Dallas Cowboys (1-2) vs. Tennessee Titans (2-2)

The Cowboys Rank 19th in the NFL on Power Rankings. If the Cowboys are to win more games, then the trio of Felix Jones, Marion Barber, and Tashard Choice need to run the ball better. If they don't, expect Romo's passing rating to fall, as he will start giving up more interceptions.

Cowboys Injury Report:
Tight end Jason Witten (knee) did not practice during the bye week, but did practice on Monday and should fully participate this week. Witten suffered a knee sprain two weeks ago against the Texans.

Lineman Kyle Kosier (knee) also went down against the Texans with a knee sprain, but last week coach Wade Phillips said that Kosier was "iffy" as far as playing this week. However Kosier was at the media portion of Monday's practice and said that he would fully participate this week and play.

Wide Receiver Dez Bryant (hip, ribs) was another Cowboy who didn't practice, dealing with hip and rib injuries, but is expected to practice on Wednesday and play this week. Bryant has played through his injuries, which include a stress fracture in his ribs and a bruised hip.

Linebacker Sean Lee (hamstring) practiced last Wednesday and Thursday and is expected to fully participate in practice this week. If he is able to practice with no pain to his hamstring then he will play this week.

Martellus Bennett (ankle), Mike Jenkins (knee) and Sam Hurd (hip) all are expected to practice and play this week as well.

From one report:
Chicago VS. Carolina
The Bears weren't as good as their 3-0 record, and now they're 3-1 and minus Jay Cutler.

The Panthers are trying to build some consistency behind rookie quarterback Jimmy Clausen, but the Panthers rank dead last in the league in points scored and 30th in total yards.

The Bears still are tough beat up to win this week, though.

Their prediction: Panthers 18, Bears 10

My Prediction: Bears 12, Panthers 6 (a boring, all field goal game)


Also, their thoughts on the Cowboys:
Dallas is 1-2 after the bye week with a victory over the Houston Texans. The Titans are 2-2 after a close loss to the Denver Broncos.

The Cowboys haven't looked right this season, with confusion on the sidelines and coaching mistakes bringing the team down.

A bye week should help the Cowboys fix a lot of the mistakes but the Titans are no pushover, and Jeff Fisher is not going to just roll over and let his team fall under .500 again.

However, Vince Young hasn't exactly lit the place up so far this season and it will be the Titans' 27th ranked offense versus the Cowboys eighth ranked defense.

Sorry, Jeff.

Their Prediction: Cowboys 31, Titans 17
Now... my thoughts. Teams coming off a bye week almost always play better than before the bye. That alone should say the Cowboys are going to win this one, which is my thoughts period. If the Cowboys can change two things they have had trouble with thus far this season, being the running game stinking like a septic tank and having penalties KILL them, really, just changing one of those two things would be reason for celebration. If they change both of those things, then they dominate. Period. The Cowboys defense will control the Titans offense. I don't see them scoring 17 points. I also don't see the Cowboys scoring 31. I think it will be a lower scoring game easily.

My Prediction: Cowboys 20, Titans 13

Chicago Bears (1-0) at Dallas Cowboys (0-1)

All I can say is that I would like both teams to win... and, of course, when I was watching that last three seconds of the fourth quarter, I ended up going through a whole mess of emotions that simply cannot be summed up into words. We went from a win to a loss in a matter of seconds... and it was our own fault, which is like salt in the wound. Salt in a gunshot wound. And the wound is self-inflicted...

So, after one game, the stats look as follows:

Tony Romo	282 Yards	66.0%	1 TD - 0 INT
Marian Barber	39 Yards	8 Carries	0 TD
Felix Jones	38 Yards	8 Carries	0 TD
Miles Austin	146 Yards	10 Catches	1 TD
Dez Bryant	56 Yards	8 Catches	0 TD
DeMarcus Ware	6 Tackles	0 FF	1 Sack

What this means is this: Romo is on pace for 4,512 yards (It's possible, and I'll take that), Miles Austin is on pace for 2,336 yards (won't happen), and that the Cowboys have NNNNOOOO rushing game and are trying to trade Choice. Dez Bryant has shown that he has game.

Here are the concerns about the Cowboys:

* 5/13 on third down.

* 12 Penalties for 91 Yards

The 38.5% on third down isn't going to blow teams away and it really won't win you a lot of games. Now, if you are getting 38.5% on third down but averaging two third downs per game, ROCK ON. But with 13 third downs, you gotta convert more than five.

The Cowboys rank second in penalties, with only the Jets being tagged for more (14 for 125 yards). As far as yardage is concerned, there are three teams with more yards penalized (Jets, Bears, Giants). This game could see a LOT of penalties come Sunday. I... can't... wait. There's nothing I love more than litter on the field.

Now, the Bears look like this:

Jay Cutler	372 Yards	65.7%	2 TD - 1 INT
Matt Forte	50 Yards	17 Carries	0 TD
Matt Forte	151 Yards	7 Catches	2 TD
Devin Aromashodu	71 Yards	5 Catches	0 TD
Brian Urlacher	8 Tackles	0 FF	1 Sack
Lance Briggs	10 Tackles	0 FF	1 Deflection

Jay Cutler looked good in that game. He's on pace for close to 6,000 yards, which will not happen. In fact, I honestly expect him to get picked off twice in the game against the Cowboys. Why? I don't know, I just have that weird feeling that it will. I want to say there will be three pickoffs on Cutler Sunday.

Cutler also got sacked four times against the Lions and I don't think the Cowboys will sack Cutler that many, more like two. DeMarcus Ware will be playing, so two seems completely possible. The key to Dallas winning really relies on what happens with containing Matt Forte and making sure Cutler doesn't explode again. Can the 'Boys do it, while Romo stays Romo and plays catch with Austin and Bryant?

Forecast: To answer said question, I think the Cowboys can take care of Forte and Cutler enough. I will even go on to say that Romo will play a good game of catch with Austin, Bryant, and Jason Witten. In fact, if Witten doesn't get more catches Sunday, the Cowboys will be in jeopardy of losing. If Witten grabs six catches, then I think the Cowboys win it hands down. Will Witten catch six? Probably not. Will he catch four? Yes. Is four enough? I think so. Prediction: Cowboys win in a close one and move to 1-1 with a score of 21-17.

