Taylor passes away

I realize I haven't been updating this blog for the past two months (I have been trying to think of new ways to make it more appealing) but this news is worth posting: Safety Sean Taylor has passed away.

For Skins fans, this guy was the type of exciting playmaker who really got the crowd energized and could easily change the flow of the game. For opponents, he was a guy you never wanted to see your star player on the verge of being hit by him because you knew it would be a teeth-rattler.

Taylor's death comes on the verge of the shooting accident at his home on Monday. My hearts and prayers go out to Taylor's family.

I will have more updates and reaction on this situation as time passes.

Game 3 recap

What is there to say after watching the Skins blow a 17-3 lead in the second half? Not a whole lot but there were a couple of things that stuck out to me.

1. Despite the struggles in the second half, it was actually exciting to see Jason Campbell operate on that last drive. He is not there yet but he is going to be a good QB. He stayed poised and made plays at critical points in the drive, the only screwup being 4th and goal.

2. Speaking of 4th and goal, why didn't anyone mention to Campbell that he had 20 seconds to get a play off? There was no shot for a first down so why did they need to leave time on the clock? That is a situation Campbell can learn from but the coaches should have been slowing him down and telling him to make sure he didn't snap the ball until everything was set.

3. Eli Manning is not his brother. I don't know what other NFL QB's look like in slow motion when throwing the ball but Eli looks like he's throwing too hard because he has too much pressure to live up to something he will never be. I would even go as far as saying that he should probably be a backup instead of the center of the G-men franchise but he gets by solely on his name. Any other NY QB would have been shipped out of town by now.

4. Even though it would have been nice to be 3-0 heading into the bye, 2-1 is probably a lot better than most people thought. No one wanted to give our guys a chance to win many games this year and they are showing that while they won't win them all, they will be competitive. If we continue to play competitively, we will make the playoffs.

5. The defense is not entirely to blame for the 2nd half collapse. Granted, they let the Giants convert any and all 3rd down attempts that they wanted to but the offense only had the ball for 3 plays it seemed like in the second half. If they didn't go 3-and-out, they turned it over and didn't get the defense off the field. I don't care how good a defense is, no unit can play more than 25 minutes in a half and expect to shut the other team down.

No game for the Skins this week so enjoy some of the other NFC teams and lets see if we can figure out exactly who the competition will be this season.

Game 3: Redskins vs. Giants

Washington (2-0) vs. New York Giants (0-2)

Time: 4:15 p.m. ET at FedEx Field

ESPN game preview

How awesome is it that these guys are 2-0 despite the fact that it looks like the O-line is falling apart?

Hopefully it won't matter that Todd Wade and Jason Fabini are the new guys on the right side of the line, these guys have been solid pros in the past and with the way Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts can run, all these guys have to do is give them a little space. And if they can give Jason Campbell enough time to get the snap and make a quick throw, that will be a bonus.

Defensively the Skins are on fire and playing like they have previously under Gregg Williams. They should be able to continue that trend against a Giants team that is struggling on offense and there is no reason to think these guys won't be 3-0 heading into a bye.

Oh, and the throwback uni's are sweet. Hail to the Redskins.

Also, check out the Helmet Project, purveyors of the great helmets you see at the top of this post.

Game 2 recap

The best thing about Monday night's win isn't the fact that we beat Philly but it has to be the fact that the Skins are 2-0 for the first time since their last playoff appearance (2005). Here are a couple of other observations from Monday night.

1. I know this has nothing to do with the game but Charles Barkley actually made the booth enjoyable to watch. After hearing Mike Tirico stick up for the Eagles and saying they should have beat the Packers, Barkley responded with my favorite line, "If I didn't eat so much I wouldn't be fat."

2. Jason Campbell is still making young mistakes but he is getting better with each quarter he plays, as evidenced by the 2 TD drives he led in the 2nd half.

3. Joe Bugel is the best O-line coach in the NFL bar none. Depsite not having and losing Jon Jansen and losing Randy Thomas in the second half, the line still held up and gave Campbell the time he needed to make plays. It remains to be see how the backups will fare as starters the rest of the season but I really have no worries.

4. The NFC East is one of the toughest conferences in football, top to bottom. You can't tell me the 0-2 Eagles are that much worse than the 2-0 Cowboys or Skins and if the Giants could have avoided a couple of key injuries, they would not be 0-2 either.

5. Last year was an aberration defensively and if I hear another claim how awful the D was last year and act like that had been the trend in DC for years, I am going to start writing letters to ESPN, CBS and Fox telling them to open a stat book from the last five years and respond with where the Skins finished in total defense each of those years. When healthy our guys are just as good as New England, Baltimore and San Diego but because our offense hasn't been any good until now, the media has failed to recognize it. It's times like these that make me embarrassed to be a sports writer.

The reeling Giants are up next so let's see if these guys can get to 3-0 and be halfway to surpassing last year's win total.

Game 2: Redskins vs. Eagles

Washington (1-0) vs. Philadelphia (0-1)

Time: 8:30 p.m. ET at Lincoln Financial Field

ESPN game preview

There really is nothing better than seeing your favorite team on Monday Night Football, even if your team and coach don't do so well historically in this situation. That's the situation that faces the Skins. Add in the fact that the Eagles are probably still upset they lost to the Packers and this has the makings of an ugly game.

Despite Jason Campbell's mistakes last week, guys stepped up and showed exactly what they needed to. Antwaan Randle El couldn't have picked a better time to step up and prove to critics that he really is capable of being a No. 2 receiver on a team that will throw the ball and Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts showed they can coexist. They need to continue that play for Washington to have a chance and I think they will.

The biggest question mark coming out of Week 1 is how will the O-line hold up after losing Jon Jansen for the season. Stephon Heyer did well replacing him last week but Todd Wade gets the start. I don't care which one of these guys gets the spot just as long as one of them gets the job done.

The only that will make this win better is knowing that the Eagles fall to 0-2 in the process while we go to 2-0. Hail to the Redskins!

Also, check out the Helmet Project, purveyors of the great helmets you see at the top of this post.

Game 1 recap

How great is it to open the season with a win. Depsite the fact that our prize QB had a poor outing against Miami (0 TD's and 2 INT's), the running game was in fine form and regardless of whether you win in regulation or OT, it's great to have a win.

Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts seemed to coexist pretty well and my biggest concern following the loss is the fact that the Skins may have lost Jon Jansen for the season. In nine NFL seasons Jansen had played in every game except for one year and now it looks like Washington will be dependent on a rookie (former Maryland Terp Stephon Heyer) or a journeyman (Todd Wade) to plug the hole.

It was injuries to key players that cost the Skins last year but it was an injury to Patrick Ramsey the year before that showed us Mark Brunell had one more playoff run in him. Sunday's game against Philly will tell us how much the Jansen injury will affect this season. If Heyer or Wade can fill in well, we could witness a season similar to 2005 and we can truly forget 2006.

Game 1: Redskins vs. Dolphins

Miami at Washington

1 p.m. at FedEx Field

It's the first week of the season and I'm already having trouble keeping up so this will be a streamlined post.

The games finally count so now we get to see what the Skins look like with guys like Clinton Portis, Marcus Washington, and Chris Samuels returning to the lineup this team looks good on paper. But then again it seems like they always look good on paper so hopefully this team will translate well to the field.

