September 11.

12 years have passed. 12 years since a day that I – then a four-year-old preschooler – can no longer remember.

12 years since one of the most horrific days in United States history. September 11, 2001: dual terrorist attacks on New York City’s Twin Towers. Including first respondents, 3,000 beautiful lives were taken in a single day. 

Try to imagine the pain. One second, you’re maybe scheduling a meeting for tomorrow, or deciding what you will have for lunch. Then, in next second, you realize there will be no meeting tomorrow. Knowing you are going to die, fighting to breathe for as long as you can handle.

No longer are you making the decision on what to eat for lunch, instead you are choosing death by suffocation, sitting in your cubicle; or death by suicide, falling to a fast and painless death. 

There are no options. No goodbye to your family. For most there's no last, "I love you." Those dreams you have worked your entire life to achieve  -- vanished. This is the end of the line.

Now imagine the pain of those families of those whose lives were taken. Those families who are still suffering  from their losses – 12 years later. Children who never said their last goodbyes to their parent. Mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, grandparents who will never again witness that light in their life.

Now imagine the pain of those 3,000 helpless civilians and multiply that by 40.  Take America’s pain in that one day and in the coming years, and repeat that same loss, same sorrow, day after day.

Anywhere between 114,000 and 125,000 Middle-Eastern civilians have been killed by Americans in those 12 years following 9/11.

Over 100,000 civilians have faced death or death situations like the many people did on September 11. Ordinary people, living everyday lives; scheduling a meeting, maybe wondering what they would have for lunch later on in the day.

Yet those people – with the same hurt, their families feeling the same sorrow that us Americans have felt – have gone unrecognized in America. We have become so hung up and so full of sorrow for the 3,000 people – people, just like the over 100,000 – who died here, that we don’t stop to think about that same hurt that is still happening in the Middle East.

This is a day that we should not only pray for those who lost loved ones in America on September 11, but those who have lost loved ones as a result of America’s War on Terrorism. And pray that these unnoticed deaths may become common knowledge – much like September 11 -- and come to a stop.

Week 1 Fantasy Football Rankings

Let's just jump into it because, if we're all honest with each other here, you're probably not reading this intro anyways. Here are my Week 1 rankings.

These rankings are based on non-PPR standard fantasy football leagues.

Quarterbacks

1. Robert Griffin III vs Phi
2. Drew Brees vs Atl
3. Tom Brady @ Buf
4. Andrew Luck vs Oak
5. Matt Ryan @ NO
6. Aaron Rodgers @ SF
7. Michael Vick @ Was
8. Colin Kaepernick vs GB
9. Ben Roethlisberger vs Ten
10. Tony Romo vs NYG
11. Russell Wilson @ Car
12. Matthew Stafford vs Min
13. Eli Manning @ Dal
14. Cam Newton vs Sea
15. E.J. Manuel vs NE
16. Matt Schaub @ SD
17. Terrelle Pryor @ IND
18. Jay Cutler vs Cin
19. Josh Freeman @ NYJ
20. Alex Smith @ Jax
21. Andy Dalton @ Chi
22. Brandon Weeden vs Mia
23. Sam Bradford vs Ari
24. Christian Ponder @ Det
25. Carson Palmer @ StL

Running Backs

1. Adrian Peterson @ Det
2. Jamaal Charles @ Jax
3. Alfred Morris vs Phi
4. Marshawn Lynch @ Car
5. Doug Martin @ NYJ
6. Stevan Ridley @ Buf
7. LeSean McCoy @ Was
8. C.J. Spiller vs NE
9. Steven Jackson @ NO
10. Reggie Bush vs Min
11. Trent Richardson vs Mia
12. Lamar Miller @ Cle
13. David Wilson @ Dal
14. Arian Foster @ SD
15. Maurice Jones-Drew vs KC
16. Matt Forte vs Cin
17. Frank Gore vs GB
18. Darren Sproles vs Atl
19. DeMarco Murray vs NYG
20. Darren McFadden @ Ind
21. Ben Tate @ SD
22. Daryl Richardson vs Ari
23. Ahmad Bradshaw vs Oak
24. Ryan Mathews vs Hou
25. Shane Vereen @ Buf
26. Chris Johnson @ Pit
27. Eddie Lacy @ SF
28. Giovani Bernard @ Chi
29. Bryce Brown @ Was
30. Mark Ingram vs Atl
31. Isaac Redman vs Ten
32. DeAngelo Williams vs Sea
33. Rashard Mendenhall @ StL
34. Chris Ivory vs TB
35. Joique Bell vs Min
36. Jacquizz Rodgers @ NO
37. Vick Ballard vs Oak
38. Bilal Powell vs TB
39. Fred Jackson vs NE
40. Pierre Thomas vs Atl
41. BenJarvus Green-Ellis @ Chi
42. Roy Helu vs Phi
43. Benny Cunninham vs Ari
44. Mike Tolbert vs Sea
45. Ryan Williams @ StL
46. Felix Jones vs Ten
47. James Starks @ SF
48. Shonn Greene @ Pit
49. Michael Bush vs Cin
50. Daniel Thomas @ Cle

Wide Receivers

1. Calvin Johnson vs Min
2. Dez Bryant vs NYG
3. Julio Jones @ NO
4.  Pierre Garcon vs Phi
5. Larry Fitzgerald @ StL
6. Brandon Marshall vs Cin
7. Danny Amendola @ Buf
8. Antonio Brown vs Ten
9. Randall Cobb @ SF
10. Andre Johnson @ SD
11. Dwayne Bowe @ Jax
12. Reggie Wayne vs Oak
13. Roddy White @ NO
14. Victor Cruz @ Dal
15. A.J. Green vs Chi
16. Cecil Shorts vs KC
17. Hakeem Nicks @ Dal
18. Jordy Nelson @ SF
19. Marques Colston vs Atl
20. Kenbrell Thompkins @ Buf
21. T.Y. Hilton vs Oakland
22. Greg Jennings @ Det
23. Miles Austin vs NYG
24. DeSean Jackson @ Was
25. Chris Givens vs Ari
26. Steve Johnson vs NE
27. Mike Williams @ NYJ
28. Anquan Boldin vs GB
29. Golden Tate @ Car
30. Vincent Jackson @ NYJ
31. Steve Smith vs Sea
32. Mike Wallace @ Cle
33. Vincent Brown vs Hou
34. Kenny Britt @ Pit
35. Lance Moore vs Atl
36. Sidney Rice @ Car
37. James Jones @ SF
38. Greg Little vs Mia
39. Emmanuel Sanders vs Ten
40. Ryan Broyles vs Min
41. Alshon Jeffery vs Cin
42. Tavon Austin vs Ari
43. Mohammed Sanu @ Chi
44. Andre Roberts @ StL
45. Denarius Moore @ Ind
46. Rueben Randle @ Dal
47. DeAndre Hopkins @ SD
48. Darrius Heyward-Bey vs Oak
49. Michael Floyd @ StL
50. Kendall Wright @ Pit

