NFL Fantasy Football News 2008

[Hache Man]

Studs, duds and sleepers: Benson could be the difference


If your league plays through the bitter end of Week 17, here is a look at what to expect in fantasy football:
Projected fantasy studs
Cedric Benson, RB, Bengals. The end of the season has been very good to Benson, who has averaged 166 total yards in his past two games. It would be nice if he could score, and that might happen this week against the Chiefs' 30th-ranked run defense.
Marques Colston, WR, Saints. At the end of an injury-filled year, Colston appears to have re-established himself as his team's No. 1 receiver with at least six catches and 84 yards in three of the past four games. Keep him in against the Panthers.
Visanthe Shiancoe, TE, Vikings. Besides Tarvaris Jackson, one of the people most excited about Jackson's improved play is Shiancoe, who has caught three touchdown passes from Shiancoe in three games and had a career-high 136 receiving yards last week.
FIND MORE STORIES IN: Miami | New England Patriots | Pro Bowl | Buffalo | Indianapolis Colts | Jordan | Denver | Brett Favre | Titans | Steelers | Vikings | Dolphins | Raiders | Saints | Chargers | Browns | Jets | Bills | Bengals | Chiefs | Russell | Edwards | Willie Parker | Ricky Williams | Ronnie Brown | Joseph Addai | Cedric Benson | Simpson | Marshawn Lynch | Rivers | Jacobs | Bruce Gradkowski | TECO Energy | Projected | Colston | Thigpen | Shiancoe
Philip Rivers, QB, Chargers. Fueled by a perceived Pro Bowl slight, Rivers is charging hard to the finish, unlike Denver's defense. After four touchdown passes last week, Rivers has a chance to lead the league in passer rating and passing TDs.
Tyler Thigpen, QB, Chiefs. Counting on the quarterback of a 2-13 team in Week 17 is dicey, but Thigpen has been solid for much of the past nine weeks. His latest trick is on the ground as he had his second rushing TD in as many weeks and a season-high 57 yards last week.
Projected fantasy duds
Ronnie Brown, RB, Dolphins. His role appears to be fading behind Ricky Williams, especially in the red zone. Brown has scored just once in the past six games and his eight carries for 32 yards last week were his worst since Week 1 against the Jets, whom he faces again this week.
Braylon Edwards, WR, Browns. What a way for Edwards to go out, with the Browns perhaps forced to start quarterback Bruce Gradkowski. Even if the Steelers rest all of their starters, that is little reason to expect success from Edwards.
Brett Favre, QB, Jets. Let's quit trying to make Favre into something he is not. In the past four games, he has one touchdown, six interceptions and a 1-3 record. And while Miami allowed 31 points last week, that is the only game out of its past four when it gave up a touchdown.
Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants. Don't read too much into the Giants' desire to play all the way through the finish. They got the three touchdowns they needed out of Jacobs last week to lock up a No. 1 seed and might as well let him rest his bad knee in the finale against the Vikings' No. 1 run defense.
Chris Johnson, RB, Titans. After leading the Titans with 251 carries, Johnson probably needs a break. With playoff position locked up, the Titans will be happy to oblige the rookie and try to get his legs fresh for their first postseason game.
Sleepers
Fred Jackson, RB, Bills. Jackson has filled capably in behind Marshawn Lynch all season and added a touchdown last week after Lynch left because of a shoulder injury. If Lynch is limited again, Jackson will be a nice start against the Patriots' inconsistent defense.
LaMont Jordan, RB, Patriots. Nasty weather last week meant the Patriots went with a power ground game, resulting in two touchdowns for Jordan. What kind of weather do you expect in Buffalo on the last Sunday in December?
JaMarcus Russell, QB, Raiders. You'll get some funny looks if you say it too loudly, but Russell is on a roll with his first back-to-back games with multiple TD passes. And the Bucs defense is in free fall down the stretch, having allowed 38 and 41 points in two of their past three.
Gary Russell, RB, Steelers. Pittsburgh's running backs have been beat up for much of the season so now is a chance to rest Willie Parker and turn some work, particularly in the red zone, over to Russell.
Chad Simpson, RB, Colts.Dominic Rhodes will not play much, if at all, against the Titans and Joseph Addai has been nursing his own string of injuries most of the season. That leaves Simpson, who had 10 touches the past two games, against an unmotivated defense.

[Hache Man]

Week 17 Rankings
The first rule about Week 17 is you don't play Week 17. But unless you just clicked on this column to get another view of my glamour shot above, you have probably already broken that rule. So let's try to make sense of this mess.

The good news for fantasy leaguers in 2008 is that all the close playoff races will help prevent teams from sitting players. I have gone over the topic on the Fantasy Fix and in my blog, so I don't want to repeat myself too much here. Here's the short short version.

Giants: It's uncertain how they will handle it. My guess is they will play it halfway. Sit injured guys (Brandon Jacobs), and play most of their starters for most of the game. Iffy plays though.

Colts: As always, steer clear of your Colts in Week 17 with nothing on the line. Maybe they play a series, maybe a quarter, maybe a half. It's too risky.

Steelers: It's uncertain what they will do, but I'm guessing they will sit their players after they get a lead. I wouldn't use my Steelers at all. Gary Russell could be the next Willie Parker: breaking out in Week 17 while playing with reserves.

Ravens: They could potentially rest players if the Patriots lose at 1PM to the Bills. That's unlikely.

Cardinals: They need to bounce back. Play your Cardinals with confidence against Seattle.

Titans: Vince Young will play at some point. It's uncertain how long starters will remain in, but I'd stay away from Chris Johnson. We'll update our player news all week for all the playing time developments.

***

I'm posting the rankings on Tuesday as an early present to my family, so I'm not working on them during Christmas. They will be updated one final time Friday evening.

From everyone at Rotoworld, I just want to say happy holidays and thank you for coming to the rankings and website all season long. It's been a wacky fantasy season capped by an exhilarating Week 16. We continue to grow exponentially and your support means everything to our little corner of the internet. Always feel free to let me know how we can improve, what we get right, and what we get wrong.

Our daily coverage will continue 24/7 throughout the playoffs and off-season. I think it sets us apart. While other websites change their focus to other sports, our football crew stays committed to pigskin all year round. It's the season for diehards, and I know there are many of you out there. I will have fantasy playoff rankings next week and the Top-50 keepers for 2009 soon thereafter. I'll also help cover the playoffs and head to Tampa for the Super Bowl for NBCSports.com, if you are into that sort of thing.

Now is the time to re-introduce yourself to family members. Tell them I said hi. Good luck to everyone who doesn't follow the first rule of Week 17 and have a great holiday week.

Week 17 Quarterbacks

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Jay Cutler	at SD	-
2	Philip Rivers	vs. DEN	Expect a shootout
3	Drew Brees	vs. CAR	-
4	Kurt Warner	vs. SEA	Award winner!
5	Aaron Rodgers	vs. DET	-
6	Matt Cassel	at BUF	-
7	Matt Schaub	vs. CHI	-
8	Tyler Thigpen	at CIN	-
9	Tony Romo	at PHI
10	Donovan McNabb	vs. DAL	-
11	Matt Ryan	vs. STL	Can still win division
12	Jake Delhomme	at NO	-
13	Chad Pennington	at NYJ	-
14	Brett Favre	vs. MIA	-
15	Shaun Hill	vs. WAS	-
16	Jeff Garcia	vs. OAK
17	Tarvaris Jackson	vs. NYG	-
18	Seneca Wallace	at ARZ	-
19	Kyle Orton	at HOU	-
20	Joe Flacco	vs. JAC	-
21	Trent Edwards	vs. NE
22	Eli Manning	at MIN	-
23	Vince Young	at IND	-
24	Jason Campbell	at SF	-
25	Byron Leftwich	vs. CLE	-
26	David Garrard	at BAL	-
27	Marc Bulger	at ATL	-
28	Peyton Manning	vs. TEN	Too risky
29	Dan Orlovsky	at GB	-
30	Ryan Fitzpatrick	vs. KC	-
31	JaMarcus Russell	at TB	-
32	Ben Roethlisberger	vs. CLE	-
33	Jim Sorgi	vs. TEN	-
34	Bruce Gradkowski	at PIT	Oy. Josh Cribbs will get snaps too
35	Matt Leinart	vs. SEA	Probably just mop-up time
36	Kerry Collins	at IND	-

Since your Fantasy season is almost over, check out Rotoworld's new weekly fantasy football game, with cash prizes: Snapdraft. Draft today, find out your league winner next Tuesday. We have a special offer for first time users: Sign up this week and get a free $5 promotional deposit to try out the game.

Week 17 Running Backs

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	DeAngelo Williams	at NO	-
2	Michael Turner	vs. STL	-
3	Adrian Peterson	vs. NYG	-
4	LaDainian Tomlinson	vs. DEN	-
5	Matt Forte	at HOU
6	Brian Westbrook	vs. DAL
7	Thomas Jones	vs. MIA	-
8	Pierre Thomas	vs. CAR	-
9	Steven Jackson	at ATL	-
10	Ryan Grant	vs. DET	-
11	Frank Gore	vs. WAS	Questionable(ankle)
12	Steve Slaton	vs. CHI	-
13	Kevin Smith	at GB	-
14	Maurice Jones-Drew	at BAL	-
15	LeRon McClain	vs. JAC	-
16	Ronnie Brown	at NYJ	-
17	Clinton Portis	at SF	Expected to play
18	Sammy Morris	at BUF	-
19	Tashard Choice	at PHI	Barber remains a mystery
20	Marshawn Lynch	vs. NE	-
21	Cedric Benson	vs. KC	-
22	Larry Johnson	at CIN	-
23	Justin Fargas	at TB	-
24	Gary Russell	vs. CLE	-
25	Jonathan Stewart	at NO	-
26	Maurice Morris	at ARZ	-
27	Ahmad Bradshaw	at MIN	Should split work
28	Warrick Dunn	vs. OAK	-
29	Darren McFadden	at TB	-
30	Derrick Ward	at MIN	Probable(ankle)
31	LenDale White	at IND	-
32	Ricky Williams	at NYJ	-
33	Jerious Norwood	vs. STL	-
34	Carnell Williams	vs. OAK	Getting red zone snaps
35	Willis McGahee	vs. JAC	-
36	Kevin Faulk	at BUF	-
37	Tatum Bell	at SD	-
38	Tim Hightower	vs. SEA	-
39	Jamal Lewis	at PIT	-
40	Darren Sproles	vs. DEN	-
41	Edgerrin James	vs. SEA	-
42	Chester Taylor	vs. NYG	-
43	Leon Washington	vs. MIA	-
44	Mewelde Moore	vs. CLE	-
45	Fred Jackson	vs. NE	-
46	Marion Barber	at PHI	Questionable(toe)
47	Chris Johnson	at IND	-
48	J.J. Arrington	vs. SEA	Expected to return
49	DeShaun Foster	vs. WAS	-
50	Willie Parker	vs. CLE	May not play much
51	Dominic Rhodes	vs. TEN	May not play
52	Julius Jones	at ARZ	-
53	Ray Rice	vs. JAC	Questionable(calf)
54	Correll Buckhalter	vs. DAL

Week 17 Wide Receivers

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Steve Smith	at NO	-
2	Brandon Marshall	at SD	-
3	Andre Johnson	vs. CHI	-
4	Roddy White	vs. STL	-
5	Larry Fitzgerald	vs. SEA	-
6	Calvin Johnson	at GB	-
7	Greg Jennings	vs. DET	-
8	Marques Colston	vs. CAR	-
9	Wes Welker	at BUF	-
10	Antonio Bryant	vs. OAK	-
11	Randy Moss	at BUF	-
12	Anquan Boldin	vs. SEA	Tentatively expected to return
13	Terrell Owens	at PHI	-
14	Vincent Jackson	vs. DEN	Probable(concussion)
15	Eddie Royal	at SD	-
16	Dwayne Bowe	at CIN	-
17	Donald Driver	vs. DET	-
18	Jerricho Cotchery	vs. MIA	-
19	Santana Moss	at SF	-
20	Laveranues Coles	vs. MIA	-
21	Kevin Walter	vs. CHI	Slumping, but good matchup
22	T.J. Houshmandzadeh	vs. KC	Probable(hand)
23	Lee Evans	vs. NE	-
24	Davone Bess	at NYJ	-
25	Isaac Bruce	vs. WAS	-
26	Deion Branch	at ARZ	-
27	Derrick Mason	vs. JAC	Probable(shoulder)
28	Lance Moore	vs. CAR	-
29	Steve Breaston	vs. SEA	-
30	Devin Hester	at HOU	-
31	Bernard Berrian	vs. NYG	-
32	Torry Holt	at ATL	-
33	DeSean Jackson	vs. DAL	-
34	Anthony Gonzalez	vs. TEN	-
35	Domenik Hixon	at MIN	Questionable(foot)
36	Chris Chambers	vs. DEN	-
37	Muhsin Muhammad	at NO	-
38	Bobby Engram	at ARZ	-
39	Kevin Curtis	vs. DAL	Expected to return
40	Bryant Johnson	vs. WAS	-
41	Braylon Edwards	at PIT	-
42	Ted Ginn Jr.	at NYJ	-
43	Donnie Avery	at ATL	-
44	Dennis Northcutt	at BAL	-
45	Mark Clayton	vs. JAC	-
46	Steve Smith	at MIN	-
47	Michael Jenkins	vs. STL	-
48	Josh Morgan	vs. WAS	Probable(head)
49	Legedu Naanee	vs. DEN	-
50	Roy Williams	at PHI	Probable(foot)
51	Santonio Holmes	vs. CLE	-
52	Reggie Wayne	vs. TEN	-
53	Justin Gage	at IND	-
54	Sidney Rice	vs. NYG	-
55	Chris Henry	vs. KC	-
56	Hines Ward	vs. CLE	-
57	Amani Toomer	at MIN	-
58	Josh Reed	vs. NE	-
59	Jabar Gaffney	at BUF	-

Week 17 Tight Ends

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Tony Gonzalez	at CIN	-
2	Antonio Gates	vs. DEN	-
3	Tony Scheffler	at SD	-
4	Owen Daniels	vs. CHI	-
5	Chris Cooley	at SF	-
6	John Carlson	at ARZ	-
7	Jason Witten	at PHI	Status Uncertain
8	Zach Miller	at TB
9	Greg Olsen	at HOU	-
10	Dustin Keller	vs. MIA	-
11	Visanthe Shiancoe	vs. NYG	-
12	Jeremy Shockey	vs. CAR	Status Uncertain
13	Kevin Boss	at MIN	-
14	Marcedes Lewis	at BAL	-
15	Anthony Fasano	at NYJ	-
16	Donald Lee	vs. DET	-
17	Gijon Robinson	vs. TEN	-
18	Dallas Clark	vs. TEN	May get rested
19	Todd Heap	vs. JAC	-
20	Jerramy Stevens	vs. OAK	-
21	Daniel Graham	at SD	-
22	Desmond Clark	at HOU	-
23	Vernon Davis	vs. WAS	-
24	Ben Watson	at BUF	-
25	David Martin	at NYJ	-
26	Alge Crumpler	at IND	-

Week 17 Team Defense

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Ravens Def/Spec Team	vs. JAC	-
2	Steelers Def/Spec Team	vs. CLE	-
3	Cowboys Def/Spec Team	at PHI	-
4	Eagles Def/Spec Team	vs. DAL	-
5	Packers Def/Spec Team	vs. DET	-
6	Buccaneers Def/Spec Team	vs. OAK	-
7	Vikings Def/Spec Team	vs. NYG	-
8	Patriots Def/Spec Team	at BUF	-
9	Dolphins Def/Spec Team	at NYJ	-
10	Titans Def/Spec Team	at IND	-
11	Chiefs Def/Spec Team	at CIN	-
12	Bears Def/Spec Team	at HOU	-
13	Falcons Def/Spec Team	vs. STL	-
14	Giants Def/Spec Team	at MIN	-
15	Fortyniners Def/Spec Team	vs. WAS	-
16	Jets Def/Spec Team	vs. MIA	-
17	Bengals Def/Spec Team	vs. KC	-
18	Cardinals Def/Spec Team	vs. SEA	-
19	Texans Def/Spec Team	vs. CHI	-
20	Colts Def/Spec Team	vs. TEN	-
21	Panthers Def/Spec Team	at NO	-
22	Seahawks Def/Spec Team	at ARZ	-
23	Redskins Def/Spec Team	at SF	-
24	Jaguars Def/Spec Team	at BAL	-
25	Raiders Def/Spec Team	at TB	-
26	Bills Def/Spec Team	vs. NE	-
27	Rams Def/Spec Team	at ATL	-
28	Browns Def/Spec Team	at PIT	-
29	Saints Def/Spec Team	vs. CAR	-
30	Chargers Def/Spec Team	vs. DEN	-
31	Broncos Def/Spec Team	at SD	-
32	Lions Def/Spec Team	at GB	-

Week 17 Kickers

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Stephen Gostkowski	at BUF	-
2	John Carney	at MIN	-
3	Ryan Longwell	vs. NYG	-
4	Garrett Hartley	vs. CAR	-
5	Neil Rackers	vs. SEA	-
6	Jason Elam	vs. STL	-
7	Mason Crosby	vs. DET	-
8	Matt Bryant	vs. OAK	-
9	Rob Bironas	at IND	-
10	Nate Kaeding	vs. DEN	-
11	Matt Prater	at SD	-
12	Dan Carpenter	at NYJ	-
13	Kris Brown	vs. CHI	-
14	Nick Folk	at PHI	-
15	John Kasay	at NO	-
16	Matt Stover	vs. JAC	-
17	Robbie Gould	at HOU	-
18	David Akers	vs. DAL	-
19	Josh Brown	at ATL	-
20	Joe Nedney	vs. WAS	-
21	Olindo Mare	at ARZ	-
22	Adam Vinatieri	vs. TEN	-
23	Josh Scobee	at BAL	-
24	Jay Feely	vs. MIA	-
25	Phil Dawson	at PIT	-
26	Jeff Reed	vs. CLE	-
27	Rian Lindell	vs. NE	-
28	Shaun Suisham	at SF	-
29	Connor Barth	at CIN	-
30	Jason Hanson	at GB	-
31	Sebastian Janikowski	at TB	-
32	Shayne Graham	vs. KC	-

[Hache Man]

2008 Waiver Awards
Last year's Waiver Wire maven, Patrick Dahl, has moved on to bigger and better things in the sports world, but he's left a lasting legacy: The end of the season Waiver Awards. In order to prep for the 2009 season we have to take a look back at what happened during 2008. For example, we now know that it's a better career move to get caught on the side of the road cutting up a line of cocaine with a credit card than it is to bring a loaded gun into a crowded club. It's with that spirit that we look back on the season's waiver wire adds in the second annual Rotoworld Waiver Wire awards! To quote Patrick's column last season:

"If you want actual Waiver adds for this week, scroll to the bottom of the article for an extremely abbreviated list. Also, join a league where you don't play in Week 17."

