Another great week of NFL action: the Colts won (but looked human), the Saints continue to roll, and the Giants continue to spiral out of control.

It seems like every week brings more drama to the stage during what has been a very exciting season thus far that we are now halfway through.

One thing is for sure….THE REDSKINS DIDN’T LOSE THIS WEEK! (But the Browns did!)

[Editor's Note: There you go dick Myles. Keep rubbing salt in the wound jackass buddy. Keep kicking Browns fans when they're down you no talent ass clown my friend.

I can't wait until Peyton Manning retires and your one-man franchise returns to sucking and all of its fair-weather fans go away.  Go ahead, shake your head. But you know it's true.]

Now, onto this week’s Power Rankings.

1. New Orleans Saints (Last 2 [+1])

The Saints once again flip-flop into first place again with a big win against division rival Atlanta.

Rushing TD’s, Defensive TDs, Passing TDs…this team scores however they want to, and it seems that if they score less than 30, its a debacle.

We may be heading toward an Indy-New Orleans Superbowl, and that makes me giddy.

[Editor's Note: Readers, please raise your hand if you give a crap what makes Big MB "giddy"? In fact, raise your hand if you are explicitly disturbed by the mention of Big MB being "giddy"? Ah, unanimous agreement. Just as I suspected.

You know Myles, there are Browns, Rams, Lions, and Chiefs fans reading this post who don't need to have it shoved in their faces that the two teams you root for are undefeated. What the hell have you done to deserve such a charmed NFL existence?

So shove it and go giddy yourself off on some other blog.

I hate the NFL.

Moving on, in honor of that kickass picture I found of Drew Brees and Alfonso Ribiero (aka Carlton Banks) I've chosen "It's Not Unusual" by Tom Jones as this week's Power Ranking theme song. Enjoy.]

2. Indianapolis Colts (Last 1 [-1])

Indy and Peyton Manning looked somewhat average on the offensive side of the ball this week, but the defense and special teams stepped up and prevented Indy from its first loss against the 49ers with an 18-14 victory.

Minus the 60-yard touchdown run by Frank Gore, the defense was spectacular, with two very crucial sacks of 49ers QB Alex Smith in the closing minutes of the game. On top of that, they are now the NFL’s #1 rated defense in points allowed, which in the end, is the only stat on defense that truly matters.

Not unlike the Saints, the Colts are proving that they can win in several different ways, even if it is a halfback option pass to win the game.

[Editor's Note: Blah, blah, blah. The Colts' run ends once they face New England. Mark it down.]

3. Minnesota Vikings (Last 5 [+2])

Brett Favre must be feeling good. Yes, he beat his old team on MNF in Minnesota, but this one meant more. This one was in Lambeau.

Favre came out on fire, throwing for four touchdowns and no interceptions. Jared Allen is definitely a beast at DE; on one play, Green Bay didn’t even bother to block him en route to one of Minny’s six sacks on Aaron Rodgers.

[Editor's Note: Wait a minute...who the hell just said they don't know who Carlton Banks is and that they don't understand the Tom Jones reference? Are you serious? Damn this new generation is deprived. Just watch below and it will all make sense, and then find out what channel in your area shows reruns of The Fresh Price of Bel-Air. You'll thank me.]

4. New England Patriots (Last 4 [0])

The Pats were on bye this week, but with the Jets’ losing effort against Miami, they have improved their standing in the AFC East. As much as I hate to admit it, this team is dangerous. If they can stay healthy, they will be a major contender come time for the playoffs.

[Editor's Note: Way to be objective and give everyone equal time Myles. You write a book about the Colts and Saints, then we get to the Patriots and get three totally uninspired, generic sentences. I can't wait until they beat Indy and you have to rank them above the Colts. It's coming...soon.]

5. Denver Broncos (Last 3 [-2])

Finally, a chink in the armor of what was seeming to become an AFC Beast.

Denver lost to the Ravens 30-7, and now, all of those nay-sayers can say “I told you so.”

However, I am not jumping off the bandwagon. This team is still 6-1, plays in a soft division, and will be a pest in the playoffs, perhaps still even achieving a first round bye if they can bounce back from this loss.

Don’t sell Denver yet, it’s just one game.

6. Cincinnati Bengals (Last 6 [0)

Cincy was on bye this week, and apparently, that is the only way anyone can keep Chad Ochocinco out of the endzone.

Cincy remains tied atop the AFC North with the Steelers, and have a very important divisional matchup this week against Baltimore, who is coming off of a big win against denver.

7. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last 7 [0])

Pittsburgh was on bye this week, and remains tied for the lead in the AFC North with the aforementioned Bengals; however, consider them a half game behind Cincy because of a loss to the Bengals earlier in the season.

Pittsburgh is traveling to Denver for a monumental matchup on MNF this week. Denver is coming off of an embarrassing loss to the Ravens and will be looking for revenge on Big Ben and the Steelers.

[Editor's Note: Thinking about Denver, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh -- three solid teams, yes, but none of whom will be making the Super Bowl this year -- has me bored. So how 'bout a little more Carlton Banks?

Ask and you shall receive...]

8. Philadelphia Eagles (Last 13 [+5])

Don’t look now, but here come Donovan McNabb and the Eagles.

McNabb has potentially the biggest surprise of the NFL season in big play specialist DeSean Jackson, a guy that he can throw and hand off to, and he has done just that. Jackson still maintains the impressive stat that all of his touchdowns are of 50 yards or more.

The Eagles are tied for the NFC East lead with Dallas, and will host the ‘Boys in Philly this week with the division lead on the line.

9. Dallas Cowboys (Last 14 [+5])

I’m still not buying the Cowboys, despite their jump in my Power Rankings this week, which was probably due more to the poor play of the teams they moved past than their dominant victory over an injury-ravaged Seattle team.

Next week will be a big match in Philly against the Eagles for the division lead.

Keep this in mind as you jump on the Cowboys bandwagon, and eventually crown them prematurely: Wade Phillips is still their coach, and Tony Romo is still their quarterback; and unfortunately, December is coming.

10. Houston Texans (Last 15 [+5])

Well, apparently the Texans coaching staff has no love lost for fumbles. Running back Steve Slayton was benched in favor of back-up Ryan Moats who ended up with over 120 yards and three touchdowns.

Houston continues to play very well, and I hate to say it, but I told you so. Houston is 5-3 and will head to division leading, undefeated Indianapolis, for what may be the Texans’ biggest game of the season so far.

[Editor's note: For what "may be" their biggest game of the season? It's clearly their biggest game of the season, and very well might be the biggest game thus far in their franchise's history. Too bad them they won't have Owen Daniels for the rest of the season. Big loss, akin to Indy losing Dallas Clark.]

11. Atlanta Falcons (Last 11 [0])

The Falcons put up a fight against the Saints, but in the end it just wasn’t enough as they drop to three games back of the NFC South lead. Mike Smith and the Falcons still have a great team, and they could still make a push into the playoffs. Stay tuned, and don’t sell this team just yet.

[Editor's note: A "great" team? If that's true, then how do you have them below the Cowboys, who you claim to not be "buying". Come on Colts boy. Where's the consistency???]

12. New York Giants (Last 8 [-4])

Only just a few short weeks after they were tied with the Colts for #1 in my Power Rankings, I am screaming to sell the Giants.

Something is wrong in New York, very wrong.

Eli has regressed in production and decision making, and looks as confused as St. Louis did when they realized they had won last weekend against Detroit.

Better step up Giants, or you may find yourself out of the Power Rankings next week, and worse, out of the playoff race.

[Editor's Note: I'll agree with you there. As great and prestigious as your Power Rankings are, I do believe it would be far worse for the Giants to fall out of the playoff race than the rankings. But they will, of course, go hand in hand.]

13. Green Bay Packers (Last 9 [-4])

Green Bay gave a valiant effort in the closing minutes against Brett Favre and the Vikings in Favre’s triumphant return to Lambeau. The biggest concern in Cheeseland is protecting Aaron Rodgers. You just can’t allow six sacks a game and expect to win.

[Editor's Note: You also can't allow the best player in your franchise history, and one of the top 10-15 QBs in the NFL, to get away and play against you, in your division. But that's a topic for another day...]

14. Baltimore Ravens (Last Not Ranked)

Baltimore makes their way back into this week’s top 15 with a convincing win against the previously undefeated Broncos.

The Ravens’ defense held the Broncos to just seve points, and forced QB Kyle Orton out of his comfort zone, making him to throw the ball downfield.

The Ravens are fighting an uphill battle though, with the Steelers and Bengals playing great football.

15. Chicago Bears (Last Not Ranked)

The Bears make it back in to the top 15 this week with a convincing win over Cleveland.

Yes, It’s Cleveland, but still, with Arizona’s loss to the Panthers, I couldn’t fathom leaving them in the Rankings when they were barely there before.

The question on a weekly basis in Chicago is, which Jay Cutler will show up this week?

[Editor's note: You must not have watched the Bears-Browns game. It was the least impressive 30-6 win I've ever seen. Chicago did not look good at all; Cleveland is just that bad. You are right that the Bears need Cutler to step it up, but he looks really out of sync right now.]

