49ers Favored in "HarBowl"

The odds are in, and to nobodies surprise, Las Vegas has picked the 49ers as the favorites to win Super Bowl XLVII by 4 points.

A big reason why the 49ers are being favored in their first Super Bowl appearance in nearly 20 years is because of their explosive offensive attack. In a game that features two stout defenses, it's going to come down to which team can generate the most offense, and if their last two games are any indication, the 49ers will be up for the challenge. With Colin Kaepernick under center, the 49ers have proven that they can put up points in bunches as they can now beat you in a variety of ways. Just look at last weeks game vs. the Falcons when San Francisco didn't get a single first down in the first quarter, then went on to torch Atlanta's D throughout the rest of the game. Once that switch gets turned on, the Niners are a tough team to stop thanks to the playmakers that offense has generated and particularly the play of that offensive line. We've seen Kaepernick have a couple of outstanding games in January, and Frank Gore and LaMichael James have been able to run at will because of the way that line is playing, and they are going to have to be the ones that again set the tone vs. Baltimore.

As potent as the 49ers offense has looked the last two weeks, this will be the toughest defense they've run into since that Seattle game in December, and that was the last time the 49ers were handed a loss. My guess is that Baltimore will stack the box heavily to keep an eye on both Gore and Kaepernick running the ball as I think they're going to try and force the Niners to beat them through the air. Kaepernick has done a tremendous job (for the most part) of protecting the ball, but the Ravens make a living off turning the ball over and 'Kaep is going to have to be extra aware of the playmakers in Baltimore's secondary. That being said, and as good as the Baltimore defense is, the 49ers are favored in this one because they can win whatever type of game this turns into. They've shown already during these playoffs that they aren't scared of facing an early deficit and making a comeback. They also are more than capable of playing defense and running the ball should this one turn into a low-scoring, smash-mouth type of contest.

I do think this one will be close, but I do think the 49ers will pull away in the end. They are playing with a ton of swagger right now, and Baltimore has just barely survived a few games in order to make it to this point. The only way the Ravens win this one is if they get to Kaepernick early and often, create some turnovers and make Kaepernick look like a 2nd year QB with just 12 career starts.Otherwise, if Kapernick gets going, it opens up the running game and like I said earlier, makes the 49ers a very tough team to slow down. I'll go ahead and make my prediction now, even though we'll be discussing this game again before next Sunday's showdown. My guess is it will be a bit of a defensive battle in the first half then the 49ers take over and dominate the 2nd. Picking a score is always just blind speculation, but I'd be surprised is San Francisco doesn't win by 7+. I'll go with 27-17, Niners.

NFL Refs to Return for Week 4

Well, the lockout that was having more of an impact on the outcome of games than I think anyone was expecting has officially come to an end.

The NFL and the referee association came to an agreement on Wednesday, just 2 days after what many are calling one of the biggest blunders in NFL officiating history. If you saw that Monday Night game between Seattle and Green Bay, then you know exactly what I'm talking about. What should have been a game ending interception by Green Bay in the end zone was miscalled and was ruled a catch by Golden Tate, who didn't even have a hand on the ball when the Packers defender came down with it. That was the most publicized miscall to come from these replacement refs, but they've been atrocious since game one between the Giants and Cowboys. I know one guy who will be extremely pleased to see the return of the professional zebra's is 49ers coach Jim Harbough. The replacement refs did about everything they could to prevent the 49ers from beating Green Bay in week one but the 49ers prevailed. They didn't have such luck in week 3 in Minnesota though, as the refs again played a big role in the 49ers 24-13 loss. Now that the real officials have returned and your looking to do some wagering on upcoming games, check players rewards card!

As bad as the officiating was in last Sunday's game though, the 49ers really didn't play well. It was the worst game I've seen them play since early 2011, as it looked like they completely underestimated the Vikings, which is something you don't expect to see out of a Jim Harbough coached squad. Their defense looked slower than usual off the ball, and their pass coverage and pass rush was nowhere near where it was in the first two weeks of the season. It almost seemed like the Vikings and 49ers switched identities before Sunday's game because the 'Vikes were the ones getting pressure on Alex Smith and really making the running game non-existent. Frank Gore ran well with the opportunities he got, collecting 63 yards on 12 carries, but the 49ers were down early and went into passing mode often. Unfortunately for them, Alex Smith didn't have the best of days, turning the ball over for the first time since week 12 of last season not just once, but twice. Smith had both a pick and lost a fumble and couldn't execute when the 49ers needed to keep drives alive.

Across the bay, the Raiders got their first victory of the season in impressive fashion over the Pittsburgh Steelers. We haven't talked much about the Raiders since the start of the season, but they re-inserted themselves into the conversation with that big win last weekend. The Raiders got the Carson Palmer they hope they'll be seeing more often than not, as the former Heisman winner had one of his more efficient games in the Silver and Black. He threw for just 209 yards, but had 3 TD's and a 104 passer rating vs. a top notch defense. The guy that really propelled the Raiders though was start running back Darren McFadden. 'Run DMC' had his first 100-yard game of the season and set the tone early for Oakland with a 64-yard touchdown scamper in the first 3 minutes of play. The Raiders have their holes on defense, but this offense can put up some numbers, and they'll be competitive as long as Palmer and McFadden are on their games.

2012 NFL Award and Playoff Predictions

Well, I know the season started up yesterday and we were too busy to get our awards and playoff predictions out before kickoff, but nonetheless, we had it all prepared and figured we'd post it anyway. Week one WAS NOT taken into account for any of this.

AWARD PREDICTIONS

MVP: QB Tom Brady, New England- Brady has as many weapons at his disposal now than at any other point in his career. Also, the Pats' improved running game should open up the field even more for him. He should be in the top 3 in yards passing, TD's and QB rating by the end of the year and very well could lead the Pats back to the Super Bowl.

Offensive POY: RB Arian Foster, Houston- Foster looks primed for a career year with close to 100 percent health and the return of Matt Schaub. Now teams won't be able to load 8 in the box like they did so often last year after Schaub went down. With a full season, Ben Tate keeping him fresh and running behind that O-Line, I could easily see 2,250 total yards and maybe 20+ total touchdowns in 2012 for the elusive back.

Defensive POY: LB Aldon Smith, San Francisco: He had 14 sacks as a part-time rookie in 2011, and now he's an every down player. With a year under his belt and the extra opportunity, look for him to easily approach 20 sacks and 80+ tackles. There are a lot of players in this league who can get after the passer, but Smith has the chance to make in impact in a variety of ways.

Offensive ROY: QB Robert Griffin III, Washington: RG3 can do a little bit of everything, and although he may not match Cam Newton's incredible rookie season of a year ago, he should come pretty close. 3,500 passing yards, 500 rushing yards and 20 total TD's is well within range for the talented Baylor alum.

Defensive ROY: CB Morris Claiborne, Dallas: The uber-talented cover corner is the reason why the Cowboys expect their secondary to be a strength in 2012, rather than the weakness it was last year. Claiborne is a picture perfect corner, with size, physicality and speed to match up with any reciever in the league. Look for him to become a shut-down guy early one.

Comeback POY: QB Peyton Manning, Denver: Unless Manning goes down with another injury, he's the clear-cut favorite in this category and this the easiest selection of all the post-season awards. He may not be the arm he was in Indy, but after watching him torch the Niners secondary in the dress rehearsal preseason game, I have no doubts he'll throw for 30+ scores if he stays on the field.

Coach of the Year: Romeo Crennel, Kansas City: I have to agree with the consensus pick on this one. Crennel has enough talent in KC this year to make the Chiefs a serious contender. If he pushes the right buttons, they'll be a playoff team and that's what most are expecting.

Executive of the Year: Phil Emery, Chicago: The first-year Chicago GM has the Bears looking to make a huge impact in 2012. He didn't make a whole lot of additions, but the ones he did make should provide a lift to this teams offense. He brought in one of the most talented WR's in the league and a guy who's had tremendous success with Cutler. He also added Michael Bush, one of the best short-yardage backs in the league. The improvements should make Chicago a force in the NFC.

PLAYOFF PREDICTION

AFC

Wild Card

Baltimore 27, Denver 23

Kansas City 21, Pittsburgh 17

Divisional

New England 31, Baltimore 24

Houston 28, Kansas City 13

Championship

Houston 34, New England 27

NFC

Wild Card

Packers 37, Saints 33

Chicago 24, NY Giants 20

Divisional

49ers 26, Bears 20

Falcons 31, Packers 27

Championship

49ers 20, Falcons 17

Super Bowl

San Francisco 49ers 27, Houston Texans 24

NFL Preview: NFC West

1st Place, San Francisco 49ers: 13-3

Offense: QB Alex Smith, RB Frank Gore, TE Vernon Davis, WR Michael Crabtree, WR Randy Moss, T Joe Staley, C Jonathan Goodwin

Defense: DE Justin Smith, LB Patrick Willis, LB Navorro Bowman, LB Aldon Smith, CB Carlos Rogers, S Dashon Goldson, S Donte Whitner

The 49ers had one big hole in their team last season, and they were still able to come within a few minutes of a Super Bowl birth. This year, they have dramatically improved their receiving group, and now have a plethora of weapons for Alex Smith to use. Their defense returns the same exact unit that was one of the best, if not the best in the league last season. There is some question regarding Frank Gore, who had a miserable second half in 2011, but this team looks better than the one that went 13-3 a season ago.

