On Defense as well as Offense, there are certain players I would never like to take man to man. Simple for the fact that they either are too damn fast, strong, or a combination of both.

OFFENSE

On offense, I would hate going up against Reggie Wayne, due to his height and his speed. Wayne has been taught by the best, Manning, and almost every pass made to him is either a completion, or by some force of nature, Reggie was unable to complete it. It doesn't matter who's on him, a corner and a safety, two safeties, linebackers, the whole team, he's filthy. He's possibly about to beat Andre to the 1st place spot.....wait, what? How am I saying this? I'll just stop here

Another offensive beast is Chris Johnson, like I said before, he's just speed. His ability to find an open spot is uncanny. He puts up hundreds of yards in all games, no matter who they're playing. He's possibly about to be the next BIG TRADE this upcoming season. If Tennessee doesn't get step their game up, he's gone, simple as that. He's young, he's amazing, and there is a wide range of teams that need that strength at their running game. Defenses who go up against him, in this case Linebackers, have to be physically read to keep up with him. His ability to cut through a stock pile of overgrown men is nothing but hysterical. When he gets the ball, the defense should just pile on top of him, and pray he doesn't break the 11 man tackle and run for a touchdown, like he always does.

The last one would be Vince Young. I learned this firsthand when Houston played the Titans last season. The first game they lost was with Collins on QB, the second game was a win, with Young on QB. I never doubted his ability, ever since his college days in Texas. He's a double threat QB, who can pass somewhat well, and he can run, and damn well if I may add. He's smart about what he does, and defenders know that. If he cant find an open player, he either goes to his runner, CJ, and tears up the yard, or runs the ball himself. He's quick on his feet, and he can fight for those 1st downs like its practice. His role in the Titans is too big to let him go. Little things like those make his value go up.

DEFENSE

Dwight Freeney, simply said, is a truck. His ability to react at the snap of the ball, and concentrate on one target:THE QB, is impressive. He's the best DE in the league right now, regardless of injuries sustained, he's the best. Behind him are Mario Williams and Jared Allen. He's quick, HUGE, and smart. He plays for the best defense in the league, and he's contributed to that reputation. Offensive guards and tackles have their hands full with him. He's also contributed to the name the Colts linebackers have acquired. When the ball snaps, O-Linemen know he's out for blood, so the coverage they give to the outside runners, loosens up the middle game, for linebackers to blitz and possibly get a sack. Freeney I hate you, for I envy you and your size.

Darrelle Revis...OK...before I say anything about him, he has an imaginary island named after him, How cool is that?
He's amazing, he's the best corner out there, without a doubt. He's taken down Andre, Reggie, Colston, Ocho Cinco, and Steve Smith, all in one season, without breaking a sweat. I don't know where it came from, but he's got the football swagger needed to win a game. Their defense, the Jets, is possibly one of the most confident ones out there. When Revis says "I got this", he really does mean it. Being a receiver, and having to burn him on a route, is probably hard enough as it is. Making a completion isn't guaranteed. He kept Andre under 40 yds in their 1st game, which tells you something.

