And you thought the other conference was crazy. Check out the NFC...
AFC East
New England 12-3 (+3) 3rd quarter,(+4) 4th PF 464 PA 321 Div 4-1 Conf 9-2
Analysis: Just another typical year for the Patriots. Sure the Bills got hot early, but they faltered down the stretch. The Jets have been inconsistent, while the Dolphins haven't been in the race all season. Which means there is nothing really new to say about the consistent Pats.
Final Game: BUF (6-9)
What to expect: If Tom Brady can throw 191 yards better than Drew Brees, then Brady will be the all time season leader in passing yards. But with Brees playing on Sunday, don't expect that to happen. Expect the Patriots to avenge their week 3 loss to the Bills (34-31). Because the way of the way the AFC North has gone, the Pats shouldn't rely too heavy on the Ohio teams to take care of business.
NY Jets 8-7 (Even) 3rd & 4th Quarters PF 360 PA 344 Div 3-2 Conf 6-5
Analysis: For a team that is supposed to go to the Super Bowl, this team would be happy just to get in the playoffs. It may have happened before (Rex Ryan's 1st season), but that would be a miracle. And to be even in every quarter of this season but one (quarter 2) has been the story of this year.
Final Game: @MIA (5-10)
What to expect: Miami has had a much better showing in the second half of this season. Which should be enough incentive for the Jets to play for their jobs. That means that they will be fans of Baltimore, Houston and Oakland. I don't think the Jets want to get Tebowed again by Denver. But they need to take care of their own business first.
Buffalo 6-9 (-4) 3rd quarter, (-3) 4th PF 351 PA 385 Div 1-4 Conf 4-7
Analysis: Ever since the Bills' first win in Toronto, they haven't been the same since. During their 7 game skid, the Bills lost by an average of over 16 points, before knocking off the Broncos by 26. Maybe it wasn't a lack of hustle, but a lack of depth that hurt them as the team has suffered some devastating injuries.
Final Game: @NE (12-3)
What to expect: Sadly, we'll have to wait for next year for the Bills to end their playoff drought. But if there's one good thing that can be taken out of this bad season, they finally got some jerseys to be proud of.
Miami 5-10 (+3) 3rd quarter,(Even) 4th PF 310 PA 296 Div 2-3 Conf 4-7
Analysis: As expected, once the Phins lost their 9th game, Tony Sparano would no longer be head coach. While the future maybe murky, the season can end on a happy note if they can knock off the Jets. You'd feel the same way too if you couldn't win in the first half.
Final Game: NYJ (8-7)
What to expect: Expect this game to be a classic battle. With the stakes very high for the Jets, the Dolphins should feel no pressure to perform on Sunday.
AFC North
Baltimore 11-4 (+3) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 354 PA 250 Div 5-0 Conf 8-3
Analysis: The only losses for the Ravens this season have been to sub .500 teams. Their last loss was to Seattle in week 10 (22-17). And now would be the time for them to rise to the occasion. Now more than ever.
Final Game: @CIN (9-6)
What to expect: Talk about pressure, a win or loss could make a big difference. Especially since the Bengals have a lot at stake too. But a win and a Patriots loss will give them home field throughout the playoffs. So yeah, they've got a lot at stake here.
Pittsburgh 11-4 (+1) 3rd quarter, (+3) 4th PF 312 PA 218 Div 3-2 Conf 8-3
Analysis: The second half has looked good so far the Steelers. What makes a championship team is the fact that they can win under any circumstance. But being swept by the Ravens has put them in the predicament they're in now.
Final Game: @CLE (4-11)
What to expect: The Steel Curtain will have to handle their business to at least ensure a possible 1st round bye. Assuming the Ravens and/or Patriots lose. If they both lose, expect the Steelers to have a challenging time holding their own at Heinz Field. The Browns may or may not provide much resistance. But we'll have to wait til Sunday.
Cincinnati 9-6 (Even) 3rd & 4th quarters PF 328 PA 299 Div 2-3 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Thanks to a hot start to the 1st half, the Bengals are in prime position to take the final wild card spot. Just as long as they get their win over the Ravens, Paul Brown Stadium could see some more sell outs next season as a result.
Final Game: BAL (11-4)
What to expect: This game should be the Bengals playoff game. Remember, the week 11 contest in Baltimore (31-24 Ravens)? The Bengals were in the game most of that time. Another good reason why people should show up to the stadium on Sunday.
