Green Bay Packers
Key additions: OT Bryan Bulaga, DE Mike Neal
Key Subtractions: DE Johnny Jolly, LB Aaron Kampman
The Packers have big expectations in 2010 after qualifying last season as a wild card team and losing in overtime to the Arizona Cardinals in the first round. The demise last season was the offensive line, which the Packers addressed in their first round selection of Bryan Bulaga. Bulaga joins an o-line that ranked last in the NFL last year giving up 51 sacks. The Packers lost the playoff game last year on a sack/interception of Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers is a Pro Bowl quarterback who uses his legs well and has escape ability, but no one can play the position while on their back. The line must do a better job early in the season and protect him better. Rodgers targets continue to play well. Donald Driver and Greg Jennings had good years, and the emergence of TE Jermichael Finley will benefit the Packers in the red zone. James Jones and Jordy Nelson are good depth receivers who have good chemistry with Rodgers so far. The Packers were 2nd in the NFL last year with 17 passing plays over 40 yards. Ryan Grant carried most of the load for the Packers last season and put up some nice numbers, topped by 4.4 yards per carry and 11 TDs. Behind Grant are unproven backs, so an injury to him could make the offense significantly one dimensional if one does not step up.
The Packers defense ranked 2nd in the NFL last season behind the New York Jets. That can be attributed to their top ranked rushing defense which gave up 3.6 yards per carry, 1,333 yards, and 83.3 yards per game. Up front, Ryan Picket led the way along with B.J. Raji and the now suspended Johnny Jolly. Neal should take over for Jolly. In the Packers new 3-4 system under defensive coordinator Dom Capers, the transition went well. Linebacker Nick Barnett lead the team in tackles last year, and A.J. Hawk and Clay Mathews lead that group along with Barnett to a strong defense that should continue to do well this year. However, the Packers failed in the playoffs to defend the pass. They are however very good at taking the ball away and making big players. Charles Woodson played like the premier corner he is, but Al Harris' injury hurt. They need him healthy this year in a secondary that has a few Pro Bowlers and a lot of potential.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 at Philadelphia
2 Sun, Sep 19 Buffalo
3 Mon, Sep 27 at Chicago
4 Sun, Oct 3 Detroit
5 Sun, Oct 10 at Washington
6 Sun, Oct 17 Miami
7 Sun, Oct 24 Minnesota
8 Sun, Oct 31 at NY Jets
9 Sun, Nov 7 Dallas
10 BYE
11 Sun, Nov 21 at Minnesota
12 Sun, Nov 28 at Atlanta
13 Sun, Dec 5 San Francisco
14 Sun, Dec 12 at Detroit
15 Sun, Dec 19 at New England
16 Sun, Dec 26 NY Giants
17 Sun, Jan 2 Chicago
The Packers have the 22nd hardest schedule and opponents were 125-131 last season.
They catch the AFC East and NFC East this year, two divisions with at least 3 expected playoff contenders. Looking at the schedule right now, only 3 games look like slam dunks, the rest will be very interesting matchups for the Packers, who face a few high powered offenses. Look for them to be around when December rolls around.
Philadelphia Eagles
Key Additions: DE Brandon Graham, RB Mike Bell, S Marlin Jackson, LB Ernie Sims, LB Alex Hall, DE Darryl Tapp
Key Subtractions: QB Donovan McNabb, WR Reggie Brown, CB Sheldon Brown, WR Kevin Curtis, RB Brian Westbrook, Will Witherspoon
The Eagles enter the 2010 season with a fresh face at QB. Donovan McNabb was thought of so highly by the Eagles that they traded him to a team in their own division, someone they will see twice a year. Out goes McNabb, in comes Kevin Kolb, an inexperienced and unknown gunslinger who must lead a team that would have been prime to win a Super Bowl with his predecessor. Kolb is surrounded by plenty of weapons. Lesean McCoy had a decent rookie year and will see his carry load increase, and Mike Bell will provide a nice change of pace. The receivers for the Eagles include one of the best deep threats in the league, DeSean Jackson. Jackson was the focal point of the big play passing offense last year that had the Eagles leading the league with 21 passing plays of 40 or more yards. Jeremy Maclin, Jason Avant, and TE Brent Celek will make Kolbs transition a lot easier. But if Kolb does not pick up the offense quickly enough and causes turnovers, look for Andy Reid to feel the pressure to put in Michael Vick.
The Eagles highly emphasized the defense this offseason, drafting DE Brandon Graham in the first round to play opposite veteran Trent Cole. The Eagles were tied for third in the NFL last year in sacks. The Eagles acquired two linebackers in the offseason and drafted two more. They ranked ninth in the league against the run last year. They must be able to stop the run to force opponents into throwing the ball in uncomfortable down and distances in order to create turnovers, something they are very good at. They had 25 INT's last season, 4th in the league led by Assante Samuel who had 9. Overall the defense still appears weak against the run, especially with the unproven players at linebacker. With the explosive offenses in the NFC East, the Eagles might run into problems this year trying to stop them.
