Bleacher Report - Articles by Steve Chott

Villanova-George Mason: 'Cats Survive Scare from Patriots

Steve Chott — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:12:16 -0500

Early on in this college basketball season, the No. 6 ranked Villanova Wildcats were almost knocked off by the George Mason Patriots in Puerto Rico. The Wildcats squeaked away with a 69-68 win thanks to some freshman heroics.

The game was won on a late three by freshman Isiah Armwood, who played a total four minutes.

The three were the only points he made.

Armwood was only in the game because Antonio Pena and Taylor King had both fouled out.

The Wildcats struggled at times, shooting 35.8 percent from the field and hitting 59 percent of their free throws.

Even though they played a bad game, no credit should be taken from the Patriots who played their hearts out and almost came away with the win.

The Wildcats will play the Dayton Flyers in the semifinal of the Puerto Rico Tip-Off tomorrow at afternoon at 3 p.m. EST.

Dayton upset Georgia Tech in the opening round of the tournament.

Giants-Redskins: Week 1 Preview

Steve Chott — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 10:56:49 -0400

The season is finally here. NFL fans have waited for this day many months since the Steelers won the Super Bowl and now it is finally here.

On this opening Sunday of the year, at 4:00 EST the Washington Redskins will travel to play the New York Giants.

The Giants look like one of the NFC's toughest teams, while the Redskins are expected to be at the bottom of the NFC East.

Last year, the Giants opened their season with a 16-7 win over these Redskins. But both teams are different this season.

Key Players for the Giants

Brandon Jacobs, RB

With the inexperience at the WR position for the Giants, Brandon Jacobs will have to have a good game for the Giants. Jacobs rushed for over 1,000 yards last season, but this year he won't have Derrick Ward to share carries with.

Justin Tuck, DE

The Redskins will most likely run the ball more than they pass it, as they have one of the top backs in the league in Clinton Portis.

That being said, Tuck and this New York Giants defensive line needs to shut down the running game and force Jason Campbell and the Redskins to go to the air.

Kevin Boss, TE

Once again, going back to the WR's, Eli Manning will have to look to someone that he is more comfortable and can rely on. Kevin Boss will be a reliable target for Eli to pass to, like he once did with Jeremy Shockey.

Matchup to look for

Brandon Jacobs vs. Albert Haynesworth

The Redskins brought in the big DT to shut down running games and get pressure on the QB. Well, I know I can't wait to see Jacobs come running towards the line and Haynesworth trying to make the tackle.

Injury Report

Aaron Ross, CB, New York Giants- Out, Hamstring.
Adam Koets, T, New York Giants- Doubtful, Ankle
Clint Sintim, LB, New York Giants- Doubtful, Groin
Kevin Dockery, CB, New York Giants- Questionable, Hamstring

Carlos Rodgers, CB, Washington Redskins- Probable, Calf
Mike Williams, T, Washington Redskins- Probable, Ankle

Results

Washington Redskins-10, New York Giants-20

This won't be a very high scoring game for either team. The Redskins will have trouble moving the ball, with Campbell and Portis struggling against the tough Giants defense.

Both teams will have troubles at first, as it is the first game of the season and both teams need to gain a rhythm in their offense.

When it is all said and done, I see the Giants coming away with this Week 1 NFC East battle, 20-10.

My 2009 Week 1 Power Rankings

Steve Chott — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 10:09:14 -0400

With the first game of the NFL season coming fast, it's time to crank out my first power rankings of the regular season to follow up my preseason rankings.

These rankings are based on my expectations for these teams for the upcoming season. The number in parentheses is their ranking from my pre-season edition.

1. New England Patriots (1)

I think the Patriots will be one of the best teams this season. It's scary to think that this offense could rival the historic 2007 Pats offense, but with a healthy Tom Brady, it is possible.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (2)

They start off the season with a game against the Tennessee Titans. I think it will be a tough game, but the Steelers and their D will start the game off right.

3. New York Giants (3)

While following my Giants very closely this off-season and training camp, I know that they can be top contenders this year, even if they don't have that No. 1 guy at the receiver spot yet.

4. Atlanta Falcons (5)

I have huge expectations for Matt Ryan and the Falcons this season. I think they could represent the NFC in the Super Bowl this year, if Matt Ryan doesn't hit that sophomore slump.

5. Philadelphia Eagles (4)

The Eagles made the big pickup of Michael Vick and will be looking for some help from him when he comes back in Week 3.

Although they have been hit hard by the injury bug in camp, if they can avoid it, they will have a very good season.

6. Indianapolis Colts (6)

Peyton Manning and the Colts are looking good for this season, and even without Tony Dungy, they will take a tough AFC South.

7. San Diego Chargers (8)

The Chargers will have a great season this year. I think LT will bounce back, and he and Phillip Rivers will lead the Chargers through an easy AFC West.

8. Tennessee Titans (7)

Like I said with the Colts, I think they will take the AFC South, but it will be close between them and the Titans. They will grab a wild card spot for sure.

9. Chicago Bears (10)

Some people don't like the Bears, but I love them this season. Jay Cutler will have a great season despite not having Brandon Marshall, and the Bears will take the NFC North.

10. Minnesota Vikings (11)

Even though I was pulling for Tarvaris Jackson over Sage Rosenfels and Brett Favre, I still think Adrian Peterson will have a great season. The Vikings will grab a wild card in an NFC North that could go any way, except to the Lions.

11. Carolina Panthers (9)

With the rushing duo of Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams leading the team, the Panthers will have a good season unless Jake Delhomme plays like he did in the playoffs.

12. Baltimore Ravens (12)

They are "Wacko For Flacco" in Baltimore, but I am not. And even though the defense lost its coordinator, this is still a Top Five defense.

13. Arizona Cardinals (13)

The defending NFC champions could be a very good team again if Kurt Warner can stay healthy. The passing game with Warner, Boldin, and Fitzgerald will be great.

14. New Orleans Saints (15)

Drew Brees got the nod from me for being the top QB for this season. After putting up 5,000 yards last season, he probably won't do it again but will get around 4,000.

15. New York Jets (14)

I love the Jets with Rex Ryan at the head. They have come in confident and could be very good in the future.

16. Houston Texans (16)

If Matt Schaub can stay healthy this season, they can be very good. That being said, Schaub has never played a full 16-game season.

17. Green Bay Packers (17)

Aaron Rodgers is the starting QB, and some people think he could become one of the league's best this season.

18. Buffalo Bills (18)

The Bills are my surprise team. The only reason that they aren't above the Jets for Week 1 is the absence of Marshawn Lynch.

19. Dallas Cowboys (19)

This could change a lot, because the Cowboys could surprise a lot of people. I do think T.O. will be a huge loss, but they have a very good running game and a good defense.

20. San Francisco 49ers (20)

They do play in an easy division, with the Cardinals and Seahawks posing the only threats to them. I could very well see them going 8-8.

21. Miami Dolphins (21)

Like I have said before, the Wildcat won't surprise anyone this season. That and I don't think Chad Pennington can repeat what he did last season.

22. Washington Redskins (22)

Jason Campbell looked pretty bad in the pre-season. He's playing in a contract year, and this could be the last we see of him in Washington.

23. Jacksonville Jaguars (24)

The rushing game will be in the hands of Maurice Jones-Drew this season. With all that, I think the Jaguars will finish around the same they did last year.

24. Denver Broncos (23)

The big loss of Jay Cutler, and Kyle Orton in as QB will impact the team a lot. They have inexperience across the whole team.

25. Cincinnati Bengals (26)

The Bengals look like they will be an all-right team, but they are definitely a work in progress. Marvin Lewis will probably be out after this season.

26. Kansas City Chiefs (25)

They added Matt Cassel, but it will be interesting to see how Cassel does without that Patriots offense.

27. Seattle Seahawks (28)

This is a very low ranking, and I think they will shoot up during the season. I do think that they will have a decent season around 7-9.

28. Cleveland Browns (27)

The Browns are looking into a dismal season this year. Brady Quinn has been named the starter, and even though I think that was the right choice, the Browns offense and defense will both struggle.

29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (29)

The Bucs have decided on Byron Leftwich as their Week 1 starter. They get the Cowboys for Week 1, and are in an obvious rebuilding stage.

30. Oakland Raiders (30)

Head Coach Tom Cable punched an assistant coach in the face in the off-season. That and the release of Jeff Garcia are signs of a couple of things already going wrong in Oakland.

31. St Louis Rams (31)

The Rams are not looking at a great season, as coach Steve Spagnuolo will start to try to turn this team around.

32. Detroit Lions (32)

They named No. 1 overall pick Matt Stafford as their opening day starter. They are hoping to get the same result that the Ravens and Falcons did last year with their rookies.

My 2009 AFC Division By Division Preview

Steve Chott — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 12:30:58 -0400

Last year, the Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers came from the AFC with the league's top defense. The AFC, and AFC North, where the Steelers play, were very strong last year and that is where I will start my 2009 NFL preview.

I am going to go to each division, review each team, and give a division winner and wild card if there is one in that division.

AFC North

1. Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers came away with this division last year with a 12-4 record and an amazing 6-0 record against that division(7-0 including the AFC Championship victory against the Ravens).

The Steelers still have a lot of the pieces from last year's Super Bowl team.

Starting on offense, Ben Roethlisberger has had an achilles injury, but he should be back in time for the season and ready to go. The legal problems that he has been facing shouldn't phase him at all.

The running game can be a lot better if second year player Rashard Mendenhall can stay healthy this year. Him, Willie Parker, and maybe even Mewelde Moore could be a very good trio of running backs.

The WR's pretty much look the same, with the exception of Nate Washington who went to Tennessee. They still have Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward.

And then there is the defense, which can come back and be a top three defense again. With the cast of defensive players they have there(which could include rookie Ziggy Hood) the Steelers defense will be the strong point of this team again.

MVP: Troy Polamalu

He is the defensive leader, and really stood out as a top two safety last year along with Ed Reed.

2. Baltimore Ravens*

Having one of the best defenses this year, I think the Ravens could have a set back this year. Yes, they do have Ed Reed, Ray Lewis, and Terrell Suggs, but they lost Bart Scott and defensive coordinator Rex Ryan to the Jets.

The Ravens do still have a great defense, but the offense could really hold this team back from being better. There is no doubt that the defense carried this team last year and they may have to do it again.

Joe Flacco seemed to have a great season last year, taking the team to the AFC Championship but he really wasn't all that great. 14 TDs, 12 INTs and 2,971 yards. It puts him 20th in yards, 20th in TDs, and tied for 11th in INTs.

It also doesn't help that Flacco has virtually no receivers to throw to. Derrick Mason did decide to come back, which helps a little bit but he and Mark Clayton will be the top two guys for Flacco to throw to. Ouch. Todd Heap is nothing like he used to be either, and evidence of that is the Ravens bringing in LJ Smith.

Put aside the passing game and the Ravens do have a pretty good rushing attack. Willis McGahee and Ray Rice could go down as one of the top tandems of running backs this season. Those two, plus now FB Le'Ron McClain did a lot of damage last season.

MVP: Ed Reed

It's weird that I chose a safety for MVP of both of the first two teams, but Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu are two of the best defensive players in the league. Ray Lewis is getting older, and this is becoming Ed Reed's defense.

3. Cincinnati Bengals

The focal point of this year's HBO's Hard Knocks series, the Bengals need a huge improvement from last year.

QB Carson Palmer missed most of the season, but with him back and healthy this year, the Bengals should be able to improve their league last seven points per game average from last season.

The passing game should be pretty good this year, even with the departure of T.J Houshmanzadeh. They still have Chad Ochocinco, added Laverneaus Coles, and brought back Chris Henry for another go.

