Game of the Week: Buffalo Bills at Minnesota Vikings

Our Expert Predictions:

Jeremy Piper : Buffalo Bills
People tend to underestimate their defense. They are 1st in sacks with 35. They are 1st in points allowed, averaging only 15.8. They are 5th in pass defense. They only give up 206.8 per game. They are 1st in run defense. Giving up only 61 yards per game. They are 3rd in interceptions with 6. They are 1st in the league in tackles for loss. This is going to be a very viewer friendly game.

Mary Moore : Minnesota Vikings
I think having a team players like Chris Kuper - G is the kind of thing that will help the Vikings win this game. There are so many factors to consider when making predictions. This one was easy though.

Jim Nox : Minnesota Vikings
I see them winning again this week. This game will be so very entertaining.

Darren Francis : Minnesota Vikings
I do not think people realize how good this offense is. They are maulers, 2nd in the league in pancakes. They are 5th in the league in passes of more than 20 yards. They are 2nd in the league rushing touchdowns with 13. They are 5th in the league rushing yards per game. They average 158! They are 2nd in the league points scored per game. They average 32!

Defense dominates in Buffalo.

The Bills defensive line is beating up the men on the other side of the ball so far this season with a total of 18 sacks, 3 forced fumbles and 50 tackles in 6 games.

Chicago Cardinals pull off the upset!

The Chicago Cardinals fans are celebrating after the Cardinals took down the New York Giants.
In a superb effort the Cardinals kept at it, and brought home the win. The Giants are widely considered to be the better of the two programs, but with the Cardinals winning the fans are hoping that the Cardinals will soon be able to dance with the big boys.

Washington Commanders surprise everyone!

The Washington Commanders have managed an unlikely win against San Francisco 49ers.
The 49ers appeared dejected towards the end of the game, while the Commanders kept their cool and drove the victory home. Most pundits had expected the 49ers to win with ease, and the loss to such an inferior opponent is a tough blow to the lofty expectations for the program. Meanwhile, the Commanders fans were celebrating in the street, having had their hopes for the future bolstered at least momentarily.

Coach Showdown with Simon Sly (Season 1989 Week 7)

Time for this weeks get to know your coaches. As always, Simon Sly deliver with this weeks coach comparison. I will spare you the meandering and cut to the chase.

TOM BETTIS, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR, GREEN BAY PACKERS
The Packers currently sit at 1-5-0.

Tom Bettis does not like gambling on defense. Advocating a bend, but don't break mindset. He is serious and unrelenting, asserts his authority and has little tolerance for distractions.
Tom Bettis runs a None defense. It features primarily zone coverage. He targets the rungame, daring the offense to pass. He wants defensive linemen who can help in runsupport. He wants defensive linemen who can help in runsupport.

They are 18th in sacks with 8.
They are 19th in points allowed, averaging 30.5.
They are 3rd in pass defense with 203.8 yards given up per game.
They are 18th in run defense. Giving up 155.8 yards per game.
They are 19th in interceptions with 2.
They are 2nd in the league in tackles for loss.
They are 17th in forced fumbles.



CHUCK STUDLEY, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR, MIAMI DOLPHINS
The Dolphins currently sit at 1-5-0.

Chuck Studley favors an aggressive defense. He adapts his demeanor to the situation, and does whatever he thinks it takes to get through to his players and co-workers.
Chuck Studley runs a None defense. It features primarily zone coverage. He targets the rungame, daring the offense to pass. He wants defensive linemen who can help in runsupport. He wants defensive linemen who can help in runsupport.

They are 3rd in sacks with 25.
They are 16th in points allowed, averaging 27.2.
They are 15th in pass defense with 233.7 yards given up per game.
They are 11th in run defense. Giving up 137.8 yards per game.
They are 15th in interceptions with 3.
They are 20th in the league in tackles for loss.
They are 2nd in forced fumbles.

Week 6: RB Maurice Jones-Drew (WAS) wins Offensive Player of the Week

Week 6's Offensive Player of the Week is Running Back Maurice Jones-Drew. His 22 att, 200 yds, 3 TD performance stood out in the 38 to 24 victory for the Washington Commanders.

The former UCLA gridiron star is racking up the rushing yards and now has 842 Yards and 6 Touchdowns for the season.

Week 6: DE Logan Hall (OAK) wins Defensive Player of the Week

DE Logan Hall of the Oakland Raiders has earned the Defensive Player of the Week award. Hall finished with 3 Tck, 2 Sck.

Game Recaps for Week 6

Jets - 28, Dolphins - 21
Ravens - 34, Seahawks - 17
Commanders - 38, 49ers - 24
Raiders - 31, Bengals - 24
Bills - 21, Chiefs - 6
Cardinals - 24, Giants - 21
Colts - 20, Buccaneers - 14
Falcons - 33, Monarchs - 31
Vikings - 35, Bears - 30
Lions - 30, Packers - 20

FB Wing Dings (N/A) has retired!

The N/A' FB Wing Dings has retired after 0 seasons. His presence in the locker room and on the field will be sorely missed.
He finished his career with 0 att, 0 yds, 0 TD

Game of the Week: Seattle Seahawks at Baltimore Ravens

Our Expert Predictions:

Jeremy Piper : Seattle Seahawks
There are so many factors to consider when making predictions. This one was easy though.

Mary Moore : Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks have really strong team play. You look at a player like Irving Fryar - WR and what he does for a team. He makes everyone around him better.

Jim Nox : Baltimore Ravens
They will rely on their defense to pull them through. They are 4th in points allowed, averaging only 19. They are 3rd in pass defense. They only give up 191.2 per game. They are 3rd in forced fumbles.

Darren Francis : Seattle Seahawks
When you consider the two rosters, there is no way around that Mario Williams - DE is going to wreck havoc for the Seahawks defense.

Halas adds to Packers' brand

Green Bay just loves Halas. The 27 year old DE from Green Bay Packers has been helping out anywhere he can in the local community.

