Yupp, Barnes is the guy who made this infamous tackle.


Quite honestly, I'm not sure why anyone tries to guess how Andy Reid's final roster will look. Just when you think you know what he's thinking, he throws a curveball like this and makes a trade about four hours before the deadline to finalize the roster.

Reid is clearly still chatting it up with his former special teams coordinator Jon Harbaugh, now the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, as the two teams have swung a trade that will send outside linebacker Antwan Barnes to Philly for an undisclosed 2011 draft pick.

Smart money says the pick is a conditional late-rounder, but the Eagles did just trade away their sixth-round pick next year to the Cardinals for Reggie Wells, so it could be a straight-up seventh-round pick.

Barnes played outside linebacker in the Ravens' 3-4 scheme, but is expected to play a hybrid role of linebacker and defensive end in Sean McDermott's 4-3 defense.

Now, I'm not saying Barnes isn't a good athlete who could help the team out, but hasn't Reid learned his lesson yet?

Alex Hall, Chris Gocong, and Ricky Sapp are all guys Reid has picked up to play either linebacker or defensive end in the team's 4-3 scheme, but are clearly best fit as a 3-4 outside linebacker. I don't quite understand why he still thinks it's easy to transition from a pass-rushing outside linebacker to putting your hand in the ground or vice versa, but he just keeps trying it.

We keep hearing about this "Joker" position, but McDermott doesn't really employ a Joker often enough to swing a trade to specifically fill the aforementioned role.

The move for Barnes will likely push out someone like Tracy White or Moise Fokou, so all in all it seems like more of a lateral move than anything.
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Joe Flacco is making his case for MVP of the entire NFL.


It was an exciting week in NFL football. Ups and downs. Here's how I breakdown and rank the NFL after week three. Enjoy.

1. Baltimore Ravens (Last Week: 1)

Another week, another win for the Ravens. Albeit against the worst team in the NFL, but a win nonetheless. Second in the NFL in both yards per game and points per game, behind only the Saints (Like I needed to tell you that). And as I've stated before, this Joe Flacco guy is the real deal. How 'bout it folks? 839 yards, 6 touchdowns to only 2 interceptions and a QB rating of 101.4. Oh, and they have the number one rush defense in the NFL giving up only 51 yards a game.


2. New York Giants (Last Week: 3)

The Giants are really starting to make more noise than I'm sure most people thought. Now, whether they man up and admit it or not is the key. I will admit I was wrong about the Giants. Namely the receiver position, but these young guys have done nothing but step up in the absence of Plaxico. I still think eventually they will come back down to earth, but maybe not as far down as originally thought. They'll be a tough test for anyone, and already hold a two-game lead in the NFC East.


3. New Orleans Saints (Last Week: 2)

They were finally held in check. Drew Brees didn't throw a touchdown, and they had to rely on the run game. Oh, no they didn't lose, sorry to have mistaken you. Pierre Thomas scampered for 2 scores, and let Drew Brees and the rest of us know, they can do more than pass. I'm still not sure whether this game was result of the offense cooling down, or the weather playing a factor. Regardless, a win is a win, and the Saints are 3-0 and lead their division.


4. Indianapolis Colts (Last Week: 4)

This is a team I can't quite put my finger on, but they've gotten it done on the field. Peyton Manning looks like he's way to smart for his receivers (and well, he is). What I do know, and what they showed against the Cardinals Sunday night, is that once they get a lead on you, you're in trouble. Once you have to resort to the pass, it's all-but over. They will pin their ears back and those defensive ends will get at you in a big way. I still look for them to play a winning team, but it won't happen this week as they got Seattle. Despite the 0-3 record, I do expect Tennessee to show us whether or not Indy is real in two weeks.


5. New York Jets (Last Week: 8)

This team has really shown much improvement under the supervision and leadership of new Head Coach, Rex Ryan. Ryan has brought a tenacity to this defense, and they swarm. They also have a guy under center who's proving to be quite good. I'm obviously talking about USC product, Mark Sanchez. Sanchez has looked like a seasoned vet thus far in this season, and they've played some decent talent along the way. Sanchez isn't afraid to get his nose dirty as you saw in his 14 yard TD run against Tennessee this past week. I like what I see from him, and I know NY agrees.


