Because of this defensive creativity, every solid Madden player
develops schemes on offense to relieve pressure and get the ball
out quickly to their playmakers. This has brought back the TE to
offenses as their quick releasing routes often hit areas that have
been vacated by blitzing defenders.

It is tough to get a good jam on them, unless you take control of
your defender and manually jam using the RB or R1 button. This
works, but if you need to be controlling another player to get your
nano to work, then you are out of luck here.

Players will pop the TE on curls and seam routes while you are
trying to get to their QB. Kobra has been working hard in the lab and
has come up with a way that you can put the jam on the TE, and
control another player at the same time.

We’ve put together a 5 minute video breakdown from our Video
Defensive Playbook that details how to do this step-by-step. You
can check out the full video by going to:

http://www.maddenvideoplaybook.com/LB-Bump.html

Enjoy!

The initial release had over 50 plays (several hours of video), and
we promised that we would continue to add to this all the way
through March. Kobra has been busy over the weekend and has already
loaded up new content including:

Reading Coverages Before The Snap Part 1
Buccaneers Gun Doubles On Scheme
Gun Snugs Flip WR Corner
Gun Snugs Flip Spot
Gun Snugs Flip Run Plays
Gun Snugs Flip Horizontal Stretch
Gun Snugs Bench Swap
Gun Snugs Flip Formation Breakdown

He also will be adding passing concepts from the Eagles Gun Split
later today. When it is all said and done, this guide will be the
most comprehensive Shotgun play guide in the history of Madden

To find out how you can get your hands on the From the Gun Video
Playbook, go to http://www.maddenvideoplaybook.com/gun09.html

He has a great sample video there for you to check out that
features a nice Streak/Fade concept you can use just about anywhere.

Transactions

DE Ervin Baldwin - Signs with Bears

WR Brandon Rideau - Signs with Bears

G Evan Mathis - Signs with Bengals

DE Josh Mallard - Signs with Bengals

T Kirk Barton - Signs with Bengals

FB Andrew Pinnock - Signs with Broncos

S Josh Barrett - Signs with Broncos

QB Bruce Gradkowski - Signs with Browns

CB Michael Adams - Signs with Cardinals

P Dirk Johnson - Released by Cardinals

P Ben Graham - Signs with Cardinals

LB Curtis Gatewood - Signs with Chiefs

LB Carlos Polk - Added to Cowboys

G/C Al Johnson - Signs with Dolphins

G Milford Brown - Released by Jaguars

DT Jimmy Kennedy - Released by Jaguars

DE Jeremy Mincey - Added to Jaguars

CB Omare Lowe - Released by Jaguars

P Steve Weatherford - Signs with Jaguars

TE George Wrighster - Added to Jaguars

WR Keary Colbert - Signs with Lions

DT Alfred Malone - Signs with Packers

LB Vince Redd - Added to Free Agents

LB Rosevelt Colvin - Signs with Patriots

G Junius Coston - Released by Raiders

G Dylan Gandy - Signs with Raiders

FB Dan Kreider - Released by Rams

FB/TE Daniel Fells - Signs with Rams

C Cory Withrow - Signs with Rams

HB Shaun Alexander - Released by Redskins

DT Ryan Boschetti - Signs with Redskins

CB Leigh Torrence - Signs with Saints

DE Josh Savage - Signs with Saints

DT Scott Paxson - Signs with Steelers

CB Fernando Bryant - Signs with Steelers

P Mitch Berger - Signs with Steelers

P Paul Ernster - Released by Steelers

Ratings Up*

CB Corey Graham - Bears - 76 to 77 - Will step into the starting lineup with the season ending injury to Vasher.

HB Matt Forte - Bears - 84 to 85 - Is up there with Chris Johnson and Slaton as top rookie back.

CB Brandon McDonald - Browns - 78 to 80 - Took his one week benching in stride making some big plays in solid coverage vs. Reggie Wayne.

DT Shaun Rogers - Browns - 96 to 97 - Should line up next to Albert Haynesworth in the starting lineup for the AFC Pro Bowl. One move that worked for Cleveland acquiring Rogers for Leigh Bodden.

DE Kevin Carter - Bucs - 82 to 85 - The Bucs brought him back and he has rewarded them with very good play against the run and getting to the passer.

DE Jimmy Wilkerson - Bucs - 77 to 80 - Has been thriving and playing very well as a defensive sub for Tampa.

LB Derrick Brooks - Bucs - 93 to 94 - Whispers that he was fading were exaggerated, looks very good in pass coverage.

LT Donald Penn - Bucs - 84 to 88 - A dominant pass blocker at LT who should be considered for the Pro Bowl.

CB Ronde Barber - Bucs - 91 to 92 - Has been making plays in weeks past after looking washed up earlier in the season.

WR Antonio Bryant - Bucs - 81 to 86 - Looks very big and strong as the #1 in Tampa. Very fluid running his routes and looks good after the catch.

DE Dwight Freeney - Colts - 95 to 96 - Gave Joe Thomas a beating in last week’s game. His bull rush is as good as ever and put Thomas on his back.

DE Robert Mathis - Colts - 95 to 96 - Worked with Freeney to win won in Cleveland when the offense had nothing.

WR Davone Bess - Dolphins - 74 to 76 - Looks he will pick up the slack with the season ending injury to Greg Camarillo. He has some experience catching tons of passes from Colt Brennan at Hawaii.

DE Justin Tuck - Giants - 94 to 95 - Last year’s most underrated Madden player has played above expectations.

WR Domenik Hixon - Giants - 76 to 79 - Showed he is ready to take the next step by showing ability to separate from Carlos Rogers. Will be looked upon more with the loss of Burress.

CB Al Harris - Packers - 92 to 94 - With the uncertainty that has been looming with the Green Bay secondary, Al Harris has been superb since his return from injury.

CB Chris Gamble - Panthers - 90 to 92 - Just was rewarded with a contract extension for his solid play this season, never had been consistent before but is so this season.

S Charles Godfrey - Panthers - 77 to 79 - After playing CB in college has transitioned nicely to the FS position.

HB DeAngelo Williams - Panthers - 85 to 86 - Blew up for 4 TD’s and has played better since the emergence of Jonathan Stewart.

