3rd and Long: August 2007

The NFL season is right around corner and it seems everyone is looking for a quick fix to hold them over until Sept. 6. This piece is three weeks in the making and hopefully it will quench your thirst for some football.

Every year before the NFL season starts, Vegas releases their predictions of the over/under of wins for each team. Sometimes they nail it and sometimes they are way off. I personally went through each team's schedule and determined which games they would win and which games they would lose. Below, you will find my analysis of each team and my predictions of each team's number of wins compared to Vegas'. So without further ado, read on and absorb....

NFC East:

Dallas Cowboys: I'll try to stay as unbiased as possible on this one. After a heart-breaking end to last season, the Cowboys have high expectations entering the 2007 season. Backup QB Tony Romo took over for the statue Drew Bledsoe after halftime of the Week 7 game against the Giants. Romo started out very good (5-1), but struggled to end the season (1-4). Romo has shown dedication and desire this offseason and will be prepared for his first full season as a starting quarterback. WRs Terrell Owens, Terry Glenn and Patrick Crayton return to help make Romo's job easier. They also return the running back tandem of Julius Jones and Marion Barber III who combined for 1738 yards and 18 touchdowns last season. The Cowboys also signed free agent OG Leonard Davis to help solidify the offensive line.

The defense struggled down the stretch giving up 152 points in the month of December. New head coach and former San Diego defensive coordinator Wade Phillips comes in to replace the retired Bill Parcells. Phillips brings with him a more aggressive style of the 3-4 defense. Many of the Cowboys' defenders have expressed their delight in the new defensive scheme and are looking forward to the upcoming season. They signed free agent S Ken Hamlin to help in the secondary. It is time for the defense to put up or shut up.

Also, new acquired backup QB Brad Johnson beat out P Mat McBriar for the holder job; much to McBriar's dismay.

Bottom line: This Cowboys team seems to be poised to make a run deep into the playoffs. The luxury of playing in the NFC should help any championship aspirations. The offense seems ready and so does the defense. In my opinion, this could be the year. Look for the Cowboys to win the NFC East and win their first playoff game in over a decade. (Biased? Yeah, probably.)

Vegas: O/U 9

3^rd and Long: Over; 11-5

New York Giants: The Giants enter the 2007 season with a coach on the hot seat and a quarterback with loads of talent and no consistency. Tom Coughlin is 25-23 in his three years as the Giants head coach and needs to improve and contend for the playoffs this year to keep his job. QB Eli Manning has been inconsistent in his three years as the Giants starter and needs to improve as he enters his fourth season. Last year’s starting RB Tiki Barber retired, leaving the Giants with a question mark in the backfield. Brandon Jacobs, Barber’s back up in 2006, will most likely get the bulk of the carries this season. Jacobs was the short yardage back last year and picked up nine touchdowns on 96 carries. The Giants traded for former Cleveland RB Reuben Droughns to help Jacobs out in the backfield. Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer return as the #1 and #2 wide receivers, respectively. The Giants used their second-round draft pick on USC WR Steve Smith to add depth at wide receiver.

The Giants have two of the league’s best defensive ends in Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora. (Note: Strahan was a no show at training camp and is reportedly contemplating retirement.) Last year’s first-round pick Mathias Kiwanuka is in the process of being converted from defensive end to linebacker. Antonio Pierce and Kawika Mitchell should join Kiwanuka as the starting linebackers. The Giants used their first-round pick on Texas CB Aaron Ross to help out in the secondary.

Bottom line: The Giants are a team with loads of talent that has continually underachieved. They should be decent this year and could be good if everyone performs to their potential. The running backs need to prove that they can perform and fill the hole Barber left. Look for them to continue to underachieve, finish third the NFC East and possibly contend for the wild card.

Vegas: O/U 8½

3^rd and Long: Under; 8-8

Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles are coming off a season where starting QB Donovan McNabb went down in Week 11 with an ACL tear. Backup QB Jeff Garcia stepped in and went 5-1 as the starter down the stretch of the regular season. Garcia led the Eagles to a playoff victory over the Giants before being knocked out by the Saints. Garcia's performance in McNabb's absence landed him the starting job in Tampa Bay. The Eagles used their first pick (a second-rounder) in the 2007 draft on Houston QB Kevin Kolb to add depth to the quarterback position. The injury prone McNabb should be ready to start when Week 1 rolls around. Reggie Brown inherits the #1 wide receiver spot after the departure of Donte' Stallworth to New England. Former Rams WR Kevin Curtis was acquired to take the #2 wide receiver spot. All-Pro Brian Westbrook returns at running back and Correll Buckhalter returns as his backup.

The Eagles defense has historically strong over the past few years. They improved this offseason with a couple of signings. They added former Colts DT Montae Reagor to help beef up the interior of the defensive line. The Eagles also traded for Bills LB Takeo Spikes. All-Pro S Brian Dawkins returns as one of the leaders on the defensive side of the ball.

Bottom line: The key to the Eagles' success is health of McNabb. McNabb should stay healthy if he can accept the fact that he is no longer a young, mobile quarterback. He needs to be willing to stay in the pocket longer and look for his second and third reads. Westbrook's ability to catch passes makes him one the best backs in the league. The defense should be solid yet again. Look for the Eagles to finish second in the NFC East and contend for the wild card.

