Bleacher Report - Articles by Ryan Nelson

Top 10 Embarrassments in the NFL

Ryan Nelson — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 13:48:15 -0500

There are some things that are just inexcusable. Here's ten of them. There are some things that red-blooded football fans can't stand. These are all meant for debating with your fellow fans and non-fans alike. Honorable Mentions: 1. Running into the Kicker 2. Defensive Contact Penalties 3. Being fined for laying a crushing hit. 4. John Madden 5. The Oakland Raiders

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NFL Football: Looking Ahead

Ryan Nelson — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:04:52 -0400

Living in Minnesota, I often grow used to the idea of "looking ahead," but this is different.

Unlike my proclamation of failure in regard to the Minnesota Vikings' dwindling playoff hopes last season, this is looking at the upcoming season to see what we might expect.

The 2009-2010 NFL season brings hope for some, but for others like those in Detroit, you may already be looking at the 2010-2011 season.

Being the true football fan that I am, however, I'm already picking favorites for divisional, conference and even Super Bowl champions.

Divisional Champs

NFC North

For the NFC North, I think I'm going to pick Minnesota. I know Chicago has Cutler, but the Vikings have way too much riding on them this year to see everything slip away.

Besides, Jay played in the same division as Jared Allen, so, if I were Cutler, I'd be scared.

NFC South

I'm going to go for the repeat and pick Atlanta. Hands down.

NFC East

I think this one is a toss-up between New York and Philadelphia. Dallas could pull it off, but I think, even with how bad of a team player he was, Terrell Owens brought a lot onto the field.

NFC West

Arizona, even if the Cards are without Boldin. You still can't stop Fitzgerald.

AFC North

Pittsburgh. They are the reigning World Champions, and winners all-around.

AFC South

This is another toss-up between Indianapolis and Tennessee. The Colts are good, but there's no more Tony Dungy or Marvin Harrison.

Tennessee may have a solid defense, but I don't know how they can hold up down the stretch.

AFC East

New England. Tom Brady's back, and while he may not play at the top of his game, he's still No. 12.

AFC West

I'm going with San Diego here. Denver may have a new coach, but losing your veteran QB is a problem...I don't care who you are.

Conference Champions

NFC

I think either New York, Minnesota, or Atlanta.

AFC

Toss-up between San Diego, the AFC South team, or Pittsburgh.

Super Bowl Champions

This year is the year that the AFC falls. No question, the NFC seems so much stronger than the AFC this year.

Early predictions and constant debating are what makes football fun, so let's get the conversation started!

Ravens-Titans: AFC Divisional Playoffs Preview

Ryan Nelson — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 19:24:14 -0500

My friends, welcome to the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs.

LP Field, Jan. 9, 2009. The Titans will host one of the hottest teams in the league: The Baltimore Ravens.

Focus: The Baltimore Ravens

After securing a wild-card bid, the Ravens demolished the resurgent Dolphins. But it wasn't the offense that got the most highlights. Baltimore's defense showed why it has been feared in recent years. Ray Lewis and Ed Reed have shown why the D wins championships, and put simply, they score points.

On offense, the Ravens are a running squad.

With one, and occasionally two deep threats, the Ravens will rely on their bread and butter: Willis McGahee. Giving him the ball, especially late in the game, will give him scoring opportunities. It will also open up the pass. Take out Bulluck and Haynesworth, and you will have lanes up the middle. Take out Bulluck and seal the outside, and you can run to the edge.

Give it to Flacco, and he can throw or run.

X-Factor: The Ravens' D

Keep them in check, win the game. Take chances, give turnovers, lose the game. Ed Reed will be all over, and the linebackers will be looking for hits on LenDale White and Chris Johnson all day.

Focus: The Tennessee Titans

A 13-3 record. Amazing defense. Methodical offense.

Chris Johnson and LenDale White combine for an amazing 1-2 punch. Thunder and Lightning have been doing it all season. Get the lead, put it away. Again and again and again.

Collins is a seasoned veteran who has seen it all. He's the Anti-Favre. He has been in the league for years, however, he is a pocket quarterback. Not too much improvisation.

On defense, they are astounding. To say defense wins championships, this team qualifies, and that's an understatement.They pass the test with flying colors.

The secondary is a bunch of hard-hitting ball-hawks who can force the play when it's needed.

The D-Line is headed by Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden-Bosch (both of which are back from injury). Look for BIG pressure on Joe Flacco.

X-Factor: The Titans' D-Line

If Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden-Bosch can be effective, the Titans will have a much better chance at this game, and the secondary will have less pressure in coverage.

