Playoff Predictions: Divisional Round

AFC:

Texans over Ravens: A rematch of the 2011 divisional round, this time the Texans come out on top. The Ravens defense is aging quickly, and the Texans offense will take advantage. Meanwhile, the Texans defense is young and talented, and Ray Rice will have to bear too much of the burden.

Patriots over Bengals: Cincinnati's lack of experience hurts when playing a team like the New England Patriots, one of the best playoff contenders within the past 10 years. Brady has new weapons to throw to, while Gronk and Welker remain his top targets.

NFC:

Packers over Lions: The Packers offense is quite possibly the best in the league, especially with Aaron Rodgers at the helm. The Packers organization now has a chip on their shoulder after losing to New York in the Conference Finals. Detroit is not yet stable enough to conquer the Packers in such an important game.

49ers over Eagles: This defense will no doubt bang around Michael Vick, who has never been labeled as "clutch" in the playoffs. Justin Smith and Patrick Willis are both freaks of nature, and will be the stars of this Divisional Round game. Alex Smith proves he can win big games, and therefore lead San Francisco back into the Conference finals.

Week 1 Predictions

     The NFL season is underway! Last Wednesday's game starring New York and Dallas shocked everyone, for the Cowboys were able to defeat the reigning champions. Many teams have undergone big changes, and several stars from around the league are in new cities. The free agency shipped players such as Peyton Manning, Tim Tebow, and Vincent Jackson across the country. Upsets, injuries, and thrillers shape the game we know, and are sure to take place in Week 1. The opening week of football is bound to have exciting endings, and The NFL Report has everything you need to know!

Justin Smith (Kyle Terada/US Presswire)

Game to Watch: 49ers @ Packers: What better way to start off Week 1 than to watch Green Bay take on San Francisco? Two of the most accomplished franchises in NFL history will start their season's at historic Lambeau Field. Tomorrow's game will be a battle between offense and defense, where it will most likely come down to the final seconds. The 49ers added Randy Moss, Mario Manningham, and Brandon Jacobs in order to enhance their offense, where as the Packers signed running back Cedric Benson. These two teams are the preseason favorites to win the NFC Championship, and rightfully so. Aaron Rodgers is coming off an MVP season, where as the 49ers fell short of the Super Bowl when losing to New York in an overtime thriller. However, it will be too difficult for San Francisco to march into Wisconsin and steal a win from the Green Bay Packers.
Packers over 49ers 24-13


Stand Out Performance: QB Cam Newton: The Carolina Panthers did not know what to expect from Cam Newton when they drafted him first overall, but in no way did he disappoint. Newton now holds 27 different records, all of which in just his first NFL season. In Week 1, the Carolina Panthers will face-off against the Tampa Buccaneers, the worst scoring defense in the league. In 2011, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers allowed a league high 26 rushing touchdowns, as well as 30 passing touchdowns. Cam Newton is capable of throwing a deep ball down field, and rushing for a big gain.Thanks to his exceptional capabilities, Newton's Week 1 will be a fantasy football gem.
Cam Newton: 375 passing yards, 3 passing TDs, 1 rushing TD


Player to Watch: QB Peyton Manning: A neck injury kept Peyton Manning, one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, from playing all of the 2011 season. The Indianapolis Colts were unable to keep their quarterback, who ended up signing with John Elway and the Denver Broncos. Now, we will see if Manning's neck will restrain him from playing like his former self, or if the injury is just a thing of the past. He will not have the same receiving corp as he did during his prime (Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark), but Manning has a way of making the players around him better. Can Manning bear the burden of Denver's organization, or will it be all too much? We will find out tomorrow...
Peyton Manning: 295 passing yards, 2 passing TDs, 1 INT


Week 1 Predictions:

Giants over Cowboys

Bears over Colts

Eagles over Browns

Lions over Rams

Texans over Dolphins

Chiefs over Falcons

Vikings over Jaguars

Saints over Redskins

Jets over Bills

Patriots over Titans

Seahawks over Cardinals

Packers over 49ers

Panthers over Buccaneers

Broncos over Steelers

Ravens over Bengals OT

Chargers over Raiders

Playoff Predictions: Wild Card

AFC:
Texans over Chargers: Unfortunately for the Houston Texans, Matt Schaub was not able to play in the playoffs due to injury, the main reason why they didn't defeat Baltimore in the divisional round. His health is vital, but Arian Foster and Andre Johnson would be able to pick up the slack in 2012. San Diego is not quite as well rounded as the Houston Texans, and therefore will not be able to beat them on the road.

Bengals over Chiefs: Both teams are extremely inexperienced, but the Bengals are more talented on offense and defense. AJ Green is entering his sophomore season in the NFL, and has great chemistry with Andy Dalton. The defense did well in 2011, and drafted corner back Dre Kirkpatrick to enhance their pass defense. This battle of inexperience will be a good one, but Cincinnati will defeat the Chiefs on the road.

