If I were the GM- Houston

The Texans should consider 2009 a successful season, however, they shouldn't rest on the laurels of their first winning season.  They have the talent to make noise in the playoffs.  I believe Coach Gary Kubiak is on the hot seat in 2010, if this team doesn't make the playoffs.  They need to improve in big games.  The late season Jacksonville loss comes to mind.  I don't know if they need to add a veteran leader, like the Saints did with Darren Sharper last season, but it wouldn't be such a terrible idea to add that sort of experience to their locker room.

There are many talented players on their roster.  Their passing game is one of the best in the league.  Quarterback Matt Schaub is one of the least talked about players at the position, but he threw for over 4700 yards on the season.  His top target- Andre Johnson- is the best wide receiver in the NFL.  The tight end position has a lot of talent.  Owen Daniels was on his way to another Pro Bowl season prior to his injury, and his backup Joel Dreessen started to produce towards the end of the season.  Their defense improved over the course of the season.  Defensive end Mario Williams is an absolute star, and proves that the Texans made the correct move selecting him number one overall- ahead of Reggie Bush and Vince Young.  Their linebackers are young and lethal, especially DeMeco Ryans and Brian Cushing.  Their secondary vastly improved when they added safety Bernard Pollard.  His hitting took pressure off the rest of the defensive backfield, and allowed cornerback Dunta Robinson to make more plays.

Houston has specific areas of improvement.  Their offensive line allowed too many hits on Schaub over the past couple of seasons.  They need to overhaul the group.  The running back situation needs to be cleared up.  While I like Steve Slaton, there are rumblings that his recovery from surgery is taking longer than expected, so he may not be ready until the start of the season.  The backups are good players, but don't scare anybody.  Though, I like Arian Foster, and he could be the player that fills the void.  They could use another corner opposite of Robinson.  Two corners, if they don't resign him.

Some players to consider taking in the first round are offensive linemen Bruce Campbell and Mike Iupati.  Running back CJ Spiller could be a fit at their running back need.  Or they could consider selecting Dexter McCourty to improve their cornerback position.  A player that potentially could be a free agent to consider is Kevin Mawae.  If they are able to lure him over, it kills three birds with one stone: improves their offensive line, gives them a veteran leader, and weakens a divisional rival.

If I were the GM- Atlanta

The Falcons had a nice season in 2009.  I think they were a better team than in 2008, but played a tougher schedule.  Also, they deserve a congratulations for posting their first back-to-back winning seasons in franchise history.  I liked their acquisition of Tony Gonzalez was a smart move, because he gave Matt Ryan a target other than Roddy White.  Their front office and coaching staff seem to be in synch, and have the building blocks of a consistent winner in place.

There is a lot of young talent on this roster, especially on the offensive side of the ball.  Ryan suffered some injuries this season, and some pundits say he's regressed.  I don't believe that's the case.  I think he tried to force the ball a little too much to Gonzalez, which led him to trouble at times.  2010 should be a bounce back season for him.  They have a nice group of running backs- led by Michael Turner.  I like both Jerrious Norwood and Jason Snelling as change of pace backs to take some of the load off of Turner.  Their group of receivers is both good and young.  The aforementioned White is one of the most under appreciated players in the league at the position.  Michael Jenkins is a burner, and made some strides this season.  A player who's showed promise, but was injured in the preseason is Harry Douglas.  He should come back to be a nice number three receiver.  Gonzalez is one of the greatest, if not the greatest, tight ends ever.  Their line is very underrated.  Led by left tackle Sam Baker, this unit allowed the sixth fewest hits on the quarterback this season.  The star of their defense was middle linebacker Curtis Lofton.  He's a tackling machine.  They lost youngster Peria Jerry for the season early on, which hurt their ability to create pressure.

As good as their offense is, their defense still needs to make strides to catch up.  Their secondary is in need of an infusion of talent.  They could use another defensive end opposite of Jamaal Anderson to assist in creating pressure.  They could also use some depth at the outside linebacker position to assist Lofton and Mike Peterson.  As much as I like their wide receivers, they could use another player to create depth at the position.

Some players they should consider are defensive backs Kyle Wilson, Trevor Mays, Earl Thomas, and Devin McCourty.  For the defensive line, they should consider Everson Griffen, Dan Williams, and Jared Odrick.

If I were the GM- Pittsburgh

2009 was a disappointment for the Steelers, as the reigning Super Bowl Champs missed the playoffs.  In their defense, they were ravaged with injuries at key positions.  They missed safety Troy Polamalu for a number of games, which adversely affected their defense.  Their defensive backs were exposed with their best playmaker out of the lineup.  An underrated injury was Aaron Smith's season-ending shoulder injury.  He's one of the best 3-4 ends in the league, and his presence was missed as the season progressed.  Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger missed some time, which contributed to two of their losses.  I did like their moves to resign Casey Hampton and franchise kicker Jeff Reed.