They drafted Rey Maualuga, who I am a big fan of, and brought in Tank Johnson to try and help this defense who only allowed 11.5 PPG which was fifth in the league.

But bringing back Chris Henry and Tank Johnson doesn't help the team's image, and if they don't improve their image, or the team's record, I can see the Bengals kicking out head coach Marvin Lewis.

MVP: Carson Palmer

Like I said, I think Carson will bounce back from injury and make this offense so much better than it was last year.

4. Cleveland Browns

Whether it is Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn starting, the Browns just don't have the firepower to compete in this division or the AFC North.

They didn't really have a good draft, trading down a couple of times just to take Alex Mack.

The team is rebuilding under coach Eric Mangini, and even though Mangini had a great first year in New York it's not likely to happen here.

And if you read my articles around the NFL draft, you know I wanted my Giants to go get Braylon Edwards from the Browns. Now that didn't happen, but I still think that Edwards will have a rebound season from last year.

I also think Jamaal Lewis is getting older and his running game is declining.

MVP: Braylon Edwards

Like I said, this will be a better year for Edwards even though this team won't have alot of high points.

AFC South

1. Indianapolis Colts

This was a tough choice, but I went with the Colts. One reason is the fact that I am not sure if Kerry Collins can repeat what he did last year, but I will touch on that more when we come across the Titans.

Last year, Peyton Manning had surgery and wasn't 100 percent until a couple of games into the season. But once Peyton returned to old form, winning nine games in a row and Manning winning MVP. Now that he is 100 percent at the start of the season, Manning could have an even better season—even without Marvin Harrison.

Joseph Addai's running game suffered last year, and this isn't the Addai we saw in the Colts Super Bowl run. Good for the Colts though, they drafted Donald Brown from Connecticut. Brown will definitely be a big help in the Colts running game this year, maybe similar to what Addai was to Dominic Rhodes in his rookie season.

This will be a different team for sure, without Tony Dungy or Marvin Harrison. They will probably adapt to this well though, and still have a good season.

MVP: Peyton Manning

In pretty much any Colts season, Peyton Manning is the main point of their success. This season will be no different, while Peyton tries to make it past the first round of the playoffs with his new coach

2. Tennessee Titans*

Like I said above, I am not sure if Kerry Collins can repeat what he did last season for the Titans. This will be Collins' 15th season in the NFL, and he is now more injury prone then ever. And if Collins goes down, I am not confident that they can win this division with Vince Young.

The running game of the Titans is going to be real good though, possibly better. Chris Johnson has another year under his belt, and LenDale White went on a "diet" in the offseason and lost 30 pounds.

The passing has improved as well, with the addition of Nate Washington to Justin Gage. The receivers still aren't great, but they are getting better.

The defense lost big DT Albert Haynesworth, but they still have Kyle Vanden Bosch and Jevon Kearse at the DEs.

They may suffer a setback from last years defense, but the Titans defense will still be pretty solid.

MVP: Chris Johnson The leader of the Smash and Dash duo last year, Johnson will look to put in a better season then last year.

3. Houston Texans

The Texans could very well make the wild card this year if, and that's a big if, Matt Schaub can stay healthy. Matt Schaub though, has never played a full season. The backups in Houston are quite interesting though, as they have Rex Grossman and Dan Orlovsky lined up in case Schaub goes down.

Steve Slaton is going to be trying to repeat his 1,200 yard season from last year, and if he can be one of the top rushers this season he could lead his team to the playoffs. Slaton could be one of the top 10 backs this season.

At the WR position, Schaub has Andre Johnson to throw to. Johnson is considered one of the Top five WRs in the league, and if he had a good, consistent QB throwing to him then he could be the best.

And on defense, the Texans have Super Mario Williams, which drafting him over Reggie Bush, Vince Young, and Matt Leinart isn't looking too bad. He went to his first Pro Bowl last year, and I don't know why he wouldn't go back this year.

The Texans also drafted a potential defensive rookie of the year in Brian Cushing out of USC. Cushing will probably come in and play right away. Cushing had 74 tackles, three sacks, and one INT last year.

MVP: Steve Slaton

4. Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars just aren't a good team right now, and they are stuck in a very tough division. This year could be a deciding year for Jack Del Rio in Jacksonville, as he's 50-46 in his coaching career there, and another below .500 season could send him on his way out.

The backfield is now in the hands of Maurice Jones-Drew, with Fred Taylor gone to New England. Jones-Drew has never rushed for 1,000 yards in a season, but this year will be different. The carries that were going to Taylor will now be going to Jones-Drew, and if he can stay healthy then there is no reason why he can't have a good season.

The defense of the Jaguars is also not what it used to be.

I don't see the Jaguars improving upon their 5-11 record last year, and Jack Del Rio leaving at the end of the season.

MVP: Maurice Jones-Drew

Jones-Drew is the best player on this team, and will be a key in this teams somewhat success this year.

AFC East

1. New England Patriots

Before last season, the Patriots had won five straight division titles. Of course with Tom Brady out last year, they missed it. But with Brady back, this team is looking better than ever.

The offense brought in Fred Taylor to improve the running game, to go along with Laurence Maroney, Kevin Faulk, and Sammy Morris. This running game quietly ranked sixth in the league in yards last year, and could move into the Top five with the addition of Fred Taylor.

The passing game of course will be just as good as always, if Tom Brady is as healthy as expected. Randy Moss, Wes Welker, and Joey Galloway are Brady's main target in the passing game this year. The last time we saw Brady and Moss together, Brady threw for a record 50 TDs and Moss caught a record 23 TDs.

MVP: Tom Brady

Last time we saw Brady play a full season he threw for 50 TDs. This year Brady could very well throw for 40, and be a main contender for the MVP trophy.

2. Buffalo Bills

This is a tough one for me between the Bills and Jets, but I went with the Bills. The Bills are one of my surprise teams this year, and they may even be able to grab a wild card spot in a pretty tough AFC.

Of course, the Bills made a big offseason splash by picking up Terrell Owens, which I think will help Trent Edwards and this offense a lot. Now, signing Owens to a one year deal was a great move because he plays great in the first year with a team, and continues to destroy them in the years after.

In his rookie year with the 49ers, he had 35 receptions for 520 yards and four TDs. After going to the Eagles, he put up 77 receptions for 1,200 yards and 14 TDs and was one of the main reasons they made the Super Bowl. Then, once T.O picked up his bags and went to Dallas, he had 85 receptions for 1,180 yards and 13 TD's.

Bringing in Owens will not only help out Trent Edwards, but will also help out fellow WR Lee Evans. Most teams will double team Owens, which they used to do with Evans because the Bills had no other options.

And don't forget, after he serves his three game suspension the Bills have a very good running back in Marshawn Lynch.

MVP: Terrell Owens

Like I have made clear by this review, Owens will help the Bills immensely this year.

3. New York Jets

Like I have already said, this was a tough decision for me between the Jets and Bills. The Jets could be a great team in upcoming years, but they are working with a young QB and a new coach. And even though the rookie QB/Coach thing worked out in Atlanta and Baltimore last year, I don't see it happening again.

They have a solid running duo with Thomas Jones and Leon Washington, but the offense, besides them, is okay at best. Sanchez or Kellen Clemens, with virtually no great receivers, this could cause more struggles then needed.

The Jets defense will get better though, with defensive master mind Rex Ryan coming in from Baltimore and bringing in a star linebacker in Bart Scott with him.

Looking at the Jets schedule, they could very well start 0-4 with games against Houston, New England, Tennessee, and New Orleans.

MVP: Thomas Jones

Jones is probably the best offensive weapon that the Jets have for this upcoming season, and could make a deadly duo with Leon Washington.

4. Miami Dolphins

Going from first to worst in the division in one season?

Yep, that will be the Dolphins this year. Last year they surprised the whole NFL with the Wildcat offense, but we saw down the stretch and especially in their playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens that defenses adapt to it and stop it when they know it's coming. Everyone knows it's coming this year, and they will be ready for it.

Last year, Chad Pennington won the Comeback Player of The Year award for the second time. The first time was in 2006, he played bad in 2007 and then won again in 2008. Well, I think it is time for Chad to play bad again. Chad has been very inconsistent throughout his career, and either injury or just bad play will hurt him again this year.

They still have Ronnie Brown and Rickie Williams though, a good duo for this offense this season.

The Dolphins also had a pretty solid defense last year, at least 10th in the league in Points, yards, passing yards, rushing yards. The defense, lead by Joey Porter will probably be a little worse (around 15th), but will still be good and stronger then the offense.

MVP: Ronnie Brown

He is the best player that this offense has, and could be a Top 10 back in the league.

AFC West

1. San Diego Chargers

This is probably the worst division, along with the NFC West, but nevertheless the Chargers are very good. They have a Top 10 QB in Phillip Rivers, and a good duo in LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles.

Last year, LT hit a wall for LT standards and had a sort of off year. This year though, LT will bounce back and I think could rush for 1,400 yards. Darren Sproles will be a nice little compliment, but if they are smart the Chargers will give a majority of the carries to LT.

On defense, the Chargers get back their defensive leader in Shawn Merriman. Say what you want about him or his celebration dance but Shawn Merriman is probably the second best linebacker in the league, behind DeMarcus Ware of the Cowboys.

MVP: Shawn Merriman

Like I said, he will be leading this defense and will be the main key in their defensive success this year.

2. Denver Broncos

With Jay Cutler, this team could have contended for the AFC West and a Wild Card spot. But without him, they will probably miss the playoffs again.

If Brandon Marshall stays in Denver for the whole 2009 season, then Kyle Orton could have a pretty good year. But if Marshall does indeed get traded, then Orton and the Broncos could plummet to the bottom of the division.

The running game of the Broncos could potentially be very good this year. If Knowshon Moreno gets a good amount of carries this year, he could be very good and a possible rookie of the year.

MVP: Knowshon Moreno

Even though he will probably be splitting time with Correll Buckhalter at the start, Moreno could have the same impact for the Broncos that Chris Johnson or Jonathan Stewart had last year.

3. Kansas City Cheifs

I don't expect the Chiefs to have instant success with what they are doing to rebuild, but in a few years they could be a pretty good team.

In the offseason, I was hoping Todd Haley would get one of the open coaching jobs this season because I liked what he did with that Cardinals offense. He, of course, did get the job with the Chiefs.

The Chiefs picked up Matt Cassel, who may be a product of that Patriots offense and getting to throw to Randy Moss and Wes Welker. I don't entirely believe that, but I don't think he has proven that he is a franchise QB yet.

We all remember the days where we would just die to see the Chiefs play the Chargers, because we could watch LaDainian Tomlinson against Larry Johnson. Both had off years last year, but even though I think LT will be back, I think LJ may be a thing of the past. Injury problems have really plagued him, and I don't know if he can return to old form.

The Chiefs do have a pretty solid combination of WR's though, with Dwayne Bowe, Bobby Engram and Amani Toomer.

MVP: Dwayne Bowe

Dwayne Bowe will be the main target for the passing game, which will probably be the focal point of this offense.

4. Oakland Raiders

Even though taking Darrius Heyward-Bey over Michael Crabtree isn't looking entirely idiotic now, the Raiders still aren't in great condition.

I'm not 100 percent sure that coach Tom Cable has head on right, after punching his assistant coach. While being the coach of the Raiders, especially under Al Davis, may be frustrating, that's something you can't do.

I am not a fan of Jamarcus Russell at the QB position. I think they would be better off with Jeff Garcia, even though that probably won't happen because the Raiders want Russell for the future.

The running game could potentially be very good, although I am not real confident in Darren McFadden, Justin Fargas, and Michael Bush. McFadden didn't play the whole season last year, and only rushed for 500 yards. McFadden could rush for a lot more if he is he starting back this year.

