NFL GridIron Gab Daily Digest

Which Shawne/Shaun has made their presence felt more in San Diego: Shawne (Merriman) or Shaun (Phillips)?

It's over officially for outside linebacker Shawne Merriman, as he is no longer going to be with the San Diego Chargers now. Merriman was placed on the injured-reserve list this season, and once he his healthy, he will be released, the team said.

And so, as it seems, the Chargers have turned the lights off completely to the player, known as his nickname "Lights Out." Merriman was one of the most feared hitters in the game, and his energy-filled performance on the gridiron gave him the nickname he received.

The Chargers do have an option to re-sign him, however, with A.J. Smith as general manager, it now just seems unlikely.

Merriman had about 40 sacks in his first three seasons in the league, but went down to only four in his next three games due to many injury-filled season. Merriman only played 18 games that time, while playing 42 in his first three seasons.

Merriman has a lot of off-the-field issues, which made Smith dislike him.

It first started out with Merriman being tested positive for steroids in 2006, but was trying to claim that there was something tainted in the substance he was using. He would be suspended for four games, but however, he still managed to have a Pro Bowl-caliber year, recording 17 sacks.

Merriman was also accused of abusing his then-girlfriend, Tila Tequila, last year.

Merriman so far has only six tackles, along with surprisingly no sacks, this season.

"I am approaching this situation as an opportunity to grow as a player and to bring my leadership and talents to a new organization. I am ready for the next chapter in my career and I am excited about the opportunity to continue my journey with a new team," Merriman said.

With Merriman gone, Larry English will have to step it up this season and replace Merriman. English was mainly drafted for this season, as the San Diego would be worried after seeing Merriman out for the season. It's good they took this pre-caution, as they are now in the process of releasing Merriman, as you read already. I think English will fill in well for "Lights Out."

This is a short farewell for to a short, overrated era.

You might be baffled by that statement, but however, there is truth to it.

Merriman took steroids in his 17-sack year, with a four-game suspension. He had ten sacks the year before, which was by the way his rookie season. Who knows what Merriman could have done? He probably could have taken steroids that whole time all the way up until he got busted and caught for the illegal and banned substance of the National Football League.

It was a pretty overrated era with Merriman. He only had three good seasons, and that's it. Injuries took him over.

Can he ever return to that form? Who knows?

But the team that is thinking of signing him needs to take a lot of precaution and better know who they are picking up from free agency. Merriman ruined this for himself. He already had a bunch of off-the-field issues, but getting a bunch of injuries is a whole lot worse.

Now he is out of a job. Hope all goes the best to Merriman. When he looks back on this, he hopes it doesn't happen again.

It's time to turn the lights on for Merriman, as he needs to act from this.

But right now for Shawne Merriman, the lights will be out.

The Giants offense was clicking on all cylinders in Houston last Sunday

After a tumultuous Week 5 in the NFL where few things seemed to go as planned, some key players for the Giants have flown under the radar while leading the league in some telling statistics.

You may not realize it, but Eli Manning and Hakeem Nicks have hooked up for more scores more than any other QB-WR duo. Nicks leads all wide receivers with six touchdown catches. The funny thing is, had Nicks caught Manning’s 50-yard pass that hit him right in the numbers he would have recorded his second hat trick of the season and he’d be tied for the lead in total touchdowns.

It’s hard to imagine, but if teams keep allowing Manning and Nicks to connect at will, then Eli may finally have his shot to match his brother in terms of yards, touchdowns, and overall efficiency. At that point, pundits are really going to have a hard time saying Eli is forever playing in Peyton’s shadow. Due to the different offensive systems in Indianapolis and New York, that comparison may never be apples to apples. But Eli sure is looking more and more confident in his receivers and with Nicks’ early success this season, it’s not totally out of the question that he have a 1,000-plus-yard season with 10-plus touchdowns, cementing him among the game’s elite receivers.

Ahmad Bradshaw is quietly having a great year as well.

Bradshaw leads all RBs with the most 20-plus-yard gains from scrimmage with seven. And although Bradshaw is averaging 90 yards per game, it’s reasonable to assume that with a few more carries each game to his average of 5 yards per carry, he’ll get to the coveted 100-yard mark.

And if the Giants offensive line continues to get healthier and improve their run blocking continues to improve while defenses begin to look at Manning-to-Nicks as a significant threat, then Bradshaw could really elevate the Giants running game back to where it was in 2008. His elusive abilities have routinely turned busted plays into significant gains — none more vivid than last week’s 29-yard gain on an improvised cutback to avoid running into a wall of Texans. Statistically he’s a better asset running the football than LaDainian Tomlinson, who’s gotten all the positive media attention when it comes to New York running backs this season.

