Preseason NFL Power Rankings

Rankings 1-32 (Differential from the end of last year's power rankings in parenthesis).

1. Pittsburgh Steelers (even)

2. New England Patriots (+7)

3. New York Giants (+3)

4. Tennessee Titans (even)

5. Philadelphia Eagles (even)

6. San Diego Chargers (+6)

7. Baltimore Ravens (-4)

8. Arizona Cardinals (-6)

9. Carolina Panthers (-2)

10. Indianapolis Colts (-2)

11. Green Bay Packers (+13)

12. Minnesota Vikings (+1)

13. Chicago Bears (+1)

14. Atlanta Falcons (-4)

15. New Orleans Saints (+5)

16. Miami Dolphins (-5)

17. Houston Texans (-2)

18. Dallas Cowboys (-2)

19. Washington Redskins (+1)

20. Seattle Seahawks (+7)

21. Jacksonville Jaguars (-4)

22. New York Jets (-5)

23. San Francisco 49ers (-1)

24. Cincinnati Bengals (+4)

25. Buffalo Bills (-2)

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-7)

27. St. Louis Rams (+4)

28. Oakland Raiders (-2)

29. Denver Broncos (-11)

30. Kansas City Chiefs (even)

31. Cleveland Browns (-2)

32. Detroit Lions (even)

NFL Week 1 Predictions

Winning teams are in bold.

1. Titans @ Steelers

2. Dolphins @ Falcons

3. Broncos @ Bengals

4. Vikings @ Browns

5. Jaguars @ Colts

6. Lions @ Saints

7. Cowboys @ Buccaneers

8. Eagles @ Panthers

9. Chiefs @ Ravens

10. Jets @ Texans

11. Redsins @ Giants

12. 49ers @ Cardinals

13. Rams @ Seahawks

14. Bears @ Packers

15. Bills @ Patriots

16. Chargers @ Raiders

Team who will score the most points: Saints

Team who will score the least points: Chiefs

Survivor Pick of Week 1: Saints

For those of you who play Salary Cap Fantasy Football here are my Week 1 picks:

QB: Drew Brees $21.71

RB: Adrian Peterson $14.72

RB: Matt Forte $12.45

WR: Chris Henry $5.38

WR: Calvin Johnson $12.21

WR: Randy Moss $13.62

TE: Jermichael Finley $4.70

K: S. Hauschka $6.51

DEF: Texans $8.61

Packers Season Predictions

Week By Week (Winner in Bold)

1. Bears @ Packers

2. Bengals @ Packers

3. Packers @ Rams

4. Packers @ Vikings

5. Bye

6. Lions @ Packers

7. Packers @ Browns

8. Vikings @ Packers

9. Packers @ Buccaneers

10. Cowboys @ Packers

11. 49ers @ Packers

12. Packers @ Lions

13. Ravens @ Packers

14. Packers @ Bears

15. Packers @ Steelers

16. Seahawks @ Packers

17. Packers @ Cardinals

Offensive Player of the Year: Aaron Rodgers

Defensive Player of the Year: Aaron Kampman

Why will the Packers go 12-4 and possibly win the Super Bowl?

There are a lot of different ways to answer this question but I am going to give the reason that matters most. A few years back when Ted Thompson started as General Manger of the Packers he had a vision of the Packers not as a football franchise, but almost as a college football powerhouse. What I mean by that is in college a team like USC or Florida just continues to bring in the nations best players year after year after year. In the NFL the turnover is so great that in one season a team can turn over more than half of their entire roster. That's not how Ted Thompson wanted to do business in the NFL. He wanted to constantly keep the Packers stocked with talented incoming players so that if any player gets injured, leaves because of contract problems or whatever the case may be, the Packers have somebody to replace him at all times.

To go along with that point I don't think that Ted Thompson has been completely successful in his approach but he was really close. Imagine right now for instance that Justin Harrell and Pat Lee wouldn't have had injury problems and that Brian Brohm wouldn't have been a complete bust and would be ready to contribute this season. Maybe add in a Terrence Murphy who was lost to a career ending injury and a more successful version of Brandon Jackson. If the Packers had those 4-5 picks go correctly there isn't a player on this roster who they wouldn't be able to replace. I know already what everybody is thinking that every single team has a handful of 1st-3rd round draft picks that if they had turned out they would be on the top of the league... and I agree 100% but luckily for the Packers they were able to cover for the majority of their drafting errors with great picks in the later rounds. Overall this team still has a ton of depth and there are only a few of the players (Rodgers, Pickett, Clifton, Woodson) that the Packers would really be in big trouble if they lost.

So what does that have to do with the Packers going 12-4 and winning the Super Bowl? Check this out...

Of the 53 players on the Packers team 37 of them have been drafted by the Packers and spent their entire careers in Green Bay. All 37 have either only had Mike McCarthy as coach or have been here during McCarthy's entire reign as coach. Of the 16 remaining players 8 of them were players that were either signed as undrafted free agents, waiver claims or last second trades and all of the 8 (Dietrich-Smith, Bigby, J. Bush, R. Grant, T. Williams, S. Havner, B. Goode, C. Jenkins) have never played an NFL game for any other team. All of their game action and the vast majority of their offseason has been with the Green Bay Packers. Of the remaining 8 players 4 of them were free agent pick-ups or trades but have been with the Packers through the entire Mike McCarthy era (C. Woodson, R. Pickett, A. Harris, D. Lee). That leaves a total of 4 players left who haven't basically been completely 100% entrenched in the Packers and the Mike McCarthy system. Those 4 players are J. Kapinos who was signed midway through last year and has played 1 game in the NFL outside of the Packers (with the Jets), John Kuhn who played with the Steelers but has been a Packer full-time since the beginning of 2007, Brandon Chillar who was signed during last seasons free agency and has been a Packer ever since and finally Derrick Martin who was just acquired via trade last week and has played for the Ravens for 3 years. This entire 53 man roster knows each other, is a team, knows the system, knows the traditions, the rivalries, the opponents, the coaches, the facilities and the expectations. Having a roster of 53 guys in which almost all of them have spent their entire careers as Packers is something rare, and something special. I expect the Packers to perform in all phases of the game as an entire unit and not as individuals. It's because of this reason mainly that I really expect the Packers to have a phenomenal season.

Finally I want to bring one more point of emphasis on the current roster. This is the year that everything is really setup for the Packers to have their special season. They have great veteran leadership in Woodson, Kampman, Barnett, Harris, Driver, Lee, Pickett, and Clifton. They have players that are ready to explode onto the scene and really come into their own in Rodgers, Finley, Colledge, Bishop, Kapinos, Spitz, Sitton, and J. Jones, and finally they have some really talented rookies that are dying to get some game action and bring a youthful exuberance to the team in Raji, Matthews, Johnson, and Wynn.

While there have been some bumps along the road and not all of the building blocks have exactly worked out the way they were supposed to, this team was still masterfully put together and I fully expect the Packers to take advantage of the hard work and planning that went into putting this roster together. Could the Packers disappoint and end up having a 8-8 season or worse, absolutely, anything is possible in the NFL. It only takes 1-2 injuries to really handicap even the best of teams (see New England 2009). With the momentum the Packers gained in the preseason I expect their offense to carry them on for the first half and in the second half I really expect the defense to come into its own under Dom Capers in the new 3-4. There will certainly be challenges along the way and Chicago and Minnesota aren't going to lay down for anybody but in the end the Packers built their team the right way and if everything works out they'll enjoy the fruits of their labor in February.

Individual Awards Predictions

NFL MVP: Tom Brady

They are going to pass they ball way too much for Brady not to win the MVP. He has Moss, Welker and Galloway and a great o-line to protect him. As long as he stays healthy he will be the best player on the best team in the regular season.

