A Super Bowl Indeed

Many football fans across the country have expressed their happiness with the fact that the Patriots will not be representing the AFC in the Super Bowl this year. Social media has been lit up with rejoice over a Brady and Belichik-less party. Some of it sounds a bit petty, but I have to admit, without hesitation, that I also feel the same way.

Believe me, I'm not a Brady-hater, as I do think of him as one of the all-time greats, but I sense that the novelty that was the Patriots in post 9-11 America has worn out its welcome in most NFL fans' living rooms. Instead, seeing the culmination of Ray Lewis' career come full circle with an appearance in the Super Bowl is much more appealing than any Belichik-Brady story line. Hell, I would not give up this 49ers - Ravens match-up even if Gisele had promised to streak the field at the two-minute warning. 

Then there's the Jon and Jim Harbaugh factor as well. I mean, who doesn't at least like these two guys if not love them? After seeing what these men have done with their respective teams over the last few years I have no doubt that they are indeed two of the best in the game. They both have control over their teams and are both well-respected in the locker room and administrative offices alike. The proof of such claims unfolded before our very eyes last weekend, with two quality games that saw the best two teams punch their tickets to the big show in New Orleans on February 3rd.

In all honesty, you could not have hand-picked a better match-up. The exciting 49er read-option, pistol offense, led by exciting 25-year old quarterback Colin Kaepernick, against the always tough Ravens defense led by you know who, as well as the unadmirable Joe Flacco out to prove himself as Baltimore's franchise QB against a stout San Francisco defense that would love to show the world how hard they can hit. Personally, I smell a real battle brewing that could be as entertaining as the first time I drank a Hopslam. 

It appears Vegas has the Niners as 4.5 point favorites. At this point take Baltimore and the points as that Ravens team is one underdog with a nasty bite!

The NFL: A Bad Lip Read

If you haven't see this video from the folks over at BLR yet you should check it out:

Top 20 Eligible Prospects for the 2013 NFL Draft

1. DT Star Lotulelei Utah - Big line busters that require double and triple teams from O-lines are a big commodity in the NFL. I would take him and build my defense around him. His combination of size (6'3" 320 lbs.), strength, and athletic ability are rare. His lack of stats doesn't scare me too much as his value is hard to measure and quantify.

2. OT Luke Joeckel Texas A&M - I believe he is the cream of this year's crop up front and might just be the Aggies' most valuable player. Yes, I know Johnny Football won the Heisman but how could he have done it without the help of Joeckel? My guess is Notre Dame's Manti Te'o would've won it if Joeckel had declared for the draft last year.


3.  OG Chance Warmack Alabama - Is probably a better prospect than Joeckel from a pure physical standpoint, but until he proves he can play tackle he might not have the edge. My guess is that whichever team drafts him will be glad they did and most of those teams that pass him up will wish they would have.

4. LB Jarvis Jones Georgia - A better athlete than Te'o that has the ability to do it all for you on defense. He might not become the leader every coach covets but Jones seems to be a good guy worthy of a look in the top five. He did average just over one sack per game over the last two seasons, which is outstanding.

5. DE Damontre Moore Texas A&M - Has burst onto the scene with 12.5 sacks this year, including one in a big win against Alabama, which has the best O-line in the country. Teams looking for a pass-rusher that has been productive over the course of his college career do not need to look any further than Moore.

6. LB Manti Te'o  Notre Dame - He has led the charge for the Irish the entire season against one of the toughest schedules in the country, but took a stumble in the BCS Championship game against Alabama. He is a dedicated, intelligent athlete with a wide skill set and he also happens to be a very likable guy.

7. DE Bjoern Werner Florida State - Another productive pass-rusher at the college level that should make a good living in the NFL.

8. CB Dee Milliner Alabama - Has done a great job stepping into the spotlight and helping to keep the defensive torch lit in Tuscaloosa. The Tide are currently ranked first in the country in total D and sixth against the pass. Milliner seems to have all the skills needed to be a competent NFL corner.

9. DT Johnathan Hankins Ohio State - Was a huge (6'3" 335 lbs.) reason the Buckeyes went undefeated and why their defense ranked thirteenth in the country against the run. Like Lotulelei, Hankins is another guy that could hold the line for the next 10 years.

10. DT Sylvester Williams North Carolina - I put a high value on really good defensive tackle prospects and by all accounts Williams seems to fit the bill.

11. OG Jonathan Cooper North Carolina - Has all the size (6'3" 320 lbs.) and skill you could ask for in a guard prospect. He might not get drafted this high but I don't believe there are any better players on the board at this point.

12. OT Taylor Lewan Michigan - Looks like another legit left tackle prospect coming out of Ann Arbor. Wolverines fans are hoping he returns for his senior season.

13. OT Jake Mathews Texas A & M - It seems that the Aggies have not one, but two tackles that are capable of shutting down some of the best defensive players in college football.

14. DE Sam Montgomery Louisiana State - Barkevious Mingo seems to get more praise as a prospect but Montgomery seems to be the more consistent performer.

15. DT Sheldon Richardson Missouri - Had nine solo tackles and a sack against Alabama. That right there tells me a lot about this guy. He is one of the more athletic of the top tackle prospects.

16. DE Dion Jordan Oregon - One of the best defenders for the Ducks over the last two years has a huge wingspan on his 6'6" frame.

17. DT Jesse Williams Alabama - Just pick him up, plug him in, and play him. He will help an NFL defense get tougher and stronger up front.


18. S Kenny Vaccaro Texas - It's hard to find real good safeties in the draft so get them while you can. Vaccaro is a nice physical specimen that has played good ball for the Longhorns over the last three years.

19. LB Alec Ogletree Georgia - Very productive in college with 95 solo tackles, 55 assists, and five sacks over the last two years in Athens, Ogletree also measures in at 6'3" 237 lbs. and reportedly runs a 4.55 forty. All those numbers are hard to ignore.

20. DE Barkevious Mingo Louisiana State - I don't like the fact that he disappeared for much of the season but Mingo has all the physical tools to become a star defender in the NFL.