6. Minnesota Vikings (Last Week: 7)

Greg Lewis. That's all you need to say. In a game that was all-but lost, Brett Favre hooked up with Greg Lewis on a miraculous touchdown play. I don't know what it is about Lewis. If you leave the man wide open, drop. However, double coverage, game on the line he gets the job done. He has a knack for making the big catch when it's needed. Oh and a little stat to keep in mind for next week. With a victory, Brett Favre becomes the only QB in NFL history to beat every single NFL team. That's all 32 folks. That's incredible. This is why you come back.


7. Philadelphia Eagles (Last Week: 11)

Kevin Kolb has shown why the coaching staff has had so much faith in him. However, this is still McNabb's team and he's still the better quarterback, but it's nice to know you have some reliability behind him. LeSean McCoy showed that he can be a premier back in this league, and what else is there to say about Brent Celek other than "wow". He's making his case to be a top 5 TE in this league, and he's not done yet. Solid defensive play and McNabb coming back healthy after the bye equals good news for Philadelphia.


8. New England Patriots (Last Week: 10)

They made their case that they're still a top football team by beating up on a very good Atlanta Falcon team. They held Michael Turner to just 56 yards, and Tom Brady is getting more and more comfortable as the weeks go bye. News is coming out that Randy Moss is starting to slack off again as he did in Oakland. Keep an eye on that New England fans.


9. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last Week: 6)

How about the defending champions starting out 1-2. They could very well be 1-3 after this week and if that is the case, you got to be very worried. They were just outplayed by Cincinnati at the end of the game. Parker looked to get going a little bit, but the lack of a running game really hurts them. They really got to get things righted before they meet Baltimore or this division is gone, and so could a playoff spot.


10. Atlanta Falcons (Last Week: 5)

They failed to get anything going against the Patriots. Michael Turner hasn't been able to get anything going through 3 weeks, and that's going to be a huge problem. Matt Ryan is good, but he's still a young quarterback. Nothing helps out a young quarterback like a rock-solid running game. They've got to produce more pressure defensively. Tom Brady was free to roam on Sunday.


11. Chicago Bears (Last Week: 15)

Jay Cutler is really making his case as a strong quarterback after such a terrible outting week one. Keep an eye on Forte, or the lack thereof.


12. San Diego Chargers (Last Week: 14)

They have a huge game this week with Pittsburgh. This team continues to struggle with looking prepared. That's on the Head Coach.


13. Cincinnati Bengals (Last Week: 19)

They went toe-to-toe with the defending champs, and came out victorious. Carson Palmer makes the Bengals a completely different team, and Lavernues Coles is the most underrated off-season pick-up.


14. San Francisco 49ers (Last Week: 9)

Greg Lewis struck gold against the Niners this week. They played tough, but were 0-11 on third down. They could lose Frank Gore for up to 3 weeks as well. Nothing but trouble there.


15. Dallas Cowboys (Last Week: 17)

They pulled one out on MNF against Carolina, but continue to struggle in certain aspects of the game. Felix Jones got a little banged up. Despite returning to the game, the 'Boys RB health has got to be a concern.


16. Houston Texans (Last Week: 12)

Up and down, up and down. That's the only way to describe this team. I think they play down to their opponents level too much.


17. Tennessee Titans (Last Week: 16)

Could be the most surprising start in the NFL this season. It doesn't get any easier this week as they take on division-rival, Jacksonville.


18. Denver Broncos (Last Week: 18)

Surprising start number 2. But let's wait until they play a real decent team before we make too much of a roar here.


19. Buffalo Bills (Last Week: 13)

Another solid 3 quarters by the Bills. If we were playing hockey that'd be great. But, alas, we're playing football which requires 4 quarters.


20. Green Bay Packers (Last Week: 20)

They bested the Rams, but that doesn't say much. They're underachieving right now, and are just not as good as I thought they would be.


21. Jacksonville Jaguars (Last Week: 25)

A solid win inside the divison against Houston. Jones-Drew drives this team. If he puts up numbers, they'll win.


22. Arizona Cardinals (Last Week: 21)

Could Kurt Warner finally be showing his age? Questionable decision to sideline Beanie Wells for most of the game. Could've been the most costly factor in the loss.


23. Seattle Seahawks (Last Week: 23)

Hung in there with the Bears even without their starting QB, but just couldn't pull it out. Maybe it was just the jersey throwing the Bears off? (I liked the jersey's BTW.)


