By Ralph Mancini, NFL Draft Bible Senior Writer
JOHN LEE HIGGINS (WR-OAK)- With another season down the tubes, Oakland might be ready to give a long look at some of their younger and unproven players. Among these is rookie receiver John Lee Higgins. In his last two years at UTEP, Higgins averaged 19.7 yards per reception in addition to scoring 19 touchdowns. Ranked as the 14th best receiver in the latest edition of the NFL Draft Bible, the 5'11" 186-pound Higgins has the type of physical skills to turn a screen pass into an 80-yard score. Look for the 24-year-old to get some repetitions out of the slot.
SEAN McHUGH (TE-DET)- With tight end Casey FitzSimmons and star receiver Roy Williams out with injuries, the 6'5" 265-pound McHugh has been seeing more playing time and has looked very promising in the process. The former Nittany Lion hauled in three receptions for sixty yards versus the Cowboys in week 14. Overall, McHugh has averaged 17 yards per reception on the season. Widely considered to be an above-average blocker, McHugh is also an athletic route runner who knows how to get open despite his lack of blazing speed.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Ones To Watch
By Ralph Mancini, NFL Draft Bible Senior Writer
DEDE DORSEY (RB-CIN)- Dorsey’s accomplishments as a special-teams ace earned him some carries in week 14. The backup runner made the most of his opportunities, gaining 81 yards on only four carries. The 5’ 11” 196-pounder has eye-catching speed to break runs to the outside and possesses the ability to make defenders miss in the open field. Lead back Rudi Johnson won’t be 100 percent for the remainder of the year which may lead to Dorsey getting some more action with the starting offense.
COURTNEY TAYLOR (WR-SEA)- The rookie wide out has been turning heads in practice by displaying good athleticism along with quality hands. What’s been most impressive about him is the way he utilizes his 6’ 1” 205-pound frame to shield defenders. Ranked as the 20th best receiver in the latest edition of the NFL Draft Bible, only Taylor’s ankle woes at Auburn prevented him from being a first-day pick during last April’s draft.
DEDE DORSEY (RB-CIN)- Dorsey’s accomplishments as a special-teams ace earned him some carries in week 14. The backup runner made the most of his opportunities, gaining 81 yards on only four carries. The 5’ 11” 196-pounder has eye-catching speed to break runs to the outside and possesses the ability to make defenders miss in the open field. Lead back Rudi Johnson won’t be 100 percent for the remainder of the year which may lead to Dorsey getting some more action with the starting offense.
COURTNEY TAYLOR (WR-SEA)- The rookie wide out has been turning heads in practice by displaying good athleticism along with quality hands. What’s been most impressive about him is the way he utilizes his 6’ 1” 205-pound frame to shield defenders. Ranked as the 20th best receiver in the latest edition of the NFL Draft Bible, only Taylor’s ankle woes at Auburn prevented him from being a first-day pick during last April’s draft.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Busted, Bruised & Broken, Week 15
By David Kaye, Fantasy Football Insiders
AFC Injury Report
Miami Dolphins Pro Bowl defensive end Jason Taylor (ankle) is probable for Sunday’s game against the Ravens.
Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle Marcus Stroud (sprained right ankle) is questionable for Sunday’s showdown at Pittsburgh. Stroud has been inactive for four games this season.
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison (knee) is questionable for this weekend’s contest at Oakland. Harrison has not played since the Colts’ week seven victory over the Jaguars.
Running back Kenton Keith (sprained thumb) is probable for Sunday’s game, while safety Antoine Bethea (sprained knee) is questionable.
Houston Texans running back Ron Dayne (ankle) is questionable for Saturday night’s game against the Broncos.
Running back Ahman Green (knee) has been placed on injured reserve and will miss the remainder of the season. Green, who signed a four-year, $23 million contract with the Texans in the off season, has been a complete disappointment for a franchise that has consistently lacked a stabilizing force in the backfield.
San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (left knee) is probable for this weekend’s game against the struggling Lions, while defensive stalwart Shawne Merriman (left knee) is probable.
Fullback Lorenzo Neal (broken right fibula) was carted off the field during Sunday’s win over Tennessee and his status for this week’s game is still uncertain.
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzalez (sprained ankle) is questionable for Sunday‘s game against the Titans.
