Playoff Predictions - Whose Going to Vegas!

The time is now! The 2024 NFL playoffs are among us and this crazy season is only getting crazier. The Bills completed the comeback; the Jaguars completed the collapse. Joe Flacco and Mason Rudolph are starting playoff games. The Lions are in the playoffs. It will be -30 in Kansas City Saturday Night. Have I said enough? It really is SUPER wildcard weekend. The guys (myself included) took the week to think about who they think could hoist the Lombardi trophy in Las Vegas next month. I wouldn’t say we all went chalk across the board, but the winners may not surprise a bunch. I’m going to give all of our original predictions as well and see how well we landed (it’s not pretty). Without further ado, let’s see whose going to Vegas!

John McCarthy

Original Pick - Jaguars defeat Eagles

If you asked this to John in Week 10 how he felt about this, he probably would’ve went to the casino and cashed a futures bet. Fast forward to today, and these two teams were the worst teams down the stretch. The Jaguars completely bottomed out, losing 5/6 and missing the playoffs in the last week of the season. The Eagles, after starting off 10-1, finished the year at 11-6, lost the NFC East and have to travel to Tampa Bay to take on Baker Mayfield and the resurgent Buccaneers. Maybe the big guy will do better in his playoff prediction…

NFC

WildCard Weekend

(2) Cowboys defeat (7) Packers 31-14

(6) Rams defeat (3) Lions 38-31

(4) Bucs defeat (5) Eagles 20-17

NFC Divisional

(1) 49ers defeat (6) Rams 31-17

(2) Cowboys defeat (4) Bucs 38-10

NFC Championship

(1) 49ers defeat (2) Cowboys 21-17

AFC

Wildcard Weekend

(2) Bills defeat (7) Steelers 31-10

(4) Texans defeat (5) Browns 17-10

(3) Chiefs defeat (6) Dolphins 28-14

Divisional

(1) Ravens defeat (4) Texans 21-14

(2) Bills defeat (3) Chiefs 17-14

AFC Championship

(2) Bills defeat (1) Ravens 21-16

SUPER BOWL

Bills defeat 49ers 34-31

Super Bowl MVP - Josh Allen

Rich Jones

Original Pick - Chiefs defeat 49ers

This is the only pick of the bunch that is still in play! And there is a scenario where both teams get back to Vegas this February. The Chiefs are looking to become the first back to back Champs since the 03-04 Patriots, but in order to get out of the AFC, they will need to find an answer to their offense. The 49ers have looked like a juggernaut all year, so them getting to the big dance would surprise no one.

NFC

Wildcard Weekend

(2) Cowboys defeat (7) Packers 41-13

(3) Lions defeat (6) Rams 34-21

(5) Eagles defeat (4) Bucs 21-18

Divisional

(1) 49ers defeat (5) Eagles 31-30

(2) Cowboys defeat (3) Lions 27-21

NFC Championship

(1) 49ers defeat (2) Cowboys 38-17

AFC

Wildcard Weekend

(2) Bills defeat (7) Steelers 24-21

(3) Chiefs defeat (6) Dolphins 21-14

(4) Texans defeat (5) Browns 27-21

Divisional

(1) Ravens defeat (4) Texans 30-10

(3) Chiefs defeat (2) Bills 21-14

AFC Championship

(1) Ravens defeat (3) Chiefs 31-21

SUPER BOWL

Ravens defeat 49ers 30-27

Super Bowl MVP - Lamar Jackson

Joe Miglio

Original Pick - Bengals defeat 49ers

This pick is more of an incomplete as Joe Burrow’s season never quite felt right. He eventually got hurt and missed the season after wrist surgery, and the Bengals season crumbled with it. The 49ers have already been discussed so no need to go back to that well.

NFC

Wildcard Weekend

(2) Cowboys defeat (7) Packers 41-17

(3) Lions defeat (6) Rams 35-24

(5) Eagles defeat (4) Bucs 23-21

Divisional

(1) 49ers defeat (5) Eagles 27-16

(3) Lions defeat (2) Cowboys 34-28

NFC Championship

(3) Lions defeat (1) 49ers 28-27

AFC

Wildcard Weekend

(2) Bills defeat (7) Steelers 24-6

(3) Chiefs defeat (6) Dolphins 16-13

(5) Browns defeat (4) Texans 23-14

Divisional

(1) Ravens defeat (5) Browns 17-14

(3) Chiefs defeat (2) Bills 26-22

AFC Championship

(1) Ravens defeat (3) Chiefs 20-17

SUPER BOWL

Ravens defeat Lions 29-27

Super Bowl MVP - Zay Flowers

The year of Harbaugh.

