2011 NFL Draft: Chad vs Jim Mock Draft

By Jim Ingram

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Well, it's that fun time of the year again. Yes, I'm talking about the 2011 NFL Draft. Lockout, or no lockout, this should be a fun, maybe even crazy couple of days for the draft. So, please check out below the final mock drafts from both Chad and myself. Unlike our picks for the NFL season, I firmly believe that I will lose this one. Either way, feel free to review and criticize our picks.

Thoughts about the NFL playoffs

By Chad Garner

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Here are some quick-hitting thoughts about Wild-Card Weekend and a look at this weekend's Divisional Round.

1. Can you believe that the defending Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints lost to the sub-.500 Seattle Seahawks? The 65-year-old Matt Hasselbeck simply carved up a Saints defense that looked lost and confused. Bet the Saints go after defensive players in this year's draft. They better.

2. The Indianapolis Colts blew a chance to advance in the final minute of the game. That should never, ever happen. Poor coverage on the kickoff gave the Jets great field position, and then Sanchez lofts a pass that Braylon Edwards snags on the sidelines to help Nick Folk boot an easy field goal as time expires. Shame on the Colts.

3. How about that Baltimore Ravens defense? More like, how garbage is Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel? For him to not even look Dwayne Bowe's way all game long, the Chiefs deserve to lose just for that. Plus, Cassel looked timid, scared and baffled every time he dropped back to pass. Did he study the Ravens defense during the week? Just a JV quarterback if you ask me.

4. Why is everyone trying to blame Mike Vick for the Eagles' loss to the Packers? I know he threw a pick to end the game, but shouldn't the intended receiver tried to break up that pass in the end zone instead of letting the corner make the pick? Who cares about that play, anyway, point to David Akers missing two easy field goals as the reason why Philly lost. Field goals at home, mind you. The veteran kicker is being blamed my me. If they played again tomorrow, I'd still take the Eagles ...I still am not impressed with the Packers.

5. Best game this coming weekend: Baltimore at Pittsburgh ...if you like defense. The teams split during the regular season, and expect some bloody lips, a lot of hard hitting and maybe a fist or two flying around over the course of the 60 minutes. It might even go into overtime, too. The quarterback -- Ben Roethlisberger or Joe Flacco -- that can make the most plays in the passing game will win because both teams will have trouble moving the ball on the ground.

6. Seattle at Chicago: Who cares.

7. Green Bay at Atlanta: Should be another classic ...if you like offense. Aaron Rodgers can beat up Atlanta's secondary, and the Falcons' balance with running back Michael Turner and Matt Ryan throwing to Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez can produce points pretty quickly, too. The winner of this game will go the Super Bowl.

Moss back to Vikings signals white flag for Patriots

By Jim Ingram

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

OK, full disclosure here. I couldn't stand it when the Patriots traded for Randy Moss. Of course, I was 100% wrong, and I fully admit it. I've now come full circle, as I can't stand how the Patriots traded Randy Moss to the Vikings for a measly 3rd round draft pick. To me this signals the Patriots surrender to the 2010 season.

I don't care what you think of Randy Moss, but the one thing I know is he makes the Patriots a better team. Despite not catching a pass against the Dolphins on Monday night, he still was a key contributor to me. How did he contribute? Randy Moss forces opposing teams to use their best corner to cover him most, if not all, of the game. Now that the Patriots no longer have their deep threat, what will happen to the likes of Wes Welker & Aaron Hernandez? Brady targeted Brandon Tate 5 times, 4 of them for a reception, but Tate is not ready to take over as the Pats deep threat.

Now onto the compensation received for the future Hall of Fame receiver. a 3rd rounder? Terrible value in my opinion. It doesn't matter to me that he's a free agent after the season, or that he's a 33 year old receiver looking for a new 3 year deal. He's still one of, if not, the best deep threats in the game. A 3rd rounder when the Pats got a 4th rounder for Maroney, and the Bills got a 4th rounder for Marshawn Lynch? A 3rd round pick when the Vikings were clearly desperate to get a proven receiver for Brett Favre? Ridiculous. So what if the Patriots now have two 1st round, two 2nd round, two 3rd round and 2 4th round picks. Unless the Patriots package picks and Logan Mankins for a player this year, this deal makes absolutely no sense to me.

Once again, say what you want about Randy Moss. Listen to how the media dislikes the man. I'll take what his fellow players say about the man. Regardless of his relationship with Bill, he was a beloved teammate who will be sorely missed.

In case you haven't figured it out, I hate this deal. It just feels like another Deion Branch to me. What do you think?

NFL Season Picks: Chad & Jim

By Jim Ingram

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Well, technically the 2010 NFL season has already begun, but Chad and I wanted to make sure we got our predictions out prior to the first full day of the schedule. Despite the fact that Chad and I have different opinions on pretty much everything, we apparently seem to agree on what's going to happen this season. As you'll see below, we pick the exact same list of Division winners, as well as both the participants in the AFC & NFC Championship game, and even the Superbowl. We do, however, disagree on the outcome of that game. Well, enough of the build up, read below for our picks. Make sure to let us know what you think!

Durand makes the active roster for Titans

By Chad Garner

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

There's no substitute for hard work.

A friend of Fan Fanatic Sports, Ryan Durand, is a perfect example of that.

The second-year Tennessee Titans guard, who spent all of his rookie season on the Titans' practice squad, officially made the 53-man roster in his second season.

Obviously, Fan Fanatic Sports would like to congratulate Durand on working hard and getting rewarded with a roster spot.

Durand, who played his high school football at St. Bernard's Central Catholic High School (in Fitchburg, Mass.) and Syracuse University, is listed as the backup behind starter Jake Scott at right guard and the third-stringer at left guard.