NFC Injury Report
Philadelphia Eagles tight end L. J. Smith (knee) is questionable for this weekend‘s game divisional match-up against the 11-2 Cowboys.
Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell (dislocated left patella) will be out indefinitely after suffering the debilitating injury during last Thursday’s victory over the woeful Bears.
Minnesota Vikings defensive end Erasmus James (ACL) has been placed on injured reserve and will miss the remainder of the season.
Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman (sprained left MCL) is expected to miss the remainder of the season, but will not need surgery on his injured left knee.
Buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia (back contusion) has missed the previous two games, but it does look likely that he’ll receive the starting nod this week.
Wide receiver Ike Hilliard (back) is questionable for Sunday’s game against Atlanta.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner (elbow, ribs, knee) is probable for Sunday’s game at New Orleans.
San Francisco 49’ers quarterback Trent Dilfer (concussion) is questionable for this weekend’s game against the Bengals.
AFC Injury Report
Miami Dolphins Pro Bowl defensive end Jason Taylor (ankle) is probable for Sunday’s game against the Ravens.
Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle Marcus Stroud (sprained right ankle) is questionable for Sunday’s showdown at Pittsburgh. Stroud has been inactive for four games this season.
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison (knee) is questionable for this weekend’s contest at Oakland. Harrison has not played since the Colts’ week seven victory over the Jaguars.
Running back Kenton Keith (sprained thumb) is probable for Sunday’s game, while safety Antoine Bethea (sprained knee) is questionable.
Houston Texans running back Ron Dayne (ankle) is questionable for Saturday night’s game against the Broncos.
Running back Ahman Green (knee) has been placed on injured reserve and will miss the remainder of the season. Green, who signed a four-year, $23 million contract with the Texans in the off season, has been a complete disappointment for a franchise that has consistently lacked a stabilizing force in the backfield.
San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (left knee) is probable for this weekend’s game against the struggling Lions, while defensive stalwart Shawne Merriman (left knee) is probable.
Fullback Lorenzo Neal (broken right fibula) was carted off the field during Sunday’s win over Tennessee and his status for this week’s game is still uncertain.
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzalez (sprained ankle) is questionable for Sunday‘s game against the Titans.
NFC Injury Report
Philadelphia Eagles tight end L. J. Smith (knee) is questionable for this weekend‘s game divisional match-up against the 11-2 Cowboys.
Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell (dislocated left patella) will be out indefinitely after suffering the debilitating injury during last Thursday’s victory over the woeful Bears.
Minnesota Vikings defensive end Erasmus James (ACL) has been placed on injured reserve and will miss the remainder of the season.
Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman (sprained left MCL) is expected to miss the remainder of the season, but will not need surgery on his injured left knee.
Buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia (back contusion) has missed the previous two games, but it does look likely that he’ll receive the starting nod this week.
Wide receiver Ike Hilliard (back) is questionable for Sunday’s game against Atlanta.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner (elbow, ribs, knee) is probable for Sunday’s game at New Orleans.
San Francisco 49’ers quarterback Trent Dilfer (concussion) is questionable for this weekend’s game against the Bengals.
Searching the Scrap Heap
By Ralph Mancini, Fantsy Football Insiders Senior Writer
TODD COLLINS (QB-WASH)- A dislocated kneecap has brought Jason Campbell’s regular season to an end and pushed longtime backup Todd Collins to the forefront as Washington’s new starting triggerman. In Thursday’s home win over Chicago, Collins showed no rust while throwing for two touchdowns in the second half. The 36-year-old was very accurate and composed in executing offensive coordinator Al Saunders’s offense despite not showing the strongest arm in the world.
TRENT EDWARDS (QB-BUF)- The rookie signal caller has comfortably established himself as the unquestioned orchestrator of Buffalo’s offense with a virtuoso performance versus the winless Dolphins. Edwards attacked Miami’s safties early, completing two of his four touchdowns to tight end Robert Royal in the first quarter. More important, however, is the fact the fact that offensive coordinator Steve Fairchild is showing increased confidence in his quarterback by calling for more big plays. The Stanford graduate showed he can launch it by connecting with Lee Evans on a 70-yard bomb in the fourth quarter.
