Sports Junkies

Your thoughts on Caleb Campbell

2008-07-24T12:18:00.000-06:00

Called off to duty after being promised a chance to play in the NFL, now he won't get that chance...not yet or not ever. Your thoughts?

2007 Draft

2007-04-27T23:21:00.000-06:00

It's time for the 2007 draft. Let this be the place for draft talk.

Kobe's World

2007-03-23T20:32:00.000-06:00

4 Games of 50+ points tying Wilt Chaimberlain for games in a row scoring 50+. In today's times what Kobe Bryant is doing is much more impressive. Last 4 games - 65, 50, 60, 50

Do you think this is good for a team?

Stoked!

2007-03-20T16:23:00.000-06:00

The Denver Broncos continue to make moves in the off season. Broncos just signed Brandon Stokleyfor 1 year to add to the already up and coming recieving threat the Broncos have. What does this mean for Rod Smith?

Bly me to Denver

2007-03-01T20:48:00.000-07:00

It's hard to get prepared for the season now that...count them 2, Broncos are buried. However, something Denver needed to do to replace one of those players, we are trading away George Foster and Tatum bell (plus a draft choice) for Dre Bly. This without a doubt gives Denver the best 1-2 punch at corners in the league...hands down!!!! Will this improve Denver's defense, or are they still average?

Farty Marty!

2007-02-14T00:04:00.000-07:00

Marty Schottenheimer has a career coaching record of 200-126-1. Pretty damn good but he also has a playoff record of 5-13. Marty willprobably be inducted into the HOF with the worst playoff coaching record of all the HOF coaches. After a 14-2 record Marty was fired as head coach of the Chargers after another early exit from the playoffs. Should Marty hang it up or go for another shot somewhere else?

Da Bears

2007-01-24T21:37:00.001-07:00

Here is one from the old school!">

Saints A Marching!

2007-01-13T23:29:00.000-07:00

The Saints are Marching into the NFC Championship game and they will either face the Bears or the Seahawks. I think everyone is rooting for these Saints. How about you?

Playoff Picks

2007-01-05T17:06:00.000-07:00

Well the time is here lets get your playoff picks round by round leading to Super Bowl 41!

R.I.P. #27

2007-01-01T12:10:00.000-07:00

Senseless violence ended the life of a promising young athlete...your thoughts on this?

Where Eagles Dare

2006-12-26T22:49:00.000-07:00

Jamezwp brings up a good point from Febuary 05 when we discussed aquiring Jeff Garcia off of free agency instead of Jake Plummer. After a few rocky seasons in Cleveland & Detroit Jeff Garcia is making a great fit in a Philadelphia Eagles team who many were writing off after the injusry to star QB Donovan McNabb.

A New Era

2006-11-29T02:26:00.000-07:00

The Jay Cutler era begins this Sunday at Invesco Vs The Seahawks. Your thoughts?

If not now...When?

2006-11-21T23:52:00.000-07:00

After the performance we seen on National TV by Jake Plummer against the Chargers we got to be asking if not now..When? When and why should the Denver Broncos decide the future is now and go with the rookie as the starter of the Denver Broncos?

The man that football killed...

2006-11-17T22:15:00.000-07:00

Perhaps before the biggest game in Michigan football history Head Coach Bo Schembechler passed away. Doctors said that the excitement of the big game this Saturday could may have been the antidote that killed Schembechler. May we at Sports junkies honor coach Schembechler on this sad day in college football history.

Sunday Night Football!

2006-11-15T22:18:00.000-07:00

Chargers @ The Broncos this Sunday night. Predictions for this game of the week? What does Denver need to do to stop the high powered Chargers?

Plummer or Cutler?

2006-10-24T18:29:00.001-06:00

I know a lot of Denver fans are calling for Plummers head on a stick because the lack of offensive productivity, however, the Broncos are atop the AFC West with a 5-1 record and are sitting as the #2 seed in the AFC if the playoffs were to start today. What are your thoughts on whether the Broncos should stick with Plummer or go to the unproven rookie Cutler.

unBEARable

2006-10-09T00:51:00.000-06:00

The Bears seem like the team to beat in the NFC as they keep steam rolling through teams like they did today 40-7. This Chicago Bear team looks very scary and with the schedule they could finish 13-3 shoot maybe even better. Do you think they could possible go undefeated?
Oct 16 @Arizona
Week 7 BYE
Oct 29 San Francisco
Nov 5 Miami
Nov 12 @N.Y. Giants
Nov 19 @N.Y. Jets
Nov 26 @New England
Dec 3 Minnesota
Dec 11 @St. Louis
Dec 17 Tampa Bay
Dec 24 @Detroit
Dec 31 Green Bay

The curse lives...

2006-09-25T19:58:00.000-06:00

Hopefully next year Madden will put his ugly mug back on the cover and he'll end his commentator career because of some freak accident with a sting ray puncturing his vocal cord. But our luck indicates yet another super star will end up on the cover and a year of injury or bad numbers…sucks for all you who picked up Alexander with one of your top 3 choices. Your thoughts on the Seahawks without Alexander?

OT or not to be?

2006-09-18T17:33:00.000-06:00

58% of OT winners are decided by a coin toss. yep that's right 58% of the team who wins the coin toss ends up winning the game. Is it going to take the NFl for a team to be robbed in a OT Super Bowl for them to change this ludicris rule? A Super Bowl hasn't ever went to OT so I guess it's not an issue. But I believe there are some other alternatives that we could come up with if we were the Commish...