NFC:
Lions over Falcons: Historically, the Lions have won just one playoff game in their 50-year history, but this is Detroit's year. However, it all depends on whether or not Stafford can stay healthy. Calvin Johnson is un defend able, especially when Stafford is throwing to him. Atlanta never crosses my mind as a team who can make it all the way to the Super Bowl. The biggest upset for the first round of the playoffs.

Eagles over Bears: Philadelphia's Dream Team is bound to succeed in 2012, and home field advantage gives them the upper hand over Chicago. Michael Vick is injury prone, and he is the difference maker in these playoffs. Jay Cutler does not have the clutch factor necessary to succeed in the post season.

NFC Final Predictions

1. Green Bay Packers (14-2): The Packers are too talented, offensively and defensively, to lose their crown at the the top of the NFC.

2. San Francisco 49ers (13-3): An already extraordinary defense, this organization improved their offense when acquiring three big offensive weapons.

3. Atlanta Falcons (13-3): The defense lost Curtis Lofton, but added cornerback Asante Samuel. The offense on the other hand has absolutely nothing to worry about.

4. Philadelphia Eagles (12-4): Last year was not a good season for Eagles fans, but a turnaround is expected in 2012. Michael Vick will have to stay healthy if they want a spot in the Super Bowl.

5. Chicago Bears (12-4): The addition of Brandon Marshall will restore his chemistry with quarterback Jay Cutler. Watch out for the Bears in the playoffs!

6. Detroit Lions (11-5): Stafford's capability of staying healthy worries me, but this offense is unstoppable if he's throwing to Megatron.

NFL Report Update: New Orleans Saints

Breaking News: Today, a panel of officials overturned the NFL's original ruling on the Saints Bounty Program. Now, four players who were originally suspended will be able to play all 16 games in 2012. One of those players, Jonathan Vilma, is a leader of the Saints defense and a former pro-bowler. This new ruling will affect the fate of New Orleans defense tremendously, keeping them in the hunt for a spot in the playoffs.

2012 NFL Predictions (NFC West)

1. San Francisco 49ers (13-3): The 49ers may not have spent bug bucks on a lone offensive weapon this past off season, but instead stocked up on three new additions for the same price. Randy Moss and Mario Manningham are meant to give quarterback Alex Smith more weapons besides Ted Ginn and Michael Crabtree. The running game recently acquired ex-Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, a back-up to Frank Gore. The defense has the best front seven in the NFL, led by stars such as Justin Smith and Patrick Willis. It was impossible to run over this defense last season, but the pass defense isn't any easier from an offensive standpoint. Alex Smith will need to be the Smith who showed up to play in the NFC Championship Game, and not the one we have seen for the past six years.

Week 1: 49ers @ Packers L
Week 2: Lions @ 49ers W
Week 3: 49ers @ Vikings W
Week 4: 49ers @ Jets W
Week 5: Bills @ 49ers W
Week 6: Giants @ 49ers L
Week 7: Seahawks @ 49ers W
Week 8: 49ers @ Cardinals W
Week 9: BYE
Week 10: Rams @ 49ers W
Week 11: Bears @ 49ers W
Week 12: 49ers @ Saints L
Week 13: 49ers @ Rams W
Week 14: Dolphins @ 49ers W
Week 15: 49ers @ Patriots L
Week 16: 49ers @ Seahawks W
Week 17: Cardinals @ 49ers W



2. Seattle Seahawks (7-9): Even though the Seahawks took the chance in signing Matt Flynn, coach Pete Carroll announced that Russell Wilson will be the Week 1 starter against the Cardinals. This comes as a surprise, for Wilson is just a third-round rookie, and the organization appears to be basing too much of their decision off of the preseason games. The running game will fare well if Marshawn Lynch can stay healthy. Seattle did a complete 180 when it came to their defense, and by the end of 2011, their lineup was ruled one of the best in the league. However, I do not agree with Seattle's first round pick, selecting defensive end Bruce Irvin when many more talented players were still available. The Seahawks are extremely close to another playoff appearance, but the quarterback situation needs to be more stable.

Week 1: Seahawks @ Cardinals L
Week 2: Cowboys @ Seahawks L
Week 3: Packers @ Seahawks L
Week 4: Seahawks @ Rams W
Week 5: Seahawks @ Panthers L
Week 6: Patriots @ Seahawks L
Week 7: Seahawks @ 49ers L
Week 8: Seahawks @ lions L
Week 9: Vikings @ Seahawks W
Week 10: Jets @ Seahawks W
Week 11: BYE
Week 12: Seahawks @ Dolphins W
Week 13: Seahawks @ Bears L
Week 14: Cardinals @ Seahawks W
Week 15: Seahawks @ Bills W
Week 16: 49ers @ Seahawks L
Week 17: Rams @ Seahawks W


3. Arizona Cardinals (5-11): In last April's draft, the Arizona Cardinals spent their first round pick on wide receiver Michael Floyd. Though Floyd's selection was smart in taking away the triple team from Larry Fitzgerald, in no way will it ever be able to fix their problems at quarterback. Ever since Kolb moved to Arizona and suffered from yet another concussion, he has been playing scared, always making a bad decision so he will not have to take the hit. John Skelton on the other hand did not do well throughout the duration of the preseason, not playing to his full capability. The defense struggled at certain points in the season, and I doubt things will change in 2012. Arizona's offense will rely heavily on how their quarterback(s), and whether or not they can be clutch in close situations.

