last
season. However, the Packers failed to get
Grant signed to a new deal until a week of
camp had elapsed, and then almost predictably, he pulled a hamstring and missed
more time. Grant is a 226-pounder with
4.43 speed and superb cut-back vision.
Hes also smart (29 on the Wonderlic),
broad-shouldered and a tremendous worker in the weight room. He has everything
you look for in a runner, RB coach Edgar
Bennett said. Hes physical. Hes a quick
hitter. He doesnt waste steps. Hes shown
time and time again that he can take it to
the house. Grant, an undrafted free agent
signed by the Giants in 2005, isnt without
flaws. His hands and routes must be better, his blitz pickup is only adequate, his
run reads arent great and he must be more
secure with the ball. Second-year man
Brandon Jackson got most of the reps in
camp and seemed improved. At 220, hes
eight pounds heavier than during his dreary rookie season. Hes more confident,
too, and is playing faster. But Jackson still
isnt reliable in blitz pickup. The area of
blitz pickup is where Vernand Morency
has an edge on Noah Herron and
DeShawn Wynn. FB Korey Hall, adequate
in all areas, returns as the starter. Grade:
B-minus.
RECEIVERS Rodgers should benefit
from a WR group that the Packers praise
as being among the best in the business.
WR coach Jimmy Robinson, who has
been coaching wide receivers in the NFL
since 1990, says its the deepest depth
chart he has had. In order, it shows Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, James Jones,
Jordy Nelson and Ruvell Martin. Driver
gets better with age, at least judged by his
sensational play the past two seasons. He
has cut way back on his drops and is even
better after the catch. Jennings, with a
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NFC NORTH

something that turned a few short gains

into negative yardage last season. Taylor
began last season as the No. 1 back but
now clearly is playing in a supportive role.
Taylor remains a strong option, especially
with his pass-protection skills and receiving abilities. FB Thomas Tapeh was
signed to replace Tony Richardson. Tapeh
isnt as strong a blocker as Richardson but
is no slouch, either. Grade: A-plus.
RECEIVERS For a change, the Vikings
appear to have some depth at receiver,
thanks to the addition of Berrian and the
emergence of young players. Berrian
gives the team the true downfield threat it
has lacked. Thats why he was given a
six-year, $42 million deal to leave the
NFC North-rival Bears. Berrian and Jackson worked together on their timing and
chemistry in the offseason, including a
stint in Orlando at a performanceenhancement camp. Thats a good thing,
because injuries limited their practice
time together in the preseason. Berrians
addition allows Bobby Wade, the
Vikings leading receiver in 07 with 54
catches, to move into the slot, where he is
most comfortable. Sidney Rice will start
opposite Berrian. In his second year, this
is expected to be a breakout season for the
6-4, 202-pound Rice, who caught four
TD passes as a rookie. Second-year WR
Aundrae Allison made plenty of big plays
in training camp and plays with a chip on
his shoulder. Allison might edge out veteran Robert Ferguson, a solid downfield
blocker, for a bigger role on the team. TE
Visanthe Shiancoe is still trying to live up
to the big contract he signed in 07. After
a disappointing season in which he
dropped three would-be TD passes, Shiancoe had an impressive offseason and
training camp catching the football. He
lost some weight and looked a bit faster.
Veteran Jim Kleinsasser remains one of
the best blocking tight ends in the league.
Grade: B.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN This is one of the
best O-lines in the NFL. Pro Bowlers C
Matt Birk and OG Steve Hutchinson
anchor the unit, along with OLT Bryant
McKinnie. If there are weak links, it might
be ORT Ryan Cook and the overall depth.
Depth is an important issue because the
NFL had not announced as of this writing
whether McKinnie would be suspended
following his offseason arrest in Miami. If
McKinnie gets suspended, expect veteran
backup Artis Hicks, a former starter at
right guard, to replace him in the starting
lineup. Birk is in the final season of his
contract, and its uncertain whether he will
finish his career as a Viking. The Vikes
believe they have found a possible replacement in rookie C John Sullivan, a sixthround pick who has impressed the staff
with his strength, line calls and understanding of the game. With a strong offensive line, combined with Petersons talent,
its no wonder the Vikings are expected to
dominate on the ground again this season.
Grade: A-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Theres no doubt
that much of the strength of the Vikings
this season starts in the trenches. Ex-Chief
Allen gives the team the pass rusher it desperately needed to complement Pro Bowl
DTs Pat Williams and Kevin Williams.
Allens high energy and variety of moves
earned him 1512 sacks last season with
Kansas City, and he said his goal is to lead
the league again after signing a six-year,
$72 million contract. The depth took a hit
after losing a couple of reserves, DE
Jayme Mitchell and DT Kenderick Allen,
to season-ending injuries. Ray Edwards
will start at left end opposite Allen, and
Brian Robison should be the third end in

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SPORTPICS

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

NFC NORTH

(Continued from Page 37)

stunning 14 TD catches in 15 games
(counting playoffs) in 07, doesnt have
the classic size to be a split end and lacks
blazing timed speed. However, he has a
knack for making big plays and getting
deep. Jones is coming off a strong rookie
season and looked better in camp. Hes
built powerfully and catches everything
away from his body. Nelson, a secondround pick, isnt a blazer and has struggled, at times, escaping the jam. He figures more as a big-body possession
receiver. During their time together on the
scout team, Rodgers came to count on
Martin. Hes 6-foot-4, improves every
year and blocks better than any other
wideout. The Packers are happy with TE
Donald Lee. He runs well and isnt a bad
blocker. His backup looks like rookie Jermichael Finley, a third-round pick who
had a very ordinary camp. Grade: B-plus.

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The Packers have

been without OLG Mike Wahle and ORG
Marco Rivera since March 2005 but still
cant find suitable replacements. Midway
through camp, the plan was to start Jason
Spitz on the left side and rookie Josh Sitton on the right. But Spitz had a terrible
game in San Francisco, creating openings
for incumbent OLG Daryn Colledge and
second-year OLG Allen Barbre. Spitz
clearly was their best guard in 07.
Although not gifted, Spitz was described
by one scout this way: He looks as ugly
body-wise as you can find. But hes just
one of those effective-type players.
Colledge, who started 30 games at guard
over the past two seasons, is a fairly
dependable pass blocker but offers next to
nothing straight ahead in the run game.
Sitton, the last player taken in the fourth
round, has been compared to a young
Mark Tauscher in terms of height, weight
and grittiness. Sitton is more of a mauler,
at least for this zone blocking unit. Barbre
is the most explosive of the group and an
exceptional athlete, but hes still green and
is prone to mistakes. Tauscher and OLT
Chad Clifton, starters since 2000, enjoyed
prosperous camps. Tauscher doesnt
smash people as a drive blocker but seldom misses, and hes an excellent pass
blocker because of his ability to recover.
Clifton has prototypical size and what the
Packers believe is the best set in the game.
Hes at a Pro Bowl level in protection but
never has and probably never will be a finisher in the run game. C Scott Wells is
admired more by the Packers than opposing personnel men. Pound for pound, he is
the strongest member of the group. Hes
also committed, bright, quick and eager
for any challenge. But hes short and
short-armed. Grade: C-plus.

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN The Packers

decided not to pay big bucks to DT Corey
Williams before the start of free agency
and shipped him to Cleveland for the second-round pick that became Brohm.
Thompson believed that Justin Harrell, a
first-round pick in 07, was ready to blossom. Instead, Harrell took the winter off,
reported out of shape in March and
promptly blew out his back lifting
weights. He had lumbar disc surgery April
11, and its uncertain if the Packers will
get anything out of him this year. DLT
Ryan Pickett also showed up somewhat
out of shape and with a pulled hamstring,
but he should be his usual formidable self
at the point. DRT Johnny Jolly is an
aggressive run stopper with better range
than Pickett and a habit for batting down
passes. Jolly is susceptible to an NFL disciplinary suspension for his arrest on a
drug-possession charge. Steady Colin

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Cole enters the season as the No. 3 tackle,

but depth is a problem inside. DLE Aaron
Kampman has put together two great seasons and is in his prime. DRE Cullen
Jenkins plays left tackle on passing downs
and is the clubs best inside rusher, but
there has been nothing dynamic about his
game in the past 12 months. Aging Kabeer
Gbaja-Biamila was having one of his best
seasons until an ankle injury in midNovember but hasnt been the same since.
Hes coming off arthroscopic knee
surgery May 28 and didnt do much in
camp. Backup DEs Michael Montgomery
and Jason Hunter made strides this summer. One or both could figure inside on
passing downs. Grade: B-minus.

LINEBACKERS The starters return intact

for a third season, and the backup situation
is the best that it has been this decade.
MLB Nick Barnett is coming off his finest
season and is nearing a Pro Bowl level.
Despite his size, he attacks the line of
scrimmage with abandon and is a sure
tackler. He still needs to tighten his coverage, especially against screens. On the
weak side, A.J. Hawk improved against the
pass in his second season but made little
impact against the run. Hawk is durable,
alert, athletic and rugged. However, he
almost never makes a blow-up hit and gets
bounced consistently at the point of attack.
Brady Poppinga trimmed down his body
fat in the offseason, was moving better and
remained ahead of ex-Ram Brandon
Chillar on the strong side. Bradys
strengths are his attitude, enthusiasm, and
at the point, he plays the run great, LB
coach Winston Moss said. Chillar is a more
fluid athlete than Poppinga who played 78
percent of the snaps for St. Louis in 07.
Look for Chillar to enter the lineup in 2-4
and 3-3 packages and rush the passer recklessly. Desmond Bishop and Abdul Hodge
were waging a grand battle for the No. 2
MLB job. Grade: B.
DEFENSIVE BACKS The Packers are
keeping their fingers crossed that they can
get one more season from LCB Charles
Woodson and RCB Al Harris. Personally, I think theyre the key to us having a
good season defensively, CB coach
Lionel Washington said. Woodson played
much better than Harris in 07, but, given
the vagaries of a vote that includes fans,
Harris went to the Pro Bowl and Woodson
didnt. Woodson is faster, much more
physical and a far better ballhawk. Harris
will take on any wideout in the bump
zone, and at times he will dominate. In
other games, he gives up too many big
plays. He cant play off and in some
games isnt interested in tackling. The
nickel back is Tramon Williams, who
moved ahead of Jarrett Bush late last season and protected his turf this summer. He
can run, plays aggressively and wont
back down. Rookie Pat Lee, a secondround choice, had a slow start and might
not contribute much as a rookie. Will
Blackmon is blessed with physical ability
but doesnt always see the ball. SS Atari
Bigby won a job in 07 and, after a rocky
start, finished the season as a better player than FS Nick Collins. Bigby is a beast
against the run but doesnt have great
length or speed to cover downfield.
Collins is faster and has better range but
also makes too many mistakes and has
bad hands. Aaron Rouse makes more
plays on the ball than Bigby or Collins,
but the Packers are reluctant to promote
him until he breaks down more efficiently
as an open-field tackler. Grade: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS Mason Crosby followed up his fine rookie season with a
good offseason and is on his way toward

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

becoming a top kicker. Canadian Jon

Ryans net of 37.6 yards in his second season was the best by a Packer punter since
Donny Anderson averaged 38.5 in 1969.
Despite his size, Ryan has a booming leg;
now he must be more consistent. The
Packers kicked LS Rob Davis upstairs
after 1012 seasons and handed the job to
undrafted rookie J.J. Jansen of Notre
Dame. Dual return men Tramon Williams
and Blackmon were described by specialteams coordinator Mike Stock as twin
touchdown makers. Grade: B-minus.

CHICAGO

BEARS
By BOB LeGERE

Four 2007 starters arent back this season with the Bears, but WR Bernard
Berrian is the only one they figure to miss,
and they werent prepared to offer him
anywhere near the $42 million (over six
years) that he got from the Vikings.
They will not miss locker-room lawyer
and self-promoter Muhsin Muhammad,
who caught just 40 passes while throwing
teammates under the bus on a regular
basis. Entering his 13th NFL season, his
skills and speed have diminished but not
his ego. OT Fred Miller was released, and
OG Ruben Brown was not offered a new
contract. Both are well past their primes,
although it remains to be seen if the Bears
will be any better with younger players.
Veteran WRs Marty Booker and Brandon Lloyd were brought in to fill the void
left by Berrian and Muhammad, but
Booker is past his prime, and Lloyd has
been a career underachiever.

QUARTERBACKS The Bears have

decided to open the season with Kyle
Orton under center instead of former firstround draft pick Rex Grossman. Grossman might have a greater ability to produce big numbers, but he also has shown

MIKE PROEBSTING / PROCASE

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

38

Top target: The Bears hope Devin Hester can

bring some explosion to their receiving corps

a greater propensity for self-destructing.

Orton might be the safer bet and more
capable of managing the offense while
avoiding mistakes. The Bears have won
big with both. Orton got them to the postseason as a rookie in 2005, and Grossman
was the triggerman during the run to
Super Bowl XLI. But the argument can be
made that in both cases, the quarterback
wasnt driving the team but merely came
along for the ride. Its possible that neither
is the long-term answer, and with a
mediocre offensive line and receiving
corps, either one is likely to struggle this
season. Undrafted rookie Caleb Hanie
made a good impression in camp, but the
team might prefer a veteran presence as
insurance at the No. 3 spot. Grade: D.
RUNNING BACKS Rookie Matt Fort
appears to be a huge upgrade over firstround bust Cedric Benson, whose combination of poor production and off-field
problems led to his offseason release.
Thats not exactly high praise for the second-round pick from Tulane, but he
already has shown to be a better receiver
and blocker than Benson. The problem is,
hell be running behind another subpar
offensive line. Kevin Jones was snagged
after he was cut by the Lions, and
although he missed most of training
camp rehabbing his surgical knee, he
could be close to full speed by the regular-season opener. Jones physical style is
an effective complement to Fort. Journeyman Adrian Peterson is a valuable
backup and third-down option, and 5foot-7 Garrett Wolfe likely has demonstrated enough big-play ability to carve
out a specialty niche. Grade: C-minus.
RECEIVERS The knock on this group is
that it lacks a legitimate No. 1. Booker
was one in the past, and the Bears believe
Devin Hester can be one in the future, but
hes still a work in progress. Lloyd has
impressed throughout the offseason and
preseason, but he has to prove he can do it
when it counts and be a team guy, neither
of which hes accomplished in five previous seasons. Rashied Davis lacks size and
isnt quite a speed guy, but hes tough and
consistent and will be in the mix somewhere. The bottom line is, this almost certainly will be a committee effort with no
one player putting up impressive numbers. Tight end is in much better shape
with 10-year veteran Desmond Clark,
who keeps on getting it done, and Greg
Olsen, last years first-round pick who has
flashed exceptional talent as a pass catcher, even if hes deficient as a blocker.
Rookie Kellen Davis looks like a fifthround steal. At 6-foot-7, 262 pounds, with
4.65 speed, he could be special. Grade: C.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN This could be a
disaster. First-round pick Chris Williams
was supposed to grab the OLT spot and
hold on to it for 10 years or so, but he suffered a herniated disc in his back on the
second day of camp, underwent surgery
and doesnt figure to be a factor until midseason, if at all. That leaves veteran backup John St. Clair at left tackle, unless 33year-old John Tait moves back there from
right tackle, where he was moved after
Williams had been drafted. Left guard is
another accident waiting to happen.
Perennial disappointment Terrence Metcalf started camp there but suffered a knee
injury in camp that required arthroscopic
surgery, giving last years fourth-round
pick, Josh Beekman, a chance to win the
job. But Beekman played in just one game
last season and seems to lack size. Center
is a strength with six-time Pro Bowler
Olin Kreutz, and ORG Roberto Garza is
solid, but that might not be enough. None
of the current backups provides any cause

DETROIT

LIONS

By NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA

The 2007 season was full of wild swings

for the Lions. They started 6-2 but finished
1-7. They won seven games and played the
Giants and Cowboys close, but they also
lost four games by more than 30 points.
Not good for a team coached by Rod

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39

Marinelli, who preaches consistency.

The Lions are taking a more balanced,
old-school approach in 2008. They fired
high-flying offensive coordinator Mike
Martz and replaced him with Jim Colletto.
They want to establish the run to open up
the field for WRs Calvin Johnson and Roy
Williams but also to control the clock and
keep the defense on the sideline.
The defense was on the field far too
much in 07 and finished last in the NFL.
The Lions have overhauled their secondary by bringing in veterans to fit the
Tampa-2 defense and young players with
speed.
Can they snap their streak of seven
straight losing seasons?

QUARTERBACKS Jon Kitna loved

Martz and his system. Martz made Kitna
the first Lions quarterback to post backto-back 4,000-yard seasons. But Kitna
also took a beating with 114 sacks in
Martzs two seasons as coordinator, and
the changes the Lions have made should
suit him. No longer will Kitna take sevenstep drops so often and wait for deep
routes to develop. The Lions plan to combat the pass rush with quicker throws,
rollouts, bootlegs and the threat of the run.
In Martzs system, there were no audibles
all adjustments were built into the
plays. Now Kitna will have control at the
line of scrimmage. If he sees single coverage on Johnson, he can change the play
and attack it. Backups Dan Orlovsky and
Drew Stanton are inexperienced.
Orlovsky is a drop-back passer. Stanton
has the ability to make plays with his legs
as well as his arm. Grade: B.
RUNNING BACKS Rookie Kevin Smith
could make an impact right away. He fits
the Lions zone running scheme well with
good vision and cutting ability. He was
very productive in the same scheme at
Central Florida. Tatum Bell returned after
spending most of last season on the bench.
He was productive in a zone scheme in
Denver. Aveion Cason could hold on to
the third spot because of his return ability.
Colletto wants four-yard runs with ugly
piles. The theory is that those will turn
into longer, prettier runs as the game goes
along and the opposing defense wears
down. Grade: B-minus.
RECEIVERS Johnson looks ready for a
breakout season. A back injury bothered
him most of his rookie season, but it has
healed and now he seems unstoppable. He
can outleap, outrun and outmuscle defensive backs. Few, if any, corners can match
up with Johnson. If teams try single coverage, Johnson will burn them. If they try
double coverage, he might burn them anyway, or at least open things up for Roy
Williams, who should be motivated in a
contract year. The Lions still have smaller
slot WRs Shaun McDonald and Mike Furrey, favorites of Martz. They almost certainly wont catch as many passes as they
had the past two seasons, but they still
give the Lions another dimension and
make the WR position group the Lions
strongest. TE Dan Campbell has come
back with a cadavers Achilles tendon in
his elbow. If he can stay healthy, he gives
the Lions a strong run blocker who catches the ball well. Michael Gaines signed as
a free agent and wants to show he can be
an all-around tight end, but his strength is
run blocking. Casey FitzSimmons is more
of a pass catcher who is glad he no longer
is playing fullback, as he did under Martz.
Grade: A-minus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Everything could
hinge on this group. If they can get the
running game going, the Lions should be
in good shape. If not, it could be another

Set for takeoff: Calvin Johnson could break out

long season. Martz put a lot of stress on

the offensive linemen, rarely running the
ball and asking them to hold up in pass
protection for a long time, and they didnt
look good. They should perform better
under Colletto just because of the commitment to the run and the movement of
the pocket. OLT Jeff Backus and C
Dominic Raiola are the mainstays.
Backus has started 112 straight games,
and Raiola has started the past 96. OLG
Edwin Mulitalo played in this scheme in
Baltimore when Colletto was the Ravens
OL coach and they were a top rushing
team. ORG Stephen Peterman is tough
and competitive but needs to perform at a
high level more consistently. First-round
pick Gosder Cherilus is expected to take
over at right tackle, but he needs to beat
out George Foster first. Foster struggled
badly last season, but he played this
scheme in Denver and is more comfortable in it. Grade: C-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN The Lions traded
NT Shaun Rogers in the offseason. They
lost their most talented player in the
process but also got rid of a player who
was overweight and often underachieved.
Rogers was 360 pounds (or more). No
Lions D-lineman weighs more than 300
pounds now. This is a lean, quick unit
suited for the Tampa-2 defense. Blue-collar vet Jared DeVries is the left end. UT
Cory Redding is the emotional leader, but
he needs to be more productive after a
one-sack season. Veteran Chuck Darby,
whom Marinelli once molded in Tampa

Bay, takes over at the nose. Dewayne

White, another Marinelli protg from
Tampa Bay, needs to show he can be an
elite pass rusher at right end. The Lions
need contributions from younger players
such as DT Shaun Cody, DE Ikaika
Alama-Francis and a pair of rookies, DT
Andre Fluellen and DE Cliff Avril. All the
young players are former second- and
third-round picks. Grade: C-plus.
LINEBACKERS The Lions have a proven
playmaker in WLB Ernie Sims. After that,
they have been looking for improvement.
They tried hard to upgrade the middle in
the offseason, with the idea of moving
Paris Lenon to the strong side. They tried
to acquire Jonathan Vilma, but the Jets
traded him to the Saints instead. The Lions
kicked the tires on veteran free agents Al
Wilson and Dan Morgan. They targeted
Jerod Mayo in the draft, but the Patriots
took him, so they settled for Jordon Dizon
in the second round. The Lions also tried to
sign Takeo Spikes with the idea of putting
him on the strong side, but he signed with
the 49ers instead. So now what? The ideal
scenario would be for Dizon to win the job
inside and have Lenon move to the strong
side. But Dizon will have to prove to the
coaches he can be trusted with such a
demanding position. Grade: C.
DEFENSIVE BACKS The Lions allowed
opponents to complete 70.1 percent of
their passes last season by far the worst
in the NFL. That should not happen again.
The Lions brought in CB Brian Kelly and
safeties Dwight Smith and Kalvin Pearson, all of whom played in Tampa Bay
and know the Tampa-2 well. They also
acquired CB Leigh Bodden from the
Browns and got S Daniel Bullocks back
from a knee injury. S Gerald Alexander
has a year of starting experience. It adds
up to a dramatic improvement. The Lions
have better ball and man-coverage skills,
and they should be able to give wide
receivers far less of a cushion than in the
past. Grade: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS PK Jason Hanson still
is going strong in his 17th season.
Marinelli wants superior punting, and P
Nick Harris, with help from LS Don
Muhlbach, is capable of providing it. The
return game is a question mark, though.
Devale Ellis has handled punts in the preseason, but he might not make the team.
Aveion Cason likely will be the top kick
returner, but he could end up catching
punts, too. Grade: B.

NFC NORTH

for optimism. Grade: D.

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN After injuries
crippled a strong cast of inside players last
season, the Bears took measures to add
depth. Versatile Israel Idonije bulked up
and became solely a tackle after having
played inside and outside in the past, and
DT Marcus Harrison was drafted in the
third round. With three-time Pro Bowler
Tommie Harris back and healthy at the
three technique, Dusty Dvoracek returning at nose tackle after suffering a seasonending knee injury in the 07 opener and
Anthony Adams capable of playing well at
either spot, the Bears have talent and
depth. Dvoracek remains an injury question mark, though, missing two weeks of
camp and two preseason games with a calf
injury. DRE Alex Brown doesnt put up
big sack numbers, but hes solid in all
phases. DLE Adewale Ogunleye is a better
pass rusher but also plays the run well.
Mark Andersons sack total fell from 12 as
a rookie in 06 to five last season, when he
was a starter, but he can be effective as a
situational rusher. Grade: B.
LINEBACKERS As long as WLB Lance
Briggs and MLB Brian Urlacher dont get
complacent after big paydays Briggs
got a $36 million, six-year deal, and
Urlacher got a one-year extension worth
$18 million in new money this unit will
be one of the NFLs best. SLB Hunter Hillenmeyer gets overlooked, but hes smart
and doesnt make mistakes. This will be
his fifth straight season as a starter alongside the two superstars. Grade: A.
DEFENSIVE BACKS Big, physical
Charles Tillman and exceptional athlete
Nate Vasher complement each other perfectly, and both are adept at coverage and
will support vs. the run. CB Corey Graham
has made great strides in his second season. Safety seems deep, but durability
concerns are many, considering the extensive injury histories of FS Mike Brown
and SS Brandon McGowan. History says
second-year man Kevin Payne and rookie
Craig Steltz will be needed, but both are
unproven. Danieal Manning, a starter at
free safety in his first two NFL seasons,
was being tried in the nickel role, but the
early results were disappointing, and he
could wind up back at safety. Grade: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS Hester is simply the
best kick returner in the league, although
his workload could be curtailed a bit if he
becomes a bigger part of the passing game.
Robbie Gould is one of the most accurate
placekickers in NFL history, and he was
rewarded with a five-year, $15.5 million
extension, one of the richest ever for his
position. P Brad Maynard is as good as ever
in his 12th season, which is pretty good. LS
Pat Mannelly is practically automatic, and
he helps out on the coverage units, which
are among the NFLs best. Grade: A.

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

SPORTPICS

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

NFC SOUTH

40

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PFW PREDICTIONS

1 NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

2 CAROLINA PANTHERS
3 TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
4 ATLANTA FALCONS
WRITERS PREDICTIONS
CHARLES CHANDLER

KATHERINE SMITH

MIKE TRIPLETT

STEVE WYCHE

Charlotte Observer

Tampa Tribune

New Orleans Times-Picayune

Atlanta Journal-Constitution

1. CAROLINA If Delhomme stays healthy

and Peppers bounces back, watch out.
2. TAMPA BAY Could go either way, but
Garcia is solid provided Favre flirtation
didnt wound him.
3. NEW ORLEANS Offense looks potent,
but has the defense made enough strides?
4. ATLANTA Back to ground zero, but
thats better than reliving 07 disaster.

1. NEW ORLEANS The acquisition of

Shockey gives Brees another weapon.
2. TAMPA BAY A good defense, coupled
with a rising offense, should equate to another winning season.
3. CAROLINA Having a healthy Delhomme will make all the difference.
4. ATLANTA The rebuilding continues for
a team still trying to forget about Vick.

1. NEW ORLEANS One of the NFCs two

best offenses, along with Dallas, and the
defense cant help but improve.
2. CAROLINA New draft picks should
make big impact, but Delhomme still the key.
3. TAMPA BAY Nothing against Bucs, but
division always gets flipped upside down.
4. ATLANTA One of few teams in paritydriven NFL that has no chance this year.

1. NEW ORLEANS If they overcome

injuries on D, could be a title contender.
2. TAMPA BAY Defense will be among
leagues best; offense lacks ideal firepower.
3. CAROLINA Running game should be
better. If Jake and Steve are around long
enough, so should passing game.
4. ATLANTA The foundation is being set
for the long haul. Too new at too many spots.

Reloaded: Drew Brees has a new weapon to use in the Saints offense

KKR GROUP

might be the Saints making that push this

time around.

NEW ORLEANS

SAINTS

By MIKE TRIPLETT

During the week leading up to Super

Bowl XLII, Saints QB Drew Brees said it
was hard to look at the Giants without
thinking, That could have been us.
Like the Giants, the Saints had been
battling for a wild-card spot in December,
hoping to get hot at just the right time and
ride the momentum.
But watching that game unfold, watching the way the Giants fearsome pass
rush dominated the Patriots up front and
got in the face of QB Tom Brady, the
Saints couldnt help but think, Thats
exactly what we were missing.
New Orleans had the NFLs 30thranked pass defense last year, which was
the primary culprit for a devastating 0-4
start and a disappointing 7-9 finish.
The Saints secondary got torched, by
opposing offenses, by the media and by
the fan base. But the entire defense
deserved its share of the blame for allowing quarterbacks to stand in the pocket
and pick it apart, and for struggling to get
off the field on third downs.
So the Saints spent the offseason trying
to improve every defensive unit. They
traded for athletic MLB Jonathan Vilma
on the eve of free agency. They signed
free-agent DE Bobby McCray, a pass-rush
specialist, and CBs Randall Gay and
Aaron Glenn. Then they traded up in the
first round of the draft to select disruptive
DT Sedrick Ellis the biggest and perhaps most important piece of the puzzle.
If the new-look New Orleans defense
can be half as good as the Giants were
during their Super Bowl run, then it just

QUARTERBACKS There might not be a

more valuable quarterback outside of New
England and Indianapolis than Brees, who
is the reason why the Saints have become
a bona fide Super Bowl contender. He has
an accurate and strong arm. He has great
vision, he makes quick decisions in and
out of the pocket, he avoids sacks and he
spreads the ball around to anyone whos
open. He got off to an unusually poor start
when the Saints were pressing last September, but over the final three months of
the season, he was every bit as good as he
had been in 2006. New Orleans upgraded
its backup spot by signing free agent
Mark Brunell, who wont get the team
into too much trouble if he needs to fill in
for a brief stint. Grade: A.
RUNNING BACKS The Saints biggest
problem last year, outside of their pass
defense, was their inability to get the most
out of RB Reggie Bush. Defenses figured
out how to keep him from breaking off
those big, highlight-reel plays, especially
after fellow RB Deuce McAllister went
down with a season-ending knee injury in
Week Three. This year, Bush is determined to prove he can succeed in the
NFL, and he committed himself to working harder in the offseason program.
Coach Sean Payton, meanwhile, is committed to using Bush in the best way to
take advantage of his unique skill set as a
runner and receiver. McAllister appears to
be on track in his recovery, and he should
give the Saints more of an inside rushing
presence, even if its in a part-time role.
Veteran Aaron Stecker and second-year
pro Pierre Thomas give the Saints depth
and versatility. FB Mike Karney is one of
the leagues better blockers. Grade: B.
RECEIVERS Third-year pro Marques
Colston has established himself as a Pro
Bowl-caliber talent. He is a go-to target in
the red zone because of his size and his
strength. He also has the speed to make
plays after the catch. And his best quality

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The only one of

22 starters who did not return from last
years team was C Jeff Faine, who left for
a huge payday in Tampa. But the Saints let
him go in part because of their faith in veteran backup Jonathan Goodwin, who has
proven himself in spot duty over the past
two years. OLT Jammal Brown should be
closer to Pro Bowl form this year than he
was last year, when he missed all of the
preseason with a knee injury. OLG Jahri
Evans is earning praise as one of the
leagues best up-and-coming interior linemen. OG Jamar Nesbit and OT Jon
Stinchcomb are smart, solid veterans.
Grade: B-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN This has the
potential to be an outstanding front four,
especially on passing downs when DE
Charles Grant moves inside to tackle next
to Ellis, and McCray joins DE Will Smith
on the edges. Smith and Grant have long
been regarded as two of the leagues best
young pass rushers, but defenses were
able to neutralize them last year without
many other threats to worry about. The
Saints are hoping that will change this
year. The Saints lost veteran run-stuffing
DT Hollis Thomas for at least two months
with a triceps injury, but the arrival of
Ellis should soften the blow. He has
unusual speed and athleticism for his size,
and he should make the Saints much more
disruptive against the pass and the run.
Veteran DTs Brian Young, Kendrick Clancy and Antwan Lake also provide depth.
Grade: B-plus.
LINEBACKERS This group also has the
potential to be much improved if Vilma
can shake off last years knee injury and
play at the level that made him a star for
the Jets in 2004-05. Vilma didnt fit as
well when the Jets switched to a 3-4
defense in 06, but now hes back at
home in the middle of a 4-3. Hes the
kind of active, athletic playmaker the
Saints have lacked for years in that spot.
Starting SLB Scott Fujita is the emotional leader of the defense, and hes a physical tackler who plays with a high energy
level. Veteran Scott Shanle is a solid
starter on the weak side, and veteran
Mark Simoneau will likely play a utility
role, assuming he cedes his starting job to
Vilma. Grade: C-plus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS New Orleans has
to be better at the CB position than it was
in 07, but there are still a number of question marks. Veteran Mike McKenzie is
returning from a torn ACL he suffered last
December, which could affect him at least
early in the year. Returning starter Jason

http://www.profootballweekly.com

41

David has continued to struggle in the preseason after a disastrous debut with his
new team last year. Gay appears to be a
consistent and reliable cover man, though
he played mostly a nickel back role in
New England. And young projects Usama
Young and Tracy Porter have both been
slowed by hamstring injuries during a critical preseason. The safeties are nearly
identical to last year Roman Harper,
Kevin Kaesviharn, Josh Bullocks and
Chris Reis are back, and veteran Lance
Schulters was recently added to the mix.
Its not a bad group of talent, but they
struggled almost as much as the corners in
pass coverage last year, and theyre counting on an improved pass rush to keep them
from being overexposed. Grade: D-plus.
SPECIAL TEAMS This is another area
where Bush could make a huge impact.
Hell probably be a part-time punt returner, but if he can display Devin Hester-like
abilities, the Saints wont hesitate to throw
him out there to maximize his potential.
The Saints kicker battle should go right
up to Week One, and maybe beyond, if
they feel veteran Martin Gramatica has
the more accurate leg and rookie Taylor
Mehlhaff has the stronger one. Gramatica
has been the more consistent choice
throughout the preseason, but Mehlhaff
has greater potential. P Steve Weatherford
is a solid third-year pro, despite his
career-worst performance against the
aforementioned Hester in Week 17 of last
season. Grade: C.

