Day 1 Winners and Losers

Winners

Jacksonville Jaguars

It was very surprising that Gabbert was not the 2^nd quarterback chosen in the draft, and the Jaguars benefited from him falling to them at #10. He will be able to spend time studying on the bench behind David Garrard, and will not be rushed into the starting role, something I don’t think any of the quarterbacks in this year’s draft can handle. There are many needs on the defensive side of the ball, but when a potential franchise quarterback falls into your lap, you have to pull the trigger.

Detroit Lions

I can’t think of a single draft that had Fairley going to the Lions, but now that it has happened, it looks awfully good on paper. Lining up Suh and Fairley will give Qb’s nightmares for years to come, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Jay Cutler was already actively looking for a trade out of the division. The secondary still needs work, but may not be as big an issue if the opposing quarterbacks are constantly finding themselves on the ground.

New York Giants

Your Royal Highness, Prince Amukamara, fell farther than expected and the Giants couldn’t be more pleased about it. They get a very talented corner to help a defense that was toasted by both the Eagles and Packers which left them out of the playoffs. Solidifying the secondary to compliment an already elite pass rush is just what the Giants need to get them back into the Super Bowl.

Buffalo Bills

No it’s not a mistake, the Bills this year actually managed to pick a solid 1^st round choice. After the disastrous picks that were Marshawn Lynch and Aaron Maybin in 2007 and 2009 respectively, and the misguided pick of CJ Spiller to a team that already had two solid running backs in 2010, the Bills went with Marcell Dareus, who will shore up what was an awful defense last year. Perhaps most importantly, Dareus is a guy who can start right away, and without a lot of downside, which the Bills need considering their past draft failures.

Losers

Atlanta Falcons

After having the best record in the NFC and then embarrassingly trounced at home by the Packers in the playoffs, the Falcons made a knee-jerk reaction by trading so high up in the draft. Julio Jones is a fine player and a solid pick, but the price to get him was far too high, and he isn’t a player that is the difference between perennial playoff team and Super Bowl champion. Giving up 2 first round picks, a second rounder and 2 fourth round picks is way too much for someone who isn’t even the best wide-receiver in this draft. Patience is the key in the NFL, but the Falcons want a Super Bowl now, and it may be very costly to them in the future.

Minnesota Vikings

Easily the reach of the draft, Christian Ponder wasn’t predicted to go in the 1^st round, but somehow finds himself a Viking with the 12^th pick. The Vikings desperately needed a quarterback, but if they really wanted Ponder they should have traded down. Instead they have a quarterback who is far from a sure thing, as well as an aging team that could use youth at a lot of positions. Once one play away from the Super Bowl, the Vikings have taken quite a tumble, and look like they might be in the cellar of the NFC North for at least a couple of years.

Carolina Panthers

Cam Newton is a very divisive person with about half of NFL fans believing he will be a star, and the other half thinking he will be the next JaMarcus Russell. You can count me as part of the latter half because I think there are just too many questions surrounding the character, intelligence, and ability of Newton to make him the top overall pick in the draft. To me it would have made more sense to either trade down, or go with Miller, Green, or Dareus, three players who can play right away and are about as close to sure things as you get with rookies. The Panthers just used a high draft pick on Clausen last year, and if they really feel like he isn’t going to pan out, just bite the bullet for one more year and get Andrew Luck next year, who is far and away better than any Qb in this year’s draft. I think this pick will end up setting the Panthers back for the awhile.

Chicago Bears

The Bears don’t find themselves in the “losers” list because of their draft picks, but because of the mess they caused with the Ravens. The Bears initiated a trade with the Ravens to take their spot, but somehow didn’t send anyone to inform the NFL that the trade had taken place, effectively making the Ravens run out of time and lose one spot in the draft. Not only will the Bears likely be faced with some sort of repercussion from the NFL, but it reflects terribly on them as an organization and could force some teams to shy away from trying to trade with the Bears in the future.

MNF: Giants Perspective

Players to Watch

RB Brandon Jacobs- Things looked rocky for Jacobs and the Giants earlier in the season as he was seeing significantly less carries and pouting about it on the sideline and after games. Recently, however, Jacobs has kept his mouth shut, and has been rewarded with several goal line opportunities which have resulted in 4 touchdowns in his last three games. Look for Jacobs to once again be used in goal line and short yard situations, which is crucial in the usual smash mouth football games against the rival Cowboys.

