Baltimore Ravens Perspective

Baltimore Ravens

Players To Watch:

WR Anquan Boldin - Boldin is really the key to the Ravens passing offense. He is such a talent because he can stretch the defense by going deep or be just as effective going over the middle and making catches in traffic. QB Joe Flacco should target his best receiver early and get him involved, when Boldin is playing well the Ravens are a very tough team to stop.

LB Ray Lewis - The leader of the Raven's seems to always come up with big plays. In the first round playoff game against the Chiefs, Lewis had a some what quiet first half but came out big as usual in the second half and had a forced fumble and sack. I believe that motivational speeches and such are overrated, unless they are coming from a guy like Lewis, he gets everyone on the defense ready to go.

S Ed Reed- When the Ravens and Steelers match up everyone knows its going to be a close low scoring game. A guy like Reed can change the whole out come of a close game on one play. He had 8 interceptions this year in only 10 games. The difference between him and a lot of other guys is when he gets picks the ball off he is looking to score (and usually lateral the ball). A pick 6 in a game like this could end up winning/costing your team the game so if Ben Roethlisberger is smart he will try and keep the ball away from number 20.

Key Matchup – RB Ray Rice vs Steelers linebackers – This should be a really good match-up its is strength vs strength for both teams. In his two games against the Steelers this year Rice has been shutdown early. Rice is really what makes the Ravens offense go so they need to find a way to get him involved. I think Rice is most dangerous catching the ball so even if the he can't run against the stout Steelers defense look for him to have some big time catches and YAC.

Why the Ravens Will Win – Honestly with these two teams the only thing that is guaranteed is that there are going to be a lot of big hits (probably some flags and fines stemming from those hits), quarterback ratings will be ugly, and it will usually come down to a field goal. I think the Ravens will win this game because they are actually the better team on defense. Ray Lewis has compared this team to the 2000-01 team that won the super bowl, which is pretty lofty praise because the 00-01 defense was unbelievable. I think the Ravens can win the defensive match-up today and win the game.

Prediction- Ravens 17 Steelers 10

Saturday Night Football Preview: Falcons' Preview

Players to Watch

Roddy White hopes to do some dancing
this weekend but must beat CB's
Tramon Williams and Charles Woodson

WR Roddy White - Roddy White has had a career year this year, posting 1389 receiving yards on 115 catches.  He will certainly be tested this weekend going up against standout corners in Tramon Williams and Charles Woodson.  QB Matt Ryan is going to have to find a way to get White the ball to keep the Falcons' attack balanced and OLB Clay Mathews out of strictly pass-rush situations.

RB Jason Snelling - Michael Turner had a great year, but a lot of credit is due to his back-up Jason Snelling.  Snelling has been huge out of the backfield this year.  I expect Snelling to have a big game receiving.  If Matt Ryan can go through his progressions effectively, Snelling will catch a lot of checkdown passes as the Packers have very strong corners.


K Matt Bryant - This game will very likely come down to a field goal.  If the Falcons' have the ball last they know they have a good guy to go to in kicker Matt Bryant (he has kicked a couple of game winners this season).

Falcons' Offensive Line and RB's vs. Clay Mathews - Yes, this looks odd pairing 6-7 people against one, but that is exactly the kind of attention that Mathews demands.  According to NFL.com, the Falcons' offensive line ranks fourth at protecting the passer.  However, the Packers have recorded the second highest sack total, and LT Sam Baker has allowed the second most sacks in the NFL.

Why the Falcons will win - Balance.  The Falcons can run and pass the ball, which they need to do to slow down the Packers' pass-rush.  The Packers have had no balance all year (until last week), so if the Falcons can keep the Packers one-dimensional they will win this game.

Prediction - Falcons 27, Packers 24

Saturday Night Playoff Preview: Packers Perspective

Players To Watch:

QB Aaron Rodgers– The MVP of the Packers won his first playoff game last Sunday with a solid passing performance and three touchdowns, although he could have had a 4^th touchdown if receiver James Jones had learned to catch back in high school. Rodgers’ performance last time around against the Falcons was pretty good, but not good enough to win. He had 344 passing yards and his best rushing performance of the season, but a costly fumble near the goal line was major difference in the game. Rodgers will have to avoid those types of mistakes if the Packers want to get the best of a talented Falcons team. We know Rodgers can get the best of the Falcons defense, but touchdowns, not field goals, is what the Packers need.