2-0!!!

2006-09-17T22:49:00.000-06:00

Who expected the Vikings to be 2-0 under Brad Childress right now? Be honest! They went into Washington and won and now they go home and beat the Smithless Panthers. This is a team that is for real. They play the Bears at home next week and that will be the true test of this team.

A Real Test

2006-09-15T16:51:00.000-06:00

Kurt Warner looked better then he did in his HyVee checkout uniform this past Sunday when he tossed 3 TD's in a win of the 49ers. The true test to see what this loaded offense can do will be this Sunday VS the Seahawks. With a stacked offense and the addition of The Edge these guys might be for real.

The real Home Run King?

2006-09-09T00:21:00.000-06:00

With 56 homers Ryan Howard is on pace for 65 and if he keeps up what he has done this pat week he might just hit more then 70! Ryan Howard last I checked was nothing but a good ole fashion “Big Boy”. Not a enlarged headed, steroid pumping, small nutted, supreme court Balco Boy. This cat is going to hit more then 61 homers and nobody is even following it like they did Big Mac, Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa. Sad… Very sad is all I have to say. Ryan Howard if you hit 62 homers you are the new home run king in my book.

Super Bowl Picks

2006-09-06T18:12:00.000-06:00

Lets make your picks prior to the season and see who is right come February...

Fantasy Football!

2006-08-07T21:14:00.000-06:00

It's that time of the year again for Fantasy Football! Here is the question I have for you - You just pulled the slip out of that hat and you got the #1 pick. Who do you pick and why?

The Best QB Ever?

2006-08-06T16:15:00.000-06:00

His career was filled with dramatic performances under pressure. Starting with "The Catch" in the 1981 NFC Championship Game, Montana always found a way to help the Niners win the big game. "Joe Cool" never let pressure affect his play and was at his best in the national spotlight. He was 4-0 in Super Bowls and was MVP of the big game three times. Is he the best to ever play the position? Let's debate!

Thanks to SI for providing picture and text.

Javon Walker...Super Bowl?

2006-08-03T22:06:00.000-06:00

Is this what the Broncos need to get passed the AFC Championship game?

Only the longball courses???

2006-07-24T10:47:00.000-06:00

A lot of critics, including first and second round playing partner Nick Faldo, said Tiger only wins on courses that are conducive to his long ball off the tee. Woods just proved all that nonsense wrong, only hitting driver once during 72 holes, instead teeing off with a 2-iron and 3-wood and hitting precision 190+ irons to concrete greens. Woods’ clinic during the 135 Open Championship proves his place in golfing history and also intensifies his status as someone who will always contend with the top of the leaderboard.

Your thoughts on Woods' 11th Major?

Ali

2006-07-05T22:34:00.000-06:00

I had to post this up here. Watch Ali dodge these punches like it was nothing.

Champ or Chump?

2006-07-03T16:41:00.001-06:00

I got curious and checked it out. The #1 wide receivers for Denver’s opponents combined for 86 catches, 1253 yards, and 5 TDs last season. Not bad for someone who had been taken out of the game, and that doesn’t count Deion Branch’s 8-153-0 and Hines Ward’s 5-59-1 in the playoffs.

Wk Receiver Rec Yd TD
=============================
1 Chambers 5 40 0
2 McCardell 4 54 0
3 Kennison 8 112 0
4 J. Smith 5 109 1
5 S. Moss 8 116 0
6 Branch 7 87 0
7 Burress 6 84 1
8 Owens 3 154 1
10 R. Moss 6 87 1
11 Coles 6 62 0
12 K. Johnson* 6 54 1
13 Kennison 4 108 0
14 Mason 6 53 0
15 Evans** 2 5 0
16 R. Moss 5 72 0
17 McCardell 6 51 0

* - Glenn had 4-56-0
** - Moulds had 9-110-0

More World Cup

2006-06-21T15:20:00.000-06:00

World Cup Soccer

2006-06-20T21:46:00.000-06:00

Guess there is something cool about soccer...The fans...

Hot Seat

2006-06-08T21:59:00.000-06:00

He had a strong 2005 season but couldn't get the job done against the Steelers in the AFC Championship Game. Although he's clearly No. 1, there are whispers that the team isn't thrilled with him and that first-round pick Jay Cutler is the future of the franchise. If the Broncos struggle, they may turn to the future sooner than expected.

The Tide had turned Wallace stuffs Shaq

2006-06-01T15:17:00.000-06:00

">

Pistons could possibly be sending the Heat home if this keeps up!

Nash

2006-05-24T20:08:00.000-06:00

King James

2006-05-18T20:16:00.000-06:00

Can Lebron James and his Cavs finish off the Pistons tomorrow night and move on to the Eastern Conference Championship?

What if?

2006-05-16T20:37:00.000-06:00

What if Warren Moon played all of his career in the NFL? He would be tops over Marino in the stat catagory I'm sure. In the CFL Moon had tossed for21,228 yards and 144 TD's. In the NFl he threw for 49,325 and 291 TD's. That would have given him a total of 70,553 yards and 435 TD's. Wow! your thoughts?

More Vernon Davis

2006-05-10T21:23:00.000-06:00

a href="">

I took it upon myself to do a little more research on this freak of nature they call Vernon Davis and came up with this reel. Enjoy!<

Could this be the year?

2006-05-09T15:31:00.000-06:00

The Rockies are off to a hot start. Can they keep up the good work on the road and get into the playoffs this season or will they sputter out by mid-season?