The Raiders do have a pretty solid defense though, even though an injury to linebacker Kirk Morrison could be pretty serious.

MVP: Darren McFadden

I think this could be a big year for McFadden, but like I said I am not sure.

Playoff Seeding

1. New England Patriots
2. Pittsburgh Steelers
3. San Diego Chargers
4. Indianapolis Colts
5. Tennessee Titans
6. Baltimore Ravens

I hope this is a good read for all NFL fans, and this is the way I see the 2009 AFC playing out. Next, I will be writing my NFC preview and also have 2009 Award Previews.

Why We May Have Seen the Last of Plaxico Burress

Steve Chott — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 11:40:06 -0400

On Feb. 3, 2008 Plaxico Burress was on top of the world. He was playing in Super Bowl XLII, and had caught the game-winning touchdown catch from Eli Manning.

But soon, Burress' career would go down hill.

Before a mandatory minicamp for the 2008 season, Burress said he would not attend if he didn't get a new contract. He would show up, but not participate with the team, claiming he had an ankle injury.

Burress would get the new contract, and would play in Week One.

Everything was looking fine for Burress, as he had 18 receptions for 259 yards and one touchdown going into the Giants Week Four bye week.

But then on Sept. 24 the Giants announced they were suspending Burress for the Week Five matchup with the Seattle Seahawks for a violation of team rules.

Burress came back and caught his 500th career reception against the Dallas Cowboys on Nov. 2.

But then the troubles came for Burress, a story we have heard way too often.

And then today, Burress pleaded guilty and will be in jail for two years.

Burress will be 33-years old when he goes to jail on Sept. 22, and will be 35 when he gets out.

So, have we seen the last of Mr. Plaxico Burress?

Burress has played nine seasons in the NFL, and like I said, will be 35 when he gets out. An NFL player on average plays around 10-12 seasons (unless they are named Brett Favre).

When Burress returns, he will either be suspended or have to miss a whole season just to get back in the shape he needs to be to play in the NFL.

Most teams won't be willing to take a shot on a 35-36-year-old wide receiver, let alone one who has been in jail for two years.

So on Nov. 23, 2008 against the Arizona Cardinals, we most likely saw the last of Plaxico Burress on a football field.

BREAKING NEWS: Plaxico Burress Pleads Guilty

Steve Chott — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 10:50:15 -0400

Early Thursday morning, former New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress has pleaded guilty to one count of criminal possession of a weapon, and will serve two years in jail.

This all stems from Burress accidentally shooting himself with an unlicensed gun in a Manhattan nightclub last November.

Burress' sentence is scheduled to start on Sept. 22, which means he most likely won't be playing in the NFL this year.

A 2009 New York Giants' Schedule Breakdown

Steve Chott — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:24:54 -0400

As another way to prepare for this upcoming New York Giants' season, I will be taking a look at the schedule the Giants face this year.

I'll give a little breakdown of each game, and give a predicted winner for each game.

Week 1 vs. Washington Redskins

The Giants started off the 2008 season with a 16-7 win over the Washington Redskins. For the 2009 season, the Giants look to do the same thing.

The big addition in Washington this offseason was defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth. Haynesworth will try to stop the running game of the Giants, but I think the Giants' running game will help lead them to another Week 1 victory.

Last year, Brandon Jacobs rushed for 116 yards on the Redskins' defense and he could very well do it again in this season opener.

Winner: New York Giants (1-0)

Week 2 @ Dallas Cowboys

The Giants are lucky enough to catch the Dallas Cowboys in the first ever game in their new billion dollar Cowboys' stadium.

That of course means that the stadium will be packed, and the Cowboys will have the momentum and noise of the stadium on their side.

Even though I am not fond of the new Cowboys' offense without T.O, I think that they will come away with a victory in this game, to open up their new stadium.

Winner: Dallas Cowboys (1-1)

Week 3 @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Coming off the loss to the Cowboys, I think the Giants will win this game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers rather easy.

A matchup everyone will be looking forward too is the Giants defense against new Buccaneer and old Giant Derrick Ward. In this matchup, I think Ward will find that the defense he used to work with is a defense he would rather be with and not against.

Winner: New York Giants (2-1)

Week 4 @ Kansas City Chiefs

By Week 4 we will all know whether Matt Cassell is for real or not. As of right now though, Cassel is still the great QB he was with the Patriots last year.

The Kansas City Chiefs are a rebuilding team with a new coach and quarterback.

Just like in Week 3, I think the Giants will dominate the Chiefs and get another win.

Winner: New York Giants (3-1)

Week 5 vs. Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders drafted Darrius Heyward-Bey to help improve the offense. But still, this offense isn't real good. And against a defense as strong as the Giants, it will be very tough for the Raiders to put up points.

Jamarcus Russell isn't getting visibly better, and Darren McFadden still hasn't lived up to the running back he was supposed to be. Will Heyward-Bey end up like him? The future will decide that.

Winner: New York Giants (4-1)

Week 6 @ New Orleans Saints

Kind of like Darren McFadden, Reggie Bush still hasn't lived up to everything he was expected to be. But regardless, this team is led by Drew Brees coming off a great season last year.

I think Brees will have a great day against the Giants, leading the Saints to a win.

Winner: New Orleans Saints (4-2)

Week 7 vs. Arizona Cardinals

In Week 7 the Giants have a date with the the NFC champions from last year. The passing attack of the Arizona Cardinals is their strong point, with Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald, and Anquan Boldin.

I think this one will be a pretty easy game for the Giants, winning by a touchdown or two. Brandon Jacobs will probably have a big day against the Cardinals.

Winner: New York Giants (5-2)

Week 8 @ Philadelphia Eagles

In the first game of the season vs. the Philadelphia Eagles, the Giants will have a rough time in Philadelphia. The Eagles are going to be the biggest problem for the Giants in their quest for another NFC East title, and I think the Giants will lose this one.

By Week 8, Michael Vick will be back for the Eagles. Even though we aren't sure how the Eagles will use him yet.

Winner: Philadelphia Eagles (5-3)

Week 9 vs. San Diego Chargers

San Diego is an interesting team. They play in a weak division, and should run away with it. But I am not sure how good this team really is.

I think LaDainian Tomlinson will bounce back this year, but the Giants' run defense will shut down the offense of the Chargers.

Winner: New York Giants (6-3)

Week 10, BYE

Week 11 vs. Atlanta Falcons

I personally think that Atlanta will be one of the best teams in the NFC this year. Possibly representing the NFC in the Super Bowl. They have a very good offense, with Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Roddy White, and the addition of Tony Gonzalez.

Winner: Atlanta Falcons (6-4)

Week 12 @ Denver Broncos

Last season, this would have been a great game. But Denver is nothing like what it used to be. Jay Cutler is gone and by Week 12 Brandon Marshall could very well be gone too.

I don't have much faith in Kyle Orton playing QB against the Giants, and I don't see him leading them to a win.

Winner: New York Giants (7-4)

Week 13 vs. Dallas Cowboys

In the first matchup between these two teams, I have the Cowboys taking the game to open up their new stadium.

But this time, the Giants are at home and I see things going differently. I think the Giants' defense will cause trouble for the Cowboys, even though Romo has traditionally put up good numbers against the Giants. He missed the first game against the G-men last year, though.

Winner: New York Giants (8-4)

Week 14 vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Just like with Dallas, I had the Eagles winning the first game against the Giants. And just like the Cowboys, I have the Giants winning the second game against the Eagles.

They are very similar teams when you look at it. Strong defenses (even though the Eagles are slowly falling apart due to injuries), alright QB's, a strong reliable RB with a young guy who isn't yet fully proven himself (LeSean McCoy for the Eagles and Ahmad Bradshaw for the Giants).

It will be a very close game between these two, but I have the Giants taking this one. In a close game, I have to go with the home team.

Winner: New York Giants (9-4)

Week 15 @ Washington Redskins

Unlike the other division foes, I think the Giants will sweep the season series with the Redskins.

In this tough division, the 'Skins are probably the weakest team. In Week 15, they will probably be out of the playoff race.

I think the Giants will just be too good for the 'Skins to handle, for a second time in the season.

This would also make the Giants 4-0 against the Redskins in the past two years, as they also swept the seasons series with them last year.

Winner: New York Giants (10-4)

Week 16 vs. Carolina Panthers

Last season the Giants played the same two teams in the final two games of the season. Carolina and Minnesota.

The Giants won last year's game in overtime 34-28 to get home field advantage throughout the playoffs, and also beat the Carolina Panthers in the first game of this year's preseason 24-17.

I think the Giants will take this one again, leading to their fifth-straight win.

Winner: New York Giants (11-4)

Week 17 @ Minnesota Vikings

Like I said earlier, the Giants played Minnesota in Week 17 last year too. They lost that game for the most part because they played their backups, while the Vikings still had all their starters in to try to win a playoff spot.

The winner of this game still depends on if the Giants have the division wrapped up, which realistically might not happen because of how strong both the Giants and Eagles are.

Winner: New York Giants (12-4)

So, according to my schedule breakdown I think with this talent and schedule the Giants can go 12-4. I think this 12-4 record will be enough to win the Giants the NFC East.

My 2009 Preseason NFL Power Rankings

Steve Chott — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 16:07:00 -0400

Now that Training Camp has opened and is in full swing I decided it is time to dish out my first edition of power rankings for this upcoming season in what I hope I can continue through the whole season.

These rankings are based on their performance last year, and my expectations/thoughts for them this year.

1. New England Patriots. (11-5)

The last time Tom Brady was healthy, the Patriots went 16-0. I'm not saying they will do it again, but they look just as good and added Fred Taylor to help the running game.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers. (12-4)

Defending Super Bowl Champions. They still look good on both sides of the field as well.

3. New York Giants. (12-4)

Many have overlooked the importance of Osi Umenyiora coming back on defense, which looks great. Brandon Jacobs, Eli Manning and the rest of the offense should be able to fair well even with the inexperience of the wide receivers.

4. Philadelphia Eagles. (9-6-1)

Donovan McNabb isn't getting any younger, and this season could be his last true run at the title. After getting hot and going to the NFC Championship game last year the Eagles will try to get that extra step farther and take a close NFC East from the Giants.

5. Atlanta Falcons (11-5)

Some people aren't big believers in Matt Ryan and the Falcons, but I think they can do great things this year. With the addition of Tony Gonzales to the offense, Matt Ryan could be even more effective then he was in his rookie season. The only question at the moment is with WR Roddy White, who is holding out at training camp.

6. Indianapolis Colts. (12-4)

I've questioned how this team will do without Tony Dungy or Marvin Harrison, but I think they can put in another solid season. It will be a close division fight between them and Tennessee

7. Tennessee Titans (13-3)

The team boasting the NFL's best record last year, the Titans should be good this season regardless of whether Vince Young has to step in or not. The rushing game with Chris Johnson and LenDale White should be very good again this year.

8. San Diego Chargers (8-8)

After squeaking into the playoffs last year, they play in a very easy division this year with the Broncos not looking as good, the Raiders looking the same, and the Chiefs getting better, but not ready to contend with LT, Phillip Rivers and the Chargers. This is their division to lose.

9. Carolina Panthers (12-4)

The playoffs didn't go well for Jake Delhomme and the Panthers last year, but they will be back and ready to fight for a tough NFC South with the Falcons. The rushing attack of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart should help this offense alot this year, even though we could see a huge decline from Williams last season.

10. Chicago Bears (9-7)

The addition of Jay Cutler will do just enough to help these Bears take the NFC North from the Minnesota Vikings. Some like to think that Cutler's production came from Brandon Marshall, but I think that Cutler was more important to Marshall's success. Expect a big step-up from Devin Hester in the receiving game this year.

