It's no secret that the Packers major problem in 2009 is the offensive line. Aaron Rodgers is being hit repeatedly and his sack total continues to rise. The Packers have allowed more sacks than any other team in the NFL thus far with 37. They have already eclipsed their total from last season, and the sacks are not a good sign for a team that had some hopes for this season.

To put into perspective the stat that sacks allowed is you must realize that in the top 15 (or bottom I suppose) teams in the category (which actually encompasses 17 teams because of ties), only four of those teams have a record better than .500. That is a telling number.

The passing game was supposed to be a strength of the this team, and so far it has been as this team is ninth in the league. Even with that, there seems to be something off with the Packers air game.

Is the line that bad? Yes. Is Rodgers holding on to the ball too long? Probably. Have the Packers changed their offensive game plan? I think so.

What I mean by that is that the Packers seem to have gone away from the short passing game that made them so successful in years past. The Viking game was a clear example of this. The Packers were able to get into the game late with short passes that allowed the receivers to make plays after the catch.

It wasn't but two years ago where the Packers were one of the most dangerous YAC teams in the NFL. In 2007 the Packers went 13-3 behind Brett Favre and basically the same group of receivers, minus Koren Robinson. Greg Garber of ESPN wrote prior to their playoff game with the Seahawks that,

"Essentially, the Packers won this season less because of Favre's arm than the feet of his receivers. Almost half of Favre's 4,155 passing yards -- 2,061 -- came after the catch, according to the Elias Sports Bureau."

Why did this team go away from that strategy? The game plan seems to have shifter to going deep more often as evidenced by the Packers 41 plays of 20+ yards or more. Only two teams in the NFL have more big plays, the Cowboys and the Texans.

This issue is discussed in an interview between Jason Wilde of the ESPNMilwaukee.com and the Drew Olson here.

There seem to be a lot of factors at play when discussing the Packers and their inability to keep Rodgers upright. One of the quickest fixes could be play calling changes. If more quick routes are called the Packers should be able to keep Rodgers protected and should be able to let the receivers make the plays on their own, they are some of the most talented in all of the NFL.

I think all the evidence you need is in the Packers-Vikings box score from Sunday, November 1st. In the third quarter the Packers mounted their comeback with 17 straight points to pull within four points. On those three consecutive drives Rodgers was 12-14 for 169 yards and two touchdowns. Of those 14 passes, only three were deep balls.

The Bears have been a disaster waiting to happen on Sundays. Against the Cardinals and the Bengals the Bears completely collapsed on defense. Both opponents marched down the field possession after possession and both games were essentially over by halftime.

The Bears have little to identify themselves with as they struggle to run the ball, struggle to stop the run and have just as hard of a time stopping the pass. Watching them and some of the other teams play on Sunday, it got me to thinking: what does it take to be successful in today's NFL?

Starting with defense, following the old adage that "defense wins championships" I found some interesting numbers. For example, did you know that the Jets are second in the NFL in yards allowed per game? Green Bay and Washington and Carolina are also in the top ten in that category. Green Bay is fourth overall in the entire NFL. Que?

Maybe yards aren't a good indicator of what it takes. Surely you could be giving your opponents a short field to work with time after time, or maybe you are allowing long sustained drives that eat up the clock and still put points on the board. There are many explanations for this. Next.

This league has turned into a passing league. So maybe it's the pass you must focus on stopping to be successful. Not so much. Washington leads the league in that category with the Jets second in the NFL. Again Carolina and Green Bay come in the top ten, though neither are above .500. Of course, you can not fall into the bottom section of this group. Those who come in at the end are Tennessee, Detroit and Kansas City. Four teams in the top ten in this category are currently .500 or lower.

What about stopping the run?

