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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 0:40:09 GMT -5
 Facing the Blitz (2022 Edition)
Welcome to another edition of Facing the Blitz. As we embark upon our 8th season of play in the RZB let's take a moment to reflect on last season. The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Chicago Bears to capture their second bowl win. As we move to the new game engine it opens up the amount of teams that can and should contend this year. We have multiple teams that are legitimate contenders and many newcomers to the pack this year. This season should be one of the most exciting yet as the quest for glory begins!
In an effort to provide continued coverage of the RZB we have compiled information about the league from some of our GMs.
Enjoy!
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 0:48:46 GMT -5
 State of the RZB: Commissioner ezlee2We just finished our 7th season of play in the RZB and it's an exciting time in the FOF community as we transition to FOF8. This will bring us into a new era for our young league.
The 2021 season finished with the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Chicago Bears to become the first team to win multiple bowls. The Steelers dominated throughout the season en-route to a historic season that saw them set offensive records. QB Cam "Superman" Newton was named the league MVP.
Once again, the draft and offseason saw multiple big time trades, but the team holding the first pick in the draft actually made the pick this year. This ends the streak of teams trading the 1.1 pick. The Browns selected RB DeAndre Nordstrom as we became the first RB taken first overall.
Looking to this season the path to the Blitz Bowl is wide open as the other 31 teams chase the Steelers and the dream to be immortalized in the Hall of Champions.
Get ready boys, the show is about to begin! Good luck fellow RZBers and let's make 2022 the best season yet!
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 0:51:40 GMT -5
 The Big Trades of the Offseasonby Seb
1. VIKINGSa) Vikings sends S Leonard Dancy, WR Breshad Perriman, 2022 2nd JAX, 2022 2nd, 2023 1st, 2024 1st.
Seahawks sends QB Conner Wisniewski, 2023 4th, 2024 4th.Much have aleady been said about this trade by GMs all over the league. A blockbuster trade like this one is bound to catch everyone s attention. As of now it is clear the winner of this trade seems to be SEA : a good but old receiver, a good in his prime safety, two 1st and two 2nd (likely high since MIN seems to be rebuilding) for a not fully developped QB whose ceiling seems to be good but not great and two 4th. We will have to wait until The QB (i can t bring myself to write his full name so i ll call him The QB for the rest of this post) has fully reached his potential to formulate a more definitive verdict about this deal, but it does not bode well for MIN fans.b) Vikings sends QB Teddy Bridgewater
Jets send 1st 2022, 4th 2022, 2nd 2023MIN is recouping some of the assets of The QB trade by shipping his former N1 QB to the Jets in another big deal. Teddy is a serviceable QB with QB ratings between 80 and 115 these last 5 seasons. The Jets have also acquired Julio Jones in a trade. With their stud RB as the focus of their attack and their newfound passing game, they can rely on Bridgewater to get them a few more wins and turn them from a playoff team into a contender.c) Vikings sends : WR Sammy Watkins, DE Scott Crichton, 2023 2nd (NJY), 2024 4th
Panthers sends : 2022 1.6Another big trade for MIN who sends two old vets and two picks to Carolina in exchange for their 1.6. The Panthers seems to be in win now mode and decided to pass on drafting a stud at the top of the draft to acquire two good oldish players and two mid picks. MIN decided to trade down 1.6 to the Giants, then they traded down 1.10 to the 49ers, then traded down 1.24 to the Raiders, then traded down 1.27 to the Jets along with T Ricky Wagner. They acquired a bunch of picks (included god knows how many 2nd) in the process to recoup the ones invested in The QB. The winner here is clearly MIN (even while not including all the trading back) since drafting 1.6 is invaluable and can t mesure to two aging players and a 2nd. It is so invaluable that you can trade back multiple times for haul of 2nd rounders.At this point, I have one very important question : Why is Rob allowed to manage two teams in the same league ?!?d) Vikings sends 2022 7.26, 2023 4th, 2023 6th.
Titans sends WR Justin Hunter.MIN acquired with this trade a good but old WR past his prime, likely with the aim of replacing Sammy Watkins. He can help The QB develop over the next few seasons but will likely be gone or in a wheelchair when The QB will reach his prime. This trade makes it hard to know if MIN is really rebuilding or not, the trade gave them a good WR for a fair value but one could question the usefulness of trading those 3 picks for a WR who will not give them an edge when The QB will reach his peak instead of using those picks to developp three players that could play a role down the line.
e) Vikings sends C Zachary Schroeder.
Browns sends 2022 2.3, 2022 3.2, 2023 4th.A good center in his prime, with a run block % of 33% these last 2 seasons. But a very good deal for MIN since a very good C rarely fetch a high 2nd, even less so when adding the two additionnal picks. I ve got one thing to say to sum up this trade : highway robbery !!!f) Vikings sends QB Damon Anthony
Bills sends 2023 4thAfter all these big trades one can be disappointed by this one where MIN sends a back up QB to Buffalo. But a man must rest once in a while. Strubel's Assistant GM had to handle the deal while he was in Aruba drinking mojitos with The QB.To put it in a nutshell it was an insane offseason in Minnesota and the fans are wondering what to make of this team who are not the Vikings they knew anymore. But most trust the process and the GM Strubel who led them to the divisional round of the playoffs last year while few are protesting and asking what was the point in tearing apart a team that managed to reach the playoffs to rebuild it anew. Only time will tell, but this offseason is undoubtly the key that will define the Vikings for the next half decade at least. The twenty twelve 2nd rounders and how they will developp will be as important as The QB in shaping the future of this franchise.
2. BILLSa) Buffalo Sends QB Russell Wilson, 2022 1.28
Philadelphia Sends 2022 1.21, 2022 2.13This is the 3rd trade including a major QB this offseason. Since these trades are usually quite rare, it s hard to figure who s the winner generally. My take on this trade is that the Eagles got themselves a hell of a deal : dropping back 7 spots in the 1st and a mid 2nd for a superstar QB is a bargain. Moreover when we see the price commanded by The QB and Bridgewater. I get that Russ isn t getting any younger, but he still has a few years in the tank provided he doesn t retire and can help the division champ Eagles contend for the Bowl the next 3/5 years with Gurley carrying half the offensive load. Now go and find a 2nd rounder that can do that for your team, good luck...But let s not be too harsh on the Bills, they thought they had their franchise superstar Qb with their choice at 1.2 with QB Duff. In that situation other GMs too would have tried to get something back for their former starting QB. But other GMs would have tried to contend with their old superstar while grooming the young lad in case he ends up being a bust.The 3 QB trades this offseason can leave the outsiders at loss for words since those trades wildly differs in value and fairness for both parties, but that s the art of the deal at its finest that we re witnessing here (sorry guys couldn t help myself there...). The same can be said for the trade including oldish good WRs. The sample was quite wide this offseason and some deals at the extremity of it can leave you scratching your heads wondering what went through the head of some GMs.b) Buffalo sends CB Gary Fox
Seattle sends 2022 1.21Another headache here. Why trade a perfectly fine and well rounded starting CB in his sophomore season for a mid 1st ? As we all see every year any 1st rounder can turn out to be a bust, even at the top of the draft. Why let the sure thing with 5 ints last season, with a rookie contract for the foreseable future walk ? Moreover BUF used that pick on a C. Anyway, the Bills gets to start an UFA at CB2 while the Seahawks now have a pair of young good CBs for the next half decade.c) Buffalo sends 2025 1st
New Orleans sends DE Noah ConleySame remarks here, why let a perfectly fine sophomore edge rusher go for a 1st ? Conley had 6.5 sacks last year in his rookie season. This deal is almost the mirror deal of the previous one, with the slight difference that Conley is a red flag (for whatever that implies in game terms) and that BUF 1st in 2025 might be higher than SEA 1st.d) Buffalo sends WLB Christian Gepetto
Seattle sends RDE Josh Glover, 2022 2.28 (i guess??)Gepetto is a stud LB, with average endurance who was on a contract year. The Bills decided to ship him to Seattle (again) for a very good rotationnal DE to support studs rusher Mack and Conley. Mack is getting old and Glover is now ready to take his place whenever needed. The Bills get a 2nd rounder in the process. This deal makes sense for both parties as of now. BUF depth chart might look a little overcrowded at DE today but i see BUF winning this one a few years down the line, mostly due the fact that Glover is a stamina beast that can play every down for 4 quarters and still run back home carrying his grandma on his back after the game while Gepetto will be icing his legs in a cold bath with his grandma preparing him peanut butter sandwiches with hot chocolate.e) Buffalo sends 2024 3rd, 2024 4th, 2025 5th
Pittsburgh sends LB Anthony Barr, T Chris Olevao
Barr and Olevao are two good aging players. This deal makes sense for both teams : PIT clears some cap room and gets some draft assets in the process while BUF gets two good players ready to contribute for the next half decade at a fair price.