The 6-foot-5, 301-pound Durand is an athletic offensive lineman and is known for his tremendous smarts on the gridiron.

Take a look at Durand's bio on the Titans' web site.

Here is the Titans' roster for 2010.

Again, congrats Ryan on a job well done.

Best of luck this season.

PHOTO CREDIT /TENNESSEE TITANS

Thank God football is finally here

By Chad Garner

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Excuse me if I had a little bit more spring in my step all day long.

Well, football will do that to me.

Just think about it. If I'm jumping around like a jack rabbit about watching preseason football, imagine what I'm like when the regular season begins?

Anyway, just like Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll always likes to say, right now I'm "Pumped and jacked."

Granted, I love Major League Baseball, but there's just something about that pigskin that puts an instant smile on my face.

These offseasons just get longer and longer, don't they? I know they're not, but it sure seems like that when you wish 12 months out of the year featured the NFL.

Watching the football get thrown around by Tom Brady last night quickly got me into the holiday spirit. Yes, football season is a holiday. Some like Christmas (so do I), but I also get giddy over football.

The ball is currently in motion. Now, I'm already thinking fantasy football, checking out patriots.com for the latest gear being sold, and I'm already thinking regular season.

The season is almost here, and it might seem weird to some, but I'm already counting down the days until the opening kickoff on Sept. 12 at home vs. Terrell Owens and the Bengals.

I am pumped and jacked. I know Pete Carroll knows how I feel.

ESPN has Kiper & McShay, Fan Fanatic Sports counters with Ingram & Garner

By Jim Ingram

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

JIM INGRAM'S MOCK DRAFT

(See Chad Garner's Mock Draft blog below)

Pick	Team	Player	Position
1	Rams	Sam Bradford	QB
2	Lions	Ndamukong Suh	DT
3	Bucs	Gerald McCoy	DT
4	Redskins	Russell Okung	OT
5	Chiefs	Brian Balaga	OT
6	Seahawks	Trent Williams	OT
7	Browns	Eric Berry	S
8	Raiders	Anthony Davis	OT
9	Bills	Jimmy Clausen	QB
10	Jaguars	Earl Thomas	S
11	Broncos	Rolando McClain	LB
12	Dolphins	Derrick Morgan	DE
13	49ers	CJ Spiller	RB
14	Seahawks	Jared Odrick	DT
15	Giants	Brandon Graham	OLB
16	Titans	Jason Pierre-Paul	DE
17	49ers	Joe Haden	CB
18	Steelers	Demaryius Thomas	WR
19	Falcons	Jerry Hughes	OLB
20	Texans	Kareem Jackson	CB
21	Bengals	Dez Bryant	WR
22	Patriots	Sergio Kindle	DE/OLB
23	Packers	Mike Iuputi	G
24	Eagles	Maurkice Pouncey	C
25	Ravens	Taylor Mays	S
26	Cardinals	Dan Williams	DT
27	Cowboys	Bruce Campbell	OT
28	Chargers	Ryan Matthews	RB
29	Jets	Everson Griffin	DE
30	Vikings	Brian Price	DT
31	Colts	Charles Brown	OT
32	Saints	Sean Witherspoon	LB

Chad Garner's Mock Draft

By Chad Garner

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

CHAD GARNER'S MOCK DRAFT

1. St. Louis – Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma – Rams can’t even screw this one up.

2. Detroit – Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska – Suh is a dominant force on the D-line.

3. Tampa Bay – Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma – McCoy should get paid big Bucs.

4. Washington – Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State – ‘Skins got McNabb, now need to protect him.

5. Kansas City -- Eric Berry, S, Tennessee – Chiefs always need help on D. Berry could be a superstar.

6. Seattle – Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma – Seattle would be wise to address a weak O-line.

7. Cleveland – Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State – Bryant will play with a chip on his shoulder.

8. Oakland -- Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame – Al Davis will make another mistake drafting a QB.

9. Buffalo – Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa – Finally, someone who can block for the Bills.

10. Jacksonville – Joe Haden, CB, Florida – No, Jags aren’t drafting Tim Tebow here.

11. Denver – Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama – A stud on the inside.

12. Miami – Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee – Will be hard to run on the Dolphins.

13. San Francisco – Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas – Kindle’s motor is impressive.

14. Seattle – C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson – Pete Carroll loves backs than can run & catch.

15. New York Giants – Mike Iupati, G, Idaho – G-Men get tougher up front in a hurry.

16. Tennessee – Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida – Titans desperate for an edge rusher.

17. San Francisco -- Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers – Solid tackles don’t come around often.

18. Pittsburgh – Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, Florida – Steelers like to pound the football.

19. Atlanta – Earl Thomas, S, Texas – Falcons welcome a ball hawks in secondary.

20. Houston – Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State – Texans need help at corner.

21. Cincinnati – Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma – Carson Palmer finally get a TE that can catch.

22. New England – Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri – Fits Patriot way: Smart, versatile, tough & good tackler.

23. Green Bay – Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech – Watch him attack the quarterback.

24. Philadelphia – Kareen Jackson, CB, Alabama – Eagles always looking for value.

25. Baltimore – Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech – Flacco loving all these weapons.

26. Arizona – Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU – Cards get their outside pass rusher.

27. Dallas -- Charles Brown, OT, USC – Not a headline-stealing pick, but a necessary one.

28. San Diego -- Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State – If he falls this far, fans will be “Super Charged”.