Schedule
1 Sun, Sep 12 Green Bay
2 Sun, Sep 19 at Detroit
3 Sun, Sep 26 at Jacksonville
4 Sun, Oct 3 Washington
5 Sun, Oct 10 at San Francisco
6 Sun, Oct 17 Atlanta
7 Sun, Oct 24 at Tennessee
8 BYE
9 Sun, Nov 7 Indianapolis
10 Mon, Nov 15 at Washington
11 Sun, Nov 21 NY Giants
12 Sun, Nov 28 at Chicago
13 Thu, Dec 2 Houston
14 Sun, Dec 12 at Dallas
15 Sun, Dec 19 at NY Giants
16 Sun, Dec 26 Minnesota
17 Sun, Jan 2 Dallas
The Eagles have the 9th hardest schedule in the league and opponents were 133-123 last season. They catch the NFC North and AFC South this season. The Eagles benefit from an easy schedule early, however after the BYE the schedule gets really tough. The whole month of December features three divisional games, two of which on the road, and games against the explosive Texans and the Favre led Vikings. Expect the Eagles to have a tough time staying in the race down the stretch this season.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Two-A-Days: Cincinnati Bengals and New England Patriots Preview
Cincinnati Bengals
Key Additions: WR Antonio Bryant, WR Terrell Owens, WR Matt Jones, S Gibril Wilson, TE Jermaine Gresham, DE Carlos Dunlap, WR Jordan Shipley
Key Subtractions: WR Levarnues Coles, K Shayne Graham, RB Larry Johnson
The Bengals come into the 2010 season looking to defend their AFC North title from a year ago. The Bengals did a lot in the offseason to improve the passing game which was not a strength a year ago as they ranked near the bottom in the league. They signed both Antonio Bryant and Terrell Owens and also drafted Jermaine Gresham and Jordan Shipley. With those additions to go along with Chad OchoCinco, the passing game should be much better in 2010. But that all depends on Carson Palmer. Palmer's numbers were not great last year even though he started all 16 games. His 3,094 yards, 21 TD's, and 83.6 rating were all career lows in which he started all 16 games. The strength of the Bengals was their running game. Cedric Benson resurrected his career and rushed for 1,251 yards despite missing two games to injury. With the additions the Bengals made in the offseason to improve the passing game, this could help the Benson and the backfield tremendously. Bernard Scott and Brian Leonard will back-up Benson, but he is the primary guy. If the offensive line can protect Palmer and the Bengals can become much more balanced and consistent, their offense will improve on their 19.1 points per game average in 2009.
The Bengals defense in 2009 ranked fourth in the NFL in total defense lead by defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. Antwan Odom missed most of the season with injury but is expected to be ready to start the season. The Begals drafted Carlos Dunlap, a troubled but athletic defensive end from Florida who should see some significant playing time. Robert Geathers and Tank Johnson are veteran players who will show Dunlap what it will take to succeed in the league. Linebackers Dhani Jones and Ray Maualuga along with Keith Rivers make up a strong starting 3 linebacking corps. The Bengals ranked 7th in the NFL in rushing defense in 2009. Corners Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph also are play makers in the secondary and the addition of veteran Gibril Wilson will help make the secondary better in 2010.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 at New England
2 Sun, Sep 19 Baltimore
3 Sun, Sep 26 at Carolina
4 Sun, Oct 3 at Cleveland
5 Sun, Oct 10 Tampa Bay
6 BYE
7 Sun, Oct 24 at Atlanta
8 Sun, Oct 31 Miami
9 Mon, Nov 8 Pittsburgh
10 Sun, Nov 14 at Indianapolis
11 Sun, Nov 21 Buffalo
12 Thu, Nov 25 at NY Jets
13 Sun, Dec 5 New Orleans
14 Sun, Dec 12 at Pittsburgh
15 Sun, Dec 19 Cleveland
16 Sun, Dec 26 San Diego
17 Sun, Jan 2 at Baltimore
The Bengals have the 4th hardest schedule in the NFL and opponents were 138-118 last season. The catch the AFC East and NFC South this season. They catch Pittsburgh after the Roethlisburger suspension, but face tough non divisional road games at the Colts and home against the Chargers. Tough schedule any way you look at it, but look for the Bengals to fight hard to retain that AFC North title from a year ago.
New England Patriots
Key Additions: TE Alge Crumpler, WR Torry Holt, OLB Jermaine Cunningham, MLB Brandon Spikes, CB Devin McCourty, TE Aaron Hernandez, TE Rob Gronkowski
Key Subtractions: DE Jarvis Green, LB Junior Seau, CB Shawn Springs, LB Adalius Thomas, TE Benjamin Watson, TE Chris Baker
The Pats come into the 2010 season coming off another division title last season, but they will have a tougher time this year as the Jets and Miami have lowered the gap between them. Tom Brady came back last season after tearing his ACL in the first game of the 2008 season and started all 16 games. He is one of the elite quarterbacks in the league and still has plenty left. Wes Welker tore his MCL and ACL in the finale of the regular season last year and although he is in camp, it is unlikely he will put up the numbers this year he has in the past. More emphasis will be put on Randy Moss and Jullian Edelman will be the primary receivers someone is going to have to step up among the Pats reserves. They brought in a lot of TE's this offseason which will create a lot of options for Brady in the red zone. Expect them to run more double tight end sets with Welker probably out, something they have not done a lot of in the past. The running backs on the team are all over 30 but all produce. Fred Taylor, Kevin Faulk and Sammy Morris probably see an equal amount of carries in order to keep all of them fresh and healthy for the entire season. The Pats have one of the best offensive lines in football that have a good mix of veterans and young players. What it will come down to is when will Welker be back and how will he play.