Did your fantasy season end Sunday? Check out Rotoworld's new weekly fantasy football game, with cash prizes: Snapdraft. Draft today, find out your league winner next Tuesday.

QUARTERBACK

The "Hoisted with His Own Petard" Award

Goes to … Kurt Warner! After taking a flier on Warner in all of my August drafts, I had my heart set on bringing all the Waiver Wired readers on-board with me prior to Week 1. Many of us rode the fragile 38-year-old all the way to our finals before we were hoisted on our own petards by Warner's 6-of-18 for 30 yards performance in the snow. It was a fun ride while it lasted, but "mailing it in" wasn't exactly what I had in mind for Fantasy Finals week. It's going to be awhile before I put that one behind me.

The "Season Savior After All" Award

Goes to ... Matt Cassel! When Tom Brady took a lot of owners down with him in Week 1, I tried to curb the Cassel enthusiasm in fantasy circles and suggested trading for Warner or Matt Schaub instead. And I was right – for about one month. Cassel struggled mightily in his first four weeks on the job, but he ended up saving quite a few fantasy owners along with the Patriots' playoff chances by mid-season. His late-season point fests against the Jets, Dolphins, Raiders, and Cardinals put quite a few trophies on the mantle this past weekend.

The "Merciful End to the Brodie Croyle Era" Award

Goes to ... Tyler Thigpen! For nearly two seasons the Chiefs were deluded enough to line up Croyle against defenses like a junior high kid wondering onto a field full of varsity lettermen. When Herm Edwards had nowhere else to turn after a string of mid-season injuries, he installed Thigpen along with a college-style spread offense. With a better view of the pass rush and extra time to locate receivers, Thigpen began playing like his hair was on fire. His caution-to-the-wind style may not be a recipe for NFL success, but you won't find fantasy owners complaining after he made the Chiefs relevant in fantasy circles once again.

RUNNING BACK

The "Successful Hype Train" Award

Goes to … Chris Johnson! After revving up the hype train in early August, I developed a reputation in the hallowed halls of Rotoworld for grabbing strangers by the shirt and making wild-eyed proclamations that the explosive rookie was going to take the league by storm. Since I made it a habit to slip his name into every conversation at draft time, I opened the first Waiver Wired of the season with a plea to all readers to grab him if he went undrafted. Mission accomplished. Even with a consistent eight-to-nine defenders in the box and LenDale White vulturing goal-line scores, Johnson led all rookies in rushing and still found the end zone 10 times. Just wait until they start to make him a priority in the passing game.

The "Where Was His Hype Train?" Award

Goes to … Steve Slaton! You'd be hard-pressed to find a rookie running back that wasn't getting hyped by one outlet or another at draft time, but Slaton was unowned in more than half of all leagues by Week 1. It was widely assumed Ahman Green would get early-down work (as long as he remained healthy) with Chris Taylor taking on short-yardage duties – which left Steve Slaton in the traditional third-down role. Wrong. Slaton blew Taylor away in early season action while Green was in and out of the lineup with injuries. Along the way, Slaton turned into an every week stud … and stayed there.

The "Tale of Two Seasons" Award

Goes to … Pierre Thomas! Along with a healthy skepticism regarding Deuce McAllister's surgically repaired knees, Thomas' impressive 2007 Week 17 performance conspired to make him a pre-season Rotoworld favorite. After a few performances as a fine flex option, Thomas was back to the waiver wire by mid-season with Deuce's feel-good re-emergence. When Reggie Bush went down, however, Thomas began working his way back in to the point where he turned into waiver wire gold by fantasy playoff time.

The "Saboteur Has Struck" Award

Goes to: Tim Hightower! The rookie managed to sabotage not just fantasy owners but also his own NFL team. Hightower had value in TD-heavy leagues early in the season as Edgerrin James' goal-line legs. Once it became obvious that Edge couldn't lead a consistent ground attack, Hightower was inserted into the starting lineup with high hopes. Following his 100-yard performance against the Rams in his first start, quite a few owners flipped their high-round running back for help at another position and put their eggs in Officer Hightower's basket instead. The rookie rewarded that faith by going the rest of the way without a rushing performance over 35 yards. Saboteur!



WIDE RECEIVER

The "Billy Volek" Award

Goes to … Antonio Bryant! Give Rotoworld football guru Gregg Rosenthal the credit here. Bryant headlined our pre-season sleeper lists at wide receiver, and Gregg stuck by him even when he put up a stinker or two early on. Though Bryant made quite a few waiver list appearances along the way, I confess that I wasn't smitten to the level of Gregg's loyalty. On the heels of the white hot receiver's 435 yards and four touchdowns the past three weeks, Gregg rightly bestowed the Billy Volek of 2008 status upon Bryant.

The "Slot Machine" Award

Goes to … Lance Moore! Another Rosenthal find, Lance joined with Mewelde to provide the most reader feedback of the season after the "It's Moores, Not Moops" headline back in Week 5 sent giddy Seinfeld fans to my inbox. As it turned out, the Saints slot receiver was real … and he was spectacular!

The "Rookies Can Catch, Too" Award

Goes to … Eddie Royal & DeSean Jackson! Rotoworld doesn't generally believe in pushing rookie wide receivers, but both diminutive second-rounders were pimped here as last minute roster gems, and neither disappointed in Week 1. Royal exploded on the national scene with a 9/146/1 performance in the first Monday night game of the season, and he remained a valuable WR2 all season. Jackson tortured Tye Hill in Week 1 for 106 yards on six catches and maintained WR3 value up until a drop-filled Week 16 performance that likely torpedoed the Eagles' playoff chances.

The "Like It Was 1980" Award

Goes to … Matt Jones! Just like the Dirt Nasty youtube video, Jones was caught hitting a "snow bomb" in July like it was 1980. In the perverted world of the NFL, that served to finally give the obscenely talented first-round bust a wakeup call. Hunter S. Thompson's favorite player provided excellent WR2/WR3 value at the low, low price of a waiver wire pick until his three-week suspension finally kicked in. And who says athletes aren't role models?


TIGHT END

The "I Even made Russell Look Good" Award

Goes to … Zach Miller! Amazingly, Miller sat unowned for much of the season thanks to performing his weekly feats in the sinkhole known as the Raiders passing offense. The sophomore tight end has an outside shot at 800 yards this season while no other Oakland receiver tops 350 yards. Next year, we'll work on finding the end zone.

The "I Got Myself Paid" Award

Goes to… Bo Scaife! Though he slowed down the stretch, Scaife did post five games over 40 yards in the first 10 weeks. The free-agent-to-be was supposed to be glued to the bench following the offseason addition of Alge Crumpler, but Scaife figures to supplement his bank account after setting career highs across the board.

The "Week 16 Is Bizarro World" Award

Goes to … Visanthe Shiancoe! Let's just say the loin-cloth wonder won't be invited to the Wesseling household for Christmas dinner. My season met its Waterloo in every league I was in thanks to a molotov cocktail of Kurt Warner on my squad and Visanthe Shiancoe standing in for the opponent. In what world does Visanthe freakin' Shiancoe blow up for 136 yards and two touchdowns! That's half-way to his career high yardage total in one #$#%& game! Week 16 is a load of bollocks.


I have admittedly suffered more than a few misses along the way as well, but hopefully we served you well with Waiver Wired this season -- if not with one of the award winners above, then with the honorably mentioned Shaun Hill, Mewelde Moore, Dustin Keller, and John Carlson. Seasons greetings, and we'll see you here at Waiver Wired next September. For a Reader's Digest version of waiver options for this week, see below.

Quarterbacks

Seneca Wallace, who faces the Cardinals fantasy friendly secondary.
Tarvaris Jackson, now starting and facing a Giants team with nothing left to play for.

Running Backs

Cedric Benson, who has averaged 166 total yards per game the past two weeks and faces Kansas City this Sunday.
Fred Jackson, who could be filling in for an injured Marshawn Lynch.
Maurice Morris, who toted the ball 29 times against the Jets.
LaMont Jordan, who played more snaps than Sammy Morris or Kevin Faulk in Week 16.
Tatum Bell, now unquestionably the leader in the Broncos committee attack.
Ahmad Bradshaw, who could be carrying the load against the Vikings in Week 17.

Wide Receivers

Dennis Northcutt, who has racked up back-to-back 100-yard performances following Matt Jones' suspension.
Mark Bradley, who is now healthy and facing the Bengals.
Bobby Engram, who led the Seahawks in receiving in Week 16.

Tight Ends

L.J. Smith, who has 15 receptions the past three weeks.

Defenses

Packers, who face the Lions.
Bengals, who face the Chiefs and vice versa.

[Hache Man]

Studs, duds and sleepers: Benson could be the difference


If your league plays through the bitter end of Week 17, here is a look at what to expect in fantasy football:
Projected fantasy studs
Cedric Benson, RB, Bengals. The end of the season has been very good to Benson, who has averaged 166 total yards in his past two games. It would be nice if he could score, and that might happen this week against the Chiefs' 30th-ranked run defense.
Marques Colston, WR, Saints. At the end of an injury-filled year, Colston appears to have re-established himself as his team's No. 1 receiver with at least six catches and 84 yards in three of the past four games. Keep him in against the Panthers.
Visanthe Shiancoe, TE, Vikings. Besides Tarvaris Jackson, one of the people most excited about Jackson's improved play is Shiancoe, who has caught three touchdown passes from Shiancoe in three games and had a career-high 136 receiving yards last week.
FIND MORE STORIES IN: Miami | New England Patriots | Pro Bowl | Buffalo | Indianapolis Colts | Jordan | Denver | Brett Favre | Titans | Steelers | Vikings | Dolphins | Raiders | Saints | Chargers | Browns | Jets | Bills | Bengals | Chiefs | Russell | Edwards | Willie Parker | Ricky Williams | Ronnie Brown | Joseph Addai | Cedric Benson | Simpson | Marshawn Lynch | Rivers | Jacobs | Bruce Gradkowski | TECO Energy | Projected | Colston | Thigpen | Shiancoe
Philip Rivers, QB, Chargers. Fueled by a perceived Pro Bowl slight, Rivers is charging hard to the finish, unlike Denver's defense. After four touchdown passes last week, Rivers has a chance to lead the league in passer rating and passing TDs.
Tyler Thigpen, QB, Chiefs. Counting on the quarterback of a 2-13 team in Week 17 is dicey, but Thigpen has been solid for much of the past nine weeks. His latest trick is on the ground as he had his second rushing TD in as many weeks and a season-high 57 yards last week.
Projected fantasy duds
Ronnie Brown, RB, Dolphins. His role appears to be fading behind Ricky Williams, especially in the red zone. Brown has scored just once in the past six games and his eight carries for 32 yards last week were his worst since Week 1 against the Jets, whom he faces again this week.
Braylon Edwards, WR, Browns. What a way for Edwards to go out, with the Browns perhaps forced to start quarterback Bruce Gradkowski. Even if the Steelers rest all of their starters, that is little reason to expect success from Edwards.
Brett Favre, QB, Jets. Let's quit trying to make Favre into something he is not. In the past four games, he has one touchdown, six interceptions and a 1-3 record. And while Miami allowed 31 points last week, that is the only game out of its past four when it gave up a touchdown.
Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants. Don't read too much into the Giants' desire to play all the way through the finish. They got the three touchdowns they needed out of Jacobs last week to lock up a No. 1 seed and might as well let him rest his bad knee in the finale against the Vikings' No. 1 run defense.
Chris Johnson, RB, Titans. After leading the Titans with 251 carries, Johnson probably needs a break. With playoff position locked up, the Titans will be happy to oblige the rookie and try to get his legs fresh for their first postseason game.
Sleepers
Fred Jackson, RB, Bills. Jackson has filled capably in behind Marshawn Lynch all season and added a touchdown last week after Lynch left because of a shoulder injury. If Lynch is limited again, Jackson will be a nice start against the Patriots' inconsistent defense.
LaMont Jordan, RB, Patriots. Nasty weather last week meant the Patriots went with a power ground game, resulting in two touchdowns for Jordan. What kind of weather do you expect in Buffalo on the last Sunday in December?
JaMarcus Russell, QB, Raiders. You'll get some funny looks if you say it too loudly, but Russell is on a roll with his first back-to-back games with multiple TD passes. And the Bucs defense is in free fall down the stretch, having allowed 38 and 41 points in two of their past three.
Gary Russell, RB, Steelers. Pittsburgh's running backs have been beat up for much of the season so now is a chance to rest Willie Parker and turn some work, particularly in the red zone, over to Russell.
Chad Simpson, RB, Colts.Dominic Rhodes will not play much, if at all, against the Titans and Joseph Addai has been nursing his own string of injuries most of the season. That leaves Simpson, who had 10 touches the past two games, against an unmotivated defense.

[Hache Man]

Week 17... and Beyond

Week 17. Fantasy football is over. (If your league has a Week 17 championship, feel free to tar and feather your commish.) Real football is back on our radar as the remaining NFL playoff spots are decided. Cologne manufacturers are incessantly running idiotic, last minute commercials in the desperate hopes of unloading Holiday overstock on a presumably malodorous public. And what says "great cologne" more than a tuxedo-clad P. Diddy inexplicably riding a jet ski? I initially thought it had to be an SNL-style parody, a la "Canis: Cologne for Dogs." It wasn't.

Check out Rotoworld's new weekly fantasy football game, with cash prizes: Snapdraft. Draft today, find out your league winner next Tuesday. Special promotion this week: sign up this week and get a free $5 promotional deposit to try out the game.

But it's never too early to look ahead to next season as you prep to either defend your title or wash defeat out of your mouth. (Incidentally, defeat tastes like cabbage and human feet, slow cooked in a Dutch oven with rusty nickels and Flozell Adams' post game underwear.) So let's look at five would-be studs whose value has plummeted as the season winds down -- the anti-"Searching for Billy Volek" players, if you will -- and could therefore be relative draft day bargains come August '09.

T.J. Houshmandzadeh: That he's still fourth in the league with 92 receptions (including last Sunday's goose egg) with Ryan Fitzpatrick at QB proves it's not a skill problem. And though he'll be 32 next season, assuming Palmer comes back (or they bring in a better backup should Carson falter) Housh'll be good WR2 value. (Honorable mentions: Bernard Berrian, Jerricho Cotchery, Santonio Holmes.)

Marion Barber III: Tashard Choice's emergence along with a gimpy toe issues have deflated MBIII's value to levels we haven't seen since he was "backing up" Julius Jones. But don't forget him. He's still the barbarian.

Steven Jackson: What a bum year. Injured, bad team, you name it, Jackson suffered from it. But assuming he comes into camp healthy and the Rams improve . . . well, everything about their offense, he'll be there for you when you need a RB2 and could be among the better values in that spot. (Honorable mentions: Joseph Addai, Willis McGahee, Darren McFadden.)

Kellen Winslow, Jr.: Assuming Brady Quinn heals and/or doesn't get punched by his own teammates again (see below), Winslow should have an entire off-season and training camp to develop chemistry with his young QB. And we saw against Denver what that combo can do. With the current dearth of reliable fantasy TE's, Winslow will make a nice high upside pick, especially since most in your league probably loathe the soldja. (Honorable mention: Tony Scheffler.)

Matt Schaub: If he puts up another pedestrian game against Chicago to follow up his stinker in Oakland, Schaub could fall off your league mates' radar on draft day. But don't sleep on him: he's still 5th best in YPG (271), helms the NFL's 4th-ranked passing offense with a killer returning cast of Andre Johnson, Kevin Walter, Owen Daniels and Steve Slaton. A great opening day backup with starter potential. (Honorable mentions: Eli Manning, Ben Roethlisberger.)

(Oh, and one final note: Cedric Benson is going to be next year's Anthony Thomas/William Green/Kevan Barlow/Kevin Jones/Domanick Davis Cougar Mellencamp Romijn Stamos – i.e. RB who explodes down the stretch and gets drafted way too early the following season. Trust me, don't be the owner who blows a 3rd rounder on Cedric the Entertainer.)

Two-Minute Drill: Packers coach Mike McCarthy revealed that Greg Jennings suffered a slight concussion Monday night. He'll be held out of practice Wednesday, but is expected to play Sunday in a tasty Lions match-up . . . Cowboys beat writer Tim MacMahon says "there's no doubt" that Jason Witten will play Sunday at Philadelphia. If not, bump up Martellus Bennett as a possible Week 17 emergency TE start . . . Fact to support Tashard Choice as a badass: he has the Nos. 1, 2 and 3 rushing totals against the Steelers, Ravens and Giants, the #2, #3 and #9 rush defenses. With Barber still in doubt, look for a full workload for Choice against the Eagles . . Cards coach Ken Whisenhunt says he'll play his starters vs. Seattle this weekend, including Anquan Boldin, mostly 'cause that beating in New England wasn't exactly "momentum" heading into the playoffs . . . Titans coach Jeff Fisher said we might have a Vince Young sighting this weekend, and most experts don't expect the Tennessee starters to last past the half . . . Jeff Garcia (calf) looks ready for Oakland, as Jon Gruden expressed no concern over his starter . . .

…The Broncos say that DB Champ Bailey (groin) will return for the winner-take-all game against the Chargers, giving the Denver pass D a little boost against the high-octane Philip Rivers . . . Browns TE Darnell Dinkins confirmed Monday that DL Shaun Smith did pop Brady Quinn in the face during a weight-room altercation last week. As if it couldn't get worse in Cleveland . . . While he's a risky start against the 8th-ranked Skins rush defense, Frank Gore (ankle) should go this Sunday . . .Lions head coach Rod Marinelli says WR Calvin Johnson (knee) is questionable for the team's Week 17 game, but Johnson said he would play at Green Bay . . . Jets DE Shaun Ellis was fined $10,000 for throwing what looked like an entire snow bank at heckling Seahawks fans. I think he should have been paid ten grand.