Week 13 Power Rankings

The heat is on! December is here, and that means only one thing. PLAYOFF PUSH. The NFL is known for having parity from year to year, and this season is no different. If the season were to end today, we would have 5 new playoff teams from the turnover last season. In the AFC, it seems like the divisions are in firm control, but with a month to play, anything is possible. In the NFC, the East and South are anyone’s game. The Wild Card spots may come down to Week 18. For this week, we will break down the categories in terms of playoff chances. If you don’t like where your team lies…too bad!

100% Chance - There is no doubt!

1. Philadelphia Eagles (-) A thrilling win over the Buffalo Bills last week tested the Eagles a little bit. But there is no doubt that this week the favorite of the NFC will be revealed as they take on the 49ers. Let’s see what happens when Brock Purdy doesn’t get hurt in the first half…

2. San Francisco 49ers (-) The niners continue to dominate off their bye. Now, their biggest game of the season against a team who sen them home last year. It’s definitely interesting that they are favored in Philly. I’m sure that’s going over well in the Eagles locker room.

3. Baltimore Ravens (-) They played with a little bit of fire in LA last weekend, but the Ravens continue to find ways to win. The Steelers remain on their heels and can climb to one game back with a win over Arizona this weekend. There is a chance that the division may come down to Week 18. Either way, the Ravens will make the postseason.

4. Kansas City Chiefs (+1) After going down 14-0, Patrick Mahomes said enough is enough. The Chiefs outscored the Raiders 31-3 after that and now are in firm position for another AFC West title. Will Mahomes carry his receivers this year in the postseason? Or is this the defenses year to shine?

90 -95% - We are feeling PRETTY CONFIDENT

5. Jacksonville Jaguars (+1) After the Jags debacle against SF, they proved that was a just a hiccup as they dismantled Tennessee and then won a huge game on the road in Houston. The Jaguars now have an 8-3 record and have an essential 3 game lead over second place Indianapolis in the division. They are also 4-1 in the division with their last division game being in Week 18 against the Titans. With teams such as the Burrow-less Bengals, the Bucs and the Panthers left on the schedule, the Jags may fool around and end up with the one seed in the AFC.

6. Dallas Cowboys (+2) So the Cowboys feast on teams that they are better then. That’s a fact. Let’s see what they do with a desperate Seattle team on Thursday night.

7. Miami Dolphins (+2) The fins took care of the Jets on the first Black Friday game. One thing to note here - Tua has struggled a tad lately, including throwing a pick six on Friday and another bad INT against a good Jets defense. Miami takes on another struggling team in Washington this weekend.

8. Detroit Lions (-4) A very disappointing loss on Thanksgiving in front of the national crowd. The Lions defensive struggles have become a topic of conversation over the past month as to whether they can defeat the elite teams in the conference. They will get their chance as the division seems in hand.

60-65% - The Odds are in your Favor

9. Denver Broncos (+3) Denver just keeps on winning. If you ask me right now who the first wildcard in the AFC is going to be, I would say the Broncos - their remaining schedule is Houston, LAC, Detroit, NE, LAC, and LV. 5-1 is not off the mark. That would put that at 11-6. Even 4-2 puts them at 10-7, which gives them a legitimate shot. What Sean Payton has done to turnaround this team is incredible. And Old Russ is back.

10. Houston Texans (-3) The Texans are relevant again - which is great. What’s not great is how they thoroughly got outplayed at home in a game they needed to have against Jacksonville. The Texans are an upstart team but we got a stark reminder they aren’t there yet. Their pass defense got gashed all game and were not able to slow down the Jags passing attack. However, CJ Stroud gives this team as good a chance as any to garner a wild card spot.

11. Pittsburgh Steelers (+4) Matt Canada out, 400 yard offense in. Funny how that works right? The Steelers are 7-4 with a favorable schedule the rest of the way. This team is looking more and more playoff bound and if they keep winning, they could have a division title on the line in Week 18.

12. Cleveland Browns (-2) A stark reminder that without a legitimate QB this team won’t make any noise. Now there is a chance Joe Flacco starts for them this week. Big yikes. If there is one team where the wheels could fall off, this one is it.

13. Indianapolis Colts (+3) The Colts would be in the playoffs if the season ended today. Everyone is talking about Demeco Ryans for COTY, but what about Shane Steichen? He lost his QB early, his RB didn’t play for the first month, and they just cut the face of their defense. And guess what? They keep winning.