Part of me wants to say “these players deserve a lot more credit than they’re getting” especially when the perception two weeks ago the Giants had no running game, no cohesion on offense, no leadership and no chance to win meaningful games in the NFL. Then another part of me remembers 2007 and how the Giants flew under the radar all season to a beautiful championship-winning ending and I smile and think “pundits that can’t remember the past are more than welcome to help the Giants repeat it.”

Leon Hall and the Cincinnati Bengals are down

But not out

Reflecting upon the season through five games will certainly tell you one thing for sure: There is still a lot of football to be played, especially within the division.

The Bengals are limping into the bye week under a cloud of turmoil and carrying an ugly 2-3 record.  Most observers (including myself) saw the team at 3-2 or perhaps even 4-1 at the break, which looked to be necessary with battles against Pittsburgh (twice), New Orleans, Indianapolis, Atlanta, the Jets, and Baltimore still on the schedule.

So let us take a look back at the first 5 games of the season.  A cold hard look in the mirror is the first step to any recovery, and I think we can all agree last Sunday was the equivalent of hitting bottom.

Week 1:  New England comes out like a team that was prepared, knew the game plan, and respected the Bengals.  Cincinnati looked like a team so lost in their own hype that it was 17-0 before they realized the preseason was over.  The team would eventually make it respectable by using the no-huddle attack and settling down on defense, but an ugly pick six by Carson Palmer, and a kick-off return for a touchdown by Pats WR Ben Tate was the difference in a 14-point humbling in Foxborough. Record: 0-1 and a collective WTF? from Cincy fans.  But hey, New England is a perennial powerhouse and multiple Super Bowl winner with a Hall of Fame quarterback.  Mulligan.

Week 2:  The Bengals played like the 2009 version, seemingly too conservative on offense—favoring the relative safety and security of a predictable offense and field position chess play over any gambles against Baltimore's fierce "D."  Meanwhile, the 2009 Bengal defense showed up (along with some of the 2005 version) to force four turnovers.  No touchdowns, but a 15-10 decision over a division rival and Super Bowl favorite is reason for a return to optimism. Record:  1-1.  Feeling a lot better.

Week 3:

Despite ugly weather conditions and more boring offense, the Bengals win going away, 20-7.  Rookie Jimmy Clausen looks like he should against a supposedly elite defense, although he has his moments.  The defense forces another slew of turnovers that aid the struggling "O."  Record:  2-1, fans are satisfied but concern begins to mount in Bengaldom over a listless offense, too many penalties, no pass rush, and uncharacteristic defensive breakdowns particularly on third down.  Questions about an offensive "identity" begin to be asked.

Week 4:  Bengals sleepwalk into a trap and fall to the Browns, 23-20.  Terrell Owens has a high-light reel kind of day, and Palmer breaks 300 yards, but costly penalties and untimely defensive breakdowns doom them.  For the first time since week one, the defense wasn't able to generate multiple turnovers, which meant fewer drives for the offense, and less opportunity to get bailed out of sticky situations. The defense, considered the strong unit, was unable to force a punt in the last five minutes of the game and Cleveland runs out the clock.  Record:  2-2, Bengal fans are disappointed, especially after learning that Baltimore beats Pittsburgh.  Opportunities lost.  Now the team looks to be 3-2 at the break.  Fans feel better about the passing attack, but it doesn't lead to a better result.

Week 5:  Inexplicable, unexplainable and inexcusable. No other way to put it.  The Bengals fall to an inferior opponent, at home, and in a game they controlled into the final minutes.  Penalties again are a killer, along with another Palmer pick six.  The team shows no heart, no killer instinct, and a lack of overall give-a-crap.  Connor Barth nails a 31-yard chip shot to complete the embarrassment with one tick left.  Record:  2-3.  Panic, mixed with shock and anger ensue.  The defense wilts at the end, unable to save the team from self-inflicted wounds by the offense. Questionable coaching infuriates fans, and after running the ball almost exclusively in the two wins, the team has all but abandoned it—even though it's starting to be successful.  T.O. makes his first negative commentary, despite two great receiving games.  It seems a full collapse is now underway.  5-11 here we come.

Head coach Marvin Lewis' message in the aftermath was correct.  His team needs to look in the mirror.

There are no excuses.

You can't blame Mike Brown for once. Ownership ponied up for talent.

You can't blame the scouting department.  The last two years have produced solid drafts.  Even their one 'failure'—free agent WR Antonio Bryant, was quickly and decisively corrected with the signing of T.O.

You can't blame external forces or scheduling issues.

The Coaching staff has been left largely unchanged for the last three years, allowing them to fully implement their systems and develop cohesion for the players.  The roster is laden with talent at every position, with capable and solid depth nearly everywhere.

The fact is that Marvin Lewis, his coaches, and the players they coach are the only ones to blame for an embarrassing 2-3 record at the break.  And they are the only ones who can fix it.

They can start by eliminating ridiculous and mindless penalties.  They can block better and tackle better.  They can run routes at the right depths, throw on time, and catch the ball.  They can do a much better job at game management and play calling.  All these things are correctable if they are willing.