Hail to the Redskins.

Preseason Game 4 recap

It was a tale of 2 halves at Jacksonville on Thursday so similar to the game, I will leave you with 2 thoughts regarding last nights preseason loss.

1. Jason Campbell looked good and the offense seemed to move the ball with him in command. The best part is the offense has had some success this preseason without Clinton Portis playing a single down. So add a healthy Portis to this group and hopefully we have a repeat of 2005. The starting defense has also played well all year and it is obvious that as long as this team is healthy it is a lot better than the 5 win team of last year.

2. Jacksonville's TD at the end of the 1st half really changed the flow of the game and in his only action this preseason Jordan Palmer proved he is no Carson. I don't know what the long term hopes are for him but I would have thought that it would have been better for his development if he actually played when the games don't count. He is destined for the practice squad but if the Skins have decided to get rid of Mark Brunell then there is a very raw No. 3 QB in the wings.

BONUS: Ok, after typing the first two thoughts I remembered I had 1 more - and it has nothing to do with QB's. This team in LOADED at LB. I watched most of the first half and part of the second but the play of guys like Anthony Trucks and HB Blades has really been impressive, which makes it hard to figure who will actually make the final roster. Depending on which LBs are cut you know they will bounce back with another team and it has really been fun watching the defense in general.

The games count starting next week so hopefully all of this will translate into a season opening win against Miami. Hail to the Redskins

Preseason Game 4: Redskins vs. Jaguars

Washington (2-1) vs. Jacksonville (2-1)

Time: 7:30 p.m. ET at ALLTEL Stadium

ESPN game preview (once again not a whole lot of info because it is preseason)

The final preseason game is upon us, meaning the real stuff is right around the corner. But before we get to that the Skins will tune up for their season opener against Miami with another Florida-based team, the Jaguars. Jason Campbell has talked Joe Gibbs into letting him start this meaningless contest so let's hope Gibbs has the sense not to leave him in there too long.

Mark Brunell looks to get a long look at QB and considering his shot last week to impress the coaches was canceled because of lightning, he better do something pretty impressive this week if he wants to be the backup. Todd Collins has been awesome this preseason and should have the No. 2 job wrapped up.

The only other thing I personally am interested in is seeing how recent acquisitions Randall Godfrey and Pete Kendall look in Skins uniforms. Hopefully this game will give them enough of a chance to adjust to their teammates so they are ready to go next week.

Also, check out the Helmet Project, purveyors of the great helmets you see at the top of this post.

Preseason Game 3 recap

Because last night's game was abbreviated due to a lightning storm in the area (which, for those of you who don't live or weren't in DC last night was probably one of the most intense storms I've ever been in and I've lived in 10 different states), I decided to keep my recap of the game abbreviated as well.

1. Even if Todd Collins throws 3 interceptions in next week's preseason finale, he should be the backup to Jason Campbell. He has been the only QB - Campbell included - to get the offense to move up and down the field and last night he did it against a good defense in Baltimore. And as long as we are on the subject, the Skins should release Mark Brunell and keep Jesse Palmer as the No. 3 QB and give him some playing time in Thursday's game.

2. Not wanting to read too much into preseason play but if these games are a sign of things to come, last season's defensive struggles were an aberration. The finally gave up a TD to the Ravens at the end of the first half but they really made Baltimore pay for its mistakes early in the game.

3. With game left in the preseason - a Thursday night affair in Jacksonville - it would be nice to see Washington get out of the game with no injuries to the starters and for all of the guys fighting for the final spots on the team to have great games and make it difficult for the coaching staff to decide who to keep. Most of these guys will never see the field during the regular season but it would be nice if their hard work this summer was rewarded with a solid final game.

Preseason Game 3: Redskins vs. Ravens

Washington (1-1) vs. Baltimore (1-1)

Time: 8 p.m. ET at FedEx Field

ESPN game preview (once again not a whole lot of info because it is preseason)

It's week 3 and while this would normally be the longest appearance for the starters this preseason, last week's injury to Jason Campbell means the Skins will be without their starting QB. Their may actually some benefit to this though as it will give Joe Gibbs a long look at the guys competing to become the backup with Todd Collins getting the start. Collins has looked pretty good in both of his appearances, leading the offense to both of its TD's. The Battle of the Beltway gets underway tonight with futures of players on both teams at stake.

Once again, here is the link to the Helmet Project.

Preseason Game 2 recap

Observations from Saturday's 12-10 loss to Pittsburgh:

1. How many times are we going to watch stars go down with injuries in meaningless games before a different approach is taken. Luckily it looks like the Jason Campbell injury isn't too serious but losing Marcus Washington could be almost as big. Washington's loss wasn't felt too bad last night but if he misses any regular season games, the defense may have a hard time trying to erase last season's struggles.

2. Speaking of the defense, it looks really good considering the competition at this point but anyone who thinks this defense will be like last year's is going to be sadly mistaken. London Fletcher seems to be a great addition in the middle and seems to be providing a much needed spark.

3. Again, it's only the preseason but Todd Collins looked good when he came in for Campbell and marched the offense down the field for a score while Mark Brunell again looked old. Brunell moved the offense somewhat in the final drive and it wasn't his fault that last pass was intercepted - he can't control his receiver tipping it to a defender - but where he threw the ball was what concerned me. With no timeouts and less than 20 seconds, a long pass down the middle of the field was probably not the right place to throw the ball in the first place. If that pass had been caught, I find it hard to see the offense getting set up and stopping the clock with a spike before time ran out. He should have gone to the sidelines in hopes of being able to get the field goal team on in time.

Despite the loss things seem to be encouraging but we won't have any idea how much impact this work in the preseason will have until the first games are played. The battle for I-95 is up next.

Preseason Game 2: Redskins vs. Steelers

Washington (1-0) vs. Pittsburgh (1-1)

Time: 8 p.m. ET at FedEx Field

ESPN game preview (not a whole lot of info because it is preseason)

The second week of the preseason only usually differs from the first in that the starters usually play a little longer. However, Washington left most of their starters in for the entire first half last week so who knows how long anyone will play. The coaching staff is hoping the starting O will put points on the board and but Pittsburgh always has one of the toughest D's. No reason to get overexcited by a win or frustrated by a loss but let's hope we can keep key players healthy another week.

[UPDATE] I forgot to include the link to the Helmet Project again.

Preseason Game 1 recap

I realize that Saturday's game was the preseason opener but there were still a few things of note.

1. Jason Campbell still has a lot to learn. Campbell made some good plays and reads but he also made some mistakes, something that just about every young QB goes through. Hopefully these extra reps with the first team will count though and help him adjust to the role of a starter faster.

2. Mark Brunell is old and still holds the ball too long. Tennessee had five sacks in the game and a majority of them were because Brunell held onto the ball about 6 seconds longer than he needed too and pump-faked about 3 times a pass play. Mark, I've got an idea for you - try throwing the ball.

3. Vince Young is going to be way overexposed. Hey, did you hear that Young was suspended before the game for violating team rules? Yeah, I got that message too by the fourth time it was announced in the first quarter. I think the announcers only mentioned it after every other play.