50% - The Pendulum continues to Swing

14. Green Bay Packers (+5) The Packers have suddenly won two in a row, with the latest one coming in a big way on Thanksgiving over the Lions. Green Bay is sitting at 5-6 and has a chance for that last wild card spot. They have a tough matchup against the Chiefs this weekend, but after that they have the Giants, Bears and Vikings as three of their remaining games. They would need to sweep those to have a chance of getting. 9-8 is not out of the question.

15. Los Angeles Rams (+5) The Rams continue to confuse us. Here is the reality though. They swept the Seahawks. Right now, they are a half game back of that last playoff spot. If they can beat Cleveland on Sunday, they would be in at 6-6. How crazy is that? This offense is starting to find itself. Kyren Williams has been a crowned jewel for this offense. Remember when we all asked why McVay wasn’t playing Cam Akers - lets not question this guy again.

16. Seattle Seahawks (-3) The Seahawks are in a free fall. After going to 6-3, they have now lost two in a row to divisional opponents and face a Cowboys team on Thursday Night who has yet to lose at home this year. Seattle can find itself on the outside looking in after this weekend.

17. Buffalo Bills (-) A tough, tough loss to the Eagles this past weekend. Buffalo is now 6-6. Von Miller is facing domestic abuse charges. It has been a nightmare season for the Bills. Can they still get in? Yes. They can catch fire like no other team in the NFL. But the chances are looking bleaker week by week with all the good teams in the AFC.

18. Minnesota Vikings (-4) I think the Josh Dobbs experience might have run its course. There is a reason this guy has jumped around teams in the NFL. The Vikes are 6-6 and still have the playoffs in front of them, but the QB questions in December don’t bode well for their chances. I am selling high on Minnesota right now.

40-45% - The NFC South and the Bengals

19. Atlanta Falcons (+5) Desmond Ridder is back. And threw two more INTs. But, the Falcons beat the Saints and are in the drivers seat for the NFC South crown. This team has the best defense in the division so I give them the best chance, but lets not pretend they wouldn’t get thumped in the first round of the playoffs.

20. Cincinnati Bengals (-9) It was confirmed Sunday this teams season is over. Jake Browning is not 2017 Nick Foles. The Bengals are still talented and can make the playoffs, but they won’t be a real threat. If they want any kind of chance, a MNF win in Jacksonville is necessary. But if you ask Bengals fans, they may want the team to lose out and get a higher draft pick.

21. New Orleans Saints (-3) This team man. What a disappointment. The offense cannot get out of its own way, and Derek Carr has clearly lost something. I would not be surprised if the Saints were movers in the draft to pick up a QB. This team is not going anywhere in the postseason.

22. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-) I like them on paper but they can’t win a game they need to. Losing to the Colts 27-20 in a game you needed to have is unacceptable. Wildly enough, they are a game back in the NFC South because it’s a terrible division. Has anyone ever been back to back 8-9 division champs?

30% - A lot of things Need to Go Right

23. Los Angeles Chargers (-) The Chargers need a new regime running things. This cast of characters is over. Being 4-7 with Justin Herbert is actually incredible.

24. Las Vegas Raiders (-3) Another bad football team. But a lot of teams vying for playoff spots are on their schedule. One more loss and they are cooked.

15-20% - Start thinking about Free Agency and the Draft

25. Chicago Bears (+1) Maybe the most uninspiring win of the NFL season. The Bears are a bad football team and won a game without scoring a touchdown. Just Fields did everything he could to lose that game in the 4th quarter, but Minnesota wouldnt allow it. The play calling is terrible. How many throws are going to be behind the LOS? I think this team can’t wait to pick another QB.

26. New York Jets (-1) The Jets are 4-7 and realistically can’t really afford another loss this season. With Atlanta and Houston up next that seems unlikely. But the big news: Aaron Rodgers possibly coming back. Why you may ask? Simply for Rodgers ego. We now know who runs that team.

27. New York Giants (+3) Technically speaking, the Giants are only two games out of the playoffs, so I put them in here for shits and giggles, but the season is over. Tommy Devito has been a cute story, but this team is killing its draft stock. It’s nice though that the guys haven’t given up on the season. Credit Daboll for that much.

0% - The Season is Over

28. Tennessee Titans (+1) The Titans struggled to beat the Panthers Sunday. That tells you all you need to know about where this team is. They should absolutely field calls on Henry in the offseason. They need a facelift.