SHAUN HILL (QB-SF)- Hill did reasonably well filling in for starter Trent Dilfer who exited the Minnesota-San Francisco contest shortly before halftime with a head injury. The former NFL Europe standout completed 20 passes for 180 yards with a touchdown and one interception. His ability to spread the ball among his cast of receivers was especially impressive. The mobile Hill has a chance of continuing his steady play against a below-average Cincinnati secondary waiting in the wings next week.
DARIUS WALKER (RB-HOU)- The former Golden Domer received his first action of the season as he carried the mail for the Texans in place of lead back Ron Dayne who was forced to leave the Tampa Bay-Houston game with a tender ankle. Walker was solid without setting the world on fire with 46 yards on 16 carries along with six receptions for 35 yards. Walker is a shifty back who runs well in between the tackles. Monitor Dayne’s condition before using Walker next week.
AARON STECKER (RB-NO)- Reggie Bush is down and most probably out for the season with a torn knee ligament making Stecker a very desirable commodity as New Orleans prepares to close out the season against the very beatable Cardinals, Eagles and Bears. Not blessed with world-class speed, the veteran is a tough inside runner.
ROBERT FERGUSON (WR-MIN)- Ferguson may be targeted more frequently down the stretch in an effort to keep the dogs off Adrian Peterson who was buried by the 49ers who held the star runner to three yards on 14 carries. The former Packer was a difference maker in the Vikings 27-7 victory with four catches for 57 yards including a 19-yard touchdown grab. The 6’ 1” receiver has the necessary size and athletic ability to make downfield plays.
ROBERT ROYAL (TE-BUF)- Royal was on the receiving end of two touchdown passes from Trent Edwards in week 14. Known as more of a blocker, many overlook the fact that the one-time LSU product is a decent route runner with good hands. The 29-year-old is especially good at finding soft spots in zone coverages.
RIAN LINDELL (K-BUF)- Lindell kicked a franchise-best 18th consecutive field goal versus the Dolphins. The obscure placekicker has two field goals from beyond 50 yards this season along and has been successful on 90 percent of his kicks.
SEATTLE DEFENSE- Seattle’s top-notch fantasy defense put on quite a show versus the Cardinals with five sacks (three by Patrick Kerney) and five interceptions (three by Marcus Trufant). Defensive secondary coach Jim Mora Jr. has done an outstanding job of turning Seattle’s defensive backfield into a stingy unit that has limited opposing quarterbacks to a league-low ten touchdowns. This defense should continue producing big points with Carolina, Baltimore and Atlanta on its upcoming schedule.
TODD COLLINS (QB-WASH)- A dislocated kneecap has brought Jason Campbell’s regular season to an end and pushed longtime backup Todd Collins to the forefront as Washington’s new starting triggerman. In Thursday’s home win over Chicago, Collins showed no rust while throwing for two touchdowns in the second half. The 36-year-old was very accurate and composed in executing offensive coordinator Al Saunders’s offense despite not showing the strongest arm in the world.
TRENT EDWARDS (QB-BUF)- The rookie signal caller has comfortably established himself as the unquestioned orchestrator of Buffalo’s offense with a virtuoso performance versus the winless Dolphins. Edwards attacked Miami’s safties early, completing two of his four touchdowns to tight end Robert Royal in the first quarter. More important, however, is the fact the fact that offensive coordinator Steve Fairchild is showing increased confidence in his quarterback by calling for more big plays. The Stanford graduate showed he can launch it by connecting with Lee Evans on a 70-yard bomb in the fourth quarter.
SHAUN HILL (QB-SF)- Hill did reasonably well filling in for starter Trent Dilfer who exited the Minnesota-San Francisco contest shortly before halftime with a head injury. The former NFL Europe standout completed 20 passes for 180 yards with a touchdown and one interception. His ability to spread the ball among his cast of receivers was especially impressive. The mobile Hill has a chance of continuing his steady play against a below-average Cincinnati secondary waiting in the wings next week.
DARIUS WALKER (RB-HOU)- The former Golden Domer received his first action of the season as he carried the mail for the Texans in place of lead back Ron Dayne who was forced to leave the Tampa Bay-Houston game with a tender ankle. Walker was solid without setting the world on fire with 46 yards on 16 carries along with six receptions for 35 yards. Walker is a shifty back who runs well in between the tackles. Monitor Dayne’s condition before using Walker next week.