11. Minnesota Vikings (10-6)

Adrian Peterson could have a huge year this year. And by huge, we are talking 2,000 yards and an MVP award. I also think, unlike most people, that Tavaris Jackson will put together a decent season.

12. Baltimore Ravens (11-5)

I think many people will start to notice that Joe Flacco wasn't all that great last year. The defense will be worse, but will still be able to carry this team to second place in the AFC North.

13. Arizona Cardinals (9-7)

The team that represented the NFC in the Super Bowl last year, should be around the same as last year, even though their running game is something to worry about with Tim Hightower and Chris "Beanie" Wells.

14. New York Jets (9-7)

I think the Jets could have a fairly good season this year. The defense should get significantly better with Rex Ryan and Bart Scott coming over from the Ravens.

15. New Orleans Saints (8-8)

Drew Brees is a great QB. Probably the best in the league in fact. But the rest of this team is alot of questions, including Reggie Bush or Pierre Thomas at RB.

16. Houston Texans (8-8)

The Texans look solid all around this year. The offense continues to get better, with Steve Slaton looking to have another great year and one of the top WR's in Andre Johnson.

17. Green Bay Packers (6-10)

With Aaron Rodgers heading into his second season, things may start to get better this year. The defense is also looking to improve from a less than stellar season last year.

18. Buffalo Bills (7-9)

The Bills are my surprise team this year. I really believe they could turn some heads with Terrell Owens catching passes and Marshawn Lynch once he gets back from his suspension.

19. Dallas Cowboys (9-7)

It's convenient that T.O's old team is ranked one below his new team, but I do see the Cowboys taking a step down, not up without Owens this year. Jason Witten and Roy Williams will be good targets for Owens, but Williams won't have close to the impact that Owens did on this offense.

20. San Fransisco 49'ers (7-9)

I'm a fan of what Mike Singeltary is doing in San Fransisco. In his first full season as a coach though, he has virtually no QB. There isn't much expectation for who wins the QB battle between Shaun Hill and Alex Smith. And as of right now, rookie WR Michael Crabtree is in no rush to play.

21. Miami Dolphins (11-5)

Can Chad Pennington repeat what he did last year? Hard to decide, as he really hasn't been consistent over his career.

22. Washington Redskins (8-8)

I really like the running game of the Redskins lead by Clinton Portis, but besides that the team isn't all that great. I do think Albert Haynesworth will help on defense, but the offense won't get far in the passing game with Jason Cambell.

23. Denver Broncos (8-8)

The Broncos did get a pretty big pickup with Brian Dawkins for the defense, but Denver is quickly falling apart. No more Mike Shanahan, no more Jay Culter, and maybe soon there will be no Brandon Marshall. The Jay Cutler for Kyle Orton trade will hurt them alot more then it will help.

24. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11)

With no more Fred Taylor, this is Maurice Jones-Drew backfield. Jones-Drew will be a solid running back and the Jags will likely end where they did last year in this tough division.

25. Kansas City Chiefs (2-14)

With the addition of Matt Cassell, the team will be better but not by much. Cassell may have been a product of Bill Belicheck's genius and being able to throw to Randy Moss. He won't have a Randy Moss in Kansas City.

26. Cincinnati Bengals (4-11-1)

The focus point of HBO's "Hard Knocks" series this year, they have a healthy Carson Palmer coming back. If they weren't playing in such a tough division, I would say the Bengals could have a pretty good season.

27. Cleveland Browns (4-12)

They are in a rebuilding process in Cleveland. New coach, new GM, and I think a new QB in Brady Quinn.

28. Seattle Seahawks (4-12)

Jim Mora Jr. is taking over the team this year after Mike Holmgren's retirement. Matt Hasselbeck will be back from injury and will have a new wide receiver in TJ Houshmanzadeh.

29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)

The QB situation is a little unsolved. The job will probably go to Byron Leftwich or Luke McCown.

30. Oakland Raiders (5-11)

Right now, not taking Michael Crabtree is looking like one of Al Davis' better decisions. The difference between a decent year and an average year could be who they start at QB.

31. St. Louis Rams (2-14)

They brought in Steve Spagnoulo to coach and I know what he can do with this defense. The offense will revolve around Stephen Jackson, and even though he is good he can't carry the whole team.

32. Detroit Lions (0-16)

What else can be said? They went 0-16 last year, and will probably only come up with one or two wins this year.

Eli Manning Mistaken For Peyton When Getting New Contract

Steve Chott — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 14:48:22 -0400

When I saw on ESPN earlier that the New York Giants and quarterback Eli Manning had agreed on a new 6 year, 97 million contract extension with 35 million guaranteed I was shocked. Confused. I didn't understand it at all.

With this contract, Eli becomes the highest paid player in the league.

Let me repeat that for you.

With this contract, Eli becomes the HIGHEST PAID player in the league.

Now I am a big supporter of our quarterback, but there is no way he should be the highest paid player in the league, let alone the highest paid QB.

If this contract was given to his brother Peyton, then I could understand it more.

This contract is most likely still a reward for Manning bringing them the Super Bowl two years ago, but even two years ago this contract would have been ridiculous.

Even though Manning had a huge step up last year from his production in the past, this money is MVP of the league money. And Eli hasn't won MVP, and probably won't win this year.

As with most Giants fans, this contract extension is just mind boggling. I don't think anyone expected this, or thinks he deserves it.

Eli Manning will have to show a lot this year to prove he is worth this kind of money.

Update: Former NYG WR Plaxico Burress Indicted On 3 Weapon Charges

Steve Chott — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:49:46 -0400

It's official, Plaxico Burress has been indicted on weapon charges.

He has been indicted on two felony counts of possession of a weapon, and one misdemeanor count of reckless endangerment with a weapon.

Plaxico Burress faces a minimum of three and a half years in prison.

New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce will not be indicted. Pierce accompanied Burress the night he shot himself with the weapon.

My 2009 New York Giants Offensive Keys and Breakout Players

Steve Chott — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 11:59:59 -0400

After doing my 2009 New York Giants Offensive preview, it is time to now look into some key and potential breakout players for this season.

Key Players

QB, Eli Manning This season will be a very important one for Eli Manning, as he finally has a chance to silence all of his critics and prove he is for real.

As we all know, for his first couple of years, Eli was a below-average QB who struggled with avoiding interceptions and reaching his targets. But once the Giants went on that Super Bowl run, Eli had shown promise that he never had before.

Without Plaxico Burress, many people think Eli's production will go down.

This will not only be a key season for Eli to prove himself, but he will now have to carry this team more then ever.

RB, Brandon Jacobs This season will be the first that Brandon Jacobs does not have Derrick Ward rushing with him. While Ahmad Bradshaw will be getting carries, a majority of the load will now be on Jacobs.

Since Tiki Barber retired in 2007, Brandon Jacobs has piled up two consecutive 1,000 yard seasons.

This year, Jacobs could rack up 1,400-1,500 yards if he can stay healthy. He has never started a full 16-game season though.

WR, Steve Smith In my mind, Steve Smith will be our No. 1 receiver. Not Domenik Hixon, not Hakeem Nicks, but Steve Smith. He has the most experience and in my mind has showed the most promise to this point.

With that being said, Steve Smith will have to step up and be a key part of this offense for this season. In years past, Smith has played backup to Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer but now is his time to shine.

Smith proved to be a reliable third down go-to guy and lead the Giants in receptions last year.

TE, Kevin Boss Once again, with the lack of experience at the WR position Kevin Boss could prove to be a good target for Manning.

Last year, Boss had 33 receptions, 384 yards, 6 TD's.

In the year's before he left, former Giants Tight End Jeremy Shockey was Eli Manning's favorite target completing 249 passes for 23 TD's.

Breakout Players

WR, Hakeem Nicks The rookie who just signed yesterday could be a big-time threat for the Giants this year. He will be able to work with a good QB, and have good coaches around him to help him develop into a threat for the Giants this season.

RB, Ahmad Bradshaw Last year, he only rushed for 355 yards on 67 carries but this year without Derrick Ward he will be picking up more carries, probably around the 182 carries that Ward had last year.

Will Bradshaw get 1,000 yards though?

He has the potential, but we can't be positive though because the highest he has rushed for was 355 last year. I would say he gets around 800 yards.

WR, Steve Smith Wait, Steve Smith made both my Key players and breakout players list?

Yes, that's not a mistype. While I think Smith will be a key player, it will also be a breakout season for him.

Like I said in the Key players part, Smith had the most receptions on the team last year. Not Plaxico Burress or Amani Toomer. Now that there is no Burress or Toomer, Smith will get just as many receptions, but most likely more yards and TD's.

Like I have said before, the Giants offense is more in question then it has ever been in past years. And that defense is still as great as ever. Coming soon, I'll have a defensive preview.

Major League Baseball: Why They Need to Release 2003 Steroid List

Steve Chott — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 20:16:22 -0400

We have all heard of the secret 2003 baseball list by now. It is rumored to have big names, and we have even seen fakes pop up around the Internet.

Yesterday, two more names popped up from the list, the Boston Red Sox slugger "Big Papi" David Ortiz and former Red Sox outfielder Manny Ramirez.

These two add to the 2003 list which also includes Alex Rodriguez, Sammy Sosa, Jason Grimsley and 100 other people that we do not know at this time.

I think that we need to know though, we need to see this 2003 list.

In 2003 when those 104 players first took this test, the results were supposed to remain confidential and only for the MLB too see.

But in 2004 when federal investigators obtained search warrants for their BALCO investigation, they obtained this list.

So now that this previously secret list, is in the hands of someone other then the MLB we need to see it.

We know about it, and we have heard and have suspicions of who is on it.

If it was still confidential or we didn't know it existed then I would say that Major League baseball can keep it.

But now that players keep getting released off this list, we will keep hearing about it until we have heard all 104 names.

I say we get all 104 names out there now, and put this steroid list of 2003 behind us. Major League baseball wants to put steroids and this steroid era behind them and keeping this list secret isn't helping.

It's not a secret anymore so the list needs to be seen. We will talk about it for about a month like we did with the Mitchell Report and we will move on.

My 2009 New York Giants Offensive Preview

Steve Chott — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:04:17 -0400

Last season, the New York Giants offense was among the elite in the league. They ranked first in Rushing YPG, had two 1,000 yard rushers in Derrick Ward and Brandon Jacobs, and Eli Manning started to become the quarterback everyone expected him to become.

But top offensive threat Plaxico Burress went down with an injury, and Eli eventually fell apart.

With Burress, Ward, Amani Toomer now gone, the once dominant Giants offense has many questions.

I am now here to break down the offense, by position, and give grades on each player on the New York Giants offense this year.

Quarterback: Eli Manning

Like I said, there are many questions for Eli and his offense. Once he starts to have success, he loses his top target. Without Burress, Manning had a disastrous playoff start against the Philadelphia Eagles

Manning had his best season by last year. He kept his touchdown-to-interception ratio at an all time low with 21 scores and 10 picks.

For this season, Eli will have the same bruising running game and dominant offensive line, but his wide receiver core is a huge question mark.

He will have to have alot of patience with the young wideouts; it could take a couple of games into the season for them to start clicking.

Grade: B

Running back: Brandon Jacobs

Brandon Jacobs will continue to have loads of success this year. In fact, I think his '09 season will be even better than his '08 campaign. Instead of splitting carries with two other running backs, it will just be Jacobs and Ahmand Bradshaw: this will probably equal more carries for Jacobs.

I also like the fact that there is alot of speed around Jacobs. His receivers are all young, speedy guys, and Bradshaw is also blazing fast. All of this will compliment Jacobs' bruising style of running, making him one of the top five running backs in the league this year.