This team does have many strengths to build upon.  It is not far removed from the Super Bowl winning team of a couple seasons ago.  Roethlisberger already has two Super Bowl wins as a starter, and is one of the best in the game.  Former first round pick, Rashard Mendenhall put together a solid season, and appears to be the real deal at running back.  The forever steady Hines Ward and Heath Miller return to their wide receiver and tight end positions, respectfully.  They have two talented younger wideouts in Super Bowl 43 MVP Santonio Holmes and 2009 rookie Mike Wallace.  And backup quarterback Dennis Dixon showed some promise in the Baltimore game he started.  At safety, Polamalu is one of the best in the NFL.  Their linebacking corps is terrific.  Outside backers James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley are beasts.  On the inside, Lawrence Timmons and the forever-steady James Farrior are not too shady, either.

Their weaknesses were highlighted by their key injuries over the season.  They need more playmakers in the secondary.  They could also stand to get younger on the defensive line.  Pittsburgh's offensive line has needed an overhaul for the past couple of seasons, or Roethlisberger's effectiveness will be cut short.  They give up way too many hits.  Considering Ward's advanced age, I would think about taking another receiver later in the draft to grow the position.

They could go in several different directions in their draft.  Mike Iupati or Bruce Campbell would be good fits on the offensive line.  Kyle Wilson or Taylor Mays could help in the secondary.  Brian Price, Dan Williams, or Terence Cody could be good fits on the defensive line.  Sergio Kindle could fit on the linebacking corps as a potential replacement of Harrison.

If I were the GM- Tennessee

This was a tale of two seasons.  They started 0-6, and made a run towards the playoffs to finish 8-8.  The big reason for the turnaround was the insertion of Vince Young into the lineup.  I mentioned numerous times of his inspired play, and he should have been the comeback player of the year.  There was scuttlebutt during the season about a rift developing between Coach Jeff Fisher and Owner Bob McNair.  I think it would be a mistake if he lets Fisher go.  This was a transition season for them, since they lost their defensive coordinator and best defensive player.  There's a lot of promise here, and I'd keep Fisher to watch it through.

There are many building blocks on the Titans on offense.  Young has showed signs that he's matured into the quarterback he was drafted to be.  All-world running back Chris Johnson had one of the all-time great seasons.  They have an underrated group of receivers.  Kenny Britt developed a connection with Young, and had a nice rookie season.  Nate Washington and Justin Gage were both nicked up this season, but are solid players.  They have a terrific offensive line led by left tackle Mike Roos.  On defense, they have a talented set of linebackers, and cornerback Courtland Finnegan is a nice player.

Where they need improvement is on the defensive line.  Defensive ends Kyle Vanden Bosch and Jevon Kearse are rumored to leave town.  They could use some more depth in the defensive backfield to compliment Finnegan.  Alge Crumpler and Bo Scaife are nice players, but they could use more production from the position.

They should consider getting younger on their defensive line.  That's their biggest need.  Players like Everson Griffen, Sergio Kindle, and Brian Price should be available when they pick.  Kindle is probably a better fit for a team that runs a 3-4, as opposed to the 4-3 that the Titans run.  Griffen is probably the best player for them to grab out of that group.

If I were the GM- Carolina

2009 was a tale of two different teams for the Panthers.  They didn't find themselves until they switched quarterbacks from Jake Delhomme to Matt Moore.  The Panthers offense was more effective, and less turnover prone with Moore at the helm.  Still, their strong finish didn't merit a contract extension for Coach John Fox.  I think this is a mistake.  He's a good coach, but, perhaps a tad too loyal to Delhomme.  Also, it was foolish of Carolina management to grant such a lucrative extension to Delhomme, when he was showing clear signs of regression, not to mention his recent Tommy John surgery.  

This team is very close to contention with their many strengths.  Their running game was one of the best last season.  They had not one, but two rushers (DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart) run for 1100 yards.  That's the first time in NFL history in which that feat has occurred.  Not only do they have talented backs, but their line is terrific.  They lost both stud tackles Jordan Gross and Jeff Otah for extended time, and didn't miss a beat.  It is a nice luxury that guard Travelle Wharton can swing over to play effectively at the tackle position.  Center Ryan Kahlil is the best in the league, which I've mentioned numerous times in this blog- especially in the Pro Bowl section.  (I'm glad he made it as a replacement, but he was robbed by not getting it initially.)  Wide receiver Steve Smith is one of the best in the business.  Middle linebacker Jon Beason leads a talented linebacking corps.  And free agent defensive end Julius Peppers had another solid season.  The defensive backfield is a tad underrated, especially cornerback Chris Gamble.