24. Miami Dolphins (Last Week: 26)

They just can't seem to get things to go their way. Another tough fought game under their belts, but still a goose egg in the win column. No A's for effort in the NFL.


25. Carolina Panthers (Last Week: 22)

No running game against Dallas this week, and Delhomme had another poor outing. Could it be A.J. Feeley time?


26. Oakland Raiders (Last Week: 24)

Well, if Jamarcus Russell is satisfied with a 41 percent completion rate, than Oakland has some huge problems. If Russell was accurate at all, this is a 10-11 win team.


27. Detroit Lions (Last Week: 30)

Rejoice, Detroit! After a 19-game losing streak the Lions finally pulled one out. Tears were even shed after the game. I guess it's okay since they still had the Red Wings.


28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Last Week: 28)

Blanked by the Giants, and the Starting QB is now benched. Josh Johnson gets the call for now, but I don't think it'll be long before we see the other Josh. Freeman that is.


29. Kansas City Chiefs (Last Week: 29)

They were dominated by the Eagles. Kevin Kolb put up over 300 yards through the air and McCoy put up 85 on the ground. No positives from this game.


30. Washington Redskins (Last Week: 27)

They gave their Lions a their first win in 19 attempts. No rushing game, no passing game, and a head coach that is in way over his head. Recipe for disaster.


31. St. Louis Rams (Last Week: 32)

They didn't win, but still get the nod to move up. I guess you can look at the positives, you're not the Cleveland Browns.

32. Cleveland Browns (Last Week: 31)

Brady Quinn and his 1 INT was pulled in favor of Derek Anderson and his 3 INT's. I haven't taken a math in college yet, but that's not a good ratio.

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Say hello to a future NFL MVP, "Matty Ice" Matt Ryan.


Every week I will be running down my list of the best and worst teams in the NFL. I'll look at and dissect all 32 teams and rank them accordingly. Looking for Power Rankings? Look no further than the official 2M2MG.com Power Rankings.

Here's how things look heading into Week Three.

1. Atlanta Falcons (Last Week: 4)

Right now, the Falcons are the most consistently good team in the NFL. Are they the overall best team in the league? Maybe, and maybe not. However, right now they're getting the job done when it needs to get done which cannot be said of some of the other top teams.


2. Baltimore Ravens (Last Week: 8)

Their defense is a little worrisome, but they should be able to get it together here soon. And really, there's not much shame in giving up over 400 yards to a quarterback like Philip Rivers. The offense is the really impressive part as they've just been tearing it up. Joe Flacco just might be the real deal in Baltimore.


3. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last Week: 2)

They didn't play real well against the Bears, but they should rebound this week. Like a lot of other good teams, we saw them have a let-down, but good teams don't allow a let-down to go past one week. The Steelers are a good team annd will be just fine.


4. New York Giants (Last Week: 6)

The Giants were down in a hard-fought game with the Cowboys, but Eli Manning was able to drive them down the field to pull out the tough win. I've been critical of Eli, but that was an impressive showing. A few more games like that and he might just have me sold. Let's also not forget Mario Manningham who appears to be a star in the making.


5. Philadelphia Eagles (Last Week: 2)

The Eagles are in the same boat as the Steelers. Yes, they lost. Yes, they lost pretty bad. No, their season isn't over because of it. While Kevin Kolb played well, there's just a difference in a team when its starting quarterback isn't in there. I expect them to rebound with an easy slate of games in the coming weeks.


6. San Diego Chargers (Last Week: 5)

The Chargers drop a spot this week because of their loss, but it was to a very good Ravens team so it's difficult to drop them too far. Philip Rivers is a top five quarterback, and as long as they have him they will be contenders. Darren Sproles is really turning into their go-to guy, and as soon as the defense can get it together, they're going to get hot.


7. New York Jets (Last Week: 15)

The Jets manhandled the Patriots. There's really no other way to put it. They talked all week long about beating the Pats, and they did just that. Rex Ryan has instilled an attitude in that team that could have them overachieving all year long. And in case you hadn't put it together, a good team that is overachieving can mean bad things for the other 31 teams.


8. New England Patriots (Last Week: 3)

It's tough to drop the Patriots further than this, but they did not look good against the Jets. They were exposed as a finesse team that will shut down if you hit them in the mouth hard enough. Tom Brady looked shaky, and according to Bart Scott, Randy Moss was afraid to go over the middle, as he probably should be. They need to get more physical if they even want to win their division.