Vegas: O/U 9½

3^rd and Long: Under; 9-7

Washington Redskins: The Redskins were another team that replaced a veteran quarterback with a younger quarterback last season. Mark Brunell started nine games last season going 3-6 before being replaced by Jason Campbell. Campbell did not experience much success as the starter, but got some much needed in-game experience. Campbell will be the starter when Week 1 rolls around and Brunell will return as the backup. RB Clinton Portis battled injuries last season giving backup Ladell Betts more carries than expected. Betts took advantage of the extra carries and proved his talent. Portis should be the starter this season, but Betts will see more reps than last year. The speedy Santana Moss will return as the #1 wide receiver. Brandon Lloyd and Antwaan Randle El will compete for the #2 wide receiver spot. The Redskins return one of the league's best tight ends in Chris Cooley.

The Redskins defense struggled last season allowing 23.5 points per game to their opponents. The Redskins used their first-round draft pick (sixth overall) on a hard hitting safety out of LSU, LaRon Landry. Landry joins Sean Taylor as the two starting safeties, making them one of the best safety tandems in the league. They also signed free agent MLB London Fletcher to anchor the middle of the defense. Fred Smoot and Shawn Springs return as the starting corners.

Bottom line: The Redskins will have to play through the development of Campbell. The talent of the running back duo should take some of the pressure off of Campbell. After a disappointing 2006 season, Brandon Lloyd needs to prove he is worthy of being one of the featured wide receivers. The defense improved over the offseason, but it looks like they will struggle again this season. Look for the Redskins to finish last in the NFC East, but show some signs of improvement.

Vegas: O/U 7½

3^rd and Long: Under; 6-10

AFC East:

Buffalo Bills: The Bills showed some signs of improvement at the end of last year, but a 7-9 record was definitely an overachievement. They have the toughest schedule in the entire league which will not help this young, struggling Bills squad. I do not think the Bills can win with J.P. Losman under center. The departure of star RB Willis McGahee to Baltimore is a huge loss for this team. They used their first-round draft pick Marshawn Lynch out of Cal to replace McGahee in the backfield. Anthony Thomas will backup and split carries with Lynch. The Bills do have an emerging star in WR Lee Evans. Keep an eye on him as he gains experience this season. Peerless Price and Roscoe Parrish will be the #2 and #3 wide receivers.

The Bills defense lost two of its best players this offseason. LB Takeo Spikes was part of a package that was traded to the Eagles for DT Darwin Walker. Walker forced them to trade him to Bears for a draft pick. They also lost CB Nate Clements to free agency as the 49ers inked him. Needless to say, the Bills defense did not improve this offseason and they will struggle again this year.

Bottom line: The Bills are a young, inexperienced squad that will continue to struggle this year with the toughest schedule out there. The Bills do have a couple of bright spots in Evans and Lynch, but it will not be enough for the Bills to have a winning season. Look for the Bills to finish last in the AFC East and be at home in January.

Vegas: O/U 6½

3^rd and Long: Under; 4-12

Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins ended the 2006 season in need of consistency at the quarterback position. They used three different starting quarterbacks in 2006 including Daunte Culpepper, Joey Harrington, and Cleo Lemon. The Dolphins cut Culpepper and Harrington during the offseason. They acquired QB Trent Green from the Chiefs and used their second-round draft pick on BYU QB John Beck. Green will be the starter when Week 1 rolls around. The Dolphins used their first-round pick on Ohio St. WR Ted Ginn Jr. Ginn joins Chris Chambers and Marty Booker as the Dolphins' top three wide receivers. Ronnie Brown returns as the starting running back. Third-round pick out of Florida State Lorenzo Booker will back up Brown. The departure of head coach Nick Saban makes room for former Chargers offensive coordinator and new head coach Cam Cameron.

The defense will be solid again this season. They acquired former Steelers All-Pro LB Joey Porter this season. Last year's Defensive Player of the Year Jason Taylor returns at DE. Veteran Zach Thomas also returns at LB. Porter had his injured knee scoped and is questionable for Week 1.

Bottom line: Chemistry seems to be the biggest issue facing the 2007 Dolphins after adding a new head coach and starting quarterback. Green needs to prove he can stay healthy and be productive. The defense will be good again this season. Look for them to finish second in the AFC East and miss the playoffs.

Vegas: O/U 7

3^rd and Long: Push; 7-9

New England Patriots: The Patriots are coming off a season in which they reached the AFC Championship game and had a Super Bowl berth within reach. They led the Colts 21-6 at halftime of the conference championship, but were outscored 32 to 13 in the second half and fell just short of the Super Bowl. The Patriots have a proven consistent winning starting quarterback in Tom Brady and have an up-and-coming star RB in Laurence Maroney. Kevin Faulk and Sammy Morris will backup Maroney in backfield after Corey Dillon was cut in the offseason. For the past few years, the Patriots have lacked consistency and depth at the wide receiver position. They addressed that issue this offseason trading for bad boy WR Randy Moss and signing former Saints and Eagles WR Donte' Stallworth. They also signed former Bengals WR Kelley Washington and former Dolphins WR Wes Welker. The Patriots also retained WRs Reche Caldwell, Jabar Gaffney, Troy Brown and Chad Jackson. Ben Watson also returns at tight end.

The Patriots defense was one of the better defenses in the league last year. They did not lose any defenders that played a significant role in last year's run to the conference championship. However, the Patriots did have a big free agent signing this offseason. They signed unrestricted free agent linebacker Adalius Thomas of the Ravens to add to an experienced linebacker corps. The front three on defense return. They also used first round pick on Miami S Brandon Meriweather. Meriweather could receive significant playing time based on his speed and athletic ability. The Patriots will have one of the best groups of cornerbacks in the league again this year if Asante Samuel does not hold out. The Pats placed the franchise tag on Samuel much to his dismay. Samuel is threatening to sit out 10 games if he does not get a new contract. If this happens, the Pats will have difficulty replacing Samuel who is one of the best cover corners in the league.

