Chomping Down on the Gators: Can Cincy bite back?
After scouring the internet for information on the Cincinnati-Florida Sugar Bowl matchup, I found it nearly impossible to get any sort of education about the actual game itself. In case you were lucky enough to avoid the onslaught of media attention to non-football information on the Sugar Bowl, here is what you’ve missed:
Rambling about Urban Meyer’s stress incident, discussion about Brian Kelly, Charlie Strong and Jeff Quinn leaving, interviews with players about the prior issues, a few tidbits on All-Conference and All-America selections, the obligatory “what it means for Seniors to play in their last game”, the usual Tim Tebow talk and a bunch of other nonsense that really does not matter all that much. The avid fan wants to know about their opponent and how their team is going to win this game? I don’t care who is coaching elsewhere or next year until this game is over. I want to know if the Bearcats have a chance to upset Florida.
Instead of rambling about what everyone else is rambling about, I’d like to delve into the season Florida had and try and provide some sort of hope for Bearcats fans.
First and foremost, I’m throwing out the home games Florida played against Charleston Southern, Troy, and FIU. They aren’t worth evaluation. And don’t give me any crap about Troy being good because they had a winning record and went to a bowl. They got blown out by all real competition and their marquee win was at home against a 5-7 Conference USA team (UAB).
Florida played ten meaningful games and won nine of them. Four of these games were never really in doubt.
The Well Played:
The Gators won big at Kentucky (41-7), took out rival Georgia (41-17) at a neutral site, swamped Vanderbilt (27-3) at home, and blew out rival Florida State (37-10) at home. These teams combined to go 23-27 this year. Vandy’s 2-10 mark weighed that down a bit, but it points out that none of these teams were major threats to challenge the Gators. The Gators dominated each team with efficient passing from Tim Tebow, a gashing run game, and an abusive defense. The Chosen One, Tebow, obviously had no QB anywhere near his status to compete with. The only truly decent opposing QB was Christian Ponder of FSU…and he was hurt that week. All of this translated into an average margin of victory of 27.25 points per game against mediocre competition. This reveals little.
The Ugly:
Certainly, this category is a little harsh because Florida only lost one game all season, but the manner they won games was pretty “Ungatorlike.” I swear that’s a word. Six of their games were close in the 4th Quarter. In winning two national titles in three years, the Gators were not grinding out wins like this too often. This year it seemed like a trend. Florida won five games by a margin of 8.6 points per game and got stomped by 19 in the SEC title game. Obviously this section of competition was much better and it warrants mentioning that four of the six games were on the road or at neutral sites. Undefeated Alabama (13-0) and nationally ranked LSU (9-3) led this group to a 41-20 record. Florida hosted rival Tennessee (7-5), Arkansas (7-5), and traveled to South Carolina (7-5).
Each win gave cause for concern. After the home win over Tennessee, QB Tim Tebow said “It wasn’t how we envisioned or hoped.” The Arkansas game was nearly even in yardage, and Florida scraped by despite losing the turnover battle 4-0. A couple of missed field goals kept the Razorbacks from an upset. Urban Meyer acknowledged “You usually don’t win that kind of game.” Mississippi State gave the Gators a scare by forcing a couple of Tebow interceptions and running back a kickoff. The defense flustered Florida’s offense all night and Bulldog Defensive End Pernell McPhee said “I felt like we frustrated them and made them do some new things they did not usually do tonight. They got in the I formation tonight and that is the first time I have ever seen them do that.” Florida jumped out to an early lead but the Gamecocks found a way to make Florida sweat.
The Alabama game was evidence that Florida was not the best team in country, and in turn, the SEC. Tim Teblow cried and hopes for another title crashed and burned. Bama ran for 251 yards, forced a Tebow pick, and controlled the game from start to finish.
What does this mean for Cincy?
It means they have a chance. Clearly the Bearcats have not played anyone of Florida’s caliber, but they have a few things working for them.
1. Tebow has thrown some picks.
2. Mississippi State ran back a kick on the Gators. Bearcat Senior Wideout Mardy Gilyard is the best kick returner in the country.
3. Gator WR Brandon James is out with a foot injury.
4. Carlos Dunlap might get hammered on NYE and drive in NOLA.
5. Florida has not faced a pass-first spread offense…much less one led by a great QB like Tony Pike.
6. Pike and UC struggled in the cold weather at Pitt. The indoor turf should help.
7. Urban might be stressed out.
Manio-Kart 64: The Sunday Drivers
Fire up your engines football fans, Manio-Kart 64: The Sunday Drivers is coming to a Babbage’s near you!
So I was lucky enough to be first one to play this over the weekend for beating Wario Stadium in 4 seconds in a national tournament, and I gotta say, wow, is it sa-weeet! I wrote up a quick breakdown of all the new characters and their skill sets for you to check out below. I should point out, I’ve probably played a million video games in my life, and I swear, Manio-Kart 64 is the best game I have ever played. Hands down, best game, ever played, and I think you’ll agree. Just look at some of these crazy new characters!
Also, you can reserve your copy this morning at Babbage’s by calling 1800-WHATHAPPENEDTOBABBAGES? I already ordered 6! (You do have to dial the question mark though, or else it won’t work.)