Super Bowl Odds for All 32 NFL Teams

First off, I should note that there is a 37.5% chance that a team will make the playoffs, based on a 12/32 ratio. Talent, experience, and coachability are factors to consider, as well as what the team has done over the last year to base predictability on making the playoffs and winning a Superbowl. All in all, 20 teams stay home for the playoffs, 12 teams move on at the end of the regular season, with two of the 12 going to the big show. The following are the thoughts of Evan Adrian, afterwhich are my thoughts. Enjoy!

32. Rams

Steven Jackson is a great player, but no running back could carry this train-wreck of a team to the playoffs. Odds to win it all: 100 to 1

31. Bucs

Get your Heat tickets before they sell out, Buc fans. Odds to win it all: 90 to 1

30. Bills

Training camp is right around the corner, and we still don’t know who the Bills’ starting quarterback or running back is. Odds to win it all: 85 to 1

29. Brownies

But in the uber-competitive AFC North, it won’t even be close to enough to sniff a playoff berth. Odds to win it all: 80 to 1

28. Lions

I LOVE the Lions’ 2010 draft class, especially Ndamukong Suh, who will undoubtedly be a better pro than first overall pick Sam Bradford. Overall, this teams stinks, though. Odds to win it all: 75 to 1

27. Chiefs

This is a team that could sniff .500 in 2010, but a playoff birth seems to be out of the question. Odds to win it all: 60 to 1

26. Raiders

Oakland finally seems to be getting personnel moves right, thanks to Al Davis reportedly relinquishing some control. The Raiders have a talented backfield, a stud tight end in Zach Miller, an underrated offensive line, and a punishing defense. Odds to win it all: 50 to 1

25. Broncos

Denver got rid of Brandon Marshall this off-season, who was hands down their best play-maker. Rookie Demaryius Thomas will try to pick up the slack, but he won’t come close to Marshall’s numbers. Odds to win it all: 45 to 1

24. Seahawks

I don’t know how much Matt Hasselbeck really has left. And with Seattle’s acquisition of Chargers’ QB Charlie Whitehurst, I don’t think Seattle’s front office has much of an idea, either. Odds to win it all: 40 to 1

23. Cards

Losing Kurt Warner hurts. A lot. Arizona’s QB depth chart now looks like this: 1. Matt Leinart 2. Derek Anderson 3. John Skelton 4. Max Hall. Let the QB controversy begin! Beating out the 49ers for a playoff spot would be reason to celebrate. Odds to win it all: 38 to 1

22. Da Bears

I’m not saying that the Bears will be the greatest show on turf 2.0, but they will certainly be better with Mike Martz calling the shots. Devin Hester, Johnny Knox and company seem to fit the prototypical small receiver build that Martz does well with. If Matt Forte can return to 2008 form, Chicago’s offense could take flight. Odds to win it all: 36 to 1

21. Jags

If Garrard can play game-manager relatively well in 2010, the Jaguars have a legitimate shot at the playoffs (as long as Jones-Drew stays healthy). Super Bowl aspirations,though, are on hold for the time being. Odds to win it all: 35 to 1

20. 'Skins

Mike Shanahan has taken over as Washington’s head coach, and he seems to have taken the 2006 Pro-Bowl roster with him (Willie Parker, Donovan McNabb, Larry Johnson, and incumbent Clinton Portis). Can Washington compete in the East Beast Division? Odds to win it all: 32 to 1

19. Dolphins

Is Henne good enough to lead Miami to the postseason? He very well might be. Can he carry them to a Super Bowl? Certainly not. Odds to win it all: 30 to 1

18. 49ers

I like this team, but I don't love them. Winning the NFC West really amounts to nothing once the playoffs start. The 49ers are a young, growing team, but expect some serious growing pains once the playoffs start. Odds to win it all: 30 to 1

17. Mighty-Mighty Boss Cats (Panthers)

Carolina is handing the reigns over to Matt Moore this year after cutting Jake Delhomme in the offseason. If Moore can manage the game well and limit his turnovers, Carolina’s run game and defense could carry them to the playoffs. But a Super Bowl? No. Odds to win it all: 28 to 1

16. Eagles

Their defense and improved run-game could take them to the playoffs, plus they have that DeSean Jackson guy, who seems to make the occasional big play. I sort-of like the Eagles, but I don’t trust them farther than I can throw them. Odds to win it all: 28 to 1

15. Texans

Schaub played an entire season for the first time in 2009, and he was simply amazing. He racked up 29 touchdowns, 4,770 yards, and a QB rating of 98.6 (healthy temperature and QB rating). Houston’s offense was prolific last season, and I expect more of the same in 2010. If the Texans’ defense can keep up, the Houston Texans could get to the playoffs for the first time ever. Anything beyond a playoff berth would be a miracle. Odds to win it all: 26 to 1

14. Bengals

The Bengals seem to be in the news for all the wrong reasons this offseason. This is a team with too many questions, so here’s my answer: steer clear of Cincinnati. Odds to win it all: 25 to 1

13. Falcons

10 wins would be tremendous for this team, and it’s easily within reach. A deep playoff run, however, seems to be out of reach. Odds to win it all: 22 to 1

12. Giants

Eli Manning is better than you think he is, and so are New York’s receivers. Don’t sleep on the Giants, but don’t bet on them either. Odds to win it all: 20 to 1

11. Titans

Young was great as a starter last season, taking over for Kerry Collins and leading the Titans to an 8-2 record down the stretch. With a full season as a starter on the horizon,the sky is the limit for Young. Odds to win it all: 18 to 1

10. Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers crack my top ten despite trading away their best receiver and being forced to play 4-6 games without their starting quarterback. If Pittsburgh can manage to win at least half of their games without Big Ben, they’ll be in good shape to make the playoffs. Willie Parker is gone, meaning 2010 is Rashard Mendenhall’s time to shine. And I think he’s more than capable of carrying the load. If Pittsburgh’s receivers can make up for Santonio’s absence, I can see the Steelers making a serious run at the Lombardi Trophy. Good coaching and good defense will get you a long way in the playoffs, and Pittsburgh has both. Odds to win it all: 15 to 1