Grade: A

Running back: Ahmad Bradshaw

Ahmad Bradshaw does not have to be like Derrick Ward; he doesn't have to rush for 1,000 yards.

But could he?

Yes. Just like Ward did last year, Bradshaw will be splitting carries with Jacobs. With such a great offensive line in front of him, I could see Bradshaw getting around 800 yards. His speed with be a great compliment to Jacobs' power.

Grade: B-

Wide receivers: Steve Smith, Hakeem Nicks, Domenik Hixon, Mario Manningham, Ramses Barden

Without a doubt, the most questionable part of the Giants offense. Two of these guys are rookies and none of them have been closer then a third-string wide receiver for the Giants.

But there is hope. Steve Smith has proven to be a very valuable third-down receiver in the past. Also impressing people last year was Domenik Hixon, who filled in when Burress went down.

This season could also give Mario Manningham a chance to prove himself. Manningham could have been a first or second round pick, but off-field issues turned many teams off, allowing the Giants to pick him up in the third round.

These wide receivers don't have much experience, but they are young, speedy guys looking to make a name for themselves.

Grade: C

Tight end: Kevin Boss

Kevin Boss could have a major step up this season. With the wide receiver core in shambles, Manning could look to the tight end spot more—like he used to do with Jeremy Shockey.

Grade: B-

Offensive Line: David Diehl, Kareem McKenzie, Shaun O'Hara, Rich Seubert, Chris Snee

This is the best offensive line in the NFL. They have played together for awile and are as dominant as ever. This is, by far, the strongest part of the New York Giants. They know each other, there are never any questions, and they always know what they are doing. No question about it, the best in the NFL.

Grade: A+

My 2009 Rankings: Top 25 RB's

Steve Chott — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 16:35:14 -0400

After doing a list of quarterback rankings, I now turn my head to the running backs.

To make sure it's clear, I am ranking these running backs in terms of how I believe they will do this upcoming season. I've decided to look at the top 25 starting RB's. Anyone that is a backup, such as Jonathan Stewart or Ahmad Bradshaw were not included.

25. Jamaal Lewis—Cleveland Browns

2008 stats—279 carries, 1,002 yds, four TD's

Lewis is getting old. There is no other way to look at it. He is far from his 2,000 yard season in 2003, and even though he had 1,002 yards last year, I don't see him reaching that 1,000 plateau this year.

24. Lary Johnson—Kansas City Cheifs

2008 stats—193 carries, 874 yds, five TD's

We all remember the days of anticipating the LT vs. LJ matchups between Johnson and LaDainian Tomlinson. Now LJ's great days are over. He has had two consecutive sub-par seasons and that's what he'll have again this year.

23. Reggie Bush—New Orleans Saints

2008 stats—106 carries, 404 yds, two TD's

Reggie Bush no longer has Deuce McAllister playing starting running back, and now he is the starter. Pierre Thomas will be getting some carries this year, but I think Bush will start to improve. My prediction...around 800 yards.

22. Knowshon Moreno—Denver Broncos

2008 stats—N/A

After last year with the year of rookie running backs, Moreno is the only one I can see having a big impact as a starter. I know at the this moment he hasn't been named the starter, but I think he will become the starter during the season.

21. Derrick Ward—Tampa Bay Buccaneers

2008 stats—182 carries, 1,025 yds, two TD's

I will personally be watching Derrick Ward closely this year. As a former member of the New York Giants, I hope Ward does well, but I don't know if he will be good on his own this year, without the big Brandon Jacobs.

20. Frank Gore—San Fransisco 49'ers.

2008 stats—240 carries, 1,036 yds, six TD's

Only playing in 14 games last year, Gore racked up 1,036 yards and six TD's. If Gore can stay healthy this year, he can rush for around 1,100, but I could also see him ending the season around 800 yards.

19. Ronnie Brown—Miami Dolphins

20008 stats—214 carries, 916 yds, 10 TD's

Ronnie Brown's stats have gone up and down since coming into the league in 2005. He has only rushed for 1,000 yards once in his career (2006). He can go for 1,000 yards or around 600. He is going to be a questionable RB going into this season, and I'm thinking he will have just an average season.

18. Joseph Addai—Indianapolis Colts

2008 stats—155 carries, 544 yds, five TD's

Joseph Addai is a good RB, but I am uncertain how he will do this upcoming season. Only rushing for 544 yards and five TD's in 12 games last season, Addai is a big question mark for me this year.

17. Maurice Jones-Drew—Jacksonville Jaguars

2008 stats—197 carries, 824 yds, 12 TD's

It's going to be interesting to see what Maurice Jones-Drew can do this season. He will either be a better RB, because Fred Taylor has gone to New England, or he could do worse without Taylor there. I think Jones-Drew will have a good season though, probably a little better than last year.

16. Thomas Jones—New York Jets

2008 stats—290 carries, 1,312 yds, 12 TD's

Thomas Jones could be the main focus point for the Jets' offense this upcoming season with the QB situation still in question. While Leon Washington will be taking some of the carries from Jones, this season could be a very good one for him.

15. Marshawn Lynch—Buffalo Bills

2008 stats—250 carries, 1,036 yds, eight TD's

Marshawn Lynch would probably be higher on this list, if he wasn't suspended for the first three games. That being said, Lynch probably won't rush for 1,000 yards this season for that reason. However, Lynch is still among the leagues best.

14. Brian Westbrook—Philadelphia Eagles

2008 stats—233 car, 936 yds, nine TD's

Westbrook is going to be an interesting RB in the first couple of weeks. He had surgery in the offseason and we will have to see how he responds to that. Westbrook will most likely also be losing some carries to rookie RB LeSean McCoy.

13. Ryan Grant—Green Bay Packers

2008 stats—312 carries, 1,203 yds, four TD's

Since coming into the NFL, Ryan Grant has been a good RB. From 956 yards in 2007, to 1,203 yards in 2008, Grant will most likely make another improvement in his game.

12. Matt Forte—Chicago Bears

2008 stats—316 carries, 1,238 yds, eight TD's

Yet another breakout rookie, Forte was one of the main parts of the Bears' offense last season. This year, with the addition of Jay Cutler, the Bears are going to be dangerous. Expect another great year from Forte, putting up similar stats to last year.

11. LaDainian Tomlinson—San Diego Chargers

2008 stats—292 carries, 1,110 yds, 11 TD's

I don't understand the hating on LaDainian Tomlinson. A couple of years ago he could do no wrong. He has never missed a regular season game and has rushed for 1,000 yards every year he has been in the NFL. Now everyone wants to take a shot at a guy for missing the postseason, who is still one of the best in the league. He will now be splitting time with Darren Sproles, but I still think this will be a big year for LT.

10. Steven Jackson. St Louis Rams

2008 stats—253 carries, 1,042 yds, seven TD's

Like Willie Parker, last season Jackson only started 11 games due to injury. We have all seen what Jackson can do when healthy though, and I think he's on his way to returning to form this season.

9. Willie Parker—Pittsburgh Steelers

2008 stats—210 carries, 791 yds, five TD's

Last season, Parker only played 11 games due to a knee injury, bringing backup Rashard Mendenhall into the offensive role. However, if Parker can stay healthy, then this could be a very productive season for him. I would say that, if healthy, he could rush for around 1,200 yards with eight TD's.

8. Brandon Jacobs—New York Giants

2008 stats—219 carries, 1,089 yds, 15 TD's

Now that Derrick Ward is gone to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Brandon Jacobs will be sharing carries with Ahmad Bradshaw. While I think Bradshaw will have success, he won't be as good as Ward was and I think Jacobs will get more carries. He is one of the most dominant RB's in the league, with the way that he punishes defenders. I see Jacobs piling up 1,250 yards and 15 TD's.

7. Clinton Portis—Washington Redskins

2008 stats—342 carries, 1,487 yds, nine TD's

Clinton Portis was considered to be one of the candidates for MVP last season. Portis is still one of the top running backs in the league and is probably the biggest key of the Washington Redskins' offense. I think his stats will pretty much be the same as last year.

6. DeAngelo Williams—Carolina Panthers

2008 stats- 273 carries, 1,515 yds, 18 TD's

In his first season as a starter last year, Williams had great success along with 2nd string RB and rookie Jonathan Stewart. This year he will most likely have the same amount of success, piling up similar stats compared to last year, with maybe fewer TD's.

5 . Marion Barber—Dallas Cowboys

2008 stats—238 carries, 885 yds, seven TD's

Another RB that will be sharing carries, with possibly two other guys, I think Marion Barber is going to have great success this season. Even though the Cowboys' running game will be like the New York Giants last year, with Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice all getting a good share of carries. He will probably have around 1,200 yards and 10 TD's.

4. Steve Slaton—Houston Texans

2008 stats—268 carries, 1,282 yds, nine TD's

Just like Tennesse's Chris Johnson and Carolina's Jonathan Stewart, Steve Slaton was a breakout rookie last year. The only difference is that Slaton is the starter in Houston and has no one else to share carries with. Slaton could be one of the best running backs in the next couple of years. This year, I believe his production will be around 1,300 to 1,400 yards.

3. Michael Turner—Atlanta Falcons

2008 stats—376 carries, 1,699 yds, 17 TD's

One year after becoming the Falcons' starter, after playing behind LaDainian Tomlinson, Michael "Burner" Turner had a great season. 1,700 carries and 17 TD's. This year will be interesting to see what he can do. I am thinking Turner could either go down to around 1,500 yards, but also has the potential to rush for 2,000.

2. Chris Johnson—Tennessee Titans

2008 stats—251 carries, 1,228 yds, nine TD's

One of the breakout rookies last year, Chris Johnston looks to continue his success this season. Even though he will be sharing carries with LenDale White, I think Johnson is going to have loads of success this year. I'm guessing he'll have somewhere around 1,400 yards and 14 TD's.

1. Adrian Peterson—Minnesota Vikings

2008 stats—363 carries, 1,760, 10 TD's

Adrian Peterson is the unanimous No1. running back on my list and in the league. He could pile up 2,000 yards and 15-17 TD's on his way to an MVP season. We are all expecting a lot from Peterson this year, and I doubt he will disappoint.

Well there you have it, there are my top 25 RB's for the 2009 season.

I will be looking into the WR's next. If you missed my QB Edition, you can read it Here.

My 2009 NFL Rankings: QB Edition

Steve Chott — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 20:23:04 -0400

As a first of a list of 2009 season rankings, I decided to start with probably the most important man on the field, the quarterback. In the case of any QB battles that are still going on, I put in the person who I believe will win the battle.

And before we get to this article I would like to say RIP to Steve McNair. He has been found shot dead while I am writing this article. Steve was a great QB and a great person, who will be missed.

32. Alex Smith. San Fransisco 49ers: I'm sure this comes as no surprise to anyone reading this. Labeled as one of the top busts of all time, Smith has struggled ever since coming into the league. Smith did not even play last year, playing second fiddle to J.T O'Sullivan.

He will have young wide-out Michael Crabtree to throw to, but they won't help him much in Crabtree's first season.

31. Marc Bulger. St Louis Rams: There is no other way to face it. Bulger is getting older. Last year Bulger threw 13 INTS and 11 TD's. And with the new coach Steve Spagnuolo the focus will be on defense. And outside of Donnie Avery, his has very little help. Bulger will probably have another season similar to the last.

30. Matt Stafford/ Dante Culpepper. Detroit Lions: First, I included both Stafford and Culpepper because I believe Culpepper will start the season as QB and Stafford will take over sometime during the season.

This being said, I am not expecting a Matt Ryan/Joe Flacco performance out of Stafford. It also does not help that the personnel around them isn't great, outside of Calvin Johnston. In fact, Johnston is the only thing keeping them out of the 31 spot.