f) Bills sends 2023 4th
Vikings sends QB Damon Anthony
On the other side of the trade, Bills Assistant GM was handling this deal while TAFIV was running after DE Glover on his way home trying to make him understand that carrying his grandma is not something a superstar should do.To sum it up, we can say that Bills fans don t recognize their team anymore. 40 new players joined the team this season. They are bound to draft in the top 10 again as it is highly unlikely that so many new faces gell together in the span of one training camp. So the prognostic is the same as the Vikings in the short term. In the long term however, i don t see this rebuild as a fruitful one and it is probable that this roster will be blown again in the next few years. Most of it can be blamed on the 1st round QB not being as good as anticipated. But i must admit i don t see any blueprint in all the wheeling dealing there. The Vikings made a flurry of moves but i can sense some logic in most of them. In the Bills case i don t see where they are going. They trade a stud LB for a a DE and then trade for another DE, ending with 3 top DE and no LB apart from an aging Barr. Getting rid of a good young CB with no glaring weaknesses is a weird move considering talented DB don t grow on trees. Expect the Bills secondary and LB corps to be picked apart by any decent QB this season. It is hard to tell what the future will bring but my guess is that Bills management will try to cut their losses and go full rebuild mode next offseason too by transforming their last valuable assets into picks for the future. Stud RB Carlson and stud DE Mack will likely be hot commodities on the market.Some other big traders that you should have noticed:The Jets GM did a good job in bringing QB Bridgewater, WR Jones, T Wagner to boost his offense and open a championship window around their monster RB Deon Bailey. They also acquired DT Hanks. All these players have been bought in a bold yet sensible and reasonnable way, most of them at or under market value and i can see it producing some results in the next few years, maybe with a superbowl apperance, certainly with a continued playoff presence.The Seahawks were involved in a lot of major deals, which were mostly already discussed in the Vikings and the Bills sections. In my eyes they ended up winning most of them, doing a good job of preying upon impatient management eager to win (too?) fast.The Steelers as usual were also involved in a lot of trades. The most notable one was stud DE Neil Flannery being sent to Tampa Bay, in exchange for trading down a few spot in this draft, plus a 1st and a 3rd. This year also saw the famous Trader Rob do his usual trick of trading a top 5 pick for a 1st (that will magically turn in yet another top 5 pick) and three 2nd. But his cap situation apparently made him lose a lot of leverage in some trades where he had to let go of key players for a little less than market value. FOF is a cut throat and merciless universe...The Panthers and the Jaguars also made notable moves but nothing close to these 5 teams. This was a rowdy offseason in terms of trades let s hope we ll have more next season.Author's note: I get that having your trades being second guessed and criticized by some random jerk on the internet might be irritating. But i ask you to forgive me in advance. I considered that doing this piece while being mellow wouldn t be as interesting as being harsh and extreme in my comments for you and me both. I find it more enjoyable to read GM Z did some great moves they re gonna win the Bowl than they did some interesting moves that might improve their chances. On the other side, GM X got fleeced and his team is going to suck in the future is not pleasant to read for the GM in question but it is more fun to read and write than some moves were made, let s see how they pan out. Don t blame me, i m just whoring myself for likes, i am a victim of the system and of internet trends.So i hope nobody takes it personnaly, anyway i welcome any criticism 
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 0:54:06 GMT -5
Interview with the Champ By MWNNWe took a moment today to sit down with Trader Rob who just won his 2nd Blitz Bowl.
FTB: Lets start with the big game. With 5:57 left on the clock, you're up 24-17, the Bears had scored 14 unanswered at that point. McNeil has the ball and on the first play throws a pick. The next play Cam Newton throws a pick. Four plays later McNeil throws another pick. Then finally, determined to end this back and forth, Cam throws a final pick that saftey Adrian Amos returns all the way for 6. Extra point is made, tie game. Did that feel like that was the beginning of the end for you?
TR: Yes, that was a crazy series of events. I really thought we were done at that point as momentum is everything in this game.
FTB: Ultimately Cam led you down and Ruby hit the game winner. This win is your 2nd in the RZB and makes you the first GM with two, what has that level of success meant for you?
TR: Ah, you're talking to a GM that took 12 years in real life time to win a bowl. The first one was sweet, this one was even sweeter. Interestingly enough, it's my bowl win in the NAFL that means the most to me to be honest. As for the RZB, I'm really happy to have pulled out that win and become the first two time champion.
FTB: Cam is getting older but he's coming off his best season, otherwise you have the 2nd youngest team in the league. How long do you think this team's window is?
TR: I really think our window is wide open. We have a lot of talent. My biggest challenge is finding a way to keep our core together.
FTB: A big part of your teams success has been your ability to build and restock through the draft. What have been some of the advantages and difficulties of doing this?
TR: It's a hell of a lot of work to be honest. I'm very frustrated at myself at the moment as I didn't have much time this offseason and I missed golden opportunities to work my magic. In a few years if this all comes crashing down, it'll be this offseason that I'll point back to as a turning point.
FTB: Every year it seems like you're forced to trade away key pieces of your team. This year we've seen you move on from Neil "The Real Deal" Holy-, I mean, Flannery. Big Ben was traded a few years back to the Jets. Ruby Rubensdorf, perhaps the most clutch kicker in RZB history, is currently on the block. How hard is it to move on from these guys?
TR: It's really tough, but I learned from Nick to separate my emotions from these guys. When I started looking at them as 1's and 0's it became much easier. I still regret trading Big Ben and I think it cost us the chance at a repeat no doubt, but I was in cap hell and I had no choice but to blow that team up.
FTB: Cam had a very tumultuous relationship with the GM of the Rams, but he's now coming off an MVP and a Blitz Bowl win. What has he meant to your team?
TR: Cam is Superman! He is the face of this franchise and the ultimate competitor. It's obvious that his previous GM did not know how to get the most out of him. He also constantly chastised him in the media. Guys like Cam don't like that type of stuff. He's a warrior and the face of the franchise and should be treated as such. It was obvious that he just wanted his GM to have his back. Thankfully, he came to this team and has been everything we could have asked for and more. I really think that GMs need to think before they go and trash their starting QB in the media. Take Max's love-hate relationship with Teddy Bridgewater. Dude put up excellent numbers, but was never trusted to get the job done in Minnesota. I really think he has the potential to flourish with a GM that will give him the chance to succeed and I'm excited to see what he does this year with the Jets. Back to Cam, I love him and hope that he finishes his career here. He knows that I fully trust him to get the job done. I think he has plenty of gas in the tank and a desire to go down as the greatest QB in the history of the RZB.
FTB: Your offense set a Blitz record this year with 611 points, beating the previous record of 553 which was set by the Big Ben lead Steelers. Is this the best team you've had in the RZB?
TR: This is the best team I've ever had in FOF period. So much talent and really no weaknesses anywhere.
FTB: Finally, how about a Bowl prediction for next season?
TR: It would be wrong to pick myself, so I'm going to go out on a limb and pick Da Bears to make it to their third consecutive bowl game and get the win over the Raiders.