Super Bowl MVP: Charles Woodson

This is impossible to predict because I have to A. Get the winner of the Super Bowl correct and then B. Pick the player who is going to be the MVP of said team. If the Packers do get to the Super Bowl and win it, Woodson will play a part and will have a pick 6 off of B. Roethlisberger.

Offensive Player of the Year: Drew Brees

He will get the consolation prize. Brees and Brady will put up similar numbers but Brady gets the nod for MVP because the Patriots are 13-3 and the Saints are 9-7.

Defensive Player of the Year: Justin Tuck

On passing downs the Giants will have a ridiculous defensive line of Osi, Tuck, Kiawanuka and Canty. It's really not fair but it's going to open up 1 on 1 matchups at times for the Giants lineman. Because of that I think Tuck will end up with 18+ sacks and a handful of turnovers.

Offensive Rookie of the Year: Chris "Beanie" Wells

Even if he splits carries with Hightower I expect Wells to go over the 1000 yard mark and 6-7 TD's. As long as he stays healthy he is the early favorite.

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Aaron Curry

He will start from week 1 and will have an opportunity for 100+ tackles 5+ sacks and 4+ picks. Those numbers together would be a huge year and I'm not saying he necessarily achieves all of those numbers, but he will have a chance to and will accumulate enough to warrant defensive rookie of the year.

NFL Comeback Player of the Year: Tom Brady

After being out all last year he should be the easy pick for comeback player.

NFL Coach of the Year: Mike McCarthy

If the Packers do in fact go 11-5 or 12-4 it will be McCarthy who gets recognized after a dreadful Packers' season last year. He probably deserved it 2 years ago but the Hoody went 16-0.

NFL Season Predictions

AFC EAST

Patriots: 13-3

Jets 8-8

Dolphins 8-8

Bills 5-11

AFC NORTH

Steelers 12-4

Ravens 9-7

Bengals 6-10

Browns 4-12

AFC SOUTH

Titans 11-5

Colts 10-6

Texans 8-8

Jaguars 7-9

AFC WEST

Chargers 11-5

Raiders 5-11

Chiefs 4-12

Broncos 4-12

AFC PLAYOFFS

Round 1 (Winners in Bold)

Ravens @ Chargers

Colts @ Titans

Round 2

Ravens @ Patriots

Colts @ Steelers

Round 3

Steelers @ Patriots

AFC CHAMPION: Pittsburgh Steelers

NFC EAST

Giants 11-5

Eagles 10-6

Redskins 8-8

Cowboys 7-9

NFC NORTH

Packers 12-4

Vikings 9-7

Bears 9-7

Lions 3-13

NFC SOUTH

Saints 9-7

Panthers 9-7

Falcons 8-8

Buccaneers 4-12

NFC WEST

Seahawks 10-6

Cardinals 9-7

Rams 8-8

49ers 5-11

NFC PLAYOFFS

Round 1

Panthers @ Seahawks

Eagles @ Saints

Round 2

Panthers @ Packers

Eagles @ Giants

Round 3

Giants @ Packers

NFC CHAMPION: Green Bay Packers

Super Bowl

Steelers vs. Packers

Super Bowl Champion: Green Bay Packers

***Disclaimer*** This is going to seem 110% like a homer pick and that I'm picking the Packers because I write about the Packers. I can assure you that it is completely not the case. I whole heartedly believe that the Packers are in contention for the Super Bowl and will have an article up later as to why I believe this. It is unfortunate because I almost picked against the Packers simply so I wouldn't seem like a homer in my first year of writing predictions on the blog but I went with my gut. Everybody will see in future years that it's not going to be Packers, Packers, Packers winning every game, as a back story I felt last year the Packers would be 8-8 or 9-7, they ended up 6-10, and two years ago I thought 7-9 or 8-8 and they ended up in the NFC Championship. Just a heads up to those who are thinking that this is 100% a homer pick!

Fantasy Football Studs, Stinkers and Sleepers for Week 1

Studs (Start these guys week 1 no matter what!)

1. Drew Brees- Should put up big numbers against Lions defense
2. Adrian Peterson- Can't imagine the Browns keeping him under 100+ and a TD
3. Tom Brady- Bills defense is good, but Brady-Moss should be more than potent.
4. Randy Moss- See above
5. Maurice Jones-Drew- Will get plenty of opportunities against an average Colts run defense
6. Matt Forte- Packers run defense was terrible last year and B.J. Raji may not play.
7. Phillip Rivers- Raiders pass defense is actually above average, but I still like Rivers in this game.
8. Deangelo Williams- Jonathan Stewart is banged up and the Panthers will try to pound the ball.
9. Larry Fitzgerald- The 49ers don't have a corner that can matchup with L. Fitzgerald.
10. Greg Jennings- The Bears secondary is pretty beat up and Jennings could have a big game.
11. Calvin Johnson- If the Saints put up big offensive numbers the Lions should at least put up solid number, Johnson should be the benefactor.
12. Marques Colston- Brees has to have help to put up his expected big numbers this week.

Stinkers (Avoid these 10 if at all possible)

1. Marshawn Lynch- Suspended, will not play
2. Jonathan Stewart- Injured and may see only limited action.
3. Pierre Thomas- Injured and unlikely to play
4. Willie Parker- Has to go up against a tough Titans run defense that is stout even w/o Haynesworth.
5. Jamal Lewis- An aging running back against the Williams' tackles = fantasy dud
6. Matt Cassell- Coming off of an injury, lacks weapons on offense, facing the Ravens defense
7. Eli Manning- I'm expecting a smash-mouth power game, not a finesse passing game.
8. Ben Roethlisberger- Much like Manning, this isn't going to be a shootout.
9. Knoshown Moreno- Moreno hasn't shown enough yet to warrant fantasy starter status.
10. Jay Cutler- Below average receivers against maybe the best corner combo in football.

Sleepers (They may not be the best options but if you are in need of a last minute pickup, look here)

1. Fred Jackson- Lynch is out, Jackson gets the start and could catch a lot of balls out of the backfield
2. Cedric Benson- Could find some daylight against a suspect Broncos run defense
3. Mike Bell- With Thomas out and the Lions in town somebody is going to get some rushing TD's
4. Jermichael Finley- Was huge in preseason and it could carry over into week 1.
5. Josh Morgan- This game could become a shootout and if it does Morgan could get to 100+ receiving
6. Texans Defense- Could prey on first time starter Sanchez for some picks and sacks.
7. Chris Henry- The Bengals receiver looked good in preseason and the Broncos defense isn't exactly a shut down defense.
8. Zach Miller- Chargers have struggled in previous season openers under N. Turner, if that happens again Miller will have to have a big game for Oakland.
9. John Carney- There are points to be had against the Lions and this mediocre kicker could have a huge week 1.
10. Matthew Stafford- Can you tell yet that I expect the Lions vs. Saints game to be high scoring? Stafford is a rookie but the Saints defense is less than stellar.