29. New York Jets -- Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan – Another toy for Rex Ryan to play with.

30. Minnesota – Taylor Mays, SS, USC – Mays is a hard hitter who will knock you out.

31. Indianapolis -- Jared Odrick, DE/DT, Penn State, -- He’s relentless on the line.

32. New Orleans – Everson Griffen, DE, USC – Last pick in Round 1, consider that a steal.

McNabb to the Raiders? Not good for the Patriots

By Jim Ingram

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Personally, I find the Donovan McNabb soap opera fascinating. The latest McNabb trade rumors has the Eagles sending their embattled QB to the wasteland properly known as the Oakland Raiders. There have been reports that McNabb will not report if that is the case, but what really can he do. At this point, you might be asking who cares about this, and what does this have to do with the New England Patriots? Well, if you recall, the Patriots received the Oakland Raiders 2011 1st round draft pick in return for Richard Seymour just prior to the start of the 2009 season.

Most people, like myself, still thought this was a pretty good deal because there was no way the Raiders could improve that much for this pick not to be a top 10 pick, right? Well, we just may be wrong. If McNabb does get sent to the Raiders, then they are a much better team than most people realize. They managed to win 5 games last year, and should easily be a .500 team with the addition of Donovan McNabb. The Raiders will still lack any decent receivers, but have a solid stock of running backs that line up behind a decent offensive line. My guess is Zach Miller turns into an All Pro Tight End thanks in part to having a quarterback who can actually throw the rock. It also helps they have a pretty decent defense. While they struggled against the run, the Raiders defense was 7th in the NFL in pass defense.

What will the Patriots do about this? Well, the Patriots will most likely not move this pick prior to, or during, the 2010 draft. Why? I don't see a new CBA being agreed to by either the owners or players without a slotted salary for rookies. The Patriots know this and will have two first round picks with a locked in salary. What do I think they should do? To heck with the slotted draft system, I want to win. The 2010 draft is being referred to the deepest draft in who knows how long. Use the 2011 first rounder to move up and get an impact player at a position of need like an edge pass rusher or offensive lineman.

What do you think? Are you looking forward to the new draft style?

I'm not crazy about the new OT rule in the NFL

By Chad Garner

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

I gave it a day or so, but I'm still not a fan of the new overtime rule in the NFL.

Maybe I'm a traditionalist and I like the game how it is now? I don't know.

But what I do know is that this new rule is going to take me some time to get used to.

The new OT rule eliminates sudden death out of the equation, at least on the first possession when the team that gets the ball first in OT. If that teams kicks a field goal, they DO NOT win the game.

The opposing team gets a shot to score, and if they score a TD the game is over. If they kick a field goal, sudden death -- the team that scores first wins -- then takes effect.

So basically, the goal is to score a TD and the game is over.

Maybe the team that gets the ball first will be a tad more aggressive on its opening drive to put the game away right away? Or maybe the other team that trails by a field goal in OT will go for the home run and hit paydirt on a winning TD score? I'm thinking that coaching in OT will take on a whole new strategy, too.

Mind you, this rule is currently only for the postseason. Now does that really make any sense at all? Of course not. The NFL better vote this new rule in for the entire season. I mean, it's going to take all of us an entire 16-game schedule to learn this anyway. Probably the players, too.

Either way, what was really the matter with the OT rules how they were before?

Whoever scores first -- TD or field goal -- wins, no questions asked. Seemed pretty simple and cut and dry to me. And don't tell me the team that gets the ball first always wins. The stats that I've seen show the team that gets the ball first in OT only won 59 percent of the time.

I guess I can sit here and complain all I want, but it's not like I'm going to stop watching the NFL because of this new rule. I'll deal with it just like everyone else. The NFL is the best product out there, so maybe this new rule will be great for everyone?

I'm just not buying it right now.

Here's my OT plan: Each team gets the ball at their own 30-yard line (yes, they have to drive 70 yards for a TD) and they can either kick a FG, score a TD or turn the ball over on downs. Every 10 yards equals a first down. The other team gets the same shot -- starts at their own 30 -- and they must go for the 2-point conversion if they score a TD. Sort of like the college rules, only it's a lot further field to drive down and score.

Now that, to me, would be excitement.

But I still like the old way better.

Guess I'm a traditionalist.

Colts, Saints will go to the Super Bowl

By Chad Garner

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Super Bowl or bust.

Who's going to make it to the Big Dance?

It's two intriguing matchups with the surprising 'ground-and-pound' New York Jets traveling to Lucas Oil Stadium to face the high-flying Indianapolis Colts.

In the NFC matchup, Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings head to the Louisiana Superdome to square off with Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints.

Yes, on paper, those are two very good matchups. But we all know many of these playoff games haven't been close. Here's to having two nail-biters today!!!

Here's a couple of quick-hitters and what I'm looking for out of each matchup:

Jets at Colts

We all know the Jets knocked the Colts from the upbeaten after the Colts started 14-0, but we also know the Colts packed up their starters in that game and basically let the Jets win, which gave them the inside track of earning a playoff berth. Will that move by the Colts come back to bite them in the AFC Championship?

I'm saying no way.

The Jets have surprised us all with their great play on defense and the ability to control the clock and run the football -- which they will try to do to the Colts today -- but if they get down by a couple scores, Rex Ryan's game plan might go right out the window.

The Colts can air it out on the Jets. Don't expect a big game from Reggie Wayne, who will be blanketed by Jets outstanding cover corner Darrelle Revis all day long, but the Colts have too many weapons in the passing game (TE Dallas Clark and WRs Pierre Garcon & Austin Collie, and RB Joseph Addai, who can catch the ball out of the backfield).

The Colts are simply too explosive for the Jets to keep up with. But if the Colts have to settle for field goals instead of TDs, then the Jets can stick to their game plan and pound the rock, while protecting rookie QB Mark Sanchez.