Week 1: Seahawks @ Cardinals W

Week 2: Cardinals @ Patriots L

Week 3: Eagles @ Cardinals L

Week 4: Dolphins @ Cardinals W

Week 5: Cardinals @ Rams L

Week 6: Bills @ Cardinals W

Week 7: Cardinals @ Vikings W

Week 8: 49ers @ Cardinals L

Week 9: Cardinals @ Packers L

Week 10: BYE

Week 11: Cardinals @ Falcons L

Week 12: Rams @ Cardinals W

Week 13: Cardinals @ Jets L

Week 14: Cardinals @ Seahawks L

Week 15: Lions @ Cardinals L

Week 16: Bears @ Cardinals L

Week 17: Cardinals @ 49ers L

4. St. Louis Rams (1-15): Sam Bradford has not quite lived up to his number overall pick, where as the other quarterback capable of number one (Matthew Stafford, Cam Newton), have gone above and beyond. The Rams attempted to add a weapon to this offense by acquiring Brandon Lloyd, but their decision was unsuccessful. The draft did not go well either, when they missed out on two of college football's best receiver prospects. Steven Jackson will not be able to put the offense on his back, and Bradford has yet to prove he can guide his team to success. The defense is nothing special, and it will take a while for this team to have a remote chance at the playoffs. St Louis fans; hopefully Robert Woods will be available by the time it is St Louis' time to pick in next year's draft. 

Week 1: Rams @ Lions L

Week 2: Redskins @ Rams L

Week 3: Rams @ Bears L

Week 4: Seahawks @ Rams L

Week 5: Cardinals @ Rams W

Week 6: Rams @ Dolphins L

Week 7: Packers @ Rams L

Week 8: Patriots @ Rams L

Week 9: BYE

Week 10: Rams @ 49ers L

Week 11: Jets @ Rams L

Week 12: Rams @ Cardinals L

Week 13: 49ers @ Rams L

Week 14: Rams @ Bills L

Week 15: Vikings @ Rams L

Week 16: Rams @ Buccaneers L

Week 17: Rams @ Seahawks L

Opening Kickoff

Tonight, we will watch the NFL season opener between inter-division rivals known as the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys. Seven long, boring months went by since the last NFL game took place, and this evenings opener is sure to not disappoint. New York is coming off of a Super Bowl victory, where as the Dallas Cowboys missed last season's playoffs yet again, and are looking to rebound from their disappointing season. Sunday afternoon's symbolize the relaxation incorporated with watching football, and are something we will look forward to each week for the next several months. Surprises, upsets, and disappointments are a part of the game, and only adds to this great sport. So grab some popcorn, sit down on the couch, and turn on this evening's game. Are you ready for some football?

Prediction: Giants over Cowboys 27-16

2012 NFL Predictions (NFC South)

1. Atlanta Falcons (13-3): The Atlanta Falcons will likely take advantage of the Saints crumbling franchise, and based on how much talent they have on their roster, they clearly deserve the number one spot in the division. Michael Turner is 30 years old, old for any running bad. Luckily, Turner has been playing like he's 20 for the past few seasons, and even if his statistics were to drop off slightly, the running game will be fine. Matt Ryan on the other hand is entering the prime of his career, and he has the option of throwing to Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez, and the up and coming wide receiver in Julio Jones. Offense will be key, but the defense still has it's stars that can be the difference between a win and a loss. Corner back Asante Samuel was added in the off season, and should be able to improve a mediocre pass defense. This is Atlanta's time to win their division, and maybe Matt Ryan will be able to win his first championship.

Roddy White (Eliot Kamenitz/The Times-Picayune)

Week 1: Falcons @ Chiefs W
Week 2: Broncos @ Falcons W
Week 3: Falcons @ Chargers W
Week 4: Panthers @ Falcons W
Week 5: Falcons @ Redskins W
Week 6: Raiders @ Falcons W
Week 7: BYE
Week 8: Falcons @ Eagles L
Week 9: Cowboys @ Falcons W
Week 10: Falcons @ Saints L
Week 11: Cardinals @ Falcons W
Week 12: Falcons @ Buccaneers W
Week 13: Saints @ Falcons W
Week 14: Falcons @ Panthers W
Week 15: Giants @ Falcons W
Week 16: Falcons @ Lions L
Week 17: Buccaneers @ Falcons W



2. New Orleans Saints (9-7): If you haven't heard already, the New Orleans Saints were caught by the NFL holding a bounty program, run by their defensive coordinator Greg Williams. The fines not only removed their head coach, several defenders, and the GM for half a season, but the bounty will shake-up this organization for years to come. Drew Brees and his elite wide receiver corp will keep them in the hunt for a playoff spot, but it is the defense that will hurt most. Newly added linebacker Curtis Lofton missed the final preseason game, and might even miss the season opener against Washington. Brees' leadership will be tested, but if the franchise can do without Sean Payton, then maybe New Orleans remains a threat for the Super Bowl.