9. New York Jets

I love me some Rex Ryan. He’s exactly what a New York NFL coach should be. He’s transformed the Jets from New York’s other football team into the headliner. The Jets had the loudest offseason in the NFL, picking up LaDainian Tomlinson, Santonio Holmes, and Jason Taylor, to name a few. Quarterback Mark Sanchez now has a year of experience under his belt, not to mention 2 playoff victories. I like what they’re building in New York, but I don’t see it all coming together as well as last season. Odds to win it all: 12 to 1

8. San Diego Chargers

Hey look, it’s the Chargers! The team everyone thinks has a legitimate shot at the Super Bowl every year, but seems to come up short. Well guess what? I’m not buying San Diego in 2010. When your team is only in the news for the wrong reasons, things aren’t exactly great. The Chargers ditched the best player in the history of their franchise (LaDainian Tomlinson) and replaced him with a rookie (Ryan Mathews). Their best offensive lineman (Marcus McNeill) is holding out for more money. Their best receiver (Vincent Jackson) is too, plus he’s suspended for three games. Ouch. I will give them this, though: their head coach (Norv Turner) is underrated, Philip Rivers might be a top-5 QB, and their defense is better-than-good. So they’ve got to be a top-ten team on this list. If I were a betting man, though, I wouldn’t touch the Chargers with a ten-foot pole. Odds to win it all: 11 to 1

7. Green Bay Packers

After a heartbreaking end to their 2009 campaign, Green Bay should be hungry, mad, and ready to get at it in 2010. Aaron Rodgers has been better than good since Brett Favre left, retired, signed with the Jets, left, retired, and signed with the Vikings. Rodgers' receivers are solid, he has an emerging tight end in Jermichael Finley, and I think Ryan Grant is due for a huge season in 2010. Green Bay’s defense really is underrated. Their linebacking corps is full of playmakers, and their secondary was good in 2009, with the obvious exception of their wild-card meltdown. A spot in the playoffs should be a given, and a Super Bowl victory is not out of this team’s reach by any means. Odds to win it all: 21 to 2

6. Minnesota Vikings

First things first: Brett Favre is going to play in 2010. Ok? Settled? Good. Second, he’s not going to be as good as he was last year. I don’t think anyone can reasonably expect him to be. But their run game shouldbe better. Adrian Peterson wasn’t as good as you think he was last year. Sure, he scored 18 touchdowns and ran for nearly 1,400 yards, but his YPC was a career-low 4.4, and he lost a career-high 6 fumbles. I’m not saying he’s not great, I’m just saying there’s room to improve. With their talented group o fpass catchers (Sidney Rice, Percy Harvin, Visanthe Shiancoe, Bernard Berrian) and their punishing defense, a playoff berth for this squad is a given, but a Super Bowl is probably just out of reach (again). Odds to win it all: 10 to 1

5. Dallas Cowboys

First off, I’m not a Cowboys fan. I know they’re America’steam, and I live in America, but that still doesn’t make me a fan. However, I am buying the Cowboys as NFC East champions, and the odds-on favorite to win homefield in the NFC. Tony Romo seems to keep getting better and better, Miles Austin has emerged as a legit number one receiver, and Jason Witten is arguably the best pass-catching tight end in the NFL today. Not to mention that loaded backfield of Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice. Their defense is solid too, and they do a tremendous job getting in the backfield and making plays. Oh, and if that Dez Bryant guy turns out to be decent, we may see Dallas playing for Super Bowl XLV in their own stadium in February. Odds to win it all: 10 to 1

4. Baltimore Ravens

Ah yes, the Baltimore Ravens. Seems like they’re the chic pick to take home the Lombardi Trophy in 2010. And why not? Baltimore’s backfield could be the best in the NFL, with Ray Rice leading a three-headed charge that also includes Willis McGahee and LeRon McClain. Plus, Joe Flacco has another year under his belt and a new stud receiver in Anquan Boldin (if he can stay healthy). And don’t get me started on their defense. The Ravens added Sergio Kindle and Terrence Cody in the 2010 Draft, two first-round caliber players that should thrive in Baltimore’s 3-4 scheme. I like the Ravens a lot,and wouldn’t be too surprised to see Ray Lewis hoisting that Lomardi Trophy for the second time. Odds to win it all: 19 to 2

3. New England Patriots

Don’t let last year’s putrid playoff performance fool you. Despite what you may read, the Patriots are not declining. Bill Belichick is still the coach he’s always been. Tom Brady isn’t a step slower. Yes, Randy Moss is a year older, but this is a contract year. And we all know what that means. New England’s defense may be young, but they’re good, and they’re fast. We know how good this team can be. I think they’ll be that good in 2010, and maybe even better. Brady has a real good shot at a fourth ring. Odds to win it all: 19 to 2

2. New Orleans Saints

Sorry Saints fans, but I can’t put your team first. I just can’t. History tells us that in today’s NFL, a repeat is nearly impossible.Truth of the matter is I love this team. Drew Brees is an elite QB who can succeed with any group of receivers. That’s not a shot at New Orleans’ receiving corps, but does one guy emerge from that group as something truly special? Didn’t think so. New Orleans does have a strong 1-2 punch at running back though, with Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush. And New Orleans’coaching staff might be the best in the NFL. I would love to see them prove me wrong, but I don’t see the Saints repeating this year. A Super Bowl berth, though, doesn’t seem too far fetched. Odds to win it all: 8 to 1

1. Indianapolis Colts

Quick, who’s the NFL’s best quarterback? If you said anyone other than Peyton Manning, you’re kidding yourself. QBs handle the football more than anyone else on the field, so I’ll put my money on the team with the best one. I put my money on Peyton last year and it didn’t exactly work out,but I’ve still got faith. Nobody works harder than Peyton. Nobody leads better than Peyton. But most importantly, nobody cares more than Peyton. The rest of the offense is pretty loaded, too. Peyton has two solid veteran pass-catchers in Dallas Clark and Reggie Wayne, as well as a couple of talented up-and-comers in Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie. Peyton's backfield (Joseph Addai and Donald Brown) is better than you think. So is the defense. But it all starts with Peyton, and come Super Bowl XLV, I think it will end with him, too. Odds to win it all: 7 to 1

OK, so my thoughts. I think in the top ten, I almost agree. Jets are ranked too high, as are the Patriots. In my opinion, the boat is sailing on the Patriots. They may have another playoff appearance, but I think playoff wins are going... going... I would have put them fifth TOPS. Important, I do agree with the top two. I like the Colts and the Saints in the top two spots, however, I honestly think the two can be interchangable. I would have put the 'Boys at third, bumped up the Vikes to fourth... and I do expect Farve to play and I do expect him to do exceptionally well, as we expect Farve to always perform to the Farve level. The only knock I have against Farve is that he tends to not just play football, but play with people's minds on whether he will or won't play. Man up and give an answer straight out.