New York's luck runs out today. Sanchez will have to make some big throws in this game, and he won't. The Colts will attack, stop the run and put the game in the rookie's hands. He's not ready for that kind of pressure, plus Indy's relentless pass rush.

Prediction: Colts 27-13

Vikings at Saints

Now this should be a slugfest with two ball-hawking defenses and two prolific passers in Favre (those of you who thought he washed up are pretty quiet now, huh?) and Brees.

The knock on Favre has been that he chokes in big games. Well, can the Saints capitalize on some of Favre's errant throws and turn them into game-changing plays?

I think they can, especially with former Vikings safety Darren Sharper, who played with Favre in Green Bay, patrolling center field. If the ball goes up, Sharper has the awareness to go after the ball and make a play. If it hits his hands, you can bet your savings that Sharper will make the INT. Plus, I know Sharper is jacked for this game since his old team didn't re-sign him, forcing Sharper to sign with the Saints in the offeseason.

Besides Sharper, the crowd noise in the Superdome can't be overlooked. Advantage to Brees and that pass-happy offense. That noise limits Minnesota's attacking nature off the ball since they can't hear, forcing the defensive line and beast Jared Allen to be a tad slower since they have to watch the ball be snapped instead of reacting to Brees' cadence.

Same thing for when Minnesota has the ball. The Vikings will have to go to a silent snap count since the line won't be able to hear Favre, and that advantage also goes to the Saints attacking off the line of scrimmage.

If the Vikings have a real shot, they must pound away with tailback Adrian Peterson, who has disappeared at times this year but has the ability to overtake a game at any point. But it's not his fault for some iffy games; the Vikings simply don't have a great run-blocking offensive line.

My guess is that the Saints will take away Peterson, putting the game on Favre's shoulders. Favre will play real well in this game since he's got great targets to throw to as well.

Favre will not be to blame for this loss, you can pin it on the defense which is real weak against the pass. If the Vikings can't get to Brees and sack him and force him to get rid of the ball quickly, expect to see Marques Colston, Devery Henderson, Jeremy Shockey and Reggie Bush wide open down the field. And when they're open, the Saints know how to put on a show and punch it into the end zone.

Prediction: Saints 34-31

Colts better play to win the game

By Chad Garner

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

A chance to go 16-0 in the regular season, and the Indianapolis Colts are waffling over whether to start resting players.

Are you serious?

I just don't like the fact that they might not go for the perfect regular season and have a chance to run the table in the playoffs for a perfect season and Super Bowl title.

I know, you want your players rested for the playoffs. I get that.

But what I don't understand is that if you rest guys leading up the playoffs, you run the risk of getting stale -- timing could be off on both sides of the ball -- and that could come back to bite you.

What's the big plus of having fresh, healthy and well-rested players if they might not perform to their peak because of so much down time? I'd rather keep my players focused and don't change one thing because this Colts team is clicking on all cylinders.

Is it a grind? Of course it is. We all know it's a long season, but that's why you have a first-round bye, that should be your time to rest up.

The Colts have a chance to make history and first-year coach Jim Caldwell is undecided if the starters will play or for how long they play?

What a joke! If he starts resting guys, I hope they get bounced in the playoffs -- the Chargers could do that anyway.

Here's an idea: Play the starters and keep their mojo going, build up a big lead and then pull them and put the reserves in. See, you win the game and are able to give your No. 1 guys like Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne and Joseph Addai some rest.

But don't go playing the game of "I don't know if they're going to play or not" BS, I hope that's just for media purposes.

I would love to see history in the making (well, if the Patriots eventually get knocked out of the playoffs), I think most of us would.

Do all football fans a favor Caldwell, play your guys like you've done all season. I bet your team wants to play for a chance at history, don't be that guy.

But if you are that guy, you're off Colts fans' Christmas card lists.

Your team better show up like the fans do every week.

Saints have been really impressive, but don't crown them yet

By Chad Garner

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

The New Orleans Saints appear to be one of the elite teams in the NFL -- at least right now.

Everyone has known about the Saints' high-powered offense for years with Drew Brees at the helm, but now they have a good defense -- yes, I said good -- with new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams calling the shots. This attacking and ball-hawking defense is especially good when they can pin their ears back and rush the passer since the Saints offense has been building big leads.

That's a great recipe for success, too.

If you were still questioning how good the Saints really were, bet you're believing now since they kicked the heck out of the New York Giants, 48-27, and it wasn't even that close.

The Giants were torched by Brees (369 yards, 4 TDs) and the defense limited Eli Manning to only 14-of-31 passing for 178 yards with one TD and one INT. Plus that vaunted Giants running game was kept in check. Brandon Jacobs had 33 yards and Ahmad Bradshaw had 48.

So that should show you right there that the Saints are legit contenders in the NFC.

Don't go crowning them yet, but they are a complete team on offense (Brees, running backs Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell, Reggie Bush, and WRs Marquis Colston, Lance Moore and Robert Meachem, and TE Jeremy Shockey, etc.), defense (Darren Sharper, Roman Harper, Tracy Porter, Jonathan Vilma and Jabari Greer) and special teams (kicker John Carney, punter Thomas Morstead, punt returner Reggie Bush and kick returner Courtney Roby).

Head coach Sean Payton has a very good team, but it's way too early to say they're destine for the Super Bowl.

But if they stay healthy, who knows what this team can do? No doubt they're talented enough to make the playoffs and unlike years past, the defense is holding up their end of the bargain and is no longer a crutch.

In any case, the Saints have been impressive and extremely fun to watch.

We'll see if the Broncos are for real

By Chad Garner

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Paper champions.

Yes, I'm calling out the Denver Broncos right now and Boy Wonder first-year coach Josh McDaniels.

