-I doubted them, I talked smack, and while I still don't think they are a super bowl team it's hard to argue with the on-the-field results. They just always find a way to win--go ahead say they are vulnerable but they look an awful lot like those old Patriot teams that just kept winning and you couldn't figure out how.
2. New England Patriots (8-2) Previous: 5
-Speaking of the Patriots--they are coming off two of the most impressive wins (@ Pit, vs. Ind). Not convinced this young team can maintain this, especially given the lack of focus and egg laid against Cleveland. But say they do win and get home field--who is really going to go into New England and beat them?
3. Atlanta Falcons (8-2) Previous: 6
-The class of the NFC is the Falcons. Matt Ryan is growing up and Roddy White is officially an elite receiver. The defense has been good enough, but look very vulnerable against the pass. This week's game vs. Green Bay will tell us a lot about the ATL.
-Ravens have played the most difficult schedule in the whole league. They still have the Steelers, Saints, and Bucs, among others to go. They sort of remind you of that 2008-09 Steelers team that was hardened by their schedule and was battle-tested for the playoffs. The return of Ed Reed helps.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-3) Previous: 1
-Something is wrong here. I don't know quite what it is but there a championship Steeler team does not let teams come into their house and beat them the way the Patriots did two weeks ago. Either it was a wake-up call or a sign of things to come...I believe it's the latter.
6. Philadelphia Eagles (7-3) Previous: NR
-There is no more trendy pick to win the NFC and MVP than the Eagles and Michael Vick. However, don't be so quick. Yes, they have looked good and the defense is forcing plenty of turnovers but Vick has yet to throw a pick. Are we really to believe that Michael Vick out of prison is suddenly the formula for an amazing ball secure quarterback?
7. New Orleans Saints (7-3) Previous: NR
-That big breath of air you just heard was the entire NFL preparing for the Saints because they appear to be back. The offense clicked big time against Seattle. With Reggie Bush returning they have their runner that requires extra attention back. But that defense still isn't what it was last year, and in the end that was what won it for them.
8. Green Bay Packers (7-3) Previous: NR
-My preseason Super Bowl pick seems to be coming alive, injuries and all. They just seem to trot out the next guy and the next guy and they are still getting the job done. They can win shootouts or go into New York and beat the Jets with a defensive struggle. Rodgers hasn't thrown a pick in 3 straight games and if he stays away from turnovers, then don't expect the Pack to fall off.
MVP (as of today): Peyton Manning QB Indianapolis
Coach of the Year: Todd Haley Kansas City
Def. Player of the Year: Clay Matthews LB Green Bay
Off. Rookie- Mike Williams WR Tampa Bay
Def. Rookie- Ndamukong Suh DT Detroit
Hotseat Rating-
Luke Warm: Josh McDaniels (Denver), Chan Gailey (Buffalo), Tony Sparano (Miami)
Heating Up: Norv Turner (San Diego), Gary Kubiak (Houston)
Scorching: Marvin Lewis (Cincinnati), John Fox (Carolina), Mike Singletary (San Francisco)
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