The Pats began to overhaul their defense last season. Richard Seymour was traded before the season started last year and Jarvis Green is gone. Ty Warren and Vince Wilfork are the leaders of the line and must continue to play at a high level. The Pats drafted 2 Florida linebackers who stood out well in college. Cunningham is a good pass rusher who can be nice in the OLB in a 3-4. Spikes will take more time to develop to get used to the pro game, especially the speed. Jarrod Mayo and Tully Banta-Cain played well last season. With these additions, it just comes down to how well these players pick up the playbook and avoid mistakes. The secondary got some help with the drafting of CB Devin McCourty. Leigh Bodden, Darius Butler, and Brandon Meriweather round out the secondary. The Pats struggled though on third down in passing situations. They were second to last in the league ahead of only Detroit as opponents were 37.7% on third down when passing. By not getting off the field, it wears defenses down the longer the drives go and forces your high powered offense to sit on the bench. The Pats must do a better job of that this season or they will not be playing in Dallas in February.
Schedule:
WK DATE OPPONENT
1 Sun, Sep 12 Cincinnati
2 Sun, Sep 19 at NY Jets
3 Sun, Sep 26 Buffalo
4 Mon, Oct 4 at Miami
5 BYE
6 Sun, Oct 17 Baltimore
7 Sun, Oct 24 at San Diego
8 Sun, Oct 31 Minnesota
9 Sun, Nov 7 at Cleveland
10 Sun, Nov 14 at Pittsburgh
11 Sun, Nov 21 Indianapolis
12 Thu, Nov 25 at Detroit
13 Mon, Dec 6 NY Jets
14 Sun, Dec 12 at Chicago
15 Sun, Dec 19 Green Bay
16 Sun, Dec 26 at Buffalo
17 Sun, Jan 2 Miami
The Pats have the 6th hardest schedule in the league and opponents were 136-120 last season. They catch the AFC North and NFC North this season. They do catch most of their tougher non divisional opponents at home. They also play the Lions on the road on Thanksgiving after they play the Colts just 5 days prior. Tough schedule, but look for the Pats to be in the mix as long as Brady is under center.
Key Additions: WR Antonio Bryant, WR Terrell Owens, WR Matt Jones, S Gibril Wilson, TE Jermaine Gresham, DE Carlos Dunlap, WR Jordan Shipley
Key Subtractions: WR Levarnues Coles, K Shayne Graham, RB Larry Johnson
The Bengals come into the 2010 season looking to defend their AFC North title from a year ago. The Bengals did a lot in the offseason to improve the passing game which was not a strength a year ago as they ranked near the bottom in the league. They signed both Antonio Bryant and Terrell Owens and also drafted Jermaine Gresham and Jordan Shipley. With those additions to go along with Chad OchoCinco, the passing game should be much better in 2010. But that all depends on Carson Palmer. Palmer's numbers were not great last year even though he started all 16 games. His 3,094 yards, 21 TD's, and 83.6 rating were all career lows in which he started all 16 games. The strength of the Bengals was their running game. Cedric Benson resurrected his career and rushed for 1,251 yards despite missing two games to injury. With the additions the Bengals made in the offseason to improve the passing game, this could help the Benson and the backfield tremendously. Bernard Scott and Brian Leonard will back-up Benson, but he is the primary guy. If the offensive line can protect Palmer and the Bengals can become much more balanced and consistent, their offense will improve on their 19.1 points per game average in 2009.
The Bengals defense in 2009 ranked fourth in the NFL in total defense lead by defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. Antwan Odom missed most of the season with injury but is expected to be ready to start the season. The Begals drafted Carlos Dunlap, a troubled but athletic defensive end from Florida who should see some significant playing time. Robert Geathers and Tank Johnson are veteran players who will show Dunlap what it will take to succeed in the league. Linebackers Dhani Jones and Ray Maualuga along with Keith Rivers make up a strong starting 3 linebacking corps. The Bengals ranked 7th in the NFL in rushing defense in 2009. Corners Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph also are play makers in the secondary and the addition of veteran Gibril Wilson will help make the secondary better in 2010.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 at New England
2 Sun, Sep 19 Baltimore
3 Sun, Sep 26 at Carolina
4 Sun, Oct 3 at Cleveland
5 Sun, Oct 10 Tampa Bay
6 BYE
7 Sun, Oct 24 at Atlanta
8 Sun, Oct 31 Miami
9 Mon, Nov 8 Pittsburgh
10 Sun, Nov 14 at Indianapolis
11 Sun, Nov 21 Buffalo
12 Thu, Nov 25 at NY Jets
13 Sun, Dec 5 New Orleans
14 Sun, Dec 12 at Pittsburgh
15 Sun, Dec 19 Cleveland
16 Sun, Dec 26 San Diego
17 Sun, Jan 2 at Baltimore
The Bengals have the 4th hardest schedule in the NFL and opponents were 138-118 last season. The catch the AFC East and NFC South this season. They catch Pittsburgh after the Roethlisburger suspension, but face tough non divisional road games at the Colts and home against the Chargers. Tough schedule any way you look at it, but look for the Bengals to fight hard to retain that AFC North title from a year ago.