The Steelers lead the NFL in stopping the run, allowing just 70.4 yards per game. Rounding out the top ten are the Bengals, Cardinals, 49ers, Dolphins, Vikings, Ravens, Broncos, Packers and Eagles. Just two of those teams are currently below .500 (49ers and Dolphins). Sounds better. Mark it down: you must effectively stop the run to have success in the NFL. That can't sit well with the Colts, Saints and Patriots who all come in between 14th and 20th in the NFL. Maybe something to keep an eye on as these teams enter the playoffs, as they all inevitably will.

So we've established that stopping the run is important, with some anomalies. But what about the offense?

Oh how Lovie likes to get off the bus running. But is it really that important to a team's overall success in the NFL? The Jets are the best running team in the NFL averaging nearly 177 yards per game. They are followed by the Titans, Panthers, Dolphins, Saints, Jaguars, Giants, Dallas, Bengals and Packers. Of those teams in the top ten only four are above .500. That's weird. I've always been told you need to run the ball to win. Moving on.

The Colts are the number one passing team in the NFL followed by New England, Houston and New Orleans. Together they have a combined record of 27-6 (four of those losses are the Texans). Rounding out the top ten are the Steelers, Cowboys, Chargers, Cardinals, Packers and the Ravens. In the top ten in this category, no team is below .500 and only the Packers and Ravens are not above .500, both at 4-4. So it is a passing league. I suspected as much.

So what can we get from all this:

When it comes to pass defense six of the top ten in terms of yards allowed are currently above .500. Their combined record is 46-35.

Stopping the run is a bit more important than stopping the pass, but not by much. Eight teams in the top ten in this category are currently .500 or better. They have a combined record of 49-31.

Running the ball seems to be the least important aspect to winning football games. Of the teams in this category only four are over .500 and they have a combined record of 45-36.

Then we get to the passing offense. If you want to win in the NFL, you better be able to throw the football. All ten teams atop this category are .500 or better. They have a combined record of 57-24. The Packers and Ravens represent the only two team in the top ten that are not better than .500, and they rank ninth and tenth respectively.

There you have it. Some more fun with statistics. Stop the run and throw the ball effectively and you should find success in the NFL. Maybe the Jets, should try it, since they seem to everything well but pass (27th in the league and 4-4) Sounds simple enough, right?

1. Rodgers, who is said to have two seperate sprains, is going to miss some time this season. I'm not sure when, but I think it is inevitable.
2. Rodgers now has been sacked 31 times. He was sacked 34 times in 2008.
3. Rodgers leads the NFL in QB Rating at 110.4 and has only been picked off twice in 2009.
4. I started all three of those points with Rodgers.
5. Rodgers is Roethlisberger like in the way he continues to hang on to the ball too long. He can take some of the heat off the O-line if he tries to get rid of the ball a little sooner.
6. Jared Allen has 10.5 sacks on the season, 7.5 in two games versus Green Bay.
7. Brett Favre made it a worse case scenario day for TT, throwing for four touchdowns on Sunday and stealing the show.

The Cardinals and Cowboys moved up big, while the Falcons, Bears and 49ers all dropped considerably.

The Bears and Packers each lost some ground, but the Bears as you would expect took the biggest tumble. So to all of you Packer fans who wanted to see Green Bay ahead of the Bears, you got your wish.

As always you can check out the Bloguin NFL Power Rankings here.

Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
1		2	1	6-0	vs. 49ers
		I was too quick to put the Saints in the top spot. This team is the real deal.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
2		1	1	6-0	vs. Falcons
		They are winning games every way possible.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
3		4	1	6-0	@ Ravens
		They've had two weeks to prepare for the Ravens. I think that's enough.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
4		4	1	6-1	@ Packers
		Favre back at Lambeau for the first time. A win may lock the door on the NFC North.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
5		7	2	5-2	Bye
		A date with the Colts just two weeks away and NE is hitting it's stride just in time.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
6		9	3	5-2	Bye
		This makes me want to vomit, but Cedric Benson is an MVP candidate.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
7		8	1	5-2	Bye
		Rest up, because the Broncos and Bengals await following the Bye.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
8		5	3	5-2	@ Eagles
		Suddenly their defense and their schedule are looking very scary.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
9		16	7	4-2	vs. Panthers
		The Niners troubles have made this their division to lose.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
10		19	9	4-2	vs. Seahawks
		That is how the Cowboys are supposed to look every week.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
11		6	5	4-2	@ Saints
		That win vs. the Bears is not looking as impressive anymore.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
12		10	2	3-3	vs. Broncos
		Ravens need a win one week before divisional match up with the Bengals.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
13		12	1	4-2	vs. Giants
		One week after losing to the Raiders a win versus the Skins doesn't do anything for me.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
14		13	1	4-2	vs. Vikings
		No sacks allowed vs. Browns, I don't think Rodgers will be so lucky this weekend.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
15		14	1	3-3	vs.  Raiders
		Raiders should give this team a much needed boost.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
16		17	1	4-3	@ Bills
		Look who's on the winning side of things.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
17		11	6	3-3	vs. Browns
		What the shiz was that?
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
18		18	-	4-3	vs. Dolphins
		Let's not get crazy about a win over the Raiders.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
19		20	1	2-4	@ Jets
		Could not close out a very winnable game against one of league's best.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
20		15	5	3-3	@ Colts
		Alex Smith may be the answer, just not to this week's question.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
21		21	-	3-3	@ Titans
		Two winnable games in a row start with rematch vs. Titans.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
22		24	2	3-4	vs. Texans
		Dick Jauron.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
23		23	-	2-4	@ Cowboys
		Check out this list.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
24		22	2	2-4	@ Cardinals
		Delhomme has 4 TD's and 13 INT's on the season.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
25		26	1	1-5	vs. Rams
		Was two weeks enough to prepare for the winless Rams?
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
26		25	1	2-5	@ Chargers
		This team is going no where fast.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
27		27	-	1-6	Bye
		Just rest.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
28		28	-	1-6	@ Bears
		Derek Anderson looked horrible. Is Brady Quinn that bad?
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
29		29	-	2-5	Bye
		So was Zorn the issue or not? It didn't appear that way on Monday Night.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
30		30	-	0-6	vs. Jaguars
		What would you like Fisher to do? You can't polish a turd.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
31		31	-	0-7	Bye
		London, US, Tokyo this team is pretty bad where ever they play.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
32		32	-	0-7	@ Lions
		They are going to kill Steven Jackson.

Maybe you've heard the latest comments from former teammates of Brett Favre regarding the comparison of the 1996 Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers to the 2009 Minnesota Vikings. It all started with this comment from Favre himself,

"Physically, and from a talent level, this is the best team I've ever been on."

The comment was made by Favre earlier this season, but it's creating quite a stir as the Packers prepare to face Brett and his new team at Lambeau Field. Lori Nickel of the Journal Sentinal gathered some of the thoughts of Favre's old mates to see what they thought of the statement, and as you would expect, they respectfully disagree.

I was just a wee lad in 1996, well maybe not wee, but I was a lad, and while I can recall the opening play of the Super Bowl and various random memories of that season, I don't really remember that team as well as some others might. In other words, I can't account for the mentality of the team, their overall swagger or their general badassery other than I do seem to recall some thing called the Reg Wedge, but can't find it on the interweb anywhere. Is it possible that the infamous Reg Wedge is a figment of my imagination? Probably, if you take into account some of my other recreational hobbies from late '90s.

Anywho.

The debate is on. Which is the better team? These can be nearly impossible questions to answer. There have been comparisons to the 1995 Chicago Bears, the 1972 Dolphins and so on and so forth. While we can't match them up on the field, we can look at the numbers and they may give us some clue. So let's do exactly that.

1996 Green Bay Packers

The '96 Packers started the season 3-0, 8-1 and finished 13-3. The season opened with a 34-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Bucs in which the Packers forced 6 turnovers and Keith Jackson had three touchdowns. It was a preview of things to come as the Packers not only led the NFL in points scored in 1996 with 456 (28.5 ppg), but they also allowed the fewest with just 210 (13.1 ppg). They were also second in the league in turnover margin at +15.