Week 5: QB John Elway (DET) wins Offensive Player of the Week

The league announced Detroit Lions quarterback John Elway has been named Offensive Player of the Week.

The Lions defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 41 to 14. Elway did his part, throwing 2 touchdowns, completing 26 of 32 passes for 278 yards. His outstanding performance now brings his season Touchdown to Interception Ratio to 16 to 5, and a passer rating of 124.2.

Week 5: DE Chris Doleman (IND) wins Defensive Player of the Week

DE Chris Doleman of the Indianapolis Colts has earned the Defensive Player of the Week award. Doleman finished with 6 Tck, 3 Sck, 1 Sfty, 1 FF.

Game Recaps for Week 5

Monarchs - 17, Jets - 10
Seahawks - 30, Dolphins - 14
Ravens - 31, Bills - 23
Raiders - 27, Commanders - 14
Bengals - 17, Chiefs - 6
Falcons - 47, Cardinals - 7
Colts - 19, Giants - 16
Lions - 41, Buccaneers - 14
49ers - 24, Bears - 20
Vikings - 29, Packers - 17

Game of the Week: Buffalo Bills at Baltimore Ravens

Our Expert Predictions:

Jeremy Piper : Baltimore Ravens
You just have to look at their defense. They are 3rd in points allowed, averaging only 18. They are 3rd in pass defense. They only give up 189.8 per game. This will be an action-packed affair.

Mary Moore : Baltimore Ravens
Lots of points scored.

Jim Nox : Buffalo Bills
I love what they are doing in Buffalo coaching-wise. Head coach Marv Levy is a major reason they will win this game. Offensively he is a great and innovative thinker. He is innovative with his defense. He is preparation and gameplanning is great.

Darren Francis : Baltimore Ravens
Leadership. You cannot discount the difference it makes. I am thinking of a guy like Kirk Lowdermilk - C. He will lead the way and help them win.

Coach Showdown with Simon Sly (Season 1989 Week 5)

Welcome to Coach Showdown with me. I'm Simon Sly. Let us get on with it.

ZAPP ROWSDOWER, HEAD COACH, WASHINGTON COMMANDERS
The Commanders currently sit at 1-3-0.

Zapp Rowsdower preaches flexibility on both offense and defense, focusing on what the situation demands. Professionalism is the key for him. He demands accountability from everyone around him.

Rowsdower outperforms Hunt in scouting.
Rowsdower is way better than Hunt in developing players.
Rowsdower works with young players somewhat better than Hunt.


GRACIE HUNT, HEAD COACH, KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
The Chiefs currently sit at 2-2-0.

Gracie Hunt preaches flexibility on both offense and defense, focusing on what the situation demands. Professionalism is the key for him. He demands accountability from everyone around him.

Lewis adds to Lions' brand

Detroit benefits from community work by Lions' WR Jermaine Lewis. Lewis recently has spend his free time working with troubled youth. An official statement on the matter read: 'Needless to say, the organization is proud of the Lewis'.

Week 4: QB Dave Krieg (TB) wins Offensive Player of the Week

The league announced Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Dave Krieg has been named Offensive Player of the Week.

The Buccaneers defeated the New York Jets, 42 to 14. Krieg did his part, throwing 3 touchdowns, completing 28 of 35 passes for 362 yards. His outstanding performance now brings his season Touchdown to Interception Ratio to 10 to 4, and a passer rating of 103.6.

Week 4: LB Tamba Hali (SEA) wins Defensive Player of the Week

LB Tamba Hali of the Seattle Seahawks has earned the Defensive Player of the Week award. Hali finished with 10 Tck, 1 Sck, 1 Int, 1 FF.

Game Recaps for Week 4

Seahawks - 34, Lions - 27
Vikings - 41, Commanders - 0
Bills - 28, Packers - 13
Giants - 23, Raiders - 20
49ers - 27, Bengals - 3
Ravens - 22, Cardinals - 17
Bears - 33, Monarchs - 24
Colts - 44, Chiefs - 14
Dolphins - 42, Falcons - 27
Buccaneers - 42, Jets - 14

Player Release

The Chicago Cardinals have released Neil Lomax - QB.

Game of the Week: Detroit Lions at Seattle Seahawks

Our Expert Predictions:

Jeremy Piper : Detroit Lions
I think their offense will carry them. They are 1st in the league passing touchdowns with 13. They are 2nd in the league passing yards per game. They average 314.7! They are maulers, 2nd in the league in pancakes. They are 1st in the league points scored per game. They average 41.3! This may be where we see their true colors.

Mary Moore : Detroit Lions
Do not throw statistics at me! The Lions win because they are the better team. This will be watercooler talk on monday. Do not miss it.

Jim Nox : Detroit Lions
Head coach Nick Miller runs a tight ship in Detroit. I feel certain he has prepared an excellent gameplan. He is a great offensive mind. He is one of the best defensive minds. The way he prepares gives them an advantage in any game.

Darren Francis : Seattle Seahawks
They are on a win streak. They will continue that streak. They will win this game. Can't lose.

Week 3: QB Randall Cunningham (GB) wins Offensive Player of the Week

The Green Bay Packers' Randall Cunningham threw 5 touchdowns, completing 18 of 26 passes for 198 yards in the Packers victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

After being drafted in Round 1 of the 1985 amateur draft, season number 4 for Cunningham, has seen some impressive numbers including 11 touchdown passes this season.

Week 3: FS Lewis Cine (LON) wins Defensive Player of the Week

FS Lewis Cine of the London Monarchs has earned the Defensive Player of the Week award. Cine finished with 4 Tck, 2 Int, 1 Def TD.

Game Recaps for Week 3

Commanders - 27, Jets - 20
Bills - 42, Dolphins - 7
Seahawks - 28, Raiders - 20
Monarchs - 43, Bengals - 6
Chiefs - 24, Ravens - 7
49ers - 45, Cardinals - 7
Lions - 52, Giants - 28
Bears - 38, Colts - 13
Falcons - 29, Vikings - 9
Packers - 45, Buccaneers - 27

Game of the Week: New York Giants at Detroit Lions

Our Expert Predictions:

Jeremy Piper : Detroit Lions
Head coach Nick Miller puts them over the top in this game. He makes great offensive adjustments. He is has a really good understanding of what works on defense. He is really good at analyzing and preparing for opponents. They get their win and this game will be just another day at the office.

