Like always leave comments, love seeing everyone’s thoughts on what their team should do.

1. St Louis Rams – QB Jimmy Clausen – Notre Dame

No change here as I still can’t see the Rams passing up one of the two franchise quarterbacks for a defensive tackle.

2. Detroit Lions – DT Ndamukong Suh – Nebraska

4. Washington Redskins – QB Sam Bradford – Oklahoma

Same thing as the first four picks no changes. Redskins really need that offensive tackle but Coach Shanahan is going to want himself his own QB.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – OT Russell Okung – Oklahoma State

6. Seattle Seahawks – S Eric Berry – Tennessee

7. Cleveland Browns – CB Joe Haden – Florida

8. UPDATE – Oakland Raiders – DE Derrick Morgan – Georgia Tech

Al Davis loves freaks its why there are a few guys that people swear he’d take Dez Bryant, Bruce Campbell, Carlos Dunlap (my pick in the last draft) and Taylor Mays. Morgan is a great athlete and with a very good combine could really draw the attention of Mr. Davis.

9. Buffalo Bills – OT Bruce Campbell – Maryland

11. UPDATE – Jacksonville Jaguars – LB Rolando McLain Alabama

I originally had the Jags taking Tim Tebow for the obvious ticket sales reasoning. If he had a decent week at Senior Bowl I might have bought into it, but he was dreadful sick or not. So therefore it was time to move on.

After QB I’d say the Jags biggest need is on defense and McClain is the best still available, look for them to take him here.

12. Miami Dolphins – DE Jason Pierre-Paul – South Florida

13. UPDATE – San Francisco 49ers – S Taylor Mays – USC

I thought of moving Anthony Davis of Rutgers up to this pick as offensive tackle is probably the Niners biggest need, but in reality they’ll be able to draft him three spots later as the next two teams aren’t looking at the offensive line.

So the Niners go address their needs in the secondary and draft Taylor Mays. Some have knocked him down a notch after his senior year but he should be a great addition to the Niners defense. Some think he can even play some linebacker, I’m sure Coach Singletary uses that to his advantage.

14. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver) – RB CJ Spiller – Clemson

17. Tennessee Titans – DE Everson Griffen – USC

18. UPDATE – Pittsburgh Steelers – CB Donovan Warren – Michigan

The Steelers most glaring need is in the secondary, the team fell apart after the injury to Troy Polamolu. Drafting Warren, a very athletic corner should be able to do a lot on the field when teamed with a healthy Polamolu.

19. UPDATE – Atlanta Falcons – CB Patrick Robinson – Florida State

The Falcons secondary is in disarray they were absolutely awful in 2009. Robinson is going to need a good combine to go this high but for right now I’m taking him.

20. UPDATE – Houston Texans – DT Terrence Cody – Alabama

The Texans have a strong need on the defensive line, Mario Williams needs help. Cody should help in clogging up the middle. There are questions about his weight but you know what don’t you want guys his size in a 3-4 defense?

21. Cincinnati Bengals – WR Arrelious Benn – Illinois

22. UPDATE – New England Patriots – DE/LB Brandon Graham – Michigan

I originally didn’t think the Patriots would go after a linebacker but Graham’s talent may be too much to pass up. He can rush the QB but also stop the run, a young kid who can do it all.

23. Green Bay Packers – OT Bryan Bulaga – Iowa

24. UPDATE – Philadelphia Eagles – DE Carlos Dunlap – Florida

My last mock I had the Eagles taking DT Brian Price which I still think would be a good pick but the more I think about it defensive end Carlos Dunlap could be a better pick here. The combination of him and Trent Cole would be a complete nightmare for opposing QBs.

25. Baltimore Ravens – WR Golden Tate – Notre Dame

26. Arizona Cardinals – LB Sergio Kindle – Texas

27. Dallas Cowboys – OT Trent Williams – Oklahoma

28. UPDATE – San Diego Chargers – LB Jerry Hughes – TCU

I said from the start I’d probably change my Chargers pick and that I’m doing. I’m going with linebacker Jerry Hughes like most other people are now. If Shawn Merriman isn’t back with the team they’ll need a replacement and Hughes can step right in. If Shawn is back then the kids got a great mentor.

29. UPDATE – New York Jets – DT Jared Odrick – Penn State

Jared Odrick looks like the perfect fit for a Rex Ryan defensive line. He’s a defensive tackle who can also double as a defensive end. That versatility will help in the multiple schemes Ryan likes to throw at offenses.

30. UPDATE – Minnesota Vikings – TE Jermaine Gresham – Oklahoma

The Vikings add another piece to a pretty good offense. They add the best tight end in the draft, giving Brett Favre, Donovan McNabb or whoever will be the teams QB next year another weapon.

31. UPDATE – New Orleans Saints – LB Sean Weatherspoon – Missouri

The Saints weakness is on the defensive side of the ball so why not take the best available player on the board. He’s pretty athletic which should help him help out the secondary in coverage, something that is definitely needed.

32. UPDATE – Indianapolis Colts – DT Brian Price – UCLA

The Colts don’t have much need but would love to start adding some depth to their defensive line, there are plenty of possible defections after the 2010 season. Seeing Price fall this for would be great for Indy.

You can find My Sports Rumors Mock Draft listed on various outlets. Take a look at the following Draft Databases and compare us to other bloggers and experts.