Tight Ends

1. Jimmy Graham vs Atl
2. Tony Gonzalez @ NO
3. Jordan Cameron vs Mia
4. Jason Witten vs NYG
5. Zach Sudfeld @ Buf
6. Fred Davis vs Phi
7. Antonio Gates vs Hou
8. Vernon Davis vs GB
9. Kyle Rudolph @ Detroit
10. Owen Daniels @ SD
11. Brandon Pettigrew vs Min
12. Brent Celek @ Was
13. Coby Fleener vs Oak
14. Jermichael Finley @ SF
15. Greg Olsen vs Sea
16. Jared Cook vs Ari
17. Martellus Bennett vs Cin
18. Rob Housler @ StL
19. Brandon Myers @ Dal
20. Anthony Fasano @ Jax
21. Dwayne Allen vs Oak
22. Tyler Eifert @ Chi
23. Vance McDonald  vs GB
24. Scott Chandler vs NE
25. Jermaine Gresham @ Chi

Defenses

1. Texans @ SD
2. Colts vs Oak
3. Buccaneers @ NYJ
4. Patriots @ Buf
5. Steelers vs Ten
6. Seahawks @ Car
7. Rams vs Ari
8. Bengals @ Chi
9. Browns vs Mia
10. Cardinals @ St.L
11. Chiefs @ Jax
12. Bears vs Cin
13. Vikings @ Det
14. Giants @ Dal
15. 49ers vs GB

Quick takes: Baltimore Ravens vs. Denver Broncos

It was nice to get back to football. Although the thirty-three minute weather delay impeded NBC's pre-game momentum to build up to the official start of the season, it was football. And it was good.

I've been off this blog for over a year now, but I'm going to pick-up here and see where it takes me. Let's get into what I saw tonight.

1. When Peyton Manning's teammates said he looked better this offseason, boy did they mean it. Of course, Manning also added Wes Welker, which could be the reason for his Thursday night success. That inside threat adds something that no other team have: two legit outside receivers and a inside threat to complement the two studs on the outside. Or maybe he looked so great because he's all that we've seen. But, wow, Peyton was Peyton. What a coming out party he has with seven touchdowns against a defense that really isn't all that bad. Manning now posses the fourth most points ever scored by a quarterback in a single game since the merger with his seven touchdowns on Thursday.

2. Julius Thomas is exactly who we thought he was. The six-foot five-inch, 247-pound specimen is just that: a specimen. The former basketball player from Portland State is owned in just 4.7 percent of NFL.com leagues despite his stellar preseason. That number should take a gargantuan leap after next week's waiver period after, essentially, Thomas' first game of his career. The guy is talented and, in this pass-first offense, has the potential to be a top-10 tight end this season.

Fun fact: Thomas rocked a fro in high school.

3. Knowshon Moreno is the man in the Broncos tripod backfield... for now. However, here were glimpses of great running from all three backs. Ronnie Hillman was the clear-cut pass catcher out of the backfield, as he caught two passes for 27 yards. Moreno caught three passes for 37 yards.

But rookie Montee Ball was the most surprising performer out of this backfield. His nine-yard cut-back run in the third quarter is what really impressed me. He showed great balance and better acceleration than what I saw (for the most part) in college. Other than the late fourth-quarter blunder where he ran to the wrong side of Manning, I liked what I saw overall. Once Ball learns pass pro, he will be the starting back. But that could be a while. This is going to be a three-headed mess all year with no winners except for the Broncos; stay away in fantasy.

4. The Broncos defense looks absolutely scary, and they were missing their premier player, Von Miller.  Offseason pick-up Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie shut down his side of the field all night; he allowed no catches on just one target. Wesley Woodyard jumped off the screen, as did Nate Irving at times, as well as Derek Wolfe. This front seven is outstanding, and a running back matchup to avoid in fantasy football.

5. Small sample size, but based on this game, it appears that Bernard Pierce may in for more of a timeshare with Ray Rice than most experts expected -- myself included. Ray Rice carried the ball 12 times while Pierce carried it nine times. Both struggled mightily against that ferocious defense of the Broncos, but this seems notable. Pierce was continuously worked in throughout the game. It's something to keep your eye on going forward. But it's no surprise to me, as I believe Pierce is just as talented as Rice

10/26/2012 Injury Report

by Christian Hardy

Aaron Hernandez did not make the trip with the team in what is a bad response to the treatment of his ankle. It makes sense before the Patriots week 9 bye, seeing that he has been hindered by the ankle injury in his last two weeks. I moved Lloyd up in my rankings a bit, but other than that, there's not much here. Targets were very spread out when Hernandez was out for three weeks earlier in the season.

For the Rams, Danny Amendola had a limited practice all week long and is listed as questionable for Week 8, but he is not expected to play. However, if Amendola is still on your waiver wire, pick him up now! Sounds like he's going to be back after the Week 9 bye.

Calvin Johnson did not practice because of a knee injury, and there is speculation that he will be a game-time call for Week 8. Nate Burleson is already out, so if Johnson doesn't play and you're searching for a receiver to start, Titus Young and Ryan Broyles should be set as the starters for Week 8. However, I do expect Johnson to play. He was at practice, and by the looks of it, he missed as a precaution.

DeMarco Murray missed Friday's practice with his foot injury and was ruled out for Week 8. Murray was among safety Matt Johnson, center Phil Costa, and defensive end Sean Lissemore for players who did not practice on Friday. It comes as no surprise, as Murray could miss more than just Week 8. Costa is also a big loss for the Cowboys, who have greatly struggled running the ball without him.

Trent Richardson "looked good" in practice according to Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Expect him to be active on Sunday unless he suffers a setback. I do expect him to start and see a split with Montario Hardesty, as the Browns try to limit him to get him up to full speed.

Ahmad Bradshaw was limited in practice and will be a game-time decision. If you're a Bradshaw owner, expect him to play but limited in Week 8. His foot has gotten worse and worse, and if he's not healthy, and with him being limited, he's a RB2/Flex option this week. Andre Brown would draw the start and be a nice play if Bradshaw is out.

Jimmy Graham (ankle) will be a game-time decision in Week 8 against the Broncos on Sunday Night Football. It's a tough spot for fantasy owners, since it is a late game. If I own him, there's no way I'm going to be playing him. Graham says he is good, and the way it sounds, I think he will be active, but I wouldn't want to bank on him playing in the late game.

Jordy Nelson missed practice on Thursday and Friday with a hamstring injury and is listed as questionable for Week 8. He will be a game-time decision. I did not rank him and I'm not expecting him to play this week. Be sure to get Randall Cobb in your lineup, I ranked him in my top 10.

Alshon Jeffrey (hand) was ruled out of Week 8's game against the Panthers. Panther have a weak secondary after losing Chris Gamble for the year to a torn ACL, and losing defensive leader Jon Beason to a knee and shoulder injury isn't going to help either. Earl Bennett and Kellen Davis are deep plays, but won't make a huge impact.

Week 7 Bank/Tank

It's been a long time since we have met here at my site, theffaddict.com. We missed the Super Bowl, the draft, the Peyton Manning saga, and, most importantly the first six weeks of the 2012 season. However, for much of that time I have been writing my rankings and other assortment of articles over at iConFantasySports.com.

Not only that, but I have essentially micro-blogged my life away on my Twitter feed (@TheFFAddict), where I now have over 25,000 tweets. Then again, maybe that means I need to reconsider my life, I mean - should I be proud of spending my entire life on Twitter? I also have been podcasting on the "Fantasy Football Portfolio" on Blog Talk Radio since June. Monday will mark the beginning of my new podcast "The Streak", which will talk all football news, stats, and other football related topics.

Nonetheless, we're (I'm) back! Let's kick off my return with the players that I like (bank) and dislike (tank) for Week 7 of the 2012 NFL season.