Mary Moore : New York Giants
Do not sleep on this offense.

Jim Nox : New York Giants
They might even blow them out.

Darren Francis : Detroit Lions
They will win again this week.

Broderick Thompson calls out Commanders DE Hampton after loss.

Broderick Thompson pointed the finger at his fellow Commanders players after they lost. 'We have to step up, all of us.' he said. 'But some guys are not stepping up and we end up losing. They need to get their head in the game', he continued. 'We lost and somebody is to blame. If you look at the game, you will see some players just are not delivering.' said the Commanders T. Asked to clarify, Thompson suggested Dan Hampton - DE needs to perform better, but underscored that there was plenty of blame to go around. 'Guys need to listen, we need to get grinding, you cannot just show up and expect to play or expect to win', Thompson concluded.

Coach Showdown with Simon Sly (Season 1989 Week 3)

Welcome to Coach Showdown with me. I'm Simon Sly. Let us jump right in.

GARFIELD CONNOR, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR, NEW YORK JETS
The Jets currently sit at 1-1-0.

Garfield Connor likes to mix it up on offense, switching between aggressive and conservative styles. He adapts his demeanor to the situation, and does whatever he thinks it takes to get through to his players and co-workers.
Garfield Connor runs a run first None offense. He wants his running backs to focus on running the ball, limiting their other duties. He runs mostly from power formations. Fullbacks are not utilized much. He wants his quarterbacks to stay in the pocket and deliver the ball. He wants his quarterbacks to stay in the pocket and deliver the ball.

They are 9th in the league pass completion percentage. They are 9th in the league passing touchdowns with 4. They are 10th in the league passing yards per game. Averaging 238.They are 2nd in the league in sacks allowed.They are 17th in the league in pancakes.They are 12th in the league in passes of more than 20 yards.They are 5th in the league average yards per rush.They are 3rd in the league rushing touchdowns with 3.They are 4th in the league rushing yards per game. They average 166.5.They are 5th in the league points scored per game. With an average of 29.5.


BOB BAKER, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR, DETROIT LIONS
The Lions currently sit at 2-0-0.

Bob Baker wants to be aggressive on offense. His attitude is relaxed, and he is good at making everyone around him feel comfortable and promotes a friendly and unceremonial atmosphere in the organization.
Bob Baker runs a run first None offense. He wants his running backs to focus on running the ball, limiting their other duties. He runs mostly from power formations. Fullbacks are not utilized much. He wants his quarterbacks to stay in the pocket and deliver the ball. He wants his quarterbacks to stay in the pocket and deliver the ball.

They are 15th in the league pass completion percentage.
They are 1st in the league passing touchdowns with 8.
They are 2nd in the league passing yards per game. Averaging 314.5.
They are 3rd in the league in sacks allowed.
They are 5th in the league in pancakes.
They are 3rd in the league in passes of more than 20 yards.
They are 17th in the league average yards per rush.
They are 15th in the league rushing touchdowns with 1.
They are 15th in the league rushing yards per game. They average 112.
They are 2nd in the league points scored per game. With an average of 36.

Baker is a better offisive mind than Connor.

Week 2: QB John Elway (DET) wins Offensive Player of the Week

The league announced Detroit Lions quarterback John Elway has been named Offensive Player of the Week.

The Lions defeated the Atlanta Falcons, 49 to 34. Elway did his part, throwing 6 touchdowns, completing 16 of 26 passes for 419 yards. His outstanding performance now brings his season Touchdown to Interception Ratio to 8 to 2, and a passer rating of 122.7.

Week 2: LB Lawrence Taylor (BUF) wins Defensive Player of the Week

LB Lawrence Taylor of the Buffalo Bills has earned the Defensive Player of the Week award. Taylor finished with 10 Tck, 2 Sck, 1 FF, 1 FR.

Game Recaps for Week 2

Bengals - 20, Jets - 17
Chiefs - 20, Dolphins - 3
Seahawks - 17, Commanders - 13
Bills - 38, Monarchs - 22
Ravens - 26, Raiders - 24
Vikings - 40, Cardinals - 24
Giants - 31, Packers - 28
49ers - 45, Colts - 7
Lions - 49, Falcons - 34
Buccaneers - 23, Bears - 20

Game of the Week: Baltimore Ravens at Oakland Raiders

Our Expert Predictions:

Jeremy Piper : Baltimore Ravens
They will get another win this week. Really this could go either way, but you will never get me to admit it.

Mary Moore : Baltimore Ravens
It may even be a blow out.

Jim Nox : Baltimore Ravens
I do not know why. I just have this hunch. I expect some incredible plays in this game.

Darren Francis : Oakland Raiders
For this game, it seems to me that Darrell Green - CB will be a key figure in this game. Do not sleep on this guy's ability.

Who is the better T? Giants' Anthony Munoz weighs in

Giants T Anthony Munoz compared himself to Chris Hinton of the Monarchs in a postgame interview. The Giants player remarks came in response to some online speculation about who was the better T. 'I think I have proved what I am. I feel confident about where I am, but I think maybe Chris Hinton has a little more he needs to prove, if you get me? At least if he want to be compared to me.', he said.

Week 1: QB Randall Cunningham (GB) wins Offensive Player of the Week

The Green Bay Packers' Randall Cunningham threw 3 touchdowns, completing 26 of 38 passes for 346 yards in the Vikings victory over the Green Bay Packers.

After being drafted in Round 1 of the 1985 amateur draft, season number 4 for Cunningham, has seen some impressive numbers including 3 touchdown passes this season.

Week 1: DE Mario Williams (SEA) wins Defensive Player of the Week

DE Mario Williams of the Seattle Seahawks has earned the Defensive Player of the Week award. Williams finished with 4 Tck, 2 Sck.