New England Patriots
Key Additions: TE Alge Crumpler, WR Torry Holt, OLB Jermaine Cunningham, MLB Brandon Spikes, CB Devin McCourty, TE Aaron Hernandez, TE Rob Gronkowski
Key Subtractions: DE Jarvis Green, LB Junior Seau, CB Shawn Springs, LB Adalius Thomas, TE Benjamin Watson, TE Chris Baker
The Pats come into the 2010 season coming off another division title last season, but they will have a tougher time this year as the Jets and Miami have lowered the gap between them. Tom Brady came back last season after tearing his ACL in the first game of the 2008 season and started all 16 games. He is one of the elite quarterbacks in the league and still has plenty left. Wes Welker tore his MCL and ACL in the finale of the regular season last year and although he is in camp, it is unlikely he will put up the numbers this year he has in the past. More emphasis will be put on Randy Moss and Jullian Edelman will be the primary receivers someone is going to have to step up among the Pats reserves. They brought in a lot of TE's this offseason which will create a lot of options for Brady in the red zone. Expect them to run more double tight end sets with Welker probably out, something they have not done a lot of in the past. The running backs on the team are all over 30 but all produce. Fred Taylor, Kevin Faulk and Sammy Morris probably see an equal amount of carries in order to keep all of them fresh and healthy for the entire season. The Pats have one of the best offensive lines in football that have a good mix of veterans and young players. What it will come down to is when will Welker be back and how will he play.
The Pats began to overhaul their defense last season. Richard Seymour was traded before the season started last year and Jarvis Green is gone. Ty Warren and Vince Wilfork are the leaders of the line and must continue to play at a high level. The Pats drafted 2 Florida linebackers who stood out well in college. Cunningham is a good pass rusher who can be nice in the OLB in a 3-4. Spikes will take more time to develop to get used to the pro game, especially the speed. Jarrod Mayo and Tully Banta-Cain played well last season. With these additions, it just comes down to how well these players pick up the playbook and avoid mistakes. The secondary got some help with the drafting of CB Devin McCourty. Leigh Bodden, Darius Butler, and Brandon Meriweather round out the secondary. The Pats struggled though on third down in passing situations. They were second to last in the league ahead of only Detroit as opponents were 37.7% on third down when passing. By not getting off the field, it wears defenses down the longer the drives go and forces your high powered offense to sit on the bench. The Pats must do a better job of that this season or they will not be playing in Dallas in February.
Schedule:
WK DATE OPPONENT
1 Sun, Sep 12 Cincinnati
2 Sun, Sep 19 at NY Jets
3 Sun, Sep 26 Buffalo
4 Mon, Oct 4 at Miami
5 BYE
6 Sun, Oct 17 Baltimore
7 Sun, Oct 24 at San Diego
8 Sun, Oct 31 Minnesota
9 Sun, Nov 7 at Cleveland
10 Sun, Nov 14 at Pittsburgh
11 Sun, Nov 21 Indianapolis
12 Thu, Nov 25 at Detroit
13 Mon, Dec 6 NY Jets
14 Sun, Dec 12 at Chicago
15 Sun, Dec 19 Green Bay
16 Sun, Dec 26 at Buffalo
17 Sun, Jan 2 Miami
The Pats have the 6th hardest schedule in the league and opponents were 136-120 last season. They catch the AFC North and NFC North this season. They do catch most of their tougher non divisional opponents at home. They also play the Lions on the road on Thanksgiving after they play the Colts just 5 days prior. Tough schedule, but look for the Pats to be in the mix as long as Brady is under center.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Two-A-Days: Atlanta Falcons and Houston Texans Preview
Atlanta Falcons
Key Additions: CB Dunta Robinson, LB Sean Weatherspoon
Key Subtractions: CB Chris Houston
The Falcons head into this season after dropping a bit after Matt Ryan's rookie season. Ryan saw his numbers decrease as far as total yards and completion percentage goes. But Ryan will bounce back this season, he is surrounded by too many good weapons not too. Micheal Turner fought in juries last season but had a stellar 2008 season, rushing for over 1,600 yards. Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez are two big targets that Ryan can rely upon. White caught 11 TD's and had over 1,200 yards receiving. Michael Jenkins is the teams number two receiver, but his numbers are not where the Falcons expect them to be. They need him to improve so it gives Ryan more options to look to. What it will come down to is will Turner be able to carry the load the entire season and remain healthy along with Tony Gonzalez. I believe that they will be healthier this year and last year was just bad luck and poor defense.
The Falcons defense probably cost them a shot at the playoffs last season. They were fifth worst in the NFL in passing yards allowed. This was subject to, what else, a bad pass rush. The Falcons had only 28 sacks all of last season. John Abraham on the outside and Justin Babineaux on the inside must play better and get more pressure on the quarterback. Sean Weatherspoon was drafted to improve the linebacking corps and Dunta Robinson will be the teams shut down corner. The Falcons have a strong unit as a whole, but they will have to come together and play a lot better if they wish to compete for a playoff spot this season.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 at Pittsburgh
2 Sun, Sep 19 Arizona
3 Sun, Sep 26 at New Orleans
4 Sun, Oct 3 San Francisco
5 Sun, Oct 10 at Cleveland
6 Sun, Oct 17 at Philadelphia
7 Sun, Oct 24 Cincinnati
8 BYE
9 Sun, Nov 7 Tampa Bay
10 Thu, Nov 11 Baltimore
11 Sun, Nov 21 at St. Louis
12 Sun, Nov 28 Green Bay
13 Sun, Dec 5 at Tampa Bay
14 Sun, Dec 12 at Carolina
15 Sun, Dec 19 at Seattle
16 Mon, Dec 27 New Orleans
17 Sun, Jan 2 Carolina
The Falcons have the 20th hardest schedule in the NFL and opponents were 127-129 last season. They catch the AFC North and NFC West this season. The schedule appears favorable for the Falcons. They have three easier road games late in the season and finish their final two games at home against divisional opponents. Look for them to be in contention down the stretch.