RB James Starks – The 6^th round pick out of Buffalo surprised many with his breakout performance against the Eagles. He is easily the best runner on the Packers with Ryan Grant on the sideline, but it will be interesting to see how much running plays Mike McCarthy will have in his game plan. The Falcons have a better than average rush defense, so it might be better for McCarthy to focus more on the passing game. The Packers only scored 21 points last game against a suspect Eagles defense, and it looked like the Packers were calling for far too many running plays in the 4^th quarter trying to run down the clock when it would have been smarter to go for the jugular. Nonetheless, James Starks will be the featured back on Saturday, and his success early on will likely determine if the Packers go with the balanced or pass heavy attack.

CB Charles Woodson– Matt Ryan had an incredibly efficient game against the Packers in week 12, throwing 24 completions in only 28 attempts. If the Packers want to stop the Falcons offense this time around then they are going to have make life tougher for Ryan. Woodson is a big play specialist, constantly jumping routes, forcing fumbles, and making leaping tackles. His resurgence in Green Bay is due in large part to Dom Capers’ game plans which allow Woodson to use his playmaking abilities instead of solely playing coverage. Look for Woodson to be all over the field trying to deny Ryan’s first playoff win.

Key Matchup – RB Michael Turner v. DT B.J. Raji – The Packers have been a very good tackling team throughout the year, but one man who gave them trouble was Turner. He is a big, bruising back who stays low to the ground, and the Packers will need to step up their tackling if they want to stop the running game. This starts all up-front with Raji, who is a lot more mobile than he appears. Raji has really elevated his game in his 2^nd year, and it will be his duty to wrap up Turner before he can get decent yardage.

Why the Packers Will Win – The Packers easily could have won against the Falcons the first time around, but mistakes will kill you against such a disciplined team. Because of the numerous injuries to many key Packers players, they have a new focus on limiting penalties and turnovers in order to win games. The victory against the Eagles was impressive, and showed that the Packers have one of the best defenses in the league. If the Packers defense can hold the Falcons to 21 points, which I think they will, Rodgers should be able to take care of the rest.

Prediction- Packers 27, Falcons 21

Playoff Preview: Seattle Seahawks

Offensive MVP: WR Mike Williams

No running back on the Seahawks rushed for more than 600 yards, and Matt Hasselbeck had one of his worst years of his career, so by default Mike Williams is this team’s offensive MVP. If it weren’t for Michael Vick, Williams would likely be the comeback player of the year. Williams had more receiving yards this year than his first 3 years in the league combined. Considering he hasn’t played in a game since 2007 prior to this season, that is quite an accomplishment. Pete Carrol saw something in his former player during his days at USC, and if he didn’t take a chance on Williams, his NFL career would likely be finished. It is nice to see someone who almost threw their career away comeback to really help their team out. If it weren’t for Williams, this team doesn’t make it to the playoffs.

Defensive MVP: DE Chris Clemons

With a career high 11 sacks, Clemons put in a great performance this year. While the rest of the defense was busy giving up chunks of yards, Clemons was constantly putting pressure on opposing QB’s and came to play every game. He is proving to the Eagles that it was a mistake to let him go, and with the Seahawks rebuilding defense, there is one position that the Seahawks don’t have to worry about.

Best Win: Week 17 - Against the St. Louis Rams

You can say all you want about the Seahawks 7-9 record, but at least they didn’t back into the playoffs. Facing a do or die situation in the last week of the season, the Seahawks defeated a decent Rams team. It was the much maligned defense that stepped up in the game, holding the Rams to only 2 field goals. It was uncertain whether a team that had given up 15 of more points in each of its losses could handle the pressure of what was essentially a playoff game, but they took care of business and now have a home playoff game as a reward.

Rookie Grade: B+

With 2 early first round picks, the Seahawks had a great opportunity to infuse young talent into this team. It looks like they have succeeded with S Earl Thomas and LT Russell Okung. Okung has been limited to 10 games with injuries, but is healthy now and looks like their LT of the future. Earl Thomas, who many people thought to be the most NFL ready player, put in a solid rookie campaign with 5 interceptions. There is always a lot of pressure on a team that has early first round picks to avoid busts, and it looks like the Seahawks have done just that with Okung and Thomas.

How Can They Make It To The Super Bowl: Perfect Play and Luck

The Seahawks aren’t embarrassed to be in the playoffs nor should they be. No playoff system is perfect and if 7-9 teams were making the postseason every year then a change would obviously be needed, but there is no need to overact to what seems to be a fluke occurrence. The NFC West has a lot of young talent, and there’s no reason they can’t dramatically improve in the upcoming years. With that being said, reaching the Super Bowl is going to be a Cinderella task for the Seahawks. Neither their offense nor defense is very good, and they play terrible football on the road. They might be able to pull off a tremendous upset against the Saints this weekend, but it’s hard to think this team can beat either the Falcons or Bears on the road. If they were to make it to the Super Bowl it might be the most improbable story in recent memory, but I just can’t envision that happening.