Team Stats and Rankings

Reggie White recorded 8.5 sacks that season, Keith Jackson caught 10 touchdown passes, Edgar Bennett racked up the yards while Dorsey Levens finished off the drives, Desmond Howard returned three punts for touchdowns, Antonio Freeman nearly went over 1,000 yards with 9 TD's of his own and LeRoy Butler, Doug Evans and Eugene Robinson combined for 16 INT's and nine sacks of their own.

It was complete domination on both sides of the ball which culminated in a championship, the only true mark of a great team.

The 2009 Minnesota Vikings

The season is long from over and this team's legacy is yet to be written, but we can look at the numbers now and see if there is anything that leads us to the same conclusion it seems to have led Brett.

The 2009 Vikings started the season 6-0 before losing last week in Pittsburgh. Their games haven't been quite as decisive as the Packers were 13 years ago, but they have found ways to win none the less. The Vikings are averaging 29.4 ppg (3rd in the NFL) which is very similar to the '96 Packers. Their defense however, is not quite as stingy as the Packers were in '96. The Vikings allow 21.1 ppg which is 17th in the NFL right now.

Team Stats and Rankings

Adrian Peterson is on pace for over 1,500 yards and around 18 touchdowns, Percy Harvin has returned two kicks for touchdowns, Visanthe Shiancoe has 5 touchdowns and is on pace for 11 or 12 this season, Jared Allen already has 7.5 sacks and looks about as unstoppable as Reggie was in 1996 and Kevin Williams has added four of his own. As good as this run defense is, it is on pace to allow more yards than the '96 Packers and the pass defense is no where near as good from what I can tell.

Now this is all based purely on numbers, and these two teams obviously did not face common opponents. The only thing that is the same about them is Favre himself.

Favre in 1996 was in the prime of his career.

His yardage numbers don't represent the best of his 18 years, but his 39 touchdown passes still stand as the most he ever threw in one single season. His 95.8 QB Rating is the second best of his career, and he has not topped that number since the Super Bowl season.

In 2009 Favre is on pace to throw for nearly 4,000 yards and somewhere around 27 touchdowns. His interceptions are the glaring statistic, and that is a good thing for Brett. In 2009 he has yet to throw five INT's, and is on pace to throw only 6-7 on the year, if he can keep up this pace of play. It makes you wonder if Mark Chmura's comment is completely accurate: "I kind of went through the teams position by position and they just aren't as good as we were. And it all starts with Brett - Brett's not as good as he was."

I think I know which is the better team and Favre may have an out when it comes to this one. Remember, he used the words "most talented," not "better." If the Vikings win the Super Bowl in 2009 though, he may get to say "I told you so."

After being called out all week long via Twitter by Chad Ochocinco, and being dissed by once fat and lazy running back Cedric Benson, you would have thought that the Bears would have come out with a little more effort than they showed in a complete trouncing at the hands of the Bengals in Cincinnati.

A preview of the duel would have you thinking that the teams were essentially equals. The Bears had showed some flashes of greatness and some mediocrity and some flat out bad football. The Bengals had done the same in their five games. Just one week ago the Bengals were shredded by the Houston Texans and coming into the game yesterday Cincinnati was 28th in the NFL in passing defense. It didn't matter.

The Bears were done after two drives, defeated both on the scoreboard and in their heads. The Bengals offensive line was just as determined as Cedric was to make sure the Bears walked away the fools, the Bengals offensive coordinator had Lovie's defense pegged and called play after play that allowed his receivers to find gaping holes in the Cover 2 defense that Smith swears by.

There was only one thing to play for in this game, and that was pride. Entering the game these teams were almost statistical identicals, though it sure didn't look that way once the whistle blew.

The Bears were beaten at the point of attack, on both sides of the ball. Olin Kruetz, Frank "Ole" Omiyale and Orlando Pace were all pushed aside routinely as Cutler took hit after hit throughout the game. The D-line once again never got to the quarterback and Carson Palmer was left to toss the ball around like it was training camp.