Barry Sanders

2006-05-08T18:15:00.000-06:00

Some Hits!

2006-05-07T20:15:00.000-06:00

Why does he want out?

2006-05-02T19:38:00.000-06:00

Why does Ashley lelie want out of Denver?

Send him back to Seattle...

2006-05-01T17:28:00.000-06:00

I certainly hate seeing other players do stupid things and embarass their home team and I especially hate it when it happens with a player from Denver. Your thoughts on Reggie Evans and his nut-crackin technique during the Nuggets game #4 loss to the Clippers.

The Future!

2006-04-29T18:08:00.000-06:00

Not since Tommy Maddox in 1992 when he was the 25th player selected in the 1st round have the Broncos selcted a 1st round QB. This was the lowest QB pick in the draft since John Elway. This says a lot for Cutler to be chosen so high. how long before Denver fans will be calling for plummers head and chanting Cutler! Cutler! Cutler!

Ultra Back

2006-04-26T16:03:00.000-06:00

Marcus Allen was the epitome of the Ultra back with over 10 thousand yards rushing and over 5 thousand yards receiving this cat was able to change the way a defense planned to stop the offense that he was on. We see players today that are comparable to Allen and are their teams Ultra Backs. There are only a few of these hybrid backs that can carry the load not only with running but blocking and receiving as well. Marshall Faulk is nearing the end of his career but the success he has brought his team is completely unbelievable. Ladanian Tomlinson and Tiki barber are today's featured Ultra backs and the ultra Backs are starting to become only a dime a dozen now a days. With running backs like Reggie Bush and DeAngelo Williams in this years draft we might get to see a few more and also see a new trend in the NFL just as we have seen the power a Hybrid tight end brings to an offense.

Hybrid Tight End

2006-04-24T15:48:00.000-06:00

It's all about the Hybrid Tight End in the NFL now a says and we might just be able to see one of the best... Even better then Todd Heap, Tony Gonzales and who knows maybe even the great Shannon Sharpe. Vernon Davis from Maryland is the man I am talking about. The guy is a freak, he runs a 4.3 40 yard dash, he can bench press 225 lbs 35 times. This TE might be the hottest thing going in this years draft. Look at what Antonio Gates has done to help the Chargers. Look out for this guy, he could be the best pick in the draft in 06. Your thoughts?

What's the plan Shannahan?

2006-04-19T14:12:00.000-06:00

Well the Broncos traded there 22nd pick to the 49ers for 2 second round picks giving the Broncos 7 pick in the 1st 4 rounds. What exactly is Shannahans plans? Your opinions?

Miami Boyz

2006-03-15T11:43:00.000-07:00

Dante's ship has set sail for Miami. How will the addition of Culpepper help out his Miami Boys Dolphins. Keep in mind Culpepper is a Florida native who was born in Florida and played his college days at UCF.

Next Stop...

2006-03-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

Where will TO end up? With the Broncos, Cowboys, Lions, nobody knows but soon we'll find out. Your thoughts and predictions of where TO will end up?

What's up with your girl? Or boy?

2006-03-06T08:26:00.000-07:00

What's up with Barry Bonds acting like Paula Abdul?

World Baseball Classic

2006-02-28T14:31:00.000-07:00

The 1st ever World Baseball Classic is going to be this March. Do you think USA will sweep em all out or do you think we are in for more then we bargained for?

Say it ain't Sosa!

2006-02-16T09:29:00.000-07:00

Sammy Sosa's agent reported today that Sammy Sosa is likely to retire. With all the stuff that has happned to Sosa the past few years between steroids and corked bats, where does this leave Sammy Sosa's legacy as a pro baseball player and is he a HOF contender?

Here we go...

2006-01-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

The best of the best, the AFC Champion vs NFC Champion, for the creme of the crop, Super Bowl XL in Detroit on February 5th. AFC Champions Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to cap off an amazing run at the SB against a NFC Champions Seattle Seahawks team who are taking their steps on this amazing stage.

Yours thoughts on this game, who will win? Give us your analyzation of each team.

81!!!

2006-01-23T22:25:00.000-07:00

Wow! When I heard about this amazing accomplishment over the radio last night at 10:30PM after watching a day of football, which will be shadowed over forever in history, Kobe Bryant was going off for 81 points against the Toronto Raptors. 81 points in todays era is much more impressive then when Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points against a team of 5'10 John Stocktons in 1962. Kobe scored 55 points in one half! That is as much as the Lakers all-time scoring leader Kareem Abdul Jabbar ever scored in a game! What happened on January 22nd 2005 will always be a part of history and will always over shadow those two footbal games that were played that day.

AFC/NFC Championship Games

2006-01-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

As we move to the final step, which two teams are going to earn themselves the ultimate trip - to Detroit for Super Bowl XL?

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Denver Broncos
Carolina Panthers @ Seattle Seahawks

Your thoughts on these two games and explain which team you think will win and why!

NFL Divisional Playoffs

2006-01-08T19:11:00.000-07:00

1st weekend of playoffs are over and 3 teams won on the road. Will that trend continue in the divisional round? The final 8 teams, who is going to move 1 step closer to reaching the Super Bowl?

Washington @ Seattle 1/14
New England @ Denver 1/14
Pittsburgh @ Indianapolis 1/15
Carolina @ Chicago 1/15

Make your picks and provide your analyzation for each game...