Quarterback Banks
Matt Schaub vs Baltimore - Ravens are ranked 22nd against opposing quarterbacks this season, and will be missing the likes of Lardarius Webb and Ray Lewis, while Jimmy Smith, now an every down corner, and Haloti Ngata will be likely game-time decisions. It's shaping up to be a favorable matchup for Schaub against Baltimore, who has sacked the opposing quarterback just 10 times all season, 23rd most in the NFL. In fact, in Week 6, Tony Romo was sacked just once by the Ravens defense. Schaub should stay nearly unscathed this week behind an offensive line that has allowed just six sacks all season. When you see Baltimore on your player's schedule, you're no longer frightened, you're excited. The defense is very weak, especially with the recent injuries.

Brandon Weeden @ Indianapolis - Let's start off with injury news on Weeden:  He is probable in this game with a foot, but practiced fully most of the week and will start against the Colts. His receivers, Travis Benjamin and Mohmaed Massaquoi are also banged up, and they will likely be game-time calls and will both play limited snaps if active. For the matchup: The Colts have 17.2 points per game (Yahoo!) to opposing quarterbacks this year. That puts them as the 14th worst pass defense, but against the likes of Christian Ponder, Blaine Gabbert, Mark Sanchez and Jay Cutler, they're ranking isn't surprising. They're worse than they look on paper. I want to see if the Browns can gain some momentum here after snapping their 11-game losing streak in Week 6 against the Bengals; this is certainly a winable game for the Browns. Trent Richardson should see the ball in his hands a lot against the very vulnerable rush defense of the Colts, but still expect 30 or more pass attempts from Weeden. I see 275 yards, two touchdowns and a turnover for Weeden this week, and those are more than acceptable numbers for your starting quarterback spot.

Others I like (if you're desperate): Josh Freeman vs New Orleans - we all know how bad that defense is... Jay Cutler against a banged up Detroit secondary... Matt Hasselbeck and Ryan Ftizpatrick face off, and we should see a lot of running of the football, but when they pass, the two quarterbacks should successful.

Quarterback Tanks
Andy Dalton vs Pittsburgh - In Dalton's rookie season, he completed less than 50 percent of his passes in his two games against the Steelers. Dalton has turned the ball over in every game this year, including his three interception game in Week 6. Ball-hawk safety Troy Polamalu has been out for most of the season with a calf injury, and Steelers have struggled to force turnovers, with just two interceptions all season. However, they have done great work in man-to-man, allowing just over 200 net passing yards per game, fourth best in the league. Cincinnati's offensive line has allowed 17 sacks this season, 23rd in the league. I think that this is the week that Dalton tumbles. He's not as good as his fantasy stats have shown to this point in the year.

Christian Ponder vs Arizona - Arizona has the second best defense against opposing quarterbacks in the NFL, allowing 11.5 points per game in Yahoo! leagues, including a game against Tom Brady, in which the Cardinals held Brady to 15 points. Stay away from Ponder this week.

Running Back Banks
Stevan Ridley vs New York Jets - Opponents have rushed on the Jets an average of 32.2 times per game in 2012, including an average of 35.5 when they Jets are on the road. The Jets defense has given up 4.7 yards per carry this season, while New England has averaged 4.2 yards per attempt on the season, including 4.9 yards per attempt in their last three, good for 10th best in the league. Ridley should also see a bit of an increased workload with Brandon Bolden likely to miss Sunday's game.

Felix Jones @ Carolina - Sure, you can make fun of Jones' durability, and his typical struggle to run between the tackles, but in this matchup against Carolina with Demarco Murray out, Jones looks like a start in all formats. Dallas rushed the ball 42 times in a Week 6 loss to Baltimore, so it's obvious that head coach Jason Garret and company want to utilize their weapons in the backfield going forward. Carolina has also allowed 47 receptions to opposing running backs this season, most in the league, and Jones could see some dump-off passes in this game. Be sure to start Jones this week (while he's still fresh). 

Chris Johnson @ Buffalo - Buffalo has given up a league-high 173.5 rushing yards per game this season, and almost 200 yards per game at home. That's a ridiculous amount of rushing yards. If Titans commit to the run - which has been a struggle this season with a league-low 19.2 carries per game this season - then they will likely find themselves in consistent success in this matchup.

Others I like: Bills running backs (CJ Spiller and Fred Jackson) have a good matchup against Tennessee who has allowed over 120 yards on the ground per game. I like Jackson more because of his goal line role. He gets the touches inside the five and the Titans have given up seven rushing touchdowns inside the five this season. ... Phillip Tanner should be used to complement Jones as he was late in the game against Baltimore, he could be a nice flex option. ... If you're desperate, Danny Woodhead could get a nice workload with Brandon Bolden likely to sit ... Montario Hardesty also could be a nice play if the Browns decide to limit first-round draft pick Trent Richardson

Running Back Tanks
New Orleans Running Backs @ Tampa Bay - The Bucs have allowed just 75 yards per game on the ground this season, third best in the league. No running backs are getting significant touches, so none of them are starts. The last time a Saints running back ran the ball 10 times or more was Week 2, when Mark Ingram ran the ball 12 times. It's not only a matchup thing with New Orleans, but it's an every week thing: they don't run. If they try to run this week, then Tampa Bay and their league-best 3.1 yards per carry will shut them down.

Mikel Leshoure vs Chicago - Chicago allows just 3.6 yards per carry to opposing running backs. They have also given up just one touchdown to opposing running backs both through the air and on the ground. Leshoure hasn't scored in either of his last two games, so things are shaping up too good for him this week. Look for Leshoure to score five points or less on Monday night.

Others I dislike: William Powell has a very tough matchup against the Vikings, I wouldn't expect more than six points unless he finds the end zone... Stay away from Ahmad Bradshaw with a manged up foot. I would be surprised if he plays. If Bradshaw is out, I like Andre Brown over David Wilson, but neither will be great starts even in a flex...Shonn Greene won't have another game like he did against Indianapolis next week. They'll be playing from behind, and Patriots have given up 83.2 yards on the ground per game.

Wide Receiver Banks 
Kenny Britt @ Buffalo - 11 targets last week, Britt will soon become a top 10 wide receiver. He is an enormous part of the offense and is one of the most talented wide receiver in the league. Britt says that he is 95% of the player that he was last year, and that's a good sign for his fantasy owners. Against five receivers - Stephen Hill, Dwayne Bowe, Wes Welker, Michael Crabtree, and Larry Ftizgerald - the Bills have given up a total of 34 receptions, 526 yards, and six touchdowns. No. 1 receivers have thrived against the Bills, and I think that Britt has his biggest game of the year in this matchup.

Hakeem Nicks vs Washington Redskins - Nicks is healthy, 'close' to 100%, and ready to be a machine again. When Nicks is healthy, he consistently gauges defenses. He's one of the most physical, gifted receivers in the league and it's great to see him on the field again. The Redskins have given up an average of 2.5 touchdowns through the air per game in 2012. If Eli Manning throws three touchdowns, Nicks will catch at least one. Book it.

James Jones @ St. Louis - Expect to see Cortland Finnegan cover the slot receiver in this game (Randall Cobb), and rookie Janoris Jenkins to cover Jordy Nelson on the outside. What does that mean? Jones is going to be seeing the likes of Bradley Fletcher and Trumaine Johnson opposite of Jenkins. Rams have allowed the second fewest points to wide receivers in 2012 with just 14.7 per game. However, seeing how the Packers performed last week, it's going to be tough to defend all of their weapons. I think all three receivers have respectable games.