AARON STECKER (RB-NO)- Reggie Bush is down and most probably out for the season with a torn knee ligament making Stecker a very desirable commodity as New Orleans prepares to close out the season against the very beatable Cardinals, Eagles and Bears. Not blessed with world-class speed, the veteran is a tough inside runner.
ROBERT FERGUSON (WR-MIN)- Ferguson may be targeted more frequently down the stretch in an effort to keep the dogs off Adrian Peterson who was buried by the 49ers who held the star runner to three yards on 14 carries. The former Packer was a difference maker in the Vikings 27-7 victory with four catches for 57 yards including a 19-yard touchdown grab. The 6’ 1” receiver has the necessary size and athletic ability to make downfield plays.
ROBERT ROYAL (TE-BUF)- Royal was on the receiving end of two touchdown passes from Trent Edwards in week 14. Known as more of a blocker, many overlook the fact that the one-time LSU product is a decent route runner with good hands. The 29-year-old is especially good at finding soft spots in zone coverages.
RIAN LINDELL (K-BUF)- Lindell kicked a franchise-best 18th consecutive field goal versus the Dolphins. The obscure placekicker has two field goals from beyond 50 yards this season along and has been successful on 90 percent of his kicks.
SEATTLE DEFENSE- Seattle’s top-notch fantasy defense put on quite a show versus the Cardinals with five sacks (three by Patrick Kerney) and five interceptions (three by Marcus Trufant). Defensive secondary coach Jim Mora Jr. has done an outstanding job of turning Seattle’s defensive backfield into a stingy unit that has limited opposing quarterbacks to a league-low ten touchdowns. This defense should continue producing big points with Carolina, Baltimore and Atlanta on its upcoming schedule.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Saturday Evening Update
Fantasy Football Insiders
Marvin Harrison will be out for the eighth time in nine games when Indianapolis plays the Ravens on Sunday.
Reggie Bush had been listed as questionable after an MRI this week indicated a partially torn left knee ligament. While confirming he is out for tomorrow’s game, the team Saturday did not comment about Bush's prospects for the rest of the season. With Bush out, Jamaal Branch, Aaron Stecker and rookie Pierre Thomas will be the running back. Thomas returned to practice Friday following a kidney bruise.
Ram QB Marc Bulger (concussion) suffered a setback in his recovery from a concussion, meaning it's possible that third-string QB Brock Berlin could start on Sunday against Cincinnati, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. Coach Scott Linehan said that the decision on a starter is likely to be made late Saturday. Bulger passed a neurological exam Tuesday and was cleared to practice, which he did with no apparent problems on Wednesday and Thursday, but he began feeling poorly during meetings Thursday afternoon, Linehan said. Bulger took had limited practice time on Friday. Backup Gus Ferotte (shoulder) is out at least this week, so Berlin, who has never attempted a pass in a regular-season game, might end up starting. The team also signed 35-year-old veteran Todd Bouman as a backup. It does not look good for Bulger, which is horrible news for the Ram WRs.
Cardinal WR Anquan Boldin (dislocated toe) and WR Larry Fitzgerald (groin) are both looking like game-time decisions on Sunday, the Arizona Republic reports. Fitzgerald ran some routes in practice Friday but Boldin sat out for the third straight day. Boldin said he has never played without practicing, but he said he would play on Sunday if a special shoe insert can minimize the pain in his toe. If he can’t play, WR Bryant Johnson would start. If Fitzgerald can't play, either Johnson or backups Sean Morey and Jerheme Urban (heel) would be forced to start.
Jet WR Laveranues Coles (ankle) was limited in practice again Friday and is questionable for Sunday and could come down to a game-time decision, the Bergen Record reports. WR Jerricho Cotchery (finger) missed practice again Friday and is doubtful to play. WR Brad Smith (back) and WR Justin McCarins would both see increased action with Cotchery out. As for Coles, his past history and the fact that he practiced earlier in the week should indicate that he will play.
Steeler WR Santonio Holmes (ankle) practiced fully again Friday and is not on the official injury report, so he is expected to return to the starting lineup on Sunday unless he has a setback, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. If not, Nate Washington would start again.
Dolphin RB Jesse Chatman (ankle) took limited practice Friday, giving him a chance to play, and is questionable for Sunday’s game. He’s expected to be a game time decision. RB Sam Gado worked with the first team Thursday and would start if Chatman can't play, the Miami Herald reports, and rookie Lorenzo Booker would likely see action in passing situations. RB Patrick Cobbs could also get some carries if Chatman is out.