Is anyone else still laughing at how the Broncos -- at least based on their record -- are one of the top teams in the NFL?

Ha, ha, ha, ha.

I know they're 4-0 and should be respected to a certain extent, but come on.

With Kyle Orton at the helm, a first-year coach in McDaniels who had a long and drawn out fight with former QB Jake Cutler on who had the bigger binkie and eventually traded him, are you scared? Even a little? Even since it's getting close to Halloween?

No way.

Look at the teams the Broncos beat -- Cincinnati, Cleveland, Oakland and Dallas. The Bengals might just be the best team out of that bunch. Excuse me while I stick my finger down my throat and ralph.

Now comes the real test for these Broncos. What can they do against one of the elite teams in the NFL?

You can bet former Patriots assistant coach McDaniels had this game circles on his calendar when he took the job. Bet he's wondering how his football mind will and does match up against the guru Bill Belichick.

Bet on the master in this one.

Say what you want about this no-name Patriots defense, but they are playing great team defense. No superstars -- well, safety Brandon Merriweather is on his way to that level along with Jerod Mayo, who is expected to be back from injury - but this defense flies to the football and doesn't surrender the big play.

Denver really isn't a tough offense to stop with Orton running the show. While Orton hasn't thrown a pick this season, he plays a conservative game by dinking and dunking the ball. McDaniels better force him to take some shots against the Pats with WR Brandon Marshall or there's no way they can string together 10- or 12-play drives to beat the Pats.

Denver has been trying to pound the rock with rookie Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhalter, but with Buckhalter hurt and iffy to play, the pressure falls squarely on Moreno to carry the load. The Pats will take away the run first -- which is their approach every week -- and force Orton to beat them.

And there's no way Orton can do it. There's a reason why he played behind Rex Grossman in Chicago at one point in his career.

Meanwhile, the Patriots were dealt a blow by losing tailback Fred Taylor, the cream of the crop in the Pats backfield. But considering they're a passing team first and foremost, expect more throws by Brady, even it's to Kevin Faulk, Sammy Morris or Laurence Maroney for 3-yard gains instead of trying to pound it between the tackles.

Anyway, one key worry for the Pats should be defensive end Elvis Dumervil, who is tied for the NFL lead in sacks with eight.

This guy is a beast off the edge, and with Matt Light constantly having issues with quick pass-rushing specialists, big advantage to Denver when Dumervil pins his ears back and tries to attack Brady.

Light will need help the entire day, so the Pats better keep a tight end or running back in to double Dumervil with Light because the tackle simply can't handle him.

And in the secondary, you always must know where safety Brian Dawkins and cornerback Champ Bailey are. Dawkins can pick off passes -- although he's a step slower than in his Philly days -- and he can knock your lights out with bone-rattling hits. And Bailey is still a top-of-the-line cover corner. Randy Moss vs. Bailey will be an interesting matchup.

Denver has allowed only 26 points in four games which is very impressive, but it hasn't seen an explosive team like the Patriots with Moss, Wes Welker, Julian Edelman, Ben Watson and whatever running back you want to put in there.

Oh, and don't forget about Brady -- the best QB in the NFL.

Brady showed last week in an impressive win over the Ravens that he's back.

I'll bet a six-pack that McDaniels hasn't slept much thinking about this matchup, and knowing Brady is regaining his form.

Here's my thinking: In order to be considered one of the elite, you've got to beat an elite team. Can Denver rise up at Invesco Field at Mile High in Denver or will the Pats show the Broncos they've got a ways to go?

No doubt the Pats and Belichick teach little Joshy Boy McDaniels a thing or two about coaching this week. Belichick doesn't lose to rookie coaches!!

Prediction: Patriots 30-17

The Patriot Way is Working in Denver

By Rick Eggleston
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

The Marshall Plan is alive and well in Denver, and the Broncos may have the New England Patriots and coach Bill Belichick to thank.

After embattled Denver wideout Brandon Marshall's electrifying 51-yard catch and run resulted in the game-winning touchdown over the visiting Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, television cameras caught the lanky receiver in a full-tilt man hug with head coach Josh McDaniels, complete with tears.

A far cry, it turns out, from the contentious and difficult Marshall, who was kicked out of Broncos' training camp for his negative behavior after the team opted not to extend his contract. The suspension was lifted and Marshall started the regular season uninspired, when suddenly, almost miraculously, he had an epiphany.

"Josh McDaniels said that once (Marshall) rejoined the team, he's been an absolute professional," said Fox analyst Troy Aikman after the touchdown. "Other than Michael Ervin when I played, I've never seen a receiver work as hard in practice as Brandon Marshall did last Friday afternoon."

In his comments to the media following game, Denver QB Kyle Orton echoed Aikman's sentiment: "(Marshall) put in two or three great weeks of practices. He's bought in, worked hard and been a great teammate."

Bought in? Isn't that something Patriots players have been doing (and continue to do) for years under Belichick and his former right-hand man McDaniels?

Yes, that Josh McDaniels, the former Patriots offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, who was the apple of Belichick's eye when he joined the team as a personnel assistant in 2001. Young (McDaniels is only 33), smart, saavy and the son of an Ohio high school football coaching icon, McDaniels in many ways mirrors Belichick, who's probably taken back to his salad days as a successful upstart coach in the NFL every time he sees McDaniels.

And like a good apprentice learning from his master, McDaniels, who had a hand in all three of the Patriots' Super Bowl wins this decade, apparently brought the Patriot Way with him to the Mile-High City. It was right there on display for everybody to see on Sunday when Marshall and McDaniels embraced.