NFC West: It's Hard to be Optimistic

Arizona Cardinals

Key Returnees:

• Offense - RB Beanie Wells and RB Larod Stephens-Howling both are young backs that averaged over 4.0 yards per carry last season, and WR Larry Fitzgerald is simply one of the best players in the league no matter who is throwing the ball. He is complimented by fellow wide-outs Early Doucet and Andre Roberts, who each caught 50-plus balls last season, so there is no shortage of veteran targets. QB's John Skelton and  Kevin Kolb could be battling it out for the starting position and both have starting experience. Lots of starters also return on the O-line to protect whoever is rushing or dropping back to pass.
• Defense - LB Daryl Washington is the returning team leader in tackles and he also contributed five sacks last season. DL Calais Campbell is a monster of a human-being at 6'8", 300 lbs. He returns after leading the team in sacks (8) last season, as does DE Sam Acho after being second in sacks (7). DB Richard Marshall led the team in INT's and was second on the team in tackles. The team will love having his game back. QB's avoid throwing towards CB Patrick Peterson whenever possible out of fear of a pick-six. SS Adrian Wilson and DT Darnell Docket have been leaders on the team for a while and each have at least one more good year out of them.
• Special Teams - Patrick Peterson returned four punts for TD's and averaged over 15 yards per return last season, which tells you why opposing teams try to stay away from him at all costs. The Cardinals were also 5th in the NFL in punting.

Secret Weapon: RB Ryan Williams - After being selected in the second round and looking good in the early portion of training camp, the young ball-carrier from Virginia Tech suffered a season-ending knee injury. He is still working to recover but he could be the best of the bunch and may be the starter before mid-season, depending how the rehab goes. At any rate, the combination of Williams, Wells, and Stephens-Howling could save the day for whoever plays QB.

Top Newcomers:

• WR Michael Floyd - After being selected by the team high in the first round he needs utilize his frame (6'3", 225 lbs) and become a reliable target in the red zone to take pressure off Fitzgerald. Floyd has a rare opportunity to play opposite a modern great and he seems to have the talent to compete. He should help make the QB's job a bit easier overall as well.

Optimistic Fan Says: "This team has some youth at some key positions but there are some big-time players on both sides of the ball, including all-pros Fitzgerald and Peterson. Both Skelton and Kolb appear up to the challenge to deliver the ball to a slew of targets on the outside while handing off to a deep, young group of running backs. With last year's growing pains under their belts the Cardinals should be primed to knock San Francisco out of the Division's top spot. After all, the Card's QB situation is no worse than the Rams, Seahawks, or the 49ers at this point, so it is realistically anybody's crown for the taking in the NFC West."

Reality Check: This roster looks like an 8-8 team that will most-likely miss the playoffs in 2012. There are simply too many "ifs" that would have to pan out in order for this team to make a splash any time soon, so don't bet on them. Not having an established signal-caller at the helm of the offense instantly puts them at a disadvantage in every non-division match-up.

Projected 2012 Record: 6-10

San Fransisco 49ers

Key Returnees:

• Offense - RB's Frank Gore and Kendall Hunter both return after combining for 1684 rushing yards and 10 TD's. WR Michael Crabtree seems to be developing into solid pro as he caught 72 passes for 874 yards, which led the team. TE Vernon Davis churned out another good season with 67 catches and six TD's. There are several young players on the O-line that are loaded with potential. Though struggled a little bit throughout the season last year but the hopes are high that they will improve greatly. The biggest reason for the 49ers offensive success last season was the turnaround of QB Alex Smith's play. He didn't throw for a ton of yards but he completed 61% of his passes for 17 TD's and only five INT's. The team doesn't expect him to improve too much on those numbers as long as the turnovers are down.
• Defense - The number one defense in the NFL against the run last year, this defense hits people early, often, and with extreme prejudice. If you are wearing different colors and you have the ball in your hands you may want to protect yourself. LB's NaVorro Bowman and Patrick Willis have established themselves as the team's top two tacklers and second year OLB/DE Aldon Smith will try to improve his overall game after posting 14 sacks as a rookie. Ahmad Brooks patrols the field on the other side and he also chipped in seven sacks. S Dashon Goldson was third in tackles and first in INT's for San Fran with six picks. Fellow DB Donte Whitner was fourth in tackles and also chipped in two picks. DE Justin Smith brings a lot of toughness and a good all-around game up front and line-mate Ray McDonald is beginning to play more like he did in college at Florida. 
• Special Teams - The '9ers were first in field goals, first in kick returns, and ranked in the top 10 in both kicking and punt coverage, which tells you a lot more about how this team got where it did last year.

Secret Weapon: WR A.J. Jenkins - The rookie first round pick out of Illinois wasn't projected to be taken so high by most analysts but the staff in San Fran saw something they loved about him. He has had a decent preseason but is currently behind several players all vying for playing time. He will get lost in the shuffle for now but could emerge as a huge threat as the season progresses. Eventually, the team sees him as a starting caliber player or they wouldn't have taken him so high.

Top Newcomers: 

• RB Brandon Jacobs - Jacobs is well-versed in the art of playing in a loaded backfield. He's the type of guy that could be quiet throughout the season while Gore and Hunter get most of the reps only to emerge in January to put up some big games in the playoffs.
• WR Mario Manningham - Was one of Eli Manning's favorite targets over the last few years and came up with a big catch to help seal the Super Bowl win against the Patriots just seven months ago. He helps bring experience to a group that needs it.
• WR Randy Moss - Was not brought in to be a starter, just to help push the defense down-field and open things up for the offense a few times per game.
• RB LaMichael James - One of the fastest backs in college now becomes one of the fastest in the NFL. James will probably be counted on to play special teams and get 3-5 offensive touches per game. His fantasy value will be nothing but his presence alone could help open up the field more.

Optimistic Fan Says: "Last year we busted our cherry and grew up. This year it's time to put the women and children to bed and go looking for dinner! In other words, it's Super Bowl or bust!!"

Reality Check: Can you bet on Coach Jim Harbaugh to repeat his magic from last season when they took the entire league by surprise? I don't think so. Smith is still too much of a question mark at QB and there just isn't enough balls to go around to all the talented backs. Just having that new pool of talent at receiver isn't enough to improve the offense. You actually have to get the ball distributed into all their hands in order for them to truly make an impact. If Smith falters early at all fans will turn on him.

