2008 NFL Power Rankings

The Alex Smith era appears to be over in San Fran, as the 49ers named J.T. O'Sullivan the starter to open the season. Sullivan was a sixth-round pick of the Saints in the 2002 draft. He has spent time with Green Bay, Detroit, and now San Fran. The 49ers have impressed on offense in the preseason, and with Mike Martz, this team should score more points. 

The 49ers were 32nd in points scored, yards gained, and first downs. This offense has Frank Gore and little else at the skill positions. The pressure is going to be on Patrick Willis and the defense to win games this year. 

 

30. Chiefs

Being regarded by many as the best team in this year’s draft came with a hefty price tag: the loss of the best DE in the game Jared Allen to the Vikings.

However, for long-term purposes, Kansas City looks to be in great shape. Their offensive line keeps getting decimated each passing season, altering the team’s running and passing game’s productivity. Their unstable QB situation contributes to the team’s offensive ineptness.

 

31. Dolphins

A new era begins for a franchise that went a league-worst 1-15 a year ago. Numerous changes have been made, personnel wise, that has resembled a fire sale. Ronnie Brown, the team’s best player, is still ailing; therefore, their offense will trust 32-year old RB Ricky Williams to lead them to respectability.

One of their best players, DE Jason Taylor, was traded to the Washington Redskins. Miami will build their team on first-overall pick, tackle Jake Long.

There isn’t much separating them and the last team in my rankings. I like them a little better than the Falcons, mainly because of Pennington at QB. Winning with a rookie QB in the NFL is almost impossible. Even Peyton Manning went 3-13 his first year in the NFL.

 

32. Falcons

This year it will be rebuilding year No. 2 in the post-Vick era. Rookie QB Matt Ryan is trusted to be the pillar of the franchise going forward. That is the right move. The team has no chance of winning this season, so they are best to get the growing pains of a young quarterback out of the way this season.

The addition of most-sought free agent Michael Turner in the running game brings hope for the future while they keep nurturing soon to be star Jerious Norwood.

This team still needs to upgrade in many areas. They will be competitive in a lot of games, but their inexperience will probably cost them more than a few wins.

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