29. Washington Commanders (-1) After getting embarrassed by losing to the Giants, it got worse by getting gashed by the Cowboys in front of the whole country. Jack Del Rio lost his job, but Ron Rivera will soon be following him after the season. I still think Sam Howell is a fine NFL QB - he just needs a line and the right OC.

30. Arizona Cardinals (-3) The Kyler Murray energy juice is out of service. This team is back to being terrible. It's widely rumored they won’t draft a QB. If they have a top two pick, Marvin Harrison Jr. is seriously in play.

31. New England Patriots (-) Every week you think it can’t get worse, but it does. I’m now on the bandwagon that this team will have a new QB and a new HC next season. Bill Belichick switching organizations will dominate the off-season headlines.

32. Carolina Panthers (-) Frank Reich is gone. Good for him to get out of there. David Tepper is the old grandpa sitting on his front porch yelling at the kids for playing in the snow. Someone needed to replace Dan Snyder.

Week 12 Power Rankings

I apologize for missing a week! I was basking in my sorrows after the Jaguars got curb stomped by the 49ers. It’s ok though, we move. And we move onto Thanksgiving week, a week which is a fairly good sticking point to see where your teams are going to be for the remainder of the season. As we give thanks to the important things in our life, today’s theme of categories will be related to Thanksgiving foods and the popularity of them. A fun little anecdote for the week ahead. Both conferences are heating UP! In the AFC, all but three teams are still very much in it for the last two spots. And over in the NFC, the same thing occurs - the last two wildcard spots are available, but not as many teams in the hunt. Let’s get to the Turkey, shall we?

Hot, Juicy Turkey

1. Philadelphia Eagles (-) They passed their biggest test on Monday in KC. The Eagles aren’t winning flashy or pretty this year, but they are getting the job done. A makeup of a championship team.

2. San Francisco 49ers (+5) The bye week clearly did this team wonders. A wildly impressive win in Jacksonville and then coming home to take care of business against the Bucs. The Niners are officially back.

Mac N Cheese

3. Baltimore Ravens (-1) After a tough loss at home to Cleveland, the Ravens bounced back by sweeping Cincinnati. This team is the biggest threat to Kansas City right now, and it's not particularly close. We will see how much the loss of Mark Andrews for the year impacts this team.

4. Detroit Lions (+2) The Lions just came from behind at home to beat the Bears and have their best start since 1963. Let me repeat. 1963. Bask in it, Detroit.

5. Kansas City Chiefs (-3) the Chiefs made a mistake at the deadline by not getting a wide receiver. It cost them on Monday. Will it cost them a championship?

Sweet Potato Pie

6. Jacksonville Jaguars (-1) Their loss to the 49ers was eye opening. It was the Jags worst home loss in 4 years, but they responded with an absolute drudging of their division rival Titans. So the Jags are stuck in the hall of very good. They will remain there until proven otherwise - however, their next two games can change that narrative: at Houston and then home for the Ravens on SNF. If they can sweep those two games and go to 9-3, maybe they are the biggest threat to Kansas City.

7. Houston Texans (+6) - This is a top 10 football team. Stroud has already claimed the OROY award, and his team is finding ways to win. His last two weeks have been turnover heavy, but when you play the Cardinals you can figure it out. The Texans have a monstrous game against Jacksonville Sunday at home with the AFC South division lead on the line.

8. Dallas Cowboys (-) The boys continue to dominate bad teams, so it’s hard to move them up in any significant fashion. They play Washington on Thanksgiving, so there shouldn’t be any issues there. However, after the Commanders, Dallas starts a stretch of games that will tell us who they are.

9. Miami Dolphins (-) Read the Cowboys.

Ham and Corn Casserole

10. Cleveland Browns (-) DeShaun Watson is out for the remainder of the season, but if there is any team in the league that can withstand their QB going down, it’s Cleveland. The Browns defense is now on par with the 2000 Ravens and the 2008 Steelers, both teams that won Super Bowls. The defense did it again Sunday by taking the Steelers at home in a 13-10 walkoff win. DTR was serviceable.

11. Cincinnati Bengals (-5) Obviously, losing Joe Burrow for the year is a massive hit. The Bengals aren’t serious Super Bowl contenders anymore, but they are still alive for the playoffs. Let’s see what Jake Browning can do.

12. Denver Broncos (+10) The new hottest team in the NFL. Four straight wins and the 70 point debacle seems like a lifetime ago. Sean Payton has these guys playing great football and Russell Wilson looks great again. Broncos Country is ridin!