My All Star Team

My NFL ALL STAR TEAM

QB
1-Peyton Manning
2-Matt Schaub
3-Donnovan McNabb

WR
Andre Johnson
Reggie Wayne
DeSean Jackson
Sidney Rice

TE
Owen Daniels
Dallas Clark

RB
Chris Johnson
Frank Gore

O-Line
Indianapolis Colts

D-Line
Minnesota Vikings

Linebackers:
Ray Lewis
Brian Cushing
Demarcus Ware

Safeties:
Darren Sharper
Troy Polamalu
Jarrius Byrd

Corners
Nnamdi Asomugha
Charles Woodson

At QB, Peyton and Schaub guarantee receivers like Andre and Reggie accurate shots. The run game is covered by the immense speed that Chris Johnson brings to the field. Johnson with the Colts O-Line, is surely set for many yards. Jackson and Rice are simply speed. They are rarely covered by more than one player, since they run routes that confuse defensive backs. With Gore on backup, the speed is complimented with what I like to call, a 'powerhouse train wreck waiting to happen'. Gore thrives off his ability to burn a corner or a safety and his strength, when a tackle is made. With Owen Daniels and Dallas Clark, not only is another star player added to the receiving core, a possible blocking magician is established. The relevance they have to the run game is not noticed by many. When a tight end breaks out in a play, he can either use his speed to catch a pass, or size to block for a runner.
The Vikings D-Line is a given. With Williams and Allen on pass rush, the opposing QB knows he's got a big target on him.
Lewis, Cushing and Ware are the perfect addition to the established defense. Lewis and Ware have the experience, but Cushing has the touch of gold. His love for the game adds to the growth of his abilities. His performance for Houston was spectacular. He filled in the perfect spot, getting numerous sacks, interception, and even a safety, all in his rookie year.
Jarrius Byrd is another rookie, but age isn't always a factor. Byrd entered the Bills pathetic defense, and put up Pro Bowl stats, with 9 interceptions in the regular season. Polamalu and Darren Sharper need nothing more than the game clock to begin. When players like these enter the fields, they make Quarterbacks think twice before throwing the ball around them, leading to either a sack, interception or tipped pass.
At corner, and possibly the most important position on the defense, are Charles Woodson and Nnamdi Asomugha. They both create a sense of comfort for coaches, who know when these players cover a receiver, they do their job well. Corners like these are known for being matched up with receivers like Larry Fitz, Andre J, Wayne, Colston and Moss.

Michael Vick

Vick, one of the most underrated QB's today, is slowly but surely climbing back up the success ladder. Amidst the controversy involving his actions outside the football field, Vick still managed to stay strong and took his punishment like a man. He was found with an illegal dog fighting network behind his house, which turned his NFL career into dust. He paid his time, and now he's back.

Released from the Atlanta Falcons, Vick was sent to jail for the actions he had partaken in. His backup, Matt Schaub, also left the team. This left Atlanta with a big gap at QB, which was later filled in by Matt Ryan, a rookie. When Vick was released from jail, the question wasn't 'who needs him?', but 'who wants him?'. This question was answered by the Philadelphia Eagles, who had some trouble with QB depth, considering McNabb and Kolb are both prone to injury. Vick has always been known as the perfect wildcat QB, because on top of him passing, he sometimes runs with the ball, getting that extra amount of yards. His speed made him at one time the fastest, if not the fastest, quarterback in the league. When Philly took him, they used him intelligently. He shared snaps with McNabb, throwing defenders off, not knowing if they should watch for a pass or a run. When Vick had the ball, it was each person for themselves. He managed to pull some spectacular plays with DeSean Jackson, scoring numerous touchdowns and getting countless yards.
Now, Vick has no idea where he's going. His one year $1 million deal is about to end, and he has no new offers. Rumors call for the Rams picking him up, since Marc Bulger hasn't proven to be the most productive QB for a rebuilding team.
Honestly, Vick could end up in one of 5 teams.
1-Rams: they need a QB, and Vick is fit, and ready to start to make an impact and make a name for himself again.
2-Dolphins: He runs, he passes, he scores. In short, that's what a wildcat offense is, and he'd fit in perfectly.
3-Jacksonville: They can either draft Tebow and keep their franchise, or go out on a limb, draft something that fits their team better and pick Vick up to compliment Garrard and MJD on the offense.
4-Buffalo: They have no QB, and bringing Vick in to work with TO wouldn't be a bad idea. Something for them to try, since everything else has failed for them. Lets just hope somebody reads this!
5-Oakland: Jamarcus Russell isn't the best QB, he's actually the worst. He couldn't even pass a cold if he tried, he's just not that good. He was in college, no in the pro's. If Vick comes in, he could establish a run game for them, maybe get some offensive yards and possibly give Heyward Bey something to run for. If they do this, they need to draft O-Line to either create a run game or protect whoever has the ball.

Who said What?