Wild Card Weekend Picks...

2006-01-03T07:56:00.000-07:00

Step right up and give us your picks for this weekends wild-card games...who is going to put themselves a step closer to the ultimate goal above?

Retire or not to retire?

2005-12-29T15:14:00.000-07:00

That is the Question...

Raider Fans...are you serious?

2005-12-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

I have seriously had enough "I know my Raiders" BS talk from Raider fans saying the best thing for the team is to start Marques Tuiasosopo because he is the future of this organization...the dude has spent 5 years in this league, IF he was your future, wouldn't he have started a season? Hell no, because he is only a "decent" backup at best! 5 years in the league and the guy can't even start a game for the Raiders of all teams - yet moron Raider fans say he is the future. Wake up and smell the coffee...Tuiasosopo isn't anything more than a QB who is going to lose against the J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS...how pathetic is that! So what if your chances for the playoffs this season are over, you still had an opportunity to do something with your season with Collins at the helm. Sure Collins isn't the best QB for that team, but if you at all think that Tuiasosopo is, then continue being the crap team of the AFC and the laughing stock of the AFC West. I tell you, the Broncos, Charges and Chiefs are sure glad to have a crap team accept 2 easy wins per year!

Undefeated????

2005-11-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

Can Peyton Manning and his high flying Indianapolis Colts go undefeated? They are 10-0 and face a tough conference opponent tonight against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Here's their remaining schedule to achieve perfection

Tonight - Pittsburgh (7-3)
Dec 4 - Tennessee (3-8)
Dec 11 - @ Jacksonville (8-3 but Leftwich is out atleast 4-6 weeks)
Dec 18 - San Diego (7-4)
Dec 24 - @ Seattle (9-2)
Jan 1 - Arizona (3-8)

What are your thoughts on this matter? Can they or can't they - give us reasons!!!!

Finally!

2005-11-10T20:12:00.000-07:00

Finally the Eagles manned up and booted TO from the Eagles. This just goes to show you that sometimes words do speak louder then action as TO proved that theory because no matter how good and talented of a reciever he was his mouth made it mean nothing. Your thoughts on the whole situation and what teams might be going after TO in 06?

NFL First Half Season Grades

2005-10-31T07:36:00.000-07:00

Hard to imagine we are all ready half-way through the NFL season - what are your thoughts as the season is starting to begin it's decent to the playoffs? What grades would you give teams? Surprises/Flops/Division Winner picks - here's your chance to sound off

Week #6 Games of the Week

2005-10-12T13:14:00.000-06:00

Not so many great key games, but here are the top 3 games of week #6 that the writers of Sports Junkies think are important!!!

#1 - New England @ Denver - Two of the top AFC teams square off in Denver Sunday - the never-count-us-out Patriots are looking to continue just an unbelievable run of winning games despite injuries, free agency and other departures of the staff and players against a Broncos team that may not be mathematically one of the top teams, but is sitting on a 4-1 record atop the AFC West.

#2 – St Louis @ Indianapolis – Indianapolis is the only unbeaten team in the NFL remaining and is hoping to continue this trend against the #2 ranked offense in the NFL. Even though the Rams don’t have a winning record, don’t be fooled by this offensive powerhouse – this will be the Colts first and true test of how good their defense has improved.

#3 – Jacksonville @ Pittsburgh – The Jaguars are looking to keep pace in the AFC South and hopes of the playoffs loom every week – as inconsistent as the Jags are, they have proven they can play with the best, which Pittsburgh has to be ranked near the top in the AFC, after an impressive come-from-behind victory over a hot San Diego team. The main concern for the Steelers is Ben Roethlisbergers health after that knee injury late in the game on Monday.

Your thoughts and predictions on these games…

NFL Quarter Preview

2005-10-05T17:55:00.000-06:00

1/4th of the season has been complete and there are quite a few surprises thus far. I think most people thought the Bengals would be a decent team but 4-0? How about this, after 4 weeks the Bears leading the NFC North with only 1 win? Your thoughts on the first quarter and grades you give to each team you wish to discuss.

Fuhgeddaboutit!

2005-10-01T19:50:00.000-06:00

Yanks showed the Sox who is boss in the East and the Yanks hope they can meet up with them in the playoffs so they can knock them out!

Week 4's Games Of The Week

2005-09-29T16:19:00.000-06:00

Not to be bias but all the games of the week include teams from the AFC West starting with the Broncos at Jacksonville to face the Jags, Chargers at the pats and finally my pick for game of the week and which should have a pivotal outcome is the Eagles at Kansas City to face the Chiefs. Please post your thoughts on all three games and your predictions.

Sabans Gang

2005-09-28T15:54:00.000-06:00

First-year coach Nick Saban has the Dolphins at a surprising 2-1 after his team withstood a monster receiving day by Steve Smith (11 catches, 170 yards, three TDs) at Pro Player Stadium.

Here Come The Bengals!

2005-09-22T17:45:00.000-06:00

The Bengals look good so for with a impressive 2-0 start and are off to play the Bears who just came off a big win against the Lions. Could there be a new tripplets in the making with Palmer, Johnson & Johnson?

Culpepper or Coldpepper?

2005-09-20T07:45:00.000-06:00

This NFL season thus far has brought on some fairly big surprises but none bigger than Daunte Culpepper who is...get this...43 of 70 for 469 yards, 0 TD, 8 INT and has been sacked 5 times.

Has the loss of Randy Moss been this much of a factor, or is there other reasons for this kind of a start?