There are places where this team needs to improve.  As I hinted above, they should move on from Delhomme.  He's done a lot for the franchise, but is too much of a liability to start anymore.  They should give Moore a shot at starting 2010.  But is he the answer?  The only way we'll know is giving him an opportunity to play.  With that in mind, they should think about drafting acquiring a quarterback.  Their biggest needs are in the passing game.  They need another receiver opposite of Smith, and have for years.  Mushin Muhammed doesn't strike fear in defenses anymore, and may retire.  The Panthers also need a consistent tight end.   If Moore is the guy- which he might be- they need to give him a safety net.  Jeff King, Dante Rosario, and Gary Barnidge are nice role players, but they need a bigger threat at the position.  As I mentioned earlier, Peppers is a free agent, and they traded up in the second round last year to select Everett Brown, as a possible replacement.  But losing a player of his caliber, will most likely need multiple players to replace their production.  Also, the defensive line as a group needs to get younger.  I mentioned that their defensive backfield is tad underrated, but they could use some more depth as well.

The first move they should make is a decision on Peppers, which appears they have.  By not extending the franchise tag to him, they are essentially announcing they are cutting ties to him.  With the likely change in the collective bargaining rules, I wonder if they could and would be willing to use the transition tag on him- at least get some compensation for his departure.  Their move to acquire Brown made sense for a potential replacement standpoint, however, I don't agree with trading this year's first round pick to get him in the second round.  That's a move I don't like- trading a future number one for a current number two.  It's too desperate, and can have consequences.  This year's draft is brimming with talented linemen, but the Panthers won't get their first crack until half way through the second round, due to last season's trade.  A move they could make is trading DeAngelo Williams for picks.  Stewart proved he can be an every down back this season, and has less ware on him.  Mike Goodson showed signs of promise in the preseason, and could prove to be a capable backup.

Running Back cuts

Some big cuts over the past couple of days- Jamal Lewis, LaDanian Tomlinson, and Brian Westbrook.  Lewis has been rumored to retire since the beginning of 2009.  With the rise of Jerome Henderson, he became expendable.  Tomlinson and Westbrook will hit a tough market.  Teams are wary of older running backs, and runners in their 30's don't have many opportunities.  I can see Tomlinson going to a team like New England or Houston.  Both have playoff potential and could use a talented part-time back.  The Westbrook situation is sad, especially as an Eagles fan.  But it probably was the right move.  He's too much of an injury risk, particularly with the concussions to keep with his salary.  I don't know what team would sign him, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him retire.  It's an end of an era in Philly, as well as San Diego, and it's tough to see this happen to great players.

If I were the GM- New York Giants

The Giants turned in one very disappointing season.  They were predicted by many to compete for a deep playoff run, and for the division title, and just finished .500.  (In fact, I predicted the Giants to win the NFL East.)  Their biggest lost was Steve Spagnulo getting lured away from his defensive coordinator post to become the Head Coach of the St. Louis Rams.  His replacement, Bill Sheridan, was overmatched as injuries- especially in the secondary- and personality conflicts mounted.  I liked their move to replace him with Perry Fewell, the former Bills interim head coach.  The Bills played passionately under him in his short tenure there.  I'm sure the Giants will do the same.

New York still has many strengths.  One being Coach Tom Coughlin.  I know he'll be on the hot seat if his roster doesn't perform, but he's been in this position before and succeeded.  I don't see any reason why not again.  Quarterback Eli Manning developed to become significant threat in the passing game- something that hasn't been a necessity in the past with their philosophy of pounding the ball and pressure defense.  His wideouts were widely questioned coming into the season.  The "other" Steve Smith had the better, more consistent season, leading the NFC with 107 catches and a Pro Bowl berth.  Hakeem Nicks appears to be a star in the making.  Mario Manningham showed he can be a threat.  Tight end Kevin Boss is as tough as they come, and gets overlooked, because of all the talented tight ends in the NFC East.  Their line is aging, yet still effective.  I'll dive into that more later.  Their defensive line was solid yet again, led by pass rushers Osi Umenyora, Justin Tuck, and Mathias Kiwinuka.  And biggest personnel blow occurred when safety Kenny Phillips went down for the season in the first Dallas game.

For improvements, the Giants need to fix the middle of their defense.  They started by jettisoning middle linebacker Antonio Pierce.  Age and a neck injury necessitated the move- though I wouldn't be surprised if he has a good season in another system in 2010.  Their defensive backs were torched all season long, especially at the safety position, once Phillips went down.  As good as their pass rushers were, their defensive tackles either failed to stay healthy or lacked efficiency.  As I mentioned previously, their line is aging.  Backup William Beatty looks like he can step in and man on of the tackle spots, but they should get depth.  Also, David Diehl would probably be more effective playing inside at this point of his career.  He wore down as the season progressed, and Manning took more hits as a result.  Also, the injuries to the top three running backs is concerning.  Brandon Jackson looked like he was running hurt all season.  Ahmad Bradshaw played with stress fractures in his feet.  DJ Ware was nicked up and had to miss some time.  They should think about adding another running back to the mix.