Cleveland 4-11 (-3) 3rd, (-4) 4th PF 209 PA 294 Div 0-5 Conf 3-8
Analysis: It has been a rather forgettable season for the Browns. Peyton Hillis isn't going to crack the 1000 yard mark this season (557 yds on 151 carries). Of course playing against the Steelers may not help his case to get to 600 yards. And with Colt McCoy being out, things have gone from bad to worse.
Final Game: PIT (11-4)
What to expect: If the Steelers get shut out, people who bought a Kia in Medina, OH will get their money back. That might be the day when hell freezes over, pigs fly or the combination of both.
AFC South
Houston 10-5 (+3) 3rd quarter, (Even) 4th PF 359 PA 255 Div 4-1 Conf 8-3
Analysis: With Matt Schaub on IR in week 10, followed by backup Matt Leinart the following week, the Texans have had every reason to call this season a lost cause. Instead, 3rd string T.J. Yates has helped the team clinch a series of firsts. Their 1st division title along with their first 10 win season has made life a lot easier for the Bayou City.
Final Game: TEN (8-7)
What to expect: Win or lose, the Texans aren't going anywhere in terms of playoff position. With Andre Johnson coming back this week, the Titans will have their hands full.
Tennessee 8-7 (Even) 3rd & 4th quarters PF 302 PA 295 Div 2-3 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Maybe the Titans don't have a shot at winning the division, but they do have a possible chance at the last wild card spot (somehow). With the Vince Young-Jeff Fisher drama far behind them, the Titans have improved. But their loss to the Bengals in week 9 might be the deal breaker that keeps the Nashville faithful out of the postseason.
Final Game: @HOU (10-5)
What to expect: Of all the teams that need help, it would be the Titans. But this should be a monumental task when they face the Texans at a rowdy Reliant Stadium. Especially in their former hometown.
Jacksonville 4-11 (-2) 3rd quarter, (-3) 4th PF 224 PA 316 Div 2-3 Conf 3-8
Analysis: With Jack Del Rio now gone, things should look up for the Jags. But now with new ownership, the team's future, whether they are in Jacksonville or not, is up in the air. This has been a tale tell sign of what was going to happen ever since the season began.
Final Game: IND (2-13)
What to expect: Who knows what's going to happen now? But one thing is for certain. They will have 3rd place solidified win or lose.
Indianapolis 2-13 (-4) 3rd quarter, (Even) 4th PF 230 PA 411 Div 2-3 Conf 2-9
Analysis: The Colts seemed destined to finish 0-16. But thanks to their win over the Titans in week 15 (27-13), they avoided joining the 2008 Lions. Bet Dan Orlovsky is feeling better about that too.
Final Game: @JAX (4-11)
What to expect: Will Andrew Luck be a Colt? Will Jim Caldwell still be Indy? What about Peyton Manning? So many more questions to come.
AFC West
Denver 8-7 (+4) 3rd quarter, (Even) 4th PF 306 PA 383 Div 3-2 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Just as all hope was lost for the Broncos season, they've had a reason to believe lately. Ever since Tim Tebow took over the starting job in week 7, the Broncos have really showed up in the second half of this season. OK, the last two games have been lackluster, but a visit from the Chiefs could help the Broncos get back on track.
Final Game: KC (6-9)
What to expect: Could Kyle Orton's return spell trouble for the Broncos? After the last couple of games Tebow has had, he could play more inspired than ever. Miracles do happen.
Oakland 8-7 (+2) 3rd quarter,(-3) 4th PF 333 PA 395 Div 3-2 Conf 6-5
Analysis: The Raiders looked real good in the 3rd quarter. But when you add new parts to a depleted team, things are bound to go wrong. And as such, they have. Either win the division or miss the postseason. It's that simple.
Final Game: SD (7-8)
What to expect: If I told you the situation again, I would be just repetitive. Same thing goes when it comes to the outcome of the game.
San Diego 7-8 (-4) 3rd quarter, (+3) 4th PF 368 PA 351 Div 2-3 Conf 6-5
Analysis: It's usually in December when the Bolts momentum comes to a crashing halt. But thanks to the lackluster 3rd quarter, there playoff chances a little early this season. And with that said, the future is not looking sunny in San Diego.