9. Minnesota Vikings (Last Week: 9)

The Vikings beat the Detroit Lions. That does not warrant moving up at all, and in fact may warrant consideration to move down because they didn't destroy them. The Lions were up 10-0 at one point, which is bad news for a Vikings team that has to play with a lead.


10. Indianapolis Colts (Last Week: 10)

They only had about 15 minutes of possession, but it was all they needed to squash a valiant effort by the Miami Dolphins. Chad Pennington and the offense played well, but the defense could not stop Peyton Manning and the big play all night. If they want to win games and be contenders, they're going to have to play defense.


11. Houston Texans (Last Week: 13)

The Texans played a tough game against the Titans, but they made far too many mistakes on defense. Allowing Chris Johnson to be that wide open is completely unacceptable for a team that feels like they can make a playoff push this year. The offense bailed them out, but they won't be able to do that all year.


12. New Orleans Saints (Last Week: 12)

Yes, the Saints did go into Philadelphia and beat an Eagles team that many have slated for the Super Bowl. However, they did it against an Eagles team without Donovan McNabb. Not only that, but their defense still did not look very good. The Eagles lost that game more than the Saints won it, as evidenced by the good numbers Kolb put up against them in his first start.


13. San Francisco 49ers (Last Week: 16)

Personally, I expected the 49ers to be a fairly decent team this year. In the preseason, I put them somewhere between 8-8 and 10-6 because of playing in the NFC West, and it appears as though I may have been right. They have done very well the past two weeks against division opponents, but that's not saying a whole lot. They've got a test this week in the 2-0 Vikings.


14. Arizona Cardinals (Last Week: 19)

The Cardinals bounced back from their Week One loss to the 49ers by completely dismantling the Jaguars. Kurt Warner was on fire, completing 92 percent of his passes and making the Jaguars defense look like they belonged on a high school field. There's reportedly some friction between Warner and Larry Fitzgerald, but I don't buy into that.


15. Chicago Bears (Last Week: 21)

Defeating the defending world champions should mean something, and for the Bears it means moving up six notches in the rankings. Jay Cutler played the way that we know Cutler can, and may have found an early connection with rookie receiver Johnny Knox. If they can cope with the loss of Urlacher all year, they could surprise at the end of the season.

16. Tennessee Titans (Last Week: 7)

The Titans are taking a tumble down the rankings because of the way they lost to a division opponent. They allowed 34 points and seemingly are unable to rely on what was once their strength in the defense. They seem to be playing decent football, but just can't come up with the right plays when they need them.

17. Green Bay Packers (Last Week: 13)

Green Bay laid an egg defensively against Carson Palmer and the Bengals, but that was expected a couple times throughout the year. It's a bit troublesome that it came in Week Two against a team that last year was completely incompetent on the offensive side of the ball, but a complete defensive overhaul is going to create those bumps along the way.


18. Dallas Cowboys (Last Week: 14)

Tony Romo is proving that he's not the caliber of quarterback that everyone thought he was this time last season. He only threw one touchdown as compared to three interceptions that would eventually cost him team the win. Last week's routing of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was apparently a direct result of a poor Tampa team, and not a good Dallas quarterback.


19. Miami Dolphins (Last Week: 20)

The Dolphins move up a notch even in defeat because of the way they were able to control and move the ball. Their defense has to become better at defending the big play, and they will. Sparano will help them to adjust and they will be a better team for it.


20. Cincinnati Bengals (Last Week: 26)

They scored a lot of points against a defense in transition, and also allowed a lot of points. They pulled it out in the end, which is really all that counts, but it wasn't convincing enough to take them seriously just yet. If they can get that defense where it needs to be, they could climb the rankins very quickly.


21. Oakland Raiders (Last Week: 24)

Like the Bengals, they just have not been impressive enough to be taken seriously quite yet, but behind a strong defense and running game, they could have what it takes to shake that losing feeling off of themselves this year. The Raiders were my surprise team this year, so I'm rooting for them, but if JaMarcus Russel can't hit his receivers they won't go anywhere this year.


22. Seattle Seahawks (last Week: 17)

The Seahawks looked good Week One, but that was against possibly the worst team in the NFL. Then when given a challenge in Week Two, they seemed to completely crumble. The defense was awful as Frank Gore rushed all over them and now with Hasselbeck likely out with a broken rib, they could find themselves in an early hole.