Packer QB Brett Favre (elbow/shoulder) "threw the ball well (Friday)" in practice, according to coach Mike McCarthy, and will start as planned against Oakland. He’s listed as probable. Backup Aaron Rodgers (hamstring) could miss 1-2 weeks, and the team re-signed QB Craig Nall last week to handle the #2 role.
Buc QB Jeff Garcia (back) did not participate in Friday's practice as a precaution but is getting better and still has a chance to play on Sunday, coach Jon Gruden said. It is likely to come down to a game-time decision and Garcia is listed as questionable. Luke McCown would get another start if Garcia can't play. Garcia, for what it’s worth, says he’s ready to go.
Marvin Harrison will be out for the eighth time in nine games when Indianapolis plays the Ravens on Sunday.
Reggie Bush had been listed as questionable after an MRI this week indicated a partially torn left knee ligament. While confirming he is out for tomorrow’s game, the team Saturday did not comment about Bush's prospects for the rest of the season. With Bush out, Jamaal Branch, Aaron Stecker and rookie Pierre Thomas will be the running back. Thomas returned to practice Friday following a kidney bruise.
Ram QB Marc Bulger (concussion) suffered a setback in his recovery from a concussion, meaning it's possible that third-string QB Brock Berlin could start on Sunday against Cincinnati, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. Coach Scott Linehan said that the decision on a starter is likely to be made late Saturday. Bulger passed a neurological exam Tuesday and was cleared to practice, which he did with no apparent problems on Wednesday and Thursday, but he began feeling poorly during meetings Thursday afternoon, Linehan said. Bulger took had limited practice time on Friday. Backup Gus Ferotte (shoulder) is out at least this week, so Berlin, who has never attempted a pass in a regular-season game, might end up starting. The team also signed 35-year-old veteran Todd Bouman as a backup. It does not look good for Bulger, which is horrible news for the Ram WRs.
Cardinal WR Anquan Boldin (dislocated toe) and WR Larry Fitzgerald (groin) are both looking like game-time decisions on Sunday, the Arizona Republic reports. Fitzgerald ran some routes in practice Friday but Boldin sat out for the third straight day. Boldin said he has never played without practicing, but he said he would play on Sunday if a special shoe insert can minimize the pain in his toe. If he can’t play, WR Bryant Johnson would start. If Fitzgerald can't play, either Johnson or backups Sean Morey and Jerheme Urban (heel) would be forced to start.
Jet WR Laveranues Coles (ankle) was limited in practice again Friday and is questionable for Sunday and could come down to a game-time decision, the Bergen Record reports. WR Jerricho Cotchery (finger) missed practice again Friday and is doubtful to play. WR Brad Smith (back) and WR Justin McCarins would both see increased action with Cotchery out. As for Coles, his past history and the fact that he practiced earlier in the week should indicate that he will play.
Steeler WR Santonio Holmes (ankle) practiced fully again Friday and is not on the official injury report, so he is expected to return to the starting lineup on Sunday unless he has a setback, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. If not, Nate Washington would start again.
Dolphin RB Jesse Chatman (ankle) took limited practice Friday, giving him a chance to play, and is questionable for Sunday’s game. He’s expected to be a game time decision. RB Sam Gado worked with the first team Thursday and would start if Chatman can't play, the Miami Herald reports, and rookie Lorenzo Booker would likely see action in passing situations. RB Patrick Cobbs could also get some carries if Chatman is out.
Packer QB Brett Favre (elbow/shoulder) "threw the ball well (Friday)" in practice, according to coach Mike McCarthy, and will start as planned against Oakland. He’s listed as probable. Backup Aaron Rodgers (hamstring) could miss 1-2 weeks, and the team re-signed QB Craig Nall last week to handle the #2 role.
Buc QB Jeff Garcia (back) did not participate in Friday's practice as a precaution but is getting better and still has a chance to play on Sunday, coach Jon Gruden said. It is likely to come down to a game-time decision and Garcia is listed as questionable. Luke McCown would get another start if Garcia can't play. Garcia, for what it’s worth, says he’s ready to go.