CAROLINA

SPORTPICS

is his hands. He consistently makes difficult catches. Veteran David Patten is an

underrated No. 2 option. He still has
enough speed to be a downfield threat,
and Brees and Payton clearly have a lot of
confidence in him. The Saints will spread
the ball to several different options at
receiver, but second-year pro Robert
Meachem has the highest ceiling of all the
backups. The Saints already had one of
the leagues most dangerous passing
attacks, but newcomer TE Jeremy Shockey gives them yet another dimension.
Shockey probably wont make an instant
impact as he gets used to a new offense
and continues to recover from the leg
injuries that sidelined him in 07. But
when he gets up to speed, hell be another
big, physical target who makes it impossible for defenses to cover every option.
Veteran TE Mark Campbell, who missed
all of last year with a back injury, also
offers an upgrade. He is a standout blocker and capable pass catcher. Billy Miller is
another valuable backup. Grade: B.

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

NFC SOUTH

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PANTHERS
By CHARLES CHANDLER

Owner Jerry Richardson promised an

offseason of change after the Panthers had
posted a disappointing 7-9 record last season, and the men he allowed to keep running the team, GM Marty Hurney and
head coach John Fox, delivered.
The team has such a newfangled offensive line that not one of the five positions
is manned by the same player who had the
job last year.
The Panthers spent the offseason amassing massive blockers in the 320-poundplus range, most notably rookie Jeff Otah.
Hurney and Fox wanted him so much that
they traded next years No. 1 pick to obtain
him with the 19th overall selection.
Already, the Panthers had used the 13th
pick on Oregon RB Jonathan Stewart, who
they believe is the power back with breakaway speed that theyve lacked since
Stephen Davis led them to the Super Bowl
in 2003.
Defensively, Julius Peppers has been
moved from left end to right end amid
hopes that hell come back strong from a
212-sack debacle last season.
No position caused more headaches last
season than quarterback. After Jake Delhomme was sidelined for the season in
Week Three with an elbow injury, the
Panthers used David Carr, Vinny Testaverde and undrafted rookie Matt Moore
as their starters.
The offseason provided an excellent
opportunity to upgrade the position, but
the Panthers chose to stand pat. Believing
that Delhommes surgically repaired

Bouncing back: Julius Peppers will need to shake off a bad year if the Panthers are going to contend

elbow would be like new, the Panthers

took the calculated risk of not even signing a veteran to back him up.
Stewart figures to split carries with
2006 first-round pick DeAngelo Williams
as the Panthers try to return to the mauling
running attack that Fox prefers.

QUARTERBACKS Everything depends

on the health of Delhomme, who says he
has made a complete recovery from
Tommy John surgery to repair a ligament
in his right (throwing) elbow. The Panthers offense bordered on disastrous at
times last season after Delhomme was lost
for the season in the third game. If he
plays a full season, he could be one of the
leagues best. However, if his arm strength
has lessened or if he gets hurt again, it
could be another long season. Young
backups Moore and Brett Basanez have
promise but dont look ready yet for fulltime duty. Grade: C-plus.
RUNNING BACKS Williams finally
looks ready to break out as he enters his
third season. He gained 5.0 yards per carry
last season and is expected to share the
running load with Stewart. If Stewart gets
rolling, watch out. His size, strength and
speed fill the bill for the type of power
back Fox and team officials prefer. FB
Brad Hoover remains steady, as does backup RB Nick Goings. Grade: B-minus.
RECEIVERS Its too bad the dazzling
Steve Smith is going to miss the first two
games serving a suspension for punching

teammate Ken Lucas in training camp.

Smith is one of the leagues most electrifying talents and actually might have a
reputable supporting cast this season.
The Panthers have had trouble flanking
Smith since Muhsin Muhammad departed for Chicago following the 2004 season. Now, at age 35, Muhammad is back
and expected to provide both veteran
leadership and improved play. D.J.
Hackett was signed as a free agent and
played well in Seattle when he wasnt
injured. Problem was, he was hurt a lot.
Second-year man Dwayne Jarrett, a former USC All-American, has been an
enigma so far. The Panthers need him to
start fulfilling his promise. With the
increased emphasis on the running
attack, TEs Jeff King and Dante Rosario
figure to be called upon to use their
shoulder pads at least as much as their
hands and feet. The best receiver in the
bunch is rookie Gary Barnidge of
Louisville, but an injured glute severely
limited his preseason repetitions, putting
him way behind. Grade: B-minus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The Panthers
now have one of the biggest front fives in
the NFL. Collectively, tackle to tackle, the
starters weigh nearly four-fifths of a ton.
The idea is to get physical and maul people in the running game to set up the pass.
Otah looks capable of developing into a
star, and OLT Jordan Gross is Mr. Reliable, whether playing right or left tackle.
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PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

(Continued from Page 41)

Theres more veteran depth here than in
recent seasons, giving the group a chance
to be respectable. But before giving the Oline a high grade, weve got to see it in the
regular season. Grade: B-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Once the pride of
the Panthers team, the D-line now is a
major question mark. Peppers needs to
bounce back strong from his dismal season. Last years best run stopper, Kris
Jenkins, was traded to the Jets because
neither he nor the team wanted to stay
together. The DLE position is a huge
question mark with Tyler Brayton, a disappointment in Oakland, and unproven
second-year player Charles Johnson. The
Panthers ability to stop the run up the
middle is questionable. Maake Kemoeatu
and Damione Lewis are the starters there.
Depth is so-so, at best. Grade: C.
LINEBACKERS Heres the strongest
area of the team. MLB Jon Beason is a
rising star in only his second season, and
WLB Thomas Davis appears on the
verge of a breakout season in his fourth
year in the NFL. There are three excellent choices for the strong-side spot
veterans Nail Diggs and Landon Johnson (signed as a free agent from Cincinnati) and third-round rookie Dan Connor,
a former Penn State All-American.
Theres lots of talent and flexibility in
this group. Grade: B-plus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS This could be the
Panthers best and deepest secondary in
years. There are three starting-caliber cornerbacks in Lucas, Chris Gamble and
Richard Marshall. SS Chris Harris,
obtained in a training-camp trade from
Chicago in 07, has been a huge addition
and is one of the teams emerging leaders.
Rookie Charles Godfrey, a third-round
pick from Iowa, looks set at free safety.
He has played and behaved like a vet

http://www.profootballweekly.com

agency with C Jeff Faine, the Bucs hope

to capitalize on an improved offense and a
dominant defense to go further into the
postseason.
Tampa Bay also hopes to end the nasty
habit of following a winning season with
a losing one.
Entering his seventh season with the
Bucs, Gruden has yet to produce back-toback winning seasons in Tampa Bay, but
he returns with the confidence and support of the Glazer family ownership, who
rewarded him with a three-year contract
extension in the offseason.

since he first showed up at minicamp.

Grade: B-minus.
SPECIAL TEAMS The return game simply must be improved. It was one of the
worst in the league last season, and the
Panthers are counting on Ryne Robinson
to show vast improvement in his second
season. An option on kickoff returns
theyd prefer to avoid is Stewart. He was
an excellent returner at Oregon, but do the
Panthers really want to risk their prized
rookie running back on special teams?
John Kasay is Mr. Reliable on field goals
and extra points, but his length on kickoffs
is gone. Hence, it looks like boomer Rhys
Lloyd will make the roster as a kickoff
specialist. P Jason Baker and LS Jason
Kyle are two of the NFLs best at what
they do. The coverage units also must get
better. Grade: C.

TAMPA BAY

BUCCANEERS
By KATHERINE SMITH

The Buccaneers did two things last season that have become trademarks under
head coach Jon Gruden. First, they won
the NFC South, a third division title since
Gruden came to Tampa in 2002. Then
they went one-and-done in the postseason.
Not since the Bucs Super Bowl run in
the 02 postseason have they won a playoff game. By adding some depth at key
positions through the draft, including
first-round pick CB Aqib Talib, and in free

KKR GROUP

NFC SOUTH

42

Raising expectations: Earnest Graham will be counted on to deliver after a breakout season

QUARTERBACKS The Bucs flirted with

Brett Favre, ruffling returning starter Jeff
Garcias feathers. Garcia actually began
playing the role of disgruntled quarterback long before the Favre soap opera
began. Upset with his contract situation,
Garcia aired his disapproval throughout
the offseason. A calf injury sustained
early in training camp didnt help his
cause, but the Bucs are being careful with
the 38-year-olds return, knowing they
need him healthy for their offense to have
success this season. A host of others with
starting experience are battling for the
backup position. Chris Simms, who
missed the entire offseason workout program, has begged for his release or trade.
Without a trade partner, the Bucs might
make Simms one of the first cuts. That
would leave Brian Griese and Luke
McCown battling for the No. 2 spot.
Grieses back in Tampa after a couple of
seasons with the Bears and is looking to
be a part of an offense that suits his skills
better than any other. Grade: B-minus.
RUNNING BACKS Cadillac Williams
should start the season on the physicallyunable-to-perform list while he continues
to rehabilitate the knee injury that prematurely ended his 07 season. Look for
heavy doses of Earnest Graham, who
proved his worth as an every-down back
in Williams absence, and Warrick Dunn,
who returns to Tampa, where he set several records for the Bucs before his stint
with the Falcons. Also look for Michael
Bennett to become more involved in the
offense. Like Graham and Dunn, Bennett
can catch the ball out of the backfield, a
must in Grudens offense, and has had one
of the best preseasons of any offensive
player. Grade: B-plus.
RECEIVERS This is the one position
the Bucs all but ignored in the offseason.
Joey Galloway returns as a starter, but a
groin injury sidelined him for the entire
training camp. The Bucs need a healthy
Galloway because he is the only sure
thing in the receiving corps. Gruden
would like to see Michael Clayton or
Maurice Stovall emerge and claim the No.
2 spot, but so far in the preseason, neither
has cemented that role. Offseason acquisition Antonio Bryant has opened some
eyes with his consistent play and could
challenge sure-handed possession receiver Ike Hilliard for playing time. TEs John
Gilmore, brought in for his blocking skills
and speed, and Alex Smith look to get
more involved in the offense. Grade: C.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Faine was a key
pickup for the Bucs. He replaces John
Wade as the starting center and helps
anchor an emerging O-line that no longer
is the weak link on the team. OG Davin
Joseph could miss the start of the regular
season with a broken foot. Josephs backup, rookie Jeremy Zuttah, and OT Jeremy
Trueblood shore up the right side, while
OG Arron Sears and OT Donald Penn will
handle the left side. With the release of
veteran Luke Petitgout, Penn retains the
starting OLT job he inherited last season

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

when Petitgout injured his knee. The loss

of Petitgout hurts the Bucs depth at the
OT position, but they possess a lot of versatility elsewhere on the line. Grade: B.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN DRE Gaines
Adams, the fourth overall pick in the 2007
draft, showed flashes of why the Bucs were
so high on him, but he lacked the consistency that defensive coordinator Monte
Kiffin demands from his starters. Veteran
Kevin Carter seemed likely to win the starting DLE job over Greg White. The pass
rush remains a sore spot, but the emergence
of White and starting DT Jovan Haye
brings hope that it will be improved. NT
Chris Hovan brings much-needed intensity,
and former Chiefs DE Jimmy Wilkerson
provides depth. Grade: B-minus.
LINEBACKERS Derrick Brooks is
putting up a good fight. Still the weakside starter, the veteran saw his playing
time limited last season and, with SLB
Cato June coming on strong, could see it
diminished further. But Brooks isnt fading away quietly. He still packs a punch
and was second on the team behind
starting MLB Barrett Ruud in tackles
last season. Ruud commands the middle
much like his predecessor, Shelton Quarles. Grade: B-minus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS Veteran CB Brian
Kelly is gone, and in his place is Phillip
Buchanon. The former first-round pick
filled in admirably in Kellys absence last
season and solidified the starting job,
opposite Ronde Barber, with a great offseason and training camp. Talibs speed
and instincts earn him a nickel back spot,
but like most rookies in the Bucs defensive scheme, Talib must work on becoming a more disciplined player. Safeties
Tanard Jackson and Jermaine Phillips
highlight a secondary that helped the
defense lead the league in allowing only
170.5 passing yards per game in 07. Second-year S Sabby Piscitelli, who spent his
rookie season on injured reserve, is playing with renewed vigor and fighting for
playing time. Grade: B-plus.
SPECIAL TEAMS PK Matt Bryant got
off to a shaky start in the preseason but
eventually settled down to his usual accurate self. Pro Bowl P Josh Bidwell long
has been one of the best field-position
weapons for the Bucs and seems to get
better with age. And while Micheal Spurlock finally did something last season no
other kickoff returner in Buccaneers history had been able to do return one for a
touchdown hell be trying to hold off
rookie Dexter Jackson. Jackson was drafted specifically to push Spurlock for the
return job. Grade: C-plus.

ATLANTA

FALCONS
By STEVE WYCHE

The uncertainty of what would happen

to a team with a first-time NFL head
coach and an imprisoned quarterback has
been replaced by the uncertainty of a firsttime NFL head coach and a rookie quarterback.
There are few parallels to draw between
the carnage of the 2007 season and the reconstruction project of 08, other than try-

QUARTERBACKS Ryan, the No. 3 overall pick in Aprils draft, was named the
starter after the third preseason game, in
which he was particularly strong, completing 15-of-21 passes for 102 yards, a touchdown and, most importantly, no interceptions, against the Titans. He has impressed
coaches and teammates with his work
ethic, accuracy and, most importantly, his
field presence. Not one of the tangibles
that showed up on pre-draft scouting
reports has been off. Throw in the fact that
hes made himself accessible to the public
and the media, and the Falcons are partially on their way to turning the page from
the Michael Vick era. Partially. Ryan has
not won a regular-season game, and he
may not for some time. There are concerns
about the offensive line, but not enough to
preserve its $72 million investment and
start Redman. Redman finished last season
strong, but he hasnt been dynamic by any
means. For now, steady is all that matters,
though, and Redman is that. Grade: C.
RUNNING BACKS Michael Turner was
signed to a $34.5 million contract after
barely accumulating a full seasons worth
of work in four years as LaDainian Tomlinsons backup in San Diego. The potential he showed in 228 total carries for
1,257 yards was enough for the Falcons to
make him their featured back in a runheavy offense. So far, Turner has shown to

Burner in the backfield: Michael Turner is a

major piece in the Falcons rebuilding plan

be the goods. When there is contact, hes

been the instigator, which is perfect for
offensive coordinator Mike Mularkeys
system. The lurking question is: Can
Turner adapt to being the main back over
the course of 16 games? Hes never had to
carry the load. Backup RB Jerious Norwood is one of the fastest and shiftiest
players in the league. He is a big-play
threat and the perfect change-of-pace
complement to Turner. Rookie Thomas
Brown looks to be a Darren Sproles-type
option who can also return kicks. Brown
is being pushed by second-year man Jason
Snelling. Grade: B.
RECEIVERS Roddy White is coming
off an 83-catch, 1,202-yard, six-touchdown season, one of the best in franchise
history. Was it just a mirage? He played
for a bad team with few other options on
offense. Somebody had to make plays.
Second-year speedster Laurent Robinson
and fifth-year staple Michael Jenkins are
battling for the No. 2 spot. Robinson is a
much better receiver, but the emphasis on
blocking for the run game could favor
Jenkins. Rookie Harry Douglas has dazzled since offseason workouts, and hell
be the main slot receiver. As for tight end,
no position has gone through a more radical shift. For years, Alge Crumpler
caught passes in seams between the hashmarks, racking up yards and Pro Bowls
along the way. Now, Crumpler is in Tennessee, and his replacement is Ben Hartsock, a third tackle who moonlights as a
tight end. Mularkey will use Hartsock
and most of his backups as maulers to
fortify the unsettled offensive line. Second-year player Martrez Milner will be
the motion H-back/tight end, but Milner
doesnt have the most reliable hands and
hes injury prone. In fact, he spent a nice
chunk of training camp sidelined with
ankle and toe injuries. Grade: C.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Other than veteran C Todd McClure, this unit is unsettled,
in part because of injuries, in part because
of attrition, in part because of a motivational tack. The left side is being manned
by rookie OT Baker, who has shown to be
very solid early, and second-year OG
Justin Blalock. This is a pairing for longterm results, with hopes they can hold
steady while they grow together. The right
side could be totally different from the
past few years, as OT Todd Weiner is
being brought back slowly from left knee

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43

microfracture surgery. Reliable backup

Tyson Clabo is starting for now, and players love his nasty, make-something-happen-at-all-costs approach. New O-line
coach Paul Boudreau inserted former
practice-squader Harvey Dahl at right
guard, in part to motivate incumbent
Kynan Forney. Forney hasnt responded
like Boudreau had hoped for, and Dahl
has been much better than projected.
Grade: C-minus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN The Falcons
passed on LSU DT Glenn Dorsey and
opted to fill the DT slots with a rotation of
undersized players not counting massive NT Grady Jackson. Coach Mike
Smith, who almost always had behemoth
tackles in Baltimore and Jacksonville, is
going to have to hope this group can
remain healthy and play above their heads
in order to clog the run and help provide a
pass rush to alleviate the stress on the
young cornerbacks. DE John Abrahams
only concern is his health. The same cant
be said about second-year DE Jamaal
Anderson. Though he started 16 games
last season, Anderson didnt get a sack,
and signs havent been encouraging during
training camp. Grade: C-minus.
LINEBACKERS Second-year undrafted
free agent Tony Taylor or rookie Curtis
Lofton will start at middle linebacker,
which isnt the best-case scenario playing
behind a potentially shaky interior D-line.
Lofton is a masher who might be able to
stand up to blockers better than Taylor, a
smart but not overly physical player. Fivetime Pro Bowler Keith Brooking appears
to have found new life playing his natural
position at weak-side linebacker. Fourthyear rising star Michael Boley is the
starter on the strong side. There is significant depth, as former Buffalo LB-S Coy
Wire was signed to back up Brooking and
second-year player Stephen Nicholas will

THE

back up Boley. Grade: B-plus.

DEFENSIVE BACKS The few times
diminutive CB Brent Grimes has gotten
on the field, teams have gone after him.
He better get used to it. Grimes has
replaced the traded Pro Bowler DeAngelo
Hall on the left side. He is the best cover
corner on the team, but his size (5-9, 180)
makes him an easy target. His durability
also is a concern. Second-year man Chris
Houston will hold down the RCB job. He
is physical but is still working on his nonzone coverage skills, which might not be
that important in the cover-2 scheme.
Rookie Chevis Jackson is being groomed
to nab one of those CB spots, and he will
serve as the nickel back in the meantime.
Free-agent signee Erik Coleman may be
an upgrade at free safety. Veteran Lawyer
Milloy, who is not pleased that his contract wasnt extended, will lead the
defense from the strong safety spot.
Grade: C-minus.
SPECIAL TEAMS After 15 highly productive seasons, Jason Elam traded the thin
air of Denver for the windless, climatecontrolled Georgia Dome in his hometown. The clutch kicker could have a busy
season booting field goals since the developing offense likely will be inconsistent
inside the red zone and will rely on Elam
for points. P Michael Koenen will also
handle kickoffs again. Koenen has a big leg
for both duties, but he has become one of
the best angle punters in the NFC. With
Norwoods increased role on offense, he
could be replaced as the kickoff returner by
evasive rookie Thomas Brown. Another
rookie, Harry Douglas, could emerge as
the punt returner. The reliance on rookies
isnt ideal, but new special-teams coordinator Keith Armstrong has been given significant latitude to stack his coverage and
return personnel with players who can
tackle and block. Grade: C-plus.

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NFC SOUTH

ing to survive with some measure of dignity. The expectations for the team are to
be nothing more than competitive, which,
based on the deconstruction of the franchise, are well-placed goals.
The Falcons peeled off the bad skin of
last season and are trying to regenerate
hope with a personnel-driven general
manager (Thomas Dimitroff) and a new
coach (Mike Smith) whos already garnered respect with an unwavering plan
and communication skills.
Rookie QB Matt Ryan is the building
block, and he will be thrust into the starting role right away. That approach almost
always leads to some rough times in Year
One, but there are going to be rough times
in 08, no matter who is under center.
Ryan has shown the poise, leadership
and field presence that the good ones
innately possess.
The biggest obstacle is keeping him
upright. The offensive line is young and
unsettled, and if Ryan takes some David
Carr-type abuse, shell shock always is a
possibility.
Exhibit A Joey Harrington, who sits
just a few stalls away from Ryan in the
locker room. Harrington, like Ryan, was
the third overall pick in 02. He was the
building block then. Now, after years of
getting pummeled behind suspect offensive lines and intolerant fans and teammates, hes simply trying to earn a roster
spot behind Ryan. Ryan will also be
backed up by Chris Redman, who basically was out of football for three years, and
D.J. Shockley, a third-year player who
hasnt taken an NFL snap.
Still, with Ryan, OLT Sam Baker, MLB
Curtis Lofton and WR Harry Douglas, a
baseline has been struck. There are
enough veterans SS Lawyer Milloy,
WLB Keith Brooking and C Todd
McClure to keep the locker room intact
during adverse times.
There also is a seasoned coaching staff
Emmitt Thomas, Bill Musgrave, Mike
Mularkey, Terry Robiskie, Paul Boudreau,
Ray Hamilton, Keith Armstrong and
Brian VanGorder that has experienced
the highs and lows and knows how to
cope.
More than anything, there finally seems
to be a plan in place.

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

HARRY SCULL, JR.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

NFC WEST

44

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PFW PREDICTIONS

1 SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
2 ARIZONA CARDINALS
3 ST. LOUIS RAMS
4 SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
WRITERS PREDICTIONS
CLARE FARNSWORTH

KEVIN LYNCH

KENT SOMERS

JIM THOMAS

Seattle Post-Intelligencer

SFGate.com

Arizona Republic

St. Louis Post-Dispatch

1. SEATTLE The road to the division title

still runs through Qwest Field, where the
Seahawks are 24-4 the past three seasons.
2. ARIZONA They will be better, but two
or three wins better?
3. ST. LOUIS The improvement of the D
is what will dictate how much they improve.
4. SAN FRANCISCO From Montana!!!
Young!! To Garcia! To J.T. OSullivan?
Hmmm. Is that progress?

1. SEATTLE Too much Pro Bowl talent;

theyre still the class of the division.
2. ARIZONA This team has a chance to
break out of the same-old-Cardinals mode.
3. SAN FRANCISCO Mike Martzs offensive genius will be challenged.
4. ST. LOUIS Getting Jackson signed will
help but not nearly enough.

1. SEATTLE Still the class of the division

and could win with defense.
2. ARIZONA The Cardinals have the
most talent theyve had in years, but can
they overcome their terrible history?
3. ST. LOUIS Should get some help from
the draft. Need to stay healthy on offense.
4. SAN FRANCISCO Three players vying
for the QB job? That means they dont have
one.

1. ARIZONA A good fit for the Cardinals,

Whisenhunt gets Bill Bidwills club finally
over the hump.
2. SEATTLE Stranglehold on division
ends; not exactly Holmgrens ideal farewell.
3. ST. LOUIS Rams are better, but not
good enough to earn playoff berth.
4. SAN FRANCISCO Not enough talent,
particularly on offense, dooms Mike Nolan.

Steady force: Seahawks MLB Lofa Tatupu remains a tackling machine

SPORTPICS

the Seahawks to remain the team in

charge in the NFC West?

SEATTLE

SEAHAWKS
By CLARE FARNSWORTH

The Seahawks have gone from being a

team in charge to a team in transition.
They have not only compiled a 17-7
record in the division while capturing the
NFC West title the past four seasons, no
other team in the division has even posted
a winning record during this span of Seahawks dominance.
But this season, so much has changed,
or is changing. It starts at the top, with
secondary coach Jim Mora already being
named as the successor to Mike Holmgren
after this season his 10th, and final, as
head coach of a franchise he has resurrected since arriving in 1999. It runs all
the way to a new long-snapper sixthround draft choice Tyler Schmitt.
In between the obvious and the obscure,
theres a new left guard (Mike Wahle), a
new right guard (old OLG Rob Sims), a
new running back (Julius Jones), a new
tight end (rookie John Carlson), two new
potential impact players on defense (draft
choices Lawrence Jackson and Red
Bryant), a new kicker (either veteran Olindo Mare or rookie Brandon Coutu) and
six new assistant coaches (most noticeably OL coach Mike Solari).
Still, the Seahawks harbor the same old
confidence that comes from playing in the
leagues weakest division, and in a stadium that provides the leagues best homefield advantage.
I have high expectations for this season, Holmgren said. Weve made a lot
of changes, but I think theyre changes for
the better.
But are all the changes enough to allow

QUARTERBACKS Matt Hasselbeck has

become more than a Pro Bowl quarterback since being acquired in a 2001 trade
with the Packers. Brett Favres former
backup is the face, voice and conscience
of the team. Hasselbeck is coming off a
season where he posted career highs in
completions (352), passing yards (3,966)
and touchdown passes (28) in large
part because Holmgren placed the fate of
the offense, and the season, in his hands
because the running game was running on
empty. The offseason moves that were
made to jump-start the running game
should benefit Hasselbeck. Backup
Seneca Wallace remains the best athlete
on the team, and the coaches remain
enamored with unleashing him as a situational receiver/runner/returner. But that
will happen only if No. 3 QB Charlie Frye
can demonstrate he is capable of running
the offense all of the offense should
Hasselbeck and Wallace get injured.
Grade: B-plus.
RUNNING BACKS Shaun Alexander is
gone, dispatched just two years after being
the league MVP and despite being the
franchises all-time leading rusher. The
club signed Jones and T.J. Duckett in free
agency to grease Alexanders slide from
prominence as the running game moves in
another direction. Holmgren had tweaked
his offensive philosophy to accommodate
Alexanders need for 25-plus carries to be
at his most productive. Club president Tim
Ruskell had tired of seeing Alexander run
for either nine yards or minus-two when
three were needed to pick up a crucial first
down. Jones and incumbent backup Maurice Morris hit the holes quicker and more
decisively, and Holmgren plans to use
them as co-starters to keep them fresher
and healthy. Leonard Weaver is blossoming into the kind of fullback Holmgren
featured during tenures with the 49ers and
Packers. Always an elusive runner and
sure-handed receiver, Weaver has

sons since being signed in free agency.

Tatupu has led the team in tackles in each
of three seasons. Hill can blitz, drop into
coverage and is solid against the run.
Together they form as formidable a trio as
there is in the league. Depth, however,
remains a concern. Thats why re-signing
D.D. Lewis after his one-season stint with
the Broncos was vital, because he can fill
in at all three spots. Grade: A-minus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS The group that
underwent the biggest change a year ago
was the biggest reason for the improvement of a defense that should only be better this season. It starts with Pro Bowl CB
Marcus Trufant, who parlayed his best
season into a huge new contract. On the
right side, former first-round draft choice
Kelly Jennings emerged as a starter and
possesses the speed needed to run with the
faster receivers in the division although
his lack of size creates mismatches when
he goes against the more physical
receivers. The safety tandem of Deon
Grant and Brian Russell was added last
season to slam the door on the deep passes that tormented the team in 06. Did it
work? The Seahawks allowed a leaguelow 15 touchdown passes last season. The
versatile Jordan Babineaux is the nickel
back, and the depth has improved because
of the improvement shown by the young
trio of CBs Josh Wilson and Kevin Hobbs
and S C.J. Wallace. Grade: B.
SPECIAL TEAMS Things started unraveling here as soon as clutch PK Josh
Brown jumped to the Rams in free agency.
The club signed Mare and drafted Coutu
with the idea of letting them kick it out
during training camp and the preseason.
The competition rages on, with Mare
showing the stronger leg to offset Coutus
draft-choice status. Schmitt also was
drafted to address an area where the club
burned through three snappers last season
before veteran Jeff Robinson finally delivered some needed stability. But when
Robinson returned to retirement, the club
turned to Schmitt. The return game and
coverage units remain in flux. Burleson

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45

has been the punt and kickoff returner, but

Holmgren would like to remove those
chores from Burlesons plate now that
hes the starting flanker. Special-teams
coach Bruce DeHaven also needs to find a
replacement for Niko Koutouvides, the
former special-teams captain who signed
with the Broncos after leading the Seahawks in coverage tackles last season.
Grade: C-minus.

considered a disappointment, barring significant injuries.

Our players feel like we have a chance
to win, Whisenhunt said.
As with most NFL teams, the Cardinals arent without drama or concerns.
Several key veterans, including WR
Anquan Boldin, are unhappy with their
contracts. The lack of depth on the
offensive line is scary. And Whisenhunt
had yet to officially settle on either Kurt
Warner or Matt Leinart as the starting
quarterback.