FF ToolBox
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MVN
NE Patriots Draft
The Football Expert
Walter Football

With the NFL now entering the League Championship portion of its playoffs I think its time to finally update my 2010 NFL Mock Draft. There’s not anything profound I can say right here, cause really it’s just a mock draft. Leave comments and let me know your opinions of who your team should draft.

1. St. Louis Rams – QB Jimmy Clausen – Notre Dame.

Most have Ndamukong Suh as the number one pick as he’s the best player in this years draft but we all have learned that’s not enough to make someone the number one pick. Suh should be a monster but the Rams have spent a couple number one picks on the defensive line recently (Chris Long and Adam Carriker) and what do they have to show for it? Suh would provide a huge boost to the defense which Spags would love but really this team’s need is at QB.

Marc Bulger career is winding down, he’s getting beat up way to much and what makes things worse is the Rams haven’t groomed anyone to take over. Clausen is that guy that can step right in, if he has to wait part of the year so be it, but he’s the future of the Rams offense. And that’s a unit that really needs a spark.

2. Detroit Lions – DT Ndamukong Suh – Nebraska

I believe the Lions should really go after an offensive lineman here as they gave up way to many sacks last year, 43 and hits on the QB, 94. Protecting last years #1 overall pick Matthew Stafford should be their priority but how can they pass up a talent like Suh?

Their defense was absolutely atrocious and also needs the help. Suh will clog up the middle commanding attention from two lineman on almost every play which should help out the rest of the Lions defense.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – DT Gerald McCoy – Oklahoma

In my eyes this is the first no brainer pick of the draft. The Bucs can also use help in the secondary but drafting a guy like McCoy could also give that secondary some help. Much like Suh he’s going to command double teams on many plays and for a defensive tackle to do that is huge.

4. Washington Redskins – QB Sam Bradford – Oklahoma

Personally, I’d select an offensive lineman here especially with Coach Shanahan willing to give Jason Campbell another shot this season. Campbell has looked good in spurts but horrible more often then not. There’s been one constant thou, he’s never really gotten the protection that an NFL QB needs to be effective. I’d give him Russell Okung and see what he can do.

Unfortunately, there’s a new boss in town with Shanahan and he’s a coach who is going to want his own pieces to run HIS offense. With Claussen off the board, that makes Bradford the man.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – OT Russell Okung – Oklahoma State

If Okung falls to the Chiefs there is no chance he drops anymore. The Chiefs could use some help on the defensive end but they need to protect the franchise, Matt Cassell. The guy is making too much money to get beat around like a rag doll. Having Okung at left tackle and Brandon Albert back to his natural guard position should take the Chiefs offensive line to the next level.

6. Seattle Seahawks – S Eric Berry – Tennessee

Part of me wants to go offensive line here, the ‘Hawks have a huge need there. It’s a position many of us thought they’d go after last year but they passed and I think that will happen again this year. The real question is what does Coach Carroll do here?

Does he pull the collegiate to pro coach mistake and take one of his own highly rated players over a clearly more talented player? Eric Berry or Taylor Mays? I think Carroll is smart enough to make the right pick here. Berry is infinitely better and a huge playmaker on the defensive side of the ball, he’ll be the pick here.

7. Cleveland Browns – CB Joe Haden – Florida

The Browns obvious need is at QB but with Claussen and Bradford off the board there is no one to take here. Instead they’ll take this drafts shut down corner, Joe Haden. Some have compared him to Darrelle Revis, if that comparison ever comes to fruition what will his nickname be?? Jets fans have Revis Island what will the Dawg Pound come up with?

8. Oakland Raiders – DE Carlos Dunlap – Florida

There are numerous players here that Al Davis could select, because we all know he’s making the pick. It could be another wide receiver with blazing speed (Dez Bryant). It could by a safety with amazing abilities and a local product (Taylor Mays).

I’d say it winds up Carlos Dunlap. He’s also a freakish specimen and what makes him a perfect fit is he has character issues. How does Davis pass on him?

9. Buffalo Bills – OT Bruce Campbell – Maryland

With no QB’s on the board the Bills are like the teams ahead of them forced on settling on other needs. Most glaring for them would be offensive help; they gave up 46 sacks in 2009, 4th worst in the league. The question is whom do they go after Campbell or Anthony Davis of Rutgers. Pre-combine I’ve got Campbell rated a little higher so that’s who I’ll go with, for now.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars – QB Tim Tebow – Florida

I’m sorry I’m drinking the kool aid too people. Not that Tebow will be a legitimate NFL QB but the kool aid that the Jags are just all about selling tickets in 2010. Who cares Tebow is a flop, ownership and the NFL is sick and tired of that stadium having so many empty seats. If drafting Tebow doesn’t help a move to LA could be in the works. I’d still say it will be in the cards, hype only sells tickets so long.

11. Denver Broncos (from Chicago Bears) – WR Dez Bryant – Oklahoma State.

To me this is an easy pick. The Broncos showed down the stretch how thin they really are at the wide receiver position. They’ve got Brandon Marshall (will he be traded this off season) and Eddie Royal, after that what’s really good? Not much. Bryant brings talent and depth to a unit that completely fell apart down the stretch.

12. Miami Dolphins – DE Jason Pierre-Paul – South Florida

I was leaning towards Derrick Morgan of Georgia Tech on this pick; he’s a menace at defensive end and would be a perfect replacement for the aging Jason Taylor. But you know what? I remembered how much Bill Parcells still loves his linebackers. Pierre-Paul is a defensive end who can drop back into coverage and even play some LB, which will be the kicker when Parcells makes this pick.