Bottom line: The Patriots will be one of the best teams in the league this season. They were a game away from the Super Bowl last year and just got better this offseason. Any team with Brady at quarterback and Bill Belichick as head coach has a chance to contend. Despite having the third toughest schedule in the NFL, look for them to win the AFC East and seriously contend for the championship.

Vegas: O/U 11½

3^rd and Long: Over; 12-4

New York Jets: The Jets are not a flashy team by any means, but they somehow managed to win 10 games and land a playoff berth last season. QB Chad Pennington, who has battled injuries throughout his career, avoided injury last season and started all 16 games. Pennington needs to stay healthy to give the Jets a chance to compete. Former Bears RB Thomas Jones was acquired to add stability in the backfield. Jones will take the bulk of the carries and will be backed up by Leon Washington. Jones allows the Jets to get away from another running back by committee situation. Laveranues Coles and Jerricho Cotchery return as the #1 and #2 wide receivers. Seventh-round draft pick Chansi Stuckey and Justin McCareins will compete for the #3 wide receiver spot.

The Jets used their 14th overall pick on Pittsburgh CB Darrelle Revis. Revis will join Andre Dyson as the starting cornerbacks. Pro Bowler Jonathan Vilma returns at LB. There were no other significant changes on defense. (Note: The Jets and Revis have not agreed to a contract. He is currently holding out.)

Bottom line: The Jets significantly overachieved last season and I do not see them being a winning team in 2007. The offense will be a little better this year as long as Pennington stays healthy, but the defense will be their downfall. Look for them to finish third in the AFC East and miss the playoffs.

Vegas: O/U 8½

3^rd and Long: Under; 6-10

NFC West:

Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals have a new head coach this season in Ken Whisenhunt. Whisenhunt's experience as Pittsburgh's offensive coordinator will help this young squad. Second-year QB Matt Leinart took the starting job from Kurt Warner after Week 4. Leinart went 4-7 as the starter. He should still have his fair share of growing pains as the young offense matures. Edgerrin James returns as the starting running back. Marcel Shipp and J.J. Arrington will compete for the backup running back job. Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald will be the top two wide receivers. The Cardinals used their first-round draft pick (fifth overall) on Penn State OT Levi Brown. Brown will start at right tackle and will to help keep Leinart on his feet.

The defense struggled last season and will no doubt remain their Achilles’ heel this year. They used their second-round draft pick on Michigan DT Alan Branch. The Cardinals signed a few free agents to help out in the secondary. Roderick Hood was signed to start at cornerback and Terrence Holt to start at safety.

Bottom line: The Cards will be better than last season and having the easiest schedule in the league will help them, but they still need a couple more years for their young talent to mature. They seem to have an emerging star in Leinart. James is still a question mark at running back. He needs to prove that his success in Indianapolis was not just a product of defenses focusing on Peyton Manning's passing ability. Look for the Cardinals to finish at the bottom of the NFC West and be more prepared to make a playoff run in 2008.

Vegas: O/U 7½

3^rd and Long: Under; 6-10

San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers showed signs of improvement last season going 7-9. Former #1 overall pick QB Alex Smith flourished under the tutelage of now departed offensive coordinator Norv Turner. Frank Gore emerged as one of the best running backs in the league last season. Gore broke his hand in training camp and will miss the preseason, but should be ready when Week 1 rolls around. Gore will be the featured back and should not split many carries with backup Maurice Hicks. The 49ers acquired former Seattle WR Darrell Jackson to take over the #1 spot. They also acquired former Broncos and Falcons WR Ashley Lelie this offseason. Arnaz Battle and Lelie will compete for the #2 wide receiver spot. The 49ers also have an emerging star in TE Vernon Davis.

The defense was definitely one of their weaknesses last season. The 49ers looked to improve their secondary with the signing of free agent CB Nate Clements. The 49ers made Clements the highest-paid cornerback in league history, signing him to an eight-year, $80 million contract. They also used their first-round pick (11th overall) on Ole Miss LB Patrick Willis.

Bottom line: The 49ers are still a young team needing to show more signs of maturity. Smith, Gore, and Davis are a young group of core players that the 49ers can build around for the next decade. Smith should experience some more growing pains as he continues to mature as an NFL starting quarterback. If Gore avoids injury, he should be one of the league's top backs. Look for the 49ers to finish in the middle of the NFC West and possibly contend for the wild card.

Vegas: O/U 7½

3^rd and Long: Over; 8-8

Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks were the best team in a weak NFC West division last season. They won the division and landed a playoff berth with a 9-7 record. They beat the Cowboys in the Wild Card game before being knocked out of the playoffs in the Divisional game by the Bears. The Seahawks quarterback situation should remain solid this season with Matt Hasselbeck returning as the starter and Seneca Wallace as the backup. All-Pro RB Shaun Alexander missed six games last season with a fractured foot. Alexander should avoid injury this season since he is not on the cover of Madden 2008. Last year's #1 WR Darrell Jackson left for the 49ers, leaving the spot for Deion Branch. Nate Burleson and D.J. Hackett will battle for the #2 wide receiver spot. The Seahawks cut bad boy TE Jerramy Stevens this offseason and replaced him with former Colt and Lion Marcus Pollard.

The Seahawks made no significant changes this offseason. The squad was mediocre last season. They ranked 19th in league in points allowed per game last season. The Seahawks used their first three picks in the draft on defense and their second and third-round picks on defensive lineman. Veteran S Ken Hamlin left for the Cowboys and will be replaced by Deon Grant.

Bottom line: This Seahawks team is not much different than last year's squad. The key to their success is the performance of Alexander. If he stays healthy, they have a shot at making a playoff run. Improvement on the defensive side of the ball would also help their cause. Look for the Seahawks to win the weak NFC West and possibly make a playoff run.