This Week’s Biggest Winner

Philadelphia Eagles +5, Dallas Cowboys +5, Houston Texans +5

This Week’s Biggest Loser

Arizona Cardinals (Out of the Top 15), New York Giants -4

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* – Drew Brees / Alfonso Ribiero photo credit: CakeRocksTheParty.Wordpress.com

Cleveland Browns @ Chicago Bears

NFL betting favorite: Bears -13.5

In the competitive NFC West the Bears simply can’t afford to fall behind any further, especially with their rival Vikings and Packers playing each other this week. Many bettors expected the Bears to win in Cincinnati this week; instead, they were absolutely humiliated by the Bengals, who lit them up for 45 points.

Luckily for the Monsters of the Midway, the Browns are the perfect remedy. Cleveland ranks dead last in the NFL in total defense, allowing 414.9 yards per game. The Browns’ passing attack is also totally anemic thanks to Derek Anderson, whom Eric Mangini keeps trotting out there. If the Bears can’t dominate this game, it’s time to really worry.

Bears-Browns Pick: Bears -13.5

New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles

NFL betting favorite: Eagles -2

The Giants arguably looked like the NFL’s best team through five weeks; suddenly, they’re on a losing streak. There’s no question the Giants have a strong passing game, great running game and good pass rush, but they’ve hit some surprisingly tough defenses against New Orleans and Arizona. Versus the swarming, big-play-oriented Eagles “D,” the problems may continue for Eli Manning. He’s been just OK in 10 career starts against the Eagles, tossing 12 touchdowns versus 10 interceptions.

Donovan McNabb, on the other hand, has 16 career games – one full season – against the Giants in his career and has a 20:5 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Against a depleted Giants secondary, he and the Eagles have the edge.

Eagles-Giants Pick: Eagles -2

Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers

NFL betting favorite: Packers -3

Well, well, well. Looks like the Vikings aren’t totally invincible after all. The savvy online betting player realized that last week’s tilt with Pittsburgh was Minnesota’s first outdoor game since Week 1. The Vikes opened against the Browns and enjoyed cushy dome matchups against the Lions and Rams along the way too. Can Brett Favre legitimize the Vikings again by going into Green Bay and winning a tough road game?

I think not. The Packer pass defense is decent and capable of making big plays; look for them to rebound from a poor performance earlier this season versus Favre. Also, the Viking secondary is missing Antoine Winfield and Aaron Rodgers already torched them for 384 yards in this season’s other meaning. Don’t underestimate the Pack just like you shouldn’t underestimate Philadelphia’s World Series odds.

Packers-Vikings Pick: Packers -3

With a another very interesting week of NFL Football in the books, the Power Rankings have decided to be like Elvis for Halloween this week….they’re “All Shook Up”.

O.K., that was terrible, but on a more serious note, it was a very interesting week with a lot of changes in the rankings. Take a look and comment; tell me what YOU think!

[Editor's note: I'll tell you what I think right now. How in the hell can you drop the Saints below the Colts after NO showed the heart of a champion on the road this past Sunday? Oh wait, that's right...I forgot that you live in Indianapolis. Never mind. Makes perfect sense. "All shook up" indeed...]

1. Indianapolis Colts (Last 2 [+1])

O.K., so we all expected the Colts to wax the Rams. No big surprise at all.

But, this Colts defense has seemed to continue to pick up speed, and the young guys that this team has, especially in the secondary, are beginning to make veteran plays, like Lacey’s interception return for a touchdown, which is something that Colts fans haven’t seen very often recently

The only negative to this game was that Peyton Manning’s streak of 300+ yard games was stopped at five. He only had 248 yards of passing and 3 TDs. Only.

2. New Orleans Saints (Last 1 [-1])

At the half of their bout with Miami, I’m pretty sure everyone in the Bayou must have been drowning their sorrows in a nice dark beer.

After being down 24-3, the Saints took control of the game and ended up with a commanding 46-34 victory over the Dolphins.

Drew Brees said after the game that he never once lost confidence that the Saints would be victorious. Now those are some very strong words.

The Saints still drop a spot in my Power Rankings due to the fact that they did struggle in the first half against Miami, but don’t be surprised if they find their way back to the top. Next week is a big game against division rival Atlanta.

3. Denver Broncos (Last 3 [No Change])

With Denver on bye, and one of the four remaining undefeated teams falling from perfection (see Minnesota Vikings), I feel it’s only fair that Denver maintains their position in the Power Rankings this week.

Next up: the spiraling Baltimore Ravens

4. New England Patriots (Last 5 [+1])

So the Pats have beaten up on bad teams. That doesn’t necessarily mean they are a top 5 team right?

Wrong.

This team is picking up steam and now at 5-2 they are solely atop the AFC East.

Anyone else anticipating a knock down drag out fight in Indianapolis on November 15^th? Mark it on your calendar.

5. Minnesota Vikings (Last 4 [-1])

So the Vikes are the first of the final four undefeated teams to fall from grace, but there is nothing for them to hang their head about. My only question for Brad Childress is why on 1^st and goal on the half yard line would you only give the league’s best runner one shot?

Don’t blame Brett Favre for this loss. The fumble was blind, and his interception was more Chester Taylor’s fault than Favre’s. This is still a very dangerous team, but next week’s game in Green Bay – Favre’s first game in GB since his exit - just got a lot more interesting.

6. Cincinnati Bengals (Last 14 [+8])

This team keeps surprising me and impressing me the further we get along in the season. They’ve already beaten the Steelers and now have on their resume a complete dismantling of Jay Cutler and the Bears, 45-10.

Cedric Benson is playing like the Bears thought he would when they picked him 4^th over all. The only problem? He’s a Bengal now.

We talk about the weapons in Indy and New Orleans, but what about the Bengals? Carson Palmer. Chad Ochocinco. Laverneus Coles. Chris Henry. Cedrick Benson.

Take your pick on who to stop. They’ll just burn you elsewhere.

A bye this week for the Bengals, then a big divisional game against the Ravens in week 9.

7. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last 9 [+2])

I haven’t figured out how much I buy into the Steelers this year, but every time I start to close the book on them, they come out and just do something really special.

Two defensive touchdowns in the closing minutes of the 4^th quarter against Brett Favre and the undefeated Vikings sealed this game for the Steel City. Big Ben continues to be a very solid QB, and now the Steelers find themselves with their star back on D, and in a virtual tie with Cincy for the AFC North.

Get some rest boys, you’re heading to Denver after your bye.

8. New York Giants (Last 7 [-1])

This team is really starting to become a big disappointment.

A couple weeks ago, Jerod and I had a conversation about who the Giants had played, and aside from the Cowboys (and who the hell knows if they are for real or not), the G-Men had played no one. Now they have suffered consecutive losses against the Saints and Cardinals.

Eli looks a little lost out there and coach Tom Coughlin had better fix this team. Fast.

9. Green Bay Packers (Last 8 [-1])

What a big weekend for Aaron Rodgers and the Pack.

A huge 31-3 win over the mundane Browns (sorry Jerod) [Editor's note: go to hell Myles, the tailgating was awesome!], coupled with a Minnesota loss to the Steelers and the Pack are just one game back of the division leading Vikings.

Oh yeah. The evil Brett Favre and his aforementioned Vikes come to town this week, and the Pack have the chance to get revenge for their loss earlier in the season. It would also moveGreen Bay into a tie for the NFC North with Minnesota.

This is a much watch game. There will be blood.

10. Arizona Cardinals (Last 15 [+5])

After their loss to the Colts, I, as well as just about every NFL expert out there, had written the Cards off.

Then they spanked Seattle and beat the Giants.

Now Arizona sits at the top of the NFC West, and as long as they continue to play well they will most likely win their division with San Fran starting to fall apart.

11. Atlanta Falcons (Last 6 [-5])

I’m not sure what’s going on in the ATL right now, but I would love to know who the real Falcons are.

Two weeks ago they blew out the 49ers in San Fran, then they struggled to close the book on the Bears.

Now, after a 37-21 loss to America’s Team (The Cowboys) the Falcons find themselves at 4-2, two games behind the undefeated Saints.

12. New York Jets (Last 11 [-1])

Want to hear irony?

After a couple of really bad weeks for Mark Sanchez and the Jets, seemingly the biggest story of the Jet 38-0 trouncing of the Joke-land Raiders (you like that?) is Mark Sanchez sneaking a hot dog between his legs.

At least he likes mustard on his hot dog.

Other than that, the Jets disposed of a team they were supposed to beat. I’m still concerned about Sanchez’s “rookie-dom.” [Editor's note: Or, to continue to lame jokes, shouldn't it be "rookie-dumb?"]

13. Philadelphia Eagles (Last Not Ranked)

The Eagles continue to bounce in and out of my weekly top 15.

There is a superstar in the making in Philly.

DeSean Jackson does it all. Reverses for 60 yard touchdowns, catches for 60 yard touchdowns, kick returns.