Projected 2012 Record: 10-6

Seattle Seahawks

Key Returnees:

• Offense - Marshawn Lynch and Leon Washington provide a solid tandem in Seattle's backfield. Lynch had over 1200 rushing yards and scored 12 TD's while Washington averaged nearly five yards per carry. Both will be expected to contribute just as much this season. Sidney Rice, Golden Tate, and Ben Obomanu each caught at least 32 passes and two TD's in 2011. Each one of those guys will be expected to improve upon their respective stats, especially with improved QB play. The team has spent a few high draft picks on linemen over the last few years, and some gems are starting to surface, but their production has been a bit lacking overall. C Max Unger and LT Russell Okung could each become leaders on this team.
• Defense - After placing ninth in the NFL in yards allowed last season, the pressure will be on the defense to get the team over the hump and back into the playoffs. 11 out of the Seahawk's top 12 tacklers from last year return, including FS Earl Thomas, SS Kam Chancellor, LB K.J. Wright, and CB Richard Sherman. All four of these guys are under 25 years of age and should be big contributors on defense in the years to come. 
• Special Teams - There are no real weaknesses in this phase of the game as the Seahawks are consistently in the top half of all special teams categories. Leon Washington has been one of the best return men in the game for several years now.

Secret Weapon: WR Doug Baldwin - He is currently fifth on the depth chart at the position so nobody will probably remember that he led the team with 51 catches for 788 yards and four TD's as a rookie. Although he might get less targets in 2012, with improved QB play and better depth at WR Baldwin should be able to do some great things when given the opportunity.

Top Newcomers: 

• QB Russell Wilson - The rookie from Wisconsin won the job during the preseason and if he can look that good during the preseason the team could push for a division crown.
• LB Bobby Wagner - The rookie from Utah State will be the starter in the middle. He should be solid if unspectacular.
• QB Matt Flynn - The top backup in Green Bay now becomes the top backup in Seattle after receiving a big contract in free agency. If Wilson struggles Flynn will get his chance to shine.
• OLB/DE Bruce Irvin - The surprise pick of the first round this past April has some serious speed and pass-rush skills that the team will try to tap into on third downs.
• RB Robert Turbin - Another good preseason performer out of Utah State that will get opportunities to make plays come game day. Expect him to get anywhere between a half dozen to a dozen touches per game later in the season. If Lynch gets hurt he should get the starting nod.
• DT Jason Jones - Not a top-end defender but could be a nice brick in the wall.
• WR Braylon Edwards - Although he's not the player he once was in Cleveland, Edwards could surprise a lot of defenders as the first or second option off the bench. The team could really use his size in the redzone. 

Optimistic Fan Says: "They will surprise everybody and win the division. Just email me, Andrew Graham, at andrew.graham.792@facebook.com and I will tell you everything there is to know that is good about my beloved Seahawks. I have been a life-long fan even though I've never stepped foot in Seattle."

Reality Check: This is one of the hardest teams to predict as the running game and defense is enough to challenge most teams throughout the season, but the play at QB is a huge question mark at this point. If Wilson or Flynn can turn out a banner year the 'Hawks could just take over as division champs. The chances of that happening would be slim in most divisions, but this is the NFC West: where champions don't need winning records. 

Projected 2012 Record: 8-8

St Louis Rams

Key Returnees:

• Offense - QB Sam Bradford has had two up and down seasons since being the first player taken overall in 2010. The next two years should give us a clearer picture of what type of player he will become. RB Steven Jackson returns for his umpteenth season as the team's top offensive player. He should get another 1100 yards on the ground and a half dozen TD's. He will probably tack on another 40 catches to his professional resume as well. WR Danny Amendola returns after missing most of last season due to injury and he should quickly reestablish himself as Bradford's favorite target. 
• Defense - LB James Laurinaitis will probably lead this team in tackles for the next decade and provide solid leadership on and off the field. DE Chris Long is coming around after posting 13 sacks last season and he should be a regular contributor for a while as well. Last year's top pick, DE Robert Quinn, made five sacks as well. This is a unit loaded with young, hungry players. They will improve.
• Special Teams - The Rams specialized in punting last season, ranking second in the NFL.

Secret Weapon: None

Top Newcomers:

• CB Janoris Jenkins - The problematic Jenkins could turn out to be the real steal of the draft. He might be the most skilled coverman to come out of college in 2012 and should be a starter right away for the Rams.
• WR Steve Smith - He has averaged about 46 catches per year in his five years in the league and should help improve the depth at the position.
• CB Cortland Finnegan - A guy that Coach Jeff Fisher knows he can rely on to be where he needs to be on defense and make tackles after spending several seasons with him in Tennessee.
• RB Isaiah Pead - Will immediately serve as Jackson's backup and should get plenty of action on special teams. He appears to have some nice quickness and football instincts.

Optimistic Fan Says: "I'll believe it when I see it."

Reality Check: It may be hard to be optimistic in St Louis but Fisher is one of the best coaches in football. There are some nice young pieces mixed in with some quality veterans that could turn things around in a hurry. However, the O-line is horrific, the receivers lack big-play potential, and there enough holes on defense to let good offense get too far ahead. I'd say there's a slim chance of playoffs but the team should be more competitive in relatively weak division. 

Projected 2012 Record: 7-9

AFC West: A Division Full of Paper Champs

Denver Broncos

Key Returnees

• Offense - 10-year veteran running back Willis McGahee rushed for 1,200 yards last season and has averaged 4.1 yards per carry over the course of his career. Backups Lance Ball and Knowshon Moreno combined for 900 yards of offense and the O-line seems well adept at run-blocking as the team led the entire league in 2011. WR's Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker return after each player broke out last season. Their stats weren't eye-popping but that speaks more about the lack of any real passer in the pocket than their ability to get open and catch passes. Do not be surprised if both guys catch 70+ balls annually for the next several seasons. 
• Defense - The team has a nice squad of pass-rushers in LB's Von Miller, Elvis Dumervil, D.J. Williams, Ryan McBean, and Robert Ayers. Look for the unit to improve upon the 41 sacks they collectively mustered last season.
• Special Teams - The Broncos were the best punting team in the NFL in 2011. For some reason that just doesn't seem like the type of thing you want to be known for in the NFL. 

Secret Weapons: TE's Jacob Tamme and Joel Dreesen - Although neither guy is a top-flight player, both Tamme and Dreesen are just good enough to take advantage of the attention that will be focused on the other elements of the offense. Tamme should be good for 60 receptions and Dreesen has shown a nose for the endzone with six TD's on just 28 catches last season. If anybody will utilize these guys to the fullest it will be Peyton Manning.