13. Seattle Seahawks (-1) The Seahawks are 6-2 against everyone not named the Rams. It doesn't make sense, but Pete Carroll just seems to struggle against Sean McVay. No matter, I think the Hawks are still in a good spot though. They need to keep pace though. A Thursday Night Thanksgiving bout against the 49ers awaits.

14. Minnesota Vikings (-3) So the Vikings winning streak is over. But Josh Dobbs and the boys were in it until the last minute. A late TD by Russell Wilson prevented them from winning their 6th straight game. The Vikings aren’t going away, that’s for sure. Kevin O’Connell should deserve some recognition at the end of the year.

Butternut Squash Soup

15.Pittsburgh Steelers (-1) This team simply aint doing anything with this offense. Mitchell Trubisky can do what Kenny Pickett is doing. Let that sink in.

16. Indianapolis Colts (+4) Bye week, but the Colts are marvelously knocking on the door.

17. Buffalo Bills (-2) This drop includes the loss to Denver. The Bills beat down the Jets, but at 6-5 they are on the outside looking in. They could realistically only afford one more loss until things can possibly get dicey. 10-7 doesn’t guarantee to get you in the playoffs in the AFC this year.

18. New Orleans Saints (-1) Bye week.

Brussel Sprouts

19. Green Bay Packers (+7) Winners of two of their last three, and probably should’ve won all three. They are 4-6 and have a punchers chance at a wild card spot. They need to win in Detroit on Thanksgiving to have a shot. No easy task.

20. Los Angeles Rams (+7) The Rams are alive. A second win against the Seahawks puts them in an interesting position. They now own the tiebreaker and they play the Cardinals next week. A Rams win and a Seahawks loss has the Rams a game out.

21. Las Vegas Raiders (-) The Raiders may have lost to Miami, but they fought hard. This team is no longer a cupcake on the schedule. Antonio Pierce should get a shot to do this full time.

22. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+1) The Bucs are frisky, but they clearly don’t have enough. However, if you look at the standings, they are only a game off the division pace. Can they do it again with a sub .500 record?

23. Los Angeles Chargers (-7) More of the same from this team. It’s over for Brandon Staley and may be over for 2023. Out of all the teams in the NFL, the Chargers are the most dissapointing one.

24. Atlanta Falcons (-) Bye week. Arthur Smith should still be let go.

Stringbeans and Broccoli

25. New York Jets (-7) One of the worst offenses I have ever watched. Aaron Rodgers shouldn’t even come back if he can - he would get killed behind this offensive line. Saleh’s coaching should come into question with his undying support of Zach Wilson. It was wild two months ago and can end up getting him fired.

26. Chicago Bears (+2) More of the same for the Justin Fields Bears era. He makes a couple of nice throws, but the game ends up in an L. Wash. Rinse. Repeat.

27. Arizona Cardinals (+5) They aren’t the worst team in football. Not even close. Kyler makes this team watchable. Had ample opportunities against Houston and couldn’t pull it off. But no longer an easy “W” on the schedule. Should still be a W though.

28. Washington Commanders (-9) Ron Rivera is cooked. I’ve been defending Sam Howell all year, but this past weekend was horrendous. You can’t lose to the Tommy Devito Giants. You just can’t. Embarrassing L for the Commanders. Season is over.

29. Tennessee Titans (-4) Officially one of the worst teams in football. The run for the Titans is over. They have the worst roster in their division, and there is really no end in sight. The Jags and Texans have franchise QBs. AR oozes talent. What do the Titans have? A stubborn HC and an aging running back. Will be a long couple of years for Titans fans.

30. New York Giants (-) Tommy Devito won a football game. What I would give to be at that Thanksgiving table.

Thankful These Teams Aren’t Playing on Thanksgiving

31. New England Patriots (-2)

32. Carolina Panthers (-2)

Week 8 Power Rankings

This is the official halfway point of the NFL season. We all know what that means - absolutely nothing. At this point last year, the Jacksonville Jaguars were 2-5, the Baltimore Ravens still had Lamar Jackson and everyone thought the Cowboys were Super Bowl contenders. Much of the same goes for this year , but we do have power rankings to get us through. For the third consecutive week, we have a new number one at the top, and this time it’s a familiar face. Lets take a look at where your team is heading into Week 8…

POWER RANKINGS - WEEK 7 (October 19th-October 23rd)

The Usual Suspects

1. Kansas City Chiefs (+2) For the first time all year, the Chiefs are on top. All it took was winning six straight after losing opening night at home by 1 without their best skill player on offense and their defensive captain. Once again, everyone is looking up at the Chiefs.