With games against Atlanta, Miami, and Pittsburgh on deck, the Bengals could easily be 2-6 at the turn.  With the talent they have, they could also be 5-3.  Only Marvin and his charges can determine what the course will be.

It all starts with a hard look in the mirror.

Jclombardi highlights Packers headlines.

Guest senior writer jclombardi @ http://lombardiave.com

Dynamic TE Finley could be put on IR: Finley, who will miss time because of injury for the third straight season, is expected to be out eight to 12 weeks. It was originally thought he would be out three to six weeks and be back in plenty of time to help the Packers in their stretch run. The Packers won’t immediately decide whether to place Finley on injured reserve. Even without Lee, the Packers could stay the course at tight end with rookie Quarless and Crabtree. Quarless has gone from inactive the first two games and no catches in the first four, to four catches for 51 yards after Finley and Lee went out against the Redskins. Quarless had two catches for 30 yards on the final drive of regulation to give the Packers a chance to win. Long-term, however, the absence of Finley could allow Rodgers to get more in sync with his receivers. The Packers rank 12th in the NFL in total offense.

What concussion?– Rodgers looks for clearance: Q Rodgers didn't take a single snap Wednesday, and yet, when the Green Bay Packers quarterback left the locker room after practice, he did so having given subtle indications that he play in Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins at Lambeau Field. Now, nothing he did was proof that he will pass all of his required post-concussion cognition tests, get the go-ahead from an independent neurologist and make his 39th Consecutive start (including playoffs). But when someone suggested to him that he didn't seem like a guy coming off a concussion, Rodgers smirked. "What concussion?" he said as he walked out of the room.

Spotlight on WR Nelson: When the guys – James Jones, Greg Jennings, Brett Swain and their wives – came to the farm during the offseason, it opened their eyes a little bit. First off, they couldn't believe anyone could live out there in the middle of nowhere. But I think they enjoyed it. At first, they couldn't see how anyone could live out there, but then I showed them the land that I bought, and where I'm going to build, and they were like, "It would be nice to live out here in the middle of nowhere." Town (Manhattan, Kan.) is 20 minutes away, so it's dead quiet. It's nice and peaceful. My wife Emily and I started dating at the end of our freshman year in high school, and I'm glad I had her before I got to this situation. I think a lot of guys are in tough situations when they come into this kind of money, this kind of fame. I don't know how you can ever find anyone that you can trust. Obviously there's people who've done it, but to me, it'd be hard to really know. Obviously you have to take your time to get to know them, but there's people out there who think, "I'm going to marry this guy and get half his money in a couple years." Emily's not like that. At least, she better not be. If she is, she saw something a long time ago in me that I didn't see.

Packers make due at practice: Eight players, including six starters, sat out Wednesday while four others took part in a limited portion of the workout, which was conducted without pads and featured abbreviated team drills. With 40% of his roster either absent or banged up, McCarthy got as much done as he possibly could. ”It’s just another challenge, but I’m very comfortable that we’re giving our players the proper time and the looks and just being smart,” he said. “I’m listening to the doctors and the strength coaches, talking to those guys way too much, but I think it is in the best interest of the team.” Besides tight end Jermichael Finley (knee surgery) and quarterback Aaron Rodgers (concussion), those who missed practice included linebacker Clay Matthews (hamstring), end Ryan Pickett (ankle), tackle Mark Tauscher (shoulder) and tight end Donald Lee (shoulder). Linebacker Nick Barnett (wrist) had surgery in the morning that could sideline him for the rest of the season, and safety Derrick Martin (knee) was put on injured reserve. Barnett’s status is dependent on whether the front office is willing to wait two months for him to recover, which seems unlikely. McCarthy said decisions on Finley and Barnett don’t have to be made right away. About the only good news McCarthy got was that rookie nickel back Sam Shields was able to take part in the full practice after missing the last two games with a calf strain. It’s unclear whether defensive coordinator Dom Capers will go back to Shields as his nickel or stick with Pat Lee, who played there last week.

Packers offense to see new direction with tight end Finley possibly out for season:  McCarthy had built much of the Packers' offense around Finley's receiving talents lining him up at various spots and often deploying two tight ends to force defenses into potentially bad match ups. With Finley out, McCarthy probably will scale back his use of two tight ends and lean far more heavily on his four-deep receiving corps, as he did against Washington. By unofficial count, he went with two tight ends on only six of the Packers' 65 offensive snaps after Finley left the game.  "Everybody talks about how good our receiving corps is, now it's time to show it," Jones said. "When we had (Finley), that just put an extra guy out there. But when we went 13-3 (in 2007) we didn't have a sweet tight end. I think we're up for the challenge.