Game Recaps for Week 1

Buccaneers - 40, Commanders - 10
Raiders - 31, 49ers - 21
Jets - 42, Chiefs - 28
Ravens - 20, Bears - 7
Seahawks - 34, Falcons - 21
Vikings - 38, Packers - 27
Monarchs - 16, Dolphins - 10
Colts - 31, Cardinals - 27
Lions - 23, Bengals - 13
Giants - 16, Bills - 6

Season Predictions

The sports journalists association has published the results of this year's division prediction polls among their twenty top sports journalists.

AFC West: Buffalo Bills with 10 votes (Runner up: Oakland Raiders with 8 votes)

AFC East: Miami Dolphins with 13 votes (Runner up: Baltimore Ravens with 7 votes)

NFC West: Detroit Lions with 11 votes (Runner up: Green Bay Packers with 7 votes)

NFC East: Indianapolis Colts with 12 votes (Runner up: New York Giants with 8 votes)

Game of the Week: Cincinnati Bengals at Detroit Lions

Our Expert Predictions:

Jeremy Piper : Detroit Lions
Look for their offense to dominate.

Mary Moore : Detroit Lions
I think having a team players like Randall Godfrey - LB is the kind of thing that will help the Lions win this game.

Jim Nox : Cincinnati Bengals
One of the most underestimated defenses.

Darren Francis : Cincinnati Bengals
In this game, it seems obvious that Eric Wright - CB always has an impact. The offense will have to gameplan for him if they want to stand even the slightest chance. I expect some incredible plays in this game.

Training camp recaps

Training camps are done! So, what happened? Here are some players that stood out.

These guys had great camps:
Virginia Destroyers: CB Antonio Cromartie - CB
Virginia Destroyers: LB Matt Blair II - LB
Buffalo Bills: DE Devonte Wyatt - DE
Cincinnati Bengals: CB Sauce Gardner - CB
Cincinnati Bengals: T Jacob Bender - T
Miami Dolphins: DT Jordan Davis - DT
Miami Dolphins: C Mike Gruttadauria - C
New York Jets: RB Ricky Williams - RB
London Monarchs: DT William Perry - DT
Baltimore Ravens: RB Adrian Peterson - RB
Chicago Bears: LB Micah McFadden - LB
Minnesota Vikings: LB Akeem Jordan - LB
San Francisco 49ers: WR Ted Ginn Jr. - WR
Indianapolis Colts: DT La'Roi Glover - DT
Indianapolis Colts: DT Michael Carter - DT
Indianapolis Colts: G Brandon Burlsworth - G


The following players had a terrible camp:
London Monarchs: G Tom Ackerman - G
Baltimore Ravens: DT Leon Lett - DT
Baltimore Ravens: DT Greg Meisner - DT
Atlanta Falcons: SS Mark Haynes - SS
Chicago Cardinals: FS Paul Moyer - FS

Post Free Agency Retirements

The following players have retired after going unsigned through free agency:
RB Dennis Bligen
RB Thomas Clayton
RB Darius Walker
RB Greg Lewis
RB Garrett Wolfe
RB DJ Ware
RB Chris Henry
RB Mike Dingle
G Thomas Gafford
G Leroy Harris
G Tre Stallings
G Glen Titensor
G Kasey Studdard
G Keith Bishop
T Rashad Butler
T Clint Oldenburg
T Jared Gaither
T Tony Ugoh
T Jacob Bender
T Mario Henderson
T Bruce Collie
T Herbert Taylor
T Doug Free
TE Daniel Coats
TE Derek Schouman
TE James Wright
TE Ben Patrick
TE Martrez Milner
TE Michael Matthews
WR Preston Dennard
WR Dwayne Jarrett
WR Kenny Duckett
WR Ron Johnson
WR Gerald Carter
WR Anthony Gonzalez
WR Roy Hall
WR Reggie Barrett
WR Biren Ealy
WR Lindsay Scott
WR Joey Smith
WR Matt Willis
CB Glenn Rogers
CB Trumaine McBride
CB Carl Howard
CB Vernon Dean
CB Eric Bassey
CB Marcus McCauley
CB Fred Bennett
CB Eric Smedley
LB Fred McNeill
LB David Herron
LB Bruce Scholtz
LB Michael Jackson
LB Buster Davis
LB Quinton Culberson
LB Jyles Tucker
LB Travis Williams
LB Antwan Barnes
LB Nick Roach
LB Eugene Marve
LB Justin Rogers
LB H.B. Blades
LB Colin Allred
LB Victor Worsley
DT Matt Toeaina
DT Jay Alford
DT Derrick Jones
DT Ryan McBean
DT Chase Page
DT Dwaine Morris
DT Alan Branch
DT Justin Harrell
DT Clifton Ryan
DT Quinn Pitcock
DE Jarvis Moss
DE Quentin Moses
DE Elvis Franks
DE Ikaika Alama-Francis
DE Tony Hill
DE Greg Brown
FS Courtney Brown
FS Usama Young
FS Marvin White
FS Nick Graham
FS Ivory Sully
FS Dashon Goldson
FS Antoine Harris
SS John Wendling
SS Ray Ellis
SS Bobby Kemp
SS Ray Ventrone
SS Bill Bates
SS Ramzee Robinson

TE Peyton Hendershot (N/A) has retired!

TE Peyton Hendershot (74 ovr) has retired after failing to get signed in free agency.

LB Nate Landman (N/A) has retired!

LB Nate Landman (78 ovr) has retired after failing to get signed in free agency.

G Randy Cross (N/A) has retired!

G Randy Cross (65 ovr) has retired after failing to get signed in free agency.

CB Sauce Gardner (CIN) goes #1 overall!

NEW YORK -- The Cincinnati Bengals drafted Sauce Gardner #1 overall in the 1989 draft. The 6' 3" CB fits the team's needs perfectly. Said Bengals general manager: "It's up to us to develop him and get good players around him."