Top Newcomers:

• QB Peyton Manning - Duh! This guy legitimizes the Bronco's chances of making the playoffs again and other players around him, such as Thomas and Decker, will become better players. And I really don't care what the Tebowers think either.
• TE's Tamme and Dreesen - See above.
• WR Andre Caldwell - The team needs somebody to step up and claim the job as the third option at the position. Caldwell has enough ability and experience necessary to fill the void.
• S Jim Leonhard - Albeit a small defender (5'8" 188 lbs), Leonhard makes up for lack of size with hard work and solid instincts. He should help improve the depth at safety and on special teams coverage units.

Optimistic Fan Says: "Maybe getting rid of Tebow is the best thing that could've happened to the Broncos. He was not, and never will be, a good NFL passer and he was way too polarizing of a figure to get us where we want to go as a team. The addition of Manning makes us more legitimate and both Decker and Thomas should become more highly coveted fantasy players with him at the helm. If this team doesn't win 10 games and compete for a spot in the AFC Championship game this season I will be surprised."

Reality Check: The D-line needs some more work and there is a serious lack of depth at receiver, in the secondary, and at running back. If the aging McGahee goes down with injury it's hard to imagine the team repeating it's magical late-season run. Also, if the team begins to struggle early we could hear chants of "We want Tebow!"

Projected 2012 Record: 9-7

Kansas City Chiefs

Key Returnees:

• Offense - RB Jamaal Charles comes back from injury to hopefully give the running game a boost. He rushed for 1467 yards in 2010 and he should be in prime shape come the start of the season. Dexter McCluster is a bit small but he is a great option either rushing or receiving out of the backfield. WR Dwayne Bowe is a great first option in the passing game while Steve Breaston is a nice number two. Last year's first round pick, WR Jonathan Baldwin, should improve in his second season after a quiet rookie campaign. QB Matt Cassel also returns from a broken hand injury he suffered in week 10 last season. He has 11,699 yards and 76 TD's on his career while serving mostly as a backup in New England. The O-line is very young across the board but they only gave up 34 sacks. Look for them to start clicking more as the season progresses.
• Defense - S Eric Berry also returns after missing the entire season with an injury. He should be a team leader on defense after having a phenomenal rookie season the year before. DE/OLB Tamba Hali is a bona fide star after breaking the 12-sack mark two years in a row. LB Derrick Johnson once again led the team in sacks while chipping in two sacks and two INT's as well. CB Brandon Flowers returns after grabbing four INT's to lead the team. Rookie LB Justin Houston was a nice surprise with 5.5 sacks in his first NFL season. Overall, this entire unit ranked 14th in yards allowed and they have tried to add some more young pieces in the last few drafts. A top-10 ranking could come as soon as this year.
• Special Teams - Ryan Succop is a nice kicker and P Dustin Colquitt helped the team rank seventh in the league in punting.

Secret Weapon: CB/KR Javier Arenas - Although he is not ultra flashy, Arenas can cover well and should be in line to take over for the departed Brandon Carr. In his first two 31 games as a pro Arenas has collected 76 tackles, four sacks, two INT's, and over 700 return yards. If he can improve while stepping up into a bigger role on defense he could become a household name in Kansas City.

Top Newcomers:

• NT Dontari Poe - The 6'5" 350 lbs Poe could be just the monster of a man this team needs to help run the 3-4 defense. He didn't really light it up at Memphis but he won't be asked to in KC either. All he needs to do is occupy a ton of space and hold the line. Although, that job is easier said than done in the NFL.
• RB Peyton Hillis - After slumping last season Hillis will look to join the rotation in KC. With his bruising style and career 4.2 yards per carry average he should be a fine compliment to Charles as the Chiefs will look to run the ball at their division rivals.

Optimistic Fan Says: "We won this division two years ago and we were the only team to beat Green Bay in the regular season last year. With Charles and Berry back from injury our team gets a huge boost in production on both sides of the ball. I bet we will win 11 games and put ourselves in position to make a run deep into the playoffs."

Reality Check: It's hard to argue that the Chiefs do not have the talent to make the playoffs, because they do. Matt Cassel may not be among the top 20 starters in the league but he should be good enough to help keep defenses honest. Just don't expect him to carry the team on his shoulders. A nine or ten win season wouldn't really surprise anybody but winning the division outright will be tough as the AFC West got a little stronger this off-season.

Projected 2012 Record: 8-8

Oakland Raiders

Key Returnees:

• Offense - The Raiders were ninth in the NFL in total offense. RB Darren McFadden returns to find himself as the lone man in the backfield. He has the ability to push for 2,000 all-purpose yards now that the job is solely his. QB Carson Palmer also returns to find himself the unchallenged starter. He should provide a steadier hand at the wheel than this offense has seen in a while. WR Darius Heyward-Bey might be on the verge of a huge breakout season after nabbing a career high 64 receptions. He and position-mate Jacoby Ford are two of the fastest players in the league that Palmer will look to utilize whenever possible. The O-line ranked fourth in the league in sacks allowed despite being relatively young. Could there be big things to come with this group very soon?
• Defense - S Tyvon Branch, LB Rolando McClain, and S Matt Giordano were the team's top three tacklers and they all return. McClain looks like he could be all-pro material in the middle. The D-line should be a tough unit with all of last year's top performers returning, including DT Richard Seymour. LB Aaron Curry also returns after pumping some new life into his career in Oakland.
• Special Teams - K Sebastian Janikowski and P Shane Lechler are two of the best at what they do.

Secret Weapon: WR Jacoby Ford - He hasn't collected a ton of catches over his first two years in the league but his 17 yards per catch average is a fine example of what he is capable of doing. He was the fastest player coming out of college three years ago and could have a breakout season very soon.

Top Newcomers: 

• OG Tony Bergstrom - The Raiders keep finding nice pieces to the O-line puzzle in the middle rounds of the draft. Bergstrom should continue that trend as he could be a starter by the end of the season.
• WR Juron Criner - There wasn't really much to talk about in terms of the draft in Oakland, but Criner could fly under the radar and develop into a solid player over the next few seasons.

Optimistic Fan Says: "Come into our house and you are most likely going to find yourself in a deep, dark world of shit my friend! We are Raider nation and we take our role as league hooligans very seriously. Playoffs here we come!! GO RAIDERS!!! 