Playoff Preview: Baltimore Ravens

Offensive MVP: RB Ray Rice and WR Anquan Boldin

The Ravens offense has been inconsistent this year, but when they are playing well it usually means Boldin and Rice are having good games. Rice has really become a workhorse for the Ravens, he was responsible for over 34% of the Ravens offense this year rushing for 1200 yards and adding 556 yards on 63 receptions. Boldin may have had a down year personally, but he really opened up the Ravens offense for other players. Boldin lead the team with 64 receptions 837 yards and 7 TDs. He had a slow second half but he is too much of a playmaker to continue his rut into the playoffs.

Defensive MVP: Too Many to Choose From

Who do you give it to here? You could go with Ray Lewis who seems to be ageless, he leads the team in tackles and is the ultimate motivator. Ed Reed missed six games due to injury then comes back and does not miss a beat and ends up leading he NFL in interceptions with 8. Haloti Ngata had 63 tackles and 5.5 sacks as a 6'4" 350 lbs. lineman. He is an absolute beast and has to be in the top 3 for best defensive lineman in the NFL. Terrell Suggs continues to be a terror off the edge leading the team with 11 sacks. You really can't go wrong picking anyone of these guys.

Best Win: Week 15 - Against the New Orleans Saints

The former Super Bowl Champion Saints came into this game on a 6 game winning streak and they looked like they were back to their old form. In this game the Ravens showed how good of a team they can be when they play well. They ran the ball, were efficient in the passing game, and made big stops against a great offense when they needed them. When the Ravens are playing well in all three phases of the game, there is no team better in the NFL.

Rookie Grade: D+

The Ravens already had a lot of depth so it was a long shot for any rookie to get a lot of early playing time. There top pick, LB Sergio Kindle, who I thought was going to be a very good player, never saw the field after suffering an off the field injury. DT Terrance Cody played sparingly but has been a disappointment thus far. Tight ends Ed Dickson and Dennis Pitta are stuck behind Todd Heap but could end up being good players. The fifth round pick WR David Reed may be there best pick he has been a big help on special teams.

How Can They Make It To The Super Bowl: Ray Rice and Defensive Turnovers

Rice is the key to the Ravens offense. Last year Ray Rice and the Ravens went into Foxborough and dominated the Patriots and Tom Brady (who has all sorts of records while playing at home) like few teams have done in the past 10 years. Rice was able to rush for 159 yards on 22 carries and the defense caused four turnovers. The best stat about that game is that they won despite Flacco passing for only 34 yards with an interception. With Flacco playing better and having new weapons, the Ravens just need Rice to step it up for the playoff run and the defense to change the momentum of games with their big turnovers.

Playoffs Preview: Philadelphia Eagles

Offensive MVPs: QB Michael Vick and RB Lesean Mccoy

Lesean Mccoy celebrating after a TD vs. the Texans

The emergence of a consistent running game (5th best rushing attack with 145 yards rushing per game) and obviously Michael Vick's spectacular play in 2010, has elevated Philadelphia to a level of play unseen since the year McNabb and T.O. went to Super Bowl XXXIX. Vick, a MVP candidate, played uncommonly as one of the NFL's most elite quarterbacks. Subbing in versus Green Bay for an injured Kevin Kolb, Vick took the quarterback role and ran with it...Literally! Vick ran for 676 yards and 9 touchdowns, but more importantly had a QB rating 100.2, passed for over 3,000 yards, and threw 21 TDs to only 6 interceptions. Lesean Mccoy ran for over a 1000 yards and 7 touchdowns rushing; Vick and Mccoy combined for 39 total touchdowns.

Defensive MVPs: CB Asante Samuel and DE Trent Cole

Asante Samuel and Desean Jackson

Even with only 11 games, Asante Samuel finished 2nd in the NFL with 7 interceptions. Samuel was a key reason the Eagles defense held up as well as they did (winning 7 of 11 games played), and recording 7 interceptions within a 9 game span.

Trent Cole finished 2nd on the Eagles defense in total tackles, and first in sacks with 10.0 sacks in 2010. Cole's experience has helped with young Brandon Graham's progression in 2010 (albeit Graham suffered a season ending injury versus the Cowboys, Graham had a successful 1st year in my opinion.). Cole will have to be a disruptive force against the Packers this wild card weekend, getting hits and pressure on QB Aaron Rodgers. 

