NFC

As the Packers' 2009 season plays out, and yet another football lands in the hands of the Packers No. 88, I've adopted a new twist on an old acronym:

TGIF - Thank God It's Finley...

Packers GM Ted Thompson's 2008 draft will never be featured at the top of his resume. Jordy Nelson, Brian Brohm, and Patrick Lee were the first three picks of that draft. While I like Nelson, and think he will develop into a very useful receiver, Brian Brohm was a certified bust from day one, and Patrick Lee is just one more injury away from being called the same.

But Thompson did uncover a hidden gem in that draft. In the third round (pick 91) Thompson selected a young underclassman from the University of Texas.

After less than two full seasons, it's not a stretch to say that Jermichael Finley could turn out to be the steal of the entire 2008 draft.

Finley played only two seasons at Texas, and after only 26 games, he was already the third all-time receiving tight end in Texas history.  A father of two children, yet essentially still a kid (Finley turned 21 just before the 2008 Draft), Finley felt the need to move on to life's next challenge.

The Packers first took notice of Finley a week before the NFL combine. Said tight ends coach Bob McAdoo, "When you start watching guys, obviously you look for things you can't coach, and I think he has a few of those qualities. He's someone who was intriguing the minute you turned the tape on."

Finley did not do particularly well at the combine, running only a 4.82 in the 40-yard dash. That and his limited experience scared off a lot of NFL teams, but not the Packers. They went into the draft prepared to take him with the second of their two second-round picks, but when Brian Brohm and Patrick Lee "fell into their laps" (collective groan from Packers fans...), the Packers' plans were sidetracked.

Luckily, the Packers found Finley still waiting for them in the third round, and now a lot of other NFL GMs are kicking themselves.

As a rookie for the Packers, Finley's athleticism and potential was apparent to everyone. But at 21 years old, Finley was the youngest player on the Packers and at times, appeared overwhelmed by the whole experience. His immaturity showed as he made some some ill-advised comments to the media, complaining about passes not being where he wanted them.

In the last two games of the 2008 season, he flashed some of that potential. He caught passes for 35 yards and 26-yard gains, and caught his first NFL career touchdown. Throughout it all, he worked as hard as anyone in practice and impressed coaches with his passion for the game.

As the 2009 training camp progressed, Finley opened eyes all around. Aaron Rodgers called him "unguardable."  Coach Mike McCarthy said Finley's blocking skills had improved to the point where he can be used in any formation and for any role.

Packers GM Ted Thompson said, "Historically the tight end has been huge in the classic West Coast offenses and I think sometimes we've gotten away from that a little bit. The idea is to get back to using those guys. It's difficult for defensive backs. Your skill guys outside are busy trying to handle [Donald] Driver and [Greg] Jennings."

For his part, Finley would say, "I'm just excited and confident with what I'm about to get into. When I was at Texas, I used to look at Texas Tech's [passing scheme] and say, 'Man, I would love to have that offense.' And now, basically, it's come true. I'm just going to love it this year when the real games come."

Well, Finley's wish has been granted. As the season has progressed, Coach McCarthy has proven to be comfortable with using Finley inside, in the slot, and out wide. The matchup nightmares created for opposing defenses have resulted in a bigger role for Finley. After returning from missing three games with a sprained knee, Finley has had more balls thrown to him and caught more passes than any other Packer.

During the Packers' recent winning streak, one thing has stood out to me on offense. I believe we are seeing Finley become Aaron Rodgers' "go-to" guy. On key downs, Rodgers has looked for Finley with great success. Every great quarterback has one guy that is his security blanket. The guy he can always look for when things are breaking down. The guy he can always depend on to have a mismatch with a defender. Finley could be that guy.

"He's done a great job for us," quarterback Aaron Rodgers said. "He really adds an extra dimension to our offense and opens things up for Greg and Donald and James. Having Jermichael out there just gives us another weapon. You have to kind of figure out how you're going to guard him."

What the Packers need to figure out now is that Finley should be the answer to their red-zone issues. As Leroy Butler recently said, "When you get to the 20-yard line, that's when No. 88 should get every ball. Jermichael Finley is a bad matchup for every defensive back and linebacker in the National Football League. You have to figure out ways to get him the ball."

Pretty high praise from a Packers legend about a kid who is only 22 years old and should still be a senior in college. It seems apparent to me that the Packers may have hit the proverbial home run with Jermichael Finley. He's an All-Pro in the making and for many years to come, after yet another big play by Jermichael Finley, we should all be saying:

TGIF - Thank God It's Finley.

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You can find more of Jersey Al Bracco’s articles on several sports web sites: Jersey Al’s Blog, Packer Chatters, Packers Lounge, NFL Touchdown, and, of course, Bleacher Report. Jersey Al is the Green Bay Packers Draft Correspondent for Drafttek.com.

You can also follow Jersey Al on Facebook and Twitter.

It was July 2008, "The Summer of Favre," yet with all the attention being given to that PR nightmare, Ryan Grant wanted a little attention too. Five months after the Packers had told Grant and his agent that they would "take care of their own" and sign him to a new contract, Grant was a holdout .

There were angry words from Grant's agent. "It's insulting," agent Alan Herman said of the offer he received from negotiator Russ Ball, "Ryan Grant gave them a running game last year. They know what he can do."

Somehow, what was shaping up to be a contentious negotiation and a long holdout was resolved only a week later, as the two sides agreed on a four year contract. Packer fans everywhere rejoiced. The dynamic running back that had gained over 900 yards for the Packers over the last 10 games of the 2007 season was in the fold.