Your thoughts on Culpepper and whether or not he can bounce back from it?

The Buck Stops Here!

2005-09-15T20:02:00.000-06:00

The Broncos and the Chargers kickoff this weekend at Invesco Field (can't even call it Mile High anymore) at 2:15 MTN. This is a huge game for both teams and it's going to be a little brighter for the Chargers with the return of Antonio Gates. The Broncos Defense which is currently ranked last in the NFL have a lot of making up to do to there fans after getting whooped in Miami this past weekend. If the Broncos want to be successful they must establish a tough running game which in my thought can be helped if they actually ACTIVATE Ron Dayne, I mean c'mon he is only the active leading rusher in NCAA history and not only that had probably the best pre season off paper and on paper if you don't count Mike Weedman Andersons 73 yard gallop in which he probably pulled something loose on his dive into the end zone. Like I said the Broncos need to come out running and letting Ron Dayne do the work, if Denver can take a page out of the book of the Pittsburgh Steelers and try limiting the number of pass attempts by Plummer (48 in week one) they can win, by the way Big Ben only tossed the rock 11 times and completed 9 of them. if some guy by the name of Willie Parker can run wild on a chump team like the Titans well so can the Broncos at home vs. the Chargers.

As for the Chargers, they looked good in week one vs. the Cowboys, yeah there special teams stunk it up worse then Ashley Lelie did on a 1 yard pass through his hands that looked like he tried to catch it with his elbows, but that's neither here nor there. The Chargers can put away there goal line woes now that MR. TD himself Antonio Gates is back which in my opinion the out come would have been very different vs. the Cowboys if he were in just on those last 4 plays. I really hope that John lynch can lay a hit on Gates reminisance of the hit he layed on Dallas Clark last season. My prediction is Denver 31, San Diego 28 in a barn burner. Your thoughts and predictions?

After Katrina

2005-09-12T15:44:00.000-06:00

Huge win for the City of New Orleans in dramatic fashion.

3 Cheers for Old Notre Dame!

2005-09-10T13:29:00.000-06:00

Notre Dame is BACK!

Let's get this party started!

2005-09-08T14:27:00.000-06:00

Kickoff starts tonight with the Raiders at the Patriots. Your thoughts?

Rice Retires

2005-09-05T13:21:00.000-06:00

WR legend Jerry Rice has officially annouced his retirement from football after 20 years in the league. Instead of being a 4th or 5th string reciever, Rice decided enough was enough....long hail Jerry

NFL Pre-Season....Too Many Games?

2005-09-03T07:13:00.000-06:00

Red called me yesterday and we had a discussion about the NFl pre-season length of 4/5 games. Red thought that was too many games to be played, this after another QB Jeff Garcia broke his fibula against the Bills last night.

He does bring up an interesting point...is 4 games too many? If the NFL goes to fewer games, how would this impact the ability to fully evaluate players that are currently listed on your 3rd and 4th teams? Does cutting down on pre-season games really make a difference in the amount of injuries happen?

Some argue that 4 games isn't enough time to fully evaluate each player. If you feel that same way, why?

Your thoughts on the pre-season amount of games.

NFC West Seattle Seahawks

2005-09-01T07:47:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 9-7, First place in the NFC West

Key returning starters:
Shaun Alexander - RB
Matt Hasselbeck - QB
Darrell Jackson - WR
Grant Wistrom - DE
Marcus Trufant - CB

Having won the NFC West with a 9-7 record and getting bounced out of the playoffs in the first round against the Rams, the Seahawks look to spread their wings again this season and go further into the playoffs. Can the young group of players Rhodes has on defense help this team take the next step?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 8th overall in offense, #4 ranked in NFC
Ranked 26th overall in defense, #14 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Seattle Seahawks this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC West San Francisco 49ers

2005-08-31T07:12:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 2-14, last place in the NFC West, last in the NFL

Key returning starters:
Tim Rattay - QB
Julian Peterson - LB
Kevan Barlow - RB
Brandon Lloyd - WR
Eric Johnson - TE

Can the 49ers bounce back from having the worst record in the NFL a year ago? With the first selection in the draft, the 49ers picked up Alex Smith, who clearly has potential to be a star in the NFL, but will need to be groomed into that role. Can the 49ers remain healthy, which was a concern for their defense last season, losing all-pro LB Julian Peterson to injury early on.

2004 Stats:
Ranked 26th overall in offense, #13 ranked in NFC
Ranked 24th overall in defense, #12 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the San Francisco 49ers this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC West St Louis Rams

2005-08-30T07:22:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 8-8, 2nd place behind Seattle

Key returning starters:
Marshall Faulk - RB
Stephen Jackson - RB
Marc Bulger - QB
Torry Holt - WR
Issac Bruce - WR

The Rams defense has been the notible problem last year and is still a concern heading into the 2005 campaign. The Rams, had arguably one of the worst run defenses in the league last season hope to improve. Can the explosive Rams offense return to the field? This is one team that could be very dangerous in the post season if their special teams and defense improve dramatically.