Just like Belichick has demanded and received the best out of the NFL's misfits, miscreants and mischievous (Cory Dillon, Jabar Gaffney and Randy Moss to name a few) it appears McDaniels, too, has inherited the trash-to-treasure touch, while preaching football's holy trinity of offense, defense and special teams. Simply put, like his former mentor, McDaniels can get the bad boy to settle down and play team football.

Exhibit A: The Marshall Plan, which went from bad during training camp to flipping great between McDaniels, the team, their star receiver and the fans. The Kool-Aid is flowing in Denver, where McDaniels (who a mere few months ago had Broncos fans calling for his head before he'd even coached a single down, and his new team divided after QB Jay Cutler was sent packing), has the Broncos off to a 4-0 start and boasts the league's top-rated defense.

Sound familiar?

"It certainly doesn't surprise me. I have all the respect in the world for Josh, both as a coach, a personnel evaluator and in general for his football knowledge and his ability to manage the game as a coordinator or as a head coach," Belichick said in his Monday press conference. "He has great insight into the game."

Just like the master himself. If anything, the postgame handshake between the two will be something to watch.

Monday Night Football: Favre not a great quarterback; Pack will win

By Dan Shouse

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

ESPN has been running promos for tonight's game between the Packers and Vikings with John Gruden stating that Brett Favre is fresh off yet another "legendary" win, referring to last week's heroics against the 49ers.

Yes, it was a great win and yes, Favre made the play (although the catch by Greg Lewis was better than the pass by Favre). But the fact remains for every great play by Favre to win a game, there are bad plays that cost his team the game.

Look no further than the 2007 NFC Championship Game, when Favre's INT in overtime cost the Packers a chance to go to the Super Bowl. Then there was the 2001 playoff matchup against the Rams, a game in which Favre threw six, yes six, interceptions. I won't even bring up last year with the Jets, when after an 8-3 start, Favre still could not get New York into the postseason.

I realize that Favre has thrown more TDs and passed for more yards than any QB ever, and that he has won a Super Bowl. He is Hall of Famer and a legend, there is no agruement there. Having said that however, I would not put him on the Mount Rushmore of great NFL quarterbacks.

If you had to pick one QB to lead your team to the Promised Land, do you really want Favre to be that guy? The "gunslinger" mentality that Favre brings to the game is fun to watch, but it would scare me to death if he was the QB at the helm of my team in a big game.

Give Packers GM Ted Thompson credit. Not only did he not allow the Packers to be held hostage by Favre's inability to play or stay retired, he made a smart decision to hand the offense over to Aaron Rodgers.

Rodgers gives the Pack the best chance to win today and in the future. Vikings fans can get excited for now. A perfect 3-0 start, and Favre has been solid (5 TDs, INT), but much like last season in New York things will eventually turn for the worse.

If the Vikings play it smart and just keep handing the ball off to stud running back Adrian Peterson tonight, then Minnesota could very well win.

I don't think this will happen.

Favre loves to be the man, and I don't think he came out of retirement again just to hand the ball off. This is why I am picking the Packers to come away with a win in the Metrodome. There are certain things in life that we can all count on - death, taxes, and Favre throwing a big pick. It may not happen this week, but sooner or later it will.

Prediction: Packers 24 Vikings 23

Week 4 Recap: Patriots hold off Ravens for huge victory

By Dan Shouse

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

It is hard to believe, but we are already a quarter of the way through the NFL season, and the race for the playoff is just starting to take shape.

Patriots 27 (3-1) Ravens 21 (3-1)

This was billed as one of the best games of the weekend, and it lived up to the hype. Thanks to a late Mark Clayton drop at the New England 5-yard line with seconds to play, the Patriots were able to hold on for a huge win in Foxboro. As an added bonus, Brady and Moss finally hooked up for TD for the first time this season.

Saints 24 (4-0) Jets 10 (3-1)

Mark Sanchez finally played like a rookie in New Orleans, throwing a pick-six, and fumbling in his own end zone to give the undefeated Saints 14 defensive points. The Jets defense continues to prove it is one of the better units in the league however, holding Drew Brees without a TD pass.

Redskins 16 (2-2) Buccaneers 13 (0-4)

After looking horrible in the first half, Jason Campbell and the Redskins offense actually showed some signs of life in the 3rd quarter, as Campbell hit Chris Cooley and Santana Moss for a pair of scores to lead Washington to the win at FedEx Field. Congrats to Jim Zorn. You get to keep your job for another week.

Jaguars 37 (2-2) Titans (0-4)

The Titans may now be all but eliminated from playoff contention after Sunday's loss in Jacksonville. Who would have thought that after being the No. 1 seed in last year's AFC playoffs, that the Titans would now be 0-4? The Titans pass defense was once again burned this week, this time by David Garrard who threw for over 300 yards and added 3 TDs.

Broncos 17 (4-0) Cowboys 10 (2-2)

Speaking of surprising starts, did anyone think that Josh McDaniels and his Denver Broncos would be perfect four games into the season? Even more surprising is that Brandon Marshall was the hero yesterday, hauling in a 51-yard TD pass with under 2 minutes to play, giving the Broncos the lead. The defense also came up big, as Champ Baily knocked down a last-second pass attempt by Tony Romo to preserve the win. It will be another long week in Big D for Romo.

Bengals 23 (3-1) Browns (0-4)

Once again the Bengals played a game that came down to the wire, this time sneaking by the Browns in overtime on Shayne Graham's 31-yard kick. Is there anyone who still thinks the Browns made the right move hiring Mangini?