23. Denver Broncos (Last Week: 27)

The Denver Broncos are 2-0. At this point, they're atop the AFC West and could be looking to get on a roll, right? Well, no. Probably not. They got lucky against the Bengals, and then they played the Browns, a team in the running for worst in the league. Expect the losing to start real soon.


24. Buffalo Bills (Last Week: 22)

Sure, they beat the Bucs, but that's not exactly going to be a difficult feat for teams to accomplish this year. The Bucs are in complete disarray, and the Bills still didn't look all that polished against them. They have some kinks to work out before they're even in consideration to be contenders.


25. Carolina Panthers (Last Week: 24)

Jake Delhomme still doesn't look good, and they're still losing. Falling to 0-2 may have killed their chances to anything this season as they're showing no signs of being able to turn this around. Nothing is working for them like it was last year, and it could be a long season in Carolina.


26. Jacksonville Jaguars (Last Week: 18)

After sticking with the Colts in Week One, they were destroyed by the Arizona Cardinals in Week Two. I previously thought their lack of explosion on offense was the problem, but now it appears as though everything is the problem.


27. Kansas City Chiefs (Last Week: 28)

They played a hard-fought game against the Raiders, but came up just short. I'm not exactly sure where all this talk of benching Matt Cassel is coming from, as Chiefs fans have already endured the Brodie Croyle era, but it's lunacy. He put them ahead, it was the defense that let them down in the end.


28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Last Week: 29)

They lost to the Bills, but Byron Leftwich looked good and the offense has shown that they can move the ball. Their achilles heel all season long will be the defense. It's in complete shambles and will continue to lose them games.


29. Washington Redskins (Last Week: 23)

Why did they fall so far after a win? Well, it could be because they nearly lost to the St. Louis Rams for the second consecutive year. They won because of three field goals. That is not the way you're supposed to win football games, especially against such a poor team. Expect them to have the dubious distinction of being the Lions first win since 2007.


30. Detroit Lions (Last Week: 31)

They were in it with the Vikings for about three quarters of the game, but eventually the Vikings remembered they were playing the Lions and beat them. It's a sign of life for a team losing to join the '76 Bucs as the worst ever, but I do expect them to end their streak this week against Washington. However, this just in: the Lions are still bad.


31. Cleveland Browns (Last Week: 30)

They looked lost against the Broncos. Brady Quinn doesn't belong on an NFL field and that defense plays like they're afraid to get hit. There is absolutely no life in this team, and really they're only 31 by default.


32. St. Louis Rams (Last Week: 32)

The Browns can thank the Rams for being so bad, because it's the only reason they aren't the worst. Seven points in the last two games is just sad. Like the Browns, they just have no life out on the field and are a shell of the team they once were. Management has stripped this team to nothing and it will be a while before they can rebound.
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Joe Flacco is the real deal in Baltimore.



Here's my Week Three edition of my NFL Power Rankings. I'll give you my pick and my thoughts on each. Enjoy.


1. Baltimore Ravens (Last Week: 6)

The team that was constantly labeled with the identity of not having an offense, has apparently found one. Scoring 69 points in their first two contests. Joe Flacco is proving to be the real deal and this team will be challenging to take this division all season long. The only weakness I see is on defense. They've given up a ton of points as well. They need to get that fixed if they want to stay here.

2. New Orleans Saints (Last Week: 12)

Well, I'm convinced. I don't care what kind of defense you have, I really don't. If you can throw 9 touchdowns in two weeks, I'll give you this spot. Drew Brees is an absolute monster at the quarterback position. He has such a quick release that you just have no chance to get to him. Now, they beat up on a bad Lions team, and a McNabbless Eagle team, but McNabb doesn't play defense.

3. New York Giants (Last Week: 7)

Off to another 2-0 start and hold an outright lead in the best division in football, the NFC East. While Plaxico began his 2-year sentence yesterday, a sentence that many believed would doom the Giants, Mario Manningham and company were enjoying another fine performance by themselves. If they can continue play like they have been, Plax may not be missed as much as originally thought (Still be missed, because you don't just not miss a 6'5" person, ever). However, 4 turnovers for and it still took until the last minute to win. That could prove to bite them in the foot later in the season.