Desean Jackson game winning punt return

Best Win: Week 15 - At New York (Giants) 

Miracle at New Meadowlands was once upon a time, the greatest victory ever by the Philly Eagles ( Herman Edwards scoring on an improbable fumble late at the NYG), however something of similar proportions came to fruition in 2010. The Miracle at the New Meadowlands. Michael Vick led a 21 point fourth quarter comeback (as well as rallying my fantasy football team), capped off by a regulation ending muffed punt return by Desean Jackson for a game winning touchdown.

Rookie Grade: B-

Brandon Graham, drafted in the first round by the Eagles, performed up to expectations with 3 sacks and 10 games played; however a season ending injury now brings up health issues. The most notable rookie has to be WR Riley Cooper. Cooper has stepped in due to varying injuries to the receiving corps and reeled in 7 catches for 116 yards, a touchdown receiving, and a touchdown rushing.

How Can They Make It To The Super Bowl: Offensive line to keep Michael Vick upright

Michael Vick inside the huddle

The problem ending the season for the Eagles has been the amount of grueling hits that Michael Vick has accumulated over the 2010 season. Can Vick continue taking this punishment and single handedly win the Eagles football games? Because without Asante Samuel, this secondary is not that good. Michael Vick must be healthy, must have time to make smart decisions, and ultimately will be counted upon for success in the 2011 playoffs.

Playoff Preview: Chicago Bears

Offensive MVP: RB Matt Forte

Forte is a versatile back whose impact is felt in both the running and passing game. He reached 1000 yards rushing this year and also had 500 yards receiving. While Cutler’s dedication to preventing turnovers this season greatly helped the Bears win the division, Forte’s play has been crucial to the offense especially over the 2^nd half of the season.

Defensive MVP: DE Julius Peppers

The Bears got their money’s worth by adding Peppers over the offseason. His presence on the team has elevated the defense and is reminding people of the Bears defense that led the team to the Super Bowl in 2007. He had 8 sacks this year which was lower than expected, but constant double teams allowed for teammate DT Israel Idonije to register 8 sacks as well. While LB Brian Urlacher remains the team’s heart and soul, the addition of Peppers had made all the difference for this Bears team.

Best Win: Week 12 - Against Philadelphia Eagles

It wasn’t too long ago that most people (myself included) thought the Bears weren’t a very good team, and likely would not make the playoffs. Before the game against the Eagles, their record stood at 7-3 and had a very tough schedule ahead of them. But against the Eagles, the Bears showed that they weren’t pretenders and defeated a tough Philadelphia team. Cutler had a great day, throwing for 4 touchdowns with no interceptions, and Forte had a 100 yard day on the ground. The defense, while not spectacular, did just enough to stop Vick, and the team held on for a 31-26 victory. The win gave them sole possession for the NFC North and the Bears never looked back.

Rookie Grade: C-

With no picks in the first 2 rounds and a relatively healthy year for the Bears, the rookies did not get to see a lot of playing time. 3^rd round pick S Major Wright has played sparingly, but the big surprise has been the amount of playing time given to 7^th round pick RT J’Marcus Webb. The Bears have him as their starting RT, and while his play has been very inconsistent, he has shown that he might have what it takes to be a decent starter in the league. The Bears have a terrible pass blocking line, so Webb has a chance to be a starter again next year for the Bears, but he will definitely have to keep improving to show he is better than the typical 7^th rounder.

How Can They Make It To The Super Bowl: Jay Cutler limiting his turnovers

Jay Cutler has made improvements in Mike Martz’s offense, but he still throws too many interceptions to feel confident about this team’s chances to make it to the Super Bowl. In the Bears’ 5 losses, Cutler has thrown 9 picks, compared to only 7 picks in their 11 wins. Getting Cutler to make smart decisions will be key for this team if they want to advance to the Super Bowl, and with a solid running game and one of the better defenses in the league, there is no reason this team can’t get there.

Playoffs Preview: Indianapolis Colts

Can Peyton win with an entirely new cast of receivers?

Offensive MVP: QB Peyton Manning

Peyton Manning, in a season filled with injuries for the Colts (league leading 17 players on the IR), performed like the great quarterback we have all come to know and love. Manning set an NFL record for completions in a season with 450, and has played with WRs and TEs 3 deep on the depth chart (Blair white, Jacob Tamme, Austin Collie have stepped up in a big way). Manning without a running game, once again led the Colts to a Division winner slot in the playoffs. 

Defensive MVP: DEs Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis

Freeney (10 sacks, 5 forced fumbles) and Mathis (11 sacks, 1 forced fumble) were once again dominant pass rush forces in 2010. Combined, Freeney and Mathis have registered an amazing total of 167 sacks during their careers, which to me makes them the best DE duo in league history. Enough said...