13. San Francisco – DE Derrick Morgan – Georgia Tech

The 49ers have two major needs a pass rusher and an offensive lineman. Lucky for them they have two picks, I was leaning towards Anthony Davis of Rutgers here but you know what Morgan is too good of a talent to pass up. There are plenty of OT’s available that they should be able to wait for one.

14. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver Broncos) – RB CJ Spiller – Clemson

First things first, if the ‘Hawks pass on a safety with their first pick Taylor Mays of USC will be the pick if he’s still available. There’s no way Carroll lets his guy fall past him this late in the draft. With all the very talented offensive lines still on the board you’d have to think that’s where the Seahawks go. I think otherwise.

Carroll got his playmaker on defense with Eric Berry and now he’s going to go for a playmaker on offense and special teams. With no franchise QB available, he’ll go with Spiller. He’s the type of guy that can be a homerun threat every time he touches the ball, his new version of Reggie Bush?

15. New York Giants – S Earl Thomas – Texas

The Giants have huge needs on the defensive side of the ball, defensive tackle, a coverage linebacker and safeties. They can easily address one of those here as there is plenty of each available. With the uncertainty about Kenny Phillips, I’d think they address the safety position first. With the Giants switching to a Cover 2 type defense next season I think Thomas would be the better selection over Taylor Mays.

16. Tennessee Titans – DE Everson Griffen – USC
The Titans pass defense was absolutely atrocious last season but I think a lot of that was due to pressure on the QB. It was something the front seven could just not do. The line is getting older and its time to add some young blood to the mix. Griffen is a guy who can rush the passer but also defend against the run, he should be a solid pick here for the Titans.

17. San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina Panthers) – OT Anthony Davis – Rutgers

Thanks to the needs of the teams picking in between the Niners two picks, they should easily be able to get one of the tackles they covet. The pick here will be Davis or Bryan Bulaga of Iowa. I have Davis rated higher so he’s the guy I’m going with. At 17, he could wind up being considered a steal.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers – S Taylor Mays – USC

The Steelers needed offensive help in last years draft and this year the unit showed they still need that help. Unfortunately, the secondary became a huge weakness after the injury to Troy Polamolu. With Mays falling this far there is no chance in hell that Pittsburgh lets this talent fall any further.

19. Atlanta Falcons – LB Rolando McClain – Alabama

The Falcons pass defense was pretty poor in 2009 but yet there are no real weaknesses on either side of the ball. They could use help in the secondary but the need is not big enough for them to go oh my god we need a corner. With that being said I think they go with the best defensive player left and one that really shouldn’t of fallen this far, Rolando McClain. He’s a linebacker who can play the 4-3 or 3-4 and is good enough in pass coverage that he should be able to help the Falcons improve their pass d ranking.

20. Houston Texans – CB Donovan Warren – Michigan

Personally, I’d go with running back Jahvid Best here but the Texans secondary is just that bad. A player like Warren would be an instant upgrade, not at just the cornerback position but the secondary as a whole.

21. Cincinnati Bengals – WR Arrelious Benn – Illinois

After the death of Chris Henry the Bengals offense became run first as they just could not throw the ball, they didn’t have the talent. So with that being said it makes wide receiver a no-brainer for the Bengals. The question is do they go with a young, talented kid in Benn or a more polished, pro style offense player in Damian Williams. Personally, I’d go with Williams but Benn fits the profile of a Bengals player.

22. New England Patriots – TE Jermaine Gresham – Oklahoma

Most are going to point at the linebackers and say this is what the Patriots need the most but I doubt Coach Belichick will go that way. So what does that leave running back, secondary and tight end. Jahvid Best could be an option as a running back but I don’t really see him fitting in with the Patriots scheme. With that being said, I think Belichick will take a stab at Gresham. If he shows to be healthy over the next few months he could be a huge boost to the Patriots offense.

23. Green Bay Packers – OT Bryan Bulaga – Iowa

The Packers were the leagues worst in protecting the quarterback, giving up 51 sacks. So yea the offensive line will be addressed first. With Bulaga still on the board the Packers get themselves a potential franchise offensive tackle who is equally good against the pass and the rush.

24, Philadelphia Eagles – DT Brian Price – UCLA

The Eagles don’t have many needs so I think they return to Coach Reid’s bread and butter when it comes to the draft, the defensive line. The last couple years he’s gone playmaker and done a great job, this year he goes back to his roots. Price is arguably the third best defensive tackle in this draft and shooting up draft boards. He should be a clog in the middle of the Eagles line allowing the team to do what it does, blitz. Even better? Price can get the QB himself.

25. Baltimore Ravens – WR Golden Tate – Notre Dame

I was close to selecting USC’s Damian Williams here as I consider him the third best receiver in the class but there is something about Tate. He’s got the speed, route running but more importantly can make the plays that make his QB look good. A young QB like Joe Flacco could use a receiver like that. Tate and Flacco could be an electrifying combo next year.

26. Arizona Cardinals – LB Sergio Kindle – Texas

With the Cardinals switching to a 3-4 defense and struggling to get pressure on the quartberack last season, they’ve got to go linebacker. Sergio Kindle is a player who can go 3-4 and get the pressure.

