Not Another Predictions Column! Week Seventeen

21-gun Salute To The End Of The Regular Season

Not Another Predictions Column! Week Seventeen


Saturday Night Football Tricast: New England 15-0 @ New York Giants 10-5

Everyone and their brother is talking about this game. Even the NFL has begrudgingly allowed NBC and CBS to simulcast this game with the NFL Network, an historic first. Randy Moss needs only two touchdown receptions to set the new benchmark for wide receivers, thus breaking Jerry Rice’s record. Meanwhile, Tom Brady only needs two touchdown passes to break Peyton Manning’s mark for quarterbacks in a single season. At one point this season Brady was on pace for roughly 62 passing touchdowns, but then the Patriots decided to demonstrate that they are capable of running the ball, showing that that supposed chink in their armor is actually not there. Interestingly, the Patriots are playing the Giants to set the stage for an unbeaten season. The two teams have not played each other since 2003, and the Giants are known for their late-season collapses. However, the Giants did manage a comeback victory against the Bills last week, thus ensuring that Eli Manning is in a playoff game yet again. A scenario playing out in my mind the past few weeks has been a Green Bay-New England Super Bowl with Green Bay knocking off New England, thus rendering New England’s perfect season an utter failure, OR New England defeating Green Bay, thus achieving some level of revenge for Brett Favre’s only Super Bowl victory back in 1996 when he and the Packers defeated the Patriots. This game has naturally had more than its fair share of media hype this week, just as the Battle of the Unbeatens, or Super Bowl XLI ½, with the Indianapolis Colts. Frankly, I fully support the Patriots this year and believe that Spygate is not a big enough deal to blemish their dynasty, which is rapidly approaching legend. What about coaches and fudging injury report lists? That, to me, has more of an effect on a game then videotaping signals does. I have ridden the New England gravy train all year long in this column, and I see no reason to not continue that. New England wins and takes the 1972 Dolphins (the last unbeaten team) off of their pedestal.

Seattle Seahawks 10-5 @ Atlanta Falcons 3-12

Well, the Seahawks are once again the underappreciated team in the media. Being that they are out in Seattle, far away from the rest of the known world, Seattle does not get talked about much. Another reason is perhaps that they get six games a year against such powerhouses as Arizona, St. Louis, and San Francisco. Nevertheless, the Seahawks have won enough games to win another division title and another playoff berth. Conversely, Atlanta has not. Atlanta almost managed their fourth win last week but lost in overtime to the aforementioned Arizona Cardinals. This could be a prime upset game choice, considering the Falcons are playing at home and played better last week than they have in a long time, but Seattle will want to end the season on a high note. Seattle defeats the Falcons.

Weekly Upset Game: New Orleans 7-8 @ Chicago 6-9

The Saints are still clinging to slim playoff hopes, but those will be dashed this week. To seriously have a chance they needed to defeat the Eagles, and they could not do that. Donovan McNabb passed, ran, and fumbled his way towards an Eagles victory last week. IKEA apparently released him. The Bears, rather downheartingly, unleashed a demolition derby on the Packers last week, defeating them 35-7. Special teams were a key factor, as the Bears blocked two punts. Brian Urlacher also contributed an 85-yard interception return for touchdown. Despite the impressive performance, the Bears have been unable to stop the run as of late, and frankly, I continue to find that fact curious. Ron Rivera meant more to that defense then it appeared. Well, Chicago will go out by playing spoiler this week, as they defeat the Saints.

Cincinnati 6-9 @ Miami 1-14

Much to my chagrin Cincy managed to pull out their upset of Cleveland last week, possibly causing Cleveland’s playoff hopes to go down the drain. Cincinnati cannot do much to play spoiler this week, though, as Miami is locked into the #1 overall draft pick and is clearly out of the playoff race. Miami, naturally, has no desire to finish the season with only one win, and their fourth-ranked pass defense will give the Bengals a bit of trouble. Conversely, the Bengals defense hauled in four interceptions from Cleveland’s Derek Anderson last week, so perhaps they are starting to gel. They decided to bite the bullet awhile back by drafting two young corners and immediately giving them a great deal of playing time in the hopes that they would mature into two solid shut-down cornerbacks. Eventually, that will probably pay off, and until then they will have to go throw growing pains, which is what much of this past season has been for the Bengals. Expect Cincinnati to be active in finding linebackers this offseason, though. The Dolphins lose to finish 1-15.

Detroit 7-8 @ Green Bay 12-3

I would like to thank my grandmother for the Christmas present she gave me. She gave me a Brett Favre jersey, which I will wear this Sunday. So, Grandma, thank you very much! Packers’ running back Ryan Grant is only 101 yards away from rushing for 1000 on the season. Detroit is not known for their stifling run defense, so it is entirely possible and perhaps even likely that Grant gets that mark. Hopefully he does. These two teams last met on Thanksgiving, when the Packers won behind an impressive performance from Brett Favre. Detroit snapped their losing streak last week, as I expected, but it was too little, too late. There is no ten-win season, there is no magical playoff berth, there is nothing but the stark realization that once again the Lions fell apart and accomplished nothing for another year. That old adage, “there’s always next year” is on the tongues of every Lions fan left, all six of them. Greg Jennings needs 80 receiving yards to hit 1000 – he gets them en route to a Packers victory.