Jimmy Graham (Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

Week 1: Redskins @ Saints W
Week 2: Saints @ Panthers L
Week 3: Chiefs @ Saints W
Week 4: Saints @ Packers L
Week 5: Chargers @ Saints W
Week 6: BYE
Week 7: Saints @ Buccaneers L
Week 8: Saints @ Broncos L
Week 9: Eagles @ Saints W
Week 10: Falcons @ Saints W
Week 11: Saints @ Raiders W
Week 12: 49ers @ Saints W
Week 13: Saints @ Falcons L
Week 14: Saints @ Giants L
Week 15: Buccaneers @ Saints W
Week 16: Saints @ Cowboys L
Week 17: Panthers @ Saints W



3. Carolina Panthers (7-9): Cam Newton shocked the world last season by putting up unseen numbers. Keep in mind; he was a rookie! As a sophomore quarterback in the NFL, this will be his second biggest test to see if he can handle the pressure. Him and wide receiver Steve Smith got along quite well, but Smith began to fade once the double coverage came. Carolina now has the best running game in football with Mike Tolbert, DeAngelo Williams, and obviously Cam Newton. The NFC South is an offense-heavy division, and Carolina's defense struggled last season. That is why the panthers went out and drafted linebacker Luke Kuechly, in my book the best defender to come out of last April's draft. There is just the right amount of youth and experience on this team, which is why I believe the Carolina Panthers have a legitimate shot at the playoffs.

DeAngelo Williams (Kim Klement/Getty Images)

Week 1: Panthers @ Buccaneers L
Week 2: Saints @ Panthers W
Week 3: Giants @ Panthers W
Week 4: Panthers @ Falcons L
Week 5: Seahawks @ Panthers W
Week 6: BYE
Week 7: Cowboys @ Panthers W
Week 8: Panthers @ Bears L
Week 9: Panthers @ Redskins L
Week 10: Broncos @ Panthers W
Week 11: Buccaneers @ Panthers W
Week 12: Panthers @ Eagles L
Week 13: Panthers @ Chiefs L
Week 14: Falcons @ Panthers L
Week 15: Panthers @ Chargers L
Week 16: Raiders @ Panthers W
Week 17: Panthers @ Saints L


4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12): A disappointing 2011 led to Tampa signing two big offensive names; wide receiver Vincent Jackson and guard Jahri Evans. Josh Freeman now has an all-star receiver to throw to, but will it be enough? The running duo of LaGarrette Blount and Doug Martin will do well against the weak NFC South defenses, and Josh Freeman will have to cut down on the interceptions if they wish to win close games. Besides the drafting of safety Mark Barron, however, they did nothing to fix their absolutely atrocious defense, which ranked dead last in several major defensive categories. I'm not sure what their approach will be, but unless the defense pulls off a miraculous turn around, the Bucs will remain at the bottom of the food chain once again.

Vincent Jackson (Dave Martin/AP Photo)

Week 1: Panthers @ Buccaneers W
Week 2: Buccaneers @ Giants L
Week 3: Buccaneers @ Cowboys L
Week 4: Redskins @ Buccaneers L
Week 5: BYE
Week 6: Chiefs @ Buccaneers L
Week 7: Saints @ Buccaneers W
Week 8: Buccaneers @ Vikings W
Week 9: Buccaneers @ Raiders L
Week 10: Chargers @ Buccaneers L
Week 11: Buccaneers @ Panthers L
Week 12: Falcons @ Buccaneers L
Week 13: Buccaneers @ Broncos L
Week 14: Eagles @ Buccaneers L
Week 15: Buccaneers @ Saints L
Week 16: Rams @ Buccaneers W
Week 17: Buccaneers @ Falcons L

NFL Report Update: Kenny Britt

Breaking News: Titans wide receiver Kenny Britt has been suspended for one game due to his multiple arrests this past off season. The information was released this evening at 9:00, and will remove him from the season opener against New England.

2012 NFL Predictions (NFC North)

1. Green Bay Packers (14-2): The Green Bay Packers were one game away from a perfect regular season in 2011, losing to Kansas City in Week 15. A bye in the first week of the playoffs matched them up with New York, and the Giants ended up marching through Green Bay and all the way into the Super Bowl. The Packers remain number one on many preseason power rankings, and rightfully so. Reigning MVP Aaron Rodgers is the best quarterback in the game, and his receiving corp, consisting of Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, Jermichael Finley, and James Jones, is also an elite group of players. The organization signed free agent Cedric Benson, and hopefully he has enough energy to liven-up their running game. The defense ranked dead last in total defense the previous season, after a top-5 squad the year they won Super Bowl XLV. Stars are everywhere in Wisconsin, and an early exit from last year's playoffs will be used as motivation for the Green Bay Packers.