Some notes on teams that didn't do very well this season but look like they're on the right path to success

top 5:

1-Seahwaks
2-Bills
3-Browns
4-Broncos
5-Panthers

1- The Seattle Seahawks are one of the most underrated teams today. They don't have hot shot players, they don't have the media on them constantly, and nobody really cares what they do with regards to player movement. Their active quarterback, Matt Hasselbeck, is not a bad player. Age may be a factor when considering his NFL life, but then again, Brett Favre is proof that age is just a number. With the acquisition of WR Michael Crabtree from Texas Tech, the Seahawks have positioned themselves for greatness. Crabtree is known for his impressive speed, meaning any cornerback who goes up against him knows he wont be easy to contain. He doesn't have the height that other receivers like A. Johnson, Larry Fitz, and Marques Colston have, but he doesn't have to. Many a good receivers have done well with the height factor against them, for example, Steve Smith from the Panthers, Santana Moss from the Redskins and DeSean Jackson from Philly. Another reason they'll shine bright is their administration. Their owner, Paul Allen, the same guy who made millions with Bill Gates isn't stupid, he knows his team is not doing well. With the economic strength on their side, this postseason and upcoming draft will be big for them. They should draft an O-Guard, O-Tackle or Tight End, to compliment the O-Line. If they cant protect the QB with a guard or a tackle, a tight end should be perfect for a well settled blocking scheme. On top of players, their coach, Pete Carroll is well known for his prestigious play calling.

2- Buffalo Bills are the joke of the NFL. The fact that they have to compete against the Jets and Giants to gain a fan base up north isn't easy. Considering they picked up Terrell Owens, a once well respected receiver, should fit well into their upcoming season. He had a slow start, considering he's new to the team, and their quarterback situation was pretty bad. They couldn't settle a solid QB, and that's what they need to address this off season, simple as that. They also need to establish some protection for Marshawn Lynch if they expect to be contenders next season with the run game.

3- Cleveland Browns couldn't be any worse than how they are now. With Eric Mangini running this team, they don't seem to be getting anywhere. Until the end of this past season, Brady Quinn was the starting QB, which isn't a bad idea. He's young, talented, and smart. Quarterbacks from Notre Dame do not get drafted to ride bench, they mean business. Quinn needs to work on his accuracy. If the Browns can find some way to protect him, they'll be fine. Another important factor was the absence of Donte Stallworth. With his return, Quinn will have another receiver to work with, and a decent receiver if anything. The loss of Braylon Edwards left a gap in their receiving core, but Josh Cribs, on top of his amazing speed and kick returning abilities, should work out perfectly with Quinn or Anderson, whichever gets lucky. The Browns defense is what should be addressed this offseason. There exists no stability in it, no run defense and definitely not pass defense. Its a young team, with numerous rookies, and only time will tell if they are worth the push. If they go with most predictions,a solid linebacker could help the 30th ranked run defense in the league if Mike Holmgren has anything to say about it. Him being their president, guarantees that they are on a fast road to recovery.

4- The Denver Broncos are one season short from another post season appearance. Josh McDaniels may be a rookie coach, but it doesn't mean he's not working hard. The fact that Brandon Marshall was being a immature and complaining about the team didn't help the chemistry. He may not be fit for Kyle Orton's passing scheme, and McDaniels knows that. Maybe Eddie Royal will get the spotlight with Brandon Stokely on his side, and create a new line of receiving magic for Denver. Their team has nothing but talent. Their defense is probably on the top 5 right now, with Elvis Dumervil on LB and Champ Bailey on corner, shows they have what it takes. The offense, like many others, will improve with time. Orton's already been there for a season, and with Chris Simms on backup, the passing game shouldn't be a worry for them. Knowshon Moreno and Corell Buckhalter are solid runners. There doesn't seem to be a dominance in this duo, since they work together by sharing snaps. The broncos could go various ways this draft, they could go with a linebacker, to play alongside Dumervil, or draft a safety to give the backfield some depth and new blood.