There was no silver lining to this. There are no positives. Lovie Smith says post-game that "it is business as usual" from this point on and that they are 3-3 "in the bigger picture." While this is true, I suppose, Lovie has to make some changes. He was asked about Omiyale's status after last week's performance and he decided to make no changes to the offensive line. Not good.

Then Smith comes out against one of the best running attacks in the NFL and shows the Bengals six and seven in the box while. Carson Palmer had to be drooling when he saw that; he and his core of receivers are too good to not take advantage.

THE COVER 2

What bothers me more than anything about this game and even some of the things I have seen this season is Lovie's insistence to run this scheme despite lacking the talent to properly execute it. In case you are not familiar with the concept of the Cover 2, or the Tampa 2, it is as follows:

The "Tampa 2" typically consists of four linemen, three linebackers, two cornerbacks, and two safeties. The scheme is known for its simple format, speed, and the aggressive mentality of its players. Although it lacks the complexity of other defenses, it instead relies heavily on the attitudes of its players and tremendous team speed. Tampa 2 teams are known as gang tacklers and practice to always run to the ball. It also requires a hard hitting secondary to cause turnovers.

The simple flaw with the Bears lies not in the scheme, but in the players. Lovie has a love affair with athletic players forgetting that the Bears simply don't have the talent right now to run this defense. With Brian Urlacher out for the season and the Bears forced to shift the linebackers around they have exposed themselves in the middle of the field, the spot where Brian was so quick to cover.

Safeties Al Afalava and Daniel Manning while very athletic, aren't good enough to make up for the gaps the linebackers leave on the field and because the defensive line is unable to put any pressure on the quarterback the cornerbacks are exposed (in reality the Bears have only one of those) and the whole thing breaks down. Yesterday was the prime example of all that can go wrong when this scheme is run with players who are unable to handle it.

Unfortunately not much can be done about this now. The only changes that can be made are in the players heads. They need to take this loss and let it fester and remember the feeling of being completely dominated by a team that essentially told you they were going to do it.

Looking for last second fantasy football advice? Are you struggling to decide between two players? Are you trying to figure out how to spell BenJarvus? Then this is your place. Let's go around the NFL and get some predictions and some quick tips for you Fantasy Football Sunday.

I'll give some of what I think are sure bets to nab you big fantasy points this week. If they aren't listed, I recommend you stay away if you can or don't expect much. Feel free to come back and ridicule me afterwards.

San Francisco @ Houston
I like Houston in this game and I like them to go to the air early and often. The 49ers are two weeks removed from a drubbing at the hands of the Atlanta Falcons and despite that preparation time the Texans should be able to squeak out a close win at home. Solid Fantasy Plays: Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson, Frank Gore

Green Bay @ Cleveland
I'm not sure there is any way the Browns can win this game, other than if Aaron Rodgers breaks his leg and I'm not even sure that would do it. Did I just jinx A.R.? The Browns would be wise to try to establish a running game with Jamal Lewis, but he still a player to avoid this week. Solid Fantasy Plays: Aaron Rodgers, Ryan Grant, Donald Driver, Green Bay Defense

San Diego @ Kansas City
Not much left to the imagination on this one. The Chargers absolutely need a win in Kansas City this week and they should get it. The Chiefs have some chances to get their running game going in this one with Larry Johnson, but ultimately the Charges should walk away with a W. Avoid Larry Johnson and feel relatively comfortable with LT and Darren Sproles. LT will get the bulk of the carries but Sproles may break off a big run. Solid Fantasy Plays: Philip Rivers, Vincent Jackson, Antonio Gates

Indianapolis @ St. Louis
You may not have noticed lately, but the Rams have been putting up some big yards in their losses. That won't happen today as this one should be over quickly. So quickly that it may actually hurt Peyton Manning's value a bit. Steven Jackson is everything in this offense, and despite his inability to find the end zone thus far, he should put up some yardage in the passing game. Avoid all other Rams. Solid Fantasy Plays: Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, Joseph Addai, Steven Jackson, Colts D