Houston Texans
Key Additions: LB Danny Clark, K Neil Rackers, CB Kareem Jackson, RB Ben Tate, G Wade Smith
Key Subtractions: QB Rex Grossman, RB Ryan Moats, CB Dunta Robinson, G Chester Pitts
The Houston Texans have one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL, but have yet to reach the playoffs in their franchises entire existence. I believe this has a lot to do with coaching. The playoffs are a must for Gary Kubiac to keep his job. It will be interesting to see how he does now that he lost Kyle Shanahan as his offensive coordinator. Matt Schaub put up career numbers last season along with Andrea Johnson, yet the team failed to make the playoffs. Schaub threw for 4,770 yards and 29 TD's while Johnson caught 101 balls for 1,569 yards. They were the number one passing team in the NFL. Owen Daniels also plays a key role in that passing game as well along with Kevin Walter. But the Texans can not run the ball with consistency. Steve Slaton led the team in rushing with just 437 yards and he rushed for only 3.3 yards per carry. The Texans drafted Ben Tate who can be a nice balance to go with Slaton who bruise and get the tough yardage. This offense is too good to be playing at the level it has been in previous seasons.
The Texans defense has Pro Bowl players at several positions, yet as a whole do not put up the flashy numbers. The team ranks in the middle of the pack in almost every statistical category. They have a freak DE in Mario Williams who has 39.5 sacks in his four year career. The Texans need someone else to step up and alleviate the double team Williams draws. DeMeco Ryans leads the linebackers that also includes Brian Cushing, each Pro Bowlers. With the addition of Danny Clark, they are set. Careem Jackson replaces Robinson, who left for Atlanta in free agency. Beyond him, the Texans lack depth and the players are not putting up the numbers. They are going to need people to step up and contribute or they will struggle.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 Indianapolis
2 Sun, Sep 19 at Washington
3 Sun, Sep 26 Dallas
4 Sun, Oct 3 at Oakland
5 Sun, Oct 10 NY Giants
6 Sun, Oct 17 Kansas City
7 BYE
8 Mon, Nov 1 at Indianapolis
9 Sun, Nov 7 San Diego
10 Sun, Nov 14 at Jacksonville
11 Sun, Nov 21 at NY Jets
12 Sun, Nov 28 Tennessee
13 Thu, Dec 2 at Philadelphia
14 Mon, Dec 13 Baltimore
15 Sun, Dec 19 at Tennessee
16 Sun, Dec 26 at Denver
17 Sun, Jan 2 Jacksonville
The Texans have the hardest schedule in the NFL and opponents were 140-116 last season. They catch the AFC West and NFC East this season, divisions with powerful teams in them. The Texans except for Week 4 at Oakland and Week 6 at home against the Cheifs. They also catch the Jets in an inter conference matchup on the road and the Ravens at home. Tough schedule any way you look at it, but the Texans are have too many weapons not to be a contender this season.
Key Additions: CB Dunta Robinson, LB Sean Weatherspoon
Key Subtractions: CB Chris Houston
The Falcons head into this season after dropping a bit after Matt Ryan's rookie season. Ryan saw his numbers decrease as far as total yards and completion percentage goes. But Ryan will bounce back this season, he is surrounded by too many good weapons not too. Micheal Turner fought in juries last season but had a stellar 2008 season, rushing for over 1,600 yards. Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez are two big targets that Ryan can rely upon. White caught 11 TD's and had over 1,200 yards receiving. Michael Jenkins is the teams number two receiver, but his numbers are not where the Falcons expect them to be. They need him to improve so it gives Ryan more options to look to. What it will come down to is will Turner be able to carry the load the entire season and remain healthy along with Tony Gonzalez. I believe that they will be healthier this year and last year was just bad luck and poor defense.
The Falcons defense probably cost them a shot at the playoffs last season. They were fifth worst in the NFL in passing yards allowed. This was subject to, what else, a bad pass rush. The Falcons had only 28 sacks all of last season. John Abraham on the outside and Justin Babineaux on the inside must play better and get more pressure on the quarterback. Sean Weatherspoon was drafted to improve the linebacking corps and Dunta Robinson will be the teams shut down corner. The Falcons have a strong unit as a whole, but they will have to come together and play a lot better if they wish to compete for a playoff spot this season.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 at Pittsburgh
2 Sun, Sep 19 Arizona
3 Sun, Sep 26 at New Orleans
4 Sun, Oct 3 San Francisco
5 Sun, Oct 10 at Cleveland
6 Sun, Oct 17 at Philadelphia
7 Sun, Oct 24 Cincinnati
8 BYE
9 Sun, Nov 7 Tampa Bay
10 Thu, Nov 11 Baltimore
11 Sun, Nov 21 at St. Louis
12 Sun, Nov 28 Green Bay
13 Sun, Dec 5 at Tampa Bay
14 Sun, Dec 12 at Carolina
15 Sun, Dec 19 at Seattle
16 Mon, Dec 27 New Orleans
17 Sun, Jan 2 Carolina
The Falcons have the 20th hardest schedule in the NFL and opponents were 127-129 last season. They catch the AFC North and NFC West this season. The schedule appears favorable for the Falcons. They have three easier road games late in the season and finish their final two games at home against divisional opponents. Look for them to be in contention down the stretch.