"The great thing about the game of football is, it's a team game," Gardner said on a conference call. "I'm just going to be one piece of the puzzle."

Moore and Nox Mock Draft

Pick 1: Cincinnati Bengals
Larry Moore: Brock Purdy - QB
Teammates look to him for leadership, and he consistently delivers. This kid breeds synergy, teams play better when he is on the field. This is the kind of kid you want to promote the game. Well behaved, loves the game, and respectful. He trusts what he sees, and what he sees is mostly right. Trusts his own accuracy, and is rarely disappointed. When the available talent fits what you need, there is reason to celebrate. They are getting a great talent who will serve them for many years.

Jim Nox: Damone Clark - LB
Teammates gravitate toward him, they follow his lead. Coaches love that about him. This kid puts in the work. In addition to his own role, this kid doubles as glue. He makes everyone on the field play as a team. Solid technique on tackles. Will never become a speed rush specialist, but has sufficient speed to become a prototype Defensive End. He is sharp, and that makes him very coachable. They need him now. Well yesterday actually. They will love him tomorrow. They will revere him by the end of his career.

Pick 2: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Larry Moore: Kyle Hamilton - SS
People fall in love with his speed. There is a reason for that. Speed is important in your backfield, and this guy can run. You want your Strong Safety to tackle. This guy is pretty good at that. His college teammates all point to how smart he is. He fills a hole at the position. Blue-chip player. Will fit right in and start right away. Love it.

Jim Nox: Kyle Hamilton - SS
He closes fast. Can really go sideline to sideline. Straight line speed is really a great asset here. Tackles with nice fundamentals. People usually go down. Consistently makes good decisions on the field. He can do what they want. He will deliver results early. He fits a need. End of story.

Pick 3: Kansas City Chiefs
Larry Moore: Sauce Gardner - CB
Sufficient speed to stay on his man. Not elite, but suffient. Wraps up the ballcarrier on tackles. Reacts intelligently on the field. Plug a hole in the roster with a great player. That is really what they need to do. This pick does it.

Jim Nox: Sauce Gardner - CB
Pretty good straight line speed. Will keep up with most receivers. He will often make the tackle. A cerebral player. Might not be what fans want, but there is a reason people are getting paid to make these decisions. This is a rock solid pick, and he fits what they are looking for. Fans will come around quickly once they see him play.

Pick 4: Minnesota Vikings
Larry Moore: David Ojabo - LB
His college coaches talk highly of his work ethic. His good natured behavior, even toward opponents have earned him some criticism, but also an awful lot of respect. Here you have a guy, who really benefits the atmosphere in the building. Everyone wants to be around him. He brings nice strength to the table. This is important because often his role will to keep contain. You cannot do that if you are on your back. Not exactly a speed rusher, but has plenty of speed for the position. He can do what they want. He will deliver results early. He fits a need. End of story.

Jim Nox: Tariq Woolen - CB
Sufficient speed to stay on his man. Not elite, but suffient. His college teammates all point to how smart he is. They will be running to the podium for this one.

Pick 5: Chicago Bears
Larry Moore: Aidan Hutchinson - DE
Due to his work ethic, this kid is very coachable. He is driven by the love of the sport. Goes nice and low on tackles. Coaches like his instincts. Rock solid player is just what they need. A great fit here, both in terms of need and quality.

Jim Nox: Roger McCreary - CB
Knows what it takes to achieve success at any level. He is fundamentally a good kid. You rarely see him commit stupid penalties. The guy has gets along with everyone. Do not be afraid to draft a position of need here. This kid is well worthy of a pick this early. Perfect situation for him, and great fit for the team.

Pick 6: Seattle Seahawks
Larry Moore: Damone Clark - LB
Need a leader? He is your guy. Knows what it takes to achieve success at any level. Raised to know the value of teamwork. Reliable tackler. Not exactly a speed rusher, but has plenty of speed for the position. Coaches like his instincts. The stars align for them to get him here. Just what they need. Blue-chip player with great upside. Hard to botch this pick.

Jim Nox: Malcolm Rodriguez - LB
His good natured behavior, even toward opponents have earned him some criticism, but also an awful lot of respect. Liked by coaches and teammates. This young man can hold his own in the weight room. And he is strong enough to hold his own on the field as well. Closing speed good enough to get to the Quarterback often. Reacts intelligently on the field. Nothing to think about here. Pick up the kid, bring him into the building, put him om the field.

Pick 7: Oakland Raiders
Larry Moore: Malcolm Rodriguez - LB
This is the kind of kid you want to promote the game. Well behaved, loves the game, and respectful. Well liked in the locker room. In college, he dominated when bull rushing. He is strong enough that he can continue to do that in the pros. Not a topnotch forty time, but not bad either. Has enough quickness in his first step to do everything you ask of him. Clever young man as wellThey will be happy to get him, they could use an upgrade at the position, and he certainly fits the bill. A franchise caliber player. Just what they have been looking for.

Jim Nox: Tyler Smith - G
Known for showing up early and staying late. He will occasionally throw of defenders to the ground when blocking them. If you go to his tape, you will se he run blocks very well. He pass blocks really well. Solid talent that fits their needs. Really that is all there is to it. Perfect situation. Take the money and run.

Pick 8: Minnesota Vikings
Larry Moore: Travon Walker - LB
Amazing strength for the position. Makes him versatile, and tells of his high ceiling. Nice speed for a Defensive End. Enough to keep contain and get sacks. Very coachable. People always say you should not prioritize needs over quality. That is not an issue here, they get to have their cake and eat it too.

Jim Nox: Travon Walker - LB
Really strong. Will push through blocks. Not a topnotch forty time, but not bad either. Has enough quickness in his first step to do everything you ask of him. He is smart, and plays with good instincts. They will be running to the podium for this one.

Pick 9: San Francisco 49ers
Larry Moore: Jaquan Brisker - SS
This kid puts in the work. Known among his teammates as a bit of a goofball, but never in a bad way. The kind that keeps spirits high even when a season goes south. Coaches are not worried about his forty time. But he plays fast, and they will be smart with his coverage assignments. Well trained tackler. A cerebral player. Once this kid gets in the building, they will be set at this position for years.