Minnesota @ Pittsburgh
Finally a game worth watching. I'm biased, because I will be rooting for the Steelers in this one, but I think they will get a win here. If the game were in Minnesota I might be swayed the other way. Big Ben and Hines Ward should connect often in this game, and if you are in a PPR league this is the matchup of the day I believe. Adrian Peterson will get his yards, even if the bulk come on one or two plays. If Percy Harvin can't go, look for TE Vinsanthe Shiancoe and Sidney Rice to be Brent Favre's big targets. Solid Fantasy Plays: Hines Ward, Adrian Peterson, Vinsanthe Shiancoe

New England @ Tampa Bay
Where is this game being played? Who the hell cares. The Patriots showed what kind of fire power they have last week versus the Titans, and I fully expect to see more of the same this week, albeit it to a lesser extent. Solid Fantasy Plays: Tom Brady, Laurence Maroney, Wes Welker, Randy Moss, you know what just play any Patriot you can get your hands on

New York Jets @ Oakland
Sure Oakland pulled out a win against the Eagles last week, but don't expect another this week. Mark Sanchez has played more like a rookie as the weeks have progressed and I would avoid him like the plague until you see a couple of weeks of production in a row, which may not come until 2010. Solid Fantasy Plays: Thomas Jones, Braylon Edwards

Buffalo @ Carolina
Is it me, or are there a lot of bad games this week. The Bills allow over 180 yards per game on the ground making DeAngelo Williams probably the best RB play of the week and his partner Jonathan Stewart a relatively safe bet in the deeper leagues or if you need a fill in during this loaded bye week. Solid Fantasy Plays: DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart, take a flyer on Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson if you are in a deeper PPR league

Chicago @ Cincinnati
These two teams put up very similar numbers except for in the rushing game where the Bengals have the advantage. If the Bears can limit their turnovers they should be able to grab a win on the road. Solid Fantasy Plays: Not sure I see a real safe bet in this one

Atlanta @ Dallas
The Falcons have two impressive wins in a row and now they head to Dallas for another big game. Dallas has shown me nothing that makes me believe they can handle a solid team like Atlanta, so I give them the Falcons the nod here. I like Michael Turner for his TD's and Tony Romo for his yardage. Solid Fantasy Plays: Tony Romo, Michael Turner, Tony Gonzalez

New Orleans @ Miami
Drew Brees lit up the Giants a week ago and I don't think there are many defenses suited to stop him. Miami may be able to slow the rushing attack of the Saints, but once Brees starts to go to the air the scoreboard will start to light up. Solid Fantasy Plays: Drew Brees, Marques Colston, Ronnie Brown in a PPR league

Arizona @ New York Giants
The Cardinals are holding opponents to just 59 yards per game on the ground so far in 2009. That will be put to the test this week in New York where Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw have been a two headed monster for the Giants. I don't really like either in this match up, but if I had to choose it would be Bradshaw for his ability to catch the ball. As far as the game goes, this one looks to be close on paper, but I like the Giants to bounce back in a big way on national television. Solid Fantasy Plays: Eli Manning, Steve Smith, Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald

Philadelphia @ Washington
Need some relief after you blow a game at Oakland? Washington is the cure. I think the Eagles want to make a statement following that loss and they will do so against the Redskins who have lost to some of the worst teams in the league. The Eagles should win handily, but that doesn't mean a lot of points will be scored. Solid Fantasy Plays: Eagles D

Don't Sleep on these players: Matt Forte, Tim Hightower, Leon Washington, Cadillac Williams, Reggie Bush, Dwayne Bowe, Steve Breaston, Lance Moore, Dallas Clark, Jermichael Finley, Benjamin "Randy" Watson, Miles Austin