Vegas: O/U 9

3^rd and Long: Push; 9-7

St. Louis Rams: The Rams re-signed QB Marc Bulger to a 6-year, $65 million contract during the offseason to lock him up for the remainder of his career. Bulger has proved to be one of the best quarterbacks in the league and with the distraction of a contract extension out of the picture, he should continue to put up great numbers. RB Steven Jackson will again take the bulk of the carries and should put up Pro Bowl numbers. Former Miami RB Travis Minor and second-round draft pick Brian Leonard will compete for the backup running back job. Veteran All-Pro WR Torry Holt returns as the #1 wide out. The Rams signed former Tennessee WR Drew Bennett to a six-year deal. Bennett will compete with long-time Rams WR Isaac Bruce for the #2 spot. The Rams also signed former Miami TE Randy McMichael to a three-year deal.

The Rams defense has been their downfall over the past few years. Long-time Rams DE Leonard Little returns to play the left end in the Rams base 4-3 defense. They used their first-round pick (13th overall) on Nebraska DE Adam Carriker. Carriker will be converted to DT and will be the starter at the right tackle position.

Bottom line: The offense will definitely be the strength of this 2007 Rams squad. The one-two punch of Bulger and Jackson is one of the best in the league and will be a force to be reckoned with in 2007. They used four of their eight draft picks on defensive players, but the defense will continue to struggle this season. Look for the Rams to finish in the middle of the NFC West and flirt with the wild card spot.

Vegas: O/U 7½

3^rd and Long: Over; 8-8

AFC West:

Denver Broncos: The Broncos are coming off a season that included a midseason quarterback change and the disappointment of failing to secure a playoff berth for the first time since 2002. QB Jay Cutler took over for Jake Plummer in Week 13. Cutler went 2-3 as a starter, but failed to lead the team to playoffs. Cutler will be the starter this season after the trade/retirement of Plummer. The Broncos acquired former Titans RB Travis Henry to replace Tatum Bell who left Denver after being traded to Detroit. Henry's companion in the backfield will be Mike Bell. The Broncos also acquired former Colts slot receiver Brandon Stokley to backup WRs Javon Walker, Rod Smith and Brandon Marshall. The success of this offense sits on Cutler's shoulders.

The Broncos' defense was one of best in the league for the first eight games, only allowing 98 points. The second half of the season was a different story. The defense allowed 207 points in the final eight games. The Broncos have the best cornerback in the league in Champ Bailey, but an offseason tragedy left them without a second cornerback. Twenty-four year old CB Darrent Williams was killed in a drive-by shooting. The Broncos acquired Lions CB Dre' Bly in the Tatum Bell trade. Bly will fill the second cornerback spot left by Williams' death.

Bottom line: The Broncos have the talent to make a playoff run, but Cutler's inexperience could hold them back for another year. The defense has to play good for 16 games in order for them to succeed in the highly competitive AFC. Look for them to finish second in the AFC West and compete for the wild card.

Vegas: O/U 9½

3^rd and Long: Under; 9-7

Kansas City Chiefs: The Chiefs reached the playoffs last season, but lost to the eventual Super Bowl champion Colts. Veteran QB Trent Green began the season as the starter, but after a brutal hit in the head backup Damon Huard was called upon to be starter. Huard went 5-3 as the starter. Huard's audition was good enough for the Chiefs' front office. Green was traded to the Dolphins to make room for Huard to be the starter. Look for second year QB Brodie Croyle to be the quarterback of the future. RB Larry Johnson is unhappy with his contract, but he should be ready when the season starts. Michael Bennett returns as Johnson’s backup. WRs Eddie Kennison and Samie Parker will return as the #1 and #2 WRs respectively.

The defense was decent last season. They return most of the defenders from last year including CBs Ty Law and Patrick Surtain. They acquired veteran LB Donnie Edwards from San Diego. Edwards joins LBs Derrick Johnson and Napolean Harris.

Bottom line: A lot of things need to come together for the Chiefs to be a winning team this season. Johnson carried the ball 416 times last season. An injury may be in his future. Huard needs to prove he can be a productive starting quarterback for a full season. Look for the Chiefs to finish third in the AFC West and miss the playoffs.

Vegas: O/U 8

3^rd and Long: Under; 6-10

Oakland Raiders: The Raiders were the worst team in the NFL last year which landed them the #1 overall pick in the draft. They used that pick on LSU QB JaMarcus Russell. Russell is huge guy (6' 6", 265 lbs.) with a lot of upside. He is definitely the quarterback of the Raiders' future, but the future is not now. The Raiders signed free agent QB Daunte Culpepper to a one-year contract. It looks like Josh McCown and Culpepper will compete for the starting quarterback job. (The Raiders and Russell have not agreed to a contract. He is currently holding out.) The Raiders acquired former Indy RB Dominic Rhodes to help out LaMont Jordan and Justin Fargas in the backfield, but Rhodes will have to sit out the first four games after violating the league's substance abuse policy. They traded away disgruntled WR Randy Moss on draft day. The departure of Moss leaves Jerry Porter and Ronald Curry as the top two wide receivers. This offense is not going to be very good again this season.

The defense was surprisingly good last season. The squad was one of the best in the league. The secondary, led by last year's first-round pick S Michael Huff, was solid last year and should be again this year. They also acquired formers Jaguars S Donovin Darius. Darius and Huff should be the starting safeties.

Bottom line: The Raiders will be horrible again this year. Despite having the #1 pick last year, the offense did not significantly improve. This team is young and inexperienced and hired 32-year-old Lane Kiffin as head coach during the offseason. The defense will be good again this year, but it is hard to be great when you are on the field 40 minutes a game. Look for the Raiders to finish last in the AFC West and contend for the #1 pick again. Sorry Darren McFadden.