Red Zone: Eagles coach Andy Reid said he's optimistic about Kevin Curtis (strained calf) playing this week, but he's just too unreliable for fantasy purposes . . . Marvin Harrison (knee, hamstring) likely won't be dressing for the Colts finale against the Titans, continuing his inglorious fall from fantasy grace. Coach Tony Dungy said that his starters and anyone else nursing an injury will get some extra rest, including Dominic Rhodes, Dwight Freeney and Reggie Wayne . . . Steelers' WR Hines Ward, closing in on 1,000 yards (973) doesn't want to be among the players coach Mike Tomlin rests in Sunday's meaningless finale against the Browns. "You want to rest guys but you don't want to get out of sync," Ward said. Tomlin did say, however, that he wouldn't treat the game like an exhibition . . .Though Drew Brees only needs 402 yards to break Dan Marino's single season passing yard record, coach Sean Payton says he won't alter his play-calling to make the Saints attack more pass heavy versus the Panthers . . . If the Patriots lose to the Bills, securing Baltimore's playoff berth, coach John Harbaugh says we can expect to see QB Joe Flacco, WR Derrick Mason, CB Samari Rolle, S Ed Reed, and LB Ray Lewis getting more rest than they would have otherwise.

[Hache Man]

Oh So Close
Can you believe the regular season is officially over? I know I can't.

The 2008 fantasy campaign was one that featured a lot of surprises (ala Steve Breaston and Steve Slaton), but also its share of disappointments (that's right Roy Williams and Braylon Edwards, I'm talking about you).

With that said, let's take a look at the action from the final week of the regular season, with a special awards edition to honor this season's top performers. Congratulations to all of you who won a championship this year, and better luck next year to those of you who didn't.

Lastly, I just wanted to thank those of you who e-mailed me throughout the season with great feedback, questions, and suggestions. Thanks again for the warm welcome into the Rotoworld community, and hopefully I'll see you back here in '09.

Happy New Year everybody!

Top 5 QBs:

1. Drew Brees – 386 Yds, 4 TDs, 1 INT – Thirty-four touchdowns and over 5,000 passing yards – just another day at the office for Mr. Brees. He made it look so easy this season, taking advantage of all the offensive weapons at his disposal. Consensus number one quarterback? I think so.

2. Aaron Rodgers – 308 Yds, 3 TDs, 0 INTs – Rodgers finished the season strong, as he totaled multiple scores in six of his past seven games. He showed that not only is he a capable fantasy starter, but one that you can count on week-in and week-out.

3. Kurt Warner – 263 Yds, 4 TDs, 1 INT, 1 FL – Kudos to Gregg for calling this. After being absolutely awful the past two weeks, Warner responded in a big way on Sunday, rounding out his very impressive '08 campaign.

4. Kyle Orton – 244 Yds, 2 TDs, 0 INTs, 2 Rush Yds, 1 Rush TD – He's never going to be a flashy fantasy player, but as a QB2 he's pretty solid. He finished up with 21 total touchdowns, which isn't bad in an offense that is known to be run-first.

5. Matt Schaub – 328 Yds, 2 TDs, 0 INTs – When I see Schaub put up these kind of numbers I can't help but shake my head. If he could just stay healthy, he would have no problem taking his game to the next level – he has the weapons to do it.

Top 5 RBs:

1. Steven Jackson – 161 Rush Yds, 2 TDs, 4 Rec, 54 Yds – Where was this type of production all season long? Oh, I know. It was on the bench, along with Jackson and his nagging thigh/quad injury. To his credit, he finished the season strong, with 10-plus fantasy points in each of the past five games.

2. Michael Bush – 177 Rush Yds, 2 TDs, 1 Rec, 6 Yds – Talk about taking advantage of an opportunity presented to you. This performance came out of nowhere, but Bush definitely has the ability. It will be interesting to see what kind of role he has next season.

3. LaDainian Tomlinson – 96 Rush Yds, 3 TDs – While LT2 didn't finish the year with the stats that many expected him to, he still managed to put together a very solid season by running back standards. He's back on my good side after scoring in four of his past five games to round out the season.

4. Darren Sproles – 115 Rush Yds, 1 TD, 2 Rec, 17 Yds, 1 TD – The Chargers have a knack for pumping out talented backup running backs. Sproles is exciting to watch, because he has the ability to break a long run on any given play. You have to wonder if he's going to stick around next season, or follow in the footsteps of Michael Turner.

5. Michael Turner – 208 Rush Yds, 1 TD, 1 FL – Turner lived up to the hype this season, and then some. He ended up with seventeen touchdowns, as he scored in seven of his final eight games, solidifying himself as a Top 5 pick next season.

Top 5 WRs:

1. Andre Johnson – 10 Rec, 148 Yds, 2 TDs – If only this performance could've come last week. AJ threw up a stinker in the Finals (19 Yds), but he showed why he's been so dominant all season long on Sunday. The PPR gem finished the year with 115 grabs, in addition to his league leading 1,575 receiving yards.

2. Larry Fitzgerald – 5 Rec, 130 Yds, 2 TDs – Fitz was a model of consistency all season long, as his lowest yardage output without a score was 52-yards in Week 15. He catches everything in his vicinity and, from a fantasy perspective, that's all you can ask for.

3. Calvin Johnson – 9 Rec, 102 Yds, 2 TDs – Megatron was pretty much the lone bright spot on a miserable Lions team that finished 0-16. It's scary to think how good he could actually be if he had a halfway decent quarterback throwing to him.

4. Deion Branch – 6 Rec, 90 Yds, 2 TDs – What started off as a season of promise turned into a an injury riddled year, with a backup quarterback throwing him the ball. Branch still has some upside, and he could make for a decent WR3 and draft day bargain come next season.

5. Lance Moore – 8 Rec, 91 Yds, 2 TDs – Brees developed a nice chemistry with Moore once Colston went down with an injury, and it continued even once Colston returned. Moore finished the season with ten touchdowns and 928 receiving yards.

Top 5 TEs:

1. Tony Scheffler – 5 Rec, 75 Yds, 1 TD – In Denver's offense, Scheffler has the ability to be a top tier tight end. If he can stay healthy, look for him to jump off the board as one of the first five or six tight ends taken.

2. Tony Gonzalez – 5 Rec, 53 Yds, 1 TD – I'm running out of material for this guy, because he makes the list every…single…week.

3. Anthony Fasano – 3 Rec, 39 Yds, 1 TD – This now makes two consecutive weeks in the Top 5 to finish out the season, in addition to a touchdown in three of his final four games. Seven touchdowns from the tight end position are enough to warrant a look next season.

4. Greg Olsen – 4 Rec, 30 Yds, 1 TD – Olsen is another case of a guy who came on late to make his owners very happy, as he scored in three of his final four games.

5. Brent Celek – 3 Rec, 30 Yds, 1 TD – Celek waited until Week 17 to get his first score of the season.

Bottom 5 QBs: (Guys who played a whole game)

1. Tony Romo – 183 Yds, 0 TDs, 1 INT, 11 Rush Yds, 2 FL – Yikes!
2. Brett Favre – 233 Yds, 1 TD, 3 INTs – Is Brett going to FINALLY hang it up?
3. Matt Cassel – 78 Yds, 0 TDs, 0 INTs, 19 Rush Yds – Seriously affected by the wind (also see Edwards).
4. Trent Edwards – 128 Yds, 0 TDs, 0 INTs, 20 Rush Yds, 1 FL
5. Ryan Fitzpatrick – 129 Yds, 0 TDs, 0 INTs, 29 Rush Yds

Bottom 5 RBs:

1. Larry Johnson – 18 Rush Yds, 0 TDs
2. Marion Barber – 13 Rush Yds, 2 Rec, 20 Yds, 0 TDs, 1 FL – Injuries killed him down the stretch.
3. Brian Westbrook – 50 Rush Yds, 2 Rec, 12 Yds, 0 TDs, 1 FL
4. Thomas Jones – 23 Rush Yds, 1 Rec, 1 Yd, 0 TDs
5. Justin Fargas – 11 Rush Yds, 0 TDs

Bottom 5 WRs:

1. Roy Williams – 2 Rec, 4 Yds, 0 TDs
2. Braylon Edwards – 1 Rec, 5 Yds, 0 TDs – Ugly finish to an ugly season.
3. Randy Moss – 1 Rec, 13 Yds, 0 TDs – Windy
4. Wes Welker – 2 Rec, 26 Yds, 0 TDs
5. Kevin Walter – 1 Rec, 23 Yds, 0 TDs

Bottom 5 TEs:

1. John Carlson – 2 Rec, 14 Yds, 0 TDs
2. Visanthe Shiancoe – 1 Rec, 14 Yds, 0 TDs – Back down to earth after going off last weekend.
3. Marcedes Lewis – 1 Rec, 0 Yds, 0 TDs
4. Bo Scaife – 1 Rec, 8 Yds, 0 TDs
5. Dustin Keller – 2 Rec, 24 Yds, 0 TDs

Since starting this column in Week 5, here are the players who delivered the most appearances in the Top 5, at each of their respective positions.

Top of the Class: QBs

Valedictorian -- Drew Brees (6 appearances) -- Brees was lethal all season long (only one scoreless game), as he came up just sixteen yards shy of Dan Marino's single season yardage record.
Salutatorian -- Aaron Rodgers, and Peyton Manning (5 appearances) -- Rodgers wasn't too shabby in his first season as the starter, as he finished with 32 total scores (28 passing, 4 rushing). Manning quieted critics, as he really picked it up after starting off slow (nine games with multiple scores).

Top of the Class: RBs

Valedictorian -- DeAngelo Williams (6 appearances) -- No surprises here. D-Will was absolutely lights out this season, as he had five multi-score games, with two of those being four score games.
Salutatorian -- Maurice Jones-Drew, Adrian Peterson, and Michael Turner (4 appearances) -- All Day delivered on numerous occasions this season, but MJD's season is tougher to get a grasp on. While he had four multi-score games, he also had seven scoreless games -- inconsistency at its finest. "The Burner" started and ended his season with 200-yard performances, as he finished just one yard shy of 1,700 rushing yards.

Top of the Class: WRs

Valedictorian -- Andre Johnson (5 appearances) -- AJ was a model of consistency all season long (eight 100-yard games), as he made a case to be the first receiver off the board next season.

Salutatorian -- Steve Smith, and Antonio Bryant (4 appearances) – Smith went on a tear to end the season, netting at least 100-yards in five of his last six games. Bryant was a pleasant surprise and a fantasy playoff hero, as he finished the season with 1,248-yards and seven touchdowns.

Top of the Class: TEs

Valedictorian -- Tony Gonzalez (9 appearances) -- Talk about absolute domination. Tony G showed that he can still be productive, as he finished with a score in five of his past six games.

Salutatorian -- Antonio Gates (5 appearances) – While Gates was a major disappointment in the yardage department, his eight scores helped to alleviate some of the pain from owners who drafted him as the top tight end.

[Hache Man]

Fantasy Playoff Rankings
Playoff fantasy football is about NFL teams rather than just individual players like in the regular season. Pick a lot of players from a wild card team that makes it into the Super Bowl, and you are likely to win your playoff league. Pick a few key players from a number two seed that loses in their first game and you are in trouble.

This is the most wide-open tournament in years. As Aaron Schatz wrote, there are 7-8 teams that could win the title where you wouldn't even call it an upset. My feelings on what teams are positioned well this month (Baltimore, Philadelphia, Carolina) heavily influences my rankings. If you think the Ravens are going to lose in Miami, then Le'Ron McClain obviously isn't that great a pick.

While we don't know who will make it to Tampa, we do know what players are the most talented. Use the player's production, not his team, as the ultimate tiebreaker.

***

For a quick primer on how to play playoff fantasy football, check out a column Evan Silva wrote up a a few moons back. The rules aren't usually too different from regular fantasy football, except that total points are the key. Pick a starting team, possibly a bench, and let them go at it. MyFantasyLeague.com is one place to sign up a team.

Quarterbacks

1. Peyton Manning www.indianapoliscolts.ws
2. Donovan McNabb

Two of the most talented quarterbacks left, with good first-round matchups, and a solid chance to play multiple games. Quarterbacks are at a premium in playoff leagues because they score the most. Draft two if your rules allow it.

3. Ben Roethlisberger
4. Jake Delhomme www.carolinapanthers.ws
5. Eli Manning www.newyorkgiants.ws
6. Joe Flacco www.baltimoreravens.ws
7. Philip Rivers www.sandiegochargers.ws
8. Kurt Warner www.arizonacardinals.ws
9. Matt Ryan www.atlantafalcons.ws

This is where my Ravens bias comes into play. I think they have a good chance to make it all the way to the Super Bowl, which would make Flacco valuable. Rivers is the best fantasy quarterback here by far, but I worry that he'll be one and done. If Philadelphia can win in Minnesota, I love Carolina's second-round matchup against Atlanta or Arizona. The Panthers are a great home team and Jake Delhomme finished fourth in yards-per-attempt. Quarterbacks are at a pr

10. Kerry Collins www.tennesseetitans.ws
11. Chad Pennington www.miamidolphins.ws
12. Tarvaris Jackson www.newyorkjets.ws

Pennington and Jackson have brutal first-round matchups. Jim Johnson and Rex Ryan will throw the book at them. Collins could wind up facing the Ravens and Steelers, if Tennessee can get past Baltimore.

Running Backs

1. DeAngelo Williams www.carolinapanthers.ws
2. Brian Westbrook
3. Brandon Jacobs www.newyorkgiants.ws
4. Michael Turner www.atlantafalcons.ws
5. Chris Johnson

First-round redraft talent with the chance to play multiple games. Williams may not be that high in my rankings at the start of next season, but he's the most dominant fantasy force of 2008. Westbrook is versatile enough to hurt the Vikings this week and the Giants after that. Jacobs should be fresh after the bye week. Turner is a touchdown hog with the ability to break it deep. Johnson is as explosive as any back in the league; expect his role to increase during the playoffs.

6. Adrian Peterson
7. LaDainian Tomlinson
8. Willie Parker
9. Le'Ron McClain
10. Joseph Addai

Starters with question marks or shaky matchups. Adrian Peterson is our number one picks for next season, but he's facing the fourth-ranked rush defense in the league in what could be a one-and-done playoff run. Willie Parker showed some life against the Browns and may be relied upon more heavily with Ben Roethlisberger's noggin foggy. LT2 has run much better the last two weeks, but it came against collapsing competition. Addai and McClain aren't even guaranteed to lead their backfields in touches, but they should get plenty of work.

11. Jonathan Stewart
12. Derrick Ward
13. Ronnie Brown
14. LenDale White
15. Edgerrin James
16. Dominic Rhodes
17. Chester Taylor
18. Jerious Norwood
19. Darren Sproles

The best backups and the worst starters. The Miami matchup against Baltimore is daunting for Ronnie Brown and Williams. Edgerrin James appears to have taken over the primary role in Arizona once again. Taylor will get plenty of snaps on passing downs. White and Stewart could vulture carries. Ward is a nice sleeper pick that will pay off if the Giants reach the Super Bowl again. Sproles is playing too well for the Chargers not to use him.

20. Mewelde Moore
21. Tim Hightower
22. Correll Buckhalter
23. Ahmad Bradshaw
24. Willis McGahee
25. Ray Rice

The best of the rest. Hightower's role is diminishing, but could still be used on the goal line. Mewelde Moore is a nice value pick for depth. McGahee looks like the clear backup in Baltimore, while Rice isn't fully healthy.

Wide Receivers

1. Steve Smith
2. Reggie Wayne
3. Roddy White
4. Hines Ward
5. Larry Fitzgerald

The cream of the crop. Great wideouts with good-looking matchups. I happen to think Arizona has the best chance of any home team to win this weekend, if only because I trust the other three road teams more than the Falcons. I would not make drafting a receiver a priority compared to running back and quarterback in playoff leagues.

6. Vincent Jackson
7. Anquan Boldin
8. Santonio Holmes
9. Derrick Mason

Jackson has emerged as a quality WR2 in fantasy leagues, but the Colts specialize in preventing big plays. Boldin isn't quite himself or he would be ranked higher. Holmes finished a disappointing season with three touchdowns in his last five games. Mason isn't fully healthy, but is the most reliable weapon Joe Flacco has.

10. DeSean Jackson
11. Kevin Curtis
12. Steve Breaston
13. Domenik Hixon
14. Bernard Berrian
15. Anthony Gonzalez
16. Marvin Harrison

Jackson and Curtis are co-number ones at this point. Breaston has produced well late in the season while Anquan Boldin has licked his wounds. Harrison just doesn't seem to have it anymore, so Gonzalez could be a bigger factor in the playoffs. Berrian is reliant on the big play, and I don't trust Tarvaris Jackson whatsoever against a Jim Johnson defense.

17. Justin Gage
18. Steve Smith, Giants
19. Amani Toomer
20. Michael Jenkins
21. Davone Bess
22. Mushin Muhammad
23. Mark Clayton
24. Ted Ginn
25. Brandon Jones

Useful depth for your roster. Smith made his name in the playoffs last year and has Eli Manning's trust. Gage is the best of an unpredictable lot in Tennessee. Jenkins is in a great spot opposite Roddy White turned in a surprisingly good season. Bess racks up catches, so he's worth more in PPR leagues. If Derrick Mason isn't fully healthy, Mark Clayton makes for a nice sleeper pick.

26. Chris Chambers
27. Bobby Wade
28. Sidney Rice
29. Hank Baskett
30. Jason Avant
31. Legedu Naaane
32. Harry Douglas
33. Nate Washington
34. D.J. Hackett
35. Justin McCareins

The best of the rest. Chambers has become an afterthought in the Chargers offense.

Tight Ends

1. Dallas Clark
2. Antonio Gates

The best talent at tight end available, by far. Gates and Clark both played their best football late in the season.

3. Heath Miller
4. Kevin Boss
5. Visanthe Shiancoe
6. Todd Heap

Miller was quietly a top-six tight end in the final six weeks of the season. Shiancoe was top-four, and benefited from the change to Tarvaris Jackson at quarterback. Boss is a great red zone target, while Heap showed some life in a busty season down the stretch.

7. Bo Scaife
8. Anthony Fasano
9. L.J. Smith
10. Brent Celek
11. David Martin
12. Jeff King
13. Dante Rosario
14. Alge Crumpler

Smith's health is a big question mark. The same goes for David Martin. Scaife's role in the offense diminished late in the year, while Fasano was very inconsistent.

Team Defenses

1. Steelers
2. Ravens
3. Eagles
4. Giants
5. Titans
6. Panthers
7. Colts
8. Vikings
9. Falcons
10. Dolphins
11. Cardinals
12. Chargers

These rankings are heavily influenced by who I think could advance far in the playoffs. A lot of great defenses to choose from. Take two early if your league allows it.