Jacksonville 11-4 @ Houston 7-8

Jacksonville is one of the only teams in the league that I can think of that is currently winning because they have a strong defense and amazing rushing attack. An efficient quarterback who rarely makes mistakes is also a major factor to their success, but a round of applause to Jacksonville coach Jack Del Rio for continuing to succeed with what is appearing to be a method of play slowly phased out of the modern NFL. Houston is a team that struggles to find consistency, and seems to be unstable at the quarterback position. Frankly, that team just needs a major overhaul at all but a few positions. Houston should get run all over this week as the Jaguars roll into the playoffs, the team that no one wants to play. Jags win it, to finish 12-4, a record that should win most divisions but does not win this one when the Indianapolis Colts also play in it.

CAROLINA 6-9 @ TAMPA BAY 9-6

Well, here it is, ladies and gentlemen. The final Panthers game of the season will be played in Raymond James Stadium against one of the Panthers’ archrivals. I want a 21-gun salute at the end of this game, because it signifies the end of another Panthers’ season. Next year promises to be brighter, with the return of Jake Delhomme, the maturation of Jon Beason at midde linebacker, the addition of Chris Harris to the secondary, and the hope of offseason adjustments to bolster the squad. In the interim, however, it is time for Matt Moore to get his second career win. Steve Smith is 46 yards away from 1000 receiving yards on the year, and the goal is to get him that on the first offensive play of scrimmage against Tampa Bay. Contrary to popular belief, this IS Matt Moore’s third start in the NFL, not second. Panthers running back DeShaun Foster looks to finish another season short of 1000 yards rushing, needing 170 yards in this last game to reach that mark. Former first round pick DeAngelo Williams has been outshining Foster lately and looks to continue that this week. Tampa Bay is expected to rest most of their starters for the playoffs. Carolina will take advantage of that and pull out the win.

Buffalo 7-8 @ Philadelphia 7-8

Stunningly, I have actually been rooting for the Eagles for the last two weeks. I was pulling for them against Dallas and also against New Orleans. Both of these teams have been eliminated from postseason contention but they still have shots at .500 seasons. Donovan McNabb had an awesome run against New Orleans where he fumbled and the ball was pushed into the endzone and his receiver recovered it for a touchdown. Plays like that are always pretty sweet. Brian Westbrook has been on fire this year, with nearly 1300 rushing yards and over 700 receiving. Westbrook should be considered one of the elite backs in the NFL if he is not already, and he has now stayed relatively healthy for two successive seasons. Buffalo seems to have found their new quarterback in Trent Edwards out of Stanford. Whether or not this means J.P. Losman will be shown the door is unknown. Here is a little-known story for you: Everyone knows the Bills drafted Paul Posluszny, and everyone knows he was playing well at middle linebacker before he broke his arm. What everyone does not know is that his replacement was John DiGiorgio, an undrafted rookie out of Saginaw Valley State. DiGiorgio has 109 tackles, 1 sack, 1 interception, and six passes deflected in relief of the injured Posluszny. Those are extremely good numbers for any linebacker, but particularly for a linebacker who was not the starter for the entire season. DiGiorgio is perhaps the biggest success story for the Bills this year, bigger than rookie running back Marshawn Lynch or rookie quarterback Trent Edwards. Buffalo could pull this one out, but it being a home game for Philadelphia, I will go with the Eagles.


San Francisco 5-10 @ Cleveland 9-6

San Fran is on a two-game winning streak due in large part to the stellar play of their new quarterback, Shaun Hill. Despite all that has been said about Frank Gore’s ‘disappearance’ this season, he still has 1008 yards rushing with five touchdowns. Cleveland lost a game they could ill-afford to lose last week against the Bengals, and now questions surround whether or not Derek Anderson can win the big game. People, please remember this is his first season as a starting quarterback – everything cannot be expected right away. Cleveland has but one hope remaining to make the playoffs. Every Browns fan in the world just became an Indianapolis Colts fan. The Colts need to beat the Titans on Sunday Night Football, and the Browns are in. If the Colts lose to the Titans, there is no way for the Browns to make the playoffs this season, and all their efforts will have been for naught. Everyone knows I have supported the Browns this season, and I will continue to do so. Cleveland wins.

Pittsburgh 10-5 @ Baltimore 4-11

Someone needs to explain to me how a team that has a quarterback with a franchise-record 32 touchdown passes and only 11 interceptions has a passing game ranked 25th in the NFL out of 32 teams. I am talking about the Steelers here – Ben Roethlisberger has been having pretty much the best statistical season of his career. Despite its ranking, it will need to be leaned on more in the playoffs without star rusher Willie Parker carrying the team due to his broken leg. Najeh Davenport, the former Packer, is picking up the slack in Parker’s absence. The Ravens have been on a colossal losing streak this year. No matter whom they have played, no matter what they were favored by, they have lost. There may be some with a forlorn hope that Baltimore can win this week, but not me. Steelers take the victory on the road.

San Diego 10-5 @ Oakland 4-11

The Chargers have won eight straight games against the Raiders. They will be looking to push that to nine straight on the road to the Super Bowl. LaDainian Tomlinson is one carry away from 300 carries on the season, has 1400+ yards rushing, and 15 rushing touchdowns. Not exactly a down year, but not quite what he accomplished last season. JaMarcus Russell is expected to make his first career NFL start this week, against the NFL’s leading defense in terms of interceptions. The Chargers have picked off 29 passes this season, 10 of those by Antonio Cromartie. As such, they should be relishing the chance to pressure Russell all day long, and this will lead to a San Diego victory to close out Oakland’s season.