Final Game: @OAK (8-7)
What to expect: Norv Turner and A.J. Smith will be looking for new jobs after this campaign. Why not do at the expense of the Raiders. This game could possibly be a lost cause for everyone.
Kansas City 6-9 (-4) 3rd quarter, (Even) 4th PF 205 PA 335 Div 2-3 Conf 3-8
Analysis: Todd Haley is out as the head coach. Romeo Crennel takes over for the rest of the season. Is it going to be the permanent solution? Whatever happens,, the Chiefs are going to play spoiler... and to their archrivals the Broncos.
Final Game: @DEN (8-7)
What to expect: Just like I've said. It's a division game, anything goes. Hope you've enjoyed reading this. Happy New Years.
And you can follow both posts on Twitter. Follow @the_rtp_blog
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
NFL 3rd and 4th Quarter Review: NFC
Here they are, the 4th quarter reports are here. And because I missed the 3rd quarter, I brought them along too. Enjoy
NFC East
NY Giants 8-7 (-2) 3rd quarter,(Even) 4th PF 363 PA 386 Div 2-3 Conf 4-7
Analysis: The third quarter performance was too typical to say the least. Despite losing by 25 to the Saints in week 12, the G-Men only lost by 7 to the 49ers and Eagles in back to back weeks to close out the 3rd. This quarter started when the Packers extended their skid to 4 (38-35). To say that this quarter is an improvement would be a fallacy. While beating the Cowboys and Jets is an accomplishment, being swept by the underachieving Redskins is a huge step back
Final Game: DAL (8-7)
What to expect: The Giants seem to play to the level of their opponents and it has shown all season long. Expect another classic battle in the New Meadowlands this time. Assuming that the previous matchup in Arlington was sign of things to come. If they lose, it might be humanly possible to see Tom Coughlin let go, but don't bet the farm on that one.
Dallas 8-7 (+4) 3rd quarter,(-3) 4th PF 355 PA 316 Div 2-3 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Just as great as the 3rd quarter was, the 4th quarter was just as horrible. After knocking off the Dolphins on the Thanksgiving (20-19), the Cowboys have found ways to drop like flies. Whether it was Jason Garrett icing his own kicker in regulation (19-13 OT Cardinals), or Tom Coughlin (37-34 Giants). And let's not forget the choke job to be swept by the Eagles (20-7) who were just eliminated. They did beat the Buccaneers by 16 in week 15. It's been an up and down year, let's end this paragraph on a high note.
Final Game: @NYG (8-7)
What to expect: Tony Romo has been a tough player all year long. Playing through cracked ribs, bruised throwing hand and the all too often ribbing of his play in the 4th quarter. Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith may not believe the Boys are man enough for a playoff run. But with everything that has happened to them this year, a win over the G-Men in hostile New Jersey should give them the boost they need.
Philadelphia 7-8 (-2) 3rd quarter, (+3) 4th PF 362 PA 318 Div 4-1 Conf 5-6
Analysis: Whatever hope that was there after the last quarter has been vanquished. Michael Vick (ribs), Jeremy Maclin (shoulder & hamstring) and Nnmadi Asomugha (knee) were hurt most of that time. And that has been a reflection of their poor play last quarter. Add DeSean Jackson's disruptions to the mix and you can see why the Eagles just tanked. Yes ever since Vick has returned, the Eagles have finally looked like the team that they were supposed to be (beating the Dolphins 26-10, Jets 45-19 and Cowboys 20-7), the loss to the Seahawks in week 13 (31-14) made a huge impact.
Final Game: WAS (5-10)
What to expect: Just because there is no playoffs in their immediate future, the Eagles do have something to play for... a .500 record. It may not be an achievement, but at least they won't have a losing record either. At any rate, this season has been a nightmare for Philly fans. The real question is, will the Eagles dominate like they did in the last 3 weeks or will they let the Redskins make a game out of it?
Washington 5-10 (-3) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 278 PA 333 Div 2-3 Conf 5-6
Analysis: If the Redskins can find a silver lining through this tough stretch, it would be that they have lost by double digits only twice (week 10 20-9 Dolphins and week 13 34-19 Jets) in the 3rd and 4th quarters. While staying competitive in games is good, losing is not. We'll have to see how the Skins will play the market in the offseason.