Prediction

These two teams match up nicely, power versus power. The Titans are on a slump, though. They lost their last game in a heart-breaker versus Indianapolis. I don't think that it should be a problem, but momentum has proved invaluable in the post-season in recent years.

The Ravens are on the opposite side of the spectrum, they have all the momentum. They're on a roll and the defense is spectacular. This is just the time of year you want to be playing well, December and January and, hopefully, February.

My pick: I'm going to go with Baltimore in a close game, 17-14 on a last-second field goal from Matt Stover.

Why the San Diego Chargers Will Not Win the AFC

Ryan Nelson — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 14:33:52 -0500

The San Diego Chargers are on a roll, just the kind of thing you want to happen in the post season.

However, no amount of heat comes without going. It seems that the Bolts were on a roll against Indianapolis and they're undefeated against Pittsburgh in the playoffs. Unfortunately, there is a huge wild card. Two, to be exact.

San Diego may be undefeated against Pittsburgh, but they haven't played Baltimore or Tennessee. Baltimore is high-flying on defense. Tennessee is just good. Solid.

This is the NFL post season. You can't just waltz into Heinz Field. You can't just march into LP Field, and you can't just "take it as a game" when Baltimore comes into town.

Take it for what it's worth, but the San Diego Chargers' next game or two maybe the toughest this team will ever play.

I'm a guy for the underdog. I'll cheer for the Chargers as long as they keep playing like they are. But one thing is for sure. I think the it will be the Baltimore Ravens and the New York Giants in the Super Bowl.

Welcome to the Possible Drama of the Year: Matt Cassel Could Be Tagged!

Ryan Nelson — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 09:19:46 -0500

We have entered the NFL postseason, and for people like me, whose teams have been eliminated or have not played at all, it is the beginning of the NFL offseason. I know, the big game hasn't even been played yet, but still.

However your team did or didn't do, and however much you may or may not hate the New England Patriots, you have to recognize the rise of a possible new QB in the NFL.

His name? Matt Cassel.

Yes, all you people. From you homers to you football experts, you need to recognize Cassel as one of the new possible starters in the league next year.

However, his own organization doesn't believe in letting him play elsewhere. There has been talk about FRANCHISE TAGGING the poor backup.

I have talked with many of my friends, and they all think it's because the Pats are afraid of where he could go and what he could do.

Now, don't get me wrong, that's a legitimate reason. If your team is the Green Bay Packers, you were not wanting Favre to end up in Minnesota. Don't B.S. me about them being afraid of Cassel.

We all know in the back of our minds we would like to see Brady and Cassel go at it with Cassel wearing green and white in East Rutherford. Tell me any differently, and I'll call you a liar. Cassel could be great. Not just good, I say great.

I mean seriously, you don't just come off the bench and play as well as he did considering who the starter was. Or do you...?

Matt Cassel has just been the proof of what we all have known: Belichick's expertise. We may love him, we may hate him, but the team is a reflection of the coach. The Patriots went 11-5 this year, and JUST missed the playoffs. 11-5. With a backup quarterback. This has gone beyond depth, this has become insane greatness.

But in any case, to franchise Matt Cassel would be holding him down in a backup position. We all know that Billy B. won't sit a hall-of-fame QB for someone who had a good year, so this may result in some offseason drama.

Cassel wants to start, but he can't because of who is on the team. Tom Brady. You know, two-time Super Bowl MVP? NFL MVP 2007? Most passing touchdowns in a season? He did it all. He has three rings to show for it. Cassel has nothing. Nothing except a possible franchise tag and his pine pony.

A message to the New England Patriots: LET CASSEL PLAY SOME WHERE HE HAS A CHANCE TO START. Give him a chance, give him the reins, give him a season. Don't tag him and make Brady feel threatened. Here's what will happen: nothing good.

In Denial: Why the Long Faces, Colts Fans?

Ryan Nelson — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 11:16:43 -0500

A message to Indianapolis Colts fans: STOP WHINING.

The playoff system isn't flawed and even if the officiating was questionable at times, the Chargers just out-played the Colts. It was overtime, and the game went to a very deserving, hard-fighting Chargers team.

Hats off to Darren Sproles and Mike Scifres in this game (Scifres is my game MVP pick). Keep doing what you do, and you'll end up in Tampa.

Even though I'd like to see the Ravens and the Colts duke it out in the AFC Championship, the Chargers were the better team and they proved it.

This isn't the way to send out a Hall of Fame coach, ever. But it is what it is and you cannot change it.

I'm a Colts fan, and I went through this period too, you just need to move on. Pull your head out of your crack, Manning the MVP isn't untouchable. We don't have a running game, and our defense is terrible.

So long Ron Meeks, hope you find a way to actually coach.