Gentlemen, I’m gonna go ahead and say it. Start. Your. Engines!
(The real screen shot of the original Mario-Kart 64 is at the bottom of this page.)
Click on image to view full size.
MANIO (Peyton Manning) – The most intelligent of all the drivers. He won’t run you over but he has laser acceleration, rocket speed, and he can steer a kart better than anyone. He also never misses hitting another driver with a shell, not even a green one. If your neck and neck with Manio at the end of the race, he will beat you, every time.
ELIGI (Eli Manning) – He’s a middleweight and a bit slow, but if he gets in a groove, he’ll win some big races. Eligi is just about average in all attributes which isn’t a bad thing in this game. He plays second fiddle to his brother Manio, but, he’s blood, so.. he has to be good, right? I mean, he’s related to a great driving family, ya know? So he has to be good. I don’t know, I’m just sayin, some people will probably pick him first overall. I don’t know if I would.
PEEP (Erin Andrews) – She’s the lone female racer but she holds her own against the boys. She won’t intimidate you and she lacks the initial burst, but don’t get caught looking back at her or you’ll end up regretting it. You might even go to jail. Either way, she’ll fly right by you. Her top speed is as good as anyone and she can steer out of any situation. Peep has more than just a pretty face, body, leg, other leg, eyes, skin, and smile, she’s also a great dresser. And she drives well. Peep is everything your looking for in a woman, driver, so you’ll definitely want to take her for a spin.
LOAD (Maurice Jones-Drew) Load is ridiculously unfair. He appears small, but he weighs in at over 200 pounds and hits like a heavyweight. He’s also one of the fastest drivers in the game and his acceleration is off the charts. And unlike Mario-Kart’s Toad, Load’s steering is excellent. He’s Manio-Kart’s version of Odd Job from Golden Eye, and he’s zero fun to play against. He’s like a bowling ball rolling a thousand miles per hour. Use him in a race and set every record. Use him in battle mode and never lose a balloon.
YOCHO (Chad Ochocinco) – The most colorful of all the characters, Yocho is the most popular driver. He’s tops in speed and acceleration, and he has great hands for steering. Sure’s he’s just a middleweight, but he takes boxing lessons and he’ll hit you in the mouth if you drop a banana anywhere near him. Yocho also comes up with the most creative celebrations after a victory. One time he drove his kart off of a ramp 400 feet in the air into Choco Mountain and he jumped out at the last second with a parachute that said, “Please don’t fine me Racing Kart League!” But they did anyway, because he blew up a kart. He didn’t care though because he’s has a ton of gold coins in his pocket , and he’s just having fun.
B.K. (Brian Kelly) – B.K. just wins. Doesn’t matter the mode, or the level, or the track, he just finds a way. People say he’s an approachable guy on most days, but never on racing day. Get in his way and he’ll launch three red shells at you. Nowadays, he’s moved onto green shells, so, we’ll see if he remains as accurate. Either way B.K. is one of the heavyweights, and he’ll push you around. He steers well and has some decent speed. He lacks great acceleration but he survives because he understands that it takes more than one race to win a flower cup. It takes 4.
JAREO - (Jared Allen) – Jareo is a punk and a sore winner, but he’s definitely a still a winner. He’s one of the heavyweights, and he knows it. He’ll push you around like B.K. and then he’ll laugh at you. He’ll steal your star or your hard earned lighting with his ghost, and then he’ll laugh at you. His steering is top notch and so is his acceleration. His top speed is lacking but he does have some ridiculously wild hair, and that’s always fun. Jareo is a beast in battle mode. Good luck blocking him with your revolving red shells. He’ll run you over and have your balloons popped in a matter of seconds.
LEWSER (Ray Lewis) - He’s the terror of the turnpike, a mean, eh, purple, fighting machine. He’s is the biggest and baddest of all the racers and he’ll let you know it. He’ll put you on the curb in seconds if you cross his path. Lewser always gets off the starting block in a hurry and he demonstrates great closing speed in a footrace to the finish. He’s always in control so you’d better bring your A-Game if you stand a chance against him. Bottom line: Lewser is a winner!… And he’ll kill you if he has too.
All-Decade Fantasy Team (2000-2009)
These teams take into account a balance of talent, career longevity, average fantasy draft position, consistency, and the overall dominance of the individual over the course of the decade.
First Team
QB – Peyton Manning – The best player in the decade and probably ever, Manning has carried fantasy teams throughout his career and consistently been one of the top QBs off the board.
RB – LaDainian Tomlinson – LaDainian is often discussed in the Payton, Sanders, Brown conversation, and rightfully so. He has been one of the best talents the game has ever seen. He’s totaled an amazing 153 TDs, and he could single-handedly win your fantasy week.
RB – Shaun Alexander – Alexander was a fantasy legend with 5 straight years of 14 + TDs, including the big one with 27 and 1,880 rushing yards. A sure fire top 3 back for half of the decade, his 100 rushing TDs are second to LT, good for 8th all time.
