Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers

Favre (left) has passed to torch to Rodgers, and he's done well with it thus far. (Photo courtesy of The Cheese Heads @ blogspot)

Rodgers is quickly proving to be the medicine for Packers’ fan’s going through Favre withdrawal. Many expected Rodgers to be decent, but he was much more than that in his first full season as a starter in 2008. Throwing for over 4,000 yards and 28 touchdowns, Rodgers also threw only 13 picks, a number that matched Favre’s career LOW in interceptions. Rodgers has great targets in Greg Jennings (the next superstar WR), Donald Driver (reliable No. 2), and Ryan Grant in the backfield. Rodgers may not have the need to pass as often this year with an improved Green Bay defense, but he’ll still be just as efficient (if not more so) and will put up similar TD numbers.

Tony Gonzalez, TE, Falcons

Gonzo will be the same beast he was in KC, but with a better QB. (Photo courtesy of nflgoddess.com)

No off-season acquisition, not even Housh to Seattle or Haynesworth to Washington, will have the impact that Tony Gonzalez to the Falcons will have. In 2008, Gonzo managed over 1,000 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns and had nearly 100 receptions. Did I mention that was all while playing for a team that used a combination of Tyler Thigpen and Brodie Croyle at quarterback? Now Gonzalez is with the Falcons, a team chock full of play makers and a young dynamo at QB. If you’re in a keeper league, Gonzalez’s age may be a bit of a concern (he’s 33). But in one year leagues, you can’t do much better at the tight end position than this guy. He’s always been a top 5 TE, and his move to the ATL only increases his stock.

Steve Slaton, RB, Texans

Slaton could be a top 5 RB by year's end, or higher. (Photo courtesy of Sports Illustrated)

Take a look back at the 2008 draft, and tell me which rookie RB led the league in rushing. Forte? Nope. McFadden? Not even close. Chris Johnson? Good guess, but you’d be wrong. It was Steve Slaton, the kid from West Virginia who, in the early summer of ‘08, was looking like he’d be third on the depth chart behind Ahman Green and Chris Brown. However, an early season injury to Green opened the door for Slaton, and all he did was rush for nearly 1,300 yards and 9 touchdowns. The stat line doesn’t end there for Slaton. He’s also a receiving threat, catching 50 balls for 377 yards. Now as the featured back going into the season, Slaton is sure to be a key part of an offense featuring Andre Johnson at WR. Look for Slaton to close in on 1,700 yards and possibly 14-16 touchdowns. Don’t be scared to grab him in the first round.

Dwayne Bowe, WR, Chiefs

Bowe will benefit from a new QB and the departure of Tony Gonzalez. (Photo courtesy of fanhouse.com)

It’s not often I say that Matt Cassel improves someone’s fantasy projections (in fact, this will probably be the only time). However, such is the case with Chiefs’ WR Dwayne Bowe. Last year, catching from the same QB carousel that Tony Gonzalez dealt with, Bowe managed 86 catches and over 1,000 yards receiving. Todd Haley comes to KC as the new coach, and we all know what he did running the Cardinal’s offense last year. Bowe has enough capable receivers around him to where he’s not forced to carry the workload, but he can expect to be the main target. Combine that with Cassel’s impressive stint as a starter for the Patriots last year, and you have perhaps the perfect storm. Bowe is worthy of being the first WR you take in the draft.

Jason Witten, TE, Cowboys

Sign him up: Witten is ready to be your dynasty TE superstar. (Photo courtesy of tristarproductions.com)

If the team chemistry in Dallas doesn’t improve with the departure of Terrell Owens, one thing’s for sure: Witten’s production is bound to increase big time. Last year, Antonio Gates was the only TE in the league targeted more times than Witten. Now with the largely disappointing Roy Williams as the only other recognizable receiving threat, expect the man crush Tony Romo has on his tight end to grow. Witten’s got great hands and is just as reliable in the red zone as anyone else in the league. It wouldn’t hurt to snatch him up even as early as late 3^rd round.

LaDanian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers

Is LT's career as a fantasy must-have over?

Okay, don’t get me wrong. I like LT. He’s been as dominant a fantasy RB as we’ve ever seen. But looking at the numbers across the board (we tend to do that), LT is just SOOOO 2006. In fact, Tomlinson had more rushing touchdowns in ‘06 than he has the past two seasons combined. Now 30 years old, injuries not withstanding, LT has more to prove this year than ever before, at least in terms of fantasy. A younger (and speedier) Darren Sproles saw an increase in his workload last season with injuries to LT, and we expect to see Sproles play an even bigger role in this year’s offense. Combine that with the strong passing game of Rivers and talented receivers, LT will have even fewer opportunities to make an impact. If he’s still dangling in the late second- early third rounds, don’t hesitate to grab him. But he’s not a first round talent anymore. Let someone else in your league deal with the week-to-week frustrations of wondering if LT will play or not that Sunday.

Eli Manning, QB, NY Giants

Eli- the wrong Manning to have. (picture courtesy of Silent Archimedes)

Nobody in the Giants organization needed Plaxico Burress to remain on the team more than his QB Eli Manning. He was Eli’s crutch for a big stretch of last season (and all of seasons before), and without that big target, Manning flounders. Once Burress was gone last season (Nov. 30 was his last game), Manning failed to throw 200 yards in their last 4 games, and only threw 2 touchdowns during that time. He’ll go into the 2009 season with Steve Smith as his #1 wideout (no, not THAT Steve Smith). There are some talented rookie receivers on the squad, but the bulk of offense for the Giants will come from running back Brandon Jacobs. Passing will be an after thought for Manning this year. He should be a first-string QB in only the deepest of leagues. More so, he’s a serviceable bye week fill-in.

Joseph Addai, RB, Colts

Addai is no longer the lead Colt. (Photo courtesy of Sporting News)

Owners of Addai last year were sorely disappointed in their high expectations of the Colts feature back. Nagging injuries killed production, and Addai ended with only 5 touchdowns and 544 yards. His yards per carry average trended down for the second straight year, causing further concern for fantasy owners. Then, if the stats in injuries weren’t enough, the decision to draft U of Connecticut RB Donald Brown in the first round helped to hammer the nail in the “Addai as the main guy” coffin. Addai may still get some goal line carries, but this team is destined for a dual RB backfield, with the new guy getting the bigger chunk of work. Leave Addai on the board for someone else to be disappointed by.