I hope this helps you realize that you are starting to look just as bad as some of the worst Patriots fans. We aren't invincible.

A message to San Diego Chargers fans: You're playing Pittsburgh next. Kind of hard to miss that BIG STEEL CURTAIN HANGING RIGHT IN FRONT OF YOU. Find a way to look past them, and you will have reached a new level of inconsistency. With all respect to the Chargers, this may be a mismatch.

Nails In The Coffin: Mike Scifres Wins Game For San Diego

Ryan Nelson — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 23:35:59 -0500

Yes, Darren Sproles had one of the best games of his career against the Colts in the Wild-Card game on Saturday. But it wasn't the 5'6" lightning ball that won the game for the Chargers.

That title, along with the biggest Pro Bowl snub in the last few years, belongs to Mike Scifres. The San Diego punter had an amazing night against Indy. If this were Dungy's last game, he might just have nightmares about the coffin corners from this game for the rest of his life.

His kicks gave his defense starts within the Indianapolis 20-and even 5-almost all night. This resulted in pressure on Manning and 3-and-outs, keeping the league MVP off the field. The Chargers, 8-8 on the season, forced overtime and gave it to Sproles. Jackpot. San Diego gets the win, and the Colts go packing.

As a Colts fan, I find this troubling that this may be Dungy's last game. The Colts played alright in this game, but the Chargers outplayed them and made the future H.O.F. coach lose his possible final game. Happy trails, Coach Dungy!

The Last Second: Why the Vikings May Have More Momentum Than You Think

Ryan Nelson — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 06:53:11 -0500

On Dec. 28, in the Metrodome, in Minneapolis...With two seconds to go in the game, down 19-17, the Minnesota Vikings sent out Ryan Longwell. Longwell kicked the game-winning field goal, making the score 20-19, Vikings.

Living in Minnesota, I have heard a number of arguments why the Vikings are going to get destroyed by Philadelphia, and even if they win, they'll get killed by Carolina or someone else later in the playoffs.

However, the Vikings look like serious contenders. They have the league's leading rusher in Adrian Peterson, they have a rock-solid defense, and they have two hot-handed quarterbacks (one with experience, and one who can move).

It has been said that the Vikings have no momentum. It has been said that the Vikings are on their way home. And yes, it has been said that they Vikings are no match for the Eagles.

The Vikings have won five out of their last six games. Five out of their last six games, including a last second-win against the No. 1 seeded Giants. To me, and to thousands of other, this should sound like momentum.

They lost to Atlanta in a game they should have won. (They almost did, had it not been for so many turnovers.) They destroyed Arizona. On top of that, they've beaten New York and Carolina. Granted, those last two were at home, but they've done it.

Tarvaris Jackson may come under pressure, but maybe in practice, Childress (who coached with Jim Johnson and played against Spagnuolo) could simulate some of the blitz packages used by Johnson. I do not think that either coach has the edge. The X-factor is Jackson (after Atlanta, some may say it is Peterson). For Philly, it is Donovan McNabb. Again, the Vikings have a chance.

I'm gonna pick the Vikings. Low-scoring, defensive game. 20-17

Mercy Rule: Why The Mismatches On Thanksgiving?

Ryan Nelson — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 02:00:27 -0500

44-10. The worst beating-to-a-pulp in Lions history on Thanksgiving. It was just further proof why tradition was outweighed by the Lions' 0-11 season. I saw a shot of the stands, and there was next to no one at Ford Field. With good reason. The Titans got off to a great start and rolled. 0-16 looks like a coming reality in Detroit.

34-9. Dallas looks dominant again. Well, I guess it depends on who you play. Seattle isn't exactly "Detroit bad," But they're not "New York great." Dallas flexed their newly revived muscle, but they only stacked 34 points on the 29th ranked defense in the NFL. Hasselbeck didn't play up to par. And the running game was, well, grounded.

48-20. Arizona just didn't look...good. Philadelphia looked amazing. Donovan McNabb is again in form, but we'll see if he can be consistent. Andy Reid needs to re-embrace his quarterback. McNabb will not enjoy Philly as long as his coach isn't 100% behind him.

So what's with the mismatches on Thanksgiving? Isn't football on this holiday supposed to be good? I would say it's Detroit's fault, but in the end, it's the fault of the NFL. You don't schedule blowouts on Thanksgiving.

We need evenly matched games. Something like a Green Bay-Chicago game. A close, physical game that is usually decided by less than a touchdown.

On paper, on a good year, Seattle-Dallas would be a good game. But when it comes to 7-4 Dallas versus 2-9 Seattle, it makes no sense for them to play on Thanksgiving.