Friday, December 7, 2007
The Black & Blue Report, Week 14
By Brad Kurtzberg, Fantasy Football Insiders
Chicago Bears—It will take nothing short of a miracle to get the Bears into this year’s playoffs. After Thursday night’s loss to Washington, the defending NFC champs are 5-8 with remaining games at Minnesota, vs. Green Bay and vs. New Orleans. The Bears would need to run the table and get plenty of help to sneak in as the second Wild Card team. Trust me, it won’t happen.
Brian Griese threw two costly picks against the Redskins on back-to-back plays. It seems that no matter who is behind center, Chicago’s offense is inconsistent and turnover prone. Griese hasn’t turned out to be that much better than Rex Grossman, having thrown 12 picks in seven starts. Regardless of how serious Grossman’s injury is, the Bears need to address the quaterback position in the offseason as neither Grossman nor Griese appear to be the answer. Griese is more valuable as a backup if the team wants him to stay.
Two reasons for Brian Urlacher’s mediocre season (by his standards) this year: his arthritic back and the lack of a strong defensive line. Urlacher is not very big and he has trouble shedding blocks if offensive linemen can get to him. Last year, Tank Johnson and the other Bears linemen kept Urlacher free to make plays. This year, the defensive line is not doing nearly as good a job of occupying blockers and they are finding ways to block Urlacher…The Bears continue to struggle to run the ball. Adrian Peterson’s stats are very Cedric Benson-like. The bottom line is that the offensive line is not opening many holes and the running backs the Bears have are not good enough to make something out of nothing.
Meanwhile, Devin Hester had a season-high five receptions on Thursday against Washington. The Bears would be wise to get him more involved in the offense. He and Bernard Berrian would make a good pair of deep threats…Chicago has benched safety Adam Archuleta. The free agent signee has had trouble in pass coverage all season and has also taken poor tackling angles when defending the run. Unfortunately for the Bears, his replacement, Brandon McGowan, hasn’t done much better and continues to make mental mistakes.
Detroit Lions—WR Roy Williams is likely out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. That hurts the Lions because Williams remains their best deep threat and most reliable receiver. Still, this gives rookie Calvin Johnson a chance to shine. The second overall pick in last year’s draft has shown flashes but seems to be having trouble learning the complex Mike Martz offense. It’s not unusual for recievers to struggle in the NFL as rookies. These last four games should give Detroit’s coaching staff a better idea of how far Johnson has progressed this season
CB LaMarcus Hicks is also out for the season after breaking his ankle against the Vikings. The Lions lack depth in their secondary to begin with and Hicks’ absence will hurt them further…From the it’s probably not a coincidence department: Detroit’s six wins have come against teams with a combined .458 winning percentage. During their recent four-game losing streak, they have played teams with a winning percentage of .625…
Detroit’s biggest problem offensively is on the offensive line. OT George Foster has been playing poorly, G Blaine Saipaia has been forced to play tackle at times and Jonathan Scott has missed substantial time due to injury. Guard Damien Woody has been playing tackle as well. He’s done a workmanlike job but he’s no long term solution. The offensive line has had trouble pass protecting and opening holes for the run
Jon Kitna has been affected by the constant pressure he has been under. In the last three games, he has thrown only 3 TDs and 5 INTs. Kitna’s as tough as they come but the constant punishment he has taken this season is taking its toll.
Potential mismatch this week against Dallas: CB Fernando Bryant against Terrell Owens. Bryant is questionable for the game with a foot injury. The Lions would have trouble matching up against Owens and TE Jason Witten even if their secondary was healthy. Unfortunately, they are banged up. Unless the Lions get pressure on Tony Romo, the secondary could be in for a long day.