G Travelle Wharton - Panthers - 88 to 89 - Has been Carolina’s most consistent lineman.

DE Charles Johnson - Panthers - 77 to 78 - Was getting a monster push in last week’s game vs. Green Bay.

CB Randall Gay - Saints - 82 to 84 - Has been solid this season. The best player in the Saints secondary.

HB Pierre Thomas - Saints - 78 to 83 - Looks to have his role expanded even more with Deuce being suspended.

LB James Harrison - Steelers - 96 to 97 - Is defensive MVP through 13 weeks.

HB Steve Slaton - Texans - 83 to 84 - Looked very fast in his big day on Monday night. He looks great in the Texans zone blocking scheme.

G Mike Brisiel - Texans - 78 to 83 - Has done a nice job in his first full year as a starting lineman. 

C Chris Myers - Texans - 80 to 82 - Worked well with the right side to open up huge holes for Slaton to fly through. 

WR Andre Johnson - Texans - 96 to 97 - Has taken the next step as a dominate WR. Looks like a big created player out there.

DE Jared Allen - Vikings - 97 to 98 - One of the most disruptive forces in football. Bucs LT Penn held him in check, besides that he has been dominating opposing tackles.

*Many more ratings changes

Ratings Down *

WR Chad Johnson - Bengals - 97 to 96 - Has displayed unsteady hands and has not been on his game this season.

WR Donte Stallworth - Browns - 85 to 81 - Has underachieved on every team unless the QB is Tom Brady. A free agent bomb along with the acquisition of Corey Williams.

TE Kellen Winslow - Browns - 97 to 95 - Will never be 100% again. Is still a top TE but he won’t be able to be durable again.

S Clinton Hart - Chargers - 85 to 82 - Has been abused by TE’s all year in pass coverage.

TE Antonio Gates - Chargers - 97 to 96 - Is unable to move and separate anymore. Does not appear to be near 100%.

CB Patrick Surtain - Chiefs - 87 to 84 - The Chiefs have moved on and will officially do so after the season.

S Bob Sanders - Colts - 98 to 97 - Has been plagued by injuries again this season. Troy P and Ed Reed should be the top 2 safeties.

WR Marvin Harrison - Colts - 94 to 92 - His inability to separate now must be alarming to the Colts. 

LB Vernon Gholston - Jets - 79 to 74 - Had chances in last week’s game to make plays and didn’t. Is only rated a 74 based on pure potential at picking up OLB because now he looks slow.

*Many more ratings changes

Injuries

CB Nathan Vasher - Bears - IR

DT Dusty Dvoracek - Bears - IR

G Andrew Whitworth - Bengals - IR

S Marvin White - Bengals - IR

DE Robert Geathers - Bengals - IR

DT John McCargo - Bills - IR

QB Brady Quinn - Browns - IR

QB Derek Anderson - Browns - IR

G Ryan Lilja - Colts - IR

G Kyle Kosier - Cowboys - IR

WR Greg Camarillo - Dolphins - IR

G Justin Smiley - Dolphins - IR

S Sammy Knight - Giants - (Off depth chart)

WR Javon Walker - Raiders - IR

Contracts

DT Jonathan Babineaux - Falcons - 6 years total

WR Michael Jenkins - Falcons - 5 years total

CB Chris Gamble - Panthers - 7 years total

CB Simeon Castille - Signs with Bengals

LB Marcus Buggs - Released to FA IR

TE Nate Jackson - Released to FA IR

S Josh Barrett - Added to FA

S Roderick Rogers - Signs with Broncos

TE Chad Mustard - Signs with Broncos

HB Noah Herron - Added to FA

LB Curtis Gatewood - Added to FA

LB Rob Ninkovich - Released by Dolphins

LB Erik Walden - Signs with Dolphins

WR Eric Weems - Added to FA

S Stuart Schweigert - Signs with Lions

TE Tyson DeVree - Added to FA

T Chad Slaughter - Added to FA

DE Brandon Miller - Signs with Seahawks

DE Jesse Nading - Signs with Texans

LB Kevis Coley - Signs with Texans

CB Eric King - Released to FA IR

CB Reynaldo Hill - Released to FA IR

CB Tyrone Poole - Signs with Titans

CB Tuff Harris - Signs with Titans

DE Earl Cochran - Released to FA IR

S C.C. Brown - Released to FA IR

Ratings Up

QB Tyler Thigpen - Chiefs - 75 to 78 - Has displayed good arm strength in the Kansas City spread offense.  The top fantasy QB over the last month heading into week 12.

HB Michael Turner - Falcons - 89 to 90 - Topped the 1,000 yard mark in a monster 4 TD game vs. the Panthers in a big division win.

CB Corey Webster - Giants - 87 to 88 - While Ross was committing penalties and struggling Webster was playing solid man coverage. Webster is playing at a very high level this season.

DT Kris Jenkins - Jets - 94 to 95 - Has made the biggest difference of any free agent acquisition on the defensive end. The Jets rank #3 against the run and Jenkins has thrived as the nose in the Jets 3-4.

CB Chris Johnson - Raiders - 70 to 74 - Was picked on starting opposite Asomugha and played well vs. Denver. The Raiders pass defense is shaping into the strength of the team.

LB James Farrior - Steelers - 92 to 94 - Has not slipped a bit in his 12th season. The Steeler D is as good as ever and Farrior is having one of his best seasons.

Ratings Down

DE Elvis Dumervil - Broncos - 89 to 87 - Has 3 sacks this season when Denver needs a pass rush. No sacks in the last 4 games.

QB Donovan McNabb - Eagles - 93 to 91 - The uncertainty at the WR position sure hasn’t helped but his completion percentage is under 60% and he has been tailing off in prior weeks. Is still by far the best option they have and is still a top QB.

HB Fred Taylor - Jaguars - 94 to 93 - Disappointing season but the skills are still there. Big losses on the offensive line have hurt Taylor’s ability to run. His 3.6 YPC and no rushing TD’s are way down this year.

QB David Garrard - Jaguars - 92 to 91 - The Jags didn’t have 9 TD’s/8 INT’s and a 4-7 record when they signed Garrard to an extension. To his defense the Jags have underperformed at about every position. 