ARIZONA

CARDINALS
By KENT SOMERS

For years, the Cardinals have been the

darlings of prognosticators who want to
look smart by correctly predicting the
year in which one of professional sports
least successful franchises would shock
everyone by winning.
And one of these years, they have to be
right. Dont they?
This just might be the season. The
defense is talented and deep. The offense
has numerous playmakers and the line
returns intact. The coaching staff, led by
Ken Whisenhunt, also returns and proved
to be resourceful and creative in guiding
the club to an 8-8 record last year.
A .500 record isnt a reason for hope
with most NFL teams. But with the Cardinals, its no small accomplishment.
Before last season, they had enjoyed only
three .500-or-better seasons since moving
to Arizona in 1988.
The schedule appears tougher this season, but the Cardinals should have the roster to handle it and contend for a playoff
berth, especially in the weak NFC West.
Clearly, an 8-8 record this year will be

High-priced heavyweight: Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald is now making $10 million annually

QUARTERBACKS Whisenhunt performed a balancing act through the

first half of the preseason, establishing
Leinart as the starter. But after Leinart
looked terrible in the third preseason
game in Oakland, rumors were flying at
presstime that Warner would be named
the Week One starter. In any event,
Whisenhunt can be expected to continue
trying to motivate his young quarterback,
who the coach admits plays better when
hes pushed. Before imploding against
the Raiders in the third preseason game,
Leinart had shown every sign of seizing the job. Hes matured, said Whisenhunt, although pictures of him partying in
the offseason seemed to suggest otherwise. Coaches have no problem with
Leinarts work ethic and think hes ready
to prove himself worthy of having been
the 10th overall pick in the 2006 draft.
Warner, however, was never discounted.
He resurrected his career last year, passing for 27 touchdowns, most of them
coming after Leinart went down with a
broken collarbone in the fifth game.
Whisenhunt isnt likely to have a quick
hook, but he cant wait too long to make
a change should Leinart struggle. The
first month of the season is critical, with
three of the first four games on the road.
Grade: B.
RUNNING BACKS The Cardinals failed
to upgrade the speed at the position in the
offseason, but the club might just be more
talented there anyway. Edgerrin James
returns as the starter, and the new face is
rookie Tim Hightower, a fifth-round pick
out of Richmond. The two should give the
club a nice contrast in styles. James is a
hunt-and-peck kind of runner, whose
agility and vision are his strengths. Hes
not much of a breakaway threat, but hes
durable. He rushed for 1,222 yards last
year, the most any Cardinals back has
gained since 1983. Hightower isnt any
faster than James, but hes more of a
downhill runner. Hes patient and has a
good burst when he sees an opening. J.J.
Arrington is on the bubble and wont be
anything more than a third-down back.
Hes decent in that role, and the club tries
to get him in the open field via swing
passes and screens. Veteran Terrelle Smith
appears to have beaten out Tim Castille
for the fullback job, unless the club makes
a decision with salary in mind. Smith is an
excellent blocker. Grade: B-minus.
RECEIVERS There arent many duos
better than Larry Fitzgerald and Boldin.
Each has made two Pro Bowls and is dangerous in his own way. The biggest difference is in compensation. Fitzgerald has a
new deal worth an average of $10 million
a year, while Boldin is working under a
contract that pays him an average of $4
million. Boldin has been vocal about his
unhappiness but insists it wont affect his
performance. But its fair to ask just how
willing he will be to play with injuries, as
he did last year when he suffered a
fractured hip and dislocated toe. Fitzgerald was phenomenal in 2007, with 1,409
(Continued on Page 46)

NFC EAST

improved the critical third element of his

game to the point where Holmgren labels
him the best blocker among the teams
backs. Grade: C.
RECEIVERS In a show of hands, too
many among the Seahawks are woefully
inexperienced. And with leading receiver
Bobby Engram probably out until the
Week Four bye with a cracked bone in his
right shoulder, and flanker Deion Branch
not a slam dunk to be ready for the opener as he completes his recovery from
reconstructive surgery on his left knee,
the young uns, as Holmgren calls them,
must step up. Theres still split end Nate
Burleson, but he still needs to improve his
consistency despite catching 50 passes and scoring nine touchdowns last season. Among the younger receivers, Courtney Taylor is the most athletic, Ben Obomanu the most experienced (12 NFL
receptions), Logan Payne the toughest and
most sure-handed and Jordan Kent the
most intriguing. At tight end, the club
used its third-round draft choice to trade
up in the second round to ensure getting
Carlson. They deemed him the most complete tight end in the draft, and he must
deliver at a position where Holmgren
admits its difficult for a rookie to start
because of everything he asks the tight
end to do in his hybrid of the West Coast
offense. Grade: C.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Holmgren labels
the signing of Wahle in February after the
Panthers released him as the clubs best
addition in what was an offseason of so
many changes. But its difficult to argue,
because Wahle fills what had become a
sore spot since All-Pro OLG Steve
Hutchinson was allowed to get away in
2006. Wahle also brings some needed
tenacity to a group that had lost its swagger, and his presence will allow Pro Bowl
OLT Walter Jones to concentrate on
whats happening at just one position
rather than two. The right side is manned
by the younger duo of Sean Locklear and
Sims, who need to develop the consistency to match their physical skills. The area
of concern is center, where incumbent
starter Chris Spencer remains sidelined by
a sore back. The former first-round draft
choice has struggled making the pre-snap
calls since taking over for veteran Robbie
Tobeck (now retired) midway through the
06 season. Backup OG Steve Vallos will
remain the starter at center until Spencer
returns. Grade: C-plus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN An already solid
unit only got better when the club used its
first- (Jackson) and fourth-round (Bryant)
draft choices on players whose skills play
into the rotation system preferred by the
coaches to keep this undersized group
fresher, longer. The strength of the unit
remains the relentless presence of Pro
Bowl DE and NFC sack leader Patrick
Kerney on the left side. Jackson already is
pushing incumbent Darryl Tapp for the
starting job on the right side, but all of
them will see ample time in the rotation.
Jackson, a better player against the run
than Tapp, also slides to tackle in the nickel line. At tackle, veteran Rocky Bernard
and rotund second-year man Brandon
Mebane remain the starters. Bryant and
Craig Terrill are active, and at times disruptive, as the rotating tackles. Grade: B.
LINEBACKERS This unit flaunts its Alist credentials on an every-down basis.
Theres the Pro Bowl tandem of OLBnickel pass rusher Julian Peterson and
middle man Lofa Tatupu. But theres also
Leroy Hill, who Tatupu says is the teams
best linebacker. Each has his strengths.
Peterson has 1912 sacks the past two sea-

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

NORM HALL

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

(Continued from Page 45)

receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. But
coaches want him to become a better
runner after he catches the ball. The
leader for the No. 3 job is Steve Breaston,
who appears to be greatly improved from
last year. That position could be filled by
a committee that also includes Jerheme
Urban and Early Doucet. Tight end might
be the most-improved position on the
team. Leonard Pope and Ben Patrick are
battling for the starting job, and Jerame
Tuman is the blocking specialist. Grade:
A-minus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The starting unit
returns intact for just the third time in 20
years. Not one of the starting five has
made a Pro Bowl, but it should be a solid
group. The left side is the strength of the
unit. OT Mike Gandy played well last
year, and OG Reggie Wells was the units
steadiest player. C Al Johnson is struggling with knee problems, again, but his
backup, Lyle Sendlein, is a good player,
so there is little drop-off. The quality of
this unit will be determined by the development of the right side. OG Deuce Lutui,
a third-year veteran, needs to reduce the
number of bonehead mistakes that he
made last year, Whisenhunt said. OT Levi
Brown, the fifth overall pick in 2007,
needs to begin to play like it. His development was hurt last year by a high ankle
sprain, and Brown has looked very good
in the preseason. There isnt much depth
behind the starters. Elton Brown is a solid
backup guard, but an injury to either of
the starting tackles could be devastating.
Grade: C-plus.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN DEs Antonio
Smith and Darnell Dockett played too
many snaps last year, and their production
in the second half of the season dropped
off. So the club drafted two ends: Calais
Campbell in the second round and Kenny
Iwebema in the fourth. They played well
enough in camp to convince coaches they
could be at least rotational players, keeping Smith and Dockett fresh. Things are
less settled at nose tackle. Starter Gabe
Watson missed all of training camp while
recovering from an offseason knee injury.
Hes expected to be ready by the opener,
but hes missed valuable practice time.
Backup NT Alan Branch, a second-round
pick in 2007, has been a disappointment
so far, and coaches are waiting for him
to put together consistent performances.
The starter now is Bryan Robinson, a 12year veteran signed as a free agent from
Cincinnati. Robinson also is a backup
end. Grade: B-minus.
LINEBACKERS Dive in, there is a deep
pool of talent here. Outside starters
Bertrand Berry and Chike Okeafor are
returning from serious injuries. Veterans
Travis LaBoy and Clark Haggans were
signed to contend for their starting jobs, or
at least back them up. All four of those
players have pass-rush ability, giving
coordinator Clancy Pendergast considerable flexibility in putting together game
plans. The starters on the inside, Karlos
Dansby and Gerald Hayes, return, and
there are a number of veterans behind
them. Monty Beisel, Brandon Johnson
and Matt Stewart could fill in capably in
the event of injury. Grade: A.
DEFENSIVE BACKS The pass defense
was porous in the second half of last season, partly because SS Adrian Wilson was
out with a heel injury. Wilson is back, and
this defense is built around his skills. He
can play back in a traditional safetys role
or move to linebacker in nickel packages.
From that spot, he can blitz or drop into
coverage. Hes adept at both. Antrel Rolle

http://www.profootballweekly.com

moves from cornerback to free safety, and

he looks like a natural. Hes a playmaker,
returning three interceptions for touchdowns last year, and should be a big
upgrade over last years starter, Terrence
Holt. Rod Hood and Eric Green are
solid corners, allowing the club to bring
first-round pick Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie along slowly. There is some depth
at both corner and safety, and the secondary appears to be much improved.
Grade: B-minus.
SPECIAL TEAMS PK Neil Rackers hasnt performed up to his expectations the
past two years and has missed too many
critical kicks. Last year, he struggled after
Whisenhunt cut his holder just before the
season, and then he suffered a sports hernia during the year. Rackers too often lets
his emotions get the best of him, and he
has to learn to calm himself. The punt
game was horrible last year, so the club
made another change there, signing veteran Dirk Johnson. The addition of several
veterans as backups should help the coverage and return teams. Breaston proved to
be a threat as a punt and kick returner last
year. Arrington can also return kicks, and
coaches are intrigued by using Rolle as a
punt returner, too. Grade: B-minus.

ST. LOUIS

RAMS

By JIM THOMAS

A 3-13 record in 2007 marked the worst

finish for the Rams since their move to St.
Louis 13 seasons ago. The Greatest
Show on Turf is a distant memory. The
Edward Jones Dome is far from the intimidating venue of days gone by. And head
coach Scott Linehan is sitting on the
hottest of hot seats.
But the good news is, theres only
one direction for the franchise to go. (And
we dont mean west to Los Angeles.)
I remember standing on the sideline

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

defenders in the open field. Throw in his

pass-catching ability, and Jackson clearly
rates as one of the leagues elite backs.
Saunders has a history of knowing how to
use backs: See Priest Holmes and Larry
Johnson in Kansas City. With sufficient
blocking, theres no reason to think he
cant do the same with Jackson in St.
Louis. Theres a falloff to the backups
Antonio Pittman and Brian Leonard
but both are tough, hard-nosed, north and
south runners. Leonard has added value as
a blocker (and part-time fullback) and a
pass catcher. Grade: B-plus.

when we played Arizona (in the 07

finale), Linehan said. Tough season.
Tough finish to the season. I remember
(safety) Todd Johnson walking up, and he
said, Well be back. Were going to have
a chance to show everybody that this year
was not an indication of what kind of people we are. Or team we are.
I remember thinking, I cant even
wait to actually show that.
Well, the time is here. Much has
changed since that Arizona game. Seven
coaches from Linehans 07 staff are
gone; there are six new hires. Included in
that group is one of the most highly
respected offensive coordinators in the
game Al Saunders. Linehan has turned
over the offense to Saunders.
WR Isaac Bruce, the face of the franchise since the move to St. Louis in 1995,
is gone. The Rams have added OG Jacob
Bell and PK Josh Brown in free agency
and drafted Virginia DE Chris Long No. 2
overall to inject some life in their pass
rush.
But as much as anything, the Rams will
be depending on strong, bounce-back seasons from some old reliables: WR Torry
Holt, OLT Orlando Pace, QB Marc Bulger
and DE Leonard Little. The production of
those players, as much as anything, holds
the key to any improvement.

RECEIVERS Truth be told, Holt has

been the go-to receiver in the St. Louis
offense for the past several seasons. But
now that Bruce has been released (and
subsequently signed by San Francisco),
its official. Holt is the man in the passing
game. Bothered by knee problems the past
two seasons, Holt may not have the extra
gear he once did. But he remains the most
productive pass catcher in the NFL, a precise route runner with great hands. The
pressure is on former Titan Drew Bennett
to produce as Bruces replacement in the
starting lineup. Dante Hall, known more
for his return skills, opens the season as
the slot receiver. Look for speedy rookie
Donnie Avery to be worked into the mix as
the season progresses. TEs Tony Gonzalez
in Kansas City and Chris Cooley of Washington both flourished in Saunders system. The same should hold true for Randy
McMichael, who was underutilized last
season his first in St. Louis. McMichael
has the speed to run intermediate and even
deep routes over the middle. His presence
should prevent defenders from paying too
much attention to Holt. The Rams have
made it a point to get him the ball in the
preseason and on the practice field in
training camp. Former second-round pick
Joe Klopfenstein has been a disappointment in his first two seasons, but he has
the size and speed to be an effective pass
catcher, as well. Anthony Becht, a freeagent pickup from Tampa Bay, was sidelined most of camp with a hamstring
injury but should provide an effective
blocking tight end. Grade: C-plus.

QUARTERBACKS Bulger has pulled the

ultimate Jekyll & Hyde act in the past two
seasons. He went from a career-best year
in 2006 to a career-worst year in 07.
There were extenuating circumstances a
year ago, particularly an injury-ravaged
offensive line that offered him little in the
way of protection. Bulger needs to get his
mojo back. When given time, he is one of
the best pocket passers in the league
smart, accurate and tough. Backup Trent
Green, who grew up in suburban St.
Louis, returns to his hometown and the
team he played for in 1999 and 2000.
Green had his greatest success with Saunders in Kansas City, knows the offense
very well and, like Bulger, is a very accurate passer. Grade: B.
RUNNING BACKS His nearly monthlong holdout over, Steven Jackson will be
the centerpiece of this offense as soon as
he gets his legs under him. At his best,
Jackson is an intimidating combination of
speed and power. He can move the pile in
between the tackles and can outrun

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN All eyes are on

Pace, the seven-time Pro Bowler who has
missed most of the past two seasons with
shoulder and arm problems. If Pace can
even approximate his past form, Bulger
and Jackson will be the happiest men on
the planet. The team has taken it slow with
Pace during camp and the preseason, and
it remains to be seen whether he will be
able to handle a full load early in the regular season. At left guard, newcomer Bell
will provide a solid presence and a good
pass-blocking complement to Pace. Richie
Incognito is a physical, power blocker at
right guard. At right tackle, the athletic
Alex Barron must avoid false starts and
play more physically. The center position
is a toss-up between Brett Romberg and
Nick Leckey. Grade: C-plus.

SCOTT BOEHM / GETTY IMAGES

NFC WEST

46

Work in progress: Rams first-round rookie DE Chris Long must get used to new defensive system

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN This could be the

strongest unit on the team. Little has
returned from season-ending toe surgery
in 07 and appears to have his burst back
at left end. At right end, Long will have
some growing pains as a rookie, particularly as he adjusts to a 4-3 front. But his
athleticism and high motor will pay dividends as the season progresses. At tackle,
veteran LaRoi Glover still provides an
inside pass-rushing presence, and secondyear man Adam Carriker returns after
making the transition from end to tackle
as a rookie. DE James Hall, DE-DT Victor Adeyanju and DT Clifton Ryan provide quality depth. Its still an undersized

unit, so gap technique is important, particularly against power running teams.

Grade: B.
LINEBACKERS Will Witherspoon is
one of the NFCs most underrated middle
linebackers. He has good speed and
instincts, and he is a sure tackler. Because
of injuries on the defensive front, the
Rams started using Witherspoon more as
an edge rusher, and he finished with a
team-high seven sacks. Look for defensive coordinator Jim Haslett to continue to
exploit Witherspoons pass-rushing skills.
At weak-side linebacker, Pisa Tinoisamoa
needs to stay healthy after two injuryplagued seasons. Like Witherspoon,
Tinoisoamoa has sideline-to-sideline
speed. He also has developed into one of
the defensive team leaders. It looks like
Quinton Culberson will win the strongside job over versatile veteran Chris Draft.
But behind those four players, the Rams
have no proven depth. This unit cannot
afford injuries. Grade: C-plus.
DEFENSIVE BACKS A rash of injuries
have made this unit a big question mark
entering the season. Half of the starting
secondary CB Fakhir Brown and FS
O.J. Atogwe have missed almost all of
camp and the preseason with injuries. In
addition, the team already has lost fourthround draft pick Justin King, a pleasant
surprise in camp, to a season-ending toe
injury. If healthy, Brown is an above-average cover corner and the best tackler in
the secondary. Atogwe is an emerging
ballhawk who led the NFC with eight
interceptions. Tye Hill, the other corner, is
undersized but an intense competitor. SS
Corey Chavous, like many Rams, was
slowed by injury last season. Normally,
hes a strong tackler and the leader of the
secondary. Ron Bartell is an underrated
big corner who can play the slot and even
some safety. Grade: C-plus.
SPECIAL TEAMS In P Donnie Jones
and PK Josh Brown, the Rams have one of
the best kicking tandems in the NFL.
Jones set a Rams franchise record with a
47.2-yard average a year ago. Brown, who
was signed away from Seattle in free
agency, has a reputation for clutch kicks,
and his deep kickoffs should help the
Rams coverage units. Veteran Dante Hall
once again will handle the punt- and kickoff-return chores, and he remains a
dynamic return specialist. Avery may end
up doing some kick returning as the season progresses. The question, as always,
is the coverage units, which have been a
weak spot for years. Grade: B-minus.

SAN FRANCISCO

49ERS

By KEVIN LYNCH

Who knows what kind of season the

enigmatic 49ers will have? Will they continue the offensive anemia that has characterized the team in the Mike Nolan era
and carried over into their first preseason
game in Oakland? Or will schematic guru
Mike Martz revive the offense like he did
in the 34-6 throttling of the Packers in
mid-August?
Its hard to assess any team thats
undergone the widespread change the

http://www.profootballweekly.com

47
to get more help from his cohorts. Veteran Takeo Spikes was signed in the middle
of training camp and is expected to start
beside Willis at inside linebacker. Justin
Smith has moved to an outside linebacking spot, but he will move throughout the
defensive line to get favorable matchups.
Manny Lawson is nearly a year removed
from tearing ligaments in his knee, and
opportunities could abound for him with
McDonald and Smith getting lots of
attention on the right side. Parys Haralson
and Tully Banta-Cain should provide
pressure as situational pass rushers.
Before the season is over, free-agent
acquisition Dontarrious Thomas could be
heard from as an inside linebacker.
Grade: B-minus.

49ers endured. The most significant was

the hiring of Martz, who was ousted in
Detroit after failing to rejuvenate the
Lions offense. Now his task is more
immense, trying to steer the worst offense
in the league last year back to respectability.
By mid-training camp, Martz pushed
first overall draft pick Alex Smith to the
bench in favor of J.T. OSullivan, a sixyear veteran of eight NFL teams. The
team also revamped its offensive line,
with only C Eric Heitmann returning to
the same position he played last season.
The receiving corps also underwent
reconstruction, with Martz favorite Isaac
Bruce and former Cardinal Bryant Johnson signing as free agents and sixth-round
pick Josh Morgan looking like this years
Marques Colston.
Defensively, the team signed big-ticket
free agent Justin Smith and paired him
with promising second-year player Ray
McDonald as a potentially potent sack
threat from the defenses right side.

QUARTERBACKS The 49ers are a long

way from the days of Joe Montana and
Steve Young or even Steve Bono, Elvis
Grbac and Jeff Garcia. Offensive coordinator Martz will try to run his offense with
the trio of OSullivan, Alex Smith and
Shaun Hill, with OSullivan getting the
first shot at the job. Martz favors OSullivan, but how long can he go before he falters and the other two come into play? The
49ers hope quantity can make up for quality. Grade: C-minus.
RUNNING BACKS A rare position thats
stocked on this struggling team. Frank
Gore badly wants to be Martzs answer to
Marshall Faulk. In fact, Gore has shed 10
pounds and is down to 212, the same playing weight as Faulk, and hes picked up
Faulks habit of asking dozens of questions and running after practice. Carolina
transplant DeShaun Foster has looked
good backing up Gore, and former Penn
State QB-WR Michael Robinson could
provide the X-factor for Martz. Fullbacks
never do much in the Martz offense, and
the position might be replaced by the
teams tight ends. Grade: B.
RECEIVERS A dearth of talent has
dogged the team since the departures of
Jerry Rice in 2000 and Terrell Owens in
03. Now the team might have its best
group since that time with the surprising
emergence of Morgan and the free-agent
signings of Bruce and Johnson. Last
years leading wide receiver, Arnaz Battle,
might be relegated to the fourth receiver.
TE Vernon Davis will contend for being
the teams most explosive receiving
threat, with Martz compiling a special set
of plays only for him. Converted WR
Delanie Walker, who will provide Martz
with some interesting options in two-TE
formations, and blocking specialist Billy
Bajema provide decent depth at tight end.
Grade: C-plus.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The teams
biggest disappointment last year was its
offensive line, which tied the Chiefs for
the most sacks yielded (55). Heitmann
looks much better now, a year removed
from his shattered leg. Promising rookie
ORT Joe Staley, now moves to the left
side, and competition for the guard spots
was still hot going into the season. Onetime Arena Football League player Tony
Wragge might be tough to unseat at right
guard, where David Baas, who is recovering from a torn right pectoral suffered
while lifting weights in April, also figures
in the mix. Adam Snyder seems solid at
left tackle. Right tackle remains intriguing
with talented but fragile Jonas Jennings

Marshall plan: Mike Martz thinks Frank Gore

could be the Niners version of RB Marshall Faulk

always battling injuries. Veteran Barry

Sims is ready to assume the job should
Jennings falter. Grade: C.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Nolan describes
his linemen as mudders. Theyre not
expected to collect tackles and sacks but
rather distract blockers so the linebackers
can grab the glory. Isaac Sopoaga,
Aubrayo Franklin, Ronald Fields and
rookie Kentwan Balmer would all qualify
as mudders, with McDonald providing
some flash as the starting right defensive
end. Grade: C.
LINEBACKERS Patrick Willis, the
reigning NFL tackle champion, is hoping

DEFENSIVE BACKS Nate Clements sets

the tempo for this group, providing
tremendous energy and elite coverage
skills. Youngsters Tarell Brown (second
year) and Reggie Smith (rookie) have
been unable to unseat veteran CB Walt
Harris, who put a hammer lock on the
starters role with solid play. Another veteran, Shawntae Spencer, also had a terrific camp and could be the nickel cornerback. Second-year pro Dashon Goldson
really challenged Mark Roman at free
safety, but the 49ers might pick the veteran Roman to start because of his ability to
call defenses. Depth abounds with Keith
Lewis, Smith, Brown and Donald Strickland. Grade: B-minus.
SPECIAL TEAMS Arguably the best
special teams in the league last year, this
unit has faltered in the exhibition season,
but its coached too well by Al Everest to
spill over into the regular season. Allen
Rossum upgrades the return game, handling both kickoffs and punts. PK Joe
Nedney is Pro Bowl-worthy, and P Andy
Lee could be a perennial Pro Bowler.
Grade: B-plus.

IF YOU WANT
ANALYSIS ...

www.ProFootballWeekly.com

ProFootballWeekly.com provides analysis for every aspect

of the NFL, whether its breaking news or rumors,
fantasy football, player ratings, handicapping or the NFL draft.

NFC WEST

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

MATT QUINNAN

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

48

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

HANDICAPPERS

CORNER

7
1

WEEK

ONE

EARLY POINTSPREADS AS OF SUNDAY AUG. 24

,

P F W S TA F F S E L E C T I O N S

PFW BEST BETS

NEW YORK GIANTS -312 vs. Washington
NEW ORLEANS -312 vs. Tampa Bay
PHILADELPHIA -7 vs. St. Louis

E A R LY L A S V E G A S L I N E

Hub
Arkush

Keith
Schleiden

Mike
Holbrook

Dan
Arkush

Eric
Edholm

Mike
Wilkening

Matt
Sohn

Dan
Parr

Michael
Blunda

PFW
Consensus

N.Y. GIANTS -312 vs. Washington (40)

Detroit -3 vs. ATLANTA (42)
BALTIMORE E vs. Cincinnati (4012)
BUFFALO -1 vs. Seattle (39)
N.Y. Jets -3 vs. MIAMI (36)
NEW ENGLAND -17 vs. Kansas City (48)
NEW ORLEANS -312 vs. Tampa Bay (43)
PHILADELPHIA -7 vs. St. Louis (4512)
PITTSBURGH -612 vs. Houston (4312)
Jacksonville -3 vs. TENNESSEE (37)
Dallas -312 vs. CLEVELAND (49)
SAN DIEGO -10 vs. Carolina (4212)
Arizona -3 vs. SAN FRANCISCO (4112)
INDIANAPOLIS -912 vs. Chicago (4412)

NYG
Atl.
Cin.
Sea.
NYJ
N.E.
N.O.
Phil.
Hou.
Tenn.
Cle.*
S.D.
S.F.
Ind.

NYG
Det.
Cin.
Sea.
NYJ
N.E.
N.O.
Phil.
Hou.*
Jax.
Dal.
Car.*
Ariz.
Chi.*

NYG
Atl.
Balt.
Sea.
NYJ
K.C.*
N.O.
Phil.
Pitt.
Tenn.
Dal.
Car.*
Ariz.
Chi.*

NYG
Atl.
Cin.
Buff.
NYJ
N.E.
N.O.
Phil.
Hou.*
Tenn.
Dal.
Car.*
Ariz.
Chi.*

NYG
Det.
Cin.
Sea.
Mia.
K.C.*
N.O.
Phil.
Hou.*
Jax.
Dal.
Car.*
S.F.
Ind.

NYG
Atl.
Cin.
Sea.
Mia.
K.C.*
T.B.*
Phil.
Pitt.
Tenn.
Clev.
Car.*
S.F.
Chi.*

NYG
Atl.
Balt.
Sea.
NYJ
K.C.*
N.O.
St.L.
Hou.*
Tenn.
Dal.
Car.*
Ariz.
Chi.*

NYG
Det.
Cin.
Sea.
NYJ
K.C.*
N.O.
Phil.
Hou.*
Tenn.
Dal.
Car.*
Ariz.
Chi.*

NYG
Det.
Cin.
Buff.
NYJ
K.C.*
N.O.
St.L.*
Hou.*
Tenn.
Dal.
Car.*
Ariz.
Chi.*

NYG
Atl.
Cin.
Sea.
NYJ
K.C.*
N.O.
Phil.
Hou.*
Tenn.
Dal.
Car.*
Ariz.
Chi.*

BALTIMORE vs. Cincinnati (4012) UNDER

MONDAY NIGHT

GREEN BAY -212 vs. Minnesota (3812)

Minn.

Minn.

G.B.

G.B.

G.B.

G.B.

Minn.

Minn.

Minn.

Minn.

Oak.

Den.

Den.

Den.

Oak.

Den.

Oak.

Den.

Oak.

Den.

MONDAY NIGHT

TOM BERG

Denver -1 vs. OAKLAND (4112)

Last week vs. spread
Season to date vs. spread
Last week best bets
Season to date best bets
Last week straight-up
Season to date straight-up

Brett the Jet

HOME TEAM IN CAPS. Asterisk (*) denotes team will cover pointspread but lose game. Boldface selection indicates best bet.

Since becoming a starter, Brett Favre is 8-7

ATS in his first road start of the season.

W E E K O N E O P P O N E N T S V S. S P R E A D

SERIES RECORDS

2007
H-28
A-34(-112)W*

A-3
H-19(-512)W

2005

10-YEAR HISTORY

Detroit
at Atlanta

Did not play

Cincinnati
at Baltimore

A-21W*
H-7(-312)

Seattle
at Buffalo

Did not play

N.Y. Jets
at Miami

A-40W
H-13(-112)

Kansas City
at New England

Did not play

Tampa Bay
at New Orleans

A-27W*
H-23(-412)

St. Louis
at Philadelphia

Did not play

Did not play

H-16(-3)
A-17W

Houston
at Pittsburgh

Did not play

Did not play

H-7
A-27(-5)W

Jacksonville
at Tennessee

A-28W
H-13(-412)

Dallas
at Cleveland

Did not play

Did not play

Did not play

DALLAS at Cleveland
1-0 () ()

Carolina
at San Diego

Did not play

Did not play

Did not play

Carolina at San Diego

1-1 () ()

Arizona
at San Francisco

H-31(-10)OT
A-37W

Chicago
at Indianapolis

Did not play

Minnesota
at Green Bay

A-0
H-34(-512)W*

H-16
A-23(-1)W

A-7W
H-9(-312)

H-17(-5)
A-23W

A-20W*
H-17(-6)

Denver
at Oakland

A-20(-3 2)
H-34W*

H-23(-10)OT
A-20W

A-17(-8 2)
H-13W*

H-13(-14)
A-3W

H-22(-13 2)W*
A-3

H-30W
A-14(-5)
H-27(-212)W
A-20

H-13(-3)W
A-7

A-13W*
H-10(-212)

A-20
H-26(-3)W

H-10(-8)
A-13W

A-17
H-20(-3)T

H-14(-112)
A-31W

A-17(-312)
H-24W

A-26W
H-20(-312)

H-20(-2)W
A-17

A-21(-3)W
H-9

Cincinnati at BALTIMORE
12-8 (7-3) (7-3)

A-20W*
H-24(-812)

Seattle at Buffalo
2-2 (Sea. 1-0) (Buff. 1-0)
H-17(-512)W
A-7

N.Y. JETS at Miami

16-4 (7-3) (9-1)

H-26(-312)W
A-16
A-21W
H-24(-7)

H-37(-9)W
A-7

H-34(-912)
A-27W

N-17
N-29(-612)W

H-42(-912)W*
A-29

Detroit at Atlanta
3-3 (1-1) (1-1)

Did not play

Did not play

H-31W
A-14(-412)

A-0
H-36(-1)W

H-7
A-27(-3)W

Did not play

H-31(-3)T
A-28

H-35(-312)W
A-20

Washington at N.Y GIANTS

11-9 (6-4) (5-5)

A-22W
H-10(-6)

H-17(-312)
A-24W

2006

Washington
at N.Y. Giants

H-27(-1312)W*
A-13

Kansas City at NEW ENGLAND

4-2 (3-0) (2-1)
A-10(-312)W
H-3&

TAMPA BAY at New Orleans

8-7 (4-3) (5-2)
St. Louis at PHILADELPHIA
4-3 (3-1) (3-0-1)

H-40(-412)W
A-13

A-17(-312)W
H-10

Houston at Pittsburgh
1-1 (Hou. 1-0) (Hou. 1-0)
A-31(-312)
H-28W

Jacksonville at TENNESSEE
13-8 (6-4) (6-4)

N-31(-3)W^
N-14

Arizona at SAN FRANCISCO

9-5 (5-2) (4-2-1)

Did not play

Chicago at INDIANAPOLIS
2-1 () ()
H-23(-112)W
A-20

Minnesota at GREEN BAY

12-9 (7-4) (3-8)

A-31(-3)W
H-17

DENVER at Oakland
15-5 (7-3) (6-4)

CODE: H, A or N (home, away or neutral) followed by teams score; number in parentheses is number of points by which that team was favored to win; E means game was rated
as even; W is placed next to a team that beat the pointspread; asterisk means that team beat the pointspread in both regular-season meetings that year; T means that neither beat
the pointspread; P refers to playoff game; OT refers to overtime game; & at Baton Rouge, La.; ^ at Mexico City.

To get daily tips

on picking
the winners, visit

Series leader is listed in CAPS with its record below. Series

leaders record at this weeks game site is listed in parentheses, followed by series leaders record vs. pointspread at
this weeks site. This years games not included.

for staff selections,

trends and tips, blogs
and handicapping column.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

GAME OF THE WEEK

When the Redskins have the ball

http://www.profootballweekly.com

49

WEEK ONE

When the Giants have the ball

REDSKINS
AT
GIANTS
7 p.m. EDT Thursday, Sept. 4
LOCATION Giants Stadium TURF FieldTurf MEETING OF THE YEAR First

OVERVIEW
Look for the Redskins to run the ball
early in the season, and especially in the
opener. RB Clinton Portis tallied 39 rushes
for 186 yards and two TDs in two games
against the Giants last season, including a
25-126-1 performance in the Redskins 2210 win at New York in Week 15.
Giants QB Eli Manning looks to carry
over his playoff success from last season
into this year. He showed more confidence
and command in a streamlined offense and
has buried most of his doubters with a fine
and almost mistake-free postseason run.
Hell be looking for help from a strong
running game and his stout offensive line
because there are questions about the pass
catchers right now. The loss of TE Jeremy
Shockey, who was traded, shouldnt be too
damaging considering the team performed
better without him and with the fast development of replacement Kevin Boss. But the
WR corps has seen its share of injuries this
summer, none more important than WR
Plaxico Burress ankle. Without Burress,
the Giants lack a dependable downfield
threat.

The Super Bowl-champion Giants have

earned the honor of hosting the NFL season
debut, hosting the division-rival Redskins,
but the team that beat the Patriots back on
Feb. 3 will look a lot different from the one
that plays this season.
There will be no Michael Strahan, who
retired in July and is not expected to pull a
Brett Favre and change his mind, despite a
season-ending injury to former bookend DE
Osi Umenyiora. Those losses, plus other
defections, have forced the Giants to reshuffle some of their key defensive spots.
The Redskins are an interesting study.
They have had a fairly smooth transition
from Joe Gibbs to new head coach Jim Zorn,
who has never run a team before. His installation of a West Coast offense has been a
process, but QB Jason Campbell appears to
be fitting in nicely in the new scheme.
The Giants will look to pressure again,
which was one of the key elements of the
teams Super Bowl run. Look for DE Justin
Tuck, who is now a full-time starter, and
Mathias Kiwanuka, who could line up in a
number of spots, to be the main sack threats.