2004 Stats:
Ranked 6th overall in offense, #3 ranked in NFC
Ranked 17th overall in defense, #8 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the St Louis Rams this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC West Arizona Cardinals

2005-08-29T08:27:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 6-10, 3rd place behind Seattle and St Louis

Key returning starters:
Anquan Boldin - WR
Larry Fitzgerald - WR
Bertrand Berry - DE
Adrian Wilson - S
Larry Croom - RB

The Cardinals have surprisingly had a lot of chatter from around the NFL as a potential playoff team from the NFC West. Will that be the case? Arizona has an explosive defense that could very end up a top 10 defense by years end, but will Kurt Warner shake off two poor seasons in a row and return to the form when he lead the Rams to a Super Bowl victory?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 27th overall in offense, #14 ranked in NFC
Ranked 12th overall in defense, #4 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Arizona Cardinals this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC West San Diego Chargers

2005-08-26T07:49:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 512-4, 1st place in the AFC West

Key returning starters:
LaDainian Tomlinson - RB
Drew Brees - QB
Antonio Gates - TE
Keenan McCardell - WR
Eric Parker - WR

Probably the most surprising team in the NFL last season, the San Diego Chargers took the AFC West by storm and finished in first. Comeback Player of the Year Drew Brees had a Pro-Bowl season and was awarded such by getting an invite to play in Hawaii. Can the Chargers repeat their performance a year ago?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 10th overall in offense, #5 ranked in AFC
Ranked 18th overall in defense, #10 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the San Diego Chargers this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC West Oakland Raiders

2005-08-25T08:02:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 5-11, last place in the AFC West

Key returning starters:
Kerry Collins - QB
Jerry Porter - WR
Ronald Curry - WR
Charles Woodson - CB
Warren Sapp - DT

The Raiders appeared to be coming off a rebuilding season even though it was a season with hopes of winning the West before the loss of starting QB Rich Gannon. Poor defensive play and a lack of a balanced offensive attack lead to a 5-11 record. With the addition of Randy Moss and Lamont Jordan, this offense is now balanced with the ability to stretch the field often. But did the Raiders do enough in the off-season to improve their defense?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 17th overall in offense, #9 ranked in AFC
Ranked 30th overall in defense, #15 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Oakland Raiders this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC West Kansas City Chiefs

2005-08-24T09:13:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 7-9, 3rd place in the AFC West behind the San Diego Chargers, and Denver Broncos

Key returning starters:
Trent Green - QB
Priest Holmes - RB
Eddie Kennison - WR
Tony Gonzalez - TE
Dante Hall - WR/Return Specialist

The Chiefs are coming off a very disappointing season, after having won the AFC West and clinching a first round bye just a year earlier to missing the playoffs in 2004. The Chiefs had the best rated offense in the league last season and the 2nd worst defense in the league. With their offseason moves to improve their defense, do the Chiefs have reason to be optimistic?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 1th overall in offense, #1 ranked in AFC
Ranked 31st overall in defense, #16 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Kansas City Chiefs this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC West Denver Broncos

2005-08-23T07:20:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 10-6, 2nd place in the AFC West behind the San Diego Chargers, lost to Indianapolis Colts in the Wild Card round of playoffs

Key returning starters:
Jake Plummer - QB
Rod Smith - WR
Al Wilson - LB
Champ Bailey - CB
John Lynch - S

The Broncos are coming off two disappointing seasons of exiting the playoffs in the Wild Card round by the hands of the Colts. Can the addition of the Cleveland Browns defensive front help this team get over the next hurdle and go deep into the playoffs, or will the entire defense suffer as a whole? Can Jake Plummer lead this offense to be a high scoring machine, or will red zone struggles continue?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 5th overall in offense, #3 ranked in AFC
Ranked 4th overall in defense, #3 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Denver Broncos this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC South Tampa Bay Buccaneers

2005-08-22T07:36:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 5-11, last place in the NFC South

Key returning starters:
Brian Griese – QB
Michael Clayton – WR
Simeon Rice – DE
Derrick Brooks – LB
Ronde Barber - CB

The Bucs are going to face another tough season – strapped tight by the NFL’s spending cap, the Bucs lost Ian Gold which gave the Bucs one of the best LB corps in the league. Their offense has shown great potential, especially with 2nd year pro Clayton who had an absolutely fabulous rookie campaign. Can their draft choice of Carnell “Cadillac” Williams step in and beat Pittman for the starting role to give that offense some balance?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 22nd overall in offense, #10 ranked in NFC
Ranked 5th overall in defense, #2 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC South New Orleans Saints

2005-08-19T07:21:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 8-8, 2nd place in the NFC South behind the Atlanta Falcons

Key returning starters:
Aaron Brooks – QB
Deuce McAllister – RB
Joe Horn – WR
John Carney – K
Donte’ Stallworth - WR

The Saints have continued to be the team in the NFL with a lot of talent but any results don’t show their true potential. Surprisingly, Jim Haslett is back again trying to lead this team to the playoffs. If the Saints defense can improve from a year ago and take the momentum of sweeping their opponents in December, we could be in for a big surprise.