Vegas: O/U 5

3^rd and Long: Under; 3-13

San Diego Chargers: The Chargers are coming off of a season where they posted a league best 14-2 record, but were bounced from the postseason in their Divisional Playoff game by New England. QB Phillip Rivers enjoyed immense success in his first full season as starter last year. Rivers job was made much easier by RB LaDainian Tomlinson. Tomlinson scored 28 rushing touchdowns and rushed for 1,815 yards in his 2006 MVP season. Tomlinson returns at running back and Michael Turner returns as his backup. The Chargers cut WR Keenan McCardell this offseason leaving the top two wide receiver spots to Eric Parker and Vincent Jackson. They also used their first-round pick on LSU WR Craig Davis. Arguably the best receiver on the roster is TE Antonio Gates.

The Chargers had one of the best defenses in the league last season. LB Shawne Merriman has made the Pro Bowl in each of his first two seasons. Veteran LB Donnie Edwards signed a free agent contract with the Chiefs. S Terrence Kiel was cut during the offseason. Clinton Hart and second-round pick Eric Weddle will compete for the starting safety job vacated by Kiel. The Chargers' defense will have to overcome the loss of defensive coordinator Wade Phillips.

Bottom line: For some odd reason, the Chargers fired head coach Marty Schottenheimer this offseason. Norv Turner was hired as his replacement. Turner has had success working with young quarterbacks and will help the development of Rivers. They have a constant in the backfield in Tomlinson who can carry the team on his back if needed. Despite the coaching changes, this team will be really good again this year. Look for the Chargers to win the AFC West and make a run deep into the playoffs (possibly a Super Bowl team).

Vegas: O/U 11

3^rd and Long: Over; 13-3

NFC North:

Chicago Bears: A year removed from representing the NFC in the Super Bowl, the Bears come into the 2007 season poised to make another run at a championship. The offense suffered a loss with the departure of RB Thomas Jones to the Jets, but former #1 pick Cedric Benson should fill the hole Jones left. A major question mark on the offensive side of the ball is fifth-year QB Rex Grossman. Grossman had flashes of greatness last season, but when the spotlight was on him, he failed miserably. Grossman had the support of head coach Lovie Smith last year during his ups and downs, but this season still remains to be seen. Benson will assume the starting job vacated by Jones and Adrian Peterson (not the rookie) will back him up. Muhsin Muhammad and Bernard Berrian return as the top two wide receivers. The Bears used their first-round pick on Miami TE Greg Olsen. Olsen will be more of a receiving tight end and Desmond Clark will provide more blocking.

The Bears’ defense remains one of the best in the league. The loss of all-pro DT Tank Johnson is a minor setback that this talented defense can easily overcome. Disgruntled LB Lance Briggs signed a one-year deal ruling out the possibility of sitting out the first ten games in protest of receiving the franchise tag. Briggs joins Brian Urlacher and Hunter Hillenmeyer as the starting linebackers in the base 4-3 defense. All of the members of last year’s starting secondary return. The Bears also acquired DT Darwin Walker from the Bills.

Bottom line: The Bears’ defense will continue to pick up the mediocre offense this season. With the combination of having the second easiest schedule in the league, playing in a weak division and the weaker competition that the NFC provides, the Bears are a lock for the postseason. Grossman needs to be consistent and Benson needs to prove he is worthy of being the starter. Look for the Bears to win the NFC North and make a run into the playoffs.

Vegas: O/U 10½

3^rd and Long: Over; 11-5

Detroit Lions: The Lions are coming off a tumultuous 2006 season posting a 3-13 record. Their poor record left them with the second overall draft pick, which they used on 6' 5", 235 lbs. Georgia Tech WR Calvin Johnson. Johnson was arguably the most NFL ready player in the draft. With or without Johnson, the Lions still are not very good. Johnson will be added to an already talented receiving corps including Roy Williams and Mike Furrey. Longtime backup QB Jon Kitna returns for another season as the starter. The Lions will be another team with a two running back system, using Kevin Jones and newly acquired Tatum Bell.

The Lions defense will again be there downfall. The loss of starting CB Dre' Bly to the Broncos will be a tough hole to fill. The Lions re-signed DT Cory Redding to a seven-year deal. Redding will join Shaun Rogers as the two starting defensive tackles in Lions base 4-3 defense.

Bottom line: The Lions will be better this year, but still will not be very good. Kitna predicted more than 10 wins this season. They cannot win 10 games with the present defense. The offense should be pretty good. WR Calvin Johnson will be in contention for rookie of the year. Look for them to finish second in the weak NFC North, but miss the playoffs.

Vegas: O/U 6½

3^rd and Long: Under; 5-11

Green Bay Packers: The Packers will not be a winning team until Brett Favre retires. Favre's inability to make a timely decision on retirement has held the Packers back for the past few years. Aaron Rodgers returns as the backup quarterback. Last season's starting RB Ahman Green left the Packers for Houston. Vernand Morency and second-round pick Brandon Jackson will split time in the backfield. They also return Donald Driver and Greg Jennings as the top two wide receivers.

The Packers defense suffered no significant losses this offseason. The defense is mediocre at best and will need step up and play better if the Packers expect to win. DE Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, CB Charles Woodson and LB Nick Barnett are a few bright spots on defensive side of the ball. Also, look for second year LB A.J. Hawk to emerge as a star with a year of experience under his belt.

Bottom line: Do not look for the Packers to have much success this season. Despite playing in a weak division, this aging Packers team will struggle to win games. Jackson could emerge as the full-time starter in the backfield. Look for them to finish near the bottom of the NFC North and miss the playoffs.