Torry Holt, WR, Jaguars

Torry Holt's best days are behind him. (photo courtesy of Rock The Wrist Band @ blogspot)

Remember the glory days of “the greatest show on turf”? Well, that was back when Holt was young and played on carpet with a gunslinger for a QB. Those days are long gone, as Holt now finds himself in sunny Jacksonville, running routes for David Garrard. A quick glance at Garrard’s numbers would cause you to think that the Jags are now running a pass-happy offense. Reality is, however, that with an offensive line that is completely healthy and Maurice Jones-Drew finally being relied on as the featured back, the passing game won’t resonate as it did (or had to) last year. Holt is still likely the featured receiver for the Jags, simply because there’s not much else to choose from. But questions about his durability and how many opportunities he gets will surround him. Don’t grab him earlier than the 6^th round, and when you do, don’t expect too much.

__________, RB, Patriots

It's no coincidence Maroney rhymes with phony. (Photo courtesy of projo.com)

If you’ve owned a RB from the New England Patriots at any point in the past 3 years, let’s now take a moment of silence for all the wasted roster spots…..

Feel better? Good. Now heed this advice: the only Patriots NOT worth drafting are those in the backfield. Sure, you can get Laurence Maroney at a bargain, b ut why risk it? Obviously the Pats don’t have faith in him since they brought in Fred Taylor to help out. Throw Sammy Morris and Kevin Faulk in the mix, and it’s a true fantasy football roulette: you can take a gamble on any of the guys, but chances are you’ll lose. Why risk it?

PAC-10 PREVIEW

(Each of my conference previews are determined in part by using a simple formula using certain nine variables to determine a teams ability to win games. These nine categories are as follows: Quarterback, RB/WR/TE, Offensive Line, DE/LB, Secondary, Coaching, Schedule Difficulty, Home Field Advantage, and Player Experience. Each team is ranked in descending order according to their strength in these areas. For example, the team in a conference with the best QB will be given a one, the second best rated team by QB will be given a 2, and on down through the remaining teams in that conference. This formula goes on for all categories. After all categories and teams are ranked, those rankings are added up to give the team’s a total score. The lower the score, the more likely a team will be successful this year and win more games than teams with higher overall scores. By no means is it an exact science, just my personal predictions for the upcoming season.)

For the past seven years, the Pac-10 conference has been more like “USC and the PAC-9”. The choke hold that Pete Carroll and his Trojans have had on the rest of the league has been rather impressive, similar to the way Florida State owned the ACC in the 1990’s. But with the loss of QB Mark Sanchez and a severe lack of experience on defense, can the Men of Troy keep the dominance going?

THREE BOLD PREDICTIONS

1. Jahvid Best will be in New York in December as a Heisman finalist. No, he’s not a quarterback, but he is an absolute speed demon who, despite not having much size, isn’t afraid to take a hit. Not to mention his moves, seen here:     He makes more cuts on the football field than Governor Schwarzenneger does to the California state budget.

2. Freshman QB Kevin Prince will lead UCLA back to a bowl. One of the most heralded recruits from 2007, Prince has the tools to make the Bruins at least competitive this year. Last year, 6 of UCLA’s 8 losses were by 20 points or more. Much of that was due to inconsistent play from their quarterbacks. Prince knows the system after one year as a redshirt, and is ready to step in with a capable offensive group around him.

3. Cal will dethrone USC and play in the Rose Bowl. The biggest question mark for both teams will be the quarterback position, but beyond that, Cal has much of the advantage. I don’t foresee either team ending undefeated, so all the chips will be on the table for their matchup in early October.

THREE GUYS READY FOR DRAFT DAY

1. Taylor Mays, S, USC- Could be the first DB taken in the draft. Great open field tackler with toughness.

2. Jahvid Best, RB, Cal- Speed. Quickness. If he stays healthy he’ll be like Barry Sanders at the next level. (Don’t get mad..I said LIKE.)

3. Dexter Davis, DE, Arizona St.- The only player in the nation to have recorded back-to-back double-digit sack seasons, Davis can get after the QB like few can.

Davis is hoping for his third straight double-digit sack season.

THREE “CAN’T MISS GAMES”

1. USC at Ohio St., September 12- Early test to prove just how “real” the Trojans are this year.

2. Cal at Oregon, September 26- The toughest road game for the Bears this season. They can’t look past Oregon to the next week’s matchup. The Ducks can play.

3. USC at Cal, October 3- There’s a good chance both teams come into this game undefeated, but either way, it will have a huge impact on who claims a trip to Pasadena on New Year’s Day.

Cal hasn't played in a Rose Bowl since 1959. Beating USC would help them get there.

THREE THINGS WE WON’T SEE THIS YEAR

1. A quick turnaround for Washington. Despite the end of the Ty Willingham era, Huskies’ fans won’t be eying bowl tickets just yet. Former USC offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian will develop Washington into a contender eventually, and Jake Locker being behind center gives them glimmers of hope in 2010, but this season, expect much of the same.

2. A USC QB to make the All Pac-10 First Team. No Palmer. No Leinart. No Sanchez. No first team QB. Does that mean the cupboard is bare? Not at all. In fact, depth wise no one competes with USC in the QB department. But whether it’s Aaron Corp, Mitch Mustain, or Matt Barkley behind center, expect rookie mistakes this year from the Trojan gunslingers.

3. Dennis Erickson avoid the hot seat. That’s not to say he’ll get fired should the Devils miss a bowl berth again, but everyone expected more from ASU the past few years. They were thought to be one of the top teams in the Pac-10, but have quietly eroded into mediocrity. Now with the rise of rival Arizona, the Devils need to win and win soon.

THREE REASONS TO WATCH THE BIG EAST

1. The fall of Troy? Be it the Yankees, Lakers, or New England Patriots, every sport has their most hated team. That hate breeds typically from jealousy of a team’s success. In college football, USC is that team. There’s no question of the tremendous success that the Trojans have experienced. For the first time in a long time, however, they’re not a clear cut favorite to win the Pac-10. Tons of football fans will be watching just to cheer on anyone NOT named Southern Cal.

2. Jake Locker. He may be the best QB that you’ve never heard of. Despite playing on bad teams, Locker has provided some offensive spark to an engine otherwise dead. Perhaps now with a new coach, Locker can get some help so he doesn’t have to do it all on his own. Think of Locker as a poor man’s Colt McCoy.

   

   Locker leads a revived Huskies' offense.

3. The “Civil Wars”. This could be one of the better year’s in recent memory for the conference’s rivalries. Oregon/Oregon State probably being the most notable, especially since both teams should be strong. USC/UCLA will garner more attention, as will Arizona/Arizona State.

BOWL QUALIFIERS

Cal, USC, Oregon State, UCLA, Oregon, Arizona

BIG EAST PREVIEW

(Each of my conference previews are determined in part by using a simple formula using certain nine variables to determine a teams ability to win games. These nine categories are as follows: Quarterback, RB/WR/TE, Offensive Line, DE/LB, Secondary, Coaching, Schedule Difficulty, Home Field Advantage, and Player Experience. Each team is ranked in descending order according to their strength in these areas. For example, the team in a conference with the best QB will be given a one, the second best rated team by QB will be given a 2, and on down through the remaining teams in that conference. This formula goes on for all categories. After all categories and teams are ranked, those rankings are added up to give the team’s a total score. The lower the score, the more likely a team will be successful this year and win more games than teams with higher overall scores. By no means is it an exact science, just my personal predictions for the upcoming season.)