Packers’ Jennings vents frustrations: Frustration finally set in for Green Bay Packers receiver Greg Jennings in Sunday’s overtime loss to the Washington Redskins. Jennings apologized Wednesday for some sideline antics during the 16-13 loss. Jennings wouldn’t reveal exactly what he did to feel the need to apologize. Still, Jennings isn’t exactly thrilled with the state of the passing offense or his role in it, even though he ranks second on the team with 31 targeted passes. Jennings’ 14 receptions tie him for 79th in the NFL. ”Frustrated, that’s probably an understatement, honestly,” said Jennings. “You get frustrated in the game of football. Opportunities can be misconceived sometimes. Targets – they can be targets but they cannot really be targets. It’s a game where, when you get an opportunity, you’ve got to make the best of it. We’re going to make it happen.” Jennings certainly has a right to be frustrated. He has just two receptions in each of the last three games.

Julius and the healthy Bears D have silenced all critics

Is the Monsters of the Midway defense back to its 2006 Super Bowl season form? A look at the statistics shows they're pretty damn close. Through 5 games, the Bears are…

• 3^rd in the league in rushing yards allowed
• Tied for 3^rd in forced fumbles
• Tied for 4^th in INTs
• 5^th in points allowed
• 6^th in total yards allowed

While those rankings are nice, I'm sure the Bears are more concerned about the positional grades being handed out by BearsGab based on the first quarter of the season. Here's how each position grades out so far…

Defensive ends: B

While the Bears are just in the middle of the pack with 9 sacks as a team, those numbers don't tell the whole defensive side of story. If holding penalties caused by opposing offensive lineman are as good as a sack, the Bears – thanks to Julius Peppers – would be higher on the list. Who can forget the mugging he incurred at the hands of those filthy Packers… Israel Idonije leads the team with 4 sacks, 3 of which were recorded Sunday vs. the Panthers. Luckily, the Bears haven't had to depend a lot on the backups for significant playing time. But with Mark Anderson's release, it will be interesting to see what role the former Omaha Nighthawk Charles Grant settles into. Perhaps D-tackle Henry Melton will start to see time on the outside too…

Defensive tackles: B-

The Bears stout numbers vs. the run are made all the more impressive considering Tommie Harris is now officially a part-time player. Matt Toeaina has teamed with Anthony Adams to give the team a sturdy presence up the middle. Some of the success vs the run has to do with LBs making tackles in space, but they don't make as many of those tackles if the D-tackles aren't occupying blockers up front. Marcus Harrison has been non-existent.

Linebackers: A

Those experts who said Brian Urlacher was past his prime at age 32 were horribly wrong. #54 has been flying around the field like he was in his heyday in the mid-2000s. He leads the team in tackles and also has a sack and INT to his credit. Briggs has been blowing up opposing ball carriers, tight ends and wideouts and is obviously benefitting from having his MLB running mate back. Pisa has stayed healthy and filled in nicely as the strong-side backer.

Corners: B

DJ Moore and Charles Tillman are the only guys who've picked off passes for the defensive secondary. Jennings has been steady after replacing Bowman against the Pack. His highlight reel recovery of a late Packers fumble was P-I-M-P. Bowman was on a short leash after back-to-back performances when he allowed Miles Austin to haul in a ton of catches in week 2 and after missing an open-field tackle early in the Pack game. But his come-from-behind forced fumble vs. Ahmad Bradshaw of the Giants showed the kid still wants to play. If ever there was an example of what the Cover 2 wants to accomplish – minimizing the big play – it's this year. While the team has given up chunks of yards at a time – see GB game – they have NOT been bitten by big plays in the passing game. Obviously, a lot of that has to do with these guys…

Safeties: B

Bears fans were excited about the leadership prospects Chris Harris would bring when he was traded back to the Bears from Carolina (for LB Jamar Williams). But after a shitty preseason, we feared he might have lost a few steps. Those fears have been allayed for now. While he may lack the elite physical skills of a typical FS, he's rarely out of position, which is an important part of playing safety in the NFL. Danieal Manning has gone unnoticed in the passing game (that's a good thing) and been tough in run support. The duo has played well enough that injured rookie savior/sensation Major Wright hasn't been missed.

Special Teams: A

Once again, the Bears special teams are firing on all cylinders under coach Dave Toub. Devin Hester had his first return for a TD (vs. the Pack) in over 2 years and is 4^th in the league in punt return average (12.8). Johnny Knox and Manning have combined for 6^th in the league in average yards per kickoff return (28.7). Brad Maynard is 2^nd in the league in punts inside the opponents' 20. And Mr. Consistent, Robbie Gould, has connected on 10 of 11 field goals, including a career long of 53 yards.

Today we debut our first “Gridiron Roundtable” for the 2010 season, as we go around the Sports Gab Network to ask our staff members the following question:

Though Five NFL Weeks, who is the Best team in the AFC and the best team in the NFC?