2. Philadelphia Eagles (+3) After counting out the Eagles last week, they responded in a big way. I know they read this ranking last week and used it as motivation. But seriously, they played well. Jalen Hurst still doesn’t seem to have the same mojo as last year, but this team is still 6-1 and beat Miami comfortably on a national stage.

3. San Francisco 49ers (-1) The Niners drop another spot after their second consecutive loss on the road - this time at the hands of the Vikings. It’s not time to worry…yet. But the question we asked weeks ago was how does Brock Purdy play when he’s behind. Well, we MAY have gotten our answer. Another big test against a rejuvenated Bengals teams awaits them in Santa Clara.

The Record Says Everything - Legitimate AFC Threat

4. Baltimore Ravens (+5) For all the flack I give the Ravens, they answered the bell in a BIG way Sunday. A team red hot came into their building, and the Ravens absolutely pummeled them. It was quite easily the most well rounded game for Lamar and the offense. For the first time in a long time, I can say Mr. Jackson looked like his old MVP self. If the Ravens can keep up this type of play, then watch out.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars (+1) Four games in nineteen days. Four different stadiums. Three different time zones. 4-0. What the Jags just accomplished is remarkable. Add in the fact that when they played all the teams they played they had at least a .500 record. Impressive stuff.

We Need a Statement Game

6. Detroit Lions (-5) I put the Lions number one last week because they were the most consistent team through seven weeks. So naturally they go out Sunday and get kicked to the curb by the Ravens. The Chiefs game is long gone and yes, there is something to say about them beating KC without two studs. Look at how the Lions have beaten so far this season - ATL, GB, CAR, TB. Their losses - SEA, BAL…Hmmm????

7. Miami Dolphins (-3) I can literally right the same thing for Miami as I did for Detroit. I know what Mike McDaniel said, but it can’t be ignored. The two games that they were supposed to “get up” for they lost 48-20 and 31-17. Need a win against a good team.

8. Dallas Cowboys (-1) The Boys were on a bye, but they definitely fit in this category. They need to beat a frisky Rams team this weekend to keep pace with Philadelphia in the NFC East.

9. Seattle Seahawks (+4) The Seahawks are just humming along, now 4-2 in 2023. Their impressive win came on the road against Detroit, but I need to see this team beat San Francisco once this year to have a legitimate shot in the NFC. If they beat SF, then they have no chance.

Oh Shit, These Teams are in the AFC Too?!?!?!?

10. Cleveland Browns (-) This team survived a game they probably should have lost in Indianapolis on Sunday. For the first time all year, the defense got worked and DeShaun Watson I just existing in Cleveland. Yet, the Browns find themselves 4-2 and are firmly entrenched in the AFC mix.

11. Cincinnati Bengals (-) We will find out if the Bengals are really back Sunday when they take on the Niners at their place. They’ve had two weeks to prepare.

12. Houston Texans (+2) After watching a week without Houston, I can firmly say that the Texans are a good team this year. DeMeco Ryans may be leading the pack for 2023 COTY.

13. Pittsburgh Steelers (+5) Find a way. That should be the Steelers 2023 motto. I still don’t think it's sustainable to have an offense this poor and survive the season, but we’ve seen worse. Mike Tomlin continues to do his thing. They have a massive game against Jacksonville at home Sunday. The 5-2 Jags at the 4-2 Steelers? Yes please!!!

14. Buffalo Bills (-6) Panic button has been pushed for the Bills. They answered the bell last year when we hit the panic button, but they also didn’t have these injuries on defense.

15. New York Jets (-) Jets were on a bye, but the win against the Eagles set them up. They have an extremely favorable next three games - NYG, LAC, LV. We will see how serious the Jets are this year.

Are These Teams Actually Good?

16. Minnesota Vikings (+6) Last week I put the Vikings in “the abyss” and mentioned they have to win if they want their season alive. Check. Kirk Cousins is an MVP candidate this season. Yea, I said it.

17. Atlanta Falcons (+4) Now leading the NFC South, the Falcons have a chance to build on their lead with a game against a Titans team who is in flux at QB. If the Falcons can stop turning it over in the red zone though…

Got Turned Away at the “We are Serious” Club.

18. Los Angeles Rams (-6) I really like how the Rams have been competing this year, but you gotta beat the Steelers at home if you want to be a playoff team. LA seems like that team all year that will make you pull your hair out. Impossible to judge.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-2) The Bucs aren’t serious. Its official. I’ll creep the door back open if they beat Buffalo Thursday - but if they lose, I would really consider selling…

20. New Orleans Saints (-4) Derek Carr is now yelling at his players. Chris Olave got arrested. Literally nothing is going right in New Orleans. Dennis Allen - your seat is officially hot.