THE MATCHUPS
NEW YORK GIANTS
JEFF FISHBEIN

WASHINGTON REDSKINS
JEFF FISHBEIN

QB Jason Campbell has been fairly accurate

during the preseason when he had time to
throw, but most of his completions have been
short throws. In the first four preseason games,
he has gained only 5.7 yards per attempt.
Thats to be expected somewhat. Campbell
and the rest of the players are learning Jim
Zorns West Coast system on the fly, and the
results have been mixed.
Expect the Redskins to run the ball a lot with
a rested and healthy Clinton Portis, with Ladell
Betts as a change-of-pace option. Portis traditionally runs his best to the right, but you
should expect the Redskins to want to test the
opposite side of the Giants defense.
With DRE Osi Umenyiora (knee) out for the
season and some question at weak-side linebacker, the Giants can expect some plays run in
that direction. Redskins OLT Chris Samuels
and OLG Pete Kendall are one of the NFLs
better tandems out there and can open some big
holes.
Of course, the Redskins must keep the
Giants honest with some kind of downfield
attack or else theyll face eight- and nine-man
boxes way too often.
WR Santana Moss has had a nice summer
and is healthy. He has been a Giants killer in
the past and totaled six catches for 157 yards in
the two head-to-head matchups last season.
The Redskins have some new faces at wideout,
namely rookies Devin Thomas and Malcolm
Kelly, but at least early on, Antwaan Randle El
and James Thrash should be the Nos. 2 and 3
wideouts. The rookies injuries this preseason
held them back from earning bigger roles in the
offense, at least initially.
Campbells main target could be TE Chris
Cooley, who appears primed for a big season.
Not only has Zorn been excited with how
Cooley has fit in, but Cooley also has the trust
of his quarterback. He is a move tight end
who will line up in multiple spots, and hes
clever and creative at finding space in the secondary.
The Giants must make sure their cover guys
are up to speed. They lost starting FS Gibril
Wilson in the offseason and appear ready to
name first-rounder Kenny Phillips as his successor. The Giants have depth at cornerback,
and assuming Corey Webster builds on his fine
postseason play after a so-so regular season,
that area could be a team strength. Second-year
man Aaron Ross is a fine cover corner, and the
depth appears bolstered.

Advantage

QB
RB
WR
OL
DL
LB

For all the turnover the Giants are facing on

defense, the offense is almost untouched. The
line returns all five starters, plus key backups;
QB Eli Manning has proven to be tough and
resilient; RBs Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward
and Ahmad Bradshaw all saw time as the top
runner; and the WR corps could be just as
strong and deep as last seasons crew.
The one major change is at tight end, where
Kevin Boss replaces Jeremy Shockey, who was
traded to the Saints, in the starting lineup. Boss
has come along quickly, and although he might
not be as frequent a target as Shockey was, he
still should see a decent share of passes thrown
his way.
The one major new face on the Redskins
defense is DE Jason Taylor, who was acquired
from the Dolphins this offseason, but Taylor
might not be able to play following a knee
sprain he suffered in the preseason loss to the
Panthers. When healthy, Taylor provides some
of the best pressure the Redskins have had from
a D-lineman in some time, and he also can
flush out the run well.
As for the rest of the unit, depth is a question, but talent is not. The Redskins will have
some similarities, scheme-wise, to what Gregg
Williams ran the past few seasons, but new
coordinator Greg Blache wants to create pressure and might have to blitz, especially if Taylor is out.
The pass defense should be in OK shape,
with DRE Andre Carter and a good secondary
in tow. CB Carlos Rogers (knee) has returned
to action, and FS LaRon Landry (hamstring)
should play in the game.
The Giants love to run to set up the pass, and
it seems likely theyll use the bruising Jacobs
often early and then mix in Ward and Bradshaw
throughout. The line is one of the best units in
the NFL, and it especially shines on run blocking.
The health of the Giants receivers remains
to be seen, but it would not be shocking to see
the entire group out there on opening night.
WR Plaxico Burress (ankle) is the units star
and hasnt played in the preseason, but the team
doesnt appear to be too worried. After all, Burress played most of last season on that ankle
and still had 1,025 yards and 12 TDs.
Amani Toomer, Steve Smith and Domenik
Hixon figure to see passes thrown their way
whether Burress is healthy, but the team might
opt to go slowly with rookie WR Mario Manningham.

DB
ST

REDSKINS DEPTH CHART

OFFENSE
WR 89 Moss / 83 Thrash / 12 Kelly*
OLT 60 Samuels / 74 Heyer / 75 Rinehart*
OLG 66 Kendall / 75 Rinehart*
C
61 Rabach / 76 Jansen
ORG 77 Thomas / 69 Fabini
ORT 76 Jansen / 71 Wade
TE 47 Cooley / 87 Yoder / 86 Davis*
WR 82 Randle El / 11 Thomas* / 16 McMullen
QB 17 J. Campbell / 15 Collins / 5 Brennan*
RB 26 Portis / 46 Betts / 31 Cartwright / 23 Mason
FB 45 Sellers / 36 Broughton
DEFENSE
DLE 55 Taylor / 95 Wilson / 78 James
DLT 96 Griffin / 79 Alexander / 73 Boschetti
DRT 64 Golston / 94 Montgomery
DRE 99 Carter / 92 Evans / 98 Jackson*
SLB 53 Washington / 58 Sinclair
MLB 59 Fletcher / 54 Blades
WLB 52 McIntosh / 50 K. Campbell
LCB 24 Springs / 29 Torrence
RCB 22 Rogers / 27 Smoot / 20 Tryon*
SS 37 Doughty / 39 Fox / 41 Moore*
FS 30 Landry / 48 Horton*
SPECIALISTS
P
4 Frost / 14 Brooks*
PK
6 Suisham
H
4 Frost / 14 Brooks*
PR 82 Randle El / 83 Thrash / 89 Moss
KR 31 Cartwright / 83 Thrash / 46 Betts
LS 67 Albright
* Rookie

Jim Zorn has a tough task in

his first game as a head coach

GIANTS DEPTH CHART

Tom Coughlin is dealing with

quite a bit of change on D

Coach

REDSKINS SCHEDULE

GIANTS SCHEDULE

DATE

OPPONENT

Sept. 4

at N.Y. Giants

7 p.m.

TIME

DATE

OPPONENT

TIME

Sept. 4

Washington

7 p.m.

Sept. 14

New Orleans

1 p.m.

Sept. 21

Arizona

1 p.m.

Sept. 14

at St. Louis

1 p.m.

Sept. 21

Cincinnati

Sept. 28

at Dallas

4:15 p.m.

Sept. 28

Bye

1 p.m.

Oct. 5

at Philadelphia

1 p.m.

Oct. 5

Seattle

Oct. 12

St. Louis

1 p.m.

Oct. 13

at Cleveland

Oct. 19

Cleveland

4:15 p.m.

Oct. 19

San Francisco

Oct. 26

at Detroit

1 p.m.

Oct. 26

at Pittsburgh

Nov. 3

Pittsburgh

Nov. 2

Dallas

4:15 p.m.

Nov. 6

Bye

Nov. 9

at Philadelphia

8:15 p.m.

Nov. 16

Dallas*

8:15 p.m.

Nov. 16

Baltimore

1 p.m.

Nov. 23

at Seattle

4:15 p.m.

Nov. 23

at Arizona

4:15 p.m.

Nov. 30

N.Y. Giants

1 p.m.

Nov. 30

at Washington

Dec. 7

at Baltimore

1 p.m.

Dec. 7

Philadelphia

Dec. 14

at Cincinnati

1 p.m.

Dec. 14

at Dallas*

1 p.m.

Dec. 21

Carolina

1 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

Dec. 28

at Minnesota

1 p.m.

Dec. 21

Philadelphia

Dec. 28

at San Francisco

8:30 p.m.

1 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.

1 p.m.
1 p.m.
8:15 p.m.

OFFENSE
WR 17 Burress / 87 Hixon / 82 Manningham*
OLT 66 Diehl / 79 Whimper
OLG 69 Seubert / 70 Goddard
C
60 OHara / 65 Ruegamer
ORG 76 Snee / 77 Boothe
ORT 67 McKenzie / 61 Koets
TE 89 Boss / 88 Matthews / 84 D. Johnson
WR 81 Toomer / 12 Smith / 83 Moss
QB 10 E. Manning / 2 Wright / 8 Carr / 3 Woodson*
RB 27 Jacobs / 34 Ward / 44 Bradshaw
FB 39 Hedgecock
DEFENSE
DLE 91 Tuck / 99 Wynn
NT 96 Cofield / 74 Leisle
DT 98 Robbins / 93 Alford
DRE 71 Tollefson / 99 Wynn / 97 Kiwanuka
SLB 97 Kiwanuka / 51 DeOssie / 52 Daniels
MLB 58 Pierce / 57 Blackburn / 54 Goff*
WLB 55 Clark / 59 Wilkinson / 53 Kehl*
LCB 31 Ross / 35 Dockery / 30 Thomas*
RCB 23 Webster / 29 Madison / 25 McQuarters
SS 37 Butler / 26 Knight / 38 Schweigert
FS 21 Phillips* / 20 M. Johnson
SPECIALISTS
P
18 Feagles
PK 13 Huston / 9 Tynes
H
18 Feagles
PR 25 McQuarters / 87 Hixon / 44 Bradshaw
KR 87 Hixon / 44 Bradshaw / 34 Ward
LS 51 DeOssie / 93 Alford
* Rookie

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

50

GAME PREVIEWS

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

WEEK ONE

VIKINGS
AT
PACKERS

LIONS
AT
FALCONS

BENGALS
AT
RAVENS

OVERVIEW For the first time since 1992, a quarterback

not named Brett Favre will start a regular-season game for
the Packers. Aaron Rodgers gamely fought through the
Favre saga and appears to have settled down after a few
rough patches this preseason. He has WR Greg Jennings
back, and those two could be a frequent battery despite a
deep WR corps. The Vikings were among the worst coverage teams last season, allowing Favre to throw for 562
yards and five TDs in two 07 games. But the Vikings feel
that the addition of DE Jared Allen will improve the pass
rush too often the Vikings had to blitz to get their sacks
last season which in turn should cut down the coverage
problems. Packers RB Ryan Grant might have trouble facing what could be the leagues best run defense. But the
Vikings will look to establish the run with Adrian Peterson
and Chester Taylor against a Packers defensive front that
has struggled in the preseason.

OVERVIEW Two NFC teams that have struggled in recent

seasons enter this game hoping to put their dark pasts
behind them. The Falcons are ushering in a new era with
head coach Mike Smith at the helm, and the Lions have a
new strategy on offense, which aims to put a greater
emphasis on the ground game. Although Detroit wants to
run first this season, it could have an easier time moving
the ball through the air against a weak, inexperienced Falcons secondary. Lions QB Jon Kitna has two great
weapons in WRs Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson, and
they both could have huge games. Expectations are low
for the Falcons as they break in a young group led by QB
Matt Ryan.

OVERVIEW Carson Palmer will gut through a broken

nose. Chad Johnson (shoulder), T.J. Houshmandzadeh
(hamstring) and Rudi Johnson (hamstring) all are coming
off injury-marred preseasons. In other words, the Bengals
offense will resemble the walking wounded in this
matchup with division-rival Baltimore. But the injuries were
only part of an offseason of turmoil in Cincinnati, and a
Week One victory would go a long way toward restoring
unity to a clubhouse that became divided through Chad
Johnsons trade demands and troubled Chris Henrys resigning. Baltimore might be trotting out an untested quarterback in Troy Smith and an aging defense, but its a club
at least buoyed by energetic first-time head coach John
Harbaugh. Cincinnati wants to rattle Smith or whoever
lines up under center but an anemic pass rush should
make it easier for him to locate his underachieving wideouts against the Bengals young secondary. Palmer,
meanwhile, might not have time to brandish his cannon of
an arm if he continues to have porous pass protection
from his line, tight ends and running backs.

KEY MATCHUP Expect the Packers to test the Vikings

secondary with three-, four- and five-WR packages. With
Vikings FS Madieu Williams (neck) out, and rookie Tyrell
Johnson in his place, and given the coverage problems
last season, you can bet the Minnesota DBs will see a fair
number of passes thrown their way.

KEY MATCHUP OLT Jeff Backus vs. DRE John Abraham.

If the Falcons want to stay competitive, it will take a strong
effort from their pass rush, which needs to keep pressure
on Kitna. Hell pick the young Atlanta secondary apart if
hes given enough time to connect with Williams and Johnson. Backus didnt have his best season in 07 but finished
the year strong. He draws a tough opening assignment in
Abraham, who had 10 sacks last season.

KEY MATCHUP Bengals rookie WLB Keith Rivers is

charged with keeping Ravens RBs Willis McGahee and
Ray Rice from running wild in the open field. Rivers has
the athleticism to keep up; the question is whether he has
the strength to shed oncoming linemen.

BY THE NUMBERS Vikings QB Tarvaris Jackson made

his first start against the Packers in 06, completing 10-of20 passes for 50 yards and an interception. He missed
both Packers games last season, nursing injuries.

BY THE NUMBERS The Falcons starters at arguably the

three most important positions on offense quarterback,
running back and left tackle have just one game of
starting experience in the NFL. RB Michael Turner owns
the one career start, and it came during the 2004 season
with San Diego.

VIKINGS DEPTH CHART

PACKERS DEPTH CHART

LIONS DEPTH CHART

FALCONS DEPTH CHART

BENGALS DEPTH CHART

RAVENS DEPTH CHART

OFFENSE
WR 87 Berrian / 89 Ferguson / 11 J. Johnson*
OLT 74 McKinnie / 75 C. Johnson / 79 Hicks
OLG 76 Hutchinson / 79 A. Hicks / 60 Radovich*
C
78 Birk / 65 Sullivan*
ORG 64 Herrera / 60 Radovich*
ORT 62 Cook / 72 M. Johnson
TE 81 Shiancoe / 40 Kleinsasser / 45 Mills
WR 18 Rice / 19 Wade / 84 Allison
QB
7 T. Jackson / 12 Frerotte / 4 Booty*
RB 28 Peterson / 29 Taylor / 43 Hicks
FB 44 Tapeh / 83 Dugan / 38 Tahi

OFFENSE
WR 85 Jennings / 82 Martin / 87 Nelson*
OLT 76 Clifton / 73 Colledge / 75 Moll
OLG 73 Colledge / 78 Barbre / 72 Spitz
C
63 Wells / 72 Spitz / 62 Coston
ORG 72 Spitz / 71 Sitton* / 60 Considine*
ORT 65 Tauscher / 69 O. Thompson / 68 Giacomini*
TE 86 D. Lee / 84 Humphrey / 88 Finley*
WR 80 Driver / 89 Jones / 83 Francies
QB 12 Rodgers / 11 Brohm* / 10 Flynn*
RB 25 Grant / 32 Jackson / 34 Morency
FB 35 Hall / 30 Kuhn / 45 C. White

OFFENSE
WR 11 R. Williams / 84 McDonald / 80 Ellis
OLT 76 Backus / 73 Scott / 77 Cherilus*
OLG 64 Mulitalo / 61 F. Davis
C
51 Raiola / 67 McCollum
ORG 66 Peterman / 63 Ramirez
ORT 72 Foster / 77 Cherilus*
TE 89 Campbell / 86 Gaines / 82 FitzSimmons
WR 81 C. Johnson / 87 Furrey / 10 Middleton
QB
8 Kitna / 6 Orlovsky / 5 Stanton
RB 34 Kev. Smith* / 36 Cason / 29 Calhoun
FB 45 Felton*

OFFENSE
WR 12 Jenkins / 19 Robinson
OLT 72 Baker* / 66 Pennington
OLG 63 Blalock / 67 Wilkerson / 70 Batiste
C
62 McClure / 69 Stepanovich
ORG 73 Dahl / 65 Forney
ORT 77 Clabo / 74 Weiner / 76 Ojinnaka
TE 89 Hartsock / 88 Milner / Pollard
WR 84 White / 83 Douglas*
QB
2 Ryan* / 8 Redman / 13 Harrington
RB 33 Turner / 32 Norwood / T. Brown*
FB 34 Mughelli / 38 McIntyre

OFFENSE
WR 85 C. Johnson / 87 Caldwell*
OLT 76 L. Jones / 73 Collins*
OLG 77 Whitworth / 62 Livings
C
63 Williams / 53 Ghiaciuc
ORG 79 Andrews / 75 Kooistra
ORT 71 Anderson / 74 Uperesa
TE 82 Kelly / 81 Utecht
WR 84 Houshmandzadeh / 89 Simpson*
QB
9 C. Palmer / 11 Fitzpatrick
RB 32 R. Johnson / 33 Watson / 23 Perry
FB 86 Coats / 37 Bradley

OFFENSE
WR 89 Clayton / 87 D. Williams / 81 Ma. Smith*
OLT 71 Gaither / 64 Cousins* / 68 Slaughter
OLG 66 Grubbs / 76 Hale*
C
60 Brown / 65 Chester
ORG 73 Yanda / 67 Clarke
ORT 78 Terry / 74 Kracalik
TE 86 Heap / 83 Wilcox
WR 85 Mason / 16 Figurs
QB 10 Smith / 7 Boller / 5 Flacco*
RB 23 McGahee / 39 Rice* / 34 Ross
FB 37 McClain / 42 Neal

DEFENSE
DLE 91 Edwards / 99 Douzable
UT 93 K. Williams / 97 Wyms / 98 Guion*
NT 94 P. Williams / 90 Evans
DRE 69 Allen / 96 Robison / 73 Grigsby
SLB 51 Leber / 54 Ciurciu / 58 Herron
MLB 56 Henderson / 55 Pope
WLB 52 Greenway / 57 R. Alexander
LCB 26 Winfield / 21 McCauley
RCB 23 Griffin / 41 Gordon / 22 Sapp
SS 42 Sharper / 27 Boulware
FS 25 T. Johnson* / 37 Frampton / 20 M. Williams

DEFENSE
DLE 74 Kampman / 96 Montgomery
DLT 79 Pickett / 90 Cole / 93 Bolston
DRT 97 Jolly / 91 Harrell / 95 Muir
DRE 77 Jenkins / 94 Gbaja-Biamila / 57 Hunter
SLB 51 Poppinga / 54 Chillar / 53 Hayner
MLB 56 Barnett / 55 Bishop / 52 Hodge
WLB 50 Hawk / 54 Chillar / 59 T. White
LCB 21 Woodson / 27 Blackmon / 22 P. Lee*
RCB 31 Harris / 38 Williams / 24 Bush
SS 20 Bigby / 26 Peprah / 29 Culver
FS 36 Collins / 37 Rouse

DEFENSE
DLE 95 DeVries / 97 Alama-Francis
NT 91 Darby / 75 Cody / 98 Cohen
UT 78 Redding / 79 Moore / 96 Fluellen*
DRE 99 White / 93 C. Smith / 92 Avril
SLB 59 Lewis / 54 Gardner
MLB 53 Lenon / 57 Dizon* / 55 B. Davis
WLB 50 Sims / 52 Cannon / 41 Joe
LCB 25 Kelly / 23 Kei. Smith / 33 Edwards
RCB 30 Bodden / 21 Fisher / 38 Robinson
SS 26 D. Smith / 24 Blue
FS 42 Alexander / 32 Pearson

DEFENSE
DLE 98 J. Anderson / 75 Fraser
NT 91 G. Jackson / 90 Moore / T. Anderson
UT 95 Babineaux / 94 Moorehead / 96 Stanley
DRE 55 Abraham / 92 Davis
SLB 59 Boley / 54 Nicholas
MLB 50 Lofton* / 53 Taylor
WLB 56 Brooking / 52 Wire
LCB 20 Grimes / 22 C. Jackson*
RCB 23 Houston / 24 Adams / 30 Irons
SS 36 Milloy / 35 Cooper / 39 Stone
FS 26 Coleman / 28 DeCoud*

DEFENSE
DLE 91 Geathers / 68 Fanene
DLT 94 Peko / 96 Myers
DRT 97 Thornton / 90 Sims*
DRE 98 Odom / 92 Rucker
SLB 93 Jeanty / 56 Blackstock / 55 Brooks
MLB 57 Dh. Jones / 51 Mays
WLB 58 Rivers* / 59 B. Johnson
LCB 22 Joseph / 24 ONeal
RCB 29 Hall / 20 Da. Jones
SS 28 Jackson / 41 Ndukwe
FS 26 White / 34 Kyries

DEFENSE
DLE 90 Pryce / 93 Edwards
NT 97 Gregg / 69 Parker
DRE 92 Ngata / 94 Bannan
LOLB 95 Johnson / 91 Jones
LILB 52 Lewis / 59 Greisen
RILB 57 Scott / 44 Melton / 49 Gooden*
ROLB 55 Suggs / 50 Barnes
LCB 21 McAlister / 41 Walker / 35 Ivy
RCB 22 Rolle / 31 Washington
SS 26 Landry / 25 Zbikowski* / 43 Nakamura*
FS 20 Reed / 36 Leonhard

SPECIALISTS
P
5 Kluwe
PK
8 Longwell
H
5 Kluwe / 12 Frerotte
PR 84 Allison / 11 J. Johnson*
KR 43 M. Hicks / 84 Allison
LS 46 Loeffler
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
9 Ryan
PK
2 Crosby
H
9 Ryan
PR 27 Blackmon / 38 Williams / 87 Nelson*
KR 27 Blackmon / 38 Williams / 87 Nelson*
LS 46 Jansen* / 60 Considine* / 97 Jolly
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
2 Harris
PK
4 Hanson
H
2 Harris
PR 80 Ellis / 10 Middleton
KR 36 Cason
LS 48 Muhlbach
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
9 Koenen
PK
1 Elam
H
9 Koenen
PR 81 Jennings / 83 Douglas
KR 32 Norwood / 81 Jennings
LS 46 Schneck
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
19 Larsen
PK 17 Graham
H
19 Larsen
PR 24 ONeal
KR 16 Holt
LS 48 St. Louis
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
4 Koch
PK
3 Stover
H
4 Koch
PR 16 Figurs / 25 Zbikowski*
KR 16 Figurs / 39 Rice*
LS 70 Katula
* Rookie

PACKERS SCHEDULE

LIONS SCHEDULE

VIKINGS SCHEDULE
DATE
Sept. 8
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 6
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at Green Bay
Indianapolis
Carolina
at Tennessee
at New Orleans
Detroit
at Chicago
Bye
Houston
Green Bay
at Tampa Bay
at Jacksonville
Chicago*
at Detroit
at Arizona
Atlanta
N.Y. Giants

TIME
7 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1
1
1
1
8:15
1
4:05
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 8
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 24
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 22
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Minnesota
at Detroit
Dallas
at Tampa Bay
Atlanta
at Seattle
Indianapolis
Bye
at Tennessee
at Minnesota
Chicago
at New Orleans
Carolina
Houston
at Jacksonville
at Chicago
Detroit

TIME
7 p.m.
1 p.m.
8:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1
1
1
8:30
1
1
1
8:30
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 27
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at Atlanta
Green Bay
at San Francisco
Bye
Chicago
at Minnesota
at Houston
Washington
at Chicago
Jacksonville
at Carolina
Tampa Bay
Tennessee
Minnesota
at Indianapolis
New Orleans
at Green Bay

FALCONS SCHEDULE
TIME
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
1
1
4:05
1
1
1
1
1
12:30
1
1
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Detroit
at Tampa Bay
Kansas City
at Carolina
at Green Bay
Chicago
Bye
at Philadelphia
at Oakland
New Orleans
Denver
Carolina
at San Diego
at New Orleans
Tampa Bay
at Minnesota
St. Louis

BY THE NUMBERS The enigmatic Bengals have had the

Ravens number since 05, going 5-1.

BENGALS SCHEDULE
TIME
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.|
1
4:15
1
1
1
4:05
1
1
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 20
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at Baltimore
Tennessee
at N.Y. Giants
Cleveland
at Dallas
at N.Y. Jets
Pittsburgh
Bye
Jacksonville
at Houston
Philadelphia
at Pittsburgh
Baltimore
at Indianapolis
Washington
at Cleveland
Kansas City

RAVENS SCHEDULE
TIME
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1
1
1
8:15
1
1
1
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 29
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 6
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 20
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Cincinnati
at Houston
Cleveland
at Pittsburgh
Tennessee
at Indianapolis
at Miami
Oakland
at Cleveland
Bye
at N.Y. Giants
Philadelphia
at Cincinnati
Washington
Pittsburgh
at Dallas
Jacksonville

1
4:15
4:15
8:30
1
1
1
1
1

TIME
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

1
1
1
1
1
8:15
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

GAME PREVIEWS

http://www.profootballweekly.com

51

WEEK ONE

SEAHAWKS
AT
BILLS

JETS
AT
DOLPHINS

CHIEFS
AT
PATRIOTS

OVERVIEW Mike Holmgrens farewell tour commences

against a non-conference foe thats hoping to become
what Holmgren molded the Seahawks into: a postseason
stalwart spearheaded by smart quarterbacking in a passer-friendly offense and a tough, no-frills defense. New Bills
offensive coordinator Turk Schonert would be wise to take
notes in this game, as few teams operate with as much
offensive rhythm as the Matt Hasselbeck-led Hawks. Hasselbecks counterpart in Buffalo, Trent Edwards, enters his
first season as the unquestioned starter after a sometimes
inspiring, sometimes shoddy showing through the preseason. Whether he can find his groove will hinge largely on
whether All-Pro OLT Jason Peters decides to end his holdout after sitting out the entire offseason; only three teams
racked up more sacks a season ago than Seattles 45.
Involving RB Marshawn Lynch as much as the Bills want
to might prove difficult against Seattles vaunted LB corps.

OVERVIEW Quarterback play routinely takes center stage

in the NFL, but the gunslingers in this AFC East showdown dominate the story lines even more than QBs typically do. Three-time league MVP Brett Favres arrival in
New York not only renders the Jets a potential power broker, but also led to Chad Pennington landing in Miami after
being cut from the Jets. In reality, Favre and Pennington
are just two of the newcomers on a pair of teams that have
undergone as much of an offseason overhaul as any in
the league. Many of the fortifications for both centered
around obtaining front-seven personnel to fit the 3-4
defense, as Miami is transitioning to the scheme in 2008
while New York is finally appearing equipped for the system in Eric Manginis third season. The retooled defensive
front that generates the best pass rush on the new opposing quarterback will go a long way in enabling its team to
come out of Week One with a well-deserved intradivision
victory.

OVERVIEW Vegas bestowing the Patriots as 17-point

favorites before either team has taken a regular-season
snap speaks volumes about the respective expectations
of these clubs. But while the Chiefs are undoubtedly in
Year One of a multiyear reclamation project, its not as if
the Patriots are devoid of potential pitfalls. An injurydepleted offensive line that failed to protect the Pats quarterbacks in the preseason stands as at least a mild concern against a Chiefs defensive front featuring touted
rookie DT Glenn Dorsey, and concern is only exacerbated
given Tom Bradys ambiguous health status (foot).
Regardless, New England couldnt have drawn a more fortuitous opener to work out the kinks following their crushing loss in Super Bowl XLII. The only legitimate issue outside of the O-line that the Patriots are dealing with is in the
secondary, but Chiefs QB Brodie Croyles downtrodden
play behind an O-line thats among the worst in the league
significantly lessens the burden placed upon Ellis Hobbs
and the Pats new cornerbacks.

KEY MATCHUP While DRE Aaron Schobel never will be

a force against the run, the Bills are banking on his blistering speed off the edge to disrupt Seattles timing-based
offense. To do so, hell have to navigate around perennial
Pro Bowl OLT Walter Jones, who has slowed down only
slightly with age. Schobels bound to see more one-on-one
battles now that DT Marcus Strouds a focus inside.

KEY MATCHUP If Dolphins C Samson Satele cant control massive NT Kris Jenkins, the Jets will be free to
unleash the full complement of their defensive playbook to
rattle Pennington. Sateles great against four-man fronts
but can be taken to task by space-eating two-gappers.

KEY MATCHUP A Patriots WR corps featuring the

leagues reigning receptions leader (Wes Welker, who tied
T.J. Houshmandzadeh with 112 catches in 07) and singleseason TD record-holder (Randy Moss, with 23) could
turn this game into a laugher if rookie CB Brandon Flowers and aging veteran Patrick Surtain act their ages.

BY THE NUMBERS The Seahawks enter 08 with an

NFC-best five straight playoff seasons. The Bills are on the
heels of an AFC-long eight-year playoff drought.

BY THE NUMBERS Favres NFL-record 253 consecutive games started is only 16 games fewer than the combined starts of the Dolphins projected starting offensive
lineup.