Here are just some of the answers given by our crack staff here on the Sports Gab Network:

Jeff Fisher – BearsGab.com

AFC: Gotta go with the Ravens. They have arguably the two best wins of any team in the league – at NYJ in their home opener and at Pittsburgh in week 4. Boldin’s been everything the team has hoped for and then some.

NFC: If you look at the last two weeks, the Giants appear to be playing the best football in the NFC. They followed up their pounding of Da Bears with a route of the talented Texans. I think they have the best mix of offense and defense in the conference.

Jonathon Scruggs – RavensGab.com

At week five I think it’s pretty evident that the Jets are the best football team in the AFC. Although they stumbled early on against Baltimore, they’ve managed to bump off four teams in a row, including New England, Minnesota and Miami.

As for the NFC I think that Green Bay is still the team to beat. Although they have health issues at every major position, they’re the most complete football team around. If the Packers can get their players out of the infirmary they will be very hard to beat come January.

Chris Bach - BuccaneersGab.com

The best team in the AFC is the Pittsburgh Steelers. I believe the Ravens are slightly better and, in some cases, deeper at linebacker, corner, safety, and running back (Baltimore is far superior at wide receiver). They are about equal at O-line. I think Ben Roethlisberger is quite a bit superior, coming off his first really good season, at the quarterback spot. This is such a crucial position and Baltimore may regain my top spot if they promote Marc Bulger, but I give the overall edge to Pittsburgh.

As for the NFC, Chicago benefited from a missed “block-in-the-back” and an NFL rule that is going to be changed. Atlanta has let Cleveland and San Francisco hang around and Matt Ryan has been pretty bad a lot of this year. When Aaron Rodgers gets back from his injury, Green Bay will be back to being the most dangerous offense in the NFL and no defense in the NFC scares me so I will go with them.

Russ Loede – BearsGab.com

AFC: Titans. Best pass rush, best running back, and longest-tenured coach. One of the most aggresive, fiesty teams. A quarterback that just wins.

NFC: Giants. Intimidating front line, super talented secondary, and a wide receiver that can’t be contained. This team is scary good, balanced. Eli is looking good too.

Brant Houghton – DolphinsGab.com

AFC: Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens seem to be flying high, and while their defense is still stingy as ever, their offense is picking up steam by the week it seems, and is firing on all cylinders. When they’re on their game, I don’t think any team, AFC or NFC can stop them.

NFC: Green Bay Packers

Despite their recent struggles, the Pack still are the team to beat in the NFC. They have all the talent in the world, and once they get all of their playmakers back from injury, they should be all systems go. Not only do they have a top 5 defense, but also one of the best offenses in the league. They’re a dangerous team that can kill you if you make one mistake.

Andrew Ilnicki – RedskinsGab.com

The Jets and the Giants. Both teams have shown resiliency , depth of talent, and dominance on both sides of the ball. And a hunger to win from soup to nuts.

Frank Minniti - BillsGab.com

Ok, Best team in AFC – Baltimore Ravens. They’ve won 3 straight and are 2-0 against fellow AFC heavyweights Pittsburgh and the New York Jets. The Ravens will have four of their next six games on their home turf against teams non-playoff teams last season.

Best NFC team – Atlanta Falcons. I say the Falcons are the best team AT THE MOMENT! 5 weeks in and forecasting the NFC remains difficult as ever. Atlanta is surging, winners of four in a row. New Orleans is finding out it’s tough to shake off that nasty Super Bowl hangover. Minnesota and Dallas are free falling. I’ll say the flavor of the week in the NFC is Atlanta.

Anthony Kuehn – LionsGab.com

The AFC favorite has to be the Steelers right now. They have a balanced offensive attack despite the absence of Big Ben, and he will only bolster their attack when he returns. The defense is playing as well as they have in the last several years, the big test will come as the season drags on. The Steelers don’t have the youngest defense so the only concern is they drop off later in the season.

The NFC favorite is still the Saints. They don’t look anything like themselves right now, but they are dealing with injuries to their top two running backs and the offense is still trying to find their rhythm. The defense gives up yards but makes game changing plays and the only obstacle for the Saints winning the division is the Falcons.

Sheletha Jones – SaintsGab.com

Without a doubt, the Pittsburgh Steelers are playing the best in all of football, let alone the AFC. They managed to go 3-1 (and could very well be 4-0 if they weren’t having problems at kicker) all without their starting quarterback.

I think the Atlanta Falcons are the best team in the NFC right now. Both their offense and defense are playing well and showing signs of improvement weekly.

Jeremy Fuchs – GiantsGab.com

In the AFC, the best is team is clearly the Steelers. They are probably the best team in the NFL. Their defense looks incredible, Rashad Mendenhall has been great and with Big Ben returning this week, there should be nothing stopping them.

In the NFC, while no team has run away with the best team title, the one in front is the Falcons. On a 4 game winning streak, the Falcons are playing great football. Matt Ryan has matured enough to lead this team deep into the playoffs.