Vegas: O/U 7½

3^rd and Long: Under; 4-12

Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings started the 2006 season with veteran QB Brad Johnson as the starter, but after struggling down the stretch he was replaced by rookie QB Tarvaris Jackson. Jackson started the final two games of the season, losing both. Johnson was cut in the offseason and Jackson will most likely be the Week 1 starter. The Vikings used the seventh overall pick on Oklahoma RB Adrian Peterson. Peterson will join Chester Taylor in the backfield and split carries. The Vikings wide receiver situation is not promising. The #1 wide receiver will be Troy Williamson. Williamson is entering his third season and needs to step up and perform like a #1. WR Bobby Wade will fill the #2 spot. The Vikings used their second-round pick on South Carolina WR Sidney Rice to help solidify a shaky group of wide receivers.

In 2006 the Vikings had the best run defense in the league. The defensive line is anchored by Pro Bowl DTs Pat Williams and Kevin Williams. The secondary was decent last year and the rest of the defense had little change during the offseason.

Bottom line: The Vikings enter the 2007 season with an inexperienced quarterback who will no doubt experience growing pains. Peterson battled injuries in college and needs to prove he can handle the intensity of a grueling 16 game NFL season. The defense should be pretty good again this year if the secondary can keep up. Look for them to finish at the bottom of the NFC North and miss the playoffs.

Vegas: O/U 7

3^rd and Long: Under; 4-12

AFC North:

Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens had two big transactions this offseason. They acquired former Bills RB Willis McGahee to replace Jamal Lewis who they cut February 28. McGahee is an ideal replacement for the aging Lewis. McGahee is entering his fourth season in the league and is just what the Ravens were looking for to help the offense put points on the board. Mike Anderson returns and will be McGahee’s primary backup. The Ravens have struggled on offense in recent years and this year marks the second season with Steve McNair under center. McNair is on the downside of his career, but has the experience to be the leader the Ravens need on offense. The top two wide receivers will again be Mark Clayton and Derrick Mason. Keep an eye on #3 wide receiver Demetrius Williams. The Ravens also have one of the league’s best tight ends, Todd Heap.

The other big transaction was the departure of LB Adalius Thomas to the Patriots. The Ravens drafted two linebackers to help fill the hole Thomas left; Antwan Barnes out of Florida International and Prescott Burgess out of Michigan. Despite this, they have arguably the best defense in the NFL. The secondary is very talented. The combination of Ed Reed, Chris McAlister, Samari Rolle and Dawan Landry is second to none.

Bottom line: After going 13-3 last year, the Ravens improved on offense and maintained on the defensive side of the ball. The offense is still far from the best in the league and McNair is not a top tier quarterback, but the stellar defense takes up the slack left by the offense. I do not see their record being as good as last year, but they are a lock for the playoffs. Look for the Ravens to win the AFC North and possibly make a deep playoff run.

Vegas: O/U 9½

3^rd and Long: Over; 11-5

Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals enter the 2007 season hoping to put all the player misconduct of last year behind them. The Bengals have one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL. Led by QB Carson Palmer, WRs Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh and RB Rudi Johnson, the Bengals definitely have the ability to put points on the board. Third WR Chris Henry will miss the first half of the season due to numerous run-ins with the law. Tab Perry will try to fill in until Henry is back. Kenny Watson and second-round draft pick Kenny Irons will back up Rudi Johnson at running back.

The Bengals needs to improve their defense to become a Super Bowl contender. They struggled all of last year allowing their opponents to score at will. The Bengals used four of their seven draft picks on defensive players. Their first-round pick was used on Michigan CB Leon Hall. They also drafted TCU S Marvin White with their fourth-round pick.

Bottom line: This Bengals squad is set on the offensive side of the ball, but their defense is going to hold them back. Watch out for Irons to take a larger role in the offense if Rudi Johnson struggles. Look for them to finish second in the AFC North and contend for the wild card.

Vegas: O/U 9½

3^rd and Long: Under; 9-7

Cleveland Browns: The Browns were bad last year and they do not seem to have improved during the offseason. Head coach Romeo Crennel seems to be on the hot seat and things are not looking very good. The quarterback position is still up in the air, but it seems that Charlie Frye will win out over Derek Anderson and first-round draft pick Brady Quinn. The running back situation is not solid at all. The Browns acquired RB Jamal Lewis to replace the departed Reuben Droughns. Lewis does not have a solid backup. Jerome Harrison and Jason Wright will compete for the job. Braylon Edwards and Joe Jurevicius return as the top two wide outs. Kellen Winslow also returns at tight end. The Browns used their #3 overall draft pick on Wisconsin OT Joe Thomas. Thomas will try to help solidify an already shaky offensive line.

The defense was not good last season and should not be much better this season. The Browns used four of their seven draft picks on defense to help add depth and young talent to the weak squad. They drafted two cornerbacks and two defensive ends. The corners were Eric Wright out of UNLV and Brandon McDonald out of Memphis. The defensive ends were Melila Purcell out of Hawaii and Chase Pittman out of LSU.

Bottom line: This season is going to be a disaster for the Browns. The quarterback situation will remain a problem throughout the year. I do not think Lewis can carry the full load for 16 games because of his age and injury history. The good news is the Cowboys have the rights to the Browns' first-round in next year's draft. Can you say top three? Look for the Browns to finish last in the AFC North and possibly have a new head coach in 2008.