Final Game: @PHI (7-8)
What to expect: One of the issues that need to be address in the offseason is the quarterback situation. Rex Grossman and John Beck are a combined 323-545, 3753 yds, 17 tds and 23 ints so far this season. But with a considerably weak quarterback class in this coming draft, they'll have to get lucky or make some deals in free agency to do that.
NFC North
Green Bay 14-1 (+4) 3rd quarter, (+3) 4th PF 515 PA 318 Div 5-0 Conf 11-0
Analysis: Nobody's perfect, but that's OK for the league best Packers. With that said, that should take some of the pressure off them if and when they win the Super Bowl in February. Need I say more?
Final Game: DET (10-5)
What to expect: Everyone has been dragging this issue out, rest Aaron Rodgers or start him? With a first round bye coming up they should play their 1st team for as long as possible. The season may not be in doubt anymore, but any positive momentum you can carry to the postseason is going to be beneficial.
Detroit 10-5 (-1) 3rd quarter, (+3) PF 433 PA 342 Div 3-2 Conf 6-5
Analysis: For the 1st time this century, the Lions have earned a spot in the playoffs. Overcoming their disciplinary issues this season, they have earned a wild card spot. On top of that, Matt Stafford has stayed healthy all season long which has attributed to their success.
Final Game: @GB (14-1)
What to expect: If the Lions lose and the Falcons win, the Lions will get the 6th seed facing either the Cowboys or Giants. May not be a bad thing, but having to go to Arlington or East Rutherford is going to be a daunting task. Not that New Orleans is going to be a walk in the park.
Chicago 7-8 (+3) 3rd quarter, (-4) 4th quarter PF 336 PA 328 Div 2-3 Conf 6-5
Analysis: With Jay Cutler out for the season (thumb) in week 11, the Bears have scored an average of 8.5 points per game in their last 5 games. Not good enough to keep up with the top tier of the division. Looks like changes are coming to the Windy City after this week.
Final Game: @MIN (3-12)
What to expect: The defense has looked decent, which is a far better than the offense. Mike Martz most likely will be gone at season's end and who knows if Lovie Smith will join him. But the Bears will have add more depth at the QB position in order to be a postseason force for years to come.
Minnesota 3-12 (-3) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 263 PA 449 Div 0-5 Conf 3-8
Analysis: This season could've been worse. They don't have the worst record in the NFL and Christian Ponder could make the Vikings better next season. Given the fact that this is their life now, the coming offseason should be something to anticipate.
Final Game: CHI (7-8)
What to expect: If the Rams and Colts both win and the Vikes lose to the Bears it could be a 3 way tie to determine the 1st pick for the draft. Ignore the last sentence if they win.
NFC South
New Orleans 12-3 (+3) 3rd quarter, (+4) 4th PF 502 PA 322 Div 4-1 Conf 8-3
Analysis: Unlike the Packers, the Saints have managed to go undefeated in the second half of the season. But that could change when the Panthers come to town. Unlike the Packers, they do have something to play for... that coveted 2nd seed.
Final Game: CAR (6-9)
What to expect: We all know what the situation entails. The Saints need to handle their business. Otherwise they host either the Lions or Falcons.
Atlanta 9-6 (+3) 3rd quarter, (Even) 4th PF 357 PA 326 Div 2-3 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Congratulations to the Falcons. They have made the post season in back to back seasons for the 1st time in franchise history. And with the NFC being really tough this season, that deserves a pat on the back.
Final Game: TB (4-11)
What to expect: There might be a slight chance that the Dirty Birds will face either the Saints or 49ers as 5th seed, but there's always a chance. But if they don't take the Buccaneers seriously... well you know the rest.
Carolina 6-9 (-2) 3rd quarter, (+3) 4th PF 389 PA 384 Div 2-3 Conf 3-8
Analysis: Last season, the Panthers won only two games. They have now won 3 times that this time around. And with Cam Newton breaking Peyton Manning's rookie passing yards record, along with a two game winning streak, things are looking up in Charlotte.
Final Game: @NO (12-3)
What to expect: Even if they lose to the Saints, this season is not a lost cause. Considering that this team is a couple of players away from being a force in the NFC South.
Tampa Bay 4-11 (-4) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 263 PA 449 Div 2-3 Conf 3-8
Analysis: I've been saying all along that this a young team. Why should anyone be surprised that this team took a step back this season? Look at it this way Buccaneer fans, they aren't the 2008 Lions, so that's something positive.