4. Indianapolis Colts (Last Week: 4)

They held on Monday night against the Dolphins. It looked to be a blowout when Peyton Manning hit Dallas Clark for a TD on the first play of the game. I just can't put my finger on the Colts. They play terrible until the end, then they pick it up. It's like they want the game to be more challenging than it needs to be. I guess if you're winning you don't mind, but how long can they count on making plays inside of 2 minutes?

5. Atlanta Falcons (Last Week: 8)

Boy has Tony Gonzalez proven to be one of the best offseason acquisitions. He's been incredible for 2nd-year quarterback Matt Ryan. Michael Turner has been slow out of the gate with only 65 and 105 yards in the first two games. While those are good numbers, they're not good Michael Turner numbers. Matt Ryan is still young and he'll need Turner to produce if they hope to be successful.

6. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last Week: 1)

I guess Troy Polamalu is a bigger influence on the Steelers than I thought. They we're beaten by the Chicago Bears this past weekend on a late FG by Robbie Gould. The defending champs now find themselves at 1-1 and tied for the 2nd in the AFC North. I still think they'll be okay. They have a solid defense and a serviceable offense. Willie Parker must get it going or you've got to see the young Mendenhall because this run game is non-existent.

7. Minnesota Vikings (Last Week: 9)

Boy did they look like they were about to lose to the Detroit Lions. But, it's the Lions so no worries here. I'm not sure if it was the fact that they were playing the Lions or not, but Adrian Peterson tries to cut-back way too early sometimes. It worked this week because the Lions are a poor tackling team (Well, a poor everything team), but I don't see it happening against better teams. The Vikings have played the Browns and Lions so far, and they have a test to see if either team is for real this week against San Francisco.

8. New York Jets (Last Week: 15)

I guess we need to start listening to Kerry Rhodes a little bit more intently. He said they'd hit the Patriots and they'd win. They did just that. The offense struggled a little in the 1st half, but Mark Sanchez came back out in the 2nd half and simply out-played the All-Pro, Tom Brady. The Jets seemed to have struck gold with Sanchez, and this is the 2nd week in a row they beat a good team.

9. San Francisco 49ers (Last Week: 16)

I am a huge fan of Mike Singletary. He's passionate about football and you will not play for him if you're not sold out to be on this team and go 100% every play (See Vernon Davis). Frank Gore is an absolute monster. It's a good positioned to be in when you're sitting pretty at 2-0 overall and in the division. This week will be the true test as they match-up against Minnesota. Can Singletary's defense slow down Adrian Peterson?

10. New England Patriots (Last Week: 2)

I'm not sure if it's just me, but the Patriots have looked like a middle-of-the-pack team the past two weeks. Granted, they won Week One, but they definitely should not have. I'm not sold on the Patriots anymore after their past two performances. They've been a huge let-down after being labeled as the best team in the NFL all off-season. Tom Brady has been mediocre and is being out-performed by half the QB's in the league. Maybe they'll shake it off, but they gotta do something.

11. Philadelphia Eagles (Last Week: 3)

Got absolutely torched by Drew Brees. Hopefully they get McNabb back for the Week 3 game against Kansas City.

12. Houston Texans (Last Week: 18)

After looking completely flat in Week One, they came out firing and handed the Titans an 0-2 start. I like the Texans to taste the post-season for the first time ever.

13. Buffalo Bills (Last Week: 14)

After giving away a game in week one against a division rival, the Bills bounced back against Tampa Bay. They get Marshawn Lynch back in a week, but do they still need him?

14. San Diego Chargers (Last Week: 5)

Nearly lost one to Oakland, and they did lose one to the Ravens. Norv Turner continuely sends out an ill-prepared team every week.

15. Chicago Bears (Last Week: 20)

Jay Cutler came out and proved that the 4 interception game was not him. I still think the Bears gave up way too much for Cutler and that he's not that good of a QB.

16. Tennessee Titans (Last Week: 11)

They're the best 0-2 team out there, but they got the Jets coming up next week and the Colts in two weeks.

17. Dallas Cowboys (Last Week: 10)

Tony Romo looked terrible, and the Cowboys accounted for four turnovers agaisnt the Giants. No one wins with those kind of numbers.

18. Denver Broncos (Last Week: 21)

Fluke win against Cincy and a weak Browns team. Let's see them play someone good first.