Clay Matthews (Jeff Hanisch/US Presswire)

Week 1: 49ers @ Packers W
Week 2: Bears @ Packers W
Week 3: Packers @ Seahawks W
Week 4: Saints @ Packers W
Week 5: Packers @ Colts W
Week 6: Packers @ Texans W
Week 7: Packers @ Rams W
Week 8: Jaguars @ Packers W
Week 9: Cardinals @ Packers W
Week 10: BYE
Week 11: Packers @ Lions L
Week 12: Packers @ Giants W
Week 13: Vikings @ Packers W
Week 14: Lions @ Packers W
Week 15: Packers @ Bears L
Week 16: Titans @ Packers W
Week 17: Packers @ Vikings W



2. Chicago Bears (12-4): Chicago disappointed everyone in 2011 after missing the playoffs entirely, for they were the number two seed in 2010's quest for the Super Bowl. An upbeat, energetic offseason might be enough though to march this team back into the postseason. The biggest signing made by Chicago was that of Brandon Marshall, a wide receiver who has already established great chemistry with quarterback Jay Cutler. The two played together in Denver, where Marshall had one of the best receiving seasons in recent memory. Cutler has been lacking a lethal weapon in Chicago, and surely Marshall will be his go-to guy. Running back Matt Forte rounds out this offense, even though I can't shake the feeling he is setting up for a bust of a season in 2012. Defensively, the Bears suffered a big injury to their linebacker Brian Urlacher, who may miss the season opener against Indianapolis. Chicago is very well rounded, with possibly the greatest return man in the history of the game. Therefore, Chicago might even be able to conquer Green Bay for the NFC North title once again.

Matt Forte

Week 1: Colts @ Bears W
Week 2: Bears @ Packers L
Week 3: Rams @ Bears W
Week 4: Bears @ Cowboys L
Week 5: Bears @ Jaguars W
Week 6: BYE
Week 7: Lions @ Bears W
Week 8: Panthers @ Bears L
Week 9: Bears @ Titans W
Week 10: Texans @ Bears W
Week 11: Bears @ 49ers L
Week 12: Vikings @ Bears W
Week 13: Seahawks @ Bears W
Week 14: Bears @ Vikings W
Week 15: Packers @ Bears W
Week 16: Bears @ Cardinals W
Week 17: Bears @ Lions W



3. Detroit Lions (11-5): Four years ago, the Detroit Lions became the first team in NFL history to have a winless season. Things picked up, however, once they drafted quarterback Matthew Stafford. For the first few years, Stafford was unable to play a complete season. Then, in 2011, Stafford finished out the year injury-free, passing for 5,038 yards, as well as leading his team into the playoffs. Much of the credit also has to be rewarded to Calvin Johnson, quite possibly the most talented player in the NFL. Just because Stafford stayed healthy throughout 2011 does not mean his luck will continue into 2012. In fact, the Lions quarterback injured his left hand in last weeks preseason game, not a good sign for Detroit fans. The team spent their first two draft picks on offensive players, proving just how much they  depend on a high scoring game. The plan is destined to fail if Stafford were to be injured once again, and if that were to happen, Detroit might miss out on yet another postseason.

Matthew Stafford

Week 1: Rams @ Lions W
Week 2: Lions @ 49ers L
Week 3: Lions @ Titans W
Week 4: Vikings @ Lions W
Week 5: BYE
Week 6: Lions @ Eagles L
Week 7: Lions @ Bears L
Week 8: Seahawks @ Lions W
Week 9: Lions @ Jaguars W
Week 10: Lions @ Vikings W
Week 11: Packers @ Lions W
Week 12: Texans @ Lions W
Week 13: Colts @ Lions W
Week 14: Lions @ Packers L
Week 15: Lions @ Cardinals W
Week 16: Falcons @ Lions W
Week 17: Bears @ Lions L



4. Minnesota Vikings (1-15): Jared Allen's beast-like season did not catch as many headlines as it deserved in 2011, for too many television shows were focusing on the historic passing performances from guys like Brady, Brees, Stafford, and Rodgers. Allen was half of a sack away from breaking the single season sack record, which still stands at 22.5. Minnesota has fallen off of the radar since Brett Favre called it quits for the last time (or so we think), where the only offensive star remaining is Adrian Peterson. Peterson blew out his left knee in a Christmas Eve game against Washington, and is not likely to play 100% in the first few 2012 regular season games. Percy Harvin had extraordinary potential as a rookie several years ago, but his migraine troubles are too inconsistent for him to be a star. Matt Kalil should help this offensive line, but not enough for Christian Ponder and the Vikings to earn a winning record in 2012.