Stephen Rhodes – ColtsGab.com

Best team in AFC: Tough call but I have to go with Baltimore. They have a killer RB combo in Ray Rice and Willis McGahee, and an improving Joe Flacco at quarterback. Then there is their defense, which needs no explanation. Closest to a “perfect team” as there is in the AFC right now.

Best team in the NFC: Another tough call here because one can make a case for Chicago but I have to say New York. Seems to me that Manning is improving and has a favorite target in Hakeem Nicks. Their defense has always been there and Coughlin has the team’s full attention. Will be the team that takes the NFC East this season, barring a major mishap.

Will Brodsky - CardinalsGab.com

AFC – The Jets have all aspects of their game rolling. They are enjoying a resurgence from LT, steady production from Greene, a big step forward from Sanchez, and big play threats in Edwards, Keller, Cotchery, and now Holmes. The defense is as sound as ever with or without Revis and it secured New York their latest win against Minnesota. The Jets 54 point differential is tops in the NFL.

NFC – The Falcons are starting to steam roll the competition as they’ve won four straight. They have a top ten rushing offense (5th) and rushing defense (8th). The core of Ryan, White, and Turner ensure offensive life and the defense has only allowed more than 14 points in a single game once to the Saints, a game which Atlanta won on the road.

Mike Burke – EaglesGab.com

My AFC front runners have to be the Jets and Ravens right now. The two teams remind me of one another. They’re both driven by great defenses, and have developing offenses with young quarterbacks.

In the NFC right now, I’m going to have to say the Giants. Their defense is starting to play great football and they’re starting to get some rhythm on offense. Hakeem Nicks has been amazing and now they’ve even got Brandon Jacobs helping out Ahmad Bradshaw.

Adam Warwas – VikingsGab.com

In the AFC, I can’t imagine picking anyone other than the Steelers as the top of the class right now. To get out of the quarterback carousel that was constantly spinning for them with a 3-1 record just shows how stout their defense is and how well coached this tema is.

The NFC is tougher to call, but right now I would have to go with the experience and depth of the Super Bowl Champion Saints. Until somebody steps up and truly shows dominance, I’m going to stick with the guys wearing the brand new rings.

Nirpal Sihota – RaidersGab.com

Jets. Rex Ryan + 3-0 Division Record + Great D + Living up to expectations. Best team in NFL.

Saints. Getting everyone’s best shot, but both loses have been on the road and without Reggie Bush. Healthy, they are still the best in NFC.

It appears that the last two big name players sitting out are going to be with their teams within a few weeks. Chris Mortensen of ESPN reports that Chargers WR Vincent Jackson and Pats guard Logan Mankins are both being told to go to their teams.

Restricted free agents Vincent Jackson and Logan Mankins both will report this season to their respective teams, the San Diego Chargers and New England Patriots, upon recommendation from the National Football Players Association, according to several sources.

Under this scenario, Jackson will report to the Chargers by Oct. 31 and Mankins will report to the Patriots by Nov. 16 to earn an accrued season and secure unrestricted free agency in 2011.

Jackson’s reporting deadline is earlier because the Chargers elected to place him on roster exempt, meaning Jackson must sit out three unpaid games before he is eligible to receive the necessary six paid games to earn his sixth accrued season.

Neither Jackson nor Mankins could be reached for comment. Their agents, Neil Schwartz (Jackson) and Frank Bauer (Mankins), declined comment.

To read the rest of the piece, click HERE

#4: The NFC’s most impressive, dangerous team?

1. New York Jets (2) – Rex Ryan’s troops have beaten New England, Miami, and Minnesota.  Three quality victories.  The defense hasn’t allowed a first-quarter point.  The offense hasn’t given the ball away yet, tying an NFL record with its four-game turnover-free streak.  Greene has awaken, Santonio has returned.  The offensive line dominated the Vikings, actually, both lines did.   Things couldn’t be any better in the Big Apple.

2. Baltimore Ravens (3) – Ray Rice is back to his old tricks, his usual form, his play-making self.  You only need Anquan to catch one pass, and you still put up 31 points.  Could there be an Ed Reed sighting soon?

3. Pittsburgh Steelers (5) – Defense is better than the past two Super Bowl winning units.  Remember how good Mike Wallace was last season with Big Ben slinging him the rock?  Bombs away.  Roethlisberger returns to an enhanced running game -can you say upgrade?  I’m hard-pressed to find any glaring weaknesses.  Scary good, AFC’s in trouble.

4. New York Giants (16) – Sign of things to come: Front line is intimdating again, Hakeem is unstoppable, and Eli is making smart decisions.  Even Brandon Jacobs is contributing now.  People tend to forget how talented this secondary is.  Recent dominance is just the tip of the iceberg.  Super Bowl contenders?