A Cry From a Minnesotan: Please Go and Get Matt Cassel!

Ryan Nelson — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 09:14:30 -0500

Okay, so I know I said Matt Cassel would flounder after Tom Brady got hurt. You may now throw your tomatoes. I was wrong. He is a beast, and deserves a starting job.

So I thought about where he might start. I looked at three places: Minnesota, San Francisco, and Houston.

Houston has an okay starter in Matt Schaub, but their backup has a "backfire" tendency. San Francisco really needs a quarterback that can run and throw.

But I think his best fit would be in Minnesota. I look at Gus Frerotte, but does anyone think he'll be the guy for 10+ years? The answer is no. Matt Cassel is a better fit than Tarvaris Jackson.

Jackson is a runner, much like Vince Young in Tennessee. While he is a good leader, his style isn't good for a conservative, power offense. The same goes for V.Y. in Tennessee's offense. You don't really need a scrambler in a power offense.

Come to think of it, guys like V.Y. and Jackson are better suited in a southern-style offense, like Indianapolis or San Francisco. Those offenses are pass-oriented, so they can use their big arms, and still make plays on the ground.

Matt Cassel, however, is more of a pocket quarterback. He likes to be behind his O-line and throw the ball, but can be a leader during the running game too. He has a deadly play-action, and can draw defenders off with the draw.

To see Cassel and the Peterson/Taylor duo in the back field in the Metrodome on Sundays would be pretty amazing. I think his experience with Tom Brady and Bill Belichick could give him an advantage in the NFC.

Here's hoping he'll end up in purple.

Colts-Texans: Peyton Manning Works His Magic

Ryan Nelson — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 09:40:11 -0400

Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts came into Week Five against the Houston Texans looking to get back to .500.

And the game didn't look good.

The Texans came back from a 10-0 Indy lead and were on fire.

Indianapolis struggled greatly during this game, until in the fourth quarter, when Texans quarterback Sage Rosenfels made serious mental errors.

Ironically, it started on Houston's last touchdown drive. Rosenfels tried to dive for the end zone and almost lost the ball when he stretched to get the touchdown.

Then it started to look like the Colts could do it. Down 17 points in the fourth quarter, the Colts drove the field and scored.

That's when all hell broke loose for Houston.

Rosenfels had the Texans moving down the field, winding the clock down. Then, on a play-action call, Rosenfels rolled left. He dove, was bounced up, and a Colts defensive lineman knocked the ball loose.

Gary Brackett picked it up and took it to the house.

The Colts had scored two touchdowns in 30 seconds. The score was 24-27 with Houston leading.

Once again, the Texans had the ball. Rosenfels rolls left, and Robert Mathis strips the ball from the hands of Rosenfels.

Then, Manning did it...again.

He dropped the ball in perfectly, and Reggie Wayne made a circus catch for the touchdown to give the Cults a 31-27 lead.

That is when Rosenfels made the last of his errors.

This time, it was for the game.

With a slew of defenders in his face, Rosenfels overthrew to an unknown intended receiver and it landed right in the gut of backup safety Melvin Bullitt.

With that, the Colts win by a score of 31-27.

The Minnesota Vikings May Be The Biggest Disappointment This Year

Ryan Nelson — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 03:55:19 -0400

For the Vikings' fans, it is the same thing every year. Defense rocks, offense looks horrible. The Vikings have played two games against tough opponents, but they were games they should have won. The Vikings lost to Green Bay by a last drive interception. They lost to Indianapolis because of a second half collapse. The Vikings should not be 0-2.

The offense was supposed to be stellar this year. Bernard Berrian came in and looked like he was the last piece to the puzzle. Looks like Childress was looking at the wrong puzzle.

The problem would be the quarterbacks. Jackson is a bust, although, I don't think his expectations were very high. Frerotte is, well, Frerotte. Ten interceptions in a year aren't going to get him respect when he's playing with Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt.

The only one who could be the exception might be John David Booty. He looked good at USC. The question is, does he end up like Carson Palmer, or Matt Leinart? I think he could do well. But that's just me.

The defense looks great. That's because it is. Jared Allen is still a beast. The Williams' on the inside are still stuffing everything. The secondary needs work, however. The example I am using may be a little unfair, but still.

The play in Week One when Aaron Rodgers connected with Greg Jennings way down field is how I know the secondary needs work. Again, in Week Two, there was blown coverage against Anthony Gonzalez and it went for a huge gain, after he lateraled to Reggie Wayne. The defense is great. The coverage is not.

I still don't like Brad Childress. I never have, and probably never will. He is just a step higher than Scott Linehan for me. The call to change quarterbacks, while necessary, I don't think that Chilly made the right choice. I would try and put John David Booty in with Gus Frerotte.