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 0:54:59 GMT -5
KO's 2022 Player Award Predictions Scaled Down Wash, Rinse, Repeat Edition
Most Valuable Player - QB Cam Newton, Pittsburgh Steelers Others Considered: QB Lawrence Perry, Seattle Seahawks; QB Ralph McNeil, Chicago Bears
Offensive Player of the Year - RB Thomas Rawls, Seattle Seahawks Others Considered: QB Cam Newton; QB Lawrence Perry; RB Deion Bailey, New York Jets
Defensive Player of the Year - DE Bud Dupree, Minnesota Vikings Others Considered: LB Jonah Covington, Baltimore Ravens; LB Bobby Wagner, Seattle Seahawks
Offensive Rookie of the Year - RB Alexis Mathews, NY Giants Others Considered: RB DeAndre Nordstrom, Cleveland Browns; WR Timothy Diefendorf, Kansas City Chiefs
Defensive Rookie of the Year - SLB Carson Biletnikoff, Los Angeles Chargers Others Considered: LB Paul Spetz, Tampa Bay Buccaneers; LB Jalen Blaney, Miami Dolphins
Breakout player of the year - QB Dan Puzzuoli, Green Bay Packers Others Considered: QB Rico Fjelstad, Washington Redskins |
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 0:56:24 GMT -5
 News on FOF8by Nick
Ron Yary played offensive tackle for the Minnesota Vikings between 1968-1981. Selected 1st overall Yary lived up to his billing, 7 Pro Bowls, 6 times First Team All-Pro. He was named to the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team. When the opportunity came up to draft Yary in Wille's VFL league (a 1971 starting point historical league), I took it. Although young he had the look of a player who could get pretty close to his real life counter part. Yary has played well, for the most part. With one exception. Penalties. Yary is good for 1 holding call per game. If I am lucky enough to have a holding free game, you can be sure he will produce a False Start. Player intelligence.
When Ben posted up a study on FOFC regarding player intelligence it really caught my eye. The effect of intelligence on penalties looked huge. Way in excess of the influence Head Coach Discipline has ever produced. He posted up each franchises average player intelligence, along with the franchise penalty count. The top 9 franchises in terms of penalty count all had an average intelligence under 50. 6 of the bottom 7 teams who had the lowest penalty count all had an average player intelligence of over 50. In short the effect of intelligence on penalties was obvious and massive. It wasn't as if any teams had average intelligence figures of 30 or 70, they were all 40-60. These small variations were making an obvious difference when it came to yellow flags being thrown. He posted up the stats for another league. Much the same. HC discipline was getting lost in all of this, let alone tenure. It barely looked to register.
This was the tip of the iceberg that sent me on a mission. I wanted to understand the dynamics of yellow flags in the NFL and Front Office Football. Who was getting called? How Often? It seemed to me a heck of a lot of penalties were either offensive holding or false starts. It struck me that defensive pass interference seemed a lot more common in the NFL than FOF.
I took a trip to www.nflpenalties.com/ Interesting site, it does what it says on the tin. The results for the 2016 season were much like I expected..
Offensive Holding 2.69 (per game), 6,820 (yards)
False Starts 2.26, 2,979
Defensive Pass Interference 1.08, 4,768
Defensive Holding 0.80, 2781
Unnecessary Roughness 0.76, 831
Lots of other penalties, but these are the most influential. From this list it struck me that offensive lineman and defensive backs should be penalized the most. A lot of penalties could be committed by pretty much anyone on the field, but offensive holding and defensive pass interference obviously had a natural lean. Sure enough on the site, it had data showing penalties by positional group.
1. Offensive Lineman - Penalties 27% Yards 24.6%
2. Defensive Backs - Penalties 24.5% Yards 29.5%
Those big pass interference penalties showing their bearing here. Less penalties for DBs, but more overall yardage.
Both had more than double the amount of penalties, and yardage totals, than any other positional group. So that had me thinking. This "player intelligence" is obviously very important now, but is it in fact somewhat important for some positions and uber important for other positions? It looks like it is going in that direction. But just from general observation it seemed to me that pass interference penalties were not being given a fair representation in our game. I suspected that the slant was further towards the OL.
TheManWithNoName, helped me out here, scouring logs. We looked through 100 games in total, in 3 different universes. Recording all penalties in those 100 games. Cheers Evan. And yes, it appears DBs are not accurately represented in the FOF penalty stakes. Not even close.
OL 39.6%----7.92% per individual
DBs 15.25%-----3.21% per individual
DLs 13.3%-----3.87% per individual
LBs 10.2%-----3.86% per individual
The above stats have factored in the average number of players from each position group that are on the field. Strangely then, very few penalties for DBs in FOF.
We have to consider the fact that the same 5 OL are on the field every play. OL don't get subbed out for endurance. Unless a LB has monster endurance he is going to miss snaps, even before we consider tactical substitutions. DL, DTs in particular get subbed out the most. DBs get subbed the least of all the defensive position groups, which boosts their standing somewhat. Defensive players do get tend to be flagged with slightly more influential penalties than OL. This also has to be factored in.
So in summary, even if you have a superstar LB with monster endurance who plays every down, his intelligence will be only roughly half (54% according to my data, allow +/- 10% for sample size and the exact importance of penalties called per position, I just estimated based on nfl penalties .com stats) as important as 1 of your starting OL. With a more normal starting Linebackers the figure of 54% drops, according to how many plays he is subbed out. Your average run of the mill starting defensive players intelligence may well be only a third as important as a starting OLs, allowing for tactical substitutions and endurance pulling him out of the game...and rarely over 50%.
It is clear to me the intelligence of OL is extremely important. Defensive players intelligence is a factor I will certainly be factoring in going forward. Snap count will be a big factor in how much weight I put into this consideration.
All this kind of turns talent evaluation on its head. We are leaving the zone of scientific ish thought now...but maybe, a low salary, 3 penalties a year offensive lineman is actually a better bet than a high salary 14 penalties a year guy. That is the sort of difference we are talking about between a very low and very high intelligence OL. On the field I think it would be pretty close all things considered. Throw the financial side in, and players weight/BMI out (that is a subject for a different day) I would sooner have my guy. Granted I am biased, but either way it has to be close. Talent evaluation turned on its head?
 
How does this all help me you ask? I can't see intelligence in the draft anymore I hear a lot of people saying. Check out the solecismics of the guys above. Kind of makes sense. Another logical improvement, linking solecismic with intelligence. FOF8 got off to a shaky start, but with most of the bugs ironed out we have a great game here. Added layers that really improve the game experience.
If you are still reading this far, you will probably be thinking about checking some of your own players intelligence. How is your luck? I was only just admiring those trio of Steelers OL picked up in the 2nd. Looking pretty sharp pre PS 2, intelligence ratings of 19, 20 and 22. But the champions current starters are largely pretty fine in that department. How is your luck? I am sure some of us have already started to factor intelligence into our decisions, but I suspect it is going to become an even bigger factor in the equation going forward. |
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 0:59:00 GMT -5
 Steals of the Draft by ezlee2
This year as always teams found excellent talent in the later rounds of the draft. This piece will highlight a few of the players that jumped out at me and doesn't represent a comprehensive list. I looked at players taken after round 2.
3.1 Washington Redskins WR Johnathan Shea (33/55)
3.7 Carolina Panthers S Kody Weber (41/62)
3.10 Denver Broncos CB Colby Hester (28/51)
3.11 Detroit Lions DE Buddy Booth (42/52)
3.13 Arizona Cardinals T Derrick Pearson (31/56)
3.18 Atlanta Falcons CB Marc Cook (35/55)
3.20 Indianapolis Colts CB Samuel Sapp (29/55)
3.22 Kansas City Chiefs WR Timothy Diefendorf (45/52)
3.23 Detroit Lions DT Logan Flemister (31/53)
3.24 Carolina Panthers DE Ralph Ford (30/58)
3.30 Tennessee Titans CB Alfred Weinke (43/50)
4.10 Detroit Lions C Nicholas Alcott (36/57)
4.13 New York Giants G Jalen Solymos (36/50)
4.15 Denver Broncos S Troy Gallery (39/58)
4.21 San Francisco 49ers TE Bart Donovan (41/51)
4.23 Kansas City Chiefs DT Dustin Burnett (39/61)
4.28 Seattle Seahawks T Eduardo Buzzanca (27/54)
4.31 Chicago Bears DT Cole Chernetsky (42/65)
5.1 Washington Redskins CB Victor Stuart (42/60)
5.2 Green Bay Packers DE Terrell Randle (42/62)
5.5 New Orleans Saints RB Owen Lyons (39/54)
5.6 LA Chargers T Alexis Howard (29.56)
5.12 New York Giants RG Rusty Cowley (35/57)
5.22 Kansas City Chiefs TE Kai O'Neal (31/53)
6.9 Miami Dolphins DE Cameron Sembower (36/56)
6.11 New York Giants DB Ezra Cheramie (34/51)
6.15 Houston Texans C Nick Compton (25/56)
6.16 New England DE Jeremy Arrowsmith (32/50)
6.19 Indianapolis Colts CB Patrick Barker (34/53)
6.25 New York Jets DB Wendell Jefferson (38/53)
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 8:28:59 GMT -5
AFC East Preview by Rush  GM - pressbox
2021 Record - 9-7
The Jets recovered from a 3-13 record the season before to grab the AFC East Division Title. Despite losing their first three games, they bounced back, only losing two in the final eight games. They would go on to record their first ever RZB playoff win, defeating the Chiefs before being outclassed by eventual bowl champions, Pittsburgh.