4. If the season started tomorrow, Todd Collins would be the guy. He completed all 5 of his passes, led the offense to its only TD and got the team its first preseason win since 2005. If that isn't a recipe for jumping to conclusions and putting too much stock into a meaningless game I don't know what is.

5. One request for next week - instead of playing Brunell, let's see what Carson Palmer's kid brother Jordan can do. The Skins entered the week with 5 QB's and Palmer beat out Casey Bramlet for the fourth spot prompting Bramlet's release. But how do we know if Palmer could be better than Brunell and/or Collins if he doesn't play? Put him in coach.

Maybe next week there will be more to talk about other than the QB's.

Preseason Game 1: Redskins at Titans

Washington at Tennessee

Time: 8 p.m. ET

TV: (Somewhat) nationally televised on NFL Network

ESPN game preview (not a whole lot of info because it is preseason)

No matter what the Washington coaching staff says, there are only two things that matter in this game and the outcome isn't one of them. What the Skins need to do is get through the game with all of their starters still healthy and at some point the offense needs to show it can move the ball effectively, despite the fact the offense may be pretty simple again.

The only thing that makes this game watchable is if you have an underdog you are rooting for to make the team, this will be the best chance to see them get some good playing time. But if you are looking for the starters, check back in game 3. Anyways, let's hope this one goes better than last year's preseason opener in Cincinnati. Hail to the Redskins!

[UPDATE] In order to jazz up the site a little, I have added these helmets from the site the Helmet Project. Check them out for art of just about every football helmet from the history of time (Ok maybe not THAT many helmets but its pretty close).

2007 Previews: Redskins defense

The second part of my two part series previewing the Redskins, here are 3 keys on the defensive side of the ball that will need to take place if Washington is going to head back the playoffs.

1. LaRon Landry needs to prove he was worth the pick. Washington set franchise lows in sacks and with fans clamoring for the addition of a(nother) pass rusher, the Skins used their first pick on Landry. Washington also had a tough time forcing turnovers and the thought process here has to be that adding Landry will help force more turnovers, which in turn will aid the pass rush. The normal thought process is usually the other way around but then again, when have the Skins gone with the traditional way of thinking? Gregg Williams always has a unique way to use his personnel and he should have a lot of fun adding Landry skills to a defensive backfield that already includes heavy-hitting Sean Taylor.

2. Speaking of a pass rush. With no major changes to the defensive line, Andre Carter and company have to prove that they can get to the QB this season. Carter was last year's high priced pickup and other than recording a sack in each of the last 3 games, he was mediocre at best. Aging vets Phillip Daniels and Renaldo Wynn probably don't have much left either and with the DT's used more as run stuffers, the DE's will need to give it everything they have left to help this defense get back to being one of the best in the league.

3. Please stay healthy. Losing pro bowlers Marcus Washington, Shawn Springs and Cornelius Griffin at different points last year obviously hurt the performance of this unit and Washington is hoping that the additions it made and the maturation of young players will compensate for the loss of any players to injury this year but the Skins cannot afford to lose its stars on defense again this year. Every team has certain losses it can overcome and certain losses it can't and obviously last year's losses were ones Washington couldn't absorb. If these guys go down again, it is quite possible the defense will stall again.

2007 Previews: Redskins offense

With the first preseason game fast approaching, I decided it was finally time to give my thoughts on Washington for the upcoming season. But because this is a Redskins blog I have decided to breakdown my Skins preview into 2 parts, an offensive preview and defensive preview.

So for my offensive preview, here are three keys to a successful season on offense.

1. Keep Jason Campbell in a position to play effectively. I know Campbell got quite a bit of experience at the end of last season but he still has a lot to learn and if the Skins are going to win games this year, they need to make sure Campbell only has to manage games and not win them. When the Skins were ahead Campbell proved effective and did a good job of controlling the game. But when they needed Campbell's arm to win, he played like every other first time NFL QB, he forced throws and had a tough time making big plays. Campbell will eventually need to make plays on his own to prove his worth but for right now, he just needs to not lose.

2. Play Redskins football - run the ball. Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts make a lethal 1-2 punch, especially with the way Betts performed as the No. 1 guy when Portis was injured last year. The problem though is Al Saunders' vaunted playbook didn't value the smash mouth football Washington has always played. Regardless of what personnel has been on the team or who has been the coach, Washington has only consistently won football games one way - by running it straight at their opponent. It will be no different this year, and if Saunders' system doesn't key in on this right away look for Joe Gibbs to take over playcalling duties again this season.

3. Will the No. 2 WR please stand up? Santana Moss and Chris Cooley have both proven to be capable receivers but Washington's quest for a solid No. 2 still has not produced a unanimous result. David Patten, Brandon Lloyd, Antwaan Randle El, James Thrash and Taylor Jacobs all have tried to fill the post but none ever had a solid claim to the position. If Moss and Cooley are to remain effective options a second WR will have to step up this season. Lloyd, Randle El and Thrash are all still on the squad and battling for the spot again this year but if none of them are up to the task they could easily find themselves following Patten and Jacobs out of town. A solid No. 2 WR will also greatly assist in the development of Campbell.

Again, defensive keys will be tomorrow night and a preview of the first preseason game against Tennessee will be posted Saturday. Football season is here so let's enjoy it before it's gone again.

2007 Previews: Tennessee Titans

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 8-8 (second in AFC South)

Best addition: Nick Harper (CB, Colts)

Key personnel loss: Travis Henry (RB, Broncos)

2007 outlook: Vince Young almost single handedly carried this team to the playoffs last year without a ton of help and with the additions the Titans made this offseason they may actually be able to make a playoff run. Young's biggest problem on offense may be finding a steady go-to receiver, but the running game could have some success as long as LenDale White doesn't eat himself out of job, Chris Brown stays healthy and Chris Henry proves to be an NFL-caliber RB after not doing much in college.

The Titans should be solid on defense as the addition of Harper should offset the loss of Pacman Jones. The multitude of defensive players drafted in 2004 are now entering their fourth seasons and should be ready to become the defense the Titans envisioned when they picked all of these players. If they don't it won't matter how much Young does on offense.

Key to success: The playmaking ability of Young will keep the Titans in games no matter how bad the offense is, but if Tennessee is going to take that next step, it will need its defense to stop opposing teams and keep deficits low so Young can work his magic.

Against Washington: Young picked up his first win as an NFL QB by victimizing the Skins last year in Washington 25-22. The two teams do not meet during the regular season but will actually open preseason play against each other in Tennessee next Saturday.

Fantasy sleeper: Chris Henry. Someone will win the starting RB role in Tennessee and with White's weight issues and Brown's injury history, the stage is set for the rookie Henry to excel. And with Young's playmaking ability, he could be the second straight Henry to have a career year in Tennessee (Travis Henry put a lot of concerns of his own with a stellar year last year). Keep Henry in mind as an extra bench player, ready to be used if needed, until he proves what type of rookie season he is going to have.

2007 Previews: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 4-12 (fourth in NFC South)

Best addition: Cato June (LB, Colts)

Key personnel loss: Kenyatta Walker (OL, FA)

2007 outlook: Last year the Bucs got really old really fast, so they are hoping an infusion of youth will help them get back to the Super Bowl. While they still have some major QB issues, Tampa Bay does have solid skill position players including Cadillac Williams and Joey Galloway but even they need to rebound from bad years.