Jim Nox: Jaquan Brisker - SS
Known among his teammates as a hard worker. Here you have a guy, who really benefits the atmosphere in the building. Everyone wants to be around him. Is sufficiently fast to cover most players. You can do a lot of different things with him schemewise. Consistently takes down ball carrier when he gets to him. Reliably makes the right decision on the field. They gotta be happy to get this guy. Such a talent and he fits their needs. I would imagine the war room is celebrating when they make this pick.

Pick 10: Minnesota Vikings
Larry Moore: Brian Asamoah II - LB
Here is a kid who no one doubts will put in the work. He helps everyone get in the right position, making the team run as a well oiled machine. The guy has gets along with everyone. Is fast enough to get sacks. Is fast enough to contain outside runs. Those are the players you look for at Defensive End. Pretty clever. Fits nicely with their needs. Fits nicely with the draft spot. Getting it right is important with these early picks. This guy is right.

Jim Nox: Kenneth Walker III - RB
The ultimate team player. His movement skills are good. Is faster than his tape shows. He will occasionally throw of defenders who do not wrap when tackling him. Blue-chip player. Exactly what they look for. Add a young talent to a roster thin at the position, a great fit.

Offseason Team Needs with Jeremy Piper

With a new offseason under way, some rosters are in good shape. However, other teams have big needs to address this offseason. Your always trusty Jeremy Piper here brings you a quick glance at the teams with work to do. Whether they fill their needs in the draft or with veterans in free agency remains to be seen.

Here we go:
Kansas City Chiefs: G T C TE WR CB LB DT DE SS
Oakland Raiders: G TE CB LB DE
Virginia Destroyers: QB G C LB
Buffalo Bills: G TE CB DT
Cincinnati Bengals: QB RB G T C WR LB DT DE FS
Miami Dolphins: G T WR CB LB DT
New York Jets: QB G TE WR LB DT DE FS
London Monarchs: G C WR LB
Seattle Seahawks: CB LB DT
Baltimore Ravens: WR CB LB DE
Green Bay Packers: T C TE WR LB
Chicago Bears: TE CB DE
Minnesota Vikings: RB T CB DE
Detroit Lions: RB LB FS
San Francisco 49ers: C SS
New York Giants: G LB
Indianapolis Colts: G CB LB SS
Atlanta Falcons: T C TE WR CB DT FS SS
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: QB T TE LB SS
Chicago Cardinals: QB G C CB LB DT DE FS

Draft Order: Virginia Destroyers own first overall.

Pick 1: Virginia Destroyers
Pick 2: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick 3: Kansas City Chiefs
Pick 4: Minnesota Vikings (from Baltimore Ravens)
Pick 5: Chicago Bears
Pick 6: Seattle Seahawks
Pick 7: Oakland Raiders
Pick 8: Minnesota Vikings
Pick 9: San Francisco 49ers
Pick 10: Minnesota Vikings (from Green Bay Packers)
Pick 11: London Monarchs
Pick 12: Chicago Bears (from Atlanta Falcons)
Pick 13: New York Jets
Pick 14: Miami Dolphins
Pick 15: Indianapolis Colts (from Chicago Cardinals)
Pick 16: Detroit Lions
Pick 17: Buffalo Bills
Pick 18: New York Giants
Pick 19: Indianapolis Colts
Pick 20: Cincinnati Bengals

Active Player Retirements

Kansas City Chiefs:
T Dave Huffman (4 seasons) 17 Pancakes
DE Doug Martin (4 seasons) 50 Tck, 4 Sck, 2 FF

Oakland Raiders:
TE Ozzie Newsome (4 seasons) 122 rec, 1484 yds, 13 TD
CB Wayne Smith (4 seasons) 104 Tck, 1 Int, 2 FF, 1 FR

Virginia Destroyers:
LB Robin Cole (4 seasons) 93 Tck, 1 Sck, 1 Int, 1 Blk FG, 1 FF, 2 FR

Buffalo Bills:
CB Louis Wright (4 seasons) 362 Tck, 4 Sck, 5 Int, 2 Def TD, 8 FF, 1 FR

Baltimore Ravens:
RB James Wilder (4 seasons) 674 att, 2936 yds, 21 TD, 99 rec, 968 yds, 11 TD

Minnesota Vikings:
T Jon Giesler (4 seasons) 88 Pancakes

San Francisco 49ers:
RB Sammy Winder (4 seasons) 557 att, 2621 yds, 19 TD, 45 rec, 347 yds, 2 TD

New York Giants:
SS Glenn Blackwood (4 seasons) 236 Tck, 3 Sck, 5 Int, 3 FF, 2 FR

Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
K Rolf Benirschke (4 seasons) 71/96 FG

Chicago Cardinals:
WR James Lofton (4 seasons) 314 rec, 4118 yds, 30 TD

Notable free agent retirements

QB:
Tommy Kramer (4 seasons pro) 1395/2036, 14582 yds, 110 TD
Dan Fouts (4 seasons pro) 614/902, 7239 yds, 60 TD
Steve DeBerg (4 seasons pro) 266/445, 2660 yds, 16 TD
Steve Grogan (4 seasons pro) 127/216, 1206 yds, 13 TD
Bill Kenney (4 seasons pro) 26/49, 171 yds, 0 TD
Jack Thompson (4 seasons pro) 25/49, 276 yds, 2 TD

RB:
Ken Lacy (4 seasons pro) 30 att, 76 yds, 0 TD
Barry Redden (4 seasons pro) 13 att, 121 yds, 1 TD

T:
Marvin Powell (4 seasons pro) 210 Pancakes
Bob Cryder (4 seasons pro) 157 Pancakes
Bruce Davis (4 seasons pro) 109 Pancakes
Bill Bain (4 seasons pro) 17 Pancakes

C:
Mark Dennard (4 seasons pro) 149 Pancakes
John Hill (4 seasons pro) 1 Pancakes