5- The Carolina Panthers have always been a dangerous team. With Steve Smith and Muhsin Muhammad on the receiving end, DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart running train on defenders, and Jake Delhomme on QB, the team hasn't had to worry much about talent. Although Delhomme's quality and fantasy value has decreased substantially, he still may have another year in him to try for a possible winning season. Williams has been nothing but amazing these past seasons. He's been ranked in the top 5 in most pre season fantasy ranks, and he doesn't disappoint. Regardless of injury, if he manages to stay healthy next season, there's not doubt in my mind that he can run miles up and down the field scoring countless TD's. Their problem is also QB protection, so this upcoming draft, they should be in the race to pick up the few but talented O-Linemen coming up.

This is where I get excited because I feel like I've concentrated most on the defense.
The Texans defense has been inconsistent, from the weak defensive line, to the inexperienced cornerbacks, to the slow paced safeties, and it doesn't seem to be ready to compete....YET!

With Mario Williams and Antonio Smith on both D-Line ends, the pass rush doesnt seem to be much of a problem. Amobi Okoye (DT) doesnt seem to be fulfilling his role as a plug to the line, so I believe the administrative staff plans to address this issue as soon as possible.
Safety Bernard Pollard has been one of the best aquisitions this past season, leading the team with interceptions, and filling in the gap in the back field. Alongside Pollard is nobody worth starting. Eugene Wilson and Nick Ferguson already got their chances, and they didnt impress much. Houston is predicted to pick up either Earl Thomas, from Texas, or Taylor Mays, from USC, in the 1st round, to finally polish off Kubiaks masterpiece.

Linebackers have been nothing but short of amazing this season. With the aquisition of Brian Cushing, along with Demeco Ryans and Zac Diles, the Texans run defense has improved substantially. Runners such as Chris Johnson and Maurice Jones Drew had some trouble near the end of the season running against Houston, since the linebackers were on their top game. Cushing, as a rookie, put up Pro Bowl Stats. He had a safety, four sacks, and four interceptions, ending the season as defensive rookie of the year.

Corners had some trouble at depth, as Antwan Molden was injured for the season, leaving Glover Quinn, Dunta Robinson, Brice McCain and Jacques Reeves to fend for themselves.

Draft prediction:
1st Rd-free safety
2nd rd-Defensive tackle
3rd rd-cornerback
4th rd-offensive guard
5th rd-center
6th rd-kicker
7th rd-strong safety

Houston Texans 2009 Season

This season has been one hell of a season for Houston!

The team went from being the punchline of most sports jokes, to a team with a winning season and the respect of most NFL teams.

The Texans have put forth all they had to give, to pull off a positive outcome for this season. They ended the season ranked 4th in the league in Pass Offense, with the help of Quarterback Matt Schaub and Receivers Andre Johnson and Kevin Walter.

OFFENSE

The Texans offense is what always shines on the field, no matter who they're playing. Starting with the Quarterbacks, with Matt Schaub starting, Dan Orlovsky on backup, and Rex Grossman as 3rd string, the Texans have proven that depth is not an issue for them. Schaub, known for being prone to injury, has forced the team to pick up two more veteran QB's in case of an injury.

The run game was more of a nuisance to the offense than people expected. Steve Slaton hit his sophomore slump, fumbling at some of the most crucial times in the games. His inconsistency gave Ryan Moats, a veteran traded from Philadelphia, a chance to step up and gain the starting job. His start was explosive, but one of the most significant fumbles of the season was when he fumbled after Antoine Bethea (IND) tackled him near the end zone, turning the ball over without a score. After all resources were tapped, Arian Foster, a runner on the practice squad, was called into activity and given a chance to shine. Foster played exceptional football, scoring 3 touchdowns and 93 yards rushed.
Overall the run game was full of glitches, and nobody knew who to turn to when the starters couldn't meet requirements.
I don't doubt Slaton's legitimacy next season, but I wouldn't be surprised if the Texans draft a top notch running back this upcoming draft. Slaton's slump could have just been a fluke, but Kubiak is not willing to risk another season.
Prospects: Dexter Mccluster and Jhavid Best