Vegas: O/U 6

3^rd and Long: Under; 4-12

Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers are two years removed from a Super Bowl and coming off a season where they went 8-8 and missed the playoffs. QB Ben Roethlisberger had a less eventful offseason this year and should be 100% healthy and focused for the 2007 season. RB Willie Parker will return as the featured back and Najeh Davenport returns as his backup. They also added former 49ers and Jets RB Kevan Barlow to add depth in the backfield. Veteran Hines Ward returns as the #1 wide receiver. It looks as if second-year WR Santonio Holmes will overtake Cedrick Wilson for the #2 wide receiver spot. Wilson will settle in as the #3. (Note: Holmes needs to step it up because Wilson has looked great in the preseason.)

The Steelers cut one of their team leaders this offseason in LB Joey Porter. James Harrison will fill the void left by Porter at linebacker. The Steelers used their first-round pick on Florida State LB Lawrence Timmons. Timmons will backup Harrison and possibly compete for the starting job before the season is over. Fifth-round pick out of Louisville, CB William Gay has been impressive during the preseason and could sneak his way up the depth chart. They re-signed All-Pro S Troy Polamalu to a four-year deal worth more than $30 million, making him the highest paid defensive player in Steelers history.

Bottom line: The Steelers did not really get any better this offseason and they did not make any big free agent signings. The offense may be a little better this season, but nothing significant. Former Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin replaces the departed Bill Cowher at head coach. Tomlin's defensive mind may help the defense this season, but we will have to wait and see. Look for the Steelers to finish third in the NFC North and miss the playoffs.

Vegas: O/U 9

3^rd and Long: Under; 8-8

NFC South:

Note: There will be no Atlanta Falcons analysis until a decision comes out about Michael Vick’s status.

Carolina Panthers: The Panthers enter the 2007 season with relatively the same team that posted an 8-8 record last season. An aging Jake Delhomme will start the season under center, but will need to look over his shoulder at newly acquired QB David Carr if he struggles down the stretch. Running backs DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams will split the carries this season. Williams seems to have more upside with Foster’s injury history. The Panthers were forced to cut veteran WR Keyshawn Johnson after drafting USC WR Dwayne Jarrett in the second round. The talented receiving corps of Steve Smith, Keary Colbert and Jarrett will help make Delhomme’s job easier.

The Panthers’ defense did not lose any significant players this offseason and they still have one of the best defensive ends in the league in Julius Peppers. They used their first-round draft pick on Miami LB Jon Beason. Veteran S Mike Minter retired this offseason due to chronic knee pain. The defense is not great, but it is good enough to put up a winning record in the NFC.

Bottom line: The Panthers are not great by any means. The key to their success seems to be their ability to stay healthy (especially Foster). Having a relatively easy schedule and playing in the NFC should lead them to a winning record. Look for the Panthers to finish second in the NFC South and contend for the wild card.

Vegas: O/U 9

3^rd and Long: Push; 9-7

New Orleans Saints: The 2006 season for the Saints was an emotional roller coaster and quite frankly a miracle. After a 2005 season in which they went 3-13 and were rendered homeless by Hurricane Katrina, the Saints bounced back in 2006 winning 10 games and reaching the NFC Championship game. Pro Bowl QB Drew Brees returns in 2007 for his second season with the Saints. They are solid at the running back spot. Deuce McAllister and last year's #2 overall pick Reggie Bush will split time in the backfield. McAllister is more of power back, while Bush is an elusive, athletic back who can double as a wide receiver. Last year's #1 WR Joe Horn was cut in the offseason for cap relief. 2006 seventh-round draft pick Marques Colston will assume the #1 wide receiver position after a break out rookie season in which he had 70 receptions for 1,038 yards and eight touchdowns. Devery Henderson will be the #2 wide receiver and the #3 spot will be an open competition between David Patten, Terrance Copper and 2007 first-round pick Robert Meachem. Expect no issues with the offense this season.

The defense was decent last season, but definitely relied on the offense to make their jobs easier. The defensive line remains intact with standout DEs Will Smith and Charles Grant and DTs Hollis Thomas and Brian Young. They added free agent Scott Shanle to help solidify the linebacker corps and free agent CB Jason David to help out in the weak secondary.

Bottom line: The Saints will definitely be one of the best teams in the NFC. They seemed to be the favorite in the NFC last year going into the playoffs, but ran into a tough Bears team with home field advantage. The defense, especially the secondary, will be the weakness of this 2007 squad. With possibly the best offense in the NFC, look for the Saints to win the NFC South and contend for a championship.

Vegas: O/U 9½

3^rd and Long: Over; 11-5

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Buccaneers are coming off a disappointing 2006 season. The Bucs went 4-12 and used three different starting quarterbacks. QB Chris Simms went down after multiple big hits in Week 3 and was forced to have a splenectomy. QBs Bruce Gradkowski and Tim Rattay started the remaining 13 games. Jeff Garcia's performance in Donovan McNabb's absence prompted the Bucs to sign him this offseason. All signs point towards Garcia being the starting quarterback when Week 1 rolls around. RB Cadillac Williams had a disappointing 2006 season only scoring one touchdown and failing to rush for 1,000 yards in 14 games. Williams will return as the starter and Michael Pittman will back him up. The #1 and #2 wide receivers will be Joey Galloway and Michael Clayton respectively. The Bucs beefed up the left side of the offensive line with the signing of OT Luke Petitgout and the drafting of OG Arron Sears.

The Buccaneers have historically had one of the league's tougher defensive squads. The Bucs used their first-round draft pick (fourth overall) on Clemson DE Gaines Adams. They cut veteran DE Simeon Rice to make room for Adams. Former Colts LB Cato June signed on this offseason and joins Derrick Brooks and Barrett Ruud as the starting linebackers. Veterans Ronde Barber and Brian Kelly return as the top two cornerbacks.