DE Osi Umenyiora- The British defensive end has been on an absolute tear recently, and is only .5 sacks behind leader Clay Mathews III. The Cowboys have a very suspect offensive line, so look for Osi to exploit the weaknesses and take become the NFL sack leader after this game.

WR Hakeem Nicks- The sophomore out of UNC is listed as questionable for tonight’s game, but Nicks is determined to play, which the Eli Manning needs as Nicks has quickly become his go-to receiver. If Nicks can play at a decent level, look for the Giants offensive to go to the air often.

Key Matchup: Corey Webster vs. Miles Austin

In what was supposed to be a ridiculously high powered offense, Austin has become the only real true threat. Roy Williams isn’t worth a 4^th round pick, let alone the 1^st rounder the Cowboys gave up to get him back in 2008. Dez Bryant is going to be a great receiver in this league, but rookies hardly have pro-bowl seasons in their rookie year. That leaves the talented Austin, and if the Giants can lock him down, then they have an outstanding chance at stopping the Cowboys. The defensive line won’t give Tony Romo much time back in the pocket, so coverage will be key to force Romo into picks or to allow another big sack night for the Giants.

Why the Giants Will Win: The Giants have a better running game and defense than the Cowboys which is what you look for in these divisional rivalries. This is a must win game for the Cowboys, but frankly if you cannot treat every game in the NFL as if it is a must win then you have no business playing. Tom Coughlin is a lot better coach than Wade Phillips, and will expose the Cowboys weaknesses just enough to win.

Prediction: Giants 20, Cowboys 17

MNF: Cowboys Perspective

Players to watch:

WR Miles Austin – It is amazing how quickly Austin has become one of the best receivers in the NFL. Undrafted out of Monmouth University, Austin finally got his first start 5 weeks into the last years season. Since then he has simply dominated, putting up 100+ receptions 1700+ yards and 12 TD in the 17 games. He is big, strong, fast, and runs great routes. It would be hard for anyone to argue that he is not a top 5 receiver in the NFL right now.

CB Mike Jenkins– Jenkins has been picked on a lot in the last couple of games. The former first rounder out of South Florida has tons of skill but has been a little too aggressive and is often flagged for pass interference. Lets see if he can make some adjustments and make some plays against turnover prone QB Eli Manning.

The Offensive Line – To say the Giants defensive line has been disruptive so far would be a huge understatement. The Giants have 21 sacks, 23 tackles for loss and 14 forced fumbles to this point. The Cowboys O-line has done a pretty good job to this point only allowing 7 sacks, but they are really going to be tested tonight.

Key Matchup: WR Hakeem Nicks vs CB Terrance Newman

In only his second year Giants WR Hakeem Nicks is becoming a star receiver in the NFL. He will most likely be matched up against Newman, one of the top corners in the league. Nicks is coming off a hamstring injury so he may be slowed. Fortunately for Nicks his biggest strengths is his great route running ability and hands, he does not rely on pure speed like many receivers so Newman may still have his hands full. Nicks has showed that he can go off and single handedly win a game for the Giants, so if Newman can shut him down, it will go long way in helping the Cowboys win.

Why the Cowboys will win: The Cowboys really need this win. All the talent is there for the Cowboys and even though they are 1-4, they have been in every game losing by 7 or less. If the Cowboy team that showed up against a great Texans team on the road, can show up tonight I have no doubt they can win this game. There has been so much scrutiny and so many people bad mouthing the Cowboys, I think they cannot wait to show up to this game and prove everyone wrong. I think they will come in front of a huge home crowd and play with a chip on their shoulder. Look for Jason Witten, DeMarcus Ware, Keith Brooking, Bradie James and the other leaders on the Cowboys to come out and have big games.

Prediction: Cowboys 31 Giants 17

AFC & NFC East Quarter Review

NFC East- This division is completely up for grabs.

By New Contributor Jimmy Hawley

Washington Redskins (2-2)

Washington has been greatly improved by the arrival of new coach Mike Shanahan and longtime Eagles QB Donovan McNabb. The team has to be ecstatic about their 2-0 start within the division with big wins over the Cowboys and the Eagles. While the loss to the Rams was a little baffling, the Redskins have shown a new toughness under Shanahan and even Albert Haynesworth, who has been a major distraction this season, played very well against the Eagles.