Texans 29 (2-2) Raiders 6 (0-4)

This might as well have been a bye week for the Texans at home against Oakland. Steve Slaton finally showed up, getting in the end zone twice. That was all the offense Houston would need, as JeMarcus Russell struggled yet again, throwing for under 130 yards. Tom Cable said this week that he felt Russell has made major strides this year. I agree, but that is only because I don't want to get my jaw broke.

Bears 48 (3-1) Lions 24 (1-3)

This game was closer than the final scores shows, as the Lions and Bears were knotted up at 21 heading to the half. Johnny Knox's 102 yard kick off return to start the second half changed the complexion of this one quickly, as the Bears pulled away in the second half to get the win in Chicago.

Colts 34 (4-0) Seahawks 17 (1-3)

Peyton Manning is playing as well as he ever has, going over 300 yards each game this season. Seattle struggled all day in Indy, getting a pair of late touchdowns to make the score look closer than it really was. The Colts are flying high on both sides of the ball. At the quarter mark of the season, Indy looks like the favorite in the AFC.

Giants 27 (4-0) Chiefs 16

Not to be outdone by his older brother, Eli Manning threw for 3 scores at Arrowhead, as the Giants remained undefeated. No Plaxico Burress, no problem, as Steve Smith has emerged as Manning's go-to receiver, finding the end zone twice and going over 130 yards receiving.

Dolphins 38 (1-3) Bills 10 (1-3)

The TO watch is on. How many more games until he throws Trent Edwards under the bus? The Dolphins ran all day, as Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown carried the load, giving the Dolphins their first win of the season.

49ers 35 (3-1) Rams 0 (0-4)

The 49ers scored 3 defensive TDs in a rout at home over the Rams. The Rams look like the worst team in the league. At this point the annoying Bud Light "Grooler" commercials are more entertaining than the Rams.

Steelers 38 (2-2) Chargers 28 (2-2)

Behind big games from Rashard Mendenhall and Ben Roethlisberger, the Steelers held off a late rally by the Chargers to get the win. After jumping ahead 28-0, the Steelers almost let this one slip away, as Phillip Rivers and Antonio Gates connected for two scores, helping to pull the Chargers within a touchdown at 28-21 in the 4th quarter. Jeff Reed iced the game however, hitting a late field goal to put the Steelers back up by 10.

Week 4 NFL Picks: Bank on Patriots winning

By Dan Shouse

Fan Fanatic Sport Staff

This should be easy. Anybody can pick the winners of NFL games each week, right?

Plus, it's not like I am picking against the point spread, so lets get to it.

Take it to the bank, here are your Week 4 winners in the NFL.

Patriots 21 Ravens 17

You can say I am picking this game with my heart, not my head, but I am not totally sold on the Ravens just yet. Yes they are 3-0, but two of the wins were against the Browns and Chiefs. Hardly what I would call playoff teams. The Ravens' other win came on the road in San Diego, a game the Chargers could have won if not for a couple of Phillip Rivers picks and a questionable call - running the ball with Darren Sproles on 4th-and-1 on the final drive deep in Ravens territory.

This is the week the Patriots look like the Patriots again.

Bears 24 Lions 7

Lions start up a new losing streak. Too bad the Lions can't play the Redskins every week

Bengals 34 Browns 10

If Derek Anderson was not the answer last season, why does Mangini think he will be this yea?Bengals build off last week's last-second win over the Steelers with an easy win this week.

Colts 30 Seahawks 17

Seahawks don't have the weapons to keep up with the Colts in Indy. Manning and the offense continue to produce.

Giants 27 Chiefs 6

Brandon Jacobs left, Brandon Jacobs right, Jacobs up the middle. Expect a big day on the ground for the G-Men again this week against the Chiefs. You won't see any offense from a punchless Chiefs team led by Matt Cassel.

Redskins 6 Bucs 3

Watching the Lifetime Movie Channel will be more entertaining than watching this game. Give the Redskins the win because they are at home.

Titans 20 Jags 14

Titans keep Maurice Jones-Drew in check and pick up their first win.

Texans 44 Raiders 6

How miserable must Richard Seymour be in Oakland? Check out JeMarcus Russell's numbers. They almost make Ryan Leaf look like an Hall of Famer.

Saints 40 Jets 20

The Jets will blitz, but Drew Brees will still have a big day. Jets drop their first game of the year in the Big Easy.

Bills 21 Dolphins 13

The Dolphins 2008 season must feel like a long time ago. T.O. has a big day, and helps keep the Dolphins winless, and the media off his back. For now anyway.

49ers 24 Rams 0

Mike Singletary's defense should have no problem with the Rams. St. Louis was bad enough with Marc Bulger, they will not be any better with Kyle Boller under center.

Cowboys 17 Broncos 14

With Felix Jones out, and Marion Barber banged up, the Cowboys may struggle a bit, but they will still have enough to get past the Broncos.

Chargers 27 Steelers 21

Phillip Rivers and Vincent Jackson have been a pretty good tandem this season. Chargers win on Sunday night, as the defending champs fall to 1-3.

Packers 24 Vikings 23

The Pack ruins things for Favre on Monday Night Football. Last week Favre was the hero. This week he will be the goat, as a late interception leads to the game-winning field goal by Mason Crosby.

Fantasy Football Friday: Week 4 Edition

By Jim Ingram

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Yes, yes. I know this article is a day late, but I do have a reason. Not one that I'll divulge, but I do have a valid reason. In case you didn't notice, Week 4 marks the first week in the NFL season with teams on the bye. So, if you have fantasy players on the Arizona Cardinals, Philadelphia Eagles, Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers make sure they are riding the pine this week. Of course bye weeks do cause a frenzy of waiver wire moves. What I'd like to do for this week is look at a few game match ups and see who's a good play, or who else should be riding the pine this weekend.