WR – Marvin Harrison – The most reliable fantasy receiver of all time recorded 143 receptions for over 1700 yards in a single season. He had 8 straight seasons with at double digits TDs and 1,100 yards. Mark him down for 20 points every week.
WR – Randy Moss - The few years he wasted in Oakland, he made up for in one year in New England with 23 TDs. Randy is one of the best to ever play the game and he’s been an anchor on your receiving corp for nearly 10 years.
WR – Terrell Owens – Freakish in size, speed, athleticism, TO hauled in 113 touchdowns over the decade. He was a fantasy scoring machine for whatever fantasy or NFL team he played for, and he’ll agree.
TE – Tony Gonzalez - The best receiving tight end of all time has been in a league of his own. Tony had top notch hands, speed, and athleticism. He’ll score like your number 1 receiver and then he’ll dunk on your goal post.
Second Team
QB – Tom Brady – One of the best qbs of all time, Brady won 3 superbowls in the decade, and many others for your team. He gave us a 50 TD season and countless dominating performances.
RB – Priest Holmes – Priest was a legend in the early part of the decade compiling 86 rushing and receiving touchdowns. Alexander gets the slight nod for his longevity, but Priest recorded 2 of the best fantasy seasons of all time in 02 and 03 (over 20 tds and 70 receptions)
RB – Edgerrin James - Edge was a fantasy monster. A complete NFL back. Goaline carries, third downs, between the 20’s, pass catcher, you name it. He’s recorded six 1,100 yard plus rushing seasons and 74 total TDs during the decade.
WR – Torry Holt – Want 7 catches for 100 and a score, every game? Take Torry. Big Game’s amazing career gets overshadowed for playing in the TO, Moss, and Marvin era, but his incredible 13,359 yards receiving are good for 10th all time.
WR – Hines Ward - Consistently great at everything. Receptions, TDs, clutch first down catches, blocking, smiling, you name it. Hines has has excelled every year throughout the decade. He has six 80-plus reception seasons, seven 1,000 yard seasons and 71 receiving TDs.
WR – Reggie Wayne – Reggie has 63 TDs and six 1,000 yard efforts this decade. 1,510 in ‘07 to lead the league. Once Marvin’s sidekick, he’s now become his own star. His size, hands, and speed have helped make him one of the best fantasy receivers for a better part of the decade.
TE – Antonio Gates - Basketball player turned fantasy football god. Gates is one of the rare tight ends to make an impact like a star receiver. He has 58 total TDs and five 900+ receiving yard seasons. His 89 catches in ‘05 were 6 most in the league at any position.
Honorable Mention
QB – Brett Favre, Donovan Mcnabb, Drew Brees
RB – Tiki Barber, Ahman Green, Brian Westbrook, Clinton Portis
WR – Steve Smith, Chad Ochocinco, Larry Fitzgerald
TE – Jason Witten, Dallas Clark
Thought about ‘em
QB – Kurt Warner, Daunte Culpepper
RB – Steven Jackson, Jamal Lewis, Corey Dillon, Adrian Peterson, Ricky Williams, Fred Taylor, Curtis Martin
WR- Issac Bruce, Rod Smith, Andre Johnson, Derek Mason
TE – Shannon Sharpe, Todd Heap
Premature 2010 Fantasy Player Rankings: Top 10 Quarterbacks
Quarterback rankings are based on PPR leagues (point per reception) that reward 1 pt. per 10 yards rushing/receiving, 6 pts. per TD rushing/receiving, 4 pts per 25 yards passing, and -2 pts. per INT or fumble lost
Check out our other early rankings: Top 10 Running Backs / Top 10 Wide Receivers
1. Pe
yton Manning
The best in the business, and probably ever, he’s a winner no matter who is around him. Lock him in for 4,000 yards and around 30 TDs every year. He has a laser rocket arm, he’s always healthy, he’s unbelievably consistent, and he has weapons aplenty. Aside from the usual suspects, Clark, Wayne, and Addai, newcomers Pierre Garcon, Austin Collie and Donald Brown are finding their stride. Add a healthy Anthony Gonzalez in 2010 and Peyton and the Colts just keep rolling.
2. Dr
ew Brees
Brees is one of the best in the game. Last year he threw for 5,000 yards, this year his team is 13-1 and he’s thrown a league leading 33 TDs. He has a rifle of an arm, he’s deadly accurate, and he’s in complete control of the game. It’s merely a preference when it comes to choosing between him and Manning as he can put up 30 points in any given week. With talents like Colston, Shockey, Meachem, Thomas, and Bush around, the Saints offense will continue to be one of the most explosive for years.
3. Aar
on Rodgers
Rodgers is leading your league in scoring right now, and it’s not surprising. He’s the total package. He can air it out with the best of ‘em and he leads all QBs in rushing yards and rushing TDs. He’s blossoming into one of the best young QB’s in the game. He’s consistent, he has quality receivers around him, and he’s only just getting started. It’d be hard to reach for him over Manning and Brees, or even Brady for some, but if you live in Wisconsin, or you favor youth, go ahead and grab him.