I don't think they'll win this week, I don't think they'll win next week. Unless they get their quarterback situation solved, offense will be a problem.

Colts-Vikings: Colts Go Back to Indy Winners after a Sloppy Game

Ryan Nelson — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 11:05:46 -0400

The Indianapolis Colts went through a lot of criticism this week. After the loss to Chicago and not looking like the Indianapolis Colts' offense, week two against Minnesota looked like a game that would be a running game beat down.

The first half was all Minnesota. Manning threw an interception, the running game was non-existent to say the least, and Peterson was running all over the Indianapolis defense. To end the first half, Jackson threw two great passes to set up a Longwell field goal and leave Colts' fans and players in shock.

Jackson's momentum spilled over into the second half. The Vikings moved the ball and extended the lead to 12-0 on four field goals. If there was one thing wrong with Minnesota this week, it was their inability to finish drives.

Indianapolis turned it on in the second half. Manning threw another pick, but managed a touchdown pass as well. The Colts' QB was came off a big hit from Jared Allen and threw it deep to Anthony Gonzalez, who dodged a tackle, and then on the way down, pitched it back to Reggie Wayne, who took the ball to the house. It was challenged and brought back to the Vikings' one-yard line. Three plays later, Addai powered into the end zone. 15-7 Vikings.

The next few Vikings drives either resulted in turnovers or punts. The Colts also could not do anything with a Dwight Freeney-forced fumble. Adrian Peterson was stuffed for almost the entire second half, and the Vikings' D was getting tired.

The fans weren't happy with the Vikings at all. They were booing everything. Jackson lost his cool and started making bad decisions, and the Colts' secondary was all over him, and the bootleg on third down didn't work anymore. The Colts did what they had to do: take away Peterson and force Jackson to try to beat them.

Anthony Gonzalez had a huge game. He and Wayne had a monster second half, and when Clark and Saturday come back, look out, the Colts' offense will soar again.

Vinatieri won the game with a 47-yard field goal with three seconds left in the game. 18-15, Colts.

Patriots Win, But Lose Brady: Can a Victory Be a Loss?

Ryan Nelson — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 11:15:38 -0400

The New England Patriots were in a close one with Kansas City this week. The game was a story in itself, but it is not the big story for the Patriots this week.

The Patriots were moving the ball downfield when a Kansas City safety came down on Tom Brady's knee after a throw. Brady went down and did not return.

The Patriots report that an MRI has been scheduled for Monday. But it makes one question, "When is a victory a loss?"

With the status of the reigning NFL MVP in question, it looks scary for New England fans. A bright sign is that Brady is walking, but the fact that he could be out for any time at all is scary.

It really means that Matt Cassel would take the reins of a high-powered offense. I can't think of anything scarier than that for Pats fans. Yes, he showed promise in the game against Kansas City, but it would only be a matter of time before something bad happens.

Brady is the leader for New England, and anyone else could spell disaster. The monster offense is hard to control, and Cassel would have problems with it for sure.

Let's all hope Brady can get back this season, Pats fans or not, this for the sake of the game.

Dallas Cowboys: The NFC's Indianapolis Colts

Ryan Nelson — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:36:16 -0400

A few years ago, the Indianapolis Colts were the disappointment of the NFL. Sure, they had a great team, a great head coach, and a great leader. Unfortunately, they couldn't pull it off in the playoffs.

It was either San Diego, Pittsburgh, or New England, and they all showed the Colts' fans that it wasn't the year for them. From 2002 to 2005, the Colts disappointing season endings were devastating to Indianapolis. It wasn't until 2006 that they actually got it done.

It was almost another disappointment when New England rolled into town. The interception at the end was a reason for Colts fans everywhere to let out every celebration scream they had built up since 2002.

They played a crappy game against Chicago, but they brought home the hardware and again, the Colts fans rejoiced.

Such is the story being written by Tony Romo and the Dallas Cowboys. During the regular season, they look like a Super Bowl team, only tho melt down in the playoffs.

Tony Romo is like Peyton Manning was before he won the Super Bowl. A good quarterback with a few good seasons under his belt, sadly, he also has a few playoff melt downs. The

Terrell Owens is a good receiver. He has hands and he is fast. Unfortunately, Owens is a tad too much of a showman. He cried when Romo was criticized for his play. He drops a few catch able balls. He is good. He will be great. He needs a ring to show for it.

The defense, on paper, looks spectacular. For the most part, it is. But it needs to step up a little more should Romo and the offense struggle in the post-season. DeMarcus Ware and Adam Jones will lead this crew. That, in itself speaks wonders.