Vincent Jackson and Mike Williams vs New Orleans - The Saints defense has been atrocious not only this season, but specifically on the road. They have allowed 9.2 yards per attempt in their road games this season, compared to 7.6 yards per attempt on the road. The Saints have also allowed six touchdowns to opposing wide receivers in the last two weeks. Williams and Jackson have been studs the last two weeks, and it'd be hard to sit them in any matchup, so seeing New Orleans on the schedule this week just makes it that much more sweet.

If you're desperate: Brandon LaFell vs Dallas, Domenik Hixon vs Washington, Brandon Gibson vs Green Bay, Devery Hendeson vs Tampa Bay (Is it a coincidence that all of these guys are at home or what?)

Wide Receiver Tanks
Steve Smith vs Dallas - Smith is averaging just over seven points per game and hasn't found the promise land this season. Cowboys have given up just three touchdowns to opposing receivers all year (all in the last two games). I think you'll see double coverage on Smith for a lot of the game with a corner and a safety, and single coverage on LaFell consistently.

Brandon Lloyd vs New York Jets - He's not putting up great stats right now, and the Jets are tied for the best defense against opposing receivers, allowing just 14.7 points per game. No. 85 is cursed in New England for every player who wears it. Lloyd isn't worth a start at this point.

Antonio Brown @ Cincinnati - It's not that I hate Brown, or the matchup, but he is not putting out the numbers you might expect Brown to be putting up. Looking forward, he takes on Washington in Week 8 which is a very favorable matchup.

Others I dislike: Jeremy Kerley @ New England

Tight End Banks
Scott Chandler vs Tennessee - The matchups don't get any better for tight ends than Tennessee. The Titans have allowed eight touchdowns to tight ends in 2012, and three in the last three weeks. Chandler, owned in 63.6% of ESPN leagues, is a great add for those Jimmy Graham owners who are lacking a tight end for this week.

Other smart matchup plays: Martellus Bennett is a bit concerning with only nine targets in his last three games, but he has a great matchup vs Washington and is off of the injury report. ... I think Hasselbeck is in for a big day and that means Jared Cook should have a half decent day, with upside, if you are desperate.


Tight EndsTanks
Fred Davis @ New York Giants - The Giants have not allowed a touchdown to opposing tight ends this season. They've shut down the likes of Jason Witten, Brent Celek, and Vernon Davis.

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That will just about wrap it up for me. I mentioned in the introduction, you can follow me @TheFFAddict on Twitter for a bombardment of news, notes, and analysis from around the league. You can also check out my podcast, which will make it's debut Monday, hosted on BlogTalkRadio. Thanks for reading.

2011-12 NFL Playoff Predictions

By: Christian Hardy


These is my playoff predictions, game-by-game, as of January 4th.

NFC Wild Card Round - PREDICTIONS
Saturday - 7:00 PM CT - NBC
#3 New Orleans Saints def. #6 Detroit Lions, 34-30

Sunday - 12:00 PM CT - FOX
#4 New York Giants def. #5 Atlanta Falcons, 24-20


AFC Wild Card Round - PREDICTIONS
Saturday - 3:30 PM CT - NBC
#3 Houston Texans def. #6 Cincinnati Bengals, 20-17

Sunday - 3:30 PM CT - CBS
#5 Pittsburgh Steelers def. #4 Denver Broncos, 24-10

NFC Divisional Round - PREDICTIONS
#3 New Orleans Saints def. #2 San Francisco 49ers, 24-16

#1 Green Bay Packers def. #4 New York Giants, 30-24

AFC Divisional Round - PREDICTIONS
#2 Baltimore Ravens def. #3 Houston Texans, 20-10

#1 New England Patriots def. #5 Pittsburgh Steelers, 27-20

Conference Championships - PREDICTIONS
#1 Green Bay Packers def. #3 New Orleans Saints, 41-34

#1 New England Patriots def. #2 Baltimore Ravens, 30-27 (OT)

Super Bowl Prediction
#1 Green Bay Packers def. #1 New England Patriots, 31-24
MVP: Aaron Rodgers

2011-12 NFL Postseason Awards

By: Christian Hardy

The 2011-12 NFL Season was another record-breaking, incredible season for fans across the globe. There were two quarterbacks (Drew Brees and Tom Brady) who each, individually, broke the single-season record for passing yardage set by Dan Marino in 1984. But, that's just one of the abundance of records that were broken in 2011.

Among others, the ones that stood out to me were: Jared Allen whom was a sack away from being named the all-time sack king (and, perhaps, would have if it were not for Brett Favre and his shananigans), and Darren Sproles whom broke the single-season all-purpose yardage record very quietly with 2696 yards this season, and rookie quarterback Cam Newton threw for over 4,000 yards with a team that went 6-10.

Last but not least, there was the tight end yardage record. This record flip-flopped four times on Sunday, including both playoff teams putting their star tight ends back into the game after they had been pulled to regain the lead for the crown. In the end, it was Rob Gronkowski who ousted Jimmy Graham atop as the tight end with the most receiving yards in a single-season. In my opinion, this was huge for the NFL, and offenses around the league.

The position (tight end) has come to grow more than any other position in the game in the past decade. So what makes the position so special? Maybe the freakish athletes that play tight end and the inability for defenses to cover them. I mean, Gronkowski and Graham are both 6'6'', which creates a mismatch for corners who are 6'0''-6'2'' and linebackers that are 6'4'' in most cases. It makes tight ends nearly impossible to cover, and their hands are more dependable than 98 percent of wide receivers.

I could go on and on about tight ends all day, as I love the position and the athletes who play it. The fact of the matter is, it's going to continue to develop, and tight ends are going to become a bigger and bigger part of football, and the way it is played. And, until defenses can stop it (especially with Brees or Brady throwing you the ball) it will continue to grow. It will, also, change the way offenses play, especially through the air.

It was quite the up and down season for the NFL. More importantly, it was another great one. One to remember, that is for sure. Now that the season is over, I thought it would be fun to reveal to you who my awards (MVP, OPOY, DPOY, etc.) are all going to for this season. Let's get started.


Most Valuable Player
Winner: Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers
Runner Up: Saints quarterback Drew Brees
Honorable Mention: Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew, Saints running back/returner Darren Sproles


Aaron Rodgers is the easy winner here. Rodgers, and the rest of the Packers, became just the fifth team in NFL history to go 15-1. Not only that, but in 15 games, Rodgers threw for 45 touchdowns with virtually no passing game. Of course, I wouldn't just base this award all on stats, and by the eye test, Rodgers has been the most accurate and consistent thrower in the NFL this season, and that's why this award goes to him.

Brees and Brady both broke Dan Marino's record, and any other year one of those two would win MVP. However, Rodgers has, simply, been better than either of the two.

As for the honorable mentions, both deserve some type of award, they really do. Maurice Jones-Drew put every inch of effort on the field with one of the worst offenses in the NFL. I mean, you have Blaine Gabbert under center--who is arguably the worst starter in the NFL--and no name wide receivers with nine-men in the box and Maurice Jones-Drew is still able to win a rushing title. That is just incredible to me. As for Sproles, he was by far the most explosive and surprising player in the NFL this year. with his size and structure, who would of thought that he would of broken a record like he did this year. It truly amazes me.

All four of these guys very well deserve an MVP: Every single one. But, of course, there is only one award. That's why the title goes to the head of the best team in the NFC, the Green Bay Packers and Aaron Rodgers.