Jared Allen (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Week 1: Jaguars @ Vikings L
Week 2: Vikings @ Colts L
Week 3: 49ers @ Vikings L
Week 4: Vikings @ Lions L
Week 5: Titans @ Lions L
Week 6: Vikings @ Redskins L
Week 7: Cardinals @ Vikings L
Week 8: Buccaneers @ Lions L
Week 9: Vikings @ Seahawks L
Week 10: Lions @ Vikings L
Week 11: BYE
Week 12: Vikings @ Bears L
Week 13: Vikings @ Packers L
Week 14: Bears @ Vikings L
Week 15: Vikings @ Rams W
Week 16: Vikings @ Texans L
Week 17: Packers @ Vikings L

Madden Release Date

Today is the release date of Madden 13. Congratulations to EA Sports for those 25 excellent years of football! You can buy the game here at GameStop.com! Below are this year's top 10 ratings for each notable position.



Quarterback:
1. Aaron Rodgers: 99
2. Tom Brady: 98
3. Drew Brees: 98
4. Eli Manning: 97
5. Ben Roethlisberger: 95
6. Peyton Manning: 93
7. Philip Rivers: 92
8. Matthew Stafford: 91
9. Tony Romo: 90
10. Michael Vick: 89

Running Back:
1. Maurice Jones-Drew: 97
2. Adrian Peterson: 97
3. Arian Foster: 96
4. LeSean McCoy: 95
5. Ray Rice: 95
6. Matt Forte: 93
7. Frank Gore: 92
8. Steven Jackson: 92
9. Jamaal Charles: 91
10. Michael Turner: 91

Wide Receiver/Tight End:
1. Calvin Johnson: 99
2. Rob Gronkowski: 97
3. Larry Fitzgerald: 97
4. Andre Johnson: 97
5. Vernon Davis: 95
6. Jimmy Graham: 95
7. Steve Smith: 95
8. Wes Welker: 95
9. Roddy White: 94
10. Hakeem Nicks: 94





Defense:
1. Darrelle Revis: 99
2. DeMarcus Ware: 99
3. Patrick Willis: 98
4. Jared Allen: 98
5. Justin Smith: 98
6. Julius Peppers: 97
7. Haloti Ngata: 97
8. Troy Polamalu: 97
9. Ed Reed: 97
10. Mario Williams: 97

2012 NFL Predictions (NFC East)

1. Philadelphia Eagles (12-4): On paper, the Eagles have one of the most well rounded teams in the NFL. However, they were unable to live up to the hype in 2011, and missed the playoffs entirely. Michael Vick injured his ribs just three games into the preseason this year, and could be a sign of things to come. If he were to stay healthy, the quarterback would thrive, especially when passing to DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, and Brent Celek. The running game exploded last year thanks to LeSean McCoy's outstanding performance, and is likely to continue into 2012. Defensively, there are bug names on this roster such as Jason Babin and Trent Cole (combined 29 sacks), along with star corner Nnamdi Asomugha. The defense has done extremely well this preseason, ranking 1st overall in total defense. The talent is there, all they need is a little push.

DeSean Jackson (Lynne Sladky/AP Photo)

Week 1: Eagles @ Browns W

Week 2: Ravens @ Eagles W

Week 3: Eagles @ Cardinals W

Week 4: Giants @ Eagles W

Week 5: Eagles @ Steelers L

Week 6: Lions @ Eagles W

Week 7: BYE

Week 8: Falcons @ Eagles W

Week 9: Eagles @ Saints L

Week 10: Cowboys @ Eagles W

Week 11: Eagles @ Redskins W

Week 12: Panthers @ Eagles W

Week 13: Eagles @ Cowboys L

Week 14: Eagles @ Buccaneers W

Week 15: Bengals @ Eagles W

Week 16: Redskins @ Eagles W

Week 17: Eagles @ Giants L

2. New York Giants (10-6): The reigning champions came close to missing the playoffs altogether in 2012, but managed to beat Dallas at home in Week 17. There have been few changes made throughout the off season, but New York remains dangerous as Super Bowl contenders. It all starts with quarterback Eli Manning, quite possibly the most clutch player in the NFL. Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks are two spectacular wide receivers, making up one of the league's best wide receiver corps. Though Brandon Jacobs has left for the west coast, Ahmad Bradshaw and rookie David Wilson will do just fine when running the ball this September. Similar to Philadelphia, the Giants have an elite pass rushing duo, consisting of defensive ends Jason Pierre-Paul (16.5 sacks) and Justin Tuck (an off-year for Tuck, racking up just 5 sacks. Unfortunately for the Giants, all the other 31 teams will be gunning for them, so it will be more difficult for them to repeat their 2012 performance.

Justin Tuck (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Week 1: Cowboys @ Giants W
Week 2: Buccaneers @ Giants W
Week 3: Giants @ Panthers L
Week 4: Giants @ Eagles L
Week 5: Browns @ Giants W
Week 6: Giants @ 49ers W
Week 7: Redskins @ Giants W
Week 8: Giants @ Cowboys L
Week 9: Steelers @ Giants W
Week 10: Giants @ Bengals W
Week 11: BYE
Week 12: Packers @ Giants L
Week 13: Giants @ Redskins W
Week 14: Saints @ Giants W
Week 15: Giants @ Falcons L
Week 16: Giants @ Ravens L
Week 17: Eagles @ Giants W




3.  Dallas Cowboys (8-8): The Dez Bryant situation ruined this team's chances from the start, putting Dallas in a state of despair. General manager Jerry Jones showed his frustration after wide receiver Dez Bryant was arrested on assault charges. Dallas missed out on the playoffs by one game in 2011, and will look to rebound in 2012. The defense has stars scattered around the field, most notably Demarcus Ware, a former Defensive Player of the Year. The offense has its moments, especially when passing the football. Tony Romo has the option of throwing to Bryant or pro-bowler Miles Austin, as well as pounding their run game with young rusher DeMarco Murray. There is too much chaos in Dallas, and things must be done in order for this years team to make the post season.

