NFL 2008 Week 13 Picks

Thoughts and observations from Week 12:

- Donovan McNabb is currently not a Hall-of-Fame caliber QB, and needs a change of scenery.

- All four NFC East teams' defenses are among the top-10 in the league.

- Denver is the worst division leader in the NFL right now, and has to have the lowest morale after getting blasted by Oakland at home.

- The Jets and Colts are poised to be very serious contenders to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. Who would love to see Favre and Manning in the AFC Championship game?

- The elements are there for an all-New York or Manning-reunion Super Bowl.

- It's still early, but it's very likely that a 10-6 team in the NFC will not make the playoffs.

- Brett Favre's pilgrimage since March 4th has been staggering and unique...much like his career.

And with that, let's take a look at the Thanksgiving games and the rest of the Week 13 match-ups:

• Tennessee Titans (10-1) at Detroit Lions (0-11): CBS, 12:30pm EST, Thanksgiving Day - Moving right along...

• Seattle Seahawks (2-9) at Dallas Cowboys (7-4): NBC, 4:15pm EST, Thanksgiving Day - Seattle's last two Thanksgiving visits to Texas Stadium has resulted in a combined score of 82-21.

• Arizona Cardinals (7-4) at Philadelphia Eagles (5-5-1): NFLN, 8:15pm EST, Thanksgiving Day - The Cardinals have won more games vs. Philadelphia than any other team they've faced in their franchise's history.

• San Francisco 49ers (3-8) at Buffalo Bills (6-5): FOX, 1pm EST - After shredding KC's defense for 54 points last week in KC, my bet's on the Bills taking care of business at home vs. another weak defense who got sliced up vs. Dallas on the road.

• Carolina Panthers (8-3) at Green Bay Packers (5-6): FOX, 1pm EST - If there were ever a game that Packers QB Aaron Rodgers needed to play like his life depended on it, it would be this one as the Pack must win to stay close to Chicago and Minnesota. I have a feeling that the Lambeau mystique might stop by and say hello.

• New Orleans Saints (6-5) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-3): FOX, 1pm EST - Saints QB Drew Brees is having a career year, but this Tampa secondary is ranked #2 in the league, and the Bucs have yet to lose a game at home.

• NY Giants (10-1) at Washington Redskins (7-4): FOX, 1pm EST - If the Skins want to disrupt the defending champs' current surge, they will need to open up the offense, control the clock, and avoid turnovers.

• Baltimore Ravens (7-4) at Cincinnati Bengals (1-9-1): CBS, 1pm EST - WR Chad Johnson will be back with the team after being suspended by the Ravens for detrimental conduct. His return, though, is like sending in a check for $1000 to help with the national debt.

• Indianapolis Colts (7-4) at Cleveland Browns (4-7): CBS, 1pm EST - Indy is 4-2 on the road this season, and they travel to the Dawg Pound to take on a Browns team whose only home win this season is against the defending Super Bowl champions. QB Brady Quinn is out for the year.

• Miami Dolphins (6-5) at St. Louis Rams (2-9): CBS, 1pm EST - The first two picks in the 2008 NFL Draft square off against each other as Dolphins T Jake Long will face Rams DE Chris Long.

• Atlanta Falcons (7-4) at San Diego Chargers (4-7): FOX, 4:05pm EST - Former Chargers RB Michael Turner who was L.T.'s backup returns to southern California to face his former team and protege'.

• Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3) at New England Patriots (7-4): CBS, 4:15pm EST - The Steelers are 7-1 in the AFC while the Pats are 5-4. New England spanked Miami last week by running up 48 points on that 20th ranked defense. Pittsburgh is #1.

• Denver Broncos (6-5) at NY Jets (8-3): CBS, 4:15pm EST - The last time Brett Favre faced Denver was in Week 7 last season. He torched that Broncos secondary in OT with an 82-yard TD pass. Things aren't much different as the Broncos secondary is ranked 25th.

• Kansas City Chiefs (1-10) at Oakland Raiders (3-8): CBS, 4:15pm EST - The room is spinning -- I need to lie down.

• Chicago Bears (6-5) at Minnesota Vikings (6-5): NBC, 8:15pm EST - RB Adrian Peterson has chewed up a bunch of yards vs. Chicago and I expect he'll have the same success at home on the national stage.

• Jacksonville Jaguars (4-7) at Houston Texans (4-7): ESPN, 8:30pm EST, MNF - CSI: Miami starts at halftime.

STANDINGS

Chris Mortensen: 11-5, 120-56

Mark Schlereth: 12-4, 115-61

Eddie Chinn: 10-6, 114-62

Mike Golic: 7-9, 102-73

Ron Jaworski: 13-2, 108-56

NFL 2008 Week 12 Picks

Thoughts from Week 11...

- Pittsburgh beat San Diego 11-10 in a very tough, cold, and ugly battle. It was the first time in NFL history that a game ended with this score.