Defensively the situation doesn't appear to be much better but adding to June to the LB corp should at least be a boost to that unit. The secondary is also in decent shape while rookie Gaines Adams is the lone guy with potential on an aging line that recently let go of Simeon Rice.

Key to success: The Bucs are going to need a lot of help, and a lot of career years from a lot of players, to even think about making the playoffs. Jon Gruden appears to be on a short leash and unless he gets some help, he may find himself looking for another job at the end of the year.

Against Washington: The Skins will make the trip to sunny Florida to face the Bucs on Nov. 25. Washington has had some success against the Bucs of late and hopefully they can continue that success this year as the Skins try to make the playoffs.

Fantasy sleeper: Maurice Stovall. Another young WR that will be relied on heavily to help out a sluggish offense, Stovall is built in the mold of Randy Moss and Terrell Owens. This would bode really well for Tampa Bay if it had a QB but Stovall should still flourish anyway. Anyone desperate for WR should look at Stovall on the waiver wire, if not in the last round or two.

2007 Previews: Seattle Seahawks

I apologize for this update being late, I've been a little under the weather lately.

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 9-7 (NFC West champs)

Best addition: Patrick Kerney (DE, Falcons)

Key personnel loss: Darrell Jackson (WR, 49ers)

2007 outlook: For the last couple of years, the Seahawks have been one of the teams to beat in the NFC, and this year should be no different. With an offense that boasts Shaun Alexander, Matt Hasselbeck and Deion Branch, this team should be able to put up points and as long as Alexander and Hasselbeck stay healthy this year, they should at least win the NFC West again.

The most changes to the team were made on defense where the Seahawks signed three potential new starters, including Kerney, in hopes of improving last year's record. If things go as planned, Seattle could surprisingly boast one of the NFC's best defenses to compliment its offense.

Key to success: The one chink in Seattle's armor could be its WR's. Besides Branch, Seattle is pinning its hopes on third-year player D.J. Hackett and aging veteran Bobby Engram. If Hackett and Engram can't perform consistently teams will be able to double team Branch and effectively shut down the Seahawks' passing game.

Against Washington: Few Skins fans will forget that it was Seattle who ended Washington's playoff run in 2005 after the Skins beat them during the regular season. Skins fans will have to wait a little longer for vindication as Seattle is not on this year's schedule.

Fantasy sleeper: D.J. Hackett. The key to Seattle's offense is Hackett and if he can deliver, he could be a surprising fantasy sleeper, making any owner that takes a chance on him a smart owner if he performs up to expectations. But don't pass up other, more consistent WR's if they are still on the board unless you want to take a chance.

2007 Previews: San Francisco 49ers

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 14-2 (AFC West champs)

Best addition: Nate Clements (CB, Bills)

Key personnel loss: Anthony Adams (DT, Bears)

2007 outlook: If anyone doubts how serious San Francisco is about becoming one of the top teams in the league again, just look at what the 49ers have done in the last three years - especially this offseason. The addition of Clements and Michael Lewis significantly upgrade the secondary while the offense also gets a boost from former Seahawks WR Darrell Jackson and hopefully Ashley Lelie.

But the biggest key here will be the maturation of QB Alex Smith and RB Frank Gore. Gore will have to overcome the setback of a broken hand that will force him to miss the entire preseason, but if he can keep close to last year's production, he will be an important piece once again.

Key to success: This team is going no where until Smith can lead them there - but after the large leaps he took last year, this could potentially be the year SF gets back to the playoffs. Smith has the smarts and the athletic ability to succeed - he just needs to make sure he takes advantage of his new weapons.

Against Washington: Washington has had a couple of lopsided wins against SF lately but fortunately for the 49ers, the Skins are not on the team's schedule this season.

Fantasy sleeper: Alex Smith. He is the future of this franchise but Gore and Jackson are both rated as higher fantasy prospects than Smith. And while getting a top flight RB needs to be a top priority, getting a good QB later in the draft is just as essential and Smith may fill that role as quickly as this season. Smith should be a pleasant surprise but make sure you have another proven QB if you are thinking about giving Smith a chance.

2007 Previews: San Diego Chargers

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 14-2 (AFC West champs)

Best addition: Craig Davis (WR, 1st round pick out of LSU)

Key personnel loss: Donnie Edwards (LB, Chiefs)

2007 outlook: The team that should have won the Super Bowl last year, San Diego added no veterans in the offseason and only lost guys who were expendable. The biggest change has to be the return of Norv Turner, this time as head coach and he should be the difference between last year's playoff loss and deep playoff run this year - if he can actually coach the Chargers better than he did the Skins and the Raiders.

With LaDainian Tomlinson, Philip Rivers and Antonio Gates on offense and Jamal Williams, Shawne Merriman and Shaun Phillips on defense, this team is solid on both sides of the ball yet again this season. The additions of draft picks Davis and Eric Weddle should only help San Diego fill the holes it had last year.

Key to success: For San Diego to make a run at the Super Bowl, Turner is going to have to get over his past coaching deficiencies. Lucky for him, he happened upon a job that even he shouldn't be able to screw up. If he can add more fire power to the offense and the defense doesn't suffer a lapse after losing D coordinator Wade Phillips to Dallas, this should be the team to beat in the AFC.

Against Washington: Washington let a victory slip out of its grasp in 2005 when Tomlinson's 41-yard TD run in overtime gave SD a 23-17 win a week after Washington lost to Turner's Raiders 16-13. Both were losses at home. SD will not face Washington this season.

Fantasy sleeper: Vincent Jackson. With Keenan McCardell no longer in SD and with Eric Parker being vertically challenged, it is up to the 6'5" Jackson to help take some of the focus off of Gates. Jackson showed flashes of promise in multiple games last year when they were on the line and if can find some consistency this season, he should become the steal of the draft and one of the better fantasy receivers in the league. Nab him in the middle rounds and reap the benefits.

2007 Previews: St. Louis Rams

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 8-8 (second in NFC West)

Best addition: Drew Bennett (WR, Titans)

Key personnel loss: Kevin Curtis (WR, Eagles)

2007 outlook: Like Pittsburgh and New England are to defense, St. Louis is to offense and you better believe that if the Rams think Bennett is an upgrade over Curtis at WR, it's probably true. Mark Bulger recently signed a huge extension and Steven Jackson is one of the top runners in the NFL. Throw in Tory Holt and Isaac Bruce and you've an offense most defenses don't want to face.

However, for as much as the offense does to win games the defense almost seems to do as much to lose games. While there are decent pieces all over the defense, the Rams lack that one standout that you always have to account for. It is because of this unimpressive defense that St. Louis will struggle to make the playoffs.

Key to success: Obviously it comes down to the play of the defense and it's ability to stay healthy. With no real depth behind ok starters, the Rams will rely a lot on their starting 11 to carry the load and not give away games. Even if the unit doesn't suffer any major injuries, the Rams will still have a tough time of producing a solid all-around team.

Against Washington: With 2 weeks left in the season, it took overtime before Washington lost at St. Louis 37-31, despite 129 yards rushing from Ladell Betts. These teams won't face each other during the regular season.