Injuries

CB Johnathan Joseph - Bengals - IR

WR Buster Davis - Chargers - IR

HB Felix Jones - Cowboys - IR

 
Contracts

WR Greg Camarillo - Dolphins - 4 years total

At the beginning of the game, the play calls were built to help Cassel establish a rhythm, get confidence, and creating good timing with his receivers.

In addition, Belichick moved personnel in and out to get the coverage profiles that he would be able to exploit.  The Pats had established that they could control the short area of the field with slants, curls, crosses & bubble screens.

This forced the defense to have to dip down with the coverage to take away these routes. When that happened, Moss began to go to work on the deep routes.

I was in the midst of editing Big B’s Guide to the Green Bay Playbook while tuning into this game, and I was struck by the similar philosophy that Big B uses when creating his schemes.

The Green Bay Playbook scheme has a steady diet of curls, slants, crosses & flat routes to force the defense to move its coverage in close.

Then Big B lights them up with posts, corners & fade routes.  He audibles up and down to different formations to get his playmakers in areas where they have the advantage. 

For example, a big TE running a curl against a smaller DB. The TE turns, shields off the DB and makes the catch. He works his formations so that a Slot WR is coming out of the backfield on a variety of routes against a LB. Anything to force the defense to play a base set that he can pick apart.

You get the point.  The game of Madden can be played like its real life NFL Counterpart.

Here’s the good news for you today. As part of our Black Friday weekend, the Green Bay Playbook as well as all of our other guides are available for deep discount at:

http://www.maddentips.com/blackfriday

FB Jeremi Johnson – Released to Free Agents IR
S Chris Crocker – Signs with Bengals
S John Busing – Added to Bengals
DT Orien Harris – Added to Bengals
CB Geoff Pope – Released by Bengals
DE Eric Henderson – Added to Bengals
QB Jordan Palmer – Added to Bengals
S Dexter Jackson – Released to Free Agents IR
CB Ashton Youboty – Released to Free Agents IR
LB Teddy Lehman – Signs with Bills
HB Ryan Torain – Released to Free Agents IR
HB P.J. Pope – Added to Broncos
HB Alex Haynes – Signs with Broncos
WR Glenn Martinez – Released by Broncos
HB Tatum Bell – Signs with Broncos
QB Darrell Hackney – Added to Broncos
CB Josh Bell – Added to Broncos
HB Michael Bennett – Released by Bucs
WR Maurice Stovall – Released to Free Agents IR
HB Clifton Smith – Added to Bucs
S Donte Nicholson – Added to Bucs
QB Damon Huard – Released to Free Agents IR
S Oliver Celestin – Signs with Chiefs
CB Dimitri Patterson – Released by Chiefs
CB Ricardo Colclough – Signs with Chiefs
DE Jason Babin – Signs with Chiefs
DE Brian Johnston – Released to Free Agents IR
DT T.J. Jackson – Released by Chiefs
DE Wallace Gilberry – Added to Chiefs
HB Clifton Dawson – Released to Free Agents IR
S Jamie Silva – Added to Colts
G Evan Mathis – Released by Dolphins
G/T Brandon Frye – Signs with Dolphins
S Courtney Bryan – Signs with Dolphins
S Brannon Condren – Released by Dolphins
WR Adam Jennings – Released by Falcons
T Kirk Barton – Released by 49ers
WR Dominique Zeigler – Signs with 49ers
CB Justin Miller – Released by Jets
HB Marcus Mason – Added to Jets
CB Ty Law – Signs with Jets
WR Brandon Middleton – Released by Lions
HB Aveion Cason – Signs with Lions
FB Darian Barnes – Released by Lions
FB Moran Norris – Added to Lions
HB Marcus Thomas – Released by Lions
S LaMarcus Hicks – Signs with Lions
LB Shawn Crable – Released to Free Agents IR
S Tyvon Branch – Released to Free Agents IR
DT William Joseph – Signs with Raiders
DT/G Fred Wakefield – Released by Raiders/Removed
DE Greyson Gunheim – Signs with Raiders
CB Leigh Torrence – Released by Redskins
CB DeAngelo Hall – Signs with Redskins
DT Hollis Thomas – Signs with Saints
DT Remi Ayodele – Released by Saints
WR Keary Colbert – Released by Seahawks
P Mitch Berger – Released by Steelers
P Paul Ernster – Signs with Steelers
HB Najeh Davenport – Released by Steelers
HB Darius Walker – Released by Texans/Removed
HB Ryan Moats – Added to Texans
CB Charles Gordon – Released to Free Agents IR

Ratings up

CB Charles Tillman – Bears – 91 to 92 – Has picked off a couple passes with 12 passes defended.
CB Corey Graham – Bears – 75 to 76 – Almost 50 tackles for the second year corner.
HB Cedric Benson – Bengals – 78 to 79 – Has taken the starting running back job for the Bengals.
DT Shaun Rogers – Browns – 95 to 96 – Traded in the offseason for Leigh Bodden. Back to being the monster he was.
LB D’Qwell Jackson – Browns – 86 to 87 – Racking up a ton of tackles in the middle for the Browns.
QB Kurt Warner – Cardinals – 88 to 91 – In the conversation for MVP as many times as the Cardinals throw. 
LT Mike Gandy – Cardinals – 92 to 93 – Not thought of as an elite pass blocker but is.
WR Jerheme Urban – Cardinals – 72 to 74 – Starting to get looks in the 4 WR package.
QB Tyler Thigpen – Chiefs – 73 to 75 – Got a boost in throw power as he showed he has an NFL arm.
WR Mark Bradley – Chiefs – 73 to 77 – Has risen up the KC depth chart in no time.
CB Andre Goodman – Dolphins – 74 to 76 – Detroit fans might scoff but has played well in Miami the past couple weeks.
QB Matt Ryan – Falcons – 84 to 86 – Is the real deal.
DE John Abraham – Falcons – 94 to 96 – Continuing to be a pass rushing monster under Mike Smith.
CB Darrelle Revis – Jets – 91 to 92 – The new budding star for “shutdown” talk. 
CB Charles Woodson – Packers – 93 to 94 – Had some missteps with Bobby Wade but showed his incredible smarts picking off a pass in the slot.
S Nick Collins – Packers – 88 to 89 – Took his 3rd TD back to the house. A play he wouldn’t have made earlier in his career.
DE Julius Peppers – Panthers – 96 to 97 – Continued to dominate as he rolled through Oakland.
QB Matt Cassell – Patriots – 77 to 78 – Continues to move the ball less than 10 yards at a time.
DE Aaron Smith – Steelers – 95 to 96 – Dominate at end for the Steelers.
LB James Harrison – Steelers – 94 to 95 – Showing his versatility by being in coverage more against Indy. A pass rushing monster.
LB LaMarr Woodley – Steelers – 86 to 87 – High up the sack leaders list in his second season.
DT Tony Brown – Titans – 86 to 88 – Racked up 30 tackles and 3.5 sacks with an impressive 7 tackles for loss.
QB Kerry Collins – Titans – 79 to 81 – Had to win last week with his arm as the running game didn’t dominate for the first time.