- Tons of media pundits kept hammering the fact that Tony Romo returning wasn't going to make Dallas that much better. Let's ask Washington now what they think.

- The Tennessee "Run-down-your-throat" Titans have passed for 519 yards and 5 TD's in their last two games. Who knew they had it in them?

- Just in case no one has noticed...Carolina is 8-2. These sly Panthers have silently compiled the 2nd-best record in the NFC.

- Eagles QB Donovan McNabb said that he didn't know that NFL games ended in a tie after one OT period. That's kind of like an Olympic athlete saying that he didn't realize there's a medal for third place.

- Brett Favre and the Jets are 7-3. Aaron Rodgers and the Packers are 5-5. I wonder if the Packers brass is having a "Wanna get away?" moment.

- If Indianapolis makes the playoffs, look out.

- I think it was a great move by Cleveland to begin the Brady Quinn-era when they did. This gives him plenty of time to grow and get polished since this year is a wash considering Pittsburgh seemingly has the AFC North wrapped up.

- I'm so glad to see Mike Singletary get that first win under his belt. The rest of the season is a very tough stretch of games for the Niners.

- The only team that I believe has their division wrapped up is Arizona.

- There are six weeks left in the season. It's time to get serious.

• Cincinnati Bengals (1-8-1) at Pittsburgh Steelers (7-3): NFLN, 8:15pm EST, Thursday Night - Check out The Office.
  

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-3) at Detroit Lions (0-10): FOX, 1pm EST - Isn't it interesting that no one has hired Matt Millen?

• Chicago Bears (5-5) at St. Louis Rams (2-8): FOX, 1pm EST - This dreadful Rams defense appears to be the perfect remedy for Chicago who is battered and bruised after last week's annihilation by Green Bay.

• Minnesota Vikings (5-5) at Jacksonville Jaguars (4-6): FOX, 1pm EST - Jags RB Maurice Jones-Drew has scored six TD's in the last three games. He faces the league's #2 rushing defense, but the Vikes are 1-4 on the road.

• Philadelphia Eagles (5-4-1) at Baltimore Ravens (6-4): FOX, 1pm EST - Well, it's official: Philly's offense scares no one. Their rushing attack is weak which means that McNabb must air it out constantly...pretty easy to figure out. The McNabb era just might be over after this season.

• San Francisco 49ers (3-7) at Dallas Cowboys (6-4): FOX, 1pm EST - As the Texas Stadium era winds down, each home game will be a live hornet's nest.

• NY Jets (7-3) at Tennessee Titans (10-0): CBS, 1pm EST - I love this match-up. Two grizzled veterans having really good years leading their divisions. Favre will have to have a perfect game on the road facing a defense that is #1 in turnover ratio and loves to pressure the QB into quick decisions. It won't surprise me to see Brett Favre and Co. beat the Titans, but Tennessee should stay strong at home.

• Buffalo Bills (5-5) at Kansas City Chiefs (1-9): CBS, 1pm EST - Buffalo is in a tail spin having lost 4 in a row, and KC has already crashed losing their last 6 games. Something has to give this Sunday, and I'm guessing it will be Larry Johnson and Co. at home.

• New England Patriots (6-4) at Miami Dolphins (6-4): CBS, 1pm EST - These two teams are very evenly matched statistically and are tied for second in the AFC East. Miami is hot right now, and a win could mean a share of first if the Titans beat NY.

• Houston Texans (3-7) at Cleveland Browns (4-6): CBS, 1pm EST - While the Brady Quinn era is getting revved up, the Browns defense is hurting and soft. Houston hasn't won on the road this season, but their offense is #5 in the league and is primed for the upset.

• Oakland Raiders (2-8) at Denver Broncos (6-4): CBS, 4:05pm EST - There is not one positive thing to say about the Raiders who have scored two offensive TD's in the last six games. Both defenses are horrendous, but Denver's offense is solid despite their RB woes.

• Washington Redskins (6-4) at Seattle Seahawks (6-4): FOX, 4:15pm EST - Last season's early exit from the playoffs at the hands of the 'Hawks plus last week's heart crushing loss to Dallas at home is motivation enough.

• NY Giants (9-1) at Arizona Cardinals (7-3): FOX, 4:15pm EST - The last time the Giants stepped onto Univ. of Phoenix Stadium, they beat the undefeated Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. This will be a great battle, but NY simply is like a Sherman tank right now.

• Carolina Panthers (8-2) at Atlanta Falcons (6-4): FOX, 4:15pm EST - Both offenses are fueled by their running game and have very effective, and sometimes lethal, passing attacks. Carolina's defense is more stringent, but Atlanta is 4-1 at home.

• Indianapolis Colts (6-4) at San Diego Chargers (4-6): NBC, 8:15pm EST - This contest in southern California will be quite entertaining to watch. Indy is hot and remembers their playoff exit in January at the hands of these Chargers.