Offensive Player of the Year
Winner: Saints quarterback Drew Brees
Runner Up: Patriots quarterback Tom Brady
Honorable Mention: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford


Drew Brees is the king of passing yards, and the king of offense, hence the Offensive player of the year award. He uses every weapon on the field every play am makes very smart throws. Not only that, but he shattered Marino's record in just 15 weeks! How incredible is that? I don't see Rodgers winning both awards, I think Brees is the likely winner here. This would be Brees' first time winning the either the MVP or Offensive Player of the Year award.

However, there was another man who broke the single-season passing record. You might of heard of him for his Ugg boots sponsorship (or for his football skills). He goes by the name of Tom Brady. You could definitely make an argument for Brady, as he has a worse supporting cast than Brees does, especially in the run game. Nevertheless, Brady still has some great talent around him in the passing game. Brees has just been more consistent, and finished 241 yards ahead of Brady in terms of passing, which makes him my offensive player of the year.

I included Stafford because he led the Lions to their first playoff berth since 1999, and threw for over 5,000 yards doing it. He also quietly threw for 46 touchdowns (four short of the record for a single-season) which it quite impressive. Hopefully Stafford can stay healthy and become an elite quarterback in this league, if he isn't there already.

Defensive Player of the Year
Winner: Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs
Runner Up: Vikings defensive end Jared Allen
Honorable Mention: Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul

Offensive Rookie of the Year
Winner: Panthers quarterback Cam Newton
Runner Up: Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton
Honorable Mention: Bengals wide receiver AJ Green, Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray, Cowboys left tackle Tyron Smith

Defensive Rookie of the Year
Winner: Broncos linebacker Von Miller
Runner Up: 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith
Honorable Mention: Texans defensive end J.J. Watt

Coach of the Year
Winner: 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh - Brought a low-end team to an elite team in just one year with limited resources. Not many coaches can do that. Well deserved coach of the year.
Runner Up: Bengals coach Marvin Lewis - I projected the Bengals to be in the bottom five teams at the end of the year. Rather, they finish third in the AFC North and make the playoffs! They still are not elite, but they are well on their way.
Honorable Mention: Packers coach Mike McCarthy, Texans coach Gary Kubiak - McCarthy if the coach of the best record (15-1) in football, and the favorites to win the Super Bowl. I would not be at all surprised if McCarthy wins this award. Kubaik overcame injury (including season ending ones to his first two quarterbacks) all season long and still found a way to win his division. That impresses me, and I'm sure the Texans will be right back on top of the AFC South next year if his team can stay healthy,

Comeback Player of the Year
Winner: Browns linebacker D'Qwell Jackson
Runner Up: Lions quarterback Matthew Srafford
Honorable Mention: Broncos defensive end Elvis Dumervil


Thanks for reading. I'll be back later this week or early next week with my 2011 Fantasy Football Steals and Busts and a look at who I think will be in Indianapolis playing for the Superbowl. After the Superbowl I will put out my first NFL Mock Draft, that will be updated all the way up to draft day, including my top five players at each position. Until then, I dare you (triple dog) to follow me on Twitter: @TheFFAddict.

I got this idea from ProFootballTalk. You can see their article here: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/01/02/pfts-postseason-awards/.

Week 16 Game-Time Decisions

Quarterbacks
- Rams quarterbacks AJ Feeley (finger) and Sam Bradford (ankle) are both inactive and Kellen Clemens will start against the Steelers, and Charlie Batch.
- Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb (concussion) is inactive. John Skelton will start.
- Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder left the game against the Redskins with a concussion and never returned.
- Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo left the Cowboys' first drive with a right hand injury after being sacked by Jason Babin. X-rays were negative, and it is being called a contusion for now. Romo never returned to the game, but was on the sideline for three quarters. His hand was in the a small wrap for most of the game after there was serious swelling in his right hand.


Running Backs
- Titans running back Chris Johnson (ankle) ran around and did some drills in pre-game, and he is active for today's game.
- Broncos running back Willis McGahee (hamstring) is active for the Broncos.
- Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew (ankle) is active for the Jaguars.
- If the Giants beat the Jets, then Felix Jones (hamstring) will be inactive for the Cowboys. UPDATE: Since the Giants won, Felix started Saturday's game but was later pulled because the Eagles-Cowboys game is meaningless.
- Redskins running back Evan Royster will make is first career start with rookie Roy Helu nursing toe and knee injuries.
- Beanie Wells is active for the Cardinals and will start after being questionable for this game.
- Vikings running back Adrian Peterson injured his leg on a run against the Washington Redskins. He was never able to put weight on the leg, and even after the game was not able to. It was later revealed that the injury was a knee injury that was initially being called as a knee sprain. Many insiders say that it is a torn ACL, but that will not be confirmed until the MRIs later on in the week. If it is a torn ACL, Peterson would like miss the start of the 2012 season and possibly more, depending on rehab. I will keep you updated throughout this awful injury.
- After a fumble on the first drive, Buccaneers head coach Raheem Moore (for now) benched LeGarrette Blount in favor of Kregg Lumpkin and Mossis Madu. Blount did not return until the start of the second half.
- Eagles running back Lesean McCoy limped to the locker room late on Saturday's game in Dallas. He got x-rays on his ankle and later returned to the game. McCoy had nothing doing against the Cowboys averaging just 2.7 yards per carry.
- Dolphins running back Reggie Bush left late in the game with a leg injury and missed the last couple of drives against the Patriots. He could walk under his own power, and said that he would be OK.
- Saints running back Mark Ingram is doubtful to play on Monday Night with a turf toe.


Wide Receivers
- Bills wide receiver Stevie Johnson (groin) is active.
- Bengals rookie wide receiver AJ Green (shoulder) is active.
- Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (knee) is inactive.
- Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson (groin) was active for the game against the Lions.


Tight Ends
- Bills tight end Scott Chandler (ankle) is active for Saturday's game.
- Jaguars tight end Marcedes Lewis is active for the Jaguars.
- Giatns tight end Jake Ballard (knee) is inactive.


Defense/Others
- Ravens kicker Billy Cundiff is officially inactive.
- Vikings CB Asher Allen is inactive. He did not practice all week.
- Patriots S Patrick Chung (foot) is inactive after practicing all week long.

I wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas. Thank you much for reading. Without you, I would just be a guy with football thoughts continuously bouncing around in my mind. Truly, thank you.

By:: Christian Hardy

@TheFFAddict

December 22nd Injury Report

By: Christian Hardy

Quarterbacks
- Browns quarterback Colt McCoy (concussion) was sent home from practice early today and will not make the trip to Baltimore, per Mary Kay Cabot.
- Rams quarterbacks Sam Bradford (ankle) and AJ Feeley (finger) did not practice today. Bradford is doubtful to play, and will not test his ankle again until Saturday, according to head coach Steve Spagnuolo.
- Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (ankle) did not practice today and his status is uncertain for this Saturday.
- Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb (concussion) was limited in practice on Thursday. John Skelton is expected to make the start, whether Kolb is healthy or not.