Austin Collie comes up big in win over JAX with 2 TDs

Best Win: Week 15 - Against Jacksonville 

With all the chips on the line, having lost earlier in the season to the Jags, the Colts had to win this game in order to knock out Jacksonville and get into the playoffs. Manning hooked up with Austin Collie for 2 passing touchdowns and threw zero interceptions. This win pretty much pushed the Colts over the edge and into the playoffs. 

Rookie Grade: B

Pat Angerer at inside linebacker has started all season long, and produced at a very high level for the Colts, finishing 2nd in overall team tackles. Blair White at wide receiver stepped in with injuries to Anthony Gonzales and Austin Collie.

How Can They Make It To The Super Bowl: Will Manning trust his young receiving corps?

Everyone understands why the Colts make the playoffs seemingly every year...Peyton Manning. Nevertheless, in the Colts biggest losses (NWE, SD, and DAL) Manning was the reason for defeat, throwing 3 interceptions or more in each of the three losses (4 picks in the 2 of 3 games). In those games, Manning showed major flaws unseen by NFL fans and scouts. He pressed, he forced passes, and he did NOT trust his receivers. Now with more playing time with younger players, Manning should have improved chemistry, and he will have to be able to count on these players to gain separation, get open, and catch the football. If the next generation of Colts receivers can play at a high level, the Colts will have an opportunity to return to the Super Bowl.

Playoff Preview: New York Jets

Offensive MVP: WR Santonio Holmes

After missing the first four games of the season, Holmes was amazingly able to come back and fit into a new offense with the Jets. Holmes gave QB Mark Sanchez an instant security blanket, a guy he could rely on in big situations. The former Steeler has always had flair for the dramatic, and has been absolutely clutch this year, helping the Jets win three close games in a row in dramatic fashion. Holmes cooled off a bit at the end of the season, and everyone will remember the big drop he had against Miami, but expect the former Super Bowl MVP to have a big playoff run.

Defensive MVP: LB David Harris

No player has really stuck out this year, and a strong case can be made that S Jim Leonard was their defensive MVP before he went down with a season ending injury in week 12. The best player this year is probably the most unsung hero on the Jets defense. Harris is a consistent player that leads the team in tackles with 99 to go along with 3 sacks and a forced fumble.

Best Win: Week 15 at Pittsburgh

After being blown out by the Patriots 45-3, and then losing a close match-up against the Dolphins, many thought the Jets may have an epic collapse and miss the playoffs. Coming out and beating a very good Steelers team in a hostile environmental was a huge win. They showed a lot of toughness and character in this game. Their team could have easily made excuses and come out and played flat. Instead they rallied and showed those two losses were more of an aberration. If the Jets can beat the Colts in the first round of the playoffs, they will most likely end up facing the Steelers again and they know they can match-up with them even on the road.

Rookie Grade: D-

The Jets only had 4 draft picks but none of them had an impact this year. The Jets expected big things from first round pick CB Kyle Wilson but after starting the first two games, he basically disappeared and has not really had much impact this year. Second round pick G Vlad Ducasse had a chance to start at guard where the Jets were very weak, but was not able to win a starting position. RB Joe McKnight, who the Jets kept over RB Danny Woodhead, has been disappointing and did not really see the field until the end of the season. Overall, a underwhelming rookie class.

How Can They Make It To The Super Bowl: Mark Sanchez

Quarterbacks like Rex Grossman, Trent Dilfer, Brad Johnson have shown that you don't necessarily need to be a star quarterback to lead your team to the super bowl. The Jets need Sanchez to be smart with the football and manage the game. The Jets have a lot of talented players around him that can make plays on their own, but when Sanchez has a bad game like he did against the Patriots and Dolphins in week 13 and 14, he gives his team no chance to win. The Jets have struggled with extra time off (lost first game of season, game after bye week, and long lead up to the Patriots game), and considering most of their starters sat out last game, it will be interesting to see if the trend continues.

Playoffs Preview: New Orleans Saints

Offensive MVPs: QB Drew Brees

I understand 2010 was considered a "down year" for Drew Brees (throwing at least 1 interception in each of his last 12 games) having thrown 22 interceptions. Nevertheless, withstanding injuries at the tailback position, and at tight end, Brees still found ways to win football games. In 11 of 16 games in 2010, Brees threw 2 or more touchdowns, totaling 33 in the 2010 season. Brees' leadership has been the most valuable of all his contributions. 