Reality Check: Although the Raiders' organization should take a better direction now that the shadow of Al Davis is not holding the team back from moving forward into the modern football era, it's hard to imagine all the stars aligning and making a trip to the playoffs possible this year. Does Oakland have a shot at the postseason? Yes. Will they make it? Probably not.

Projected 2012 Record: 7-9

San Diego Chargers

Key Returnees:

• Offense - QB Phillip Rivers and TE Antonio Gates have arguably been two of the best players at their respective positions over the last several seasons. Both guys appear to be healthy and poised for good season. RB Ryan Mathews stepped up to the plate and delivered last year as well with 4.9 yards per carry and 50 catches for 455 yards. WR Malcolm Floyd also returns his career 18 yards per catch average. The O-line allowed only 30 sacks and they should help the team improve its rushing game. Altogether, there's enough returning to field another solid offense. 
• Defense - S Eric Weddle played like an all-pro last season, placing third on the team in tackles and nabbing seven INT's. He spearheads a decent secondary that also includes veteran CB's Quentin Jammer and Antoine Cason. The front seven has got a lot of young pieces that possess a lot of potential. LB's Donald Butler and Antwan Barnes and D-linemen Cam Thomas and Antonio Garay all appear to have bright futures ahead of them in the NFL.
• Special Teams - The Chargers are at least average in most major special teams categories. They were sixth in the league in kick returns. 

Secret Weapon: WR Eddie Royal - Does anybody remember this guy's rookie year in Denver when he had Jay Cutler throwing to him? Yeah, he had 91 catches for 980 yards! Look for him to regain that form get over 100 targets from Rivers this year as the Chargers second or third receiver. He could very well lead the team in catches by the time it's all over.

Top Newcomers:

• WR Robert Meachem - The forgotten man in the Saints offense in recent years, Meachem just couldn't get ahead of other guys or garner the complete confidence of QB Drew Brees. Maybe things will be different for him in San Diego.
• WR Eddie Royal - See above.
• FB LeRon McClain - So you want to toughen up your offense a bit? Well, bringing in arguably one of the best all-around blocking backs in the league should help. McClain has the size and ability to help move the chains.
• LB/DE Melvin Ingram - Drafted in the first round to bolster the outside pass-rush and seal off the edge against the run, Ingram could be just what the Dr. ordered in San Diego. However, he could just as likely be a bust. Only time will tell and I suspect it will be a year or two before we find out just what kind of player he is.
• DL Kendall Reyes - Another big (6'4" 300 lbs) body to plug in up front. He could be a big factor for the team down the road.

Optimistic Fan Says: "We've been paper champs for far too long. This offense is set to explode for about 7,000 yards this season and the defense will at least be good enough to not blow any games. A 12-4 season seems about right!"

Reality Check: Denver, Oakland, and Kansas City all got a little better this past off-season and this division should be competitive and fun to watch in 2012. The stage could be set for one of these teams to rip off a bunch of wins and make a run deep in the playoffs, but history, along with my gut, tells me that they won't get too far.

Projected 2012 Record: 11-5

NFC East: Optimism Abounds

Dallas Cowboys

Key Returnees:

• Offense - This offense ranked 11th last season and QB Tony Romo has all the stats to prove he is an elite passer in the NFL, including a whopping 66.3% career completion rate. TE Jason Witten is Romo's favorite target and one of the best pass catchers in the league. WR Dez Bryant appears to be developing into a beast of a performer on the outside. The two should combine for over 150 receptions and 16 TD's this season. Miles Austin and Laurent Robinson are nice targets that fill out Romo's arsenal of weapons. RB's DeMarco Murray and Felix Jones both averaged over 4.5 yards per carry in 2011 and they should combine for over 2,000 yards of total offense for this team. The O-line is a work in progress but second-year player Tyron Smith looks like the real deal after being drafted ninth overall a year ago. 
• Defense - The pieces are in place to have a dominant defense in 2012. LB Sean Lee is the team's top tackler and also had four INT's last year. OLB Demarcus Ware is probably the best pass-rusher in the game right now after posting an incredible 35 sacks over the last two seasons. Anthony Spencer, who plays opposite Ware on the other end of the line, was fourth on the team in tackles and collected six sacks while DE Jason Hatcher got his 300 + lb frame to the QB 4.5 times in 2011. There is enough talent and other veteran role players filling out the lineup on defense to keep this team in any game. 
• Special Teams - K Dan Bailey was fourth in the league last season while the rest of the special teams units are average at worst. They don't lose games for the team but should improve its return game a bit with the influx of some new talent.

Secret Weapon: KR/PR Morris Claiborne - Morris was drafted sixth overall in this past April's draft to help out in two key areas: pass coverage and kick returning. He may not be a starter on defense but should provide a lot of speed and athleticism in nickel and dime packages, which now account for over 60% of defensive schemes these days. Just as much, if Claiborne can do for the Cowboys' return game what he did for LSU's then any problems the team had there should be solved. 

Top Newcomers:

• CB Brandon Carr - I don't know if he is actually an improvement over Terrence Newman but he at least younger. The 26-year old, four-year vet nabbed four INT's last season and looks to be a key player in improving the 'Boys' pass defense. 
• CB/KR Morris Claiborne - See above. Teams avoided Claiborne in the SEC and as a result Tyrann Mathieu saw a lot of action on his side of the field.

Optimistic Fan Says: "This is it! This is the year we finally get over the hump and back into the Super Bowl. Romo is tired of all the naysaying. He is an elite QB that will rise to the occasion when his team needs him most this year while Dez Bryant will challenge the likes of Larry Fitzgerald and Calvin Johnson for the title of "best wide receiver in the league". The defense will also be among the NFL's best with Ware pushing to get 25 sacks.

Reality Check: The offensive line is quite green and needs some more players to step up in order for Romo to stay upright all season long. The defense may also have just enough holes for top NFL offenses to exploit as well. Unless some new guys really make names for themselves on this roster the 'Boys could be out of the playoff race before December. Oh, and about Dez Bryant: He needs to screw his head on tight if he plans on having a career in the NFL at all.