21. Los Angeles Chargers (-2) I don’t want to hear about Justin Herbert being a top 5 quarterback. Was not that good on Sunday if you watch the game. LA is 2-4 and Brandon Staley will be the first HC fired.

22. Indianapolis Colts (+3) Indy responded in a big way after their embarrassing loss in JAX a week back. Who had Gardner Minshew cooking the Browns defense in Week 7? Not me. But as with Minshew teams, it’s always close but no cigar. Colts 0-2 since Minshew has been inserted as QB1.

The D-II Club

23. Chicago Bears (+3) Tyson Bagent has won as many games as Justin Fields since last October.

You May Not be Tanking, But You Should Be

24. Tennessee Titans (+2) I don’t even know why they moved up - maybe because the teams behind them are so bad? I don’t know. The Titans are weird though. They finally traded someone - Kevin Byard is now in Philly. Will that open the floodgates?

25. Washington Commanders (-5) I liked this team. I don’t anymore. You can’t lose to the Giants 14-7. You just can’t.

26. Las Vegas Raiders (-3) The Raiders lost the ‘back up bowl” and now face a Lions team on Monday Night coming off an embarrassing loss. Good luck!

27. New England Patriots (+4) Congrats to Bill Belichick on win 300. When will 301 come?

Still Ass

28. New York Giants (-) Beat the Jets this week and I will move them up considerably.

29. Denver Broncos (+1) The firesale is held off one more week.

30. Green Bay Packers (-6) Jordan Love is not good right now. The Packers team is awful. Matt LaFleur may be coaching for his job.

They Are Who We Though They Were

31. Arizona Cardinals (-2) Just play the Dennis Green GIF on repeat. WE let this team off the hook. They are that bad.

They Don’t Even Have Their Own Draft Pick…

32. Carolina Panthers (-) At least the Panthers couldn’t lose last week!

The Jets and Aaron Rodgers - A Love Story

March 17th. Yes, today is St. Patrick’s Day. And while those who celebrate will pack the bars and pubs and sing and dance, other individuals, those who are in lockstep with the football community, may remember this an as anniversary of some sorts. Five years ago today, the New York Jets traded up for the number three draft selection in the 2018 NFL Draft where they selected Sam Darnold. There is no reason to revisit those tumultuous years for the sake of Jets fans reading this, but it is important to note for the rest this love story. Fast forward to now, and the Jets organization are on their third head coach (Bowles, Case, Saleh), their second general manager (Maccagnan, Douglas) and have been through a litany of starting quarterbacks (too many to name).

This past season saw gang green finish 7-10, but also had the rookie of the year on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. How rare is that? It has only happened twice since the Super Bowl era (1967 Detroit Lions, 2017 New Orleans Saints). One would think that two rookies of the year, coupled with players like Quinnen Williams, CJ Mosley, and DJ Reed amongst some others would have finished above .500. Alas, the Jets did not, and their playoff-less streak extended to a league leading twelve years. And the only saving grace for the Jets fan was that they did not have the longest playoff drought within the four major sports. Well, that is going to end - the NBA’s Sacramento Kings are currently 42-27 and will end their sixteen year long playoff drought. Once that officially happens, the Jets (and the Buffalo Sabres) will own the longest droughts in sports.

The AFC is currently loaded with quarterback talent. Led by two time Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes, the conference also boasts Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Trevor Lawrence, Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson. How in the world would the Jets be able to compete with that? Even the legendary Mike White only lasted two games before his ribs seemed to burst through his chest. But all love stories aren’t so black and white, right? It’s not like the Jets have been chasing for their franchise QB since Joe Namath retired, right? I digress, but seriously, HOW WOULD THEY BE ABLE TO COMPETE? Simple - four walls and no lights.

Last off-season the NFL went through this whole charade with Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers, the two lynchpins or our sport for the better part of the past 15 years. Brady retired, then unretired, and Rodgers seemed to do everything under the sun before coming back. Both of these icons struggled this past season with Rodgers Green Bay Packers being eliminated from playoff contention in front of the entire country, at home, in Week 18 against the already eliminated Detroit Lions. Brady won another division title, although it was at an embarrassing 8-9 record, and the Bucs promptly got stomped on by the Dallas Cowboys in the Wild Card round. Brady retired (again) and seemingly for good, while Rodgers noted he would take his time and talk to whoever he needed to, and take whatever drugs he needed to put him in the right “mental space”. But the Jets had been linked as a destination for a while if A-Rod would actually leave Green Bay. Things only grew when owner Woody Johnson said he would take whatever it took to get a QB to win some games. Even Douglas and Saleh admitted that a veteran presence was needed at the position - and no, not Joe Flacco.