5. Tennessee Titans (15) – Vince is limiting mistakes, Chris Johnson came alive during the 4th quarter in Dallas, and I can not say enough about this defensive line/pass rush which leads the NFL in sacks with an astounding 22.  Kenny Britt is starting to show up.  Alarming how good this team has been since 0-6 start last year.  11-4, and I believe this team is a serious player in the AFC.

6. Indianapolis Colts (6) – Despite a putrid performance on offense, a usually dismal defense elevated its play to the next level against Kansas City.  Game on the road in Washington Sunday night should tell us a lot about Peyton’s club.  Mike Hart provides the team with another valid option at RB.  Can they win a grind it out battle away from home against a grind it out team that loves to battle like the Redskins?

7. Washington Redskins (14) - Donovan looks like a Pro Bowl QB.  LaRon Landry is playing like he did on Saturdays in Baton Rouge.  Brian Orakpo played like a man on a mission during crunch time.  I like how they won a game they weren’t supposed to win -clutch.  Huge home victory could lead to bigger and better things.

8. Philadelphia Eagles (20) - With this ranking in mind, a forecast of a potential triumph over Atlanta?  LeSean McCoy is possibly playing like the top back in the NFC.  Vick or Kolb, offense is under control.  Prefer #7.  As for the defense, Brandon Graham now following fellow rookie Nate Allen’s footsteps of success.  Clearly, talent abounds.  We should get a real indication whether or not this squad is a true contender to make some noise come January.

9. New England Patriots (12) - Interested to see how the team responds coming off of a Bye week.  Revenge factor comes into play against Baltimore in Foxborough this Sunday.  Aaron Hernadez and Brandon Tate figure to be the main benefactors and go-to targets next to Wes Welker with the trade of Randy Moss.  BenJarvus Green-Ellis the past two games: 32 carries, 174 rushing yards, and two touchdowns, with a 5.5 yards per carry average.

10. Chicago Bears (18) - Matt Forte is playing like an MVP candidate.  Julius Peppers is a difference-maker.  Defense is back to forcing turnovers, Jay Cutler is expected to start against Seattle, and the “Windy City Flyer” Devin Hester is playing less offense; which means more of an emphasis on returns, which means better field position at the very minimum.  Undoubtedly an impact.

11. Atlanta Falcons (11) – Balance is showing itself.  Roddy White can make a case as the NFC’s best receiver.  Matt Ryan is a winner.

12. Green Bay Packers (9) – Injuries.  Injuries.  Injuries.  Team should rest Rodgers against Miami like Chicago did with Cutler.  Pass rush, Brandon Jackson stood out to me in Washington.

13. Minnesota Vikings (4) – Percy Harvin looked sensationally sharp Monday night in New York.  Adrian has to get the ball more period.  There’s a reason his nickname is “All Day”.  Make him show you why Vikings.  8-1 is the record when Adrian runs the ball 19 or more times and Brett throws the ball less than 34 times in the same game.  Team has a brutal schedule ahead.

14. New Orleans Saints (8) – The offense uncharacteristically yielded two defensive touchdowns.  Reggie and Pierre are both showing their worth to the team in lieu of their absences.  Each running back’s value is validated more and more when Brees’ bunch struggles on offense.  You cannot underestimate their importance to this club.  With that said, can one of the receivers step up in Tampa this Sunday?  Will this team overcome a stunning defeat in Arizona and rebound with a victory against the division rival Bucs?  Defense isn’t forcing turnovers as much as they did during the first two games.  On the brink of losing control.  Super Bowl champs are on the verge of missing the Playoffs.  Can they live up to the hype.  Ok, I’ve gone a bit too far.

15. Kansas City Chiefs (15) – Can Cassel receive some help from his receivers?  Just a little somethin’, somethin’ could go a long way.  McCluster isn’t ready yet to be an every down pass catcher, nor is he near prepared to take over as his #1 go-to option.  However, Tony Moeaki is developing into a fine target for Matt.  Nonetheless, expect Jamaal Charles to be the featured guy offensively, and touch the ball more like he did last week in Indy, compared to the first three weeks of the season.  Defensively, the secondary played out of its mind, shutting down world-beater Peyton.  Tamba Hali is a disruptive menace on the defensive line.  Reaches the QB with such relative ease.

16. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (25) – Couldn’t stop Cedric Benson from getting 144 yards and couldn’t defend Terrell Owens, yet they still found a way to win in a hostile environment.  A young team like Tampa went into the “Jungle” to upend Cincy, and performed so well, you may not even consider it an upset.  Josh Freeman to Mike Williams is money.  Straight up cash.  As for the defense, secondary elevated its game by producing some big plays.  Unsung heroes made the difference.  Who said Raheem Morris was on the hot seat?