With free agency uncertain this season, they'll have to look to the draft to add the depth they need.  At 15, they stand at a good spot.  I'm sure they would love to see Rolando McClain fall to them, but I don't see it happening.  If that's the case, they should consider safeties Earl Thomas or Taylor Mays to fix that spot.  Dan Williams could possibly be available for a defensive tackle spot.  Or, they could go with a Kyle Wilson to bolster their cornerback depth.

If I were the GM- Denver

Talk about one of the 2009's most intriguing teams.  First, they hired Josh McDaniels in the preceding offseason.  He immediately gotten into a war of words with franchise quarterback Jay Cutler- leading to the trade with Chicago.  A move I still don't agree with.  As immature Cutler is, he's still young, and would have been able to stretch defenses that Kyle Orton cannot.  Now, McDaniels is in a war of words with star wide receiver Brandon Marshall, and there's a strong possibility he might be traded.  That's another move I wouldn't make.  I would try to find a form of reconciliation to both parties.  A trade will only weaken the Broncos at yet another position.  Through all the hoopla, Denver began the season 6-0.  However, it was mostly smoke and mirrors.  They could only play a ball control offense- giving them a small window of winning each game.  Also, their veteran defense seemed to age as the season progressed.

The strengths of this team are its running game- led by Correll Buckhalter and Knowshon Moreno, a future star- and its tough offensive line- anchored by Pro Bowler Ryan Clady.  Elvis Dumervil had a breakout Pro Bowl season- leading the league in sacks.  Cornerback Champ Bailey and Safety Brian Dawkins are future Hall of Famers, and were still productive last season.

They need improvement in many spots.  As I mentioned earlier, their defense seemed to wear down as the season bore on.  They could improve their front seven, especially their defensive line, and give Dumervil help on the opposite find of the field.  Denver still needs a quarterback of the future.  Orton is a stop-gap at the position, or a really talented backup.  And if they do decide to rid themselves of Marshall, they'll need another wide receiver- which is a position they could infuse more talent.

First, the Broncos should figure out the Marshall situation.  I've been adamant about them keeping their best offensive weapon.  Secondly, they need to develop another quarterback.  Orton is not the answer at the position, so they need to think about grabbing a quarterback early on in the draft.  They should consider trading up to grab either Bradford or Clausen.  Another option is to trade back and acquire additional draft choices to plug into their numerous holes- something that wouldn't have been a problem if they didn't trade their pick for Alphonso Smith- a small cornerback of whom they didn't have to give up so much to get in the second round.  If they stay at the pick, the players to consider should be Dez Bryant at wide receiver, defensive linemen Jason Pierre-Paul or Dan Williams.

If I were the GM- San Francisco

The 49ers made some strides this past season.  They had a surprising 3-0 start, which could have been 4-0 without a great play from Brett Favre and Greg Lewis.  I like Mike Singletary coaching the team, but worry if his fiery nature could eventually fall on deaf ears.  I don't think it will, however, especially with leaders like Patrick Willis on the ball club.

This team does have its strengths, and could be up-and-coming in 2010.  The aforementioned Willis is the best linebacker in the game, and is only going to get better.  Arubyo Franklin is a force on the defensive line.  Outside linebacker Manny Lawson is one of the more underrated players in the game.  Defensive end Justin Smith made another Pro Bowl this year.  On offense, I like the move from Shaun Hill to Alex Smith.  Smith needs to improve from under center, but could become the quarterback they drafted number one overall a number of years ago.  Frank Gore is a the least talked about superstar in the league.  Vernon Davis turned a corner at the tight end position.  Michael Crabtree was a steal at the number 10 selection in last season's draft.  Josh Morgan is a solid number two receiver.  Their offensive line is good, but not great.  However, Joe Staley is a terrific left tackle.

San Francisco has needs but they're not glaring.  I mentioned their offensive line was good, but not great.  They could use help at right tackle, or their interior line.  If they continue to utilize the spread offense, they'll need another wide receiver to compliment Crabtree and Morgan- I'd like a speedster to spread the field for Davis, Crabtree, and Morgan.  Also, they could use a young playmaker in the secondary.  They have good hitters, but another cover guy would be useful.  On the front seven, they could use more depth, but no position is a glaring need.

This team is in a good spot, because they don't have many absolute needs and have two top 16 picks.  So they don't have to reach for anybody in the draft, and have the ammunition to trade up into the top ten if there's a player they like that begins to drop, perhaps a Russell Okung.  If they decide to stay put, they should use at least one pick to improve their offensive line.  Maybe a Trent Williams will drop or Mike Iupati- a fast rising guard from Idaho, or take both.  Another player to consider would be Bryan Bulaga if Williams is unavailable.  If they want to use one of the picks at another position, perhaps take cornerback Kyle Wilson.