2004 Stats:
Ranked 15th overall in offense, #8 ranked in NFC
Ranked 32nd overall in defense, #16 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the New Orleans Saints this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC South Carolina Panthers

2005-08-18T07:35:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 7-9, 3rd place behind New Orleans and Atlanta

Key returning starters:
Jake Delhomme – QB
Steve Smith – WR
Julius Peppers – DE
Dan Morgan – LB
John Kasey - K

The Panthers have had a rough off-season, losing All-Pro receiver Muhsin Muhammad and their league-leading punter Todd Sauerbrun. They have a long list of RBs but their primary RB Stephen Davis isn’t looking healthy to start the season. Can the Panthers get past their injury plagued season a year ago and make some noise in the NFC South?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 13th overall in offense, #6 ranked in NFC
Ranked 20th overall in defense, #9 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Carolina Panthers this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC South Atlanta Falcons

2005-08-17T07:43:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 11-5, 1st place in the NFC South, lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship game

Key returning starters:
Michael Vick – QB
Alge Crumpler – TE
Keith Brooking – LB
Warrick Dunn – RB
And again….Michael Vick - QB

The Falcons had a very successful year in 2004 and are looking to build upon their success in 2005. The Falcons, with the best run offense in the league last season are now looking to Vick to put up big numbers through the air. Biggest concern for the Falcons this season is how will their defense perform against the run, their biggest problem in 2004?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 20th overall in offense, #9 ranked in NFC
Ranked 14th overall in defense, #6 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Atlanta Falcons this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC South Tennessee Titans

2005-08-16T07:16:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 5-11, last place in the AFC South division

Key returning starters:
Steve McNair – QB
Billy Volek – QB
Chris Brown – RB
Drew Bennett – WR
Andre Wollfork - CB

The Titans were in a rebuilding year after investing so much of their salary cap in previous years, it really took it’s toll on a team that was once a power house in the AFC. Can Jeff Fisher, still facing the same problems with the salary cap, find a way to take this group of players and get this Titans team back on track?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 11th overall in offense, #6 ranked in AFC
Ranked 27th overall in defense, #13 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Tennessee Titans this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC South Jacksonville Jaguars

2005-08-15T07:19:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 9-7, 2nd place behind the Colts

Key returning starters:
Byron Leftwich – QB
Fred Taylor – RB
Jimmy Smith – WR
Marcus Stroud – DT
Akin Ayodele - LB

The Jaguars just missed the playoffs in 2004 and head coach Jack Del Rio has this team believing they can be a playoff caliber team in 2005. With a strong defense returning, can Byron Leftwich with a new offensive coordinator start producing and maintaining drives to give their defense a rest?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 21st overall in offense, #12 ranked in AFC
Ranked 11th overall in defense, #8 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Jacksonville Jaguars this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC South Indianapolis Colts

2005-08-12T07:35:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 12-4, 1st place in the AFC South

Key returning starters:
Peyton Manning – QB
Edgerrin James – RB
Marvin Harrison – WR
Reggie Wayne – WR
Brandon Stokley - WR

Biggest question from the Colts camp is, can they get over the hump and beat the Patriots? With the core of their prolific offense returning, Peyton Manning and company are setting their eyes on the Super Bowl. How will the Colts defense perform?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 2nd overall in offense, #2 ranked in AFC
Ranked 29th overall in defense, #14 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Indianapolis Colts this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC South Houston Texans

2005-08-11T07:23:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 7-9, 3rd place behind the Jaguars and Colts

Key returning starters:
David Carr – QB
Domanick Davis – RB
Andre Johnson – WR
Jabar Gaffney – WR
Dunta Robinson - CB

The Texans are coming off a disappointing season as their defense struggled towards the end of the season. However, new additions to the defense, like CB Phillip Buchanon should improve this defense. With a strong offense led by David Carr, can this team be thinking playoffs in 2005?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 19th overall in offense, #11 ranked in AFC
Ranked 23rd overall in defense, #12 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Houston Texans this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC North Minnesota Vikings

2005-08-10T07:55:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 8-8, 2nd place in the NFC North behind the Packers

Key returning starters:
Daunte Culpepper – QB
Nate Burleson – WR
Marcus Robinson – WR
Jermaine Wiggins – TE
Michael Bennett - RB

The Vikings are now Moss-Less, having traded the most athletic WR in the NFL to the Raiders in order to cut the controversy Moss causes in the locker room. Also the loss of Ontario Smith for the season for a violation of the leagues substance abuse policy – how will this affect the Vikings offensively? The off-season moves the Vikings made only improved their weak defense and hope the combination of players will give them the edge in the NFC North.

2004 Stats:
Ranked 4th overall in offense, #2 ranked in NFC
Ranked 28th overall in defense, #15 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Minnesota Vikings this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC North Green Bay Packers

2005-08-09T07:38:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 10-6, 1st place in the NFC North Division

Key returning starters:
Brett Farve - QB
Ahman Green – RB
Donald Driver – WR
Javon Walker – WR (Maybe)
Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila - DE

The Packers head into the 2005 season with a lot of questions that need to be quickly addressed before they have any hopes of repeating as NFC North champions – thankfully Farve is returning for atleast 1 more season in hopes to lead his team back to promise land. How will the Javon Walker situation play out? Can the Packers improve defensively?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 3rd overall in offense, #1 ranked in NFC
Ranked 25th overall in defense, #13 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Green Bay Packers this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC North Detroit Lions

2005-08-08T07:38:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 6-10, behind the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings

Key returning starters:
Joey Harrington – QB
Kevin Jones – RB
Roy Williams – WR
Charles Rogers – WR
Dre’ Bly - CB

The Lions coming off a disappointing season now hope that head coach Steve Mariucci can turn this team around. This is the year Harrington either steps up or gets replaced – on paper; this team is just too good to be finishing below .500. The Lions, probably having one of the best drafts in the off-season, picking up standout WR Mike Williams from USC, Shaun Cody DT from USC, which gives Harrington a lethal 1-2-3 punch at WR with Rogers, R Williams and M Williams, even their 4th WR in Eddie Drummond and the addition of Marcus Pollard TE from Indianapolis.