Running Backs
- Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) did not practice. I think this is more for rest purposes, but keep your eye on Bradshaw tomorrow to see what the news is on him.
- Cowboys running back Felix Jones (hamstring) was not in uniform for practice today and only did light work with the trainers on the side. I do not think he will go this week, but I will keep him in my rankings until get get official word. Even if he does go, he shouldn't be in your fantasy lineup.
- Raiders running back Darren McFadden (foot) did not practice Thursday and is unlikely to play in week 16, but is hopeful about week 17. Michael Bush returned to practice after missing practice with a shoulder injury on Wednesday.
- According to Titans head coach Mike Munchak, Chris Johnson (ankle) will be "fine" and a "go" this week.
- Falcons running back Michael Turner (groin) did not practice on Thursday. Falcons play on Monday night against the Saints, so it might not be too concerning yet. Be sure to keep an eye on it before setting your lineup on Saturday.
- Redskins running back Roy Helu (toe/knee) was limited in practice on Thursday, but said after practice, "I feel a lot better today," which is always something you like to hear throughout the week. Helu should be in your lineup this week, as I do not expect him to be limited on Saturday.


Wide Receivers
- Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (knee) was not in practice for the second day in a row on Thursday. With an injury like a sore knee, it can flare at any time, and it looks like that is what is going on here. Keep an eye on Manningham if you were thinking about starting him.
- Ravens wide receiver Anquan Boldin (knee) will undergo surgery on his torn meniscus tomorrow and will miss at least two weeks of football, and possibly a few more weeks after that. Rookie Torrey Smith will take Boldin's spot as the number one on the depth chart and is a must start. I also think Ed Dickson's value rises.
- Raiders wide receiver Jacoby Ford (foot) did not practice on Thursday.
- Dolphins wide receiver Brandon Marshall (knee) returned to practice on Thursday on a limited basis after missing practice on Wednesday.
- Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson (groin) did not practice for the second consecutive day on Thursday. I'm not sure if it is precautionary or not, but it would be safe to keep him out of your lineup this week.
- Bengals wide receiver AJ Green (shoulder) was limited in practice and is expected to play this week.
- Bills wide receiver Steve Johnson (groin) was able to practice today, but was very limited according to BuffaloBills.com.
- Seahawks wide receiver Doug Baldwin (ankle) did not practice on Thursday. Head coach Pete Carroll said that Baldwin is still expected to play although he missed practice. Golden Tate would be a nice play in deep leagues if Baldwin were to sit.


Tight Ends
- Dolphins tight end Anthony Fasano (concussion) did not practice on Thursday, and has not practiced all week long. He is listed as questionable.


Defense/Others
- Vikings guard Steve Hutchinson (concussion) did not practice on Thursday, nor did corner back Asher Allen (concussion) both players are very iffy to play on Saturday.
- Eagles corner back Asante Samuel (hamstring) did not practice on Thursday and has not practiced all week, a strong sign that he will not play against the Cowboys on Saturday.
- Giants head coach Tom Coughlin informed the media that David Baas will return to starting duties at center. It should be a huge boost to the team's run game.
- The Browns placed safety TJ Ward (foot) on Injured Reserve today, ending his season.

December 21st Injury Report

Quarterbacks
- Josh McCown will replace Caleb Hanie as the starting quarterback of the Bears on Saturday. McCown will be the 10th quarterback to start under Lovie Smith in Chicago.
- The Steelers plan to rest quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (ankle) this week, despite Ben saying that he still hopes to play this week. Roethlisberger did not practice on Wednesday.
- Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb (concussion) split reps with John Skelton in practice on Wednesday. Skelton got a few more, according to Kolb, but there is no decision on the starting quarterback for week 16 yet.


Running Backs
- Cowboys running back Felix Jones (hamstring) did not practice today, as the team is being cautious with him because he is "all they have" at the running back position with DeMarco Murray (ankle) and Phillip Tanner (hamstring) on injured reserve.
- Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) was limited in practice on Wednesday, as he was on Tuesday.
- Redskins running back Roy Helu (toe, knee) was limited in practice on Wednesday, but I expect him to be a full go on Saturday.
- Titans head coach Mike Munchak said that Chris Johnson (ankle) was limited in ankle and the team was encouraged according to Jim Wyatt.
- Colts running back Delone Carter (forearm) was a full participant at practice for the second consecutive day and should play this week.
- Patriots running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis did not practice Wednesday because of an illness. Shane Vereen (hamstring) was limited in practice.


Wide Receivers
- The Rams rookie wide receiver Austin Pettis was suspended for four games by the league for violating NFL rules on performance enhancing substances. He will miss the final two games of this year, and the fisrt two games of next season, per Jim Thomas.
- Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson (groin) did not practice on Wednesday. It is likely to be rest, rather than a serious injury.
- Ravens wide receiver Anquan Boldin (undisclosed injury) did not practice on Wednesday during the media portion of practice. It is not expected to be serious, as he did a light workout on the side.
- Dolphins wide receiver Brandon Marshall got a rest today at practice. He has a very minor knee injury, but earlier in the week the Dolphins said that they would rest players during the week.
- Bengals rookie wide receiver AJ Green (shoulder) was limited in practice, and will likely be limited all week long. He should be good to go for this week's game.


Tight Ends
- Giants tight end Jake Ballard (knee) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play this week.
- Colts tight end Dallas Clark (neck) did not practice on Wednesday and is expected to miss his second consecutive game.
- Bills tight end Scott Chandler (ankle) was a limited participant in practice on Wednesday and could return this week after missing the last two games.
- Dolphins tight end Anthony Fasano (head) did not practice on Wednesday.


Defense/Others
- Browns corner back Joe Haden (thigh bruise) and safety TJ Ward (foot) did not practice on Wednesday.
- Patriots safety Patrick Chung had no limp when going onto the field, according to Ian Rapoport. He should be a go for this weekend after sitting out last week's game.
- Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney did not practice for rest, and opposite of Freeney, defensive end Robert Mathis (knee) also did not practice.
- The Cardinals placed outside linebacker Joey Porter on IR today, and what could be a wrap on a very solid career. Cardinals promoted outside linebacker Brandon Williams from the practice squad to take his spot on the 53-man roster.
- Eagles corner back Asante Samuel did not practice today with a hamstring injury. He looks very iffy to play against the Cowboys on Sunday in a must win game.

December 19th Injury Report

Quarterbacks
- Head coach Mike Tomlin is optimistic about Ben Roethlisberger's (ankle) to play on Monday Night against the 49ers.
- Titans head coach Mike Munchak has not yet determined whether Matt Hasselbeck (calf) or rookie Jake Locker will start under center for the team on Saturday against the Jaguars. Locker came into the fourth quarter in the team's loss to the Colts on Sunday. UPDATE: Matthew Hasselbeck will remain the starter if he is healthy, according to head coach Mike Munchak.


Running Backs
- Colts running back Delone Carter injured his right forearm in the second quarter of Sunday's win over the Titans. He never returned to the game. Jim Caldwell said that we will know the extent of it in the next "day or two". Carter did not practice on Monday.
- Redskins running back Roy Helu has toe and knee injuries on Sunday according to head coach Mike Shanahan and "didn't play as good [as he normally is]."
- Titans running back Chris Johnson (ankle) is in question for week 16.


Wide Receivers
- Eagles wide receiver Desean Jackson suffered an elbow contusion in Sunday's game. Andy Reid said that Jackson should be good for this week, but keep an eye on him coming into the game against the Cowboys. Jackson had two catches for 28 yards.
- Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox underwent back surgery Monday to stabilize his vertebra, according to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times. Lovie Smith confirmed that Knox will miss the final two games of the season. UPDATE: Surgery was successful, and Knox is expected to be recovered from his surgery within three-to-four months.
- Texans head coach Gary Kubiak said that wide receiver Andre Johnson (hamstring) will be in Tuesday's practice, according to the Texan's official site. Johnson did not practice on Monday.