Rex's Week 7 Fantasy Football Dream Team
QB - Drew Brees
RB - DeAngelo Williams
RB - Adrian Peterson
RB/WR - Reggie Wayne
WR - Andre Johnson
WR - Randy Moss
TE - Antonio Gates
K - John Carney
D/ST - GB Packers

Delusion. This is what I believe former running back Cedric Benson is experiencing when he speaks of his former team. Benson is third in the NFL in rushing and has rejuvenated his career in Cincinnati, and we couldn't be happier for him. Cough. But the things he had to say to the media as we approach the Bear-Bengals match up simply makes no sense, at least not if you have any type of memory.

Not sure if some of what Cedric has said recently technically counts as bullentin board material, but hell, why not use it.

While the numbers weren't awful in Chicago, there was plenty to dislike about the former first round pick, though Benson may need to be reminded of some of the details.

Following his two arrests in a span of five weeks the Bears decided to cut ties with Benson in June of 2008. That was just the final straw however of what was a tumultuous relationship between Cedric and the Bears. Following his first arrest, Bears coach Lovie Smith and GM Jerry Angelo stood behind Benson, and very publicly, only to look like fools just over a month later.  Maybe Benson forgot about his role in his troubles with Chicago.

Cedric had this to say about his former team and the situation as a whole,

"I heard all the rumors that were said coming out of Chicago," Benson said. "Even the Bengals told me all the things, that they would call and inquire about me and get nothing but negative things. Just that I didn't work hard, that I was I guess a prima donna or I didn't work hard on the field, just wasn't focused, just anything negative that they could say, it was said. I'm sure that contributed largely to me not getting picked up right away." (ANDREW SELIGMAN, AP Sports Writer)

Maybe I'm missing something, but all those things are correct assessments of Benson's career as a Bear. He didn't work hard, he held out like a prima donna (that's still the definition even if a lot of players do it), he didn't put forth the best effort on the field as we can clearly see now, and he wasn't focused.

The Bears wanted Benson to be the guy, they wouldn't have drafted him with the fourth overall pick if they hadn't. But the prized rookie held out, showed up to camp ridiculously late, got off to a slow start, and eventually got hurt. Bears fans probably remember the days when Thomas Jones was growing more and more frustrated as the Bears tried to get Benson on the field as often as possible.

After his hold out, Benson stated that he was going to take the starting job from Thomas Jones, one of the more popular Bears in the locker room. It obviously didn't endear him to his new team mates. An injury would eventually force him to miss several weeks of his unspectacular rookie season.

During the pre-season in 2006, Benson left the sidelines of a game early and was cited for violating team rules. Presumably it was his own teammates who turned him in.

While he did play well in the Bears playoff run of '06, Benson fumbled in the Super Bowl and was injured on the same play, missing the rest of game after just two carries and -1 yard.

The following off-season the Bears traded Jones, turning the top spot in the backfield over to Benson. Cedric responded by showing up to camp overweight. In Week 12 of the 2007 season Benson broke his ankle and missed the rest of the year.

The Bears proceeded to draft Matt Forte prior to the 2008 season, but still named Benson the starter. He responded to that by getting himself arrested twice in five weeks.

Now Benson can't "pinpoint" what made his time in a Bear uniform so rough. Funny, because I seem to remember.

A case for Jake Fox to remain a bench player (Bleacher Nation)

Will Derrick Rose miss the opener? (NQTC)

Jay Mariotti writes a very silly column (Tremendous Upside Potential)

Orkman like to party, still (The Angry T)

Jeff Fisher dons Peyton jersey at event (LT Sports)

The Matt Forte discussion (Zoner Sports)

Stuff White people shouldn't do (Thunder Matt's Saloon)

Is Ahman Green returning to GB? (Cheesehead TV)

These guys really hate Brent Favre (Blitz Nation)

Some more NFL Power Rankings (Midwest Sports Fans)

and some more rankings (Major League Jerk)

New pitching coach in Milwaukee good, pitchers still bad (Sheffield's House)

Some Lebron High School footage (Docksquad Sports)

Good news for Bucs fans, not really (Real Fake Sports)

Who is Starlin Castro? Cubs fans may soon find out (waxpaperbeercup)

Is Carlos Zambrano just another Manny? (Bullpen Brian)

Lots of Brewer related stuff (Brew Crew Ball)

As you can see right away, the Saints have jumped into the top spot in the rankings with their win over the previously number one Giants. The Broncos have climbed into the top five with their win over the Chargers and the Jets took a major tumble on the arm of Mark Sanchez.