Projected 2012 Record: 7-9

New York Giants

Key Returnees:

• Offense - Some people still question whether or not Eli Manning is as good as his brother Peyton was in his prime. The answer is that it doesn't even matter because Eli has two Super Bowl rings, beating Peyton's nemisis Tom Brady and the Patriots both times for the Lombardi trophy. Of course Eli is back for the 2012 campaign after being fifth in the league in passing last season. Also back are RB Ahmad Bradshaw, WR's Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz, and all the main components of a solid veteran O-line. All of which make up a well-balanced offensive unit.
• Defense - This group was 8th in the league in total yards allowed last season and they really turned up a notch when it came down to crunch time. The D-line leads the way with Jason Pierre-Paul, Justin Tuck, and Osi Umenyiora garnering lots of attention from opposing blockers and QB's. Pierre-Paul had 16.5 sacks in only his second season as a pro. The top five tacklers from last year, including S Antrel Rolle and LB Michael Boley, return.
• Special Teams - Did I mention this  team won the Super Bowl last season? Who gives two cents what the special teams did as long as the team keeps collecting rings?

Secret Weapon: WR Rueben Randle - 

Top Newcomers: 

• RB David Wilson - He was drafted at the end of the first round to help stabalize the backfield and complement Bradshaw. He was one of the best college running backs in the country last fall as the ACC Player of the Year and he doesn't need to be a starter in New York. He just needs to come in for 15-20 plays per game and break off a couple big runs.
• WR Rueben Randle -  The rookie from LSU is ready to contribute in the NFL right away. His stats suffered dearly due to terrible QB play in college but this guy has been doing well in the preseason and could find himself on the receiving end of 30-40 passes. The team needs somebody to step up and take the departed Mario Manningham's position so why not Randle?

Optimistic Fan Says: "Repeat!"

Reality Check: It's funny how we hear all about that other team from New York, the Jets, all season long but in the end the Giants have more to brag about as a team. This year will probably be no different and it's a testament to the coaching and leadership within the organization. They just do it all with more class. Although the odds of getting back into the Super Bowl are a bit slim, there is no team in the league right now that is better at overcoming adversity and putting it all together when it matters most. Despite all that I might be going against the grain a bit here by suspecting the Giants will struggle a little at some point and barely miss the playoffs. It will be a very competitive NFC race with the Cowboys, Eagles, Lions, Bears, Packers, Niners, Saints, and Falcons all having good chances of winning 10 or more gamesl. If the Giants do get in, however, I might just pick them to win it all again at that point.

Projected 2012 Record: 10-6

Philadelphia Eagles

Key Returnees:

• Offense - This offense has been exciting to watch over the last couple season. Last season it was the fourth best in the NFL. RB LeSean McCoy rushed for 1309 yards, caught 48 balls, and accounted for 20 TD's. QB Mike Vick averaged 7.8 yards per carry and threw for 3303 yards, complementing McCoy just enough to keep defenses spread out. WR's DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin both have speed and big-play ability while third WR Jason Avant TE Brent Celek is as steady and reliable as they come. Altogether, along with McCoy, they provide the Eagles with an array of weapons to choose from on game day. The O-line only allowed 32 sacks in 2011 and will look to provide more protection for Vick this year. 
• Defense - Another good unit that ranked in the top 10 (8th overall) by only giving up 325 total yards per game. DE Jason Babin came through and lived up to his contract by posting 18 sacks. Fellow end Trent Cole also got 11 and DT Cullen Jenkins was third on the team with 5.5. LB Jamar Chaney led the team with 67 solo tackles. He also nabbed three INT's. SS Kurt Coleman and FS Nate Allen combined for 139 total tackles and 6 INT's. That's pretty good for the young duo. The team will expect more from them in the near future. CB's Nnamdi Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie have fine skill sets and they should be one of the better tandems in the East this year.
• Special Teams - The Eagles are relatively piss-poor in this phase of the game.

Secret Weapon: WR Riley Cooper - Although he has only 23 receptions and two TD's in two years, Cooper has averaged nearly 19 yards per catch over that span. If Vick can stay healthy and get more comfortable in the pocket we could see a rise in the fomer Florida Gator's stats. His 6'3" 220 lbs frame provides a some needed size to the offense.

Top Newcomers:

• LB Demeco Ryans - When healthy Ryans has proven that he can rack up tackles and provide some steady play. The Eagles benefit greatly by signing him as he brings some valuable experience and veteran leadership to the defense.
• DT Fletcher Cox - This year's first round pick looks like he'll get  the chance to be a starter right away in 2012. He has the tools to be a destroyer up front.
• LB Mychal Kendricks - Kendricks was one of my favorite players in the 2012 draft. He has top speed and quickness. His fancy footwork suggests he probably would've made one helluva running back as well. I like his upside and look for him to become a fan favorite someday in Philly. 
• QB Nick Foles - His 6'6" 243 lbs body coupled with the fact that he threw for 4,334 yards and 28 TD's, while leading the Pac-12 in total yards of offense per game, suggest he has the ability to become a starter in the NFL some day.

Optimistic Fan Says: "We are going to party and puke our way to the Super Bowl while Vick and company dish out Philly-style ass whoopin's!"

Reality Check: Mike Vick's health and inability to maintain consistency as a passer could hurt the team down the stretch. The lack of any return game or quality field goal and punting units don't help much either. It would take some luck for things to fall in place for the Eagles but if they do this team could be a deadly as any. 

Projected 2012 Record: 11-5

Washington Redskins

Key Returnees:

• Offense - Despite the fact that there aren't any real stars on offense, last year's group managed to put together a fairly good year as far as production goes. WR Santana Moss returns for his 12th season and he has his sights set on 10,000 career receiving yards and 60 career TD's if all goes well. TE Fred Davis isn't real fancy but he is a decent starter and all-around performer. RB Roy Helu led the team in rushing yards with 640 and was also third on the team with 49 catches. Evan Royster looks like he could be a nice compliment in the backfield after averaging 5.9 yards per carry as a rookie. Tim Hightower returns to claim his starting spot however, after missing 11 games due to injury. If the 'Skins get lucky all three guys will become productive contributors and the rushing game will take the pressure off the QB. Rex Grossman returns to compete at QB after starting most of the games last season. 
• Defense - The ageless London Fletcher returns for his 15th season as an NFL linebacker after leading the league in tackles again last season. If he stays healthy over the next couple years he could reach over 2000 career tackles. OLB's Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan are both young guys that have shown good ability on the field. They could be a very dynamic pass-rushing duo for years to come. Stephen Bowen, Adam Carriker, and Barry Cofield make up a nice three-man line that helped put pressure on the QB as well. CB DeAngelo Hall was second on the team in tackles and first in INT's. His up and down career has apparently evened out in Washington. 
• Special Teams - K Graham Gano was 6th in the NFL in field goal kicking last season. If it weren't for Dallas this might be the worst division in terms of special teams units.