Taylor Teagarden Could Be an ALL-STAR!

Taylor Teagarden was fourth among catchers in American League All-Star voting last week. Which resulted in Bob Molinaro of the Hampton Roads Virginian-Pilot writing: "Never heard of him? That's because when the Texas Rangers sent him down to Double-A, he was batting .037, with one hit. But before his demotion, Rangers fans flooded the ballot box. One more example of why fans don't deserve the vote. Stupidity shouldn't be encouraged."

Dwight Perry, in the Seattle Times: "Former USC star Reggie Bush denied any wrongdoing but said he'll do whatever he can after the Trojans got tossed into the NCAA hoosegow. O.J. Simpson, profoundly touched, immediately applied for work-release just so he can help Reggie find the real program-killers." One more from Perry: "Coincidence? NFL suddenly realizes it needs two fewer preseason games at exactly the same time it realizes it needs two more in the regular season."

Ron Judd, in the Seattle Times: "Those vuvuzelas are making some of us sports fans rethink 30 years' worth of assuredness that nothing could possibly be worse than listening to three solid hours of the droning of Brent Musberger." Judd, once more: "The Mariners say they are ready and willing to trade starting pitcher Cliff Lee for any combination of players who can maintain the franchise's rich history of failing to live up to even marginal expectations."

By Gregg Drinnan, sports editor of The Daily News.

Pacman Jones Gets 2nd Tryout With Bengals

By JOE KAY AP Sports Writer

Cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones got a second look from the Cincinnati Bengals on Tuesday, an indication that the team with a history of trying to rehabilitate troubled players might be considering its next project.

The Bengals hadn't made a formal contract proposal as of Tuesday evening, agent Tom Hunter told The Associated Press. Jones was in town for his second workout with the team this offseason.

Cincinnati is among a handful of teams that showed an interest in Jones, who was released by the Cowboys after the 2008 season and didn't play last year. Only 26 years old, Jones has seen his career bottom out because of his repeated arrests.

He was suspended for the entire 2007 season and for six games with the Cowboys in 2008 for violating the NFL's conduct policy.

Bears Sign Peppers; Rolle Becomes Richest Safety

By RACHEL COHEN AP Sports Writer

The Chicago Bears were big spenders as NFL teams entered the free agency period unconstrained by a salary cap, signing top prize Julius Peppers.

The New York Giants also got in on the action Friday, making Pro Bowler Antrel Rolle the richest safety in the league in the waning hours of the opening day of free agency.

Miami and Atlanta were also active, with the Dolphins agreeing to terms with Rolle's former Arizona teammate, linebacker Karlos Dansby, and the Falcons and cornerback Dunta Robinson also coming to terms.

The Bears also added running back Chester Taylor from Minnesota and blocking tight end Brandon Manumaleuna from San Diego.

How NFL Teams Approach Uncapped Free Agency

By The Associated Press (AP)

How each of the 32 NFL teams are approaching Friday's opening of free agency with no salary cap:

___

AFC

BALTIMORE RAVENS

Ravens don't intend to be thrifty. In quest to enhance roster, especially at wide receiver, Ravens expect to benefit from cost-cutting measures by other teams.

"There will be some real good players that are going to get cut," general manager Ozzie Newsome said. "And we've had good success with Derrick Mason, Trevor Pryce, Samari Rolle — guys that got cut because of the salary cap situation that that particular team was in."

BUFFALO BILLS

For all the holes Buddy Nix has to fill on team that missed playoffs for 10th straight season, it's unlikely first-time general manager will be making any T.O.-type splashes, as Bills did last March. When hired in December, Nix cautioned he intends to build through draft and would rather target mid-range free agents. That doesn't mean Bills won't be busy. Buffalo has needs at offensive tackle, receiver and on a defense switching to 3-4 scheme under new coach Chan Gailey.

Game 16: Bears vs. Texans

The Bears have won their last three games going into the regular season finale. They stand at 9-6 and in a tie with the Vikings, who own the tie-breaker. The Houston Texans are 7-8 and are out of the playoff hunt. They are looking to play "spoiler" in this game. My goal is to not only evaluate this game, but also the Vikings game and the Lions game.

Quarterback Comparison

Name	QB Rating	Comp-Att	Comp %	Yards	TD-Int	Fumbles
Kyle Orton	78.1	250-428	58.4%	2,728	16-12	6
Matt Schuab	89.7	224-344	65.1%	2,715	13-10	10

Looking from the outside in, these two QBs are about the same. Schuab, though, looks to me to be a better QB due to a higher completion rate. His flaw: gaurding the football. Ten fumbles are just too much. He has only lost four of them, but when you fumble ten of them, it spells out a bigger problem.

Rushing Comparison

Name	Carries	Yards	TDs	Catches	Yards	TDs
Matt Forte	303	1,188	8	60	452	4
Steve Slaton	248	1,190	8	45	341	1

Forte is the better back here. He may not average as many yards per carry as Slaton, but he is available to catch and he does grab down some good yardage per carry.

Receiving Comparison

Name	Catches	Yards	TDs	Fumbles
Devin Hester	45	580	3	0
Greg Olson	50	544	4	2
Rashied Davis	33	410	2	0
Andre Johnson	105	1,427	6	1
Kevin Walter	59	876	8	0
Owen Daniels	67	825	2	2

The Texans clearly have the better receivers, with Johnson leading the way. The Texans have plenty of options when it comes to a pass play, which is going to test the Bears passing coverage to the hilt.

Defense Comparison

Name	Tackles	Sacks	Ints-TD	Deflections
Lance Briggs	105	0.5	3-0	11
Charles Tillman	83	0.0	3-1	16
Alex Brown	40	6.0	1-0	4
DeMeco Ryans	102	1.0	0-0	3
Jacques Reeves	50	0.0	4-1	18
Mario Williams	51	11.0	0-0	0

The Bears also have Ogunleye and Harris, both with 5 sacks a piece.