Weekly Upset Game #2: Dallas 13-2 @ Washington 8-7

I will go with a second upset this week, as Cowboys’ coach Wade Phillips is expected to rest many of his starters in this game. The Redskins are red-hot now that Todd Collins has started to play at quarterback, winners of three straight and masters of their own destiny. I would like to officially go on the record and say that I believe that many years down the line we will find that someone has been paying off the referrees in many Dallas Cowboy football games. I do not mean to blame the umpires, or complain about them, but when Chris Collinsworth holds a moment of silence at how obvious a call should have been, you know it is going too far. This is no isolated incident, either. Nevertheless, poor officiating can be overcome, and nearly was by Carolina last week. Washington will overcome it this week if they need to, because Washington will win and become a playoff team, making three teams from the NFC East in the playoffs.

St. Louis 3-12 @ Arizona 7-8

The Rams’ star running back Steven Jackson is only 53 yards away from 1000 yards rushing on the season. His has been a season marked by injury, plagued by loss, and this has equated into underwhelming statistics compared to his heroic numbers of last year. Speaking of heroic statistics, Arizona quarterback Kurt Warner has rejuvenated himself with 24 passing touchdowns this season and over 3000 yards passing. However, Arizona cannot consider him a quarterback of the future, so they will have a quandary on their hands with Warner and Matt Leinart next year. Arizona closes out the season 8-8 under new coach Ken Whisenhunt.

Minnesota 8-7 @ Denver 6-9

Rookie sensation Adrian Peterson has not had much opportunity to do anything recently as Minnesota has been throwing the ball and opponents have been loading the box forcing Travaris Jackson to beat them with his arm. He is basically out of the NFL’s rushing crown this year, as LaDainian Tomlinson leads him by a little over 100 yards. However, when Adrian Peterson has topped 200 rushing yards twice already this season, you can never completely count the possibility out. Denver has been a major disappointment this year, getting blown out by scores unheard of in the Mike Shanahan era. The Broncos were nearly shut out last week before finally managing a field goal. Minnesota needs to win and they need Washington to lose to make the playoffs, after having been in the driver’s seat of the sixth seed for several weeks. That is unlikely to happen, but the Vikings finishing with a winning record is likely. Minnesota wins.

Kansas City 4-11 @ New York Jets 3-12

Rookie receiver Dwayne Bowe is 18 yards away from starting off his career with a 1000-yard season. Wonder if their fans are happy they finally got a receiver? Damon Huard nearly led the Chiefs to a comeback win over the Lions last week, but I do not believe he read my column. I said the Chiefs would lose, and they lost. This is not exactly Moses parting the Red Sea, considering the Chiefs losing is not an uncommon event this season, but it is still always nice to be right. Thomas Jones has quietly rushed for 1000 yards for the Jets this season, which shows even further how pitiful it is that the Panthers have not managed a 1000-yard rusher since 2003. Speaking of 1000-yard rushers, the Chiefs do not have that this year either. They will not have a win this week on top of that, as the Jets get a home victory to close out the season.

Sunday Night Football: Tennessee Titans 9-6 @ Indianapolis Colts 13-2

Lost in the media hype over the Patriots are the Colts, who have only lost two games themselves. Peyton Manning and the crew have been winning, as is their custom. The Titans are in control of their own future: if they pull off the upset, they will be in the playoffs. If they lose, the Browns are in. This game WILL be televised in Tennessee, by the way (inside joke). The Colts defeated the Titans in a close 22-20 scrum back in Week Two, which feels like it was nearly four months ago. Oh wait. Never mind. Okay, it feels like it was 15 weeks ago. Oh wait. Never mind. I do not like the Titans, and I want them to lose so Cleveland can make it in the playoffs. I learned an interesting fact in my reading this week. All 22 of the Colts’ starters last week have spent their entire careers with Indianapolis. The Titans have a strong rushing attack, but their passing game is anemic, and when you play Indianapolis, you need a passing game. This is the last regular season Sunday Night Football game of the season, and the Colts will send it out in style with a victory over the Titans.

I would like to offer a special thank you to my loyal readers for reading NAPC! all season long. Herewith we have come to the end of the third regular season of NAPC!’s existence. Next week we will enter the NAPC! Playoff Edition phase of the column.

Last week I went 12-4 and am 155-88 overall.

By Robert “RingLeader” Gilbert

[Comments Will Be Taken In The PantherCoalition Forums]

Not Another Predictions Column! Week Sixteen

NAPC! Week Sixteen


Dallas 12-2 @ Carolina 6-8

Two teams that are both coming off of surprise performances – the Dallas Cowboys and the Carolina Panthers. In Dallas, the Cowboys just dropped a surprise game to the Philadelphia Eagles, losing 10-6. Meanwhile, the Panthers pulled off a huge upset over the Seattle Seahawks primarily through the efforts of a stingy defense and rookie quarterback Matt Moore. Moore was efficient and effective as he passed for over 200 yards and completed 19 of 27 passes. Carolina will most likely be playing this game without the services of Julius Peppers at defensive end. However, since Peppers has been non-existent much of this season, that may not be that much of a problem. Third round pick Charles Johnson will likely see increased playing time with Peppers injured. Everyone this week is talking about whether or not Jessica Simpson attending the Dallas Cowboys game last week affected Tony Romo’s level of play. Whether or not it did, there are rumors that she will attend this game, and frankly, Carolina needs all the help they can get, so I hope she attends. As always, Carolina wins, keeping their playoff hopes alive.


Cleveland 9-5 @ Cincinnati 5-9

The lack of a defense definitely caught up with Cincy this year, as consistently they have lost games because their defense could not prevent opposing teams from scoring. The last time these two teams squared off, it resulted in an infamous 51-45 scoring bonanza in which Cleveland had the 51. Among the ridiculous statistics in that game was Jamal Lewis and his 216 rushing yards. Carson Palmer passed for six touchdowns, as well. The Browns’ defense is also suspect, but has been playing better then the Bengals’ unit. Last week the Browns won a snow bowl against Buffalo, defeating the Bills 8-0 in a blizzard. Conversely, the Bengals dropped a game to the Shaun Hill-led 49ers. Rookie corner Leon Hall of the Bengals leads all rookies with four interceptions, however. Cleveland is still fighting for their division title, so they will be fired up to defeat a division rival in the Bengals this week. Cleveland wins.