Ratings Down

C Melvin Fowler – Bills – 83 to 81 – Another in a long line of guys to get hurt for a couple weeks and find their spots taken when they get back.
DE John Engleberger – Broncos – 81 to 77 – End who can’t stop the run and doesn’t get to the QB.
DE Tim Crowder – Broncos – 76 to 72 – Game day inactive most weeks.
CB Brandon McDonald – Browns – 83 to 82 – Good short area CB who is getting beat deep too often.
HB Edgerrin James – Cardinals – 89 to 86 – This year’s Shaun Alexander.
LB Clark Haggans – Cardinals – 85 to 82 – Backup pass rusher in Arizona who had a good run in Pittsburgh.
CB Quentin Jammer – Chargers – 93 to 92 – Has been beaten too often this season.
CB Antonio Cromartie – Chargers – 91 to 90 – Still a work in progress in man coverage.
LB Shaun Phillips – Chargers – 92 to 91 – Finding it’s not as easy being the guy offenses prepare for.
S Jarrad Page – Chiefs – 81 to 77 – Looks to be on the bench after Jon McGraw played well against San Diego.
WR Marvin Harrison – Colts – 95 to 94 – Continues to be a non-factor. This time because he can’t hold on the ball. 
LB Greg Ellis – Cowboys – 89 to 87 – Seems to be giving way to Anthony Spencer. Production is way down.
CB Lito Sheppard – Eagles – 93 to 92 – Not playing well in nickel packages.
WR Reggie Williams – Jaguars – 82 to 80 – Isn’t going to win many foot races.
CB Leigh Bodden – Lions – 89 to 87 – Had another time last week, this time with Jags receivers.
LT Chad Clifton – Packers – 93 to 92 – Didn’t stand a chance against a banged up Jared Allen.
WR James Jones – Packers – 84 to 83 – Has lost his slot receiver job to Jordy Nelson.
HB Darren McFadden – Raiders – 85 to 84 – His speed hasn’t translated to the NFL. Now is banged up with turf toe.
LB Will Witherspoon – Rams – 91 to 90 – Looked seriously hampered by an injury against the Jets, not moving well.
QB Marc Bulger – Rams – 88 to 87 – Looked pathetic vs. the Jets.
CB Marcus Trufant – Seahawks – 94 to 93 – Was beaten deep by Ginn. Has not played as well in recent weeks.
CB Kelly Jennings – Seahawks – 86 to 84 – Had a bad game against Miami, has been relegated to nickel duty.
T Sean Locklear – Seahawks – 84 to 82 – Had problems with Matt Roth and Miami.
QB Big Ben – Steelers – 95 to 94 – Has played horrendous the past few weeks.
DT Amobi Okoye – Texans – 89 to 85 – Has continued to be a non-factor in his second season.

Injuries

QB Patrick Ramsey – Broncos IR
LB Nick Barnett – Packers IR
CB Chris McAlister – Ravens IR
S Dawan Landry – Ravens IR
CB Mike McKenzie – Saints IR