He's never been the same since.

What Ryan Grant is now, is an example of an incredibly inconsistent NFL running back. He's inconsistent from season to season, game to game, quarter to quarter, even play to play.

I believe it comes down to this: Ryan Grant can only gain significant yards when he has a well-defined hole in sight. Give him a nice big seam that he can run through and he'll slash through the hole with aggression. Give him an offensive lineman  or two that have been stood up in his path and he just can't adjust. He doesn't have the ability to make sharp cuts and change direction with speed.

For some proof, lets go to the visual aids:

This was the play where Grant appeared to have fumbled, until he was saved by a replay challenge. It's evident above that the Packers' left side of the line loses the line-of-scrimmage battle and allow themselves to get pushed back a yard or two. Grant sees this. In this picture, you can see him trying to stop himself. Because of the unblocked corner, bouncing outside is not an option.

Conversely, as you can see in the picture above, the right side of the Packers line has done a good job. They've gotten a push, are holding their blocks, there is room for Grant to run. I'm not saying it would be a big gain, but certainly there is room to the right and none to the left.

I give Grant credit for seeing it and attempting to get over there, unfortunately, he doesn't have the ability to do it. His attempted cut takes him right up behind his blockers and within easy reach of the defenders.

The end result, as you can see above, becomes a two-yard loss and near fumble.

Folks, Ahman Green makes that cut. Brandon Jackson makes that cut. Even Kregg Lumpkin makes that cut. Possibly Deshawn Wynn makes that cut (ah, maybe not). But without a doubt, Ryan Grant CANNOT make that cut.

Ryan Grant is a fine running back if your offensive line is dominating the line of scrimmage. That hasn't happened very often this year. In my opinion, Ryan Grant is just not the right running back for the Green Bay Packers. I've written about this before and nothing has transpired to change my mind.

As I was watching the Ravens game, it occurred to me that Grant seems to get stopped for zero or negative yardage more than any other NFL running back I've seen. Was this just my imagination? Was my perception fantasy or reality. This inquiring mind had to know.

I went back to the Baltimore game stats and charted Grant's runs. He gained 41 yards on 18 carries for a poor 2.3 yard per carry average. But more importantly, take a look at his 18 runs. Here are the yards per carry on each one:

-1, 3, 2, -1, 7, 0, 8, 2, 0, 4, 0, 8, 4, 2, 3, 3, 4, 3, -1

Besides being about as inconsistent as they could be, let's look closer at these numbers.  Six runs (33 percent) went for zero gain or a loss. Nine runs (50 percent) went for 2 yards or less. A running back like that is what you call a drive killer. If Aaron Rodgers wasn't seemingly unconscious on third downs, Grant's performance would have manifested itself in more Jeremy Kapinos punts, certainly not what the Packers want.

Conversely, Ahman Green did what Ahman Green does, gain positive yardage. Despite my pleading with Mike McCarthy through my television set, and much to my chagrin, Green was only given five handoffs during the Ravens game. His yards per carry  were as follows:

4, 4, 8, 5, 2

Sure this is too small a sample to be definitive, but throughout Ahman Green's career, one thing has been definitive—he consistently gains positive yardage. Consistency that Ryan Grant does not have.  Green is rarely stopped for no gain or a loss. He finds a way to make something out of nothing. Consistently .

Of Ahman Green I say, "Give him the damn ball."

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You can find more of Jersey Al Bracco’s articles on several sports web sites: Jersey Al’s Blog , Packer Chatters , Packers Lounge , NFL Touchdown , and, of course, Bleacher Report . Jersey Al is the Green Bay Packers Draft Correspondent for Drafttek.com.

You can also follow Jersey Al on facebook and twitter .

Only four-and-a-half months until the highly anticipated 2010 NFL draft.

Can you feel the excitement in the air, or are you too busy feeling the holiday vibe?

As per usual, I will update my mock draft every single week.

Without further ado, let's get to it!

1. Cleveland Browns—Jimmy Clausen, Quarterback, Notre Dame

Alright, let's get over the fact that both Brady Quinn and Jimmy Clausen went to Notre Dame. It does not mean that they are virtually the same exact quarterback.

The perception that Clausen is a Quinn 2.0 just isn't fair and just shows foolish judgment.

Jimmy Clausen is a slightly better quarterback than Jake Locker is. Clausen has had to go up against some of the better colleges in all of college football.

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers—Ndamukong Suh, Defensive Tackle, Nebraska

I've received some criticism for this pick because people think that Tampa Bay taking Suh is just getting plain old.

So what?

If you want the best player available, you take Suh. He will make a perfect fit for their scheme, and will go great with Roy Miller on the defensive line.

I can't see Tampa Bay going any other way, but with the Nebraskan phenom.

3. St. Louis Rams—Jake Locker, Quarterback, Washington

Kyle Boller is great! Did you see the game he had on Sunday? Only kidding, he still is terrible.

If St. Louis doesn't draft a quarterback in the first round, I will drive to Missouri to personally set fire to the houses of the people that made the decision.

Jake Locker has a great arm, size, and all the tools that are needed to be a great NFL quarterback.

Now only if he had weapons to throw to... Well, there are rounds 2-7, I guess.

4. Detroit Lions—Gerald McCoy, Defensive Tackle, Oklahoma

Normally I would have Russell Okung going here, but for some reason the Lions' offensive line coach, George Yarno, said he liked the way Jeff Backus has been playing as of late.

I guess giving up 7.5 sacks through 11 games is acceptable. But then again, Detroit has won a mere two games in the last two seasons!

Gerald McCoy is a stud, no doubt. Detroit will love to have this guy to dominate on their defensive line. Don't be surprised if he winds up being the defensive rookie of the year next season.

5. Kansas City Chiefs—Russell Okung, Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma State

Kansas City will not have any success throwing the ball if they can't keep Matt Cassel on his feet.

In nine games played, Branden Albert has already surrendered nine sacks. What has happened to this guy!?

Russell Okung is a must-pick selection. He's easily the best offensive tackle in the nation. Kansas City would be imbeciles if they didn't make this pick.

6. Washington Redskins—Sam Bradford, Quarterback, Oklahoma

Daniel Snyder loves going after big-name players. Albert Haynesworth, DeAngelo Hall, Clinton Portis, and Brian Orakpo for example?

Jason Campbell may never succeed in the NFL, especially not with the Washington Redskins.

He is done.

Sam Bradford's arm will be fine by the time the combine rolls around. He will impress scouts, propelling him into the top-10.

7. Buffalo Bills—Ryan Mallett, Quarterback, Arkansas

The likes of Rolando McClain, Dan Williams, and Eric Berry sound intriguing, but the fact of the matter is that the Bills have two terrible quarterbacks on their roster in Ryan Fitzpatrick and Trent Edwards.

Seriously, does this team expect to win more than five games next year with either one of these two at the helm? I hope not.

Ryan Mallett has had a great season with Arkansas. Is he a reach at No. 7? Possibly. But Buffalo needs a QB and Ryan Mallett needs Buffalo.

8. Oakland Raiders—Rolando McClain, Inside Linebacker, Alabama

Perhaps not the biggest need, but when you think about it, Kirk Morrison is set to be a free-agent when this season comes to an end.

Rolando McClain had a monster game in the SEC championship against the Florida Gators, only cementing his status as a top-10 pick.

Al Davis, if your brain hasn't turned into dust already, draft McClain. You won't regret it.

9. Denver Broncos—Dan Williams, Nose Tackle, Tennessee

Dan Williams is quickly rising up the draft boards in the last few weeks. He had a tremendous season with the Volunteers this year.

Denver lacks a great nose tackle. Ronald Fields? Not going to cut it. A player like Williams will.

10. San Francisco 49ers from Carolina—Eric Berry, Safety, Tennessee

It'll come down to either Eric Berry or Joe Haden with this pick. I will give the 49ers Berry, though.

Berry is considered to be the best overall athlete in the entire draft? Why not? This guy is the best safety to come out in a long time.

11. Seattle Seahawks—Bruce Campbell, Offensive Tackle, Maryland

The Seahawks offensive line has many holes that need to be filled by new talent. Max Unger was a good pick in the 2009 draft.

Walter Jones has missed the entire season. Despite his intent to play in 2010, Jones is not starting material any longer.

Bruce Campbell is what the Seahawks need. They won't regret this choice.

12. San Francisco 49ers—Joe Haden, Cornerback, Florida

I know, it seems crazy. Joe Haden and Eric Berry with the first two picks? Let me explain why.

San Francisco has one of the worst secondaries in the league, for starters. With Eric Berry and Joe Haden in, the 49ers will automatically have one of the best secondaries in the league.

They could trade one of these two picks for a first in 2011, or trade Nate Clements for a second- or third-round choice.

13. Houston Texans—Taylor Mays, Safety, USC

Taylor Mays falling this far would be terrific for the Texans. They need help in the secondary.

Eugene Wilson is not going to do the job for Houston's secondary. Mays can step in right away and dominate.

Mays and Bernard Pollard would make a great duo at safety.

14. Tennessee Titans—Donovan Warren, Cornerback, Michigan

Nick Harper is far past his prime. The reason for the Titans terrible secondary is because he can't cover for crap.

His contract expires at the end of the season. Unless the Titans are stupid, they will let him walk.

Donovan Warren will be a day-one starter if they draft him.

15. Pittsburgh Steelers—Earl Thomas, Safety, Texans

Troy Polamalu is injured often. When he is out, the Steelers are terrible. This shows how important one guy can be.

With that said, Polamalu needs a partner along side him in the secondary.

Ryan Clark and Tyrone Carter are both free-agents when this season is over. Earl Thomas can replace both of these guys.

16. New York Jets—Damian Williams, Wide Receiver, USC

Damian Williams didn't have the greatest game vs. Arizona last weekend, but nobody from USC really did.

Braylon Edwards has dropped several key passes this year, once again. New York can let him go after this year.

In conclusion, Mark Sanchez will want a new target. His former teammate sounds perfect.

17. Atlanta Falcons—Brandon Graham, Defensive End, Michigan

Atlanta is one of the worst teams in the league at getting pressure on the quarterback.

Atlanta lacks a strong defensive end on the opposite side of the aging Jonathan Abraham.

Jamaal Anderson has been a bust thus far. Brandon Graham will step in to take his place.

18. Miami Dolphins—Terrence Cody, Nose Tackle, Alabama

Terrence Cody has slipped as of late because of the fact that Dan Williams has surpassed him for the No. 1 nose tackle spot.

Jason Ferguson turns 34 soon, and his contract expires in March. Miami will need a replacement.

19. Baltimore Ravens—Dez Bryant, Wide Receiver, Oklahoma State

The Ravens have very few targets on offense. Derrick Mason will likely hang it up after this season is over. Keep in mind, he already retired once.

Dez Bryant, despite missing almost all season for the Cowboys, will be a top-20 pick with a strong combine.

Joe Flacco needs weapons. He will get a great one in Bryant.

20. New York Giants—Brandon Spikes, Middle Linebacker, Florida

Antonio Pierce is out for the season. Not to mention, he is near the end of his illustrious career with the Giants.

New York has a few needs on defense that they need to fix. Middle linebacker is the main one.

Brandon Spikes was dominant with the Gators in college. He will be dominant with the Giants in the NFL.

21. Jacksonville Jaguars—Tim Tebow, Quarterback, Florida

It seems that the Jaguars drafting Tim Tebow is pretty much inevitable at this point. When the governor starts talking about him, it'll likely happen.

Tebow has stated that he will play any position that a team in the NFL sees fit. Will it be at quarterback? Doubtful. But he will be absolutely stellar in the wildcat formation.

22. New England Patriots—C.J. Spiller, Running Back, Clemson

How can having Tom Brady, Randy Moss, Wes Welker, and C.J. Spiller on one team be fair? It shouldn't.

Laurence Maroney is the definition of inconsistent. Fred Taylor will never start again. Sammy Morris is a decent third-string running back.

Spiller is a dynamic playmaker who is tough to stop.

23. Green Bay Packers—Charles Brown, Offensive Tackle, USC

Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers gets hit on almost every dropback the guy takes. That is preposterous!

They need serious help if they expect Rodgers to continue to be injury-free for a long time.

Charles Brown is the perfect fit for the Packers offensive line scheme.

24. Dallas Cowboys—Anthony Davis, Offensive Tackle, Rutgers

Flozell Adams is likely to retire soon. He's near the end of his career, and obviously wearing down physically.

Jerry Jones usually goes after big names, but Anthony Davis, despite not being a big name, is the right pick for the Cowboys.

25. Philadelphia Eagles—Mike Iupati, Offensive Guard, Idaho

Andy Reid loves big offensive lineman. Reid actually drafted a guard in the middle of the first round 6 years ago. That guard was Shawn Andrews.

Thus far, Andrews has been a bust. Just chalk it up to a great idea that didn't pan out.

Mike Iupati is a great pick for the Eagles here.

26. Seattle Seahawks from Denver—Jahvid Best, Running Back, California

Jahvid Best will still be available when this pick rolls around, that is unless he has a great combine.

Justin Forsett has shown signs of stardom this year, but even with him playing extremely well, Jim Mora Jr. said Julius Jones would start over him upon his return from injury.

27. Arizona Cardinals—Jermaine Gresham, Tight End, Oklahoma

Can you name the Arizona Cardinals starting tight end right now? I strongly doubt it. Anthony Becht and Ben Patrick have split time this year.

Jermaine Gresham is miles better than both of these. His stock has obviously dropped because he missed his entire senior season.

With that said, Grehsam will be another weapon for Kurt Warner to throw to, unless Warner retires.

28. Cincinnati Bengals—Ras-I Dowling, FS/CB, Virginia

Cincinnati doesn't have many needs, thus they will look for depth in one area that they could use it in.

Morgan Trent as the nickel corner isn't working out. In his rookie season, Ras-I Dowling will be able to play a lot of minutes in the nickel.

29. San Diego Chargers—Toby Gerhart, Running Back, Stanford

I will likely get ripped from limb by limb for having Toby Gerhart going in the first round of the draft.

The main reason that he's not a projected first-round pick is because he's a white running back. It's like seeing the New Jersey Nets win a basketball game: it rarely happens.

Toby Gerhart is a tough, physical, and smart runner. I see no reason why San Diego shouldn't draft him.

30. Minnesota Vikings—Travis Lewis, Outside Linebacker, Oklahoma

Haven't changed my mind in the slightest. If Travis Lewis is there, the Vikings can and will select him.

With E.J. Henderson out for the year, Minnesota's linebackers will have to step it up more than ever. If they had Lewis, they worries would be non-existent.

He's not a middle linebacker, but Ben Leber can be if Henderson ever got hurt again.

31. Indianapolis Colts—Joseph Barksdale, Offensive Tackle, LSU

Charlie Johnson will become a free-agent when this season comes to an end. Indy will need a replacement for him.

The Colts will actually have a few needs when this season is over, despite the fact they are perfect right now.

Joseph Barksdale isn't a household name, but you will hear about him more and more as the next few months come along.

32. New Orleans Saints—Sean Weatherspoon, Outside linebacker, Missouri

New Orleans has a few needs on defense, especially in the linebacking group.

Sean Weatherspoon is of good value with the last pick in the first round. New Orleans would be foolish to pass on this guy.

Round 2:

33. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Greg Hardy, Defensive End, Ole Miss


34. St. Louis Rams- Carlos Dunlap, Defensive End, Florida

35. Cleveland Browns- Jonathan Dwyer, Running Back, Georgia Tech

36. Detroit Lions- Trent Williams, Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma

37. Kansas City Chiefs- Allen Bailey, Defensive Lineman, Miami

38. Washington Redskins- Jason Fox, Offensive Tackle, Miami

39. Oakland Raiders- Everson Griffen, Defensive End, USC

40. Buffalo Bills- Vince Oghobaase, Defensive Tackle, Duke

41. Carolina Panthers- Tony Pike, Quarterback, Cincinnati

42. Seattle Seahawks- Colt McCoy, Quarterback, Texas

43. San Francisco 49ers- Jerry Hughes, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, TCU

44. Houston Texans- Arthur Jones, Defensive Lineman, Syracuse

45. New England Patriots from Tennessee- Golden Tate, Wide Receiver, Notre Dame

46. Tampa Bay Buccaneers from Chicago- Arrelious Benn, Wide Reciever, Illinois

47. New York Jets- Jared Odrick, Defensive lineman, Penn State

48. Kansas City Chiefs from Atlanta- Von Miller, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Texas A&M

49. Miami Dolphins- Nate Allen, Safety, South Florida

50. Baltimore Ravens- Kareem Jackson, Cornerback, Alabama

51. Pittsburgh Steelers- Mitch Petrus, Guard, Arkansas

52. New York Giants- Brandon Ghee, Defensive Back, Wake Forest

53. New England Patriots- Mike Neal, Defensive Lineman, Purue

54. New England Patriots from Jacksonville- Patrick Robinson, Cornerback, Florida State

55. Dallas Cowboys- Morgan Burnett, Safety, Georgia Tech

56. Green Bay Packers- Sergio Kindle, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Texas

57. Denver Broncos- Javier Arenas, Cornerback/Kick Returner, Alabama

58. Arizona Cardinals- Ricky Sapp, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Clemson

59. Philadelphia Eagles- Jeremy Beal, Defensive End, Oklahoma

60. Cincinnati Bengals- Marshawn Gilyard, Wide Reciever/Kick Returner, Cincinnati

61. San Diego Chargers- Marvin Austin, Defensive Tackle, North Carolina

62. Minnesota Vikings- Jevan Snead, Quarterback, Ole Miss

63. Indianapolis Colts- Daryl Washington, Inside Linebacker, TCU

64. New Orleans Saints- Brian Price, Defensive Tackle, UCLA

1. Saints (12-0)

I think we can all agree that their game against the Redskins was ridiculous. The same team that squashed the Patriots a week earlier needed a couple miracles and an overtime to beat the Redskins. Still easily the top team in the division. (Last Week: 1)

2. Vikings (10-2)

A loss to the Cardinals in Arizona is not that surprising. The fact that it was nearly a blowout is concerning. But the biggest loss here was the possibly career-threatening injury to MLB E.J. Henderson. The Vikings will still earn a first round bye, but the loss of Henderson is a huge blow to this defense. (2)

3. Cardinals (8-4)

The Cardinals now have their division all but locked up, and should be talked about in the same class as the Saints and Vikings. With a healthy Kurt Warner, this offense can be as good as any. Also, any defense that can shut down Adrian Peterson should not be taken lightly. (3)

4. Packers (8-4)

With the offensive line healthy, Aaron Rodgers can now devastate opposing defenses without having to worry about being on his back every play. For the record, I'm not any higher on the Packers than I am on the three NFC East contenders, but I would be the shocked if they did not make the playoffs. Games against the Bears and Seahawks should be gimmes. (5)

5. Eagles (8-4)

Their win against a wounded Falcons team is not as impressive as the score might indicate, but it's still a big win. The return of DeSean Jackson could be huge in their game versus the Giants. We'll see whether or not Michael Vick's involvement in the offense is just a one-week thing. (6)

6. Giants (7-5)

This week's game against the Eagles may be their biggest game since...last year's playoff game against the Eagles. The Giants have revenge on their mind, and they'll need to carry over their momentum from last Sunday if they want to take another step towards the playoffs. A win this week could put the Giants in a three-way tie for first place, and with the Redskins, Panthers and Vikings backups on the docket, the Giants could win out their schedule and earn a home playoff game in the final season of Giants Stadium. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. (8)

7. Cowboys (8-4)

With games against the Chargers, Saints, Redskins, and Eagles, would anyone be surprised if they finish 8-8 or 9-7? The December slump might seem like a media creation, but it's hard to deny. The team I saw play the Giants hardly looked like a playoff team. (6)

8. Falcons (6-6)

Without Matt Ryan and Michael Turner, this team is a pushover. Hard to blame them though, as most teams would be in trouble without their two best players. It's a disappointing turn of events for what looked like a playoff team earlier in the season. (7)

9. 49ers (5-7)

An inexcusable loss to the Seahawks puts an end to the 49ers' season. What a waste of pro-bowl seasons by Patrick Willis (123 tackles) and Vernon Davis (10 touchdowns). (9)

10. Seahakws (5-7)

The Seahawks have now won two in a row and could finish .500 with a couple of upset wins. (12)

11. Panthers (5-7)

The Panthers defense picked off a rookie QB five times. That's something, right? (10)

12. Redskins (3-9)

The Redskins have come as close to winning three games in a row, without actually winning any of them as humanly possible. The Redskins lost by one to the Cowboys, three to the Eagles, and three in overtime to the Saints. If I were in the playoff hunt, I would not want to play the Redskins right now. (13)

13. Bears (5-7)

I am not impressed by an eight point win over the Rams. Sorry, Bears. Even though you have two more wins than the Redskins, I don't think you would beat them head to head. (11)

14. Lions (2-10)

They hung with the Bengals, which is a moral victory. Calvin Johnson is still a freak. (14)

15. Buccaneers (1-11)

If a rookie QB throws five interceptions, and no one cares...I seem to have forgotten how this proverb ends. (15)

16. Rams (1-11)

If they win another game, I will fast for an entire week. Or until I get hungry. (16)

This will become a weekly tradition until the 2010 NFL draft actually occurs. I did this same thing last year before the draft.

It's always exciting to do individual teams mock drafts. It gives you more insight on the team and their specific needs.

As always, I will be doing a Minnesota Vikings mock draft.

Let's get it under way!

Minnesota is on the clock.

Minnesota's needs after this season (in order, considering Brett Favre plays another season): Nose Tackle, Offensive Guard, Quarterback, Running Back, Outside linebacker, Defensive End, Free Safety, Fullback, Cornerback, Blocking Tight End)

First round (30): Travis Lewis, Outside Linebacker, Oklahoma University

I'm in love with the idea of Minnesota drafting Travis Lewis, an outside linebacker from Oklahoma.

Why is Lewis such a good pick?

Travis Lewis is easily the best non—hybrid outside linebacker that will come out of this years draft. I say will because all signs point to him coming out. He could very well end up being a top 15 or 20 pick.

Minnesota's Ben Leber isn't playing at the level he was two years ago. The guy will be 31 years old soon.

The Vikings front seven would be even scarier with a great tackler like Lewis on the weakside.

*Projected trade: Minnesota trades second round pick to the Detroit Lions for their third and fourth round pick in 2011*

Third round (68): Morgan Burnett, Free Safety, Georgia Tech

It might seem a little bizarre for Burnett to fall this far, but it is very possible. According to several sources, Burnett has slipped slightly in the rankings.

If he is still available, Minnesota must select him, unless a better option at nose tackle is available.

Burnett, in his junior year, has wracked up 73 tackles and four interceptions.

He's a 6"1, 215 lb stud that could wind up replacing Madieu Williams if his game doesn't approve vastly.

Third round (94): Jay Ross, Nose Tackle, East Carolina

Jay Ross is one of the most underrated nose tackles in the draft.

Minnesota will be looking for a successor to Pat Williams when he soon retires. Can Jay Ross be the eventual replacement? Definitely.

At 6"3, 315 lbs, Ross is a beast at nose tackle. He's not the best player at his position, but with the proper work, he can be a beast on the Vikings already impressive defensive line.

Fourth round (129): Jonathan Crompton, Quarterback, Tennessee

Jonathan Crompton, ever heard of him? Honestly, I did not know much about the guy before I read up on him a little bit.

Crompton, a senior out of Tennessee, has had his fair share of troubles on the football field. As of late, he looks like he's finally putting the pieces to the puzzle together, so to speak.

Brett Favre is 40, and will likely not play after the the 2010-2011 season comes to an end. Crompton would be a solid fit to replace the future hall—of—famer.

He's a great physical specimen at 6"4, 230 lbs.

Fifth round (166): John Jerry, Offensive Guard, Ole Miss

John Jerry would be a great pick for the Minnesota Vikings. Anthony Herrera isn't exactly a spring chicken.

John Jerry was named SEC lineman of the week back in early October.

He would likely fit in with a team that likes very large offensive lineman. How wouldn't the Vikings be a great fit for that?

They have two offensive tackles that are 6'8, 340 lbs. John Jerry would fit right in at 6'5, 350 lbs!

Fifth round (Compensatory selection for Matt Birk): Brandon Sharpe, Defensive End, Texas Tech

I don't care what anybody says, to be honest. Brandon Sharpe would be one of the steals of the whole entire draft.

He had a tremendous year with Texas Tech as a senior. He totaled 15 sacks, 32 tackles, and 2 forced fumbles.

If Ray Edwards becomes a free—agent, a solid left end will be a position of need, undoubtedly.

Brandon Sharpe is like a Ray Edwards 2.0, but just a little better.

Sixth round (204): Ben Tate, Running Back, Auburn

Chester Taylor and Ben Tate are very similar in stature. They are both 5'11, and weight around 215 lbs.

Chester is set to hit the free—agency market when this season comes to an end. It's being speculated that he will likely sign with another team to take a bigger role.

Taylor, a starter in 2006, has been one of the most important members on the Minnesota Vikings offense.

His contributions have been key to the Vikings success over the last two years.

As for Ben Tate, he is a great running back. In his senior year, Tate ran for 1,254 yards and 8 touchdowns.

Sixth round (Compensatory selection for Darren Sharper): Brandon Brinkley, Cornerback, Houston

Brandon Brinkley is a red—shirt senior from Houston with loads of talent.

On the season, Brinkley had 69 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 4 interceptions, and an interception for a return.

At 6'0, 180 lbs, Brinkley would be a solid nickel if Asher Allen doesn't pan out. Karl Paymah has been an epic failure, to say the least.

Seventh round (240): Caz Piurowski, Tight End, Florida State

Caz Piurowski (wow, that's a difficult last name to pronounce) is arguably the best blocking tight end in the entire 2010 draft.

Jim Kleinsasser, a solid blocker at tight end, is almost 33 years old, and is quickly losing a step in his game.

Perhaps not the biggest need in the world, but heck, it's the seventh round. You go for depth in the last round of the entire draft.

With the Vikings two wins away, or one win and one Packer loss away from clinching the NFC north, what can you say about Brett Favre now?

He's a traitor? Okay, maybe he is.

He's selfish? Yeah, but what player isn't selfish in someway?

They all want the same thing: to win. Most of them would sell their soul to the devil to win.

If he's selfish because he wants to win, I'll take selfish all day.

He's indecisive? As far as I see it, he's been very decisive the 24 times this season he has thrown TD passes.

Say what you will, but bottom line is that he is, at worst, an indecisive, selfish traitor whose team is 10-1 and has all but wrapped up the NFC north.

As I've said before, what he has done in the off-season does not matter. The 2,874 yards, 24 TDs, only three INTs, 69.2 passing percentage, a league leading 112.12 QB Rating, and the 10-1 record is all that matters.

I think if he hasn't earned the respect he deserves yet, then he never will. He is doing what most 40 year-olds can only dream of, ex-NFL players included. Not only is he the starting QB of the second-best team in the NFC at 40 years of age, he's doing it very successfully.

The man has obviously earned his stripes back.

I know, I know. He's a jerk, a traitor, and selfish, but lets be real: Wouldn't you rather be a selfish, traitorous jerk at the helm of a 10-1 team having one of the best, if not the best, seasons of your career instead of being the overlooked hero/fan favorite sitting on the bench for a team fighting for its playoff hopes; or sitting at home knowing you still have "it"?

Call me crazy, but if it were me I'd say paint me purple and call me a Viking.

The NFL Draft is in exactly five months from today (11/28/09). I haven't done a full Minnesota Vikings mock draft in almost eight months now.

This is one of my favorite articles to post out to the world of Bleacher Report.

Typically, I get a good response from my mock drafts because of how accurate and realistic they are.

Enough of my boasting.

Now it's time for the picks!

First round (30): Travis Lewis, Outside Linebacker, Oklahoma

Ben Leber, the Vikings current weakside linebacker has obviously lost a step in his game. Lewis would be the perfect candidate to take over for him in either 2010 or 2011. He has great size at 6'2" and 230 lbs. Lewis is a great tackler and an all around dominant linebacker. He will be able to step in right away to make an impact for an already impressive Minnesota Vikings defense.

Second round (62): Nate Allen, Free Safety, South Florida

For some reason I just can't seem to think that Madieu Williams is a great start at free safety. The reason is simple: It's because he's not. Allen is a great prospect, and would be an excellent pick late in the second round. Will he start in 2010? Doubtful. But he would definitely start if Williams is gone when the 2011 season comes rolling around.

Third round (94): Jay Ross, Nose Tackle, East Carolina

Ever heard of Jay Ross before? I bet only a select few of you have heard of this massive nose tackle. After doing some studying on Ross, I am starting to fall in love with this guy. Pat Williams will likely hang up the cleats within the next one to two years. What will that leave Minnesota with at nose tackle? Nothing. At 6'3" and 320 pounds, Ross is a phenom who recently returned a fumble for a touchdown on national television.

Fourth round (125): Joe McKnight, Running Back, USC

Despite only being a junior, I believe that Joe McKnight will declare for the 2010 draft. He will get way less carries when Stafon Johnson likely gets a medical redshirt for this season and comes back next year. When Chester Taylor becomes a free agent, Minnesota will need a running back that can both run the ball and catch it out of the backfield. Joe McKnight is the perfect fit for those two needs.

Fifth round (157): Brandon Sharpe, Defensive End, Texas Tech

Brandon Sharpe is one of the more underrated defensive ends in the entire draft. Many see him as going in the fifth or sixth round. I think that the fifth round is an appropriate spot for him. In eight games, Sharper has 11.5 sacks. He could end up being the eventual starting left end for the Vikings if Ray Edwards decides not to re-sign after year's end.

Sixth round (189): Dan LeFevour, Quarterback, Central Michigan

Dan LeFevour has had a good year at Central Michigan, but he's not going to be a very high pick. Some have him going as high as the fourth round. I have him going in the sixth due to the fact that he's played some very weak opposition this season. If Favre retires, quarterback depth will be desperately needed.

Seventh round (221): Nate Byham, Tight End, Pittsburgh

Not a huge position of need, but something that Minnesota could use depth in. Nate Byham is primarily a blocking tight end. Jimmy Kleinsasser is aging, and has clearly lost a step in his game. Byham will be good for depth. He should play a solid part in the 2011 or 2012 Minnesota Vikings squad.

As the Green Bay Packers knocked the stuffing out of the turkeys known as the Detroit Lions, Packer fans everywhere were surely in a thankful mood.

After watching the game, here are five things this Packer fan and writer is thankful for. Feel free to add your own in the comments section:

Thank you for the 2009 NFL Draft

Clay Matthews, BJ Raji, TJ Lang, Brad Jones, Quinn Johnson, Brandon Underwood. Six Packer draft picks have made significant contributions in just their first year in the NFL.

Clay Matthews has shown he can be a star in this league. Watching him beat two players easily in a three-man rush and then chase down a scrambling Stafford for a sack showed me the kind of will he has to be successful. I have no doubts that he will.

BJ Raji has been coming on strong and making an impact, as his ankle injury has healed and his play count has increased. Today, he crushed a Lion running back in the backfield, knocked down a pass, and was a force in the short yardage defense.

TJ Lang once again stepped in at left tackle today when Chad Clifton pulled a hamstring. The line did not miss a beat and Mike McCarthy called Lang's play "impressive." Lang, Jones and Johnson are all potential starters next season.

Thank you for making it through a game with Jarret Bush as the nickelback

I've never seen a defensive back look more confused in coverage than Jarret Bush. Now, this is his fourth season with the Packers, shouldn't he know who to cover by now?

On the Tramon Williams interception, he first ran at the receiver Williams was covering, turned and ran at another receiver, turned again and realized he was covering nobody.

Fortunately, Williams stuck with his man and Stafford made a poor decision to throw it to the wrong receiver. Had he looked down-field, he would have seen the receiver Bush should have been covering wide open.

Did I forget to mention that a punt hit Bush in the back?

Thank you for Jermichael Finley still having a head

Finley took a vicious hit after an incomplete pass, as Lions rookie Louis Delmas took a run at him in what was very nearly a direct helmet-to-helmet hit. Only a slight turn of the head at the last minute prevented what could have been a serious injury.

Finley did stay on the ground for a while holding his head, causing me to fear a possible concussion, but luckily, he just had the wind knocked out of him. Regardless, it was a scary hit that is sure to draw Delmas a fine from the league office.

Thank you for Donald Driver

Like Old Man River, Donald Driver just keeps rolling along. Driver caught seven passes today for 142 yards and a touchdown.

For the season, that gives him 53 catches for 845 yards and five touchdowns. With five games to play, Driver is sure to reach the 1,000 yard mark for the sixth straight season.

Driver is on a mission to disprove the perception that he is getting old. After the game, as he was awarded the "Golden Gobbler" as player of the game from Fox, Driver commented, "I may be old in age, but I still play young." Yes, you do Donald, and thank you for that.

Thank you for Charles Woodson

A multi-dimensional player like Woodson, who can do so many things, and all in an outstanding manner, is a rarity.

It was just another day at the office for Woodson, with 7 tackles, 1 sack, 2 interceptions, 1 touchdown, 1 forced fumble and fumble recovery, 4 passes defended and he also returned a kickoff.

Even more significantly, it was announced before the game that Woodson has donated $2 million to a new children's hospital at his Alma mater, the University of Michigan. Clearly, Charles Woodson doesn't do anything in a half-hearted manner.

Hopefully, other multi-millionaire players will be inspired to follow his example. After all, how many millions does one need to be able to live a good life?

So those are the five things from the Packers Thanksgiving Day victory that this writer is thankful for. I'd like to hear yours...

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You can find more of Jersey Al Bracco’s articles on several sports web sites: Jersey Al’s Blog , Packer Chatters , Packers Lounge , NFL Touchdown , and, of course, Bleacher Report . Jersey Al is the Green Bay Packers Draft Correspondent for Drafttek.com

You can also follow Jersey Al on facebook and twitter .

Like most seasons, the NFC tends to provide for some questionable playoff teams from the regular seasons and some unlikely playoff runs.

This year is shaping up to be much of the same.

The two bulls in the Conference are the Saints and Vikings, and nobody comes close. The Vikings for one are 9-1 and that one loss could well be argued as a stolen victory. They have in essence been flawless while the Saints have countered some scares.

The Cardinals seem locked to win another division title while the NFC East, is the NFC East.

The Falcons at 5-5 are far from out of the race while the Packers despite their offensive line and a QB that perhaps holds on to the ball a little too much, are trucking along.

And do not count out the 49ers just yet, with a relatively light remaining schedule with a game against the 6-4 Eagles.

Here is my prediction of the seedings and possible outcomes.

No. 1. Saints

The Final Record- With the Monday Night matchup of the season, the Saints could drop to 10-1, or continue their quest for perfection. It probably is the nostalgia in me hungry for an undefeated team, but I do pick the Saints to finish 16-0, there are other factors involved in this, a big one being the 9-1 Vikings. Minnesota may well finish 15-1 and so the Saints may just have to keep on winning out of necessity.

The Playoff Run- The ultimate hope of every NFL fan should be to see an 18-0 vs. 18-0 matchup in the Super Bowl, if of course your team is out of the Super Bowl picture already. That I do not see happening, I expect a Vikings vs. Saints NFC Championship game and I expect Favre to make good.

No. 2. Vikings

The Final Record- Favre's late season statistical collapses precede him and while I don't expect what happened last year to repeat, I do not see the Vikings finishing 15-1, I see a 14-2 final record good enough for 2nd in the Conference.

The Playoff Run- I may have ruined my prediction with the statement about the Saints, but such is life, I do pick the Vikings to get to the Super Bowl, but beyond that I save for another time.

No. 3. Cardinals

The Final Record- No, the Cowboys won't implode, but they won't get the third overall seed, the Cardinals should finish no worse than 11-5.

The Playoff Run- It's hard to see Warner pull another long run this year's playoffs, but it's far from impossible. Their poor record at home however makes me lean towards a Wild Card loss.

No. 4. Eagles

The Final record- Yes, I'm picking the Eagles to take the NFC East, and I foresee a 10-6 final record.

The Playoff Run- They will win at home and get to at least the Divisional round, I just don't see Super Bowl for McNabb, sadly yet again. There is big reason to pick McNabb to win at least one playoff game given he's never gone one and done.

No. 5. Cowboys

The Final Record- They'll get into the playoffs but I think they go on a 2-4 record their last six. Oh Romo, you're not a good closer.

The Playoff Run- Their won't be any, Romo will go 0-3, but hey, cheer up, Peyton Manning lost his first four playoff games.

No. 6. Falcons

The Final Record- Don't hate me Packer fans, I just think Atlanta has four games in the win column, not a given but I just see them finishing 9-7, perhaps beating out the Packers in a tiebreak.

The Playoff Run- Remember what I said about the Cardinals losing in the Wild Card round? Watch Matt Ryan get revenge and win his first playoff game, beyond that, I don't see good things.

The Implosion

I'm picking the Giants to lose to Denver, well somebody has to. Then consequent losses to the COWBOYS and Eagles will put the Giants in jeopardy at 6-7. Wins against the Skins and Panthers should happen but ultimately, the Vikings will make a blowout big enough in the first half to win the game with backups.

The Heartbreak

As I said, I pick the Packers to just lose out on a playoff spot. I think a three-game losing streak starting with the Ravens in Week 13 and continuing with the Bears and Steelers will be the monster that sets the team back.