Kickers

1. Rob Bironas
2. David Akers
3. John Carney
4. Matt Stover
5. Adam Vinatieri
6. John Kasay
7. Jason Elam
8. Jeff Reed
9. Nate Kaeding
10. Ryan Longwell
11. Neil Rackers
12. Dan Carpenter

[Hache Man]

Fantasy awards: Williams was most pleasant surprise of all


Let's take a look back at the best and worst of the 2008 fantasy season.
Most valuable player
DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers. If you dumped Williams after Week 4, nobody would have looked at you strangely. He had averaged only 49.5 yards and hadn't scored. But you would have missed out on 1,317 yards and 20 total touchdowns over the next 12 games, including monster four-TD games in vital Weeks 13 and 16. www.carolinapanthers.ws
Quarterback
Best: Nobody topped the Saints' Drew Brees, who fell 15 yards short of Dan Marino's single-season record of 5,084 yards, tied for the league lead with 34 TD passes and had 10 300-yard games.
FIND MORE STORIES IN: Indianapolis Colts | Green Bay Packers | Tom Brady | Vikings | Falcons | Saints | Chargers | Seahawks | Browns | Ravens | Texans | Chiefs | LaDainian Tomlinson | Drew Brees | Adrian Peterson | Carson Palmer | Matt Hasselbeck | Dan Marino | Derek Anderson | Larry Fitzgerald | Chad Johnson | Anquan Boldin | Michael Turner | Adam Vinatieri | Torry Holt | Andre Johnson | DeAngelo Williams | Todd Heap | Tyler Thigpen | Weeks | Stephen Gostkowski | Kellen Winslow II | Nick Folk | four-TD | Best If | Best Several
Worst: Injuries doomed Tom Brady and Carson Palmer, while the Seahawks crumbled around Matt Hasselbeck. But the biggest failure was the Browns' Derek Anderson.
Running back
Best: After Williams, this was a contest between the Falcons' Michael Turner and the Vikings' Adrian Peterson, who led the league with 1,760 rushing yards. But Peterson scored only 10 times and not in Weeks 14-16. Turner was strongest in the final nine games with an average of 116 yards and 11 of his 17 TDs. www.minnesotavikings.ws
Worst: The most frustrating player was the Chargers' LaDainian Tomlinson. He was the consensus No. 1 pick, but his 1,110 rushing yards were a career-low and his 12 TDs the fewest since his rookie season.
Wide receiver
Best: Several did well but none dominated in a blah year. The nod goes to the Texans' Andre Johnson, first with 115 catches and 1,575 yards. His negative is only eight TDs, including two in Week 17, and nine scoreless games. With 11 TDs in 12 games, the Cardinals' Anquan Boldin was more effective when he played than teammate Larry Fitzgerald.
Worst: Braylon Edwards (Browns), Torry Holt (Rams) and Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Bengals) can thank their horrible teams for their timid numbers.
Tight end
Best: Tony Gonzalez got a huge gift in the second half of the season with the emergence of quarterback Tyler Thigpen. The Chiefs veteran led tight ends in catches (96), yards (1,058) and TDs (10) with his second consecutive 1,000-yard season and first 10-TD season since 2003.
Worst: As did his Browns teammates, Kellen Winslow II did not come close to meeting expectations. The Ravens' Todd Heap played for a winner but rarely was a factor with the worst 16-game stats of his career.
Kicker
Best: No mystery here —Stephen Gostkowski was first with 148 points and had only three games with fewer than seven points.
Worst: The Cowboys' Nick Folk dropped 29 points off his 131-point rookie season. The Colts' Adam Vinatieri had seven games with five or fewer points and missed five kicks inside 50 yards.
Defense/special teams
Best: If it's TDs that mattered, then the Packers are a surprise winner thanks to their league-leading nine defensive and special-teams scores. It would be tough to argue with the Ravens, as they scored six times and had more sacks and turnovers.
Worst: The Cowboys had a bunch of sacks (59) but not much else, while the Chargers were useless until too late.

[Hache Man]

2008 in review: Smart bye pickups deliver for owners



From Weeks 4 through 10 of the NFL season, fantasy leaguers were on the lookout for replacement players for their starters out on a bye week. Whether they used them by shrewd design or pure luck, these were the best bye-week substitutes for 2008:
Week 4: Taking a chance on a New Orleans Saints wideout paid off big when Lance Moore not only turned in seven catches for 101 yards and two touchdowns against the visiting San Francisco 49ers, he went from an obscure name to weekly starter who would score eight more times.
Week 5: Seems remarkable now but the Carolina Panthers' DeAngelo Williams didn't score in the first month. But opting for Williams was a leap of faith that paid off with 123 rushing yards and two TDs plus a third score on a 25-yard reception against the visiting Kansas City Chiefs. And the rest of the year was fantasy gold.
Week 6: Picking up a free agent with a nice matchup had many owners teams starting the Philadelphia Eagles' Correll Buckhalter in San Francisco. They cashed in on 23 touches for 178 total yards and one touchdown.
Week 7: Smart shoppers who grabbed shifty Pittsburgh Steelers reserve running back Mewelde Moore after Willie Parker was injured were rewarded at the Cincinnati Bengals, where he ran for 120 yards and two TDs and added a third score with one of his five receptions for 14 yards.
FIND MORE STORIES IN: San Francisco | New England Patriots | Philadelphia Eagles | Pittsburgh Steelers | San Diego Chargers | St. Louis Rams | Carolina Panthers | New Orleans Saints | Cincinnati Bengals | Kansas City Chiefs | Willie Parker | DeAngelo Williams | Donald Driver | Mewelde Moore | Tyler Thigpen | Correll Buckhalter | Smart | Lance Moore | Donnie Avery | Picking | FantasyPlayers.com
Week 8: The first wide receiver taken in the 2008 NFL draft showed just enough in Weeks 6 (four catches, 73 yards) and 7 (four catches, 55 yards, one TD) that a few owners opted to use the St. Louis Rams' Donnie Avery at the New England Patriots, where he had six catches for 163 yards and one touchdown. It was his only shining moment.
Week 9: With the bye claiming every 49ers, Saints, San Diego Chargers and Panthers receiver, many fantasy owners needed a quick wideout. Those choosing Donald Driver caught him for his season-high game of seven catches for 136 yards and one touchdown.
Week 10: When Tony Romo owners looked for a fill-in, many opted for the newly rising Tyler Thigpen with a nice matchup in San Diego. His 266 yards and three scores there were actually better than any of the previous four games from slumping Romo.
Looking for a bye-week replacement player means considering all available players who have an inviting matchup and encouraging situation. Getting the right player to cover your bye weeks meant you could at least maintain your weekly scoring. And sometimes the replacements outproduced the starters.

[Hache Man]

Divisional Round Rankings
You asked, we answer. Divisional Round rankings are below for everyone still playing this weekend.

Divisional Round Quarterbacks

1. Jake Delhomme, Panthers
2. Kurt Warner, Cardinals
3. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers
4. Donovan McNabb, Eagles
5. Philip Rivers, Chargers
6. Eli Manning, Giants
7. Kerry Collins, Titans
8. Joe Flacco, Ravens

Divisional Round Running Backs

1. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers
2. Brian Westbrook, Eagles
3. Brandon Jacobs, Giants
4. Chris Johnson, Titans
5. Edgerrin James, Cardinals: Carolina's rush defense is below average
6. Willie Parker, Steelers
7. Le'Ron McClain, Ravens
8. Darren Sproles, Chargers: Fear the Steelers
9. Derrick Ward, Giants
10. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers
11. Willis McGahee, Ravens
12. LenDale White, Titans
13. Mewelde Moore, Steelers
14. Tim Hightower, Cardinals
15. Correll Buckhalter, Eagles
16. Ahmad Bradshaw, Giants
17. J.J. Arrington, Cardinals
18. Gary Russell, Steelers
19. Ray Rice, Ravens
20. Michael Bennett, Chargers

Divisional Round Wide Receivers

1. Steve Smith, Panthers
2. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
3. Hines Ward, Steelers
4. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals
5. Santonio Holmes, Steelers
6. Steve Breaston, Cardinals
7. Vincent Jackson, Chargers
8. DeSean Jackson, Eagles
9. Derrick Mason, Ravens
10. Kevin Curtis, Eagles
11. Domenik Hixon, Giants
12. Muhsin Muhammad, Panthers
13. Justin Gage, Titans
14. Amani Toomer, Giants
15. Chris Chambers, Chargers
16. Steve Smith, Giants
17. Jason Avant, Eagles
18. Mark Clayton, Ravens
19. Brandon Jones, Titans
20. Nate Washington, Steelers
21. Justin McCareins, Titans
22. Legedu Naanee, Chargers
23. D.J. Hackett, Panthers
24. Hank Baskett, Eagles

Divisional Round Tight Ends

1. Antonio Gates, Chargers
2. Heath Miller, Steelers
3. Kevin Boss, Giants
4. Todd Heap, Ravens
5. Brent Celek, Eagles
6. Bo Scaife, Titans
7. L.J. Smith, Eagles
8. Jeff King, Panthers
9. Stephen Spach, Cardinals
10. Alge Crumpler, Titans
11. Dante Rosario, Panthers
12. Matt Schobel, Eagles

Divisional Round Team Defense

1. Ravens
2. Titans
3. Steelers
4. Eagles
5. Giants
6. Chargers
7. Panthers
8. Cardinals

Divisional Round Kickers

1. John Kasay, Panthers
2. David Akers, Eagles
3. John Carney, Giants
4. Neil Rackers, Cardinals
5. Rob Bironas, Titans
6. Matt Stover, Ravens
7. Jeff Reed, Steelers
8. Nate Kaeding, Chargers

[Hache Man]

Bowl Season Risers & Fallers
For many NFL decision makers, the college bowl season is a first plunge into the pre-draft process. General Managers, head coaches, and assistants have too much to worry about during their own seasons to stay focused on draft eligibles throughout the NFL year. These influential men typically take about a week's vacation after their seasons end, then dive head first into watching bowl games.

It's not a bad place to start. In every case, bowls are big games and NFL people can see how players perform on that stage. Bowls also are played following a grueling season. Players show what they have left after 11-13 game schedules. GMs and coaches will more thoroughly evaluate players by watching game film, doing background study, and seeing them compete against each other at pre-draft events later on, but first impressions are very important and can make the difference between a late first-rounder and a second-round pick.

Eight That Helped Themselves

1. North Carolina WR Hakeem Nicks
Statistics: 8-217-3
Meineke Car Care Bowl Final: West Virginia 31, Tar Heels 30

Nicks kicked off the Heels' scoring in the first quarter by lining up in the left slot, blowing through double coverage, catching Tyler Yates' throw at its highest point, and breaking a tackle at the WVU 10 to find pay dirt from 73 yards out. The junior early entrant continued his dominance from there, torching a Mountaineers secondary that ranked 16th in D-I in pass efficiency defense and included Senior Bowl invitee CB Ellis Lankster and enforcer SS Quinton Andrews. Nicks added a behind-the-back circus grab on a route over the middle that might've been the grab of the year. He generated six tough yards after the reception for a first down. Nicks' ball skills and after-catch ability are sensational, and while he may lack 4.3 speed, Nicks has the potential to be an immediate starter in the NFL. Look for him to go in the late first round this April.

2. Southern Cal QB Mark Sanchez
Statistics: 28-35-413-4-0, 7-16-1
Rose Bowl Final: Trojans 38, Penn State 24

PSU's defense was spectacular in 2008 (ninth in total D, 27th against the pass), but Sanchez was much too good on this day. USC was on a mission to prove that they're the nation's top team and Sanchez was hot from the start, leading the Trojans to five scores on their first six drives, including four touchdowns. The fourth-year junior showed precision accuracy on his first scoring toss, taking a three-step drop, looking off Penn State DB Tony Davis, and threading a 27-yard needle to redshirt sophomore Damian Williams. Sanchez's second TD, good to Ronald Johnson from 19 yards away, was on a rope with two Nittany Lions in tight coverage. Led by potential first-round pick Aaron Maybin, Penn State's pass rush is relentless, but Sanchez consistently bought time with his plus athleticism and even scored on a six-yard keeper. Sanchez has yet to declare early, but he's a first-day pick and possible pre-draft riser if he goes.

3. Iowa RB Shonn Greene
Statistics: 29-121-3, 0-0
Outback Bowl Final: Hawkeyes 31, South Carolina 10

Going for 121 yards and three scores against a strong Gamecocks run defense (36th in D-I going in) was no small task for Greene, and he made the effort even more noteworthy by declaring for the draft in post-game. The 2008 Big Ten MVP completed a complete season by recording 100+ rushing yards for a 13th straight game. A relentless between-the-tackles back, Greene converted all five of his short-yardage chances in the open field and got two of his TDs at the goal line. 14 of his carries went for five yards or more. Greene isn't a receiving threat out of the backfield, but he'll see playing time in the league right away if he lands with a power-running team this spring.

4. Ohio State WR Brian Robiskie
Statistics: 5-116-0
Fiesta Bowl Final: Texas 24, Buckeyes 21

Robiskie's numbers may not look overly fantastic, but he was. The fourth-year senior not only stood out as a receiver, extending his full body to haul in an overthrown pass from Todd Boeckman in the fourth quarter for a 48-yard gain and picking up first downs on all five of his catches, he was ferocious as a run blocker. His unselfish play sprung early entrant tailback Chris Wells for several long gains early. With Ohio State trying to come back from a late 17-9 deficit, Robiskie also drew a defensive pass interference flag that the Longhorns foolishly supplemented with unsportsmanlike conduct. OSU got in the end zone on the next play. Robiskie's 2008 totals (42-535-8) don't impress because the Buckeyes scaled back their passing offense with freshman Terrelle Pryor under center, but the senior split end is a pro's pro and will make an NFL team very happy next season.

5. Oregon RB Jeremiah Johnson
Statistics: 12-119-1, 1-6
Holiday Bowl Final: Ducks 41, Oklahoma State 31

Johnson got his 125 total yards and a score despite basically sharing carries with option QB Jeremiah Masoli. On his second-quarter 76-yard touchdown explosion, Johnson showed outstanding change of direction after appearing stopped up at the line of scrimmage and blew through four open-field tackles, carrying one Cowboy on his back into the end zone. The score broke Barry Sanders' Holiday Bowl record for longest run from scrimmage. Johnson (5-10/200) isn't a true every-down prospect and figures to remain a timeshare back in the pros, but his underrated homerun ability is sure to intrigue NFL teams that covet speed.

6. Rutgers WR Kenny Britt
Statistics: 6-119-1, 1-16
PapaJohns.com Bowl Final: Scarlet Knights 29, NC State 23

This local New York City hero put on a show in his final game as a collegiate. A 20-year-old true junior who overcame an early-season suspension to have the finest campaign by a Rutgers wideout in school history, Britt cut through the Wolfpack's zone defense for a juggling 42-yard game-winning touchdown less than a minute after NC State had grabbed a short-lived lead in the fourth quarter. Britt also exhibited his speed on a 16-yard second-quarter carry that set up a field goal try for the Scarlet Knights and made four of his other five receptions go for first downs. Britt is a player you'll hear a lot about during and after February's Combine, because he's going to light it up.

7. Florida QB Tim Tebow
Statistics: 18-30-231-2-2, 22-109
BCS Championship Final: Gators 24, Oklahoma 14

The guess here is that Tebow stays for his senior season, but BCS title game watchers got all the "Superman" they could handle Thursday night. After a slow start passing, Tebow racked up countless yards after contact with power running and made amazingly accurate throws to keep the chains moving in the last two quarters. In the final period, he threw both of his scores and was 11-of-11 for 148 yards with 45 yards rushing. Tebow could've done without giving a Sooner defender the "Gator Chomp" to draw a personal foul with the game wrapped up, but he will surely appeal to innovative NFL minds if he declares early. Be it as a tight end, dual-threat QB, or H-back/fullback, Tebow has a good chance at a long pro career.



8. Georgia QB Matthew Stafford
Statistics: 20-31-250-3-1
Capital One Bowl Final: Bulldogs 24, Michigan State 12

Living up to his reputation as a hot-and-cold passer, Stafford labored through this contest's first two quarters before exploding with the game on the line. He completed 14 of his final 17 attempts, including all three of his passing scores in the final 18 minutes. Stafford beautifully placed the 21-yard game-winner in early entrant tailback Knowshon Moreno's breadbasket in the near corner of the end zone. While admittedly facing a Spartans defense that went in the tank down the stretch of 2008, Stafford astutely engineered the comeback run with many NFL executives watching. The same evaluators didn't hold Notre Dame's porous secondary against JaMarcus Russell in 2007 and he did just fine on draft day.

Five That Hurt Themselves

1. Ball State QB Nate Davis
Statistics: 9-29-145-0-1, 9-35-1
GMAC Bowl Final: Tulsa 45, Cardinals 13

Davis' Cardinals opened the game with a run-heavy plan against Tulsa's 3-3-5 defense. When asked to pass, Davis was completely overmatched. He lost fumbles on each of Ball State's first two possessions and showed exceptionally poor accuracy when hurried. After BSU fell behind Davis led no rally, engineering six consecutive three-and-outs to close the game. The Cardinals did not pick up one first down in the second half. At least this performance made the third-year junior's decision of whether to leave for the pros easier. If Davis does declare, there's no next to no chance he'll be a first-day pick now.

2. Michigan State RB Javon Ringer
Statistics: 20-47-1 TD, 3-30-0
Capital One Bowl Final: Georgia 24, Spartans 12

Ringer managed to break Jehuu Caulcrick's single-season school record for touchdowns with his 22nd in the fourth quarter, but was otherwise totally ineffective. While Georgia's defense boasts a standout front seven, ranking 27th in the nation against the run, it would've been nice to see Ringer excel against NFL-caliber talent if he's going to be an NFL back. The Senior Bowl invitee had a much-needed month off going into this game after a 390-carry season, but there is concern that the outrageous workload has cost him his legs. Ringer is only 5'9/200, already lacks homerun speed, and isn't enough of a receiver out of the backfield to make up for any loss of leg drive.

3. Clemson RB James Davis
Statistics: 12-26-0, 0-0
Gator Bowl Final: Nebraska 26, Tigers 21

It wasn't just Davis' miserable performance against the 21st-ranked Blackshirt run defense that dropped his stock, it was his dreadful close to the year. Davis managed only 376 yards on 110 carries (3.4 YPC) during the final seven games of his career. The more between-the-tackles half of the Tigers' talked-up tailback committee with C.J. Spiller, Davis' per-play production dropped off markedly in each of his last three seasons. While Davis still has some potential as a smart back who doesn't waste steps, he clearly isn't going to be the first-day pick he might've been had he declared early in 2008.

4. Missouri QB Chase Daniel
Statistics: 27-44-200-2-3, 9-29
Alamo Bowl Final: Tigers 30, Northwestern 23

The disappointing Tigers, ranked sixth in the nation heading into the season, were able to pull out the win over non-ranked Northwestern, but Daniel didn't look good. The senior exhibited a weak arm, consistently underthrowing his intended targets, and by the end of the night gave up even attempting to throw vertical passes. His three picks matched a career high and Daniel's long completion was 16 yards. Already listed at a stocky 6'1/225, he also appeared heavier than ever. Daniel is usually a running threat, but did not appear to be in good physical shape against Northwestern. A weak arm and conditioning question marks are sure to keep Daniel out of the draft's top three rounds.