19. Cincinnati Bengals (Last Week: 26)

Carson Palmer shows that he's the X-factor in Cincinnati. They get a real test this week when they travel to Baltimore.

20. Green Bay Packers (Last Week: 13)

Upset by the Bengals after a poor showing against the Bears. They need to bounce back.

21. Arizona Cardinals (Last Week: 17)

I just don't think this is the team we saw in the Superbowl last season. They beat up on a bad Jacksonville team, but they play soft.

22. Carolina Panthers (Last Week: 23)

They showed signs of life against a very good Atlanta team, and eventually only lost by 8. Keep the ball out of the air, and you'll be fine.

23. Seattle Seahawks (Last Week: 19)

We're brought down to earth by division foe San Francisco after playing a terrible Rams team week one.

24. Oakland Raiders (Last Week: 24)

How long can they live with the terrible play out of Jamarcus Russell? It's got to change soon.

25. Jacksonville Jaguars (Last Week: 22)

The offense just isn't moving the ball so well, and they look to be missing Fred Taylor a whole heck of a lot.

26. Miami Dolphins (Last Week: 27)

They were all but shut out in week one outside of a garbage time TD, but they showed signs of life in week two but couldn't make plays when it counted.

27. Washington Redskins (Last Week: 25)

They almost lost to the Rams. I'll let that sink in. A win is a win, but when you fail to score a touchdown against the NFL's worst team, there's a problem.

28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Last Week: 28)

The potential is there, but they can't seem to bring everything together at one time.

29. Kansas City Chiefs (Last Week: 29)

Matt Cassell looked shaky in his first start. Then again, Kansas City is no New England team.

30. Detroit Lions (Last Week: 31)

The losing streak might end this week. They've definitely looked better than last season already.

31. Cleveland Browns (Last Week: 30)

Miscues left and right. When you can't get the snap from the center, that's a huge problem. This stuff is basic football.

32. St. Louis Rams (Last Week: 32)

Only 7 points in two weeks. I think it's time for a rehaul in St. Louis.

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Bunkley is safe, but the men to his right may not be so lucky.


According to Paul Domowitch of Philly.com, at least two teams -- namely the Jets and Ravens -- are keeping a close eye on the receiver situation in Philadelphia. The Jets and Ravens are the only confirmed teams, but there's talk that other teams could potentially be keeping tabs on the Eagles' receivers.

Finally, after years of not having enough talent at the wide receiver position, the Eagles cup runeth over with talent, so much so that the team may even be able to trade two wide receivers in a single offseason. If such a statement doesn't show the progress that this team has made, I'm not sure what will (other than "Philadelphia Eagles: Winners of Super Bowl XLIV!").

Four guys are expected to be untouchable in these trade talks, and those guys are fairly obvious in DeSean Jackson, Kevin Curtis, Jason Avant, and first-round pick Jeremy Maclin. Guys on the bubble would include Brandon Gibson, Hank Baskett, and Reggie Brown. Only two of those three can make the final roster, so it only makes sense to trade the other.

The one with the most trade value, Brown, has not done anything to hurt his stock by having a great camp. He hasn't had many opportunities in the preseason, but should be able to show something Thursday night in the third preseason game. With Jon Harbaugh as the coach in Baltimore, he's seen what Baskett can do during his early years, so it makes perfect sense.

Baskett is a solid fourth receiver, who may even be able to play as the third guy on either the Jets or Ravens roster as I don't think it's a stretch to see he's better than Chansi Stuckey or Demettrius Williams, respectively.

Gibson is a rookie who has a lot of upside and could be intriguing enough for a team to take a shot on him, but it's doubtful that a team already suffering at the receiver position would want to trade for a rookie. Although, it's been done. In fact, the Eagles traded for Hank Baskett as an undrafted free agent signee with the Minnesota Vikings. They traded former third-round pick Billy McMullen.

If at all possible, I would love to see Gibson make this team. He's a kid who got hidden in the draft because of how terrible Washington State was during his senior year because of their transition to the spread offense. Up until that point, he had played in the west coast offense and was talked about as a great NFL prospect.

I've spoken with several people who follow WSU very closely and have told me that Gibson was the steal of the draft. Many of them have said that if WSU had a real quarterback and they stuck in the west coast system that he may have been a second-round pick. That may be showing a bit of bias, as a WSU product may not go that high anyway, but it does speak to the kid's talent.