The 'Boys are Super Bowl contenders, but they may not get there. I don't think this is their year, and unfortunately, I believe that they may not get there for a few more years. Bad playoff games will always affect Tony Romo.

As a result, the offense may look sluggish against defenses like Minnesota, Tampa Bay, or New York. They are the regular season team to beat, I just don't see them coming through.

The NFL Top Three: Teams To Beat

Ryan Nelson — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 07:49:43 -0400

1. Dallas Cowboys- The 'Boys are what you might call an unthinkable season... Good or bad. The Dallas Cowboys have a good quarterback in Tony Romo. I'm not convinced on him yet, however. He shows great strides in the regular season, but seems to regress in the playoffs.

T.O. is a good receiver. Again, I'm not convinced. He still seems immature and drops some of catch-able balls. Now he's not Troy Williamson, but he's not Jerry Rice either.

Jason Witten is probably my favorite out of this bunch. A fantasy sleeper, but a fantastic Tight End, he is often overshadowed by guys like Antonio Gates, and Tony Gonzalez. He is a fast, strong tight end with good hands.

The defense looks spectacular, but I'm not sold. I think DeMarcus Ware is good, but slightly overrated. I really like the addition of Adam Jones. He is a lock-down corner when he is behaving. Also, he's played against Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. He should know how to read a quarterback, and he has gone up against guys like Reggie Wayne and Andre Johnson.

Again, good signs. I don't think they will win it all. Tony Romo will choke, but eventually he'll get it.

Record: 14-2, lose in the Divisional Rnd. of the Playoffs.

2. San Diego Chargers- Disappointment has been the story of the past two years for the Bolts. Their 2006 record was 14-2, and they lost to the hands of the New England Patriots. Again, in 2007, they had a good year but lost to the Pats again.

This year, they look great. If their stars can stay healthy I have no doubt in my mind that they will win it all. But I'm not sold on Rivers. Like Romo, he seems to lack poise when it matters most. Granted, he was hurt last year in the playoffs, but he seems prone to mistakes.

The running game looks to fly this year, however. They still have LaDainian Tomlinson, and Darren Sproles is the backup. This lineup could devastate the NFL.

The defense is going to struggle. Especially since Shawne Merriman could go down. After last year's beating they took from Minnesota, (Minnesota??!?) I am not convinced that the defense is all it's cracked up to be.

Record (with defense):13-3, win Super Bowl.

Record (without defense): 7-9, miss playoffs.

3. New England Patriots- Historic disappointment from last year is in the air. I think it will carry over into their play. The Patriots are loaded. Unfortunately, I think that they left the gunpowder in a rainstorm.

You can tell already that Pats fans may need to brace themselves for a post-Super Bowl loss disappointment. Tom Brady may be a little overrated for this year, and the O-line has a few injuries. I'm not saying that New England is out of contention, but they're not looking promising right now.

Record (with Tom Brady/ O-line): 12-4, lose in AFC Championship.

Record (without O-line): 9-7, lose in Wild Card round of playoffs.

The Art Of Football Part Two: Running Back

Ryan Nelson — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 02:43:33 -0400

The running back position is a different sort of art than the quarterback position. The running backs are the plow of the offense. They cut and move through the confusion of the defense. They are the dancers. Running backs range from fumbling and bumbling to ghost-like and graceful. Much like cars, there are different kinds of running backs.

There are the bulldozers, the Indy-cars (or the speedsters), and there are the Lamborghini’s. Power, speed, and flash. The combination of the three makes for an amazing show. Walter Payton is arguably the best flash runner in the history of the NFL. He could cut and dash and slash through any defense.

He could disappear, and reappear in an instant. His amazing moves and great vision gave a great dance when watching him play. Whole defenses often lost track of him during plays, and he was a threat at anytime. The NFL has seen its share of great running backs. Backs like LT are coming and going, and they are the ones that will be remembered as the greatest.

They are the ones that combine the power, speed, and flash. Those running backs are the ones that will go down in history as the masters of the Art of the Running Back position.

The Art Of Football Part I: Quarterback

Ryan Nelson — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 08:22:22 -0400

Unlike the pure finesse of golf or the pure artistry of gymnastics, football is purely an artistic display of athletic finesse. This series of articles is dedicated to telling the artistic wonder that is the game of American football. The combinations of different arts in football are seen from the stunning paintings designed by the quarterback, to the amazing dance that is defense. Football is an art.

The quarterback position is all about orchestrating the music; he is the painter and the offense is his canvas. The quarterback is the person who makes it all happen. The whole offense revolves around him. His attention to detail and his leadership are of utmost importance in driving the offense. His play can be dramatic or methodical, either way it is exciting.