Preseason MVP Power Rankings

1. Peyton Manning- To be the man, you got to beat the man

2. Tom Brady- Never really got to defend his 2008 MVP reign

3. Drew Brees- Video game offense could result in his first MVP

4. Aaron Rodgers- Looks in complete control of an offense w/ a plethora of weapons

5. Adrian Peterson- With an improved passing game more holes could open for A.P.

6. Maurice Jones-Drew- He's going to do everything for his offense

7. Phillip Rivers- Has the weapons, the moxie, and the talent to be the MVP.

8. Michael Turner- If he puts up huge numbers again he could be the guy

9. Kurt Warner- Most QB's would be in the conversation w/ Fitz, Boldin and Breaston.

10. Matt Ryan- Could be even more of a breakout year for the young QB

11. Donovan McNabb- Probably the most overall weapons he's had on offense in his career.

12. Andre Johnson- Wide receivers aren't normally MVP's, Andre's got a chance.

13. Ben Roethlisberger- All he does is win football games.

14. Deangelo Williams- Having J. Stewart and S. Smith on the same team hurts his odds.

15. Matt Forte- Dynamic running back who could carry his team into the playoffs.

16. Randy Moss- Tough to imagine Moss winning if Brady's throwing him the TD's

17. Larry Fitzgerald- May be the best WR in football, enough said.

18. Tony Romo- Will have to be an MVP candidate if the Cowboys want to succeed this year.

19. Jay Cutler- If he leads the Bears to the playoffs he could be a candidate.

20. Brian Westbrook- Always does a little of everything to help the Eagles win.

21. Steven Jackson- Improved offensive line and commitment to run just might do it.

22. Matt Hasselbeck- Probably more in line for most improved but don't sleep on him.

23. Carson Palmer- One of the top QB's in football if he stays healthy.

24. Chris Johnson- Top running back but Lendale always steals his TD's

25. Steve Slaton- With his running and receiving capabilities he could be a sleeper.

26. Eli Manning- Offensive line will make him look good, receivers won't.

27. Chad Pennington- Seems crazy but he was in the conversation for a while last year.

28. Brandon Jacobs- Best power runner in the game could put up some big TD numbers.

29. Marion Barber- Will get more carries than in years past due to lack of big play WR.

30. Joe Flacco- Shows the potential and will be a year wiser this season.

31. Calvin Johnson- Would be higher except he's on the Lions.

32. Frank Gore- Will get plenty of carries but hasn't shown MVP type of stuff yet.

AFC South Draft Review

Colts

1. Donald Brown- 2nd string running back

2. Fili Moala- 2nd string defensive tackle

3. Jerraud Powers- 5th cornerback

4. Austin Collie- 4th wide receiver

4. Terrance Taylor- Released, no longer on roster

6. Curtis Painter- 3rd string quarterback

7. Pat McAfee- Won the punting job

7. Jaimie Thomas- Guard was released and added to the practice squad

Grade: B- While Donald Brown isn't going to start he will do a lot of the carrying along with Joseph Addai. Fili Moala will see action in sub packages for the Colts and Austin Collie is the real player to keep an eye on. Even as the 4th receiver he will catch his fair share of Peyton Manning's passes. Pat McAfee will be the punter for the colts and was a good pick in the 7th round.

Jaguars

1. Eugene Monroe- Could start the season as the starting left tackle

2. Eben Britton- If Monroe starts at LT, expect Britton to start at right tackle

3. Terrance Knighton- 5th defensive tackle

3. Derek Cox- 4th cornerback

4. Mike Thomas- 6th wide receiver

5. Jarett Dillard- 5th wide receiver

6. Zach Miller- 3rd tight end

7. Rashad Jennings- 3rd running back

7. Tiquan Underwood- Released in final cutdown.

Grade: A Even if Monroe and Britton don't end up starting right away the Jaguars probably just drafted their bookend tackles for the next 4-8 seasons. If that ends up being the case this will go down as an extremely good draft for the Jaguars. Even though none of the other picks are even a top backup at their respective position, Mike Thomas has plenty of potential and the others are good enough to contribute in a pinch.

Titans

1. Kenny Britt- Will start at receiver because of the injury to Nate Washington

2. Sen'Derrick Marks- 5th defensive tackle

3. Jared Cook- 4th tight end but not because of lack of talent

3. Ryan Mouton- 3rd cornerback

4. Gerald McRath- 2nd string OLB

4. Troy Kropog-3rd string offensive tackle

5. Javon Ringer- 3rd string running back

6. Jason McCourty-5th cornerback

6. Dominique Edison- 5th wide receiver (4th with injury to Washington)

7. Ryan Durand- Guard was released and added to the practice squad

7. Nick Schommer- Safety was released and added to the practice squad

Grade: B+ Kenny Britt, Jared Cook, Ryan Mouton, and Dominique Edison are all capable of producing and helping the Titans early in their careers. Marks, Ringer and McRath all provide valuable depth at their respective positions. All in all a very solid if unspectacular draft for the Titans.

Texans

1. Brian Cushing- Starting OLB, has been banged up

2. Connor Barwin- 2nd string DE, could be used as a pass rusher on passing downs

3. Antoine Caldwell- 2nd string guard/3rd string tackle

4. Glover Quin- 4th cornerback

4. Anthony Hill- 3rd tight end

5. James Casey- 4th tight end

6. Brice McCain- 6th cornerback

7. Troy Nolan- Safety was placed on injured reserve

Grade: B- Tough to put a solid grade on the Texans without getting to see much of Cushing in the offseason. Barwin has been impressive as a pass rusher in limited opportunities and everybody else hasn't shown enough yet to be considered anything above average. Any time a team can draft 8 players and not have to release any of them it either means they did a good job drafting or had a really bad team. In this case it looks like the Texans did a good job with their draft board.

AFC North Draft Review

Ravens

1. Michael Oher- Starting right tackle

2. Paul Kruger- 2nd string outside linebacker

3. Lardarius Webb- 5th cornerback

5. Jason Phillips- Linebacker is on injured reserve

5. Davon Drew- Released, no longer with the team

6. Cedric Peerman- Released, no longer with the team

Grade: B- So far this draft is all about Michael Oher. Oher will be the starting right tackle this season and if everything goes well it will be for many seasons to come. Kruger should see the field this year in certain packages and Webb will undoubtedly get on the field as well via special teams or in nickel and dime packages eventually. The fact that the Ravens only have three 2009 draftees on their 53 man roster isn't a real good sign going forward.

Steelers

1. Ziggy Hood- Third team defensive lineman

3. Kraig Urbik-2nd team guard

3. Mike Wallace- 4th wide receiver

3. Keenan Lewis- 5th cornerback

5. Joe Burnett- 6th cornerback

5. Frank Summers- 4th running back

6. Ra'Shon Harris-Released, no longer with the team.

7. A.Q. Shipley- Center made it to the practice squad.

7. David Johnson- 3rd tight end

Grade: C The biggest thing that the Steelers gained thus far in this years draft was depth. While Hood and Urbick haven't broken the starting lineup yet, both players have shown enough ability and talent to start and would be starting on lesser teams. Meanwhile Mike Wallace, Keenan Lewis, Joe Burnett, Frank Summers, and David Johnson all made the team and will provide quality depth up and down the lineup for the Steelers, something that they've been doing for years.

Browns

1. Alex Mack- 2nd string center

2. Brian Robiskie- 5th wide receiver

2. Mohamed Massaquoi- 4th wide receiver

2. David Veikune-2nd string ILB

4. Kaluka Maiava-2nd string ILB

6. Don Carey- Released, no longer with the team

6. Coye Francies-4th cornerback

6. James Davis- 3rd running back, but could see a lot of action

Grade: C- Alex Mack should still be a very good center down the line but at this point he hasn't been able to beat out Hank Fraley for the starting center position. The bigger disappointment has been the two wide receivers selected in the 2nd round. When a team drafts two receivers in the 2nd round and only gets a 4th and 5th wide receiver out of it, I guarantee everybody it's not what the team was hoping for. Veikune and Maiava provide depth at ILB, while James Davis has shown a ton of potential for a 6th round pick and I would expect him to start at halfback sometime this season.