Forecast: The Bears are technically hot right now. They have won their last three to bring forth a final regular season finale that could determine if they make the playoffs or not. The Texans have the #3 offense in the NFL, while the Bears appear to be average at best in offense and defense. It really makes you wonder how the Bears have made it this far... and still keep on winning. Texans defense is awful. The real matchup will be between the Bears defense and the Texans offense. I like the Bears in this one. The score should be close between these two teams... with the Bears ahead... 19-17.

Home Field

Game 15: Bears vs. Packers

This game should go differently from what happened when the two met earlier this season in Green Bay. The Packers won that game 37-3, the only win the Packers have since they took a bye. There record is 1-6 after the bye week.

Quarterback Comparrison

Name	QB Rating	Comp-Att	Comp %	Yards	TD-Int	Fumbles
Aaron Rodgers	91.8	296-466	63.5%	3,470	23-12	8
Kyle Orton	80.1	236-401	58.9%	2,586	15-10	6

The Packers have the better QB... despite the last seven games. I guess I should note that the Bears have won three of their last four.

Rushing Comparrison

Name	Carries	Yards	TDs	Catches	Yards	TDs
Ryan Grant	268	1,036	4	12	73	0
Matt Forte	280	1,115	7	58	424	4

The Bears have a better runningback. Period. Not only does Forte have more yards, more rushing TDs, but he also is involved in the passing game, thus the Bears running back is a stronger threat.

Receiving Comparrison

Name	Catches	Yards	TDs	Fumbles
Greg Jennings	69	1,153	8	1
Donald Driver	62	838	4	0
Jordy Nelson	30	330	2	0
Devin Hester	43	568	3	0
Greg Olson	45	495	3	2
Rashied Davis	33	410	2	0

The Packers have the better receivers. Forte is the big target for Orton, but he is good at spreading things around, which is why there has been good fortune for the Bears of late. Jennings and Driver are the favorite Packer targets, and with those numbers, they make the most out of what comes their way.

Defense Comparrison

Name	Tackles	Sacks	Ints-TD	Deflections
Nick Collins	65	0.0	5-3	10
Charles Woodson	54	3.0	5-2	14
Aaron Kampman	53	9.5	0-0	1
Lance Briggs	99	0.5	3-0	10
Charles Tillman	80	0.0	3-1	16
Alex Brown	38	6.0	0-0	3

The Bears have better numbers in regards to tackles. But the Packers have the better pass rush, higher numbers on players with sacks and interceptions. They seem evenly matched with passes being deflected.

Forecast: Despite the fact that the Bears have the better record and are driving for a playoff spot (may or may not happen) the numbers pull toward the Packers. This game is being played in Chicago... where the Bears are 5-2 and on the road, the Packers are 2-5. And that could be the stat that gives the Bears the edge. Chicago takes this one, again a close one, with a score of 24-23.

Home Field

Game 14: Bears vs. Saints

Both the Bears and the Saints are 7-6 coming into this game. This is the toughest game for the Bears for the rest of this season... at least until they get to post-season, which may or may not happen for the Bears depending on how this game goes.

Quarterback Comparrison

Name	QB Rating	Comp-Att	Comp %	Yards	TD-Int	Fumbles
Drew Brees	96.2	329-503	65.4%	4,100	26-14	6
Kyle Orton	83.5	212-361	58.7%	2,414	15-8	5

The Saints have the upper hand on the Quarterback situation.

Rushing Comparrison

Name	Carries	Yards	TDs	Catches	Yards	TDs
Pierre Thomas	94	461	7	21	199	2
Matt Forte	269	1,081	6	53	395	4

The Saints use a tandem of three running backs, with Thomas being the consistent leader for the Saints. Forte is still the better choice between the two teams, so the Bears win running game.

Receiving Comparrison

Name	Catches	Yards	TDs	Fumbles
Lance Moore	62	774	8	0
Devery Henderson	28	668	3	1
Marques Colston	25	454	1	1
Devin Hester	39	522	3	0
Greg Olson	37	450	3	2
Rashied Davis	33	410	2	0

The Saints have better numbers on the receiving side, which isn't too much of a surprise since their QB is better. Saints own the edge here.

Defense Comparrison

Name	Tackles	Sacks	Ints-TD	Deflections
Jonathan Vilma	104	1.0	1-0	5
Bobby McCray	24	6.0	0-0	0
Jason David	17	0.0	4-0	8
Lance Briggs	92	0.5	3-0	9
Charles Tillman	72	0.0	3-1	15
Adewale Ogunleye	46	5.0	0-0	3

I like the Bears numbers here. They actually have three players tied with the team lead of 5 sacks, Kevin Payne has four Ints., and Ogunleye has a safety to his name. The Bears defense is what has given them the seven wins this season, since the offense is off and on, with a stronger emphasis on the off.

Forecast: The Bears seem to choke against the bigger offensive teams. They can handle the close games pretty well, but give them a strong offense team and they wilt away. Yet, for whatever reason, my gut is saying to think "Bears"... And this time, I will go with the ol' gut. Bears surprise everyone (except diehard Bears fans) with a victory over the Saints. Score: 20-17.

Home Field

Game 13: Bears vs. Jags

The Bears are in a must win mode. They can't afford to drop anymore games this season. It is a good thing they are playing the Jaguars. The Jaguars have lost their last three games and five of their last six games. The Bears have lost three of their last four. In two of those losses, they were killed, with a stomping from the Packers (score was 37-3) and a stomping at the hands of the Vikings (score was 34-14).

The Bears also have games against the New Orleans Saints (6-6), the Green Bay Packers (5-7), and the Houston Texans (5-7). If Chicago has any chance to make the playoffs, it would mean they have to win out (winning the last four games) and finish 10-6. Odds of that happening? Well, I would have to say that it isn't as bad as it could be, since the Saints are the only team right now who has a 500 record or better (and they ARE at 500). Still, to win out the rest of the way is easier said than done. I hope the Bears are simply focusing on one game at a time...

Bears to Watch:

• Kyle Orton: 83.3 QB Rating; 192-327 (58.7%) for 2,195 yards and 13 TDs, 7 Ints, and 4 lost fumbles.
• Matt Forte: 248 carries for 1,012 yards with 6 TDs and one lost fumble.
• Greg Olson: 34 catches for 398 yards with 2 TDs and 2 lost fumbles.
• Rashied Davis: 31 catches for 396 yards and 2 TDs.
• Devin Hester: 34 catches for 442 yards, 3 TDs, and 31 KR for 679 yards.
• Charles Tillman: 64 tackles, 14 deflections and 3 Ints (one for a TD).
• Kevin Payne: 69 tackles, 4 Ints and one sack.
• Lance Briggs: 87 tackles, 1/2 sack and 3 Ints.