SEAHAWKS DEPTH CHART

BILLS DEPTH CHART

JETS DEPTH CHART

DOLPHINS DEPTH CHART

CHIEFS DEPTH CHART

PATRIOTS DEPTH CHART

OFFENSE
WR 81 Burleson / 87 Obomanu / 82 Kent
OLT 71 W. Jones / 77 Womack / 73 Robinson*
OLG 68 Wahle / 63 Murray*
C
65 Spencer / 69 Vallos / 57 Claxton
ORG 67 Sims / 66 Wrotto
ORT 75 Locklear / 74 Willis / 78 Williams
TE 89 Carlson* / 85 Heller / 88 Putzier
WR 86 Taylor / 83 Branch / 84 Engram / 19 Payne
QB
8 Hasselbeck / 15 Wallace / 5 Frye
RB 22 J. Jones / 20 Morris / 45 Duckett
FB 43 Weaver / 34 Kirtman / 35 O. Schmitt*

OFFENSE
WR 83 Evans / 11 Parrish
OLT 71 Peters / 77 Bell*
OLG 66 Dockery / 69 McCaskill
C
67 Fowler / 75 Preston
ORG 60 Butler / 65 Whittle
ORT 68 Walker / 73 Chambers
TE 84 Royal / 80 Schouman / 86 Fine*
WR 81 Hardy* / 82 Reed
QB
5 Edwards / 7 Losman
RB 23 Lynch / 22 Jackson
FB 36 Barnes / 45 Evans

OFFENSE
WR 87 Coles / 16 B. Smith
OLT 60 Ferguson / 59 Coleman
OLG 66 Faneca / 75 Turner
C
74 Mangold / 68 Montgomery
ORG 65 Moore / 72 Bender
ORT 67 Woody / 78 Hunter
TE 86 Baker / 82 Pociask
WR 89 Cotchery / 83 Stuckey
QB
4 Favre / 11 Clemens / 5 Ratliff
RB 20 Jones / 29 Washington / 22 Chatman
TE 81 Keller* / 88 Franks

OFFENSE
WR 19 Ginn / 18 Wilford
OLT 77 Long* / 68 Ndukwe
OLG 65 Smiley / 61 Murphy*
C
64 Satele / 75 Spanos*
ORG 66 D. Thomas* / 69 Darilek
ORT 72 Carey / 67 Heerspink
TE 81 Fasano / 88 Martin / 87 Peelle
WR 82 Hagan / 83 Camarillo
QB 10 Pennington / 4 McCown / 7 Henne
RB 34 Williams / 23 Brown
FB 46 Grigsby

OFFENSE
WR 82 Bowe / 85 Franklin* / 17 Price
OLT 76 Albert* / 65 Taylor / 62 Harrison*
OLG 54 Waters / 61 Stallings / 60 Leffew
C
64 Niswanger / 74 W. Smith / 66 R. Smith
ORG 73 Jones / 79 Alabi
ORT 77 McIntosh / 67 Richardson* / 71 Svitek
TE 88 Gonzalez / 81 Allan
WR 89 Darling / 80 Webb / 83 Sippio
QB 12 Croyle / 4 Thigpen / 11 Huard
RB 27 L. Johnson / 26 Battle / 21 K. Smith
TE 87 Cottam* / 84 Foschi

OFFENSE
WR 83 Welker / 15 Washington
OLT 72 Light / 65 Britt
OLG 70 Mankins / 71 Hochstein
C
67 Koppen / 63 Connolly
ORG 61 Neal / 74 Yates / 69 Welbourn
ORT 77 Kaczur / 68 OCallaghan
TE 84 Watson / 86 Thomas
WR 81 Moss / 18 Slater*
QB 12 Brady / 16 Cassel / 5 OConnell*
RB 39 Maroney / 33 Faulk / 32 Jordan
WR 10 Gaffney / 17 Jackson

DEFENSE
DLE 97 Kerney / 59 Atkins / 91 Cooper
DLT 92 Mebane / 94 Green / 96 Tripplett
DRT 99 Bernard / 93 Terrill
DRE 55 Tapp / 95 Jackson* / 52 Babin
OLB 56 Hill / 50 Laury / 49 Sartz*
MLB 51 Tatupu / 44 Hawthorne*
OLB 98 Peterson / 58 Lewis / 54 Herring
LCB 23 Trufant / 32 Hobbs / 31 Lowe
RCB 21 Jennings / 26 Wilson / 29 Floyd
SS 24 Grant / 27 Babineaux / 33 Johnson*
FS 25 Russell / 39 Wallace / 36 Adams*

DEFENSE
DLE 90 Kelsay / 92 Denney
DLT 99 Stroud / 97 McCargo
DRT 95 Williams / 91 Johnson
DRE 94 Schobel / 96 Bryan / 93 Ellis*
SLB 55 Crowell / 57 Spragan
MLB 51 Posluszny / 52 DiGiorgio
WLB 59 Mitchell / 56 Ellison
LCB 33 Greer / 28 McKelvin*
RCB 24 McGee / 26 Youboty / 21 James
SS 20 Whitner / 43 Scott
FS 30 Simpson / 37 Wilson

DEFENSE
DLE 92 Ellis / 69 Mosley
NT 77 Jenkins / 91 Pouha
DRE 93 K. Coleman / 70 DeVito
LOLB 99 Thomas / 56 Gholston*
LILB 50 Barton / 96 Bowens
RILB 52 Harris / 57 Trusnik
ROLB 97 Pace / 58 Chatham
LCB 24 Revis / 31 Poteat / 30 D. Coleman
RCB 36 Barrett / 21 Miller / 34 Lowery*
SS 25 Rhodes / 33 E. Smith
FS 27 Elam / 44 Ihedigbo

DEFENSE
DLE 70 Langford* / 94 Starks
NT 95 Ferguson / 96 Soliai
DRE 91 Holliday / 97 Merling*
SLB 55 Porter / 98 Roth
LILB 52 Crowder / 49 Poppinga*
RILB 51 Ayodele / 53 Torbor
WLB 56 Anderson / 74 Moses
LCB 25 W. Allen / 41 J. Thomas
RCB 21 Goodman / 33 Jones
SS 37 Bell / 28 Davis
FS 20 Crocker / 32 J. Allen

DEFENSE
DLE 90 McBride / 70 Boone / 75 T. Johnson
DLT 93 Tyler / 95 R. Edwards / 69 Lokey*
DRT 72 Dorsey* / 99 Jackson / 94 Murray*
DRE 91 Hali / 97 Johnston* / 60 Dingle*
SLB 59 D. Edwards / 53 Williams / 96 Octavien*
MLB 55 Thomas / 50 Harris / 67 Dacus*
WLB 56 D. Johnson / 66 Rumph* / 52 Kuale
LCB 23 Surtain / 39 Carr* / 34 Brackenridge
RCB 24 Flowers* / 22 Patterson / 31 Leggett*
SS 49 Pollard / 38 Morgan*
FS 44 Page / 47 McGraw / 20 Burns*

DEFENSE
DLE 94 Warren / 99 Wright
NT 75 Wilfork / 69 Fifita
DRE 93 Seymour / 97 Green
LOLB 50 Vrabel / 58 Woods
LILB 51 Mayo* / 59 Hobson
RILB 54 Bruschi / 52 Alexander
ROLB 96 Thomas / 98 Crable*
LCB 25 Bryant / 21 Webster / 24 Wilhite*
RCB 27 Hobbs / 22 Wheatley*
SS 37 Harrison / 47 Lynch
FS 36 Sanders / 31 Meriweather

SPECIALISTS
P
1 Plackemeier / 3 Hodges
PK 10 Mare / 7 Coutu*
H
1 Plackemeier / 3 Hodges / 8 Hasselbeck
PR 87 Obomanu / 25 Wilson / 30 Forsett*
KR 81 Burleson / 26 Wilson
LS 48 T. Schmitt* / 47 Lindsey*
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
8 Moorman
PK
9 Lindell
H
8 Moorman
PR 11 Parrish / 28 McKelvin*
KR 24 McGee / 28 McKelvin*
LS 72 Neill
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
7 Graham
PK
1 Nugent
H
11 Clemens
PR 29 Washington / 24 Revis
KR 29 Washington / 21 Miller
LS 85 Dearth
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
2 Fields
PK
5 Carpenter
H
2 Fields
PR 19 Ginn
KR 19 Ginn
LS 92 Denney
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
2 Colquitt
PK
9 Novak / 5 Barth
H
2 Colquitt
PR 30 Sams / 29 Savage* / 14 Robinson*
KR 30 Sams / 29 Savage* / 25 Charles*
LS 51 Darche
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
6 Hanson
PK
3 Gostkowski
H
16 Cassel
PR 83 Welker / 33 Faulk
KR 17 Jackson / 18 Slater*
LS 66 Paxton
* Rookie

CHIEFS SCHEDULE

PATRIOTS SCHEDULE

SEAHAWKS SCHEDULE
DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 27
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28
.

OPPONENT
at Buffalo
San Francisco
St. Louis
Bye
at N.Y. Giants
Green Bay
at Tampa Bay
at San Francisco
Philadelphia
at Miami
Arizona
Washington
at Dallas
New England*
at St. Louis
N.Y. Jets
at Arizona

BILLS SCHEDULE
TIME
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
8:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
8:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
4:15 p.m

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 17
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Seattle
at Jacksonville
Oakland
at St. Louis
at Arizona
Bye
San Diego
at Miami
N.Y. Jets
at New England
Cleveland
at Kansas City
San Francisco
Miami at Toronto
at N.Y. Jets
at Denver
New England

JETS SCHEDULE
TIME
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1
1
1
1
8:30
1
1
4:05
1
4:05
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 22
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 13
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at Miami
New England
at San Diego
Arizona
Bye
Cincinnati
at Oakland
Kansas City
at Buffalo
St. Louis
at New England
at Tennessee
Denver
at San Francisco
Buffalo
at Seattle
Miami

DOLPHINS SCHEDULE
TIME
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
1 p.m.
1
4:15
1
1
1
8:15
1
1
4:05
1
4:05
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
N.Y. Jets
at Arizona
at New England
Bye
San Diego
at Houston
Baltimore
Buffalo
at Denver
Seattle
Oakland
New England
at St. Louis
at Buffalo (Toronto)
San Francisco
at Kansas City
at N.Y. Jets

TIME
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
1
1
1
1
4:05
1
1
1
1
4:05
1
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

BY THE NUMBERS Brady threw 13 more TDs in 07 (50)

than K.C.s QBs have combined to throw in their careers.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at New England
Oakland
at Atlanta
Denver
at Carolina
Bye
Tennessee
at N.Y. Jets
Tampa Bay
at San Diego
New Orleans
Buffalo
at Oakland
at Denver
San Diego
Miami
at Cincinnati

TIME
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1
1
1
4:15
1
1
4:15
4:05
1
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 20
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 13
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Kansas City
at N.Y. Jets
Miami
Bye
at San Francisco
at San Diego
Denver
St. Louis
at Indianapolis
Buffalo
N.Y. Jets
at Miami
Pittsburgh
at Seattle*
at Oakland
Arizona
at Buffalo

TIME
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15
8:15
8:30
1
8:15
1
8:15
1
4:15
8:15
4:15
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

52

GAME PREVIEWS

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

WEEK ONE

BUCCANEERS
AT
SAINTS

RAMS
AT
EAGLES

TEXANS
AT
STEELERS

OVERVIEW The Bucs open the season by defending their

NFC South title against the Saints, who many believe will
overtake them in the division after some major offseason
upgrades. New Orleans has one of the leagues top
offenses and it could become even better with Jeremy
Shockey at tight end but the Bucs defense, which
ranked second last season, returns almost entirely intact.
The Saints struggled out of the gate in 2007, losing their
first four games, including a 31-14 drubbing from the
Bucs, and theyll have to get off to a better start in order to
justify all the preseason hype. Tampa Bay also defeated
New Orleans in Week 13 last season, 27-23.

OVERVIEW With games against the defending Super

Bowl champion Giants at home and the defending NFC
West champion Seahawks on the road the next two
weeks, Rams head coach Scott Linehan really could use
a strong opening performance from his troops in Philly to
start the season. The Rams revamped offense under new
coordinator Al Saunders found some badly needed rhythm
in the third preseason game, with QB Marc Bulger finally
looking in sync after sputtering in the first two preseason
games. But it figures to remain a work in progress with featured RB Steven Jackson not expected to be able to handle the normal 30-carry workload expected of him after a
27-day contract holdout. The Eagles offense must compensate for the loss of WR Kevin Curtis (sports hernia),
who could miss the first four games.

OVERVIEW The Steelers ended last season on a sour

note a wild-card playoff loss at home to the Jaguars
and will look to quickly rid that memory with a Week One
triumph. They lost a key piece of the puzzle via free
agency in OLG Alan Faneca, who left for the Jets, but
drafted two potential playmakers in RB Rashard Mendenhall and WR Limas Sweed. The Texans are coming off
their first non-losing season and are a popular pick to contend for the playoffs in 2008. Houston comes in with its top
two offensive weapons QB Matt Schaub and WR Andre
Johnson healthy and ready for breakout campaigns
under new coordinator Kyle Shanahan. Although Houston
will be without top CB Dunta Robinson (knee/hamstring)
for the early part of the season, rising stars MLB DeMeco
Ryans and DE Mario Williams anchor a solid front seven.

KEY MATCHUP Will Eagles Pro Bowl ORG Shawn

Andrews, who was slow to come around in the offseason
due to a bout with depression, have his head on straight?
Hed better, since hell be matched up against Rams veteran DLE Leonard Little, who appears to have regained
his double-digit sack form after missing the last nine
games in 07 due to an injured toe.

KEY MATCHUP Williams and DT Amobi Okoye vs. Steelers OLT Marvel Smith and OLG Chris Kemoeatu. Although
the Texans had just one sack through the first three preseason contests, the right side of their D-line is extremely
dangerous rushing the passer. The young pair combined
for 1912 sacks last season and will be facing a player coming off an injury in Smith and a new starter in Kemoeatu.

BY THE NUMBERS The Eagles open up at home after

starting the season on the road the previous three years.
The Rams open up on the road after starting the season at home three of the previous four seasons, including
the last two.

BY THE NUMBERS The Steelers have been favored in six

straight regular-season openers and have won the last
five, covering the spread in the last three. The Texans
have won 3-of-6 Week One contests in franchise history,
beating the spread in all three wins.

KEY MATCHUP Saints QB Drew Brees vs. the Bucs secondary. No defense was more effective than the Bucs
when it came to shutting down opponents passing games
last season. All four starting defensive backs return and
are joined by CB Aqib Talib, the teams first-round draft
pick. If Tampa Bay can frustrate Brees or come up with an
interception or two, that will cut into the Saints strength
and could force them to alter their game plan.
BY THE NUMBERS In the teams six meetings over the
past three seasons, Bucs WR Joey Galloway has torched
New Orleans, grabbing 28 catches for 614 yards and eight
TDs. The Saints shaky secondary could be exploited
again, although this likely will be Galloways first game
action since January. He sat out all of camp and was
expected to miss the entire preseason with a groin injury.

BUCCANEERS DEPTH CHART

SAINTS DEPTH CHART

RAMS DEPTH CHART

EAGLES DEPTH CHART

TEXANS DEPTH CHART

STEELERS DEPTH CHART

OFFENSE
WR 84 Galloway / 85 Stovall / 89 Bryant
OLT 70 Penn / 69 A. Davis
OLG 78 Sears / 64 Johnson
C
52 Faine / 72 Buenning
ORG 76 Zuttah / 75 Joseph
ORT 65 Trueblood / 73 Roland
TE 81 Smith / 83 Troupe / 88 Gilmore
WR 19 Hilliard / 80 Clayton / 10 D. Jackson*
QB
7 Garcia / 8 Griese / 12 McCown
RB 34 Graham / 28 Dunn / 29 Bennett
FB 35 Askew / 44 Storer

OFFENSE
WR 12 Colston / 19 Henderson / 16 Moore
OLT 70 Brown / 74 Bushrod
OLG 67 Nesbit / 77 Nicks* / 65 Alleman
C
76 Goodwin / 68 Lehr
ORG 73 Evans / 75 Duckworth
ORT 78 Stinchcomb / 64 Strief
TE 88 Shockey / 83 Miller / 80 Campbell
WR 81 Patten / 17 Meachem / 18 Copper
QB
9 Brees / 11 Brunell / 3 Palko
RB 25 Bush / 26 McAllister / 27 Stecker
FB 44 Karney

OFFENSE
WR 81 Holt / 82 D. Hall / 17 Avery* / 15 Hagans
OLT 76 Pace / 73 Goldberg / 64 Wilson
OLG 63 Bell / 67 Schuening* / 62 Fry
C
65 Romberg / 60 Leckey / 61 Raiola
ORG 68 Incognito / 67 Schuening*
ORT 70 Barron / 79 Greco* / 75 LeVoir
TE 84 McMichael / 88 Klopfenstein / 87 Becht
WR 83 Bennett / 89 Looker / 19 Stanley
QB 10 Bulger / 12 Green / 13 Berlin / 8 Gradkowski
RB 39 Jackson / 30 Pittman / 22 Minor / 44 Ball*
FB 23 Leonard / 49 Owens / 36 Kreider

OFFENSE
WR 84 Baskett / 10 D. Jackson* / 80 Curtis
OLT 72 T. Thomas / 65 Dunlap*
OLG 79 Herremans / 68 McGlynn* / 63 Gibson*
C
67 J. Jackson / 59 Cole
ORG 73 Andrews / 62 Jean-Gilles / 71 Young
ORT 69 Runyan / 74 Justice
TE 82 L.J. Smith / 87 Celek / 88 Wilson
WR 86 R. Brown / 81 Avant / 83 Lewis
QB
5 McNabb / 4 Kolb / 14 Feeley
RB 36 Westbrook / 28 Buckhalter / 25 Booker
FB 48 Collins* / 34 Davis / 45 Lawton / 29 Hunt

OFFENSE
WR 80 A. Johnson / 11 Davis / 16 Carter
OLT 76 D. Brown* / 74 Salaam / 77 Tucker
OLG 69 Pitts / 64 Studdard / 60 Fenton
C
55 Myers / 63 White / 50 Eslinger
ORG 65 Brisiel / 62 Jackson
ORT 73 Winston / 78 Butler / 75 Frye
TE 81 Daniels / 87 Bruener / 85 Dreessen
WR 83 Walter / 12 Jones / 89 Anderson
QB
8 Schaub / 18 Rosenfels / 7 Boyd
RB 30 Green / 22 Ch. Brown / 20 Slaton*
FB 44 Leach / 43 Cook

OFFENSE
SE 86 Ward / 85 Washington / 81 Baker
OLT 77 M. Smith / 79 Essex / 66 Hills*
OLG 68 Kemoeatu / 67 Lentz
C
62 Hartwig / 61 Mahan
ORG 73 Simmons / 72 Stapleton
ORT 74 Colon / 78 Starks
TE 83 Miller / 89 Spaeth / 49 Vickers
FL 10 Holmes / 14 Sweed* / 15 Reid
QB
7 Roethlisberger / 4 Leftwich / 2 Dixon*
RB 39 Parker / 34 Mendenhall* / 21 Moore
FB 38 Davis / 42 Latsko

DEFENSE
DLE 93 Carter / 94 Douglas
DLT 95 Hovan / 67 Moore*
DRT 71 Haye / 98 Sims
DRE 90 Adams / 91 White / 97 Wilkerson
SLB 59 June / 58 Black / 56 Nece
MLB 51 Ruud / 41 McCoy
WLB 55 Brooks / 57 Hayward
LCB 31 Buchanon / 25 Talib*
RCB 20 Barber / 38 Wilson / 22 S. Davis
SS 23 Phillips / 21 Piscitelli / 30 Nicholson
FS 36 T. Jackson / 26 Allen

DEFENSE
DLE 94 Grant / 95 Savage
NT 98 Ellis* / 71 Clancy
UT 66 B. Young / 96 Lake / 92 Harris
DRE 91 Smith / 93 McCray
SLB 55 Fujita / 54 Evans
MLB 51 Vilma / 53 Simoneau
WLB 58 Shanle / 53 Simoneau
LCB 34 McKenzie / 21 Craft / 42 David
RCB 20 Gay / 22 Porter* / 28 U. Young
SS 41 Harper / 39 Reis
FS 43 Kaesviharn / 29 Bullocks

DEFENSE
DLE 91 Little / 94 Adeyanju / 98 Ah You
UT 97 Glover / 93 W. Williams*
NT 90 Carriker / 95 Ryan / 69 Smith
DRE 72 Long* / 96 J. Hall / 92 Moore
SLB 53 Culberson / 52 Draft / 58 Vobora*
MLB 51 Witherspoon / 59 McGarigle / 55 Magro*
WLB 50 Tinoisamoa / 57 Chamberlain* / 55 Riley*
LCB 26 Hill / 24 Bartell / 43 Grixby* / 33 Davis
RCB 34 F. Brown / 20 Wade / 27 Macklin
SS 25 Chavous / 42 Carter / 37 Sejean*
FS 21 Atogwe / 35 Johnson / 41 Bassey

DEFENSE
DLE 75 Parker / 91 Clemons / 78 Abiamiri
DLT 98 Patterson / 93 Laws
DRT 97 Bunkley / 68 Klecko / 94 Reagor
DRE 58 Cole / 90 Howard / 63 B. Smith*
SLB 57 Gocong / 50 Boiman / 53 Studebaker*
MLB 55 Bradley / 51 Mays* / 52 Togafau
WLB 96 Gaither / 56 Jordan
LCB 22 Samuel / 21 Hanson
RCB 24 S. Brown / 26 Sheppard / 35 Graham
SS 27 Mikell / 37 Considine / 32 Paschal
FS 20 Dawkins / 30 Reed / 39 Demps*

DEFENSE
DLE 98 Weaver / 94 Kalu / 96 Cochran
DLT 99 T. Johnson / 92 Zgonina / 97 Okam
DRT 91 Okoye / 95 Maddox / 66 De. Robinson
DRE 90 Williams / 58 Colvin / 93 Bulman
SLB 54 Diles / 51 Thompson
MLB 59 Ryans / 57 Bentley / 60 Moffitt*
WLB 56 Greenwood / 52 Adibi* / 53 Coley
LCB 32 Bennett / 28 Molden* / 29 Roberson
RCB 35 Reeves / 21 Fletcher / 23 Du. Robinson
SS 24 C.C. Brown / 26 Earl / 34 Barber*
FS 47 Demps / 25 Ferguson / 31 Harrison

DEFENSE
DLE 91 Aa. Smith / 90 Kirschke
NT 98 Hampton / 76 Hoke
DRE 99 Keisel / 93 Eason / 95 McBean
LOLB 56 Woodley / 97 Harrison
LILB 51 Farrior / 57 Fox / 55 Humpal*
RILB 50 Foote / 94 Timmons
ROLB 92 Harrison / 54 Frazier
LCB 24 Taylor / 22 Gay / 37 Madison
RCB 26 Townsend / 20 McFadden
SS 43 Polamalu / 23 Carter
FS 25 Clark / 27 An. Smith

SPECIALISTS
P
9 Bidwell
PK
3 Bryant
H
9 Bidwell
PR 17 Spurlock / 10 D. Jackson*
KR 17 Spurlock / 10 D. Jackson*
LS 48 Economos
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
7 Weatherford
PK 1 Gramatica / 5 Mehlhaff*
H
11 Brunell
PR 25 Bush / 16 Moore
KR 23 Thomas / 27 Stecker
LS 47 Houser
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
5 Jones
PK
2 J. Brown / 9 Medlock
H
5 Jones
PR 82 D. Hall / 16 B. Williams / 15 Hagans
KR 82 D. Hall / 19 Stanley / 15 Hagans
LS 45 Massey / 49 Owens
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
6 Rocca
PK
2 Akers
H
6 Rocca / 4 Kolb / 14 Feeley
PR 10 D. Jackson* / 39 Demps* / 30 Reed
KR 39 Demps* / 25 Booker / 30 Reed
LS 46 Dorenbos
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
1 Turk
PK
3 K. Brown
H
1 Turk / 18 Rosenfels
PR 12 Jones / 89 Anderson / 21 Fletcher
KR 11 Davis / 16 Carter / 20 Slaton*
LS 48 Pittman
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
17 Berger / 5 Ernster
PK
3 Reed
H
17 Berger
PR 21 Moore / 10 Holmes
KR 21 Moore / 15 Reid
LS 60 Warren
* Rookie

RAMS SCHEDULE

EAGLES SCHEDULE

TEXANS SCHEDULE

STEELERS SCHEDULE

BUCCANEERS SCHEDULE
DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 6
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 8
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at New Orleans
Atlanta
at Chicago
Green Bay
at Denver
Carolina
Seattle
at Dallas
at Kansas City
Minnesota
at Detroit
New Orleans
at Carolina
at Atlanta
San Diego*
Oakland

SAINTS SCHEDULE
TIME
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
1 p.m.
8:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
Bye
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
1 p.m.
8:15 p.m.
1 p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 6
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 24
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 11
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Tampa Bay
at Washington
at Denver
San Francisco
Minnesota
Oakland
at Carolina
San Diego (London)
Bye
at Atlanta
at Kansas City
Green Bay
at Tampa Bay
Atlanta
at Chicago
at Detroit
Carolina

TIME
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
1 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1
1
8:30
1
1
8:15
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at Philadelphia
N.Y. Giants
at Seattle
Buffalo
Bye
at Washington
Dallas
at New England
Arizona
at N.Y. Jets
at San Francisco
Chicago
Miami
at Arizona
Seattle
San Francisco
at Atlanta

TIME
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
1
1
1
1
1
4:05
1
1
4:15
1
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 15
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 27
Dec. 7
Dec. 15
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
St. Louis
at Dallas
Pittsburgh
at Chicago
Washington
at San Francisco
Bye
Atlanta
at Seattle
N.Y. Giants
at Cincinnati
at Baltimore
Arizona
at N.Y. Giants
Cleveland
at Washington
Dallas

TIME
1 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
8:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1
4:15
8:15
1
1
8:15
1
8:30
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Dec. 1
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at Pittsburgh
Baltimore
at Tennessee
at Jacksonville
Indianapolis
Miami
Detroit
Bye
at Minnesota
Cincinnati
at Indianapolis
at Cleveland
Jacksonville
at Green Bay
Tennessee
at Oakland
Chicago

TIME
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
1
1
1
1
8:30
1
1
4:05
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 29
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 3
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 20
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Houston
at Cleveland
at Philadelphia
Baltimore
at Jacksonville
Bye
at Cincinnati
N.Y. Giants
at Washington
Indianapolis
San Diego
Cincinnati
at New England
Dallas
at Baltimore
at Tennessee
Cleveland

1
8:15
4:15
8:30
8:15

TIME
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

1
4:15
8:30
4:15
4:15
8:15
4:15
4:15
1
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

GAME PREVIEWS

http://www.profootballweekly.com

53

WEEK ONE

JAGUARS
AT
TITANS

COWBOYS
AT
BROWNS

PANTHERS
AT
CHARGERS

OVERVIEW The AFCs two wild-card participants in 2007

square off in a game that could have playoff ramifications.
The similarities between the two clubs run deep, as their
smothering defenses are spearheaded by former college
DT teammates Albert Haynesworth (Titans) and John
Henderson (Jaguars), and both are yearning to get more
out of their flagging passing attacks. In Dirk Koetters second season directing Jacksonvilles offense, the vertical
elements hes itching to unleash might be kept under
wraps in Week One if his top two receivers Jerry Porter
and Reggie Williams are not fully recovered from their
hamstring and knee injuries, respectively. But the Jags at
least know they can depend on efficient, if not explosive,
passing from David Garrard, which is more than the Titans
can say regarding Vince Young. The hope is that Mike
Heimerdingers return to Tennessee will aid Youngs development after he clashed with ousted coordinator Norm
Chow. Young cant afford to force anything, however, as
ballhawking DBs Rashean Mathis and Reggie Nelson can
turn errant passes into six points the other way.

OVERVIEW Fireworks could be unleashed in this intriguing interconference opener pitting two of the more explosive offenses in the NFL. The teams are remarkably similar offensively, featuring young QBs (Tony Romo and
Derek Anderson), elite wideouts (Terrell Owens and Braylon Edwards) and tight ends (Jason Witten and Kellen
Winslow), power runners (Marion Barber and Jamal
Lewis) and strong offensive lines. Defensively, the Cowboys appear to have the edge, having added depth at cornerback, plus ILB Zach Thomas, and should be a big-play
unit that forces more third-down stops and turnovers. The
Browns, like the Cowboys, use a 3-4 scheme, and they
appear better up front, with DLs Corey Williams and
Shaun Rogers. Theyll need to pressure Romo and gangtackle Barber, who almost never goes down on first contact. And watch for Cowboys rookie RB Felix Jones, who
has shown burst and elusiveness as a runner and receiver in the preseason. The Browns must limit their mistakes
offensively and sustain long drives, something they seldom have done in the preseason.

OVERVIEW Believing that only a few key injuries prevented them from a Super Bowl appearance last season, the
Chargers enter 2008 with renewed championship aspirations. With QB Philip Rivers, RB LaDainian Tomlinson and
likely TE Antonio Gates all back at full strength, the Bolts
offense is loaded. Their defense, which led the NFL in
takeaways in 07, looked to be among the leagues best
before Pro Bowl LB Shawne Merriman was diagnosed
with torn knee ligaments, putting his status very much in
question. The Panthers also have playoff hopes in 08 after
bolstering their offense through the draft and free agency.
QB Jake Delhomme returns following Tommy John
surgery on his throwing elbow with some new receivers to
target, and 13th overall pick RB Jonathan Stewart adds a
power element to the rushing attack. However, Carolina
will be missing star WR Steve Smith, who is suspended for
the first two games after a training-camp fight with teammate Ken Lucas.

KEY MATCHUP Every defensive coordinator preaches to

his ends: Keep containment. A particularly concerted
effort is needed when going against the NFLs best running QB and your ends are either heavy-footed (Paul
Spicer, Reggie Hayward) or young enough to make mental mistakes (Quentin Groves, holdout Derrick Harvey).

KEY MATCHUP Cowboys ROLB DeMarcus Ware vs.

Browns OLT Joe Thomas might be one of the five best
individual battles youll see all season. Ware is an exceptional pass rusher and has improved dramatically vs. the
run. Thomas looks like a Pro Bowler for years to come.

KEY MATCHUP Tomlinson vs. MLB Jon Beason. As a

rookie, Beason piled up 140 tackles, but he hasnt faced
an elite back like Tomlinson yet as a pro. It will be interesting to see how the athletic linebacker handles Tomlinsons speed and cut-back ability in the open field. Expect
these two to collide a few times before this one is settled.

BY THE NUMBERS Neither team had a player in the top

42 in receiving yards in 07 (Justin Gage ranked 43rd).

BY THE NUMBERS The last time these teams met, in

2004, the Cowboys won, 19-12, at home. This is Dallas
first visit to Cleveland since 1991.

BY THE NUMBERS During the past four seasons, the

Chargers are 7-1 at home against NFC teams. Theyve
outscored those eight opponents 273-153 an average
score of 34-19.