The Jets had links though - to other free agent quarterbacks. Jimmy G for instance, played with Saleh while he was the defensive coordinator for San Francisco. Then the Jets brought Derek Carr in for a visit, where they told him he would be a hall of famer if he won in New York. The entire time though, Rodgers to the Jets had some sort of hope, some sort of glimmer. Kind of the like the girl or boy you watch from a distance and they have no idea how you really feel. And then the Jets hired the former disgraced Denver Broncos head coach Nathanial Hackett as their new offensive coordinator. His connection to Rodgers? Only the fact that he was his OC in Green Bay for a couple of NFC Championship appearances. He was also the OC for the Jacksonville Jaguars for their run in 2017 with Blake Bortles. But would that really lure Rodgers over to NYC?

Over the past couple of weeks, you couldn’t turn on a radio station in the city without the hosts talking about Rodgers and the Jets. It had already happened. They fell in love with the idea that this guy could come in and save them. But how many times have the Jets been burned before? The last time they got an aging Green Bay quarterback, he started off 9-2 only to get hurt and lose his last five games and miss the playoffs altogether. He then went to Minnesota the next year and took the Vikings to the NFC title game. His name shall remain nameless because we don’t want to take away the spotlight from Aaron.

His darkness retreat couldn’t have come at a better time (sarcasm, folks) as the other quarterbacks who would even sniff starting this year landed in other qb needy locations. So it’s Rodgers or bust for the Jets. They put their eggs all in one basket. He hadn’t said anything for more than a week after he came out of the box (literally), and then finally broke his silence where he said he had some things to say on the Pat McAfee show. He spoke about before going into the retreat, he was 90% retired. After he came out, his mind had changed. He stated his intentions to play for the Jets this upcoming season. Aaron Rodgers, who is a top ten QB of all-time, seemingly came out of retirement to come play for the New York Jets. But a trade still needed to happen between the two clubs, which as of this article has still not occurred yet.

The news of Rodgers wanting to play for the Jets nearly broke the internet, but in a very peculiar way. There are people who think it’s a bad move. There are Jets fans who want no part of Aaron Rodgers - because he may be a weird guy, because he’s going on his age 39 season, or because he can only give the Jets 1-2 years at the max. Let's go through a couple of things really quick here. First, and I can’t overstate this: Aaron Rodgers WANTS to play for the New York Jets. Can anyone reading this please tell me the last time a superstar player, specifically at the quarterback position, said publicly they want to play for the Jets? I can't. Second, who absolutely cares if he is only here for 1-2 years? When healthy, he very well may be the most talented thrower of the football I’ve ever seen. I say when healthy because he wasn’t fully healthy last season. Lastly, the Jets are ready to win right now.

With Rodgers at the helm, put the Jets in the same boat as the Bills, Dolphins, Jaguars and Chargers. We have to leave the Bengals and Chiefs in their own category for right now until one of these other teams proves they can beat them. But think about that. The J-E-T-S are in the conversation now. With a defense that finished in the top five last year, and not one, but two rookies of the year, this team is poised to end their playoff drought.

Now, can the Jets not make the playoffs? Yes. I counted seven teams in that last paragraph, but we did not mention the Ravens (assuming Lamar returns), the Browns - with a full year of DeShaun Watson, and the Broncos - with Sean Payton seemingly there to “fix” Russell Wilson. That’s ten teams potentially vying for seven spots. So can the Jets get unlucky and can guys get hurt? Of course. Can the Rodgers decline last year be absolutely real? Sure. But we aren’t here for that today. Every single Jets fan should be excited about this upcoming season. Aaron Rodgers will be your quarterback. He will be throwing the ball to Garrett Wilson. Breece Hall will be back. Sauce Gardner will be locking down the opponent’s number one receiver. Quinnen Williams will be saying “bless me” when he sacks the quarterback. The New York Jets will have as good as a chance as any team in the AFC to dethrone the Chiefs.

So on the five year anniversary of a trade that completely backfired, take your victory lap, Jets fans. Because in a love story, the guy always gets the girl in the end. And well, the Jets got the girl. Yea, you can say it again - The Jets got the girl.