Notable losses are CB D'Joun Smith and DE Glen Jarvis. The roster has been strengthened with the signings of C Alec Keaton, CB's Luther Fletcher and Josiah Westbrook as well as T Ricky Wagner, WR Julio Jones, DT Clarence Hanks and QB Teddy Bridgewater. TE Kyle Rudolph also arrives from Washington.
The Jets should get day one use out of first round pick DE Ethan Tobias and also hope CB Wendell Jefferson can contribute early.
2022 Prediction - The Jets have certainly got stronger on offense with the signings of Bridgewater and Jones to compliment a very good running game. However, the defense could prove vulnerable especially in the secondary. Still, I like them in the East. 10-6 and the division title. GM - ukpatfan
2021 Record - 8-8
The Patriots have yet to have a winning season since the Tom Brady era ended and last year the trend continued. Despite opening the season with two away victories, they would be plagued by inconsistency and end up at .500.
Not many changes in New England. TE Lee Smith and CB Johnthan Banks have decided to retire. C James Carpenter has joined Detroit. In Comes T Reginald Branch.
A solid draft for the Pats with RB Jeff Uerling, G Marquis Douglas and CB Darryl Shaw expected to get significant game time. DE Jeremy Arrowsmith and LB Ian Cebulla will add depth.
2022 Prediction - New England have three QB's fighting over one job so expect the pre-season to be interesting. Pats fans thank god for WR Terrell Monroe as otherwise, this offense could stagnate. Defensively, they are very solid up front and have a young and talented secondary. Does this roster have enough talent to get them over the hump? I'm afraid not. 7-9 finish.
 GM - scorp
2021 Record - 6-9-1
Miami would start the first quarter of the season unbeaten but inconsistency would ultimately set in with only three more wins in the final twelve games. It's hard to believe they had two double-digit win seasons not so long ago.
T Dallas Thomas and DT Ndamukong Suh have left the club for pastures new with DE Olivier Vernon released. WR Michael Floyd and LB Shaquil Barrett are among the new faces.
The 'Phins will be expecting an immediate impact from LB Jalen Blaney and DT Aidan Ogden with Cameron Sembower, DT Kurt Welch and return specialist WR Colin Picton providing depth.
2022 Prediction -
The Dolphins will hope to rely QB Reginald Anderson getting the ball to the playmakers in Beekman and Kissinger with RB Toby Williams toting the rock. The secondary could prove to be their undoing though. 7-9. GM - TAFIV
2021 Record - 3-13
Buffalo came down to earth with a bang a year on from winning the East and making the playoffs for the first time in RZB history. 30th in points scored and 30th in points allowed tells it's own story. The new GM will be looking to stamp his mark.
It's a full blown rebuild in Buffalo. NT Terrance Knighton and WR Antonio Brown have hung up the cleats. T Sebastian Vollmer TE Jimmy Graham and LB Luke Kuechly have hit free agency and QB Russell Wilson, LB Christian Gepetto and CB Gary Fox have been traded out. S Caleb Horn has left the club. In comes Tackles Dallas Thomas and Charles Leno. K Derrick Sheldon, WR Darren Waller, QB Damon Anthony and DE Josh Glover have also joined.
QB Mason Duff, C Stan Brewer and TE pairing, Mitchell McCormick and Adam Von der Ahe should all start day one.
2022 Prediction -
It could be a tough season for the Bills. With so many changes of personnel, it may take a while to gel together. A lot will rest on the shoulders of RB C.J. Carlson, DE Khalil Mack and CB Donovan Malone. Expect them to have another down season. 4-12.
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 8:30:41 GMT -5
AFC North Preview by Pressbox
Pittsburgh2021: 15-1 (Bowl champs)The defending champions remain the class of the league, as they are loaded at almost every position. They’ll be the odds-on favorite to repeat their title.Offensive outlook: Go ahead, try to find a weakness in this starting lineup. At age 33, QB Cam Newton shows no signs of a drop off, and his primary receivers – Cornell Jones (20 TDs last two seasons), Rick Diaz, Ricky Ramsey – are all among the league’s best. And the Steelers traded for veteran FL Tavon Austin for depth. Oh, and Newton, when he’s not gaining yards with his legs, can always give the ball to RB Peter Chamberlain, who’s averaged over 1,500 rushing yards in his two seasons. The O-line is every bit as talented as the skill positions. Sheesh!Defensive outlook: The defense doesn’t offer many holes either. A strong secondary, led by bump-and-run specialist CB Winston Prescott and S Vernon Koski (7 interceptions as a rookie) lead a unit that dares opponents to throw. Sack-machine NT Adrian Mieske anchors the defensive front. If the team has a weakness (HA!), it’s the linebackers, though Hardy Carpenter, Roy Smithen and Howard Farr are all in the top half of the league at their positions. Special teams: K Alexander Rebensdorf is the league’s best but he’s no sure thing on extra points, missing five last season. Rookie Donny Turner will get punting duties. Cornel Jones is a dangerous return man on punts (17.3 per tote last season) and kickoffs.Prediction: Pittsburgh scored 611 points last season and allowed only 246, both best in the league. There’s no reason they shouldn’t be just as good again. A perfect season wouldn’t be a shock, especially if Newton stays healthy. If Cam gets hurt, maybe knock ’em down to 13 wins. Otherwise, let’s say 15-1 again and another title.
Cincinnati
2021: 10-6 (WC)Stability seems to be the name of the game with the Bengals, who made few moves in the offseason. But after posting 10 wins and a playoff berth, why toy with success?Offensive outlook: Garrett Gardner enters the season as the incumbent quarterback, but he is more a game manager than a playmaker. Fourth-year man Colton Patton had been getting antsy waiting in the wings. Could this be the season he takes over? Whoever is behind center will have a strong receiving tandem to throw to in FL Brock LaPlant and SE Bubba Walton. The running game returns Chad Oakes, who gained more than 1,100 yards as a rookie behind one of the league’s better interior lines.Defensive outlook: Hard-hitting CB Kelly McKnight, who has 13 interceptions in his first two seasons in the league, leads a strong secondary which also features up-and-coming safety Douglas Newhart. The linebacker corps doesn’t look impressive at first glance, but Kevin Minter recorded 19 sacks and Isaiah Donovan posted 109 tackles last season. Rookie tackle Herman Binns will be a player to watch on the defensive front. Special teams: Ernest Fong is an above average punter, and veteran K Bob Joyner is coming off a resurgent season.Prediction: No reason to think the Bengals can’t repeat last season’s success and maybe get a little better depending on Gardner/Patton. Let’s take the easy way out and forecast another 10-6 record and wild-card berth.