Houston Texans
Key Additions: LB Danny Clark, K Neil Rackers, CB Kareem Jackson, RB Ben Tate, G Wade Smith
Key Subtractions: QB Rex Grossman, RB Ryan Moats, CB Dunta Robinson, G Chester Pitts
The Houston Texans have one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL, but have yet to reach the playoffs in their franchises entire existence. I believe this has a lot to do with coaching. The playoffs are a must for Gary Kubiac to keep his job. It will be interesting to see how he does now that he lost Kyle Shanahan as his offensive coordinator. Matt Schaub put up career numbers last season along with Andrea Johnson, yet the team failed to make the playoffs. Schaub threw for 4,770 yards and 29 TD's while Johnson caught 101 balls for 1,569 yards. They were the number one passing team in the NFL. Owen Daniels also plays a key role in that passing game as well along with Kevin Walter. But the Texans can not run the ball with consistency. Steve Slaton led the team in rushing with just 437 yards and he rushed for only 3.3 yards per carry. The Texans drafted Ben Tate who can be a nice balance to go with Slaton who bruise and get the tough yardage. This offense is too good to be playing at the level it has been in previous seasons.
The Texans defense has Pro Bowl players at several positions, yet as a whole do not put up the flashy numbers. The team ranks in the middle of the pack in almost every statistical category. They have a freak DE in Mario Williams who has 39.5 sacks in his four year career. The Texans need someone else to step up and alleviate the double team Williams draws. DeMeco Ryans leads the linebackers that also includes Brian Cushing, each Pro Bowlers. With the addition of Danny Clark, they are set. Careem Jackson replaces Robinson, who left for Atlanta in free agency. Beyond him, the Texans lack depth and the players are not putting up the numbers. They are going to need people to step up and contribute or they will struggle.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 Indianapolis
2 Sun, Sep 19 at Washington
3 Sun, Sep 26 Dallas
4 Sun, Oct 3 at Oakland
5 Sun, Oct 10 NY Giants
6 Sun, Oct 17 Kansas City
7 BYE
8 Mon, Nov 1 at Indianapolis
9 Sun, Nov 7 San Diego
10 Sun, Nov 14 at Jacksonville
11 Sun, Nov 21 at NY Jets
12 Sun, Nov 28 Tennessee
13 Thu, Dec 2 at Philadelphia
14 Mon, Dec 13 Baltimore
15 Sun, Dec 19 at Tennessee
16 Sun, Dec 26 at Denver
17 Sun, Jan 2 Jacksonville
The Texans have the hardest schedule in the NFL and opponents were 140-116 last season. They catch the AFC West and NFC East this season, divisions with powerful teams in them. The Texans except for Week 4 at Oakland and Week 6 at home against the Cheifs. They also catch the Jets in an inter conference matchup on the road and the Ravens at home. Tough schedule any way you look at it, but the Texans are have too many weapons not to be a contender this season.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Two-A-Days: Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers Preview
Carolina Panthers
Key Additions: QB Jimmy Clausen, WR Brandon LaFell, WR Armanti Edwards, LB Jamar Williams, S Aaron Francisco
Key Losses: QB Jake Delhomme, WR Muhsin Muhammad, LB Na’il Diggs, DE Julius Peppers
The Panthers enter this season with Matt Moore as their quarterback as Jake Delhomme has moved on to Cleveland. The Panthers are in the same situation as the Eagles are under slightly different circumstances. Moore started the final 5 games of last season and won 4 of them. The Panthers are putting their faith in him that he will play this season and beyond like he did the final 5 games of last year. He has only 8 career starts. His stats were not flashy but he did manage the team well and I expect he will do the same this season. If he wont, we may see Jimmy Clausen a little earlier than people may expect. The Panthers are built on their running game with DeAngelo Williams and Jonathon Stewart. The Panthers as a team ran for 2,498 yards and 4.8 yards per carry last season, third in the NFL. The Panthers have been getting older at the wide receiver position. Mushin Muhammad retired after last year and Steve Smith is 31. The Panthers addressed this in the draft by selecting Brandon LaFell and Armanti Edwards. Dwayne Jarrett should will compete with those two for playing time. The Panthers will play it conservative on offense with the inexperienced Moore under center until he becomes more comfortable and opens it up. But the two-headed monster will rule in Carolina again this year.