 More and more, predicting the Big East is getting to be like predicting the Kentucky Derby winner. Sure there is always a favorite, but any other horse seems just as capable of running away with the prize. Here’s a look at what will take place in the upcoming season, though trust me, everything could completely flip around (Well, not completely. I’ll put $50 on Syracuse NOT winning the Big East this year).

Can the Mountaineers run past the rest of the Big East and reclaim the conference crown?

THREE BOLD PREDICTIONS

1. West Virginia’s Defense will be the driving force to them winning the conference title.  That’s right. Defense. After all, the team known for flashy talent on offense did manage to rank 11^th nationally last year in scoring defense. And of course the offense is capable to score big even with the loss of superstar QB Pat White. Look for WVU to hold off a hungry Rutgers team and claim the Big East championship.

2. UConn will nearly double their loss total from last year and miss out on a bowl.  That’s a tough pill for Husky fans to swallow after having a successful year last year, one that started off with 5 straight wins. However, with the loss of big time RB Donald Brown to the NFL draft and several other key offensive components, the Huskies will search quickly to find a new offensive identity. That coupled with the most difficult schedule in the conference has the Huskies spending the holidays watching the bowls instead of playing in one.

3. Rumors will swirl again regarding Greg Schiano going to Miami.  There’s no question that many Hurricane fans were disappointed a few years ago when Greg Schiano decided not to take the head job at Miami. However, should the Canes continue their mediocrity in this, Randy Shannon’s 3^rd year, and if that combines with a great season similar to what Rutgers is expected to have, then look for the rumor mill to start up again regarding Schiano. What he’s done at Rutgers with their football program, recruiting, and national exposure to the school is nothing short of miraculous. Trust me, going to 4 straight bowls at Rutgers is a BIG deal.

THREE GUYS READY FOR DRAFT DAY

 George Selvie, DE, South Florida–-Don’t let the lack of sacks last year by Selvie fool you. That was more an issue of constant double teams after his huge 2007. This kid is a pass rushing monster. He already has 25.5 sacks for his career, and there’s nothing to keep him from adding to that total this season.

USF's star defensive end Selvie should have a huge senior year.

Noel Devine, RB, West Virginia—It’s almost as if Steve Slaton never left. Devine, now a junior, racked up nearly 1,300 yards rushing last year, averaging 6.3 per carry. His size is small, but that won’t matter when he’s running a 4.2 40 at the combine.

Anthony Davis, T, Rutgers–-Only a junior, Davis weighs in at 6 feet 6 inches, 325 pounds. Not bad for a left tackle. Expect this guy to be a first round pick barring injury.

THREE “CAN’T MISS GAMES”

1. West Virginia at South Florida, Oct. 30- Always seems to be a tough game for the Mountaineers. They’ll need to win it to keep their sights on the Big East title.

2. West Virginia at Rutgers, Dec. 5- Could be a de facto championship game. Both teams certainly have the talent. Can they avoid letdowns earlier in the season?

3. Cincinnati at Pitt, Dec. 5- Depending on the outcome of WVU-Rutgers, this game could have title implications of it’s own. Keep an eye on Cincy QB Tony Pike, one of the nation’s most underrated QBs.

THREE THINGS WE WON’T SEE THIS YEAR

1. Louisville be relevant. Remember when the road to the Big East crown went through Louisville? Not anymore. Another bowl-less season for the Cards, and Kragthorpe will find himself on the hot seat (if he’s not there already).

2. An undefeated team in conference. Like I said earlier, this conference always has at least 3 or 4 teams vying for the title, and it’s damn near impossible to pick just one. While I do think West Virginia will hoist the trophy at the end, they won’t make it through unscathed.

3. The conference champ decided before Thanksgiving. There are several key conference games (as mentioned earlier) that come after turkey day that will play big roles in who comes out of this conference a winner. And really, that’s your hope in every conference, that the last few weeks are the most exciting.

THREE REASONS TO WATCH THE BIG EAST

1.  The new White and Slaton (Jarrett Brown and Noel Devine). -Don’t think just because Pat White and Steve Slaton are gone from the West Virginia offense that the flash and speed days are over.

2.  Coaching carousel.  -Is this the year the young rising star coaches get plucked from the Big East? Greg Schiano from Rutgers, Brian Kelly at Cincinnati, and Jim Leavitt at South Florida have all been a part of various rumors in recent years. Is this the year one of these guys leaves for a big time gig in the SEC or Big 12?

Cincinnati coach Brian Kelly could be targeted by some big name programs if the Bearcats have another big year.

3.  It’s the most unpredictable conference.  -Like I said, you never know really what to expect from the Big East. You know the names. You know the schools. You just don’t know which one will be left standing once the dust settles. That fact alone makes this conference greatly intriguing.

BOWL QUALIFIERS

West Virginia, Rutgers, Pitt, Cincinnati, South Florida

Sure, the balls are different, but the arrogance (and often times blonde-cheerleader-esque airheadedness) of Dodgers OF…er…free agent OF Manny Ramirez and the Knick divorcee guard Stephon Marbury have more in common than you may think.  And the acquisition the Celtics are making in taking a flier on Marbury proves one of two things: the C’s are desperate for any sort of backup for Rajon Rondo, or Boston is playing the economic-friendly card by switching all shoes to the cheaper Starbury brand.

None the less, despite the daggers often thrown at Marbury for his stubborness this season (and annoying behavior in season’s past), the man can still play.  Marbury is 32, 3 years younger than 2 time MVP Steve Nash.  Man-Ram will be 37 this year, yet still will be making in the $20-25 mill range over the 162 game season.  We all know Ramirez can hit the daylights out of the ball.  We should also point out Marbury averages nearly 20 points and 9 assists per game in his career. 

The underlying question here is can Stephon handle being a full-time backup?  Will he be okay NOT being the star?  Perhaps his main concern at this point is winning a ring.  If so, good for Doc Rivers.  But if Marbury is obsessed with dollar signs, and a new contract for next year prioritizes itself above team play, then the C’s will have made a huge mistake. 

Stephon can do two things: break out, be a star 6th man and provide valuable minutes resting Rajon Rondo.  Or, he can be the NBA’s version of T.O., drain the team’s chemistry, and have minimal contribution to the team. 

Here’s to hoping he’s not the head-case in Beantown that he’s been in NY.  If Stephon plays like he’s capable of playing, we’ll be looking at one of the best post-trade deadline pickups in NBA history.