5. Alabama QB John Parker Wilson
Statistics:18-30-177-1-2
Sugar Bowl Final: Utah 31, Crimson Tide 17

Granted, Wilson was at a disadvantage without surefire first-round pick Andre Smith (suspension) on his blind side. But the fourth-year senior and former Brodie Croyle understudy compounded the problem with errors. Wilson made numerous overthrows and took eight sacks, the seventh resulting in a game-deciding strip, and showed no escape ability. Due to his lack of ideal arm strength, Wilson is probably not fit to play in anything other than a West Coast system at the next level. Passers in that offense require movement skills. Wilson is unlikely

[Hache Man]

Conference Championship Ranks
Conference Championship Quarterbacks

1. Donovan McNabb, Eagles
2. Kurt Warner, Cardinals
3. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers
4. Joe Flacco, Ravens

Conference Championship Running Backs

1. Brian Westbrook, Eagles
2. Willie Parker, Steelers
3. LeRon McClain, Ravens
4. Edgerrin James, Cardinals:
5. Tim Hightower, Cardinals
6. Correll Buckhalter, Eagles
7. Willis McGahee, Ravens
8. Mewelde Moore, Steelers
9. J.J. Arrington, Cardinals
10. Gary Russell, Steelers
11. Ray Rice, Ravens

For actual, you know, football analysis, head over to Pancake Blocks where I'm blogging daily.

Conference Championship Wide Receivers

1. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
2. DeSean Jackson, Eagles
3. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals
4. Hines Ward, Steelers
5. Kevin Curtis, Eagles
6. Derrick Mason, Ravens
7. Steve Breaston, Cardinals
8. Santonio Holmes, Steelers
9. Jason Avant, Eagles
10. Mark Clayton, Ravens
11. Nate Washington, Steelers
12. Hank Baskett, Eagles
13. Demetrius Williams, Ravens

Conference Championship Tight Ends

1. Heath Miller, Steelers
2. Todd Heap, Ravens
3. Brent Celek, Eagles
4. L.J. Smith, Eagles
5. Daniel Wilcox, Ravens
6. Matt Schobel, Eagles

Conference Championship Team Defense

1. Steelers
2. Ravens
3. Eagles
4. Cardinals

Conference Championship Kickers

1. David Akers, Eagles
2. Neil Rackers, Cardinals
3. Jeff Reed, Steelers
4. Matt Stover, Ravens

[Hache Man]

Senior Bowl Preview
Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Alabama will play host to the 60th annual Senior Bowl on Saturday, January 24. While the game is relevant for filming and entertainment purposes, practices consisting of one-on-one linemen competitions and 7-on-7 passing drills are considered the most valuable from a scouting perspective. Beginning Monday, the four-day practice week will present the first clues as to which seniors will sink and which will swim on draft weekend (April 25-26).

Last Year's Riser: That Flacco Kid

NFL teams are always wary of D-IAA quarterbacks. They rack up unheard of numbers against defensive backs that will never sniff a pro roster and get away with telegraphing passes with average physical ability. But Joe Flacco showed he was more league-ready than a heralded senior QB field of Chad Henne, Erik Ainge, and Colt Brennan with an eye-catching week. The poised 6'6/232-pounder's unmatched arm strength and deep-ball accuracy held up just fine against South Team DBs Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Leodis McKelvin, and Chevis Jackson, ultimately convincing the Ravens Flacco was worth trading up for at the 18th pick.

Last Year's Slider: UK's Best QB Since Tim Couch

2008 Senior Bowl practices exposed Kentucky QB Andre Woodson as a player destined for a draft-day fall. Though blessed with ideal size (6'4/227), a powerful arm, and an outstanding college resume, his struggles under the tutelage of detail-oriented 49ers offensive coordinator Mike Martz at Senior Week got the ball rolling on Woodson's descent. He exhibited an elongated delivery and inconsistent accuracy on short-to-intermediate throws. Woodson was not chosen until the sixth round, as the 12th QB off the board.

Ringer Backing Out?

Javon Ringer, Mel Kiper's No. 1 running back prospect heading into last season, is considering backing out of the week's activities after an outrageous senior-year workload. The 5'9/202-pound fourth-year senior rang up 390 carries in 2008, topping 25 totes in 9-of-13 games. The Senior Bowl already has a replacement lined up in Purdue's Kory Sheets. It's only natural to wonder if Ringer is secretly nursing an injury, particularly after he closed out the year averaging a paltry 2.9 yards per carry in his last four games. Unless a valid reason is given, skipping the Senior Bowl is widely frowned upon.

Bengals, Jags Get the Nod This Year

Mike Nolan's 49ers coached the Senior Bowl South Team annually from 2006-2008, but interim coach Mike Singletary led San Francisco to a 5-2 finish and the Niners will not have the "opportunity" again. The two teams with the best staff continuity but worst possible records fall in line, so Marvin Lewis' Bengals and Jack Del Rio's Jaguars get the honors in 2009. Nolan's Niners often hit on the Senior Bowl invitees they drafted (see Patrick Willis, Parys Haralson, Joe Staley, Jason Hill, Michael Robinson). The advantage of seeing how these players react to specific coaching styles is significant.

Update: WVU's White Will Stay at QB…For Now

Everybody expects the Mountaineers' dual-threat southpaw to change positions in the pros, but Pat White's plan for now is to play quarterback during Senior Week practices. A highly accurate collegiate passer, White has inarguably earned the chance after completing 64.8% of his attempts in three and a half years as West Virginia's starter and posting a 48:23 touchdown-to-interception ratio. No matter the position at which he ends up, pro teams will find ways for White to make an impact. There is already word circulating that Bill Parcells' Dolphins have White ticketed for a role in their Wildcat offense.

USC's Continued Dominance

Pete Carroll is the most well-represented college coach at Senior Week. Six Rose Bowl winners will hit the practice field Monday, two of whom (MLB Rey Maualuga and SLB Brian Cushing) are surefire first-rounders. Southern Cal's other four invitees are WR Patrick Turner, DE/OLB Clay Matthews, DE Kyle Moore, and DT Fili Moala. Carroll's team will still be strong in 2009, however. Highly regarded S Taylor Mays, RB C.J. Gable, and CB Josh Pinkard announced that they will return for their senior seasons and USC has plenty of options to replace early entrant quarterback Mark Sanchez, including 2006 Parade HS Player of the Year Mitch Mustain, dual-threat Aaron Corp, and 2007 Gatorade National Player of the Year Matt Barkley. The Trojans don't rebuild, they reload.

Small School Love

Three players to watch from small schools at this year's Senior Bowl are Jackson State CB Domonique Johnson, Liberty RB Rashad Jennings, and Cal Poly WR Ramses Barden. Johnson had five picks as a senior, offers ideal size (6'2/200) at his position, and could be this year's version of Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. A former Pitt transfer like Flacco, Jennings has been known to run his forty in the mid-4.4s and goes 6'1/230. He won Big South Offensive Player of the Year twice in a row. Barden, at a Plaxico Burress-like 6'6/227, averaged 25.7 yards per catch as a senior and scored a touchdown in 20 consecutive games.

Hot Topics Notebook

Attendees of this week's East-West Shrine Game drooled over a YouTube video of San Jose State DL Jarron Gilbert. Gilbert shows amazing lower-body explosion by leaping out of a pool from an underwater start. At 6'6/287 Gilbert will likely be a 3-4 defensive end at the next level....At the same event Mizzou QB Chase Daniel weighed in at 6'0/218 after being listed at 6'1/225 as a Tiger. Daniel also has shown predictably poor arm strength in workouts....Texas A&M's Michael Bennett has been dominated by Alberta OT Simon Rottier during East-West practice drills. Bennett is considered one of this year's top ten senior defensive ends and getting worked over by a CFL prospect looks bad....North Carolina WR Brandon Tate, who tore his ACL in October, won't play in the Senior Bowl but NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock hears he'll be ready for February's Combine. Despite the injury, Mayock has Tate ranked first among his senior wideouts in this year's class....Early entrant LeSean McCoy is Rotoworld's favorite to run the fastest forty time among tailbacks at the Combine. We're picking Maryland's Darrius Heyward-Bey to run the fastest among wideouts....As rumor has it, underclassman RB Glen Coffee was forced out at Alabama because Nick Saban had already declared rising sophomore Mark Ingram his 2009 starter...Sanchez's decision to leave for the draft early was openly bashed by Pete Carroll at Sanchez's own press conference. While some are criticizing the Trojans' coach for ruining the moment, it's more likely that Carroll was right and Sanchez just isn't ready for the pros. Carroll never throws his players (or former players) under the bus.

[Hache Man]

Live from Mobile: Day 1
Today featured the first practice of the week at the 2009 Senior Bowl. A number of quarterbacks, running backs, and receivers performed well and raised their draft stock. Here are my notes from today's practice:

1. QB Rhett Bomar from Sam Houston State is a player to keep an eye on. He's a former transfer from Oklahoma. Bomar has a rocket for an arm with a very quick release. He is ahead of Texas Tech's Graham Harrell as the top senior quarterback in this year's draft and should be taken in the 3rd or 4th Round.

2. Penn State wide receiver Derrick Williams played well today. He showed great explosiveness and quickness along with reliable hands in the passing game. He was also working as a kick returner. Williams could be 2009's Eddie Royal as a shorter, quicker receiver who makes an immediate impact both on offense and in the return game.

3. Cal Poly receiver Ramses Barden is a huge target a 6-6, 227 lbs. He has a long stride and does the small things well. Barden could see his stock rise as we get closer to the draft.

4. QB Graham Harrell showed inconsistencies today. It's clear that it will him some time to adjust from Texas Tech's spread offense to a pro-style system.

5. Purdue RB Kory Sheets stood out today and could be a nice third-down back for the team that drafts him. Among the seniors, there isn't a player who I think is a must-have. Rashad Jennings from Liberty is a player to keep an eye on.

6. Washington State WR Brandon Gibson and North Carolina WR Brooks Foster both played well today and could see their stock rise.

7. Brandon Pettigrew of Oklahoma State is expected to be the first tight end taken this year. He is a complete tight end and could be a nice player to target as a sleeper in fantasy drafts next season.

[Hache Man]

Live From Mobile: Day 2

With today being the first full day of practices, we got the chance to see both the North and South squads. Here are the players that stood out the most:

1. QB Rhett Bomar – If there is a quarterback down here that is going to have an impact next season, it's going to be Bomar. He's by far the most pro-ready of any of the signal callers in Mobile and could be taken in the third round.

2. RB Jeremiah Johnson – The former Oregon Duck impressed me today. Johnson showed great quickness and explosiveness as a runner. He has good cutback ability and is a player to keep an eye on for next season.

3. RB Rashad Jennings – A bit of an unknown prospect entering the week, Jennings is a former transfer from Pittsburgh. Jennings has ideal size (6'1/234) to be an every-down back and the tools needed to start in the NFL. He has great strength along with good speed.

4. RB Kory Sheets – Sheets continues to impress this week. He has shown excellent hands and could be an ideal fit for a third-down back role at the next level.

5. WR Ramses Barden – This is a player you need to keep an eye on. Barden has a tall, lanky frame, but catches almost everything that is thrown his way. He reminds me of a stronger Plaxico Burress. Barden has a long stride and is capable of catching the ball in the middle of the field.

6. WR Derrick Williams – The Penn State alum has looked excellent as a receiver. He explodes out of his breaks while running crisp routes. Williams has very good hands and is making a case to be the first senior receiver taken in the draft. He's struggled a bit as a punt returner, which is something that he needs to work on at the next level.

7. WR Mike Thomas and Mike Wallace - Both played well today. Thomas is extremely quick and explosive, while Wallace is a nice deep threat. Thomas is an experienced returner and could see action on special teams at the next level. Thomas played well last week at the East-West Shrine Game and continues to raise his draft stock this week.

8. TE Brandon Pettigrew – Pettigrew is a very good prospect at the tight end position. He has a great frame, along with very good strength and speed. Pettigrew is a complete tight end, being able to catch the ball well and work as an added blocker on the line of scrimmage. He's a big target and could be a great red-zone threat at the next level.

9. K Louis Sakoda/Pat McAfee – Both of the kickers did a good job in practice today. Sakoda displayed a strong, accurate leg while McAfee looked excellent on kickoff drills.

I was told that Michigan State running back Javon Ringer could be on a downward spiral. After dealing with injuries during his career, a 390 carry season in 2008, and a recent knee surgery that took him out of the Senior Bowl, there's talk building that Ringer's stock could be dropping fast. His durability for the future is being questioned by scouts and he may drop to the second day.

[Hache Man]

A mismatch? Not so fast
10 reasons why Super Bowl XLIII is not a mismatch …

1. Kurt Warner makes quick decisions

To hang with the Steelers, you need an intelligent quarterback that gets rid of the ball quickly. That's Kurt Warner in a nutshell. As Warner showed in the NFC Championship, there aren't many blitzes he hasn't seen. Immobile 38-year-old quarterbacks only last if they know where pressure is coming from.

Pittsburgh will get their licks in, so you also need a tough quarterback. Perhaps no quarterback delivered more completions this season while getting leveled. Warner always gets up.

2. They can win the turnover battle.

Pittsburgh's defense is historically good, but Arizona actually forced one more regular season turnover. The Cardinals have turned it up during the playoffs with eleven takeaways in only three games. Pittsburgh also forces lots of mistakes, so Kurt Warner must keep his head on a swivel. He's had a fumbling problem, through his career, but has yet to fumble in the playoffs. If that continues, Arizona should win the most important stat other than the final score.

3. The Cardinals have the most dominant player in the game.

Larry Fitzgerald is changing the way we think about wide receivers. Traditional football logic says that the further away you are from the ball, the less valuable you are. But Fitzgerald is dominating the playoffs like no one else. How can you defend Fitzgerald if he's doesn't need to be open to pull down catches?

The other great players in this Super Bowl rely on their teammates more than Fitzgerald. Troy Polamalu's awesome instincts are possible because of his mind-meld with free safety Ryan Clark, who lets him roam free. James Harrison is a great pass rusher, but his linemen do much of his dirty work.

Fitzgerald, on the other hand, is practically doing it all on his own. Try to stop him.

4. They have speed over the middle.

Honestly, it's hard to find a flaw in the Pittsburgh defense. But squint hard and you can see they occasionally look slow in the middle of the field. Opposing teams have done well when isolating players on Steelers inside linebackers, especially 33-year-old James Farrior. Running backs Kevin Faulk, Tashard Choice, Chris Johnson, and Ray Rice have all made key plays against the Steelers by out-running Farrior.

Arizona will not bother running much, but J.J. Arrington and Tim Hightower should be factors in the receiving game. Their speed could give Pittsburgh problems while they are double covering Larry Fitzgerald. Slot guy Steve Breaston can also make plays over the middle.

5. The Steelers aren't unbeatable with a lead.

These are not your father's Steelers on offense. The lack of a consistent running game hampers their ability to pull away from teams. They have won decisively in the playoffs, but Pittsburgh made their reputation in the regular season out of knuckle-scraping wins. They have won fewer than half their games by more than one score. Why expect it in the biggest game of the year?

6. The Cardinals can confuse the Steelers offensive line.

Pittsburgh's big men up front have improved in the playoffs, but they struggled during the season to recognize blitzing linebackers. Dallas did a great job pressuring the Steelers up the middle by disguising their intentions. Baltimore also effectively confused the Steelers in their regular season matchups.

No team is more creative and varied sending pressure than the Cardinals, led by mad scientist defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast. Some critics say Arizona is too creative, but they will mentally test Pittsburgh's line.

7. The Cardinals are at their best when things look worse.

The Cardinals coughed up a ten-point lead in the final three minutes against Dallas before calmly winning the game in overtime. They lost two December games by a combined score of 82-21, and then ripped off four straight wins. The Eagles tied a record for the greatest comeback in NFC Championship game history, so the Cardinals responded with a slow fourth-quarter march for the ages.

What more can happen to this team? They may lose on Super Bowl Sunday, but they won't shrink when the going gets tough.

8. Arizona has their own Troy Polamalu.

Adrian Wilson has been the NFC's best safety over the last five years. He's a physical specimen that is less rangy than Polamalu, but his intelligence and strength are awesome.

2008 wasn't Wilson's finest campaign, but he's playing his best when it counts. Wilson recorded seven tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble in the NFC Championship. As an eight-year veteran who has only played for the Cardinals, this game will mean something extra for hm.

9. Head coach Ken Whisenhunt and Offensive line coach Russ Grimm know the Steelers well

Jon Gruden was the last coach to face his former team in the Super Bowl. Many players in that game claim that Tampa's defense called out Oakland's plays before they happened. While that isn't likely to happen this time, Whisenhunt knows how to frustrate Ben Roethlisberger.

Whisenhunt won't waste time learning the strengths and weaknesses of Pittsburgh's personnel; it's all in his head. And Whisenhunt's offense will be prepared for Steelers defensive coordinator Dick Lebeau's zone blitzes because Whiz faced them every day in practice. If the Cardinals could beat Pittsburgh last regular season with an inferior team, they can keep it close this time.

10. No upset is too great.

Haven't we learned anything yet? The Arizona freaking Cardinals are in the Super Bowl! In the last three years, two six seeds have won the Super Bowl as Wild Cards.

The Steelers have a historically good defense, but they aren't a historically good team. And David Tyree's ghostwriter will be happy to remind you that historically good teams don't always seal the deal.

Forget the "worst team in playoff history" thing already. The Carolina Panthers were undefeated at home, and lost by 20 to Arizona. The Cardinals are rightful underdogs against Pittsburgh, but don't get carried away. We have no idea what is going to happen. That's why we watch.

[Hache Man]

2009 Draft: Mock It Down
Like last year, this draft class is teeming with talent at offensive tackle. The top linemen will likely go off the board even quicker than 2008, when Jeff Otah, Ryan Clady, Jake Long, and Branden Albert all became immediate impact starters. There also is no shortage on cornerbacks and the receiver group puts last year's to shame. The quarterbacks are extremely weak, but overall this draft should prove to be one of the most successful in years. There are at least 20 first-round caliber seniors and 50 incoming underclassmen.

It's a little early to start mocking, but GMs and coaches have held their year-ending press conferences and provided offseason agendas. While that information is fresh on the mind, we may as well take our first crack at predicting round one.