Secret Weapon: RB Roy Helu - He may not be spectacular but he can do it all as a back and should get plenty of touches in 2012 even if he doesn't start a single game.

Top Newcomers:

• QB Robert Griffin III - It will be interesting to see how this young man's pro career goes. He is an extremely likable guy with some unique physical tools as a QB. I doubted Cam Newton and Andy Dalton would have much of an impact as a rookies last year and I was wrong. It's anybody's guess at this point as to how RG3 will fare. 
• WR Pierre Garcon - Garcon has proven himself worthy as an NFL receiver and will try to make life easier for RG3. Although he's not a great number one option in the passing game, he can catch 70-80 balls and score a half dozen TD's for the 'Skins.
• SS Brandon Merriweather - This former first rounder never really panned out in New England but he will get another chance to show something more here.
• CB Cedric Griffin - Another high-profile college player that has yet to break through in the NFL, Griffin struggled at times in Minnesota but has 379 career tackles and 15 forced fumbles on his career. Better coaching could do hims some wonders and he may upgrade the team's nickle and dime packages.

Optimistic Fan Says: "If Mike Vick and Drew Brees had a baby, and then Tim Tebow and Brett Favre had a baby, then those two babies got together and had a baby, they would end up with RG3. He will bring us back to prominence!"

Reality Check: While RG3 looks great and the defense has made strides, there are still too many holes on this roster to expect anything big in 2012.

Projected 2012 Record: 7-9

AFC East: More than a one pony show? Optimistic fan thinks so.

AFC East Division


Buffalo Bills

Key Returnees:

• Offense - QB Ryan Fitzpatrick is smart and savvy but nothing flashy. He should continue to be a steady presence for the Bills. RB's Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller both averaged over 5.0 yards per carry last season and they are beginning to compliment each other well in all phases of the game.WR Steve Johnson is a legitimate number one target in the passing game and David Nelson played well in his first season as a starter. TE Scott Chandler is normally a blocker but he managed to grab 38 receptions in his first season as a starter as well. They should all improve. The O-line lead the NFL in sacks allowed (23) and it should continue to improve with the addition of a few nice-looking rookies.
• Defense - The Bills were a bit green last season with MLB Nick Barnett playing his first season outside of Green Bay and DT Marcel Dareus fresh out of college. Both played very well and the unit should improve around them. The entire unit is stacked with returning veterans and young talent to help take on NFL passing games, including high-prized free agent DE Mario Williams and four-year veteran DB Jairus Byrd.
• Special Teams - Well, there is no masking it as the Bills seriously stink on special teams.

Secret Weapon: RB Fred Jackson - He might not be the best kept secret in the NFL but he continues to sneak under the radar up there in Buffalo. If he can stay on the field he should rush for 1,000 yards and score 10 TD's.

Top Newcomers:

• DE/OLB Mario Williams - There was a lot of hype over this free agent signing after Williams collected five sacks in five games before getting injured in Houston last season. He should fit right in as a pass-rusher in the Bills' defensive scheme, and if he stays healthy he has 15 sack per season potential.
• OG Cordy Glenn - The big Georgia Bulldog looks to have all the tools to become an elite guard in the NFL. The Bills hope he can help open holes for the running backs.
• CB Stephon Gilmore - The Bills' number one draft pick comes in looking to improve the pass defense. In today's NFL you need to load up on these types of cover guys. He doesn't even need to start. If he can help the team field three or four quality corners in nickel and dime packages then he will have been worth the pick. 

Optimistic Fan Says: "Slow and steady wins the race! The Bills may not be flashy but they are as steady as they come on offense and the defense is primed to have a big season. This is the year of Buffalo!"

Reality Check: As long as Tom Brady is in New England it is hard to imagine the Bills taking the division crown any time soon. While the team should be competitive it is highly unlikely they win more than 10 games or win a playoff game if they make it.

Projected 2012 Record: 10-6

Miami Dolphins

Key Returnees:

• Offense - RB Reggie Bush rushed for 1,000 yards and caught 43 passes. He performed better than many expected and he will get a chance to carry this offense. Rookie Daniel Thomas showed some promise as well and the Dolphins ranked 11th in the league in rushing last season. WR's Brian Hartline and Devon Bess are young players that could both be on the verge of breakout seasons. Hartline averaged 15.7 yards per catch, which shows that the guy is capable of making plays. TE Anthony Fasano is a solid, if unspectacular, player that is more of a jack-of-all trades type. He doesn't do anything special but he can score a half dozen TD's for a team in any given year. It is hard to believe that four-time pro-bowl left tackle Jake Long may just be reaching his prime. Before it's all over Long may go down as one of the best all-time. C/G Mike Pouncey also looks like he will be worth the first round pick the team spent on him last year. Returning veteran QB Matt Moore also completed over 60% of his passes and delivered some monster performances at Kansas City and twice against Buffalo last season. His experience is a valuable asset to the team.
• Defense - The Dolphins were third in the league against the run last season. SS Yeremiah Bell, LB Kevin Burnett, and LB Karlos Dansby all had over 100 tackles and 13 different players registered a sack. LB Cameron Wake led the team in sacks with 8.5 and DE Jared Odrick came on strong in his second season to get six. Sean Smith and Vontae Davis are a solid set of do-it-all-type starting CB's. 
• Special Teams - K Dan Carpenter led the 10th ranked kicking units and the Dolphins were second in the league in field goals. The team also ranked 13th in both punting and kick returns.

Secret Weapon: RB Steve Slaton - This guy had a 1200 yard season as rookie in 2008 but has dropped off the map ever since. He was picked up by the Dolphins off waivers last September and the Miami coaches seem to like him. He may get used quite a bit to change the pace and catch defenses off guard. He could just as easily be cut before the season starts though (sorry, the pessimist came out).

Top Newcomers:

• QB Ryan Tannehill - The rookie from Texas A & M will get a year to wrap his head around the pro game but the team is counting on him being a starter eventually. He is a good athlete that could develop into a Brett Favre-type of gunslinger for the Dolphins.
• OT Jonathan Martin - Many people thought Martin was worthy of a first round pick but he fell to the Dolphins in the second round. If Martin can nail down a starting job and help hold the line for whoever is playing QB then this offense should begin to click sooner rather than later. 