Bottom line: The Bucs should be much better this season. Garcia brings experience to the quarterback position and leadership to the offense. Williams must have a better season for the Bucs to show major signs of improvement. He also needs to prove that he is not a one year wonder. The defense made some progress this offseason and will be better this year. Look for the Bucs to finish third in the NFC South and miss the playoffs.

Vegas: O/U 7

3^rd and Long: Push; 7-9

AFC South:

Houston Texans: The Texans just are not good. They traded for former Falcons backup QB Matt Schaub to replace David Carr. Schaub will not have much more success than Carr had because the offensive line is terrible. They also acquired former Packers RB Ahman Green. Green will share time in the backfield with Ron Dayne. Oddly enough, the Texans have one of the best wide receivers in the league in Andre Johnson. Kevin Walter should take over as the #2 wide receiver. The Texans also acquired veteran WR Keenan McCardell.

The defense is will also struggle this season. Last year's #1 overall pick Mario Williams is still a few years away from being effective at defensive end. MLB DeMeco Ryans is an emerging star, keep an eye on him. The Texans used this year's first round pick on 19-year-old DT Amobi Okoye out of Louisville.

Bottom line: The Texans may have gotten a little better as a team, but I do not think their record will reflect it. They still have many areas they need to improve on. Look for them to finish last in the AFC South yet again.

Vegas: O/U 6½

3^rd and Long: Under; 4-12

Indianapolis Colts: I'll try to stay as unbiased as possible on this one also. Super Bowl Champions. Enough said. The Colts retained the majority of the offensive players that led them to a championship. RB Dominic Rhodes left for Oakland in order to make room for Joseph Addai to be the full-time starter. DeDe Dorsey should be the backup running back. Injury prone slot WR Brandon Stokley left for Denver. The Colts used their first round pick on Ohio St. WR Anthony Gonzalez. Gonzalez will be the new slot receiver this season. As long as the Colts have QB Peyton Manning, WR Reggie Wayne and WR Marvin Harrison, they have a chance to contend for a championship.

The defense struggled at times last season, but stepped up when it really counted. They suffered quite a few losses on the defensive side of the ball this offseason including LB Cato June, CB Nick Harper, S Mike Doss and DT Montae Reagor. However, the Colts did re-sign one of their best players, DE Dwight Freeney. Freeney's 6 year, $72 million contract makes him the highest paid defensive player in NFL history. Starting DT Anthony McFarland will miss most of, if not all of the season with a knee injury. The big questions facing the defense remain their ability to stop the run and the inexperienced secondary.

Bottom line: The Colts remain one of the best teams in the league and with Manning under center, they have the experience to go back to back. They seem to have a good chance for an appearance in the AFC Championship game once again. Depth and defense will be the weak areas on this 2007 squad. Look for the Colts to win the AFC South and make a run deep into the playoffs.

Vegas: O/U 11

3^rd and Long: Over 12-4

Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars enter the 2007 with pretty much the same team as last year. The biggest question mark for them remains the quarterback position. Veteran QB Byron Leftwich has a history of injuries which has led to backup David Garrard receiving significant playing time. Garrard took advantage of the nine starts he had last season going 5-4. It should be an open competition for the starting job, but it seems as if Leftwich will get the nod when Week 1 comes around. Veteran RB Fred Taylor and second-year RB Maurice Jones-Drew will split time in the backfield again this season. Going into camp, it is an open competition for the top two wide receiver spots. Reggie Williams and Matt Jones seem to have the lead in that competition, but watch out for Ernest Wilford and Charles Sharon.

The defense will be their strength again this season. First-round draft pick Reggie Nelson will take over at free safety. The defensive line returns and they are solid at linebacker. CB Ahmad Carroll and S Donovin Darius were both cut during the offseason.

Bottom line: The Jaguars could have a good season if they are not bit by the injury bug. The defense will be solid again this year. Also, keep an eye on Jones-Drew. The combination of Jones-Drew and Taylor will be productive again this season. Look for them to compete for second in the AFC South and have an outside chance to contend for the wild card.

Vegas: O/U 9

3^rd and Long: Under; 8-8

Tennessee Titans: The Titans found a franchise player in #3 overall pick QB Vince Young last season. Young took over as the starter in Week 4 after Kerry Collins started the season 0-3. Young went 8-5 as the starter and proved he was worth the top pick. Collins returns to backup Young in 2007. The running back position is definitely up in the air for the Titans. Last year's starting RB Travis Henry was cut in the offseason and subsequently signed by Denver. RBs Chris Brown, LenDale White, and second-round draft pick Chris Henry are all in an open competition for the starting job. The Titans acquired veteran WR Eric Moulds to help out with the maturation of Young. Moulds will join Brandon Jones as the top two wide outs. TEs Ben Troupe and Bo Scaife should see quite a few passes come their way.

The Titans were left with a hole at cornerback after the year long suspension of Pacman Jones. They signed two veteran cornerbacks during the offseason in former Colt Nick Harper and former Seahawk Kelly Herndon. Reynaldo Hill returns to add depth to the cornerback position. The Titans used their first-round draft pick on Texas S Michael Griffin. Chris Hope returns at strong safety.

Bottom line: The Titans are mostly young and inexperienced on the offensive side of the ball. Young's ability to scramble makes him one of the hardest players to game plan against in the league. He still needs to become a more consistent passer. Depth at wide receiver position will be an issue. The defense has the ability to be good, but it remains to be seen how the new faces will mesh. Look for the Titans to finish second or third in the AFC South and possibly contend for the wild card.

Vegas: O/U 7

3^rd and Long: Over; 8-8

That's a wrap. Hope you enjoyed. Are you ready for some football?

Friday, August 31, 2007

It's time baby

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Getting ready...

Wednesday, August 8, 2007

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