Unsure of what games to watch and what to ignore this upcoming bowl season?  Not to worry!  Yours truly has taken the time to weed out the snoozers and help ensure you don’t waste your time on meaningless games.  As some general rules of thumb, note the following:

-Games that include teams that you A) don’t know the names of any players, or B) don’t know any coaches, or C) you can’t even name any notable alumni from either school, those bowls are best avoided.

-Bowls named after food or companies that make food are generally good games. 

-Any bowl named after a website is likely not worth viewing.

-Yes, it is okay to continue to refer to the Chik-fil-A Bowl as the Peach Bowl.  Because dang it, that’s the way any SEC or ACC fan will always think of it, and you should too.

Now I’ve broken the bowls down into 4 categories, ranging from the worst games to watch to the best ones.  Now, on to the bowls!

The “I Forgot The Game Was Even On” Bowls

EAGLE BANK BOWL- Wake Forest vs. Navy

It’s rare to have a bowl game set up to rematch a regular season game, but that’s what we have here.  Navy won in Winston-Salem earlier this year thanks to some Demon Deac turnovers.  I think Jim Grobe has his team turned around here though and ready to play.  Wake Forest 27, Navy 24

NEW MEXICO BOWL- Colorado St. vs. Fresno St.

Colorado St. suprised some with 6 wins and a bowl bid in Steve Fairchild’s first year.  Meanwhile Fresno disappointed after many believed they were the BCS buster team to beat this year.  Fresno St. 37, Colorado St. 28

MAGIC JACK ST. PETERSBURG BOWL- Memphis vs. South Florida

Like Fresno, USF is another disappointing team.  Memphis is accustomed to playing in these lame duck bowls, but USF expects more now.  Look out for an emotionally letdown Bulls team to struggle.  Memphis 44, USF 41

R+L CARRIERS NEW ORLEANS BOWL- Southern Miss vs. Troy

Was there really not another company that could sponsor this bowl?  Sheesh, talk about lame.  Troy’s got a stingy D, and that may be the difference in this one.  Troy 26, So. Miss. 13

MOTOR CITY BOWL- Fla. Atlantic vs. Cent. Michigan

As fun as a trip to Detroit in late-December sounds, you gotta think the Owls would like to be a bit closer to home.  Look for a shootout between two exciting QBs.  CMU 41, FAU 38

INDEPENDENCE BOWL- No. Illinois vs. La. Tech

The city of Shreveport will be asking Santa to place some extra coal in the SEC’s stocking this year, as their ineptitude at getting 8 bowl eligible teams has forced the Independence Bowl to take No. Illinois instead.  Give a slight edge to the home-state team.  La. Tech 37, No. Illinois 31

PAPAJOHNS.COM BOWL- NC State vs. Rutgers

How the papajohns.com bowl doesn’t get played at Papa Johns Stadium is beyond confusing, but I digress.  Rutgers is down a bit this year, and struggled to get into a bowl.  NC State did as well, but after their start, any bowl bid granted was a nice consolation.  Tom O’Brien has the Pack playing well.  NC State 28, Rutgers 17

ROADY’S HUMANITARIAN BOWL- Maryland vs. Nevada

The Smurf Turf Bowl features the nation’s best rushing attack.  Nevada should be able to run all day on the Terps.  Question is will the Terps be able to keep up?   Nevada 31, Maryland 24

TEXAS BOWL- West. Michigan vs. Rice

One of the best passing offenses (Rice) vs. one of the worst pass defenses (WMU).  You do the math.  Rice 38, WMU 30

INSIGHT.COM BOWL- Kansas vs. Minnesota

Kansas certainly hoped for more, but none the less this could be an interesting game.  Minnesota played very well at times this year, but got bombed 55-0 in their finale against Iowa.  I give Kansas a slight edge.  Kansas 24, Minnesota 21

GMAC BOWL-  Ball St. vs. Toledo

What do Alex Rodriguez and Cardinal’s QB Nate Davis have in common?  Neither are clutch performers.  Davis was personally responsible for 5 turnovers in their MAC title game loss to Buffalo.  After that loss, this bowl game lost all interest it had to begin with (which was very little).  Toledo 34, Ball St. 28

The “I’ll Watch It If There Are No Reruns Of The Office, Family Guy, or Madden Nation On” Bowls

HAWAII BOWL- Hawaii vs. Notre Dame

So let me get this right: the Irish such it up, have an awful season, get a lame bowl bid, and STILL get a trip to Hawaii?  Something’s not right.  Hawaii isn’t the same team we’re used to either.  The Irish may actually win.  Notre Dame 26, Hawaii 23

ARMED FORCES BOWL- Houston vs. Air Force

Dynamic passing vs. dynamic running.  Passing score more quick points.  Houston 45, Air Force 39

BRUT SUN BOWL- Oregon St. vs. Pittsburgh

The Beavers were a Civil War win away from a rematch with Penn St. in the Rose Bowl.  Instead OSU gets to go to a bowl named after a cologne cheap enough for Wal-Mart to stock.  Nice.  Oregon St. 31, Pitt 27

MUSIC CITY BOWL-  Boston College vs. Vandy

Bowls just aren’t fair.  BC makes it to the ACC title game for the second straight year, yet gets stuck playing in a lame bowl in Nashville.  Vandy makes it to their first bowl since 1749, and they don’t even get to leave town.  Blech!  BC 27, Vandy 20

ORANGE BOWL- Cincinnati vs. Va. Tech

Yes, I know this is a BCS game, and as much as I want to see the ACC do well, the fact is as long as the Big East is sorta lame at football too, this game will have little meaning.  Still I like what Cincy has done under Brian Kelly, but VT has an incredibly talented defense to be so young.  VT 20, Cincy 14

LIBERTY BOWL- Kentucky vs. East Carolina

Kentucky has been a rather ho-hum SEC team this year, not having any big wins, but have remained competitive for the most part.  ECU shocked the world with beating VT, and managed to win the C-USA.  I think they come in a little more ready to play.  ECU 23, Kentucky 14

The “Worth At Least A Bag Of Popcorn” Bowls

LAS VEGAS BOWL- BYU vs. Arizona

BYU has been a consistent team all year.  Arizona seems to be finding it’s way back to football relevance.  Should be an interesting game to watch.  BYU 31, Arizona 29

MEINIKE CARE CARE BOWL- North Carolina vs. West Virginia

What has happened to the Mountaineers?  They were Big East title shoe-ins before this season started.  Now a bowl loss will leave many WVU fans questioning the Bill Stewart hire.  And just imagine how could the Tar Heels would have been if they had a healthy offense all season?  UNC 27, WVU 26

CHAMPS SPORTS BOWL- Wisconsin vs. Florida St.