Defensive MVP: FS Malcolm Jenkins

If you ask anyone who truly watches the New Orleans Saints, the biggest impact on defense has been the play of Malcolm Jenkins. Replacing last year's NFL Defensive Player of the Year candidate, Darren Sharper who was a spark plug to the turnover hungry Saints defense. This year has been much different however following the loss of Sharper. Not as many turnovers forced, more turnovers given, but a defense that legitimately is one of the best in the NFC. Last season a ton of yards were allowed, but turnovers masked the weaknesses. This season, Jenkins insertion into the lineup has improved the defensive secondary, especially in pass coverage as he can cover sideline to sideline. A late season injury to Jenkins could deeply hurt the Saints chances at a 2nd Super Bowl, and Jenkins great impact will be realized.

Drew Brees at Atlanta on MNF

Best Win: Week 16 - At Atlanta on MNF

A defining moment in the Saints season, people across the nation saw that the Saints can actually play defense against top notch teams. Atlanta, the number one seed in the NFC, struggled versus the Saints secondary particularly until late in the ball game. A forced fumble at the goal line by the Saints D turned the tide, and Drew Brees proceeded to put the team on his back and lead them to victory. The Saints believe in themselves that they can beat any team, anywhere, at any time.

Rookie Grade: B+

Injuries throughout the season at the running back and tight end positions, forced rookies Chris Ivory and Jimmy Graham into vital roles within the Saints offensive scheme. Chris Ivory, undrafted rookie from Washington St. had numerous off field issues involving a criminal record, performed remarkably well; Ivory averaged over 5 yards per carry, rushing for over 700 yards, and amassing 5 touchdowns.

Jimmy Graham versus TB, injured his ankle

Jimmy Graham, drafted in the 3rd round by the Saints, was counted upon by Brees following Jeremy Shockey's rib injury. Graham proved very productive with 31 receptions, 356 yards receiving, and 5 TDs. Graham who recently injured his ankle, must be healthy in the playoffs in order that the Saints return to the Super Bowl.

How Can They Make It To The Super Bowl: Saints need to fill in holes left by injury and Drew Brees needs to stop throwing picks 

There are several key injuries to impact players, Malcolm Jenkins, Jimmy Graham, Anthony Hargrove, and Danny Clark; each of these players have been unable to practice and will need to get back to health before the playoffs begin. If either these players get healthy or backups step up and perform at a high level, then the Saints have a great opportunity to get to where they were last season.

Drew Brees must play at a similarly high level as he did last postseason, cut down on interceptions, and ultimately put the team on his back. Brees' play will determine the success/failure of this Saints offense in the 2011 postseason. All in all, its tough to bet against a competitor or winner like Drew Brees. This Saints team, despite its weaknesses, has one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, and certainly has a shot at returning to the Super Bowl.


UPDATE (1-6-11 7:00 p.m. CT) : Chris Ivory and Pierre Thomas placed on IR, ending both players seasons officially.

Playoff Preview: Green Bay Packers

Offensive MVP: QB Aaron Rodgers

Rodgers has shown in his 3^rd year starting that he is one of the best quarterbacks in the league. The Packers’ running game is almost non-existent, and there have been a couple games where Rodgers has actually been the leading rusher. He lost one of his favorite targets in Jermichael Finley earlier this year, but he is so good at spreading the ball around that it hasn’t fazed him in the least. He came up a little bit shy of becoming the first quarterback to throw for 4000 yards in his first three seasons, and would have the record if it weren’t for the concussion that knocked him out of one game and kept him out of another. The Packers have persevered through a lot of injuries this year, but one man who is truly indispensible for the Packers is Rodgers.

Defensive MVP: LB Clay Matthews III

Perhaps the DPOY, Matthews is every bit as indispensible as Rodgers. Matthews never takes a play off, and plays with the level of intensity of Troy Polamalu. He’s a nightmare for opposing QB’s, and defensive coordinator Dom Capers always makes sure that offenses will have no idea where Matthews is coming from. In just his 2^nd year, Clay Matthews looks to be an absolute force in the league for years to come.

Best Win: Week 16 - Against the Giants

While Green Bay’s first official playoff game is against the Eagles on Sunday, the Packers essentially have been playing playoff football the last two weeks as both games were must wins in order to get into the playoffs. The Packers absolutely dominated this game on both sides of the ball, defeating a very talented Giants team. Green Bay was great at creating turnovers on defense, and Aaron Rodgers and company took care of the rest on offense. When Green Bay is clicking on all cylinders they are extremely tough to beat, which they showed in this game.