The Bears and Packers both moved up one spot, but are both still just outside the top 10.

Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
1		4	3	5-0	@ Dolphins
		A beat down of NY vaults this team to the top.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
2		2	-	5-0	@ Rams
		Can you find more than 3 losses on their schedule? I can't.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
3		3	-	6-0	@ Steelers
		Brett Favre is having a career year. What is he like 50?
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
4		5	1	6-0	Bye
		May have locked up the AFC West on Monday Night Football.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
5		1	4	5-1	vs. Cardinals
		The Giants defense was exposed on Sunday.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
6		6	-	4-1	@ Cowboys
		Matty "Ice" is making up for the lack of a running game right now.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
7		10	3	4-2	@ Buccaneers
		5 TD's in one quarter for Tom Brady says in all.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
8		13	5	4-2	vs. Vikings
		Big Ben had big yards, but also a lot of turnovers on Sunday.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
9		7	2	4-2	vs. Bears
		Big letdown after win vs. Ravens.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
10		11	1	3-3	Bye
		A long FG away from a great come from behind win.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
11		12	1	3-2	@ Bengals
		Jay Cutler is being forced to do too much for this offense.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
12		8	4	3-2	@ Redskins
		No excuse to not score a TD vs. Raiders who were missing Asomugha most of the game.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
13		14	1	3-2	vs. Browns
		O-line is still having issues, major issues.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
14		16	2	2-3	@ Chiefs
		Special teams coverage cost them dearly on Monday Night.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
15		15	-	3-2	@ Texans
		Shaun Hill gets a new target in Michael Crabtree this weekend.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
16		17	1	3-2	@ Giants
		Can the #1 ranked rush D stop the Giants two man attack?
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
17		18	5	3-3	vs. 49ers
		Inconsistent team right were they should be, .500.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
18		9	9	3-3	@ Raiders
		Mark Sanchez's rookieness is starting to show.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
19		18	1	3-2	vs. Falcons
		Maybe not a must-win game ahead, but definitely some confidence is needed here.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
20		19	1	2-3	vs. Saints
		Not sure the Wildcat is gonna help this weekend.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
21		21	-	3-3	Bye
		I can't figure these guys out, but I think this is where they belong.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
22		23	1	2-3	vs. Bills
		Steve Smith is dying here. What a waste.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
23		20	3	1-3	Bye
		So much for Hasselbeck rejuvenating them.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
24		25	1	2-4	@ Panthers
		Hey Tiki! It's Fitzpatrick.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
25		28	3	2-4	vs. Jets
		Two in a row? Why not? Oh right, because they're the Raiders.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
26		25	1	1-5	Bye
		I know it's a ways off, but do we really have to watch these guys on Thanksgiving, again.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
27		30	3	1-5	vs. Chargers
		Another team notches its first win vs. Skins.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
28		29	1	1-5	vs. Packers
		Can anyone QB in Cleveland?
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
29		24	5	2-4	vs. Eagles
		Winless teams keep beating you. How bad are you? But I'm sure its all Zorn's fault.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
30		27	3	0-6	Bye
		59-0 and 45-0 at the half really says it all.
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
31		31	-	0-6	vs. Patriots
		Oh, Josh Johnson is the QB. I thought...
Ranking	Team	Last Week	Change	Record	Next Game
32		32	-	0-6	vs. Colts
		Now Avery is hurt so the little offense they had just took a step back.