27. Dallas Cowboys – OT Trent Williams – Oklahoma

The Cowboys would love to draft a natural nose tackle in this years draft, it would make their defense even better. But with their defense being the team’s strength I think they begin to look towards the future of their offensive line. Flozell Adams is aging and a potential liability with the amount of penalties he draws. Williams is a guy who projects to be a solid offensive tackle and could learn a lot sitting behind Adams in 2010.

28. San Diego Chargers – RB Jahvid Best – Cal
Last year I really thought the Chargers would draft a running back, you know with the LT drama that was taking place. They didn’t and he came back, I doubt that happens in 2010 thou so that means the Chargers will have to draft their future back. I’ve said before how I don’t consider Darren Sproles a full-time back, nice complement but not someone you want to give the keys to the offense too.

For now I’m going to go with Best because of his big play ability, what worries me thou is he’s too much like Sproles. I’m pretty sure I’ll be changing this pick at a later date.

29. New York Jets – NT Terrance Cody – Alabama

The Jets are going to be ecstatic to see Cody and Dan Williams of Tennessee fall this far. Both are prototypical nose tackles for the 3-4 defense so with both there Rex Ryan has options. Cody is the higher rated tackle, so I’ll go with him for the moment.

30. Minnesota Vikings – OG Mike Iupati – Idaho

Adrian Peterson and the Vikings running game struggled late in the season and it wasn’t cause of Brett Favre being a gun slinger. The reason is the inconsistent protection from the offensive line. Iupati should help clean that up as his strength is run blocking. Fixing the offensive line will go a long way in making AP happy.

31. New Orleans Saints – NT Dan Williams – Tennessee

I was leaning towards Jerry Hughes of TCU here, drafting him would create a deadly combo at linebacker with him and Jonathan Vilma. But here’s the reason why I’m not drafting him, the Saints biggest weakness on defense is stopping the run. Drafting Williams who shouldn’t still be on the board would go a long way in solving that. He’s your typical 3-4 defense nose tackle who can clog things up, throw him in a 4-3 and it frees up the defensive ends to create more havoc.

32. Indianapolis Colts – DE/DT Jared Odrick – Penn State

The Colts don’t have many needs but they do have a couple defensive ends hitting free agency after the 2010 season. Drafting Odrick here will help protect them should both players leave. Even better is that he can also play the defensive tackle position, could he wind up being the Colts version of Justin Tuck? A guy who can rotate between all defensive line positions, creating havoc wherever he is?

You can find My Sports Rumors Mock Draft listed on various outlets. Take a look at the following Draft Databases and compare us to other bloggers and experts.

FF ToolBox
Hail Redskins
MVN
NE Patriots Draft
The Football Expert
Walter Football

Here’s the picks, home team in caps.

DALLAS 31, Washington 17
GREEN BAY 27, San Francisco 24
Pittsburgh 17, KANSAS CITY 13
MINNESOTA 34, Seattle 20
DETROIT 16, Cleveland 13

NEW YORK GIANTS 27, Atlanta 21 – After the bye week the Giants defense is a lot healthier, even with the loss of Antonio Pierce. It’s a big blow but this team knows they can’t lose a fifth straight game, I expect the offense to come out and taking some big shots early.

LOCK – New Orleans 37, TAMPA BAY 17 – No Reggie Bush is not a problem, its the Bucs they’re playing.
JACKSONVILLE 23, Buffalo 16

Indianapolis 30, BALTIMORE 20 – The Ravens defense has looked a lot better recently but I still don’t think they’ll slow down the Colts attack.
Cincinnati 24, OAKLAND 13
San Diego 31, DENVER 23
Arizona 30, ST. LOUIS 14

NEW ENGLAND 27, New York Jets 20 – Lots of bad blood as always in this game. Early on this season the Jets were riding the emotions of a new coach, a new quarterback and a new style. Now the new QB looks like a new QB. The new coach? Looks like a new coach. And that new defensive style? Is starting to give up plenty of points. They’ll be a far different outcome this time, especially with the Pats having something to prove after Week 10.
CHICAGO 24, Philadelphia 21

UPSET – HOUSTON 27, Tennessee 21 – This is the closest to an upset this week. The Titans are on fire but still 3-6, while the Texans are in the middle of the Wild Card pack at 5-4. The difference between the two is the Titans are starting to look like the ones that belong in the playoffs.

As always home teams are in caps. Note: I don’t use the spread in my picks but if betting is your thing you can hit up Bodog Sportsbook and get all the latest lines on the NFL.

ATLANTA 24, Washington 17 – The Redskins are still horrible, that’s not changed. The Falcons have struggled as of late but are still putting up more points then the Washington offense can hope to score.

Arizona 26, CHICAGO 23 – The Cardinals have been on fire as of lately, well till they hit a hungry Carolina team I think they’ll put their foot back on the driver seat against tough opponents and get the win in Chicago. Should definitely be a close one thou.

Baltimore 24, CINCINNATI 17 – The Ravens defense we all knew from the past decade finally showed up in 2009 with an impressive showing against the previously undefeated Broncos. That defense should hold the Bengals out of the end zone enough where Joe Flacco succeed.

INDIANAPOLIS 30, Houston 20 – The Texans have been a surprise team this NFL season but even so I’m not sure if they’ll be able to keep up with the Colts this weekend. Some will doubt Indy because of the latest injury, this one to Bob Sanders. BUT you got to remember Sanders just came back about two weeks ago, as far as I remember they were undefeated during that period. I expect that to continue.