Watching either the quarterbacks of old or the field generals of today, it is not hard to see the "art of quarterbacking" and it's roots. Some say it was developed by Sammy Baugh and John Unitas, others say it came from Joe Namath and was perfected by Montana, and still others say it came from Fran Tarkenton and was perfected by Michael Vick. The quarterback's painting of the offense in motion from play to play can be seen today in men like Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, or Brett Favre. These titans of the turf show us the art of orchestration when it comes to playing quarterback.

Even the throw of a football is an art. It is pure strength and finesse, and it is very hard to master. The throw varies from person to person, from quarterback to quarterback. The throw is simply difficult, or in other words, hard to execute. John Elway is one of my favorite quarterbacks and he threw it sidearm. To be a gunslinger and throw it sidearm is dangerous. It can get knocked down at the line, or come up short on a long throw. Elway mastered the art of the throw.

The art of the quarterback is not limited to the field, however. The quarterback's job stretches to off the field, in the locker room, and at meetings too. To be a leader means to be an all the time guy, someone you can count on anytime. Good quarterbacks are leaders on the field; great quarterbacks can lead on and off the field.

When something happens to a teammate, the team will look to the quarterback to lead them through it. I guess one could say that this is the team aspect for the quarterback. Win or lose, they are a leader. They are respected and revered. The quarterback is one of the hardest arts to master in all of football.

Why I Hate the New England Patriots

Ryan Nelson — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 14:19:59 -0400

Before I begin writing the rest of this article, I want it to be known that, in my last article regarding Brady, I praised him as a quarterback. I do not like him as a person, and I will explain why. I can't stand Bill Belichick. Again, I will explain.

The New England Patriots have been a source of frustration for me over the past year. First with Spygate. Okay, I know it was blown way out of proportion but seriously. This is the Patriots we're talking about. They already had an advantage over everyone. Spygate was something that could have been avoided. But I think that Belichick wanted more. He wanted that blowout so bad.

This is why I hate Bill Belichick: He's cocky and a cheater.

Now, before you Patriots' fans get all up in arms, let me explain. Bill Belichick is a good coach. One of the greatest? Not so fast. I think that this Spygate thing gets put into consideration when considering his greatness. He isn't a great coach. He only will be if he can somehow get everyone to overlook Spygate.

Tom Brady is a not a great person. A great quarterback, but not a great person. He is lucky enough to have Gisele as a girlfriend, but seriously, why would anyone respect this man? He has given me no reason to respect him as a person because of his attitude toward the game off the field.

He comes across as cocky, stuck-up, and a pretty boy. These three things combine to form Tom Brady, and it gives nobody reason to respect him.

Then it comes to Randy Moss. I watched him play in 1998 for the Minnesota Vikings, and from then on, I hated him. Randy Moss is an athlete and a performer, but he is the most self-centered person, I think, on the planet.

Other than Chad Johnson, this guy could be nominated for the touchdown dance frequency award. It would go to Chad, just because of his quality.

I mean SERIOUSLY Randy, what was that little thing you did in the Super Bowl? But back on track, I don't think that Moss is a team player. He never has been, I don't think he ever will be. That's it, case closed.

Yeah, they're a good team, but I will always has hate them. But that might just be because I'm a Colts fan.

Aaron Rodgers: Why He Will Never Be a "Success" In Green Bay

Ryan Nelson — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 10:41:21 -0400

Aaron Rodgers is not Brett Favre. No one in Green Bay will live up to Favre, unless someone even more amazing becomes a Packer quarterback.

Aaron Rodgers is a good quarterback, no doubt, but he's not Mr. Iron man. The former California Golden Bear won't live up to Favre's success in Green Bay. The critics, analysts, and media members will always be putting Aaron on the "Favre-o-meter."

While I honestly believe that Rodgers is a good quarterback, the media pressure will never let up on him while he's in Green Bay. His performance doesn't matter, he's not Brett Favre.

As a result, the Packers will struggle. The face of their franchise is gone and there's not going to be a face for the Pack this year. This is what you might call a "proving year" for Green Bay.

Rodgers' success relies on his abilities to handle pressure. This year, I don't see that happening. I believe we'll see a lot from him like we saw from Tarvaris Jackson in his first year starting with the Vikings: A lot of mistakes along with some signs of hope.

Brett Favre Takes First Sack; Turns to Dust (Humor)

Ryan Nelson — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 07:12:32 -0400

Today we mourn the loss of Brett Favre. He was 38 years old, and had just come out of retirement from professional football.

Favre was playing a preseason game with the New York Jets against the Washington Redskins. The "Iron Man" of football took a sack on his first drive, and then turned to dust. He took the hit and tragically exploded.