I would have to say that those numbers aren't exactly pretty, but it has been good enough to keep them at bay, and on the bubble of a possible playoff spot.

Jags to Watch:

• David Garrard: 82.8 QB Rating; 253-398 (63.6%) for 2,748 yards, 10 TDs, 9 Ints, and 3 lost fumbles.
• Maurice Jones-Drew: 130 carries for 552 yards with 11 TDs and one lost fumble.
• Fred Taylor: 130 carries for 503 yards with a TD and a lost fumble.
• Matt Jones: 62 catches for 727 yards with two TDs and a lost fumble.
• Rashean Mathis: 40 tackles, a sack, 4 Ints (two for TDs) and 9 deflections.

The Jaguars do not have a pass rush that is worth talking about. There are a few who lead the team with 2.5 sacks. They are better at pass coverage, with Mathis having four Ints, Sensabaugh has three, and Brian Williams has two. Forecast: If it was a battle of logos, the Jags would win hands down... that is a pretty cool logo. Still, there is an actually game that is involved and that one will be won by the Bears with a score of 17-13.

Home Field

Game 12: Bears vs. Vikings

The Packers lost on Monday night. What that means now is the winner of this game between the Bears and Vikings will take first place in the division and, at worst, the loser moves into a tie for second. Either way, these are two first place teams vying for an inside track to the division title.

Note: If you want me to check your team and see what the forecast for them would be, feel free to message me. I am willing to add a third game each week... first come first served.

Bears to Watch:

• Kyle Orton: 88.1 QB Rating; 182-299 (60.9%) for 2,049 yards and 11 TDs, 4 Ints, and 4 lost fumbles.
• Matt Forte: 225 carries for 909 yards and 6 TDs.
• Greg Olson: 33 catches for 391 yards with 2 TDs and 2 lost fumbles.
• Rashied Davis: 30 catches for 379 yards and 2 TDs.
• Devin Hester: 31 catches for 375 yards, 2 TDs, and 29 KR for 631 yards.
• Charles Tillman: 14 deflections and 3 Ints (one for a TD).
• Kevin Payne: 3 Ints and one sack.
• Lance Briggs: 79 tackles, 1/2 sack and 3 Ints.

The Bears won the first game between the two in a scoring frenzy game 48-41. I don't think we can expect the same thing happen twice... so maybe a lower scoring affair this time around would be very likely, maybe the winning team scoring 31 points or so...

Vikings to Watch:

• Gus Frerotte: 75.0 QB Rating; 155-266 (58.3%) for 1,877 yards and 11 TDs, 12 Ints, and 1 lost fumble.
• Adrian Peterson: 242 carries for 1,180 yards with 8 TDs and 3 lost fumbles.
• Bernard Berrian: 34 catches for 673 yards with 4 TDs.
• Bobby Wade: 39 catches for 408 yards and 1 TD.
• Visanthe Shiancoe: 26 catches for 353 yards with 4 TDs.
• Kevin Williams: 44 tackles, 8.5 sacks, and 5 deflections.
• Jared Allen: 32 tackles, 8 sacks, 3 deflections, and 2 safeties.

The two seem pretty evenly matched. This game is going to be played in Minnesota, so an intangible goes into the Vikings favor. The Vikings have also won three of the last four, topping Green Bay in one of those games. The Bears have recently lost to the Packers. Forecast: I can't let my wife see this. Why? She's a Bears fan. She seems to take things personal when I say that her team is going to lose... and the Bears are going to lose this game. The Vikings have to many intangibles in their favor, plus they have the stronger running game... Bears drop this one, 31-19.

Home Plate

Game 11: Bears vs. Rams

This is a shoe-in game right here. The Bears are tied for first place with the Vikings and Packers with a record of 5-5. There will be only one team to make the playoffs from this division... unless two teams get unbelievably hot and finish 11-5 each, which I just don't see happening. The team out of the three that gets to 9 wins will make the playoffs and host a wildcard game, and probably the Cowboys... who wants to go to Chicago in January? Yuck.

The Rams are 2-8, so this really is a game to win for Chicago. They have a horrendous QB, Steven Jackson isn't a good running back, Dante Hall isn't that great of a KR or PR, despite having run a PR for a TD. Atogwe does have 4 Ints, Bartell has 8 deflections, and Chris Long and Leonard Little share in 8 1/2 sacks. St. Louis does have some threats. But don't look for them to score a mess of points.

Bears to Watch:

• Kyle Orton: 88.3 QB Rating; 164-270 (60.7%) for 1,910 yards and 10 TDs, 4 Ints, and 4 lost fumbles.
• Matt Forte: 205 carries for 777 yards and 4 TDs.
• Greg Olson: 33 catches for 391 yards with 2 TDs and 2 lost fumbles.
• Rashied Davis: 29 catches for 369 yards and 2 TDs.
• Devin Hester: 26 catches for 318 yards, 2 TDs, and 29 KR for 631 yards.
• Charles Tillman: 12 deflections and 2 Ints (one for a TD).
• Kevin Payne: 3 Ints and one sack.

Rams to Watch:

• Donnie Avery: 34 catches for 485 yards and 2 TDs.
• Torry Holt: 38 catches for 412 yards and 2 TDs.
• Steven Jackson: 128 carries for 525 yards with 4 TDs and one lost fumble.

I have already mentioned everything else above about the Rams... no sense in repeating it.

Forecast: The Bears can take a game that is supposed to be easy and make it look hard. So I think this one is going to be closer, way closer, than it should. Bears still win it, 17-13.

Home Plate

Game 10: Bears vs Packers

I will have to be honest, I am not a big fan of either of these two teams. I do have an interest in this game, however, seeing as to how I have friends who are Packers fans and my wife is a Bears fan... so this game does draw interest from me. I guess you could call me a vicarious Bears fan, since my wife is a Bears fan, thus I support her in her interests.

This game should bring some taunting from both sides as this game draws closer and closer.

The Bears are first in their division while the Packers rank 3rd. But check this, The Bears are 5-4 and tied with the Vikings, whereas the Packers are 4-5 and could use a win to move into a tie with the Bears and Vikings, should the Vikings lose. This is the first time these two teams have played each other this season.

Bears to Watch:

• Kyle Orton (should be returning): 90.8 QB rating; 151-244 (61.9%) for 1,777 yards, 10 TDs and 4 Ints.
• Matt Forte: 189 carries for 713 yards and 4 TDs.
• Greg Olson: 29 catches for 346 yards and 2 TDs.
• Rashied Davis: 28 catches for 333 yards and 2 TDs.
• Devin Hester: 25 catches for 311 yards and 2 TDs. 24 returns for 517 yards.
• Alex Brown: 3 sacks
• Charles Tillman: 2 Ints, 1 TD, 12 pass deflections
• Kevin Payne: 3 Ints, 1 sack

Packers to Watch:

• Aaron Rodgers: 93.3 QB rating; 182-288 (63.2%) for 2,124 yards, 13 TDs and 5 Ints.
• Ryan Grant: 173 carries for 625 yards and 2 TDs.
• Greg Jennings: 43 catches for 801 yards and 4 TDs.
• Donald Diver: 41 catches for 512 yards and 3 TDs.
• Aaron Kampman: 7.5 sacks
• Charles Woodson: 5 Ints, 2 TDs, and 13 deflections
• Nick Collins: 5 Ints, 3 TDs, 9 deflections

Should be a pretty fun game to watch... suspenseful, if for nothing else...

Forecast: You know... my gut is telling me the same thing my brain is on this one... but in view of everything here, I still have one fact that overrides everything. I will spare you that one fact. The Bears win it in a tough battle to the finish style game. The players leave everything on the field, per se. Score: 19-16, Bears. (Last drive by the Bears results in the winning field goal.)

Home Plate

Chicago Bears

You need a C to spell Suck...

Sunday Football - Bears vs. Panthers

Sunday Football – it’s the game that could divide my home. Panthers vs. Bears. I root for the Panthers, have since they came into existence. The owner is a former player, and to be honest, the logo is just that cool.

A look at the schedules of the two:

Carolina: (12-5)
9/11: New Orleans L 23-20
9/18: New England W 27-17
9/25: at Miami L 27-24
10/3: Green Bay W 32-29
10/9: at Arizona W 24-20
10/16: at Detroit W 21-20
10/30: Minnesota W 38-13
11/6: at Tampa Bay W 34-14
11/13: NY Jets W 30-3
11/20: at Chicago L 13-3
11/27: at Buffalo W 13-9
12/4: Atlanta W 24-6
12/11: Tampa Bay L 20-10
12/18: at New Orleans W 27-10
12/24: Dallas L 24-20
1/1: at Atlanta W 44-11

Playoffs:
1/8: at NY Giants W 23-0

Chicago: (11-5)
9/11: at Washington L 9-7
9/18: Detroit W 38-6
9/25: Cincinnati L 24-7
10/9: at Cleveland L 20-10
10/16: Minnesota W 28-3
10/23: Baltimore W 10-6
10/30: at Detroit W 19-13
11/6: at New Orleans W 20-17
11/13: San Francisco W 17-9
11/20: Carolina W 13-3
11/27: at Tampa Bay W 13-10
12/4: Green Bay W 19-7
12/11: at Pittsburgh L 21-9
12/18: Atlanta W 16-3
12/25: at Green Bay W 24-17
1/1: at Minnesota L 34-10

Well, here’s my thought on it, logically (and not that sports strictly follows logic…). Chicago has a record of 2-3 against playoff teams this year and they average only 16 points per game and give up more yards than they themselves gain per game. Margin of victory for them is 4 points. The Panthers, however, have a record of 3-2 against the teams who made the playoffs, had a harder schedule than the Bears, and posted a shutout in the playoffs. Average margin of victory for the Panthers is 8 points and score close to 25 points per game while giving up only 16, a little more than the Bears 12… of the five Panther loses, none were more than 10 points. The Bears have three over 10, one at 14, one at 17, and the last game of the regular season which was 24 points (arguments can be made about resting players, blah, blah, blah). I can now start spouting of clichés of “the game can most likely be decided by who wants it more…” and garbage like that, but really it boils down to 11/20. The two played each other then and Chicago won and by 10 points, actually. It wasn’t really a true blowout in my mind. But it is going to be in Chicago, a bye off and they have beat Carolina earlier this year. A lot of intangibles pointing to Chicago… and that is why I am really starting to think Carolina in all this. I mean, they handed a shutout to a playoff team, on the road, and (let’s be honest) in New York. I mean, who likes to play in New York, in any sport, for that matter. Now they head to Ditka land and even though Mike isn’t there, he’s always there. I think this is going to be a really fun game to watch, especially since I may be having friends and family all around cheering for the “other” team, but my honest to truth gut says Carolina over the Bears with a score of 20 to 13.

Recreated Logos

Ranger Rubish... but I think it looks cool...

and that is all that matters, right?

The line has been drawn in the sand,

but why a Bears logo?

Dig this: A Suped up Rangers Logo.

Pretty electric if you ask me. Why is that?

The Rangers have the Sox chip (below)...

NFC after 9 games played

A Look at Football:

NFC East:
Cowboys (6-3)
Giants (6-3)
‘Skins (5-4)

NFC North:
Chicago (6-3)

NFC South:
Carolina (7-2)
Atlanta (6-3)
T Bay (6-3)

NFC West:
Seattle (7-2)

Eagles are pretty much out of the running at this point. Playoffs? I don’t even think they will go post this year.

Cowboys face off against Detroit (4-5), Denver (7-2), NY Giants (6-3), Kansas City (5-4), Washington (5-4), Carolina (7-2), and St. Louis (4-5), so the strength of their opponents schedule is that of a 38-25 mark. If the opponents uphold that winning percentage, the Cowboys will go 3-4 in the last seven and finish 9-7. If the Cowboys maintain their current winning percentage, they will go either 10-6 or 11-5.

The Giants, on the other hand, their remaining opponents have a 34-29 record, and if that holds true, then they should go 3-4 in their last seven, but more likely will win more than that. Realistically, I think the Giants have the upper hand the rest of the way, and the stats don’t lie. They do have the upper hand.