2nd Place, Seattle Seahawks: 9-7

Offense: QB Russell Wilson (R), RB Marshawn Lynch, WR Sidney Rice, T Russell Okung

Defense: DT Brandon Mebene, DE Chris Clemons, LB Leroy Hill, CB Brandon Browner, S Kam Chancellor, S Earl Thomas

Seattle really reminds me a lot of last years 49ers squad. They have a top notch defense that should keep them in pretty much every game, it's just a matter of whether or not they can come up with enough offensive firepower. They have one proven wideout in Sidney Rice for the rookie Wilson to throw to, but they do have a decent O-Line and a top notch back in Lynch. They should be a +.500 team, but there's really no way for them to knock of San Fran, or make a serious run at a playoff birth this year, barring major injury.]

3rd Place, Arizona Cardnials, 6-10

Offense: QB John Skelton, RB Beanie Wells, WR Larry Fitzgerald, WR Michael Floyd (R), T Bobby Massie (R)

Defense: DE Calais Campbell, LB Daryl Washington, LB Paris Lenon, CB Patrick Peterson, S Adrian Wilson

The Cards will have another rough go of it this year, as they just haven't found a QB to replace Kurt Warner since he left them a few years ago. Kevin Kolb has been a disaster and lost out to Skelton for the QB1 spot, but Skelton isn't a whole lot better. Their running game is also in shambles, as Beanie Wells can't seem to stay healthy, and their O-Line is a work in progress. Defensively they're average, as they can turn the ball over, but really don't stop teams consistently.

4th Place, St. Louis Rams: 3-13

Offense: QB Sam Bradford, RB Steven Jackson, WR Steve Smith, G Harvey Dahl

Defense: DE Chris Long, DE Robert Quinn, LB James Laurinaitis, CB Janoris Jenkins, S Quinton Mikell

The Rams are in a similar boat as the Cardinals. They have a solid QB, and a nice running back but their O-line and receivers won't allow those two to work like they can. Defensively, they have holes all over the place, as they don't generate a lot of pass-rush and don't do a great job against the run. Their secondary looks a little better this time around, but not good enough to overcome the other shortcomings on defense.

NFL Preview: NFC South

1st Place, Atlanta Falcons: 13-3

Offense: QB Matt Ryan, RB Michael Turner, WR Julio Jones, WR Roddy White, TE Tony Gonzalez, G Justin Blalock

Defense: DE John Abraham, LB Sean Weatherspoon, CB Dunta Robinson, CB Asante Samuel, S Thomas DeCoud

The Falcons don't have the most stacked defense in the league, but it's just good enough to prevail with their outstanding offense. They have the best receiving tandem in the league in Jones and White, and even Gonzalez has shown he still has a lot left in the tank. They'll have to play well in order to fend off the Saints, but they have more than enough talent to do so.

2nd Place, New Orleans Saints: 11-5*

Offense: QB Drew Brees, RB Mark Ingram, RB Darren Sproles, WR Marques Colston, TE Jimmy Graham, T Jermon Bushrod

Defense: DE Will Smith, LB David Hawthorne, LB Curtis Lofton, LB Jonathan Vilma, CB Patrick Robinson, S Roman Harper

The Saints have had a premiere offense since Drew Brees arrived in town, but they've never quite had the defense to match it. This year, they've brought in two huge additions at linebacker and should be much better this time around under Steve Spagnuolo. They will have one of the best linebacking corps in the league once Vilma is back in shape and ready to go, and they again should be back in the playoffs come January.

3rd Place, Carolina Panthers: 9-7

Offense: QB Cam Newton, RB DeAngelo Williams, RB Jonathan Stweart, WR Steve Smith, C Ryan Kalil

Defense: DE Charles Johnson, LB James Anderson, LB Luke Kuechly (R), CB Chris Gamble, S Charles Godfrey

The Panters are a team on the rise, but in this division and conference, they are still a little short. Cam Newton should be even better in his sophomore season, and I think the running back duo of Williams and Stewart could be in for a 2,000 yards on the ground this year. Like with the Saints though, their defense is the question mark, but unlike the Saints, they don't have quite the offense to overcome defensive mishaps.

4th Place, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 7-9

Offense: QB Josh Freeman, RB Doug Martin (R), WR Vincent Jackson, WR Mike Williams, T Jeremy Trueblood

Defense: DE Adrian Clayborn, LB Lavonte David (R), LB Mason Foster, CB Eric Wright, S Ronde Barber

The Bucs should improve upon their 4-12 record of a year ago, but not by much. They have improved their defense and made it more explosive with the addition or Jackson and the drafting of Martin. That should help Freeman rebound from an off 2011 season. Unfortunately for them, they have a somewhat patched together, young defense that will take some time to lean to play together.

2012 NFL Preview: NFC North

The NFC North also has 3 teams that expect to make the playoffs. If they stay healthy and play the way they should, at least 2 will make it.

I like Green Bay, just because they've been here many times before and have proven they don't need a top notch defense to win this division. The Bears and the Lions will certainly give them a run for their money.If your planning on betting on a team this year, click here to check out the odds.

1st Place, Green Bay Packers: 12-4

Offense: QB Aaron Rodgers, RB Cedric Benson, WR Greg Jennings, WR Jordy Nelson, TE Jermichael Finley, C Jeff Satruday

Defense: LB Nick Perry (R), LB Clay Matthews, LB A.J. Hawk, CB Tramon Williams, S Charles Woodson, S Morgan Burnett

The Packers didn't do a whole lot to improve their 32nd ranked defense from a year ago, but they're hoping a full season out of Clay Matthews and the rookie pass-rusher Nick Perry will help improve that number. With their high powered offense, even just average play on defense should be enough for them to compete for home field advantage throughout the playoffs. I know their division is improved with the Bears making strides and the Lions sporting a high-powered attack themselves, but the Packers are still the cream of the crop. It should be interesting to see what their running game does this year behind Cedric Benson. Last year, the Packers got little production out of their backfield, so if Benson has another 1,000+ season in him, it'll make this offense that much tougher to stop.

2nd Place, Chicago Bears: 11-5*

Offense: QB Jay Cutler, RB Matt Forte, RB Michael Bush, WR Brandon Marshall, T Gabe Carimi

Defense: DT Henry Melton, DE Julius Peppers, LB Brian Urlacher, LB Lance Briggs, CB Charles Tillman, CB Tim Jennings, S Major Wright

The Bears have a chance to be a better version of the Baltimore Raves this year. They have a deep, complete defense and the makings for an explosive, balanced offense. They're banking on the Mashall-Cutler connection to produce like it did in Denver, and with the running game the Bears can bring, they should be able to do that with ease. The only area I wonder about with Chicago is their receivers outside of Marshall. Devin Hester is a speed demon, but never has been a consistent pass-catcher. Lovie Smith believes rookie Alshon Jeffries will be an impact reciever right off to bat to help, but only time will tell. As long as this defense stays healthy, and they can keep their big 3 (Cutler, Marhsall, Forte) on the field together, they should be as tough as anyone else in the NFC.

3rd Place, Detroit Lions: 9-7

Offense: QB Matt Stafford, RB Micheal Leshoure, WR Calvin Johnson, WR Titus Young, TE Brandon Pettigrew, G Rob Sims

Defense: DE Cliff Avril, DT Ndamukong Suh, DE Kyle Vanden Bosch, LB Stephen Tulloch, CB Chris Houston

The Lions have one of the most explosive passing games in the NFL, but just about every other area of their football team is a question mark right now. Their backfield should be solid once they get Leshoure back in week 2 and they could get a huge boost if Jahvid Best comes back and contributes at some point. Their defense is a large question mark though. They have some pass-rushers and can handle the run OK, but they'll be outmatched by a lot of the big passing teams in this league with their spotty secondary. Still, Stafford and Johnson together give this team hope, and they'll always have a shot to win with those two on the field.