Final Game: @ATL (9-6)
What to expect: If they can get a win, keep their young nucleus and acquire some experience in the offseason, expect the young Bucs to be competitive. Otherwise, say goodbye to Raheem Morris. Assuming management is patient.
NFC West
San Francisco 12-3 (+3) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 346 PA 202 Div 4-1 Conf 9-2
Analysis: With a 7 game improvement with a possibility of going to 8, it's no wonder people are thinking Jim Harbaugh is the 2011 Coach of the Year. And with that said, Alex Smith could be Comeback player of the year. Given everything that has happened from last year.
Final Game: @STL (2-13)
What to expect: Even if they get the bye or not, the Niners should take this Rams team as seriously as the Saints are with the Panthers. One loss will be the factor. It should be easy, but nothing really is.
Seattle 7-8 (Even) 3rd quarter,(+3) 4th PF 301 PA 292 Div 3-2 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Looks like the Seahawks have gotten back on track. As the old saying goes, "too little too late". Even though they are not going to win the division this season, they get a win and they have improved by one game.
Final Game: @ARI (7-8)
What to expect: OK the game versus the Cardinals seems meaningless. But the possibility to improve from last year is anything but. In other words, the race for second should be interesting.
Arizona 7-8 (+3) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 289 PA 328 Div 3-2 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Let's stay with the theme of too little, too late. The Cardinals lost 6 out of 7 in the 1st half of the season, but have won 75% of their games in this half so far. Is there a quarterback controversy brewing in Glendale? We'll have to wait until the preseason. Offseason at the earliest.
Final Game: SEA (7-8)
What to expect: This game could be more pointless for the Cards than the Hawks for a couple of reasons. 1) They aren't going to the playoffs for the 3rd straight season and... 2) They've done better than last year. Although getting to .500 would be a sweet ending to a miserable start.
St. Louis 2-13 (-3) 3rd quarter, (-4) 4th PF 166 PA 373 Div 0-5 Conf 1-10
Analysis: Not only does Sam Bradford have to learn a new playbook in this lockout shortened preseason, he had the injury bug bite him. And to make matters worse, the 4th quarter looked disastrous scoring only 26 points during that stretch.
Final Game: SF(12-3)
What to expect: Steve Spagnulo will be someone's defensive coordinator this offseason. Josh McDaniels might be gone too. With a loss and a Colts win, the Rams could use that 1st round pick with whoever they see fit. Too bad this story can't have a happy ending. Or will it?
And you can follow both posts on Twitter. Follow @the_rtp_blog
NFC East
NY Giants 8-7 (-2) 3rd quarter,(Even) 4th PF 363 PA 386 Div 2-3 Conf 4-7
Analysis: The third quarter performance was too typical to say the least. Despite losing by 25 to the Saints in week 12, the G-Men only lost by 7 to the 49ers and Eagles in back to back weeks to close out the 3rd. This quarter started when the Packers extended their skid to 4 (38-35). To say that this quarter is an improvement would be a fallacy. While beating the Cowboys and Jets is an accomplishment, being swept by the underachieving Redskins is a huge step back
Final Game: DAL (8-7)
What to expect: The Giants seem to play to the level of their opponents and it has shown all season long. Expect another classic battle in the New Meadowlands this time. Assuming that the previous matchup in Arlington was sign of things to come. If they lose, it might be humanly possible to see Tom Coughlin let go, but don't bet the farm on that one.
Dallas 8-7 (+4) 3rd quarter,(-3) 4th PF 355 PA 316 Div 2-3 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Just as great as the 3rd quarter was, the 4th quarter was just as horrible. After knocking off the Dolphins on the Thanksgiving (20-19), the Cowboys have found ways to drop like flies. Whether it was Jason Garrett icing his own kicker in regulation (19-13 OT Cardinals), or Tom Coughlin (37-34 Giants). And let's not forget the choke job to be swept by the Eagles (20-7) who were just eliminated. They did beat the Buccaneers by 16 in week 15. It's been an up and down year, let's end this paragraph on a high note.
Final Game: @NYG (8-7)
What to expect: Tony Romo has been a tough player all year long. Playing through cracked ribs, bruised throwing hand and the all too often ribbing of his play in the 4th quarter. Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith may not believe the Boys are man enough for a playoff run. But with everything that has happened to them this year, a win over the G-Men in hostile New Jersey should give them the boost they need.
Philadelphia 7-8 (-2) 3rd quarter, (+3) 4th PF 362 PA 318 Div 4-1 Conf 5-6
Analysis: Whatever hope that was there after the last quarter has been vanquished. Michael Vick (ribs), Jeremy Maclin (shoulder & hamstring) and Nnmadi Asomugha (knee) were hurt most of that time. And that has been a reflection of their poor play last quarter. Add DeSean Jackson's disruptions to the mix and you can see why the Eagles just tanked. Yes ever since Vick has returned, the Eagles have finally looked like the team that they were supposed to be (beating the Dolphins 26-10, Jets 45-19 and Cowboys 20-7), the loss to the Seahawks in week 13 (31-14) made a huge impact.
Final Game: WAS (5-10)
What to expect: Just because there is no playoffs in their immediate future, the Eagles do have something to play for... a .500 record. It may not be an achievement, but at least they won't have a losing record either. At any rate, this season has been a nightmare for Philly fans. The real question is, will the Eagles dominate like they did in the last 3 weeks or will they let the Redskins make a game out of it?
Washington 5-10 (-3) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 278 PA 333 Div 2-3 Conf 5-6
Analysis: If the Redskins can find a silver lining through this tough stretch, it would be that they have lost by double digits only twice (week 10 20-9 Dolphins and week 13 34-19 Jets) in the 3rd and 4th quarters. While staying competitive in games is good, losing is not. We'll have to see how the Skins will play the market in the offseason.
Final Game: @PHI (7-8)
What to expect: One of the issues that need to be address in the offseason is the quarterback situation. Rex Grossman and John Beck are a combined 323-545, 3753 yds, 17 tds and 23 ints so far this season. But with a considerably weak quarterback class in this coming draft, they'll have to get lucky or make some deals in free agency to do that.
NFC North
Green Bay 14-1 (+4) 3rd quarter, (+3) 4th PF 515 PA 318 Div 5-0 Conf 11-0
Analysis: Nobody's perfect, but that's OK for the league best Packers. With that said, that should take some of the pressure off them if and when they win the Super Bowl in February. Need I say more?
Final Game: DET (10-5)
What to expect: Everyone has been dragging this issue out, rest Aaron Rodgers or start him? With a first round bye coming up they should play their 1st team for as long as possible. The season may not be in doubt anymore, but any positive momentum you can carry to the postseason is going to be beneficial.
Detroit 10-5 (-1) 3rd quarter, (+3) PF 433 PA 342 Div 3-2 Conf 6-5
Analysis: For the 1st time this century, the Lions have earned a spot in the playoffs. Overcoming their disciplinary issues this season, they have earned a wild card spot. On top of that, Matt Stafford has stayed healthy all season long which has attributed to their success.
Final Game: @GB (14-1)
What to expect: If the Lions lose and the Falcons win, the Lions will get the 6th seed facing either the Cowboys or Giants. May not be a bad thing, but having to go to Arlington or East Rutherford is going to be a daunting task. Not that New Orleans is going to be a walk in the park.
Chicago 7-8 (+3) 3rd quarter, (-4) 4th quarter PF 336 PA 328 Div 2-3 Conf 6-5
Analysis: With Jay Cutler out for the season (thumb) in week 11, the Bears have scored an average of 8.5 points per game in their last 5 games. Not good enough to keep up with the top tier of the division. Looks like changes are coming to the Windy City after this week.
Final Game: @MIN (3-12)
What to expect: The defense has looked decent, which is a far better than the offense. Mike Martz most likely will be gone at season's end and who knows if Lovie Smith will join him. But the Bears will have add more depth at the QB position in order to be a postseason force for years to come.
Minnesota 3-12 (-3) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 263 PA 449 Div 0-5 Conf 3-8
Analysis: This season could've been worse. They don't have the worst record in the NFL and Christian Ponder could make the Vikings better next season. Given the fact that this is their life now, the coming offseason should be something to anticipate.
Final Game: CHI (7-8)
What to expect: If the Rams and Colts both win and the Vikes lose to the Bears it could be a 3 way tie to determine the 1st pick for the draft. Ignore the last sentence if they win.
NFC South
New Orleans 12-3 (+3) 3rd quarter, (+4) 4th PF 502 PA 322 Div 4-1 Conf 8-3
Analysis: Unlike the Packers, the Saints have managed to go undefeated in the second half of the season. But that could change when the Panthers come to town. Unlike the Packers, they do have something to play for... that coveted 2nd seed.
Final Game: CAR (6-9)
What to expect: We all know what the situation entails. The Saints need to handle their business. Otherwise they host either the Lions or Falcons.
Atlanta 9-6 (+3) 3rd quarter, (Even) 4th PF 357 PA 326 Div 2-3 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Congratulations to the Falcons. They have made the post season in back to back seasons for the 1st time in franchise history. And with the NFC being really tough this season, that deserves a pat on the back.
Final Game: TB (4-11)
What to expect: There might be a slight chance that the Dirty Birds will face either the Saints or 49ers as 5th seed, but there's always a chance. But if they don't take the Buccaneers seriously... well you know the rest.
Carolina 6-9 (-2) 3rd quarter, (+3) 4th PF 389 PA 384 Div 2-3 Conf 3-8
Analysis: Last season, the Panthers won only two games. They have now won 3 times that this time around. And with Cam Newton breaking Peyton Manning's rookie passing yards record, along with a two game winning streak, things are looking up in Charlotte.
Final Game: @NO (12-3)
What to expect: Even if they lose to the Saints, this season is not a lost cause. Considering that this team is a couple of players away from being a force in the NFC South.
Tampa Bay 4-11 (-4) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 263 PA 449 Div 2-3 Conf 3-8
Analysis: I've been saying all along that this a young team. Why should anyone be surprised that this team took a step back this season? Look at it this way Buccaneer fans, they aren't the 2008 Lions, so that's something positive.
Final Game: @ATL (9-6)
What to expect: If they can get a win, keep their young nucleus and acquire some experience in the offseason, expect the young Bucs to be competitive. Otherwise, say goodbye to Raheem Morris. Assuming management is patient.
NFC West
San Francisco 12-3 (+3) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 346 PA 202 Div 4-1 Conf 9-2
Analysis: With a 7 game improvement with a possibility of going to 8, it's no wonder people are thinking Jim Harbaugh is the 2011 Coach of the Year. And with that said, Alex Smith could be Comeback player of the year. Given everything that has happened from last year.
Final Game: @STL (2-13)
What to expect: Even if they get the bye or not, the Niners should take this Rams team as seriously as the Saints are with the Panthers. One loss will be the factor. It should be easy, but nothing really is.
Seattle 7-8 (Even) 3rd quarter,(+3) 4th PF 301 PA 292 Div 3-2 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Looks like the Seahawks have gotten back on track. As the old saying goes, "too little too late". Even though they are not going to win the division this season, they get a win and they have improved by one game.
Final Game: @ARI (7-8)
What to expect: OK the game versus the Cardinals seems meaningless. But the possibility to improve from last year is anything but. In other words, the race for second should be interesting.
Arizona 7-8 (+3) 3rd and 4th quarters PF 289 PA 328 Div 3-2 Conf 6-5
Analysis: Let's stay with the theme of too little, too late. The Cardinals lost 6 out of 7 in the 1st half of the season, but have won 75% of their games in this half so far. Is there a quarterback controversy brewing in Glendale? We'll have to wait until the preseason. Offseason at the earliest.
Final Game: SEA (7-8)
What to expect: This game could be more pointless for the Cards than the Hawks for a couple of reasons. 1) They aren't going to the playoffs for the 3rd straight season and... 2) They've done better than last year. Although getting to .500 would be a sweet ending to a miserable start.
St. Louis 2-13 (-3) 3rd quarter, (-4) 4th PF 166 PA 373 Div 0-5 Conf 1-10
Analysis: Not only does Sam Bradford have to learn a new playbook in this lockout shortened preseason, he had the injury bug bite him. And to make matters worse, the 4th quarter looked disastrous scoring only 26 points during that stretch.
Final Game: SF(12-3)
What to expect: Steve Spagnulo will be someone's defensive coordinator this offseason. Josh McDaniels might be gone too. With a loss and a Colts win, the Rams could use that 1st round pick with whoever they see fit. Too bad this story can't have a happy ending. Or will it?
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