Tight Ends
- Giants tight end Jake Ballard aggravated an old PCL injury according to head coach Tom Coughlin. Coughlin also said that he's "hoping it's not a season ender."
- Colts tight end Dallas Clark (neck) did not practice on Monday.


Defense/Others
- The Buccaneers placed corner back Aqib Talib (hamstring) on IR. He aggravated a pre-existing hamstring injury in the first quarter versus the Cowboys on Saturday.

December 16th Injury Report

By Christian Hardy


Quarterbacks
-The Browns ruled out quarterback Colt McCoy (concussion) on Friday. He is still feeling headaches, and other concussion-like symptoms. He will not make the trip to Arizona.
- Dolphins quarterback Matt Moore (concussion) is listed as questionable and is expected to play.
- Titans quarterback Matthew Hasselbeck (calf) practiced and is expected to play this week, despite being listed as questionable.
- Chiefs head coach Romeo Crennel confirmed that Kyle Orton (finger) will start for the Chiefs this weekend.
- Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (ankle) was limited in practice on Friday.
- Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb (concussion) is questionable for Sunday's game, but Arizona Republic writer Kent Somers predicted that Kolb will not play. John Skelton would be the starter if Kolb were to sit.
- Rams quarterback Sam Bradford (ankle) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game. AJ Feeley (thumb) missed practice and has been ruled out for week 15. Looks like it could be Tom Bradstater taking the reigns this week.


Running Backs
- Browns running back Montario Hardesty (calf) did not participate in team drills on Friday, per Nate Ulrich. However, Montario Hardesty is likely to play this week.
- Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) returned to practice on Friday and is listed as probable on the Giants official injury report.
- Packers running back James Starks (ankle) returned to a limited practice today and it listed as questionable for Sunday. As for Packers other running back Brandon Saine (concussion), he will be a game-time decision for this Sunday. Ryan Grant will get his second consecutive start.
- Saints ruled out rookie running back Mark Ingram for the second consecutive week with turf toe.
- Raiders running back Darren McFadden (lisfranc) has been ruled out for Sunday's game.
- Adrian Peterson (ankle) was a full participant in practice on Friday and is officially listed as probable.
- Lions running back Kevin Smith (ankle) is expected to start. Stay away from all Detroit running backs, as I expect them to all split carries (Smith, Morris, and Williams).
- Bengals running back Cedric Benson (back) was limited in practice, but is listed as probable and will play on Sunday.


Wide Receivers
- Texans head coach Gary Kubiak has yet to rule out wide receiver Andre Johnson (hamstring), but it is very unlikely that we see Andre Johnson on the field this Sunday. UPDATE: Johnson has officially been ruled out for Sunday's game.
- Eagles wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (hamstring) said that he was a "full-go" at practice today. He also mentioned that he does not know who will be covering him in Sunday's game against the Jets.
- Raiders wide receiver Jacoby Ford (foot) has been ruled out for week 15.
- Buccaneers wide receiver Arrelious Benn (concussion) has been officially ruled out for Saturday's game against the Cowboys.


Tight Ends
- Browns tight end Benjamin Watson (concussion) did not practice on Friday, and is not expected to play on Sunday. I moved Watson out of my rankings, and moved Greg Little and Evan Moore into the lower tier of their respective positions. UPDATE: Ben Watson will land on IR today, according to head coach Pat Shurmur.
- Colts tight end Dallas Clark (neck) has not practiced all week and is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game.
- Bills tight end Scott Chandler (ankle) did not practice and has been ruled out for week 15.


Defense/Others
- Eagles head coach Andy Reid does not know if Brandon Graham (knee) will play this week, but he is unlikely to. Reid did indicate that he will not be placed on IR, although Graham indicated that he might be done for the season earlier in the week.
- Giants DE Justin Tuck (toe) is questionable for Sunday's game. Safety Kenny Phillips (knee) is listed as probable after missing week 14.
- Lions CB Chris Houston (knee) is listed as probable. Nick Fairley (foot) and Louis Delmas (knee) are both questionable.

2011-12 NFL Pro Bowl Ballot

By: Christian Hardy

Quarterbacks - NFC

Aaron Rodgers, Packers - Clearly ahead of everyone else in the MVP race, and will most likely break Dan Marino's record of most passing yards in a single season.

Drew Brees, Saints - Like Aaron Rodgers, this one doesn't need much explaining, really.

Eli Manning, Giants - It was a tough choice between Eli and Romo for me, but I decided to go with Manning. More yards, and the same amount of touchdowns. My argument for Romo is that he has a better TD-INT ratio as well as a better passer rating. Eli has been more clutch than Romo this year, and he has led his team to victory more than Romo, so I went with Manning.

Runner Up = Tony Romo, Cowboys

Future: Cam Newton, Panthers

Quarterbacks - AFC

Tom Brady, Patriots - Easy one here. Easily the best quarterback in the AFC.

Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers - Ben hasn't had all that great of a year, but there really isn't anyone better in the AFC.

Tim Tebow, Broncos - That's right. Timmy Tebow over Rivers, Sanchez, or Flacco. Tebow wins football games and he takes care of the football, which copes well with his defense. Rivers isn't having a  Pro Bowl season until these last couple of weeks, and Flacco and Sanchez turn the ball over too much to be in the Pro Bowl. My vote goes to Tebow.

Runner Up = Philip Rivers, Chargers

Future: Andy Dalton, Bengals

Running Backs - NFC

Michael Turner, Falcons - His second consecutive year over 1,000 rushing yards, as well as his third in the last four years, and he has done it with just 273 carries. Hr has been a little bit more involved in the pass game this year, all though that did not affect my voting of Turner. He has been there for this team week in and week out. A consistent option for the likes of Matt Ryan and this Falcons' offense.

Lesean McCoy, Eagles - Best running back in the NFL this year, easy. His 17 touchdowns lead the NFL, and you can't argue putting this guy in the Pro Bowl. Then again, when you have an offensive line like the Eagles, it couldn't be too hard. Then again, saying McCoy is just "good" is a understatement. This guy is something special and he is going to be in the Pro Bowl for many years to come.

Frank Gore, 49ers - Already over 1,000 yards rushing, it's hard to dispute Gore in this spot. Without Gore, the 49ers have little-to-no offense, in my opinion. Huge weapon that deserves this spot.

Runner Up: Adrian Peterson, Matt Forte, Marshawyn Lynch - It's crazy to think that these guys won't be in the Pro Bowl, especially Peterson. Forte got hurt at the end of the year, so that practically eliminated him for me. Peterson was out for a couple weeks, and has had some up and down games this year. Lynch was tough, but statistically, the three guys that I put in the Pro Bowl were better. NFC has some amazing talent at running back, that's for sure.

Future: Roy Helu

Running Backs - AFC

Arian Foster, Texans - When healthy, Foster is an elite running back in the NFL, and he proved it this year. Even with Andre Johnson's hamstring(s) injury, a sticky quarterback situation and an injury problem of his own, Foster has been amazing. 10 touchdowns on the season in just 10 full games is amazing with the issues that he had to deal with. Definitely a worthy candidate for this spot.

Ray Rice, Ravens - Rice has become a much better runner this year, while keeping his "receiver" status very viable. His 12 touchdowns (and 10 on the ground) are a career-high for Rice. I think it is safe to say that Rice is going to be here for a while.

Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars - MJD should be at the top of this list. Although the Jaguars have won just four games on the season, Jones-Drew is the leader of each and every one of those wins. He performs each and every week, and is the bright spot of this Jaguars football team/

Runner Up: Willis McGahee

Wide Receivers - AFC

Mike Wallace, Steelers

Wes Welker, Patriots

AJ Green, Bengals

Brandon Marshall, Dolphins

Runner Up: Vincent Jackson, Chargers

Future: Antonio Brown, Steelers and Denarius Moore, Raiders

Wide Receivers - NFC

Calvin Johnson, Lions

Steve Smith, Panthers

Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals

Jordy Nelson, Packers 

Runner Up: Greg Jennings, Packers

Future: Doug Baldwin, Seahawks and Julio Jones, 

Fullback - AFC

Vonta Leach, Ravens

Future: Marcel Reece, Raiders

Fullback - NFC

Tony Fiammetta, Cowboys

Runner Up: John Kuhn, Packers

Future: Tony Fiametta

Tight End - AFC

Rob Gronkowski, Patriots

Owen Daniels, Texans

Runner Up: Antonio Gates, Chargers

Future: Rob Gronkowski

Tight End - NFC

Jimmy Graham, Saints

Tony Gonzalez, Falcons

Runner Up: Jason Witten, Cowboys

Future: Jake Ballard, Giants

Offensive Tackle - AFC

RT - Eric Winston, Houston 

LT - Duane Brown, Houston

Swing - Andrew Whitworth, Bengals

Offensive Taackle - NFC

RT - Jason Peters, Eagles

LT - Tyron Smith, Cowbohs

Swing - Jordan Gross, Panthers

Guard - AFC

R - Brian Waters, Patriots

L - Marshal Yanda, Ravens

Swing - Brandon Moore, Jets

Guard - NFC

R - Jahri Evans, Saints -  If Sitton was healthy all year, then he would be in this spot.

L - Evan Mathis, Eagles

Swing - Mike Iupati, 49ers

Runner Up: Josh Sitton, Packers and Carl Nicks, Saints

Center - AFC

Alex Mack, Browns

Nick Mangold, Jets

Runner up: Chris Myers, Texans

Center - NFC

Ryan Kalil, Panthers

Max Unger, Seahawks

Runner up: Scott Wells, Packers

Defensive End - AFC

Andre Carter, Patriots

JJ Watt, Texans

Jabaal Sheard, Browns

Defensive End - NFC

Jared Allen, Vikings

Jason Babin, Eagles

Chris Long, Rams

Defensive Tackle - AFC

Geno Atkins, Bengals

Haloti Ngata, Ravens

Richard Seymour, Raiders

Runner Up: Sione Pouha, Jets

Defensive Tackle - NFC

Justin Smith, 49ers

Cullen Jenkins, Eagles

Darnell Dockett, Cardinals

Runner Up: Henry Melton, Bears - Leads in sacks in the defensive tackle category. Very underrated year. This kid is only going to get better

Inside Linebacker - AFC

D'Qwell Jackson, Browns

Derrick Johnson, Chiefs

Runner Up: Pat Angerer, Colts and Brian Cushing, Texans

Inside Linebacker - NFC

London Fletcher, Redskins

Desmond Bishop, Packers

Runner Up: Sean Lee, Cowboys and Patrick Willis, 49ers - Both of these guys have had tremendous seasons, but Flecher and Bishop have just been better. I could definitely see either--or both--of these guys end up in Honalulu

Outside Linebacker - AFC

Terrell Suggs, Baltimore

Connor Barwin, Texans

Von Miller, Broncos

Runner Up: Tamba Hali, Chiefs

Outside Linebacker - NFC

DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys

Clay Matthews, Packers

James Anderson, Panthers

Runner Up: Sean Weatherspoon, Falcons

Future: Michael Boley, Giants

Cornerback - AFC

Darrelle Revis, Jets

Kyle Arrington, Patriots

Johnathan Joseph, Texans

Runner Up: Brandon Flowers, Chiefs

Cornerback - NFC

Charles Tillman, Bears

Carlos Rodgers, 49ers
Brandon Browner, Seahawks

Runner up: Tramon Williams, Packers 

Free Safety - AFC

Eric Weddle, Chargers

Free Safety - NFC

Earl Thomas, Seahawks

Runner Up: Deshon Goldson, 49ers

Future: Malcom Jenkins, Saints

Strong Safety - AFC

George Wilson, Bills

Runner Up: Troy Polamalu, Steelers - He just hasn't made as many plays this year as he has in years past. Not as many as Wilson, at least.

Strong Safety - NFC

Roman Harper, Saints

Kicker -AFC

Sebastian Janikowski, Raiders

Kicker - NFC

Dan Bailey, Cowboys

Punter - AFC

Shane Lechler, Raiders

Punter - NFC

Andy Lee, 49ers

Kick Returner - AFC

Antonio Brown, Steelers

Kick Returner - NFC

Patrick Peterson, Cardinals

Special Teamer

Rock Cartwright, Oakland

Corey Graham, Bears

Team by Team Breakdown

AFC East

New England Patriots - Tom Brady, Wes Welker, Rob Gronkowski, Brian Waters, Andre Carter, Kyle Arrington

New York Jets - Brandon Moore, Nick Mangold, Darrelle Revis

Miami Dolphins - Brandon Marshall

Buffalo Bills - George Wilson

AFC North

Pittsburgh Steelers - Ben Roethlisberger, Mike Wallace

Baltimore Ravens - Ray Rice, Vonta Leach, Marshal Yanda, Haloti Ngata, Terrell Suggs

Cincinnati Bengals - Andrew Whitworth, Geno Atkins

Cleveland Browns - Alex Mack, Jabaal Sheard, D'Qwell Jackson

AFC South

Indianapolis Colts - NONE

Jacksonville Jaguars - Maurice Jones-Drew

Tennessee Titans - NONE

Houston Texans - Arian Foster, Owen Daniels, Eric Winston, Duane Brown, JJ Watt, Connor Barwin. Johnathan Joseph

AFC West

Kansas City Chiefs - Derrick Johnson

Denver Broncos - Tim Tebow, Von Miller

San Diego Chargers - Eric Weddle

Oakland Raiders - Richard Seymour, Sebastian Janikowski, Shane Lechler, Rock Cartwright

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys - Tony Fiametta, Tyron Smith, Demarcus Ware, Dan Bailey

New York Giants - Eli Manning

Philadelphia Eagles - Lesean McCoy, Jason Peters, Evan Mathis, Jason Babin, Cullen Jenkins

Washington Redskins - London Fletcher

NFC North

Green Bay Packers - Aaron Rodgers, Jordy Nelson, Desmond Bishop, Clay Matthews

Detroit Lions - Calvin Johnson

Minnesota Vikings - Jared Allen

Chicago Bears - Charles Tillman, Corey Graham

NFC South

New Orleans Saints - Drew Brees, Jimmy Graham, Jahri Evans, Roman Harper

Tampa Bay Buccaneers - NONE

Carolina Panthers - Steve Smith, Jordan Gross, Ryan Kalil, James Anderson

Atlanta Falcons - Michael Turner, Tony Gonzalez

NFC West

San Francisco 49ers - Frank Gore, Mike Iupati, Justin Smith, Carlos Rodgers, Andy Lee

St.Louis Rams - Chris Long

Seattle Seahawks - Matt Unger, Brandon Browner, Earl Thomas

Arizona Cardinals - Larry Fitzgerald, Darnell Dockett, Patrick Peterson