Ratings up

CB Corey Graham – Bears – 71 to 75 – Has climbed up the depth chart due to the banged up Chicago secondary. Bears sport a nice secondary once everyone is back.
QB Trent Edwards – Bills – 82 to 83 – Was impeccable vs. the Charger secondary in a win in week 7.
RT Langston Walker – Bills – 86 to 88 – Due to his solid blocking on the right side Edwards was untouched vs. San Diego.
TE Robert Royal – Bills – 81 to 83 – Check down option for Edwards. Tied for third on the team in receptions with 17.
CB Jabari Greer – Bills – 83 to 84 – Has been doing a fantastic job this season in coverage. His Madden rating has come a long way since beginning of last year.
LT Ryan Clady – Broncos – 82 to 84 – Extremely athletic left tackle for the Broncos. The sky is the limit for this guy.
CB Brandon McDonald – Browns – 82 to 83 – Has been doing a solid job in coverage considering the lack of pass rush in Cleveland. 
CB Aqib Talib – Bucs – 80 to 81 – Now has 3 INT’s in his rookie year out of Kansas. Ball hawk.
WR Antonio Bryant – Bucs – 79 to 81 – Might have taken a starting WR spot in Tampa with his play this season.
WR Malcolm Floyd – Chargers – 73 to 74 – With Chambers and Buster Davis out has stepped up the past two weeks and might have cemented a spot in the rotation.
QB Chad Pennington – Dolphins – 84 to 85 – Continues to make smart decisions even in a tough loss to the Ravens. Was pick sixed in on a nice play by Suggs.
LB Joey Porter – Dolphins – 89 to 90 – Continues to rack up sacks and QB pressures for the Dolphins.
S Yeremiah Bell – Dolphins – 84 to 86 – The best player in the Miami secondary. Had a crucial strip on McGahee that the Dolphins couldn’t cash in on.
LT Sam Baker – Falcons – 80 to 83 – Missed time with a concussion earlier in the season but when in the lineup has given up 1 sack.
WR Josh Morgan – 49ers – 73 to 75 – Besides inexplicably kicking the ball through the back of the endzone for a safety; has earned a starting job due to his playmaking ability.
CB Tramon Williams – Packers – 78 to 81 – Showed he is a legitimate corner in the league by doing an excellent job on whatever Colts receiver he was on in week 7, mostly Anthony Gonzalez.
CB Will Blackmon – Packers – 73 to 77 – Along with Williams stepped up in the secondary vs. the Colts. Basically an athlete coming out of college has developed into a nickel/dime corner.
CB Charles Woodson – Packers – 92 to 93 – With the exception of losing his footing too often, has maybe displayed better instincts than any corner on his INT’s. There won’t be a better free safety if he ever makes the transition.
FS Nick Collins – Packers – 87 to 88 – Returned a gift wrapped pick for another TD Sunday vs. the Colts. Is around the ball more which could not be said about him in previous years.
QB Jake Delhomme – Panthers – 86 to 87 – Continued his sharp passing with Steve Smith back in the lineup.
HB Sammy Morris – Patriots – 81 to 83 – Ran all over the Broncos in a sharp first half on Monday night. Looks to be the primary ball carrier with the injury to Maroney.
QB Matt Cassell – Patriots – 76 to 77 – Had a nice game vs. the Broncos secondary on Monday night. 
DE Trevor Scott – Raiders – 69 to 71 – Made a nice inside move vs. the Jets RT (Damien Woody) on one of his two sacks on the day.
LB Ricky Brown – Raiders – 75 to 77 – The other LB that starts for the Raiders. Had 8 tackles in week 7.
C Nick Leckey – Rams – 72 to 76 – Has started every game for the Rams this season taking over for former starter Brett Romberg.
WR Donnie Avery – Rams – 76 to 78 – Looked like a true deep ball threat vs. the Cowboys on Sunday including a near miss TD on a bomb from Bulger.
LB Ray Lewis – Ravens – 94 to 95 – Is playing arguably his best season. Looks better playing behind Justin Bannan at nose tackle.
CB Shawn Springs – Redskins – 88 to 90 – Is hurt now. Before he got hurt he was playing the teams #1 WR and playing tight coverage.
S Chris Horton – Redskins – 78 to 80 – His first game looked like a fluke when he had 2 INT’s handed to him, but he looks like a keeper due to his ability to be around the ball.
CB Carlos Rogers – Redskins – 90 to 91 – Looks all the way back from a season ending injury a year ago. He has been very sharp the past couple weeks in particular.
LB James Harrison – Steelers – 93 to 94 – Trails Ware by 0.5 sacks for the leader in sacks. A beast. Still needs to perform better against elite tackles.
LB LaMarr Woodley – Steelers – 84 to 86 – Has 7.5 sacks in his first season starting. Pairs with Harrison to form one of the top OLB combo’s.
HB Mewelde Moore – Steelers – 80 to 81 – Feasted on Cincy in the second half in a route. Has earned some carries whenever Parker comes back.
G Darnell Stapleton – Steelers – 72 to 76 – Inserted into the starting lineup after a season ending injury to the starter.
WR Santonio Holmes – Steelers – 86 to 87 – Blew past a what’s his name? on Cincy for his first TD on the season in week 7. 
HB Steve Slaton – Texans – 82 to 83 – Averaging close to 5.0 YPC with 4 TD’s and has 0 fumbles which was a problem in college and early in camp.
HB Chris Johnson – Titans – 83 to 85 – Averaging 5.3 YPC with 3 TD’s. Carved up KC for 168 yards in week 7.
LG Eugene Amano – Titans – 80 to 84 – First year as a starter lining up at LG for Tennessee.

Ratings Down

LT Levi Jones – Bengals – 87 to 85 – Got beat a couple more times for sacks in week 7.
DE Luis Castillo – Chargers – 93 to 91 – A lot of good things have been said about this guy. Not translating to the football field this season.
LT Flozell Adams – Cowboys – 94 to 93 – Has had a heck of a time with two past their prime pass rushers the past two weeks (Bertrand Berry and Leonard Little).
DT Glenn Dorsey – Chiefs – 84 to 80 – Has been invisible and the Chiefs have been getting killed on the ground, especially to the Titans in week 7.
QB J.T. O’Sullivan – 49ers – 79 to 78 – Everyone’s golden boy has 10 INT’s on the season and has fumbled 9 times. Blocking has been bad, but those numbers are not NFL caliber.
CB Aaron Ross – Giants – 87 to 86 – Has been having a tough time staying on his feet and not giving up touchdowns the past couple weeks.
CB Leigh Bodden – Lions – 90 to 89 – Took a beating vs. the Texans and Andre Johnson in man coverage on Sunday.
DT Chuck Darby – Lions – 83 to 81- Has 10 tackles on the season and appears to be getting phased out.
RT Gosder Cherilus – Lions – 77 to 75 – Detroit flip flops this 1st round pick with a punch line (George Foster) at RT. 
DE KGB – Packers – 85 to 83 – Continues to fail to impress. Now a bigger part of the rotation which will not help the Packers inability to stop the run.
CB Fred Bennett – Texans – 84 to 83 – Has slid down the depth chart after a nice rookie season. Had tight man coverage on a deep ball to Calvin Johnson though.
LT Bryant McKinnie – Vikings – 96 to 95 – Maybe still getting his feet under him after the suspension but is not looking good, and was whooped by Ogunleye in week 7.
S Darren Sharper – Vikings – 91 to 90 – Is not making plays anymore. Took the worst angle possible on Marty Bookers long TD reception in week 7.