JAGUARS DEPTH CHART

TITANS DEPTH CHART

COWBOYS DEPTH CHART

BROWNS DEPTH CHART

PANTHERS DEPTH CHART

CHARGERS DEPTH CHART

OFFENSE
WR 80 Porter / 86 Northcutt / 18 M. Jones
OLT 69 Barnes / 76 Collier
OLG 67 Manuwai / 68 Liwienski
C
62 Norman / 61 Miller / 63 Meester
ORG 74 M. Williams / 78 Reyes
ORT 79 Pashos / 75 Carnahan
TE 89 Lewis / 83 Estandia / 87 Wrighster
WR 11 R. Williams / 84 Williamson / 81 Walker
QB
9 Garrard / 17 Lemon
RB 28 Taylor / 32 Jones-Drew / 34 Washington*
FB 33 G. Jones / 24 Owens

OFFENSE
WR 19 McCareins / 86 R. Williams / 82 Ealy
OLT 71 Roos / 70 Loper / 66 Otto
OLG 54 Amano / 64 Harris / 67 Snell
C
68 Mawae / 62 Lucas
ORG 73 Scott / 69 Murphy / 61 Velasco*
ORT 76 Stewart / 72 Torrey
TE 83 Crumpler / 80 Scaife / 84 Blakley
WR 12 Gage / 81 B. Jones / 11 P. Williams
QB 10 Young / 5 Collins / 3 Martin
RB 25 White / 28 C. Johnson* / 42 Henry
FB 45 Hall / 48 Cramer / 40 Cain

OFFENSE
WR 81 Owens / 17 Hurd / 19 Austin
OLT 76 Adams / 68 Free
OLG 67 Berger / 78 Marten / 63 Kosier
C
65 Gurode / 71 Procter
ORG 70 Davis / 67 Berger
ORT 75 Colombo / 77 McQuistan
TE 82 Witten / 89 Curtis / 80 Bennett*
WR 84 Crayton / 86 Stanback / 18 Amendola*
QB
9 Romo / 14 B. Johnson / 4 Bartel
RB 24 Barber / 28 F. Jones* / 29 Choice*
FB 34 Anderson

OFFENSE
WR 18 Stallworth / 16 Cribbs
OLT 73 Thomas / 78 Lee
OLG 65 Steinbach / 75 Bennett
C
66 Fraley / 62 Friedman
ORG 70 Hadnot / 68 McKinney
ORT 77 Shaffer / 61 Sowells
TE 80 Winslow / 82 Heiden
WR 17 Edwards / 88 Kasper
QB
3 Anderson / 10 Quinn
RB 31 Lewis / 29 Wright
FB 47 Vickers / 41 Ali

OFFENSE
WR 87 Muhammad / 10 Robinson
OLT 69 Gross / 76 Omiyale
OLG 70 Wharton / 71 Mathis / 74 Schwartz*
C
67 Kalil / 63 Hangartner
ORG 68 Vincent / 77 Fonoti / 61 Brown
ORT 79 Otah* / 73 Bridges
TE 47 King / 88 Rosario / 82 Barnidge*
WR 18 Hackett / 80 Jarrett / 11 Carter
QB 17 Delhomme / 3 Moore / 14 Basanez
RB 34 Williams / 28 Stewart* / 33 Toefield
FB 45 Hoover / 37 Goings

OFFENSE
WR 89 Chambers / 84 Davis / 80 Floyd
OLT 73 McNeill / 70 Shelton / 62 Luellen*
OLG 68 Dielman / 63 Mruczkowski / 69 Dombrowski*
C
60 Newberry / 61 Hardwick / 65 Withrow
ORG 79 Goff / 77 Pape / 64 Robertson
ORT 66 Clary / 75 Clark*
TE 85 Gates / 86 Manumaleuna / 87 Chandler
WR 83 V. Jackson / 11 Naanee / 81 Osgood
QB 17 Rivers / 7 Volek / 6 Whitehurst
RB 21 Tomlinson / 43 Sproles / 25 Thomas*
FB 34 Pinnock / 22 Hester* / 35 Tolbert*

DEFENSE
DLE 95 Spicer / 55 Pettway / 91 Harvey*
DLT 92 Meier / 66 Landri
DRT 98 Henderson / 96 McDaniel
DRE 97 Hayward / 93 Groves* / 57 Hawkins
SLB 52 Smith / 59 Iwuh
MLB 54 Peterson / 50 Gilbert
WLB 56 Durant / 51 Ingram
LCB 27 Mathis / 31 Starks
RCB 21 Florence / 22 Tr. Williams*
SS 25 Nelson / 43 Sensabaugh
FS 29 B. Williams / 23 Fudge

DEFENSE
DLE 90 Kearse / 78 Ford / 95 Hayes*
DLT 97 Brown / 91 J. Jones* / 96 Vickerson
DRT 92 Haynesworth / 99 A. Johnson / 67 Taylor
DRE 93 Vanden Bosch / 77 Conover / 98 Ball
SLB 53 Bulluck / 57 Stamer / 47 Freeman*
MLB 52 Fowler / 55 Tulloch / 56 Allred
WLB 50 Thornton / 51 Cordova / 59 Keglar*
LCB 20 Harper / 21 Hill / 29 Carr
RCB 31 Finnegan / 30 King / 41 C. Williams*
SS 24 Hope / 37 Lowry / 23 Nickey
FS 33 Griffin / 22 Fuller / 39 Joiner*

DEFENSE
DLE 96 Spears / 97 Hatcher / 90 Ratliff
NT 90 Ratliff / 66 T. Johnson / 64 Siavii
DRE 99 Canty / 72 Bowen
LOLB 98 Ellis / 93 Spencer
LILB 56 James / 54 Carpenter / 50 Rogers
RILB 55 Thomas / 57 Burnett
ROLB 94 Ware / 53 Walden*
LCB 41 Newman / 31 Jenkins* / 20 Ball
RCB 42 Henry / 21 A. Jones / 32 Scandrick*
SS 38 Williams / 27 Brown
FS 26 Hamlin / 25 Watkins

DEFENSE
DLE 99 C. Williams / 97 Pittman
NT 92 Rogers / 91 S. Smith
DRE 98 R. Smith / 60 Purcell
LOLB 55 McGinest / 56 Peek
LILB 55 Davis / 94 L. Williams
RILB 52 Jackson / 53 Griffin
ROLB 95 Wimbley / 90 McMillan
LCB 24 Wright / 25 Cousin
RCB 22 McDonald / Daniels
SS 26 Jones / 27 Sorensen
FS 21 Pool / 20 Adams

DEFENSE
DLE 96 Brayton / 95 Johnson
DLT 99 Kemoeatu / 91 Gibson / 78 Hayden*
DRT 92 Lewis / 93 Walker
DRE 90 Peppers / 75 McClover / 66 Taylor*
SLB 53 Diggs / 54 Johnson / 57 Connor*
MLB 52 Beason / 59 Seward
WLB 58 Davis / 55 Curry
LCB 20 Gamble / 31 Marshall / 22 Colclough
RCB 21 Lucas / 23 Wesley
SS 43 Harris / 27 Wilson
FS 30 Godfrey* / 42 Holt / 25 Salley

DEFENSE
DLE 99 Olshansky / 97 Bingham / 78 Coleman
NT 76 Williams / 91 McKinney / 90 K. Jackson
DRE 93 Castillo / 74 Cesaire
OLB 95 Phillips / 94 Tucker
ILB 58 Smith / 53 Waters / 45 Nande
ILB 57 Wilhelm / 51 Dobbins / 59 Siler
OLB 56 Merriman / 92 Harris / 52 Polk
LCB 23 Jammer / 24 Gordon / 37 Bell*
RCB 31 Cromartie / 20 Cason* / 29 Tribble*
SS 42 Hart / 28 Gregory / 38 Bonner*
FS 32 Weddle / 27 Oliver / 36 Battle

SPECIALISTS
P
3 Podlesh
PK 10 Scobee
H
3 Podlesh
PR 86 Northcutt
KR 32 Jones-Drew / 38 Witherspoon*
LS 88 Zelenka
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
15 Hentrich
PK
2 Bironas
H
15 Hentrich
PR 29 Carr / 17 Davis / 87 Hawkins*
KR 29 Carr / 28 C. Johnson* / 87 Hawkins*
LS 58 Amato
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
1 McBriar
PK
6 Folk
H
14 B. Johnson / 1 McBriar
PR 84 Crayton / 21 A. Jones / 18 Amendola
KR 19 Austin / 28 F. Jones* / 31 Jenkins*
LS 91 LaDouceur
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
15 Zastudil
PK
4 Dawson
H
15 Zastudil
PR 16 Cribbs
KR 16 Cribbs
LS 64 Pontbriand
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
7 Baker
PK
4 Kasay / 5 Lloyd
H
7 Baker
PR 10 Robinson
KR 10 Robinson
LS 56 Kyle
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
5 Scifres
PK 10 Kaeding
H
7 Volek
PR 43 Sproles / 31 Cromartie / 84 Davis
KR 43 Sproles / 31 Cromartie / 84 Davis
LS 50 Binn
* Rookie

JAGUARS SCHEDULE

TITANS SCHEDULE

COWBOYS SCHEDULE

BROWNS SCHEDULE

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Dec. 1
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 18
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at Tennessee
Buffalo
at Indianapolis
Houston
Pittsburgh
at Denver
Bye
Cleveland
at Cincinnati
at Detroit
Tennessee
Minnesota
at Houston
at Chicago
Green Bay
Indianapolis
at Baltimore

TIME
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
8:15 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
4:05
1
1
1
1
8:30
1
1
8:15
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 27
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 27
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Jacksonville
at Cincinnati
Houston
Minnesota
at Baltimore
Bye
at Kansas City
Indianapolis
Green Bay
at Chicago
at Jacksonville
N.Y. Jets
at Detroit
Cleveland
at Houston
Pittsburgh
at Indianapolis

TIME
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1
8:30
1
1
1
1
12:30
1
1
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 15
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 6
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 27
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 20
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at Cleveland
Philadelphia
at Green Bay
Washington
Cincinnati
at Arizona
at St. Louis
Tampa Bay
at N.Y. Giants
Bye
at Washington*
San Francisco
Seattle
at Pittsburgh
N.Y. Giants*
Baltimore
at Philadelphia

TIME
4:15 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
8:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
8:15
1
4:15
4:15
8:15
8:15
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 13
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 6
Nov. 17
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 15
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Dallas
Pittsburgh
at Baltimore
at Cincinnati
Bye
N.Y. Giants
at Washington
at Jacksonville
Baltimore
Denver
at Buffalo
Houston
Indianapolis
at Tennessee
at Philadelphia
Cincinnati
at Pittsburgh

PANTHERS SCHEDULE
TIME
4:15 p.m.
8:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
8:30
4:15
4:05
1
8:15
8:30
1
1
1
8:30
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 8
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at San Diego
Chicago
at Minnesota
Atlanta
Kansas City
at Tampa Bay
New Orleans
Arizona
Bye
at Oakland
Detroit
at Atlanta
at Green Bay
Tampa Bay
Denver
at N.Y. Giants
at New Orleans

CHARGERS SCHEDULE
TIME
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:05
1
1
1
8:30
1
1
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 22
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 4
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
TIME
Carolina
4:15 p.m.
at Denver
4:15 p.m.
N.Y. Jets
8:30 p.m.
at Oakland
4:05 p.m.
at Miami
1 p.m.
New England
8:15 p.m.
at Buffalo
1 p.m.
at New Orleans (London)
1 p.m.
Bye
Kansas City
4:15 p.m.
at Pittsburgh
4:15 p.m.
Indianapolis*
8:15 p.m.
Atlanta
4:05 p.m.
Oakland
8:15 p.m.
at Kansas City
1 p.m.
at Tampa Bay*
8:15 p.m.
Denver
4:15 p.m.

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

54

GAME PREVIEWS

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

WEEK ONE

CARDINALS
AT
49ERS

BEARS
AT
COLTS

BRONCOS
AT
RAIDERS

OVERVIEW The focus will no doubt be under center in this

early divisional matchup, with both teams entering the season with extremely fluid QB situations. It appeared at this
writing that the Cardinals were closing in on officially naming veteran Kurt Warner the Week One starter over Matt
Leinart after Leinarts subpar outing in the Cardinals third
preseason game in Oakland. The Niners, meanwhile, are
initially choosing to go with J.T. OSullivan over Alex Smith
and Shaun Hill because of his familiarity and comfort with
new coordinator Mike Martzs revamped offense. Expect a
big-time defensive chess match between Cardinals coordinator Clancy Pendergast and Niners coordinator Greg
Manusky, who both thrive on confounding opposing offenses with multiple looks.

OVERVIEW The Colts, once again considered a worthy

contender, can be expected to go all out under the national spotlight in their first regular-season game at Lucas Oil
Stadium vs. a Bears team that is a far cry from the squad
that squared off against Indy in the Super Bowl only two
years ago. The Bears are considered one of the leagues
most offensively challenged teams entering the 2008
campaign, with major question marks at running back,
wide receiver and the offensive line. A defense that was
expected to greatly improve on its 28th overall ranking in
07 was still springing disturbing leaks on a regular basis
three games into the preseason. Unlike last season, key
injuries could not be used as an excuse by second-year
coordinator Bob Babich.

OVERVIEW The AFC West rivals collide once again after

suffering through disappointing 2007 seasons. The
Raiders likely will look to pound the ball on the ground,
utilizing their talented stable of running backs including
Justin Fargas, Darren McFadden and Michael Bush
against a Broncos run defense that ranked 30th in the
league last season. Denver will look to counter on offense
with QB Jay Cutler, who appears poised for a big season,
but hell be without his main playmaker, WR Brandon Marshall, who is suspended for the first three games. Cutler
could have a hard time getting on track as the Raiders
debut their new Pro Bowl-caliber CB tandem of DeAngelo Hall and Nnamdi Asomugha.

KEY MATCHUP Niners RB Frank Gore, who has been

doing a steadily improving imitation of former Rams RB
Marshall Faulk, will have his work cut out for him against
Cardinals hybrid defenders LB Karlos Dansby and SS Adrian Wilson, whose speed and versatility, respectively, could
slow him down on draws and screen passes out of the
backfield.

KEY MATCHUP Journeyman John St. Clair, the Bears

starting left tackle in place of injured first-round draft pick
Chris Williams until further notice, will be facing a major
challenge in Week One matched up opposite DRE Dwight
Freeney, whom the Colts expect to be fully recovered from
the foot injury that forced him to miss the final seven
games last season.

BY THE NUMBERS Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald

scorched the Niners pass defense the last time he faced it
in Week 12 last season with nine catches for 156 yards and
a pair of TDs. In that same game a 37-31 overtime
barn burner won by the Niners Gore also had a pair of
scores to go with 214 total yards (116 rushing, 98 receiving).

BY THE NUMBERS The Bears have opened the season on

the road five times in the past seven years, winning one of
those five games and scoring no more than seven points in
each of the losses, including a 14-3 loss at San Diego in
07. The Colts are opening at home for the second
straight year after opening on the road from 2000-06.

BY THE NUMBERS Since Mike Shanahan took over as

Broncos head coach in 1995, he has haunted his former
employer, compiling a 20-6 record against Oakland. However, he has struggled to get the Broncos back to an elite
level since John Elway retired, and Denver has won only
one playoff game since 98. This could be a make-orbreak year for Shanahan.

CARDINALS DEPTH CHART

49ERS DEPTH CHART

BEARS DEPTH CHART

COLTS DEPTH CHART

BRONCOS DEPTH CHART

RAIDERS DEPTH CHART

OFFENSE
WR 11 Fitzgerald / 85 Urban / 87 Morey
OLT 69 Gandy / 65 Butler / 60 Clifford*
OLG 74 Wells / 72 Keith* / 66 Medder*
C
50 A. Johnson / 63 Sendlein / 70 Ross
ORG 76 Lutui / 61 E. Brown / 79 Harvey
ORT 75 L. Brown / 68 Vallejo / 72 Keith*
TE 82 Pope / 89 Patrick / 84 Tuman
WR 81 Boldin / 15 Breaston / 10 Rector / 80 Doucet*
QB 13 Warner / 7 Leinart / 2 St. Pierre
RB 32 James / 34 Hightower* / 28 Arrington
FB 45 T. Smith / 46 Castille

OFFENSE
WR 84 Morgan* / 82 Johnson / 89 J. Hill
OLT 74 Staley / 61 Toledo / 77 Patrick
OLG 68 Snyder / 78 Booker* / 76 Pruneda
C
66 Heitmann / 59 Wallace*
ORG 69 Wragge / 64 Baas / 62 Rachal*
ORT 75 J. Jennings / 65 Sims / 67 Reuber
TE 85 Davis / 46 Walker / 47 Bajema
WR 88 Bruce / 83 Battle / 17 Zeigler
QB 14 OSullivan / 11 A. Smith / 13 S. Hill
RB 21 Gore / 29 Foster / 24 Robinson
FB 45 Keasey / 44 Norris

OFFENSE
WR 81 R. Davis / 23 Hester / 83 Hass
OLT 78 St. Clair / 79 Balogh* / 74 C. Williams*
OLG 60 Metcalf / 67 Beekman / 68 Oakley
C
57 Kreutz / 67 Beekman / 68 Oakley
ORG 63 Garza / 64 Reed / 72 C. Adams*
ORT 76 Tait / 69 Barton*
TE 88 Clark / 82 Olsen / 87 K. Davis
WR 86 Booker / 80 Lloyd / 85 Bennett* / 16 Bradley
QB 18 Orton / 8 Grossman / 12 Hanie*
RB 22 Fort / 27 Jones / 29 Peterson / 25 Wolfe
FB 37 McKie / 39 Polite

OFFENSE
WR 87 Wayne / 11 Gonzalez
OLT 67 Ugoh / 76 Federkeil
OLG 65 Lilja / 61 Richard*
C
63 Saturday / 53 Justice*
ORG 74 Johnson / 78 Pollak*
ORT 71 Diem / 72 Hilliard
TE 44 Clark / 47 Robinson
WR 88 Harrison / 83 Hall
QB 18 Manning / 12 Sorgi
RB 29 Addai / 38 Rhodes / 36 Keith
TE 84 Tamme* / 86 Santi*

OFFENSE
WR 19 Royal* / 13 Colbert
OLT 78 Clady* / 64 Pears
OLG 50 Hamilton / 67 Lichtensteiger*
C
62 Wiegmann / 66 Nalen
ORG 73 Kuper / 70 Holland
ORT 74 Harris / 64 Pears
TE 89 Graham / 88 Scheffler
WR 82 D. Jackson / 14 Stokley
QB
6 Cutler / 11 Ramsey
RB 35 Young / 23 Hall / 28 Pittman
FB 37 Sapp / 48 Hillis* / 28 Pittman

OFFENSE
WR 17 Walker / 15 Higgins
OLT 77 Harris / 75 Henderson
OLG 76 Gallery / 79 McQuistan
C
71 Wade / 64 Grove / 51 Morris
ORG 66 Carlisle / 78 Wakefield
ORT 74 Green / 72 Wand
TE 80 Miller / 85 Madsen
WR 89 Curry / 19 Watkins
QB
2 Russell / 16 Walter / 8 Tuiasosopo
RB 25 Fargas / 20 McFadden* / 29 Bush
FB 36 Griffith

DEFENSE
DLE 94 A. Smith / 91 Iwebema* / 71 B. Robinson*
NT 98 Watson / 97 B. Robinson / 78 Branch
DT 90 Dockett / 93 Campbell* / 62 Banks*
DRE 55 LaBoy / 92 Berry / 96 Tafoya
SLB 56 Okeafor / 53 Haggans / 59 Harrington*
MLB 54 Hayes / 52 Beisel / 57 Moore
WLB 58 Dansby / 51 Stewart / 95 Highsmith*
LCB 26 Hood / 29 Rodgers-Cromartie* / 27 Adams
RCB 25 Green / 20 R. Brown / 23 Minter
SS 24 Wilson / 47 Francisco / 35 Celestin
FS 21 Rolle / 22 Ware / 38 Keyes*

DEFENSE
DLE 90 Sopoaga / 96 Balmer* / 60 Curry
NT 92 Franklin / 93 Fields / 76 Cohen
DRE 94 J. Smith / 91 McDonald / 61 Ramsey
OLB 99 Lawson / 58 Moore
ILB 51 Spikes / 53 Ulbrich / 57 Grant*
ILB 52 Willis / 56 Thomas / 55 Haley
OLB 98 Haralson / 95 Banta-Cain / 54 Green
LCB 22 Clements / 30 Strickland / 25 Brown
RCB 27 Harris / 36 Spencer / 31 R. Smith
SS 32 M. Lewis / 28 K. Lewis / 43 Baker
FS 26 Roman / 38 Goldson / 41 Parker*

DEFENSE
DLE 93 Ogunleye 73 Bazuin / 72 Clermond*
DT 91 Harris / 71 Idonije / 94 Harrison*
NT 98 Dvoracek / 95 A. Adams / 75 Toeaina
DRE 96 A. Brown / 97 Anderson / 99 Baldwin*
WLB 55 Briggs / 52 J. Williams / 90 LaRocque
MLB 54 Urlacher / 53 Roach
SLB 92 Hillenmeyer / 58 McClover / 62 Okwo
LCB 33 Tillman / 21 Graham / 35 Bowman*
RCB 31 Vasher / 26 McBride / 24 R. Manning
SS 36 McGowan / 44 Payne / 45 Peters
FS 30 M. Brown / 38 D. Manning / 20 Steltz*

DEFENSE
DLE 98 Mathis / 91 Thomas / 90 Charleston
DLT 96 Dawson / 95 Reid
DRT 99 Johnson / 69 Bradley / 68 Foster*
DRE 93 Freeney / 79 Brock / 92 Howard*
SLB 55 Session / 52 Guzman / 56 Hagler
MLB 58 Brackett / 50 Wheeler*
WLB 54 Keiaho / 59 Shotwell
LCB 26 Hayden / 31 Ratliff
RCB 28 Jackson / 23 Jennings / 20 Hughes
SS 21 Sanders / 43 Giordano
FS 41 Bethea / 33 Bullitt

DEFENSE
DLE 60 Engelberger / 96 Crowder / 91 Ekuban
DLT 63 Robertson / 99 McKinley
DRT 79 Thomas / 90 Peterson
DRE 92 Dumervil / 94 Moss
SLB 97 B. Bailey / 52 Green
MLB 58 Webster / 53 Koutouvides
WLB 55 D. Williams / 51 Winborn
LCB 24 C. Bailey / 22 Foxworth / 26 J. Williams*
RCB 32 Bly / 41 Paymah / 39 Poole
SS 33 Manuel / 21 Abdullah / 36 Barrett*
FS 20 McCree / 33 Manuel

DEFENSE
DLE 98 Richardson / 58 Edwards
DLT 93 Kelly / 95 Shaw
DRT 61 Warren / 90 Sands / 96 Joseph
DRE 56 Burgess / 94 Spires
SLB 57 Brown / 55 Thomas
MLB 52 Morrison
WLB 53 Howard / 47 Alston
LCB 21 Asomugha / 37 Johnson
RCB 23 Hall / 26 Routt
SS 28 Wilson / 40 Cooper / 33 Branch*
FS 24 Huff / 31 Eugene

SPECIALISTS
P
9 D. Johnson
PK
1 Rackers
H
9 D. Johnson
PR 15 Breaston / 21 Rolle / 26 Hood
KR 15 Breaston / 28 Arrington / 87 Morey
LS 48 Hodel / 51 Stewart
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
4 Lee / 2 Schmitt
PK
6 Nedney / 2 Schmitt
H
4 Lee / 83 Battle
PR 20 Rossum / 83 Battle / 22 Clements
KR 20 Rossum / 24 Robinson / 84 Morgan*
LS 86 B. Jennings
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
4 Maynard / 1 Aterberry*
PK
9 Gould / 1 Aterberry*
H
4 Maynard
PR 23 Hester / 85 Bennett* / 31 Vasher
KR 23 Hester / 38 D. Manning / 81 Davis
LS 65 Mannelly / 82 Olsen / 88 Clark
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
17 Smith
PK
4 Vinatieri
H
17 Smith
PR 34 Rushing
KR 34 Rushing
LS 48 Snow
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
2 Paulescu / 1 Kern
PK
5 Prater
H
11 Ramsey
PR 19 Royal* / 17 Martinez
KR 19 Royal* / 23 Hall
LS 83 Leach
* Rookie

SPECIALISTS
P
9 Lechler
PK 11 Janikowski
H
9 Lechler
PR 33 Branch* / 15 Higgins
KR 15 Higgins
LS 59 Condo
* Rookie

CARDINALS SCHEDULE

49ERS SCHEDULE

BEARS SCHEDULE

COLTS SCHEDULE

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 10
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 27
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at San Francisco
Miami
at Washington
at N.Y. Jets
Buffalo
Dallas
Bye
at Carolina
at St. Louis
San Francisco
at Seattle
N.Y. Giants
at Philadelphia
St. Louis
Minnesota
at New England
Seattle

TIME
4:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1
1
8:30
4:05
4:15
8:15
4:15
4:05
1
4:15

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 10
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Arizona
at Seattle
Detroit
at New Orleans
New England
Philadelphia
at N.Y. Giants
Seattle
Bye
at Arizona
St. Louis
at Dallas
at Buffalo
N.Y. Jets
at Miami
at St. Louis
Washington

TIME
4:15 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
8:30
4:05
1
1
4:05
1
1
4:15

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 11
Dec. 22
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at Indianapolis
at Carolina
Tampa Bay
Philadelphia
at Detroit
at Atlanta
Minnesota
Bye
Detroit
Tennessee
at Green Bay
at St. Louis
at Minnesota*
Jacksonville
New Orleans
Green Bay
at Houston

TIME
8:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
8:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1 p.m.
1
1
1
1
8:15
1
8:15
8:30
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 27
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 18
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Chicago
at Minnesota
Jacksonville
Bye
at Houston
Baltimore
at Green Bay
at Tennessee
New England
at Pittsburgh
Houston
at San Diego*
at Cleveland
Cincinnati
Detroit
at Jacksonville
Tennessee

KEY MATCHUP Oaklands interior O-line vs. Denver DTs

Marcus Thomas and Dewayne Robertson. The Raiders
figured to be fairly one-dimensional this season with a
weak tandem of tackles, a young QB and a receiving
corps lacking experience and depth. If Oaklands run
game is stuffed, it will lose almost all of its offensive punch
and this could turn into a lopsided affair.

BRONCOS SCHEDULE
TIME
8:15 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1
1
4:15
8:30
8:15
4:15
1
8:15
1
1
1
8:15
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 8
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 20
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 6
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 7
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
at Oakland
San Diego
New Orleans
at Kansas City
Tampa Bay
Jacksonville
at New England
Bye
Miami
at Cleveland
at Atlanta
Oakland
at N.Y. Jets
Kansas City
at Carolina
Buffalo
at San Diego

RAIDERS SCHEDULE
TIME
10:15 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
1 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
4:05
8:15
1
4:05
1
4:05
1
4:05
4:15

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

DATE
Sept. 8
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 30
Dec. 4
Dec. 14
Dec. 21
Dec. 28

OPPONENT
Denver
at Kansas City
at Buffalo
San Diego
Bye
at New Orleans
N.Y. Jets
at Baltimore
Atlanta
Carolina
at Miami
at Denver
Kansas City
at San Diego
New England
Houston
at Tampa Bay

10:15
1
1
4:05

TIME
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

1
4:15
1
4:15
4:05
1
4:05
4:15
8:15
4:15
4:05
1

p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.
p.m.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

FA N TA S Y FOOTBALL

http://www.profootballweekly.com

55

Feature

A (free) investment that pays

Before you step foot into the PFW STOCK EXCHANGE, prepare yourself with this in-depth primer
By MICHAEL

BLUNDA

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

TOP 30 OVERALL
1. QB TOM BRADY / PATRIOTS ..............$93

Brady was far and away the highest scorer in this format last season, and it reflects
in his enormous price tag. The gap between
him and the next-highest-priced QB, Peyton
Manning, is a whopping $27. If you want
the 50-TD man, prepare to throw down
nearly one-third of your total budget
which seems a bit much to me.
2. RB LaDAINIAN TOMLINSON / CHARGERS ..$77

The top guy in most leagues is a distant

second here. While $77 looks like a lot, its
only about a quarter of your budget, which
isnt a bad price for the surest thing in fantasy football. Consider that hell usually
cost you around 35 percent of your money
in auction leagues, and L.T.s value here
appears more than fair.
3. RB ADRIAN PETERSON / VIKINGS......$72

The most exciting player in the game

today comes at a hefty price, but thats not
surprising given his recent auction prices.
In terms of cost and risk, Peterson might be
the biggest gamble in this game. If he stays
healthy, though, he could prove to be a bargain.
4. RB BRIAN WESTBROOK / EAGLES....$69

Westbrook often gets lost in the debate of

whos the best fantasy producer, but his
2007 campaign was as good as anyones.
Given how frequently hell touch the ball in
the Eagles somewhat barren offense, this
price doesnt seem bad at all.
5. QB PEYTON MANNING / COLTS ........$66

With word that the Colts could be much

more concerned about Mannings knee than
theyre letting on, I wouldnt touch him at
this lofty price tag. There are plenty of

HARRY SCULL, JR.

elcome to fantasy football, Pro Football

Weekly style. Whether youve already had
your fantasy draft or are preparing for it in the
next week, we have another league youll
soon be clamoring to join the inaugural
PFW Stock Exchange fantasy game.
Much like an actual stock-market floor, the Stock
Exchange puts a price on each
High-priced: Tom
player and allows you to buy and
Brady is the most
expensive player in
sell him throughout the season.
PFWs Stock Exchange
These prices will remain fixed until
fantasy game
the market goes live on Aug. 29.
What weve done here is offer you some in-depth
analysis about this brand-new game. Weve examined
the values of the 30 highest-priced players, found 10 terrific bargains and painted a detailed picture about how
the Stock Exchange really works. To get in on the action
and give yourself a chance at many top-notch prizes,
sign up today at www.profootballweekly.rotohog.com.

healthy QB options who might not have

Mannings ceiling, but theyll come much
cheaper.
6. WR RANDY MOSS / PATRIOTS ..........$63

In this point system, Moss and his 23

TDs outscored every running back outside
of L.T. last season. But unless hes planning

on breaking his own record, the wideout

probably wont be as productive in 08. At
$15 above the rest of the receiver field, he
might not live up to the steep price.
7. QB TONY ROMO / COWBOYS ............$62

TD passes count big in this format, and

Romo is going to throw a lot of them.

HOW TO PLAY PFW STOCK EXCHANGE

Pro Football Weeklys Stock Exchange game is the most exciting, intense fantasy football experience youll ever have. Similar in many ways to traditional fantasy leagues, the
Stock Exchange incorporates a trading floor, which simulates the feeling of an actual
stock market. Best of all, there are many great prizes, and its free!
To begin, log on to www.profootballweekly.rotohog.com. After taking a minute to
sign up, youre ready to start getting in on the action.
First, youll receive 300 RotoHog dollars to build a fantasy roster. (The position requirements are listed on Page 57.) You can buy and sell players as often as youd like, and the
market is always open. Until Aug. 29, the prices for all players will be fixed. After that, however, is when things start to get crazy.
Beginning on Aug. 29 at 9:30 a.m. ET, the market goes live. What does this mean? Well,
it means that players prices are no longer fixed. Now, a players demand in the marketplace will determine his value. If lots of owners are buying him, his price will increase. If
many owners are selling him, his price will go down. Its as simple as that.
Although the fluctuation of players prices will dictate the value of your team which
is important to building a quality roster you still need your players to perform well on
the field in order to accumulate points and win prizes. Just like the fantasy leagues youve
played in for years, you need to set your starting lineup each week with the guys you think
will be the most productive. (For a full breakdown of the scoring system, see Page 57.)
The teams that score the most points each week and over the course of the season will
be the ones that take home the loot.
Once the market goes live, the trading floor will be open seven days a week from 9:30
a.m. to 3 a.m. ET. Also, after youve made your first 10 trades or spent your original $300,
youll be charged a transaction fee (in RotoHog dollars) for each trade you make. This fee,
which is based on your team value, is in place to control the number of trades that occur
each day. Finally, regardless of how low your actual team value gets, the system will
always bump you up to a minimum of $250.
Maybe the best part of all about this game is the awesome prize list. The overall champion for the season will win $5,000 cash, while other top finishers will take home a 50inch HDTV, an autographed football helmet or a Sony PlayStation 3, just to name a few
prizes. In addition, the top point scorer each week will receive accommodations for two at
the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. All in all, Id say those are some nice incentives for playing a game that will cost you absolutely nothing.

MICHAEL BLUNDA

Assuming Brady comes back to earth a bit

and Romo keeps up the productivity, their
final numbers could wind up fairly similar.
That makes the Dallas signalcaller an enticing buy.
8. RB STEVEN JACKSON / RAMS............$60

This is a nice price for a guy with such

huge potential. Now with a new contract
and back at practice, Jackson should be in
line for a big rebound season, and hell
come much cheaper than the backs in front
of him.
9. RB JOSEPH ADDAI / COLTS ..............$56

Although Addai probably wont be a

yardage machine, Indys offense moves
with such ease that the back should have
ample opportunities to score both running
and catching the ball. Like Jackson, a good
value for a proven fantasy stud.
10. RB MARION BARBER / COWBOYS ....$55

Despite never before being a true No. 1

back, Barber is the sixth-highest-priced
rusher, which is higher than he falls in
almost any set of rankings. I like Barber a
lot this season, but I dont know if Id invest
this much into someone who hasnt yet
proven to be an every-down ballcarrier.
11. RB CLINTON PORTIS / REDSKINS ....$53

If you like putting your money into more

established commodities, then Portis is
your guy. He showed in 07 that hes got
plenty left in the tank, and he should be
even more of a receiving threat now in the
Redskins new West Coast offense.
12. RB FRANK GORE / 49ERS ................$52

If, like me, you buy into the notion that

Mike Martz will make Gore into the next
Marshall Faulk, then this seems like a rea(Continued on Page 57)

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

FA N TA S Y FOOTBALL

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

http://www.profootballweekly.com

Feature
youre not scared of investing in guys with
relatively little experience, this would
appear to be a fair value. Beware of the
hefty interception penalty, though.

(Continued from Page 55)

sonable price. True, he might not be as
much of a sure thing as others in this range,
but he does have gigantic upside as a dual
threat in Martzs attack.

28. RB BRANDON JACOBS / GIANTS ......$40

13. RB LARRY JOHNSON / CHIEFS ........$51

This is right about where youd expect

Jacobs price to be. The bulldozing back
was very effective when he played last season, but injuries limited his participation.
Jacobs has the ability to go on a scoring
tear, but just know that hell be sharing carries in 08.

Its hard to be down on such a talented

player, but its basically impossible to like
Johnsons situation. Hes running behind a
terrible O-line and will get little support
from the passing game. You can expect a lot
of one- and two-yard carries out of the hundreds hes going to get.

29. QB MATT HASSELBECK / SEAHAWKS....$39

14. QB DREW BREES / SAINTS ..............$49

Talk about a great value, you just found

one. For about half the price of Brady, you
can have a QB who annually throws for
more than 4,000 yards and nearly 30 TDs.
In a format that values QBs so highly, Brees
looks like a definite steal.

Hasselbeck had a career season in 07,

but I could see a steep drop-off on the horizon. His receiving corps is riddled with
injuries, and Hasselbeck hasnt been very
healthy during the preseason. There are
plenty of cheaper quarterbacks who can
give you similar production.

15. RB JAMAL LEWIS / BROWNS ............$49

30. WR T.J. HOUSHMANDZADEH / BENGALS..$39

Fresh off a renaissance season, Lewis is

back among the top fantasy rushers. But is
he really worth this much? If youre a
believer that hes all the way back, then by
all means grab him. Id be wary, however,
of paying $49 for a guy who appeared to be
on his last legs not long ago.

Housh isnt a bad value at $39, but when

you look at some of the other wide
receivers prices, he might be a bit expensive. He can be a TD machine when at full
strength, but his lingering hamstring trouble
could flare up at any time, which is concerning.