Fantasy sleeper: Randy McMichael. The TE's seem to have a good chance to breakout this year and McMichael is one of those guys who, while good in the past, could have a career year because of the new, pass-happy offense he is in. However, the TE has never been that big of a deal in St. Louis but the Rams have never had a pass catcher at the position like McMichael, so it will be interesting to see how this scenario plays out.

2007 Previews: Pittsburgh Steelers

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 8-8 (third in AFC North)

Best addition: Lawrence Timmons (LB, 1st round pick out of Florida State)

Key personnel loss: Joey Porter (LB, Dolphins)

2007 outlook: Once again the Steelers improved their team through smart drafting and leaving the free agent marking relatively alone. Aside from replacing some of the depth that departed, the only real blow to the Steelers was the loss of Porter, who many Pittsburgh fans will say is on the decline. And if there is one thing Pittsburgh cranks out and always has an abundance of, it's LB's, which bodes well for Timmons whom was chosen in the first round.

Offensively, the Steelers are hoping Ben Roethlisburger's bad luck is behind him. After the year he had last year, there should be no place to go but up. However, Roethlisburger may not be back to form right away as last year's offensive staff is now in Arizona, meaning Big Ben now has a new offense to get under his belt. His weapons on offense should help soften that transition though.

Key to success: If the Steelers can have a seemless transition to what the new coaching staff wants to do, there is no reason this team can't return to being the Super Bowl contender it was two years ago. Most of the pieces remain intact and as long as the Steelers remain a run first offense (which may not be a given considering new O coordinator Bruce Arians' statements that he wants more out of the passing game), they should be able to win games like they always do, controlling the clock and playing solid defense.

Against Washington: While the Skins and the Steelers do not face each other in the regular season this year and haven't played a regular season contest against each other since Washington lost a 17-6 game in Pittsburgh in 2004, the two teams will play in Washington during the preseason. With it being the second week of the preseason, don't look for the starters to play a ton but take it as an opportunity to see which bubble players have the best chance at catching on.

Fantasy sleeper: Hines Ward. For some reason Ward is one of those guys who always seems to be overlooked when it comes to fantasy WR's, even though he had almost 1,000 yards receiving and 6 TD's last season. The TD's may have been a little low but in three of the past five years Ward has posted 10 or more TD's. Don't make the mistake of overlooking Ward because he is a steady producer that you know what you are getting when you pick him.

2007 Previews: Philadelphia Eagles

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 10-6 (NFC East champs)

Best addition: Takeo Spikes (LB, Bills)

Key personnel loss: Donte Stallworth (WR, Patriots)

2007 outlook: Last year's conference champs are hoping they can continue the great run they had with Jeff Garcia at QB without Garcia. After Donovan McNabb went down for the season with a torn ACL, Garcia gave Philly fans hope and led the Eagles back to the playoffs. Besides Garcia, the Eagles let Stallworth leave after one year with the club but the addition of Kevin Curtis should balance things out in the end. The offense is in decent shape otherwise, as long as McNabb and Brian Westbrook can stay healthy, which is not a given.

The addition of Spikes on defense gives Philly another playmaking LB to complement Jeremiah Trotter while the defensive line and secondary are in good shape as well. This Philly squad is fairly balanced all around with no glaring holes.

Key to success: Keeping players healthy can probably be determined as a key to success for any team but it especially holds true for Philly, with the special attention needing to be paid to McNabb and Westbrook. These two are the most consistent players on offense when they are playing but neither has played 16 games in consecutive seasons in a long time. Defensively, the health of DE Jevon Kearse will also have a huge impact on the team.

Against Washington: Philly will host the Skins in Week 2 before meeting up again in November in Washington. As with all of the teams in the NFC East, no matter how good or bad a team is playing during a given season records will have to be thrown out when these two teams meet and past performance is no indication of future success. Look for at least one of these games to be fairly close and competitive.

Fantasy sleeper: L.J. Smith. Smith is in a contract year and as usual with most consistent players, expect a huge season from Smith so he can go out and sign a large contract only to return to mediocrity next year. But the good news for fantasy owners is you only get to keep Smith for one season and this should be the season. Don't draft him with the upper echelon TE's like Antonio Gates and Tony Gonzalez, but do keep him in your top 6 and be ready to select him when the third and fourth TE's are drafted.

Training Camp opens

Here is a quick break from the preview posts to say how glad I am that training camp is finally underway. Now only another month before games that count. I was hoping to get out to camp for the first time ever (I have previously been to Chargers fan days when I lived in San Diego) but I had to reschedule.

I will eventually make it out to camp this year and when I do I will get some pictures of this year's version of the Washington Redskins up to go along with what I saw. This is my favorite part of the offseason and before we know it, we will see how the 2007 squad compares to the rest of the league. Hail to the Redskins.

2007 Previews: Oakland Raiders

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 2-14 (worst in NFL)

Best addition: JaMarcus Russell (QB, No. 1 overall pick out of LSU)

Key personnel loss: Randy Moss (WR, Patriots)

2007 outlook: If fans want to feel better about their team - no matter how bad it has been - they only need to be thankful they aren't Oakland fans. This team is a wreck and it doesn't appear that they are going in the right direction anytime soon. There is a lot of hope Russell will be the man who will return the Raiders to excellence, but the loss of Moss will be a huge blow to a mediocre offense.

Defensively the Raiders aren't much better as this unit is battling old age, along with all of the other struggles of facing opponents. Younger pieces such as Michael Huff and Kirk Morrison will be counted on to make an impact but it will be difficult to predict how the newest coaching regime will affect this unit despite the fact that D coordinator Rob Ryan has been retained. The Raiders should change their logo to a giant question mark.

Key to success: Success is not a possible option in 2007. Every team would like to believe they have a chance to put an unforgettable season together on the way to a Super Bowl win but the Raiders don't even have enough to have that dream. This year will be about getting Russell and other young players adjusted to the NFL in hopes of making a run at 2008.

Against Washington: Former Skins boss Norv Turner was trying to turn the Raiders around the last time these two teams met - which was two coaches ago. Turner actually got the better of his former squad in 2005, 16-13. These two teams do not meet in 2007.

Fantasy sleeper: Ronald Curry. In the past, Curry has teased fantasy owners with his spurts of TD's intermixed with times injured, having them thinking that if Curry stays healthy, he could be a valuable weapon. This year will be no different but if Curry stays healthy, he could be a valuable asset. Just don't put too much stock in his health and only select him late if tempted to take a chance.

2007 Previews: New York Jets

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 10-6 (second in AFC East)

Best addition: Thomas Jones (RB, Bears)

Key personnel loss: Patrick Ramsey (QB, Broncos)

2007 outlook: The Jets caught everyone off guard last year under new coach Eric Mangini, making the playoffs and having players achieve the talent-levels they had previously teased fans with for many years. After years of injury problems Chad Pennington reminded us why he used to be one of the best up-and-comers and with this year's moves, the Jets are hoping they can keep pace with New England.

On defense the Jets already had a large collection of talent and the additions of free agents and draft picks only seem to make New York stronger. The Jets hope 1st round pick Darrelle Revis will be a solid option alongside Andre Dyson in the defensive backfield but an injury to either one could cause big problems in the secondary as the depth is thin.