Dez Bryant (Elsa/Getty Images)

Week 1: Cowboys @ Giants L
Week 2: Cowboys @ Seahawks W
Week 3: Buccaneers @ Cowboys W
Week 4: Bears @ Cowboys W
Week 5: BYE
Week 6: Cowboys @ Ravens L
Week 7: Cowboys @ Panthers L
Week 8: Giants @ Cowboys W
Week 9: Cowboys @ Falcons L
Week 10: Cowboys @ Eagles L
Week 11: Browns @ Cowboys W
Week 12: Redskins @ Cowboys W
Week 13: Eagles @ Cowboys W
Week 14: Cowboys @ Bengals L
Week 15: Steelers @ Cowboys L
Week 16: Saints @ Cowboys W
Week 17: Cowboys @ Redskins L




4. Washington Redskins (5-11): Washington sacrificed a lot in order to draft Heisman winner Robert Griffin III, and are hoping he can be their savior. Arm strength, accuracy, and speed is what won him college football's greatest honor. The wide receiver corp is decent, but over time, the Washington Redskins will likely try and add more weapons for their rookie quarterback. Running back Roy Helu was meant to be starter, but an Achilles injury sidelined him for the previous two preseason games. Assuming he can bounce back, the running game will do just fine. The defense fared well in 2011, led by linebacker London Fletcher. The NFC East is more competitive than ever, and the Washington Redskins will need an exceptional rookie season from RGIII if making the playoffs in 2012 is their goal.

London Fletcher (Tony Sandys/Washington Post)

Week 1: Redskins @ Saints L
Week 2: Redskins @ Rams W
Week 3: Bengals @ Redskins L
Week 4: Redskins @ Buccaneers W
Week 5: Falcons @ Redskins L
Week 6: Vikings @ Redskins W
Week 7: Redskins @ Giants L
Week 8: Redskins @ Steelers L
Week 9: Panthers @ Redskins W
Week 10: BYE
Week 11: Eagles @ Redskins L
Week 12: Redskins @ Cowboys L
Week 13: Giants @ Redskins L
Week 14: Ravens @ Redskins L
Week 15: Redskins @ Browns L
Week 16: Redskins @ Eagles L
Week 17: Cowboys @ Redskins W

Injury Report: Week 3 (Preseason)

-Steelers guard David DeCastro suffered both ACL and MCL injuries in a win over Buffalo. DeCastro was the 24th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.

-Giants corner back Prince Amukamara was carted off the field in a loss to Chicago. The injury was labeled as a high ankle sprain.

-Quarterback Matthew Stafford suffered from a left hand injury in his most recent preseason game against Oakland. Stafford has been known to be ridden by injuries.

-Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski  suffered an all-to-common groin injury in a win over Detroit. Janikowski has one of the most powerful legs in the NFL.

-Davin Joseph, a two time Pro-Bowler for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, will undergo surgery on his left patellar tendon after being carted off in a win over New England. He will likely miss the rest of the season.

-Cowboys nose tackle Jay Ratliff has a possible ankle sprain in which he suffered in last weeks preseason game against St. Louis. There is a chance Ratliff will miss the season opener against the Giants.

-Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel left the Week 3 preseason game after what Mike Tomlin says was a "mild high ankle sprain."

-Defensive end Julius Peppers told reporters that he has been playing through plantar fasciitis ever since the start of training camp. Peppers has been named probable to play in the season opener.

-Chargers linebacker Melvin Ingram left Friday's game in a win over Minnesota. Ingram was drafted 18th overall by the San Diego Chargers.

AFC Final Predictions

1. New England Patriots (14-2): Talented players added to an already talented roster makes New England a serious threat to win back-to-back AFC titles.

2. Baltimore Ravens (11-5): The injury to Terrell Suggs is a catastrophic loss, but they are still an AFC powerhouse.

3. Houston Texans (11-5): Even though they are without their star linebacker Mario Williams, players like Arian Foster, Matt Schaub, and Andre Johnson will lead the Texans back into the playoffs.

4. Kansas City Chiefs (10-6): Injuries kept Kansas City out of the postseason, but now that they have their stars back, the Chiefs will dethrone Denver for the number one spot in the AFC West.

5. Cincinnati Bengals (10-6): A roster loaded with youth sets up a hit-or-miss situation, depending heavily on the offensive duo between quarterback Andy Dalton and wide receiver AJ Green.