JACKSONVILLE 24, Kansas City 13 – Do we really need a description on this one?

NEW ENGLAND 31, Miami 23 – The AFC East battles have been pretty good this season. The Dolphins are in the middle of the pack but have two impressive wins against the Jets. They’ll put up a good fight but in front of the home crowd Brady should do enough to win the game.

LOCK – Green Bay 27, TAMPA BAY 13 – Another game that doesn’t need much of an explanation.

NEW ORLEANS 30, CAROLINA 24 – The Panthers woke up last week against the Cardinals but I’m not sold on them. Was this a desperate Delhomme or a sign of things to come? I’m not sure, I think it was more desperation. And desperation against the Saints doesn’t help. New Orleans should have another close game but I’m fairly certain they’ll get a win out of this one.

SEATTLE 20, Detroit 17 – The Lions should up a fairly good fight against the struggling Seahawks but this is a week that talent takes overs.

NEW YORK GIANTS 27, San Diego 23 – The Giants have had a rough three weeks against NFC title contenders. Actually rough is an understatement, they’ve gotten their asses whipped the past few weeks. This will be another tough game for them, but I think they’ll finally break through and end the losing streak. If not, it’s going to be a VERY VERY long bye week for the G-Men.

UPSET – Tennessee 24, SAN FRANCISCO 21 – The Titans exploded last week against their Jacksonville rivals. It’s no coincidence that this came after their bye week and Vince Young got more first team reps. Another week of practice for him and a rediscovered rushing and defensive attacks should help the Titans win another this week on the road.

PHILADELPHIA 34, Dallas 30 – This should be another classic Eagles / Cowboys fight. Expect the Eagles ans to be even rowdier then usual after the city’s World Series loss during the week. The Eagles are going to do whatever they can to cure what ails their fans.

DENVER 21, Pittsburgh 20 – For a change Monday Night Football might actually have the game of the week. The Steelers are on a four game winning streak and Denver’s going to look to get back to their winning ways. This is going to be an ugly defensive battle, there might even be a physical confrontation or two. I’m expecting the Broncos to pull it out but it too be very close.

LAST WEEK – 6-7
SEASON RECORD (No picks Week 6) – 72-30
LOCK – 6-1
UPSET – 6-1
CORRECT FINAL SCORES – 1

1. New Orleans Saints (7-0)
2. Indianapolis Colts (7-0)
3. Minnesota Vikings (7-1)
4. New England Patriots (5-2)
5. Philadelphia Eagles (5-2)
6. Denver Broncos (6-1)
7. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2)
8. Cincinnati Bengals (5-2)
9. Dallas Cowboys (5-2)
10. Houston Texans (5-3)
11. Arizona Cardinals (4-3)
12. Atlanta Falcons (4-3)
13. New York Giants (5-3)
14. Baltimore Ravens (4-3)
15. San Diego Chargers (4-3)
16. Green Bay Packers (4-3)
17. Chicago Bears (4-3)
18. San Francisco 49ers (3-4)
19. Miami Dolphins (3-4)
20. New York Jets (4-4)
21. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-4)
22. Buffalo Bills (3-5)
23. Carolina Panthers (3-4)
24. Seattle Seahawks (2-5)
25. Oakland Raiders (2-6)
26. Tennessee Titans (1-6)
27. Washington Redskins (2-5)
28. Detroit Lions (1-6)
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-7)
30. St. Louis Rams (1-7)
31. Kansas City Chiefs (1-6)
32. Cleveland Browns (1-7)

The Saints take the top spot back to themselves this week after the Colts struggled with the 49ers.

The state of Texas had a big showing this week both the Cowboys and the Texans (yes, you read that right the Texans) have jumped into the Top 10. Both teams are playing very well now and looking like contenders.

On that note, there is one team that has been playing very poorly of late and that’s my Giants. After three straight losses against top NFC teams they have to drop out of the top 10. People are starting to wonder if this team is that good or is it a slump. I think its a few things and I’ll discuss that in a post later this week.

Staying with the NFC East, the Eagles are starting to look like the Super Bowl contender everyone thought they would be. So much for that horrendous loss to the Raiders. Guess that woke the team up from its slumber.

Cleveland may have a win but they are by far the worst franchise in the NFL right now. Not even team, just outright worst franchise. There is nothing positive coming out of that organization and they’ll stay at the bottom unless the Bucs somehow reach 0-10 record.

Want to see the NFL Power Rankings from Week 8? Click here.

A quick note on last week, everything went pretty much as I thought it would, as I went 11-2 with my picks. Most, if not all of the games were fairly predictable. This week looks to be different.

As always home teams are in caps. Note: I don’t use the spread in my picks but if betting is your thing you can hit up Bodog Sportsbook and get all the latest lines on the NFL.

Denver 24, BALTIMORE 16 – I said in my rankings the other day that I still wasn’t sold on the Broncos. I think after this game that will change. No one’s doubted a 6-0 football team more then this one, they prove their doubters by winning a big road game against the Ravens.

BUFFALO 24, Houston 17 – The Bills are playing fairly well with Fitzpatrick at the helm, I think that trend continues at home this weekend. The temps are in the upper 40s which could also play against the Texans.

CHICAGO 27, Cleveland 13 – Cleveland sucks we all know this and it continues this week. Look for the Bears to win a yawner.

DALLAS 30, Seattle 21 – Big game in big D this Sunday. Personally, I think the Cowboys got a big confidence boost by beating up on the Falcons last week. Enough of won that could propel them to a playoff run as they currently stand at 4-2.

DETROIT 17, St. Louis 13 – If Stafford returns Sunday, I don’t see how the Lions lose. Even with the rust he should put up enough points to beat the lowly Rams. I also think the Lions are going to have a little motivation and they’re going to try and make sure another team has a chance to go winless. Other then a Week 14 contest against the Titans there aren’t many winnable games left for the Rams.

INDIANAPOLIS 37, San Francisco 27 – This is going to be a shootout. The 49ers fell behind the Texans early last week but stormed back just to fall short. Against the Colts the same will probably happen but with the Colts scoring even more then the Texans did. Peyton continues on undefeated for another week.

UPSET – Miami 24, NY JETS 20 – Tough to call this one an upset as the Dolphins beat up Sanchez just three weeks ago. But looking at how the teams have performed this season, the standings and where the game is being played you would have to consider this one an upset. The Jets had a huge chip on their shoulders after that loss to the Wildcat so they’re going to be looking for revenge. I think Chad Henne proves that he’s no second rate QB.

NY Giants 27, PHILADELPHIA 21 – This one could really be a toss up, actually it will be like it is always with these two teams. With the Yankees / Phillies playing later that night this game becomes even bigger then it normally is. The key is Brian Westbrook. If he doesn’t play the Eagles don’t win its that simple. The Giants defense is going to be hungry after two straight embarrassing outings, so the Eagles need that weapon.

LOCK – SAN DIEGO 24, Oakland 10 – The Chargers and Raiders had a close one last time they played, I don’t think this one will be anywhere close to close.

Jacksonville 23, TENNESSEE 17 – Another game, a change at QB and still another loss for the Titans. They’re playing the Jags at home which should help keep the score closer but I seriously doubt they get another win. Starting to really think that late season Rams / Titans game could be for the #1 draft pick.

GREEN BAY 28, Minnesota 24 – This will be the game of the week without a doubt, I’ve gone back and forth on what team I think will win this game. Looking at the weather it shouldn’t affect either team, temps should be in the 40s. I think the difference this time will be the Packers defense. They had success against AP last go around but gave Favre way too much time to throw the ball. They’ll get some pressure this time and cause at least one major mistake by the legend.

ARIZONA 23, Carolina 13 – Arizona is riding high after going into the Meadowlands and laying a smackdown on the Giants. Now they play the weak Panthers at home, a team considering a QB change if Delhomme keeps struggling. This should be an easy win for the Cardinals, a team on the fast track to repeating in the NFC West.

NEW ORLEANS 34, Atlanta 20 – Just like the Bronocs and the Colts, the Saints should continue on as undefeated. The Saints had an amazing comeback that turned into a convincing win last week and that should help them. Not that they’ll need it. If the Falcons got handled by the Cowboys offense, then I don’t think Drew Brees should have a problem.

LAST WEEK – 11-2
SEASON RECORD (No picks Week 6) – 66-23
LOCK – 5-1
UPSET – 5-1
CORRECT FINAL SCORES – 1

1a. New Orleans Saints
1b. Indianapolis Colts
3. Denver Broncos
4. Minnesota Vikings
5. New England Patriots
6. New York Giants
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Cincinnati Bengals
9. Philadelphia Eagles
10. Arizona Cardinals
11. Dallas Cowboys
12. Atlanta Falcons
13. Green Bay Packers
14. Houston Texans
15. San Diego Chargers
16. Baltimore Ravens
17. New York Jets
18. Jacksonville Jaguars
19. San Francisco 49ers
20. Buffalo Bills
21. Chicago Bears
22. Miami Dolphins
23. Seattle Seahawks
24. Carolina Panthers
25. Oakland Raiders
26. Detroit Lions
27. Washington Redskins
28. Cleveland Browns
29. Tennessee Titans
30. Kansas City Chiefs
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. St. Louis Rams

A few quick thoughts.

The number one spot was a tough decision. I wanted to drop the Saints to number two after having to come back against the Dolphins. Key being wanted but really how could I? They put themselves in a huge hole but then exploded for a 12-point win. The Colts have been much more dominate as of late but the competition has also been lesser then the Saints. So for now they’ll share the Number 1 spot.

The Giants are at a crossroads right now, they’ve lost two straight games against NFC division leaders. For now they’re still in my Top 10 but if they lose a third straight against the Eagles on Sunday they’ll be falling out quick. Its a crucial game to keep them in the NFC East race and for their own confidence.

What’s up with the Ravens? Start off 3-0 and now they’re 3-3. For the moment they’re in the middle of the pack in my book. Whatever team shows up in Week 8 after their bye is the one I think we’ll see the rest of the season.

The race for the number 1 pick in the 2010 Draft is heating up. We’ve got the Rams, Titans, Bucs, Chiefs and Browns all vying for it. Is there any prize in getting that with Sam Bradford having shoulder surgery? These teams all suck and now they see there is no clear number one pick to reward them for their inability to play quality football.

As always home teams are in caps. Note: I don’t use the spread in my picks but if betting is your thing you can hit up Bodog Sportsbook and get all the latest lines on the NFL.

Green Bay 30, CLEVELAND 17 – Not sure how the Browns are going to keep up with the Packers offense. They haven’t shown anything all year and I doubt they start to do so this weekend. Look for the Packers in an easy road win.

HOUSTON 23, San Francisco 20 – This is going to be a close one, both teams are middle of the pack with outside chances at the playoffs. A win this week would be huge for either team. So who gets it? I’m going with the home Texans. There actually is no reason, both teams are so evenly matched that I’ll take the home team and the default field goal win.

San Diego 30, KANSAS CITY 24 – The Chargers should win this one with ease but their defense will keep things interesting. Look for the Chiefs to put up their highest point total since week one but the Chargers offense to score even more.

UPSET – PITTSBURGH 20, Minnesota 17 – It’s tough to call this one an upset but based on my picks this week it would be the closest to one. The Vikings are undefeated and scoring at almost will but at the same time they’ve need two last minute comebacks. They embarrassed a good Ravens defense last week, can they do the same to a good Steelers defense? I’m thinking they won’t and this will be the week where Favre comes back down to reality.

LOCK – Indianapolis 34, ST. LOUIS 10 – Is there really much that needs to be said about this game?

New England 38, Tampa Bay 13 – After the Patriots 59-0 win against the Titans, do you really think the Bucs have a chance?

CAROLINA 24, Buffalo 16 – The Bills are struggling mightily to put up points, I’m pretty sure that will continue this week. The Panthers aren’t exactly a high octane offense but they do put up an average weekly total, and in reality that’s all you need against the Bills. An average offensive output. In my eyes the real question is this the week where T.O. really explodes?

NY Jets 21, OAKLAND 13 – The Raiders had a huge win against the Philadelphia Eagles last week. In reality thou that win was more poor decisions by the coaching staff. I think the Raiders defense, or maybe the lack of an offense who can keep the defense rested, will be what Mark Sanchez needs to get back into a groove.

CINCINNATI 20, Chicago 17 – This is much like the Niners and Texans game, two teams pretty evenly matched and in the middle of the pack. So once again I’ll just take the home team and put them up by a field goal. This one thou is even more of a coin flip as both teams come off tough losses.

DALLAS 30, Atlanta 23 – The bye week is going to have the Cowboys well rested and pretty damn healthy for this game. I think this will be the week where Romo puts up the kind of numbers Jerry Jones was expecting in the new stadium.

New Orleans 37, MIAMI 20 – After crushing the top ranked Giants defense, the Saints are undeniably the best team in the National Football League. So what would you expect them to do to just a good Dolphins defense? Actually I don’t expect them to score as many points as last week but they’re still going to put up more then the Dolphins can even hope for. Week 7 is when Brees makes writers start stamping their MVP Ballots.

NY GIANTS 27, Arizona 17 – The Giants defense is going to be out for blood after last weeks efforts. For Kurt Warner that can mean nothing but bad things. What the Giants do have to worry about is being overly aggressive and getting burned in the secondary. If they can control the anger the defense should shut the Cardinals down enough for Eli to lead the Jints to a win.

Philadelphia 26, WASHINGTON 13 – Much like the Giants, the Eagles have something to prove this week. Only problem is they go against a divisional foe in the Redskins. Yes, the Skins have been absolutely dreadful this season but they do tend to get themselves up for these divisional matchups. Regardless, I think #5 and B-West get the offense back on track.

LAST WEEK (week 5 there were no picks in week 6) – 8-6
SEASON RECORD – 55-21
LOCK – 4-1
UPSET – 4-1
CORRECT FINAL SCORES – 1

Next week I expect to see some major changes as we have the Giants playing the Saints, Ravens and Vikings, Bears and Falcons, Broncos and Chargers, as well as some pretty solid middle-tier battles.

Oh and before the rankings forgive me for the pic above. I know its not cheerleaders this week but I couldn’t pass that up when it showed up in my google search.

1. New York Giants (5-0)
2. Indianapolis Colts (5-0)
3. Minnesota Vikings (5-0)
4. New Orleans Saints (4-0)
5. Denver Broncos (5-0)
6. Philadelphia Eagles (3-1)
7. Atlanta Falcons (3-1)
8. New England Patriots (3-2)
9. Baltimore Ravens (3-2)
10. Chicago Bears (3-1)
11. New York Jets (3-2)
12. Cincinnati Bengals (4-1)
13. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-2)
14. Miami Dolphins (2-3)
15. San Diego Chargers (2-2)
16. San Francisco 49ers (3-2)
17. Dallas Cowboys (3-2)
18. Green Bay Packers (2-2)
19. Seattle Seahawks (2-3)
20. Arizona Cardinals (2-2)
21. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-3)
22. Houston Texans (2-3)
23. Carolina Panthers (1-3)
24. Washington Redskins (2-3)
25. Buffalo Bills (1-4)
26. Tennessee Titans (0-5)
27. Detroit Lions (1-4)
28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-5)
29. Cleveland Browns (1-4)
30. Oakland Raiders (1-4)
31. Kansas City Chiefs (0-5)
32. St. Louis Rams (0-5)

First off the Broncos. After watching them beat the Patriots there was no choice but to put them in the Top 5 with the rest of the undefeated NFL teams. Their defense is slowly making me a believer. But still you have to worry that their QB is Kyle Orton.

After a bye week Donovan McNabb got a cupcake game to work back into shape and that’s what him and the Eagles needed. Destroy the Bucs and #5 is riding high. They did that and now they get the Raiders.