Carolina averaged only 19.7 points per game last season, putting a lot of pressure on their defense, who averaged 19.2 points against a year ago. They lost their best player in the offseason in Julius Peppers. They no longer have a consistent threat on the d-line that will make offenses account for at all times. They have the fourth best passing defense in the league and take the ball away often. They had 22 interceptions last season. They are also good at getting off the field on thirds down, as teams were successful 36% on third down last season. What it will come down to on defense for the Panthers is will someone step up now that Peppers is gone and put pressure on the quarterback. No matter how good your secondary is, you give NFL quarterbacks time in the pocket, their going to find someone open. The success of the team this season will depend on that.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 at NY Giants
2 Sun, Sep 19 Tampa Bay
3 Sun, Sep 26 Cincinnati
4 Sun, Oct 3 at New Orleans
5 Sun, Oct 10 Chicago
6 BYE
7 Sun, Oct 24 San Francisco
8 Sun, Oct 31 at St. Louis
9 Sun, Nov 7 New Orleans
10 Sun, Nov 14 at Tampa Bay
11 Sun, Nov 21 Baltimore
12 Sun, Nov 28 at Cleveland
13 Sun, Dec 5 at Seattle
14 Sun, Dec 12 Atlanta
15 Sun, Dec 19 Arizona
16 Thu, Dec 23 at Pittsburgh
17 Sun, Jan 2 at Atlanta
The Panthers have the 26th toughest schedule this season and opponents were 122-134 in 2009. They catch the AFC North and NFC West this season. They finish the season with the final two games on the road, and one in Pittsburgh in the cold. With Atlanta improving this season and the Super Bowl champs in the division, don't expect the Panthers to contend this season.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Key Additions: OT Flozell Adams, S Will Allen, WR Arnaz Battle, LB Larry Foote, QB Byron Leftwich, WR Antwaan Randle El, CB Bryant McFadden, C Maurkice Pouncey
Key Subtractions: WR Santonio Holmes, RB Willie Parker, CB Deshea Townsend, S Tyrone Carter
The Steelers enter the 2010 season after missing the playoffs last year and will have their starting quarterback out for at least 4 games to start the season as he serves his suspension for violating the leagues personal conduct policy. Byron Leftwich and Dennis Dixon will compete for the starting job in camp. But the loss of Roethlisburger is the least of their problems. WR Santonio Holmes was traded and Willie Parker departed as a free agent. Rehard Mendenhall had an excellent season last year rushing for 1,108 yards and 4.8 yards per carry. Replacing former Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes wont be as easy. Hines Ward put up great numbers last year but he is 34 years old. Mike Wallace and Antwaan Randle El will have to pick up the slack that Holmes leaves behind. The line has had some injury problems this offseason, Willie Colon tore his ACL and is done for the year. The Steelers have been terrible in sacks allowed, and if not for the escape ability of Roethlisburger, they would have a lot more sacks on their record. The Steelers did a great move by bringing in veteran Flozell Adams. The unit must play better this season and get some better protection.
The Steelers defense has been and will continue to be the backbone of their team, but they are a completely different unit when Troy Polamalu is on the field. He needs to stay healthy for them to be sucessful. But the Steelers get after the quarterback, and get after him well. They recorded 47 sacks as a unit last year, second in the league led by James Harrison. The Steelers brought back Larry Foote to play alongside Harrison, Lamarr Woodley, Lawrence Timmons, and James Farrior. All those guys should see significant time. The Steelers brought back Bryant McFadden to play opposite Ike Taylor, and if Polamalu stays healthy, the Steelers secondary unit is very solid. A lot will depend on if the unit can collectively get through the season without significant injuries and keep putting pressure on quarterbacks.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 Atlanta
2 Sun, Sep 19 at Tennessee
3 Sun, Sep 26 at Tampa Bay
4 Sun, Oct 3 Baltimore
5 BYE
6 Sun, Oct 17 Cleveland
7 Sun, Oct 24 at Miami
8 Sun, Oct 31 at New Orleans
9 Mon, Nov 8 at Cincinnati
10 Sun, Nov 14 New England
11 Sun, Nov 21 Oakland
12 Sun, Nov 28 at Buffalo
13 Sun, Dec 5 at Baltimore
14 Sun, Dec 12 Cincinnati
15 Sun, Dec 19 NY Jets
16 Thu, Dec 23 Carolina
17 Sun, Jan 2 at Cleveland
The Steelers have the 21st hardest schedule and opponents were 126-130 last season. They catch the AFC East and NFC South this season. The Steelers luck out in the schedule department in the first four games. They only have 1 divisional game and two of their easier road games. Should Roethlisburger come back on time, he'll have a nice warm up game Week 5 vs. Cleveland. The rest of the schedule however is not that simple. The AFC East has 3 contenders and they have problems in their own division with Baltimore and the defending champs Cincinnati. However 3 of their final 4 games are home. Expect them to be in the hunt down the stretch.
Key Additions: QB Jimmy Clausen, WR Brandon LaFell, WR Armanti Edwards, LB Jamar Williams, S Aaron Francisco
Key Losses: QB Jake Delhomme, WR Muhsin Muhammad, LB Na’il Diggs, DE Julius Peppers
The Panthers enter this season with Matt Moore as their quarterback as Jake Delhomme has moved on to Cleveland. The Panthers are in the same situation as the Eagles are under slightly different circumstances. Moore started the final 5 games of last season and won 4 of them. The Panthers are putting their faith in him that he will play this season and beyond like he did the final 5 games of last year. He has only 8 career starts. His stats were not flashy but he did manage the team well and I expect he will do the same this season. If he wont, we may see Jimmy Clausen a little earlier than people may expect. The Panthers are built on their running game with DeAngelo Williams and Jonathon Stewart. The Panthers as a team ran for 2,498 yards and 4.8 yards per carry last season, third in the NFL. The Panthers have been getting older at the wide receiver position. Mushin Muhammad retired after last year and Steve Smith is 31. The Panthers addressed this in the draft by selecting Brandon LaFell and Armanti Edwards. Dwayne Jarrett should will compete with those two for playing time. The Panthers will play it conservative on offense with the inexperienced Moore under center until he becomes more comfortable and opens it up. But the two-headed monster will rule in Carolina again this year.