29. Josh Freeman/Brian Griese. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Like the Matt Stafford/Dante Culpepper situation, I think we can see Josh Freeman stepping on the field for the Bucs sometime this year. The Bucs have also said that they are impressed with Freeman and his understanding of their playbook.

They do have a top five WR in Antonio Bryant, but the problem will be getting the ball to him. Obviously Freeman is a rookie, but Griese has never played a full season. Last year he started 5 games and had 5 TD's and 7 INT's.

28. Mark Sanchez. New York Jets: Unlike Matt Stafford and Josh Freeman, I think Sanchez will have the job from the start and likely have it the whole season. Sanchez may not be ready for the NFL right now though, after only starting one year at USC.

After some games though, Sanchez will likely adapt to the NFL and finish better than he started.

27. Jason Campbell. Washington Redskins: Campbell had a troubled off-season with the Skins, as the team considered trading up to get above mentioned QB Mark Sanchez. He said he wanted to be traded if Sanchez or another QB was drafted.

As for last season Campbell had a decent season last year, and he should have another one this year. He still has Clinton Portis in the backfield and Santana Moss and Antwaan Randle El to throw to.

26. Jeff Garcia. Oakland Raiders: After a productive 2008 season, Garcia decided to leave the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the Raiders. In Oakland, I believe the veteran QB will beat out young QB JaMarcus Russell. I think putting Garcia in would be a better move for the Raiders than putting in Russell.

As for his success on the field, I think Garcia will have good success, even though he is playing in Oakland.

25. Tarvaris Jackson. Minnesota Vikings: Jackson did not start last year well, but after he was removed for Gus Frerotte something must have clicked for him. After Frerotte suffering a back injury Jackson was thrown back to the QB job, where he went 57-89 with 8 touchdowns and just one interception.

If Jackson can play through this year like he finished last year, this could be a good season for Jackson and the Vikings.

24. Matt Hasselbeck. Seattle Seahawks: Hasselbeck is a confusing QB for this upcoming season. You would think he would be higher with the fact that the Seahawks picked up sought after WR T.J Houshmandzadeh.

But after back injuries last season, and the team threatening to fine him over apparent weight troubles this year it could be a tough one for him. All that on top of a new coach in Jim Mora Jr., this year could be tough for Hasselbeck.

23. David Garrard. Jacksonville Jaguars: Since coming into the NFL, Garrard has been an average QB, nothing great. This year will most likely be like past seasons. Average, but nothing great.

22. Joe Flacco. Baltimore Ravens: Last year's "rookie sensations", Flacco and coach John Harbaugh will have another year under their belt. No one expected Flacco to throw for 14 TD's and 2,971 yards and a trip to the AFC Championship game. This year, Flacco should improve his game some, but not an amazing improvement.

21. Matt Cassel. Kansas City Chiefs: Some people say he'll have a good season, some people say he'll have a bad season. I believe he'll have an okay season.

I don't believe that last year's surprise performance won't happen again, but it is quite obvious that his production will go down this year now that he's not throwing to Randy Moss and Wes Welker and not getting the calls from Bill Belichick.

20. Chad Pennington. Miami Dolphins: There's a reason Pennington has won the Comeback player of the year award twice, once in 2006 and again last year in 2008. It's because he is a streaky QB. While he seemed to have a good season last year in Miami, I believe his production will go down once again this year.

19. Matt Schaub. Houston Texans:The often injured Schaub could be seeing his final chance to silence all critics this year. In 2007 and 2008 Schaub started 11 games and has had average success throwing 24 TD's and 19 INT's. But as I said, Schaub has never played a whole season.

If he can remain injury free though, this season could be a good one for him. Don't forget he is throwing to a top-five WR in Andre Johnston.

18. Kyle Orton. Denver Broncos: After being traded from Chicago to Denver I remember thinking about how much of a downgrade it will be for Denver at QB. I think the only thing that will keep him from having a terrible season this year is Pro Bowl wide-out Brandon Marshall, but his time in Denver may be short as well.

17. Brady Quinn. Cleveland Browns: This will be Quinn's first season as a starting QB. His first season to prove himself. And from what we have seen from Quinn's preseason and short amount of time last season, Quinn will have success in the NFL. It will help that he will be throwing to Braylon Edwards, who I believe will greatly improve from last year.

16. Jake Delhomme. Carolina Panthers: After his self-explosion in the playoffs last year, throwing 5 INT's and fumbling once Delhomme will most likely get back on track this season. Delhomme had an average season last year throwing for 15 TD's and 12 INT's. I mean how hard is it when you are throwing to Steve Smith?

15. Donovan McNabb. Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles have done everything they can to get the right pieces around McNabb ever since he got there. A lot of fans also believe that this could be a special season for McNabb and the Eagles.

That being said, and this could be Giants bias, I don't think McNabb will improve by more than a couple touchdowns this season. His team on the other hand are going to try to get back to the NFC championship, and get McNabb and their franchise their first Super Bowl ring.

14. Eli Manning. New York Giants: This is another interesting one. If you have watched enough football, you would know that Eli Manning has kept on improving since that amazing Super Bowl run two years ago.

Last year, Manning brought down his interceptions and only threw 10 compared to his 21 TD's and earned his first Pro Bowl appearance. What will make this season interesting though, is Manning's WR's.

The other Steve Smith will be leading these WR's after losing Amani Toomer and Plaxico Burress. I think Manning will improve again this season to maybe 24 TD's and 11 INT's.

13. Tony Romo. Dallas Cowboys: Unlike some people, I believe losing T.O will be a great loss. As much of a distraction off the field as he was, T.O made his team, and Romo so much better on the field. But Romo will still be throwing to Roy Williams and Jason Witten, so he can still have a great season.

12. Kerry Collins. Tennessee Titans: After a disappointing loss to the Baltimore Ravens last year, the Titans are looking to come back and get all the way this year. And if they do this, Collins will have to play great.

In the offseason, they went out and got Nate Washington from the Steelers which will add another element to this offense, and is sure to help Collins' passing along with Justin Gage. Put all of this together with their great running game, and Collins should have a good season.

11. Aaron Rodgers. Green Bay Packers: In his second season with Green Bay, Rodgers has far put thoughts of Brett Favre behind him. Last season, Rodgers threw for 28 TD's, 13 INT's and 4,000 yards. He will continue have success this year, and could go to the Pro Bowl for the NFC.

10. Ben Roethlisberger. Pittsburgh Steelers: Coming off another Super Bowl win, Big Ben and the Steelers will be run by the defense, and their offense will go unnoticed. Last year Big Ben threw for 17 TD's and 15 INT's. But expect good numbers again from Big Ben and WR Santonio Holmes in 2009.

9. Trent Edwards. Buffalo Bills: As I said with Tony Romo above, the loss of T.O will have a greater impact on him than some people expect. Well, I believe that this also works the other way, and Trent Edwards will benefit greatly from the addition of T.O.

Besides bringing a lot more attention to Buffalo T.O also usually has a great season in the first year with a team, until they self destruct in his second or third season. T.O and Lee Evans could be a dangerous combination for Edwards to throw to this season.

8. Carson Palmer. Cincinnati Bengals: This may come as a surprise pick to some people but I believe that Carson Palmer is going to have an amazing season this year, and if it wasn't for Tom Brady he would probably be the comeback player of the year.

Carson and WR Chad Ochocinco will both be looking to bounce back this year, and with the departure of TJ Houshmandzadeh both of them have the potential to have comeback years.

7. Phillip Rivers. San Diego Chargers: Rivers had one of his best seasons in his career last season throwing 34 TD's, 11 INT's and an NFL best 105.5 QB rating. His season last year was MVP worthy but the honor instead went to Peyton Manning. Although he won't top his season last year, Rivers is going to have another great season this year.

6. Jay Cutler. Chicago Bears: If Jay Cutler hadn't demanded a trade and went to the Chicago Bears he would have possibly been a top three QB. In Denver, Cutler had a great WR in Brandon Marshall.

Even though he doesn't have Marshall or anyone close to his talent in Chicago, Cutler is in for another great season. Jay Cutler is the QB of the future in the NFL.

5. Peyton Manning. Indianapolis Colts: Peyton Manning at No. 5 in any QB ranking list would have been ridiculous in any previous year but this is also the first year Peyton will be without head coach Tony Dungy and offensive coordinator Tom Moore in his 11-year career.

He will also be without his primary offensive target, Marvin Harrison. He does however have young receiver Anthony Gonzales, and tight end Dallas Clark. Without these pieces it won't be an MVP season for Manning, Peyton Manning will adapt to his new team and coaching staff and have a top-five season.

4. Kurt Warner. Arizona Cardinals: It is hard to not be a great QB when you have two of the best WR's in the league in Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. Warner coming off another Super Bowl berth will come back and have another great season.

3. Matt Ryan. Atlanta Falcons: Some people would say that this is too high for Matt Ryan, but I think he could be in the running for the MVP award this upcoming season.

After winning the rookie of the year last year, his Atlanta Falcons made one of the most important trades in the offseason picking up veteran tight end Tony Gonzales.

Gonzales along with Roddy White could make Matt Ryan one of the best QB's in the NFL next season.

2. Tom Brady. New England Patriots: A year removed from season ending surgery, Tom Brady is going to come back this year, and like I said earlier, most likely win the comeback player of the year award.

Even though we will not know whether Brady has fully healed, it is hard to believe that the league's best QB will not be able to come back this season and return to form.

1. Drew Brees. New Orleans Saints: After coming 15 yards short of the all time record for passing yards in a season, Drew Brees is going to come back this season with a vengeance. He was probably the most deserving of the MVP trophy last year.

Although he won't be able to top his performance from last year, Brees will have another great season of 35 TD's, 15 INT's, and around 4,500 yards.

Should the New York Giants Take a Chance on Brandon Marshall?

Steve Chott — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:17:42 -0400

As another part of a troubling offseason for new coach Josh McDaniels, reports have come out that another offensive star wants out of Denver.

The first time it was quarterback Jay Cutler, who was angered after McDaniels tried to pick up his former quarterback in New England, Matt Cassel. Cutler was then shipped off to Chicago in return for Bears quarterback Kyle Orton.

Now it is wide receiver Brandon Marshall who's at odds with the team.

Many things have factored into Marshall wanting out. It has been said that Marshall wants a pay raise and was also mad with the Broncos medical team for misdiagnosing a hip problem.

So when a wide receiver pops up on the trade block, the usual names show up. Giants, Jets, and other teams who have an inexperienced or just poor wideout corps. Then, the question arises: Would I want to see Marshall wearing the Giants uniform this upcoming season?

Last year Marshall piled up 104 receptions, 1,265 yards, and six touchdowns to get himself a Pro Bowl spot.

With those stats, why wouldn't you want him, right?

Well, Marshall has had off-field issues, something that the Giants don't want to have to deal with after enduring Plaxico Burress's troubles last year.

But, then again, there is the inexperience of this year's Giants receivers.

Steve Smith, Hakeem Nicks, Sinorice Moss, Domenik Hixon, and Ramses Barden is the outlook of this year's receiving corps. Nicks and Barden are rookies, while Hixon and Moss have three years of experience and Smith two.

While Brandon Marshall was drafted the same year as Moss and Hixon, his talent is no question among the best in the league. But would the Giants be willing to put up with his off-field issues, which could be magnified in New York?

I don't think so.

Like I said earlier, after having to put up with Burress last year, the Giants will not likely want more problems. They want to be in the spotlight more for good things on the field than bad things off of it.

That and the fact that Tom Coughlin is a coach that especially doesn't like players with off-field issues.

So while the receiving game may seem better with Marshall, I think the Giants will let him go to the Jets or Ravens and instead rely on the arm of Eli Manning, the running game, and their young receivers.