If I were the GM-Miami

I like this organization.  The way Bill Parcells has come into his role as Team President and turned this thing around from the Nick Saban disaster has been quite impressive.  Coach Tony Sparano is the perfect man to manage the team, and should have answered any questions about his hire by now with the team's play on the field.  Now, why would I praise a team that went from first to third- and missing the playoffs- in a single season?  First, they played over their heads in 2008.  The Wildcat scheme is creative, and no one really had an answer for it until this season.  Secondly, they played a first-place schedule, not a last-place one like they had the year before, so they played against tougher competition.  Still, I saw improvement.

This team has numerous strengths.  Their running game is one of the best in the NFL.  I realize Ronnie Brown and backup Patrick Cobbs are coming off injuries, but look at the depth of the position.  Ricky Williams was a top ten back this season, and they found a nice diamond in the rough with Lex Hilliard.  The Dolphins have a talented offensive line led by Pro Bowler Jake Long.  He was a former number one overall pick in the draft, and has lived up to the billing.  The best thing that occurred to this team was the injury to Chad Pennington, as terrible as it is to say- you never wish injuries on anyone, especially, if by all accounts, they're good people.  Chad Henne looks like the real deal, and may have been a steal where they drafted him (second round).  On the defensive side of the ball, they have two promising corners in Sean Smith and Vontae Davis.  Both improved over the course of the season, giving Miami potentially top corners for years to come.  Safety Yeremiah Bell was a Pro Bowler, and is a good hitter.

Where this team needs improvement is in their front seven and the wide receiver spots.  The front seven, while talented, is growing long in the tooth, and could use more playmakers.  The wide receiving corps doesn't have a true number one guy for Henne to throw to.  I like Davone Bess, but he's more of a complimentary receiver, who can do damage with single coverage.  Ted Ginn, Jr. hasn't lived up to his billing of a first round pick.  He's a better return guy at this point of his career.  They have some depth at tight end, but nobody that scares opposing defenses.  Also, as good as their offensive line is, they could use additional depth.

Luckily, for the Dolphins, there's a good chance that they can fill their major needs through the draft.  They should stay with their pick and take either wide receiver Dez Bryant or linebacker Rolondo McClain.  Both fill major needs of theirs.  If both are gone, then they should consider trading back, and get more value for their pick.  Perhaps they could select a Carlos Dunlap.

If I were the GM- Chicago

First, this is a team in flux.  The Jay Cutler trade hasn't paid off immediate dividends, but that doesn't mean it won't.  I like Cutler's skill-set from a positional standpoint.  He has all of the tools to succeed, but he needs to mature- a lot.  The move I really liked was the hiring of Mike Martz as their offensive coordinator.  He should be able to get Cutler to reach his potential.

The Bears were ravaged by injuries in 2009, especially on defense.  Losing stud middle linebacker Brian Urlacher three plays into the season was a big blow.  Their linebacking corps is aging, but a still a strength in Urlacher, Lance Briggs, Hunter Hillenmeyer, and Nick Roach.  Greg Olsen is a talented tight end, but needs to improve his consistency.  I like their running backs Matt Forte and Kahlil Bell.  Fantasy owners were terribly disappointed in Forte last season, but he's still a dependable back that can carry the load and catch passes out of the backfield.  Bell proved at the end of last season that's a good change of pace back.  They have two solid defensive tackles in Tommy Harris and Anthony Adams.  And cornerback Charles Tillman is a turnover creation machine.  Hopefully, he's fully recovered from his injury.

There are a lot needs for this team.  Their offensive line was terrible, especially with run blocking, and is, by far, their greatest need.  They could use a veteran wide receiver to assist with the development of their young players at the position, such as Devin Hester, Earl Bennett, Johnny Knox, and Devin Aromashadu.  They could use a veteran backup quarterback for Cutler to lean on.  Chicago needs greater depth on their defensive line.  Their tackles are good, but are aging, and could use some depth.  Also, their defensive ends are dangerously thin.  Also, they were hit with a double blow this offseason, with the death of Gaines Adams.  Not only did they lose a potential difference maker- I know he underachieved with Tampa Bay, but I believe he was ready to turn a corner this upcoming season- but also a second round draft pick to acquire him.

This is going to to a tough offseason for the Bears.  The potential of an uncapped season is going affect them more than most.  They won't be able to plug most of the holes they have.  Plus, they traded away their top two draft picks, so this will be a rough offseason for them.  Veteran wide receiver Torry Holt has lobbied for the Bears to sign him, and I would.  He's familiar with Martz's system, and can be someone for the young receivers to lean on.  And if I'm the Bears I would consider making some trades to acquire some more picks in the the middle rounds, and increase their quantity of picks, because they would have a greater opportunity to hit on a pick, like Knox last season.