Optimistic Fan Says: "The running game will be one of the best in the AFC so the transition from the Big 12 to the NFL should be made a little easier for Tannehill. I believe he has a chance to put up Cam Newton-like numbers if some receivers step up and a winning record is not out of the question, especially when you consider how good the defense and special teams have been in recent years."

Reality Check: If the Dolphins want any chance of making a strong run for the playoffs in 2012 they will need a good season from somebody at QB. It doesn't need to be flashy. That is why Brandon Marshall is gone. The formula is very simple: Rush for 2,000 yards + Hold opponents to 1500 rushing yards = winning football. A nine-win season is reasonable to consider, and I believe they can be a surprise team, but more than that would be asking for a real miracle at this point.

Projected 2012 Record: 5-11

New England Patriots

Key Returnees

• Offense - Tom Brady, Tom Brady, Tom Brady... That is all we really need to know about New England. The guy has simply become one of the greatest passers of all-time and he can lead a roster full of backup material to the Super Bowl on a regular basis. TE's Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez are breaking records and redefining how the position is played in the NFL. Gronk is a mismatch just waiting to happen for defenses. WR Wes Welker is a workhorse on the outside. The O-line is a good all-around group of guys that really don't stand out. OG Logan Mankins could play for anybody though.
• Defense - NT Vince Woolfork is the best in the business at plugging up the interior of the line and LB Jerod Mayo will continue be the team's top tackler for the foreseeable future. Kyle Arrington and Devin McCourty are decent corners that make a lot of tackles and 11-year DE Andre Carter had a second-coming last season with 10 sacks. There is a decent mixture of young, talented players and experienced vets to produce a formidable defensive unit. As we saw last season, however, they don't need to be that good to get to the Super Bowl.
• Special Teams - Who cares? Just get Brady back on the field and everything will be fine.

Secret Weapon: RB Stevan Ridley - Averaged 5.1 yards per carry as a rookie last year and should put his 5'11" 220 lbs frame to good use this season as the offense attempts to uncover more diamonds in the rough. If he develops a well-rounded game he could be a very useful cog in the system.

Top Newcomers:

• DE/OLB Chandler Jones - Could immediately help the pass-rush, which is a huge sore spot for the Patriots. Chandlers dimensions (6'6" 260 lbs.) and athleticism might provide the Pats with some big plays.
• LB Dont'a Hightower - One of the best defenders in college football on a great college defense should be a difference-maker. He should be a starter on day one.
• TE Visanthe Shiancoe - Not sure what the Pats will do with Shiancoe but at worst he gives them the best third-string TE in the league and he is probably the fourth or fifth best receiver on the entire roster. Will they go with three TE sets in 2012? Why not?
• LB Bobby Carpenter - Was a decent performer in Detroit the last few seasons and steps into a good position in New England. Even if he doesn't start he gives the team some flexibility and much-needed depth.

Optimistic Fan Says: "There's simply no reason to believe that we will not be back in the Super Bowl again this year."

Reality Check: When you look at New England's roster on paper they really do not look like much. However, the odds of them actually making it back to the Super Bowl is better than any other team in the league. That of course would drastically change if something were to happen to Tom Brady. We shall assume he will stay as healthy as usual and they will be in the hunt once again come January.

Projected 2012 Record: 11-5

New York Jets

Key Returnees:

• Offense - Despite all the criticism QB Mark Sanchez wasn't horrible last season while posting nearly 3500 yards and 26 TD's. TE Dustin Keller led the team in receptions, which actually says a lot more about the players on the outside rather than Keller himself. Don't get me wrong, as I think he's a very good player. I just don't think he should be leading any teams in catches. Santonio Holmes led the wide-outs with 51 catches and eight TD's. Third-year RB Shonn Greene has seen his production increase each year. He will continue to churn out some tough yardage for the Jets. C Nick Mangold and LT D'Brickashaw Ferguson are nice cornerstones to build an O-line around as well. 
• Defense - Ranked number five in the NFL in 2011 and has consistently been one of the best over the last several years. S Eric Smith, ILB David Harris, LB Bart Scott, and OLB/DE Calvin Pace all chipped in at least 54 tackles and 2.5 sacks a piece. Harris, a Michigan alum, may be the best of the bunch with 312 tackles and 13.5 sacks over the last three seasons. He also had four INT's last season with one pick-six. Darrelle Revis, Antonio Cromartie, and Kyle Wilson form a sound trio of corners to help against the likes of the New England Patriots.  DE Mohammed Wilkerson looks like he was worth the first round pick from a year ago. 
• Special Teams - RB/KR Joe McKnight - has turned into a nice player. He averaged 31.6 yards per return last season and brought one back for six. The team was also 11th in the league in punting.

Secret Weapon: RB Joe McKnight - All eyes will be on him when he's returning kicks but there might be enough of a distraction from other guys on offense to allow him to go unchecked. He has some great skills but hasn't been able to put it together with the starting offense yet. With the lack of depth on the roster and the departure of LaDainian Tomlinson one can only assume that McKnight will get more looks in the backfield. 

Top Newcomers:

• QB Tim Tebow - Oh god, as if we weren't hearing enough about Tebow already he had to get traded to the headline hungry Jets. Is it a match made in heaven or hell? Only time will tell. I believe he will have his moments, but I also believe this will be the year that everyone excepts the fact that he is not a good QB.
• DE Quinton Coples - The team is depending on him to come in and contribute immediately. The more pressure they can muster up against opposing offenses the better it will for everybody.
• WR Stephen Hill - This kid will need some work before he is a capable starter in this league but he possesses some extreme physical ability. With the right coaching he could be stellar in three to four years.

Optimistic Fan Says: "Our running game and defense alone will be good enough to get us 10 wins. Tebow and Sachez will be just fine splitting time and we will win the division and finally get into the Super Bowl. J-E-T-S Jets! Jets! Jets! "

Reality Check: We've heard more hype about this team over the last several years only to see them repeatedly fall flat on their faces. I'm just not convinced they have two good teams in New York. It seems the Jets have a lot of good pieces to build a nice offense around but there isn't much depth anywhere. Tim Tebow and another top five defense won't be enough to get them back into the playoffs this year.

Projected 2012 Record: 7-9