The NFL Makes Fools of the U.S. Legal System...Again

Steve Chott — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:32:40 -0400

Every day, we watch athletes. We are amazed at some of the things that they can do. Amazing catches, fantastic throws, and bone crunching tackles.

We act like they are better than us; above us. And the legal system let's them be above us too.

On Monday, we had two hearings in court cases—NFL wide receivers Plaxico Burress and Donte' Stallworth. And both of the decisions were ridiculous.

Burress shot himself on November 28, 2008. As we all know, he did not have a license for his gun. In New York, this is a very strict policy and the fullest extent of this law requires that Burress serves three and a half years in prison.

Here we are on June 17 and we still do not know the extent of his sentence. We won't until September.

This would allow Burress to play in the NFL this upcoming season.

Should we find this surprising? No, because Plaxico is an athlete and he gets an exception in court.

Also on Monday, the sentence for Cleveland Browns wide receiver Donte' Stallworth was announced.

Stallworth killed a man back in March in his Bentley. Stallworth had a blood alcohol content of .12, which is .04 over the Florida limit. He was charged with a DUI and second-degree manslaughter.

On Monday, his sentence was announced. Stallworth would serve 30 days in prison, two years of house arrest, and 10 years probation along with the possibility of a lifetime suspension of his drivers license.

Now, some say this sentence is fine, but I say it's not enough. He was drunk and killed a man and is only serving 30 days. He should face one to two years at least in my mind.

Michael Vick killed dogs and served more than a year. Are we holding our pets to more value than ourselves?

These most recent cases are among other examples of something that makes me sick to my stomach.

Why should these guys get special treatment? If I had a gun without a license or ran over someone drunk, I could almost guarantee that I would be seeing more time than these guys.

But that's just the way it works here in America. And it's sickening.

Scottie Reynolds Return Turns Nova Into Sure Contenders

Steve Chott — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 22:53:10 -0400

When the news hit that Scottie Reynolds would be leaving Villanova for the NBA, everyone was shocked. Reynolds had been the star and leader for the past three years. With the departure of him and Dante Cunningham, people were left wondering who would step up.

Now we have learned Reynolds decided to come back to Villanova after weighing his options and determining this was best.

Even with his return, Villanova will get overlooked in this talent filled Big East.

Just like last year however, Villanova is poised to surprise alot of people and maybe make a run to the Final Four... possibly farther.

With the Reynolds return the Nova starting lineup looks great. They have Reynolds, Corey Fisher, Corey Stokes, and Reggie Redding all returning. Freshman Isiah Armwood, Maalik Wayns, Mouphatou Yarou and Dominick Cheek all join the team as highly touted players who could contribute immediately.

This lineup looks great as all of the returning guys got significant playing time last year and the returning backups will look to step up this year.

Not to mention, that recruiting class is among the best in the nation.

Most people doubted this Wildcats team last year and most people will doubt them again this year. With Scottie coming back though, it turns this team from pretenders to contenders.

Scottie Reynolds: Villanova Star Back for Senior Season

Steve Chott — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 21:10:25 -0400

Today Villanova fans cheered and other fans fear the return of Scottie Reynolds to Villanova.

Scottie Reynolds decided, after months of decision making to come back to Villanova for his senior season.

When Reynolds declared for the NBA draft, a lot of people including me weren't sure if he would even get drafted in this years talent filled draft.

When he declared, Reynolds said, "If I really wanted to, I could be like, 'Oh, I'm coming back next week,' and I'd feel really good about that."

And obviously he decided to come back and that makes everyone in the the Villanova community happy.

With the return of their leader this makes Villanova sure contenders this season.

An Offseason Overshadowed In The Big Apple

Steve Chott — Fri, 29 May 2009 19:16:26 -0400

When anyone makes mention of the past offseason in New York or even in baseball, the first thing that comes to mind is Alex Rodriguez. The reports of his steroid use, maybe as early as high school, were published.

New York was in an uproar. But almost everyone in New York doesn't remember what happened much earlier in the offseason.

Longtime and loved Yankees pitcher Andy Pettitte was named in the Mitchell Report as someone who had used performance enhancing drugs by his former trainer Brian McNamee.

Pettitte used the steroids in 2002 and 2004 to help heal injury problems with his elbow, which he had been struggling with. He obtained the steroids from McNamee, who has now become a steroid-dealing symbol. He also got them from his ailing father who needed them for his battle with cancer.

Pettitte issued an apology to all of his teammates for his steroid use. And as we all know, he was forgiven alot easier than Alex Rodriguez.

But Pettitte's problems wouldn't stop there.

Soon question's would arise about Roger Clemens' steroid abuse which he strongly denied. All heads would turn to Pettitte who was great friends with Clemens' in their years together with the Yankees and Astros.

Pettitte was forced to go in front of Congress and testify about Clemens' use along with his own. He once again admitted to using the steroids and testified that he remembers Roger Clemens telling him he had used performance enhancing drugs.

Roger Clemens' had to keep his image though and claims that Pettitte must have "misremembered." That was just one of Clemens' interesting responses.

Pettitte has never taken back these claims.

But this all happened while Pettitte was not a Yankee, as he was still considering if he wanted to play or not.

On January 26th, Pettitte signed a 1-year $5.5 million dollar deal with incentives.

He could play baseball again. He could focus on baseball and take his mind off the offseason and just play ball. He has done well so far going 4-1 this season.

Unlike Alex Rodriguez and Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte's steroid use was forgiven and forgotten. And that's the way he likes it.

Is Francisco Cervelli the Catcher of the Future in New York?

Steve Chott — Tue, 19 May 2009 16:11:05 -0400

On May 5 of this year, the New York Yankees were hurt badly when they lost starting catcher Jorge Posada to injury. Posada already had five homers and 20 RBI and was looking good as new.

This injury wasn't a surprise, though, because Posada has been banged up for a while.

But there was no need to worry, as the Yankees had a dependable backup in Jose Molina.

And for two days, Molina started until he went down himself with a quad injury on May 8.

Now it was time to panic for Yankees fans. Who were we going to go to with our starter and backup both injured?

And the answer was in Venezuelan-born catcher Francisco Cervelli.

Cervelli was signed by the Yankees in 2003 and has been sitting in the minor leagues, waiting for his chance. He struggled in his first two years with the Single-A Staten Island Yankees but then played exceptionally well the next couple of years with the Tampa Yankees.

Cervelli also played for Team Italy in the 2009 World Baseball Classic.

Baseball America magazine ranked Cervelli as the 23rd best prospect in the Yankees' system before the 2008 season.

So when Cervelli stepped in for the Yankees' pair of hurt catchers, we expected a guy who would be decent while filling the hole in the catcher's position.

But what we have gotten is different. We have seen a unique talent.

Cervelli has stepped in and batted .375 with two RBI in nine games. But what sets him apart from other catchers is his speed.

Speed is very unusual attribute for these usually big players who sit behind the plate and block pass balls, but Cervelli has it.

Now we all know that we can't judge whether a player will become a star in nine games, but with Posada and Molina both aging, Cervelli could be the catcher for the future in New York.

He posses good arm strength, consistent hitting, and, of course, the good speed I talked about earlier. With these attributes, I think Francisco Cervelli is the catcher of the future in New York.

A Few Bright Spots in a Dull Maryland Media

Steve Chott — Sat, 02 May 2009 20:58:34 -0400

Four years ago, I moved from New York to Maryland. In New York, you have the biggest sports media in the world.

A media sure to make any superstar worry, or reveal anything you are trying to hide.

Good play-by-play analysts calling games, newspaper writers, and great radio personalities.

But then I came to Maryland. And it is nothing near the same thing here. Baltimore has two major sports teams (Orioles and Ravens) along with Washington D.C. having teams (Redskins, Capitals, Nationals, and Capitals).

I can say that the Baltimore/Maryland sports area has a lot of good, passionate fans but the media is less than sub-par.

In this area, the sports media isn't all that great but there are a couple of bright points I would like to touch on.

Michael Wilbon

Most people know him as the black bald guy on ESPN's Pardon The Interruption, but he is also a writer for the Washington Post.

Wilbon mostly covers NBA for the Post but he is for sure a pleasure to read. I love watching Wilbon on PTI and also enjoy reading his writings for the Post.

Gary Thorne

Gary Thorne has been around a lot of cities. He has been a broadcaster in New York with the Mets, New Jersey with the Devils, Chicago with the White Sox, and now where he currently resides in Baltimore with the Orioles.

Thorne also has called baseball on ABC and ESPN, along with NHL on ESPN.

But Thorne has been around awhile and made many memorable calls in his time. He is one of a kind as there are not many broadcasters that can do broadcasting for several different sports.

I am sure that I missed some legitimately good writers in this article but like I said, the Maryland sports media overall is not good.

The two above writer and broadcaster are two bright spots in this dull Maryland sports media.

New York Giants 2009 WRs

Steve Chott — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 17:38:59 -0400

After a successful draft and a busy and eventful offseason it seems the Giants have finally settled in with a receiving core. No doubt these receivers are young and fast and a big change from last year.

They are missing star wideout Plaxico Burress as we have all watched his legal problems be the focus point of the offseason. And then there is a loss that has not gotten nearly as much attention.

Twelve-year Giants receiver Amani Toomer is no longer with the team after his release. Like I said this will be the first time in 12 years without Toomer and his experience could have helped out this young team.

So after losing their two biggest guys here is the 2009 New York Giants wide outs.

Steve Smith

I believe that Steve Smith will step up this year and become Eli's go-to guy. Smith has stepped up in past years and has been a good receiver for Eli, but that was while having Plaxico double covered.

This will be Smith's third year. Last year he put up 57 receptions, 574 yards, and one touchdown. Of course, these stats come with Plaxico and Amani so they are sure to go up this year.

Domenik Hixon

Hixon showed up in the spotlight last year as Burress' replacement and he played well for the most part.

The one thing that does worry me about Hixon is his dropping. I watched him last year as he had very inconsistent hands. Hixon had 43 receptions, 596 yards and two touchdowns.

Hakeem Nicks

The first of two rookie receivers this year. He will be a threat this year with great size and strength. He also has very good hands.

There will be a great deal of pressure on Nicks this year to perform but I think he will live up and put up stats similar to Steve Smith last year.

Mario Manningham

Mario will make a good deep threat when he gets on the field more this season. He has great speed and is able to break away from defenders with ease.

David Tyree

The receiver with the most experience on this team at six years. Tyree had trouble making the starting roster last year. The back end of the Super Bowl catch, Tyree will get the opportunity that he has never gotten this season.

Ramses Barden

The other of the two receivers the Giants drafted, resembles the first. He's a big strong physical guy which is exactly the kind of receiver that works with the Giants. He has more speed than Nicks, though.

This season will truly be an interesting one for the Giants and their offense. The offense and Eli will have to work with younger guys who aren't big name guys like they have had in the past. No Jeremy Shockey, no Plaxico Burress, and no self centered receiver.

These guys are a good team, and they should have a good season.

Are the Cleveland Browns Asking for Too Much for Edwards?

Steve Chott — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 22:21:05 -0400

As the draft nears closer, the Braylon Edwards to the Giants talks are dying down, much to my displeasure. I have talked about this trade in two other articles and still think it would be a crime for the Giants to decline a trade for Edwards.

The trade talks are dying down though, and it's because the Browns are asking for too much in the Giants' minds.

The Browns want a first, second, or third round pick and Mathius Kiwanuka for Edwards.

The Giants believe this trade is too much, but I don't. I think this would be a great trade for my G-men.

Lets take a look into this.

The Giants would most likely use their first round pick to draft a receiver, if they decided not to trade for one. This pick would probably get them Darrius Heyward-Bey out of Maryland, Hakeem Nicks out of North Carolina, or Kenny Britt out of Rutgers.