Bengals

1. Andre Smith- Roster exemption, not on 53 man roster, injured after signing late

2. Rey Maualuga- 2nd string linebacker, will see playing time

3. Michael Johnson- 2nd string defensive end

3. Chase Coffman- 3rd string tight end

4. Jonathan Luigs- 2nd string center

5. Kevin Huber- Won the punting job

6. Morgan Trent- 3rd cornerback

6. Bernard Scott- 2nd string running back

7. Fui Vakapuna- Released, no longer with the team

7. Clinton McDonald- Defensive end was cut and resigned to the practice squad.

7. Freddie Brown- Released, no longer with the team

Grade: B- This was originally my highest graded class coming out of the draft but leave it to the Bengals to mess it up. Andre Smith should be the starting right tackle but of course the Bengals didn't get him in to camp right away and once he got in he hurt himself immediately. Rey Maualuga is going to see playing time but hasn't yet won a starting job, Chase Coffman has shown a ton of potential but is still buried on the depth chart but the middle of the draft is still looking very good. Kevin Huber will be the Bengals' punter, Bernard Scott will see action as the team's number 2 running back and Morgan Trent will see the field in Nickel/Dime packages. Overall it still has the ability to be a very good draft, but right now it's nowhere near what it could have been mainly due to Andre Smith.

Ranking the Games for NFL Week 1

1. Titans @ Steelers, Thursday, 7:30 CST, NBC

-Two of the best teams from a year ago face off in the first game of the year on Thursday night football. Easily the best game of week 1.

2. Bears @ Packers, Sunday 7:20 CST, NBC

-Opening weekend, Lambeau Field, Bears vs. Packers, Sunday Night Football... what else do you want?

3. Eagles @ Panthers, Sunday 12:00 CST, FOX

-Both teams are expected to make strong playoff pushes in the NFC this season and this will be a huge starting point for one of these teams.

4. Redskins @ Giants, Sunday, 3:15 CST, FOX

-Tough to beat a smash-mouth NFC East battle between two bitter rivals to start the season. Giants are favored to win but rest assured this should be a very good, very physical game.

5. Dolphins @ Falcons, Sunday 12:00 CST, CBS

-The Dolphins and the Falcons were the two Cinderella stories from a season ago and this year teams will not take them lightly. Only one of them jump out to a quick 1-0 start this season.

6. Jets @ Texans, Sunday 12:00 CST, CBS

-This may not be the sexiest matchup of the week but it is a game that pits two teams that should be pretty equally matched. In the end the Texans are expected to be the better team of the two but right now this could make for a very interesting game.

7. 49ers @ Cardinals, Sunday 3:15 CST, FOX

In the end the regular season really comes down to how each team does within their own division and because of that division games end up counting almost twice as much as regular games due to tiebreakers for the playoffs. The 49ers are trying to show they are true competitors for the NFC West crown and Arizona is trying to show them they are not.

8. Jaguars @ Colts, Sunday 12:00 CST, CBS

Much like the 49ers and Cardinals game this is a big divisional game with two teams that know each other very well. The Jaguars are really trying to show that last year was a fluke and even staying in the game with the Colts and pressuring them to the end may end up being a rare NFL moral victory.

9. Cowboys @ Buccaneers, Sunday 12:00 CST, FOX

The Cowboys are supposed to win this game pretty easily but Tampa is a touch place to play in. The Buccaneers may have some tricks up their sleeve for Dallas and something just makes me think this is going to be a lot closer than people think.

10. Bills @ Patriots, Monday 6:00 PM CST, ESPN

How will Tom Brady look in his first regular season back? How will T.O. look for the Bills? With the Bills going no-huddle all game will this game put up video game numbers? The Patriots should win this game easily, but there is definitely still some intrigue.

11. Rams @ Seahawks, Sunday 3:15 CST, FOX

The Rams, Seahawks, 49ers and Cardinals all play in divisional games this weekend and the two winners will have a really nice head start in the division to start the season. After really struggling last season one of these two teams will get to start undefeated.

12. Vikings @ Browns, Sunday 12:00 CST, FOX

Brett Favre in a Vikings jersey will be worth tuning into regardless of the terrible matchup and having to watch the Browns play. How Favre does with only a couple weeks of practice with the Vikings will be the real thing to keep an eye on.

13. Lions @ Saints, Sunday 12:00 CST, FOX

The Saints will be heavy favorites in this game but if anybody is a fan of offense this could be a fun game to watch. The Saints should have their usual high powered offense on display and even though the Lions will start Matthew Stafford at QB, Calvin Johnson should provide enough fireworks against a usually shaky Saints defense.

14. Chiefs @ Ravens, Sunday 12:00 CST, CBS

The opposite of the Lions-Saints game. Ravens will be heavy favorites but if anybody is a fan of defense this should be the game to watch. The Chiefs could have a really hard time putting up any significant points on the Ravens defense and Baltimore's offense, while proficient, isn't going to be breaking any yardage or points records anytime soon.

15. Broncos @ Bengals, Sunday 12:00 CST, CBS

Carson Palmer's sort of healthy, Kyle Orton sort of isn't healthy, Brandon Marhshall is making Chad Ochocinco look normal and overall both of these teams have plenty of question marks heading into the season. At least one of these teams will answer some of those questions after week 1.

16. Chargers @ Raiders, Monday, 9:15 CST, ESPN

It is a divisional game with a lot of tradition and there will be some Raider story lines to keep an eye on (will Richard Seymour be available on Monday?), but overall this game doesn't have a whole lot of luster. Then again the Chargers in recent years have really started the season poorly so maybe this year starts with another bad Chargers opener and the Raiders make a game of it.

NFC West Draft Review

49ers

1. Michael Crabtree- Douche Bag

3. Glenn Coffee- 2nd string running back

5. Scott McKillop-Backup linebacker

5. Nate Davis- 3rd string QB

6. Bear Pascoe- TE was released, no longer with the team

7. Curtis Taylor- 3rd string defensive back

7. Ricky Jean-Francois- 3rd string defensive lineman

Grade- Incomplete It's hard to really blame the 49ers for taking Crabtree with the 10th pick as I don't think that anybody could have imagined him being this much of a diva at this point. Even if Crabtree does get to camp tomorrow (which won't happen) he will probably not play for the 49ers for a few weeks at least and even when he does play it's going to take a lot of catching up to get in football shape. If Crabtree ends up being anything more than a solid number 2 receiver I will be shocked. Coffee was a great pickup in the 3rd round and will probably end up being the best player in this years draft.

Cardinals

1. Chris "Beanie" Wells- Will split time w/ Tim Hightower

2. Cody Brown- OLB was injured early and put on injured reserve

3. Rashad Johnson- 2nd string safety

4. Gret Toler-5th cornerback

5. Herman Johnson-2nd string right tackle

6. Will Davis- 2nd string LOLB

7. LaRod Stephens-Howling- 4th running back, kick returner

7. Trevor Canfield- OG was released and resigned to the practice squad

Grade: B This draft will be remembered for the running backs. The name of the game for Wells is just staying healthy. If he can stay healthy he will be a big time running back for the Cardinals that get rack up some major yards and touchdowns. Stephens-Howling may be the ultimate sleeper of the entire draft but watch out for this little running back as I think he could eventually be a D. Sproles type player later in his career.

Seahawks

1. Aaron Curry- Starting outside linebacker

2. Max Unger- Starting right guard

3. Deon Butler- 4th wide receiver

6. Mike Teel- 3rd string QB

7. Courtney Greene- Released and no longer with the team

7. Nick Reed- 3rd string defensive end

7. Cameron Morrah- 3rd string tight end

Grade: A Curry has the ability to be an all-pro linebacker, Unger will start at guard from day 1, Butler could be a great slot receiver, Teel has potential as a future quarterback down the line, and both Reed and Morrah showed enough potential as 7th round picks to warrant roster spots. Very good draft by Seattle which could propel this team to the playoffs as soon as this seaosn.