1. Lions - Virginia LT Eugene Monroe

Among starting left tackles, only Jason Peters, Duane Brown, and John St. Clair gave up more sacks than Lions LT Jeff Backus in 2008. GM Martin Mayhew will consider a QB here, but Matthew Stafford's accuracy issues and Mark Sanchez's lack of ideal experience make them too risky. The Lions can hope Sanchez falls to them at No. 20, where they draft again. But they must hit on the first pick. At 6'6/315, Monroe is the most well put together blind-side tackle in this draft. His strength is his feet.

2. Rams - Texas DE Brian Orakpo

The foundation of new coach Steve Spagnuolo's 4-3 defense is pressure. Orakpo, who racked up 11.5 sacks as a senior and won the Nagurski Award as the nation's best defender, is tailor made to play weak-side end in a four-man front. Adding Orakpo would allow 2008 top pick Chris Long to move to left end, where his run-stopping ability would be capitalized on in a Justin Tuck-like role.

3. Chiefs - Georgia QB Matthew Stafford

Stafford's consistency is an issue, but the same was said of Matt Ryan last year. GM Scott Pioli can take a page from former understudy Tom Dimitroff, Atlanta's football boss, and select the draft's most pro-ready QB to build his franchise around. The Chiefs have a budding star LT (Branden Albert) and two weapons (Dwayne Bowe, Tony Gonzalez) to support the youngster. They can wait until round two for a needed edge rusher like Paul Kruger (Utah) or Michael Johnson (Georgia Tech).

4. Seahawks - Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree

GM Tim Ruskell has identified wideout as a major area of need for the offseason. Seattle hasn't drafted a receiver in the first round since Koren Robinson in 2001, but now is the time. Nate Burleson is coming off a torn ACL and has been slow to pick up the offense. The Seahawks can start Crabtree at split end opposite Deion Branch and be competitive in Jim Mora's first year.

5. Browns - Penn State DE Aaron Maybin

Ex-GM Phil Savage's theory that Shaun Rogers and Corey Williams would increase OLB Kamerion Wimbley's pass-rushing opportunities seemed sensible in 2008, but it didn't pan out. Wimbley appears to have lost confidence while seeing incessant double teams since his 11-sack rookie year. At 6'4/236, Maybin is well built to play OLB in the 3-4 and could divert attention from Wimbley on the opposite side.

6. Bengals - Boston College DT B.J. Raji

The Bengals coveted Sedrick Ellis last April and almost certainly would've drafted him ninth had New Orleans not traded up for Ellis at the No. 7 pick. Raji is an inch and 29 pounds bigger, and just as disruptive. Adding a widebody to pair with Domata Peko would clear lanes for LBs Keith Rivers and Dhani Jones to make plays, which is defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer's ideal scenario.

7. Raiders - Baylor LT Jason Smith

Drafting a franchise left tackle probably makes too much sense for owner Al Davis, but Smith is arguably the most well-rounded player at the position in this draft. The Raiders have become a run-oriented team and Smith is a brute in the ground game with a non-stop motor, long arms, and devastating punch for zone blocking. As a converted tight end, he's also athletic enough for the system. The Mario Henderson and Kwame Harris experiments need to end in Oakland.

8. Jaguars - Alabama LT Andre Smith

Jacksonville has a king-sized hole to fill with incumbent LT Khalif Barnes headed to free agency. Though some prematurely pegged Smith as the No. 1 pick when the Crimson Tide topped national rankings (weight issues, short arms are red flags), he's still top-ten material at an immovable 6'4/340. The Jaguars' offense is run heavy and that's an area where Smith dominates. New GM Gene Smith also wants to draft for value, and Smith would arguably be the best player available.

9. Packers - Virginia OLB Clint Sintim

The Packers easily have the best chance to make the 2009 playoffs of any team drafting in the top ten and need a ready-made rush linebacker for their new 3-4. Sintim couldn't be a better fit. The fifth-year senior started at OLB in Al Groh's 3-4 defense for the past four seasons, registering 20 sacks in his final two years. Brady Poppinga, Brandon Chillar, and possibly AJ Hawk could compete to be his bookend outside.

10. 49ers - Ohio State CB Malcolm Jenkins

The Niners feel good about nickel back Tarell Brown's potential, but he's on the small side for an every-down corner in Mike Singletary's system. Jenkins boasts a 6'1/201-pound build, elite tackling skills that have drawn comparisons to fellow ex-Buckeye Nate Clements, and immediate starting ability. The 49ers also have a weakness at free safety and Jenkins has played that position before.

11. Bills - North Carolina WR Hakeem Nicks

Buffalo took a stab at finding Lee Evans' complement last year, tabbing James Hardy in round two. Hardy developed extremely slowly before tearing his ACL and can't be relied on for next season. With sensational ball skills and good size (6'1/215), Nicks would give the Bills a T.J. Houshmandzadeh-like possession presence and a go-to option inside the 20.

12. Broncos - USC ILB Rey Maualuga

Denver needs a banger for the middle of its new 3-4. With DEs Elvis Dumervil and Jarvis Moss moving to outside linebacker, Maualuga (6'2/254) would set the tone up the gut while D.J. Williams makes plays sideline to sideline. Some early projections had Maualuga higher than this, but his stock took a slight hit after reporting to the Senior Bowl out of shape and failing to stand out in early practices.

13. Redskins - Mississippi LT Michael Oher

Oher has unfairly been picked apart since being featured in Michael Lewis' best-seller The Blind Side. It isn't like anyone watched Ole Miss to see Cordera Eason, Dexter McCluster, or Jevan Snead after the book came out. Oher reported to the Senior Bowl in tip-top condition and dominated in practices. The Skins need tackle help badly with Jon Jansen and Chris Samuels battling bad knees.

14. Saints - Wake Forest LB Aaron Curry

New DC Gregg Williams runs a pressure-based scheme and Curry's Julian Peterson-style skill set would immediately upgrade the team's weak-side position. Incumbent Scott Shanle doesn't track ball carriers sideline to sideline like Curry, who runs 4.6 and lived in opposing backfields as a Demon Deacon (16 tackles for loss in 2008). Rarely does such a complete 4-3 linebacker come along.

15. Texans - Florida State DE Everette Brown

Mario Williams is amazingly productive (26.5 sacks in 2007-08) despite facing double teams on virtually every snap, but it's high time Houston got him help. As explosive a defender as there is in this draft, Brown notched 13.5 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss as 21-year-old last season. New defensive boss Frank Bush vows to get better line play and another legitimate edge presence is how to start. Imagine what havoc Mario could cause with one-on-one opportunities.



16. Chargers - Georgia RB Knowshon Moreno

All signs point to San Diego cutting ties with LaDainian Tomlinson. GM A.J. Smith annually fills holes through the draft and will likely do the same this year if he can't get free agent Darren Sproles re-signed. Even if Sproles does re-up, the Bolts will need a back capable of playing on three downs to pair him with. Moreno is a poor man's LT with great hands and open-field shake and bake.

17. Jets - USC QB Mark Sanchez

Sanchez's tools are right there with Stafford's, but he hasn't put enough on film to allow for a proper evaluation. 16 college starts dangerously puts him in the Akili Smith range and Pete Carroll's disapproval of Sanchez's decision to leave school early surely wasn't received well by the NFL. That said, the Jets need a quarterback with an arm strong enough to cut through the Meadowland winds. Sanchez can develop for a year behind Brett Favre (or Kellen Clemens).

18. Bears - Missouri WR Jeremy Maclin

Maclin cried when he announced his decision to enter the draft and judging by the Bears' 2005 pick of Cedric Benson, GM Jerry Angelo likes criers. He also needs a receiver with separation skills. Maclin runs a 4.38 and boasts rare suddenness in a short area. He could be the deep threat Angelo thought Devin Hester would develop into.

19. Bucs - Oklahoma State TE Brandon Pettigrew

The most complete tight end to come out since Heath Miller, Pettigrew would provide a long-term answer at a position the Bucs invested too many free agent contracts and draft picks in during Jon Gruden's tenure. Tampa Bay hasn't found an offensive coordinator yet, but Pettigrew could excel in any scheme because of his solid speed, gigantic hands, and mean streak in the run game.

20. Lions (from Dallas) - Ohio State MLB James Laurinaitis

Whereas Rod Marinelli would have wanted a pure athlete at middle linebacker, new coach Jim Schwartz will target a hitter. Laurinaitis' addition would allow 2008 second-round pick Jordon Dizon to focus on outside linebacker and quickly make the Lions forget the Paris Lenon era. Detroit would do extremely well to emerge from the first round with both Laurinaitis and Eugene Monroe.

21. Eagles - Ohio State RB Chris Wells

Brian Westbrook broke down during the Eagles' stretch run, averaging just 2.93 yards per carry in the six last games including the playoffs. Wells' long-striding style and lack of ideal power for his size (6'1/237) make him a risky draft pick, but Westbrook turns 30 next season and probably is no longer capable of being an every-down back for 16 games.

22. Vikings - Mississippi DT Peria Jerry

The Williams Wall is expected to avoid 2009 suspension after testing positive for a banned substance last season, but Minnesota never did replace valuable third DT Spencer Johnson. Jerry, a prolific up-field pass rusher, paced the SEC in tackles for loss as a senior. The Vikings could start him next to Kevin Williams after Pat Williams, 36, hangs up his cleats.

23. Patriots - Utah CB Sean Smith

Smith was used at tailback, wideout, corner, and nickel back by the Utes and the Patriots love versatility. The fourth-year junior goes 6'3/214 and likely could even play safety in a pinch. New England hasn't given up on 2008 second-round pick Terrence Wheatley and his chronic wrist problems yet, but Ellis Hobbs' rookie contract expires after 2009 and the Pats could find creative ways to use Smith. They're sorely in need of a shutdown corner.

24. Falcons - USC OLB Brian Cushing

Atlanta will likely let SLB Michael Boley walk in free agency after benching him for special teamer Coy Wire down the stretch in 2008. The Falcons have holes to fill at both outside positions with WLB Keith Brooking not expected back. A Chad Greenway clone, Cushing played the strong side under Pete Carroll but would be a WILL linebacker in Mike Smith's system.

25. Dolphins - Illinois CB Vontae Davis

Three of Miami's four incumbent starting DBs (Renaldo Hill, Yeremiah Bell, and Andre' Goodman) are headed for free agency. It's an area of immediate need because the Fins haven't developed anyone behind them. Davis (6'0/205) has the size Dolphins VP of Football Operations Bill Parcells covets in a corner. He'd step right into the starting lineup opposite 30-year-old LCB Will Allen.

26. Ravens - Vanderbilt CB D.J. Moore

Linebacker would seem to be Baltimore's biggest concern with Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, and Bart Scott all free agents. But GM Ozzie Newsome has prepared for this by picking up rookies Tavares Gooden, Antwan Barnes, Jameel McClain, and Edgar Jones in the last two years. Corner is a far greater need with Chris McAlister set to be released, Fabian Washington entering a contract year, and Samari Rolle turning 33 in the offseason.

27. Colts - Pittsburgh RB LeSean McCoy

Joseph Addai's yards-per-carry average has declined sharply (4.8, 4.1, 3.5) in each of his three years. Addai was most effective when he was in a strict committee with Dominic Rhodes as a rookie. A speed back with tons of pass-catching experience (65 catches in two college seasons), McCoy would be a homerun threat on draw plays Colts offensive coordinator Tom Moore often runs.

28. Eagles (from Carolina) - Western Michigan FS Louis Delmas

Delmas has drawn raves at the Senior Bowl for his attacking style in run support, ability to cover center field, and instincts. The Eagles can probably squeeze one more year out of Brian Dawkins, 35, but can't expect anything beyond that. Delmas would replace free agent Sean Considine as Philadelphia's third safety and move into the starting lineup when Dawkins retires in 2010. Offensive tackle will also be a strong consideration for the Eagles.

29. Giants - Rutgers WR Kenny Britt

Mario Manningham gave the Giants nothing in his first season and New York has all but thrown its hands up with 2006 second-round pick Sinorice Moss. Amani Toomer is a free agent, Domenik Hixon is best in a supporting role, and Plaxico Burress will probably open 2009 on suspension if he's cleared of illegal gun possession charges. Britt, a local hero from Rutgers, is physical enough to make an instant impact as both a vertical threat and over the middle.

30. Titans - Florida WR Percy Harvin

The Titans hit on a speed player with Chris Johnson in 2008. Harvin would give them another at an even bigger area of need. While Harvin's size -- he's listed generously at 5'11/195 -- is a concern, last year's successful small rookie receivers (DeSean Jackson, Eddie Royal, Davone Bess, Donnie Avery) will help Harvin on draft day. Harvin would be the homerun threat opposite possession receiver Justin Gage.

31. Cardinals* - San Jose State DE Jarron Gilbert

Gilbert is still a bit of an unknown, but he will work out extremely well and can back it up with production. He posted 22 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks as a senior. The star of the East-West Shrine, Gilbert (6'6/287) is built to play an attacking end position in the 3-4 defense. The Cardinals' hybrid 3-4 allows the ends to penetrate and they'll need a replacement for impending free agent DE Antonio Smith.

32. Steelers* - LSU OL Herman Johnson

Johnson won't satisfy Pittsburgh's pressing need on Ben Roethlisberger's blind side, but the team will probably bet able to get Marvel Smith back cheap and has 2008 fourth-rounder Tony Hills waiting in the wings. At 6'7/382, calling Johnson a mauler would be an understatement. He'd play right tackle, allowing Willie Colon to concentrate on being an interior lineman.

* = Assumes Steelers beat Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII

Just Missed: LSU DL Tyson Jackson, Utah DE Paul Kruger, Northern Illinois DE/OLB Larry English, UConn LT William Beatty, Alabama FS Rashad Johnson, Wake Forest CB Alphonso Smith, USC DE/OLB Clay Matthews, Missouri SS William Moore, California C Alex Mack, Maryland WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, Georgia Tech DE Michael Johnson, Arizona OT Eben Britton, Oregon C Max Unger

[Hache Man]

Senior Bowl Practice: Day 4
Coming into this week at the Senior Bowl there were several prospects who had questions marks that they needed to answer. We saw several prospects both raise and lower their draft stock, and some who went from an unknown prospect to a legitimate first day pick.

Top 5 Risers

B.J. Raji DT Boston College – Entering the week, Raji was being projected as a mid-first round pick. However, after absolutely dominating this week, Raji has elevated his stock and now could go in the Top 10. He showed excellent strength and power as well as an outstanding ability to rush the passer as a 343 lb lineman.

Coye Francies CB San Jose State – Francies came into Mobile as an unknown prospect from a school that doesn't regularly produce NFL talent. Over the course of the week, he showed he has excellent man coverage skills, is a physical cover man, and has the tools needed to be a shutdown corner. Francies went form a mid-round pick to a likely first-day pick.

Louis Delmas S Western Michigan – Delmas positioned himself this week as the top safety in the 2009 draft. He showed great aggressiveness and a willingness to come up and be a consistent defender against the run. I feel that Delmas has elevated his stock the Early-2nd Round.

Shawn Nelson TE Southern Miss – Nelson, known most as a receiving tight end, showed good hands this week. However, what stood out the most was his blocking ability, especially on one play where he pancaked USC linebacker Rey Maualuga. Nelson has gone from a mid-round selection to an Early-Day 2 pick.

Kory Sheets RB Purdue – Sheets came into the week as a replacement for Javon Ringer, however his play was far better than anyone could have expected. Sheets showed explosion along with outstanding hands out of the backfield. He has gone from a potential undrafted free agent to a mid-round pick.


Top 5 Fallers

Phil Loadholt OT Oklahoma – Loadholt has outstanding size (6-8, 343 lbs), however his lack of quickness is what hurts him. His feet were slow this week and he was almost consistently beat by the speed pass rushers. He's a better fit at right tackle than at left, and has gone from a second round pick to more of a third or fourth rounder.

William Moore S Missouri – Moore may have been more disappointing than any other player down in Mobile. He came into the week as the top safety on many people's boards, however he did nothing to impress. Some scouts are even beginning to suggest that Moore should move to linebacker at the next level. He went from a sure-Day 1 pick to a potential third rounder.

Scott McKillop LB Pittsburgh – McKillop didn't show the athleticism that many scouts were hoping he would this week. His speed isn't at the same level as the rest of the linebackers and he may have dropped to a late-round status.

Troy Kropog OT Tulane – Kropog was a player that was a bit of an unknown this week, but he did nothing to suggest that scouts should keep an eye on him. Kropog was beat consistently in pass rush drills and is more of a mid-late round project now.

Cullen Harper QB Clemson – At one point earlier in the season, Harper was the top senior quarterback on team's boards. That is as far from the truth now, as Harper's stock has dropped as much as anyone's since the season began. Harper showed inconsistent accuracy and decent, but not great arm strength. He's now being graded as a mid-late round project for the team that drafts him.

[Hache Man]

A mismatch? Not so fast
10 reasons why Super Bowl XLIII is not a mismatch …

1. Kurt Warner makes quick decisions

To hang with the Steelers, you need an intelligent quarterback that gets rid of the ball quickly. That's Kurt Warner in a nutshell. As Warner showed in the NFC Championship, there aren't many blitzes he hasn't seen. Immobile 38-year-old quarterbacks only last if they know where pressure is coming from.

Pittsburgh will get their licks in, so you also need a tough quarterback. Perhaps no quarterback delivered more completions this season while getting leveled. Warner always gets up.

2. They can win the turnover battle.

Pittsburgh's defense is historically good, but Arizona actually forced one more regular season turnover. The Cardinals have turned it up during the playoffs with eleven takeaways in only three games. Pittsburgh also forces lots of mistakes, so Kurt Warner must keep his head on a swivel. He's had a fumbling problem, through his career, but has yet to fumble in the playoffs. If that continues, Arizona should win the most important stat other than the final score.

3. The Cardinals have the most dominant player in the game.

Larry Fitzgerald is changing the way we think about wide receivers. Traditional football logic says that the further away you are from the ball, the less valuable you are. But Fitzgerald is dominating the playoffs like no one else. How can you defend Fitzgerald if he's doesn't need to be open to pull down catches?

The other great players in this Super Bowl rely on their teammates more than Fitzgerald. Troy Polamalu's awesome instincts are possible because of his mind-meld with free safety Ryan Clark, who lets him roam free. James Harrison is a great pass rusher, but his linemen do much of his dirty work.

Fitzgerald, on the other hand, is practically doing it all on his own. Try to stop him.

4. They have speed over the middle.

Honestly, it's hard to find a flaw in the Pittsburgh defense. But squint hard and you can see they occasionally look slow in the middle of the field. Opposing teams have done well when isolating players on Steelers inside linebackers, especially 33-year-old James Farrior. Running backs Kevin Faulk, Tashard Choice, Chris Johnson, and Ray Rice have all made key plays against the Steelers by out-running Farrior.