Rookie Grade: B

With all the injuries to the Packers, it would have been impossible for them to get into the playoffs without significant contributions from their rookies. Their 1^st round pick Bryan Bulaga has not been outstanding, but has done his part to solidify a line that was absolutely terrible at protecting Rodgers last year. He will continue to improve, but the jury is still out on whether he can be the LT of the Packers in the future, or if he is better suited at RT. SS Morgan Burnett showed promise when he won the starting job in preseason, but a midseason injury cut his rookie year short. TE Andrew Quarless has been inconsistent at best, but has stepped up at times as he tries to fill the void left by the injury to Finley. RB James Starks didn’t get off the injury list until midseason, and while he looks like the Packers best running back, injuries continue to keep him from getting carries. Where the Packers did their best work was late in the draft. 7^th rounder defensive end CJ Wilson, and undrafted CB Sam Shields and LB Frank Zombo have all played significant parts in the Packer defense and have played better than could have been expected. Overall this looks like a promising draft for the Packers, but injuries have made it tough to tell just how good this group really is.

How Can They Make It To The Super Bowl: Rodgers and Dom Capers

Mike McCarthy tends to outthink himself at times with the offense, but the best game plan is just to lean on Rodgers ability. Completely abandoning the running game is usually not the smartest game plan, but if it’s not working early, it is better to just let Aaron Rodgers do his thing like in the playoffs last year against the Cardinals. Rodgers has enough scrambling ability to make up for a lack of running game. On the defensive side, Dom Capers is the key for the Packers. He is great at designing game plans around the Packers’ defensive stars, Clay Matthews and Sir Charles Woodson. It will be up to him to get creative on defense as he has been doing all year, forcing teams to go away from their original game plans. The Packers have been great against the pass this year, considering how awful they were at times last year. Green Bay is so good at forcing fumbles that they need to make opposing teams try to beat them on the ground, and focus on preventing big plays through the air. With Rodgers and Capers, the Packers have a decent shot at making it to the Super Bowl.

Playoffs Preview: Kansas City Chiefs

Offensive MVPs: QB Matt Cassel, RB Jamaal Charles, WR Dwayne Bowe

Leaving anyone of these players out would just be unfair. All of them have had terrific years and the Chiefs would have a losing record if they were without anyone of them. Cassel may have had the best turn around of any quarterback in the NFL this year. He has 27 TD and 7 interceptions this year, up from 16 TD and 16 Interceptions (and 14 fumbles) from last year. Charles averaged 6.4 YPC and is a constant home-run threat. After having a bad game against the Colts Bowe went on an absolute tear racking up 13 touchdowns in six games.

Defensive MVP: DE Tamba Hali

Hali has been absolutely dominating this year. Hali seems to be in the backfield on every play and has racked up 14.5 sacks and countless QB hurries. The 6'3" 275 lbs converted linebacker hhas helped the Chiefs young defense really improve this year and become a very scary opponent come playoff time.

Best Win: Week 1 - Against San Diego on MNF

A game no one thought the Chiefs were going to be able to pull out. Most had predicted a blowout, but it ended up being a signature win for the Chiefs. This game had a little bit of everything, great special teams, big runs, and a big goal line stand to win the game. It showed that the Chiefs defense and running attack were for real and that they can stick with playoff caliber teams like the Chargers.

Rookie Grade: A+

The Chiefs rookies this year have been simply outstanding. S Eric Berry is the real deal, he has been Ed Reed like at times leading the team with 4 interceptions (1 for a score), and racking up 92 tackles 2 sacks and a forced fumble. He has started many games beside fellow rookie and 5th round pick Kendrick Lewis is second on the team with 3 interceptions. RB/WR Dexter McCluster and CB Javier Areanas have both contributed in the return game and played well when given the opportunity. The Late 3rd round pick TE Tony Moeaki may be their biggest find, he is second on the team with 47 receptions, 556 yards and 3 touchdowns.

How Can They Make It To The Super Bowl: Strong Running Game & Defense

Its hard to beat a team that controls the clock on offense and stops you on defense, when the Chiefs are playing well, that is exactly what they do. With how stacked the playoffs look to be this year, no one is giving the Chiefs any chance. Which is good news for them, because no one gave the 2009 Cardinals, or 2001 Patriots any chance and those team feature all current Chiefs coaches: Head Coach Todd Haley (Chiefs 2009 OC), OC Charlie Weis (Patriots 2001 OC), and DC Romeo Crennel (Patriots 2001 DC). If your looking for a team to pull off some playoff upsets, look no further than the Chiefs.

The 12 Teams That Will Make the NFL Playoffs and Why

AFC
1.  Indianapolis Colts

• The Colts are coming off a year when they very easily could have gone 16-0 had they chosen to play their starters in the last two games..  They had locked up the first seed in the AFC and chose to rest their starters.  I'm not sure that they can have as much success in the regular season unless their running game improves a bit.  The Colts' have Bob Sanders healthy (for now) which will drastically improve their defense and Peyton Manning is a winner.  