The Cincinnati Bengals were the toughest to place for me this week. They’ve beaten a not so good Steelers team but also beat a very good Ravens team in a defensive showdown. A win against the Texans thou firmly puts them in the Top 10.

The Titans keep losing but yet they’re no where near the worst team in the league. They keep losing thou and I’ll have no choice to put them below the likes of the Lions, Raiders and others with one win.

Want to compare with last weeks rankings? Click here.

Week 4 was another solid one for me. I went 10-4 with the picks but was more impressive with the closeness between my predicted scores and actual scores.

First off, I nailed the Monday night score, predicting Minnesota to win by a score of 30-23. Take a look at last week’s picks, it’s a fact.

Here are the other near misses.

Indianapolis won 34-17. My predicted score was 33-17. (1 point miss)
New England won 27-21. My prediction was 27-24.
Cincinnati won 23-20. My prediction was 23-20 but with Cleveland winning.
Washington won 16-13. My prediction was 17-12.
NY Giants won 27-16. My prediction was 27-10.
New Orleans won 24-10. My prediction was 24-18.

So as you see a lot of near misses there, but quite a few correct guesses on individual team scores. I’ll admit its not much skill, picking the correct score is a crap shoot but it still feels good on weeks like that where you nail a couple.

Anyways let’s get started with the Week 5 picks.

As always home teams are in caps. Note: I don’t use the spread in my picks but if betting is your thing you can hit up Bodog Sportsbook and get all the latest lines on the NFL.

BALTIMORE 27, Cincinnati 20 – The Bengals were starting to look like they could be playoff contenders, a battle with Cleveland changed that thinking. Should be a close game but the Ravens won’t have a problem pulling this one out. Not to sure if it will be Joe Flacco or the defense winning this one thou.

BUFFALO 17, Cleveland 13 – I really thought things were finally going to click with the Bills offense last week against the Dolphins. That didn’t happen. Terrell Owens and Trent Edwards had a couple moments but they were just that. Expect a low scoring battle between two bad offenses.

CAROLINA 20, Washington 14 – I don’t like anything about this game at all. It’s got the makings of something pretty ugly. I don’t even like the Panthers in this contest, what it does thou is how little I think of the Redskins offense.

Pittsburgh 24, DETROIT 16 – I don’t see how the Lions have any chance against the Steelers without Matt Stafford at QB. Even with Stafford they’d have a minimal chance.

Dallas 20, KANSAS CITY 13 – The Cowboys look like one of the most overrated teams in football this season. Luckily for them they play the lowly Chiefs this weekend where they won’t have to do much to win. I almost took the Chiefs with an upset here, especially after looking at how the Dallas offense played last week, only problem is I don’t think the Chiefs will be able to score enough. So expect the Cowboys to squeeze by. Don’t worry Chiefs fans you’re almost done with the NFC East.

NY GIANTS 26, Oakland 13 – With or without Eli Manning the Giants shouldn’t have any problem with the Raiders.

PHILADELPHIA 31, Tampa Bay 13 – The Eagles offense is going to be firing on all cylinders with Donovan McNabb back behind center. Expect a high offensive output as #5 looks to prove his doubters wrong once again. And for Tampa that means another long week.

LOCK – Minnesota 24, St. Louis 3 – The Rams can’t score points and I don’t see how that will change against a stingy Vikings run defense. Favre will put up some early points and then Adrian Peterson will run out the clock.

SAN FRANCISCO 30, Atlanta 23 – Another tough matchup for the 49ers this week but one that they should win. Once again they’ll be playing without Frank Gore but should still have no problem putting up points against the Falcons defense.

Houston 30, ARIZONA 24 – I think this game has a chance to be very entertaining. Of course it depends on which offense shows up, for both teams that is. If both teams offenses show up there can be some major fireworks in Arizona. I think the Texans pull this one out as the Cardinals continue to sleep after the bye week.

New England 27, DENVER 17 – Denver you’ve had a great start to the season, you’re 4-0 and get to come home to the Mile High in weather you like. Cold, snowy and rainy. What does that earn you thou? A date with the Patriots a team who has proven time and time again they too can play in those conditions. With that being said Tom Brady’s experience in these types of games will lead the Pats to another hard fought win.

Jacksonville 20, SEATTLE 10 – This is another game I don’t like one bit, but really with Seneca Wallace at QB the ‘Hawks have no chance. If Hasselbeck winds up playing things could be very different.

Indianapolis 24, TENNESSEE 18 – I’ve got the Colts winning this one but this has a potential upset on it. The Titans are not as bad as their record indicates, well that’s what we all keep telling each other. The Colts and Titans always have some pretty good matchups and I wouldn’t expect anything less then that this Sunday night. With how well the Colts are playing I’ll take Indy to win but beware this could be Tennessee’s first win.

UPSET – MIAMI 24, NY Jets 21 – Not sure if you can really call this one an upset, but out of all the games I’ve picked this would be considered one. The Dolphins are still struggling at 1-3 but they look like a completely different team with Chad Henne at the helm. The Jets will get a boost with Braylon Edwards but there will be some growing pain as he learns the system. As long as the ‘Fins offense keeps improving under Henne I’ll take them for the win.

There you that’s what I think about week 5 in the NFL.

LAST WEEK – 10-4
SEASON RECORD – 47-15
LOCK – 3-1
UPSET – 3-1
CORRECT FINAL SCORES – 1