The receiving core played nothing but near perfect football. Starting with Andre Johnson, the #1 receiver in the league for three years running, shows no fear against the coverage he's going up against. Very few cornerbacks can say they have stopped Andre on a play. His versatility and speed combine perfectly on the field when Schaub decides to go to his big man. Jacoby Jones also had a productive season, not only as kick and punt returner, but as the quiet receiver that he is. When balls seemed lost in the depth of the field, Jones would come out of nowhere and create magical plays that no safety or corner could ever imagine stopping.
On the other side are Kevin Walter and David Anderson ready to turn into targets for Schaub's impressive accuracy. Walter and Anderson are quiet receivers, who tend to shine when least expected. They don't create big plays like Andre, instead, they create plays that set Andre up for a big reception.

Kicker Chris Brown was awful this season, missing about 8 kicks in the entire season, some game deciding kicks. I blame some loses on him, honestly, because he was put in situations where a kick decides whether its a win or loss. I'm not sure what the Texans expect to do with the kicker next season, but if they start Brown again, I wont hesitate to say ''I told you so''.
My opinion: pick up a rookie kicker, and let him fight for starting spot, it wont her, Brown's old news in Htown, time for some new kicks, no pun intended.

Superbowl

Its over, the Saints won. Who Dat? The Saints, that's who.

Drew Brees finally got the ring he wanted and deserved. The entire New Orleans football team gave all they had to give when they collided with the Indy Colts in Miami. From offensive breakouts, to defensive explosions, both teams demonstrated why they deserved to be there. Manning and Brees both had solid games, connecting with various receivers throughout the game to balance the playing field.

Pierre Thomas and Joseph Addai both proved to their coaches with some evasive maneuvers when they were targeted by charging linebackers.
This game was important to many players, from Coach Sean Payton, who's been said to have built the Saints from scratch and now they've reached near perfection. Drew Brees, one of the most respected QB's in the league gets the ring and bragging rights he's supposed to have. Reggie Bush, a one time USC high-flying RB, to a high-flying Superbowl Winning New Orleans Saint.

All in all, the game proved to be mostly fun. On top of the extensive media coverage of the game, the players themselved built a separate hype for fans to look for. The cliche game, between Manning and Brees ended up in a somewhat unexpected way, yet made up for the changes.
Congratulations to New Orleans, who dat?

Superbowl Analysis

Saints vs Colts

The most obvious superbowl match possible. This game was predicted to be when the season was only 4 games in. The New Orleans presence was felt and Peyton Manning was nowhere from being done with Indy. Granted they both didnt have the easiest schedules in the league, they both managed to pull off some sort of unbeaten streak. Regardless of the losses incurred throughout their season, they are both the ideal teams to meet this upcoming Sunday.

The Indy Colts, a team with one of the best, if not the best Offensive Scheme in the league. Their O-Line seems to be inpenetrable, which presents one less worry for Manning. Their receiving core is not only the most versatile group of individuals, their ability to pull off necessary plays in the most important of times. Reggie Wayne, Austin Collie, Dallas Clark, and Pierre Garcon, simply put are amazing. Their defense suffers from depth, so injuries caused the defense to loose its threat.

The Saints, on the other hand, excel in their defensive explosiveness. When plays are most needed, their defense always seems to pitch in that extra ammount to win. Darren Sharper, their Safety, and Jonathan Vilma, the Linebacker, stand out in the backfield. With 9 interceptions this season, Sharper led the league alongside Woodson, Byrd and Samuel. Not to mention, Drew Brees is no pushover QB. His ability to find open receivers is to admire. When under heavy pressure, Brees always finds someone to make a completion to. The YAC (yards after carry) is what his receivers are known for. Jeremy Shockey, Lance Moore, Devery Henderson, and Marques Colston pose more than a threat to the Colts weak backfield.

Final prediction: Colts win