2.  Baltimore Ravens

• I think the Ravens adding Anquan Boldin this offseason was the biggest move of the year.  The Ravens have long had a powerful run game and punishing defense.  The Ravens now have a quarterback with a rocket for an arm, and adding Boldin is going to take a ton of pressure off of Derrick Mason and another new addition at WR in Donte Stallworth.  The Ravens defense will be above average as long as Ray Lewis is in the middle (and perhaps longer).  They are huge up front with Haloti Ngata and Rookie Terrence "Mount" Cody.

3.  New York Jets

• The Jets had one of the flashiest offseasons in recent memory, adding to a team that ran their way to the AFC Championship game.  They added the likes of WR Santonio Holmes, CB Antonio Cromartie, RB LaDanian Tomlinson, OLB Jason Taylor and veteran QB Mark Brunell. The Jets' big question mark is at quarterback with Mark Sanchez at the helm.  I was really torn between picking the Patriots or the Jets to win the AFC East but I think the Patriots just have too many question marks on defense.

4.  San Diego Chargers

• The Chargers have the luxury of playing in a very weak AFC West, but they are currently without two former Pro Bowlers in WR Vincent Jackson and LT Marcus McNeill.  The Chargers are expecting huge things from rookie RB Ryan Mathews.  They will need some players to step up (cough, Shawne Merriman) on defense if they want to make any moves in January.  They need a pass rush, especially with the loss of Antonio Cromartie.

5.  New England Patriots

• Tom Brady is going to have a huge year this year.  The young talent that they have at wide receiver and tight end is astounding.  Randy Moss and Wes Welker have been Brady's favorite targets in the past but he now has young players such as WRs Brandon Tate, Julian Edelman and rookie TEs Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski.  The defense is very inexperienced, however.  The pass rush may be a concern with the loss of DE Ty Warren to injured reserve.  CB Leigh Bodden is out for the year and three of the four starters in the secondary are in their second or first year.  However, Brady will be able to carry them to, at worst, a wild-card spot in the playoffs.

6.  Houston Texans

• The Texans have been steadily improving since the franchise began in 2002.  I think the Texans are ready to take the next step and make the playoffs this year.  They have a top five quarterback and arguably the best wide receiver in the NFL, but their running game is a huge concern, especially after the injury to rookie RB Ben Tate.  Brian Cushing will be out four games and the loss of CB Dunta Robinson is big, but with Cushing in the lineup the Texans have an elite linebacking core.

NFC
1. New Orleans Saints

• I know this is a bit unfair considering their first game has already happened, but beating the Vikings in week 1 was an enormous win for the Saints.  Not only was it a very tough opponent but it was essential for the defending champs to make a statement in week 1.  They return almost every starter from a year ago, and the only team I see that could beat them out for the first seed is...

2. Green Bay Packers 

• Aaron Rodgers has done more than just fill in for Brett Favre the last two seasons and Ryan Grant has run for over 1,200 yards the last two years.  The Packers and the Vikings will both win a lot of games in the division playing two games each against the Lions and Bears.  In addition to their great offense they have a very solid defense and they should be able to knock off the Vikings for the NFC North title.

3.  Dallas Cowboys

• The Dallas Cowboys have an incredibly stacked roster, but the NFC East will simply be very competitive this year.  The Cowboys will have to play the Eagles, Giants and the much improved Redskins twice each.  The Cowboys are definitely the superior team and will win the NFC East but will not finish with a record good enough to earn them a bye-week.

4.  San Francisco 49ers

• If the 49ers were in any other division I highly doubt they would be a divisional winner.  However, they are in the NFC West with the Seahawks, Cardinals and the Rams.  The 49ers also have Frank Gore, Vernon Davis and Patrick Willis.  The three of them singlehandedly give them a chance to win every game in that division.

5.  Minnesota Vikings

• The Vikings have the ability to be one of the top wild-card winners in recent years.  Two of the top three teams in the NFC are in the division and the winner of this division could come down to a tiebreaker.  It doesn't help that they began their season 0-1.  Losing Sidney Rice for half of the year is a big blow and Greg Camarillo will need to step up for them to have a shot at the NFC North.

6.  Atlanta Falcons

• I think the Eagles, Giants and Redskins will beat up on each other enough that there will be no wild card winner from the division.  The Falcons absolutely have the talent to make the playoffs and to make a push.  Matt Ryan is a gamer and having targets like Tony Gonzalez and Roddy White with a rushing attack powered by Michael Turner is certainly helpful.