Rams

1. Jason Smith- Has yet to be named the starter at right tackle, not a good sign!

2. James Laurinaitis- Starting MLB

3. Bradley Fletcher-Fourth Cornerback

4. Dorell Scott-4th defensive tackle

5. Brooks Foster- Wide receiver is on injured reserve

6. Keith Null-3rd string QB

7. Chris Ogbonnaya- RB was released and added to the practice squad

Grade: B- This grade will be much, much higher if Smith gets it together but not being able to beat out Adam Goldberg at right tackle is reason to be very concerned. So far I have been completely wrong on the Rams draft picks as I expected Smith to be a top tackle and I expected Laurinaitis to really struggle but it has been the exact opposite. Laurinaitis has found a home at MLB in the Rams new defense and will start immediately.

NFC South Draft Review

Falcons

1. Peria Jerry- Starting defensive tackle

2. William Moore- Backup safety

3. Christopher Owens- 3rd string cornerback

4. Lawrence Sidbury Jr.- 3rd string defensive end

5. William Middleton- CB was released, no longer with team

5. Garrett Reynolds-2nd string right tackle

6. Spencer Adkins-2nd string OLB

7. Vance Walker- DT was released and resigned to the practice squad.

Grade: C Nothing to really write home about for the Falcons. Jerry should be a quality starter, but the rest of the players haven't shown anything yet to be considered for serious playing time this season.

Panthers

2. Everette Brown- 2nd string defensive end, pass rush specialist

2. Sherrod Martin-3rd string cornerback

3. Corey Irvin- DT landed on injured reserve

4. Mike Goodson- 3rd string running back who has shown plenty of ability

4. Tony Fiammetta-2nd string fullback

5. Duke Robinson- 2nd string right guard

7. Captain Munnerlyn- 3rd string cornerback

Grade: B- The Panthers did a good job of selecting 7 players that were all capable of making the 53 man roster. Not many teams can make that same statement. The Panthers show again that they are one of the best teams in evaluating running backs in the draft (since Tim Biakabatuka and Deshawn Foster) by drafting D. Williams, J. Stewart and now M. Goodson. Robinson could very well end up being a starter down the road as a late 5th round pick.

Buccaneers

1. Josh Freeman-Backup Quarterback

3. Roy Miller-2nd string defensive tackle

4. Kyle Moore-2nd string defensive end

5. Xavier Fulton- Offensive tackle landed on injured reserve

7. E.J. Biggers-3rd string defensive back

7. Sammie Stroughter-4th wide receiver

Grade: D I have a feeling that this draft in particular is going to set the Buccaneers back a few years. Freeman really struggled in the preseason and nobody else in this group looks to contribute in the near future. Getting a 4th wideout in the 7th round of the draft was a good find for the Buccaneers and both Miller and Moore will be in the defensive line rotation this year but overall it looks very unspectacular.

Saints

1. Malcolm Jenkins- Nickel defensive back

4. Chip Vaughn- Safety is on injured reserve

4. Stanley Arnoux- Linebacker is on injured reserve

5. Thomas Morstead- Won the punting job

Grade: C- This entire draft may hinge on Malcolm Jenkins. One of the worst signs for a rookie player is being injured during the rookie season and having to sit out the entire year. That's exactly what Vaughn and Arnoux are going to have to overcome. Morstead could be the long term punting solution for the Saints but overall this draft will be judged on how well Malcolm Jenkins plays. So far he's the nickel corner, but not beating out Tracy Porter or Jabari Greer isn't exactly a good sign for the Saints.

NFC East Draft Review

Giants

1. Hakeem Nicks- Will play a lot at WR and has a chance to start week 1.

2. Clint Sintim- Backup linebacker

2. William Beatty- Second string offensive tackle

3. Ramses Barden- 5th or 6th wide receiver, tons of potential

3. Travis Beckum- 2nd tight end

4. Andre Brown- RB is on injured reserve

5. Rhett Bomar- QB is on the practice squad

6. DeAndre Wright- Defensive back is on the practice squad

7. Stoney Woodson- Defensive back was released.

Grade- B- This was a draft that I was originally really high on but have cooled off a little since. I still think Nicks was a really good pick and he's going to have to have a huge year if the Giants want to be productive passing the ball. Sintim and Beatty could be starters down the line but will back-up this season. Beckum will see the field and could be a great pass catching tight end. Andre Brown was my steal of the draft originally but suffered an injury and is out for the season. Barden is a huge player with tons of potential but it won't be this season that he likely realizes that potential. Bomar and Wright are stashed on the practice squad and Woodson couldn't make the team.

Eagles

1. Jeremy Maclin- The rookie wideout will be the number 3 receiver and top returner.

2. LeSean McCoy- Will backup Brian Westbrook but will see a lot of action.

5. Cornelius Ingrim- Talented tight end is on injured reserve.

5. Victor "Macho" Harris- Second string free safety

5. Fenuki Tupou- Rookie lineman is on injured reserve.

6. Brandon Gibson- Receiver made the team as a rare 7th wide receiver.

7. Paul Fanaika- Guard made it to the practice squad.

7. Moise Fokou- Second string strong-side linebacker.

Grade- B+ The Eagles were an already talented team who added some quality skill players and some depth. Maclin will be used as a weapon on offense and in special teams while McCoy could get a lot of carries backing up Brian Westbrook. Ingrim's and Tupou's injuries are disappointing but Ingrim especially still has a bright future. Harris is making the transition from corner to safety and the Eagles have to be thrilled that 6th round pick Brandon Gibson and 7th round pick Moise Fokou showed enough to warrant roster spots on the 53 man team.

Cowboys

3. Jason Williams- Backup inside linebacker

3. Robert Brewster- Offensive tackle is on the PUP list

4. Stephen McGee- Will be the 3rd string QB behind Romo and Kitna

4. Victor Butler- 3rd string outside linebacker

4. Brandon Williams- Didn't make the team, or the practice squad

5. DeAngelo Smith- Was released and is no longer with the team.

5. Michael Hamlin- Will be the backup to free safety Ken Hamlin.

5. David Buehler- Backup kicker will be the primary kick off specialist.

6. Stephen Hodge- Moved to linebacker and is on injured reserve.

6. John Phillips- Made the team as the third string tight end.

7. Mike Mickens- Cornerback was released from the team and resigned to the practice squad.

7. Manuel Johnson- Receiver was released and resigned to the practice squad.

Grade: F It's understandable that the Cowboys wouldn't have a huge draft without a 1st or 2nd round pick, but they didn't really even have an OK draft. About the only player who is slated for significant playing time right now is kicker David Buehler who will handle the kickoff duties only. Another big downside is that out of 12 picks only 6 are on the 53 man roster. A 50% success rate is not a good sign especially in year one.

Redskins

1. Brian Orakpo- Starting outside linebacker and pass rush specialist on passing downs.

3. Kevin Barnes- Third string cornerback

5. Cody Glenn- Released and no longer with the team.

6. Robert Henson- Third string middle linebacker.

7. Eddie Williams- Moved to fullback and was placed on the practice squad.

7. Marko Mitchell- 5th wide receiver

Grade- C It looks like the Redskins may have got a really good player in Brian Orakpo and taking him in the first round in and of itself would get an A. The rest of the draft was nowhere near as successful for the Redskins however. Third round pick Kevin Barnes is no better than the 5th best corner, 5th round pick Cody Glenn couldn't make the team, 6th round pick Robert Henson is buried on the depth chart at MLB, and Eddie Williams couldn't make the 53 man roster. Mitchell looks like he could be worth keeping for a few years at wide receiver and may even see some time this season.