WR:
Drew Hill (4 seasons pro) 265 rec, 2843 yds, 23 TD
John Stallworth (4 seasons pro) 122 rec, 1274 yds, 7 TD
Greg Hawthorne (4 seasons pro) 69 rec, 691 yds, 6 TD
Jim Smith (4 seasons pro) 2 rec, 21 yds, 0 TD

CB:
Mike Haynes (4 seasons pro) 268 Tck, 2 Sck, 14 Int, 2 Def TD, 9 FF, 3 FR
Charles Romes (4 seasons pro) 46 Tck, 3 Int, 1 Def TD
John Turner (4 seasons pro) 12 Tck

LB:
Rod Martin (4 seasons pro) 283 Tck, 1 Sck, 2 Int, 4 FF, 1 FR
Brad Van Pelt (4 seasons pro) 252 Tck, 11 Sck, 1 Int, 1 Sfty, 6 FF, 2 FR
John Anderson (4 seasons pro) 167 Tck, 3 Sck
Dan Bunz (4 seasons pro) 166 Tck, 6 Sck, 3 FF, 1 FR

DE:
Mike Hartenstine (4 seasons pro) 108 Tck, 9 Sck, 2 FF, 1 FR
Al Baker (4 seasons pro) 75 Tck, 8 Sck, 2 FF, 1 FR
Gary Jeter (4 seasons pro) 25 Tck, 3 Sck, 1 Def TD, 2 FF, 1 FR