Bobby Bowden would like to get back to top ten status at some point before he retires.  This year’s team was certainly better than last year’s, and they get to play a downtrodden Wisconsin team, one of the most disappointing squads in Division I this year.  Florida St. 25, Wisconsin 18

EMERALD BOWL- Miami vs. California

The Hurricanes are slowly righting the ship, but a long trip out west against a very talented Cal team may prove to be too big a test for this young team to handle.  Cal 34, Miami 21

ALAMO BOWL- Missouri vs. Northwestern

Two exciting offenses matchup here, with a great passing attack against a strong running game.  Mizzou wanted more than this out of their season, but won’t turn down a chance to beat a Big 10 team.  Mizzou 37, N’western 28

HOLIDAY BOWL- Oklahoma St. vs. Oregon

The potent Cowboy offense will have to keep up with an equally impressive Duck offense.  The running game of Kendall Hunter proves to be the difference in this one.  Oklahoma St. 42, Oregon 37

OUTBACK BOWL- S. Carolina vs. Iowa

It should be fun to see the SEC’s best defense try to stop one of the best runners in the nation (Iowa’s Shon Greene).  We all know the track record of the SEC vs. Big 10.  I think Iowa plucks one away from the Ol’ Ball Coach here, however.  Iowa 23, S. Carolina 21

CAPITAL ONE BOWL- Georgia vs. Michigan St.

Another SEC/Big 10 showdown.  Can UGa shut down Javon Ringer?  I think this will be a close one, but the better QB wins.  That QB is Matthew Stafford.  Georgia 31, Mich. St. 28

SUGAR BOWL- Utah vs. Alabama

Another BCS game not making our top-tier of bowls.  Bama was one quarter away from playing for all the marbles.  Instead, they get the chance to flex their muscle and hand a non-BCS school their first loss of the season.  Consider mission accomplished.  Oh, and go ahead and mark Bama vs. Florida in next year’s SEC title game as well.  Alabama 30, Utah 17

INTERNATIONAL BOWL- Buffalo vs. UConn

Yep, that’s right.  A game not even played on U.S. soil makes it this far up the list.  That’s because Buffalo, who hasn’t been to a bowl since, well, bowls were invented, is the MAC champion.  They’ll get to matchup against the nation’s top rusher in Donald Brown.  Honestly, I can’t remember the last time I was eager to see a MAC team play.  Buffalo 17, UConn 15

The “Order Me An Extra-Large Pizza Fully Loaded and a Twelve Pack of Mountain Dew Code Red and Don’t Dare Touch The TV for The Next 4 Hours” Bowls

POINSETTIA BOWL- Boise St. vs. TCU

It’s rare a non-BCS team bowl matchup brings such excitement, but with two teams as impressive as these are, you should mark your calendars to watch it.  Why?  First, Boise St. is undefeated.  Secondly, both teams are ranked in the top 11.  Third, Boise has the nation’s 13th best offense while TCU has the 2nd best defense.  This WILL be a good game, and maybe even the best bowl of them all.  TCU 24, Boise St. 22

CHIK-FIL-A, errr…PEACH BOWL- LSU vs. Ga. Tech

Boy did LSU fall off the map.  And just as quick as they did, Georgia Tech jumped on it.  After drubbing in-state rivals Georgia, the Ramblin’ Wreck hopes to accomplish a SEC fan’s worst nightmare: beat two huge SEC schools back-to-back.  Les Miles, good luck with stopping Jonathan Dwyer and the triple-option.  Ga. Tech 31, LSU 25

GATOR BOWL- Clemson vs. Nebraska

Go ahead, call me a homer, placing this game so high up the ladder.  First, you need to know the significance of this one.  This is the first meeting I believe of the two school’s since Clemson’s Orange Bowl win over the Huskers in 1981 to win the national championship.  Two months ago, Tiger fans would’ve been happy with any bowl.  Two first year coaches meet head-to-head.  Which QB will step up?  Cullen Harper or Joe Ganz?  Clemson 28, Nebraska 22

ROSE BOWL- Penn St. vs. USC

It’s hard to figure just how good Penn State is after their upset loss to Iowa.  They’ll matchup with the kings of the west and one of the best defenses around.  Not to mention it’s basically a home game for USC.  USC 39, Penn St. 24

COTTON BOWL- Ole Miss vs. Texas Tech

How Graham Harrell gets excluded from the Heisman list is beyond me, but here’s his chance to prove his worth (again).  Ole Miss has been a surprise team this year, and is looking to gain national exposure with a win over former BCS media darlings Texas Tech.  Texas Tech 40, Ole Miss 34

FIESTA BOWL- Texas vs. Ohio St.

So Mack Brown, your team beat Oklahoma on neutral ground by 10 points, and you didn’t get in the BCS title game?  Yep, it’s a messed up world.  But here’s your chance to prove you belong in Miami by hammering Ohio State.  Can Terelle Pryor show up in the clutch?   Texas 35, Ohio St. 24

BCS TITLE GAME- Florida vs. Oklahoma

This may be one of the best title game matchups we’ve seen in a while.  Certainly the best one since USC/Texas from a few years back.  Florida is just sick with talent and speed on both sides of the ball.  Oklahoma will hang 60 on anybody, no questions asked.  First one to 70 wins?  Okay, maybe not that much scoring, but it should be exciting to watch.

Florida 45, Oklahoma 41

1.  The “Cardiac Cats” are Back

They aren’t making it look easy, but the Carolina Panthers are winning games, al be it in ugly fashion.  For the second straight week the Panthers struggled against a bad team, but still ended on the right side of the scoreboard, knocking off the winless Detroit Lions 31-22.  RBs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart combined for a team record 264 yards rushing against the Lions.  However, Jake Delhomme was held under 100 yards passing for the second straight week, a stat that can become troubling come playoff time.  Delhomme is a veteran, and more than likely he’ll get back on track.  Then again, if the dynamic duo at running back continues at this pace, Delhomme may not need to pass for 100+ to win.  Carolina is 7-3 and travels to Atlanta next week to play the gritty Falcons.

2.  Despite a still-injured pinkie and a Lame Coach, the Cowboys are Still Alive

As much of a cheeseball coach as Wade Phillips is, he still seems to manage to win ballgames.  Despite Tony Romo’s performance that showed some lingering affects of his pinkie injury, Dallas managed a 14-10 win over the rival Redskins Sunday night.  Hey, as long as Marion Barber can be a “Brandon Webb/Brad Lidge” kind of running back, the Cowboys will be in every game the rest of the way.  Barber scrapped for 66 4th quarter rushing yards, and basically put the game on ice by himself in the last 6 minutes.  The ‘Boys are 6-4, tied with the ‘Skins for second in the NFC East.