Super Bowl Review

Congratulations to the New Orleans Saints on winning their first ever Super Bowl!  The game was actually closer than the final score indicates.  Both teams were 67% in the red zone, and the time of possession was practically identical.  New Orleans protected Drew Brees, who deservedly won the MVP award, and limited the Colts to one sack on one hit, while hitting Peyton Manning three times.  The surprising statistic was the additional 100 yards the Colts gained over the Saints.  Typically, with that kind of disparity, the team with the yard advantage wins the game.  Two factors were in the Saints favor: their +1 turnover advantage (the pick-six) and better Special Teams play- and not just the onside kick.  They had a much favorable field position throughout the game, due to their return team.  Way to go New Orleans!  Your city deserves this victory.

Hall of Fame voting- part 2

Congratulations go out to Jerry Rice, Emmitt Smith, Russ Grimm, Rickey Jackson, Jon Randle, Dick LaBeau, and Floyd Little for making the Hall of Fame.  I can't complain about the list.  All are deserving.  All the players which were finalists deserve their day in Canton, as well.  Maybe next year for some.  There should be two shoo-ins with Deion Sanders and Marshall Faulk.  The three I would consider on the top of my list next year Richard Dent, Dermontti Dawson, and Tim Brown.  But today, all hats go off to Rice, Smith, Grimm, Jackson, Randle, LaBeau, and Little!  It's a well-deserved honor.

Super Bowl Preview

Here we are!  All the angles have been taken, kitchens across the country are getting stocked for the inevitable party.  All we need is for the game to arrive.  Two great offensive teams with some question marks on the defensive side of the ball.  It looks to be an entertaining game.

Both teams provide exquisite protection to their star quarterbacks.  However, the edge goes to Indianapolis.  Peyton Manning took seven less sacks on nine fewer hits over the course of the season.  Manning and Drew Brees can crush bad defenses, but Peyton tends to diagnose plays quicker, hence a lower sack total.  Also, left tackle Jermon Bushrod has had trouble containing speed rushers this season, especially as it's progressed.  Maybe Dwight Freeney isn't 100%, but it's still a cause for concern for the Saints.

In terms of pressure, both teams are rather close.  By the numbers, New Orleans has two more sacks and nine more hits over the season.  There is a caveat here.  They blitz much more often than the Colts.  Even their defensive coordinator has admitted their front seven is not the strongest of groups.  On the other side of the ball, Indianapolis has two of the best defensive ends in the game in the aforementioned Freeney and Robert Mathis.  Due to Freeney's injury, I would suspect that the Colts would have to increase their blitzing percentage, so Brees doesn't tear them apart.  I'll give a slight edge to the Saints, because they don't have a major injury issue with such an impact player.

Over the season, the Saints averaged forty more yards of offense per game, which is impressive, since the Colts have an impressive offense themselves.  The major question is will they move the ball too quickly?  For a New Orleans victory, they cannot give Peyton Manning time.  I would try to run at Freeney with Pierre Thomas, throw quick screens behind him to Reggie Bush, and move the pocket around to make him work that injured ankle.

Defensively, the New Orleans has allowed twenty more yards per game.  As Minnesota proved a couple of weeks ago, a good offense can move the ball on them.  In fact, in their two playoff games, they've give up over 830 yards of offense.  That's a mind-boggling number.  (If you were wondering about the Colts, the yards they've given up is just over 650.)  I don't see a scenario where Indianapolis gains fewer than 300 yards of offense.  They put up over 460 yards on the Jets- by far the best defense in the league this season.  Big edge goes to the Colts.

I had to double check my numbers, because I was surprised.  The Saints were one of the league leaders in red zone touchdowns with 41.  They had six more than the Colts.  However, they had 18 more chances to score those six additional touchdowns.  Those stats tell me Indianapolis runs a much more efficient offense.  On the other side of the ball, these teams were basically even in preventing red zone touchdowns.

Turnovers.  This is the key to New Orleans.  Not only do they have to keep Manning off the field, but they must create turnovers.  They were +11 on the season, and +6 in the postseason.  There is no way they beat Minnesota without causing all those takeaways.  The Colts were +5 during the season and +3 in the playoffs, so they haven't been slouches.  Can Darren Sharper bait Manning into a pick?  Of course.  But will that be enough?  I'm not so sure.

This should be a fun, high-scoring Super Bowl.  I just don't see the Saints doing enough to stop the Colts offense.  And Manning takes much better care of the ball than most quarterbacks in the league.  Final score 38-31 Indianapolis.