• Green Bay Packers (5-5) at New Orleans Saints (5-5): ESPN, 8:30pm EST, MNF - Both teams are fighting for their playoff lives. Green Bay's intimidating secondary vs. Drew Brees will be a key battle to watch. The Packers lead the league with 7 defensive TD's.

STANDINGS

Chris Mortensen: 13-3, 109-51

Eddie Chinn: 13-3, 104-56

Mark Schlereth: 13-3, 103-57

Ron Jaworski: 10-5, 95-54

Mike Golic: 12-4, 95-64

NFL 2008 Week 11 picks

There's nothing quite as disheartening as a team that just can't find any success on the football field while being led by an inept quarterback. You can have very lethal receivers and bone-crushing running backs, but it takes an operative quarterback to get them the ball.

When your field general is out-of-rhythm, careless, and color blind, it breeds humiliation and skepticism in the hearts and minds of the fan. When you see them under center or going back for a pass, you'd rather take a burning candle and write your name with hot wax on your stomach.

But it's all worth it the moment your realize that those days are over. When that new face emerges from the dusty horizon, hope spring eternal. You don't care how he looks, what number he's wearing, or who he worships. The aura of the team is transformed at least for that moment when he makes that walk from the sideline to the huddle for the very first time. He may be someone that was already tagged with high expectations or an inexperienced veteran that simply has been waiting his turn.

And then, words can't describe what happens when this heir-apparent immediately shows signs of becoming the antithesis of the former regime. Watching him exude confidence, poise, and leadership triggers a swell of relief and trust throughout the land.

The 2008 season has witnessed some franchises relishing in some unexpected success so far this year. Most of this fortune can be attributed to the eye-opening performance of their new leader behind center.

In Baltimore, rookie Joe Flacco was thrown into the starting role before the season began mostly due to injuries and some indecision. While his stats don't reveal it, Flacco has displayed the leadership and poise that the Ravens (6-3) has been seeking. First-round pick Matt Ryan is tearing it up in his rookie season in Atlanta, and his stats this season are eerily similar to those of Eli Manning. His accuracy and aptitude are as strong as a veteran QB as the Falcons are basking in a 6-3 record as well.

The Cleveland Browns got a huge boost of confidence last week vs. Denver when 2nd-year QB Brady Quinn started his first NFL game in front of his hometown fans in relief of the inconsistent Derek Anderson. While the Browns lost the game, you couldn't help but notice that Cleveland entered a new era with Quinn at the helm. He was 23 of 35 for 239 yards and two TD's. He did not turn the ball over and came very close to winning that game.

But, there is a man who is a rookie to the city of New York this year that has caused mass hysteria that would rival what is going on in Cleveland, Baltimore, and Atlanta. The grizzled legend, Brett Favre, has brought Jets fans to their knees with their eyes fixed to the heavens in gratitude. While his maverick-style of play does produce critical turnovers at times, you don't get the feeling that Jets fans want Chad Pennington or Brooks Bollinger back in the Meadowlands. His leadership, savvy, and enthusiasm has encompassed this team and they are now looking at a 6-3 record and tied for first in their division with the Patriots.

This battle kicks off a week of NFL games that are quite critical for some franchises if they want to have any hopes of playing in January.

• NY Jets (6-3) at New England Patriots (6-3): NFLN, 8:15pm EST, Thursday Night - There's nothing like a battle on national TV between division opponents who simply can't stand each other. If only Brady were healthy...

• Denver Broncos (5-4) at Atlanta Falcons (6-3): CBS, 1pm EST - How bad is Denver's defense? Only Detroit, KC, and St. Louis are worse. Atlanta's 6th ranked offense (2nd rushing) should have a field day at home where they are 4-0 this season.

• Houston Texans (3-6) at Indianapolis Colts (5-4): CBS, 1pm EST - It's very difficult seeing an upset at Lucas Oil Stadium this week. Indy is coming off a huge win in Pittsburgh, has Bob Sanders back on defense, and they flat out own the Texans winning 12 of 13 games.

• Oakland Raiders (2-7) at Miami Dolphins (5-4): CBS, 1pm EST - The Dolphins are starting to get the hang of this reality called winning while the Raiders view winning as simply a phenomenon.

• Baltimore Ravens (6-3) at NY Giants (8-1): CBS, 1pm EST - If you like hard-hitting football, you've come to the right place. NY has the top rated running attack while the Ravens are #1 in stopping the run. The Giants have never beaten Baltimore, and they know that.

• Philadelphia Eagles (5-4) at Cincinnati Bengals (1-8): FOX, 1pm EST - Teams who can't get to the quarterback typically don't do well. Through nine games, the Bengals have sacked the QB nine times. Philly has 28.

• Chicago Bears (5-4) at Green Bay Packers (4-5): FOX, 1pm EST - These two teams have met more times than any two teams in NFL history. This classic rivalry has always been a joy to watch. It's going to be cold and possible snow. Now, this is football!