3.  The San Diego Chargers are the Most Underachieving Team in the NFL

If you had told me before the season started that the Chargers would have a healthy offense for the entire first half of the season and ony be 4-6 after week 11, I would’ve told you that your prediction was crazier than Al Davis being GM of the year.  But alas, here we are, playing Monday morning QB with the Chargers and wondering how they could lose this many games already?  The loss of Shawne Merriman early in the year ws big, but it wasn’t enough to implode BOTH sides of the ball.  And even with Ladanian Tomlinson running the ball, the Chargers still rank 26th in the league in rushing yards per game.  Ouch.  Not that losing to the Steelers by one point is embarassing, but we expected better.  The sad thing is in the absoultely awful AFC West, the Chargers are still alive.  The leader is the Denver Broncos at 6-4.  SD sits just 2 games back.

4.  The Texans are the best “bad” team I’ve seen in a while.

God bless the Houston Texans.  The not even a decade old franchise is ranked in the upper half of the league in points per game, yards per game, passing yards per game (they’re 5th), and rushing yards per game.  Still, they manage to lose games like Sunday’s 33-27 loss to the Colts because they have no idea how to close out games.  Sage Rosenfels has done well in place of the injured Matt Schaub, and Steve Slaton rolled up 156 yards rushing yesterday, tops in the league.  Still the Texans got outscored 24-14 in the second half, marking the fourth loss this year for the club that was determined by 7 points or less.  Still, the 3-7 Texans are playing well, and as soon as they figure how to NOT turn the ball over and close out games, they’ll be a team to keep an eye on in the future.

5.  The Tennessee Titans….really?

It boggles my mind that this team is still undefeated.  I’m not saying they’re not good, they’re just not a team predicated on perfection.  They’re relying on vagabond QB Kerry Collins to lead the charge, and so far he’s stepped up to the challenge.  However, the offense isn’t what wins games for this team, it’s the defense.  Giving up only 13 points a game (best in the league) will help any team win ball games.  I’m not convinced they’re the best in the NFL, but the Titans sure know how to win games so far. 

6.  In Terms of Immediate Impact, This May Be the Best Rookie Class Ever

The impact this rookie class is having on the league is proving to be one of the best we’ve seen in a while.  Two teams that struggled bad enough to have departing coaches last year have turned things around thanks to rookie QBs.  Of course I’m talking about Joe Flacco for the Ravens and Matt Ryan for the Falcons.  As for running backs, there are 5 rookies that are already over 500 yards rushing on the year, none with the last name McFadden.  Chris Johnson (Titans), Matt Forte (Bears), Steve Slaton (Texans), Kevin Smith (Lions), and Jonathan Stewart (Panthers) are all over 500 yards on the year running the ball, and none of them have less than 4 TDs.  And lastly, while rookie WRs aren’t always known for making a big splash in their first year, a few have.  Eddie Royal (Broncos) and DeSean Jackson (Eagles) are already over 600 yards receiving.  Throw in a couple of nice TEs (Dustin Keller, Jets, and John Carlson, Seahawks) that have over 27 receptions and 300 yards each, then you’ve got an impressive rookie class.

7.  Ties Suck, but so do the Bengals and Eagles

It blows my mind how Donovan McNabb throws 3 picks for the first time since 2006, and yet the Bengals can’t win.  It also blows my mind how the Bengals are 23rd in the league in run defense, yet the Eagles only hand Brian Westbrook the ball 14 times.  Bottom line from Sunday’s 13-13 tie at Paul Brown Stadium is that the Bengals desperately need a running game, and the Eagles desperately need a big-name wide receiver.  Simple as that.

8.  The Greed of the NFL Pisses Me Off Sometimes

Look, I want to make money as much as the next guy.  Believe me, I do.  I work in sales.  I understand the continual drive to obtain wealth.  However, when I miss two of the most exciting games in the NFL this season because I don’t subscribe to the NFL Channel, I get a little upset.  It’s not enough to force me into 2, maybe 3 games viewable on Sunday afternoon, now I must pay X amount of Benjamins just to see an occasional Thursday night game?  Why?  And furthermore, who are these morons paying for the NFL Network?  Is it really worth seeing preseason games and constant replays of last week’s games?  I don’t think so. 

9.  How Underrated is the NFC South?

The preseason favorite by many prognosticators to win the division was the Saints, who sit dead last.  However, they hold a record of 5-5, one that would make them tied for first in the NFC North.  The hapless Falcons who just a year ago began life without Michael Vick sit at a comfy 6-4 thanks to brilliant acquisitions of Michael Turner and Matt Ryan via the draft.  The Bucs, who won the division last year, are 7-3, and still not good enough to be first.  That spot belongs to Carolina at 8-2.  Yet the media love affair with Romo and the Cowboys and the Brady-less Patriots has caused great disillusion amongst NFL fans, distracting them from what will be the best divisional race in the NFL, if for no other reason than the fact that all the teams are actually good.

The official start to the ACC basketball season is less than 24 hours away, tipping off at 7:00 pm tomorrow with a game pitting Delaware against Duke.  While that game may not entice you to watch ACC basketball this year, there are many other reasons to keep tuned to the best basketball conference in the nation.

Let’s run down the predicted order of finish, starting top to bottom…

1.  North Carolina

Winning the ACC this year won’t be that much of a feat for the Heels.  Their eyes are on a much bigger prize, one that they missed out on last year in the Final Four against eventual champion Kansas.  THe question after last season was how many of the Heels’ players would declare for the NBA draft?  The answer?  None.  UNC brings back all five starters on top of 92% of their scoring from last year.  Tyler Hansbrough, last year’s National Player of the Year winner, will be joined by future NBAers Ty Lawson and Wayne Ellington.  Throw in junior forward Deon Thompson and the Heels look to beat nearly unbeatable.  The only question for this team will be if Hansbrough and company can stay healthy all year.  If so, there’s no reason this team can’t repeat what they did in 2005 and win the whole enchilada.

2.  Duke

The talent in Duke is always there, just not always in abundance.  Such has been the case in recent years, where the starting 5 has been stellar for Coach K, but lack of depth has hurt tremendously.  Thus is the situation for this year’s Blue Devil squad, citing depth again as a potential barrier between a solid team and a good team.  4 of the 5 leading scorers from last year return, and that will be key in senior leadership for a team that bowed out in the second round of the NCAA tournament last year.  Greg Paulus, Gerald Henderson, and Jon Scheyer comprise a very talented back court, and Kyle Singler (last year’s ACC rookie of the year) should continue making his presence felt in the front court.  Look for 6-10 freshman Miles Plumlee to turn some heads during the year, as Duke doesn’t have a true standout center.