4. Tom
Brady
Brady has had his ups and downs this season, but he’s still one of the best in the game. The numbers haven’t come as easily this year, but overall he’s still managed to stay in the top 10. With a full healthy season under his belt, and Moss and Welker at his disposal, Brady could easily improve on his ‘09 season. 50 touchdowns isn’t realistic, but no one would be surprised if he finished as the best fantasy QB, or the NFL MVP, or the SuperBowl MVP, or in a GQ spread.
5. Ma
tt Schaub
Schaub finally broke through as the fantasy star we imagined he’d be if he stayed healthy. His big arm and accuracy have made him one of the most consistent fantasy performers in the league. If you’re playing against Schaub, your always on edge. If you have Schaub, you’re likely playing in your superbowl. Schaub’s arsenal starts with the best receiver in football in Andre Johnson. Add star TE Owen Daniels back in the mix next year, and another healthy season, and your looking at a top 5 QB.
6. P
hillip Rivers
Rivers grabbed this struggling 2-3 chargers team, threw them on his back and hasn’t looked back. The short arm throwing style is awkward to watch, but he’s very accurate and excellent in the clutch. He has weapons all around him in Gates, Jackson, and LT, and he’s just entering his prime years. Rivers won’t explode with huge games, but he is consistent as they come. With only one game under double digit scoring in ‘09, he’s as safe a pick as there is after the big names are off the board.
7. To
ny Romo
Much was made early in ‘09 about Romo’s struggles, but he’s calmed his critics over the course of the season and put up great numbers. Romo is a playmaker and he’s found an explosive compliment in Miles Austin. He’s been excellent at taking care of the ball, and he seems to have a renewed focus. He should finish ‘09 with about 4,000 yards and just over 25 TDs. With solid weapons in Witten, Roy Williams, and the three talented running backs, Romo will put up similar numbers in 2010.
8. Be
n Roethlisberger
Big Ben has always had the tools to put up big numbers, but his team has always focused on the run. Not anymore. This Steelers team airs the ball out. With a number of 300 yard games, two with 400 and 500 in another, Ben is certainly utilizing his weapons. Hines, Santonio, and the new deep threat Mike Wallace have all had plenty of work, and it shouldn’t change next year. Ben is talented enough to carry this team, and he’ll have the Steelers back in the mix in 2010.
9. 
Eli Manning
Eli looked like an MVP through the first five games, but tailed off against a tougher schedule. He’s gotten it back together and put up solid numbers along the way. His 26 TDs are good for 5th in the league, and he’s kept the mistakes to a minimum. He should finish year around the top 10 in points and next year should be similar. Steve Smith, Hakeem Nicks, and Mario Manningham have all become legitimate weapons in this offense. Eli could be a top 5 name if he was more consistent.
10. 
Donovan McNabb
McNabb has been excellent this season and he has his Eagles heading to the playoffs again. Sure, he seems like he’s getting old, but he’s still playing like the same old McNabb, and he’s really just the same age as Peyton. With the most explosive player in football in DeSean Jackson at his disposal, and up and coming stars in Maclin and McCoy, McNabb will have more veteran weapons than ever in 2010. When he stays healthy, he’s always consistent. A solid pick in the middle rounds.
JUST MISSED, AND WHY
Brett Favre – He’s been great and his weapons are abundant, but 41 is ancient in the NFL. If he comes back he could potentially finish in the top 10. He’s never missed a game but there are more youthful options to anchor your team.
Vince Young – Vince could very well crack the top 1o. His playmaking ability as a runner/improviser is excellent, but his passing yards are always lacking. He’s looked like a winner in 8 games this season, but he still has plenty to prove as a reliable QB1..
Carson Palmer – Carson looked poised for a big 2009, but the Bengals have favored the running game. He’s still a great player in this league and if Cincinnati decides to open up the offense, he has the ability to lead your team.
Matt Ryan – As solid as Ryan has been, he has yet to showcase the big passing numbers.
Kurt Warner – Warner has two of the best WRs in the game, but his age and his health keep him just outside the top 10.
Jay Cutler – Get him some weapons and anything is possible.
10 Things From Sunday Funday: Week 15
1. In an incredible come from behind last second Steeler victory, superstar QB Ben Roethlisberger threw for 4 pounds more than his playing weight.
2. I just heard the “Bears should lose out so they can get a better draft pick” conversation again, and I’m about to blow my lid. Please, if you ever hear anyone making this comment about a team, ball up your fist, ask him one more time if he knows what he’s talking about, and when he says, yes, hit him in the mouth. Then as he’s trying to get back up, say this. “You ignorant fool, do you know what the F@#$ your talking about? No, you don’t know what the F$#@ you’re talking about. No grown-up, professional athlete, who is supporting a family, who is fighting for a job each week in a game that has an average shelf life of 2-3 years would EVER think about tanking a season so the head honchos can select some hot shot prima donna who will immediately get paid more money than half of the team combined. Have you ever been a rookie, or a freshman? The rest of the players don’t care about you. They haze you. And if your making triple their salary, you can expect to be tied naked to a goal post more than a few times. Rookies have to earn respect. No veteran who’s been working his tail off each off season trying to make a living in as a football player is going to intentionally stop blocking, purposely throw interceptions, or deliberately let a ball carrier run by them so the GM can draft a new star player a few places higher next year. Half of this team is auditioning for a role next season, whether it be for the their team or another, and everyone is watching. They want nothing to do with some 20 year trying to take their position. Really, are you that stupid, man? Are you that selfish? If you truly believe that giving up the season is the answer, if you are really are rooting for “your” team to lose, if you truly think these players are gonna dog it so you can get your shiny new David Terrell, you sir can get the hell out of here.”