His wife was seen collecting the dust and putting it in a jar along with Favre's un-filed retirement papers and his round trip plane ticket(s) from Hattiesburg, MS to Green Bay, WI after the game.

Our prayers go out to the Favre family on their undecided fate without Brett.

Tom Brady: The Greatest Quarterback Of All Time

Ryan Nelson — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:09:53 -0400

Before I begin, I think it is important to let everyone know I am a die-hard Colts fan. So I believe that this should mean a lot to Pats fans.

Tom Brady is the greatest quarterback in the history of the NFL. He does it all. His pocket presence is the best in the NFL, if not, he's just behind Peyton Manning.

Brady is a leader with charisma that rivals that of the great quarterbacks in the history, and is only matched by Peyton. He has the best weapons in the NFL. His receivers and offensive line are unrivaled by any team in the entire league.

He comes from one of the most prestigious colleges in the country, hailing from Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Brady isn't a gunslinger by any means, he is the perfect picture of the field general. He holds the record for most touchdowns in one season. He is an amazing athlete who can throw the ball for amazing distances. His form is perfect.

He may not have another magic year this year, but he's still an amazing QB.

Patriots On a Decline? Why New England Won't Get Back in the Next Few Years

Ryan Nelson — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 13:15:15 -0400

I know I'm going to get a little knocked for writing this, but I'm doing it anyway.

The New England Patriots may not be the team to beat. I believe that since the Jets got Favre and the Pats lost the Super Bowl, the Patriots aren't going to do anything this year.

Tom Brady is great, yes, I know. He has Randy Moss and Bill Belichick, yes, I know. But this is the NFL. If you know what has happened to Super Bowl losers the past few years, you know why I say this.

Even though the Pats have weapons, they will be plagued.

Don't look for Brady and Moss to have another year full of more magic. The Patriots defense is still old. Asante Samuel is STILL a Philadelphia Eagle. The Patriots will lose more than six games. The only thing worse would be if Tom Brady was on the Madden '09 cover.

On a different note, I do feel sorry for Randy Moss. After all, he was on both the 1998 Vikings and the 2007 New England Patriots. What does he have? Not a ring.

Has Tomlinson Passed The Torch Of Best Fantasy RB to Adrian Peterson?

Ryan Nelson — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 07:49:22 -0400

"All Day"- One might look at Peterson and say "Two thousand yards? Huh, forget about it."

Truth is, Number 28 has a legitimate chance of reaching that goal. The convincing factor for me is his game against San Diego. He racked up 296 yards. Yes, I know you all know it, but seriously. He is a beast. I believe that since the Chargers and Bears couldn't stop him, no one will. He's going to go for 2000 yards hands down.

Tomlinson's days as the No.1 fantasy back were numbered when Peterson showed him up in Minnesota. Peterson has proven himself worthy of everyone's respect and should be considered THE number one fantasy back.

"L.T."- There again is the mighty Bolt. LaDainian Tomlinson is still widely considered to be number one. He's still an amazing back. He's still explosive. Nothing has changed, except maybe the fact that Tomlinson was barely the NFL's leading rusher last year. Peterson, Parker, and that company was very close behind him.

Look for Tomlinson to have, what many think the inconceivable, a quiet year. The amazing touchdown machine may not have an amazing year, but he's still a great back, and the pressure is still on.

Also watch for guys like Darren McFadden and Jonathan Stewart to have excellent rookie years.

How The Vikings May Pillage the NFL One Game After Another

Ryan Nelson — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 08:03:55 -0400

Led by Adrian Peterson on offense, and E.J. Henderson on defense, the Vikings could have a monster year.

Number 28 could be the best runner in the league this year, and has all the makings of a star in his second year. The addition of Bernard Berrian on the outside has people thinking "deep threat" already.

The defense looks to be insane this year. With the Williams guys on the inside, running is going to be limited. The addition of Jared Allen is what is going to make them the best. If the statement "Defense Wins Championships" rings true, then the Vikings are the Super Bowl winners.

The question mark, however, lies obviously at the Quarterback position.

If Tarvaris Jackson can't get a consistent handle on the game, consider them no more than a wild-card team. The only way the Vikings can have a championship team is if T-Jack gets the offense flying. Again, the addition of Berrian is nice, but if Jackson can't get the ball to the right spot, consider him possibly done in Minnesota.

I have to give Jackson and Childress a lot of credit though; they have brought this team back. I am a Colts fan until death, but I think the Vikings can do a lot in the time they have this year, and with Favre in New York, look for them to be a good team down the stretch.

They're poised to make a Super Bowl run, and we might see them, and NOT Dallas, in Tampa Bay this February.