NFC North Draft Review

Packers

1. B.J. Raji- Was a holdout, and is currently injured, is currently backup NT and DE

1. Clay Matthews- Backup ROLB, will challenge Poppinga for starting job

4. T.J. Lang- Backup Lineman

5. Quinn Johnson- One of three fullbacks on the roster

5. Jamon Meredith- OL on the practice squad

6. Jarius Wynn- Backup defensive end

6. Brandon Underwood- Third-string cornerback

7. Brad Jones- Developmental linebacker gets the 9th linebacker spot.

Grade: B This grade could be much higher down the road but right now the Packers won't enter the season with any rookies in the starting lineup despite having two of the top 26 picks. Raji and Matthews will be expected to contribute this season but for the opening game against Chicago the rookie contributions may be minimal.

Bears

3. Jarron Gilbert- 3rd string defensive tackle

3. Juaquin Iglesias- 5th wide receiver

4. Henry Melton- Defensive end on injured reserve

4. D.J. Moore- 5th corner

5. Johnny Knox- 6th wide receiver

5. Marcus Freeman- LB was released

6. Al Afalava- In the running to start at safety

7. Lance Louis- 3rd string LT

7. Derek Kinder- WR was released

Grade- D I know that a huge portion of the Bears draft was acquiring Jay Cutler but just grading the picks that they did have the Bears didn't do very well. Iglesias was starting to come on at the end of preseason and with the problems at wide receiver for the Bears he could see the field this season. Freeman was a big disappointment and the only person who has really stood up and started to make a name for himself is safety Al Afalava. If somebody doesn't really step up from this group, not even a Jay Cutler MVP performance will help save this draft.

Vikings

1. Percy Harvin- Listed as the 5th wide receiver but he will play a big role in the offense.

2. Phil Loadholt- Starting right tackle

3. Asher Allen- 3rd string cornerback

5. Jasper Brinkley- 3rd string MLB

7. Jamarca Sanford- Backup strong safety

Grade A- The Vikings may end up with the biggest weapon in the entire draft in Percy Harvin and getting a long term starting right tackle in the 2nd round isn't ever a bad choice either. Allen has shown potential at corner and whild Brinkley and Sanford haven't shown that they can contribute this season yet, they have shown enough to make it onto the Vikings' 53 man roster. Overall a very good draft for the Vikings.

Lions

1. Matthew Stafford- Just named starting quarterback. Has struggled some in preseason.

1. Brandon Pettigrew- 3rd string tight end, will see action sooner than later

2. Louis Delmas- Starting free safety

3. DeAndre Levy- Backup middle linebacker

3. Derrick Williams- Fourth wide receiver, punt returner

4. Sammie Lee Hill- Starting defensive tackle

6. Aaron Brown- 3rd string running back

7. Lydon Murtha- Released Offensive lineman

7. Zack Follett- Released Linebacker

7. Dan Gronkowski- Released Tight End

Grade- B+ Much like Mark Sanchez, nobody will be able to put a real grade on Matthew Stafford for a few years yet. Pettigrew hasn't had much of an opportunity in camp and will open the season as the number 3 tight end which is a big disappointment for a 1st round pick. The two big steals of this draft for the Lions were Delmas and Sammie Lee Hill who will both start from day 1. Lions have to be disappointed that not one of their three 7th round picks were able to make the roster.

AFC East Draft Review

Patriots

2. Patrick Chung-Backup Safety

2. Ron Brace- 3rd string NT

2. Darius Butler- Backup Cornerback

2. Sebastian Vollmer-2nd string RT

3. Brandon Tate- WR is out indefinitely

3. Tyrone McKenzie- LB is out for the year

4. Rich Ohrnberger-Backup Guard

5. George Bussey- OT is out for the year

6. Jake Ingram- Will be the teams long snapper

6. Myron Pryor-May have found a steal as a rotational defensive lineman

7. Julian Edelman-Wildcat QB, wide receiver, special teams player, could be fun to watch

7. Darryl Richard- DT is on the Practice Squad

Grade: B- The Patriots had a lot of opportunities to hit on some players that really could have helped them, but instead they have some players in the first two rounds that are still in need of development such as Chung, Brace, Butler and Volmer. Injuries are handicapping the middle of their draft as Tate, McKenzie and Bussey are all likely out for the year. The real contributors in 2009-201o will be the players taken later in the draft. Ingram will be their long-snapper and play in every game, Edelman is a weapon that the Patriots will undoubtedly use to his fullest extent, and Pryor will see plenty of time on the defensive line especially now that Seymour was traded to the Raiders.

Dolphins

1. Vontae Davis- Backup corner, could see action in Nickel/Dime

2. Pat White- Struggled mightily in preseason, 3rd string QB, could see some Wildcat

2. Sean Smith- Starting cornerback

3. Patrick Turner- 5th wide receiver

4. Brian Hartline- 4th wide receiver

5. John Nalbone- 3rd Tight End

5. Chris Clemons- Backup Safety

6. Andrew Gardner-Backup Left Tackle

7. J.D. Folsom- Released

Grade: C It's still early but Pat White has not impressed and Vontae Davis was unable to start for the Dolphins. Their two steals of this draft look to be Brian Hartline at WR and Sean Smith at CB, both should contribute from game 1.

Jets

1. Mark Sanchez- Starting QB

3. Shonn Greene- 3rd running-back

6. Matt Slauson- Backup right guard

Grade: B- Whether or not Sanchez is the real deal won't be known until later into his career and there is no way to judge the pick right now. Either way the Jets have hope for their new starting quarterback and their next few years will be decided based on how Sanchez performs. Greene was a solid pick in the third round who will have trouble finding the field behind Jones and Washington.

Bills

1. Aaron Maybin- Pass rush specialist, defensive end

1. Eric Wood- Starting right-guard

2. Jairus Byrd- Backup free-safety

2. Andy Levitre-Starting left-guard

4. Shawn Nelson- 3rd string tight end

5. Nic Harris- Backup OLB

6. Cary Harris- CB on the practice squad

7. Ellis Lankster- Backup CB

Grade: B Maybin came in late to camp but was able to notch a couple of sacks in his limited preseason action. That's a good sign for the Bills who are in desperate need of a pass rush. Eric Wood and Andy Levitre will be the starting guards on opening day, but it's sort of by default. The Bills will have one of the worst starting lines this season and if Wood and Levitre don't progress fast, it could be a long season for Trent Edwards. Ellis Lankster made some headlines with a few preseason picks and he could be in line for some playing time later in the season.

The All-Cut Team

Here is the roster of the 53 players that make up the 2009 All-Cut Team.