Say all of that… And then take his beer and his chicken fingers.
3. 286 yards rushing by Jerome Harrison. Amazing! but the Chiefs defense was probably just giving up to get a better draft pick. Also, Josh Cribbs would’ve rushed for 350. Get him in the backfield, Eric the Genius, kid moves like an Avatar.
4. If your thinking about a joint account with your wife or your girlfriend make sure you watch this Chase Sapphire commercial. I’m sure you’ve seen it played 30 times a game. The one where the Husband explains to his wife how they can cash in their points and do something extraordinary together. Like speed boating in Europe, or dining in a New York penthouse restaurant, or dancing to live music somewhere warm on the boardwalk, and the wife says, “We can’t,” and then proceeds to showcase the dress she’s wearing that she already spent the all of points on. Whaaaat!! That’s ridiculous. How can she do that to him? The card is probably in his name, he probably does most of the work, and pays most of the bills, and yet, he’s still willing to share the points on a great vacation with his wife. But oh no! She’s gone behind his back and wasted the money on some overpriced wrinkled piece of garment that you know and I know she’s only going to wear once. I don’t care that she’s Tasha Dexter from from Pam Anderson’s hilarious action comedy crime drama (V.I.P.) that you used to love at night in the late 90’s. This is terrible. This is why you don’t share your credit card with your wife or your girlfriend.
5. Gary Kubiak’s zero tolerance policy certainly has some fantasy owners up in arms. If you’re trying to showcase a player for next year, sitting him for the entire game after one mistake is a questionable call, especially when Ryan Moats and Chris Brown are your only other options. Also Schaub fumbled on a series right after Foster did, so Rex definitely should have gotten a chance. Thankfully, Drill Sergeant Lieutenant Commander Kubiak had the best receiver in football on his team to bail him out against the mighty Rams. He should start updating his resume.
6. Which one of these isn’t true. Jamarcus threw a game winning TD. The Tampa Bay Bucs blew someone out. The NFC leading Vikings handled Carolina.
7. For anyone that’s not living in Philly, this team has 10 wins, explosive playmakers, and good ol’ Donny McNabb still leading the way. With the Vikings looking vulnerable, and Brad Childress trying to pull Favre in a 7-6 game with home field advantage is still on the line, and the Saints playing uninspiring football the last few weeks, the Eagles could very well find themselves in South Beach in February.
8. A friend o
f mine ran into Jay Cutler at a Club during the week. The girl friend of my buddy, who doesn’t follow football, walked up to him and put her hand in the air, and said, “Great job this year Jay!” Jay reportedly stared blankly at her for a good 10 seconds, said nothing, and walked away. After my buddy explained to her why she struck a nerve, she was devastated. She then went back over to apologize, and he said to her “Don’t worry, I’ll pay you and your fans back this weekend.” And he threw 3 more picks.
Ok, only the first part of that actually happened, and we know he’s not the real problem with the Bears right now, but his “gets his feelings hurt easily” attitude is really hard to get on board with.
9. Phil Rivers and his Chargers are unstoppable right now. The kid refuses to lose. He’s fiery and competitive and makes interesting facial expressions. With 9 wins in a row, this team believes they can go all the way. It’s time to start teaching all the young quarterbacks out there how to throw short arm.
10. If your a sucker for epic adventure flicks like LOTR, Star Wars, and Pirates of the Carribean, run, don’t walk to see AVATAR, and do it in 3D. Save for Michelle Rodriguez’s irritating smirk and unnecessary pompous attitude, and the casting of the guy from Dodgeball, and a few cheesy lines from the square-jawed villain, this “Dances With Wolves On Another Planet” film is amazing.
Premature 2010 Fantasy Player Rankings: Top 10 Wide Receivers
Wide Receiver rankings are based on PPR leagues (point per reception) that reward 1 pt. per 10 yards rushing/receiving and 6 pts. per TD rushing/receiving.
Don’t forget to check out our Top 10 Running Backs for next season.
1. An
dre Johnson
Andre is a fantasy monster. He’s a physical freak with vacuum-like hands and great speed. He’s such an explosive player that if your losing by 38 and you only have him left on Monday Night, you still have a chance. He’s plays as a possession receiver and a deep threat. He’ll run someone over after a catch, and he’s the go to guy in the red zone. His ability is seemingly unlimited, and with one of the best young QBs throwing him the ball, he’s as good as it gets. All of this and no ones ever heard him talk.
2. La
rry Fitzgerald
Larry gets the media hype and rightfully so. He’s arguably the best player in football and he may as well have the best hands. His massive frame and leaping ability make him the top red zone threat in football. If he didn’t line up opposite Boldin and there weren’t questions about his aging quarterback each year, he probably be interchangeable with Andre. And he still might be. No one would fault you for making him the first receiver off the board, and if your league awards points for catching random falling objects in an office, even better.