Hall of Fame voting

The NFL process is a little bit different than MLB's- which most people are familiar.  There are 44 members who vote on nominations throughout the course of a given year.  The list gets cut to 25, then to 15 finalists.  Only five "modern day" candidates can be enshrined.  Thus, the backload we have today.  There are also two senior candidates, so we can have up to six former players added to Canton this year.  I would vote for five.  Jerry Rice- best receiver ever.  Emmitt Smith- great vision, the key cog in the Dallas "big three" in the 90's.  Russ Grimm- the best of the "Hogs" in the 80's. (What's harder to believe: the two to one offensive to defensive player ratio in the Hall, or none of the infamous Hogs are in?  I'd say the latter.)  Richard Dent- had a great career, and the '85 Bears defense should get as much representation as possible.  Rickey Jackson- everyone remembers LT, but doesn't recall this guy being a just a cut below him.  I like to equate him to Tim Raines to Lawrence Taylor's Ricky Henderson.  Obviously, being the second best outside backer in the same era has eroded people's memory of him.  The sixth and final choice for me would be Dick LeBeau.  Everyone knows him as the genius defensive coordinator for the Steelers, and forgets his accomplishments as a defensive back for the Detroit Lions.  Those are my six.  If the process permitted more players, like baseball where I can name up to ten players, I'd definitely include Shannon Sharpe, and Cris Carter.  The three spots would be between. Roger Craig, Dermonti Dawson, Tim Brown, Charles Haley, Cortez Kennedy, Jon Randle, or Andre Reed, because all are deserving.  Ultimately, this year I would choose Dawson and Haley for two spots, because we need to better recognize our great linemen on both sides of the ball in Canton.  And I would go with Craig for the hypothetical tenth spot, because he accomplished things that weren't duplicated- namely 1000 rushing and 1000 receiving yards in the same season- until some guy named Marshall Faulk came along.

Recent Eagles moves

The Eagles have recently announced the hiring of Dick Juron as secondary coach and former GM Phil Savage to work in the GM's office for newly minted GM Howie Rosemann.  I think that both moves were excellent.  Both Rosemann and defensive coordinator Sean McDermitt are young at their positions, so giving them successful veterans as sounding boards is a good idea.  Also, Juron can really assist a secondary that slid as the season progressed.  I think the world of McDermitt- he made the best of a tough situation- and having Juron on board can only assist his growth in the coordinator post.  Savage has a good scouting background, and should be helpful with free agency and the upcoming draft.

If I were the GM- Jacksonville

This franchise faces many challenges.  They have trouble selling out their stadium, which leads to local blackouts on the television market.  Plus, Jacksonville itself is a huge, sprawling city with a smaller population.  Thus, they are a potential candidate to move to Los Angeles, especially considering their governor just approved a stadium for that market.  So, as a franchise they are in dire straights.  And management considered removing Coach Jack Del Rio in the offseason, so there's a lot going on there beneath the surface.

The Jaguars had a surprising run in the beginning of the season, but tailed off in the final several games.  Running back Maurice Jones-Drew proved he could be an every down back.  Wide receiver Mike Sims-Walker made some strides this season, and rookie Mike Thomas made some strides this season.  Jacksonville has some interesting tight end prospects, in Earnest Wilford and Zach Miller, especially if they lose Marcedes Lewis in free agency.  They were very young on the offensive line- starting two rookies, their top two picks, at the tackle positions.  John Henderson had another good season at defensive tackle, as did Rashean Mathis at the cornerback spot.

Conversely, this team failed to generate a pass rush, which is by far their greatest need.  Also, with the rookies, they were inconsistent blocking up front.  They need to improve their linebacking corps, and another wide receiver- Torry Holt can't play forever, and may leave as a free agent.  They could use a backup quarterback to groom to eventually replace David Garrard, when he hits the twilight of his career.

Their best move is to keep their pick and take Jason Pierre-Paul.  He fits their pass-rushing need to a tee.  Or they could try and trade back and acquire more picks.  (Notice a trend- so many top-ten pick teams should try and trade back, but only so many teams outside the top ten that should be willing to trade up.  Another note, the Jaguars have a coin flip for this pick with Chicago- who traded their pick to Denver in the Cutler deal- so they could have the 11th pick.)

If I were the GM- Buffalo

This is a franchise with some troubles.  Their owner flipped off the crowd following a ball game this season.  They play in an antiquated stadium, while playing a home game per season in Toronto.  Also, they hired Chan Gailey for their vacant coaching position.  I thought Perry Fewell's performance at the end of the season warranted another season.  His players played inspired football, once Dick Juron was fired.  Also, they could have interviewed Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frasier for the spot, since they dismissed Fewell rather quickly following the season.  Being a lower-revenue franchise, the Bills have trouble attracting high-caliber free-agents, so they must build through the draft.