Baltimore
2021: 6-10The Ravens stumbled out of the gate in 2021 and were 2-8 at one point before winning four in a row and finishing in third place in the division. But 15-year veteran Joe Flacco finds himself in an unaccustomed quarterback battle, and top back Liam Burns was a holdout late in the preseason.Offensive outlook: With instability at quarterback and Burns battling early-season rust, the Ravens could be in for another slow start, despite the presence of a strong receiving tandem in newly acquired (from Pittsburgh) FL Amari Cooper and holdover SE Reggie Browning, who missed more than half of last season with a leg injury. Despite a strong offensive line, points could be tough to come by.Defensive outlook: LB Jonah Covington is unsurpassed in stuffing the run and is a superior pass rusher. S Jerald Butler is coming off a strong rookie season, and first-round draft pick CB Theodore Butler will be an immediate impact player. Coupled with returnee Josh Lyons, the secondary should be a team strength.Special teams: The kicking game is pretty average, though K Shaun Gomez has a nice upside.Prediction: Except for the quarterback position, the Ravens are a fairly solid team. With even an average QB, Baltimore could produce at least a .500 season. But if they stay with Flacco & Co., a 4-12 season is more likely as the team positions itself to acquire a franchise quarterback in the next draft.
Cleveland
2021: 3-13The Browns struggled to a 3-13 season in 2021 which rewarded them with the No.1 pick in the draft in RB DeAndre Nordstrom. Coupled with fellow first-round picks TE Ramon Maticic and FS Ethan Kucharski as well as prize free agent defenders DeAndre Porter (DT from the Giants), Jordan Richards (CB, Eagles) and Kenny Batchelder (DT, Vikings) the Browns will be on their way out of the cellar.Offensive outlook: QB Earnie Hawks is back after a disappointing first season in Cleveland, but he is only three seasons removed from a 4,000-yard passing season with Washington. Maticic will give him a top target right away, assuming he learns the routes, and second-year FL James Pointer is coming on as a reliable weapon. The Browns were next to last in rushing in 2011, but the speedy Nordstrom and a solid interior line should change that in 2022. Defensive outlook: The aforementioned rookie and free agent additions should immediately help a defense that allowed almost 28 points a game in 2021, worst in the league. Second-year LB Clayton St. Clair is solid all around, and holdover DE Fernando Stephens will couple with Porter to stop the run.Special teams: K Kirk Preston put in a strong rookie year which saw him nail a 55-yard field goal, while Rabble Brush is a serviceable punter. Nickolas Meier has the tools to be a dangerous kickoff return man.Prediction: The Browns have added enough pieces to get out of the division cellar and, depending on Hawks, could challenge for a wild card. An 8-8 record is not out of reach but 6-10 is more likely. |
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 8:35:01 GMT -5
AFC South Preview
by Pressbox
Tennessee
2021: 12-4 (Division champs)The Titans enjoyed a fine season in 2021, but paid the price in the offseason and had to part with some talent to get under the salary cap. Thus, it will be a challenge to stay on top of a competitive division.Offensive outlook: Any discussion of the Titans starts with QB Marcus Mariota, who has thrown for over 4,000 yards for five straight seasons. Rookie RB Myron Myers was quite the find late in the first round, but the receiving corps took a hit in the offseason. The offensive line is tops in the league in cohesion.Defensive outlook: Hard-hitting pass rusher Aaron Donald is one of the best in the league but cap losses hurt the defense the most. Nicholas Gibson is a top safety and corners Philip Crowder and rookie Alfred Weinke make for a strong secondary. The linebackers, led by OLB Jackie Cooley, aren’t bad. Special teams: Darryl Tubbs is a strong-legged punter and Dan Bailey is solid, if not spectacular. Prediction: Despite the personnel turnover, the Titans are still a strong team. A less than stellar receiving group will put more pressure on Mariota and rookie Myers. The Titans gave up more points than anyone in the division last season, so a repeat of 12 wins is unlikely. Forecast says 10-6 and in the wild card mix.
Indianapolis2021: 9-7The Colts started 9-4 last season but lost their last three games by a total of 12 points to miss the playoffs. Expect a rebound in 2022.Offensive outlook: Veteran Andrew Luck is 32 now but still in the top third level of quarterbacks. He snapped a string of four straight seasons with a QB rating over 100 last season when he produced a 99.4. He returns veteran wideouts T.Y. Hilton and Phillip Dorsett, who are still among the best, though third-option Donte Moncrief has shown signs of slipping. The running game is fine with solid ball carriers Braxton Angelwicz and Gary Jung back in the fold for the fifth straight season. Guard Hugh Thornton and tackle Taylor Godfrey anchor the line.Defensive outlook: Four-time second team All-Pro DE David Parry is the star of the defense, which offers few stars but no big holes either. Rookie NT Ty Miller should contribute right away.Special teams: P Pat McAfee is in his 14th season and remains the league’s best. Rookie Joey Gellar was battling returnee Ricardo Runowski for kicking duties. Prediction: The Colts were probably better than their record last season and still have an explosive offense. The defense doesn’t inspire dominance but may be good enough for another winning season. Indy should be good enough for 10 wins and again challenge for the division crown.
Houston2021: 7-9The Texans won six of their last 10 games last season and should carry that momentum into 2022 and challenge for the division title.Offensive outlook: Andy Dalton is coming off two so-so seasons, but he’s still a stable presence in the pocket who is adept at the two-minute drill. Courtney Klosterman is a dependable, if not spectacular back who has gained 1,000 yards in three of the last four seasons. Tyler Eifert is a weapon at tight end, and rookie WR Rod Barlow looks like a future star.Defensive outlook: Though they lost star linemen J.J. Watt to free agency, Houston did grab one of the prizes of the free agent season when it signed LB Luke Kuechley, who at age 31 is still one of the league’s top run stuffers and pass rushers. He’ll team nicely with returnee LB Deron Collette, who recorded 113 tackles last season. DE Gavin Heekin was another free agent find and should help offset the loss of Watt. The draft was good to the Texans’ defense as well, as they grabbed Roberto Glaros, who looks like a future shutdown corner. Special teams: K Preston Kaplan is looking to rebound from an off season by his standards. P Roderick Bownes was steady in his first season with the Texans after a long stint in Washington. Barlow could be a dynamic punt returner.Prediction: The Texans have improved over last season and should turn around their 2021 mark to 9-7.
Jacksonville2021: 7-9The Jaguars may have surprised some with their seven-win season, but an unsettled quarterback situation may assure a slide in 2022.Offensive outlook: Ryan Nassib turned in a surprisingly good season in 2021, but even Jaguars management seems to believe he caught lightning in a bottle. Raw rookie Louie Woods got a long look in the preseason, as did youngsters Todd Sandoval and Jonah Hansen. Who will get most of the PT? As the quarterback intrigue suggests, Jacksonville appears to be in rebuild mode. One of the league’s best O-lines across the board returns, which had a lot to do with so-so talent RB Lionel Brimberry gaining 1,224 yards last season. Gage Darnick is back as the top receiver and will likely couple with a pair of rookies on many downs.Defensive outlook: The Jags had the best defense in the division last and return much of it intact. DE Jacob Miller is the best at his position and Conner Hill was a 2nd team all-league safety. Veteran CB Kevin Johnson is on the fringe of all-league status. The linebackers are average at best. Special teams: The kicking game may struggle in 2022, as Phillip Washington, who hit five field goals from 50-plus yards, seems to have lost some power in the offseason. Punter Ross Witt is an excellent holder for place-kicks. Prediction: It’s hard to see Jacksonville advancing with the current quarterback mix, though the team is hardly bereft of talent. Still, success starts with the QB, so a 5-11 season may be in the offing. |
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 8:37:24 GMT -5
AFC West Preview
by dthompso8
Oakland Raiders
11-5 PF 440 PA 300
Offense – Rush 2nd, Pass 16th
Defense – Rush 18th, Pass 20th
The Raiders won the division but were unable to progress in the playoffs so need to be able to make the next step while keeping the rest of the division at bay.
Offseason
The Raiders upgrade the OL in the draft taking C Lukas Thornton in the 1st while adding depth in the later rounds. In free agency they signed a bunch of renegotiated contracts but essentially added no new faces. They did lost a 3rd round pick next year due to cap violations.