Key to success: Pennington's health will determine how big of an impact the offense has on the season. If Pennington is injured once again, the lack of a solid backup after letting Ramsey go to the Broncos as a free agent, will spend the end of a playoff run like it has in previous years. This team needs Pennington if it is going to succeed, previous seasons have proven that.

Against Washington: The Skins will travel to the Meadowlands to take on the Jets on Nov. 4, one week before New York's bye week. It is the first of two Meadowlands trips the Skins will make as they will also face the Giants at the Meadowlands on Dec. 16.

Fantasy sleeper: Chris Baker. In an NFL where the TE position is always in flux, Baker proved he was more than a blocking TE during the playoffs. And with the departure of Doug Jolley, the role is Baker's to lose. There always seems to be a need for a solid pass-catching TE on fantasy teams so keep Baker on your list as a guy who may actually score points from the TE position.

2007 Previews: New York Giants

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 9-7 (second in NFC East)

Best addition: Reuben Droughns (RB, Browns)

Key personnel loss: Tiki Barber (RB, retired)

2007 outlook: The Giants are going to be hard pressed to replace Barber, who appeared to retire with a couple of good years still left in him. Trading for Droughns makes sense but the combination of him and Brandon Jacobs may not be enough if Eli Manning struggles once again this season. Manning has enough weapons to at least be successful in New York but his own mistakes have cost him.

On defense, key players like Michael Strahan and Sam Madison continue to get older while the young talent the team has brought in struggles to live up to expectations. If the young talent can show it is finally ready to make an impact, the Giants may have enough to challenge for the NFC East title again this season.

Key to success: How Jacobs and Droughns fare early on in replacing Barber will tell us what kind of team this year's squad will be. If they make the fans of New York forget Barber, then the Giants are surely a playoff team. However, if they struggle early on defenses will be able to concentrate on stopping the passing game which could lead to the exit of Manning if things get really bad.

Against Washington: Washington will obviously take on the Giants twice this season, the first game during Week 3 in Washington while the second is the third to last week in the season in New York. The Giants have had the Skins number of late but a majority of those wins have been because Barber ran roughshod over the Washington defense. Obvioulsy his retirement changes New York's dominance though.

Fantasy sleeper: Amani Toomer. Before rupturing his ACL last season, Toomer was quickly becoming the go-to guy for Manning and if he can come back healthy this year there is no reason he shouldn't return to his role this year. The biggest concern is when (or maybe even if) he'll return but if he does, keep him in mind once he finally gets back to full speed.

2007 Previews: New Orleans Saints

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 10-6 (NFC South champs)

Best addition: Brian Simmons (LB, Bengals)

Key personnel loss: Joe Horn (WR, Falcons)

2007 outlook: Last year's pleasant surprise after all New Orleans had been through, the Saints are out to prove that last year was no fluke and any offense that lines up Drew Brees, Reggie Bush and Deuce McAllister has a chance to put up big numbers. However, with the departure of Horn, the only proven (and I use the term loosely) WR entering the season is Marques Colston, who was a pleasant surprise himself last year.

On defense the addition of Williams should make a sturdy defense even more consistent but there is not necessarily anyone on this side of the ball that will blow you away. The line will put pressure on the QB, the LB corp should be able to stop the run and defend the pass and the DB's should be able to keep receivers in check but it will be done in a very workmanlike way. Flashy players need not apply to play D for the Saints.

Key to success: If the Saints can replicate what they did last year, they should be in the thick of it once again in an NFC that seems to have 8-8 teams on the verge of the playoffs almost every season as of late. Without many additions or subtractions on either side of the ball, the only real question mark this team has is at the receiving position. And if there are any Colston's in this year's bunch the Saints will be fine.

Against Washington: The last of the Skins 5 wins from last season came in New Orleans with three weeks left in the season. One of Jason Campbell's shining moments in his first campaign, the Skins won that game 16-10 and will not see the Saints this season.

Fantasy sleeper: Devery Henderson. Like many other WR's in the league this year, the time for Henderson to show what he has is now. With promising 1st round pick Robert Meachem also looking to fill the spot opposite Colston, Henderson's speed is his greatest asset. If he can get open downfield, look for him to score 6-8 TD's this year and become a valuable third WR in deep fantasy leagues.

2007 Previews: New England Patriots

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 6-10 (12-4, AFC East champs)

Best additions: Randy Moss (WR, Raiders) and Adalius Thomas (LB, Ravens)

Key personnel loss: Cory Dillon (RB, retired)

2007 outlook: With an entirely new WR corp that includes the embattled Moss, nothing short of a Super Bowl will appear satisfactory in New England. And while Laurence Maroney will be on his own in the backfield with the retirement of Dillon, this offense seems loaded enough to make another deep playoff run at the least. The Patriots have to be considered a favorite to win the AFC as long as they have Tom Brady and he will probably have the best WR corp he's ever had.

A solid defensive team gets better with the addition of Thomas, but the continued holdout of Asante Samuel could leave a thin secondary exposed. After being tagged a franchise player, Samuel said he will sit out the first 10 games after he failed to reach a long term agreement with NE which means he may be ineffective for longer than that as he has to get back into playing shape once he shows up. Still, NE has enough weapons on defense to be able to hide a deficiency in the secondary.

Key to success: The Patriots went out and spent some serious money to upgrade positions they thought were week. If those new players struggle to fit into NE's mold, a promising season could get ugly in a hurry. They are likely to win the AFC East again regardless of what happens but their playoff run could be short if there are too many uncertainties late in the season.

Against Washington: The Patriots will host the Skins on Oct. 28, two week before the Patriots bye week and one week before NE faces Peyton Manning and the Colts, meaning Washington could potentially steal a game if the Skins can catch NE looking ahead a week.

Fantasy sleeper: Wes Welker. 1 of 4 WR's added this offseason, Welker could explode as the go-to guy when Moss and Dante Stallworth draw extra attention. Welker could lead the Patriots in receptions as he will likely fill a role similar to the one Art Monk filled in his days with the Posse, possession and outlet receiver. Welker could be a potential steal in the later rounds, provided he can turn his open looks underneath into long receptions and TD's.

2007 Previews: Minnesota Vikings

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 6-10 (third in NFC North)

Best addition: Mike Doss (S, Colts)

Key personnel loss: Fred Smoot (CB, Redskins)

2007 outlook: The Vikings have a lethal secondary after adding Doss to play alongside Darren Sharper, but the loss of Smoot means they are still searching for someone to play opposite Antoine Winfield. But three studs in the secondary is a great start. Add that to a defensive line showcasing Kevin Williams, Pat Williams and Kenechi Udeze and you've got a strong defense - at least until you look closer at the LB corp, which leaves something to be desired.

On offense, Minnesota is turning the reigns over to unproven QB Tarvaris Jackson and with no veteran backup, things could get interesting. One thing Jackson will have is plenty of RB's to play with after the drafting of Oklahoma product Adrian Peterson in the first round. But Jackson won't have much help in the receiving department so any judgments of Jackson's performance may not be entirely accurate.