The Bills do have some gems, especially on the defensive side of the ball.  Paul Puzlusny is a very talented backer roaming the middle of the field.  Jairus Bryd had a fantastic rookie season.  Donte Whitner is a hard-hitter at the strong safety spot.  Aaron Schobel and Chris Kelsay are underrated, but aging defensive ends.  On offense, Fred Jackson had a surprisingly, wonderful season, and Lee Evans is a good  deep threat, but is inconsistent on a game by game basis.

Buffalo has many needs on offense.  Their quarterback position is unsettled.  The line is terrible.  They're young at tight end.  They could use another receiver.  Also, could improve their defensive front, the outside linebacker position, and additional defensive backs to assist Byrd.

They should either try and trade up to acquire Bradford or Clausen, or keep the pick and take either Anthony Davis or Trent Williams.  A third option could be to trade back and acquire more picks, but it's hard to project a partner this early in the process.  Also, a fourth option could be selecting Dez Bryant to improve their receiver position.

If I were the GM- Oakland

Considering that Al Davis is alive and running the team.  I wouldn't have much of a say in the position.  They numerous internal issues that crop up in public on occasion.  Did Tom Cable deck a former coach?  Based on the story, I believe so.  Will it be proven?  No, because three other coaches backed Cable's story.  Does Cable have anger-management issues?  Possibly, but without knowing the man I cannot say emphatically one way or another.  Did he coach well enough in the regular season to warrant a second full season at the helm?  I believe so, but those issues that surround are bothersome.  He did win beat some high caliber teams during the regular season, with some talent left to be desired.  So, yes, he does deserve another shot.

The strength of this team is centered around their specialists, kick Sebastian Janikowski and uberpunter Shane Lechler, cornerback Nnamdi Asomugh, and their stable of running backs, Michael Bush, Justin Fargas, and Darren McFadden.  Tight end Zach Miller is a very talented player, and they have nice prospects at receiver in Louis Murphy and Chaz Schilens.  Defensive ends Richard Seymour and Greg Ellis are very good players, but are probably not the proper players for a rebuilding franchise.  Linebacker Kirk Morrison is a tackling machine.  This team does have talent.

However, there are weaknesses here.  The Raiders need to figure out their quarterback situation.  JaMarcus Russell seems to neither work hard enough, nor care enough to be the signal caller this team needs.  Bruce Gradtkowski gave this team a spark when he was inserted into the lineup last season, but is he a player to build around.  That's a tough call.  I'd rather have him as a backup in case my starter were injured, because there wouldn't be too much of a drop off.  Also, their offensive line is in shambles.  It is their greatest need.  They could afford upgrade the secondary around Asomugh, add to their receiver mix, replenish their defensive line, and another outside linebacker wouldn't hurt.

If I'm running the Raiders, I stay put at number eight and take the best offensive lineman available, whether he is Trent Williams or Anthony Davis.

If I were the GM- Cleveland

The Browns have had so many regime changes, including the hiring of Mike Holmgren.  I think he was an excellent hire, but I don't know if he and Coach Eric Mangini will be able to coexist.  After the way Cleveland ended their season, he deserved to coach the Browns for at least one other season.  Luring Tom Heckert from the Eagles was another astute move.  He's a young, gifted executive that's been around the game all his life.

Cleveland's strengths rely around its talented offensive line anchored by left tackle Joe Thomas.  Wildcat quarterback, wide receiver, running back, return man extraordinaire Joshua Cribbs is one of the most explosive players in the game, and they need to get the ball into his hands as often as possible.  Jerome Harrison showed some skills as an every down back as the season progressed.  Their defense improved as Rob Ryan's concepts took hold, and that should help them as they gain Shaun Rogers returning from injury.  Rookie wideout Mohamed Massaquoi showed flashes throughout the season.  Better quarterback play should hasten his development.

As I mentioned, they need improved quarterback play.  Derek Anderson has proved he's a super fill-in quarterback, but makes too many mistakes to be a consistent starter.  Brady Quinn possibly could be the answer, but he checks down too much for my liking.  He doesn't spread out the defense by throwing deep balls- keeping them honest.  Following the trade of Kellen Winslow Jr., their tight end spot could use an upgrade.  Their defensive backfield could use a substantial upgrade.  Also, they could upgrade the right tackle spot, a outside linebacker, defensive end, another wide receiver, and a big running back to compliment Harrison.

Personally, I think they need to fix their quarterback position before they can grow as a team.  I would try and trade up to acquire either Sam Bradford or Jimmy Clausen.  If they are unable to trade up, and it either player is unavailable, they should keep the pick, and take Joe Hadden.  There are no tight ends of value to take at the seven spot, so taking Hadden fits their next biggest need.  Or they could trade back to acquire more picks.  I don't see a trading partner as of now, but things could change as the offseason progresses.