FS:
Bud Brown (4 seasons pro) 53 Tck, 2 Sck, 2 Int, 3 FF, 2 FR

SS:
Nolan Cromwell (4 seasons pro) 196 Tck, 1 Sck, 4 Int, 1 Def TD, 4 FF, 1 FR

K:
Eddie Murray (4 seasons pro) 50/61 FG

Other retirements

QB Tarvaris Jackson (77 ovr)
QB Browning Nagle (72 ovr)
QB Marc Wilson (71 ovr)
QB Reggie McNeal (69 ovr)
QB Brodie Croyle (68 ovr)
QB Scott Milanovich (68 ovr)
QB Brock Berlin (64 ovr)
QB Bruce Gradkowski (67 ovr)
QB John Beck (65 ovr)
QB Brad Smith (65 ovr)
RB Michael Bush (75 ovr)
RB Nick Bell (73 ovr)
RB Brian Calhoun (74 ovr)
RB Robert Hardy (74 ovr)
RB Quinton Ganther (67 ovr)
RB Leroy Thompson (74 ovr)
RB Alex Haynes (69 ovr)
RB Robert Douglas (69 ovr)
RB Lionel Gates (67 ovr)
RB Carey Davis (69 ovr)
RB Chris Taylor (68 ovr)
RB A.J. Jones (68 ovr)
RB Andre Hall (69 ovr)
RB P.J. Pope (68 ovr)
RB Walter Dean (68 ovr)
RB P.J. Daniels (67 ovr)
RB J.D. Runnels (66 ovr)
RB Darren Lewis (66 ovr)
RB James Sims (67 ovr)
RB Kenneth Darby (64 ovr)
RB Cedric Jackson (65 ovr)
RB Kenny King (65 ovr)
RB Kenton Keith (65 ovr)
RB Mike Bell (65 ovr)
RB Chuck Weatherspoon (64 ovr)
RB Jerome Harrison (61 ovr)
RB Eric Shelton (63 ovr)
RB Alvin Moore (58 ovr)
FB Naufahu Tahi (63 ovr)
FB Wayne Wilson (62 ovr)
FB Lawrence Vickers (60 ovr)
FB Larry Kinnebrew (59 ovr)
FB Timmy Newsome (59 ovr)
G Jon Borchardt (73 ovr)
G Rob Selby (69 ovr)
G Anthony Oakley (67 ovr)
G Tim Vogler (67 ovr)
G Tim Ryan (68 ovr)
G Cory Procter (67 ovr)
G Ray Snell (67 ovr)
G Stefan Humphries (64 ovr)
G Don Greco (61 ovr)
T Jonathan Scott (76 ovr)
T D'Anthony Batiste (67 ovr)
T Gordon King (67 ovr)
T Tony Moll (68 ovr)
T Clarence Jones (66 ovr)
T Pat McQuistan (65 ovr)
T Jack Linn (63 ovr)
T Rich Strenger (63 ovr)
T Guy Whimper (60 ovr)
T Paul McQuistan (59 ovr)
T Shelby Jordan (58 ovr)
T Stan Thomas (57 ovr)
C Jim Hough (76 ovr)
C Mark Traynowicz (74 ovr)
C Tom Rafferty (70 ovr)
C Jim Leonard (68 ovr)
C Brad Leggett (67 ovr)
C Ariel Solomon (62 ovr)
C Will Montgomery (60 ovr)
C Wayne Radloff (62 ovr)
C Mark Cannon (61 ovr)
C Bob Rush (51 ovr)
TE Paul Coffman (77 ovr)
TE Tony Curtis (69 ovr)
TE Isaac Smolko (70 ovr)
TE Greg Estandia (68 ovr)
TE Lee Vickers (66 ovr)
TE Jeff King (65 ovr)
TE Aaron Halterman (64 ovr)
TE Maurice Johnson (64 ovr)
TE Ronnie Ghent (64 ovr)
TE David Thomas (63 ovr)
TE Joe Kowalewski (60 ovr)
TE Bennie Joppru (64 ovr)
TE Dominique Byrd (60 ovr)
TE Leonard Pope (59 ovr)
WR Jason Avant (78 ovr)
WR Lawrence Dawsey (75 ovr)
WR Tim Barnett (71 ovr)
WR Chas Gessner (72 ovr)
WR J.J. Jansen (70 ovr)
WR Demetrius Williams (71 ovr)
WR Jimmy Raye (70 ovr)
WR Jeff Groth (69 ovr)
WR Shaun Bodiford (70 ovr)
WR Justin Jenkins (69 ovr)
WR Chad Jackson (68 ovr)
WR Domenik Hixon (68 ovr)
WR Terry Obee (69 ovr)
WR Scott Miller (67 ovr)
WR Brandon Middleton (69 ovr)
WR Bobby Sippio (68 ovr)
WR Sam Hurd (67 ovr)
WR Glenn Holt (67 ovr)
WR Devale Ellis (68 ovr)
WR Marques Hagans (66 ovr)
WR Sinorice Moss (66 ovr)
WR Travis Wilson (66 ovr)
WR Pat Newman (66 ovr)
WR Byron Franklin (66 ovr)
WR Fred Banks (66 ovr)
WR Ernie Mills (65 ovr)
WR Wallace Wright (62 ovr)
WR John Madsen (64 ovr)
WR Michael Gasperson (62 ovr)
WR Buster Rhymes (64 ovr)
WR Martin Nance (64 ovr)
WR Will Buchanon (64 ovr)
WR Brandon Williams (60 ovr)
WR Derek Hagan (62 ovr)
WR Rob Carpenter (63 ovr)
WR Matt Bouza (63 ovr)
WR J.T. Smith (63 ovr)
WR Kevin House (61 ovr)
CB Mike Iaquaniello (68 ovr)
CB Jason Allen (68 ovr)
CB Aaron Ross (67 ovr)
CB Richard Marshall (67 ovr)
CB David Irons (67 ovr)
CB Kevin Dockery (66 ovr)
CB Charles Gordon (66 ovr)
CB Tim Lewis (66 ovr)
CB Terry Lewis (65 ovr)
CB Earl Johnson (66 ovr)
CB Steve Lofton (63 ovr)
CB Donald Smith (61 ovr)
CB Ted Rosnagle (62 ovr)
CB Tyler Everett (60 ovr)
LB Mel Owens (78 ovr)
LB Thomas Howard (70 ovr)
LB Scott Ross (70 ovr)
LB Jim Kovach (69 ovr)
LB Cecil Johnson (69 ovr)
LB Godfrey Myles (69 ovr)
LB Dennis Johnson (68 ovr)
LB Ed Williams (68 ovr)
LB James Anderson (67 ovr)
LB Carlos Jenkins (67 ovr)
LB D'Qwell Jackson (68 ovr)
LB Kevin Harrison (64 ovr)
LB Ryan LaCasse (65 ovr)
LB William Kershaw (66 ovr)
LB Lorenzo Alexander (67 ovr)
LB A.J. Nicholson (66 ovr)
LB Scott Kowalkowski (66 ovr)
LB Corey Miller (66 ovr)
LB Robert Abraham (67 ovr)
LB Brandon Jamison (64 ovr)
LB Kanavis McGhee (67 ovr)
LB Ricky Brown (65 ovr)
LB Jeff Rohrer (64 ovr)
LB Ronald Stanley (64 ovr)
LB Reggie Cooper (64 ovr)
LB Jeff Barnes (65 ovr)
LB Matt Sinclair (63 ovr)
LB Jamar Williams (62 ovr)
LB Leon Williams (61 ovr)
LB Brian Iwuh (62 ovr)
LB Reggie Burnette (57 ovr)
LB Charles Bennett (56 ovr)
DT Dusty Dvoracek (66 ovr)
DT Bobby Wilson (64 ovr)
DT Babatunde Oshinowo (64 ovr)
DT Frank Giannetti (63 ovr)
DT Tony McDaniel (61 ovr)
DT Fred Evans (60 ovr)
DT Jesse Mahelona (59 ovr)
DT Orien Harris (60 ovr)
DT Tony Chickillo (57 ovr)
DT Gary Gibson (57 ovr)
DT David Logan (58 ovr)
DT Santonio Thomas (56 ovr)
DT LaJuan Ramsey (57 ovr)
DT Marcus Green (56 ovr)
DT Frank Conover (56 ovr)
DT Dave Puzzuoli (53 ovr)
DT Steve Baack (52 ovr)
DE Ben Williams (77 ovr)
DE Gary Johnson (75 ovr)
DE Dennis Harrison (75 ovr)
DE Darryl Milburn (70 ovr)
DE Mike Gann (73 ovr)
DE Victor Adeyanju (70 ovr)
DE Kedric Golston (70 ovr)
DE Jason Hunter (68 ovr)
DE Rob Ninkovich (68 ovr)
DE Willie Broughton (65 ovr)
DE Chris Wilson (66 ovr)
DE Bill Barnett (64 ovr)
DE Jayme Mitchell (62 ovr)
DE Ryan Neill (62 ovr)
DE Tom Beasley (65 ovr)
DE Eric Powell (63 ovr)
DE Curtis Greer (60 ovr)
DE John Harty (62 ovr)
DE C.J. Ah You (59 ovr)
DE Sean Conover (59 ovr)
DE Donnie Gardner (60 ovr)
DE Julian Jenkins (57 ovr)
FS Calvin Lowry (67 ovr)
FS Darrell Hunter (68 ovr)
FS Russell Gary (65 ovr)
FS Willie Gaston (63 ovr)
FS Jamaal Fudge (64 ovr)
FS Robert Jackson FS (63 ovr)
FS Jovon Johnson (62 ovr)
FS Brian Mitchell (60 ovr)
FS Nate Salley (58 ovr)
SS Reed Doughty (72 ovr)
SS Shawn Vincent (69 ovr)
SS Harry Colon (68 ovr)
SS A.J. Greene (64 ovr)
SS Ko Simpson (66 ovr)
SS Willie Andrews (64 ovr)
SS Jarrad Page (62 ovr)
SS David Key (64 ovr)
SS Lee Davis (63 ovr)
SS Reggie Pleasant (60 ovr)
SS Tyrone Culver (58 ovr)
SS Ernest Gibson (58 ovr)
K Donald Igwebuike (53 ovr)
K Chris Bahr (49 ovr)
P Shawn McCarthy (62 ovr)
P Mike Barr (61 ovr)
P Ryan Plackemeier (53 ovr)