Standout Players: Donovan McNabb, Brian Orakpo, Santana Moss

New York Giants (2-2)

The Giants finally saw the resurgence of their defense in their last game against the Bears, registering an

incredible 10 sacks. The defense, which looked awful in the loss to the Colts, is starting to find its rhythm. The offense, however, is still a big problem spot, and they need improved play out of Eli Manning if they want to contend in the division.

Standout Players: Ahmad Bradshaw, Hakeem Nicks, Osi Umenyiora, Mathias Kiwanuka, Justin Tuck

Philadelphia Eagles (2-2)

Philadelphia may have taken for granted how great it is to have a reliable QB in Donovan McNabb. The concussion to QB Kevin Kolb opened up the door for Michael Vick to showcase what could only be characterized as a MVP performance in his first three appearances, leaving Kolb, who was once thought of as the future franchise QB as merely an afterthought. Vickmania may need to cool down, however, as Vick suffered an injury to his ribs. The injury is not likely to keep Vick out of action for more than two weeks, but it is obvious the type of style Vick plays makes him more susceptible to injuries. Kevin Kolb will get the chance in the mean time to try to show why the Eagles traded away McNabb, and QB situation in Philadelphia will likely be a yearlong storyline and continue into the offseason. Despite the issues, the Eagles are right in the mix to contend for the division and have the talent to rise to the top, however that chance will suffer if Vick cannot stay healthy.

Standout Players: Michael Vick, DeSean Jackson, LeSean McCoy

Dallas Cowboys (1-2)

Dallas seems to have one of the most talented teams in the league every year, yet it is always a question of if that talent can translate into wins. The Cowboys are usually a team that starts out great and fades as the season progresses, but this year they have struggled right out of the gate. A mediocre offensive line has made the running game practically nonexistent. They may have righted the ship with the win against the Texans, but the team has a brutal schedule this year. The defense is solid but does not create many turnovers and if they continue to be a one dimensional team on offense, they will not be able to win the division.

Standout Players: Tony Romo, Miles Austin, DeMarcus Ware

Prediction: The Giants defense and improved play from Eli Manning earns New York the division title in what will likely be the closest divisional race in the NFC.

AFC East – One of the strongest divisions in the NFL

By Keith McGonigle

New York Jets (3-1)

After a tough season opening loss to the Ravens, everyone criticized Jets and the arrogance they displayed in Hard Knocks. Since then, however, they have looked like the super bowl contenders they talked about. Mark Sanchez has really come on, throwing 8 touchdowns 0 interceptions in the last three games. Rex Ryan’s defense has had some injuries, but they have not lost a step. With WR Santonio Holmes coming back from his suspension and CB Darrelle Revis and LB Calvin Pace both coming back from injury, it is scary to think how good the Jets could be.

Surprise players: LaDainian Tomlinson, Mark Sanchez, Dustin Keller

New England Patriots (3-1)

The Patriots first three games were a roller coaster ride, but they are coming off a huge road game against the Miami Dolphins, a team they have struggled against in the past. Bill Belichick’s teams are usually defined by veteran players and high IQ guys. This year the Patriots team is filled with a lot of young fast players that are still trying to grasp all the concepts. Six rookies have started and contributed so far this year. The offense has been very efficient; they haven’t put up great stats, but lead the NFL in points per game. The big question will be can the young defensive players mature and play like a Belichick coached team.

Surprise Players: Aaron Hernandez, Rob Gronkowski, Brandon Tate, Patrick Chung

Miami Dolphins (2-2)

Many people picked the Dolphins to win the AFC East this year so the 2-2 start is somewhat disappointing. Overall, the Dolphins have played pretty well except a few phases of the game. They just fired their special teams coach after two poor performances against the Jets and Patriots. They have also had too many turnovers and some questionable play calling. The talent is still there though; individually a lot of players have done well. They have a very tough stretch of games coming up; we will see what the Dolphins are made of in the coming weeks.

Surprise Players: Davone Bess, Cameron Wake, Jason Allen

Buffalo Bills (0-4)

There really is not a lot to say about the Buffalo Bills. They are the worst team in the NFL. You have to think that this season they are just playing for the first overall pick in next year’s draft, so they can finally get a franchise QB. The only problem is the Bills are so bad at drafting I don’t know if they will even select a QB.

Surprise Players: CJ Spiller. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Steve Johnson

Prediction: It will come down to the Patriots and Jets. The Jets are a very streaky team so I am nervous to just give them the AFC East. I think the Patriots will end up taking it and the Jets will get in with the Wild Card.