3.  Miami

Someone has forgotten to tell Miami they’re a football school.  The basketball team is experiencing tremendous success, and you can contribute much of it to Coach Frank Haith.  He’s turned a program that would just be happy to be in the NIT several years ago to a team competing for an ACC crown and seeding in the NCAA tournament.  Senior guard Jack McClinton will be the backbone for this team, coming off a strong season where he averaged nearly 18 PPG.  Miami easily could be changed out with Duke for the #2 spot.

4.  Clemson

For the first time in a long time, Tiger fans are facing the reality that perhaps it will be their hoops squad, not football, that will bring Clemson to national prominence.  Clemson won 10 ACC games for the first time since 1990.  The Tigers had an impressive run in the ACC tourney, knocking off Duke before losing to UNC in the title game.  Despite an opening round upset by Villanova, Clemson is certainly on the right path of progression.  Gone are playmakers James Mays and Cliff Hammonds, but the talented K.C. Rivers should help guide this team back into another NCAA tourney bid.

5.  Wake Forest

Barely 18 months after Skip Prosser’s tragic death, the Demon Deacons have scrapped their way back to ACC relevance under 2nd year coach Dino Gaudio.  Sophomore forward James Johnson returns to a team packed with young talent, namely guys like Al-Farouq Aminu and Tony Woods.  Wake will be back in the NCAA tourney again this year, and meanwhile be hoping their young talent sticks around for a while and not be lured away by the NBA.

6.  Virginia Tech

Seth Greenberg, 2007 ACC Coach of the Year, had to be disappointed with not receiving a bid for the NCAA tourney last year.  A resume that boasted a 9-7 ACC record also had some ugly losses, and the Hokies look to turn taht around this year.  Senior A.D. Vassallo is back, along with sophomore star Jeff Allen.  VT will likely be back on that often ill-fated bubble again this year.  Their chance at a ticket to the Big Dance may depend more on the conference as a whole.

7.  Boston College

After finishing dead last in the ACC last year, the Golden Eagles have nowhere to look but up.  Gone is inside block master Tyrelle Blair.  However, the Eagles do bring back a wealth of talent in Tyrese Rice, Rakim Sanders, and Corey Raji.  Many see this still as a young team not much beyond NIT level if that, but they’re the darkhorse this year, and with a great coach like Al Skinner, anything is possible.

8.  Florida State

It’s the Toney Douglas show in Tallahassee this year, mainly because he’s the only one of the Noles 4 leading scorers from last year returning.  Douglas lead the ACC in steals last year, and with talented freshmen around him, he could help lead this team back to the NCAA tourney. 

9.  Georgia Tech

Paul Hewitt has had minimal success since his NCAA Finals appearance in 2004.  Last year’s team finished 9th in the ACC and failed to even make the NIT.  This year things will be just as difficult without last year’s 2 leading scorers.  Hewitt is a man who can develop talent, but he’ll need to do it quickly for thsi team to succeed this year.

10.  Maryland

It’s difficult to rank a Gary Williams coached team this low, especially with all-ACC talent like Greivis Vasquez returning to lead the Terps.  However, losing frontcourt mates Bambale Osby and James Gist will absolutely kill this team inside.  Without front court talent, Maryland will be relegated to a NIT berth, and force Terps’ fans to continue questioning if a coaching change should be made.

11.  Virginia

No team will be effected with the loss of a player than Virginia with the loss of Sean Singletary.  The Cavs will miss his leadership, not to mention his near 20 PPG average last year.  The real problem is there’s no one to really step up in his absence.  Jeff Jones is the most capable, but this will certainly be a rebuilding year in Charlottesville.

12.  North Carolina State

Almost as much as Singletary will be missed at Virginia, J.J. Hickson will be missed in Raleigh.  The Wolfpack’s leadering scorer and rebounder is gone, thus making this year’s team Brandon Costner’s team.  If he steps up like he’s capable of doing, then the Pack are possible Big Dance contendors.  If not, it’s another abysmal year for Sidney Lowe and company.

Pre-Season Awards

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Tyler Hansbrough, UNC

ONly man in the league to average a double-double, he’s got a real shot to go out on top with his team and on an individual level.

COACH OF THE YEAR: Dino Gaudio, Wake Forest

Great young talent proves this guy can recruit.  If he gets a NCAA bid, this award is his for the taking.

ROOKE OF THE YEAR: Al-Farouq Aminu, Wake Forest

ALL-ACC Team

Tyler Hansbrough, UNC

Greivis Vasquez, Maryland

Jack McClinton, Miami

James Johnson, Wake Forest

Ty Lawson, UNC

GAMES TO WATCH

Wisconsin at Va. Tech/ UNC at Michigan St (12/1, 12/3)

-the ACC/Big 10 challenge will prove if the Hokies and Heels are real

Duke vs. Xaver (12/20)

-big early test for Duke back court

Clemson at Miami (12/21)

-preview of runner-up spot in the ACC?

Pittsburgh at Florida St. (12/21)

-Pitt is a national title contender, FSU wants to prove themselves

Boston College at UNC (1/4)

-What a way to start the new year for the Eagles; a trip to Chapel HIll

Davidson at Duke (1/7)

-When’s the last time Duke player a non-ACC team from North Carolina at home, and the best player on the court wasn’t a Blue Devil?

UNC at Wake Forest (1/11)

-Wake has a shot to realign themselves with Tobacco Road glory

Duke at UNC (3/8)

-The Devils won in Chapel Hill last year.  Think those Tarheel seniors wanna go out like that this year?

Happy Halloween from the Pine Rider to all college football enthusiasts.  This weekend boasts two matchups of teams in the top ten as well as some other interesting games to look at.  One top 25 team not playing this week is Ball State (remember, the school David Letterman is from?).  In honor of the Cardinals, we’ll pick this weekend’s games using one famous alum from each school playing.  Enjoy!

#23 South Florida (Hulk Hogan) at Cincinnati (Sarah Jessica Parker)

Hulk Hogan It's the Hulkster vs. Sex in the City. USF Alum Hulk Hogan certainly has to feel happy with the way the Bulls' program has progressed recently. However, they run into a buzzsaw of a team in Brian Kelly's Cincinnati Bearcats. We'll take Sarah Jessica Parker's high heels in a stunner over Hulkamania. Cincinnati 31, USF 27 Northwestern (Charlton Heston) at #17 Minnesota (Ric Flair)Ric Flair

Phil Hellmuth

Wisconsin (Phil Hellmuth) at #21 Michigan St. (Jimmy Hoffa)

 

  West Virginia (Tommy Bowden) at #25 UConn (Meg Ryan)

Meg Ryan

  With last week’s big win over Cincinnati, UConn found it’s way back into the top 25.  Last week, West Virginia did something Tommy Bowden failed to do last year: beat Auburn.  Now that the Mountaineers seem to have regained their footing a bit, they’ll take their chances against stud running back Ronald Brown who is helping the Huskies rush for over 210 yards a game.  This matchup will be no “City of Angels”.  We expect a grind it out game, with the Huskies coming out the winner.      UConn 35, W. Virginia 32

                                                                                                       

                                                                               #18 Tulsa (Dr. Phil) at Arkansas (John Daly)

Dr. Phil

Reportedly John Daly was found completely passed out drunk outside of a Hooters in Winstom-Salem this past weekend.  At this point I would feel compelled to make some smug joke about Daly’s condition being similar to that of the Razorback’s football team, but that would be too easy (and fun).  Tulsa’s managed just fine without needing any pyschological help from their grad Dr. Phil.  They’re averaging 55 points a game, and Arkansas isn’t even scoring 20.  So who wins?  Do you really think I’d pick the Hogs here?  Now THAT’S some stinkin’ thinkin’!!!