Kansas City 4-10 @ Detroit 6-8

Well, the Lions have fallen apart, people. They have lost six straight games after starting off the season 6-2. At one point in time ten wins looked like a certainty for the Kitna-led Lions, but it is apparent the Lions were merely pretenders, not contenders, this season. The Lions have been officially eliminated from the playoff race, as have the Chiefs, so both teams are mostly just playing for pride at the moment. Neither team has been able to run the ball effectively, consistently, this season. However, the Lions have been able to pass the ball much more proficiently then the Chiefs. Jared Allen made it to his first Pro Bowl with an 11-sack season for the Chiefs, greatly helping out their pass rush this year. The Chiefs should be able to put up a solid fight in this one, but the Lions will pull off a win.

Houston 7-7 @ Indianapolis 12-2

The Texans are still fighting for a .500 season, but facing the Colts is a daunting task. Indianapolis has not been quite as stunning as usual this year, but they are still winning games and still definitely a threat. Bob Sanders, the safety who is the heart and soul of the Indy D, will be a free agent after the season and Bill Polian will have to decide if Sanders is worth the price tag he will command in the open market. Mario Williams, the star defensive end for the Texans, was snubbed in the Pro Bowl voting this week. Despite leading the AFC in sacks with 13, he is not penciled in for a trip to Hawaii. Houston will fight hard in this game, but it will not be enough, as the Colts improve to 13 wins on the season.

Green Bay 12-2 @ Chicago 5-9

The reigning NFC Champion Chicago Bears will most definitely be finishing this season with a losing record, and a myriad of question marks at the quarterback position. Rex Grossman, Brian Griese, and Kyle Orton have all started at quarterback this season for the Bears. Frankly, Orton should just start the rest of the season for Chicago. By the way, if you have not heard, the Packers clinched a first-round bye with their win last week. Brett Favre is 97 yards away from throwing for 4000 yards this season. Last time these two teams met, the Bears spoiled my prediction that week and pulled off an upset of the Packers with a 34-yard touchdown strike to Desmond Clark – and the world wept. That was Brian Griese’s debut this season, and it filled the Bears with hope that this would not be a wasted season. Sorry, the honeymoon ended. I might give Orton a victory next week, but right now the Bears need to take some revenge from the Packers. Green Bay wins it.

New York Giants 9-5 @ Buffalo Bills 7-7

Despite dropping a game in a blizzard to Cleveland last week, the Bills are still fighting for a winning record. Rookie quarterback from Stanford, Trent Edwards, has been playing well and seems to have put incumbent J.P. Losman out of a job. This disappoints no one but J.P. Losman and Lee Evans, who typically enjoyed Losman’s constant attention. The Giants are starting to come loose around the seams, but should still be in the playoffs again. Whether or not that is enough to save Tom Coughlin’s job is unknown. Eli Manning is still the king of inconsistency and acts like it. These two teams do not play each other much – case in point, the last time these two teams played Drew Bledsoe was the starting quarterback for the Bills. This is a promising upset game selection, but the Giants should still have enough in the tank to defeat Buffalo, so I will roll with them.

Oakland 4-10 @ Jacksonville 10-4

Despite being snubbed for the Pro Bowl, Fred Taylor, part one of the Jaguars’ two-headed rushing attack, will still travel to Hawaii because of Willie Parker’s fractured fibula. Jacksonville is fighting to make the playoffs and needs to win games against teams like Oakland. Oakland, at this point in time, is only worrying about playing spoiler. Maurice Jones-Drew, part two of the Jaguars’ aforementioned rushing attack, may be the best thing to ever happen to Fred Taylor. Fred Taylor has now rushed for 1000+ yards in two consecutive seasons despite splitting time with Jones-Drew, and Taylor has four consecutive 100-yard games. Jacksonville will not have to do much in this game but run the ball – Oakland has trouble stopping the run. Jaguars win it, keeping them in the hunt for the playoffs.

WEEKLY UPSET GAME: Philadelphia 6-8 @ New Orleans 7-7

Carolina needs Philadelphia to continue winning this week and knock off the Saints in order for Carolina to remain in the hunt for the final playoff spot in the NFC. The Eagles pulled off a surprise upset last week of the Dallas Cowboys, and look to play spoiler this week. The Saints’ defense will have difficulty containing Brian Westbrook, who is on fire. By the way, I would like to tip my hat to Westbrook for stopping at the one-yard line against Dallas, thus assuring themselves of the victory. It was a great move by a great player. Donovan McNabb is still capable of managing a game, as he showed, but I am not sure that a game can be put squarely on his shoulders anymore. Reggie Bush is attempting to come back this season, but he is listed as questionable on the injury report. Philadelphia’s defense continues its stifling play and at least limits the Saints’ offense whilst the Philly offense scores just enough to win. Eagles win this week.

Tampa Bay 9-5 @ San Francisco 4-10

San Francsico has had Tampa Bay’s number in recent years, particularly at Monster Park. This would have been a tempting upset game choice, but it does not effect Carolina’s postseason chances, so why take the chance? Shaun Hill won his start against Cincinnati last week on the NFL Network, and now he gets a shot at the division-leading Buccaneers. He will have to dodge rookie defensive end Gaines Adams, who leads all rookies with six sacks. Earnest Graham, running back for the Bucs, is 123 yards away from cracking 1000 on the season. I will go out on a limb and say that he will get all of that this week against San Francisco en route to a Bucs’ win.