Injuries

LB Keith Rivers – Bengals – IR
LB Boss Bailey – Broncos - IR
QB Brodie Croyle – Chiefs – IR
S Roy Williams – Cowboys - IR
HB Laurence Maroney – Patriots – IR
S Rodney Harrison – Patriots - IR

Contracts

C Eric Heitmann – 49ers – 4 years

Transactions

FB Byron Storer – Released to Free Agents (IR)

FB Reagan Mauia – Released by Bengals

FB Jameel Cook – Signs with Bucs

TE Darnell Dinkins – Added to Browns

LB Napoleon Harris – Released by Chiefs

LB Rocky Boiman – Signs with Chiefs

CB Nick Graham – Signs with Colts/Released by Colts

DT LaJuan Ramsey – Released by Colts

HB Mike Hart – Released to Free Agents (IR)

HB Clifton Dawson – Signs with Colts

CB Keiwan Ratliff – Signs with Colts

HB Justin Forsett – Released by Colts

S Jamie Silva – Added to Colts

DT John McCargo – Trade to Colts (Voided – Failed Physical)

P Sam Paulescu – Signs with Cowboys

WR Roy Williams – Traded to Cowboys

S Tyrone Culver – Released by Dolphins

S Brannon Condren – Signs with Dolphins

HB Tony Hunt – Released by Eagles

LB Tracy White – Signs with Eagles

FB Zak Keasey – Released to Free Agents (IR)

FB David Kirtman – Signs with 49ers

T Todd Wade – Released to Free Agents

T Andrew Carnahan – Added to Jaguars (Practice Squad)

G Ben Claxton – Added to Lions (Practice Squad)

G Jon Dunn – Removed

LB Tracy White – Released by Packers

HB Kregg Lumpkin – Released to Free Agents (IR)

HB DeShawn Wynn – Added to Packers

LB Danny Lansanah – Signs with Packers

WR Ryne Robinson – Released to Free Agents (IR)

WR Kenneth Moore – Signs with Panthers

CB Ricky Manning – Released to Free Agents (IR)

CB Fakhir Brown – Signs with Rams

S Brannon Condren – Released by Rams

S Eric Bassey – Added to Rams (Practice Squad)

WR Derek Stanley – Added to Rams

S Justin Hamilton – Released Redskins

P Durant Brooks – Released by Redskins

P Ryan Plackemeier – Signs with Redskins

S Mike Green – Signs with Redskins

HB Shaun Alexander – Signs with Redskins

S Reed Doughty -– Released to Free Agents (IR

K Martin Gramatica – Released to Free Agents (IR)

K Taylor Mehlhaff – Signs with Saints

DE Josh Savage – Released by Saints

DE Jeff Charleston – Signs with Saints

WR Terrance Copper – Released by Saints

TE Sean Ryan – Added to Saints

WR Courtney Taylor – Released by Seahawks

WR Jordan Kent – Signs with Seahawks

WR Michael Bumpus – Released by Seahawks

HB Justin Forsett – Signs with Seahawks

T Kyle Williams – Added to Seahawks (Practice Squad)

FB Jeff Dugan – Released to Free Agents

LB Dontarrious Thomas – Signs with Vikings

Ratings Up

HB Matt Forte – Bears – 82 to 84 – In the top 2 for most impressive rookie running back.

QB Kyle Orton – Bears – 79 to 80 – I’m sure the Bears couldn’t even have even expected Orton to be as poised as he has been at QB.

LB Dhani Jones – Bengals – 81 to 82 – Your NFL leader in tackles after 6 weeks.

CB Leodis McKelvin – Bills – 79 to 80 – 1^st corner selected in the draft also stars on special teams in the kick return game.

HB Michael Pittman – Broncos – 81 to 82 – Might not be another back that runs with as much urgency.  Was impressive in a start last week vs. the Jags.

K Matt Prater – Broncos – 78 to 82 – This year has drilled 13-14 field goals. Before that he was 1-4 in his career.

LT Ryan Clady – Broncos – 81 to 82 - Committed his first holding penalty vs. Jacksonville, might be the most athletic offensive lineman in the league.

LB Nate Webster – Broncos – 79 to 80 – Was thumping Jags players last week. Starting MLB for the Broncos.

RT Ryan Harris – Broncos – 79 to 81 – Solid pass blocking RT for the Broncos.

HB Earnest Graham – Bucs – 84 to 85 – Averaging 5.6 YPC and lined up at fullback last week due to injuries.

LT Donald Penn – Bucs – 80 to 82 – Has excelled in taking over for Luke Petitgout in Tampa.

DT Gabe Watson – Cardinals – 80 to 82 – Run stuffing DT for the Cardinals.

LT Mike Gandy – Cardinals – 89 to 92 - Underrated left tackle who played a great game vs. DeMarcus Ware. Surrendered 1.5 sacks last season.

DE Bryan Robinson – Cardinals – 74 to 77 – In the rotation at DT and DE in the Cardinals hybrid 3-4 defense.

WR Steve Breaston – Cardinals – 78 to 82 – Showed he has the complete game at WR in the last few weeks picking up the slack for Boldin. Caught the ball better than expected in a crowd.

DE Antonio Smith – Cardinals – 83 to 84 – Not producing the gaudy numbers, but he is a handful at end.

LB Derrick Johnson – Chiefs – 93 to 94 – Starting to come into his own as a future elite NFL linebacker. Playing in KC won’t help, but he is all over the field.

DT Jay Ratliff – Cowboys – 85 to 87 – Trouble maker for offenses in the middle of the Dallas defense. Can line up all over the defensive line and create problems with pressure.

S Courtney Brown – Cowboys – 67 to 69 – Saw time on passing downs the past couple weeks due to injury.

DT Jason Ferguson – Dolphins – 84 to 85 – Offseason acquisition from Dallas has helped sure up the run defense in the middle.

LB Joey Porter – Dolphins – 88 to 89 – Only has 12 solo tackles, but 6.5 of them are sacks and countless other QB pressures.

T Vernon Carey – Dolphins – 87 to 88 – Neutralized Mario Williams every time he has matched up opposite him, extremely impressive showing vs. Houston.

DT Broderick Bunkley – Eagles – 84 to 85 – Beast of a man in the middle for Philly.

S Brian Dawkins – Eagles – 92 to 93 – Has returned to being all over the field at safety after whispers that he had gotten old.

HB Correll Buckhalter – Eagles – 82 to 83 – Showed again last week he is a more than capable running back when called upon.

S Quintin Mikell – Eagles – 85 to 86 – Leads the team in tackles with a pair of INT’s.

CB Brent Grimes – Falcons – 77 to 78 – Has emerged as Atlanta’s best corner after being called up off the practice squad end of last season.

DT Grady Jackson – Falcons – 80 to 82 – The Atlanta run defense was once a gaping hole up the middle, now the run defense is a somewhat respectable 20^th.

LT Sam Baker – Falcons – 79 to 80 – Pass blocking left tackle who has the feet and head to be elite.

QB Matt Ryan – Falcons – 83 to 84 – Was extremely impressive firing the ball on a banged up Chicago secondary. Does not look like a rookie QB.

RT Tyson Clabo – Falcons – 78 to 80 – Has stepped in at RT and has neutralized opposing ends.

DE Justin Smith – 49ers – 89 to 90 – Never stops going and has been pressuring the QB quite often. Also has 32 tackles from the end position.

CB Corey Webster – Giants – 86 to 87 – While Aaron Ross was falling all over his self Webster was playing solid man coverage displaying great instincts.

HB Brandon Jacobs – Giants – 89 to 90 – Now 99 trucking with Barber. No back has as much power as Jacobs when he lowers his shoulder in a defender.

CB Rashean Mathis – Jaguars – 95 to 96 – Brandon Marshall had 9 for 98 vs. the Jags, but none of them were vs. Mathis - Mathis locked up Marshall .

S Brian Williams – Jaguars – 87 to 88 – Versatile safety for the Jags. Plays a lot of man coverage and is active in stopping the run.

DT Kris Jenkins – Jets – 93 to 94 – Jets currently sport the #3 rush defense in the NFL at 2.9 YPC. The reason is the middle being contained allowing the LB’s to make plays.

WR Laveranues Coles – Jets – 91 to 92 – Tied with Cotchery at 26 receptions. Leads the team with 328 yards.

WR Jerricho Cotchery – Jets – 90 to 91 – Leads the team with 4 receiving TD’s. Has developed into a very good WR.

CB Dwight Lowery – Jets – 77 to 79 – For my money the best rookie CB so far except for a few hiccups.

WR Randy Moss – Patriots – 98 to 99 – Sorry Randy. Proved over the last couple games that even if the QB can’t get him the ball and his effort is terrible he still can beat anyone deep. Beat the Charger defense deep at least 3 times and the QB couldn’t get him the ball.

DT Kedric Golston – Redskins – 80 to 84 – Has moved into the starting lineup on one of the better defenses in the NFL. #6 rush defense in the NFL.

CB Carlos Rogers – Redskins – 89 to 90 – Is all the way back from a knee injury. An impressive season so far.

LB Jonathan Vilma – Saints – 92 to 93 – Also looks back from a bad knee injury. Displays top notch instincts.

WR Lance Moore – Saints – 79 to 80 – Appears to be a legitimate NFL receiver and not some product of Drew Brees.

QB Drew Brees – Saints – 95 to 96 – Received a boost in arm strength in how the Saints have been airing the ball out the past couple seasons. Does not have the weak arm some suspected from his career in college and his start in San Diego.

DT Craig Terrill – Seahawks – 76 to 78 – Only good thing to say about the Seahawks in Week 6, relentless in trying to get off blocks.

HB Mewelde Moore – Steelers – 78 to 80 – Extremely versatile player in his first year in Pittsburgh. Filled in for Willie Parker and might have to do it a few more weeks.

HB Steve Slaton – Texans – 80 to 82 – Got some more speed after he displayed his burst a few more times vs. Miami.

G Mike Brisiel – Texans – 77 to 78 – Came out of nowhere last year to finish the season at RG, continues to start there and does a nice job run blocking.

T Eric Winston – Texans – 85 to 87 – Locked up Matt Roth and whoever else lined up against him. The Texans gave him a contract extension and it’s easy to see why.

HB Chris Johnson – Titans – 82 to 83 – Recovering in his bye week after not faring as well vs. grown men in Baltimore.

DE Kyle Vanden Bosch – Titans – 93 to 94 – One of those “high motor” guys. Never stops in trying to get to the QB.

Ratings Down

DT Tommie Harris – Bears – 96 to 94 – Bears run defense isn’t what it was, and whether its injuries or what he isn’t either.

WR Earl Bennett – Bears – 76 to 74 – Can’t get on the field in Chicago. Very polished product coming out of college.

HB Chris Perry – Bengals – 81 to 79 – For my money the worst running back so far this year. Averaging 2.6 YPC with 5 fumbles. Bring on Cedric Benson.

G Andrew Whitworth – Bengals – 86 to 84 – Got a nice contract extension and has got lazy maybe. The Bengals can’t run or pass block.

LB Kamerion Wimbley – Browns – 87 to 86 – Has done virtually nothing since his promising rookie year. 6 sacks in his last 21 games is unacceptable for a player whose job is to rush the QB.

LB Willie McGinest – Browns – 85 to 84 – Heard his name once in the Monday night game but this guy is old and shouldn’t be counted on for too much production.

HB Edgerrin James – Cardinals – 91 to 89 – Behind Chris Perry this guy is in the conversation for most unimpressive at HB. Hightower looks twice as quick, James is incredibly slow at this point in his career.

CB Antonio Cromartie – Chargers – 92 to 91 – Still a work in progress in man coverage. Can be beaten easily cause he is so eager to make a big play.

G Kris Dielman – Chargers  - 92 to 91 – The famed left side of the Charger line isn’t blowing people off the ball like in years past.

TE Antonio Gates – Chargers – 98 to 97 – Injuries have cost this guy the ability to get open. Takes forever to get going and to change directions.

DT Ron Edwards – Chiefs – 83 to 78 – Completely out of the rotation at DT in the favor of going young in KC. Played pretty well last season.

FS Jarrad Page – Chiefs – 83 to 81 – Habitual tackle whiffer leading to big plays.

LB Donnie Edwards – Chiefs – 92 to 90 – Is banged up and has been out the past few weeks. Not a stretch to say his time in KC is up after this season.

TE Tony Gonzalez – Chiefs – 98 to 97 – We can’t remember how good you are because of the ineptness of the Chiefs passing game.

TE L.J. Smith – Eagles – 85 to 83 – Wants to be more involved in the offense? Difficult when LJ is usually hurt.

CB Chris Houston – Falcons – 78 to 77 – Extremely raw still trying to play man coverage which is supposed to be his strength. Very similar to his speedy predecessor at corner at Arkansas – Ahmad Carroll.

FB Tony Richardson – Jets – 90 to 88 – Thought something was up with Minnesota made no attempt to resign him, appears to be old.

C Dominic Raiola – Lions – 87 to 85 – Part of the giant mess known as the Detroit offensive line.

CB Brian Kelly – Lions – 82 to 80 – Is in and out of the starting rotation in Detroit which says enough. Can’t really be counted on in man coverage.

G Stephen Peterman – Lions – 80 to 77 – Has been out with injury and didn’t do a whole lot when he was in there.

S James Sanders – Patriots – 86 to 83 – Has not been involved at all in pass coverage.

S Michael Huff – Raiders – 87 to 85 – Is apparently a candidate to be benched in Oakland. Has not made any big plays in his time in the NFL.

DT Rocky Bernard – Seahawks – 84 to 83 – Seahawks can’t really stop anyone on the ground or anywhere else for that matter.

CB Kelly Jennings – Seahawks – 87 to 86 – Solid corner who has beaten deep too often this year. Now benched and plays in nickel situations.

QB Charlie Frye – Seahawks – 80 to 77 – His lack of poise was startling for a QB that has been in Seattle for over a year now. Looked bad vs. a so so Green Bay defense.

S Deon Grant – Seahawks – 87 to 85 – Has not been good this year in pass coverage.

S Brian Russell – Seahawks – 86 to 85 – No INT’s on the year and hasn’t teamed up with Deon Grant to be the safeties people expected.

DT Amobi Okoye – Texans – 92 to 89 – Might be in a sophomore slump after big things were expected of him. In and out of the lineup.

C Matt Birk – Vikings – 95 to 93 – The holes aren’t there in the middle for Peterson.

G Anthony Herrera – Vikings – 88 to 87 – Has struggled so far, especially in pass blocking.

RT Ryan Cook – Vikings – 87 to 84 – Has not been playing very well, and looked completely inept vs. Detroit and Jared DeVries.

Injuries

P Mat McBriar – Cowboys – IR

HB Brian Leonard – Rams - IR

S Gerald Alexander – Lions – IR

QB Jon Kitna – Lions - IR

G Marshall Yanda – Ravens – IR

LB Tavares Gooden – Ravens - IR

T Drew Radovich – Vikings – IR

Contracts

WR Roy Williams – Cowboys – 7 years

Transactions
QB Caleb Hanie – Added to Bears
HB DeDe Dorsey – Released to Free Agents
HB Cedric Benson – Signs with Bengals
FB Darian Barnes – Released by Bills
FB Corey McIntyre – Signs with Bills
WR Cliff Russell – Released to Free Agents/Removed
WR Glenn Martinez – Signs with Broncos
CB B.J. Sams – Released by Chiefs
WR Mark Bradley – Signs with Chiefs
WR Marques Hagans – Released by Chiefs
WR Kevin Robinson – Released by Chiefs
LB Weston Dacus – Signs with Chiefs
P Ben Graham – Released by Jets
CB Hank Poteat – Signs with Jets
CB Aaron Glenn – Added to Saints
QB Joey Harrington – Signs with Saints
HB Gary Russell – Signs with Steelers
LB Colin Allred – Added to Titans
T Richard Collier – Retires
HB Danny Ware – Added to FA
CB Geoff Pope – Added to FA
SS Antwain Spann – Added to FA
WR Brandon Rideau – Added to FA
WR Maurice Price – Added to FA

Ratings Up
LB Paul Posluszny – Bills – 82 to 84
WR Steve Breaston – Cardinals – 74 to 75
K Nick Folk – Cowboys – 89 to 91
DT Kris Jenkins – Jets – 92 to 93
T Gosder Cherilus – Lions – 74 to 77
FS Nick Collins – Packers – 86 to 87
WR Muhsin Muhammad – Panthers – 85 to 87
DT Justin Bannan – Ravens – 81 to 83
S Jim Leonhard – Ravens – 79 to 80
WR Derrick Mason – Ravens – 89 to 91
WR Ashley Lelie – Raiders – 73 to 75
CB Chris Johnson – Raiders – 66 to 70
DE Kalimba Edwards – Raiders – 79 to 82
WR Johnnie Lee Higgins – Raiders – 72 to 74
HB Michael Bush – Raiders – 80 to 81
QB Jason Campbell – Redskins – 86 to 87
S Chris Horton – Redskins – 70 to 74
HB Deuce McAllister – Saints – 83 to 85
QB Drew Brees – Saints – 94 to 95
TE John Carlson – Seahawks – 76 to 77
LB LaMarr Woodley – Steelers – 82 to 83
HB Steve Slaton – Texans – 79 to 80
LB Zac Diles – Texans – 74 to 76

Ratings Down
LT Jason Peters – Bills – 97 to 96
QB JP Losman – Bills – 79 to 77
DE Corey Williams – Browns – 90 to 89
CB Eric Green – Cardinals – 83 to 81
QB Matt Leinart – Cardinals – 85 to 82
G Kris Dielman – Chargers – 94 to 92
LB Zach Thomas – Cowboys – 94 to 93
CB Terence Newman – Cowboys - 95 to 94
HB Ryan Grant – Packers – 87 to 86
DT Tommy Kelly – Raiders – 91 to 87
WR Javon Walker – Raiders – 87 to 83
WR Ronald Curry – Raiders – 81 to 76
C Brett Romberg – Rams – 79 to 74
TE Jeremy Shockey – Saints – 95 to 94
CB Kelly Jennings – Seahawks – 88 to 87
DE Darryl Tapp – Seahawks – 83 to 78
C Justin Hartwig – Steelers – 85 to 82
LT Marvel Smith – Steelers – 87 to 84
RT Willie Colon – Steelers – 83 to 80
QB Vince Young – Titans – 88 to 83
CB Cedric Griffin – Vikings – 83 to 82
FB Thomas Tapeh – Vikings – 84 to 82

Injuries
DE Cullen Jenkins – Packers – IR
HB Rashard Mendenhall – Steelers – IR
RG Kendall Simmons – Steelers – IR
SS C.C. Brown – Texans - IR

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