New York Giants 2010 Analysis and Preview

Last Years Record 8-8

Wins: Redskins (2x), Cowboys (2x), Buccaneers, Chiefs, Raiders, Falcons

Losses: Saints, Cardinals, Eagles (2x), Chargers, Broncos, Panthers, Vikings

Biggest Playmakers Defensive Ends

The biggest playmakers on the Giants team are their defensive ends. With the addition of rookie Jason-Pierre Paul they now have four guys that can really get after the quarterback. Last year Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, and Mathias Kiwanuka did not put up the same numbers sack-wise as they had in previous year, but still were able to force 11 fumbles. If their defensive ends produce like they are cable of, the Giants should be a very scary team for QB’s to go up against this year.

Impact Player Steve Smith

WR, USC, Drafted #51, 4^th year

He may not be the flashiest receiver but Smith knows how to get open. In his first full year as a starter, Smith had 107 receptions and 1,220 yards receiving.

Biggest Off-season Addition Antrel Rolle

FS, U of Miami, Drafted #8, 6^th year

Adding Rolle is a huge addition for the Giants. Rolle was considered one of the best free agents available and should help stabilize the Giants shaky secondary that let up 31 touchdowns through the air and 26.7 points per game.

Biggest Offseason Loss Antonio Pierce

MLB, Arizona, Undrafted, 9^th year

The Giants surprisingly released Pierce this off-season after he was plagued with injuries. Pierce had been a mainstay at middle linebacker for the Giants for the last 5 years. The Giants will miss Pierce’s leadership on the defensive side of the ball.

Biggest Draft Steal Jason Pierre-Paul

DE, South Florida, Drafted #15, Rookie

The Giants biggest need going into the draft had to be the linebacker position, but when Pierre-Paul fell to them at 15 they had to select him. Pierre-Paul is a 6’5” 270 lbs freak who has all sorts of potential. He is going to be able to learn from some of the best defensive ends in the game so I cannot imagine him not succeeding.

Biggest Draft Mistake Passing On LB’s

Other than Michael Boley, the Giants depth at linebacker is very thin. They will be going into the season relying on guys that have little to no experience starting in the NFL. In a draft that was heavy with linebacker talent, the Giants waited until the 4^th round to select their first linebacker.

Offseason Grade C+

Adding Antrel Rolle and Jason Pierre-Paul were both big additions. But releasing Antonio Pierce and not bringing in some linebacker help seems to be a huge mistake. If I am an opposing team I would be running the ball all day against the Giants.

X-Factor Running Game

The Giants offense relies heavily on their ability to run the ball effectively. Last year they just never seemed to be able to get the running game going. They only had 2 games where one of their backs rushed for over 100 yards. Brandon Jacobs and Ahmed Bradshaw are going to have to have good seasons for the Giants to be successful.

Name You Should Know Kevin Boss

TE, Western Oregon, Drafted #152, 4^th year

Boss does not have the same speed or athleticism as former Giant tight end Jeremy Shockey, but he is a very good, fundamental player. At 6’6” 253 lbs. he gives Eli Manning a big target to throw to. He may never be a star in the league but he is a great fit for the Giants offense.

Rising Star Hakeem Nicks

WR, UNC, Drafted 29^th, 2^nd year

Even though he was bothered with hamstring and foot injuries in 2009, Nicks had a very impressive rookie season with 47 receptions and 16.8 YPC, 6^th best in the NFL. Nicks is a guy that could have a break out year for the Giants.

Offensive Outlook B

They have some good young receivers and QB Eli Manning has proved he can very good at times. Their offensive success really depends on their ability to run the ball. If they can consistently run the ball like in years past they will have an impressive offense.

Defensive Outlook C+

Their defensive line and secondary should be very good but if I am a fan of the Giants I would be very worried about the linebacker core.

Special Teams Outlook B-

Domenik Hixon is a solid return man and Lawrence Tynes is an excellent kicker. The punting situation is up in the air after Jeff Feagles retired. 7^th round pick Matt Dodge may be the answer.

Projected 2010 Record 7-9

The NFC East should be a very competitive division this year and I would not be surprised if the division winner only ends up having 9 or 10 wins. There are still a few questions on this Giant team, but I think they are still capable of playing like the 2008 super bowl team. They still have the pieces in place to have an amazing pass rush and a good running/play action offense. With all that being said I still don’t trust Eli Manning to be consistent throughout the season and carry this team to the playoffs. He is just too streaky.