Arizona will not bother running much, but J.J. Arrington and Tim Hightower should be factors in the receiving game. Their speed could give Pittsburgh problems while they are double covering Larry Fitzgerald. Slot guy Steve Breaston can also make plays over the middle.

5. The Steelers aren't unbeatable with a lead.

These are not your father's Steelers on offense. The lack of a consistent running game hampers their ability to pull away from teams. They have won decisively in the playoffs, but Pittsburgh made their reputation in the regular season out of knuckle-scraping wins. They have won fewer than half their games by more than one score. Why expect it in the biggest game of the year?

6. The Cardinals can confuse the Steelers offensive line.

Pittsburgh's big men up front have improved in the playoffs, but they struggled during the season to recognize blitzing linebackers. Dallas did a great job pressuring the Steelers up the middle by disguising their intentions. Baltimore also effectively confused the Steelers in their regular season matchups.

No team is more creative and varied sending pressure than the Cardinals, led by mad scientist defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast. Some critics say Arizona is too creative, but they will mentally test Pittsburgh's line.

7. The Cardinals are at their best when things look worse.

The Cardinals coughed up a ten-point lead in the final three minutes against Dallas before calmly winning the game in overtime. They lost two December games by a combined score of 82-21, and then ripped off four straight wins. The Eagles tied a record for the greatest comeback in NFC Championship game history, so the Cardinals responded with a slow fourth-quarter march for the ages.

What more can happen to this team? They may lose on Super Bowl Sunday, but they won't shrink when the going gets tough.

8. Arizona has their own Troy Polamalu.

Adrian Wilson has been the NFC's best safety over the last five years. He's a physical specimen that is less rangy than Polamalu, but his intelligence and strength are awesome.

2008 wasn't Wilson's finest campaign, but he's playing his best when it counts. Wilson recorded seven tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble in the NFC Championship. As an eight-year veteran who has only played for the Cardinals, this game will mean something extra for hm.

9. Head coach Ken Whisenhunt and Offensive line coach Russ Grimm know the Steelers well

Jon Gruden was the last coach to face his former team in the Super Bowl. Many players in that game claim that Tampa's defense called out Oakland's plays before they happened. While that isn't likely to happen this time, Whisenhunt knows how to frustrate Ben Roethlisberger.

Whisenhunt won't waste time learning the strengths and weaknesses of Pittsburgh's personnel; it's all in his head. And Whisenhunt's offense will be prepared for Steelers defensive coordinator Dick Lebeau's zone blitzes because Whiz faced them every day in practice. If the Cardinals could beat Pittsburgh last regular season with an inferior team, they can keep it close this time.

10. No upset is too great.

Haven't we learned anything yet? The Arizona freaking Cardinals are in the Super Bowl! In the last three years, two six seeds have won the Super Bowl as Wild Cards.

The Steelers have a historically good defense, but they aren't a historically good team. And David Tyree's ghostwriter will be happy to remind you that historically good teams don't always seal the deal.

Forget the "worst team in playoff history" thing already. The Carolina Panthers were undefeated at home, and lost by 20 to Arizona. The Cardinals are rightful underdogs against Pittsburgh, but don't get carried away. We have no idea what is going to happen. That's why we watch.

[Hache Man]

Storylines you won't tire of
Gregg Rosenthal is in Tampa all week long for Super Bowl XLIII. Check him out on NBCSports.com, their Super Bowl page and the Overheard in Tampa blog he's doing with the estimable Tom Curran. Or you can just be lazy and wait for him to possibly post the stuff here. Unless he's too lazy to do it.

It goes without saying that the week before the Super Bowl is over-hyped and some stories will be beaten into our collective brain until we want to scream. We can even anticipate the tiring stories about the hype before they happen.

One antidote to all the noise is to focus on the football and personalities that make this matchup great. Here's a look at ten storylines you won't get tired of this week.

1. Dick Lebeau's going away present?

The 71-year-old Steelers defensive coordinator is football. His life in the NFL has spanned 50 years, predating the Super Bowl era. His days as a ferocious cornerback with the Detroit Lions were immortalized by three Pro Bowl appearances and a starring role in the classic book Paper Lion. His time as a coach has been marked by innovation, consistency, and undying loyalty from his charges. Now there are unconfirmed rumors that his career could end in Tampa.

Let's hope the attention Lebeau gets will start a groundswell for his inclusion in the Football Hall of Fame as a player/coach. Football's story wouldn't be complete without a paragraph for the inventor of the Zone blitz and the seventh leading interceptor of all time.

Lebeau, always reticent and deadpan, will shudder if he becomes a big story. Like so many other football lifers, it has never been about the spotlight. It's about the love of the game, the love of his team, and the ability to teach that love to his players. That's a story we don't hear enough.

2. Edgerrin James' return to the big stage

The grill is gone, but the sense of humor and intelligence is still there. In a league full of press conference drones, James' candor and perspective is welcome. For one week, it's Edge's world and we're just living in it.

Adding to the fun is that this will probably be James' last game with the Cardinals. His playoff rebound has been impressive, but he's still a league-average back with an above-average price tag.

That makes this game all the more important for Edge, who has never won a championship. James could bolster his Hall of Fame credentials by adding a Super Bowl ring.

3. Meet Adrian Wilson and James Harrison

Two of the NFL's best defenders will finally get noticed this week: Cardinals safety Adrian Wilson and Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison.

There just aren't many NFL talents like Wilson. Built like a linebacker, Wilson is equally adept at stuffing the run, blitzing the quarterback, and playing center field. He's also intelligent, well spoken, and has a burning passion for football. He's exactly the type of underrated player the league should be proud to introduce to America.

Harrison has replaced Ray Lewis as the most feared player in the NFL. In a locker room full of tough guy bravado, even his teammates are in awe of Harrison's size and power. You know a dude is strong when his teammates nickname him Silverback.

And, oh by the way, he's the most unknown reigning defensive MVP of the last twenty years. This is clearly a man we need to know more about. Just don't ask him any stupid questions.

4. Mike Tomlin, badass

Mike Tomlin is like a coaching version of Tim Tebow, but cooler. Stick Tomlin in your Chuck Norris-isms now.

Tomlin has the uncanny ability to say the exact right thing, but in the most badass and inspirational way possible. He makes skinny little media members like myself want to play football.

Tomlin, the youngest coach to reach the Super Bowl, makes it to the big game only two years after his mentor Tony Dungy was the first African-American coach to win the Lombardi Trophy. Now no one is even mentioning the storyline. That's progress.

5. The Steelers defense's bid for history

A great defense doesn't seem to capture the public's imagination like a juggernaut offense. The '08 Steelers have been especially overlooked. Inferior squads like Baltimore and Tennessee got more publicity during the season, but Pittsburgh's numbers are insane.

Make no mistake; this is a historical defense. Few teams have ever finished first in points allowed, yards allowed, passing yards allowed, and rushing yards-per-attempt allowed. Pittsburgh went 14 straight games to start the season without allowing 300 yards of offense, tying a post-merger record. What more do you want?

Perhaps the Steelers defense isn't well known because they don't have a nickname and play such a team game. Any player can emerge as the hero in a given week. If the Steelers survive its toughest test of the playoffs, they will go down among the greatest ever, right next to the '01 Ravens, the '85 Bears, and the Steel Curtain.

6. The Redemption of Anquan Boldin

Forget the sideline argument with offensive coordinator Todd Haley and the questions about his contract. Look at Boldin's career, and you'll find a team-first player who has been a leader – more so than quiet teammate Larry Fitzgerald. Boldin is a younger, better Hines Ward: incredibly tough, with great hands, but more explosive after the catch.

Boldin's hamstring injury has limited him in the playoffs, so the week off will help him physically. Mentally, he will be ready to explode after a week of hearing about his attitude "problem" and Fitzgerald's dominance. Add it all up and Boldin should be a difference-maker on Super Bowl Sunday.

7. Ryan Clark and Troy Polamalu's mind-meld

The Batman and Robin of the Super Bowl are stronger together than they are apart. Their personal histories are worth getting to know: Clark overcame a devastating sickle cell condition that cost him his bladder and spleen; Polamalu is soft-spoken and unconventional off the field, but a terror on it. Put them together and magic happens.

Polamalu is the star but teammates say that Clark makes it possible. While Polamalu roams, Clark plays centerfield covering for him. The two are said to share an incredible unspoken connection to anticipate each other's play. They will need it going against Arizona's trio of great wideouts.

8. The chess match between Ken Whisenhunt and his former team

In case you haven't already heard seven times, Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt and assistant head coach Russ Grimm were candidates to succeed Bill Cowher in Pittsburgh before Mike Tomlin beat out the insiders. This angle easily has the biggest potential for "Jerome Bettis is from Detroit" overexposure.

But look past the compelling personal narratives of the scorned ex-Steelers coaches and you see a better story that will take place on the field.

How will Whisenhunt try to rattle his former protégé, Ben Roethlisberger? How will Dick Lebeau surprise Whisenhunt with his complex blitz schemes when the two have faced each other in practice so often? The Cardinals coaches will try to continue their remarkable playoff run of perfect play calls because that's what it will take against Pittsburgh's dominant defense.

With the extra week to prepare, the Super Bowl often hinges on the game plan. Can Whisenhunt come up with one that will solve the Steelers defense and make him football royalty for life?

9. The Bidwells: Ultimate Underdogs

The Cardinals and Steelers are two of the seven franchises that built and defined the NFL in its formative years - 1930's and 40's. Along with the Giants, they are among the three teams who have their ownership date back to the '30's. When World War II ravaged the league's personnel, the Rooneys (Steelers) and Bidwells (Cardinals) actually joined forces to create one for the 1944 season, losing all ten of their games. They were supposed to be called Card-Pitt, but the rest of the league called them the Carpets.

Aside from the Chicago Cardinals' brief run in 1947-1948, both franchises remained doormats until the 1970's. Then Pittsburgh took a sharp turn towards a dynasty under Chuck Noll and now the Rooney's are aiming for their sixth Super Bowl title. The Cardinals, meanwhile, have stumbled through three cities without coming close to another championship game.

The Steelers are everything a NFL franchise is supposed to be, while the Cardinals have been the opposite. As far back as the 50's, the Cardinals were always looking to move, once almost selling the club to eventual Chiefs owner Clark Hunt. When the Bidwells held out for a better deal, Hunt started the AFL.

The Cardinals have a long history, but they are usually a punch line or forgotten entirely. They are the Tampa Bay Rays – if the Rays floundered for 60 years in three different cities. Through all the losing, the Bidwells have been the one constant. Perhaps no ownership group in NFL history has been despised and derided by fans in so many different locales.

Now one game will change how we view both teams. The Steelers are looking for their record sixth Super Bowl ring. The traveling Bidwells are after validation.

[Hache Man]

Media Day Musings

I focused most of my media day energy on some goofy videos that we'll get up on the site over the next few days. That didn't leave a lot of time for "football" questions, but that's what the rest of the week is for. I found last year that the sessions with the players from Wednesday-to-Friday were a lot more useful for getting good info. With that said, here are a few stray thoughts from the proceedings.

Both teams were very loose, unlike the Patriots last season. Media Day is inherently trivial and silly, but most of the players, especially the lesser ones, seem to enjoy the moment.

More than any player, Larry Fitzgerald inspires awe from his teammates. Everyone had a crazy Fitzgerald practice catch story to tell, and we'll get those up on the site shortly. Apparently he pulled off a one-handed cross-hand grab with his fingertips that is hard to imagine.

Ryan Clark and Adrian Wilson got the nods for the players who can lay the most wood on the field. Early Doucet said he's cautious around Wilson even in practice, when he knows they can't hit at full speed.

I hesitate to draw any conclusions from these gab-fests, but nothing about the Steelers smack of overconfidence. They are ready to play, but their healthy respect for the Arizona offense seems genuine. They also have enough new or young players who have talked about getting their ring. It's a good mix of youth, talent, and experience.

Surprise funniest player: Steelers C Justin Hartwig. He'll be a star of the videos.

I've come to the conclusion that tight ends are the scariest looking dudes on a football team. Heath Miller comes to mind. The offensive linemen are bigger, but they are the best talkers and not in conventionally great shape. My favorite story about some of the ridiculous eating that linemen undertake was about Max Starks. It seems he's developed a way to sneak cheeseburgers into meetings by pressing them under his arms. Then when the coach isn't looking, he takes a bite and puts it back. Yummy.

There were a lot of comments from the male population at the stadium about the impressive female talent this year. I concur. Maria Menuonous was a personal favorite. I give a lot of credit to the beat writer who essentially was hitting on her after it was over.

More than once, I saw a young defensive back tell Deion Sanders that he was their idol and ask for a picture. It's fun to see the pros acting like nervous kids.

The NFL Players have spoken: Madden '09 was a step backward.

Cardinals MLB Gerald Hayes complimented me on my sunglasses, and I have video proof below! My wife, of course, is responsible.

Other Media day videos include a look at what amazing things Larry Fitzgerald's insane practice feats and why Kurt Warner is so good. For more Super Bowl coverage all week, stop by NBCSports.com and Pancake Blocks. Disgusting self-promotion ... over.

[Hache Man]

The rebirth of Warner Kurt Warner already did the rags to riches story. He's done the rise from obscurity to dominance in the blink of an eye before. What he's doing for an encore with the Arizona Cardinals is far more rare; rising again, but from the inevitable decline of old age. Rising from mediocrity.

"Anytime a veteran player has had great success and then not had it, it's always something you admire, to see him come back to that level again," Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt said in Tampa. "Kurt has never been afraid to work."

Only one other quarterback has taken two teams to the Super Bowl: Craig Morton. The main reason for that bit of trivia is that teams won't give up on a Super Bowl quarterback until they are absolutely sure he is done. Two teams were sure Warner was done – the Rams and the Giants.

Don't forget the Cardinals benched Warner repeatedly over the last four years. While healthy, Warner once sat behind the immortal Josh McCown. To start the 2006 season, Warner fumbled eleven times and threw five interceptions in a four-game span before getting benched for Matt Leinart. Whisenhunt stuck with Leinart to open the 2007 season, and only fully committed to Warner when Leinart broke his collarbone.

Warner almost didn't even get a chance to pilot this team. Eight days before the season, after Leinart imploded during a preseason game, Whisenhunt says he "stayed up all night" before settling on Warner as his starter. In return, Warner gave his coach his first 16-game season since 2001 – the last time he was in the Super Bowl.

It's not just amazing that Warner has bounced back; it's how far. Warner finished second in the NFL in passing yards, third in passer rating, and third in touchdowns thrown. He was an MVP favorite until Arizona's late regular season swoon, and has played his best football in the playoffs with eight touchdowns and two picks. Warner's superlative effort now places him back in the Super Bowl, where he is this week's biggest attraction and best story.

Sometimes Kurt Warner the man can overshadow Warner the player. No player has attracted a larger media throng in the first few days, but no one asks about what he does on the field. Instead, we are fascinated with his leadership ability, his experience, his faith, his eerie calm, and his wife. They are all worthy subjects because Warner is genuinely a good guy, but his biography shouldn't overwhelm the primary reason we care: Kurt Warner is a player. He's got skills. Ask someone what makes Warner so great, and you will get a variety of answers.

Accuracy

The ability to accurately hit your target is the most important and underrated skill a quarterback can possess. It may be Warner's defining trait.

Drew Brees, a fellow Pro Bowler, is an unabashed Warner fan. "He's very accurate. He's got great anticipation."

Completion percentage is great, but Warner also throws the ball into exactly the right spot to allow his playmakers to run wild. Many of Anquan Boldin's big plays are passes near the line of scrimmage where Warner hits Q in perfect stride. It's not always the biggest arm that wins, but the one that throws a catchable a ball. His receivers appreciate it.

"He has a real good touch," wideout Onrea Jones lauded. "He puts passes into places where you want to catch it. If a defender is in front of you, he puts it behind to protect you."

Toughness

Watch enough Cardinals tapes, and a play repeating: Warner gets hammered by an on-rushing defender and still completes the pass. Most aging quarterbacks begin to "see the pass rush" after they have been hit too much. They lower their eyes to see where the next collision is coming from rather than keeping their eyes down field. Warner never takes his eyes off his receivers.

"He's got such great toughness, Brees said. "He just stands in the pocket and delivers the football, no matter what is around him."

When Warner has struggled in his career, this ability has eluded him. He's occasionally appeared hesitant, which leads to big hits and fumbles. Warner has fumbled more than any other player in the last three seasons, but he's yet to in the post-season.

It's tough to pinpoint why Warner has improved so much this year in delivering while taking the big hit. It's not like his offensive line is playing that much better. Warner gets hit as much as he ever does. He just gets rid of the ball quicker …

Decisiveness

"He gets rid of the ball so fast," Steelers outside linebacker Lamarr Woodley said Tuesday. Long-time Steelers defensive end Aaron Smith backed Woodley up.

"He doesn't hold on to it, how quick he gets rid of the ball sets him apart. Combine that with three threats at the wide receiver position and we have a tough challenge in front of us."

Warner's decisiveness comes from his confidence in his receivers. Larry Fitzgerald and Boldin inevitably make Warner look good. But just as important is Warner's ability to know when the blitz is coming, and where it is coming from.

Smarts and anticipation

"He's a smart guy, first and foremost," Smith said. "So he knows where to go with the ball."

Warner has always been a bright player, but his ability to dissect opposing defenses has improved with age. Many quarterbacks, like Ben Roethlisberger, improvise as the play develops because they don't know what's coming. Warner sees the play happen before he takes the snap.

"He breaks down defenses. He knows what coverage you're in. He knows who's open. When you have a smart quarterback like that, it's hard to stop him," Woodley said, shaking his head.

Teammates run into the same problems in practice. Cardinals safety Matt Ware says Warner's mind makes the difference. "It seems like he knows what you're doing before you know what you're doing. He knows where you're going to be."

Perhaps more than any team, the Steelers have an ability to catch opposing quarterbacks by surprise. That is going to be very difficult to do against Warner. Steelers coordinator Dick Lebeau's famous Zone blitz scheme fundamentally puts pressure on one side of the defense, but Warner has seen it all before. Lebeau knows it will be difficult to unnerve Warner.

"You don't play in the league as long as he's played and have the success that he's had without being able to handle anything the defense does," Lebeau said.

That doesn't mean Lebeau will stop trying to force a mistake. "Our feeling is that offenses in general don't play quite as well against pressure, so we'll be trying to search for a way to do that."