16. WR TERRELL OWENS / COWBOYS ....$48

BARGAINS

Similar to his teammate Romo, Owens is

right near the top of his position but is considerably less expensive than the No. 1 guy.
No longer the risky pick he once was, T.O.
should continue to find the endzone frequently, making this value look pretty good.

NORM HALL

QB MATT SCHAUB / TEXANS..................$26

17. RB MARSHAWN LYNCH / BILLS ........$47

This is one that I really like. After making

a big impact as a rookie, Lynch is in store
for an even better Year Two as the centerpiece of the Bills offense. And while hes
not exactly cheap at this price, he easily
could outscore a few of the more expensive
backs.
18. RB WILLIS McGAHEE / RAVENS ......$47

I was high on McGahee about a month

ago, but not so much anymore. His recent
arthroscopic knee surgery has him in danger
of missing Week One, and the Ravens love
what they have in backup RB Ray Rice. I
wouldnt throw this much cash at such a big
injury risk.
19. QB BEN ROETHLISBERGER / STEELERS....$47

So youre telling me that Drew Brees is

only $2 more than Big Ben? Something
seems out of whack with these QB prices.
While Brees looked like a bargain at $49,
Roethlisberger appears overpriced at $47.
Im thinking his 32 TD passes last season
were an anomaly.
20. RB RYAN GRANT / PACKERS ............$46

Probably the most unproven player

among the top 30. Grant was extraordinary
in the final 10 games of 07, but can he keep
up that torrid pace over a full season? Most
likely not, but he should get enough work to
finish with nice numbers, making this a fair
price.

Bang for your buck: Matt Schaub could put

up big stats for the Texans if he can stay healthy

able than Wayne. Now Peyton Mannings

favorite target, hell see a ton of passes
thrown his way, which should translate into
big yards and scoring. Hes a solid buy at
this value.

Luckily for you, Jones price was set

before Brett Favre became a Jet. Now
with a proven QB and a much-improved
O-line, Jones seems like a steal at this
value. His TD total should go way up this
season, and his yardage likely will
increase, as well.

23. WR BRAYLON EDWARDS / BROWNS....$44

Edwards exploded for 16 TDs last season

as the go-to guy in the Browns high-octane
offense. With an upside thats off the charts,
he very well could lead the league in TD
receptions this season. Dont be afraid to
spend some money on this rising star.
24. QB CARSON PALMER / BENGALS ....$44

Palmer has proven to be a fantasy monster in the past, but his current receiver situation is disconcerting. Chad Johnson
recently went down with a shoulder injury,
and T.J. Houshmandzadeh is dealing with
hamstring issues. Palmer looks like a roll of
the dice this season.
25. WR LARRY FITZGERALD / CARDINALS....$43

Consistently one of the most productive

wideouts, Fitzgerald is always a safe fantasy choice. As long as the QB position holds
up its end of the bargain, he should justify
this price tag with no problem.
26. WR ANDRE JOHNSON / TEXANS........$41

Investing this much into a non-starter

doesnt really excite me. I know M.J.D. will
get a decent number of touches, and he
scores at a breakneck rate, but his value is
too reliant on TDs for my liking. Id rather
put this much money into backs who will
get the lions share of their teams carries.

Coming off a knee injury in 07, Johnson

likely is being undervalued entering the season. You should take advantage of that and
grab him at this price. If he can stay healthy,
the talented Johnson is in a great situation to
finish among the top fantasy receivers.

A bunch of quality receivers are bunched

into this price range, but few are more reli-

Schaub was very good when he played

last season, and only injuries stopped him
from posting big final numbers. He has
looked spectacular in the preseason, and
hell soon have star WR Andre Johnson
back healthy. Get Schaub at $26 and enjoy
the productivity.
RB THOMAS JONES / JETS......................$30

21. RB MAURICE JONES-DREW / JAGUARS ....$46

22. WR REGGIE WAYNE / COLTS ............$45

57

27. QB DEREK ANDERSON / BROWNS ....$40

Anderson burst onto the scene with 29

TD passes a year ago, and hes in an ideal
scenario to continue his success in 2008. If

SCORING FOR
PFW STOCK EXCHANGE
OFFENSIVE
PASSING
6 PTS: Passing touchdown
0.03 PT: Passing yard
-3 PTS: Interception
RUSHING
6 PTS: Rushing touchdown
0.1 PT: Rushing yard
RECEIVING
6 PTS: Receiving touchdown
0.1 PT: Receiving yard
OTHER
2 PTS: 2-point conversion
-2 PTS: Fumble lost
6 PTS: Kick return for TD
KICKING
3 PTS: Field goal (FG)
1 PT: FG > 39 yards
0.1 PT: Each FG yard over 40
1 PT: Point after TD (PAT)
-1 PT: Missed FG < 30 Yds
-1 PT: Missed PAT

DEFENSIVE
6 PTS: Touchdown
2 PTS: Safety
2 PTS: Interception
2 PTS: Fumble recovery
2 PTS: Blocked kick (Punts, PAT, FG)
1 PT: Quarterback sack
POINTS ALLOWED: No points added
or taken away up to 12 points.
-0.5 PTS: Each point allowed after 12

POSITIONS
Each team has the following 10 starting positions and three bench spots:
2 Quarterbacks (QB)
2 Running backs (RB)
3 Wide receivers (WR)
1 Tight end (TE)
1 Kicker (K)
1 Defense (DEF)

cheap.
RB DARREN McFADDEN / RAIDERS........$30

Spending big money on rookies is always

a gamble, but McFaddens big-play potential makes him well worth the risk. The
Raiders will find several ways to get him
the ball, and he has the speed to break away
on every touch. For this type of talent, $30
doesnt seem ridiculous.

WR DONT STALLWORTH / BROWNS ....$10

People were down on Stallworth when he

didnt produce last season in New England,
but a move to Cleveland should do him
good. With plenty of other weapons for
defenses to focus on, Stallworth should use
his top-end speed to get open deep. Hes a
bargain-basement buy.

RB MATT FORT / BEARS ........................$24

Heres yet another rookie running back,

but one who should see a ton of action.
Fort immediately steps in as the Bears
workhorse back, and it wouldnt shock me
if he led all first-year players in carries.
Anyone who gets the ball that often should
be priced much higher.

WR VINCENT JACKSON / CHARGERS ......$9

WR WES WELKER / PATRIOTS ................$26

TE GREG OLSEN / BEARS ..........................$7

How is a guy who tied for the league lead

in catches so inexpensive? Welker was a
revelation for the Pats last season, and
theres no reason to think that Tom Brady
will stop throwing to him. A consistent producer like this is invaluable, especially at
the WR position.

While the top tight ends go for around

$30, Olsen represents tremendous value at
about a quarter of that price. Somebody has
to catch the ball in Chicago, and Olsen is as
talented a pass catcher as they have. If you
want to conserve money at this position, the
Bear is a fine choice.

WR LAVERANUES COLES / JETS..............$17

PK JOSH BROWN / RAMS........................$11

Coles is another beneficiary of the Jets

Favre acquisition. A quick, scrappy player who can run past defenders, the wideout should become a favorite downfield
target for the former Packer. Coles has a
good chance to put up career-best numbers, so you might as well get him on the

Brown is a middle-of-the-pack priced

kicker with the potential to be one of the top
point scorers. His move to St. Louis means
hell be playing more than half of his games
indoors, and the Rams offense should give
him plenty of opportunities to put the ball
through the uprights.

After sleepwalking through most of last

season, Jackson finally turned it on in the
playoffs with three big outings. Following a
terrific offseason, he should be able to carry
his newfound success into 08. If he does,
this will be the best $9 youve ever spent.

58

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

FA N TA S Y FOOTBALL

http://www.profootballweekly.com

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

2008 draft board

Based on a standard performance system (six points for TD runs/catches, four points for TD passes and yardage bonuses). As of Aug. 24.

Quarterbacks
RK.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.

PLAYER / TEAM
BYE
Tom Brady / Patriots
4
Peyton Manning / Colts
4
Tony Romo / Cowboys
10
Drew Brees / Saints
9
Carson Palmer / Bengals
8
Derek Anderson / Browns 5
Ben Roethlisberger / Steelers 6
Donovan McNabb / Eagles 7
Jay Cutler / Broncos
8
Matt Hasselbeck / Seahawks 4
Eli Manning / Giants
4
Matt Schaub / Texans
8
Jake Delhomme / Panthers 9
Philip Rivers / Chargers
9
Marc Bulger / Rams
5
David Garrard / Jaguars
7
Brett Favre / Jets
5
Aaron Rodgers / Packers
8
Jon Kitna / Lions
4
Jason Campbell / Redskins 10
Kurt Warner / Cardinals
7
Jeff Garcia / Buccaneers 10
Vince Young / Titans
6
JaMarcus Russell / Raiders 5
Tarvaris Jackson / Vikings 8
Trent Edwards / Bills
6
Matt Leinart / Cardinals
7
Chad Pennington / Dolphins 4
J.T. OSullivan / 49ers
9
Brodie Croyle / Chiefs
6
Kyle Orton / Bears
8
Matt Ryan / Falcons
7
Troy Smith / Ravens
10
Alex Smith / 49ers
9
Chris Redman / Falcons
7
Kyle Boller / Ravens
10
Rex Grossman / Bears
8
Sage Rosenfels / Texans
8
Billy Volek / Chargers
9
Gus Frerotte / Vikings
8
J.P. Losman / Bills
6
Kevin Kolb / Eagles
7
Brady Quinn / Browns
5
Kellen Clemens / Jets
5
Joe Flacco / Ravens
10
Cleo Lemon / Jaguars
7
Kerry Collins / Titans
6
Trent Green / Rams
5
Todd Collins / Redskins
10
Seneca Wallace / Seahawks 4
Matt Moore / Panthers
9
Tyler Thigpen / Chiefs
6
Brian Griese / Buccaneers 10
Byron Leftwich / Steelers
6
Chad Henne / Dolphins
4
Shaun Hill / 49ers
9
Joey Harrington / Falcons 7
Brad Johnson / Cowboys 10
Patrick Ramsey / Broncos 8
Brett Ratliff / Jets
5

Running backs
RK. PLAYER / TEAM

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.

BYE

LaDainian Tomlinson / Chargers 9

Brian Westbrook / Eagles 7
Adrian Peterson / Vikings 8
Steven Jackson / Rams
5
Joseph Addai / Colts
4
Clinton Portis / Redskins 10
Frank Gore / 49ers
9
Marshawn Lynch / Bills
6
Larry Johnson / Chiefs
6
Marion Barber / Cowboys 10
Ryan Grant / Packers
8
Maurice Jones-Drew / Jaguars 7
Jamal Lewis / Browns
5
Willis McGahee / Ravens 10
Laurence Maroney / Patriots 4
Earnest Graham / Buccaneers 10

17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.
83.
84.
85.
86.
87.
88.
89.
90.

Brandon Jacobs / Giants

4
Edgerrin James / Cardinals 7
Thomas Jones / Jets
5
LenDale White / Titans
6
Willie Parker / Steelers
6
Reggie Bush / Saints
9
Michael Turner / Falcons
7
Darren McFadden / Raiders 5
Julius Jones / Seahawks
4
Fred Taylor / Jaguars
7
Ronnie Brown / Dolphins
4
Jonathan Stewart / Panthers 9
Selvin Young / Broncos
8
DeAngelo Williams / Panthers 9
Chester Taylor / Vikings
8
Matt Fort / Bears
8
Kevin Smith / Lions
4
Chris Johnson / Titans
6
Ricky Williams / Dolphins
4
Rudi Johnson / Bengals
8
Rashard Mendenhall / Steelers 6
Justin Fargas / Raiders
5
Jerious Norwood / Falcons 7
Chris Perry / Bengals
8
Ahman Green / Texans
8
Deuce McAllister / Saints
9
Felix Jones / Cowboys
10
Ahmad Bradshaw / Giants 4
Maurice Morris / Seahawks 4
Chris Brown / Texans
8
Ray Rice / Ravens
10
Leon Washington / Jets
5
Warrick Dunn / Buccaneers 10
Steve Slaton / Texans
8
DeShaun Foster / 49ers
9
Dominic Rhodes / Colts
4
Kevin Jones / Bears
8
LaMont Jordan / Patriots
4
Michael Bush / Raiders
5
Tatum Bell / Lions
4
Fred Jackson / Bills
6
Brandon Jackson / Packers 8
Ladell Betts / Redskins
10
Jason Wright / Browns
5
Brian Leonard / Rams
5
Jacob Hester / Chargers
9
Lorenzo Booker / Eagles
7
Darren Sproles / Chargers 9
Pierre Thomas / Saints
9
Derrick Ward / Giants
4
Tim Hightower / Cardinals 7
Kolby Smith / Chiefs
6
Andre Hall / Broncos
8
T.J. Duckett / Seahawks
4
Kevin Faulk / Patriots
4
Mike Hart / Colts
4
Vernand Morency / Packers 8
Shaun Alexander / free agent
Kenny Watson / Bengals
8
Aaron Stecker / Saints
9
Sammy Morris / Patriots
4
Correll Buckhalter / Eagles 7
Jamaal Charles / Chiefs
6
Tashard Choice / Cowboys 10
Michael Bennett / Buccaneers 10
J.J. Arrington / Cardinals
7
Cedric Benson / free agent
Adrian Peterson / Bears
8
Mewelde Moore / Steelers 6
Jesse Chatman / Jets
5
Chris Henry / Titans
6
Greg Jones / Jaguars
7
Aveion Cason / Lions
4
Antonio Pittman / Rams
5

Wide receivers
RK. PLAYER / TEAM

1.
2.
3.
4.

BYE

Randy Moss / Patriots

4
Terrell Owens / Cowboys 10
Braylon Edwards / Browns 5
Larry Fitzgerald / Cardinals 7

5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.
83.
84.
85.

Reggie Wayne / Colts

4
Andre Johnson / Texans
8
Marques Colston / Saints 9
T.J. Houshmandzadeh / Bengals 8
Chad Johnson / Bengals
8
Steve Smith / Panthers
9
Torry Holt / Rams
5
Plaxico Burress / Giants
4
Wes Welker / Patriots
4
Anquan Boldin / Cardinals 7
Roy Williams / Lions
4
Greg Jennings / Packers
8
Brandon Marshall / Broncos 8
Santonio Holmes / Steelers 6
Calvin Johnson / Lions
4
Marvin Harrison / Colts
4
Hines Ward / Steelers
6
Dwayne Bowe / Chiefs
6
Chris Chambers / Chargers 9
Laveranues Coles / Jets
5
Lee Evans / Bills
6
Joey Galloway / Buccaneers 10
Roddy White / Falcons
7
Jerricho Cotchery / Jets
5
Bernard Berrian / Vikings
8
Santana Moss / Redskins 10
Donald Driver / Packers
8
Dont Stallworth / Browns 5
Nate Burleson / Seahawks 4
Patrick Crayton / Cowboys 10
Anthony Gonzalez / Colts 4
Jerry Porter / Jaguars
7
Sidney Rice / Vikings
8
Vincent Jackson / Chargers 9
Ronald Curry / Raiders
5
Derrick Mason / Ravens 10
Reggie Brown / Eagles
7
James Hardy / Bills
6
Javon Walker / Raiders
5
Bobby Engram / Seahawks 4
Bryant Johnson / 49ers
9
Justin Gage / Titans
6
Isaac Bruce / 49ers
9
DeSean Jackson / Eagles 7
Mark Clayton / Ravens
10
Devin Hester / Bears
8
D.J. Hackett / Panthers
9
Jabar Gaffney / Patriots
4
Drew Bennett / Rams
5
Ted Ginn Jr. / Dolphins
4
Kevin Walter / Texans
8
Eddie Royal / Broncos
8
Muhsin Muhammad / Panthers 9
Amani Toomer / Giants
4
Reggie Williams / Jaguars 7
Kevin Curtis / Eagles
7
Darrell Jackson / Broncos 8
Laurent Robinson / Falcons 7
Steve Smith / Giants
4
Antwaan Randle El / Redskins 10
Deion Branch / Seahawks 4
Robert Meachem / Saints 9
Michael Jenkins / Falcons 7
Devin Thomas / Redskins 10
Donnie Avery / Rams
5
Ernest Wilford / Dolphins
4
Limas Sweed / Steelers
6
Andr Davis / Texans
8
Mike Furrey / Lions
4
Brandon Stokley / Broncos 8
James Jones / Packers
8
Marty Booker / Bears
8
Bobby Wade / Vikings
8
Jerome Simpson / Bengals 8
Roscoe Parrish / Bills
6
Troy Williamson / Jaguars 7
David Patten / Saints
9
Buster Davis / Chargers
9
Justin McCareins / Titans 6
Derek Hagan / Dolphins
4
Roydell Williams / Titans
6

86. Josh Morgan / 49ers

9
87. Courtney Taylor / Seahawks 4
88. Chris Henry / Bengals
8
89. Shaun McDonald / Lions
4
90. Keary Colbert / Broncos
8
91. Dennis Northcutt / Jaguars 7
92. Ike Hilliard / Buccaneers 10
93. Hank Baskett / Eagles
7
94. Rashied Davis / Bears
8
95. Nate Washington / Steelers 6
96. Devard Darling / Chiefs
6
97. Arnaz Battle / 49ers
9
98. Chansi Stuckey / Jets
5
99. Brandon Lloyd / Bears
8
100. Dante Hall / Rams
5
101. Terry Glenn / free agent
102. Ben Obomanu / Seahawks 4
103. Steve Breaston / Cardinals 7
104. Sam Hurd / Cowboys
10
105. Malcolm Kelly / Redskins 10
106. Dwayne Jarrett / Panthers 9
107. Joe Jurevicius / Browns
5
108. Robert Ferguson / Vikings 8
109. Maurice Stovall / Buccaneers 10
110. Jacoby Jones / Texans
8

Tight ends
RK. PLAYER / TEAM

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.

BYE

Jason Witten / Cowboys 10

Antonio Gates / Chargers 9
Kellen Winslow / Browns
5
Tony Gonzalez / Chiefs
6
Chris Cooley / Redskins 10
Dallas Clark / Colts
4
Jeremy Shockey / Saints
9
Heath Miller / Steelers
6
Todd Heap / Ravens
10
Vernon Davis / 49ers
9
Owen Daniels / Texans
8
Tony Scheffler / Broncos
8
Alge Crumpler / Titans
6
Donald Lee / Packers
8
Greg Olsen / Bears
8
L.J. Smith / Eagles
7
Ben Watson / Patriots
4
Zach Miller / Raiders
5
Ben Utecht / Bengals
8
Randy McMichael / Rams 5
Dustin Keller / Jets
5
Kevin Boss / Giants
4
Leonard Pope / Cardinals 7
Marcedes Lewis / Jaguars 7
Desmond Clark / Bears
8
Alex Smith / Buccaneers 10
John Carlson / Seahawks 4
Anthony Fasano / Dolphins 4
Chris Baker / Jets
5
Robert Royal / Bills
6
Visanthe Shiancoe / Vikings 8
David Martin / Dolphins
4
Jeff King / Panthers
9
Ben Hartsock / Falcons
7
David Thomas / Patriots
4
Bo Scaife / Titans
6
Brent Celek / Eagles
7
Dante Rosario / Panthers 9
Ben Troupe / Buccaneers 10
Kris Wilson / Eagles
7
Billy Miller / Saints
9
Jermichael Finley / Packers 8
Matt Spaeth / Steelers
6
Fred Davis / Redskins
10
Bubba Franks / Jets
5

Placekickers
RK. PLAYER / TEAM

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

BYE

Stephen Gostkowski / Patriots 4

Nick Folk / Cowboys
10
Josh Brown / Rams
5
Phil Dawson / Browns
5
Shayne Graham / Bengals 8
Adam Vinatieri / Colts
4

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P r o F o o t b a l l W e e k l y. c o m

7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.

Nate Kaeding / Chargers

9
Rob Bironas / Titans
6
Mason Crosby / Packers
8
Neil Rackers / Cardinals
7
Kris Brown / Texans
8
David Akers / Eagles
7
Josh Scobee / Jaguars
7
John Kasay / Panthers
9
Shaun Suisham / Redskins 10
Olindo Mare / Seahawks
4
Jason Hanson / Lions
4
Jeff Reed / Steelers
6
Jason Elam / Falcons
7
Matt Bryant / Buccaneers 10
Martin Gramatica / Saints 9
Ryan Longwell / Vikings
8
Robbie Gould / Bears
8
Mike Nugent / Jets
5
Matt Stover / Ravens
10
Sebastian Janikowski / Raiders 5
Joe Nedney / 49ers
9
Rian Lindell / Bills
6
Matt Prater / Broncos
8
Dan Carpenter / Dolphins 4
Lawrence Tynes / Giants
4
Chiefs placekicker
6

Defenses/
special teams
RK. PLAYER / TEAM

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.

Minnesota Vikings
San Diego Chargers
Dallas Cowboys
Chicago Bears
Jacksonville Jaguars
New York Giants
Pittsburgh Steelers
New England Patriots
Seattle Seahawks
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Baltimore Ravens
Green Bay Packers
Philadelphia Eagles
Buffalo Bills
Oakland Raiders
Indianapolis Colts
Tennessee Titans
Washington Redskins
Houston Texans
New York Jets
San Francisco 49ers
Cleveland Browns
Denver Broncos
Arizona Cardinals
Carolina Panthers
Detroit Lions
Kansas City Chiefs
St. Louis Rams
New Orleans Saints
Miami Dolphins
Cincinnati Bengals
Atlanta Falcons

BYE

8
9
10
8
7
4
6
4
4
10
10
8
7
6
5
4
6
10
8
5
9
5
8
7
9
4
6
5
9
4
8
7

Top 100 overall

RK. PLAYER / TEAM

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.

RB LaDainian Tomlinson / Chargers

RB Brian Westbrook / Eagles
RB Adrian Peterson / Vikings
RB Steven Jackson / Rams
QB Tom Brady / Patriots
RB Joseph Addai / Colts
RB Clinton Portis / Redskins
RB Frank Gore / 49ers
RB Marshawn Lynch / Bills
WR Randy Moss / Patriots
RB Larry Johnson / Chiefs
RB Marion Barber / Cowboys
QB Peyton Manning / Colts
RB Ryan Grant / Packers
WR Terrell Owens / Cowboys
WR Braylon Edwards / Browns
WR Larry Fitzgerald / Cardinals
WR Reggie Wayne / Colts

19. QB Tony Romo / Cowboys

20. RB Maurice Jones-Drew / Jaguars
21. WR Andre Johnson / Texans
22. RB Jamal Lewis / Browns
23. WR Marques Colston / Saints
24. WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh / Bengals
25. WR Chad Johnson / Bengals
26. RB Willis McGahee / Ravens
27. RB Laurence Maroney / Patriots
28. QB Drew Brees / Saints
29. WR Steve Smith / Panthers
30. RB Earnest Graham / Buccaneers
31. RB Brandon Jacobs / Giants
32. WR Torry Holt / Rams
33. QB Carson Palmer / Bengals
34. WR Plaxico Burress / Giants
35. WR Wes Welker / Patriots
36. WR Anquan Boldin / Cardinals
37. QB Derek Anderson / Browns
38. RB Edgerrin James / Cardinals
39. TE Jason Witten / Cowboys
40. RB Thomas Jones / Jets
41. RB LenDale White / Titans
42. RB Willie Parker / Steelers
43. RB Reggie Bush / Saints
44. QB Ben Roethlisberger / Steelers
45. RB Michael Turner / Falcons
46. WR Roy Williams / Lions
47. TE Antonio Gates / Chargers
48. RB Darren McFadden / Raiders
49. WR Greg Jennings / Packers
50. WR Brandon Marshall / Broncos
51. WR Santonio Holmes / Steelers
52. WR Calvin Johnson / Lions
53. TE Kellen Winslow / Browns
54. RB Julius Jones / Seahawks
55. RB Fred Taylor / Jaguars
56. WR Marvin Harrison / Colts
57. RB Ronnie Brown / Dolphins
58. WR Hines Ward / Steelers
59. QB Donovan McNabb / Eagles
60. TE Tony Gonzalez / Chiefs
61. WR Dwayne Bowe / Chiefs
62. TE Chris Cooley / Redskins
63. QB Jay Cutler / Broncos
64. QB Matt Hasselbeck / Seahawks
65. RB Jonathan Stewart / Panthers
66. TE Dallas Clark / Colts
67. WR Chris Chambers / Chargers
68. WR Laveranues Coles / Jets
69. WR Lee Evans / Bills
70. WR Joey Galloway / Buccaneers
71. WR Roddy White / Falcons
72. QB Eli Manning / Giants
73. RB Selvin Young / Broncos
74. WR Jerricho Cotchery / Jets
75. WR Bernard Berrian / Vikings
76. WR Santana Moss / Redskins
77. WR Donald Driver / Packers
78. RB DeAngelo Williams / Panthers
79. RB Chester Taylor / Vikings
80. WR Dont Stallworth / Browns
81. RB Matt Fort / Bears
82. RB Kevin Smith / Lions
83. QB Matt Schaub / Texans
84. WR Nate Burleson / Seahawks
85. RB Chris Johnson / Titans
86. WR Patrick Crayton / Cowboys
87. DST Vikings
88. TE Jeremy Shockey / Saints
89. RB Ricky Williams / Dolphins
90. WR Anthony Gonzalez / Colts
91. QB Jake Delhomme / Panthers
92. QB Philip Rivers / Chargers
93. DST Chargers
94. RB Rudi Johnson / Bengals
95. RB Rashard Mendenhall / Steelers
96. TE Heath Miller / Steelers
97. WR Jerry Porter / Jaguars
98. RB Justin Fargas / Raiders
99. TE Todd Heap / Ravens
100. RB Jerious Norwood / Falcons

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

who we hear looks to be in pretty

good shape, says he thinks he will
be able to handle 25-30 carries in
Week One, but our sources maintain that it could be at least Week
Three before Jackson is back to
full strength. Said one longtime
team insider: Last year, Larry
Johnson came into the Chiefs
camp at almost the exact same
time as Jackson, and it wasnt until
Week Three that he got more than
20 touches. Now Jackson does
have very fresh legs, and hes only
25 years old, so maybe he can be
ready, but they have to be very
careful with him. Our sources also
said that Jackson has indeed
opened himself up to closer scrutiny by a fan base that he criticized
last season for not being supportive enough. Hes very aware of
the expectations, and was quick to
offer an apology to the fans (for his
past comments), the insider said.
If he produces right away, he
shouldnt have a problem. But if he
pulls a hammy right away or looks
bad early, he could be facing a
pretty rocky road.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

The 112 sacks registered by relatively unheralded second-year DE
Ray McDonald in the Niners second preseason game vs. Green
Bay was not a fluke, according to
team insiders. After displaying
some impressive flashes with
increased playing time at the end
of his rookie campaign last
season, McDonald reportedly has picked right up
where he left off and then
some. Fellow second-year
Niner Joe Staley, who has
spent a lot of time this offseason
matched up across the line from
McDonald at left tackle, told one
team source that McDonald is 20
times better than he was last year.
Reporting to camp 10 pounds
heavier at 290, McDonalds
improved pass-rush skills have
been evident from the get-go, particularly when he has been on the
field along with newly acquired
Justin Smith, with both players
frequently being shifted around
depending on matchups. Another
player who could be providing
more of an impact in the pass-rush
department this season is Tully
Banta-Cain, who was a disappointment in his first season as a
Niner last year after reportedly
showing up to camp 20 pounds
overweight and injuring an ankle
that he said limited him all season.
Banta-Cain reported to camp in
much better shape this season
and has provided much more of a
pass-rushing presence, recently
racking up a pair of sacks against
the Packers while playing on the
second team.

A F C lE A S T
Williams is Dolphins
No. 1 back, but Brown
not going anywhere
Dont read much into the comments by ESPNs Chris
Mortensen on Monday Night
Countdown that the Dolphins could
be looking to trade RB Ronnie
Brown. The way we hear it, it was

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59

Not going anywhere: Miami hopes

Ronnie Brown is a part of a potent RB duo
purely speculation, and coach Tony
Sparano was adamant at his Aug.
20 press conference that he will not
do such a thing. Even if they were
unhappy with Brown, whose preseason numbers have certainly
been uninspiring in his first action
since tearing his ACL in Week
Seven last season, his trade value
couldnt be any lower than it
is right now. However, what
we do hear is that the roles
of Brown and Ricky
Williams have changed, at
least temporarily. Initially, it
was believed that Williams was
going to be the complement to
Brown as soon as Brown was fully
healthy. Now, it appears that Brown
will play the role of reliever to
Williams, regardless of his knee
health. The coaches have been so
thoroughly impressed with Williams
one team source called him
clearly the best player on the
team that only slippage on his
part will revert the RB hierarchy to
Brown being on top. Williams is set
to become a free agent after the
season, so expect the club to lock
him up before he hits the market if
he continues performing in such a
fashion.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

The good news for the Patriots is
that Tom Bradys foot injury is not
believed to be serious, even
though an official diagnosis has not
been made public. In fact, we hear
that coach Bill Belichicks decision to keep him out of preseason
games is as much a function of
concern over the injury-marred
offensive lines ability to keep him
erect as it is his current health. The
bad news is that his backups have played so poorly
in relief that theres a legitimate concern as to how the
offense would function if
Brady were to miss extended time at some point. Rookie
Kevin OConnell has outperformed Matt Cassel thus far, but
theres little chance Belichick would
grant starting honors to a rookie.
Nevertheless, dont expect
Belichick to start dialing the phone
number of any veteran still out
there on the free-agent market.
The theory is that the market is
bereft of any attractive option at
this late stage, and the fact that the
backups have at least been
immersed in the playbook through
the offseason bodes better for any
emergency than the introduction of
a veteran newcomer.

NEW YORK JETS

When the Jets traded for Brett
Favre, one of the mild concerns
they had was whether Kellen
Clemens would be given enough
opportunities to prove he could be
the quarterback of the future
whenever Favre retired. Pre-Favre,
the theory was that if
Clemens showed little
progress this season, the
team would likely take a
quarterback high in the
2009 draft to groom for the
future. Although its still incredibly
early to declare anything definitively, there are some around the
organization whispering that the
future under center is already in

HARRY SCULL, JR.

WWHI
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

place and his name is Brett

Ratliff. Thats how impressive the
second-year undrafted player has
been in camp and in the preseason. At 6-4 and 235 pounds, he
clearly has the size, and the fact
that he spent last year as a practice-squad receiver is testament to
his athleticism. And lest people
think that the Jets wouldnt eventually give the reins of the offense to
a player with such an undistinguished pedigree, remember that
coach Eric Mangini is a leaf on
the Bill Belichick branch of the
Bill Parcells coaching tree. And
who are the last two players those
two, as head coaches, have
anointed as franchise quarterbacks? For Parcells, an undrafted
player named Tony Romo. For
Belichick, a one-time sixth-round
choice named Tom Brady.

BUFFALO BILLS
New Bills offensive coordinator
Turk Schonert was blasted by the
local media following the preseason opener. After promising to
breathe new life into the stagnant
attack, Schonerts unit fell flat, and
many wondered if there really was
anything to be excited
about. But the way we hear
it, Schonert took those criticisms to heart, and the
crisp execution showcased
in the second game proved
that the Bills are indeed committed
to expanding their offensive horizons. It wasnt just that they
played better; it was a completely
different philosophy, one team
source said. They involved Lee
(WR Lee Evans) right away. They

threw to the tight ends. Even the

running plays seemed more creative. As for the much-anticipated
no-huddle, up-tempo attack,
Schonert has kept that mostly
under wraps. But then again, its
still the preseason, and the new
offensive boss doesnt want to
show too many cards just
enough to whet the appetite of
whats to come.

