Can The 2010 Tight End Class Become As Prominent As The 1983 Quarterback Class?

By: Tyler Ward

The 2010 NFL Draft class of tight ends could potentially be the best class of that position in NFL history. Even though they are just two years into their professional careers, they are already shaping up to be Pro Bowl caliber players.

Let's take a look at some of the prospects of the 2010 tight end class:

* 1st round, 21st overall: Jermaine Gresham, Cincinnati
* 2nd round, 42nd overall: Rob Gronkowski, New England
* 3rd round, 70th overall: Ed Dickson, Baltimore
* 3rd round, 93rd overall: Tony Moeaki, Kansas City
* 3rd round, 95th overall: Jimmy Graham, New Orleans
* 4th round, 113th overall: Aaron Hernandez, New England
* 4th round, 114th overall: Dennis Pitta, Baltimore
* Undrafted Free Agent: Jake Ballard, New York Giants

This class could go down as one of the best classes of any one skilled position in the league's history, much like the 1983 quarterback class.

That draft class, 28 years ago, is famed because there was so much hype surrounding these players before they were selected in the draft and most of the quarterbacks ended up having solid NFL careers. You may recognize two of the names in that draft class... No. 1 overall pick John Elway and future record-breaker Dan Marino, two of the most prolific players in NFL history. Elway went on to be one of the most clutch players of his time and won two Super Bowls with the Broncos in the late 1990's. Marino went on to become an elite quarterback for the Dolphins, although he never won a Super Bowl. He currently holds many all-time passing records, including the single-season passing yards mark, which is bound to be passed this season by Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady or Drew Brees... or all three.

The 1983 draft also featured Jim Kelly, who went on to play in four consecutive Super Bowls for the Buffalo Bills, but was never able to win the big game. Tony Eason led the Patriots to their first ever Super Bowl appearance, but was beaten by Walter Payton's Chicago Bears, 46-10.

Todd Blackledge and Ken O'Brien went on to have solid careers in the NFL, but were never able to live up to the expectations that surrounded them. Although they were extremely serviceable, they are considered busts, when comparing them to other quarterbacks in the class.

That's where last year's class of tight ends comes into play. These tight ends have great potential, even though they have been at the professional level for not even two seasons. They have already showed that they will be in the NFL for a long time, as most of them are key components on their respective teams. With the way some of them are playing right now, there is a very good possibility that we will never see a tight end draft class like this again.

Jermaine Gresham, who played collegiately at Oklahoma, was the first tight end off the board with the 21st overall selection by the Cincinnati Bengals. Although his stats aren't flashy, Gresham has proven to be one of rookie quarterback Andy Dalton's favorite targets this season. Forming a trio with Dalton and rookie receiver A.J. Green, Cincinnati could have one of the league's most potent passing attacks if they all develop correctly in the next couple of seasons.

Physically, Gresham is an intriguing and amazing specimen who is practically a wide receiver trapped in a tight end's body. He's one of the biggest at his position with long arms and huge hands. He's too fast for linebackers to cover and too big for cornerbacks to defend, making him a solid prospect that is treacherous throughout games.

Gresham is also a very dangerous threat down field and is able to make terrific catches due to his long arms and great hands. Additionally, Gresham is a great run-blocker and has helped out running back Cedric Benson numerous times throughout the 2011 season.

Given time to develop, he should become a top-five tight end in the NFL if all of the pieces fall the right way. Currently, Gresham has played in eleven games this season, registering 43 receptions for 452 yards and five touchdowns. During his rookie campaign, the former Sooner caught 52 passes for 471 yards and four touchdowns.

Conceivably, Gresham has all of the right tools to become a great player and he will have many Hawaii visits in front of him.

Arizona's Rob Gronkowski was the next tight end chosen, as he was tabbed with the 42nd overall selection by the New England Patriots, who were trying to fill their biggest need. And they sure fixed their need and did it quickly with the selection of Gronkowski.

In 2011, the former Arizona Wildcat has become quarterback Tom Brady's favorite target as of late -- even more so than Wes Welker, who has practically been the main option over the last couple of seasons. Gronkowski has shown that he is one of the best at his position after setting the single-season record for touchdowns (15) by a tight end against the Redskins on Sunday -- and there is still three games to play. He also has the second-most touchdowns (25) through his first two seasons in NFL history -- only Randy Moss in 1998-99 has more (28) through his first two seasons.

Often, Gronkowski has drawn comparisons to Jason Witten, who is currently one of Tony Romo's main targets with the Dallas Cowboys. He has shown that he could perhaps be better than Witten, who has been one of the top tight ends since he was drafted by Jerry Jones and Co.

Gronkowski is perhaps the best tight end in the league when it comes to yards after the catch, as he always seems to get a good bulk of yards once he catches the ball, something most defenses dread.

Like Gresham, Gronkowski is a better-than-average run-blocker who consistently shows good balance and strength to absorb hits from defensive linemen and linebackers. He is one of the best blocking tight ends when the Patriots actually run the ball with BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead.

The future great also has some of the best hands in the NFL and that is scary when you are already in an offense that consists of Welker and Tom Brady as your quarterback. Gronkowski has feasibly been the best tight end in the NFL this season and it looks like he'll continue down that path for years to come with many Pro Bowls in his future.

Watch out opposing defenses, Gronkowski will be a force once he reaches his full potential. Through not even two seasons, he has registered 113 receptions for 1,634 yards and 25 touchdowns.

With the 70th overall pick, the Baltimore Ravens chose Ed Dickson, who played collegiately at Oregon and was widely considered to be the best tight end in college football in 2009. He is currently the starter on an offense that usually revolves around running back Ray Rice, but he is still able to contribute to a team that likes to use tight ends during games.

Although quarterback Joe Flacco is still developing, Dickson has become one of Baltimore's security blankets when it comes to the passing game. He usually thrives in short-yardage situations, as shown by his stats -- 48 receptions, 458 yards, three touchdowns.

Dickson is not an explosive runner by any means, but he is still able to outrun players in the second level. Dickson is also able to get off of the line quickly, which mainly helps in short-yardage situations. Although his stats aren't great, he has shown to be one of Flacco's most consistent targets even though he is just in his second year.

The ex-Oregon Duck also has great hands and is able to make tough catches, especially in traffic. With his size and athleticism, Dickson is also a red-zone threat, primarily due to his extraordinary leaping ability. His touchdowns don't show it, but he is a beast in the end-zone, as he is able to either catch touchdowns or draw interest from other defenders.

Dickson will be a solid tight end in the future, once he fully develops. He may not be a perennial Pro Bowl nominee, but he will still flourish in his own way and could become Flacco's main receiving target.

The second tight end chosen in the third round, Tony Moeaki, was picked by the Kansas City Chiefs with the 93rd overall selection. He is currently on injured reserve with a torn ACL, but should be able to return healthy by the start of the 2012 season.

Although he has a history of injuries that has stunted his development, Moeaki still has the potential and upside to become a solid tight end in the NFL if he could remain healthy. While at Iowa, he missed time almost every single year he attended -- dislocated elbow in 2007 (missed majority of season), broken wrist in 2008 (missed spring practice), broken foot, pulled hamstring and concussion in 2008 (missed significant time in regular season) and missed time in 2009 due to an ankle injury.

Despite the injury concerns, the Chiefs still believe that Moeaki can become a serviceable tight end for the Chiefs and I'm inclined to agree with them. He has great potential simply because of his size and build. He has the ability to use his size as a mechanism for blocking techniques. With that, he is a superb run-blocker that is able to hold blocks and get off the line quickly.

If he can remain healthy, he could become a great weapon in the Chiefs' offense.

Last season, the former Hawkeye caught 47 passes for 556 yards and three touchdowns and likely would have increased those numbers if he didn't tear his ACL prior to the start of the regular season.

Perhaps the most surprising player this season was chosen with the 95th overall selection last year -- and his name is Jimmy Graham, who chose to play football over basketball after he was told that he really didn't have a future in basketball or NBA.

A former basketball player who rarely did anything on the court, Graham only played one season of football at the University of Miami. But with his sensational leaping abilities in basketball, he became an intriguing NFL prospect and thus, was selected in the third round of last year's draft to the NFL's most explosive offense.

Standing at 6'7", Graham is able to tower over most, if not all, players on opposing defenses. He has exceptional strength and height, which makes him a down field threat in the Saints' offense. Graham is also perhaps the most dangerous tight end on goal-line and red-zone situations as quarterback Drew Brees just has to lob it up and Graham will come down with it practically every single time. He could eventually be known as the most dangerous tight end in the entire league.

Thought of as a reach in the third round, Graham has proved all of his doubters wrong, as he has become a fan favorite in New Orleans. He flourishes in Sean Payton's system and has proved that he is a humongous threat with 80 receptions for 1,101 yards and eight touchdowns. With the season he's having, Graham has become the first tight end in Saints history to reach the 1,000-yard plateau.

At the combine before the 2010 draft, Graham showed impeccable speed for a player for his size (4.56 in 40-yard dash) and astounding athleticism (10-foot broad jump and 38.5 vertical jump). With those components, Graham is virtually unstoppable, as he is faster than linebackers and taller than cornerbacks. Graham has struck fear in opposing defenders this season, as he is perhaps the biggest and most genuine threat in the vertical passing game.

This season, he has already shown that he is one of the best up-and-coming tight ends in the league and he hasn't even reached his full potential yet -- defenses should start quivering now.

With the 113th selection in the draft, the Patriots chose their second tight end of the draft, choosing former Florida Gator, Aaron Hernandez.

Hernandez is usually on the field for most snaps, as the Patriots primarily run a two-tight end set that features Hernandez and fellow 2010 draftee Rob Gronkowski. Although his stats pale in comparison to those of Gronkowski's, Hernandez is still a formidable tight end that is considered to be one of the top up-and-coming tight ends in the NFL.

He was one of the most successful players at Florida and was a key part on their two championship teams. He blossomed into Tim Tebow's favorite target and his stats at Gainesville were exceptional, as he graduated as one of the most decorative tight ends in the school's history. Former head coach Urban Meyer had some kind words for him, stating "Aaron was one of the very best at his position I have ever been around. He has all the tools to be successful at the next level."

Primarily known for his pass-catching abilities than his blocking techniques, Hernandez is one of the best pass-catching tight ends in the NFL. He knows how to get open and has great hands, which he uses excessively in the Patriots' offense.

Tom Brady likes to use the former Gator in red-zone situations, as evident by his stats. He has caught 59 passes for 607 yards and five touchdowns this season, while only playing in eleven games. Last season, he registered 45 receptions for 563 yards and six touchdowns, while starting in just seven games.

He also has good speed for a tight end (4.6 in the 40-yard dash) and is a considerable threat down field. With a two-tight end set the Patriots use, Hernandez will be able to get better and better.

The Ravens also chose their second tight end of the draft with the following selection, as they picked Brigham Young's Dennis Pitta with the 114th overall selection. His stats may not be as promising as the others in this class, but he still has the ability to become a solid tight end in the NFL.

The 6'5" Pitta is an extremely reliable receiving tight end, as he catches incredibly well and rarely drops passes. Pitta can also make spectacular catches, especially when it's over his shoulders. He is very acrobatic for a player of his stature, even though he lacks speed and explosiveness.

With Baltimore, he has been primarily used as a blocking tight end, usually lining up as a fullback or on the offensive line where tight ends normally are placed. His stats aren't great, as he has just 31 receptions for 318 yards and two touchdowns this season. However, Pitta definitely has the potential to become a top-15 tight end in the league.

The last player in this class wasn't even chosen in the first seven rounds and was forced to become an undrafted free agent. A former Ohio State Buckeye, Jake Ballard took over the starting reins after Kevin Boss tested the free agent market and left for the Oakland Raiders.

Not many people expected Ballard to play this well prior to the 2011 season, but he has become one of Eli Manning's primary targets over the course of the season.

With his 6'5" stature, Ballard has developed into a valuable starting tight end. He has great size, while weighing in at 250 pounds, which makes him a solid run-blocker for the Giants, as well. Ballard is also a good pass-catcher and has been a threat in the vertical game for a majority of the season. He has also become one of Manning's favorite down field receivers, as he has registered a good amount of receptions that totaled over twenty yards.

It looks as though Ballard will retain the starting role and become the next Kevin Boss for the Giants, maybe even better. He turned out to be quite a steal for New York, as he has caught 37 passes for 589 yards and four touchdowns this season. His 15.9 yards per catch rank among the top for starting tight ends in the NFL.

This class has also featured role players such as Seattle's Anthony McCoy, St. Louis' Michael Hoomanawanui, Green Bay's Andrew Quarless, Indianapolis' Brody Eldridge, Atlanta's Michael Palmer, New York Jets' Jeff Cumberland, and Arizona's Jim Dray.

Clearly, this class of tight ends has great upside and could possibly become one of the most elite classes in NFL history. All the players listed above have played significantly through their first two seasons and most will likely keep it that way for many more seasons.

Fifteen years from now, we will look back on this class and be amazed at how great it was. Jimmy Graham and Rob Gronkowski are already top-five tight ends, while Jermaine Gresham, Ed Dickson, Tony Moeaki, Jake Ballard and Aaron Hernandez are already knocking on the door of the top-ten tight ends list.

This class will be just as famed as the 1983 quarterback class: Write it down.

Week 13: T-Ward's Fantasy Football Advice

By: Tyler Ward

I've been wanting to do this all year, but I always forgot to do it and I guess I was just lazy.

But anyway, I love fantasy football. I currently have six teams, all of which are in the top 3 in every league. I plan to create my own league next season, so send me an e-mail at tylersportsguy@yahoo.com if any of ya'll will be interested in it. And for those who will be, I just want people who will seriously play (i.e. for this season, there is a team in one of my leagues that still has Kenny Britt, Jamaal Charles and Peyton Manning starting). I find it exceedingly annoying, so if you're serious about it and want to play, just let me know.

Okay, but anyway, I'm going to do my best Matthew Berry impression (Berry is a "fantasy guru for ESPN.com).

Players you need to start:

QB Tom Brady, New England - Brady will be facing a Colts defense that has been downright horrible. Their lone bright spot has been linebacker Pat Angerer, who leads the NFL in tackles. The Colts are 29th in overall defense (17th in passing, 31st in rushing). The Colts' secondary is currently giving up about 239 yards per game and opposing quarterbacks have a 108.6 rating against them. Quarterbacks have also thrown 19 touchdowns against the secondary, compared to just five interceptions.

I'm predicting Brady will have a field day against the Colts and will easily surpass the 300-yard mark with three or four touchdowns. The Colts will be lucky to pick him off once and I don't see them doing that. Start Brady.

QB Eli Manning, New York  - The younger Manning will be facing the undefeated Packers this weekend, but the Packers are 31st in pass defense. It's hard to imagine that an 11-0 team is ranked so low in that category, but it is possible. Given good weather conditions, Manning should throw for over 300 yards and a couple of touchdowns. However, the Packers' secondary has picked off opposing quarterbacks 22 times, compared to just 19 touchdowns (78.0 QB rating).

With Manning's past history, he should get intercepted once or twice in this contest, but he should also have a field day against Charles Woodson and Co. At this point, you're really not going to find a better option, as Manning should get you 15-17 points in most leagues.

QB Cam Newton, Carolina - Newton and the Panthers will be facing off against the struggling Tampa Bay Buccaneers this week, who rank 27th in pass defense and 30th against the run. As we've seen all year, Newton has been the team's top rusher so it is plausible and almost a given that Newton will get a rushing touchdown or two.

He should also eclipse the 300-yard mark and if not, he will definitely cross the 250-yard plateau. I think this will be a laughable game, as the Panthers should win the game easily. Look for Newton to get you at least 20 points in most standard leagues.

RB Frank Gore, San Francisco - The 9-2 49ers will face off against the St. Louis Rams this weekend, who rank dead last against the run. Gore has consistently been a top-10 fantasy back all season long and he should explode against a horrendous, but talented Rams defense.

Gore has carried the ball 203 times this season for 909 yards (4.5 average). He has also added five rushing touchdowns and he should increase that number on Sunday.

This is also the same Rams defense that gave up a Cowboys rushing record 253 yards to rookie DeMarco Murray, who was also making his first NFL start. And yes, you read that right - a Cowboys franchise record; also better output that some of the best backs in history such as Emmitt Smith and Tony Dorsett. Cardinals running back Beanie Wells also rushed for 228 yards and a touchdown against this defense last week.

Even though he has been struggling lately, I'm looking for Gore to rush for at least 100 yards and a touchdown against the lowly Rams defense. Gore has rushed for just 127 yards in the last three games but a game against this defense could get him back on track. In fact, I'll project what I think he'll do: 21 carries, 137 yards and two touchdowns. Start Gore.

RB Ray Rice, Baltimore - The Browns are currently 29th against the run and it doesn't help that they will be playing the Ravens this week, who have one of the best running backs in the NFL.

Rice should have a great game against the Browns, as the Ravens should easily roll over them by a couple touchdowns. Look for Rice to run for over 75 yards and a touchdown or two, and also surpass the 50-yard receiving mark.

I'm looking for Rice to get at least 18 points this week against Pat Shurmur's Cleveland Browns.

RB LeGarrette Blount, Tampa Bay - It is unknown thus far if Bucs quarterback Josh Freeman will play this weekend against the Panthers, and if he doesn't, they are almost sure to run the ball at least 25-30 times. If he doesn't play, I really don't see backup Josh Johnson passing the ball more than 20 times. That's why I'd start Blount because he will get a bunch of carries regardless.

The Panthers are currently 28th in rush defense and Blount has been on fire as of late. In fact, Blount had arguably one of the best plays in this NFL season a few weeks ago against the Packers as he barreled over half of the Packers' defense. I'm looking for Blount to be too powerful this week against the Panthers, who have struggled all year against the run.

Carolina is one of the worst tackling teams and I'm sure they'll miss quite a few tackles on Blount, as he leads the Buccaneers rushing attack. Watch for Blount to at least cross the 80-yard mark and a touchdown. Freeman has also been feeding him the ball through the air a bit lately, so he could add another 20 to 30 yards receiving.

Blount will at least get you 15 points in most standard leagues.

RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, New England - It will be an offensive attack on the 0-11 Colts, as they are currently 31st defensively against the run.

Green-Ellis and Co. should have a great game against a Colts defense that has been despicable all season long.

The Colts' run defense is currently allowing over 150 rushing yards per game and has also given up fifteen rushing touchdowns. If the Patriots can get the ball inside the 10-yard line, "The Law Firm" should be able to easily run the ball into the end zone.

There is no doubt that the Patriots will win this game (and I'm a Colts fan saying this, too) and it will be mainly because of Tom Brady and Green-Ellis. The latter should be able to cross the 75-yard plateau and score a touchdown.

WR Wes Welker, New England - Again, they'll be playing the Colts and if Brady has a big day, Welker will do the same.

WR Laurent Robinson, Dallas - It is unclear if Miles Austin will play this week, but even if he does, he will likely just ease himself back in. Robinson has been quarterback Tony Romo's favorite target in the last five weeks, as Robinson has caught all seven of his touchdowns in that span.

The Cowboys will travel to Arizona this weekend to play the Cardinals, who have given up 2,924 receiving yards this season to their opponents.

In standard leagues, Robinson has scored 16.3, 9.2, 19.3, 9.4 and 19.9 points in the last five weeks, respectively. After trading cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie to the Eagles in the offseason, the Cardinals' secondary has struggled against the pass and Romo will more than likely take advantage of that fault.

I'm looking for Robinson to at least go over 60 yards and catch a touchdown in this game. Start Robinson.

WR Victor Cruz, New York - Cruz has been the most consistent Giants receiver all season long and he will likely continue that heading into this week against the Green Bay Packers.

Cruz had a monster game against the Saints last week on Monday Night Football, as he caught nine passes for 157 yards and two touchdowns.

He currently lead the Giants with 55 receptions for 957 yards and seven touchdowns. Cruz has also had four 100-yard games, including the last two weeks (128 and 157, respectively).

The Packers are currently 31st in pass defense and if Manning has a good game, Cruz should be able to benefit from that as well. Cruz should be able to get at least 12 points in standard fantasy leagues.

TE Rob Gronkowski, New England - See Welker, Wes.

Players you should take a look at:

- QB Matt Stafford, Detroit (at New Orleans)
- QB Carson Palmer, Oakland (at Miami)
- QB Tim Tebow, Denver (at Minnesota)
- RB Michael Bush, Oakland (at Miami)
- RB Reggie Bush, Miami (vs. Oakland)
- RB Matt Forte, Chicago (vs. Kansas City)
- RB Maurice Jones-Drew (vs. San Diego)
- WR Michael Crabtree, San Francisco (vs. St. Louis)
- WR Steve Smith, Carolina (at Tampa Bay)
- WR Vincent Jackson, San Diego (at Jacksonville)
- WR Torrey Smith, Baltimore (at Cleveland)
- WR Johnny Knox, Chicago (vs. Kansas City)
- TE Jason Witten, Dallas (at Arizona)
- TE Brandon Pettigrew, Detroit (at New Orleans)
- TE Jimmy Graham, New Orleans (vs. Detroit)

New England Patriots: 2010-11 Season Ultimate Highlight

By: Stephen Patterson

After tearing through everyone in their path during the regular season, the New England Patriots were stunned on their home-floor by the New York Jets in the divisional round of the playoffs.

Despite one of the best season's of Tom Brady's career, the Patriots still couldn't manage to get things done when it mattered the most.

Do you think Brady, Belicheck and Co. will have better luck during the upcoming campaign?

Let us know what you think after you check out some of the Patriot's highlights from last season.

ESPN Sport Science: Devin McCourty Edition (Video)

By: Stephen Patterson

NFL Week 7: Top 5 Most Intriguing Match-Ups

By: Stephen Patterson

With several teams entering Week 7 in "All-Out Panic" mode, this could be a make-or-break week for some of the struggling teams in the NFL.

Can the Dallas Cowboys begin the daunting task of turning their season around on Monday Night Football against the New York Giants? Will the struggling San Diego Chargers be able to put a stop to their annual slow start and turn things around at home against the New England Patriots?

Perhaps the biggest question of all surrounding this weekends' match-ups is whether or not Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings can put back-to-back wins together for the first time this season against Favres' former team, the Green Bay Packers. Will Favre be able to lead the Vikings back up in the standings? Or will Green Bay finally get a win against the former face of their franchise?

#5: Washington Redskins @ Chicago Bears

The Story: Both teams are coming off losses and will look to regroup when they match-up at Soldier Field on Sunday. The Chicago Bears currently control their own destiny in the NFC North, as they would continue their hold on the division lead with a victory. The Washington Redskins are a game behind the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants in the NFC East, but a victory would keep them close to the top. Look for this to be a hard fought, low-scoring game with several big plays being the difference in this one.

Key to Victory: Defense. The Redskins head into Chicago allowing an NFL-worst 432.5 total yards per game, a number they hope will drop with a strong performance against a struggling Bears' offense. Chicago, on the other hand, is expecting to turn around their offensive misfortunes. However, if their offensive line can't offer any better protection than they have previously this season, it could be a very rough day for Jay Cutler. If the Bears are going to win this game, they need a solid performance by Matt Forte, who has struggled on the ground this season averaging only 92.3 yards per game rushing.

Prediction: Washington Redskins 17, Chicago Bears 14


#4: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Miami Dolphins

The Story: The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense will be hungry to show the league they can still knock opponents silly without getting flagged for "devastating hits", and unfortunately for the Miami Dolphins, they will be on the receiving end of those hits. Ben Roethlisberger is making his second start of the season after sitting out the first four games due to suspension, and he will look to make another strong impression. The Dolphins are coming off a hard fought overtime win at Lambeau against the Green Bay Packers and they will look to build upon that win.

Key to Victory: Brandon Marshall/Mike Wallace. Both teams have solid defenses, but they are also both better at stopping the run. Both teams will be looking for huge games from their star receivers, and the player that has the biggest game might just be the difference in this one. Look for one or both of these guys making huge plays late in the fourth quarter with the game still on the line. Marshall has had a relatively slow start to the season in Miami, having caught only one touchdown pass so far this year. Look for him to break out of that slump with a big game against the Steelers' secondary.

Prediction: Pittsburgh Steelers 17, Miami Dolphins 21


#3: New England Patriots @ San Diego Chargers

The Story: This is almost a must-win situation for the San Diego Chargers, as they are once again off to a painfully slow start to the season. Luckily for them, they are playing at home, where they are 2-0 this season. The bad news? They've lost all four games they've played on the road this season and they can't afford to drop a game of this magnitude at home. The New England Patriots will look to continue developing their offensive and adapting to no longer having Randy Moss. Deion Branch had a nice game last week against the Ravens, and the Patriots will need another big game from him to win this game.

Key to Victory: Special teams. The Chargers have been absolutely abysmal on special teams so far this season, and they can't afford to have those kind of lapses in this game. The Patriots destroyed the Miami Dolphins earlier this season because of special teams' gaffes, and if the Chargers want to avoid the same fate, they will need an all-around effort from everyone involved on special teams. If the Chargers can manage the ball and avoid mistakes, they will be in this game until the final whistle. Sadly, I'm not convinced that can happen for this team.

Prediction: New England Patriots 31, San Diego Chargers 21


#2: New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys

The Story: If there is a team facing a must-win situation in Week 7, it has to be the Dallas Cowboys. After starting the season as one of the favorites to reach the Super Bowl, the Cowboys came out and fell flat on their faces to start the season. Unluckily for them, they are still tumbling and have to find a way to avoid a 1-5 start if they want any chance of even reaching the postseason. The New York Giants started off the season slowly, but they have looked increasingly better over their past three games. If they can knock off the Cowboys in this one, it will make their own run for the postseason a lot easier.

Key to Victory: Pride. The Cowboys must come out and play smart, competitive football for sixty minutes in order to have a chance in this one. If they continue to show poor judgment by celebrating prematurely and getting called for stupid penalties, this game could get out of hand very quickly for Dallas. I think they need to come out early and dominate both sides of the ball if they really want to win this game. If New York strikes first, and the Cowboys get off to a slow start, I think the Giants will be able to control the game and hold off a desperate, late flurry by Dallas.

Prediction: New York Giants 20, Dallas Cowboys 21


#1: Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers

The Story: What's not to like about this game? Brett Favre will be going all-out against his former team in an effort to show them they made the wrong choice by letting him go. Aaron Rodgers will look to get his first regular-season victory against his former mentor. There are so many storylines surrounding this match-up that you could literally write a book and still probably miss a few of the smaller stories. Considering this a divisional rivalry and both teams are trying to make up ground in the race to catch the first-place Chicago Bears, I'd expect this game to be one of the most entertaining of the weekend.

Key to Victory: Brett Favre. One way or another, the aging Vikings' quarterback will be directly linked to the outcome of this game. Last season, Favre had two memorable victories against his former team, as the Vikings went 2-0 against the Packers. But, Favre was also playing at a much higher level last season as well. If Favre plans to improve his record to 3-0 against his former team, he better be willing to hand the ball off to Adrian Peterson often and not try to press his luck against a formidable defense by forcing bad passes. Unluckily for the Vikings, Favre usually doesn't pass up opportunities to throw into coverage and turn the ball over.

Prediction: Minnesota Vikings 17, Green Bay Packers 27

AFC East Preview

By: Tyler Ward and Stephen Patterson

1. New York Jets (Head Coach: Rex Ryan)

Key arrivals: RB LaDainian Tomlinson, WR Santonio Holmes, LB Jason Taylor, CB Antonio Cromartie, WR Laveranues Coles, S Brodney Pool, CB Kyle Wilson (draft), RB Joe McKnight (draft)

Key Departures: S Kerry Rhodes, RB Leon Washington, RB Thomas Jones, G Alan Faneca, CB Lito Sheppard

TW: The Jets had the best offseason, in my opinion. They have one of the best aerial attacks now with the additions of Santonio Holmes and Laveranues Coles. Not to mention, they already have Braylon Edwards, Jerricho Cothcery, and tight end Dustin Keller. Hell, with those receivers, Mark Sanchez could have a 4,000 yard season (not a prediction or anything). The arrival LaDainian Tomlinson also gives the Jets a solid ground game with the budding star, Shonn Greene, possibly having a pretty good season. With perhaps the best defense in the league, the Jets could possibly appear in the Super Bowl this season (or Tomlinson could continue to have poor playoff luck, as he did with San Diego).

- TW's Prediction: 12-4

SP: New York has an excellent chance of winning this division after a very busy offseason, including mostly improvements. Shonn Greene is one of the best young backs in the NFL and will likely have a fairly decent season. I would say he has a great chance to hit 1,000 yards rushing, but with new acquisition LaDainian Tomlinson joining the team, he will likely be sharing the workload. If Mark Sanchez can avoid a sophomore slump, which many quarterbacks that are successful in their rookie season endure, the Jets will have one of the most dangerous offenses in the NFL this season if his star cast of receivers can deliver on their end. New York also has one of the best defenses in the league, but Darrelle Revis is one of the keys that D, and without him the team might suffer. Rex Ryan isn't too worried, and while he would love to have him in camp and with the team, he has said he is preparing the team to play without him. The Jets are among the favorites to make the Super Bowl this season, but in my opinion they will fall just a little bit short due to injuries and distractions amongst the team.

- SP's Prediction: 13-3

2. Miami Dolphins (Head Coach: Tony Sparano)

Key arrivals: DE Charles Grant, DE Marques Douglas, WR Brandon Marshall, LB Karlos Dansby, DL Jared Odrick (draft), LB Koa Misi (draft)

Key departures: S Gibril Wilson, LB Joey Porter, WR Ted Ginn Jr., LB Akin Ayodele, G Justin Smiley, DT Jason Ferguson, LB Jason Taylor

TW: I personally like what the Dolphins have done this year in the offseason. The Brandon Marshall signing could be the biggest signing of the offseason. Chad Henne is a budding star in the league and could be in for a pretty good season. I also like what they did on defense, signing Karlos Dansby, Charles Grant, and Marques Douglas. Drafting Jared Odrick was also a good fit with the departure of Jason Ferguson. Miami could very well challenge the Jets for the division crown if all the pieces fall just right. I also see them as a possible darkhorse to make a playoff run and make the Super Bowl. But, who knows - only time will tell.

- TW's Prediction: 10-6

SP: While I admit I am a little biased towards Miami considering they are my favorite team, I am also relatively realistic with my predictions for them as well. The addition of Brandon Marshall, who is coming three straight 100+ reception seasons, will definitely help the Dolphin's in the passing game. I believe Henne will be one of the most improved QBs in the NFL this season with Marshall's addition. As long as Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams can stay healthy for the entire season, expect them to have a very dangerous run game as well. The Dolphins have had very impressive offensive packages over the past few seasons, including the Wildcat, and I expect they will get even more creative with Marshall now in the mix with the  superstar rushing duo. Adding Karlos Dansby, Charles Grant, and Jared Odrick to the defense were all solid moves that will definitely pay off this season. Dansby was one of the best defensive players in the NFC while he was with the Cardinals, and he just now reaching his prime. Health is the only thing I can see keeping Miami from making the postseason with one of the Wild Card berths.

- SP's Prediction: 11-5

3. New England Patriots (Head Coach: Bill Belichick)

Key arrivals: WR Torry Holt, TE Alge Crumpler, DT Gerard Warren, CB Devin McCourty (draft), TE Aaron Hernandez (draft), LB Brandon Spikes (draft), TE Rob Gronkowski (draft)

Key departures: CB Shawn Springs, LB Adalius Thomas, TE Ben Watson, DE Jarvis Green

TW: Well, I can't say anything bad about New England, as they filled their need....a lot. And that was Tight End. After trading Ben Watson, they added Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski through the draft, and got Alge Crumpler as a solid blocking tight end for Laurence Maroney and Kevin Faulk. They added Torry Holt to a steady receiving core, but it was announced Monday that Holt has been placed on IR, so he will not be used at all this season. They also lost defensive end Ty Warren for the season and it is unknown when Wes Welker will return..this could be an injury-plagued season for the Patriots. But, like always, the Patriots will have a good linebacking core with Jerod Mayo and Brandon Spikes, who they added in the draft. Tom Brady will probably be...well, Tom Brady. He's a perennial 4,000 yard passer and one of the best quarterbacks in the league, so with him on the field, the Patriots have a chance week-to-week.

- TW's Prediction: 10-6

SP: New England is a tough team for me to evaluate because there are several wild-cards on their team. Tom Brady has been an amazing QB since taking over the job for the Patriots, with the exception of the entire 2008 season he missed after injuring his knee against the Kansas City Chiefs in the season opener, but this may be the season his numbers begin the decline a little. With Wes Welker coming back from a torn ACL at the end of last season and age becoming a factor for Randy Moss, expect their numbers to be slightly down compared to recent years. Julian Edelman will likely have a good season, and could potentially be the teams top receiver this season. The Patriot's defense will need to continue to grow and improve, as they will need to be in the top half of the league for them to have a real chance at securing a playoff spot. They are pretty much dead even with the Dolphins, in my opinion, with the only exception being the Patriots have won a lot more recently. Sadly, New England, it's Miami's year.

- SP's Prediction: 11-5* (Would lose tie-breaker with Miami if they end with identical records, in my opinion)

4. Buffalo Bills (Head Coach: Chan Gailey)

Key arrivals: LB Andra Davis, RB C.J. Spiller (draft)

Key departures: WR Terrell Owens, DE/LB Aaron Schobel, LB Chris Draft, WR Josh Reed

TW: The Bills, in my opinion, are going to be the worst team in the league this year. They have no quarterback and their receivers are nothing more than unsteady. Trent Edwards has shown that he is not the "quarterback of the future" and Ryan Fitzpatrick isn't starting material. Their running game is what will save them, with a core of Marshawn Lynch, Fred Jackson, and rookie C.J. Spiller. Buffalo's receiving game hasn't been all that great since the Eric Moulds era and with the departures of Terrell Owens and Josh Reed, it looks like it's going to be worse. They also got a new coach, Chan Gailey, who is unproven and has already had an unsuccessful stint in the NFL. It looks like the Bills are in for a tumultuous season.

-TW's Prediction: 2-14

SP: After seeing Buffalo's first preseason game against the Washington Redskins, I'm not liking the outlook for this team. Chan Gailey may have walked into an impossible situation when he became head coach. With the exception of rookie C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson, there really aren't too many bright spots on this team on either side of the football. With Jackson injured and out an undisclosed amount of time, Spiller will have a lot on his shoulders in his first year in the NFL. While they definitely could have used a quarterback or wide receiver in the draft, adding Spiller will help them all over the field offensively. He truly is an all-purpose player that can run, catch, and probably play the return game as well if needed. The loss of T.O. is definitely going to hurt to receiving game, as it would take a massive season from Lee Evans for this team to have a chance at a respectable record. Trent Edwards has already proven he is one of the worst QBs in the league over the past few seasons, and he will be at the head of this train wreck too.

-SP's Prediction: 3-13

Pats Lose Ty Warren For Season; Contract Stalemate With Mankins

By: Tyler Ward

Well, to say the least, it's also been a horrible week for the Patriots, too (see my post about Glen Coffee's retirement and you will understand this statement).

It was confirmed on Friday that Patriots defensive end Ty Warren will miss the entire 2010 season with a hip injury. The injury isn't considered career-threatening, but Warren will be forced to undergo surgery, which he will do so on Monday in Colorado.The defensive lineman has already been placed on injured reserve.

The loss of Warren leaves a big hole in the Patriots' defense. He has been one of the mainstays on the Patriots squad - Warren was drafted by New England in 2003 with the 13th overall pick. He has started 92 out of a possible 105 games since entering the NFL. 

Warren told the Boston Herald on Friday, "I want to play as long as I can, I don't want to put a band-aid on it every week. I personally can't afford to be laboring around another year. I've been doing it for the past year and a half."

Ty Warren, Defensive End

Whether some believe it or not, Warren is up there with the likes of Jared Allen and Julius Peppers - he just doesn't get the recognition that he deserves. So, with his injury, the Patriots have been dealt a major blow to their defensive line. They traded away Richard Seymour to the Raiders last season, perhaps one of the best defensive linemen in Patriots history. To fill Warren's shoes, the Patriots brought back Derrick Burgess, hoping he can fill some type of void Warren left behind. Burgess arrived at the Patriots' facility today and passed his conditioning test.

Head Coach Bill Belichick issued a statement, "It's a tough break for Ty, but we have to move on. He's missed quite a bit of time the last couple of years. We've had to deal with that anyway. It's unfortunate, but unfortunately that's part of the game. We'll just move ahead."

The regular season is only three weeks away, so the Patriots will have to figure out something to do as an insurance policy for Warren. A trade could be in the near future for the Pats - it has been rumored that recently-released defensive lineman Aaron Schobel has expressed interest in three teams, one of them being the Patriots. Schobel was released by the Bills earlier this month. 

For his career, Warren has 496 tackles, 20.5 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles.

Not only do the Patriots have to deal with Warren's injury, but they also have to deal with Pro Bowl offensive lineman Logan Mankins' contract talks. Mankins' agent, Frank Bauer, told the Boston Globe that the Patriots have "totally lost this player mentally" as the sides continue to bicker about Mankins' possible extension. Mankins has stayed away from all mandatory team activities because of his "need" of a long-term solution.

Logan Mankins, Offensive Tackle

This weekend, the Patriots will likely send a letter to Mankins, stating that they will put him on the roster exempt list. The roster exempt list means that a player cannot play the following three games after they officially sign a contract.

Mankins' agent has gone far enough to say, "For this young man to work like he has and play for the club for five years, and be promised he'd be taken care of, and to throw the offer they did across the table? It was never, ever a five-year deal. They wanted six years, they wanted seven. They have to do what they have to do, and we'll do what we have to do."

Mankins had previously declined the $3.26 million tender offer - he is not the only player in the NFL to have done this so far, joining Chargers receiver Vincent Jackson and offensive lineman Marcus McNeill. In June, Mankins even said that he wanted to be traded away by the Patriots. He said at the time, "At this point, I'm pretty frustrated, from everything that's happened and the way negotiations have gone. I want to be traded. I don't need to be here any more."

He continued, "After the 2008 season, me and my agent approached the Patriots about an extension and I was told that Mr. Kraft did not want to do an extension because of the [uncertain collective bargaining agreement]," Mankins said. "I was asked to play '09 out, and that they would address the contract during the uncapped year. I'm a team player, I took them at their word, and I felt I played out an undervalued contract."

 "That's the big thing. Right now, this is about principle with me and keeping your word and how you treat people," Mankins continued. "This is what I thought the foundation of the Patriots was built on. Apparently, I was wrong. Growing up, I was taught a man's word is his bond. Obviously this isn't the case with the Patriots."

Mankins was chosen 32nd overall by the Patriots in the 2005 draft, their first round draft choice. He has started every single game for the Patriots since being drafted. Mankins signed his rookie contract with the Patriots in 2005 - a 5-year/$6.4 million deal. Quite underpaid, in my opinion.