Tulsa 40, Arkansas 26

Arkansas St. (Jeremy Biggs) at #2 Alabama (Jim Nabors)

The Crimson Tide catch a break from 5 straight weeks of SEC football when the Indians from Arkansas State come to town.  You know you’re not much of a football school when one of your more well-known alumns is a two-time raquetball champion (Jeremy Biggs).  Nick Saban has taken the Tide back to the glory days of Bama football, back when Bear Bryant roamed the sidelines and Gomer Pyle was still popular on TV.  I can just hear Mr. Nabors now: “Wellll gahhhllly!  I betcha Bama may just win by fifty-sumthin!”  I think he may just about be right.

Alabama 48, Arkansas St. 10

                                                                 #14 Missouri (Sam Walton) at Baylor (Derek Phillips)

The Tigers are coming off a big win, taking out their frustration on Colorado last week.  Baylor, meanwhile, comes off yet another loss, this time to Nebraska.  Big things can still happen with Mizzou (maybe not as big as Wal-Mart) should they win out and get some help elsewhere.  The Big 12 game is certainly still in sight, but they must win against Baylor Saturday.  I’m sure the Bears would mind using Derek Phillips to play some fullback, even if his experience is only from pretend football.

Mizzou 45, Baylor 13

#8 Florida (Erin Andrews) vs. #6 Georgia (Deborah Roberts)

Erin Andrews

Derek Phillips as Riggins from

 

Natalie Maines, lead singer of the Dixie Chicks.

Texas gets to wrap up their murderer’s row with a trip to Lubbock agains the Red Raiders.  The QB on the winning team after this game may win the Heisman.  Both Colt McCoy from the Longhorns and Graham Harrell from the Red Raiders are putting up sick numbers this year, and this game will be a classic shootout.  The egos (McConaughey) and mouths (Maines) are always big in Texas, but I think this time the underdog comes out on top.

Today’s NFL team running game seems to be moving the dial more and more towards a two running back system, typically using one back for big yardage gains on first and second downs, and a separate one for short yard conversions and goal line plays.  While this system works for many teams, and certainly keeps the health of the two backs better in check, it also pushes full-time tailback talent into the background, never displaying some running back’s full potential.

The list of potential star running backs could probably be longer, but alas we rarely see those backs listed so far down the depth chart that no one ever notices them.  So here’s my list of guys that need more love from somebody, because they could be starters anywhere.

Chester Taylor, Vikings

Taylor was finally given his chance to explode onto the scene in 2006 after spending his first four years in Baltimore backing up Jamal Lewis.  Taylor ended up rushing for 1,216 yards in ‘06 on 303 carries with 6 touchdowns.  He was also a force catching the ball with 42 receptions for 288 yards.  However, in 2007, the Vikes drafted Adrian Peterson, who has turned out to be a dominant back.  Really the only thing Taylor has working against him is his age.  He’s 29, and while that’s fairly young still, it’s closer to middle age for NFL running backs, typically the harshest spot to play on the field. 

Mewelde Moore, Steelers

While Chester Taylor was busy backing up AP last year in Minnesota, Mewelde Moore was having to play third-fiddle, seeng very limited action behind Peterson and Taylor last year.  Moore has basically been a career backup, many seasons third-string, and such is the case this year with the Steelers.  Willie Parker naturally assumed the starting role, but rookie Rashard Mendenhall was proclaimed Parker’s backup in the preseason.  Moore, while certainly on a better team, still was forced into the third spot on the depth chart.  Unfortunate injuries to Parker and Mendenhall have turned into a lucky break for Moore, who for the past 3 weeks has been the featured back for the Steelers.  He hasn’t disappointed.  So far in 2008, Moore has rushed for 322 yards on 65 carries, scoring 3 TDs and one more through the air.  Moore already has more yards rushing this year than the past two years combined.  His 5-11, 209 pound frame is ideal for a speedy but strong back in the NFL.  He averages 4.9 yards per carry for his career, numbers comparable to the best featured backs in the league.  With a name like Mewelde, this guy needs a chance to shine as a starter somewhere.

Darren Sproles, Chargers

Call it the Michael Turner Syndrome.  It’s not that the Chargers don’t have players other tha Ladanian Tomlinson, it’s just that LT is so good, you HAVE to use him.  We see now what talent he’s had behind the the past few years, with previous backup Michael Turner now running all over the field for Atlanta.  Darren Sproles could be the next Turner.  Sproles doesn’t have much size (5-6, 181) but is quick and loses defenders faster than the Dow Jones loses money.  He’s only gotten 30 carries all year, but has 146 yards rushing and 11 catches for 197 yards.  His lack of size definitely keeps him from being a full 30 carries a game back, but he could certainly snag a starting gig based on his Barry Sanders-esque moves alone.

Jerious Norwood, Falcons

The man who’s played Warrick Dunn’s other half the past several seasons now plays the same role to Michael Turner.  One look at Jerious Norwood’s numbers, however, and you’ll see he shouldn’t be Robin to anyone’s Batman.  Over his short 2 and a half year career, Norwood has racked up 1,531 yards on the ground with just 247 carries (6.2 yards per rush).  With great speed and decent size (5-11, 202) Norwood should be given a shot to be the main ground attack with someone down the line.  Like I said, he’s too good to not be a featured back.

Larry Johnson, Chiefs

Okay, so he IS the starter for the Chiefs, but does it feel like it?  Johnson has struggled on and off the field this year, and it really came to nobody’s surprise.  The Chiefs offensive line is long removed from the days of Willie Roaf and company who helped LJ produce back-to-back 1,700 yard-plus seasons in 2005 and ‘06.  His production tailed off last year due to injuries, and this year due to poor O-line play and off the field incidents.  Johnson is only 28 however, and if moved to a team with a respectable line to block for him, could easily be back up to one of the top 5 backs in the league.