4th Place, Minnesota Vikings: 4-12

Offense: QB Christian Ponder, RB Adrian Peterson, WR Percy Harvin, WR Jerome Simpson, T Matt Kalil (R)

Defense: DE Brian Robinson, DE Jared Allen, LB Chad Greenway, LB Erin Henderson, CB Antoine Winfield

The Vikings have much of the same problems on D than the Lions do, and nowhere near the offensive firepower to make up for it. The jury is still out on Ponder, though he had some nice moments in the preseason. Percy Harvin and AP are offensive studs, but when opposing defenses have just those two to focus on, things will be tough. They need other guys to step up and help those two out in order for Ponder to be a success. Defensively, they won't stop many high-powered passing teams, but they will get after the QB. In this tough division and conference, they'll be lucky to improve much on last years 3-13 campaign.

2012 NFL Preview: NFC East

This is the only division I'm really having trouble predicting. With the depth in the NFC this year, it'll be tough for them to get two teams into the postseason. I see all 3 teams having a pretty even shot at winning the division, depending on which stays the healthiest. So when you see 3 teams that are pretty evenly matched, what do you do? Go with the reigning Super Bowl champs.


1st Place, New York Giants: 11-4

Offense: QB Eli Manning, RB Ahmad Bradshaw, WR Victor Cruz, WR Hakeem Nicks, T David Diehl, Kevin Boothe

Defense: DE Justin Tuck, DE Jason Pierre-Paul, DE Osi Umenyiora, LB Mathias Kiwanuka, LB Michael Boley, CB Corey Webster, S Antrel Rolle, S Kenny Phillips

The reigning Super Bowl Champs brought back almost the same exact cast that won it all last year. They did lose two key offensive pieces in Mario Manningham and Brandon Jacobs, but they had players emerge last season (Cruz) and drafted a solid back this April (David Wilson) that should make up for that. Manning is right in his prime, and a good candidate for 40+ TD passes throwing to the best WR duo in the league. There defense can absolutely get after the passer, and a healthy year from Prince Amukamara should help tigthten up the pass coverage. They again should be one of the most well-rounded teams in the league, and should have no trouble returning to the postseason to attempt to defend their tittle.

2nd Place, Philadelphia Eagles: 10-6

Offense: QB Michael Vick, RB LeSean McCoy, WR DeSean Jackson, WR Jeremy Maclin, TE Brent Celek, T King Dunlap

Defense: DE Jason Babin, DT Cullen Jenkins, DE Trent Cole, LB, LB Mychal Kendricks (R), Dominique Rogers-Cromartie, CB Nhamdi Asomugha, S Kurt Coleman

If the Eagles stay healthy, they could be as good as any team in the NFC. The squad that was dawned the nickname the 'Dream Team' prior to last season didn't quite click like most thought they would. This time around though, with a year under their belts together, they should do a much better job. If they can get bounce back seasons out of their two star corners, their defense will be just fine with one of the best defensive fronts in football. Offensively, they'll go as Vick goes. If he's healthy for 15-16 games, the Eagles are going to be tough and will be right up there with the Giants. If he plays 8-10 games, they'll run into much of the same luck they had a year ago.

3rd Place, Dallas Cowboys: 10-6

Offense: QB Tony Romo, RB DeMarco Murray, WR Miles Austin, WR Dez Bryant, TE Jason Witten, C Phil Costa

Defense: LB Anthony Spencer, LB Sean Lee, LB DeMarcus Ware, CB Brandon Carr, CB Morris Claiborne (R)

In Dallas, the Cowboys have had some major injury issues the last few seasons, but if they can keep their top two wideouts on the field with Witten and Murray, then Dallas will sport one of the best offenses in the league. There still are major questions about Tony Romo in the playoffs, but if he has his supporting cast healthy this year, he should have no trouble leading the Cowboys to a successful regular season. On Defense, they have one of the best, if not the best, pass-rusher in the game in Ware, but their front-7 is very average outside of him. Their secondary should be improved this year with the #5 overall pick in April's draft in Claiborne. This should be one of the best battles for tops in the division in the entire NFL between New York, Philly and Dallas. It's going to come down to whichever team stays healthiest.

4th Place, Washington Redskins: 4-12

Offense: QB Robert Griffen III (R), RB Roy Helu, WR Pierre Garcon, TE Fred Davis, G Chris Chester

Defense: DE Stephen Bowen, LB Ryan Kerrigan, LB London Fletcher, LB Brian Orakpo, CB DeAngelo Hall

The 'Skins are in for a rebuilding year under rookie QB RG3. Early returns have been their for the rook, but he really doesn't have much talent around him on offense, especially in the backfield. Washington will have a tough time generating a run game, and their O-line isn't anything special, so I foresee a lot of pressure being put on Griffin by opposing D's. Their Defense is a little further ahead of their offense, but you can still beat them in the air. They're a couple years, and a few solid upgrades on both sides of the ball away from returning to contention.

2012 NFL Preview: AFC West

1st Place, Kansas City Chiefs: 11-5

Offense: QB Matt Cassel, RB Jamaal Charles, RB Peyton Hillis, WR Dwayne Bowe, WR Steve Breaston, T Eric Winston

Defense: DT Dontari Poe (R), LB Tambi Hali, LB Derrick Johnson, CB Brandon Flowers, CB Stanford Routte, S Eric Berry

The Chiefs look like one of the most improved teams in the NFL, and they didn't even have to make many adds in the offseason to get there. What they'll be relying on is the return of their offensive start, Charles, and their defensive leader, Berry. Both guys went down early in 2011 and KC never really recovered. Both are fully healthy now, and the Chiefs did bring in a few pieces that should help them out. Hillis could give the Chiefs one of the best 1-2 combo backs in the league and Routte will further improve an outstanding secondary. The one question I have with KC is their passing game. They have the weapons for Matt Cassel, but they need him to bounce back from last years 10 TD/1,713 Yard line.

2nd Place, Denver Broncos: 10-6*

Offense: QB Peyton Manning, RB Willis McGahee, WR Erick Decker, WR Demaryius Thomas, C J.D. Walton

Defense: DT Ty Warren, DE Elvis Dumervil, LB Von Miller, LB D.J. Williams, CB Champ Bailey, S Mike Adams

The Broncos surprised everyone last season when they not only made the postseason, but won a playoff game behind Tim Tebow. This year, they have a much more traditional QB under center, and he looks primed for a big comeback. Manning has looked great in the preseason, and has already built a rapport with the young receivers. It may be tough to get another big season out of McGahee, but they won't need him to do as much if Manning is Manning. Defensively, they have a the pass-rush and secondary to shut teams down, but need their run defense to perform.

3rd Place, San Diego Chargers: 8-8

Offense: QB Philip Rivers, RB Ryan Mathews, WR Malcom Floyd, WR Robert Meachem, TE Antonio Gates, T Jared Gaither

Defense: LB Shaun Phillips, LB Takeo Spikes, CB Quentin Jammer, S Atari Bigbi, S Eric Weddle

The Chargers again will rely on much of same formula they've used the past few seasons; a lot of offense and crossing their fingers on defense. The offense lost a big contributor this offseason though in Vincent Jackson, and I don't think they adequately replaced him. They'll need Gates to get back to 1000+ yards to help make up for the loss. Mathews looks like one of the best young backs in the league, especially behind this O-line, but he has trouble staying on the field. There defense has some players in the secondary, but not enough to make up for a lacking run D.

4th Place, Oakland Raiders: 6-10

Offense: QB Carson Palmer, RB Darren McFadden, WR Darrious Heyward-Bey, WR Denarious Moore, C Stephen Wisniewski

Defense: DT Richard Seymour, DT Tommy Kelly, LB Rolando McClain, LB Miles Burris (R), S Tyvon Branch,

The Raiders are in the same boat as San Diego. They're relying on their team improving with new philosophy instead of infusion of talent. They have largely the same cast that went 8-8 last season, but they finished the year terribly under Palmer. Getting a healthy season out of Run DMC will be huge and would help out the offense immensely, but is no given with his history. Their secondary is also in shambles right now as they're starting two castoffs at cornerback and the underachieving Michael Huff at strong safety.

2012 NFL Preview: AFC South

1st Place, Houston Texans: 13-3

Offense: QB Matt Schaub, RB Arian Foster, RB Ben Tate, WR Andre Johnson, TE Owen Daniels, T Duane Brown

Defense: DE J.J. Watt, LB Brian Cushing, LB Connor Barwin, LB Whitney Mercilus, CB Kareem Jackson, CB Jonathan Joseph,S Danieal Manning

The Texans look to me like one of the most well-rounded teams in the AFC this year. They have the makings for an explosive offense with the return of Matt Schaub behind center, and the terrific halfback duo of Foster and Tate. They also have their big wideout fully healthy for the first time in over a year. What makes them so good is that they have the defense to match their potent offense. With a solid linebacking corps led by Cushing, and a potential shut-down secondary, they have the weapons on both sides of the ball to keep up with anyone in the league. Their big key will be to keep everyone healthy. If they do that, and get a nice return from Schaub, they could find themselves in the AFC Championship, which they came so close to last year.

2nd Place, Tennessee Titans: 8-8

Offense: QB Jake Locker, RB Chris Johnson, WR Kenny Britt, TE Jared Cook, WR Nate Washington, G Steve Hutchinson

Defense: DE Kamerion Wimbley, LB Will Witherspoon, LB Akeem Ayers, CB Jason McCourty, S Jordan Babineaux

The Titans are a team on the up, but an improved division and a young QB could make it hard to do a whole lot more than 8-8 in 2012. The big key for their offense though will be the return of Kenny Britt, who's absence last year allowed teams to gear up with 8 guys in the box to stop CJ2K, which helps out both the run and passing game. Now with the emergence of Washington alongside Britt and Cook, the Titans have some weapons for Locker to use.  Defensively, they still have some holes as they don't have a big pass-rush threat, but their secondary is solid and they should far decently against the run.

3rd Place, Jacksonville Jaguars: 6-10

Offense: QB Blaine Gabbart, RB Maurice Jones-Drew, WR Justin Blackmon, WR Laurent Robinson, C Brad Meester

Defense: DE Jeremy Mincy, DE Andre Branch, LB Daryl Smith, LB Paul Posluszky, S Dawan Landry, CB Derek Cox

The Jags are also a team on the rise, but probably a year or 2 away from being legit contenders. They appear to have found a QB able to lead them for the better part of the next decade, and have improved recieving corps big time this offseason. Justin Blackmon should be the leagues best rookie wideout in 2012, and Robinson is a great red-zone option (11 TD's in 2011). Luckily for them, MJD ended his holdout this weekend, so he should be ready for week one. Still, the problem with the Jags, and something they need to address to help Gabbart is their pass protection. They have to do better this season on that front. Their defense looks solid, with good pass-rush generated by the D-Line and a good linebacker group.

4th Place, Indianapolis Colts: 4-12

Offense: QB Andrew Luck (R), RB Donald Brown, WR Reggie Wayne, TE Coby Fleener, T Winston Justice

Defense: DE Corey Redding, LB Robert Mathis, LB Dwigth Freeney, CB Vontae Davis, S Antoine Bethea

Like every other team in this division, the Colts are too headed in the right direction, but are too young to do much but learn in 2012. Andrew Luck already looks like the real deal, but the other offensive weapons are less inspiring. Wayne should be a good target for the kid, and his TE from Stanford will be a solid security blanket, but the Colts need someone to step up in the backfield, preferably Brown. Defensively they still have their trademark speed and pass-rushers, and they've improved their secondary a bit. The big issue with them has been stopping the run, and they switched to a 3-4 this season to try to improve that.

2012 NFL Preview: AFC North

1st Place, Baltimore Ravens: 12-4

Offense: QB Joe Flacco, RB Ray Rice, WR Torrey Smith, WR Anquan Boldin, T Bryant McKinnie, T Michael Oher

Defense: DT Haloti Ngata, LB Ray Lewis, LB Jameel McClain, LB Courtney Upshaw (R), CB Lardarious Webb, S Ed Reed,

The Ravens took a huge hit over the spring, losing their top defensive talent for most, if not all of 2012 to a torn Achilles tendon. Still, the veteran led Ravens have a strong enough defense to overcome the loss, especially if they get a big rookie year out of Courtney Upshaw and the slimmed down Ray Lewis. Offensively, coach John Harbough is ready to open up the playbook for Joe Flacco, and he's got the perfect wideout to take shots deep with in Torrey Smith. This offenses success again will rely on Ray Rice though, and the effectiveness of their offensive line. If the Ravens offense improves like many believe it will, it'll will take a lot of slack off their D.

2nd Place, Pittsburgh Steelers: 10-6*

Offense: QB Ben Roethlisberger, RB Issac Redman, RB Rashard Mendenhall, WR Mike Wallace, WR Antonio Brown, C Maurkice Pouncey

Defense: DE Brett Keisel, LB LaMarr Woodley, LB James Harrison, LB Lawrence Timmons, CB Ike Taylor, S Troy Polamalu, S Ryan Clark

Although the Steelers D was tops in the NFL a year ago, they face a much tougher task in 2012. They're a year older and didn't add much to their roster in the offseason. Plus they're undergoing an identity change on offense, in which they'll be relying on the backfield much more often, something that they got away from with Roethlisberger under center. Still, they have two extremely talented wideouts in Wallace and Brown, and will have a nice 1-2 punch in the backfield after Mendenhall returns in October sometime. They will need some young players to step up on defense, and their offensive line and they should be alright. Not the powerhouse of 4-5 years ago, but a solid all around squad nonetheless.

3rd Place, Cincinatti Bengals: 9-7

Offense: QB Andy Dalton, RB Benjarvus Green-Ellis, WR A.J. Green, TE Jermaine Gresham, T Andrew Whitworth

Defense: DT Geno Atkins, DE Michael Johnson, LB Ray Maualuga, LB Thomas Howard, CB Leon Hall, S Reggie Nelson

The Bengals are one of the up and coming teams in the AFC, but they play in one the NFL's best divisions. They don't have a lot of room for error, and I just don't think their offense is deep enough to keep up with Pittsburgh quite yet. They're headed in the right direction though with Dalton and Green, but they need a couple other pass catchers to emerge. Defensively, they should be even better than last years bunch that ranked 7th in the league. Cinci has a strong front-7 and a sturdy secondary that should help keep them in most games they play. If they get a big year out of the "Law Firm" and get a few receivers not named Green to produce, they could very well overthrow the Steelers.

4th Place, Cleveland Browns: 5-11

Offense: QB Brandon Weeden (R), RB Trent Richardson (R), WR Greg Little, T Joe Thomas

Defense: DE Jabaal Sheard, DT Ahtyba Rubin, LB D'Qwell Jackson, CB Joe Haden, CB Sheldon Brown

The Browns are in the middle of the rebuilding process, but they hope they found their offensive backfield to lead them through it. They took halfback Trent Richardson and QB Brandon Weeden early in April's draft, and both are expected to play heavy roles for the Browns right off the bat. Unfortunately for Weeden though, other than Greg Little, there aren't many options to throw to. Cleveland will likely rely on the defense and running game to set the tone for them, but neither is good enough yet to carry them.

2012 NFL Preview: AFC East

Here we go! With a little over a week until kickoff 2012, we're going to start our annual NFL previews today. As always, we'll start in the AFC East, and finish up with the NFC West, reviewing key players for each team and discussing where we believe each team will finish.

AFC EAST

1st Place, New England Patriots: 12-4

Key Offensive Players- QB Tom Brady, TE Ron Gronkowski, TE Aaron Hernandez, RB Stevan Ridley, WR Wes Welker, WR Brandon Lloyd

Defense- LB Dont'e Hightower, DE Chandler Jones (R), CB Kyle Arrington, LB Jered Mayo

The Patriots get the luxury of playing in one of footballs worst divisions in 2012, and they'll need all the advantages they can get because they are a flawed team. Of course, as long as Tom Brady stays upright, the Pats will have one of the most explosive attacks in the game, but they're extremely one-dimensional and will need someone to take over in the backfield this year for Benjarvus Green-Ellis. Their defense should be a little better than last years bunch, but they do still have major questions in the secondary, at safety especially. Still, they return much of the same roster that took them to the Super Bowl in February, so they're still a force to be reckoned with.

2nd Place, New York Jets: 8-8

Offense: QB Mark Sanchez, QB Tim Tebow, RB Shonn Green, WR Santonio Holmes, T D'Brickashaw Ferguson

Defense: LB Calvin Pace, LB David Harris, CB Darrelle Revis, CB Antonio Cromartie, S LaRon Landry, S Yeremiah Bell

The Jets still have their very potent defense which is especially adept at stopping the pass. Their problem lies on offense, and it has really ever since they got Mark Sanchez. This year, they have another option in Tim Tebow, who may actually be a better fit with this particular offense, but it will again be Sanchez's job going in. Their running game has to improve big time on last year, and they need Sanchez to play with confidence, otherwise they could try to use the 2011 Bronco recipe of Tebow, a lot of running and defense. I think they'll be right around .500, but nowhere near ready to compete with the Pats.

3rd Place, Buffalo Bills: 7-9

Offense: QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, RB Fred Jackson, WR Stevie Johnson, T Cordy Glenn (R)

Defense: DE Mario Williams, DT Marcell Dareous, LB Nick Barnett, CB Stephon Gillmore (R), S George Wilson

The Bills have an improving defensive front, and added a premiere cover man in Stephon Gillmore with their top pick in the draft. They also added Mario Williams to their D-Line, to play next to the "Crimson Elephant", Marcell Dareous. That part of the team is certainly on the rise, but their offense will need to get some breakout seasons, especially in the QB and WR department, and they absolutely need Fred Jackson to stay healthy the whole season. The only credible wideout they have is Stevie Johnson, and he gains most of the attention from opposing DB's, so they need another option or two to emerge to balance out the attack.  

4th Place, Miami Dolphins: 2-14

Offense: QB Ryan Tannehill (R), RB Reggie Bush, WR Davone Bess, T Jonathan Martin, C Mike Pouncey

Defense: DE Cameron Wake, LB Kevin Burnett, LB Karlos Dansby, CB Richard Marshall

This years Dolphins really resemble an expansion team, and their record should reflect that. They have a rookie QB throwing to a well below average receiving corps. They do have some nice backs in Bush and Daniel Thomas, but unfortunately those guys won't do much good when the team is battling back in so many games. They do have one of the best young pass-rushers in the game in Cameron Wake but outside of him, there aren't many standouts on that defense either.

2012 NFL Drafts Biggest Winners, Losers

Well, I don't fell like going through every single team's draft and grading out how I felt they did in the recent draft. We won't know how any of these players fair until they start playing anyway, so obviously, my winners and losers are the teams who I felt either picked the best prospects, or missed the best prospects, and unfortunately for the Silver and Black fans, they fall into the bad category in this one. This doesn't account for any un-drafted signings, just what each team did with it's draft selections.

Biggest Winners:

Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals, In my opinion, dominated this draft by nabbing some of the best prospects at each position. They ended up getting 5 guys who projected into the first round in various mock drafts, from their first pick, Dre Kirkpatrick through guys like DT Devon Still, WR Mohammed Sanu, G Kevin Zietler and DT Brandon Washington. They also added a sound run blocking tight end in Orson Charles, who was a top-5 tight end on most boards. Just an all around good draft when you get a potential shut-down corner, starting wideout, guard and two stud DT's. They did well with their other selections as well.

Luck Goes #1 to Indy

Indianapolis Colts: They got their franchise QB, and got him two good tight-ends, as he's shown a knack for using them quite often. They even were able to get his buddy in from Stanford, Coby Fleener, with whom he connected for 10 TD's last season with. He'll take Dallas Clark's old spot, but provide more athleticism and speed to beat LB's and Safeties in coverage. They also got a good blocking TE in Dwayne Allen, a guy who can also catch the ball but makes it a priority to knock defenders down. For these picks alone, they have to be considered one of the top-5 winners of this years draft. They have a whole new makeup on offense now.

New Enlgand Patriots: Now, this hurts to admit cause this is not a team that needed to improve like they did in this draft. They took an ordinary, beatable defense and have really made it over. They took two front-7 players in Dont'a Hightower and Chandler Jones, that have the chance to wreck havoc on opposing QB's. They also helped out their thin secondary by adding a solid CB in the later rounds in Alfonzo Dennard, a guy I was hoping the Raiders or 49ers would select. It wouldn't surprise me if all three of these guys are starting for them come September and not only that, but producing!


St. Louis Rams: They didn't need RGIII, and it paid off dearly because of it. Instead, they turned that #2 into a whole bunch of picks, with which they landed a ton of value and potential. Michael Brockers should start immediately at DT for them, and could contribute 8-10 sacks as early as his rookie season, that's how good he is at penetrating the line from the DT spot. Then they got the uber-talented, built and fast Brian Quick, who has been gaining favorable comparisons to Terrell Owens. The pick that really sealed it though was grabbing Janoris Jenkins with one of those picks they got from Washington. They ended up with 3 first round talents with those guys. Isaih Pead is also highly thought of, so much so that some NFL people believe he'll start to take over RB duties for STL. and take time away from Stephen Jackson starting now. I don't know about all that talk, but at least he'll give them a nice C.O.P. back that will take the load of Jack and give the Rams a Ben Tate-type back to rotate with their pro-bowler. All around good draft for St. Louis as they seemed to get everything, they even got good value at corner (Trumaine Robinson) and LB (Aaron Brown) late in the draft.

Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles are another team that had some gaping holes on their D that they addressed. They added the best pure D-lineman in the draft in Fletcher Cox, and then got stout ILB Michael Kyndricks and another D-lineman in end and pass-rush specialist Vinny Curry who was 6th in the nation in sacks last season. They also added a corner that's no slouch in Brandon Boykin and finally, they added potential heir apparent to Mike Vick in Arizona's Nick Foles. I almost forgot, they also got Miami G Brandon Washington, a big-time talent who just needs the right coaching to keep his motor running at all times. I think the Bengals were far and away the best in the AFC in terms of draft choices, and the Eagles have to get the NFC's honor.

Honorable Mention: Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals, Pittsburgh Steelers

Biggest Losers:

Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks had a top-10 pick, and surprised the whole nation by selecting LB Bruce Irvin, a D-2 Linebacker who, granted dominated for his respective school, was a projected mid-round choice. They passed up more sure bets at spots they could have used help (O-line especially) than any other team. There other picks were even worse, as they took ILB Bobby Wagner and QB Russell Wilson way higher than they were thought to be going. Wilson really boggles my mind because the Seahawks need a QB of the future, and there were some nice ones out there when they chose the 5'11" Wilson in round 3! As solid and as good of value Cinci and Philly's drafts were, Seattle's was the complete opposite.

New Orleans Saints: Seattle's draft was bad, but nobody has been struggling like the New Orleans Saints of late, and it carried over into their drafting. They didn't have a first rounder, trading it last year to ensure they got the so far un-productive Mark Ingram, so they were behind the 8-ball to start with, sorta like the Raiders. I think the best player NO drafted was WR Nick Toon, who they got in the 3rd round, but their first pick of the draft was a reach in DT Akeim Hicks. He could end up being a hog, or he could end up being cut bu opening week, that's how up uncertain their 2nd rounder is. Toon, I expect, will thrive with Drew Brees throwing to him and should make in impact right off the bat, the only pick they can say that about.

6'8" Brock Osweiler

Denver Broncos: The Broncos didn't get one single player I think will ever be a good starter at the NFL level. Their draft is average at best, and that has them as a clear loser. Brock Osweiler is the only bright prospect that could turn into something special, because of his size and rocket right-arm, but Derek Wolfe is not a star player, he was good in college, but is too slow and small to dominate the NFL, and they passed up a lot of talent at pick 36 in order to pick him. I also think the QB would have been there for them just 10 picks later in the next round, and they could have gotten two studs in the 2nd like, for instance, Janoris Jenkins and WR Rueben Randle, a stud Corner and a stud WR that Peyton Manning could have turned into a pro-bowler. Had they gone that route, then gotten their QB in round 3, they would have gotten some real value in round 2. Instead, they have an average D-End and a project QB.

Oakland Raiders: Last But not least in our list of the Draft's losers is are our very own Oakland Raiders. Yes, it sucks to admit if your a Raider fan, but face it, they weren't in any great shape for this draft after the Carson Palmer deal. That was their draft, and unfortunately, much of next years as well. They ended up with a very ordinary lineman in Tony Bergstrom with the last pick in the third round, but I think they could have gotten more talent with that pick. I did like the Juron Criner selection, but the Raiders are already stock-piled with upside wideouts that just need work and Criner will be just another face in the crowd. Weak draft for them, you'd think they would have taken a chance on a QB or something and hoped to hit gold late in the draft, but they just went mostly with lineman and linebackers. Needless to say, they won't be getting much help from this years draft class.

That's really it as far as losers in my mind. Every other team got at least one player that I think can turn into an NFL superstar, or at least has to tools to do so. The Falcons were almost on the list, as they to were without a first rounder, but they came up with one a guy many thought to be a top-10 pick in Peter Konz in round 2, so you have to give them that.

Niners Take Jenkins, but Not Janoris

If you followed our mock draft and most mock drafts from NFL sites, a lot of mocks had CB Janoris Jenkins going by pick 30 to the 49ers, including ours. And the 49ers did draft a Jenkins, but went with WR A.J. Jenkins out of Illinois, a projected 2nd-3rd round receiver, passing up sure-fire first rounders Stephen Hill and Reuben Randle.

A.J. Jenkins to 49ers

Now, this pick comes as a surprise on a number of levels. First off, the 49ers passed on the best remaining, and a guy a lot of scouts deem the most talented corner in this draft in Janoris Jenkins. I've watched video of Janoris the last few days hoping the 49ers would call his name, and have been nothing but impressed as he absolutely has his way with wideouts. Just YouTube "Jenkins vs. Alshon Jeffries", and you'll see what I'm talking about. The dude has shutdown corner written all over him, and despite off-field issues, apparently teams are rushing to move up in round two to get their hands on that talent. Unfortunately, it won't be the 49ers, as they took a very odd approach in this one. Many believe the 49ers could have traded down and gotten A.J. Jenkins Round 2 without a problem, but they apparently weren't joking when they said they had their eye on a specific player who they expected to last to pick 30. Now, I haven't said a word about A.J. yet, and I'll do so more as the draft carries on and we do our draft review, but obviously he's a talented wideout, and although I was thrown by the pick at first, I'm starting to warm up to it a little more. He had 1,200 receiving yards in 2011, granted 250 of those came in one game, and reminds some scouts of a Greg Jennings-type receiver. He can stretch the field with his 4.38 40-speed, and he's not tiny, standing at 6 foot, 195 pounds. He's the same size as Jennings and if you watch the video here, where he torched Northwestern for that 250-yard game. You'll notice he's got a knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage and can beat guys one-on-one. I like the player, but I don't think he was a first rounder and I believe the 49ers could have gotten him today in round 2 had they waited, and filled a real need with pick 30, like O-line, CB or more pass-rush (be it a D-End or another Smith-like OLB).

J. Jenkins Best Available?

Now, with day one in the books, the focus shifts to day 2, as the 49ers hold pick 29 in Round 2 and 3, assuming they don't trade. I'll list 10 guys still available that could fall to the 49ers in the 2nd, then a few in the 3rd, but I wanted to talk a little more about the new WR depth chart after this pick. After signing Randy Moss and Mario Manningham, re-signing Ted Ginn Jr. and already with Kyle Willaims and Michael Crabtree, now drafting Jenkins, somewhat clogs that wideout group a little bit. That said, the 49ers have been said to maybe taking offers for Crabtree, and it's quite possible they could deal him for an extra 2nd round pick if they found the right partner. I know Dallas loves him, and they didn't get a WR in round one, so they may be a team to look to, but this now gives the 49ers 4 wideouts (Crabtree, Moss, Manningham and Jenkins) who will want the ball, then there's Vernon Davis and Delanie Walker as well to think about, and the 49ers have gone from having limited offensive weapons to being over-loaded with them. Anyway, here are 10 names to keep an eye on as Round 2 kicks off this evening:


CB Janoris Jenkins- UNA (If the 49ers got a 2nd shot, they better take it, even if it means trading up!)
G Cordy Glenn- Georgia (There are still 1st round O-lineman left for round 2, he's one)
G Amini Silatolu- Midwestern St. (Another big talent, though a D-2 player)
G Brandon Washington- Miami (Same as other two guards, 49ers have a need here)
G Kelechi Osemele- Iowa State (See other guards, a potential starter at position of need)
CB Chase Minnifield- Virginia (Not as talented as Jenkins, but rarely challenged at UVA)
LB Courtney Upshaw- Alabama (49ers love linebackers who can get after the passer)
DE Jared Crick- Nebraska (A true down D-End, who can play in the 3-4)
DT Brandon Thompson- Clemson (Another talented big body for the D-line depth)
DT Alameda Ta'amu- Washington (NFP's 13th best prospect in draft, 340-pound, athletic DT)

We'll be back later to talk about who they actually do pick, as if Baalke and Harbough stick to script, will likely be a guy no body is expecting!

2012 NFL Draft Day

2012 NFL Draft Updates

Well, after a long wait, it's finally here, as the Colts are just 3 hours away from going on the clock for pick one, although each of the first 3 teams should already know exactly who they're choosing. After that though, it should get interesting, so stick here as we have updates, surprise picks and, of course, the 49ers selection and thoughts on that choice when it happens, though they won't pick until later this evening. We'll do sort of a "bullet point" post as we periodically add notes here throughout the day, so be sure to check in for updates every hour once the draft starts at 5 PM

• We have our first trade of the day, as the Cleveland Browns traded up a spot to most likely ensure they land their targeted running back, Trent Richardson. It's a little surprising, seeing that they dealt with the Vikings, who were certainly not going to take Richardson with Adrian Peterson on their roster, but the Browns likely did this deal so no other team seeking Richardson can move into that 3-spot. Draft time is still about 40 minutes away.      

Well, the draft is underway, and the first three picks are already in, to nobodies surprise, Luck goes 1 to Indy, Griffin to Washington and Trent Richardson to Cleveland. The Vikings now may trade back to get more picks as Tampa wants Morris Claiborne and may move up to get him. We're not going to be a draft tracker and bring every single pick, but we'll likely do so for the top-10. We'll see what the Vikes, Bucs and Rams do.                                           

The first round continues to be littered with trades left and right, as the Cowboys are the latest to move up, into the the 6th spot trading with St. Louis, and have just selected Cb Morris Claiborne. The 5th pick was no surprise, as Jacksonville Jaguars took a much needed WR, Justin Blackmon. Now that the top-6 picks have gone off the board, none of which were any surprises as these 6 were expected to go top-6 all along, but we may now start to see some surprises. The Bucs surprised with Mark Barron at 7, a guy expected to go mid-late first round, but he's the best safety in the draft and makes sense as far as a needs standpoint in Tampa. Now the Dolphins are locks to take Ryan Tannehill at 8, but after that, it's going to be guess work as I wouldn't have thought Barron would have made it to the top-10, so who knows how things will go the rest of the way.

• Top ten are in and here are the notes on them below, again, not too many surprises, though I guess the two biggest in my opinion were Barron going 7 and Kuiechly 9. Best value in top-10 I think goes to Dallas as they got a difference making DB, who could single-handely improve their pass defense. Biggest reach IMP was Gillmore at 10.

1. Andrew Luck, QB- Colts: No surprise here.
2. RG III, QB- Redskins: No surprise here.
3. Trent Richardson, RB, Browns: They traded picks to move up 1 spot for Draft's top back.
4. Matt Kalil, T, Vikings: Kalil will open up holes for Peterson and provide protection for Ponder.
5. Justin Blackmon, WR- Jaguars: Again, not much of a surprise here as they need a #1 WR.
6. Morris Claiborne, CB- Cowboys: The 'Boys needed a DB, and traded up for the best in draft.
7. Mark Barron, S, Buccaneers: The Bucks loaded up on offense in FA, now shift focus to D.
8. Ryan Tannehill, QB, Dolphins: Could be Ryan Leaf 2.0 or Ben Roethlisber 2.0. Project pick.
9. Luke Kuecihly, LB, Panthers: The Panthers needed defensive help, and got a rock solid LB.
10.Stephon Gillmore, CB, Bills: The Bills needed defense too, though this could be a reach.

• Now, since the top-10 picks are in, we'll slow up a little on the coverage and not note every single pick form here on out. There are still a ton of elite prospects available, including Chandler Jones, Michael Floyd, Riley Rieff, David DeCastro, Dre Kirkpatrick, Melvin Ingram and possibly the best available, Fletcher Cox (expected to go as high as top-7). I think the 49ers may be surprised at who ends up falling to them at this rate.

Picks 10-20 Update: Some of those expected top-10'ers are starting to come off the board left and right. Since our last update, Cox, Dontari Poe and Floyd have gone off the table. I think the Rams were a bit surprised, as I think they dealt back to 14 thinking they'd be able to land WR Michael Floyd. I think we're going to start seeing the premium offensive players drop off the board quick. 49ers divisional rivals, the Rams, went with DT Michael Brockers at 14, and at 15, Seattle went OLB pass-rusher Bruce Irvin (A guy the 49ers were supposedly eying at 30). So As get ready to hit round 2 and all the NFC west picks in besides San Francisco's, I think the 49ers are going to have their choice of some players they didn't think would fall to them at 30. We'll continue our tracker type follower like we did the top-10 once we get to pick 20, as the 49ers close in on their choice. So far, in the first 15 picks, best value is Claiborne at 6 and biggest reach is Irvin at 14 (though he also could be steal if he realizes his talent and avoids off-field troubles). At 16, one of my favorites, OLB-hybrid Quinton Coples went to the Jets, taking away one possible target for the 49ers. And in the spot the Raiders should have picked, had they not traded it to Cincinatti, the Bengals took Dre Kirkpatrick at 17, arguably the 2nd best corner in the draft behind Claiborne and another player I was hoping might stick around until SF picks at 30. There have been some very good value picks but non more so than Chargers' linebacker (pick 18) Melvin Ingram, expected to go as high as pick-7 in a lot of mocks.

• Update: As the 49ers go on he clock, they have a plethora of choices to choose from: WR Stephen Hill, G Cordy Glenn, T Mike Adams, CB Janoris Jenkins, LB Courtney Upshaw and Stanford's T Jonathan Martin and TE Coby Fleener, would all fit and I'd be happy with any of the above. 
• And the 2012 49ers First Round Draft Pick Goes to WR A.J. Jenkins?

20: Kendall Wright, WR, Titans: The speedy, dynamic Baylor WR should complement Kenny Britt well.
21: Chandler Jones, DE, Patriots: A potential top-10 pick will vastly improve a woeful D.
22. Brandon Weeden, QB, Browns: Cle. strategizing beautifully with first picks, need WR in Rd. 2?
23. Riley Rieff, T, Lions: Solid value pick here, should be key in protecting Stafford.
24: David DeCastro, G, Steelers: Great pick, I was hoping he'd go to SF as he's best G in draft.
25. Dont'a Hightower, LB, Patriots: Another defensive pick for NE, another explosive defensive piece.
26. Whitney Mercilus, DE, Texans: Odd pick here as they have a good D, but could have used help on O.
27. Kevin Zietler, G, Bengals: The Bengals add to their O-line and get a highly ranked one in Zietler.
28. Nick Perry, DE, Packers: As I mocked, they add to A.J. Hawk and Clay Matthews with a great LB.
29. Harrison Barnes, S, Ravens: Solid defender adds to a solid
30. A.J. Jenkins, WR, 49ers: I'm not sure about this pick here? Would have went with Hill!

There you have it, the 49ers went with an expected 2nd-3rd round receiver in A.J. Jenkins, which makes little sense to me seeing that they could have gotten him in the 2nd round. He's supposedly polished and a smooth route runner, but with their adds at wideout in free agency, I don't know why they just didn't go guard or defense? Still on the fence on this pick, but after a 3 hour wait, I'm as surprised as any about this pick!

2012 NFL Draft: What Will the 49ers Do?

Well folks, draft enthusiasts will likely not get a wink of sleep tonight, resembling a kid on Christmas Eve as the NFL Draft, the biggest draft of the three major sports, gets kicked off Thursday afternoon.

2012 NFL Draft's Eve

The three-day extravaganza will begin with rounds 1 and 2 going Thursday, and unless they can swing a deal to get into one of the first two rounds, the Raiders can pretty much sit back and watch Thursday and Friday. We all know about them giving up their first rounders this year and next to get Carson Palmer, and they'll also be without a 2nd rounder Friday unless Reggie McKenzie gets creative. It's a big reason why we've focused so much on the 49ers and their draft needs and prospects heading into this draft, the Raiders just don't have enough value picks to even talk about yet and unless they strike gold in round 3, they won't be improving via the draft this year. Now, when Saturday rolls around, they'll be doing their best to fill some of their many holes with mid-round picks. Therefore, most of the focus in the Bay Area Thursday and Friday at least, will be around the Red and Gold. However, due to the state of the team, their particular needs and who may be available to them at 30, there's been a lot of talk that the 49ers could be a team that either trades up in the first round or out of it all together. A team like the Browns, for instance, could be a team worth consulting, as they would love to get their hands on Brandon Weeden, and are not sure if he'll last until they pick in round 2. The 49ers would ideally like to get a play-making receiver, or a right guard they can pencil into their starting lineup, but they're in a unique situation that they haven't been in for years, as they really don't have a bunch of glaring holes that they need to fill with a bunch of draft picks. It's why they could package some picks together and maybe move up to get a stud guard like David DeCastro or burner WR like Stephen Hill, or, ideally, Michael Floyd.

We won't know exactly until tomorrow, but the 49ers have been saying they have their eye on a particular player they believe will be available when they pick at 30. Not exactly sure who that player is yet, but that piece of info alone leads me to believe they'll end up keeping pick 30 rather than moving up or down. We'll have full NFL Draft coverage here at The Bay Area Sports Journal all day Thursday, posting notes periodically throughout the evening, so be sure to check here first for all your 49ers and Raiders draft news, notes and analysis. We didn't really talk much about who the 49ers could go after in round 2 yet, and we'll discuss that much more tomorrow after Round 1 is in the books and we see the pool of players still available. A few names I like just off the top of my head who could quite possibly last that late though are Guards Amini Silatolu (Midwestern State) and Brandon Washington (Miami), WR Alshon Jeffery (Alabama), D-Ends Cam Johnson (Virginia) and Jared Crick (Nebraska) or DT's Almeda Ta'amu (Washington) and Brandon Thompson (Clemson). A dark-horse candidate could be talented Virginia corner, Chase Minnifield (projected to go anywhere from late-1st to late to the 4th round), especially if they don't get a CB in Round 1. Any of these guys I think would provide the Niners much needed depth to areas this team could use, and any would be fine by me in round 2 at pick 62, depending on who they take at 30.

Ahh, the NFL draft, perhaps the most "speculative" time in all of sports and a time in which every NFL team and fan get's a glimmer of hope that their team gets that game-changer, that play-maker with their top pick. That is, unless your a fan or member of the Raiders, of course, then you have to wait until day 3 for your excitement. And we wonder why this blog is so heavily tilted towards 49ers coverage?

BASJ NFL Mock Draft 2012: Part 3 of 3

Well folks, the Colts are just 48 hours away from going on the clock for their first pick, which has already been assured to be Andrew Luck. Also, the Redskins traded up to pick 2 to ensure they get their QB of choice, Robert Griffin III, but after that, things could go a number of different ways, and today we'll pick the back half of the first round, picks 21-32. Without further ado, here are our projections:


Pick 21: Cincinnati Bengals: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State: The Bengals are one of the teams that have the luxury of getting two selections in the first round in this draft, and they'd be wise to use it on improving their front on both sides of the ball. I think Adams will be one of the better, more versatile tackles available here, though Jonathan Martin and Kevin Zietler could make some sense as well. They really need a young running back, but there just aren't any worthy of being taken this high. Maybe in round two for them.

WR Stephen Hill

Pick 22: Cleveland Browns: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech: Now this would be the Browns second first round pick, and one they'd desperately need to cash in on, and I think Hill is the guy. Overlooked with guys like Blackmon and Floyd garnering most the attention, Hill had a great combine and played well at GT, despite playing in a run-heavy offense. He'd give the Browns another dependable target for McCoy, or whoever is behind center for them come September. Their is also speculation they could trade their 2nd and 3rd rounders to another team (New England?) to move into the first round for another pick and get Brandon Weeden, though I have a feeling he'll still be on the board when they pick again 4th in the second round.

Pick 23: Detroit Lions: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama: Kirkpatrick isn't quite the specimen that Claiborne is, but he's a terrific cover corner with great size and good speed. He's exactly what the Lions defense was lacking in 2011, as they couldn't stop any one's passing attack. Had they even had a halfway decent secondary last year, with a healthy Stafford and Megatron, the Lions should have been a playoff juggernaut, but their defense was a laughing stock. Rarely do you find a corner with Kirkpatrick's ability and size this late in a draft, so if he makes it this far, the Lions would be fools to pass on him.

Pick 24: Pittsburgh Steelers: Kevin Zietler, G, Wisconsin: The Steelers battled injuries all over last season, but no area was more exposed than their O-line. I remember watching the 49ers play the Steelers in December and Big Ben must have taken at least 15 hits. They have to get that guy protected so he can get back to his 30+TD form and the Steelers can be a true, power-running team as they've always been. Zietler may not have the talent as some of the other O-lineman in this draft, but his physical and nasty, exactly the type of player Pittsburgh targets!

Pick 25: Denver Broncos: Rueben Randle, WR, LSU: The Broncos just gave Peyton Manning $90M to be their long-term answer at QB (or as long as he'll hold up). He's 36 years old, but could easily play into his 40's as long as he stays healthy and that neck problem of his doesn't resurface. Now Denver has to surround him with some talent to throw to, and Randle could be a steal. His 6'4" frame, leaping ability and athleticism have drawn comparisons to Calvin Johnson. Denver could also go after some free agent WR's like Reggie Wayne, but I think they need a young number-one type that they can groom. We all have seen the way Manning can make ordinary recievers look great, and great ones unstoppable.

Pick 26: Houston Texans: Jonathan Martin, T, Stanford: Houston will try and do everything in it's power to move up to ensure they get one of the draft's "elite-5" wideouts (Blackmon, Floyd, Randle, Hill and Wright). Mohamed Sanu is a decent player, but he's a fall-off talnt wise from the latter-5. However, I think the rest of the league knows this as well, and unfortunately for Houston, there won't be any of the projected 1st round wideouts left at 26. Thus, unless they get lucky and one does fall, they move up or take Mohammed Sanu (an underrated talent at WR), they should shift focus to their O-Line, which was vastly outmatched in January against Baltimore's front-7. A smart, talented tackle who could come right in and start right away for them is Martin.

Pick 27: New England Patriots: Dont'a Hightower, LB, Alabama: The Pats need to do big work on their defense, which was sadly exposed in the Super Bowl, and they really had no business even being in that game with that wretched offense. They had a wide receiver (Julian Edleman) out there playing defensive back and linebacker at times, that's how thin they are. Hightower would provide a nice anchor in the center of that defense, and give them a play-making linebacker that could go as high as the middle of the round. If he falls here though, New England can't pass him up.

Doug Martin Explodes

Pick 28: Green Bay Packers: Doug Martin, RB, Boise State: Martin reminds me of MJD's body-type and run style, also his college success. He's had a helluva college career, he's a tad short, but has the bulk, size and speed to be able to be a lead-back in the NFL. He's explosive, can catch the ball and would give Green Bay a true, starting every-down back so they're not switching from Grant, to Starks to Kuhn and back. They need a true #1 back and Martin has the 2nd best shot at being one in this draft. However, Martin, like the rest of the RB's not named Richardson, is considered to be more of a "2nd-round" talent, and the Pack could just as easily go defense (secondary especially) here, where they were badly exposed in the playoffs.

Pick 29: Baltimore Ravens: Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College: The Ravens feel good about the offensive side of the ball, and likely won't view any offensive players worth taking at this spot unless maybe Coby Fleener or one of the wideouts managed to make it down this far. They will likely look to keep inserting some youth into that defense to help some of their aging stars. Kuechely looks like a sure-fire NFL starting linebacker, and whether or not he starts for the Ravens out of the gate would be irrelevant, as they need depth there for their 3-4 system.They could also go secondary with a guy like Janoris Jenkins or Harrison Smith.

Janoris Jenkins

Pick 30: San Francisco 49ers: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama: I think that if either Stephen Hill or Coby Fleener fell to 30, the 49ers would take them without hesitation. Harbough worked with Fleener for 4 years in Palo Alto and loves the kid, and we all know how impressed everyone was with Hill's combine showing, athleticism and size. However, I think the 49ers will be relegated to taking the best available player that fits one of their needs, and in my mock, I have it being Janoris Jenkins. He's as good a cover corner as Kirkpatrick, but isn't near his size at just 5'10", 185 pounds and has had all kinds of off-field issues, causing him to tranfer from Florida to North Alabama for his Senior year. Still, he'd be a premium nickle back, or more realistically the starter opposite of Carlos Rogers. The 49ers could also go after another pass-rusher if someone stands out at them, especially after having success with Aldon Smith last year. They are said to have their eye on a particular player, which makes me think they're confident he'll be there at pick 30, which, in turn, tells me it could be a player that hasn't even been mentioned yet. Nick Perry, for instance, could be a guy they look at if they want to more pass-rush. Then, they could even go right-guard, as that's their one positional need, but unless Glenn or even Zietler fell to them (DeCastro won't!), I think they feel this draft is deep enough with decent guards to find one in the 2nd round.

Pick 31: New England Patriots: Stephen Gillmore, CB, South Carolina: The Pats, with their two picks in the first, have a real shot at turning around that defense, and for a team that was in the Super Bowl a few months ago, having two first rounders is like icing on the cake. Gillmore is another combine-killer, who really improved his stock with a nice showing in March. He's had some hype for a few years now though, and as I said earlier, the Pats had WR's covering people in the playoffs last year, and that has to change for them to be a complete team.

Pick 32: New York Giants: Nick Perry, OLB, USC: The Giants won the Super Bowl last year despite having just a 9-7 regular season record. A big reason for that mediocre record was the fact they were running with practice squad linebackers for much of the season. Micheal Foley is a stud, but they need some players around him, and Nick Perry could be an ideal fit. He's more a pass-rush specialist, but can also play the run, and could help give the Giants one of the meaner front-7's in all of football. They could also go O-Line here, but in terms of value, Perry's the guy to pick, especially after witnessing what other USC linebackers have done in recent years.

BASJ NFL Mock Draft 2012: Part 2 of 3

The NFL draft is just 3 short days away, and, as the hype keeps growing, we'll continue our mocking of the first round, picking who we expect each team to take (not taking into account any trades that haven't happened yet, of course). So here we go for picks 11-20:


Pick 11: Kansas City Chiefs: Melvin Ingram, LB/DE South Carolina: The Chiefs need a lot of pieces as they attempt to rebound from a lost year in which both their starting QB and RB each went down for the year with injury pretty early on. After a big 27 TD season, Matt Cassell was limited to just 9 games in 2011 and star running back Jamaal Charles went down after tearing his ACL in week 1. The Chiefs can expect rebounds from those two guys, and they also brought in power back Peyton Hillis from Cleveland. They really need to focus on their defense, especially their front-7, as they appear pretty set at DB. They could go Mark Barron to pair up with Eric Wright at Safety, but I think they go for the ball-hawk Ingram, who had 20 TFL's in 2011.

DeCastro Top Guard

Pick 12: Seattle Seahawks: David DeCastro, G, Stanford: The Seahawks have an imposing defense, just signed the guy they hope to be their long-term answer behind center in Matt Flynn, and have a helluva a back in Marshawn Lynch, who ran for over 1100 yards after gaining just over 300 in the first half of the season. The O-Line got a little better, but Lynch is the guy who deserves credit for those yards as Seattle had about as "patch-work" O-line as any team in the league. A talented, smart athlete like DeCastro could really help that bunch, give Lynch a steady guy to run behind and really be an anchor for new QB Flynn. They have good young skill guys, they just lack those tough "trench" players, especially offensively.

Pick 13: Arizona Cardinals: Cordy Glenn, G/T, Georgia Tech: Now, AZ has a lot of needs so they could go a number of different routes here, or trade back. They also could look into Matt Barron to help their wretched secondary, or a pass-rusher like Courtney Upshaw or Quninton Couples. I think they want to make that offense a force again like it was in the Kurt Warner days, and they have good young backs and receivers. The jury's still out on Kevin Kolb, but after the money and the package AZ had to part with to get him, they aren't just going to give up on him after one injury riddled season.

Pick 14: Dallas Cowboys: Mark Barron, S, Alabama: The Cowboys have publicly expressed their interest in Mark Baron, an extremely talented strong safety who can come up to the line and play the run or drop back in coverage like a DB without missing a beat. He can do it all, and with that long hair, reminds some people of a bigger Troy Polomalu with the way he plays and the results he gets. Super talented athlete who plays a premium position at a high level. The 'Boys will be lucky if he isn't snatched up by this pick, otherwise they to could go with Upshaw or Couples.

Pick 15: Philadelphia Eagles: Quinton Couples, DE, North Carolina: Couples is a more pure DE, and will really improve the Eagles up front, where they were so vulnerable in 2011. It wasn't their O-line, their run game, their passing game or their defensive backs, it was the fact they couldn't stop a high school running back if he were running behind a halfway decent line.Couples can play both the run and the pass pretty equally, and although he still has some inconsistencies in his game, he's got the talent to be an Aldon Smith type talent.

Pick 16: New York Jets: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU: The Jets want winners, and they need an anchor in the middle of their D-line. Many football people believe Brockers is the best pure DT in the draft, though there are also those that believe he was a bit of a byproduct of a great defensive scheme. They could go with the combine-hyped Dontari Poe, but I think they'd rather have the LSU 6'5", 322 pound beast to help clog up the middle for opposing backs.


Pick 17: Cincinnati Bengals: Courtney Upshaw, DE/LB, Alabama: The talented Upshaw could last this long just based on what teams need ahead of the Bengals, and they could wind up with another guy, as I mentioned earlier, who could be an "Aldon Smith" type talent. He's a little more versatile that Smith, as he's more experienced at dropping into coverage as well as rushing the passer, but will need to add some moves to his arsenal to be a premium rusher at the NFL level like Mr. Smith has. He's got good instincts, and is serviceable as is, but has the room to grow, and that's what makes him such a low-risk, potentially highly rewarding pick.

K. Wright TD Catch

Pick 18: San Diego Chargers: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor: The Chargers lost a huge piece of their offensive puzzle in Vincent Jackson, and may look to their next number one wideout in the form of the former Baylor star. Wright doesn't have Jackson's size, at just 5'11", 195 pounds (only reason he's not a top-10 pick), but is an athletic specimen, and was one of the best in the NCAA at catching the ball last year with 108 receptions and 1,663 yards in only 13 games.

Pick 19: Chicago Bears: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford: The Bears are looking for ways to improve their aerial attack as much as possible, as they reunited Brandon Marshall with Jay Cutler already with a deal with Miami, now could look to Andrew Luck's top red-zone target at 19 if they don't get Kendall Wright, or take the chance on Stephen Hill. They could also go O-line here as both Jonathan Martin and Mike Adams could be logical choices.

Pick 20: Tennessee Titans:  Mercilus Whitney, DE, Illinois: Whitney had a breakout, 16-sack season in 2011, and it's going to earn him a first round pick. The Titans haven't had a disruptive force like he can be since Julius Peppers years ago, and they need a guy like that to help drive the defense. They have good corners, and safeties, but they need to be applying more pressure to opposing QB's. Another team that could take a look at Stephen Hill too though, as they could envision his 6'5" frame opposite of Kenny Britt's 6'4" frame as a potentially un-stopable force on the outsides.