Key to success: Fans will look to the progress of Jackson to determine if Minnesota made the right move in letting journeyman Brad Johnson walk away a second time, but the real key here will be the WR's and their ability to help their QB. None of them have really lived up to expectations and if they continue to fall short this year, defenses will be able to stack the box against the run and then it won't matter how many decent RB's the Vikings throw out there, they will have no room to run.

Against Washington: The Skins will travel to Minnesota with two weeks left in the season and if things go as planned, both teams will be hoping to be playing for a playoff spot. This game comes during a tough December for Washington in which it will host Chicago and Dallas while traveling to New York and Minnesota in between.

Fantasy sleeper: Troy Williamson. This is a make or break year for Williamson, who will be counted on to help bail out Jackson in times of trouble. If Williamson wants to stick in Minnesota, he will need to have a big year. And any owner smart enough to draft him in later rounds will be rewarded when Williamson's speed leads to big plays. But if he flops, he will frustrate owners who decide to play him before he has given any reason too.

2007 Previews: Miami Dolphins

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 6-10 (fourth in AFC East)

Best additions: Joey Porter (LB, Steelers) and Trent Green (QB, Chiefs)

Key personnel loss: Wes Welker (WR, Patriots)

2007 outlook: Say what you will about Porter's last year in Pittsburgh and his lack of production, but any defense that boasts Porter, Jason Taylor and Zach Thomas is a defense I would not want to face, even if most of the guys are on the downside of their careers. That trio, along with a decent supporting cast, would have Dolphins fans thinking playoffs if the offense wasn't in such a mess.

Other than Ronnie Brown and Chris Chambers (both of whom have their own struggles from time to time), the Dolphins have no other consistent weapons on offense, meaning this team will struggle to stay out of the AFC East cellar again this year. Now I am a John Beck fan and think he is an NFL-caliber QB based on his body of work at BYU, but I think he may be a year away from actually contributing something consistently. And with the Daunte Culpepper experiment lasting only one season and the Green era now underway, hopefully Beck will get that much needed year of learning on the sideline to adjust to the NFL.

Key to success: This season will ride entirely on the offense. If Green can somehow get steady production out of guys like Brown, Chambers and TE Randy McMichael, the Phins may actually be okay. The playoffs may still be a year away, but any progress towards a good season has to be encouraging for Phins fans.

Against Washington: The Skins will look to erase the disaster that was the 2006 season by posting a convincing win against the visiting Dolphins in the season opener. Of course Miami will be looking to do the same, so whichever team comes out on top may set the tone for a good season.

Fantasy sleeper: John Beck. Green is no spring chicken and after last year's horrific accident in which he missed most of the season, one has to wonder how long he can stay healthy this year. And with top level QB's always at a premium in fantasy play, Beck could provide a much anticipated boost if he is needed to come in at some point. And if the Dolphins 2007 begins to mirror 2006, look for them to get Beck some playing time so he can be ready to lead them to a winning season in 2008.

2007 Previews: Kansas City Chiefs

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 9-7 (second in AFC West)

Best addition: Donnie Edwards (LB, Chargers)

Key personnel loss: Dante Hall (WR, Rams)

2007 outlook: Things seemed to be looking up until All-Pro RB Larry Johnson announced he was holding out until he got a new contract. Now, a team without one of the best RB's in the league and poised to start a rookie QB looks like it could be in for a long season if things continue to go this way.

On the positive side, the additions of Edwards, Napoleon Harris and Alfonso Boone could actually give KC a respectable defense for the first time in a long while. The Achilles heel of this team in the past has been its inability to stop anyone and looks like this year things could be different.

Key to success: Along with how quickly the defense assimilates its new parts, the offense has a lot of new, young parts as well, including 2nd year QB Brodie Croyle and rookie WR Dwayne Bowe. While Croyle will have a tough time replacing the departed Trent Green and his consistent statistical output, Bowe will probably have the harder time living up to expectations as he is the latest in a long line of WR's that will try to give KC some respectability at the position. And needless to say, if Johnson does holdout, the adjusment period for those two players becomes a lot longer.

Against Washington: The Skins last faced KC during its latest playoff season in 2005, during the middle of a losing streak. Like the game the week before against Denver, Washington squandered opportunities to win the game, losing 28-21. KC is not on Washington's schedule this year.

Fantasy sleeper: Defense. I know what you're thinking, KC NEVER has a good D. And for the most part you are right, but with the offensive turnover and uncertainty this season, and the promise KC's addition on defense show, this group could actually be good. There may be no point in actually drafting this team, especially if a proven defense like SD or Baltimore is still available in the later rounds, but keep an eye on this group early on and keep them in mind when you are looking for a unit to spell your team during it's bye week.

2007 Previews: Jacksonville Jaguars

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 8-8 (third in AFC South)

Best addition: Jermaine Wiggins (TE, Vikings)

Key personnel loss: Donovin Darius (S, FA)

2007 outlook: In all honesty, Jacksonville didn't lose or gain much through free agency, and in fact of all of the players the Jaguars lost, they actually seemed to be doing themselves a favor. A .500 team last year, the team continues to be plagued by mediocre WR's (hello Dennis Northcutt) while boasting a strong running game and questions about Byron Leftwich's health. Along with Wiggins, the only real offensive threat is RB Maurice Jones-Drew.

With a coach like Jack Del Rio, the Jaguars should remain a solid defensive team although the recent release of Darius and the loss of Deon Grant leave holes at the safety position. If the secondary play remains steady, this defense should keep Jacksonville in a lot of games it may not have any business of winning.

Key to success: As I just mentioned, the defense should keep Jacksonville in a lot of games meaning that if the Jaguars want to improve on last year's record, the offense will have to come through and in a big way. By adding Northcutt, the Jaguars believe they have solved a lot of their offensive woes from last year but as anyone who has followed Northcutt's career knows, that is more wishful thinking than it is anything else.

Against Washington: Probably the most exciting win of last year for Skins fans was when these two teams met early on. This game, which went into overtime, was won on a long TD pass from Mark Brunell to Santana Moss and was probably the lone highlight of the season. The two teams do not meet this season.

Fantasy sleeper: Defense. Aside from Jones-Drew, the only player/unit from Jacksonville that is worth using every week will be the defense. With a disruptive front line and a solid LB corp, this unit should be able to put up a decent number of sacks and turnovers, along with being able to keep scores low. Keep this group high up on your list of defenses and be prepared to them late after a run on defenses has been made earlier in your draft.

2007 Previews: Indianapolis Colts

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 12-4 (Super Bowl champs)

Best addition: Anthony Gonzalez (WR, 1st round draft pick out of Ohio State)

Key personnel losses: Mike Doss (S, Vikings) and Cato June (LB, Buccaneers)

2007 outlook: With the proverbial monkey finally off the backs of Peyton Manning and Tony Dungy, what will the Colts do for an encore? Well, when the only impact pickup in the offseason is another weapon for Manning, Colts fans have to be thinking about a repeat. And they have no reason to think otherwise, at least as far as the offense is concerned.

Defensively however, this will be a brand new team - which may not be a bad thing given the Colts previous shortcomings in this area. Gone are leaders like June and Doss but it was apparent that Bob Sanders was really the glue that held that unit together as they markedly improved when he came back from injury and the Colts always seem to have another LB ready when a top flight one departs. And with Dungy's penchant for building defenses, it seems to not matter who is back there, they will be good enough to keep their offense from being outscored.