• New Orleans Saints (4-5) at Kansas City Chiefs (1-8): FOX, 1pm EST - Despite the records, I expect a high-scoring and close contest in Arrowhead Stadium. The Saints defense on the road has been horrible, but Drew Brees has had huge games vs. the Chiefs.

• Minnesota Vikings (5-4) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-3): FOX, 1pm EST - Two excellent defenses square off in south Florida as Tampa will have their hands full with RB Adrian Peterson and Minnesota will need to put intense pressure on Jeff Garcia. The Vikings have not been good on the road while Tampa is undefeated at home.

• Detroit Lions (0-9) at Carolina Panthers (7-2): FOX, 1pm EST - Has everyone tried Facebook?

• St. Louis Rams (2-7) at San Francisco 49ers (2-7): FOX, 4:05pm EST - Mike Singletary will be an NFL head coach somewhere next year.

• Arizona Cardinals (6-3) at Seattle Seahawks (2-7): FOX, 4:05pm EST - Matt Hasselbeck returns to lead the Seahawks offense, but he can't play defense.

• San Diego Chargers (4-5) at Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3): CBS, 4:15pm EST - San Diego has never won in Pittsburgh, almost lost to KC last week despite changing defensive coordinators, and the Steelers are not happy having lost two straight home games.

• Tennessee Titans (9-0) at Jacksonville Jaguars (4-5): CBS, 4:15pm EST - I believe that the elements are here in J-town for an upset, and I don't believe that the Titans will go undefeated. I just don't see it happening this week.

• Dallas Cowboys (5-4) at Washington Redskins (6-3): NBC, 8:15pm EST, Sunday Night - The Cowboys will have a new look in the nation's capitol with many players returning from a long hiatus due to injuries including QB Tony Romo and CB Terence Newman. Dallas must pressure Jason Campbell relentlessly much like Pittsburgh did last week. RB Clinton Portis is doubtful to play.

• Cleveland Browns (3-6) at Buffalo Bills (5-4): ESPN, 8:30pm EST, MNF - I know it's early, but you might as well start your Christmas shopping.
  

STANDINGS

Chris Mortensen: 9-5, 96-48

Eddie Chinn: 12-2, 91-53

Mark Schlereth: 10-4, 90-54

Ron Jaworksi: 10-3, 85-49

Mike Golic: 8-6, 83-60

NFL 2008 Week 10 picks

On the heels of an historic Presidential election, let's take a look at the division races and see who the candidates might be for this season's playoff field.

The AFC East is the tightest division in the league. With Brett Favre's arrival, Tom Brady's departure, and the surprising upsurge of Buffalo and Miami, the balance of power is no longer encompassing Gillette Stadium. Considering the firepower in the other divisions, I doubt this division produces a wild card team.

In the AFC North, there are two races going on: one is for the division crown between Pittsburgh and Baltimore while Cleveland and Cincinnati duke it out for the cellar position. The Steelers and Ravens both possess bruising defenses and like to run it down your throat, but Pitt has 5 of the next 8 games at home while their road record is 4-1.

In the AFC South, Tennessee appears to be in control with a four-game lead over Indy and five games over Jacksonville and Houston. I think it's safe to say that they'll be playing in January if they can stay healthy.

The AFC West is the weakest division in the league with Denver leading the way at 4-4. San Diego's defense is porous thanks to a horrendous secondary at is now at 3-5. Oakland and Kansas City are probably the two worst franchises in the league when it comes to talent level, chemistry, and motivation.

When the last place team is the 5-4 Dallas Cowboys, I'd say that that division is pretty strong. The NFC East is led by the defending champion Giants while Washington and Philly are right on their tails. The chances of both wild card teams coming from this division are excellent.

In the NFC North, the Windy City has seen a winning attitude blow into Soldier Field thanks to a productive running attack and sound play at QB. Their defense isn't bad either as they sit at 5-3. Green Bay and Minnesota are 4-4 and very much a threat to take over this division too. Detroit needs to play like their life depended on it in order to reach .500.

The NFC South is also quite strong with Carolina (6-2) and Tampa Bay (6-3) headlining the show. Atlanta is 5-3 and in a perfect place to strike a death blow with five of their next eight at home including the next three in a row. Most of their opponents are very feeble vs. the run, and the Falcons are #1 in rushing. And don't count out New Orleans at 4-4.

If you would have told me when the season began that Arizona would be leading the NFC West by three games at 5-3 at the Week 10 mark, I would have recommended that you have a CAT scan. The Cardinals, especially Kurt Warner, are looking very good right now while Seattle, San Francisco, and St. Louis are on life support at 2-6.

There are some match-ups in Week 10 that could provide a nice twist to this division landscape. Let's take a look.

• Denver Broncos (4-4) at Cleveland Browns (3-5): NFL Network, 8:15pm, Thursday Night - Huge night for Brady Quinn. The 2nd-year QB gets his first NFL start vs. a bitter rival on the national stage in front of his hometown fans.

• New Orleans Saints (4-4) at Atlanta Falcons (5-3): FOX, 1pm EST - The Saints are 0-3 on the road while the Falcons are undefeated at home. QB Matt Ryan and RB Michael Turner should have a big day.

• Seattle Seahawks (2-6) at Miami Dolphins (4-4): FOX, 1pm EST - QB Chad Pennington is probably having the best season of his career. Miami is clicking right now on both sides of the ball...Seattle isn't.

• Green Bay Packers (4-4) at Minnesota Vikings (4-4): FOX, 1pm EST - Excellent showdown between two quality RB's in Ryan Grant and Adrian Peterson. The Vikings are #2 in stopping the run, and the crowd should be charged vs. a division rival.

• St. Louis Rams (2-6) at NY Jets (5-3): FOX, 1pm EST - The table has been set for a NY ripping. The Rams' defense is just awful while the Jets' 4th-ranked run defense shouldn't have a problem stopping the Rams who might be without Steven Jackson.

• Tennessee Titans (8-0) at Chicago Bears (5-3): CBS, 1pm EST - Both coaches are doing fantastic jobs this year. They each lack a superstar QB, possess a nice running attack, and are anchored by stringent defenses. You may not see any TD's in this one.

• Jacksonville Jaguars (3-5) at Detroit Lions (0-8): CBS, 1pm EST - Daunte Culpepper is more than likely getting the start vs. a Jags team that is pretty bitter after losing to a former winless team in Cincy last week.

• Buffalo Bills (5-3) at New England Patriots (5-3): CBS, 1pm EST - Statistically, these two teams are pretty even on both sides of the ball. Buffalo has yet to win a game vs. a division opponent and that will be hard to change vs. the Pats at home.

• Baltimore Ravens (5-3) at Houston Texans (3-5): CBS, 1pm EST - This will actually be a fun game to watch. Sage Rosenfels gets the nod at QB for Houston and he's solid. The Ravens' defense, running game, and QB play from rookie Joe Flacco is very effective right now.

• Carolina Panthers (6-2) at Oakland Raiders (2-6): FOX, 4:05pm EST - Last week, Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell was 6 of 19 for 31 yards and an interception vs. Atlanta. Yes, 31 yards...Bart Starr could suit up today and throw for 31 yards.

• Indianapolis Colts (4-4) at Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2): CBS, 4:15pm EST - The last time these two teams met, the Colts K Mike Vanderjagt missed a 46-yard field goal in the closing seconds in the AFC Championship Game in 2005. Pittsburgh has won 14 of the last 16 meetings. A sub-par Peyton Manning and limp Colts offense vs. this suffocating Steelers defense is a disaster waiting to happen.

• Kansas City Chiefs (1-7) at San Diego Chargers (3-5): CBS, 4:15pm EST - Trust me, Facebook is much more entertaining.

• NY Giants (7-1) at Philadelphia Eagles (5-3): NBC, 8:15pm EST, Sunday Night - Nothing like a good old-fashioned NFC battle to cap off the day. Both teams are dangerous on both sides of the ball. NY has won five of the past six encounters.

• San Francisco 49ers (2-6) at Arizona Cardinals (5-3): ESPN, 8:30pm EST, MNF - During halftime of the October 26th contest vs. Seattle, interim coach Mike Singletary dropped his pants in front of his players to prove the point that they were getting their tails whipped. Expect more exposure in the desert against Kurt Warner.

BYE: DALLAS, WASHINGTON, TAMPA BAY, CINCINNATI

STANDINGS

Chris Mortensen: 9-5, 87-43

Mark Schlereth: 10-4, 80-50

Eddie Chinn: 11-3, 79-51

Ron Jaworski: 7-6, 75-46

Mike Golic: 7-7, 75-54

Locker room or kitchen?

I've noticed through the years that a reporter's intellect level is sometimes reflected in the kind of questions that are posed in interviews, both formal and in the locker room.

I don't have a lot of respect for those who fire off duds like, "What is your goal going into this game?"... Have you considered firing your defensive coordinator? ... "You are now a Super Bowl champion, is this the highlight of your season?"

I am not a sexist, but you can't help but notice that several of these reporters who fall in this "no-clue" category are female. It's kind of like men teaching Lamaze classes.

Perfect example below. I read this on SI.com.

Fox is weighing whether to assign reporter Danyelle Sargent to more NFL games after an embarrassing mistake last week. During a taped interview with new 49ers coach Mike Singletary, Sargent said, ``I hear your mentor Bill Walsh was one of the first phone calls you made when you found out you had the job.''

Don't you know Vince Lombardi, Tom Landry, Paul Brown, and...Bill Walsh all just looked at each other and groaned in their grave when those words were uttered.

NFL 2008 Week 9 Picks

Mark Twain once said, "Climate is what we expect. Weather is what we get."

The 2008 NFL season is at the midway point, and it has been anything but calculable. It has lived up to the reputation of this league by swatting at off-season expectations like pesky flies at a Sunday picnic.

There are teams like Indianapolis, Seattle, and San Diego who are used to surveying the scene from a much higher mountain top than the mesa where they currently reside. What about those squads who entered the season with very low expectations? Buffalo, Washington, Atlanta, and Baltimore have posted winning records when many expected them to be smelling a little ripe right about now.

And, you can't ignore the very impressive displays of dominance and efficiency by Tennessee, NY Giants, Pittsburgh, Carolina, and even New England in the wake of Tom Brady being MIA.

Here are some notes of recognition that I think are worth pointing out at the half-way mark:

1. MVP - Clinton Portis. He has 944 yards averaging 5 yards per carry plus 7 TD's to help lead Washington to a very impressive 6-2 record. Honorable mention: Kurt Warner. Drew Brees is having a phenomenal year, but Warner's numbers are also excellent as Arizona is in first place in the soft NFC West.

2. Rookie of the Year - Chris Johnson. He leads Tennessee with 626 yards rushing while averaging 5.1 yards per carry plus 4 TD's and has given coach Jeff Fisher an excellent tandem along with LenDale White to strike fear in opposing defenses. Honorable mention: Matt Ryan. Atlanta...yes, Atlanta...is 4-3 and a legitimate playoff dark horse team.

3. Coach of the Year - Jeff Fisher. To lead a team to a 7-0 record with a fossil QB, sub-par WR's, and a youthful running attack takes a special head coach, and you couldn't ask for a better one in Fisher. Of course, an ironclad defense helps too. Honorable mention: Jim Zorn. This man had never been a head coach or even called plays. This hire is now looking like a genius move by Daniel Snyder.

4. If the Super Bowl were played today... - NY Giants vs. Tennessee Titans. Two punishing and explosive defenses. Two lethal running attacks. Two emotional coaches. One earth-shaking battle.

Here is how the second half of the season is kicking off...trust me, you'll want to cancel your Sunday plans:

• NY Jets (4-3) at Buffalo Bills (5-2): CBS, 1pm EST -This is a critical AFC East battle. The Bills are undefeated at home and have displayed a well-balanced team this season. Brett Favre must protect the ball and get good field position from the Jets defense that ranks third in sacks and fourth in stopping the run.

• Jacksonville Jaguars (3-4) at Cincinnati Bengals (0-8): CBS, 1pm EST - Brush up on the candidates' platforms.

• Baltimore Ravens (4-3) at Cleveland Browns (3-4): CBS, 1pm EST - Both offenses are scraping the bottom of the barrel, but QB Joe Flacco and Co. have stomped their last two foes, Miami and Oakland. The Ravens defense is making waves wherever it goes this season.

• Houston Texans (3-4) at Minnesota Vikings (3-4): CBS, 1pm EST - There hasn't been a problem in Houston as the Texans offense has been hot the last few games giving the Texans three straight wins. Minnesota's defense and Adrian Peterson will be enough to bring them back to earth.

• Detroit Lions (0-7) at Chicago Bears (4-3): FOX, 1pm EST - Stop and think of any possible way to lose an NFL game, and Detroit has probably done it. Why stop now?

• Green Bay Packers (4-3) at Tennessee Titans (7-0): FOX, 1pm EST - I love this match-up. Both teams have excellent secondaries so look for the Pack and the Titans to get their running game going. That's good news for Tennessee as the Pack is 25th in stopping the run. Green Bay is rested and just might put up a good fight, but that Tennessee defense and running attack should prevail once again.

• Arizona Cardinals (4-3) at St. Louis Rams (2-5): FOX, 1pm EST - Motivation has a way of trumping all the stats and rankings. Kurt Warner always seems to have an extra potion of hunger when he comes back to St. Louis.

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-3) at Kansas City Chiefs (1-6): FOX, 1pm EST - Last season after losing 6 straight games, Coach Herm Edwards said, “People aren’t used to this in Kansas City. Get over it. It happens. It’s called life. You can’t think you’re too big that it’s not going to happen to you. It happens to everybody." If you follow that chain of logic, so does unemployment.

• Miami Dolphins (3-4) at Denver Broncos (4-3): CBS, 4:05pm EST - It's been very difficult for Denver to stop the pass this season, but it's been even more of a challenge to stop the run. A ruptured defense can be like walking around with a cement block tied to your leg. You can move forward but no one can tell. Miami's offense is ranked higher than Jacksonville and New England -- Denver's last two losses.

• Atlanta Falcons (4-3) at Oakland Raiders (2-5): FOX, 4:15pm EST - It's not often that beating a 4-3 team at home is considered a huge upset, but this is what the Raiders are facing. They are very hobbled at RB, QB JaMarcus Russell continues to disappoint, and the defense is shameful. Atlanta QB Matt Ryan is blossoming well, WR Roddy White is white hot, and Michael Turner is lethal at RB.

• Dallas Cowboys (5-3) at NY Giants (6-1): FOX, 4:15pm EST - Last season's divisional playoff loss at home was crushing for Dallas and is seared into their memories. But, they are simply too banged up and off-balance to seek revenge this time vs. a Giants team that appears to be impenetrable. This contest may need an "R" rating for gore and disturbing images.

• Philadelphia Eagles (4-3) at Seattle Seahawks (2-5): FOX, 4:15pm EST - This season isn't exactly the warm farewell tour that coach Mike Holmgren pictured this past off-season. Philadelphia poses a huge problem for a dormant Seahawks team which is 31st in offense and 27th in defense.

• New England Patriots (5-2) at Indianapolis Colts (3-4): NBC, 8:15pm EST, Sunday Night - QB Matt Cassel is putting up Brady-like numbers in his first seven games as an NFL starting QB. But, their defense hasn't been as effective as years past, and that just might come into play on the road against a Colts team that needs to rebound offensively. Indy's defense isn't doing well either, but they are 2nd in pass defense and will probably give Cassel fits especially with S Bob Sanders back in the fold.

• Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2) at Washington Redskins (6-2): ESPN, 8:30pm EST, MNF - Pittsburgh has beaten Houston, Cleveland, Baltimore, Jacksonville, and Cincy while losing to the Giants and Philly. They have a great defense and solid running game, but this will be a true measure of how good they are so far this season. Washington has beaten New Orleans, Arizona, Dallas, Philly, and Cleveland. Their losses have come against the Giants and Rams. FedEx Field will be registering on the Richter scale.
  

STANDINGS

Chris Mortensen: 9-5, 78-38

Mark Schlereth: 9-5, 70-46

Ron Jaworski: 7-6, 68-40

Mike Golic: 8-6, 68-47

Eddie Chinn: 9-5, 68-48

NFL 2008 Week 8 picks

As we approach the half way point of the 2008 NFL season, I'm becoming aware of an awkward and somewhat humorous element that has crept into the legion of NFL fans: Hormonal emotions.

Frustration and disappointment over a team's plight are not alien manifestations as football fans on each end of the fanatic spectrum have expressed themselves in pure unadulterated honesty before.

But, this recent trend of hysterical and temperamental sentiments is overreaction to the core, and it can define the intelligence level of the fan base.

What makes this outburst so bizarre is also the timing. Why are some fans writing off the season in Week 7?

This can't be any more evident than in Dallas. The media and fans raised the expectations for the Cowboys to Everest heights. The Cowboys themselves didn't. There was talk of 16-0, 14-2, winning the Super Bowl, etc. Dallas now sets at 4-3 after hitting a rough stretch of games where they've lost 3 of 4 due to injuries to some key players, a lack of emotion, and a befuddled defense. All of these factors can also affect how you develop and execute game plans. The next thing you hear is an outpouring of fans demanding that Wade Phillips be fired and a shallow prediction that Dallas has just missed the playoffs, they should just start over and rebuild, etc.

Are you kidding me? Of course, these are the same fans that raise the roof at Texas Stadium and do The Wave when Dallas is five yards from the end zone WITH THE BALL thus jeopardizing the offense from hearing the signals.

I can understand these helpless feelings coming from fans in Detroit, Oakland, and Cincinnati whose teams are in disarray from top to bottom. Drastic actions in those type of cities can sometimes be justified. The Lions cut out their cancerous GM, but there's still a lot of work to do. Oakland changed coaches but it doesn't matter who is patrolling the sidelines if Al Davis is owner. Cincy might need to make a change at head coach just like St. Louis did as the Rams are not the same pathetic team under Jim Haslett. San Francisco followed the same model and installed Mike Singletary as head coach, and my guess is you're going to see positive vibes come from that city too.

Sometimes, it is what it is, but it's not the end of the world. Football fans aren't better or worse people than they were before the season began.

These things have a way of working out for a lot of teams, and history is full of teams who have started very slow and rusty only to roar back and not only make the playoffs but to actually come away world champions (Yes, Giant fans, I'm referring to the Big Blue.)

The season is still early for many teams, including Dallas. So many things can still happen to jump-start a sluggish team, but at the same rate, things can get worse. That's why the NFL is so great. Events and circumstances on and off the field can strike at a moment's notice out of nowhere and alter your expectations...good or bad.

There is plenty of time for things to turn around so embrace and enjoy the remainder of the season. Just take a deep breath and leave those unwarranted emotions at the door...until the playoffs arrive.

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2) at Dallas Cowboys (4-3): FOX, 1pm EST - There is a sound coming out of Valley Ranch, and it's not pleasant. Coaches and players alike are sick of losing and are on a mission. The home crowd and an opportunity to beat Jeff Garcia, who is a Cowboys nemesis, should be enough to kick start The Boys.

• Washington Redskins (5-2) at Detroit Lions (0-6): FOX, 1pm EST - Crazier things have happened, but Detroit is skimming the barrel in every statistical category so an upset win over the Skins is about as remote as me buying the Desperate Housewives DVD set.

• St. Louis Rams (2-4) at New England Patriots (4-2): FOX, 1pm EST - Both teams are second in their division which is staggering if you think about the last few seasons for each team. QB Matt Cassel appears to be getting comfortable with the Patriots offense which was evident in last week's thrashing of Denver at home.

• Atlanta Falcons (4-2) at Philadelphia Eagles (3-3): FOX, 1pm EST - This will be the ultimate test for rookie QB Matt Ryan who has not faired too well vs. teams anchored by stout defenses although he did well vs. Chicago in his last outing two weeks ago. Both teams are coming off byes, and coach Andy Reid is 9-0 in games after bye weeks.

• Arizona Cardinals (4-2) at Carolina Panthers (5-2): FOX, 1pm EST - Trench warfare determines this one. Both squads have dynamic defensive lines which can alter any turf war. They also each have great passing attacks, but Carolina has a better running game.

• Buffalo Bills (5-1) at Miami Dolphins (2-4): CBS, 1pm EST - Despite the record, Miami has been a joy to watch this year on offense, but this Bills defense is serious. Something tells me that south Florida won't be sunny when the final gun sounds.

• San Diego Chargers (3-4) vs. New Orleans Saints (3-4) in London, England: CBS, 1pm EST - This will be QB Drew Brees' first time to face the Chargers since he left them in 2006. The void left by Reggie Bush due to injury will be cavernous. Both teams cannot afford to lose if they want to keep within striking distance in their respective divisions. Wembley Stadium historically has horrible field conditions.

• Kansas City Chiefs (1-5) at NY Jets (3-3): CBS, 1pm EST - Look for RB Thomas Jones to have a huge game vs. this very fragile KC defense which allowed over 300 yards rushing last week vs. Tennessee. This should allow Brett Favre to settle down as he needs a turnover-free game in front of his home fans.

• Oakland Raiders (2-4) at Baltimore Ravens (3-3): CBS, 1pm EST - Not going to waste much time here. Baltimore's defense is stifling and the Raiders offense is very ineffective. The Ravens need to focus on stopping the Raiders RB's, and they should do fine.

• Cleveland Browns (2-4) at Jacksonville Jaguars (3-3): CBS, 4:05pm EST - I might have picked Cleveland here in an upset due to their success in J-town (two straight wins), but the enigmatic TE Kellen Winslow and Cleveland management are at odds and those types of dynamics have a tendency to rattle the chemistry.

• Cincinnati Bengals (0-7) at Houston Texans (2-4): CBS, 4:05pm EST - On paper, this one is already in the books. Cincy has never lost to Houston in their three meetings, but this isn't that Bengals team. They are very unstable at RB, and QB Carson Palmer will miss his third straight game due to elbow problems and just might be out for the year. A loss will have the fire under Marvin Lewis glowing white.

• NY Giants (5-1) at Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1): FOX, 4:15pm EST - My taste buds stung and salivated when I saw this matchup. Can you think of two more balanced and even teams playing right now? Solid running attacks. Smothering defenses who love to rush the QB. Stellar quarterbacks. WR Plaxico Burress visits Heinz Field for the first time since he left in 2004. The Terrible Towels will be thick.

• Seattle Seahawks (1-5) at San Francisco 49ers (2-5): FOX, 4:15pm EST - New Niners head coach Mike Singletary takes over for his mentor, Mike Nolan. Singletary is a man of fiery passion, fierce competitiveness, and impeccable character. These kinds of traits have a way of creeping into the mindsets of the players. This matchup against a lousy Seahawks team should be the perfect inauguration for the Singletary era.

• Indianapolis Colts (3-3) at Tennessee Titans (6-0): ESPN, 8:30pm EST, MNF - Whoa. Indianapolis travels to Music City to take on their division rivals who are having the time of their life right now. A rejuvenated Kerry Collins, a heart-stopping running attack, and a defense that makes offense wet themselves has this Titans team on cloud nine. Peyton Manning is having an average year and has not done well on the road this year. Indy's run defense is also coming apart at the seams. Both teams have dynamic coaches. Don't go anywhere.

BYE: CHICAGO, DENVER, GREEN BAY, MINNESOTA

STANDINGS:

Chris Mortensen: 10-4, 69-33

Mark Schlereth: 8-6, 61-41

Ron Jaworski: 10-3, 61-34

Mike Golic: 7-7, 60-41

Eddie Chinn: 8-6, 59-43