QB: A.J. Feeley, Jeff Garcia, Joey Harrington, John David Booty

RB: Darius Walker, Dominick Rhodes, Quinton Ganther

FB: Carey Davis

WR: David Tyree, Ruvell Martin, Greg Lewis, Isaiah Stanback, Mark Jones

TE: Alex Smith, Garrett Mills, Leonard Pope

OT: Tony Pashos, L.J. Shelton, Drew Radovich, Kirk Chambers

OG: Kynan Forney, Oliver Ross, Dan Buenning, Justin Geisinger

C: Eric Ghiaciuc, Cory Withrow, Donovan Raiola

DE: Josh Thomas, Larry Birdine, Paul Spicer, Tim Crowder

DT: Rodrique Wright, Terdell Sands, Langston Moore

OLB: Victor Hobson, Bruce Davis, D.D. Lewis

MLB: Morlon Greenwood, Paris Lenon, Danny Lansanah, Matt Wilhelm

CB: Marcus McCauley, Demarcus Faggins, Brian Williams, Corey Ivy, Roderick Hood

S: Anthony Smith, Brian Russell, Courtney Brown, Marvin White

K: Brandon Coutu

P: A.J. Trapasso

KR: Yamon Figurs

Brewers Week in Review

Week of August 31st-September 6th

Monday August 31st, Off Day
Tuesday September 1st, @ St. Louis Cardinals, lost 6-7
Wednesday September 2nd, @ St. Louis Cardinals, lost 3-10
Thursday September 3rd, @ St. Louis Cardinals, won 4-3
Friday September 4th, vs. San Francisco Giants, lost 2-3
Saturday September 5th, vs. San Francisco Giants, lost 2-3
Sunday September 6th, vs. San Francisco Giants, won 2-1

Record: 2-4 Runs Scored: 19 Runs Against: 27 Overall Record: 66-70 (Tied 3rd Place)

Player of the Week

Casey McGehee: 8-22, 0.364, 2 HR's, 2 runs, 10 rbi's
-First time McGehee has won player of the week

Pitcher of the Week

Manny Parra: 6.1 innings pitched, 2.95 ERA, 1.31 whip, 5 K, win
-Third time Parra has won pitcher of the week

Goat of the Week

Dave Bush: 3.1 innings pitched, 23.23 ERA, 4.19 whip, 2K, loss
-Third time Bush has been goat of the week and 2nd time in a row

Players who played well:

J. Suppan: 5.2 innings pitched, 0.00 ERA, 1.15 whip, 3K
T. Hoffman: 2.0 innings pitched, 0.00 ERA, 1.00 whip, 5K, save
C. Vargas: 3.1 innings pitched, 2.90 ERA, 0.97 whip, 3K
C. Villanueva: 4.0 innings pitched, 0.00 ERA, 0.75 whip, 3K
C. Narveson: 2.2 innings pitched, 0.00 ERA, 0.91 whip, 2K (3rd time in a row)
B. Looper: 13.0 innings pitched, 3.46 ERA, 1.46 whip, 2K

Players who struggled:

F. Lopez: 5-21, 0.238, 2 runs, 2 rbi's
J. Gerut: 3-16, 0.188, run
M. Cameron: 3-17, 0.176, run, 2 rbi's, error
J. Kendall: 2-18, 0.111, run
J. Hardy: 2-15, 0.133, rbi
J. Bourgeois: 0-9, 0.000, run, 2 stolen bases
T. Coffey: 3.1 innings pitched, 5.81 ERA, 1.29 whip, K, loss
D. Weathers: 1.2 innings pitched, 15.00 ERA, 4.17 whip, loss

Transactions

September 1st: Recalled Chris Smith from Nashville
September 1st: Recalled J.J. Hardy from Nashville
September 4th: Recalled Corey Patterson from Nashville
September 6th: Released Jesus Colome

Some Interesting Depth Chart Notes

Now that the 53 man roster is set, the Packers have their new depth chart listed over at Packers.com. Don't read too much into the depth chart because it can change at anytime and it isn't always 100% accurate, but there are a few pieces of interest on the chart.

1. DeShawn Wynn is listed as the backup running back to Ryan Grant, ahead of Brandon Jackson. This could very well be due to Jackson being injured right now but according to the depth chart Wynn is currently the number 2 back.

2. Jarrett Bush is back to cornerback and is ahead of both Brandon Underwood and Will Blackmon. This also could be because of injuries to both Underwood and Blackmon, but Underwood did practice today. More interesting than being ahead of either Underwood or Blackmon though is the fact that they have him back at cornerback. If this is the case, Bush may see time as the dime defensive back this Saturday in Chicago.

3. Spencer Havner is listed as both the 3rd tight end and as the 5th inside linebacker. While Havner will be used mostly on special teams it is interesting that they have him listed both at linebacker and at tight end. Earlier they had him just listed as tight end and he hasn't practiced much at all at linebacker lately.

4. Jordy Nelson is the second kick returner behind Will Blackmon. One major reason behind this may be because Nelson is an above average blocker for his position and he may provide a blocking option if it's kicked to Blackmon, but also a solid returner if it's kicked short or to his side. Will be interesting to see though if Blackmon is hurt this Sunday if Jordy is the primary returner.

5. Not much of a surprise but Derrick Martin is listed solely at the safety position after being a cornerback for most of his career in Baltimore. He was listed as a corner/safety when the trade was announced.

6. Johnny Jolly and Brady Poppinga remain the starters ahead of rookies B.J. Raji and Clay Matthews and Nick Barnett remains the starter at inside linebacker. Not too much of a surprise at any of these, but Matthews has been pushing Poppinga for the starting position lately. Wouldn't be shocking to see Barnett not get the start on Saturday because of the injury.

7. Josh Sitton is listed as the backup long-snapper. Hopefully it won't matter and even if it does I'm not sure very many people care, just interesting that the Packers consider Sitton (a guard) a better long snapping option than one of their three centers (Wells, Spitz, Dietrich-Smith).

8. The fullback depth chart is as follows: Kuhn, Hall, Johnson. It's still weird seeing three players on the fullback position, but apparently Kuhn has the leg up on Hall and Johnson at this point. Interestingly enough almost everybody had the Packers releasing or trading Kuhn when the cuts were being projected (myself included).

The Good and Bad of Preseason Week 4

The Good

Quarterback

Vince Young (Titans): 7-12, 85 yards, TD, 5 carries-38 yards, TD
Mark Sanchez (Jets): 5-5, 67 yards, TD
John Beck (Ravens): 16-28, 232, 2 TD's
David Garrard (Jaguars): 10-13, 95 yards, TD
David Carr (Giants): 6-6, 153 yards, 2 TD's
Brian Hoyer (Patriots): 18-25, 242 yards, TD, 6 carries-22 yards
Brett Basanez (Bears): 10-13, 144 yards, TD
Seahawks QB's (Teel and Rowe): 13-22, 211 yards, 3 TD's
Rex Grossman (Texans): 9-16, 197 yards, 2 TD's
Rudy Carpenter (Cowboys): 12-18, 125 yards, TD
Chargers QB's (Whitehurst and Volek): 18-27, 185 yards, 2 TD's

Running Backs

Tristen Davis (Lions): 3 carries-92 yards, 30.7 ypc, TD
Danny Woodhead (Jets): 18 carries-158 yards, 8.8 ypc, 2 TD's, 1 kick return-31 yards
Bengals RB's (Dorsey, Leonard, Johnson, Scott, Benson): 40 carries-265 yards, 6.6 ypc, TD
BenJarvus Green-Ellis (Patriots): 29 carries-125 yards, 4.3 ypc, 3 TD's, 4 catches-22 yards
Isaac Redman (Steelers): 12 carries-79 yards, 6.6 ypc, TD
Raiders RB's (Rankin and Russell): 18 carries-119 yards, 6.6 ypc, 3 TD's
Ian Johnson (Vikings): 17-61, 3.8 ypc, 2TD's, 3 catches-26 yards

Receivers

Dominique Edison (Titans): 5 catches-90 yards, 2 TD's
David Clowney (Jets): 2 catches-108 yards, TD
Marko Mitchell (Redskins): 6 catches-52 yards, TD
Mike Sims-Walker (Jaguars): 4 catches-63 yards, TD
Taj Smith (Colts): 5 catches-59 yards, TD
Jacoby Jones (Texans): 3 catches-148 yards, TD