Here’s an interesting stat: of Jackson’s four touchdowns this season, none have been for any less than 57 yards.

14. Dallas Cowboys (Last Not Ranked)

Contender or Pretender? I’m still trying to figure this one out.

Tony Romo is about as consistent as a one legged man in an ass kicking contest. However, Miles Austin has given this offense new life. His big play ability give a new dimension to the otherwise dull Cowboy offense.

Maybe all Romo needed was a big play receiver NOT named Terrell Owens.

15. Houston Texans (Last Not Ranked)

I’m sure I’m going to catch hell again for putting the Texans back in my top 15, but it’s my top 15 and I’ll do what I want. Mess with me and I’ll put the Raiders up here.

[Editor's note: do that and you can find another website to post your Power Rankings on. If a shitty, undeserving team is going to inexplicably crack the top 15 it's going to be the Browns...or I'm taking your log-in password and going home.]

In all seriousness, the Texans are 4-3 and although they are somewhat inconsistent in their play, they keep winning ball games.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Matt Shaub may perhaps be the most underrated QB in the NFL right now. Remember the last QB that I considered to be underrated? His name was Drew Brees.

Any Questions?

This Week’s Biggest Winner

Cincinnati Bengals +8

This Week’s Biggest Loser

Jim Zorn and the entire Redskin Management Team. Need I say more?

Baltimore Ravens – This team has been falling apart at the seams, hopefully the bye week will treat them well.

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* – Peyton Manning photo credit: The Squeaky Pickle

Two of the hottest names in fantasy football this week are teammates Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs of the New York Giants.

The reasons for the buzz around these two, however, are starkly different.

Jacobs has made news this week because of what appears to be growing frustration with his own subpar performances of late, and perhaps even jealousy at the success of his backfield mate. Bradshaw is generating buzz because he has rushed for 278 yards on only 37 carries over the past three weeks.

With the Giants facing their most stern defensive test of the season this Sunday — against the undefeated New Orleans Saints — which Giants running back will make the better Week 6 start: Brandon Jacobs or Ahmad Bradshaw?

First, let’s take a quick look at what some “experts” think. Below are the position ranks for Jacobs and Bradshaw from various fantasy dudes at Yahoo and ESPN:

• Andy Behrens: Brandon Jacobs 17th | Ahmad Bradshaw 21st
• Matthew Berry: Brandon Jacobs 22nd | Ahmad Bradshaw 28th
• Christopher Harris: Brandon Jacobs 13th | Ahmad Bradshaw 24th
• Eric Karabell: Brandon Jacobs 8th | Ahmad Bradshaw 21st
• Eric Kuselias: Brandon Jacobs 21st | Ahmad Bradshaw 23rd

As you can see, the consensus of this particular cross-section of people who get paid to research and write about fantasy football is that Brandon Jacobs is the better start this week than Ahmad Bradshaw.

Fair enough, but how to do we rectify the numbers below? We know that Bradshaw has been dominating Jacobs lately…right?

• Brandon Jacobs last three games: 68 carries, 251 yards, 1 TD, 2 rec, 4 yards
• Ahmad Bradshaw last three games: 37 carries, 278 yards, 2 TDs, 1 rec, 55 yards

Okay, so Bradshaw has clearly been better. However, a lot of the talk this week has made Bradshaw sound like the second coming of Brian Westbrook with Brandon Jacobs sounding like a Cedric-Benson-in-Chicago type.

Although Bradshaw has more yards and one more TD, there is a very important stat in Jacobs’ favor; and, it is one that should stay in his favor as the season moves forward: touches. Jacobs has 68, Bradshaw has 37.

My rule of thumb folks is that whenever I’m in doubt, or a question appears even, I let projected touches break the tie. Hence…

My advice: start Jacobs.

This is a question that a lot of owners face this week, because many were smart enough to handcuff Bradshaw to Jacobs, probably never thinking that a time would come where they might consider the part-timer over their supposed 1st round TD machine. But with Jacobs’ struggles to reach the end zone this year (only one TD in five games) and Bradshaw’s efficient yardage gobbling, the question is certainly a valid one.

But here are a few things to keep in mind as you make your decision:

1. From 2007 through the first five games in 2009, Ahmad Bradshaw has scored 4 TDs, two of which came last week against awful Oakland. During that same time span, Brandon Jacobs has scored 20.
2. For all the talk about Bradshaw being better for a PPR league, or more likely to catch passes, the numbers don’t back it up. Ahmad has 13 receptions from 2007 until now, with an average yard per catch of only 4.0. Jacobs has caught 44 passes and averaged 6.3 yards per catch. Don’t be fooled by that one 55-yard reception by Bradshaw last week. The numbers say it was an anomaly.
3. Considering that the majority of Bradshaw’s value is tied up in his ability to generate respectable yardage totals on minimal carries, you’d want to start him against a defense that gives up a lot of rushing yards (i.e. Tampa Bay, Kansas City, Oakland…the Giants’ last three opponents). The Giants’ Week 6 opponent, the Saints, is 7th in the league giving up only 83 yards rushing per game. The safer bet against a D like this is to go with the guy more likely to get the goalline carries. Hello Jacobs.

Is Ahmad Bradshaw a good start this week? You could certainly do worse for your flex position. Is he a good start over Brandon Jacobs? I don’t believe so, and hopefully the evidence presented herein shows you why I think the way I do.

Part-time players can put up great numbers against the lower-tier teams on the schedule. That’s what Bradshaw has done so far this year. I still like him a lot as a flex guy and injury fill-in moving forward (and remember, I touted him as my RB sleeper before the season, so I expected this jump of production) but I don’t like him in a head-to-head matchup with Brandon Jacobs.

Jacobs owners, have patience and faith. You drafted him for 10+ TDs and 1,050 or so yards. He can still get there, but won’t do it sitting on your bench.Until Bradshaw becomes the guy more likely to get rushing TDs in New York, I can’t see how you justify starting him over Jacobs.

Right now, Jacobs gets more touches and more TD chances. That’s why everyone — including me — is telling you to start Jacobs, and why we are right.

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* – Ahmad Bradshaw photo credit: New York Daily News

* – Brandon Jacobs holding football photo credit: John O’Boyle / The Star-Ledger via NJ.com

* – Brandon Jacobs close-up yelling photo credit: Charles Wenzelberg via NY Post

Another interesting week of NFL football and it’s time to see how the top 15 teams in the NFL stack up.

It should come as no surprise that last week’s top two stayed in the same spots this weekend.

(Hint: both teams have Archie Manning’s sons calling the signals!)

After the jump, check out my current top 15 and then chime in with your comments/disagreements in the comment section.

T-1. New York Giants (Last 1 [No Change])

Yet another blow-out win for the Giants, this time against a California Highschool team, the Oakland Raiders. Eli Manning is looking like he may challenge his older brother for MVP, and Ahmad Bradshaw had a coming out party with nearly 100 yards and 2 TDs. This WR corps looks pretty fast, and they all make great catches. Big matchup heading to New Orleans next week.

T-1. Indianapolis Colts (Last 1 [No Change])

Normally I would focus on how awesome Peyton Manning has been playing, and after his fifth straight 300+ yard game, Manning looks like he may just get that record-setting 4^th MVP.

But I want to talk about the defense. For a defense that supposedly can’t stop the run and was missing four starters at that, they held Chris Johnson, the league’s current leader in rushing yards, to only 34 yards, while holding the entire Tennessee offense to only 9 points.

Austin Collie had a huge outing as yet another target for Manning, and one must ask themselves as the Colts move into the bye, what will happen when Gonzalez returns to the lineup?

3. New Orleans Saints (Last 3 [No Change])

Not much to report after a bye week, but there is a HUGE match-up and possible NFC championship game preview coming to town as Eli Manning comes into New Orleans. Drew Brees is the third cog in what seems to be a three-way race for MVP, and there is no doubt that the winner of this week’s game will find themselves in sole possession of first place in my power rankings with the Colts on bye.

4. Minnesota Vikings (Last 4 [No Change])

Somewhere John Madden is still endlessly repeating the words “Brett Favre”.

In his first game after turning 40, Favre once again proved he has still got it as he improved his team to 5-0.

The defense is forcing turnovers, the offense is scoring, and this team is clicking on all cylinders.

5. Denver Broncos (Last 5 [No Change])

Last week I got a lot of hell for putting Denver at #5. Well maybe now you guys will listen to me. After Denver’s fourth quarter drive to tie the game, Denver kicked a field goal in overtime to beat New England and propel themselves to 5-0.

Brandon Marshall has really started to open up his game and show the NFL what he is truly capable of producing. Denver is the real deal, get over it.

By the way, Denver, please…..PLEASE….don’t EVER wear those jerseys again.

6. Atlanta Falcons (Last 9 [+3])

Atlanta came off of their bye week and completely THROTTLED NFC hopeful San Fransico with a 45-10 victory.

Matt Ryan continues to impress, and for the first time this season, Michael Turner has finally started to produce for this team. Atlanta may just give the Saints a run for their money in the NFC South.