Green Bay Packers—Brett Favre is expected to start his 250th consecutive regular season game Sunday against the Raiders. That’s a good thing because backup Aaron Rogers, who played well against the Cowboys when Favre got hurt, is unavailable for at least the next two games due to an hamstring injury. The Pack signed former backup Craig Nall, recently released by Buffalo, to be Favre’s backup
Charles Woodson and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila are still game-time decisions on Sunday. The Pack would not be wise to rush either back. KGB is more likely to start than Woodson is…The key for the Pack defensively this week will be to slow down RBs Justin Fargas and LaMont Jordan. The Raiders have trouble passing the football consistently but they are one of the top running teams in the league. The Pack must stay in their lanes and prevent big running plays
Ryan Grant has been a perfect fit for the Pack at RB. He gives the team a threat of the run but doesn’t seem to need a lot of carries to pick up big yards. Grant is a one-cut runner who finds holes and quickly exploits them
The Packers need some contribution from first round pick Justin Harrell down the stretch. With two members of their DT rotation (Johnny Jolly and Colin Cole) out with injuries, Harrell will get playing time. So far, he has not even been dressed for games unless injuries made it necessary. He also appears to be slow to pick up the team’s defensive scheme
A win over the Raiders would clinch the NFC North for the Packers regardless of what Detroit or Minnesota do…WR Donald Driver needs 102 yards to top the 1,000 yard mark for the fourth straight season. Driver just passed Hall of Famer Don Hutson for third on the Packers all-time receptions list with 490. He needs 105 to tie Sterling Sharpe for first all-time
Safeties Atari Bigby and Nick Collins are both weak in coverage. The Pack has had trouble covering TEs partially due to this problem. Bigby also takes too many interference calls which have been hurtful to the Pack..
Minnesota Vikings—One reason for the Vikings recent winning streak is the improved play of QB Tarvaris Jackson. While Jackson is still not the kind of QB who will win games for you with his arm, he is becoming an efficient and effective passer. During his last three games, Jackson has completed nearly 79 percent of his passes and his decision making has improved. He is now more able to go through his progressions and find secondary receivers. Jackson has four games left to show the Vikings’ coaching staff that he is worthy of being their QB of the future
DE Erasmus James is out for the season with a knee injury. DE Ray Edwards has been suspended for four games for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. The loss of those two players leaves Minnesota thin at DE. The Vikings just might get CB Antoine Winfield back for Sunday’s game in San Francisco. Winfield’s presence would really be a boost to the secondary
With Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor, the Vikings may have the most explosive RB duo in the league. If healthy and given enough carries, Peterson is capable of gaining 2,000 yards on the ground in a season while Taylor can surpass 1,500. The two complement each other well and make life hard for opposing defenses
The Vikings’ schedule down the stretch is not too bad. After playing San Francisco this week, they finish by hosting Chicago on Monday night, hosting Washington and traveling to Denver.
Chicago Bears—It will take nothing short of a miracle to get the Bears into this year’s playoffs. After Thursday night’s loss to Washington, the defending NFC champs are 5-8 with remaining games at Minnesota, vs. Green Bay and vs. New Orleans. The Bears would need to run the table and get plenty of help to sneak in as the second Wild Card team. Trust me, it won’t happen.
Brian Griese threw two costly picks against the Redskins on back-to-back plays. It seems that no matter who is behind center, Chicago’s offense is inconsistent and turnover prone. Griese hasn’t turned out to be that much better than Rex Grossman, having thrown 12 picks in seven starts. Regardless of how serious Grossman’s injury is, the Bears need to address the quaterback position in the offseason as neither Grossman nor Griese appear to be the answer. Griese is more valuable as a backup if the team wants him to stay.
Two reasons for Brian Urlacher’s mediocre season (by his standards) this year: his arthritic back and the lack of a strong defensive line. Urlacher is not very big and he has trouble shedding blocks if offensive linemen can get to him. Last year, Tank Johnson and the other Bears linemen kept Urlacher free to make plays. This year, the defensive line is not doing nearly as good a job of occupying blockers and they are finding ways to block Urlacher…The Bears continue to struggle to run the ball. Adrian Peterson’s stats are very Cedric Benson-like. The bottom line is that the offensive line is not opening many holes and the running backs the Bears have are not good enough to make something out of nothing.
Meanwhile, Devin Hester had a season-high five receptions on Thursday against Washington. The Bears would be wise to get him more involved in the offense. He and Bernard Berrian would make a good pair of deep threats…Chicago has benched safety Adam Archuleta. The free agent signee has had trouble in pass coverage all season and has also taken poor tackling angles when defending the run. Unfortunately for the Bears, his replacement, Brandon McGowan, hasn’t done much better and continues to make mental mistakes.