Offense
The offense starts on the OL where the Raiders have a quality tackle pairing in Dunlap and Benton. Inside they have Gillespie and La Rosa at Guard and the newly drafted Thornton to complete the line at Center. The passing game is dangerous as Carr at QB and three quality WR’s in Narcisse (1060 yards), Schroder (1113 yards) and Link. Last season it was the running game that was dangerous and Upshaw will be looking for another superb season though it would be a shock if he ran for around 2111 yards again. Rookie 5th round selection Miller will be looking to challenge Katzman and Walford for playing time at TE while the team don’t use a traditional FB.
Defense
The Oakland defense struggled last season and there is no real reason to think it will be much better this season, they play a 3-4 with the two NT’s de la Cruz and Meier being two of their best DL players. Edwards at DE is good against the run, so could well line up at RDE while they use de la Cruz at LDE and Meier at NT. Behind them Ingram is the best LB and can play either of the outside spots, look for Reynoso and Carter to start inside while 7th round MLB Cooley could well see playing time at the spot Ingram isn’t lined up in. The secondary is not much better where CB Leonavicius is probably the best player with Funk being a decent option as well. Jordan and rookie Blackburn may well start at safety.
Outlook
The Raiders are going to be dependent on a quality offense and some real quality special teams with starts at punter (Morstead) and kicker (Tucker) to help with field position and keeping the scoreboard moving as if they need to depend on the defense they are going to be in for a long season. They are fortunate that the offense is so good that they should be able to win plenty of games with the quality on that side of the ball.
Kansas City Chiefs
10-6 PF 410 PA 321
Offense – Rush 21st, Pass 4th
Defense – Rush 8th, Pass 19th
A quality passing attack and good run defense made the Chiefs a tough team as they made the playoffs for the 5th season in a row, this time as a wild card team but it was one and done. To try and make improvements the team changed HC as Mack Snyder came over from Arizona.
Offseason
To help the defense that struggled against the pass last season they selected safety Henson in the 1st round. They added WR’s Myers in the 2nd and Diefendorf in the 3rd. To help the defense they also added ILB Griffin who was another 2nd round selection and NT Burnett in the 4th. There were few signings during free agency though they did add some depth in LFA.
Offense
The Chiefs are led by QB Shawn Hammer and will have the experience of Conley as well as rookies Myers and Diefendorf to throw to. In addition the 5th round TE O’Neal looks like being a starter as well. The running game will be led by Wunder who rushed for 1371 yards last season behind tackles Thurgood and Federspiel and star center Morse. The team have options at Guard with Flynn and Stephens competing with Jerry and rookie Hanson for the starting roles.
Defense
Kansas runa 3-4 and have a very solid defense with good players throughout, on the DL they have the pass rushing quality of Schneider and the all pro potential of 2nd year man Hoffman outside while rookie Burnett will take over at NT. Zitnik and rookie Griffin will start at ILB while Strong is the perfect pass rushing WLB and Hibbs is a top draw SLB. Peters and Lyle should start at CB with Atkins as the nickel corner while Baldaras and rookie Henson will be at safety giving the Chiefs a quality secondary.
Outlook
The Chiefs look like the complete package and it is hard to think that they won’t be in the playoffs come the end of the season, in fact they could get onto a good run at the right time and look capable of going the distance if they avoid key injuries during the season.
Denver Broncos
7-9 PF 365 PA 344
Offense – Rush 24th, Pass 14th
Defense – Rush 1st, Pass 2nd
Denver had a highly ranked defense last season but they are going to need to get better on offense if they are to get into the playoffs, while the defensive unit doesn’t appear to be as strong as once was.
Offseason
Despite being a quality defensive unit they add another piece in the form of DE Hoffman with their 1st round pick, they also upgraded the secondary with safeties Hester and Gallery in the 3rd and 4th rounds. The offense did get some help in the 2nd round with the selection of WR Janikowski. They had concerns at LB during the offseason as they signed a couple in free agency, and also drafted one with a late pick.
Offense
Osweiler was solid at QB last season but he is going to need more support from the running game where Heidorn led the team with 744 yards rushing. The OL is solid with Paradis at C, Cheshier and Melsha at Guard and Schwartz at tackle. Paukschus will probably start at the other tackle spot but is being challenged by 2nd year man Pina, while Childers is a top draw FB and that helps. Looking to catch the passes from the QB are the ageless Thomas who is in his 13th season, McAdams, Sanford as well as rookies Beck and Janikowski will all be given opportunities to step up to the plate though non would cause sleepless nights for the opposing DC.
Defense
Denver also plays a 3-4 with Sigler at NT and rookie Hoffman pencilled in to play on end and either Girard or Edwards the other, behind them Borders will play one ILB position while the other is between 11th year man Marshall and Ray who is in his 8th year. Wynn should be set at WLB while rookie Scrafford may have the inside track for the strong side. Harris is a stud CB and locks down one side of the field, the question is whether Hester has improved enough to be the RCB or will he be the nickel corner and Kenner the other starter? Morton is a quality safety and should be partnered with Gallery who looks like the real deal, though how they fit Brian in is anyone’s guess.
Outlook
Denver do not look like the complete package yet as they lack some pieces on offense and the front seven on defense is not quite as good as you would like so can see them allowing more yards this season and probably more points as well. However they have some quality and are going to win games so could well be around the .500 mark again.
Los Angeles Chargers
6-10 PF 267 PA 406
Offense – Rush 19th, Pass 30th
Defense – Rush 21st, Pass 18th
The Chargers moved to LA changed OC and DC as the team starts a new in Los Angeles looking to build from what was a poor last season in San Diego.
Offseason
The draft saw the Chargers look to improve the defense with the addition of OLB Biletnikoff in the 1st round and safety Trainor in the 3rd. They did look to upgrade the running game with the selection of RB Collier in the 2nd. They added the aging Richard Sherman at CB in free agency but other than that were fairly quiet.
Offense
The Chargers are not going to win many games with this offense, with Keith at QB they are solid at best and the lack of quality at WR is not going to allow the LA fans to fall in love with this team. Chapman and rookie RB’s McCollom and Collier will need to carry the load running behind a decent OL. Foley is a solid C and with Clancy and Norton outside him they are not a top draw running team up the middle. Harding is a quality tackle and it is a question of whether the pass protection of Kinsella or the potential of rookie Howard gets the nod on the other side.
Defense
There are some stars on the defensive side so they may draw in the crowds as they have two stud OLB’s in Cote and rookie Biletnikoff should cause some sleepless nights, who will play inside them is a question as the LB’s on the roster seem to struggle at stopping the run as Perryman and Ingram are also more pass rushers than run stoppers. NT Cooley will have to play at the top of his game while DE Mili is good against the run, it is expected that Lloyd will start on the DL as well but that could change. There is no real quality at CB but expect LeBlond and Sherman to start as they allow Lynch some time to develop. Chancellor is a stud SS but is in his 13th season, who will start alongside is under debate, Noorman and Tweedie may be the best options but one of the rookies may be given a shot yet.
Outlook
The Chargers are solid on defense but the offense does not have enough play makers especially in the passing game to win many games, look for them to continue to struggle until they add either more quality at QB or WR, preferably both.