To start off for the Giants to be in position for Heyward-Bey they would need to trade up, because he is a projected 15-20 pick.

So how did Heyward-Bey do at Maryland?

In his four years at Maryland, Heyward-Bey put up 138 receptions, 2,089 yards, and 13 touchdowns. This includes his stats in 2008 with 42 receptions, 609 yards, and five touchdowns.

These stats may seem bad for a potential No. 1 receiver, but Heyward-Bey did this in a not so great Maryland offense.

He also shows great hands and speed, which would make him a great receiver in any NFL system.

Then there is North Carolina receiver Hakeem Nicks. In 2008 with UNC, Nicks had 68 receptions, 1,222 yards, and 12 touchdowns.

Hakeem Nicks has the stats over Heyward-Bey, but the Maryland receiver posted the fastest 40 yard dash time out of all the wide receivers.

Nicks does come in at 6"0, 212 pounds though and comes in with great height and strength. We have seen how Eli Manning can work with this and the Manning to Nicks combo could be dangerous.

If this trade was to go down as planned, the Giants would most likely be giving up Mathias Kiwanuka. Kiwanuka has been a good depth player as he can play defensive end or linebacker.

It is all up hill from now on though for Kiwanuka as he recorded a record high 51 tackles last year with eight sacks.

The second round pick the Giants would give to the Browns would most likely go towards the Giants drafting a linebacker, as that is one of their top needs.

The price for Braylon Edwards would be worth a good young receiver and a linebacker, but now back to the main question of is it worth it?

And I still think it is.

Last season with the Browns was a disappointing season to some NFL fans, but I still think it was a good season for Edwards. He had 55 receptions, 873 yards, and an eye opening three touchdowns.

This is still a good season, but what if the Giants were to pick up the Braylon Edwards of 2007?

The 80 reception, 1,289 yards, 16 touchdowns, and Pro Bowl Braylon Edwards. This guy could be the guy we get, which is something that would be much greater than what we could get from Hakeem Nicks or Darrius Heyward-Bey.

Braylon Edwards did have a problem dropping the ball last season, but the Giants do have a very good coaching system and this could be fixed. When Tiki Barber played for the Giants, he had a bad fumbling problem.

The Giants coaches worked with Tiki and they fixed it, making Barber a much more effective running back.

So the day before the draft, Jerry Reese and the rest of the Giants management may be thinking about whether this trade is worth pulling the trigger on, and trust me, it is.

Scottie Reynolds Declares For NBA

Steve Chott — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:59:51 -0400

His last game as a Nova basketball player was not one he would like to remember. But it will be Scottie Reynolds last game as a Nova player as he declared for the NBA draft yesterday.

He said "If I really wanted to, I could be like, 'Oh, I'm coming back next week,' and I'd feel really good about that," Reynolds said. "Right now, I think the best choice, the best decision I can make for myself, is to go out there and do what I've been doing throughout my career."

Of course we all remember Reynolds ending Pittsburgh's season last year on his last second shot to send Villanova to the Final Four.

The team captain is declaring for the draft as well as Villanova senor Dante Cunningham. The two were Villanova's two leading scorers last year.

This is definitely a big blow for the team and Villanova faithful as Reynolds has been the teams heart and soul for the past four years.

Reynolds has not yet hired an agent though, and would be able to come back to the team if he decides too by June 15th.

Last year Reynolds averaged 15.2 PPG with 3.4 APG.

How Will the New York Giants Address the WR Situation?

Steve Chott — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 22:08:56 -0400

As New York Giants management, players, fans, and Mel Kiper all get ready to see what will happen on draft day, it has become a well known fact that the Giants are most likely to trade their first round pick for a wide receiver.

Ever since Plaxico Burress was released in the offseason, football fans know the Giants, which has alot of depth, need a big wide receiver for our quarterback to throw to.

And since Burress was released there have been rumors of the Giants trading to get that receiver. We heard possibilities of Braylon Edwards, Anquan Boldin, Chad Ocho Cinco, and Tory Holt.

Another possibility is that the Giants could go ahead and draft a receiver.

At their position, there should be some possibilities: North Carolina's Hakeem Nicks, Rutgers' Kenny Britt, Florida's Percy Harvin, and maybe even Maryland's Darius Heyward-Bey.

So as draft day moves closer, I examine each of our draft day possibilities.

Trade for Anquan Boldin

Early on in the offseason, it seemed like this wasn't going to happen. The Cardinals haven't shown must interest in trading Boldin, and I don't blame them.

Last season, Boldin had 89 receptions for 1,038 yards, and 11 touchdowns.

And at the age of 28, he is still a reliable receiver for the future.

But one question I do ask, like I did with TJ Houshmanzadeh, will Boldin be able to be that go-to guy?

Like Housh in Cincinnati, there was a guy that was a top receiver over him. Chad Ocho Cinco with the Bengals and Larry Fitzgerald with the Cardinals.

If Boldin came to New York as Eli Manning's go-to guy, then I think his production will be less of what they got with Plaxico. Burress was such a tall, strong receiver and it will be difficult to replace him.

Trade for Braylon Edwards

I have made no effort to hide the fact that since day one, I have wanted Braylon Edwards to play for the New York Giants.

Back a little while ago, I wrote a memo to the Giants that they should pick up Braylon Edwards. I compared the stats of Edwards' four year career and Plaxico's four years with the Giants.

"In his four years with the New York Giants, Plaxico Burress piled up 244 receptions, 3,680 yards, and 33 touchdowns."

"In the last four years with the Browns ,Edwards has had 228 receptions, 3,358 yards, and 28 touchdowns."

So yes, Edwards' stats are not as good as Burress', but they are close. And if Braylon comes to New York, he will get an upgrade in just about everything that he had in Cleveland.

There is the ugly issue with Braylon's supposed drop problems, which I will agree is a problem but a fixable problem. It is definitely something that this great Giants management can fix.

Looking at his stats, even without the drops, those are still very good stats for someone who drops a lot of balls.

Draft a Receiver

The last choice it appears that they could take is drafting one of the receivers I mentioned earlier in the article.

I am not a draft expert, nor a very knowledgable person when it comes to how college prospects will pan out.

That being said, I do not like the thought of the Giants drafting a receiver to be their go-to guy. I like to see a guy out there who is a talented receiver, who has already proven himself.

Hakeem Nicks, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Kenny Britt, and Percy Harvin all proved they were good college players but who knows if they have the size or strength to play in the NFL.

I would much rather see the Giants go with someone who is NFL experienced.

So, who should the Giants go for?

I am sticking by my guy, Braylon Edwards.

I think Edwards will shine very bright in New York if he is brought in. While playing in Cleveland, he doesn't get as much attention as the Plaxico Burress and Steve Smiths of the world.

Edwards is also a guy who seems to have a good personality. I was watching the college slam dunk contest where Braylon was a judge and it seemed he was just there having fun.

Along with Steve Smith, the two of them could make a deadly duo for Eli Manning to throw it to. Both are young guys, and the Giants' receiving corps is a younger group after the departures of Amani Toomer and Plaxico Burress.

Domenick Hixon, Steve Smith, Mario Manningham, and possibly Braylon Edwards.

While I wouldn't mind seeing Anquan Boldin play for Big Blue, I am still calling for Braylon Edwards.

Umpires: Playing on the Other Side of the Plate

Steve Chott — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 21:39:38 -0400

We've all been there. We sit at home, in a bar, or at the sporting event and scream our brains out at the calls our officials make.

"Come on ref." "That was pass interference." "He was safe at first."

We all have done it; trust me, I do it, too. It's part of being a sports fan.

But not all of us have been on the other side. We have not been placed at that position, we have not had to be the ref or umpire.

Well, starting Saturday, I will get that experience—I decided to sign up to be an umpire.

Now, surely I won't have parents screaming at me, because these kids are only nine and 10 years old, but I will have to make many close calls.

This will be the first time that I will get this experience, being on the other side of the plate.

Growing up through my life, I have played many sports and had my fair amount of arguments with the official. I have played hockey, soccer, baseball, and football, and can remember being mad at an official on more than one occassion.

It will be a truly rewarding experience this season to be able to think about what this guy making the calls is going through. I may learn to not scream when an official makes a bad call. I doubt it, though.

I'll be able to understand that everything happens so quickly and you need to make a call on the spot and may not always be right, even though I'll think I am.

I don't plan on getting into any Lou Pinnella, kicking-dirt arguments with coaches, so it will be a little easier than the job that these major league guys do.

Next time I am watching a game and there is a close call at first when he is called out, even though he is safe by a mile, I'll say, "I could have made that call."

For the first time, however, I'll be able to back it up.

Nick Adenhart: My Athlete for the week of April 5 to April 12

Steve Chott — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 12:38:49 -0400

I am here today to start what I will keep up as a series of articles. So I present to you the athlete of the week for the week of April 5th.

Nick Adenhart

We all know the tragedy by now. Young Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart was killed in a car crash by a suspected drunk driver.

Adenhart pitched in only one game this week but dominated headlines with his death.

In a no decision against the Oakland A's Adenhart went six innings giving up seven hits and no runs.

I could have given this weeks athlete of the week to so many different athletes. Blake Griffin, Tyler Hansbourough, or Maya Moore. But even though he isn't here to read this I award Nick Adenhart with my first ever athlete of the week award.

You will not be forgotten Nick.

Los Angeles Angels' Starting Pitcher Nick Adenhart Killed in Car Crash

Steve Chott — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:06:58 -0400

The baseball world was shocked today when they heard that young Los Angeles Angels starter Nick Adenhart was killed in a car crash.

This tragedy comes one day after Adenhart made his fourth career start, getting a no-decision in a 6-4 loss to the Oakland Athletics.

Adenhart was killed in Fullerton, CA, when he was hit by a car who ran a red light.

We see many tragedies each season in sports, but Adenhart was a young, up-and-coming pitcher who could have had a bright future.

The Bleacher Report community is sure to be buzzing with this news, but I wanted to make sure that I paid my dues to Adenhart as well.

Rest in peace, Nick Adenhart.

Is CC Sabathia's First Game a Sign Of Things to Come?

Steve Chott — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 12:48:22 -0400

New Yankees starting pitcher CC Sabathia was chosen to start both the season opener and the home opener at the new billion dollar Yankee Stadium.

Yesterday on Opening Day Sabathia was slated to pitch against AL East foes the Baltimore Orioles. Sabathia only lasted 4.1 innings giving up 8 hits, 6 ER, 5 walks, and no strikeouts in the Yankees 10-5 loss to the Orioles.

This is the first time a Yankees pitcher has not struck out a single batter on opening day.

But was Sabathia's first start caused by nerves or is this a sign of things to come?

Last year Sabathia went 17-10 with a 2.70 ERA and 251 strikeouts.

But CC's season didn't start off well. In his first three games last season Sabathia went 0-3 giving up 22 runs, had a 10.88 ERA, and was not looking good. But then he finished 6-8 with the Indians before being dealt to the Milwaukee Brewers where he would dazzle everyone and pick up Cy Young nominations even though he was only in the National League half a season.

And as we all know CC decided not to sign with the Brewers when he became a free agent, instead signing with the New York Yankees.

And that all set it up for CC's throttling of himself on Opening day.

As we all know Yankees fans will go ahead and boo CC if he does badly, but as the season goes on, will CC be able to pick it up and win 15 or more games?

It is too early to tell but I do have faith in the big man. Nerves definitely got to him as many people expect him to carry the Yankees this season. We will have to see if CC can do that and only time can tell.

It is too early to call CC's time with the Yankees a bust or say that he is overpaid. Because their are still many more games ahead for CC and the Yankees.