3. 
Brandon Marshall
B-Marsh is phenomenal. Off the field issues aside, he’s a quarterbacks dream. Hes big, he’s a great route runner, he’s fast, and runs well after the catch. Marshall will get his points no matter who is throwing him the ball, and now that he’s been paid, his heads in the right place. He hauled in 18 passes in a single game in ‘08 and 21 in one in ‘09. He can single-handedly win you a game, and he’s only getting better.
4. Re
ggie Wayne
No wants wants to play against Reggie. As the number 1 target of the best quarterback in the game, he makes for a miserable match up. He’s big, he’s physical, and has great hands. Peyton loves to find him deep, but he’ll also rack up receptions underneath. He’s as safe a receiver as there is and he’s one of the few elite choices. He and Peyton only seem to get better with age, and who knows if they’ll ever lose another game.
5. R
andy Moss
Moss and Brady have shown glimpses of their ‘07 selves this year, but overall it’s been a work in progress. Regardless, Randy still remains one of the best deep threats in the game. At any point in time, Randy can go off for 3 TDs and 150 yards. That can’t be said for many others. His athleticism is second to none, even in his 30’s. It’s only his attitude that anyone questions, but he has the right people around him to keep him focused. He’ll bounce back this year and be right back in the fold as a top receiver again next year.
6. De
Sean Jackson
Probably the most electric player in the NFL. He has soft hands, he’s incredibly shifty, and he can fly. If he has the ball in space, he’s probably going to score. If your playing against him, you just have to hope he freaks out at the goal line and spikes the ball too early. DeSean is just entering his prime and the Eagles will continue to get him the ball on punts, kick-offs, runs, passes, punt passes, run-kicks, pass-offs, you name it. With 8 TDs over 50 yards, you can’t call him a fluke, he really is that explosive.
7. We
s Welker
The blue collar “backyard football player”, says a Carolina DB. I can see that. Welker is a PPR monster. He’s fast, he’s quick, he’s sure handed, and he’s not afraid to get hit. Brady has become so reliant on him over the middle, 1o receptions a game is like clockwork. The touchdowns haven’t been there with Welker as he’s strictly a possession guy, but you’d be hard pressed to find a more consistent pass catcher. He’s had at least 9 receptions in 8 different games this year. The stingy Patriots will be back at it in 2010, and Welker will again be a major factor.
8. Ro
ddy White
Roddy has flown a bit under the radar this year, but he’s actually just second to Andre in overall targets. He has great hands and he can fly. His 8 TDs lead his team and he’s putting solid up numbers even with Chris Redman at the helm. With a healthy and smoothly shaved Matt Ryan back in the fold in 2010, White should be primed for another top 10 season.
9. C
alvin Johnson
Calvin has been a disappointment in ‘09, but it’s difficult to develop a rapport with a rookie QB that can’t avoid the injury bug. The Lions offense has looked decent at times, and with a year under Stafford’s belt, and a summer to train with CJ, things will get better. Calvin is still just 24 and he’s widely considered the best physical specimen at the WR position. He’s the total package and his quarterback should figure that out by 2010. If the Lions make any progress it wouldn’t surprise anyone if Calvin finished in the top 5.
10. 
Marques Colston
Colston is the premier option on the most potent passing offense in football. His enormous hands and ideal frame make him Brees’ favorite Red Zone target, and his 9 TDs would agree. His reception numbers are down a bit this season as Brees has been spreading it around, but Colston has still been adequate. In years past, Marques has made a living racking up big catches late in games, but with an undefeated record, the Saints are rarely playing catchup in the 4th quarter. And not that New Orleans will lose many games next year, but Colston should bounce back with more opportunities and better numbers in 2010.
The Next 5
11. Miles Austin - Knack for the big play could put him in the top 10.
12.Vincent Jackson – Big WR who’s emerged as one of Rivers go to guys.
13. Sidney Rice - If Favre sticks around, Rice should hover in the top 15.
14. Hakeem Nicks – Nicks takes the next step and becomes Eli’s new Plax. Top 10 potential.
15. Hines Ward - Continues to get it done year after year. Still healthy, will be Ben’s top option again in ‘10
Just Missed, and Why
Dwayne Bowe – Has tools to be great, needs to get on the same page with Cassel.
Steve Smith (NYG) – Poor man’s Wes Welker, receptions are there, TDs are rare.
Steve Smith (CAR) – Great player, but lacks a QB who can get him the ball.
Anquan Boldin – Nagging injuries and Larry Fitz keep him from being a top guy.
Greg Jennings – Rodgers spreads the ball everywhere this year. Jennings numbers are suffering.
Chad Ochocinco – The Bengals seem committed to running the ball.
Santonio Holmes – TDs are down. Hines gets more red zone looks.
Premature 2010 Fantasy Player Rankings: Top 10 Running Backs
Running back rankings are based on PPR leagues (point per reception) that reward 1 pt. per 10 yards rushing/receiving and 6 pts. per TD rushing/receiving.