Atlanta 3-11 @ Arizona 6-8

What a year it has been for Arthur Blank and the Atlanta Falcons. If it were not Mike Vick killing a dog, DeAngelo Hall fighting with teammates, a coach abruptly leaving, or Bill Parcells turning Atlanta down, it was another. It has been a topsy-turvy three-win season for the Falcons, which should make for an interesting off-season. Marty Schottenheimer’s name has been leaked as someone the Falcons are interested in going after. Meanwhile, Arizona has had their own tumultous season, playing with the quarterback roulette wheel themselves. Kurt Warner has revived his career and has been playing well, for the most part, but is still plagued by the occasional game-losing mistake. Larry Fitzgerald was voted into the Pro Bowl this week – and there is no one more deserving of a Pro Bowl selection. Fitzgerald is one of the classiest players in the NFL and one of the best at what he does. All-Pro running back Edgerrin James got his 1000 yards last week, and now looks to pad his numbers a bit. He will, as Arizona wins at home this week.

Miami 1-13 @ New England 14-0

The Patriots are still in pursuit of that undefeated season, and in their way at the moment are the lowly Dolphins. The Dolphins did manage to avoid the ignominious distinction of a season in which they lost all their games by knocking off the Ravens in OT last week, but that was not for a lack of trying. Greg Camarillo and Cleo Lemon bailed the Dolphins out, though. Lemon hit Camarillo on a 63-yard touchdown strike in which Camarillo burned most of the eleven players on the field for the Ravens’ defense. Tom Brady is still five touchdown passes away from breaking Peyton Manning’s record, and only has two games left to do it in. You can bet he is working on it, and it is possible he breaks it in tomorrow’s action. Last week, however, the Patriots were busy demonstrating that they are capable of running the ball, which made the rest of the NFL shudder even more. The Dolphins will pull out all the stops in this game, but it will not be quite enough, as the Patriots will seek to embarrass them again. New England wins and improves to 15-0.

Baltimore 4-10 @ Seattle 9-5

The Seahawks dropped a shocker in Carolina last week, falling prey to a swarming defense and excellent offensive execution by Carolina’s new quarterback sensation Matt Moore. However, the Ravens did them one better by falling flat on their faces and losing to the Dolphins who had previously not won a game on the season. Seattle looks to regain face over Christmas weekend with their fans, who were shaking their heads at the apathetic performance turned out by Matt “We’re gonna win” Hasselbeck and Co. Rookie quarterback and former Heisman trophy winner Troy Smith will get the start for the Ravens this week, which must scare the Seahawks considering the last rookie quarterback they faced ripped through their secondary and made it look effortless. Look for the Seahawks’ defensive coordinator to remember to blitz this week, and if he does, it will make Troy Smith look like he did in his last college game. Seahawks win it and improve to 10 wins on the season.

New York Jets 3-11 @ Tennessee Titans 8-6

Well, Eric Mangini’s Jets are not making a playoff run this year, for sure. On the contrary, the Titans, led by Vince Young, are still in contention for a wildcard spot in the AFC. Vince Young threw two touchdown passes last week, both to Roydell Williams. Lendale White is 40 yards from 1000 on the season, and considering he is facing the 30th rush defense in the NFL this week AND is playing at home, he ought to be able to hit that milestone this week. Chad Pennington looks to be starting for the Jets this week, as Kellen Clemens hurt his ribs in the loss to the Patriots last week. Pennington has gotten a raw deal in New York in my opinion, and deserves to get a look elsewhere in the League. The Jets were a thought for upset game, but Tennessee is playing for their playoff lives. Titans win.

WEEKLY UPSET PART 2! (Sun. Night)Washington 7-7 @ Minnesota 8-6

Yep, you got it. Two upset game selections this week, because Carolina needs some help to make it to the playoffs, and I am giving it to them. Quarterback Todd Collins has kept the Redskins alive in the playoff hunt, and looks to continue keeping them alive by knocking off the Vikings, who are currently in possession of the final playoff spot in the NFC. The Redskins will have to contain Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson, but if they can do that, they should not have much of a problem knocking the Vikings off. Travaris Jackson and the Vikings managed to knock off the Bears last week despite turning the ball over four times. Unfortunately, or rather, fortunately for Carolina, the winning streak ends this week. Washington knocks off the Vikings in surprising fashion on Sunday Night Football.

Denver 6-8 @ San Diego 9-5

The Broncos have been maddeningly inconsistent this season, and I have greatly disliked picking their football games. Meanwhile, their division rival, the Chargers, have also been maddeningly inconsistent, but at least it has been easier to deal with. LaDainian Tomlinson has rushed for over 1300 yards this season, though it has not felt like it after last year’s banner season. The Broncos are still holding on to the hope of a .500 season, but it is unlikely to happen. Rookie Selvin Young at the running back position has been awesome to watch, though. Is Michael Turner worth the first round pick teams were thinking of trading for him last year? He has only 53 touches this season for 5.0 yards per carry and only one touchdown. Antonio Gates has nearly double the receptions of the next closest guy on the team, Vincent Jackson. I guess we know whom Philip Rivers likes to throw to. Gates is 102 yards away from 1000 on the season. Look for Gates, Chris Chambers, and LaDainian Tomlinson to lead San Diego to a victory this week.

Last week I went 8-8 and am 143-84 overall. Merry Christmas to all my readers! Have a wonderful holiday, and GO CAROLINA!

By Robert "RingLeader" Gilbert

[Comments Will Be Taken In The PantherCoalition Forums]

NAPC! Week Ten

Not Another Predictions Column! Week Ten

WEEK OF THE UPSETS!

Atlanta 2-6 @ Carolina 4-4

Apparently, the Panthers are playing hot potato at the quarterback position. Any quarterback in for an extended period of time gets hurt and another number gets called out on this roulette wheel. This week it might be undrafted rookie Matt Moore starting in relief of an injured Testaverde and an injured David Carr. Matt Moore has just seven pass attempts on the season, but has proven that he can get the ball down the field and can thread a needle. However, he is about as inexperienced as it gets, and he proved that with an interception last week against Tennessee. Moore, though, averages 11.3 yards on those seven attempts – more than double what David Carr averages per attempt. For comparison, Vinny Testaverde averages 5.4 yards per attempt, the lowest number of his extensive career. David Carr has been ruled out of this week’s game with a concussion, and Vinny Testaverde, who had been practicing just fine this week, did not practice on Friday due to increased pain in his right Achilles’ tendon. Frankly, if he plays, I am not expecting him to last the game. However, Moore has shown some good things in his limited playing time. His receivers have made plays for him that they have not made for any other quarterback aside from Jake Delhomme. Keary Colbert and Drew Carter have both caught deep balls from Moore, who has no problem slinging it up to his receivers and living life on the edge. I can definitely back a guy like that. This week Carolina will be playing against star defensive end John Abraham, perhaps the best defender on the Falcons’ defense. He has made himself into a Panther-killer both last year and this year, totally dominating Panthers’ left tackle Travelle Wharton. In fact, his was the sack that completely aggravated Jake Delhomme’s elbow ligament injury. He so thoroughly dominated Wharton last year that Wharton ended up tearing his ACL in the game, putting him out for the entire season. Wharton still struggled with him in the matchup earlier this season, but I really cannot blame him. I blame the coaching staff, who have to see that Wharton cannot handle Abraham on his own. Numerous times in the first matchup against Atlanta this year, I saw the Panthers attempt to block Abraham with only a running back or a tight end, not even having an offensive lineman on him. If Carolina tries to pull that number again, Abraham will continue to dictate to the Panthers what they can and cannot do on offense. The Panthers’ running game is getting closer to 1000 yards on the season, as DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams have combined for almost 850 yards thus far. Look for them to get over the 1000 yard mark in this game en route to a Carolina victory. One quick note on the Panthers’ return game: It stinks. Guess what? The punt returner I wanted in the draft, Steve Breaston, is averaging 10.5 yards a punt return to lead all NFC rookies.

Green Bay 7-1 @ Minnesota 3-5

Brett Favre is amazing. He has 2406 yards passing on the season and 13 touchdowns with 8 interceptions. His team is 7-1, tied for the best record in the NFC. All of his receivers are making plays – Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, and James Jones. He is even getting some okay production from his running game. Green Bay’s defense has also played well and is assuredly an underrated unit. Know who else is amazing? Rookie running back Adrian Peterson is. The Vikings’ fantastic young stud already has over 1000 yards rushing and two 200+ yard games. He is on pace to smash Eric Dickerson’s rookie rushing record of 1808 yards with a 2000+ yard season. If Green Bay can contain him (in other words, hold him to under 200 yards and under three touchdowns), they will win. It is that simple. The Vikings’ pass defense is atrocious, and their best corner, Antoine Winfield, is hampered with a hamstring injury. Essentially, it boils down to Brett Favre’s passing attack vs. Adrian Peterson’s legs, vision, speed, and power. While Adrian Peterson is incredible, Brett Favre’s been doing this a lot longer than Peterson has. Brett Favre and the Packers improve to 8-1 this week.

Denver 3-5 @ Kansas City 4-4

I have had a hard time predicting this division this year. The teams in this division have, for the most part, been mediocre. They win a few, then they lose a few. Denver, in particular, has surprised me. I expected them to be better this year, but their defense has unraveled since the release of MLB AL Wilson in the off-season. Their offense has played fairly well, and un-heard of running back Selvin Young has displayed some marvelous running ability. He refuses to go down and keeps churning his legs, trying to find an opening. He averages 5.3 yards per carry on only 42 attempts. Wide receiver Brandon Marshall has displayed some excellent play-making ability this season, with 609 receiving yards on 45 catches. Kansas City has managed to win four games, though I am not quite sure how. Rookie receiver Dwayne Bowe and tight end Tony Gonzalez are carrying that offense, and doing a good job of it. The defense has also been playing well, led in major part by fourth-year defensive end Jared Allen. Somehow or another, Kansas City is leading their division right now, and they will stay on top of it with a victory this week over Denver.

Buffalo 4-4 @ Miami 0-8

I told you Marshawn Lynch would have a good game last week, and he did. He had 153 yards rushing, a rushing touchdown, and a passing touchdown in the Bills’ defeat of the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bills are contesting for a wildcard spot in the playoffs now, and need to keep winning. J.P. Losman is retaining the starting position in Buffalo at QB right now with two consecutive victories under his belt. As is expected when he is playing, receiver Lee Evans had a big day last week with 165 yards receiving. There is not much I can say about Miami. Their defense is all right, but their offense has nothing. Cleo Lemon is starting at QB right now, but the clock is ticking on when rookie John Beck out of BYU gets to see some playing time. With running back Ronnie Brown injured, the Dolphins have lost their leading rusher AND their leading receiver this year. They do not have much of a passing game, and now Jesse Chatman is spear-heading the rushing attack. My heart goes out to the players and the fans of this team – losing is not fun, and to be hearing whispers of a possible 0-16 season must be about as down-heartening as one can imagine. That said, I am not feeling misty-eyed enough to pick them over Buffalo this week. The Bills take a road victory and climb above .500 on the season.

St. Louis 0-8 @ New Orleans 4-4

Apparently, losing to the Panthers (led by David Carr) was a catalyst to start the Saints winning. This was not an intended by-product of said Carolina victory, and further proof that winning is a drug that should be applied wisely. The Saints’ offense has woken up, which is a scary thought for the rest of the NFL. However, they still do not have a defense, and against teams with a good offense, that will come back to haunt them. Nevertheless, they rode the combination of stellar offense vs. middling defense to a 10-6 record last year. The Rams really just want to win a game, for once. They and Miami are in an ignominious battle for last place overall in the NFL. To win this game, they will need to shut down, or at least limit, New Oreans’ passing attack, and they will need to get some big plays out of their offense. Well, at wide receiver they have one of the best playmakers of all time, Torry “Big Play” Holt. Another thing that would help the offense out would be the return of Steven Jackson circa 2006, not the 2007 model. I am not going with this upset, though. New Orleans, unfortunately, extends its winning streak to five games.

Cleveland 5-3 @ Pittsburgh 6-2

I wanted to make this my upset game, but then I realized that the Browns may be missing two of their starting linemen in this game. Guard Seth McKinney is definitely out, and guard Eric Steinbach may miss the game with a back injury. If Derek Anderson does not have time back in the pocket, it will be hard for him to perform at as high a level as he has been playing at. This will be a game where we really see Anderson’s mettle and what the kid really has. Anderson is second in the NFL in touchdown passes right now (we all know who #1 is). The Browns’ major undoing in this game will not be on the offensive side of the ball, but rather the defensive side. The Browns’ defense is the league’s worst, and the Steelers just rolled over the league’s second-best defense. Picking the Browns, on the road nonetheless, seems to be a move of errant folly this week. For them to win would show the heart of that team and would be a major credit to the coaching staff. Pittsburgh has played well this year, but I still find them a litte inconsistent. They blew the game against Arizona, and they ended up losing to Denver a few weeks ago. Right now, I almost consider the Steelers to be mere pretenders. On the other hand, those games may have just been blips on the radar screen. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger definitely seems to be back in form, with five touchdown passes last week, tying a franchise record. If I am the Browns, I try to hold the ball as long as possible on offense. I expect a valiant effort out of Cleveland, but I believe they will fall just short as the Steelers improve to 7-2.

WEEKLY USPET GAME #1 : Jacksonville 5-3 @ Tennessee 6-2

Tennessee’s defense, a group with a bunch of players most people have never heard of, is currently ranked second in the NFL. They are being led by fearless leader Albert Haynesworth at defensive tackle, who is playing at a level far superior than any of his peers. Haynesworth will be a hot commodity in the free agency period this offseason, as he is in a contract year with Tennesseee. Running back Lendale White managed to scrap out 100 yards rushing against Carolina this past week, but should find the breathing room a little easier to come by against Jacksonville this game as Pro Bowl defensive tackle Marcus Stroud serves his four game suspension. The Titans, however, do not have a passing game. Vince Young has struggled with that concept thus far, with only 855 yards passing and three touchdown passes. The Jaguars do have a strong pass defense, though it was not evident against New Orleans last week. Quinn Gray surprised me and played well at QB against New Orleans, though. Somewhat surprisingly, I feel that the Jaguars will show up this week and knock off Tennessee on the road.

Philadelphia 3-5 @ Washington 5-3

Word out of Philadelphia area is that Donovan McNabb is running scared, like a deer caught in the headlights. How long before the Eagles turn to another QB, or how long before McNabb goes down? If McNabb goes down again, rumors have it that will be the end of his tenure in Philadelphia. I have to say that after seeing McNabb extensively in the game against Dallas, it does appear that he is ‘running scared.’ He appears to be tentative in his decision-making. If I were a Philly fan, I would be calling up all the IKEA stores within a 500 mile radius trying to find where the ‘real’ McNabb was being held. On the other side of the field stand the 5-3 Washington Redskins with their physical defense and strong running game. It took them awhile, but they managed to knock off the Jets last week, who gave them a surprisingly hard fight. Washington needs to get their groove back on after being blown out of the water by the Patriots two weeks ago. Leading receivers Santana Moss and Antwaan Randel El are nursing minor injuries, so look for Clinton Portis and Chris Cooley to receive additional touches this week. With the inconsistent play the Eagles are getting from their linebackers, that should pay off for Washington as they defeat the Eagles.

WEEKLY UPSET GAME #2: Cincinnati 2-6 @ Baltimore 4-4

This should be interesting – a team with no defense (Cincy) vs. a team with no offense (Baltimore). At this moment the Ravens’ pass defense is a little suspect, as some of their starters are a little shaken up. Corner Samari Rolle will miss the game against Cincinnati. Carson Palmer is probably looking forward to this, and one of his favorite targets will be back. Wide receiver Chris Henry, who was serving his eight-game suspension for violating the league’s conduct policy, returns to the lineup this week. Ravens running back Willis McGahee should be able to get the ground game going against Cincinnati, but it appears unlikely that the Ravens will be able to do anything during the air. It should be apparent by now that Steve McNair should retire, but I do not like saying that to anyone. I can respect someone trying to live his dream. After all, people were telling Brett Favre he ought to retire roughly four years ago or so. Those were probably the bookies trying to bet against Green Bay. If Steve McNair has anything left in the tank, he has to start showing it soon, as pretty soon Baltimore will be eliminated from playoff contention. They need to win games against teams like Cincinnati to stay in the hunt, but that does not happen this week. In NAPC!’s second upset game selection this week, Cincinnati wins on the road over Baltimore.

Detroit 6-2 @ Arizona 3-5

Jon Kitna and the Lions just keep on winning. This team has that ‘it’ factor, that ‘moxie’ about it. They find a way to score and they find a way to win. Name me one starter on that defense outside of Shaun Rogers. Tell me who plays corner for them. Tell me who happens to line up at linebacker. No one knows. They are a bunch of no-names and no one considers them to be all that great. Yet, they lead the league in takeaways. I am telling you, straight up, Detroit has ‘it.’ They really do. Aside from Brett Favre and his Packers, there happens to be no other team in the league (outside of the Panthers) that I am rooting for as strongly right now. Detroit makes their own luck, and I am down with that. I look forward to watching them in the playoffs this year to see if that luck transposes into the post-season. As for Arizona, they are fading fast. The offense is being led by Kurt Warner, and if they cannot get a ground attack going, Warner does not appear capable of shouldering the entire team by himself as he could with the Rams. Possible Hall of Fame running back Edgerrin James should find the running room easier against Detroit this week after only managing 15 yards on nine carries against the Buccaneers. It will not be enough. Lions improve to 7-2 on the year.

WEEKLY UPSET GAME #3: Dallas 7-1 @ New York Giants 6-2

This is a record week in NAPC! history. I have not one, not two, but THREE upset game selections this week. It is a bold move, I know, but I have faith in each of these picks. The Giants have really stepped it up since losing to Dallas in Week One, turning into an entirely different team on the defensive side of the ball. Eli Manning and Plaxico Burress have become a great tandem, the one chucking the ball to the other, and the other waltzing into the endzone. The Giants have been on a bye since their adventure in London, where they knocked off the Miami Dolphins (who hasn’t?) 13-10. You can bet they have had this game penciled in red on their calendars since that Week One loss. As for Dallas, well, Tony Romo is an idiot. The whole Hollywood/Celebrity gossip crew is apparently saying that he is getting involved with either Jessica Simpson or Britney Spears, leaving Carrie Underwood out to dry. Well, that is great news for the rest of us guys. Hey Carrie, listen, if you need someone to talk to, dial 867-5309, okay? That’s my number. (Seriously, if you need someone to talk to, PM RingLeader) Keep making smart decisions like that Romo, and let us just see where you end up. That said, I have been enjoying watching Tony play this year. He has made some incredible plays, but my favorite is probably the run for a first down on third down against St. Louis when the snap was sent flying forty yards behind the line of scrimmage. This should be a great game, but I have a feeling the Giants pull it out, making the NFC East divisional race very tight.

Chicago 3-5 @ Oakland 2-6

Remember when Brian Griese was going to turn the Bears around? Me either. Remember when LaMont Jordan was having a career resurgence? Me either. Remember when the Raiders had a passing attack better than a Pop Warner team? Me either. Remember when Kyle Orton won all those games for the Bears at QB? Me either, but they might want to be looking at him. Remember when the Bears had a good defense? Me either. Remember when Muhsin Muhammad was a receiving threat? Me either. Remember when the Raiders were in the Super Bowl last? Me either. Well, actually, I do remember these things, but that is not the point. The point is that if these two teams continue like this, they will be picking in the top ten of the draft next year. Chicago is perhaps the biggest surprise, but now we see the impact Ron Rivera really had on that defense. However, that D is still good enough to slow down the Raiders’ non-existent offense. Bears take one on the road this week and improve to four wins on the year.

SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL: Indianapolis 7-1 @ San Diego 4-4

No, sorry, no fourth upset game this week. Indianapolis gave New England an extremely tough battle last week, but in the end Peyton Manning gift-wrapped the victory to the Patriots and hand-delivered it to Rosevelt Colvin. Harshly put, I know, but no sugar-coating coming from me. The Patriots took the field, marched down, scored the points they needed, and then prevented Manning from doing anything about it. It was a hard-fought game on both sides. Nevertheless, the Colts have to move on to the Bolts this week, as they travel to San Diego. San Diego is 4-4 and somewhat of an enigma. One week they show up, the next, Adrian Peterson treats them like he would a high school defense. Or Duke’s. Not the mayonnaise, the college team. I believe Marvin Harrison is expected to return this week, and the Colts sure could use him since rookie first round draft pick Anthony Gonzalez is out with a hand ailment. The Colts (in particular Peyton Manning) hope to get left tackle Tony Ugoh back this week, and I would too, with Shawne Merriman lining up across from me. Philip Rivers needs to start playing better, and if I were maybe a little more sentimental I might pick the Chargers this week, but I will take Indy to win on the road.

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL: San Francisco 2-6 @ Seattle 4-4

Well, despite appearances to the contrary, the NFC West is still a mediocre division. Seattle is leading it but has lost three of their last four games. Nobody wants to win this division. Or maybe they do, they just do not have the ability to. Someone from this division, fair or unfair, will be in the playoffs whilst a better team in the NFC sits at home because they play in a tougher division. I do not have much to say about these teams. The 49ers have no offense. It just does not exist. They need a wide receiver, and they need an offensive coordinator that knows his stuff. That might help somewhat. I wonder, if the offseason were re-done, would the 49ers still have offered that contract to Nate Clements? Shaun Alexander is averaging a mere 3.3 yards rushing on the season for the Seahawks and has scored only twice. Matt Hasselbeck has lost to the 49ers only twice, and that will hold true after this week, as well. Seahawks win it.

By Robert “RingLeader” Gilbert

Last week I went 8-5 and am 84-49 on the season.

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