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 8:39:02 GMT -5
NFC East Preview
by TAFIV
Dallas Cowboys - GM ManWithNoName (Evan)2021 Record 8-8With WR Dez Bryant retiring and WR Terrance Williams still holding out Dallas is in trouble at WR this year.They've brought in a couple FAs, 1 of which looks to be more of a kick returner than receiver. Dallas also picked up a few undrafted FAs hoping they pan out and so far they look good we'll have to see how they do during the year.RB Alfred Morris retired this year leaving Dallas in need of a RB and it looks like they may have found their man in 52/57 RB Marcus Joseph who they took at 1.26He appears to be a good all around RB but has trouble pulling away once in the open.re-signed 60/60 SS Byron "The Senator" Jones(29) to a 4 year $27,160,000 contractthen traded him + pick 3.4 to Carolina for pick 1.32costing Dallas $1,400,000 in dead cap this year and $4,200,000 next yearThis may turn out to be a good deal for Dallas however as they picked up QB Clay Oskolkoff with the 1.32 pick and while he is in need of development he looks very promising and could turn out to be their leader for years to come.Overall I see Dallas as having a solid team this year but not anything great. If they do make the playoffs I don't see them getting past the first round. In the next year or 2 they will be running into age problems since while on average they have a fairly young team most of their better players are getting old.I'm predicting an uneventful season: 7-9
New York - GM aeon (Ken)2021 Record 7-9Although they didn't have anyone retire, they lost 62/62 LDT DeAndre Porter who was by far their best defensive lineman to free agency.New york is in bad shape this year and is facing many problems. On the offensive side of the ball they look alright at first glance, however they only have a starter for each position and no solid backups.With filler for depth at almost all positions any injuries could spell the end for the offense.When you look at the defense is when you see the biggest problems New York will have this year. Their running a 43 but their defensive line is in a shambles, their starting MLB and SS are both backup quality at best, and their #2 CB is a rookie in need of developmentThey picked up several good rookies this year which will help in the future.Unfortunately most of them need development so the only one i see having a big impact this year is 1.6 57/78 RB Alexis Matthews.My overall prediction is that they will struggle all season.Even if their offense pulls off a stellar game they could still lose due to the weakness of the defense.I see them going: 5-11
Philadelphia - GM Chipawa12 (Chip)2021 Record 10-6Starting Center Jason Kelce retired this year and Philly was unable to find a replacement for him(they are currently using a filler). They also lost several young players to Free Agency.Philly is looking to be a good bet for the Division Champions again this year as long as they stay healthy.They have good/decent starters everywhere except Center and Defensive Tackle, unfortunately however their depth is almost non-existent.If Philadelphia wants to stay a contender they will need to find some new blood for the team since after losing so many young players to FA.Almost all their starters have at least 8 seasons in the RZB with most of those having 10 or more.I see the Eagles hitting: 9-7 if they stay healthy
Washington - GM hilderbrand (Dallas)
2021 Record 2-14The Redskins were hit hard on retirements this year losing 3 starters FL Mike Wallace, LDE Jaye Howard and SS Glover Quin.During the off-season this year Washington has done a lot of work and managed to drastically improve their team.They've put together a strong but aging defense as well as a solid offense that only has a few aging players. This goes well with the rebuilding they've done the last few years.I can easily see them hitting the playoffs within the next couple years.They will likely be fighting Dallas for the #2 spot in the NFC East this year and may take #1 with a little luck.I believe they will go 8-8 |
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 8:40:41 GMT -5
NFC North Preview
by Jeremy
Green Bay Packers (2021 record: 3-13)The Packers head into the 2022 with hope and what appears to be a positive trajectory for the team. The hopes and dreams of the fans of this small, blue collar, working man’s town rest on the arm of 2nd year QB Dan Puzzuoli (or “Big Puzzy” as he is referred to fondly by teammates and fans alike.) Puzzuoli took his rookie lumps as the Pack struggled through a 3-13 season. Expectations rise this year, and honestly it can’t be as bad as last year. Green Bay had the least productive passing game in the league last year, and had one of the worst defenses and turnover differential. The lone shining light was the run game, which will again be anchored by Darrell Franklin. This Packer line looks to again be one of the better run blocking lines in the league. Pass protection will be another matter, and probably a big problem. Receiving targets will be another problem hamstringing this offense. The leading receiver from last year, Chavarria, had 630 yards… Sanders is well past his prime and there are a few youngsters that could develop into decent pros, but they aren’t there just yet. The Packers defense will struggle again this season. Green Bay found a steal in the 5th round with DE Terrell Randle, but he is still developing. They picked up a talent in the offseason in DE Korey Livanis, but he is undersized. There is talent in the defensive backfield, but they can’t cover receivers forever without a pass rush. There are a lot of buts… They are weak at defensive tackle and in the linebacking corp which spells trouble for stopping the run. Ultimately, this team has a bright future with a quarterback who should become one of the best in the business. But for now, there are a lot of pieces needing to be added. 2022 projection: 6-10
Minnesota Vikings (2021 record: 11-5)Minnesota had a successful season on many fronts… but that divisional round drubbing at the hands of the Buccaneers left a mark. Off to New York goes Teddy and in comes 2nd year prospect Conner Wisniewski. Quite a ballsy move for a traditionally competitive club. It is clear the front office decided they were tired of hitting the ceiling in the playoffs. It is also clear that the answer has become to strip things down and build for the future. Pretty much half the roster is new to the team this season, and half the roster is in their 3rd year or younger. The Viking offense is very much a work in progress. Wisniewski will struggle in what is essentially his rookie season, as most do, and part of that struggle will be a distinct lack of developed talent at the skill positions. The offensive line looks to be another work in progress, but have some solid prospects. Defensively, Minnesota looks to have much more of the pieces put together. The defensive line should be solid, as well as the defensive backfield. Minnesota looks especially strong at corner. A weakness here is the linebacking unit. Liam Tyler is a beast but there is not much else there at the moment. This is a team in transition, and so they will take a few steps back this year, but assuming Wisniewski is as many insiders believe, the future looks bright in Minnesota as well. 2022 Projection: 5-11
 Chicago Bears (2021 record: 10-6)Ahhh yes, the Bowl runner ups. Now this is a team right in their winning window. Ralph McNeil continues to show he is one of the best in the business over the past two seasons. And returning are his two favorite targets in wide receivers Jeffery and White. The rookie TE Matthew Thieman looks to be another solid receiving target. The run game will be in the hands of two crafty vets in Jeremy Langford and free agent acquisition Carlos Hyde. They will be running behind a line with two of the best at their position in Hitchcock and Fonda. There is a good mix of veterans and youth along this offensive line. Second year tackle Shaq Tessen will start opposite Fonda, with guards Kyle Long and youngster Bob Davis rounding out the lineup. Defensively the Bears again have a good mix of veteran leadership and youth. There are many players on this defense that have been a fixture in Chicago since the formation of the league. Ferguson, Goldman, McClellin, Fuller, and Amos all continue to play important roles for this team. In addition, the front office has found key young talent in Chernetsky, Wilkins, James, and Schroeder. This is not to say that all is rosy in Chicago, as there is a big problem because McClellin continues to be important to this team. The interior linebackers stink, especially in coverage. While Chernestsky and Schroeder look like they can be important run stoppers they are not there yet, and this team will again be vulnerable to the run inside. But if the Bears are moving the ball consistently on offense this becomes less of a worry. Looks to me like the Bears are division winners, especially as you look at the rest of the division. 2022 projection: 11-5  Detroit Lions (2021 record: 7-9)Detroit missed the playoffs for the first time in many seasons last year. A large part of their struggles stemmed from turning over the ball the most in the league. Free agent acquisition Corriveau had a large part to do with this as he threw 30 interceptions. This year Detroit has gone in a different direction this year with Clifton Mercer winning the starting job. Mercer will step into run an offense with a couple top notch receivers in Skip Samuels and Mike Evans. He also has a solid tight end in Nickolas Kendrick. They also have a good offensive line. The weakness of this offense is an absence of a legitimate starting running back. Defensively, the Lions boast a solid linebacking unit… aaaand that’s about it. The defensive line is a patchwork of mismatched parts none of which are all that good. And the defensive backfield is generally inexperienced and bad. This defense will struggle to rush the passer, and defend the pass. There are a couple teams in the NFC north who are in transition and appear to have an upward trajectory. Unfortunately, Detroit is not one. Mercer is likely a transitional quarterback until an actual franchise QB comes along, and there is a lot missing from the defensive unit to compete for a couple seasons. 2016 projection: 5-11 |
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 8:44:11 GMT -5
NFC South Preview by Rush
 GM - WilleB
2021 Record - 11-4-1
Tampa Bay grabbed their second consecutive NFC South title last year and have proven to be the best team in the group with an 11-1 record against their rivals these past two seasons.
K Mason Crosby, G Colin Shell and DE Frank Clark are the only notable losses. K Greg Zuerlein has joined as a free agent with DE Neil Flannery joining in a big trade.
LB Paul Spetz is a very good cover Linebacker. TE Eduardo Castillo, CB Shaun Swift, DT Donny Broyles and G Cole Manabe should be solid picks.