2004 Stats:
Ranked 24th overall in offense, #12 ranked in NFC
Ranked 22nd overall in defense, #11 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Detroit Lions this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC North Chicago Bears

2005-08-04T07:42:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 5-11, last place in the NFC North

Key returning starters:
Rex Grossman – QB
Thomas Jones – RB
Brian Urlacher – LB
Mike Brown – S
Muhsin Muhammad – WR (Off-season pick up from Carolina)

The Bears came off a rough season, losing starting QB Rex Grossman early in the season. However, with some strong off-season moves (Muhammad) and a solid draft picking up RB Cedric Benson from Texas, the Bears are looking to turn some heads in the “Black-n-Blue” division.

2004 Stats:
Ranked 32nd overall in offense, #16 ranked in NFC
Ranked 21st overall in defense, #10 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Chicago Bears this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC North Pittsburgh Steelers

2005-08-03T07:40:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 15-1, 1st place in the AFC North, lost in AFC Championship game to eventual Super Bowl Champions New England Patriots 41-27

Key returning starters:
Ben Roethlisberger – QB
Hines Ward – WR
James Farrior – LB
Joey Porter – LB
Troy Polamalu - S

The Steelers finished with the best regular season record in the NFL last season by winning 14 straight games with rookie sensation QB Ben Roethlisberger. With a top notch defense and power workhorses on offense, the Steelers are hoping for another successful year.

2004 Stats:
Ranked 16th overall in offense, #8 ranked in AFC
Ranked 1st overall in defense, #1 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Pittsburgh Steelers this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC North Cleveland Browns

2005-08-02T07:35:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 4-12, last place in the AFC North

Key returning starters:
Andre’ Davis – WR
Lee Suggs – RB
William Green – RB
Antonio Bryant – WR

The Browns had a tough season last year and are looking to a rebuilding year in 2005. With new head coach Romeo Crennel, this team has made a lot of off-season moves in the free agent market, as well as had a decent draft.

2004 Stats:
Ranked 28th overall in offense, #14 ranked in AFC
Ranked 15th overall in defense, #9 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Cleveland Browns this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC North Cincinnati Bengals

2005-08-01T07:31:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 8-8, 3rd place in the AFC North behind Pittsburgh and Baltimore

Key returning starters:
Carson Palmer – QB
Rudi Johnson – RB
Chad Johnson – WR
T.J. Houshmandzadeh – WR
Justin Smith - DE

The Bengals coming off a .500 season, have completed two seasons back-to-back @ .500, the first time in a while that NFL fans are seeing some light at the end of the tunnel. Can Marvin Lewis take this team to the next level? Carson Palmer is looking promising, Chad Johnson is an exciting receiver and a great draft defensively; the Bengals can turn some heads!

2004 Stats:
Ranked 18st overall in offense, #10 ranked in AFC
Ranked 19th overall in defense, #11 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Cincinnati Bengals this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

AFC North Baltimore Ravens

2005-07-29T08:07:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 9-7, 2nd place in the AFC North behind Pittsburgh

Key returning starters:
Jamal Lewis – RB
Todd Heap – TE
Kyle Boller – QB
Ray Lewis – LB
Ed Reed - S

The Ravens coming off a disappointing season after missing the playoffs, are looking to re-emerge as a power house team that won a Super Bowl only a few years ago. The question this year for the Ravens, will this be Boller’s break out season? No more legal troubles for Lewis, a healthy Todd Heap and additional solid WR should make this a scary offense. In combination with one of the best defenses in the NFL in recent years, will the Ravens rebound?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 31st overall in offense, #16 ranked in AFC
Ranked 6th overall in defense, #4 ranked in AFC

Your thoughts on the Baltimore Ravens this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC East Washington Redskins

2005-07-28T07:33:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 6-10, last place in the NFC East

Key returning starters:
Clinton Portis – RB
Chris Samuels – OT
LaVar Arrington – LB
Shawn Springs – CB
Matt Bowen - S

The Redskins coming off a year with high expectations because of the return of Joe Gibbs to the coaching rank failed to make any impression in the NFL except defensively. Can Gibbs return to this team to glory or will off-season troubles (Sean Taylor) be too much of a distraction? How long will Gibbs stick with Ramsey as the starting QB, obviously their biggest concern heading into this season.

2004 Stats:
Ranked 30th overall in offense, #15 ranked in NFC
Ranked 3rd overall in defense, #1 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Washington Redskins this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.

NFC East Philadelphia Eagles

2005-07-27T07:45:00.000-06:00

Finished 2004 season 13-3, 1st place in the NFC East, NFC Champions, lost to the Patriots in Super Bowl XXXIX

Key returning starters:
Donovan McNabb – QB
Brian Westbrook – RB
Terrell Owens – WR (maybe)
Lito Sheppard – CB
Brian Dawkins - S

The Eagles finally got over that hump of 3 straight NFC Championship games losses and faced off against the Patriots in Super Bowl XXXIX only to have their season come to an abrupt end. Having these players come back, one would have thought a repeat season for the Eagles, but the question is has Terrell Owens off-season contract disputes and media charades become too big a distraction for the Eagles to overcome?

2004 Stats:
Ranked 9th overall in offense, #5 ranked in NFC
Ranked 10th overall in defense, #3 ranked in NFC

Your thoughts on the Philadelphia Eagles this upcoming 2005 season...strengths/weaknesses and your prediction on where they will finish in the division.