A F C lN O R T H
Ravens QB Smith
on pace to start
in Week One
Although the Ravens still have
yet to name a starting quarterback
for Week One, sources in Baltimore say Troy Smith is locked in
as their choice, barring a complete
collapse in the remaining preseason action. The Ravens really dont
have any great options at quarterback, between Smith, Kyle Boller
and rookie Joe Flacco, but
Smith appears to be the
best game manager at this
point. We hear the team
likes Smiths mobility and
the way he tucks the ball
and runs if need be. Its very likely
that whomever is under center will
face a great deal of pressure off
the edge if starting OTs Adam
Terry (ankle), who recently
returned to practice, and Jared
Gaither (ankle) are slowed by their
injuries, and Smith is the best
option to handle that pass rush.
Smiths biggest problem appears
to be his lack of accuracy, especially when hes throwing to the

flat, where his passes tend to sail.

Sources say it would take an injury
or a nightmarish performance from
Smith for Boller to get another shot
at starting.

CLEVELAND BROWNS
Knowing they needed major
defensive fortifications if they were
going to emerge as contenders in
the AFC, the Browns made waves
with the high-profile trade acquisitions of DL Shaun Rogers from
Detroit and DL Corey Williams
from Green Bay in the offseason.
Thus far, only one is living up to
expectations. Word were hearing
out of Cleveland is that
Rogers has made a seamless transition into the
Browns 3-4 system, whereas Williams has experienced far more difficulty in
adjusting to the two-gapping
scheme. Rogers has been so
impressive, in fact, that the coaches have had few reservations
about giving him reps both inside
at nose tackle and outside at end.
Hope is hardly lost regarding
Williams, who missed a week of
camp with injury, but its clear hell
have to hasten his development if
the Browns are to get the kind of
play from their D-line that they figured they would by bringing him
aboard.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS
The Steelers search for a starting center is over, the way we hear
it. Despite the fact that Sean
Mahan started the Steelers third

CONTINUED ON PAGE 60

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

60

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Battered: Carson Palmer has taken a

beating during the preseason
if Johnson proves his hamstring is
fully healed, hell regain starting
honors.

JOE ROBBINS / GETTY IMAGES

A F C lS O U T H
Lackadaisical Jaguars
too comfortable?

WWHI
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 59
preseason game, sources say
Justin Hartwig appears to be the
winner of a position battle with
Mahan and will top the depth chart
in Week One of the regular
season. Hartwig, who was
released by the Panthers
after last season, looks like
a stronger, bigger option
with a better base. Word is
he has a sound understanding of
the playbook and has gained the
faith of OL coach Larry Zierlein.
Center was the only position on

For as much as Carson Palmer

has been beaten up and bloodied,
literally, in the preseason, only
some of the blame can be pinned
on the Bengals offensive line. Just

as much, if not more, falls on the

running backs difficulty picking up
the blitz and the new receivers not
being on the same page as their
quarterback. In contrast to last
season, the linemen thus
far have kept their health
and constitute one of the
more stable positions on an
offense that has been crippled by injury. Because
keeping Palmer erect is priority No.
1 for the offense, RB Chris Perrys
ascension to the featured role
ahead of Rudi Johnson is hardly
imminent, seeing as how Perry still
has much work to do in pass protection. Word were hearing is that

offense. The guys they do have are getting run into the dirt being worked so
hard. Its difficult to see them having
much success this year.
The Bengals offense will be able
to win some games, but they are still
bad on D.
Clevelands strength of schedule
will make it difficult for them to win
more games this year. They wont be
able to surprise anyone, and they still
have issues at cornerback, (with)
Travis Daniels or not.
The Lions lines are average.
Their secondary is atrocious. The running game who knows? The quarterback is questionable. They are
going to have to throw a lot of jumpballs to Roy (Williams) and Calvin
(Johnson) and control the clock. They
are still not very good.
The Bears secondary is questionable. The linebackers are very
good. The defensive line is still not
very good vs. the run. Tommie Harris has disappeared since he was
paid. Lance Briggs, too, for that matter has he made a tackle in the preseason yet? Their quarterbacks are
very, very questionable. The receivers
are very questionable. They are good

at tight end. The jury is still out with a

rookie starting in the backfield. (Matt
Fort) has looked good so far. The
kicking game is excellent.
If Jeff Otah continues to
progress the way he has so far, he will
be a Pro Bowler. He makes it look easy
and has appeared more athletic than
he was in college. He played on that
bad ankle (as a senior in college). He
can change direction and bend and is
stronger than an ox. Hes just pushing
people around right now at right tackle. He and (ORG Keydrick) Vincent
are creating creases and thats all
DeAngelo Williams needs. If they
keep blocking like they are, (Williams)
could be a 1,500-yard back, and they
wont need to rush their first-round
pick into action.
The most physically gifted (offensive) lineman in the draft was (Carl)
Nicks. There is no doubt in my mind.
If he straightens out, he will be a Pro
Bowler as long as he wants to be. And
Ive heard he is moving people for (the
Saints) when he lines up with the ones.
Then I would have said the next was
(Texans OL) Duane Brown. He has
more substance to him than a lot of
people gave him credit for. I was hop-

the O-line in which there was a

battle for a starting role, so Pittsburgh finally can move forward
with full knowledge of its front five
in the remaining weeks before the
season opener. While Mahan is
relegated to backup duty for now, it
might not be for long. Hartwig battled injuries throughout his twoyear stint in Carolina, appearing in
just 17 games.

CINCINNATI BENGALS

Theyve bought into the hype

about them being a Super Bowl
team. Thats the answer one
source close to the Jaguars
responded with when asked what
the reason is for the clubs lackluster showing thus far in the preseason. The feeling around the
club is that, for the most
part, the coaches and players already know who will
be constituting the final 53man roster, and the impetus
to play and practice hard has been
muffled considerably. Additionally,
the only position where theres a
legitimate competition for a starting
job is at weak-side linebacker,
where Justin Durant and Clint
Ingram are battling it out. The apathetic preseason attitude is being
fostered by the coaches, who have
conducted one of the easier training camps in the league. We hear
that the coaches intention was to
limit injuries and keep the team
fresh for the regular season, but
the result has been a lackadaisical
effort that needs to be rectified if
they Jaguars are to meet many
observers expectations for 2008.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

almost, but not fully healed

head coach Tony Dungy is
expected to take a more patient
approach with Sanders. As has
been the case in previous seasons, Sanders availability in certain practices and certain drills will
be limited, while Freeney is
approaching full-steam-ahead territory. The rationale is that Sanders
small size and unbridled playing
style leaves him particularly susceptible to injury. Furthering the
differing treatment for each player
is their relative importance to their
units. As dominating as Sanders
is, the Colts have quality depth at
safety, whereas the DE rotation is
in a considerable bind minus
Freeney.

HOUSTON TEXANS

Things are stabilizing a bit more

on the Colts injury front, at least
on the defensive side. Standouts
Dwight Freeney and Bob
Sanders are back in action
after foot and shoulder
problems, respectively, had
kept each sidelined through
the offseason program and
training camp. Although
both players are at roughly the
same stage in their rehabilitation

Although they have two of the

leagues best young front-seven
players in DE Mario Williams and
MLB DeMeco Ryans, the Texans
consistently have struggled to
pressure opposing quarterbacks.
They finished 25th in the league in
QB sack percentage last season,
and things havent been much better this year, with just one sack
through three exhibition contests.
One of their plans to
improve the pass rush was
to convert free-agent acquisition Rosevelt Colvin
from linebacker to defensive end, but from what we
hear, that experiment hasnt gone
well thus far. Colvin, who missed
five games in 07 with a foot injury,
has been playing linebacker in the
pros for nine seasons and isnt
picking up his new position very
quickly. Another one of Houstons
hopes is to get more pressure
from second-year DT Amobi
Okoye. Okoye had 512 sacks last
season as a rookie before hitting a
wall down the stretch. Of course,
theyll need Williams to keep up
his dominant play from last season, when he recorded 14 sacks,
to stand any chance of improving
in this facet of the game. Were
told that Colvin could be the guy
to get them over the hump if

ing he would fall to us.

Justin Smith plays short-armed
and cant get separation. Boy did the
49ers overpay for him. Has he made a
play yet?
You cant call a game based on
percentages trying to figure out when
to call timeouts and accept penalties
and not accept them and challenge
plays and not challenge them. Too
many coaches are on headsets nowadays being told what to do. All of the
research is well and good, but some of
the best decisions are made by great
coaches by going against the book. Its
gut feel. People can do all the studies
they want, but they cant tell you on
fourth and one what the mojo of the
team is at that point in the game and
the effect that decision will have on
them mentally. The coach is the only
one who has that. He has to make the
call. We hired a retired official the
first year challenges became part of
the game, and he was on the headset
with (the head coach). The first three
challenges he recommended, we lost
all three. (The owner) was ticked.
There is so much that goes into
the development of a player, and more
than anything, I would say success is

derived from a teams system, system,

system. Just take (Tampa Bay DE)
Greg White for example. He failed in
five different places trying to play line
of scrimmage football. (Teams) even
tried to make him a linebacker, and he
could not do it. He goes to the Arena
League and has some success. Then
he goes to Tampa Bay and is used in an
up-the-field role and he racks up
(eight) sacks. So much of development
has to do with timing and the (proper)
coaching in the right system. Thats
what makes Bill Belichick great
he knows his system inside and out.
(Broncos rookie WR) Eddie
Royal could be a great pro if everything is going right for him. When the
going gets tough, he had a tendency in
college to want to pull himself out of
games and miss practice. Hes just not
mentally tough. Talent-wise, there was
no questioning his ability.
I dont think Jason Campbell
can play in this league. If they keep it
simple for him, he will have a chance.
The O-line is a pretty good group if
they stay healthy, but its been a big if.
Randy Thomas was limping when I
saw them. (Todd) Wade is already
hurt. (Jon) Jansen is always hurt.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

A U D I B L E S
The following quotes are from NFL
scouts, coaches and front-office personnel, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Ricky Williams is back. He
looks really good. Ted Ginn Jr.
should be able to open up the field a
little bit. Chad Pennington looks like
Chad Pennington. Hes a good intermediate thrower, but does not have a
lot of guys to throw to. Their defense is
filled with question marks.
Green Bays offense has fallen
apart without (Brett) Favre. What you
see now is no aberration. He made the
offense look a lot better than it was. The
running game looks like it did at the
beginning of last year. They dont have
all those running lanes like they did at
the end of the year when teams were
ganging up to stop Favre. The line is
struggling. They have a lot of issues.
They dont have as many big defensive
linemen in rotation right now, where if
someone goes down, they dont have
the same depth.
Pittsburghs defense will always
be good. What they need to do is get
the running game back in order.
Baltimores offense is getting
older by the day, and they have no

SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

only he could learn the nuances of

playing the DE spot.

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61

Ahead of schedule: Philip Rivers has

recovered nicely from offseason surgery

TENNESSEE TITANS

A F C lW E S T
Wounded Chargers
playing it very safe
this preseason
Perhaps above all else this preseason, the Chargers have
preached R & R rest and rehabilitation. With a whopping nine
starters undergoing offseason
surgery, the team has played it
very safe in training camp and
exhibition games, making
sure to sit players even if
theyre feeling well enough
to participate. We hear that
head coach Norv Turner,
knowing that injuries in January might have cost his club a trip
to the Super Bowl last season, has
been extra careful not to take any
risks in August. That would explain
why stars like NT Jamal Williams

(knees) and OLT Marcus McNeill

(shoulder/neck) consistently have
been absent from team workouts.
It would also explain why QB
Philip Rivers, whos in tip-top
shape after getting his ACL
repaired just seven months ago,
was held out of San Diegos second preseason contest. Even guys
who didnt have surgery but have
been dinged up in practice like
WR Vincent Jackson (hamstring)
and DE Luis Castillo (back)
have spent extensive time on the
sideline. And after having his knee
operated on five months ago, LB
Shawne Merriman had been a
practice observer for the past couple weeks before learning he had
serious ligament damage that
could cost him the entire season.
Turner realizes that with his teams
immense talent, injuries could be
the only thing standing between
the Chargers and a championship.
That's enough to scare any coach
into resting his players.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

Not many 5-8, 182-pound
undrafted rookies find a way to
stick in the NFL, but the Chiefs
Dantrell Savage might defy the
odds. The Oklahoma State product
was signed in the offseason to
give the team some depth at running back and on special teams,
but he was given little chance of
making the final roster. The way
we hear it, however, his excellent
play in training camp and preseason action could have him
in the lead for top kickreturning duties. His performance in Kansas Citys
second exhibition contest
three kickoff returns for
99 yards had head coach Herm
Edwards singing his praises.
Although Savage is not the fastest
and certainly not the biggest of
guys, Edwards loves the maximum
effort and toughness that the rookie brings to the table. Helping Savages prospects is the fact that
Edwards hasnt been thrilled with
the play thus far of free-agent
acquisition B.J. Sams, whom the
Chiefs brought in to be their return
specialist. If Savage keeps performing at a high level for the

JAMES D. SMITH

When the Titans brought in former Pro Bowl TE Alge Crumpler

this offseason, many saw it as a
signal that last years starter, Bo
Scaife, was headed to the bench
as a reserve. From what we hear,
however, Scaife will not be a forgotten target in the passing game.
The fourth-year Texas product had
a great training camp and has
impressed in the preseason, looking much more polished as
a pass catcher. In fact,
Scaife leads Tennessee in
receptions through three
exhibition games with six.
Now, this is not to say that
he is on the verge of supplanting
Crumpler, who has opened eyes
thus far himself, but Scaifes solid
play may persuade offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger to
implement more two-TE sets, in
which both players would be on
the field simultaneously. Given the
Titans current crop of receivers,
this formation could be their best
bet. It could also help the play of
QB Vince Young, who doesnt
have a huge arm and likes finding
his tight ends. If Crumpler can
return to the pass-catching force
he was in Atlanta, Scaife may see
lots of single coverage this season
and may post much better numbers than people expect.

remainder of the preseason, he

very well could steal away a job
that Sams likely figured he had
locked up.

OAKLAND RAIDERS
Raiders CB DeAngelo Hall continues to practice with the team,
although he suffered ligament
damage in his right hand before
the first preseason game and is
wearing a brace on it. Word is the
injury wont require surgery
and the Raiders are confident hell be healed and
ready to go by Week One.
However, Hall has indicated
that it might not be such a
great idea for him to be playing
through the discomfort. Sources
say they have witnessed Hall grabbing the hand in pain recently after

he swatted a ball and are concerned that the Raiders might be

handling him in a foolish manner.
Oakland wants Hall and his fellow
starting CB Nnamdi Asomugha to
be on the field together for as
much time as possible as they get
used to each other and prepare for
the season. The Raiders locked up
Hall with a seven-year contract in
the offseason, but their urgency to
win now might force them into a
shortsighted decision in this case.

DENVER BRONCOS
Broncos RB Andre Hall
appears to be nailing down a more
defined role as the teams No. 2
back, the way we hear it. Hall will
likely be used to spell Selvin
Young during drives and will be
the top option near the goal line.

Earlier this month Hall was fighting

for a shot at carries in a crowded
backfield, but an elbow injury to
rookie Ryan Torain has given him
some breathing room. Although
Hall and Young are roughly
the same size, Hall is
viewed as a tougher, grittier
rusher and will be counted
on to plow the ball into the
endzone. Hall helped establish that reputation last season,
when he carried 26 times for 98
yards and a touchdown in a Week
12 game against the Bears in
Chicago. While his competition has
been trimmed, any missteps could
cost Hall. Denver will likely keep
Michael Pittman as a FB-RB
hybrid, and undrafted rookie
Anthony Alridge is battling for a
roster spot.

NFL TRANSACTIONS
(As reported, Aug. 16-23)

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Aug. 18: Reserve/suspended by commissioner: FA OT
Luke Petitgout (four games).

AMERICAN FOOTBALL CONFERENCE

BALTIMORE Aug. 18: Franchise FA re-signed: LB
Terrell Suggs. Placed on waivers: WR Kerry Reed.
BUFFALO Aug. 20: Placed on waivers: WR Jason
Jones. Aug. 21: Roster addition: OG Dustin Dickinson
(released by Seahawks 6/25).
CINCINNATI Aug. 19: Roster addition: WR Chris
Henry (released by Bengals 4/4). Placed on waivers: CB
Jerrid Gaines. Aug. 20: Passed physical: FB Jeremi Johnson. Placed on waivers: FB Bradley Glatthaar (injury settlement/knee); CB Ethan Kilmer (injured/thigh). Aug. 21:
Reserve/injured: CB Ethan Kilmer. Placed on waivers: WR
Marcus
Maxwell
(injured/quadriceps).
Aug.
22:
Reserve/injured: WR Marcus Maxwell.
CLEVELAND Aug. 20: Traded: Draft choice to Dolphins
for CB Travis Daniels. Placed on waivers: DB MilVon James.
HOUSTON Aug 18: Roster addition: RB Marcel
Shipp (released by Cardinals 8/5). Reserve/injured: OG
Fred Weary (leg).
INDIANAPOLIS Aug. 19: Roster addition: DT Dan
Davis (released by Colts 6/6). Placed on waivers: DB Antonio Smith. Aug. 20: Passed physical: DE Dwight Freeney; S
Bob Sanders. Roster addition: TE Tyrice Thompson
(released by Buccaneers 6/18). Placed on waivers: LB
Danny Verdun Wheeler.
MIAMI Aug. 18: Passed physical: CB Michael Lehan.

Contract terminated: C Steve McKinney. Aug. 20: Traded:

CB Travis Daniels to Browns for draft choice. Aug. 22: Placed
on waivers: WR David Kircus; CB Chris Roberson.
NEW ENGLAND Aug. 19: Roster addition: TE Tyson
Devree (released by Patriots 6/16). Contract terminated: TE
Marcus Pollard. Aug. 21: Roster addition: C-OG Mike Flynn
(released failed physical by Ravens 2/28). Placed on
waivers: CB Ade Jimoh.
N.Y. JETS Aug. 18: Placed on waivers: DB Nate
Lyles. Aug. 19: Roster addition: WR Larry Brackins
(released by Buccaneers 7/26/06; Philadelphia-Arena Football 08).
PITTSBURGH Aug. 16: Roster addition: TE Lee Vickers (released by Ravens (8/13). Placed on waivers: TE Jon
Dekker (injured/knee). Aug. 18: Roster addition: DE
Orpheus Roye (released by Browns 2/27). Reserve/injured:
TE Jon Dekker. Aug. 19: Passed physical: S Troy Polamalu.
SAN DIEGO Aug. 19: Passed physical: TE Antonio
Gates.
TENNESSEE Aug. 19: Roster addition: LB Jerrell
Freeman (released by Titans 7/24). Placed on waivers: LB
Kurt Campbell (injured/ribs). Aug. 20: Roster addition: S
Tuff Harris (released by Dolphins 4/25, by Saints 7/31).
Reserve/injured: LB Kurt Campbell. Contract terminated:
P Josh Miller. Placed on waivers: S Rocky Schwartz (from
reserve/injured, injury settlement). Aug. 23: Placed on
waivers: LB Kurt Campbell (from reserve/injured, injury settlement).

NATIONAL FOOTBALL CONFERENCE

ARIZONA Aug. 20: Roster addition: RB Chris Vincent
(released by Lions 6/19, by Cardinals 7/28). Contract termi-

nated: WR Ahmad Merritt. Placed on waivers: FB Dionte

Johnson (injured/foot). Aug. 21: Reserve/injured: FB Dionte
Johnson.
ATLANTA Aug. 19: Contract terminated: WR Joe
Horn. Placed on waivers: LB Isaac Brown (injured).
CAROLINA Aug. 20: Roster addition: WR Sean Bailey (released by Chiefs 5/7). Contract terminated: DT Ian
Scott (injury settlement/knee).
CHICAGO Aug. 19: Roster addition: LS Thomas
Gafford (released by Packers 8/5). Aug. 22: Placed on
waivers: LB Rod Wilson (injured/broken arm).
DETROIT Aug. 19: Roster additions: WR Eric Fowler
(released by Rams 7/23, by Lions 7/31); TE Clark Harris
(released by Lions 5/20). Reserve/injured: FB Jon Bradley
(shoulder). Placed on waivers: WR Taye Biddle (injured).
Aug. 20: Reserve/injured: WR Taye Biddle (abdominal
strain). Aug. 22: Roster addition: QB Drew Henson
(released by Vikings 8/28/07). Placed on waivers: WR Eric
Fowler.
GREEN BAY Aug. 19: Roster addition: DT Rodney
Allen (Odessa, Intense Football League 08). Placed on
waivers: WR Evan Moore (injured/knee). Aug. 20:
Reserve/did not report: WR Evan Moore.
MINNESOTA Aug. 18: Reserve/injured: DT Kenderick
Allen (wrist).
NEW ORLEANS Aug. 18: Roster addition: S Lance
Schulters (not tendered as UFA by Dolphins 6/1). Placed on
waivers: LS Ryan Senser.
N.Y. GIANTS Aug. 20: Roster addition: CB Miguel
Scott (released by Giants 6/25). Contract terminated: OT
Shane Olivea (from reserve/injured, injury settlement).
Placed on waivers: RB Kay-Jay Harris (injured/ankle,
foot); DE Antonio Reynolds (from reserve/injured, injury

settlement); S Nehemiah Warrick (from reserve/injured,

injury settlement). Aug. 21: Reserve/injured: RB Kay-Jay
Harris.
PHILADELPHIA Aug. 16: Passed physical: OG
Shawn Andrews. Aug. 23: Placed on waivers: WR Frantz
Hardy; FB Luke Lawton; OG Cameron Stephenson.
ST. LOUIS Aug. 19: Roster addition: RB Lavarius
Giles (released by Jaguars 8/15). Reserve/injured: OT Brandon Gorin (shoulder). Aug. 21: Reinstated: RB Steven Jackson from reserve/did not report; granted roster exemption
through 8/28). Placed on waivers: OG Mark Setterstrom
(injured/knee). Aug. 22: Reserve/injured: OG Mark Setterstrom.
SAN FRANCISCO Aug. 23: Placed on waivers: S
Lewis Baker (injured/thigh); OG John Booker; DT Joe Cohen;
TE Cooper Wallace; QB Kyle Wright.
SEATTLE Aug. 18: Placed on waivers: LB Eric Wicks
(from reserve/injured, injury settlement). Aug. 20: Placed on
waivers: CB Derrick Johnson (from reserve/injured, injury
settlement).
TAMPA BAY Aug. 16: Roster addition: FB J.D. Runnels (released by Bears 7/25). Contract terminated: OT
Luke Petitgout (failed physical). Aug. 20: Roster addition:
OG Phil Bogle (released from reserve/did not report by Buccaneers 10/20/06; Philadelphia-Arena Football 08). Placed
on waivers: FB J.D. Runnels.
WASHINGTON Aug. 18: Roster addition: LB David
Holloway (released by Cardinals 8/15). Placed on waivers:
LB Rian Wallace (injured/dislocated shoulder). Aug. 19:
Reserve/injured: LB Rian Wallace.

ONLINE TRANSACTION UPDATES AT:

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2008

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

http://www.profootballweekly.com

63

FEATURED ATTRACTIONS:

Favre catapults Jets to top of Most Watchable list

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Favres hunting and fishing in that nice wooded

area near the Jets new digs that the team actually used
as a selling point to convince him to become its new
starting QB. He hears gun shots. Pro footballs answer to
John Wayne starts running for cover when he accidentally
bumps into Paulie Walnuts (Tony Sirico) of The Sopranos, in hot pursuit of Valery, the elusive Russian mob
guy from the memorable Pine Barrens episode. Son
of a b----!!! Paulie yells. The hell with the Russian! Its
frickin Brett Favre!!!
Yeaahh, baby! Now thats entertainment. And thats
what Im expecting nonstop this season from the New
York Jets, a team that, in one fell swoop, has become the
NFLs most entertaining team.
As exasperating as Favres back-and-forth divorce proceedings from the Packers had become, its impossible
not to get totally hooked on his spicy new story line as
the Big Apples hottest pro sports attraction.
Can the 38-year-old Favre, coming off one of his finest
seasons before floundering in the NFC title game, really
turn a team that won only four games in 2007 into an

instant playoff contender? Will the bright lights of Times

Square burn him to a crisp and make him yearn for his
tractor back in Mississippi?
It doesnt hurt that the Jets spent more than $140 million this offseason and have added a few other very
intriguing pieces to their 2008 puzzle (OLG Alan
Faneca, DE Kris Jenkins and OLB Calvin Pace, to
name a few). In any event, theyre the showcase attraction on the First Annual Dan Arkush NFL Entertainment Meter to usher in the fast-approaching 08 season.
Here are nine runners-up that gave the Jets a real run
for their money. To wit:
2. Dallas Cowboys Already enhancing their highprofile network status as HBOs Hard Knocks team of
choice this season, the Cowboys will come storming out
of the regular-season chute on the road in what
promises to be a most intriguing season opener in Cleveland with an NFL-record 13 Pro Bowlers on their roster and a lively offense that scored the second-most
points in the league last season. Dallas will also demand
our attention off the field, with NFL commissioner

Roger Goodell yet to decide at this writing whether or

not to fully reinstate CB-RS Adam Pacman Jones
after a yearlong suspension. After spending $70 million
on new deals for five of his Pro Bowl players, led by
seemingly content WR Terrell Owens, will owner Jerry
Jones wallet help the Cowboys win not only their first
playoff game in 11 seasons but also a Super Bowl trip to
Tampa? Stay tuned.
3. New England Patriots Their season-long flirtation with perfection and record-shattering offense led by
QB Tom Brady and WR Randy Moss was by far the
hottest story in the NFL last season until it was overtaken by the Giants playoff run for the ages. The Pats
cant be as potent as they were in 07, can they? A cushy
schedule that includes 11 games against teams with losing records in 2007 could help their cause. Brady, who
had yet to play in the preseason due to a mysterious new
foot injury, adds extra intrigue. So does a juiced-up division rivalry with the Jets, who blew the whistle on head
coach Bill Belichick in the Spygate incident in Week
One last season and now have added Favre for good
measure.
4. San Diego Chargers Forget about Greys Anatomy and House. They cant hold a candle to the medical saga that continues to unfold in San Diego, where
the dreaded injury bug provides a compelling subplot for
the AFCs answer to the Cowboys in the pure-talent
department. After coming up lame with a left knee injury
in the AFC title game against the Patriots in Foxborough,
two-time NFL rushing champion LaDainian Tomlinson
has been kept under lock and key this preseason to
ensure that he has the freshest of legs about a week from
now when San Diego opens up at home against Carolina.
QB Philip Rivers, who played in the AFC title game on
a right knee that was surgically reconstructed a few days
later, reportedly also is back at 100 percent. But the same
cant be said about Pro Bowl TE Antonio Gates, who
had surgery nearly six months ago to repair a tear in the
plantar plate of his left foot, or Pro Bowl OLB Shawne
Merriman, who could be playing with fire should he
decide to risk playing with two torn ligaments in his left
knee.
5. Indianapolis Colts The medical theme is an
equally big deal in Indy, where its worth wondering
more than a little if injuries to a host of key players, led
by superstar QB Peyton Manning, could threaten a seventh straight playoff appearance by the leagues most
consistently successful franchise. After being placed in
protective custody by the Colts much
of the summer, Manning, who has
Brett the Jet: Legbeen battling an infected bursa sac in
endary Packers QB
his left knee, finally returned to the
Brett Favre is ready
to strut his stuff in
public limelight before the Colts third
the Big Apple
preseason game, but the brace on his
knee continues to keep red flags waving. Other recuperating Colts who register prominently
on the national radar screen include SS Bob Sanders,
DRE Dwight Freeney and cranky veteran WR Marvin
Harrison, who couldnt have been less revealing recently in his first and possibly last interview with the
local media this season.
6. New York Giants I know its hard to believe that
the defending Super Bowl champions arent higher on
our meter and are rated five notches lower than the
neighboring Jets, no less. But trust me when I tell you
that the Giants are held in similar regard by most of the
national media, whether they deserve it or not. Nonetheless, the Super-sized chip they will be carrying on their
shoulders still figures to make Tom Coughlins troops a
gigantically attractive draw in the grand scheme of
things. So does QB Eli Manning, who will be anxious
to prove worthy of his Super Bowl XLII MVP award.
7. Cleveland Browns Theres a good reason the
Browns have five 08 games scheduled for prime time.
Coming up just a poor late-season performance by QB
Derek Anderson short of what would have been a very
surprising playoff berth in 07, the Browns will have a
lot of eyes focused them. Thats especially the case with
an offense that scored 402 points in Rob Chudzinskis
first season as coordinator, with Anderson utilizing tal-

Under the radar

While its certainly open to
debate as to whether or not
they are the least watchable
teams the league has to offer
this season, the following five
teams are the only ones that
dont have any prime-time
games scheduled to start the
season:
1. Atlanta Remaining
under the radar in the wake of
the Michael Vick/Bobby Petrino fiasco last year could turn
out to be a real blessing in disguise for first-round QB Matt
Ryan.
2. Detroit The Lions dis- Matt Ryan
mal second-half collapse last
season after a surprisingly strong start keeps them
firmly entrenched in the also-ran department. But keep
an eye on the Jon Kitna-to-Calvin Johnson connection.
3. St. Louis Steven Jackson isnt nearly enough
to excite the leagues prime-time schedule makers as
the Rams attempt a major rebound in relative obscurity.
4. Kansas City Missouri is hardly the NFLs
Show Me state, as Herm Edwards & Co. go the
rebuilding route with a quarterback (Brodie Croyle)
who lost all six of his starts last season.
5. Miami Bill Parcells extreme makeover from
the ground up probably wont be ready for prime time
for a year or two, although reformed RB Ricky Williams
is definitely worth keeping an eye on.

HARRY SCULL, JR.

Live! From New York! Its Saturday Night! With

guest host Breeeetttttt Favrrrrrre!
Geez, hard as its becoming at my advanced age, I
think I would even find a way to stay up past 10:30 p.m.
CST on a Saturday night for a show like that. If there
isnt already an attempt being made by the SNL powersthat-be to snag Brett Favre as a guest host (how about
during the Jets bye week?), then there should be, dont
you think? I could see it now:

AL PEREIRA / GETTY IMAGES

THE SLANT

DAN ARKUSH

DAN ARKUSH
ented weapons such as WR Braylon Edwards, TE
Kellen Winslow Jr. and RB Jamal Lewis. It remains to
be seen, though, if high-profile offseason additions
Shaun Rogers and Corey Williams can upgrade a
defense that finished 30th overall last season, and
whether Anderson can continue performing at a high
level with 07 first-round draft pick Brady Quinn
breathing down his neck.
8. Minnesota Vikings Like the Browns in the AFC,
the Vikings look like they could be a sleeper who wont
be denied, poised to overcome the Favre-less Packers in
the NFC North. Electrifying second-year RB Adrian
Peterson, who led the NFC in rushing last season with
1,341 yards in only 14 games, spearheads the offense,
while 07 NFL sack leader DE Jared Allen who
became the leagues highest-paid defensive player after
being obtained in a trade with the Chiefs spearheads a
dramatically improved defense. The physical condition
of QB Tarvaris Jackson, who missed four starts due to
injuries last season and is likely to sit out the rest of the
preseason with a sprained knee, also will be worth
watching closely.
9. Seattle Seahawks Could head coach Mike
Holmgrens swan song turn into a sweet Super Bowl
melody? Holmgrens finely tuned offensive system will
be tested to the max by the expected dearth of talent in
the Seahawks WR corps the first half of the season, with
Bobby Engram and Deion Branch out with injuries.
Meanwhile, Seattles undersized but aggressive defense
looks like it could be one of the leagues best, especially
when playing at noisy Qwest Field.
10. Oakland Raiders Speaking of well-known football figures entering the 08 season with a Last Hurrah
mindset, Raiders owner Al Davis certainly would seem
to fill the bill after shelling out big bucks this offseason
to newcomers WR Javon Walker, CB DeAngelo Hall
and S Gibril Wilson and holdover DL Tommy Kelly.
Flashy first-round RB Darren McFadden, who says hes
extremely motivated to follow in Petersons first-year
footsteps, provides extra pizazz. And, of course, theres
always the possibility that Davis could whack secondyear head coach Lane Kiffin in a heartbeat.

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