2022 Prediction - I'm looking at the Bucs to repeat again. They have one of the best QB's in Winston and one of the offensive lines to protect him. Up front, Neil Flannery strengthens them considerably but the secondary may struggle against the better offenses. 11-5 and another North title.
GM - seb11614
2021 Record - 8-8
Atlanta will look back on what could have been after dropping four of their final five games. In fact, it has become a regular habit where they tend to choke at the end of the regular season. They will hope to get better down the stretch this year.
S Jairus Byrd has retired and is the only starter from last year not returning. K Graham Gano and G Rod Sutter have joined in an otherwise quiet off season.
Solid picks in LB Alejandro Thornton and Cb Marc Cook are back up by DT Kenny Dela Cruz, WR Levi Razo and FB J.J. Polite.
2022 Prediction - The Falcons are without a winning season since the leagues inception but are slowly becoming competitive. Star QB Abeykoon looks set to take another step forward this year and with WR Rickey Davison and a solid run game, they should be able to cause defenses problems. Excellent defense is lead by Beasley, Webster, Collins and Forbes. Look for the Dirty Birds to push on this year and maybe grab a wildcard spot. 9-7 finish.
GM - pip76
2021 Record - 6-10
An 0-4 start set the tone for the Panthers last year but are looking to go in the right direction after a 3-13 season the previous year.
T Reginald Branch, LB Stephone Anthony, WR Darren Waller, De Kony Ealy and S Barry Church are no longer on the roster. S Byron Jones has arrived along with Minnesota pair WR Sammy Watkins and DE Scott Crichton via trade. DE Ed Stinson arrives from Arizona.
Carolina had a solid draft picking up starter material, S Kody Weber and DE Louie Johnstone. Depth should be provided by G Connor Garber, T Terrell Vedros, DE Ralph Ford and LB Roman Mangold.
2022 Prediction - The Panthers have a mixture of talented veterans and above average depth but i'm not sure they have enough to compete in this division. QB Garoppolo should continute to be productive but RB Bell is showing signs of slowing down. A lot will fall on Sammy Watkins shoulders. I think they start better but finish 7-9.
GM - gauss
2021 Record - 5-11
The Saints had it tough last year winning just once in the first ten games. But they would show heart down the stretch by take four victories from their final six games.
C Jeremy Zuttah has decided to retire. WR Andre Michaelson has joined the Rams and TE Mel Barbee has also left. Nobody of note has joined the club.
QB Harvey Dunnigan should be the new face of the franchise and the Saints will hope that they get contributions from RB Owen Lyons, G Gabe Webb, P Alan Wallace and CB Cesar Borders.
2022 Prediction - Another franchise on a slow rebuild but they can lay their foundations on top of a talented defense lead by DE's Conley and Criblez as well as LB Kikaha and CB Benton. Whether Grayson starts or the Rookie gets the nod, WR Julian Lunsford will once again be the main target in the passing game. Look for N'awlins to get one or two more wins than last year. 6-10 / 7-9 |
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Post by ezlee2 on Feb 19, 2017 8:45:24 GMT -5
NFC West Division Preview
By MWNN  Seattle
Recap of Last Season: Seattle finished last season 12-4 as the top team in the NFC. Their playoff hopes however were ended after only 1 game. The Bears of Chicago came into Seattle and scored with 1:17 remaining to take a 35-30 lead that they would not relinquish.
Key Players: QB Lawrence Perry is coming off his best season where he was responsible for over 4,000 yards and 45 TDs. Perry is one of the lead horses in the MVP race after having already won the Rookie of the Year award along with two 2nd-Team QB awards. He was rewarded for his hard work this offseason by both management, who signed him long term, and his teammates who voted him as the offensive captain.
RB Thomas Rawls, now at 29, is nearing that point in most RBs careers where they have a major decline. Rawls, who will certainly go down as a 1st Ballet Hall of Famer and the greatest RB the RZB might ever see, is coming off his 5th 2,000-yard season. This production has earned him the moniker of 2K by his teammates. Father time gets everyone eventually but Rawls may hold him off a little longer than most.
TE Bo “Big Randy” Moss stormed into the league his 1st season with 900+ yards and 9 TDs. With a 1st and 2nd-Team Tight End already to his name, Moss is set to cement himself as maybe the best TE in the league for years to come. While his numbers overall dropped a bit from his rookie season, he was much more efficient in the passing game.
MLB Bobby Wagner, the longest tenured Seahawk on the roster, was voted as the defensive Captain this year by his teammates. Last season he recorded 99 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 1 Int, and 1 FF.
Prediction: 12-4
Seattle has been the class of the NFC West since day 1, barring major injuries that should continue.
 San Francisco
Recap: Last year saw the 49ers go 10-6 and secure a wildcard spot in the playoffs. This marked the 2nd consecutive season that they’ve made the playoffs. They only lasted one game, however, as they were defeated 58-10 by the Vikings in a game GM dthompso8 would probably rather forget.
Key Players: QB Nathan Edmond took a bit of a step back last season, throwing 12 more Ints that the previous season but when he’s on he’s still one of the best QBs in the league as Houston witnessed firsthand last year when he tossed 5 TDs vs them. Edmond serves as the offensive Captain for the 49ers.
SS Jaquiski Tartt and FS Jimmie Ward make up a dynamic duo in San Francisco’s secondary. Last year the duo combined for 174 tackles, 6 Ints, and 4 FFs. Ward serves as the captain of the defense.
Prediction: 8-8
Despite the back to back playoff appearances, the spot for #2 in the NFC West is heavily contested and there is no clear favorite. With games against the Raiders, Buccs, Bears, and Chiefs not to mention division opponents, this season could see the 49ers fail to make the playoffs.
Los Angeles
Recap: The Rams went 9-7 last year finishing 1 game out of the playoffs. Despite of strong finish to the Season which included 5 straight wins, the Rams fell just short of their goal.
Key Players: QB Aiden “Hutch” Hutchings, the offensive captain for the Rams, threw 28 TDs last year but also had 18 TOs. Hutch as the ability to be one of the league’s top QBs but he might just not have the pieces around him this season.
RB Levi Winslett has been a major factor in the Rams ability to score. However last year he failed to reach 1,000 yards on the ground and averaged less than 4 ypc. Early reports this year out of camp and preseason seem to indicate that Winslett has lost a step. He looks weaker and seems to be having trouble finding holes to run through.
CB Janoris Jenkins serves as the Captain of the defense. However, Jenkins is 33 and early depth charts do not have him listed as a starter. The Rams will be relying on 3rd overall pick CB Frederick Goodson out of Minnesota. Early reports are that Frederick is… good, son. Some around the Rams office are already mentioning his name and HoF in the same conversation but only time will tell.
Prediction: 7-9
If Winslett cannot regain his form from previous season, then this could be a long one for the Rams. Hutchings has all the talent but he needs some help. Outside of trying to keep up with the rest of the division, one of the main priorities of this team may come around week 12 as they try to cement themselves as the main team in LA when they take on the Chargers.
 Arizona
Recap: It was a quiet season in Arizona as the Cardinals finished 7-9 for the 2nd straight season and the 4th time in seven years. Four straight loses to close out the season doomed any chance of the playoffs.
Key Players: QB Leonard Flowers, a name that strikes fear in the opposing NFC West defenses, has statistically been one of the top QBs in the league the past few seasons. Him and WR Clyde Tillery have formed one of the top QB-WR combinations in the league. But they have only managed to carry this team so far.
CB Tyrann Mathieu captains the defense. He’s 30 years old but he has been one of the Cardinals most consistent players. SILB Colin Anhalt is coming off one of the top seasons by a linebacker. He totaled 111 tackles, 1 sack, FF, and 2 ints. One of the best cover linebackers in the league, he will look to build off his numbers from last season.
Prediction: 7-9
7-9 is a safe bet for the Cardinals right now considering their history. In a different division, say the NFC East, the Cardinals could be the top team. But the NFC West is too competitive. But the Cardinals have some young talent and good players on both sides of the ball to build around. Don’t be surprised to see them above five-hundred sooner rather than later.
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