Match ups of the Week:

1. Bengals @ Browns - The Cleveland Browns are a god awful team. The Browns are 30th overall in team defense and have allowed 31.7 points per game so far this season. What does this mean for the Bengals. Watch out for Cedric Benson this week. The Browns have allowed 184.3 rushing yards per game. The Browns maybe middle of the pack (#16 overall) against the pass, but that is mostly due to the fact they've given up so many rushing yards. Another good play this weekend is Andre Caldwell. It seems Caldwell has turned into Palmer's 2nd favorite target after Chad Ochocinco. He's averaged nearly 5 catches per game in the first 3 games, so he's not a bad 3rd receiver with the start of the bye weeks. Don't sleep on Cincy's defense either. They're going up against the worst offensive team on the league.

2. Rams @ 49'ers - The St. Louis Rams now hold the longest current losing streak in the NFL of 13 games. Look for that to continue as they travel to San Francisco. With Frank Gore hurt, Glen Coffee gets the start. The Rams allow 148 yards per game on the ground. He'll also get the start for me in one of my fantasy leagues. Shaun Hill will also get the start for me in another league. Here's why. The Rams allow 253.3 passing yards per game and an opposing passer rating of 99.0. Nice!

3. Lions @ Bears - As much as it pains me to say this, Jay Cutler has been fantastic since the season opener. Look for him to continue that against a Lions defense that allows 399 total yards per game and 278 yards per game through the air. So, you should also make sure to have both Greg Olson and Johnny Knox in the lineup as well. This should be the week Matt Forte breaks out.Despite the Lions first win, you should also make sure you have the Bears Defense ready for a big day as well.

Make Em' Ride the Bench:

QB - Matt Cassel, David Garrard, Kyle Orton, Brett Favre (I don't care it's a revenge game)

RB - Larry Johnson, Jamal Lewis, Marshawn Lynch, Kevin Smith

WR - Dwayne Bowe, Roy Williams, Donnie Avery

TE - Ben Watson, Anthony Fasano, Todd Heap

K - Nate Kaeding, Jason Hanson

DEF - Seattle, New Orleans

Bye Week Pickups/Plays:

QB - Shaun Hill, Mark Sanchez

RB - Glen Coffee, Aaron Brown, Tashard Choice

WR - Bobby Wade, Pierre Garcon, Andre Caldwell

TE - Jermichael Finley, Mercedes Lewis

K - Shayne Graham, Robbie Gould

DEF - Bengals, Texans

Good luck to everyone in Week 4!

So who's tougher, Baltimore or New England?

By Chad Garner

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

So who's tougher?

We'll find out tomorrow when the undefeated Baltimore Ravens (3-0) travel to Foxboro to take on the New England Patriots (2-1).

I'm willing to bet this game isn't going to be pretty, it's going to be a knock-down-drag-em-out fight with some blood thrown in there, too. Basically, expect a fist fight from the opening play to the final whistle.

Both the Ravens and Patriots predicate themselves on playing physical, and we all know that's what they do, too.

This Ravens team appears to be complete with a very good defense (Ray Lewis, Ed Reed) and many weapons on offense. Yes, I said weapons. I know in year's past Baltimore has relied heavily on its defense to protect the offense, but now the offense is pulling its own weight. It's strange to say, but these Ravens are scary on both sides of the ball.

For the Patriots defense, which has been surprisingly solid in the first three games, they must shut down the Ravens' bread-and-butter which is still the power running game. They can hit you with speed (Ray Rice) and power (red zone and TD vulture Willis McGahee with five rushing TDs, and fullback Le'Ron McClain). But what has made Baltimore so good this year is the quarterback play of Joe Flacco. In his second year, the Ravens have taken off the training wheels and are letting his develop his passing skills. Flacco has thrown for 839 yards -- slightly under Tom Brady's 871 yards -- with six touchdowns and two INTs. He's got a passer rating of 101.4. Yes, he's been better than Brady, hands down.

And while the receiving corps of Derrick Mason, Mark Clayton, Kelly Washington (remember him in New England?) and tight end Todd Heap don't exactly scare you, they run good routes and find ways to get open. They're solid, bottom line.

I know it's easier said than done, but if the Pats can't limit the ground game -- plus nose tackle Vince Wilfork must play on his bad ankle and be in the middle because he's a game-changer -- and get some pressure on Flacco when he's forced to throw, New England has got a great chance to win. If the run can't be stopped then the passing game will be equally explosive, and that just means the Pats will get blown out.

For New England, I talked about balance -- running and passing -- last week to beat Atlanta, but throw that right out the window this week. The Ravens don't let anyone run on them -- they're allowing on average only 51 yards per game rushing -- and they haven't allowed a back to run for 100 yards in three years. So why should the Pats think they can run? They can't. If you see 3-yard pickups -- Pats will spread the Ravens out and run draws to slow down the defensive ends -- then that's a win for the Pats.

But Brady is going to have to win this game through the air. The Ravens allowing 231.7 yards passing per game, so they can be thrown on. But they also can ball-hawk (6 INTs), so Brady must be smart with the football and take what the defense gives him. Plus, he's got to hit the open receiver with accuracy and timing, something that's been lacking in the first three weeks. Wide receivers Randy Moss, Wes Welker (his knee better be ready to go this week) and Joey Galloway, plus tight ends Benjamin Watson and Chris Baker, should be licking their chops, knowing this is going to be an air show.

I know Brady hasn't been close to the old Brady, but all eyes are on him this week. Do you think he feels the pressure? I doubt it, he's been in much bigger games -- Super Bowls -- than a Week 4 regular season contest. He'll be fine and this is when we see the real Brady emerge.

Prediction: Patriots, 23-20