17. Dallas Cowboys (7) – Felix Jones recorded his first 100-yard game on the ground in the regular season.  Roy Williams registered another touchdown.  What’s wrong with this team?  The offensive line, which yielded just one sack heading into the game with Tennessee last week, surrendered six sacks.  Prior to the game, they were the #1 ranked team in sacks allowed.  They met its match -the NFL’s #1 ranked pass rushing attack.  Romo also c0mpleted three costly, momentum-altering passes to the Titans.  Three tough losses by a combined 20 points.  At least they have been good, quality losses, to good quality opponents.  Still not good enough for Jerry.

18. Houston Texans (10) – Andre Johnson’s injury has really hurt this team, especially his QB, Matt Schaub, who has looked relatively shaky since his impressive come-from-behind triumph in Washington.  Really uncommon for Schaub.  Also, Arian Foster had his first bad game, another uncommon occurrence for Houston.  The team’s defensive backfield looked out of place against the Giants.  Understandably, the Texans are falling back down to earth.

19. Cincinnati Bengals (13) – Bye week should help immensely.  Marvin Lewis’ boys are under a tremendous amount of pressure.  Still many games left, mainly, four games within the division.  AFC North is still winnable.  Turnaround is definitely reachable considering the run game is back on track.

20. San Diego Chargers (17) – Big-time disappointment, namely, the special teams unit.  However, you know this squad always starts off slow.  AFC West is wide open.  Good to see Rivers and the offense put up an abundance of yards, points.  Now, if only the defense can follow their lead.  Seems like this team is always trailing early in games.  It’s hard to recover from that Sunday after Sunday.

21. Jacksonville Jaguars (24) – David Garrard is undervalued and it’s not even fair.  Marcedes Lewis: about time former UCLA Bruin.

22. Denver Broncos (19) – Hurry back quickly Knowshon -love, Kyle & Josh.

23. Detroit Lions (26) – Stafford is returning after the Bye week.  Defense showed some life.  Time for some changes.  This team is going to get back on track, like I expected.

24. Oakland Raiders (28) – First win over San Diego in 13 opportunities.  Michael Bush is a bruiser.  He can do it all.  QB play is improving.  They finally found a way to win a game they weren’t originally supposed to win.

25. Miami Dolphins (23) – Ripe to execute an upset in Lambeau.  More running, less passing will aid Henne.

26. Arizona Cardinals (30) – Congratulations Max Hall.  Defense came up huge against defending champions.  Secondary has a slew of play makers.

27. St. Louis Rams (21) – Danario Alexander is going to be a stud for Bradford.  This kid is a physical specimen.

28. Seattle Seahawks (29) – Still can’t figure these guys out.  Will Marshawn help?  I still like Forsett more.

29. San Francisco 49ers (22) – So close, huh?  Singletary/Smith duo have to stick it out.  I sense a complete 360 coming soon to a theatre near you.  Alex, just throw the ball up to your weapons, Vernon and Crabtree.  More two-minute no-huddle offense please.

30. Cleveland Browns (31) – Colt McCoy against the Steel Curtain?  Plan for disaster.

31. Carolina Panthers (27) – I guess that near-upset at the Superdome means next to nothing now after that miserable showing at home to Chicago.  They forgot how to run I guess.  DeAngelo Williams?  Can we see him on display once before the season ends?

32. Buffalo Bills (32) – Had the lead for a second.  More C.J. Spiller; that’s all fans from Orchard Park ask for.

On Monday I suggested that the Vikings should bench Brett Favre based off of his poor performance, injury status, and off the field concerns.

Apparently Favre himself might agree with one of those reasons to bench him.

"You're not going to make every throw but I would have made some of those throws," said Favre on Wednesday. "From that standpoint, I don't want to play just to play."

"I've been fortunate to not have arm issues in 20 years," said Favre. "I had the biceps a couple of years ago but as far as just nagging. Pitches get it all the time, as a quarterback it's a lot like a receiver or a running back, you get nagging issues or your legs or whatever that poses a problem. I had tendinitis [in 2000] and I was out all of camp.

"Prior to that if you had told me tendinitis would keep me out I would have laughed at you because I always looked at it as, 'That's kind of a wimpy injury. It was painful. Very painful and for people who have had it lifting things is a problem. So throwing 50-yard bombs is even tougher. We've been treating it, it's been there for several weeks. It hasn't gotten any worse but it really hasn't gotten better."

"It would probably seem maybe a little more logical that 20 years and having played through a lot of things that you would say, 'OK' … " Favre said. "I don't know for sure in answering that question, but I would think they would, Brad [Childress] and Darrell [Bevell] and those guys, would trust in me that if I felt like one or two throws a game [you can't make that is one thing] but if I feel like there's more than that on a consistent basis where, 'Boy, he makes that throw,' I should be able to address that with them and I believe I would."

I highly doubt that Favre will end his consecutive start streak by sitting out of Sunday's game against the Cowboys, but the threat is there that he conceivably could sit or perhaps play only a part of the game on Sunday.

This means that Brad Childress will probably be milking this for all it is worth between now and then, trying his best to get the Cowboys to split their focus and try to prepare for two quarterbacks.