Defense

Jamie Silva (Colts): 14 tackles, sack
Pat Sims (Bengals): 2 tackles, 2 sacks
Dolphins Defense: 7 points allowed, 8 sacks, INT
Jo-Lonn Dunbar (Saints): 13 tackles, sack
Brian Schaefering (Browns): 6 tackles, 2 sacks
Ervin Baldwin (Bears): 7 tackles, 2 sacks
Ryan Mundy (Steelers): 6 tackles, sack, int, TD
David Bruton (Broncos): 4 tackles, INT, fumble recovery
Victor Hobson (Cardinals): 4 tackles, 2 sacks
Nick Reed (Seahawks): 7 tackles, sack, fumble recovery
John Busing (Texans): 7 tackles, INT, fumble recovery
Torrie Cox (Buccaneers): 7 tackles, INT
Letroy Guion (Vikings): 2 tackles, sack, INT

The Bad

Quarterback

Josh Freeman (Buccaneers): 7-17, 85 yards, TD, 2 INT's
Tyler Palko (Cardinals): 13-30, 141 yards, INT
Tyler Thigpen (Chiefs): 2-7, 49 yards, 2 INT's
Andre Woodson (Giants): 6-19, 98 yards, INT
Matthew Stafford (Lions): 5-9, 81 yards, INT, fumble lost

Running Backs

Bruce Hall (Bills): 11 carries-28 yards, 2.5 ypc

Some Final Thoughts on the Packers' Roster

I posed earlier some of the moves that were the most shocking and eye opening, but here are some additional thoughts now that the practice squad has been named and the roster is set at least for now.

-One of my ten observations on the last preseason game was just how important special teams was going to be when making the cut downs on Saturday. Even though I posted that, I had no idea just how important they were going to be. Look at it this way, Tyrell Sutton, Ruvell Martin, and Anthony Smith were three of the biggest surprise cuts. Sutton, Martin, and Smith are also very limited in their special teams play and in the end, that is what lost all 3 of them their jobs. On the opposite side, the three fullbacks, Spencer Havner, newly acquired corner/safety Derrick Martin, Jarrett Bush, Brett Swain, DeShawn Wynn and Michael Montgomery were all players who have significant roles on special teams and even though there may have been a player at their specific position that was a better player than them, these players all made the team because of their contributions on special teams. In no other Packers season have I ever seen a roster cut down that was so aware of all 3 phases of football: offense, defense, and special teams. The fact of the matter was that Sutton was probably a better true running back than Wynn, but Wynn was a better pass blocker and a better special teams player. Sutton would have carried the ball sparingly if ever behind Grant and Jackson anyway, so might as well keep the better special teams player. See the same argument for Swain/Martin and Anthony Smith/ Jarrett Bush. The Packers chose to fill their roster with guys who will make an impact on special teams and still have quality depth in their respective positions. We'll see what happens, but the happiest person on cut day had to be new special teams coach Shawn Slocum. It's obvious now more than ever just how much the Packers are valuing their special teams.

-I'm really surprised Brian Brohm came back to the Packers. Great job by the Packers in realizing that they could release Brohm and still get him to sign back to the practice squad. It basically just means that the Packers haven't completely wasted a 2nd round pick yet. Like I said earlier, if I were Brohm I really would have tried a new system, based on the struggles he's had in Green Bay, but he was smart in staying with a couple of the best quarterback coaches in the league in Clements and McCarthy. Maybe the light will go on for him yet and he can be at least a number 2 quarterback somewhere down the line.

-I really like the deal for Derrick Martin and I think he will fit in well with the new defense. He is learning a new position this season transitioning from corner to safety and depending on the health of Aaron Rouse they may not activate Derrick Martin right this week although my money would be on him being active. Giving up Moll was not a big deal at all with the depth the Packers have on the offensive line and Martin was as good a player if not better than what could have been expected in return for him.

-Just imagine the expectations this team would have if 1st and 2nd round picks Justin Harrell, Brian Brohm, Pat Lee, and Terrence Murphy would have worked out. Harrell and Lee will spend another whole season on IR, Terrence Murphy had to retire out of football due to injury and Brian Brohm is on the practice squad. Every team in football right now has 3-4 players that were taken high in the draft that they wish would be playing better, but just imagine if Harrell was a stud defensive lineman, Lee was pushing Harris and Woodson for playing time, Brohm was the next Aaron Rodgers in waiting, and Murphy was the next Greg Jennings? It's sad that injuries and busts are just a part of football and every team goes through. Luckily for the Packers and General Manger Ted Thompson, he has done such a good in the later rounds of the draft that this team is a playoff caliber team, even with four 1st and 2nd round picks not even on the Packers 53 man roster.

A Little Brewers Excitement in September

It's definitely still been a struggle for the Brewers through the end of August and beginning of September so far, but on Sunday the Brewers and Giants played an exciting baseball game which included Pablo Sandoval robbing the Brewers of a walk off hit, a Milwaukee Brewers triple play, and most importantly, a walk off home run by Prince Fielder to give the Brewers the win. Anybody can say what they want about the managing, the way the team was put together, the struggles of certain players, and anything else that they want, but the bottom line was that games like Sunday remind everybody just how fun it is to be a fan of the Brewers and a fan of baseball. What a great home baseball game on Labor Day weekend in September. Great to see the Brewers still competing and providing some fun baseball even though the playoffs are out of the question.

A Few Thoughts on the Packers' Cut Downs

I will have a bigger post that goes much more into detail later, but here are a few of my thoughts on the activity yesterday. I expect 2-3 waiver claims by the Packers today, otherwise I would just write the entire thing now...

The biggest surprise to me was actually Anthony Smith. Word out of camp was that he was actually competing for a starting spot instead of Atari Bigby, and not only was that completely false, he lost his roster spot to Jarrett Bush, Aaron Rouse, and newly acquired CB/S Derrick Martin. While I didn't think Smith would actually start for Bigby, I did think that he was a solid candidate to play in some passing packages as he has shown good range and instincts on the ball. Smith wasn't always the smartest player and took too many gambles but he did also come up with some big plays. This was easily the biggest surprise of the day.

While I was also somewhat surprised that Brian Brohm got cut, I wouldn't say that I'm disappointed. People may suggest that he turned it around in his last 2 games, but name one pass that he completed in the last two games that wasn't a slant? There may be one or two out of 20+ but almost all of his plays were either on slants, or dump offs. The offense simply cannot be run in that fashion. People have suggested that Brohm may end up back on the practice squad but I doubt it. First of all, if I'm Brian Brohm and have had so many struggles with the offense in Green Bay, I'm looking for another offense which maybe fits me better and stay out of the current system in Green Bay. Secondly, I'm not sure the Packers would be willing to use a practice squad spot on Brohm. He was a second round pick just last year and Mike McCarthy is one of the best quarterback teachers in all of football. If they were willing to give up on him in year two after being a second round pick, they are basically saying that he is unsalvageable in the current system. Don't look for Brohm to be on the Packers' roster in any capacity this season.

There were also a few minor surprises, some which I thought could happen, and some which I definitely didn't think would happen. I've mentioned all along that I thought there was a decent chance the Packers' actually kept all three fullbacks on the roster and they did end up doing just that. I also thought without equivocation that DeShawn Wynn was significantly ahead of Sutton and Lumpkin but I also thought that Sutton would make the team. Finally I didn't expect the Packers to cut Ruvell Martin in favor of Brett Swain but Martin was done progressing and we've seen everything we are going to see from Ruvell Martin. Swain is a better special teams player and could be a weapon in the slot eventually in his career. Best of luck to Martin as he will surely be picked up by another franchise.

Lastly, like I mentioned earlier I think the Packers are going to be active in waivers today. There are a couple tight ends that were released that could catch the Packers eye over Spencer Havner and the Packers have already been rumored to be interested in Joey Harrington. I think there is a strong possibility that Havner, Q. Johnson, and/or B. Underwood could all be in jeopardy of losing their jobs still and I think that Green Bay was hoping to keep them on their regular roster for an extra day, hoping they could release the three of them a day later and still sneak them on the practice squad.