Key to success: All eyes will be on 2nd year RB Joseph Addai and how he takes to the role of being the sole back. He was drafted last year to replace the departed Edgerrin James and between him and the recently departed Dominic Rhodes they actually did what James could not and get to a Super Bowl. But now Addai has to go it alone and while it may be unreasonable to expect the Colts to repeat, if they do it will be because Addai was more than adequate at replacing both James and Rhodes.

Against Washington: The Skins probably should have beaten the Colts last year given the position they were in at halftime and the beating they had dished out to Manning but Indy came to life in the second half and beat Washington 36-22. The two teams do not meet this season.

Fantasy sleeper: Ben Utecht. While Dallas Clark gets most of the pass catching responsibilities in this offense, Utecht is actually in the same role Clark was when Marcus Pollard was still in Indy. Utecht has the ability to catch and get open and with defenses focusing more on Clark, he should be able to find ways to contribute in the two-TE sets Indy runs. With TE always being a position of peaks and valleys, Utecht may prove to be better than most of the regular starters in the league.

2007 Previews: Houston Texans

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 6-10 (fourth in AFC South)

Best addition: Matt Schaub (QB, Falcons)

Key personnel loss: Antwan Peek (LB, Browns)

2007 outlook: Still in shambles after all these years, Houston made wholesale changes - including letting the team's first ever No. 1 overall draft pick David Carr find new employment - and the hope is the team is getting better under 2nd year coach Gary Kubiak. Highly regarded Schaub will replace Carr this season and Ahman Green will take over as the No. 1 RB. The best weapon on offense remains WR Andre Johnson, but after the Eric Moulds experiment didn't work out last year, Johnson finds himself the only target defenses will respect.

Mario Williams will forever be linked to Reggie Bush because he was drafted ahead of him when Houston was desperate for - and still is - a RB. However, the defense may actually be improved this year with the addition of 1st round pick Amobi Okoye. The LB corp looks to be the strength of this unit, especially with its depth, while the secondary is thin and could pose problems if any injuries occur.

Key to success: In all reality, Houston probably has no real shot at making the playoffs, no matter how much the team overachieves. With a (still) patchwork line that proved to be the downfall of Carr and no running game to speak, the offense will have a hard time moving the ball. The Texans could have a chance of being respectable, but they will go only as far as the defense can carry them.

Against Washington: The Skins beat the Texans 31-15 in week 3 for their first win of the season. In that game Ladell Betts ran for 124 yards. The teams will not face each other this year.

Fantasy sleeper: Matt Schaub. The only real weapon on this team is Johnson and the guy who will benefit most from his playmaking abilities will be Schaub. Because Johnson is one of the top WR's in fantasy football, Schaub should put up good enough numbers to be considered a spot starter while his mobility boosts his value because he will be able to pick up points on the ground. He may not rack up the points on the ground like his former teammate Michael Vick, but Schaub is more mobile than Carr, which could also give him a better shot at staying upright more than Carr too.

2007 Previews: Green Bay Packers

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 8-8 (second in NFC North)

Best addition: Justin Harrell (DT, 1st round pick out of Tennessee)

Key personnel loss: Ahman Green (RB, Texans)

2007 outlook: When your best addition is a first round draft pick on the D Line while you let a former premier RB go without replacing him, you have issues. That is the situation in Green Bay. Green may have been struggling lately to stay healthy but could someone tell me what the alternative is? According to the roster its Vernand Morency, whom the Packers got from the Texans which tells me one thing - if he was expendable in a place where they haven't had a real steady, reliable runner, then why would you think Morency will be a better back than Green, who takes over in Houston? I'm sure Brett Favre is loving this.

On defense, the team remains thin at LB, and like what happened with the RB spot, Green Bay did nothing to fix this issue. Right now Brady Poppinga - who I actually met at my time in Evanston, Wyo. and have a lot of respect for - is slated to start next to Nick Barnett and AJ Hawk which could be a problem since he has had some health problems and there is no real depth behind him. If the LB corp can somehow hold together, this defense should help the team get to the playoffs.

Key to success: The Packers are thin in key positions and like the last couple of years, any injuries to guys at those spots will end the season on the spot. The funny thing is these positions were thin last year too, so why weren't they addressed in the offseason. This team looks like it is already being held together by duct tape and if it doesn't hold, Favre will probably kick himself for coming back yet again. That scenario gets more likely every day.

Against Washington: The Skins will travel to Lambeau Field on Oct. 14 to take on the Packers, two weeks after Washington's bye week. The Skins last faced the Packers on Halloween in 2004, a 28-14 loss at home.

Fantasy sleeper: Brandon Jackson. The team's 2nd round pick out of Nebraska, it is probably only a matter of time before Jackson takes the starting job from Morency. With not much standing in his way, look for Jackson to break some big runs early on and become a hot waiver wire pickup in the first couple of weeks. If you are desperate for a back in the late rounds of your draft, pick Jackson and tuck him away before he becomes a hot waiver wire pickup. And if you have no need for him when he gets hot, sell him high and fix another weak spot on your team.

2007 Previews: Detroit Lions

Note: This is a team-by-team look previewing the 2007 season. These are my official thoughts on how I think things will play out.

Last year: 3-13 (fourth in NFC North)

Best addition: Edwin Mulitalo (G, Ravens)

Key personnel loss: Dre' Bly (CB, Broncos)

2007 outlook: I hate to say a guard is the biggest addition when the Lions made dozens of moves this offseason but it seems Matt Millen has added another vice to his penchant for drafting WR's as this year he signed two more RB's to go along with Kevin Jones (who's potential is only matched by his lack of durability).

On defense even more questions remain as the Lions let 7 players go from last year's squad and didn't do much to replace them. Bly may not be the player he is hyped to be but was still better than any other option Detroit had - and to trade him for a RB they didn't necessarily need makes me question Millen even more. But that is another topic for another time.

The one positive this year is that many fans will actually be paying attention to Detroit to see how 1st round pick Calvin Johnson meshes with super WR Roy Williams. At least the Lions will have something worth paying attention too.

Key to success: Where to begin. Seeing what progress the Lions were actually making would be a lot easier if anyone actually knew what type of team and/or emphasis Millen was trying to build and work towards. Whether it's drafting WR after WR in the first round every year or picking up two starting caliber RB's to compete with the back they already have, it seems Detroit's money would be better spent elsewhere. There is no way this team has success until a clear vision is defined.

Against Washington: After having its bye week four weeks into the season, the Skins will host the Lions the following week on Oct. 7. The two teams last met in Detroit in 2004, a 17-10 win in which Mark Brunell threw for only 58 yards.

Fantasy sleeper: Johnson. While Williams will get all of the fantasy publicity, Johnson will probably get a lot as well and could compete to be the NFL's offensive rookie of the year which should translate into big TD numbers. While rookie WR's can often be a gamble, Johnson is 6'5" and should have no problem using that height to score multiple red zone TD's, provided the Lions can actually get into the red zone. Look to take a flier on Johnson in the middle rounds when other team's No. 2 receivers start to come off the board.