The Redskins pose an interesting thing. Their remaining opponents winning percentage is that of 47.62% or a record of 30-33. They are pretty much a shoe in for 4 games, and realistically, they can go 5-2 the rest of the way.

Chicago is pretty much in ink for the postseason, as is Seattle. Both are tops in their divisions, and no other team is above 5.

Carolina is my favorite for the South, but I am biased. Tampa is overrated. They can beat the bad teams, but no one with punch. For Tampa, numbers say they will win 3 of the last 7, but I think that is optimistic. I look at how they lost to San Francisco and were killed by the Cats; I think that with the strength of their schedule, they will be lucky to win 3. Look for Tampa to finish 8-8.

Carolina is going up against the Bears this coming Sunday. 5 of their last 7 games they play someone with a 6-3 mark. Should they split those, they could go 4-3 or 5-2, so maybe 11-5 or 12-4 at season end. Catch a bye and see them in the Division series? Most likely.

Atlanta is much like Dallas, a hard road ahead of itself. Same schedule strength, in that their opponents hold a 38-25 mark, but unlike Dallas, the records are more lopsided. Look for Atlanta to go 3-4 the rest of the way and finish 9-7, beating Detroit, Tampa once, and New Orleans.

Playoffs for the NFC:
NFC East:
Giants 10-6 (Wildcard)
Redskins 10-6 (Wildcard)
Cowboys 10-6 (Division Winner)

NFC North:
Chicago (In by Default)

NFC West:
Seattle (In by Default)

NFC South:
Carolina 11-5 (Division Winner)
Atlanta 9-7 (Doesn’t Go)
Tampa Bay 8-8 (Doesn’t Go)

Hopefully tomorrow I can do up the AFC. This was fun! Johnny Out.

Sports Picks up to Halloween

Sports Picks up to Halloween

Friday
Stars (5-3-1) vs. Oilers (3-6-1)
Stars beat Oilers earlier this month in Edmonton. Look to see them do it again but in Dallas. Stars 4-2.

Saturday
Stars (5-3-1) vs. Coyotes (4-6-1)
Should be a good game. Dallas will be playing a back-to-back and Tyson Nash looks really good. Coyotes and Stars tie: 3-3

FC Dallas (13-10-11) vs. Rapids (13-7-13)
The records are actually Wins-Draws-Loses, by the way. In the point system, Dallas is ahead of them by 3 points. They are playing here, and honestly, the Rapids just stink on the road (3-4-9) with a winning percentage of .313. Dallas, however, has a winning percentage of .656 at home. Dallas is going to tear them a new head: 3-1. Yes, that’s tearing a new head in the world of Soccer.

Sunday
Cowboys (4-3) vs. Cardinals (2-4)
As far as points scored, Dallas doesn’t look all that bad. But, I am not all that impressed personally. The reason the ‘boys have won what they have is because the defense is stellar. The defense, however, seems to give up with the remainder of the 4th quarter to go… it varies game to game. I think that Dallas’ offense will be average at best during this game and Arizona will be held down a bit. Josh McCown has shown spark with a 2-1 mark in his last three and the game the Cards lost was by 4 to Carolina (4-2). I think if Arizona is in the game going into the final quarter, they realistically have a chance. And looking at the Cowboys season, they more than likely will be very much into the game at that point in time. The problem with Arizona is the rushing game. Arizona has not had a leading rusher over 54 yards. So the Cowboys will be thinking pass on just about every down and that will hurt Arizona’s chances in the long “run.” (Pun not intended, but in a way, it is) Cowboys take this one: 20-17.

Panthers (4-2) vs. Vikings (2-4)
In what is shaping up to be a very good division for the NFC South, Carolina stands as third. Delhomme, Foster, and Peppers are on the injured list. Delhomme is the one I am concerned about. Vikes are 0-3 on the road and Cats are 2-1 at home. Cats are coming off a well needed bye, and that will give them the well needed edge. Culpepper throws an interception 6% of the time. So, for every 20 passes, 1 is a pick. For every touchdown he throws, he connects twice to his opponent. Panthers 24-20.

Bears (3-3) vs. Lions (3-3)
The battle for the top. At least in their division. Chicago gives up only 11 points a game. Bears, however, are 0-2 on the road this year. The Liars, I mean Lions, are 2-1 at home. Where is Barry? On average, the Bears give up 15 points a game on the road. The two have played already this year, Bears destroying Detroit 38-6. Well, I don’t see that this time, but I do see the Bears taking this one. Look for Jones to be Barry re-incarnated. The guy has 3 games already over 130 yards! I think he takes that Pink Floyd song a little seriously (Run! Run! Run…). The thing, though is the Bears passing game… or lack there of. Bears win this one: 20-10.

Sunday Night - picks from Sat and Sun

Saturday

Stars vs. Avalanche – preseason? Yes it is. After missing a few decades, Hockey is back in business. Who will win this? Who cares, its preseason. We are just interested in who is going to have the jersey pulled over their head and beaten to a pulp. Will I watch? No, I will be at the Ranger’s game. Would I watch if I wasn’t at the game? Nope. I watch hockey in the paper only. Well, maybe once in a while… but I’m not one to plan my day around it. I think a 1-1 tie on this, just for grins.

Sunday

Stars vs. Oilers - again? But they just played yesterday. I think 2-1 win for the Stars on this. Maybe I might find a nut on this, who knows.

Panthers vs. Patriots – Patriots have won 3 Supers in the last 4 years, including the last two. Panthers, well, as much as I like the mighty, mighty boss cats, I think are a little more than out-matched. Patriots over the Cats 38-14.

Bears vs. Lions – Lions and Tigers and Bears, oh my. Lions surprise with a slaughter of Green Bay in week 1. Can the bad news Bears step up? They would need a “little” more offense. Top rusher for the Bears in week 1?: Mr. Jones had 31 yards on the ground and averaged 2.1 per rush. Well, the defense for the Bears looks great. But so does the Lions. Well, let’s look at it like this, if the Bears hold the Lions to 0 points, I think they may have a chance. But I think the Bears will step up some to the challenge, but it won’t be enough. Lions over the Bears in a triple overtime thriller (just kidding) 24-10.

I just wanted to show you that I did pick, but was unable to post due to not having every game I wanted done. This is what I had by Friday. I missed on the Panthers and the Bears. Oh well. I will post again tomorrow morning/afternoon. Laters.