While I like Hank Baskett, I think he should be the odd man out based on the great camp that Reggie has had. However, if Reggie goes and Baskett stays, I surely wouldn't question the move. In fact, if the Eagles could pull out a fifth-round pick this year, and perhaps a conditional pick in 2011, it would be a great move for both teams involved in the deal.

Baskett and Brown could certainly add some depth the Jets, Ravens, or another receiver-needy team like the Bears, Titans, Jaguars, or several others. If the Eagles can get the Patriots to pony up a draft pick for Greg Lewis, they can certainly move a receiver like Baskett or Brown who have done much, much more throughout their short careers than Lewis had.
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Steve McNair through each stage of his illustrious career.


NewsChannel5.com in Nashville is reporting that former Houston Oilers/Tennessee Oilers/Tennessee Titans and Baltimore Ravens quarterback Steve McNair has been found slain, a victim of a fatal gunshot wound to the head.

The incident was originally reported as a murder-suicide, but now has been changed to ruled as a double homicide.

"We do not know the circumstances related to the death," Don Aaron, information director for the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, said. "We received a call of persons injured inside one of the condominiums. When police officers arrived in response to that call, we found two individuals that had been shot to death inside the residence: one female, one male. We now know that the male deceased is Steve McNair."

A female victim was also found by McNair's side.

More information to follow as it is reported.

McNair was a former first round pick of the Houston Oilers in 1995. After playing for the Houston and later Tennessee franchises he was traded to the Baltimore Ravens where he played for two years.

Steve McNair was a class-act, and is a huge loss not only for the NFL community, but for the world simply as a human being.

"We are saddened and shocked to hear the news of Steve McNair's passing today," Tennessee Titans owner K.S. "Bud" Adams, Jr. said in a statement. "He was one of the finest players to play for our organization and one of the most beloved players by our fans. He played with unquestioned heart and leadership and led us to places that we had never reached, including our only Super Bowl. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family as they deal with his untimely passing."

McNair was only 36 years old.

The woman has been "tentatively identified" and when the information is known, her next of kin will be notified, then the press.

No one is yet in custody for the killings.


UPDATES: The mystery woman has been identified as Sahel Kazemi, a 20-year old woman living in Nashville.

Two days prior to the incident, Kazemi had been stopped for DUI, and was arrested for failing to take a breathalyzer. The black Escalade she was driving was registered in both her and McNair's names.

The police also confirmed that Mechelle McNair, Steve's wife, is not a suspect.

"Mrs. McNair is obviously very distraught," Aaron said during a briefing televised live on CNN. "Police chaplains have visited Mechelle McNair. At this juncture, we do not believe she is involved. We have not ruled anything out. We may be leaning a certain way, but we have not ruled anything out."

Police also said that they had not made a connection between McNair's death and the fact that a short time beforehand a 20-year old (same age as Kazemi), walked up to McNair at a restaraunt, accused him of slipping her a roofie and said that her boyfriend would kill him.

Also, Mechelle McNair had told a local news station that she had not heard from her husband in a few days.

While it is being assumed that Kazemi is his girlfriend, let's not be so hasty to jump to conclusions. There is no proof of a relationship at this point.

Also, the Tenneseean is now saying it is an apparent murder-suicide.
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ESPN's John Clayton is reporting that the Ravens have offered the Cardinals a first-round pick and tight end Todd Heap for disgruntled wide receiver Anquan Boldin.

This may not be enough for the Cardinals who, while they have said they need a tight end, may not think Heap is worth the third-round compensation they're looking for in addition to a first rounder.

Let's not forget that the Cardinals are in no rush to move Boldin like the Bills were to move Jason Peters.

The Cards can sit tight and wait until their needs are met before they move Boldin, if at all.

The other side is that the Cardinals only have a little over $1 million in cap space, so a player involved with the trade may not catch their fancy, and even worse may just not be possible. They'll need cap space to sign all these new draft picks they're sure to pick up.

Clayton also reported that the Giants and Jets have also made a bid for Boldin. The Philadelphia Eagles however seem to be making no move for the receiver all of Philly-nation seems to covet.

This could mean they're not interested, or they're simply waiting to see what the going price is for Boldin. I'm inclined to put my money on the first scenario, but they've surprised me before.

This story is sure to get a huge bump this weekend at the Radio City Music Hall so stay tuned.
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