The Eagles also run a creative blitzing scheme, but Warner stymied it in the NFC Championship. They kept sending multiple blitzers to one side, but Warner calmly released the ball to the open hole in the defense. Philadelphia didn't find success until they adjusted at halftime. By then, it was too late.

"I think if you had to say one thing that separates him, he's got unbelievable vision and anticipation," Cardinals offensive coordinator Todd Haley said Tuesday.

That anticipation doesn't come by accident.

Hard Work

Every Arizona player and coach that spoke about Warner repeated one thing. No one works harder, no one watches more film, and no one is more prepared.

Despite being a former MVP, Warner knew before this season that he must get better to survive. Most players of his age and stature are just trying to hold on to their old skill set, but Warner set out to find new skills. Whisenhunt believes that has been the key to his renaissance.

"Kurt, to his credit, worked very hard on some of the things that we asked him to do: ball security, moving in the pocket, decisions on his reads. I think a great deal of the success he's had is because of that work he's put in. Kurt has never been afraid to work."

Warner's work has paid off with one more unlikely trip to the Super Bowl, reviving his second moribund franchise of the last decade. The future is uncertain. Warner is a free agent after the season, and even Cardinals GM Rod Graves admits that Matt Leinart will take over the team … eventually.

Sunday is Warner's moment. It's his chance to topple a historically good defense, to make this incredible chapter of his story sublime.

"The dream of this game is, when I walk away, that everybody that played with me, or in the organizations that I was with say, 'We were a better team, we were a better organization, I'm a better player because I was around that guy.' That's what I want my legacy to be." Warner reflected Tuesday.

Warner the man deserves to be celebrated, no doubt. But I'll remember Warner's play on the field above all: decisive, tough, accurate, and smart as hell. I'll remember the season, long after most gave up on him, when Warner led the Arizona freaking Cardinals to the Super Bowl.

[Hache Man]

Fitzgerald rising
For the record, Gregg Rosenthal is in Tampa this week, primarily covering the Cardinals. Steelers Nation can find pieces about their team by Tom Curran on NBCSports.com

Larry Fitzgerald is the type of receiver that keeps defenders up at night, asking questions that don't have an answer. How can you stop a wide receiver that is always open, no matter how well covered he is?

"The big thing is people are in position to make plays," Steelers all-world safety Troy Polamalu noted this week. "It's just Larry Fitzgerald is better than everybody else. He's able to out-jump people, He's able to catch the ball. Even when he's not out-jumping people."

Pittsburgh players, coaches, and fans rightly feel confident that their defense is impenetrable, but Fitzgerald breaks the rules. Sometimes the perfect play-call and execution are not enough.

Let's rewind to a first-and-ten play against the Seahawks in November. Fitzgerald started the play by shaking off press coverage before taking his loping long strides up the sideline. Seattle cornerback Kelly Jennings recovered quickly and ran step-for-step with his taller opponent. Jennings was in perfect position and Seattle had the right coverage called to stop Fitzgerald, with their safety shading to him. Fitzgerald looked boxed in, but none of it mattered.

With a sliver of real estate to operate, Fitzgerald saw the ball coming and managed to free his body from
Jennings, who had on arm on him. Fitzgerald timed his leap, caught the ball above Jennings' outstretched arms, and somehow got his feet down before spilling out of bounds. The play would be more amazing if Fitzgerald wasn't doing it every week.

"You can't try to prepare for it," teammate Antrel Rolle says. "You can't try to play his game because he's better than you at his game."

Fitzgerald's practice catches have become the stuff of legend in Arizona – every player has a story that tops the others. They try to describe what happened, but words fail. Most of the stories end in "like wow."

"I was kind of in awe," rookie receiver teammate Early Doucet said about one play. "I had to keep myself together because we were in practice."

The rest of the country can empathize with Doucet's awe. Fitzgerald has already broken Jerry Rice's record for yards in a single post-season with 419. He can break the record for consecutive 100-yard playoff games, and needs a touchdown to tie another Rice playoff record.

Fitzgerald doesn't just wow his teammates, he makes life easier than them. Anquan Boldin and Steve Breaston are likely to see a lot of single coverage Sunday because Fitzgerald will draw so much attention. Rookie cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie credits Fitzgerald for his rapid growth because of their practice tussles.

"When I first got here, some of the things that he did, I really didn't believe. But the more I got to go against him, the better he's made me become. And the more I learn from him, the better I become. Every time I line up against him, he's got that look in his eye, and I've got it in my eye."

Kurt Warner admits that he had to forget some of his tenets to playing quarterback and learn the Larry rules.

"What I have come to realize is that open for different guys and open for Larry is different than what I have played with in the past. … The coaches have told me a little bit that sometimes to take a little more chance. As long as you put it in the right spot that he is going give us a better chance to make the play."

Former Cardinals quarterback Josh McCown was the one who first drilled it into Warner's head to just throw the ball up to Fitzgerald – perhaps McCown's most positive contribution to the franchise. Warner, ever the technician, initially felt uncomfortable playing schoolyard football again. But Fitzgerald changes the rules. He uses his strong mid-section to box out defenders, and then out-leaps them. He's like Charles Barkley, if the round mound of rebound had Michael Jordan's leaping ability.

All of Fitzgerald's playoff success makes him seem like a sudden star to the casual fan, but he's been wildly productive since he entered the league. No one in NFL history caught more passes in his first five seasons than Fitzgerald. Something extra registered this year, though. Fitzgerald went from a great playmaker to a complete receiver.

Instead of just working his usual long sideline routes, Fitzgerald went over the middle more. He started to break tackles, and improved his blocking downfield. He lost 15 pounds, which he says gives better run-after-catch ability. He spackled any perceived holes in his game. The Cardinals made him the richest receiver in football last off-season, and he responded by working harder.

Talk to anyone around the Cardinals and they will say that Fitzgerald gets better every day because of his attention to detail in meetings and practice. "I think Larry has worked very hard on some of the things that he wanted to improve on in his game," Ken Whisenhunt lauded.

The great ones never feel they are truly great yet; they want more. Steelers players Hines Ward and Ike Taylor both called Fitzgerald the best receiver in the league, but he doesn't want to hear it. Fitzgerald spoke Wednesday that he feels "weird" being regarded as a dominant player, and simply that he "aspires" to be great. Ask him what he needs to improve, and it's clear he's a student of the game. He is still learning how to disguise his intentions to a defender, and how to run his routes more precisely each time out.

"The route running, the understanding of coverages, how to attack a defender. You see those things starting to click a little bit," Warner said about Fitzgerald's learning curve Wednesday. "You see him start to get a better understanding. You see him start to be able to slow the game down, where he can actually utilize the some of the things we've talked about."

An improving Larry Fitzgerald is a grotesque thought for the rest of the league. Which leads us back to our original question: How can you stop him?

Teammates and opponents agreed that the play is basically over if you let Fitzgerald go up for the ball. Others said that to beat him, you must disrupt his timing. Beat him up, and take some shots.

"As a safety, I'm going to hit him any time that I can. Try to tire him out," Steelers backup Anthony Smith said.

Surging outside linebacker Lamarr Woodley had the most sensible suggestion. Don't let Fitzgerald get a chance.

"To slow Larry down, you gotta go back there and hit the quarterback. You gotta hit the guy that is most dangerous. And the most dangerous is the guy with the ball."

Troy Polamalu went with the shrugged shoulders approach. "I don't really know (how to stop him). No one has been able to contain him yet."

Larry Fitzgerald has taken his game to rarefied levels this season, but his biggest step remains. He's a half-dozen long fingertip catches away from lasting greatness.

"Someone once asked me to sum up what Larry Fitzgerald has been able to do in 30 seconds or less," Cardinals special teams ace Sean Morey said Wednesday. "I thought of this W.E.B. Duboise quote: 'There is in this world no such force as the force of a man determined to rise.' That encapsulates what's going on with Fitz."

[Hache Man]

Underclassmen Have Skill

47 college underclassmen declared for the 2009 draft. As many as 25 could have first-round grades on NFL teams' draft boards by late April. Here is an overview of my top ten skill players from the group.

1. Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree
Height/Weight: 6'3/214
Biggest Strength: Body control
Question Mark: Straight-line speed
2008 Stats: 93 -- 1135 (12.2) -- 18
Draft Projection: Top 5

Crabtree was eligible for the draft as a sophomore because he redshirted his first year at Tech to convert from quarterback. Barely a top-100 recruit in the state of Texas alone, Crabtree made coach Mike Leach's position change look like one of the best moves in college history by going on to win the Biletnikoff Award in both of his seasons. An ankle sprain nagged Crabtree during the last half of his career, but he still managed to average eight catches for 74 yards and a over a touchdown a week while playing through the injury for seven games. Crabtree probably won't run a 4.35 like Calvin Johnson at the Combine, but his abnormally large hands, Larry Fitzgerald-like ability to contort his body for tough catches, and versatility (Crabtree can play the slot and both outside positions) should make him an instant 1,000-yard wideout in the pros.

Player Comparison: Andre Johnson

2. North Carolina WR Hakeem Nicks
Height/Weight: 6'1/210
Biggest Strength: Hands
Question Mark: Straight-line speed
2008 Stats: 68 -- 1222 (18.0) -- 12; 5 -- 34 (6.8) -- 1
Draft Projection: Top 25

Nicks overcame musical chairs and ineffectiveness at QB and the early-season loss of bookend wideout Brandon Tate to emerge as a legitimate top-15 prospect as a junior. A three-year starter at split end, Nicks became the offensive centerpiece of coach Butch Davis' rebuilding project despite increased double coverage. Nicks' smooth athleticism, concentration, and toughness are ideal for the NFL and he plays bigger than his already good size indicates. He stands out in traffic and dominates in the red zone. While it's questionable whether Nicks will run a sub-4.5 at the Combine, he's shown plenty of deep-threat ability and can generate plus yardage with relentless after-catch running. Nicks is also a willing blocker. There are no obvious holes in his game, and he will likely be an immediate impact pro.

Player Comparison: T.J. Houshmandzadeh

3. Georgia RB Knowshon Moreno
Height/Weight: 5'11/208
Biggest Strength: Versatility
Question Mark: Experience
2008 Stats: 250 -- 1400 (5.6) -- 16; 33 --392 (11.9) -- 2
Draft Projection: Top 20

Moreno enters the draft with fresher legs than any back eligible. Only a starter for a year and a half, Moreno put just 498 carries on his college resume after splitting work with Thomas Brown and Kregg Lumpkin as a freshman. Moreno is an effective inside runner with powerful leg drive and knows when to get shifty. While not a typical "home run threat," Moreno is creative in the open field with a variety of jukes, jumps, and spin moves. Versatility separates him from Chris Wells, as Moreno can catch the football downfield, is experienced in blitz pickup, and qualifies as a three-down prospect. Moreno also won UG's offensive MVP award over heralded QB Matthew Stafford last season and is a competitive player with leadership skills. He will probably share carries initially as a pro, but Moreno should emerge as a clear-cut lead back in a year or two.

Player Comparison: Thomas Jones

4. Missouri WR Jeremy Maclin
Height/Weight: 6'1/200
Biggest Strength: Fast-twitch athleticism
Question Mark: Route running
2008 Stats: 102 -- 1260 (12.4) -- 13; 40 -- 293 (7.3) -- 2
Draft Projection: Top 25

Another third-year sophomore (the third so far on this list), Maclin suffered a torn ACL with ligament damage in fall practice of his true freshman year. Not only did he return with even more speed, Maclin dominated, averaging 91 grabs for 1,158 yards and 11 scores in his two seasons. Also a dynamic rusher and kick returner, Maclin added 11 career non-receiving touchdowns. Maclin's biggest initial impact in the pros may be on returns because he lacks much experience as an outside receiver after playing as an "H" slotback at Mizzou. His over-the-shoulder pass catching and intermediate route running need work. But Maclin has the potential to run difference-making patterns eventually because he is tremendously sudden in and out of his breaks. He is also sure handed and uncatchable behind the front seven with legitimate 4.3 speed.

Player Comparison: Laveranues Coles

5. Southern Cal QB Mark Sanchez
Height/Weight: 6'3/225
Biggest Strength: Competitiveness/Aggressiveness
Biggest Weakness: Inexperience
2008 Stats: 3207 -- 65.8 (241 of 366) -- 8.8 YA -- 34:10
Draft Projection: Top 20

Sanchez entered USC as the nation's consensus top QB recruit. Pete Carroll went with experienced John David Booty in Sanchez's first two seasons, but he picked up three valuable starts in '07 when Booty broke a finger on his throwing hand. Sanchez emerged atop the depth chart as a junior, beating out highly regarded competitors Aaron Corp and Mitch Mustain, and turned in a remarkable season, leading USC to a 12-1 record and No. 2 ranking in the USA Today Coaches Poll. Sanchez's lack of extensive college play (16 starts) is a major concern, and he could have benefited immensely by playing in 13 more games as a redshirt senior. However, Sanchez's elite skill level makes him worth a slot in the top ten. His athleticism, ability to throw on the run, and arm power compare favorably to any quarterback that has come out since JaMarcus Russell. Supremely confident and aggressive, Sanchez's accuracy and vision allow him to get away with throwing into tight quarters. He is difficult to sack due to his strong frame, escape ability, and quick release. We will expand on Sanchez in our upcoming quarterback rankings, but he will be No. 1 ahead of Matthew Stafford and Josh Freeman.

Player Comparison: Aaron Rodgers



6. Florida WR Percy Harvin
Height/Weight: 5'11/195**
Biggest Strength: Speed
Question Mark: Durability
2008 Stats: 40 -- 644 (16.1) -- 7; 70 -- 659 (9.4) -- 10
Draft Projection: Top 30

Harvin's dimensions according to UF are listed above, but it's hard to imagine he's any bigger than 5'9/185. Still, as Eddie Royal, DeSean Jackson, and Donnie Avery showed last year, size shouldn't necessarily be held against a receiver in an emerging era of slot types. Harvin is also faster than the above three, has more background catching passes inside the hashes, and is uncatchable at the second level. Having taken substantial snaps out of the backfield for Urban Meyer, most notably in the Wild Duck formation, Harvin combines the receiver skill of a wideout with the vision of a tailback and first-step explosion of a pre-2008 Devin Hester. Harvin, who will be just 20 when drafted, has often battled injuries, however. Heel and ankle woes dogged Harvin as a junior and he was rarely at 100% during his college career. Toughness is not the issue – Harvin can take hits and is willing to go over the middle -- but his diminutive stature will work against him on draft day, especially if he measures as expected at the Combine.

Player Comparison: Reggie Bush, but faster

7. Rutgers WR Kenny Britt
Height/Weight: 6'4/215
Biggest Strength: Physical play
Question Mark: Athleticism
2008 Stats: 87 -- 1371 (15.8) -- 7; 7 -- 75 (10.7) -- 1
Draft Projection: Top 35

Britt emerged from Ray Rice's shadow in 2008 with a highlight-reel junior season. Though a split end in the Scarlet Knights' base offense, Britt was used all over the field and ran routes at all three levels. Whereas many long, lean wideouts shy from contact, Britt welcomes it and will play physical in the open field as a blocker and pass catcher. Britt's crackback blocks often sprung Rutgers' committee of backs for long gains and he is a serious threat after the catch. Britt uses a stiff arm, preferring to stay in bounds rather than go down or step out before taking a hit. While Britt's game will likely have to change some in the NFL due to a lack of ideal long speed and fluidity, he was born to play in a West Coast offense. He may struggle to make an impact right away, but Britt should eventually emerge as a starting "X" wideout with No. 1 receiver upside.

Player Comparison: Marques Colston

8. Ohio State RB Chris Wells
Height/Weight: 6-1/237
Biggest Strength: Size/speed ratio
Question Mark: Passion
2008 Stats: 207 -- 1197 (5.8) -- 8; 8 -- 47 (5.9) -- 0
Draft Projection: Top 25

Wells' size and speed draw comparisons to Brandon Jacobs, but Jacobs he is not. Wells doesn't invite contact or play with a mean streak and will often step out of bounds rather than turn up field for extra yards. While he is mostly effective in short yardage, Wells' upright, long-striding style makes him susceptible to nicks. Wells missed three games as a junior with a foot injury and, in Cedric Benson-like form, was knocked out of the Buckeyes' three-point Fiesta Bowl loss after two quarters with a mysterious hip ailment. He also was nagged by ankle, head, wrist, and hamstring issues at OSU. Wells is a fine prospect because he is quick to hit full speed and cuts extremely well for a 237-pounder, but his toughness and desire to be the best are question marks. Without any receiving ability to speak of, Wells' upside looks to be the lead portion of an NFL committee.

Player Comparison: Post-2006 Larry Johnson

9. Pittsburgh RB LeSean McCoy
Height/Weight: 5'11/210
Biggest Strength: Elusiveness
Question Mark: Inside running
2008 Stats: 308 -- 1488 (4.8) -- 21; 32 -- 305 (9.5) -- 0
Draft Projection: Top 30

Another in an impressive class of third-year sophomores, McCoy started both seasons at Pitt and averaged an even 4.8 YPC for his career despite being surrounded by poor talent. Commonly used in the Wildcat by coach Dave Waanstedt, "Shady" offers extensive experience in the now NFL-popular formation. McCoy also has honed his receiving skills, hauling in 65 career passes. A shake-and-bake runner, McCoy has rare quickness and should help a pro team immediately as a third-down back and outside runner. However, McCoy dances too often before hitting the hole and will likely struggle in short-yardage situations. He also looks smaller than his 5'11/210 college listing. McCoy could grow into his body and make an eventual leap as a player, but initially he will likely be the "speed" half of a running back timeshare. McCoy also must iron out his ball-security issues. He often extends the football carelessly to the outside and fumbles too much.

Player Comparison: DeAngelo Williams

10. Georgia QB Matthew Stafford
Height/Weight: 6'3/228
Biggest Strength: Arm power
Question Mark: Accuracy
2008 Stats: 3459 -- 61.4% (235 of 383) -- 9.03 YPA -- 25:10
Draft Projection: Top Ten

Stafford has been a golden child since his days as a three-sport athlete at the same Dallas high school Doak Walker and Bobby Layne attended, where he started three years. During his senior season there, Mel Kiper predicted Stafford would one day be the first pick in the NFL Draft. Stafford went on to start 34 games for the Dogs, including three bowl wins. However, he completed only 56.9% of his passes and never put up outstanding numbers under coach Mark Richt. While Stafford's arm strength, release, pocket presence, and leadership skills are intriguing, his lack of ideal accuracy, mechanics, and tendency to go in the tank for prolonged stretches make him a risky first-rounder. Stafford will most likely be a longtime NFL starter, but continue to battle inconsistency and continually frustrate his team.
Player Comparison: Jeff George
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