1. Chr
is Johnson
“Every Coaches Dream” has become just that. He’s shed the Slash n’ Dash moniker and stormed past the rest of the NFL as the clear cut best player in Fantasy Football. Johnson does it all and he does it all well. Usain speed, great vision, he runs through tackles, catches passes, plays every down, scores goal line TDs, scores 80 yard TDs, and has great hair. The only thing holding him back is a sweet name. “Christian Johnnywalker” would be a celebrity at this point.
2. Ra
y Rice
Not only has he excelled in the running game, but he’s also the Ravens receptions leader averaging over 5 a game. Ray Rice is a star. He’s become the focal point of the offense and he can score on any play, any down, at any point in the game. With McGahee potentially out the door next season, Ray could lead the NFL in touches. He’s also really nice guy, and he could lead in that category too.
3. Adrian Peterson
No one would question it if you took him first overall, but even as the most gifted running back in the NFL, Chester Taylor still spells him on third downs. Still, barring injury, or 60 some odd fumbles, he’s as good as there is as a lock to finish in the top 5. Also he’s become more of a factor in the passing game, and that 2,000 yard season could happen any year now.
4. Ma
urice Jones-Drew
The human bowling ball always picks up his spare. If he doesn’t hit 100 yards in a game, he’ll find the end zone. If he doesn’t get 20 carries, he’ll catch 5 passes. MJD is as consistent as they come, and it won’t change next season. His line is young and likely to improve. As an every down back who catches passes and gets the goal line work, Maurice is fantasy gold.
5. St
even Jackson
As a superstar on a bad team, you can’t help but feel like he’s wasting his talent as he approaches 30. Then you look at his numbers and realize, he’s actually still getting it done. Countless 100 yard efforts, a huge factor in the passing game, third down back, goal line back, and he’s really just 26. Sure, the herniated disc is of mild concern, but he’s looked fresh as ever otherwise. The off-season should take care of any lingering injuries, and the miserable Rams can only get better from here… I think.
6. Fra
nk Gore
The new west coast style offense has cut into Gore’s carries of late, but they find ways to get him the ball. Gore can haul in 7 passes a game with ease. The Niners could be contenders next year and Gore will be a major reason why. He’s a homerun threat, a goal line back, and a receptions monster.
7. DeA
ngelo Williams
D-Will is an elite talent that can score from anywhere on the field. When he gets his 20 touches, he goes over 100 yards. He’s also catching passes this year. His touchdowns are down thanks to a tough schedule and miserable quarterback play, but that position should be dealt with in the off-season. DeAngelo is just entering his prime and he’ll be the Panthers go to guy for years to come.
8. Mi
chael Turner
Turner scored at least one TD in a span of 7 games before his injury. He’s not a factor in the passing game, but his nose for the goal line and his 20 carries a game keep him in the top 10 for 2010. A healthy Matt Ryan will give Turner plenty of scoring opportunities.
9. 
Rashard Mendenhall
The new face of the coveted Pittsburgh Steelers running back position. The Steelers will undoubtedly bounce back next season with their hard nosed running game and Mendenhall will be a huge benefactor. Rashard is young and talented and secure of a job. He’ll likely be spelled on third downs, but he’ll be the focal point of the running game and a force in the red zone.
10. 
Jamaal Charles
If Kansas City doesn’t address this position next year early in the draft, Charles belongs right near the top 10. He’s only started 6 games, and points-wise, he’s already in the top 20 among running backs. Even if they do bring in some competition, it’s hard to see them limiting Charles. He’s just been too good. He’s averaging 5.2 ypc and he’s been a major factor in the passing game. He’s shifty and fast, yet strong for his size. “I’m a physical player and I can run the ball like Chris Johnson does,” says Charles. It’s hard to disagree at this point. Sign me up.
Just missed the cut, and why:
Ronnie Brown – Depends on the recovery. Ricky Williams.
Thomas Jones - Age. Shonn Green. Leon Washington…And if you disagree, you can have him.
Joseph Addai – Scoring TDs but only averaging 3.7 ypc. Donald Brown will be a factor.
Cedric Benson – Larry Johnson could work his way in. Non factor in passing game
Knowshon Moreno - Could be the next star, but still unproven.
Ladainian Tomlinson – The burst is gone. Rarely involved in passing game.
Brian Westbrook – LeSean McCoy, Concussions jeopardizing career.
TV Shot to Death After Saints Beat ‘Skins
In this episode of The Real Beverly Hillbillies of New Orleans, Jed bets his Facebook friends that if the lackluster Saints somehow take down the powerhouse Redskins, they can come on by the house and unload a couple hundred rounds into his 60 inch flat screen and rub it in his face.
Love the premise, but let’s get this straight. Jed wagers his massive TV on a 3-8 team beating an 11-0 team, straight up, no spread, and he agrees to a bet in which if he loses, his TV gets destroyed, and if he wins, it doesn’t. Ok then.
“Little did I know they would win it in overtime,” he says. Right? I mean, how could anyone have possibly predicted a Saints victory here? In overtime, in regulation, on Madden, or wherever. It’s Baffling.