7. Cincinnati Bengals (Last 10 [+3])

Who would have believed that five weeks into the season, the Bengals would have a one game lead on both Baltimore and Pittsburgh in the AFC North? Or that Cincy would drive late in the 4th quarter and score a touchdown to shock the Baltimore Ravens with a 17-15 victory?

Carson Palmer is healthy, and that is scary.

8. Philadelphia Eagles (Last Not Ranked)

Donovan McNabb is back. Boy is he ever back.

McNabb was 16/21 for 264 yards and three touchdowns on Sunday in a 33-14 dismantling of Tampa Bay.

If any one was questioning whether or not there would be a QB controversy in Philly, McNabb definitely answered your question this weekend with a resounding “NO!”

9. New York Jets (Last 11 [-2])

Although the loss to Miami was disappointing, it was a great game, and more specifically, a great 4^th quarter.

The good news for New York is that Sanchez had a great game after his debacle against the Saints.

Even more good news?

Braylon Edwards was amazing. He had at least two amazing catches to go along with his 5 catches for 64 yards and one touchdown.

I say this again Jets fans. Keep hope alive you are still tied for the lead in the AFC East.

10. New England Patriots (Last 6 [-4])

New England was shocked this past weekend by the Denver Broncos in a 17-14 overtime loss, after a Matt Prater kick.

Randy Moss has become a non-issue as Moss’ biggest reception of the day was an interception in the closing minutes of the first half. If NE wants to get back to where they were, they must once again establish the run with Morris and Maroney, but most of all they must establish the deep threat once again of Randy Moss.

11. Baltimore Ravens (Last 7 [-4])

Two big losses in a row drop the Ravens from first in my Power Rankings to not even in the top ten.

After a loss to the “Bungles” (The Cincinnati Bengals), the Ravens now drop to 3-2 in a two-way tie for second place in the AFC North.

Not sure what is going on with these guys, but they need to figure it out before they find themselves watching the playoffs from home.

The Ravens must re-establish their run game and get this defense back up to the level they are used to play on.

12. San Francisco 49ers (Last 8 [-4])

Finally, a gut check for the NFC’s Cinderella team. San Francisco was dominated at home by Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons.

ATL routed the upstart 49ers 45-10 in San Fransisco.

Although this is a tough loss San Fran still has a great team. Gore will be returning soon, and let us not forget, they are in a weak division with Seattle, Arizona, and St. Louis.

13. Chicago Bears (Last 12 [-1])

The Bears are on bye this week, but Minnesota won again improving their mark to 5-0. The Bears must stay on their game if they want to remain in contention for the NFC Playoffs.

14. Green Bay Packers (Last 15 [+1])

Much the same as Chicago, the Packers spent the weekend at home watching the games on NFL Sunday Ticket. Minnesota is 5-0 now, Better step it up!

15. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last 14 [-1])

I think the Steelers are here again this week, mainly by default. How do you almost throw away a game vs. Detroit???

There are some definite holes in Pittsburgh’s game, and I can only assume they are looking forward with baited breath for the return of their leader, Troy Polamalu.

This Week’s Biggest Winner

Philadelphia Eagles

This Week’s Biggest Loser

New England Patriots/Baltimore Ravens/San Fransisco 49ers

This week, we have our first ever tie in the Power Rankings. I had a real tough decision choosing who would be first and who would be second so there is a tie for first place.

T-1. New York Giants (Last 6 [+5])

Ok, so Archie Manning must be sitting at home smiling at both of his boys who will tie for 1^st in Big MB’s Power Rankings for Week 5.

Obviously, the Giants don’t miss Plaxico Burress one bit. The G-men’s destruction of Kansas City only showcased Manning and his receivers. Smith and Manningham continue to impress and Brandon Jacobs is the beast of the NFC East. Next week is a HUGE NFC power game as the Saints come to town.

[Editor's Note: it's Big MB writing this column...any guess who the other 4-0 team is that he has tied for first? It shouldn't take more than one...]

T-1. Indianapolis Colts (Last 3 [+2])

Can Peyton get any better?

Manning has had 4 straight games of 300+ yards for the first time in his career. Joseph Addai and Donald Brown are starting to look like an unstoppable backfield tandem, both rushing for a touchdown a piece in Indy’s dismantling of Seattle. And worst of all for other teams in the NFL, this defense under Larry Coyer is looking like somewhat of an immovable object.

Until the slop minutes of the matchup with Seattle when Indy had their 3^rd string in, the Colts held Seattle to only 3 points, after holding an explosive Arizona offense to only 10. Next Week presents an interesting match up against 0-4 Tennessee.

3. New Orleans Saints (Last 2 [-1])

For the second straight week, Drew Brees didn’t throw one touchdown, but the Saints continue to roll as they took down the heavily favored Jets of New York. The defense had two touchdowns, and Pierre Thomas put one in on the ground. This team seams to be able to win games just about any way they want. Next week is a huge match up as they travel to New York to battle it out with the also undefeated Giants.

4. Minnesota Vikings (Last 5 [+1])

Brett Favre came out in a fury and never looked back in this game. The Vikings defense looked as good as ever putting Aaron Rodgers on his back very often, and more importantly have established that teams can no longer put 8 or 9 in the box against Peterson. Favre is really clicking with this team now, which is very scary for all of those in the NFC North.

5. Denver Broncos (Last 10 [+5])

O.K., I can admit when I am wrong. I was dead wrong. This Denver team may be more of a contender than I had previously thought. Although they looked stale early at home against Dallas, a late touchdown catch by Brandon Marshall, highlighted by a great run after the catch and horrible tackling by Dallas, then a redzone stand by the defense and Denver is now 4-0. Interesting.

6. New England Patriots (Last 12 [+6])

Don’t look now, but here come the Patriots. Another scary moment for Pat fans when Brady went to the locker room, but he came back to lead his team to a victory against a very tough Baltimore team. As much as I hate giving the Pats credit, they are playing better, and now have beaten two very tough teams, and are in a two-way tie in the AFC East with the Jets.

7. Baltimore Ravens (Last 1 [-6])

After a disappointing loss to New England, Baltimore takes a significant drop in my Power Rankings, but not necessarily because of their play, but more because of the play of the teams that moved ahead of them. Baltimore is still one of the best teams in the league, but now find themselves in a two-way tie for the lead in the AFC North with surprise Cinderella Cincinnati.

8. San Fransico 49ers (Last 13 [+5])

Along with Cincy, the 49ers seem to be putting together a Cinderella season after their 35-0 dismantling of St. Louis, who seems to be just awful. No Frank Gore? No problem. Shaun Hill seems to be making a name for himself as a legitimate QB in this league. Now, if only they could get this whole Crabtree thing under wraps, this team could possible be very dangerous.

9. Atlanta Falcons (Last 7 [-2])

Not much to report here, Atlanta was on a bye week after a tough loss to New England, so they take a little hit on their rankings, just due to inactivity, but at least they didn’t completely fall off like the Eagles.

10. Cincinnati Bengals (Last 11 [+1])

The Bengals still remain somewhat of an NFL Cinderella, now 3-1 and tied with the Ravens for first in the AFC North, perhaps football’s most brutal division. They did struggle against a weak Browns team, but a win is a win. Chad Ochocinco and Carson Palmer seem to have put aside their differences, Ochocinco had 2 TD’s in this game.

11. New York Jets (Last 4 [-7])

Remember last week when I told you that I was hesitant to put the Jets very high in my rankings, due to the fact that they were led by a rookie QB? Well, Sunday’s loss to the nothing-less-than-impressive Saints proved that Sanchez may not quite be ready to be the NFL MVP. Yes, he is an impressive rookie QB, but he will make mistakes, just as he did this week. Don’t sell your stock of this team just yet though, they are definitely still a contender.

12. Chicago Bears (Last 8 [-4])

It looked a little scary for the Bears early against the hungry Lions (cheesy I know), but the second half proved to be all Chicago as Jay Cutler and Company put it to Detroit and came away victorious to establish a 3-1 record. Matt Forte seems to be waking up as well, and this defense is playing quite well without its emotional and physical leader, Brian Unlacher.

13. Houston Texans (Last Not Ranked)

Those who know me know that I am very high on the Houston Texans this year. I predicted them to make the playoffs, and even possibly challenge the vaunted Colts for the AFC South Title. I’m not quite sure they will challenge the Colts with the way that Indy is playing, but Matt Schaub is a very, very good QB, and it doesn’t hurt to be throwing passes to a beast like Andre Johnson. Oh yeah, Steve Slaton decided to show up to the party too.

Keep your eyes on the Texans, it just may be their time to shine.

14. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last 15 [+1])

The Steelers got off to a great start against the Chargers, but somehow almost tried to give the game away in the 4^th quarter. They did hold on to win 38-28, but there may be concern in how they let the Chargers back in this one. The one positive the Steel City fans can take from this is Rashard Mendenhall. Pittsburgh finally found a run game with Mendenhall having over 160 yards and 2 TD’s.

15. Green Bay Packers (Last 9 [-6])

This week, the Pack made the top 15 because there really weren’t too many other choices I liked better. Minnesota exposed this poor offensive line again. If Green Bay wants to have a franchise quarterback, they had better work to protect him better. The Pack has a lot of work to do, and they will be climbing an uphill battle with Minnesota and Chicago looking so good in this division.

This Week’s Biggest Winner

New England Patriots (+6) – Just when you thought they were done….don’t look now here comes the Pats.

This Week’s Biggest Loser

New York Jets (-7) – I warned Jets fans to be aware of the Rookie. He is a good player, but he is a rookie. But don’t worry Jet fans, you still have a great team, and a good chance at the playoffs.

**********

You can follow Big MB on twitter @ www/twitter.com/mylesb3269

Be sure to check in every Tuesday for Big MB’s NFL Power Rankings, every Wednesday for “I’ll Tell You This” and every week to the MSF podcast!!!

[Editor's note: Today we introduce a new weekly feature here at MSF, courtesy of Big MB, our soon-to-be renowned NFL expert and already renowned teller of "this".

Every week around this time, Big MB will be checking in with his NFL Power Rankings. He goes 1-15 and gives you the low down on the NFL's best teams.

Bold prediction: the Cleveland Browns and Miami Dolphins will not be making it into Big MB's first list.

Find out after the jump.]

1. Baltimore Ravens

For years now, the Ravens have made their name on defense. Although it may not be the best defense in the NFL anymore, it is still one of the best, and one of the most physical.

By the way, Baltimore has an offense to go with that defense now, second in points scored, only to the Saints. Watch out for Joe Flacco, he may be a legend forming right front of our eyes.

2. New Orleans Saints

Even when Drew Brees doesn’t throw a touchdown, this team still puts up 27 and wins by 20. Who do you stop? Brees, Colston, Henderson, Thomas, Bush, Shockey? Good luck keeping this team out of the playoffs, and the record books.

3. Indianapolis Colts

Peyton Manning is like a fine wine. He gets better with age.

All of the skeptics said without Marvin Harrison and Anthony Gonzalez that the Colts offense would go stale. Well they were wrong. With the emergence of Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie, and of course Dallas Clark, this team seams to be hitting on all cylinders.

Oh by the way, the defense is getting pretty darn good after holding the prolific Cardinals to just 10 points.

4. New York Jets

This may be the surprise of the year, and the only reason they aren’t higher in my rankings is, ironically, the same reason they are as high as they are: Mark Sanchez. The rookie has displayed nothing but poise since he was named the starter for the Jets. The team seems to rally around him, and they all seem to love him.

But, he is just a rookie. This team is dangerous, but Sanchez will make mistakes as the year progresses. Big matchup coming up this week against the Saints.

5. Minnesota Vikings

From new to old…I would like to say to all of the nay-sayers, What do you have to say about Favre now?

His last two games have been very Favre-like, and he has thrown 5 touchdowns to one interception. The best RB in the league lines up behind him, and that can’t hurt the situation.

This week’s matchup has Favre playing his old team Green Bay, this time with #4 in evil purple. Expect this one to be a nasty game. Favre has something to prove to his former organization.

6. New York Giants

No Plaxico? No problem. Steve Smith and Mario Manningham have more than made up for hole left by Plaxico. (Maybe not so much the one in his leg, but oh well.)

Eli has gotten his confidence back, and Jacobs will continue to bruise every defender that steps in his way. The NFC East is their division to lose this year.

7. Atlanta Falcons

How good is Matt Ryan? He’s another youngster playing like a veteran. He did look a little confused against the Patriots this past week, but hell, this is his second year. Great coaching, great play calling, great players….Atlanta should walk away with the NFC South this year.

8. Chicago Bears

Jay Cutler seems to finally be settling down in Chicago, and that can’t be a good thing for anyone in the NFC North. This is a tough division though, with Minnesota and Green Bay both hanging their hats on forcing turnovers. Cutler will have to watch his “gunslinging” and focus and a short surgical passing game. Devin Hester is proving to be a good WR, and though he still needs work, he’s not just a kick returner anymore.

9. Green Bay Packers

It was really tough to decide between Green Bay and Chicago this week. The Pack’s defense has been nothing less than stout during the course of the 2009 season, and has come up with big turnovers when needed.

I’m not completely sold on Aaron Rodgers, and I flat out don’t like Ryan Grant, but Jennings and Driver make one hell of a combination down field. Guess what…Mr.  Favre is coming to town on Monday Night Football this week!

10. Denver Broncos

Of all seven 3-0 teams, I like the Broncos the least. At best they should be 2-1, if it were not for the miraculous deflection that WR Brandon Stokley took to the house in the closing seconds of week one. My confidence doesn’t grow in them that much considering their other two wins were over extremely weak teams. They are, as of right now, without a doubt pretenders.

11. Cincinnati Bengals

On the other side of things, are the Cincinnati Bengals, the victims of the “Immaculate Deflection” against the Broncos. The Bengals beat the World Champion Steelers, and very well could be 3-0, and sitting pretty in perhapsthe toughest division in football, except for the Browns. (Sorry JRod)

[Editor's Note: Got to hell Myles.  Only I can diss on the Browns on this site!]

12. New England Patriots

The Patriots should be 1-2 and not even on this Power Rankings list. But this past Sunday, we saw Tom Brady and New England start to play like the team the experts said they would be. I still think they are on the decline, and with the emergence of the Jets, perhaps may not even make the playoffs for a second straight season.

13. San Fransico 49ers

The 49ers are definitely my dark-horse NFC team this year. The bad news is that Frank Gore could be missing 4-6 weeks. The good news is that the 49ers play in the weak NFC west. If they could sign Michael Crabtree, there is a possibility that they could make a playoff run.

14. Philadelphia Eagles

McNabb’s ribs are still a major problem, but Kevin Kolb has played phenomenally. We now understand why Andy Reid drafted this kid, even though he already had one of the top 5 QB’s in the league. I don’t believe that the Eagles are in too much trouble, but they need a healthy Brian Westbrook.

15. Pittsburgh Steelers

Well, who would have though the Champs would start out 1-2?

After a tough loss to Cincy, I flirted with not even mentioning them in my top 15. But it was them or Dallas, and when you have to put a game away on MNF, at home, in your new stadium, in the closing minutes, against a bad Carolina team, you don’t deserve to make the top 15.

So congrats Pittsburgh, you made it here by default. You may want to step up your game though. Last time I checked, Baltimore is pretty good, and now you’ve lost a division game to Cincinnati.

**********

You can follow BigMB on twitter at www.twitter.com/mylesb3269

Be sure to check out the weekly MSF podcast with JRod and BigMB on the MNF preview, and available for download on iTunes!!!!

New York GMEN(+3)

Looking at the match ups in this game, they favor the Giants greatly. Dallas’s offensive line is suspect and the GMEN have the best defensive line in the NFL. Tony Romo, when shaken, gets stirred like a James Bond drink, and I expect him to be hit all night. Tony Romo has a history of making some very poor decisions against the Giants and I don’t expect that to change this week. I like the Giants to win, but getting 3 points is always great.

Miami Dolphins vs. Indianapolis Colts(-3)

Miami took the league by storm last year with their Wildcat offense. That was then this is now. NFL defensive coordinators have had one year to see the Wildcat offense on tapes, and Miami wont be catching anyone by surprise this year. With that said Miami still does not have a quarterback that can throw the ball more than 25 yards down field which makes it easy for defenses to scheme against them. The Colts do struggle on the road and on grass, but it’s only 3 points, and I think they win by two scores.

San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks(+1)

I think Seattle is a completely different team with Matt Hasselbeck at quarterback at the helm. Not to mention he finally has a great receiver to throw the ball to in T.J Houshmandzadeh. For the 49ers I just don’t believe in Shaun Hill and besides Frank Gore, not enough playmakers, take the point and fly with the Hawks.

Atlanta Falcons vs. Carolina Panthers(+6.5)

Atlanta looked really good last week, Carolina looked really bad. The spread in the game started at -2 and has jumped almost 4.5 points. This is a big rivalry in the NFC South and if Carolina loses this game they might as well pack it in for the season, because their schedule is just brutal for the rest of the season. I don’t expect Jake Delhome to light it up, I expect the Panthers to run, run, and run some more, which you can do versus Atlanta. I think Atlanta wins, but they don’t cover.

Record this year:
College 3-5
NFL 2-2

[Editor's note: Matt Noonan of

Read his previews and predictions below, and get all of the information you need to schedule for your football watching Sunday with our NFL Week 1 TV Schedule and Point Spreads post.]

——————–

Follow the links to StubHub for great deals on all NFL tickets for the 2009 season.

And if you’re planning on making any bets, head on over to BetOnline to place your Week 1 wagers.

——————–

Washington Redskins at New York Giants Preview and Prediction

• Redskins-Giants Date: Sunday, September 13th
• Redskins-Giants TV & Kickoff Time: 4:15 ET on FOX
• Redskins-Giants Location: Giants Stadium in New York
• Redskins-Giants Announcers: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman
• Redskins-Giants Point Spread: NYG -6.5
• Redskins-Giants Over-Under: 37

Look for a true physical contest as both of these teams hope to start the season on the right foot.

For the New York Giants, a team that many experts believe should be the top dog in this particular division, they need to get out to an early lead and protect Eli Manning from the grueling Redskins defense. Brandon Jacobs should get a majority of the carries, probably between 20-25. But who will be Manning’s go-to target now that Plaxico Burress will not be sporting the blue and white on Sunday’s? Possibly Domenik Hixon or Steve Smith? Any suggestions?

On the other side of the ball, Jason Campbell carries not only this game, but also the entire season on his shoulders. Don’t expect anything too exciting from aging veteran running back Clinton Portis in this contest, but clearly make sure to watch for newly acquired defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, as well as linebackers Brian Orakpo and London Fletcher.

Washington has and will always be a team that looks like they belong in the Pro Bowl, but in order to win this contest they need to pressure Manning and establish an equal running and air attack.

Prediction: Giants 24 – Redskins 16

San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals Preview and Prediction

• 49ers-Cardinals Date: Sunday, September 13th
• 49ers-Cardinals TV & Kickoff Time: 4:15 ET on FOX
• 49ers-Cardinals Location: University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale
• 49ers-Cardinals Announcers: Sam Rosen and Tim Ryan
• 49ers-Cardinals Point Spread: ARI -6.5
• 49ers-Cardinals Over-Under: 46.5

Who would have imagined Arizona was going to be the representative of the NFC in Super Bowl XLIII? Yet, after a crushing loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Cardinals are energized and ready to defend their NFC crown. However, in the past, these meetings against the 49ers haven’t always been a cakewalk for the birds in the desert.

Take a look at the past few divisional meetings in Arizona between these teams:

2008: Arizona 29 – San Francisco 24

2007: Arizona 31 – San Francisco 37

2006: Arizona 34 – San Francisco 27

2005: Arizona 31 – San Francisco 14

2004: Arizona 28 – San Francisco 31

2003: Arizona 16 – San Francisco 13

2002: Arizona 14 – San Francisco 17

In the end I expect Kurt Warner to have a field day against Mike Singletary’s defense. Expect a great game for the Cardinals’ wide receivers Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, and Steve Breaston.

As for the 49ers, just expect a solid running attack with Frank Gore.

Overall, this game surely belongs to the Cardinals, but who really knows what will happen once the final whistle blows.

Prediction: Cardinals 31 – 49ers 26

St. Louis Rams at Seattle Seahawks Preview and Prediction

• Rams-Seahawks Date: Sunday, September 13th
• Rams-Seahawks TV & Kickoff Time: 4:15 ET on FOX
• Rams-Seahawks Location: Qwest Field in Seattle
• Rams-Seahawks Announcers: Ron Pitts and John Lynch
• Rams-Seahawks Point Spread: SEA -8
• Rams-Seahawks Over-Under: 41

The return of Jim Mora Jr. and Steve Spagnuolo’s debut has a head coach… hmm… may have to side with Mora in this contest.

The Seahawks are coming off an awful 2008 season, as are the Rams. The last time the Seahawks ended the season with 4 wins was in 1982, but this year look for a rejuvenated and healthy Matt Hasselbeck to lead an exciting offensive unit that features newly acquired running back Edgerrin James and wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh.

As for the Rams, this season and game are all about playing for pride, but also starting to improve their offense and defense for the future. Spagnuolo should turn this team around, slowly, but this game will just be a beginning in the journey of turning the Rams from a basement squad to the Greatest Team on Turf-Part II.

Prediction: Seahawks 24 – Rams 10

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Breaking News 10/7/09: The Browns have traded Braylon Edwards to the New York Jets for two players and two picks.

A few days ago I was informed of a rumor heard on the radio that there could be a potential trade brewing between the Browns and Giants that would send WR Braylon Edwards to the G-Men, ostensibly as a replacement for Plaxico Burress, with the Browns getting DE Mathias Kiwanuka in return.

Not knowing what to think, I did what I usually do in these situations: email Barry McBride at the Orange and Brown Report and see if there was anything to it.

He posted the Braylon Edwards-Mathias Kiwanuka trade rumor and had this to say upon initially hearing about it:

The deal makes sense for both teams on several levels. The Giants would be looking for a credible replacement for WR Plaxico Burress, and are keeping Kiwanuka as a defensive end in a three-man rotation after he switched from linebacker last year.

The 6’5”, 265 Kiwanuka is a classic tweener would like like an interesting option for the Browns manning an outside linebacker spot in the 3-4 defense. Kiwi successfully made the transition from a Boston College defensive end to a linebacker with the Giants, but was moved back as a defensive end following a season-ending injury to Osi Umenyiora.

Also of interest from Cleveland perspective is that Kiwanuka is under contract for two more years. Braylon Edwards can be a free agent after this season.

Kiwi as another OLB bookend with Crabtree perhaps available in the draft? Hmmm… count me in as interested.

The next day, after doing some digging, Barry posted about the Braylon Edwards-Mathias Kiwanuka trade rumor again, this time saying (half seriously and half tongue-in-cheek):

I love this Kiwi-Edwards rumor.

It’s just logical enough to be believable. Infuriatingly, it seems to make sense on some level for both clubs.

Sensing this, the Giants have done nothing but have done their best to torment us with their subsequent moves over the last few days. They went ahead and signed DT Rocky Bernard, and OLB Michael Boley, and DE Chris Canty, all four or five-star defenders according to our rankings.

Cool, cool. They got to have no more room at the inn for Kiwi now, right?

Right?

It all makes sense.

Only problem is that I reached out to a NY Giants beat writer, who told me that he got an email from one of the organization’s higher-ups saying that there’s absolutely nothing to it.

…

Pro Football Talk says that the Bucs were sworn to secrecy about K2 (other than that annoying chatter about a Winslow deal on the OBR prior to the trade), and maybe this front office guy is just lying to us.

In fact, IF they were talking about deal, they would DENY it, which means that by DENYING IT, they PROVE it’s absolutely true. The logic is flawless!

So, not a whole lot of hard parts to grab onto here. With Braylon Edwards heading into the final year of his contract, and a new regime at the helm in Berea, it is no secret that Eric Mangini and George Kokinis would like to sign Braylon to a contract extension — assuming Braylon is on board with the philosophies of the new regime and, you know, remembers where he misplaced his hands. However, Mangini and Kokins will also no doubt want to know either way whether Braylon Edwards can be counted on moving forward as they attempt to build a new foundation for success in Cleveland.

So if they can’t reach a contract extension…

Anyway, yesterday I obviously became enthralled with the basically unsubstantiated rumor that started making the rounds that the Browns and Broncos were discussing a trade of Jay Cutler and a 3rd round pick for Brady Quinn and Shaun Rogers. You know how the sports news cycle moves these days. It was only about 36 hours old, but the delicious conjecture of Braylon Edwards for Mathias Kiwanuka was already old news, and there wasn’t really anything else to go on.

Until this morning…kind of.

Over a ProFootballTalk, Mike Florio discusses the plethora of defensive lineman being assembled in New York and ends his post with an interesting, though non-specific, bit of his own conjecture:

As Thornton points out, the Giants now have nine defensive linemen under contract: tackles Fred Robbins, Barry Cofield, Barry Jay Alford, and Bernard, ends Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, Mathias Kiwanuka, and Dave Tollefson, and tackle-end Canty.

…

One possibility would be to move Kiwanuka back to linebacker. However, coach Tom Coughlin said at the Scouting Combine that Kiwanuka will be staying put.

Or maybe someone is getting traded. Maybe for a receiver. You know, a good one. A guy who commands double coverage, like the guy who blew a double hole in his leg with a single bullet last November.

I don’t know about you — and perhaps I’m reading too much into it — but I cannot think of too many other wide receivers rumored to be on the trading block that would fit the bill more perfectly as a replacement for Plaxico Burress than Braylon Edwards. And as anyone who has watched the Browns in recent years knows, one of the team’s biggest deficiencies has been its inability to consistently rush the passer. Slapping Mathias Kiwanuka on the other side of the talented and athletic, but highly inconsistent, Kamerion Wimbley would certainly upgrade the Browns’ pass rush.

Update — 3/3 10:55 am: I forgot that Florio addressed the Edwards rumors two days ago. The headline of the post says it all: No Truth to Braylon Trade Rumors — Yet. He went on to say:

We’ve received multiple inquiries over the past couple of days regarding the possibility that the Cleveland Browns are shopping receiver Braylon Edwards.

A source with knowledge of the situation predicts with a high degree of confidence that Edwards isn’t on the market, and won’t be traded this year.

That said, who would have imagined three days ago that tight end Kellen Winslow would be shipped to Tampa?

Read the rest of the first PFT post on the Braylon Edwards trade rumors from 3/1.

So, like the Cutler-to-the-Browns rumors, take this one about Braylon Edwards for Mathias Kiwanuka for what it is: informed speculation and conjecture. But I have to say that a trade of Braylon Edwards for Mathias Kiwanuka, assuming Kiwanuka is back to full health with no lingering issues from last season, is an intriguing option, especially with Michael Crabtree potentially sitting there at the #5 slot in the upcoming draft to fill the void of talented, diva-eque, productive-but-not-overly-fast #1 WR.

(Editor’s Note: I misspoke in the previous sentence and got Kiwanuka mixed up with Braylon’s 5 Hour Energy buddy Osi Umenyiora, who was injured last season. Kiwanuka was injured the year before, when the Giants won the Super Bowl. Last year, Mathias Kiwanuka had 8 sacks and 51 tackles.)

The fun part about these Browns trade rumors is that we know we will get almost nothing concrete or substantial to go on from inside Cleveland. The new regime will be as tight-lipped as they come, and I have no problem with that at all. In fact, in this day and age of the NFL, I think it’s probably the right way to go — as long as they understand the need to get in front of certain rumors if and when they do slip out. (And we saw from the Kellen Winslow trade to the Bucs, when deals do happen involving the Browns, they will likely come out of nowhere.) But with so little “hard” info to go on, something will have to fill the void as we patiently await next season.

And there is nothing more intriguing than seemingly legit trade rumors involving Braylon Edwards, Brady Quinn, and Shaun Rogers — three of the most significant current players on the roster.

Eric Mangini proved right away that he wanted to create a new era of Browns football, a new identity for the organization, and distance himself from the last decade of on-field and off-field struggles. Dealing three of the key players involved in last season’s collapse, after the surprise of 2007 — not that it was all their fault, especially in the case of Rogers, who was actually great — would certainly be one way to start with a clean slate.

UPDATE 3/23: There have been a few updates on the Braylon Edwards trade front since we posted this item.  Since it is still driving significant traffic, I figured I would update the post with the latest.  The OBR reported yesterday that the Browns and Giants have, in fact, discussed a Braylon Edwards trade.  However, Mathias Kiwanuka was apparently never in the mix.  The purported discusssion centered on Braylon Edwards to the Giants for a couple of draft picks plus another WR.  The Browns wanted Steve Smith while the Giants were only willing to part with Domenik Hixon or Mario Manningham.  Nothing has obviously gone further, but this apparently is not going away:

OBR: Latest on Braylon Edwards-to-Giants Trade Rumors

So what do you think?

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

With all of the rumors floating around right now, what do you think will actually happen? What do you want to happen? The comments are open…let the speculation fly.

Braylon Edwards photo courtesy of AP Photo/Tony Dejak

Mathias Kiwanuka photo courtesy of Evan Pinkus/WireImage.com

Being the home team and the favorite in this year’s NFL Playoffs has not provided the advantage one might expect. The Titans turned the ball over twice inside the redzone in their loss against the Ravens while the Panthers and Jake Delhomme turned the ball over pretty much every time they had it.

In today’s early game, the Philadelphia Eagles travel to New York to play the GIants. The NFC East rivals split their two meeting earlier this year, and most people have been pointing to this game as the marquee matchup of the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs.

Below is a quick breakdown of this weekend’s Eagles-Giants NFC Divisional Round playoff game:

Philadelphia Eagles (10-6-1) at New York Giants (12-4)

• Sunday, January 11, 2009
• TV Schedule: 1:00 ET on FOX
• Announcer Pairing: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, and Pam Oliver
• Point Spread: New York Giants -4 1/2
• Over-Under Odds: 40

Let’s run down some of the quick keys to the game real game, taken straight off the top of my head:

First, it is imperative that the Giants be able to establish a consistent passing game. Eli Manning and the passing attack of the Giants has been wildly inconsistent since Plaxico Burress was suspended following the infamous incident in which he shot himself in the leg. If you haven’t seen the hidden camera footage of the incident, or the untold story of how Plaxico was actually trying to shoot Tiki Barber, reported by Flash Sports Tonight, it’s rather interesting:

(BTW, if you can’t see the video, just head over to the FST website and watch it there.)

Anyway, guys like Domenik Hixon and Amani Toomer are going to have step up and give Eli Manning consistent targets on 3rd down — and catch the ball. Hixon has had trouble shaking the dropsies, and will need to correct that for the Giants to be able to threaten the Eagles defense in multiple ways. We know the Giants will be able to run the ball, and they have Brandon Jacobs back healthy and ready to play, but they will need balance against the Eagles D and Jim Johnson, who are playing at an extremely high level right now.

On the flip side, Philadelphia’s offense needs to be balanced as well. It goes without saying that Brian Westbrook needs to stay healthy and play the entire game for Philly to have a chance. He is the motor that makes the Eagles go and provides a dynamic threat to any defense. But he can’t beat a team like the Giants all by himself. The Eagles will throw the ball, and they will throw it a lot, and they need to threaten the Giants downfield to open up the inside running and short passes to Westbrook out of the backfield. For this to happen, Donovan McNabb needs to be accurate and they need a big game from DeSean Jackson.

A couple quick links to give you more info and better analysis that I’m capable of providing:

Giants-Eagles Preview — (Pat Kirwan, NFL.com)

Giants D-Line must pressure McNabb — (Thomas George, NFL.com)

And now, before I give you my prediction, chime in with yours:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Now, it’s time to offer up a prediction that you can take to the bank to be absolutely and terribly wrong.

The Giants have been an outstanding team all year long, and obviously have the better pedigree having won the Super Bowl last year. Philadelphia always seems to be that team that is just dangerous enough to win some games in the playoffs, but never can quite get over the hump. I like how Philly’s D is playing, and the fact that Brian Westbrook appears healthy and is providing that dynamic running/receiving threat gives them a fighting chance.

But I’m going with the defending champs. Having Brandon Jacobs back means that the great trio of Jacobs-Ward-Bradshaw and can pound away at the Eagles D and take some pressure off of Eli Manning and his undermanned received corps. I think the threat of the run, combined with play-action, will allow Eli to spread the ball around effectively to Hixon, Toomer, Steve Smith, and Kevin Boss.

I agree with Pat Kirwan of NFL.com and pretty much everyone else who thinks that this game will go down the final drive and be an outstanding, exciting viewing experience. In the end, I like the Giants to make the one or two plays that will decide the game, and to ride their running back trio into the NFC Championship game next week.

New York Giants 24 | Philadelphia Eagles 20

Maybe next year Cowboys fans. But this weekend, you’ll have to watch the two best, most consistent, and most well-run franchises in the NFC East duke it out. And it should be one hell of a game to watch.

Well, in the sports world, it’s usually used as just a figurative expression to express dismay at a person or team who is making self-defeating mistake after mistake. It’s not usually used literally.

Until now.

New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress has accidentally shot himself in the leg, according to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports. Here is an excerpt from the Glazer story:

The New York Giants wide receiver accidentally shot himself in the leg on Friday night, FOXSports.com has learned, not long after being ruled out of Sunday’s game against the Redskins with a hamstring injury

He spent the night in the hospital and the injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. The team is still trying to gather further information on the incident.

Needless to say, Plaxico Burress will miss this weekend’s game against the Washington Redskins. As stated by Glazer, Burress was already expected to miss the game so hopefully you made the proper adjustments to your fantasy football rosters.

My first inclination is to wonder why in the hell Plaxico Burress was walking around with a loaded gun. I have never understood the multitude of stories revolving around athletes, and football players in particular, getting in trouble with guns.

A post written last week about the beating of Donald Driver’s father by our very own Mark Laughlin made me rethink that a bit.

As a relatively spoiled kid who grew up in the suburbs of the Midwest and never once felt anything even resembling legitimate fear for my life or being, I have no frame of reference through which I can sympathize with someone who feels like they need to carry a gun. Mark’s article, as well as the ESPN stories he links to, is a real eye-opener regarding the reality that guys like Plaxico Burress live in — or at least think that they live in.

After college, I taught at an alternative school in Miami for about a half a year. That was another eye opener. These were all kids that were 16 years old or younger, and yet had been kicked out school for repeated offenses of grand theft auto, cocaine possession and use, and who repeatedly talked about guns and violence. Logically, I expected it going in — but it was still a shock once I got there.

What I learned is that a kid who grows up in a “normal” neighborhood in Bloomington, Indiana and a kid who grows up in Liberty City have drastically different views of reality and of what is “normal.”

I guess my point is that while Plaxico Burress has quite a checkered past, and can be judged harshly for a lot of his past words and actions, perhaps we should try to empathize in this case before casting negative aspersions on Burress for carrying a gun. I know the demographics of the people who read Midwest Sports Fans, and my general guess is that very few of you feel the need to carry a gun. I think we all wish that guys like Plaxico Burress did not feel the need to do so themselves, but I also can’t step into his shoes to know what it is like to feel like a target when you step out of your house — or in the tragic case of Sean Taylor, when you are in your house.

So no jokes and no disparaging comments from me on this one. Hopefully Plaxico Burress gets well soon, and hopefully there will come a day when athletes and celebrities like Plaxico Burress no longer feel the need to walk around with loaded guns.

(This was post originally published before last week’s game.  Currently, as of 10/29, Plaxico Burress is on schedule to start against the Dallas Cowboys this weekend.  For fantasy analysis, check out Kaner’s Week 9 Fantasy Football Wide Receiver Advice post.)

Jay Glazer has reported on the Fox NFL Pregame Show that New York Giants WR Plaxico Burress will not start today when the Giants take on the Pittsburgh Steelers. Plaxico Burress reportedly missed several days of for his neck injury this week and the team appears poised to suspend Burress again if he “has another blowup.” He is still eligible to play in the Steelers game, as he apparently will not be deactivited; but if the Giants play well without him, Burress will not be inserted into the game.

In other injury news in the Giants-Steelers game, Steelers RB Willie Parker will be deactivated and not able to play.

This is obviously one of the games of the day in the NFL, as both teams enter play at 5-1 and leaders of their respective divisions. The game is in Pittsburgh, and will be televised on FOX this afternoon, beginning at 4:15. It is hard to pick against the Steelers at home in this one, but that is exactly what my pick is. The New York Giants have shown an uncanny ability in recent years to rise up and play well when they are having locker room distractions. Clearly, the Plaxico Burress mess from this week (he was also fined by the NFL for his actions in last week’s game, which included a verbal spat with coach Tom Coughlin) has been a major distraction.

However, even with one of their best players on the sidelines, I look for the Giants to come through with a hard-fought victory. The Pittsburgh Steelers have had a hard time protecting Ben Roethlisberger this year, and Big Ben is without one of his favorite targets in Santonio Holmes, who was suspended earlier this week for being caught with pot in his car. Additionally, the continued absence of Willie Parker obviously does not help the Steelers’ run game.

Look for a solid outing from Giants QB Eli Manning, in which he focuses on protecting the ball and moving the chains methodically, as well as ball-control effort from the three headed running back monster of Brandon Jacobs-Derrick Ward-Ahmad Bradshaw. The Steelers will have their hands full with Justin Tuck and the Giants’ front 7 and I think that Giants will be able to pull this one out by protecting a slim lead in the 4th quarter with their power running.

New York Giants 24 | Pittsburgh Steelers 21

[tags]pittsburgh steelers, new york giants, plaxico burress, nfl[/tags]

A Steelers spokesman said that the team was still looking into the matter before they make a comment.

If Santonio Holmes is lucky enough to be suspended for the Steelers next game against the Giants, he will not have to suffer through the embarrassment that the rest of his teammates will endure when the New York Football Giants make them look like a high school team on Sunday. In addition, Steelers “fans” will have an additional excuse as to why they didn’t fare as well as Cleveland did against the exact same team.

In the end, this blogger expects Sunday’s game to be a blowout, with or without Santonio Holmes, who incidentally attended THE Ohio State University.

Prediction:

Giants 34 – Pittsburgh 10

Tonight, after witnessing a 35-14 trouncing of the New York Giants by the Cleveland Browns, I am sitting trying to sift through a stunning abundance of positives to pick out a few to highlights, lest I be up until 4:00 in the morning analyzing this game. I’m riding such high right now that reliving this game until 4:00 a.m. actually sounds pretty damn good.

Where do we start?

It has to be with Derek Anderson and Braylon Edwards. Coming into tonight’s game, Derek Anderson was the lowest rated QB in the league and his spot as the Browns’ unquestioned starter was in doubt. Braylon Edwards, coming off a 16-TD season, had been held to under 100 yards receiving through four games. The Giants had the best defense in the NFL coming in. So what happened? Well, this is the NFL (which now officially stands for No F-ing Logic) so exactly the opposite of what “should” happen: Derek Anderson threw for over 300 yards and 2 TDs and Braylon Edwards caught 5 passes for a career-high 154 yards, a touchdown, and a two-point conversion. They hooked up early a deep bomb in which only a shoestring tackle kept Braylon from the endzone, and the two kept rolling from there.

Braylon Edwards did have a few miscues. He dropped a ball and committed a pretty comical false start penalty. But tonight is not a night for nit-picking (FALSE STARTS!!!!); and Braylon Edwards delivered a huge performance in a clutch spot, living up to the old Santana Moss axiom that “big players make big plays in big games.” Despite his rocky start, Braylon Edwards is a big-time player and he proved it tonight. I said earlier in the year that Braylon Edwards is the key to the Browns season. His two best games (actually, his only two competent games) have come in the last two, both Browns victories. This team needs Braylon Edwards to be a top-5 wide receiver to compete with the elite teams. Tonight, he was outstanding and the Cleveland Browns knocked off the defending Super Bowl champs.

Derek Anderson finally looked comfortable and confident in the pocket. He stepped into his throws, he spread the ball around, and he avoided the costly turnover that has plagued him when he has come up short in key spots. Kudos also go out to the offensive line who, despite way too many false start penalties, gave Derek plenty of time to drop back, be comfortable in the pocket, and locate receivers downfield. Justin Tuck and the Giants defensive line had been dealing well with the loss of Michael Strahan. The Cleveland Browns’ offensive line neutralized them tonight. It paid off.

Other offensive highlights included continued tough running from team leader Jamal Lewis, a few more electric plays from Jerome Harrison, and the return of Donte Stallworth. Stallworth’s return should not go unnoticed. He did not stuff the stat sheet, and probably should have come up with the fade route in the endzone, but even Braylon Edwards admitted in the postgame that Stallworth opened up the field for him. Without Kellen Winslow out, another receiving threat was necessary. The speed of Donte Stallworth provided that threat. And in Kellen Winslow’s absence, the substitute soldiers Steve Heiden and Darnell Dinkins came up huge. Heiden provided a reliable safety valve for Derek Anderson all night, and Darnell Dinkins came up with a huge TD catch.

The offense was oustanding tonight and absolutely deserves an A for a stellar performance on the heels of four very subpar outings.

Now onto the defense.

Coming into the season, the biggest question mark for the Cleveland Browns was the defensive secondary. After trading Leigh Bodden, very few people gave the Browns’ secondary a chance to be a game-changing unit — at least in a positive sense. But for me, one of the lone consistent bright spots in this season so far has been the play of Brandon McDonald and Eric Wright. Tonight those two, along with Brodney Pool, played great ball-hawking defense. They gave up a few plays to Plaxico Burress (actually, those happened when Burress was matched up against Terry Cousins) and Steve Smith was able to find seams underneath, but they kept the Giants’ receivers in front of them; and obviously, the interceptions were huge. Eric Wright, Brandon McDonald, and Brodney Pool each picked off Eli Manning once. Eric Wright’s 4th quarter redzone interception and subsequent return for a touchdown sealed the deal.

The interception by Eric Wright is the most auspicious harbinger of a potential turnaround for the Cleveland Browns in 2008. Last year, even with Leigh Bodden, I never truly had confidence that the Browns’ secondary would be able to come up with big, game-changing plays when the defense needed one. Tonight, with the Browns’ clinging to a 27-14 lead but the Super Bowl champs gashing our defense and seeming poised to cut the lead to a one-scare margin, Eric Wright made a ridiculous break on a ball that Eli Manning thought was an easy completion and possible touchdown. Not only did he get there and actually catch the ball, as opposed to just knocking it down, but he ended any chance of comeback by finishing the play by high-stepping into the opposite endzone. The Browns’ secondary may be one of the most underrated units in the NFL. Tonight they highlighted their improvement on the biggest stage, but it is the culmination of five consecutive weeks of consistent improvement.

The run defense was just okay, and that’s probably being ridiculously generous as the Giants rushed 25 times for a 7.2 yard per carry average. You probably won’t win too many games giving up 7.2 yards per carry, unless of course you don’t turn the ball over, don’t punt once, and come up with 3 INTs. If the recipe for winning an NFL game is comprised on ten ingredients, the Browns successfully brought 8 to the table tonight. Shoring up the run defense and eliminating penalties will be points of emphasis for the Browns’ coaching staff as we move forward, but the ingredients the Browns were able to add still coalesced into the sweet taste of a 35-14 victory on national TV in front of the home fans against the undefeated defending Super Bowl champions.

In his postgame interview immediately following the game, Braylon Edwards said, “Everyone watched this game on TV and forgot about the first three games. We’re 2-0, with a brand new 14-game season.” I don’t know if he meant it this way, but a 14-game season assumes three playoff games. At the beginning of this Season of Great Expectations, many Browns fans thought a deep playoff run was a possibility. At 0-3, not even the most audacious Browns fan could still have maintained complete confidence that this team would even get to 8-8.

Can this team make the playoffs? At 2-3, it’s still an uphill battle. But at 2-3, and with parity running rampant across the NFL landscape, the Browns are still very much in the picture.

And at least for one glorious Monday night, in front of a nation of football fans watching on Monday Night Football, the Cleveland Browns looked like one of the NFL’s elite. Are they? We have 11 more games to find out for sure, and there are plenty of rough edges that need to be smoothed out; but this is one hell of a giant step in the right direction.

Congratulations Browns! And to all you haters: Ryan Russell and I told you so!

[tags]cleveland browns, nfl, monday night football, new york giants, football, braylon edwards[/tags]