6. San Diego Chargers (10-6): In a conference dominated by offense, it will be even more important for quarterback Philip Rivers and his young running back in Ryan Mathews to stay healthy in 2012.

2012 NFL Predictions (AFC West)

1. Kansas City Chiefs (10-6): If not for several injuries to key players in 2011, the Chiefs would have had a chance at making the playoffs for the second year in a row. Stars Eric Berry and Jamaal Charles return from season ending injuries, and will only help the Chiefs record in 2012. On paper, Kansas City has one of the best teams in the NFL, and will dominate the not-so-talented AFC West.

Jamaal Charles

Week 1: Falcons @ Chiefs L

Week 2: Bills @ Chiefs L

Week 3: Chiefs @ Saints L

Week 4: Chargers @ Chiefs W

Week 5: Ravens @ Chiefs W

Week 6: Chiefs @ Buccaneers W

Week 7: BYE

Week 8: Raiders @ Chiefs W

Week 9: Chiefs @ Chargers L

Week 10: Chiefs @ Steelers L

Week 11: Bengals @ Chiefs W

Week 12: Chiefs @ Broncos W

Week 13: Panthers @ Chiefs W

Week 14: Chiefs @ Browns W

Week 15: Chiefs @ Raiders W

Week 16: Colts @ Chiefs W

Week 17: Chiefs @ Broncos L

2. San Diego Chargers (10-6): After winning the divisional championship four years in a row ('06-'09), the Chargers missed a spot in the playoffs for the second consecutive season. Philip Rivers had a disappointing 2011 run (by his standards), passing for a career-high 20 interceptions as well as unable to lead his team into the playoffs. Now that his favorite target in Vincent Jackson has left for sunny Tampa, Rivers is left with Malcolm Floyd, Robert Meachem, and Eddie Royal (still a great receiving corp). The Chargers drafted linebacker Melvin Ingram in order to enhance their all round defense. Head coach Norv Turner is on the hot seat, and yet another unsuccessful season would not be good for his job.

Ryan Mathews

Week 1: Chargers @ Raiders L

Week 2: Titans @ Chargers W

Week 3: Falcons @ Chargers L

Week 4: Chargers @ Chiefs L

Week 5: Chargers @ Saints L

Week 6: Broncos @ Chargers W

Week 7: BYE

Week 8: Chargers @ Browns W

Week 9: Chiefs @ Chargers W

Week 10: Chargers @ Buccaneers W

Week 11: Chargers @ Broncos L

Week 12: Ravens @ Chargers W

Week 13: Bengals @ Chargers L

Week 14: Chargers @ Steelers W

Week 15: Panthers @ Chargers W

Week 16: Chargers @ Jets W

Week 17: Raiders @ Chargers W

3. Denver Broncos (8-8): Possibly the biggest question entering Week 1 is how Peyton Manning will play with one year removed from the NFL. According to Manning, the neck is not feeling 100%, something the Broncos are not happy to here from their million-dollar-man. In 2010, he may have put up obscene statistics, but the Colts went just 10-6. It would be hard to convince me that a neck injury at age 36 will help improve his play dramatically enough to make the playoffs once again. The defense has its stars, but overall would not be considered a top 10 squad. Denver: Manning will not be able to solve all of your problems.   

Von Miller

Week 1: Steelers @ Broncos W

Week 2: Broncos @ Falcons L

Week 3: Texans @ Broncos W

Week 4: Raiders @ Broncos W

Week 5: Broncos @ Patriots L

Week 6: Broncos @ Chargers L

Week 7: BYE

Week 8: Saints @ Broncos W

Week 9: Broncos @ Bengals L

Week 10: Broncos @ Panthers L

Week 11: Chargers @ Broncos W

Week 12: Broncos @ Chiefs L

Week 13: Buccaneers @ Broncos W

Week 14: Broncos @ Raiders L

Week 15: Broncos @ Ravens L

Week 16: Browns @ Broncos W

Week 17: Chiefs @ Broncos W

4. Oakland Raiders (6-10): If only Darren McFadden could just stay HEALTHY! In the seven games in which he played last season, McFadden averaged 5.4 yards per carry before suffering a Lisfranc fracture in Week 7. Oakland also lost their longtime GM AL Davis, who died at age 82 from heart complications. The Raiders organization is not quite stable enough to make a deep playoff run, especially if their defense and passing game do not improve.

Shane Lechler

Week 1: Chargers @ Raiders W
Week 2: Raiders @ Dolphins L
Week 3: Steelers @ Raiders L
Week 4: Raiders @ Broncos L
Week 5: BYE
Week 6: Raiders @ Falcons L
Week 7: Jaguars @ Raiders W
Week 8: Raiders @ Chiefs L
Week 9: Buccaneers @ Raiders W
Week 10: Raiders @ Ravens L
Week 11: Saints @ Raiders W
Week 12: Raiders @ Bengals L
Week 13: Browns @ Raiders W
Week 14: Broncos @ Raiders W
Week 15: Chiefs @ Raiders L
Week 16: Raiders @ Panthers L
Week 17: Raiders @ Chargers L