Detroit Lions—WR Roy Williams is likely out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. That hurts the Lions because Williams remains their best deep threat and most reliable receiver. Still, this gives rookie Calvin Johnson a chance to shine. The second overall pick in last year’s draft has shown flashes but seems to be having trouble learning the complex Mike Martz offense. It’s not unusual for recievers to struggle in the NFL as rookies. These last four games should give Detroit’s coaching staff a better idea of how far Johnson has progressed this season
CB LaMarcus Hicks is also out for the season after breaking his ankle against the Vikings. The Lions lack depth in their secondary to begin with and Hicks’ absence will hurt them further…From the it’s probably not a coincidence department: Detroit’s six wins have come against teams with a combined .458 winning percentage. During their recent four-game losing streak, they have played teams with a winning percentage of .625…
Detroit’s biggest problem offensively is on the offensive line. OT George Foster has been playing poorly, G Blaine Saipaia has been forced to play tackle at times and Jonathan Scott has missed substantial time due to injury. Guard Damien Woody has been playing tackle as well. He’s done a workmanlike job but he’s no long term solution. The offensive line has had trouble pass protecting and opening holes for the run
Jon Kitna has been affected by the constant pressure he has been under. In the last three games, he has thrown only 3 TDs and 5 INTs. Kitna’s as tough as they come but the constant punishment he has taken this season is taking its toll.
Potential mismatch this week against Dallas: CB Fernando Bryant against Terrell Owens. Bryant is questionable for the game with a foot injury. The Lions would have trouble matching up against Owens and TE Jason Witten even if their secondary was healthy. Unfortunately, they are banged up. Unless the Lions get pressure on Tony Romo, the secondary could be in for a long day.
Green Bay Packers—Brett Favre is expected to start his 250th consecutive regular season game Sunday against the Raiders. That’s a good thing because backup Aaron Rogers, who played well against the Cowboys when Favre got hurt, is unavailable for at least the next two games due to an hamstring injury. The Pack signed former backup Craig Nall, recently released by Buffalo, to be Favre’s backup
Charles Woodson and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila are still game-time decisions on Sunday. The Pack would not be wise to rush either back. KGB is more likely to start than Woodson is…The key for the Pack defensively this week will be to slow down RBs Justin Fargas and LaMont Jordan. The Raiders have trouble passing the football consistently but they are one of the top running teams in the league. The Pack must stay in their lanes and prevent big running plays
Ryan Grant has been a perfect fit for the Pack at RB. He gives the team a threat of the run but doesn’t seem to need a lot of carries to pick up big yards. Grant is a one-cut runner who finds holes and quickly exploits them
The Packers need some contribution from first round pick Justin Harrell down the stretch. With two members of their DT rotation (Johnny Jolly and Colin Cole) out with injuries, Harrell will get playing time. So far, he has not even been dressed for games unless injuries made it necessary. He also appears to be slow to pick up the team’s defensive scheme
A win over the Raiders would clinch the NFC North for the Packers regardless of what Detroit or Minnesota do…WR Donald Driver needs 102 yards to top the 1,000 yard mark for the fourth straight season. Driver just passed Hall of Famer Don Hutson for third on the Packers all-time receptions list with 490. He needs 105 to tie Sterling Sharpe for first all-time
Safeties Atari Bigby and Nick Collins are both weak in coverage. The Pack has had trouble covering TEs partially due to this problem. Bigby also takes too many interference calls which have been hurtful to the Pack..
Minnesota Vikings—One reason for the Vikings recent winning streak is the improved play of QB Tarvaris Jackson. While Jackson is still not the kind of QB who will win games for you with his arm, he is becoming an efficient and effective passer. During his last three games, Jackson has completed nearly 79 percent of his passes and his decision making has improved. He is now more able to go through his progressions and find secondary receivers. Jackson has four games left to show the Vikings’ coaching staff that he is worthy of being their QB of the future
DE Erasmus James is out for the season with a knee injury. DE Ray Edwards has been suspended for four games for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. The loss of those two players leaves Minnesota thin at DE. The Vikings just might get CB Antoine Winfield back for Sunday’s game in San Francisco. Winfield’s presence would really be a boost to the secondary
With Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor, the Vikings may have the most explosive RB duo in the league. If healthy and given enough carries, Peterson is capable of gaining 2,000 yards on the ground in a season while Taylor can surpass 1,500. The two complement each other well and make life hard for opposing defenses
The Vikings’ schedule down the stretch is not too bad. After playing San Francisco this week, they finish by hosting Chicago on Monday night, hosting Washington and traveling to Denver.
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