Carolina averaged only 19.7 points per game last season, putting a lot of pressure on their defense, who averaged 19.2 points against a year ago. They lost their best player in the offseason in Julius Peppers. They no longer have a consistent threat on the d-line that will make offenses account for at all times. They have the fourth best passing defense in the league and take the ball away often. They had 22 interceptions last season. They are also good at getting off the field on thirds down, as teams were successful 36% on third down last season. What it will come down to on defense for the Panthers is will someone step up now that Peppers is gone and put pressure on the quarterback. No matter how good your secondary is, you give NFL quarterbacks time in the pocket, their going to find someone open. The success of the team this season will depend on that.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 at NY Giants
2 Sun, Sep 19 Tampa Bay
3 Sun, Sep 26 Cincinnati
4 Sun, Oct 3 at New Orleans
5 Sun, Oct 10 Chicago
6 BYE
7 Sun, Oct 24 San Francisco
8 Sun, Oct 31 at St. Louis
9 Sun, Nov 7 New Orleans
10 Sun, Nov 14 at Tampa Bay
11 Sun, Nov 21 Baltimore
12 Sun, Nov 28 at Cleveland
13 Sun, Dec 5 at Seattle
14 Sun, Dec 12 Atlanta
15 Sun, Dec 19 Arizona
16 Thu, Dec 23 at Pittsburgh
17 Sun, Jan 2 at Atlanta
The Panthers have the 26th toughest schedule this season and opponents were 122-134 in 2009. They catch the AFC North and NFC West this season. They finish the season with the final two games on the road, and one in Pittsburgh in the cold. With Atlanta improving this season and the Super Bowl champs in the division, don't expect the Panthers to contend this season.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Key Additions: OT Flozell Adams, S Will Allen, WR Arnaz Battle, LB Larry Foote, QB Byron Leftwich, WR Antwaan Randle El, CB Bryant McFadden, C Maurkice Pouncey
Key Subtractions: WR Santonio Holmes, RB Willie Parker, CB Deshea Townsend, S Tyrone Carter
The Steelers enter the 2010 season after missing the playoffs last year and will have their starting quarterback out for at least 4 games to start the season as he serves his suspension for violating the leagues personal conduct policy. Byron Leftwich and Dennis Dixon will compete for the starting job in camp. But the loss of Roethlisburger is the least of their problems. WR Santonio Holmes was traded and Willie Parker departed as a free agent. Rehard Mendenhall had an excellent season last year rushing for 1,108 yards and 4.8 yards per carry. Replacing former Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes wont be as easy. Hines Ward put up great numbers last year but he is 34 years old. Mike Wallace and Antwaan Randle El will have to pick up the slack that Holmes leaves behind. The line has had some injury problems this offseason, Willie Colon tore his ACL and is done for the year. The Steelers have been terrible in sacks allowed, and if not for the escape ability of Roethlisburger, they would have a lot more sacks on their record. The Steelers did a great move by bringing in veteran Flozell Adams. The unit must play better this season and get some better protection.
The Steelers defense has been and will continue to be the backbone of their team, but they are a completely different unit when Troy Polamalu is on the field. He needs to stay healthy for them to be sucessful. But the Steelers get after the quarterback, and get after him well. They recorded 47 sacks as a unit last year, second in the league led by James Harrison. The Steelers brought back Larry Foote to play alongside Harrison, Lamarr Woodley, Lawrence Timmons, and James Farrior. All those guys should see significant time. The Steelers brought back Bryant McFadden to play opposite Ike Taylor, and if Polamalu stays healthy, the Steelers secondary unit is very solid. A lot will depend on if the unit can collectively get through the season without significant injuries and keep putting pressure on quarterbacks.
Schedule:
1 Sun, Sep 12 Atlanta
2 Sun, Sep 19 at Tennessee
3 Sun, Sep 26 at Tampa Bay
4 Sun, Oct 3 Baltimore
5 BYE
6 Sun, Oct 17 Cleveland
7 Sun, Oct 24 at Miami
8 Sun, Oct 31 at New Orleans
9 Mon, Nov 8 at Cincinnati
10 Sun, Nov 14 New England
11 Sun, Nov 21 Oakland
12 Sun, Nov 28 at Buffalo
13 Sun, Dec 5 at Baltimore
14 Sun, Dec 12 Cincinnati
15 Sun, Dec 19 NY Jets
16 Thu, Dec 23 Carolina
17 Sun, Jan 2 at Cleveland
The Steelers have the 21st hardest schedule and opponents were 126-130 last season. They catch the AFC East and NFC South this season. The Steelers luck out in the schedule department in the first four games. They only have 1 divisional game and two of their easier road games. Should Roethlisburger come back on time, he'll have a nice warm up game Week 5 vs. Cleveland. The rest of the schedule however is not that simple. The AFC East has 3 contenders and they have problems in their own division with Baltimore and the defending champs Cincinnati. However 3 of their final 4 games are home. Expect them to be in the hunt down the stretch.
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