It should also be noted that these people are just his Facebook friends, so who knows if he even knew them in real life, or if they were just recommended at some point by a mutual friend. It’s all a bit confusing really. But at least Cousin Eddie makes an appearance at 50 seconds in. He and his 12 pack wouldn’t miss this for the world.
10 Things from Sunday Funday: Week 13
1. “Davone Bess is the the Bess receiver in the NFL”, says the guy next to me. Wow. That’s good. That’s unthinkably clever and good. I just asked him to write for us at the Pigskin Docs. He politely declined and told me he was too good for this site. And I agree.
2. So this happened Saturday to Brian Kelly, but I was thinking a great way to spice up the NFL would be to increase the Gatorade/Water cooler dumps on the coach from once after a big win, to every time something good happened. You know?! I think it’d be great…Touchdown!!! Water dump. Interception! Riptide Rush bath. First Down! MJ’s fav, Citrus Cooler Dump. Hand-off! Frost Dump! Successfully executed snap! Tiger Focus Cool Fusion Splaaaaashh! Makes me laugh thinking about the coach running around in a rain coat and the camera cutting to the sideline every play, and how annoyed he’d start to get. Man, this was a dumb post.
3. Imagine a scenario in fantasy fooball when your down 7 points and your opponent has your receiver’s quarterback, and there’s only time for one more play. You’re pretty much done, right? Not so fast. If you didn’t see the Brees INT/Meachem strip for a touchdown play, check it out. What a crazy series of events. Brees throws a pick over the middle, which may have hit the ground first, Moore returns it about 20 yards before Robert Meachem strips him and takes it back the other way for a touchdown! Play is challenged, Call stands. Wow. INT Brees – 2. Meachem strip on the return, takes it to the house, +6, you win! Wow! Just when your think your down out of the playoffs, the Saints pull off the INT/Strip play and send you there with the Wild Card! Now, there’s finally a play to root for these impossible situations. Incredible! Or I guess you could just root for an end around or a reverse. I guess I didn’t think of that. That’s probably easier…But not cooler. And cooler is the best way to win.
4. I mentioned above that Brees’ pass may have not been intercepted after it appeared to hit the ground, and it was indeed challenged, but by the Redskins! Probably the one time a coach would ever challenge that his DB didn’t intercept the ball. “Oh come on. There is no way he caught that ball, says Jim Zorn probably to the ref, “He’s not talented enough to make that catch, sir. Have you seen us play this year? You haven’t seen us play this year. No catch sir,. Incomplete, Saints ball, man, Not good enough to catch it, Saints Ball.”
5. ZERO picks between Cutler and Delhomme this week! Not one. Jay played the Rams and Jake didn’t play. But I mean still! Zero Picks is zero picks!
6. While watching Peyton orchestrate another TD drive on Sunday I got lost in thought for a moment. This guy is just hard to wrap your mind around. With the speed of the game today, with the size of all the players and their first-rate work out programs, facilities, nutrition plans, diet plans, access to advanced scouting reports, instant information from computers, and the scrutiny from the over the top 24/7 media frenzy, it’s amazing how he’s able to remain so cool and calm and so much better than everyone else. 100-200 years from now, when people read about him, they’ll talk about him like they do Babe Ruth. He’ll be mythical. “Man it must have been cool to see Peyton Manning play football back then.” Yea, it was. It really was. Peyton is already a legend and he’s still alive, and still playing. That just doesn’t happen. It’s Jordan-like. I mean, even teams and great players can look ordinary sometimes, (Vikings and Favre, last night) but Peyton man, Peyton is hard to understand. Every year, with whatever 10 guys are out there with him, he gets it done. Best I’ve ever seen.
7. My friend and I were discussing where we might watch the Chargers/Browns game in the afternoon while a lady friend of ours was attempting to derail our plans with a movie night. Here is a real excerpt from our conversation:
“Guys C’mon, all you do is watch football.”
“Yea well, sometimes we sleep.”
“Well, errr, what time is that game at?
“It’s at 3″
“PM?”
So yes, in her mind, the possibility of a 3 AM Monday morning NFL game in Cleveland actually exists.
8. Head Coach Hot seat: Jim Zorn, Lovie Smith, Eric Mangini, self titled under-appreciated Wade Phillips…
Mike Tomlin…
Bill Belicheck.
9. “Did Mike Sims-Walker have another late night hook-up or what? Is he even playing?” Yells my buddy after a no-show, zero catch first half. Well I laughed, at least.
10. A user comment from warriorking on NFL.com about the play of his Dallas Cowboys.
“Well i guess they were missing four starters in the defense.. but yah that cant be an excuse.. how they play in the postseason will determine how far they go.”
How they play in the postseason will determine how far they go, he says. Wow. That’s..wow…That’s really good. I couldn’t agree more. As you may have guessed, I have already sent him an email asking him to write for us at the Pigskin Docs.
EJ Henderson Suffers Gruesome Leg Injury
Minnesota Vikings linebacker EJ Henderson was having a Pro Bowl-esque season until last night, when he collided with teammate Jamarca Sanford while in pursuit of the Cardinals’ Tim Hightower. Vikings coach Brad Childress said after the game that Henderson suffered a broken femur. Ouch. Watch below has his left leg turns into a noodle:
