Amplus' Top Ten

[Yatagarasu]

Here it is...

An early progress report of how the Top Ten teams for each categories look on paper. If you don't like it, then post a complaint to the complaint office here. Also, the ranking are subject to change due to the ongoing mock draft and offseason progress.

If you guys have any comments, criticisms, or anything on the assessments of the rankings, please post in this type of format, so I can track and collect information quickly.

Ranking Opinion Format

Category:

Overrated: (include reasons brief or long please)

Underrated: (include reasons brief or long please)

Player Color Label Change: (include reasons brief or long please)

Any Updates:



Top Ten Categories:

Series 1: Offense - Today
Ground Corps (RB Platoons + Run System)
Air Corps (WR/TE Sets)
Safeguards (OL Ranks)

Series 2: Defense - TBA
Trenches (DL Ranks including Edge Rushers)
Wolfpacks (LB Units in both 3-4 and 4-3 sets)
No Fly Zones (Secondaries)

Series 3: Overall - TBA
Firepowers (Offensive Units)
Strongholds (Defensive Units)
Superpowers (Overall Rankings)

Red = Top Ten Teams

Ground Corps (RB Platoons + Run Systems) Updated:

1. San Francisco 49ers - They have built their ground and pound game with an elite offensive line and a plethora of RBs in Gore, Hunter, and James.

RBs: Frank Gore, LaMichael James, Kendall Hunter

2. Houston Texans - They have the proficiency of the Zone Blocking Scheme plus two efficient pounders in Foster and Tate, even though their blockers aren't the best.

RBs: Arian Foster, Ben Tate

3. Buffalo Bills - Spiller can outrun the defense and Jackson can provide all the dirty work, thus producing a nice tandem to wreck havoc.

RBs: C.J. Spiller, Fred Jackson, Mike Gilleslee

4. New Orleans Saints - A first round pick in David Wilson, a spark-plug in Darren Sproles, and now a TD-magnet in Montee Ball should terrorize the league.

RBs: David Wilson, Darren Sproles, Montee Ball

5. Minnesota Vikings - Adrian Peterson is a proven one man army, but the depth is limited if All-Day faces injuries.

RBs: Adrian Peterson, Toby Gerhart, Ray Graham, Jerome Felton (FB)

6. Philadelphia Eagles - With all-purpose players like LeSean McCoy and Bryce Brown already set, Andre Ellington adds more explosiveness for Chip Kelly's Option Read Run Offense.

RBs: LeSean McCoy, Andre Ellington, Bryce Brown

7. Baltimore Ravens - Rice and Pierce with Leach leading the way in a zone blocking scheme should continue the dominance of the run game.

RBs: Ray Rice, Bernard Pierce, Vonta Leach (FB)

8. Seattle Seahawks - They have a beefy front to provide Marshawn Lynch the lanes to pound and have another underrated RB in the wings with Turbin.

RBs: Marshawn Lynch, Robert Turbin, Michael Robinson (FB)

9. New Englands - They have an elite offensive line that can boost up the numbers of Ridley and Vereen.

RBs: Stevan Ridley, Shane Vereen

10. Washington Redskins - Standard Procedures as Shanahan's Zone Blocking Scheme makes any RB into a bell bow. Alfred Morris, Roy Helu, and Evan Royster are a solid group with Darrel Young blocking the way.

RBs: Alfred Morris, Roy Helu, Evan Royster, Darrel Young (FB)

Borderline Top Ten:

10-T. Cincinnati Bengals - CJ2K is in a new town along with some new friends with Greene and Turner. Their talent can't be denied, but the man-blocking system could be questioned, since it's not CJ2K's strong suit.

RBs: Chris Johnson, Shonn Greene, Michael Turner

10-T. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Muscle Hamster should be back for more with their two expensive guards back.

RBs: Doug Martin, Isaac Redman, D.J. Ware, Michael Smith, Erik Lorig (FB)

10-T. Miami Dolphins - They have a young trio of Miller, Thomas, and Franklin, who could turn out to be productive.

RBs: Lamar Miller, Johnathan Franklin, Daniel Thomas

10-T. Oakland Raiders - Darren McFadden has an elite skills set as a RB, but a dismal injury history. The rest are either average or past their prime.

RB: Darren McFadden, BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Giovani Bernard

10-T. Kansas City Chiefs - They made a strong O-line this offseason, but have only one viable runner in Jamaal Charles.

RBs: Jamaal Charles, Jason Snelling

Notable Cuts:

16. Chicago Bears - Matt Forte is a premier all-purpose back, but his durability has become a concern recently. Rashard Mendenhall has shown some flash, but is coming off a disappointing season. He too has been injury-prone and the Bears' RB depth is bare.

17. Green Bay Packers - With their draft coming to a close, they have put together an impressive group of Reggie Bush, Stefan Taylor, Kenjon Barnes, and DuJuan Harris. However, they have to prove their worth of a top ten RB Corps.

RBs: Reggie Bush, Stefan Taylor, Kenjon Barnes, DuJuan Harris

18. Dallas Cowboys - Their O-line has been revamped with Jonathan Cooper and the tandem of Ivory and Murray should be productive, if they stayed healthy.

RBs: Chris Ivory, DeMarco Murray

19. Tennessee Titans - DeAngelo Williams is a good player, but hasn't turned in 1000 yard season since 2009. LaGarrett Blount is a one dimensional power back that should provide a nice of pace. Compared to the teams above, the running game in Tennessee could be above average, but not borderline top ten.

RBs: DeAngelo Williams, LaGarrett Blount

20. New York Jets - Getting Stewart was an improvement and Peerman is very underrated, but the change in the O-line could lower the ranking in the running game for this team. Also, the rookie MIchaels is a freak, but has to stay healthy.

RBS: Jonathan Stewart, Cedric Peerman, Christine Michael, Joe McKnight


Air Corps (WR/TE Sets) Updated:

1. New Orleans Saints - Colston, Graham, Bryant, Williams, and Shorts all under Brees' command?

WR1: Marques Colston TE1: Jimmy Graham WR2: Dez Bryant
WR3: Mike Williams WR4: Cecil Shorts

2. Atlanta Falcons - Jones, White, and Gonzalez are back along with Keller and Hamilton should burn away any secondaries.

WR1: Julio Jones WR2: Roddy White TE1: Tony Gonzalez
TE2: Dustin Keller WR3: Cobi Hamilton WR4: Earl Bennett

3. Green Bay Packers - They already have a solid group in place with Cobb, Nelson, Jones, and Finley, but adding Welker should to be overkill.

WR1: Wes Welker WR2: Jordy Nelson WR3: Randall Cobb
WR4: James Jones TE1: Jermichael Finley

4. Detroit Lions - Megatron alone can be labeled as top five WR Corps, but adding a troubled, but talented Kenny Britt and an underrated talent like Stedman Bailey should make this group even more formidable.

WR1: Calvin Johnson WR2: Kenny Britt WR3: Stedman Bailey
TE1: Joseph Fauria TE2: Ladarius Green

5. Denver Broncos - They got two young 1000 yard WRs in Thomas and Decker to continue their firepower.

WR1: Demaryius Thomas WR2: Eric Decker WR3: Brandon Gibson
TE1: Jacob Tamme TE2: James Casey

6. New England Patriots - Their ranking has sipped due to the major make-over of their WR Corps. Their TEs are top ten talents, but have been injury prone,

TE1: Rob Gronkowski TE2: Aaron Hernandez WR1: Robert Woods
WR2: Braylon Edwards WR3: Davone Bess

7. New York Giants - They add a solid talent in Washington to make their 3-WR set even more formidable with Nicks and Cruz.

WR1: Victor Cruz WR2: Hakeem Nicks WR3: Nate Washington
TE1: Vance McDonald

8. Chicago Bears - Brandon Marshall is back to his beast mode ways, but now with Tavon Austin in the mix should open up their passing game.

WR1: Brandon Marshall WR2: Tavon Austin WR3: Alshon Jeffery
OP: Matt Forte WR4: Louis Murphy TE1: Nick Kasa

 

9. Cincinnati Bengals - A.J. Green leads this group that have some impressive players like Gresham, Allen, and Austin.

WR1: A.J. Green TE1: Jermaine Gresham TE2: Dwayne Allen
WR2: Miles Austin WR3: Aaron Mellette WR4: Randy Moss

10. Philadelphia Eagles - Talk about add a speedster in Marquise Goodwin to an already fast group of Jackson and Maclin. Eagles might be the team that can burn their opponents with speed.

WR1: DeSean Jackson WR2: Jeremy Maclin WR3: Jason Avant
WR4: Marquise Goodwin WR5: Eddie Royal TE1: Jordan Reed

Borderline Top Ten:

 

10-T. Indianapolis Colts - The Colts WR Corps are actually an Air Corps. Reggie Wayne was back to his All-Pro form and T.Y. Hilton emerged as a deep threat. The acquisition of Brandon LaFell gives them a complete WR Corps. Also, Zach Miller and Dwayne Allen should provide some size as passing catching TEs.

WR1: Reggie Wayne WR2: T.Y. Hilton WR3: Brandon LaFell
TE1: Zach Miller

 

10-T: Baltimore Ravens - Credit must be given to the Super Bowl Winning group of receivers. Nothing has changed on them since they kept their core group. I believe they are a borderline top ten group with room for improvement. Torrey Smith will continue to get better. Anquan Boldin will make his money's worth. Dennis Pitta has become a reliable target. Jacoby Jones is gold. However, the big question mark is on who will step up.

WR1: Torrey Smith WR2: Anquan Boldin TE1: Dennis Pitta
WR3: Jacoby Jones TE2: Eric Dickson

10-T. Pittsburgh Steelers - Borderline WR Corps with a proven slot threat in Antonio Brown and a possible Roddy White-type WR in DeAndre Hopkins. Sanders and Broyles add some key depth for the group.

WR1: Antonio Brown WR2: DeAndre Hopkins WR3: Emmanuel Sanders
WR4: Ryan Broyles WR5: LaQuan Williams

10-T. Tennessee Titans - Allen, Wright, Dobson, and Brown are all young, underrated, and have the potential to be a strong WR Group.

WR1: Keenan Allen WR2: Kendall Wright WR3: Vincent Brown
TE1: Heath Miller WR4: Aaron Dobson WR5: Marvin Jones

10-T. Oakland Raiders - This young group of speedy, but inexperienced WRs in Moore, Ford, Streater, and Criner with the addition of Amendola should be an underrated group.

WR1: Denarius Moore WR2: Danny Amendola WR3: Rod Streater
WR4: Jacoby Ford OP: Marcel Reece TE1: Fred Davis TE2: Ryan Otten

Notable Cuts:

 

16. New York Jets - If Hill and Holmes gets healthy, then they can form an underrated group of recievers with Rogers and Bennett.

WR1: Santonio Holmes WR2: Stephen Hill WR3: Da'Rick Rodgers
WR4: Jeremy Kerley TE1: Martellus Bennett

 

17. San Diego Chargers - Acquisiton of Mike Wallace should give them the #1 WR they were missing since Jackson left town. However, the trading of Vincent Brown might be questionable.

WR1: Mike Wallace WR2: Danario Alexander TE1: Antonio Gates
WR3: Malcolm Floyd WR4: Jerome Simpson

18. Cleveland Browns - Another young group of WRs that has potential, but needs to prove it. Josh Gordon has shown some flash as a #1 WR. Patton and Myers should have instant impact. As for Cameron, his development and potential might leapfrog Little and Avery.

WR1: Josh Gordon WR2: Quinton Patton TE1: Brandon Myers
TE2: Jordan Cameron WR3: Greg Little WR4: Donnie Avery

19. Houston Texans - They have a number one WR in Andre Johnson, but a lot of question marks on the rest of the WRs. The TEs Owen Daniels and Tyler Eifert should help.

WR1: Andre Johnson TE1: Owen Daniels TE2: Tyler Eifert
WR2: Steve Breaston WR3: Lester Jean WR4: Keshawn Martin

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - They have #1 WR in Vincent Jackson, but the other receivers have to step up.

WR1: Vincent Jackson WR2: Darrius Heyward-Bey WR3: Kenny Stills
TE1: Brent Celek OP: Doug Martin

21. Seattle Seahawks - The Seahawks have some viable receiving corps if Sidney Rice can be healthy, Golden Tate grows, and Cody Fleener is the player they traded for. Cordarelle Patterson has all the tools to be a #1 WR, but needs time to develop.

WR1: Sidney Rice WR2: Golden Tate TE1: Cody Fleener
WR3: Brian Hartline WR4: Cordarelle Patterson WR5: Doug Baldwin

22. San Francisco 49ers - They have a serviceable WR in Michael Crabtree, but a lot of question marks for the rest of the group. Manningham and Williams are coming back from injuries. Jenkins haven't been able to develop well and Hunter is far from being ready on the field.

WR1: Michael Crabtree TE1: Vernon Davis WR2: A.J. Jenkins
WR3: Justin Hunter WR4: Mario Manningham

23. Kansas City Chiefs - Dwyane Bowe is the top talent, but he had a terrible year. The rest has a lot to prove. Lance Moore has played lights out, but will he be the same with Brees. Jared Cook has a lot of talent, but limited production. Olgetree has shown limited production, but strong potential.

WR1: Dwayne Bowe WR2: Lance Moore TE1: Jared Cook
WR3 Kevin Olgetree TE2: Ben Watson

24. St. Louis Rams - They have a young group of receivers, but they have a lot of prove.

WR1: Chris Givens TE1: Brandon Pettigrew WR2: Brian Quick
WR3: Terrence Williams WR4: Austin Collie TE2: Lance Kendricks

25. Carolina Panthers - They have a still reliable Steve Smith and a good TE option in Greg Olsen. However the jury is out on finding their next option since LaFell was traded away. Jon Baldwin seems to hit a wall if his development as a promising 1st Round WR. The rookie Markus Wheaton should bring an explosive element to the game and should make an impact sooner rather than later.

WR1: Steve Smith TE1: Greg Olsen WR2: Markus Wheaton
TE2: Tony Moeaki WR3: Jon Baldwin WR4: Juron Criner WR5: Joe Adams

26. Washington Redskins - The potential is there for this team if they can develop. Pierre Garcon was injured last year, but has shown some flash of #1 WR. The rest are still young, but need to be more reliable.

WR1: Pierre Garcon TE1: Zach Ertz WR2: Reuben Randle
WR3: Santana Moss WR4: Josh Morgan WR5: Leonard Hankerson

27. Buffalo Bills - Stevie Johnson has been a serviceable #1, but the team lacks a proven #2 Option. However, they might use Spiller as a slot receiver to maximize the talent of their RBs.

WR1: Stevie Johnson WR2: Brandon Lloyd WR3: Andrew Hawkins
WR4: Mohamed Sanu WR5: Marquess Wilson TE1: Orson Charles

Safeguards (OL Ranks)Updated:

LT - LG - C - RG - RT

1. San Francisco 49ers - Last Year's top rated unit hasn't change and should only get better with continuity.

Joe Stanley - Mike Iupati - Daniel Kilgore - Alex Boone - Anthony Davis

 

2. New Orleans Saints - The Saints' high ranking is contributed by their stud interiors. However, their acquisition of Tyron Smith and Andre Smith could make Drew Brees lead offense nearly unstoppable.

Tyron Smith - Ben Grubbs - Brian De La Puente - Jahri Evans - Andre Smith

3. New England Patriots - Another elite group that hasn't change and should get better with continuity.

Nate Solder - Logan Mankins - Ryan Wendell - Dan Connolly - Sebastian Vollmer

4. Cleveland Browns - They have Thomas, Schwartz, Greco, Mack, and have depth with Ramon Foster. However, Pinkston is still a top guard who should come back healthy from his lung injury.

Joe Thomas - John Greco - Alex Mack - Jason Pinkston - Mitchell Schwartz

5. Kansas City Chief - They rebuilt their left side with Monroe and Boothe, while keeping their effective players in Hudson, Asamoah, and Winston.

Eugene Monroe - Kevin Boothe - Rodney Hudson - Jon Asamoah - Eric Winston

 

6. Denver Broncos - They still have their key players in Clady and Beadles and added some key players like Winters and Brennan to help keep their elite status.

Ryan Clady - Zane Beadles - JD Walton - Chris Kuper - Orlando Franklin

 

7. Miami Dolphins - They bolster their tackles with a top talent in Fisher and solid FA in Beatty to go along with their up and coming O-line. However, Scott Wells is coming off a down in both performance and health.

Eric Fisher - Richie Incognito - Scott Wells - Mike Pouncey - Will Beatty

8. Baltimore Ravens - Trading in Bryant McKinnie for Andrew Whitworth is a huge improvement and keeping three of the four starters in the playoffs is another huge boost. Oher should be serviceable at the right, Yanda is an All-Pro, and Osemele show a lot of promise at guard. However, Gradkowski is the wild card on the line.

Andrew Whitworth - Kelechi Osemele - Gino Gradkowski - Marshal Yanda - Michael Oher

9. Tennessee Titans - They decided to rebuild the interior by keeping Velsaco, drafting a mauler in Frederick and signing a top FA Guard in Moore.

Michael Roos - Travis Frederick - Fernando Velasco - Brandon Moore - David Stewart

10. Minnesota Vikings - They signed back all their key pieces of last year's offensive line and should be in for another dominant run.

Matt Kalil - Charlie Johnson - John Sullivan - Geoff Schwartz - Phil Loadholt

Borderline Top Ten:

10B. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Their ranking should rise when their two stud guards in Nicks and Joseph come back from injuries. The drafting of Thomas help solidify the right tackle position.

Donald Penn - Carl Nicks - Jeremy Zuttah - Davin Joseph - Dallas Thomas

10B. Cincinnati Bengals - Exchanging Whitworth for the young Branden Albert is considered a passable move. However, parting with their best RT in Andre Smith is question. Anyways, they managed to draft some viable replacements in Warford and Armstead to keep a serviceable O-line.

Branden Albert - Larry Warford - Trevor Robinson - Kevin Zeitler - Terron Armstead

10B. Houston Texans - Their weakness and uncertainity is the right tackle, but signing back Brisiel and keeping the majority of the group should help them continue their protection.

Duane Brown - Wade Smith - Chris Myers - Mike Brisiel - Derek Newton

10B. Buffalo Bills - The Bills had a very good O-line last year that was borderline top ten. By resigning their best player, Andy Levitre and keeping majority of their starters, they have a chance to improve their ranking. Their acquisition of Riley Reiff gives them the edge since their OTs were certainly the weak poin of the group last season. This group will definitely borderline top ten again.

Cordy Glenn - Andy Levitre - Eric Wood - Kraig Urbik - Riley Reiff

 

10B. Carolina Panthers - The Panthers decide to blow up their struggling O-line by replacing four of the five spots. Parting with Kalil and Gross are considered negatives, but bringing in Joeckel, Johnson, Rinehart, Slauson and Nwaneri  is a much bigger improvement. This O-line has all the talents to be great.

Luke Joeckel - Uche Nwaneri - Matt Slauson - Chad Rinehart - Lane Johnson

Notable Cuts:

 

16. New York Jets - The Jets were surprisely a top three unit last year. That shows how bad Mark Sanchez was. Brandon Moore and Matt Slausen are gone, but they replaced them with serviceable players like Donald Thomas. Vladimir Ducasse and Stephen Peterman battling for the RG sounds like a disaster, which is why RG is clearly the weakest link of the O-line.

D'Brickashaw Ferguson - Donald Thomas - Nick Mangold - Stephen Peterman - Austin Howard

17 Dallas Cowboys - Jonathan Cooper will be an instant impact as an interior player. Nate Irving was surprisely their best player. Trading away their possible franchise tackle in Tyron Smith wasn't easy, but they at least got two serviceable tackles in Gosder Cherlius and King Dunlap. This group is probably a huge improvement from last year's team.

King Dunlap - Nate Irving - Ryan Cook - Jonathan Cooper - Gosder Cherlius

18. Seattle Seahawks - They have a core group with Okung and Unger, but a lot to prove especially on the right side.

Russell Okung - James Carpenter - Max Unger - Jeff Allen - Menelik Watson

19. Green Bay Packers - They have a serviceable interior with Koppen, Lang, and Sitton. However, they have to find the right match for their OTs since their lst round OTs Bryan Bulaga and Derrek Sherrod have been disappointments. They do have some depth with the utility David Quessenberry.

Bryant McKinnie - Josh Sitton - Dan Koppen - T.J. Lang - Bryan Bulaga

20. Philadelphia Eagles - The Eagles really missed Jason Peters. However, we won't know for sure if he will be back to his All-Pro form. Evan Mathis is one of the best around even though he has no hardware. Jason Kelce shows some promise and Todd Herremans should stay at guard. The head scratch is Doug Free, who has play below average last year at RT. Last year's group was a disaster, but could be better if Peters comes back healthy and in form.

Jason Peters - Evan Mathis - Jason Kelce - Todd Herremans - Doug Free

21. Washington Redskin - Their O-line was masked a lot by their zone blocking scheme and bootleg plays. However, they do have a good core with Williams, Montgomery, and Chester. heir scheme helps them to get by with mediocre talents on the other positions.

Trent Williams - Winston Justice - Will Montgomery - Chris Chester - Ryan Harris

22. Oakland Raiders - They have an underrated group that made their offense a top ten last year. The only problem here might be Jonathan Martin who struggle mightly on both sides of the tackle spots.

Jared Veldheer - Tony Bergstrom - Stefen Wisniewski - Lucas Nix - Jonathan Martin

23. Chicago Bears - The addition of Gross and Clabo really helps their O-line to be better, but there's some question marks on the interior positions.

Jordan Gross - David Bakhtiari - Roberto Garza - Leroy Harris - Tyson Clabo

24. St. Louis Rams - Chance Warmack should help a lot in solidifying their interior, but there's still a lot of question marks as Safford is injury-prone, Dahl is coming from an injured bicep, Bushrod is consider an average tackle, and the center is up for grabs.

Roger Safford - Chance Warmack - Kevin Who? Matthews - Harvey Dahl - Jermon Bushrod

25. Jacksonvile Jaguars - They mixed and matched their O-line, but still have a lot to prove. Bringing in Louis Vasquez, an above average starting guard, helps a lot. Charles Brown should be a serviceable RT, if he stays healthy. However, the ranking depends on how well their rookies produce.

Chris Faulk - Evan Dietrich-Smith - Barrett Jones - Louis Vasquez - Charles Brown

26. Atlanta Falcons - This group played surprisely well, especially when Sam Baker was healthy. However, this team loses some luster after parting ways with their best player Tyson Clabo, who was rated as the #5 RT according to ProFootballFocus. This group could be in for a fall.

Sam Baker - Jake Scott - Peter Konz - Justin Blalock - Jammal Brown

27. Arizona Cardinals - They landed the big fish in Jake Long for their missing LT spot, but their O-line is still has a lot of holes, especially inside.

Jake Long - Ramon Harewood - Lyle Sendlein - Jordan Mills - Levi Brown

[ravensdan]

Steelers wr group should be top 5

[-Truth-]

I certainly won't argue my rankings much at all, for obvious reasons. You've nailed most of it regarding my team thus far. Although I wouldn't classify Gosder Cherilus as overpaid. He was actually one of the best RTs in 2012. The 2nd highest rated per PFF, in fact, and he was easily above average for the two years prior.

[Yatagarasu]

[quote name='ravensdan' timestamp='1364962350' post='1423318']
Steelers wr group should be top 5
[/quote]

Why?

I think Antonio Brown is the product of the double team Mike Wallace commanded.

DeAnthony Hopkins is nice, but won't command a double team.

Sanders is still developing.

[Sizzlebshu]

This has to be a joke. I def have at least a top 5 o line even with Gradkowski

You running game rankings are of course insane.

[Sizzlebshu]

[quote name='Corvus Amplus' timestamp='1364962878' post='1423322']
Why?

I think Antonio Brown is the product of the double team Mike Wallace commanded.

DeAnthony Hopkins is nice, but won't command a double team.

Sanders is still developing.
[/quote]
DeANDRE Hopkins - get it right

and guess what he already does command a double team in college and he beats them.

[Yatagarasu]

[quote name='-Truth-' timestamp='1364962863' post='1423321']
I certainly won't argue my rankings much at all, for obvious reasons. You've nailed most of it regarding my team thus far. Although I wouldn't classify Gosder Cherilus as overpaid. He was actually one of the best RTs in 2012. The 2nd highest rated per PFF, in fact, and he was easily above average for the two years prior.
[/quote]

Yeah, your offense is going to be dangerous.

[Yatagarasu]

[quote name='Sizzlebshu' timestamp='1364962930' post='1423324']
DeANDRE Hopkins - get it right

and guess what he already does command a double team in college and he beats them.
[/quote]

I don't think it's top five, but borderline top ten, if DeAndre Hopkins develops into a WR#1, and Antonio goes back to his 2011 form. 2012 was a very bad sign for the offense.

[Sizzlebshu]

[quote name='Corvus Amplus' timestamp='1364963117' post='1423326']
I don't think it's top five, but borderline top ten, if DeAndre Hopkins develops into a WR#1, and Antonio goes back to his 2011 form. 2012 was a very bad sign for the offense.
[/quote]
That was more to illustrate you were wrong on his name and your assumption than making a case for the Steelers being top 10 WR core.

[-Truth-]

[quote name='Corvus Amplus' timestamp='1364962940' post='1423325']
Yeah, your offense is going to be dangerous.
[/quote]

Thanks. Just trying to keep pace with the ever-explosive NFC South.

[Yatagarasu]

Running game is tough to decipher due to the individual abilities of RBs along with the system they're in.

A top five RB like CJ2K can have a bad year when the OL isn't strong enough.

Ray Rice is a fine player who can run over weak run-defense team, but when he's goes against tougher opponents, his numbers does down.

[Sizzlebshu]

[quote name='Corvus Amplus' timestamp='1364963279' post='1423329']
Running game is tough to decipher due to the individual abilities of RBs along with the system they're in.

A top five RB like CJ2K can have a bad year when the OL isn't strong enough.

Ray Rice is a fine player who can run over weak run-defense team, but when he's goes against tougher opponents, his numbers does down.
[/quote]
You realize that just a year ago he had over 2000 yards from scrimmage with 1300 being from rushing?

[Yatagarasu]

Sizzle is just mad that I placed his offense as borderline top ten. If you can write me a complaint and reason for why the Ravens are better than the teams above, then I could boost their rankings a few notch,

Remember the rankings are subject to change.

These are the initial ranking according my research on ProFootballFocus and the moves the teams made.

The running game was probably the toughest one.

[Yatagarasu]

[quote name='Sizzlebshu' timestamp='1364963509' post='1423330']
You realize that just a year ago he had over 2000 yards from scrimmage with 1300 being from rushing?
[/quote]

The reason why I notched CJ2K down was that he had a down year and he's going into a man-blocking scheme, which doesn't suit his running game. He should've went to a zone-blocking scheme, which would utilize his speed and one cut explosion better than slowing down and waiting for a hole to open up.

[ravensdan]

[quote name='Corvus Amplus' timestamp='1364963117' post='1423326']


I don't think it's top five, but borderline top ten, if DeAndre Hopkins develops into a WR#1, and Antonio goes back to his 2011 form. 2012 was a very bad sign for the offense.
[/quote]

Browns slightly down year was more due to leftwich and batch throwing him the ball. McCoy is a big capable upgrade there.
Hopkins is theist clutch wr in the draft and has shown he is capable of taking over a game. He is nfl ready.
Sanders has shown playmaking ability but hasn't blown up just due to mental errors, his experience should pay off this year.
Don't forget broyles was making huge plays last year. He is capable of getting deep from the outside or slot once he is recovecerd.

[Yatagarasu]

[quote name='ravensdan' timestamp='1364986573' post='1423434']
Browns slightly down year was more due to leftwich and batch throwing him the ball. McCoy is a big capable upgrade there.
Hopkins is theist clutch wr in the draft and has shown he is capable of taking over a game. He is nfl ready.
Sanders has shown playmaking ability but hasn't blown up just due to mental errors, his experience should pay off this year.
Don't forget broyles was making huge plays last year. He is capable of getting deep from the outside or slot once he is recovecerd.
[/quote]

Your reasoning is sound, but I don't consider it a top ten WR Corps, but a borderline top ten due to the fact that Brown isn't a dominate WR #1, but a proven slot threat like Victor Cruz and Hopkins is a rookie, and the verdict is to be seen on the rest. However, the group is about equal to the young, but unproven groups in Oakland and Tennessee.

Hopkins(FL) + Brown (SL) + Broyles(SL) + Sanders(SE) = Amendola(SL) + Moore(FL) + Ford(SE) + Streator(FL)

[Alexir]

Raiders backs: Darren McFadden, Gio Bernard, BGE , McGahee and FB Marcel Reece don't make the list?

[Yatagarasu]

[quote name='Alexir' timestamp='1364993590' post='1423465']
Raiders backs: Darren McFadden, Gio Bernard, BGE , McGahee and FB Marcel Reece don't make the list?
[/quote]

Raiders were one of the worst running teams last year.

McFadden is an injury-bust, the Law Firm is an average runningback, McGahee is an aging, but solid back, and Reece is more of a pass catch than runner.

Gio Bernard is a good pick, but I'm not sure how this team will gel with the same offensive line from last year that was horrid in opening up the running game.

[Sizzlebshu]

[quote name='Corvus Amplus' timestamp='1364994299' post='1423466']
Raiders were one of the worst running teams last year.

McFadden is an injury-bust, the Law Firm is an average runningback, McGahee is an aging, but solid back, and Reece is more of a pass catch than runner.

Gio Bernard is a good pick, but I'm not sure how this team will gel with the same offensive line from last year that was horrid in opening up the running game.
[/quote]
That may have something to do with the fact that the coach decided to take away the blocking scheme that made his best player a beast. He has since reverted on that position and switched back to the power blocking scheme that Mcfadden dominates.

[stm85]

I'd argue that Jason Snelling is a viable runner who can do a little bit of everything and is a solid #2 RB. I also have no idea how Oakland's group is better than Bowe, Moore, Ogletree, and Cook. Overall though I enjoyed reading this. Nice work.

[gabefergy]

I actually agree for the most part with these rankings...I would put Baltimore's Oline a bit higher but they are very thin depth-wise and have a bit of a question mark at C.

As for running games, no offense to Truth, but I wouldnt have NO in the top 10. Their Oline is built for pass-blocking and their weapons are much more tilted towards an explosive passing attack. Wilson and Sproles are good backs but arent going to carry a big load.

I would insert my Dolphins as top 10 running attack with a very strong Oline and an under the radar combo of Lamar Miller and Johnathan Franklin. Two explosive RBs combined with the athletic Ryan Tannehill in a Read-Option offense is going to be deadly.

[Alexir]

[quote name='Sizzlebshu' timestamp='1364994490' post='1423468']

That may have something to do with the fact that the coach decided to take away the blocking scheme that made his best player a beast. He has since reverted on that position and switched back to the power blocking scheme that Mcfadden dominates.
[/quote]

This.

[-Truth-]

[quote name='gabefergy' timestamp='1365007288' post='1423638']
I actually agree for the most part with these rankings...I would put Baltimore's Oline a bit higher but they are very thin depth-wise and have a bit of a question mark at C.

As for running games, no offense to Truth, but I wouldnt have NO in the top 10. Their Oline is built for pass-blocking and their weapons are much more tilted towards an explosive passing attack. Wilson and Sproles are good backs but arent going to carry a big load.

I would insert my Dolphins as top 10 running attack with a very strong Oline and an under the radar combo of Lamar Miller and Johnathan Franklin. Two explosive RBs combined with the athletic Ryan Tannehill in a Read-Option offense is going to be deadly.
[/quote]

No offense taken, but I strongly disagree. My interior was filled with very solid run blockers. In fact, only one of my Offensive Linemen didn't grade positively in run blocking in 2012, that being my LT. We've seen what a top tier Center can do for a running game with Adrian Peterson, and I have just that in Brian De La Puente, who finished with the 2nd highest PFF grade and 7th best in run blocking. Scott Wells, on the other hand, finished as their 6th worst run blocker and 8th worst overall Center, and that was just in a 7 game span. He is in a better situation with the OGs surrounding him, but at 32 years of age, there's a significant chance that he won't improve on that performance.

I would also strongly dispute the notion that David Wilson isn't able to carry the mail. He was a feature back in Virginia Tech with 1,709 rushing yards and an NCAA leading 990 after contact. He was reduced to a spell-back role in New York, but that was almost solely due to the presence of Ahmad Bradshaw, who had extensive knowledge of their complex playbook after being in the same system for 7 years, coupled with the notion that Tom Coughlin rarely features players in their first year. One of the biggest concerns surrounding Wilson was regarding the playbook, which should be pacified with an Offseason under his belt. In his very first game with double digits touches, Wilson set a Giants Rookie record with 327 all-purpose yards. Since then, he finished with 43 carries for 247 rushing yards, a YPC of 5.74, and 5 TDs in a 4 game span. I believe that Wilson easily has the makings of a 1,000 yard rusher, and will have a chance to do so after being green-lit by his Jerry Reese to likely be their, "lead dog," in 2013. Also, to the defense of Darren Sproles, while his forte has obviously been in the passing attack, he's been solid as an RB in his two seasons in NOLA, rushing for a combined 847 yards and a YPC of 6.27. What's even more impressive is that in this time span, his yards after contact of 3.03 per attempt have ranked among within Top 9. Lastly, there's another potential standout in Montee Ball. The biggest concern with Ball was that played with one of the best OLs in College football in his best season in 2011, although it was far from it in 2012. In either case, he'll be joining one of the best OL units in the NFL. And any RB that can amass 4,131 scrimmage yards and 61 TDs in 28 games should have proven to be a more than capable RB on his own. With that in mind, I don't at all see how this trio is inferior to that of Lamar Miller and Jonathan Franklin, especially considering that there are at least as many questions with Miller as there are with Wilson.

[-Truth-]

[quote name='gabefergy' timestamp='1365007288' post='1423638']
I actually agree for the most part with these rankings...I would put Baltimore's Oline a bit higher but they are very thin depth-wise and have a bit of a question mark at C.

As for running games, no offense to Truth, but I wouldnt have NO in the top 10. Their Oline is built for pass-blocking and their weapons are much more tilted towards an explosive passing attack. Wilson and Sproles are good backs but arent going to carry a big load.

I would insert my Dolphins as top 10 running attack with a very strong Oline and an under the radar combo of Lamar Miller and Johnathan Franklin. Two explosive RBs combined with the athletic Ryan Tannehill in a Read-Option offense is going to be deadly.
[/quote]

No offense taken, but I strongly disagree. My interior was filled with very solid run blockers. In fact, only one of my Offensive Linemen didn't grade positively in run blocking in 2012, that being my LT. We've seen what a top tier Center can do for a running game with Adrian Peterson, and I have just that in Brian De La Puente, who finished with the 2nd highest PFF grade and 7th best in run blocking. Scott Wells, on the other hand, finished as their 6th worst run blocker and 8th worst overall Center, and that was just in a 7 game span. He is in a better situation with the OGs surrounding him, but at 32 years of age, there's a significant chance that he won't improve on that performance.

I would also strongly dispute the notion that David Wilson isn't able to carry the mail. He was a feature back in Virginia Tech with 1,709 rushing yards and an NCAA leading 990 after contact. He was reduced to a spell-back role in New York, but that was almost solely due to the presence of Ahmad Bradshaw, who had extensive knowledge of their complex playbook after being in the same system for 7 years, coupled with the notion that Tom Coughlin rarely features players in their first year. One of the biggest concerns surrounding Wilson was regarding the playbook, which should be pacified with an Offseason under his belt. In his very first game with double digits touches, Wilson set a Giants Rookie record with 327 all-purpose yards. Since then, he finished with 43 carries for 247 rushing yards, a YPC of 5.74, and 5 TDs in a 4 game span. I believe that Wilson easily has the makings of a 1,000 yard rusher, and will have a chance to do so after being green-lit by his Jerry Reese to likely be their, "lead dog," in 2013. Also, to the defense of Darren Sproles, while his forte has obviously been in the passing attack, he's been solid as an RB in his two seasons in NOLA, rushing for a combined 847 yards and a YPC of 6.27. What's even more impressive is that in this time span, his yards after contact of 3.03 per attempt would've ranked within Top 9 in both seasons. Lastly, there's another potential standout in Montee Ball. The biggest concern with Ball was that played with one of the best OLs in College football in his best season in 2011, although it was far from it in 2012. In either case, he'll be joining one of the best OL units in the NFL. And any RB that can amass 4,131 scrimmage yards and 61 TDs in 28 games should have proven to be a more than capable RB on his own. With that in mind, I don't at all see how this trio is inferior to that of Lamar Miller and Jonathan Franklin, especially considering that there are at least as many questions with Miller as there are with Wilson.

[gabefergy]

[quote name='-Truth-' timestamp='1365018647' post='1423778']


No offense taken, but I strongly disagree. My interior was filled with very solid run blockers. In fact, only one of my Offensive Linemen didn't grade positively in run block 2012, that being my LT. We've seen what a top tier Center can do for a running game with Adrian Peterson, and I have just that in Brian De La Puente, who finished with the 2nd highest PFF grade and 7th best in run blocking. Scott Wells, on the other hand, finished as their 6th worst run blocker and 8th worst overall Center, and that was just in a 7 game span. He is in a better situation with the OGs surrounding him, but at 32 years of age, there's a significant chance that he won't improve on that performance.

I would also strongly dispute the notion that David Wilson isn't able to carry the mail. He was a feature back in Virginia Tech with 1,709 rushing yards and an NCAA leading 990 after contact. He was reduced to a spell-back role in New York, but that was almost solely due to the presence of Ahmad Bradshaw, who had extensive knowledge of their complex playbook after being in the same system for 7 years, coupled with the notion that Tom Coughlin rarely features players in their first year. One of the biggest concerns surrounding Wilson was regarding the playbook, which should be pacified with an Offseason under his belt. In his very first game with double digits touches, Wilson set a Giants Rookie record with 327 all-purpose yards. Since then, he finished with 43 carries for 247 rushing yards, a YPC of 5.74, and 5 TDs in a 4 game span. I believe that Wilson easily has the makings of a 1,000 yard rusher, and will have a chance to do so after being green-lit by his Jerry Reese to likely be their, "lead dog," in 2013. Also, to the defense of Darren Sproles, while his forte has obviously been in the passing attack, he's been solid as an RB in his two seasons in NOLA, rushing for a combined 847 yards and a YPC of 6.27. What's even more impressive is that in this time span, his yards after contact of 3.03 per attempt would've ranked within Top 9 in both seasons. Lastly, there's another potential standout in Montee Ball. The biggest concern with Ball was that played with one of the best OLs in College football in his best season in 2011, although it was far from it in 2012. In either case, he'll be joining one of the best OL units in the NFL. And any RB that can amass 4,131 scrimmage yards and 61 TDs in 28 games should have proven to be a more than capable RB on his own. With that in mind, I don't at all see how this trio is inferior to that of Lamar Miller and Jonathan Franklin, especially considering that ,there are at least as many questions with Miller as there are with Wilson.
[/quote]

Let's see here, neither of your tackles are strong run blockers and while your interior line is excellent that alone does not predicate the ability to have a dominant rushinv attack. I believe your line is the same inside as last year which clearly wssnt a top 5 attack then, and I dont see a significant upgrade in your running backs that would make a big difference. The best running attacks are often most effective off tackle and that iz not your lines strongsuit. Your all pro TE is also a non factor in the running game. I don't doubt that your team could run effectively at times, but it shouldn't be the focus of your offense when you have Drew Breeds and 5-6 extremely talented receiving options. I really likd David Wilson and the combination you have is nice with Ball being very effective in college around the goal line, but he isnt a special talent and racked up stats in college largely due to volume and scheme.

As for my team, Lamar Miller was spectacular in limited opportunity behind Reggie Bush last year and has many similarities to Wilson. I have elite run-blockers in Beatty, Incognito, and Pouncey. Scott Wells when healthy has been one of the best run-blocking centers in the NFL which I am sure you are aware of. He struggled last year in limited time because of injury. I also drafted an excellent blocking TE in Kelce who should have immediate impact.

Mostly though, the difference I see is the focus of my offense will be concentrated around the running game while I doubt that is the case with your team. I dobt doubt your running will be effective, but I see a #1 passing attack in NO. Something tells me there are not many teams that will have elite passing attacks and top rushing attacks, at least not total numbers.

[Yatagarasu]

[quote name='stm85' timestamp='1365005971' post='1423624']
I'd argue that Jason Snelling is a viable runner who can do a little bit of everything and is a solid #2 RB. I also have no idea how Oakland's group is better than Bowe, Moore, Ogletree, and Cook. Overall though I enjoyed reading this. Nice work.
[/quote]

Bowe is a bum, Moore is a system slot guy, Olgetree couldn't produce the same as Robinson last year as a #3 WR, and Cook is a boom or bust type player.

[Yatagarasu]

I noticed the improved O-line of Miami, but New Orleans already proved to be a top ten running team. However, it's really hard to gauge the running game of the NFL, because beast players like CJ2K and McFadden can be misused.

Running back ranking might be altered as I collect more info,

[gabefergy]

[quote name='Corvus Amplus' timestamp='1365021881' post='1423805']
I noticed the improved O-line of Miami, but New Orleans already proved to be a top ten running team. However, it's really hard to gauge the running game of the NFL, because beast players like CJ2K and McFadden can be misused.

Running back ranking might be altered as I collect more info,
[/quote]

NO was the 25th best rushing attack last season. They are a pass oriented team was my point.

[stm85]

[quote name='Corvus Amplus' timestamp='1365021536' post='1423802']
Bowe is a bum, Moore is a system slot guy, Olgetree couldn't produce the same as Robinson last year as a #3 WR, and Cook is a boom or bust type player.
[/quote]

Bowe might have attitude issues but he has put up some very good numbers with terrible QB play and no other weapons around him. Say what you will about Moore, Ogletree, and Cook but each is big upgrade over what KC had last year and Matt Schaub is worlds better than any QB he has ever played with. I don't think my passing game is my team's strength, but it is an above average unit and better than some of the ones that you listed in your top 10 imo.

I also really like my RB depth with Snelling, who is a good power back who can catch, and Cyrus Gray, who showed flashes of real talent in limited action last year. They aren't world beaters but both are certainly serviceable options behind a player as talented as Jamaal Charles. Again, I think 10th is way to low, especially given my OL, but that's just my opinion.

[Yatagarasu]

[quote name='gabefergy' timestamp='1365022332' post='1423810']
NO was the 25th best rushing attack last season. They are a pass oriented team was my point.
[/quote]

they were low in the rushing ranking was due to the fact that their coach was missing, their defense was a farce, and their RBs were all nursing injuries.

The year before, they had a top five rushing attack. I believe Wilson, Sproles, Ball are just as talented as the 2011 crew of Thomas, Ivory, Ingram, and Sproles.