9. New York Jets – Jonathan Cooper, OG/North Carolina – I know just yesterday I had Cooper going to the Jets at #13, but they can’t chance the Titans or Miami would take him before then. The Jets, more than most teams, need a starter from day 1 at probably 4 positions. If Tavon Austin is drafted by either Buffalo, or St. Louis as predicted, The N.Y Jets will tell all the viewers at #9 who exactly is making the decisions for the team. If they trade this pick… It’s Idzick. If they pick a defensive player, Rex Ryan is making the decisions, and if they pick a lineman, Woody Johnson is thinking longevity with his early pick in 2013.

8. St. Louis Rams 8. Buffalo Bills – Tavon Austin, WR West Virginia – Everything I have read today had mentioned that both the N.Y. Jets as well as the Bills are very high on Tavon Austin, but neither is as high on him as St. Louis. With St. Louis having two first round picks, the ability to move up is infinite. This also works in favor for Buffalo who has to pick in front of Minnesota to make sure they get their pick of a QB like Ryan Nassib at 16, or E.J. Manuel and still acquire more picks later this year, or possibly next. If the Jets don’t go after Nassib at #13, he will fall directly to Buffalo.

7. Cardinals – Star Lotulelei, DT/Utah – ESPN’s Todd McShay “loves” this guy. I also think he can play in either scheme (4-3 or 3-4) as both at DT, or DE. He beats the Offensive line early in games and often and makes his presence felt. At 6’3” 311lbs, Star has the prototypical size and strength to be an impact player right away, which is exactly what a first round pick should do for your team.

6. Oakland Raiders – Sharrif Floyd, DT/ Florida – Floyd racked up 13 tackles for loss, three sacks, and two kick blocks as a junior before declaring and NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah was quoted as saying, “everybody” has Floyd pegged as a top-five pick.” . At 6’3 297 pounds, and with a solid 40 time, Oakland loves highly touted athletic players of which Floyd definitely fits the mold. West Virginia WR Tavon Austin could also go here, or the Raiders could do something smart and move further down again in order to grab more talent, much like the Patriots do every year.

5. Detroit Lions – Ezekiel Ansah DE/ BYU – Ansah reportedly didn’t hire a trainer for the combine instead focusing on finishing his classes at BYU. His draft stock was already high but this news makes him seem kind of freakish. Measuring in at 6-foot-5 and 271 pounds with 35 1/8-inch arms, Ansah posted the sixth fastest forty times (4.63) of 37 defensive linemen who ran, and his 34 1/2-inch vertical tied for seventh. There is also a rumor that his 40 at the combine was the first one he ever ran in his lifetime. In 5 years’ time, this will either seem like the steal of the top 10, or a total bust.

4. Philadelphia Eagles – Luke Joeckel, OT/ Texas A&M – Chip Kelly gets to choose between a dynamic DE in BYU Ziggy Ansah or the consensus #1 for the last few months. I understand his new offense has been quoted by LeSean McCoy as being “a track meet” and I truly think that unless another team that is looking to move up, like the San Diego Chargers, trades into this position the choice will be Joeckel or North Carolina OG Lane Johnson.

3. Cleveland Browns – Geno Smith, QB/West Virginia – In the first trade of the NFL Draft, the Oakland Raiders are said to be looking to trade down, and Cleveland has been rumored to be very interested in both, West Virginia QB Geno Smith, or BYU DE Ezekiel Ansah. Brandon Weeden was the last regimes QB, and unfortunately his biggest loss will be the fact that his new bosses didn’t draft him, and therefore will never have “their guy” until they draft “their guy.” There is also talk that if the top two tackles don’t go 1 & 2, Oakland would be willing to trade for nearly anyone who thinks the LT is a position of need and is willing to pay with multiple picks.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars – Dion Jordan, DE/Oregon – Dion is an anomaly. Most prospects unable to compete at either the combine or their pro day typically fall on draft boards. Instead, all this kid has done is run a 40 and he’s being considered as one of the best defensive players available this year. Jordan was unable to help his draft stock at the Oregon Pro day because he is recovering from a recent surgery to repair a torn labrum. He ran a 4.53 unofficial time at the combine, which is amazing. GM David Caldwell recently said, “We’re pretty close – It’s down to two people.” Most people believe the two he referenced are Oregon DE Dion Jordan and West Virginia QB Gen Smith., but there is new talk that OT Luke Joeckel or Central Michigan OT Eric Fisher depending on who Kansas City takes is a likely pick for Jacksonville. Again, I don’t see it. The Jags offense was woeful, but it’s still better than their defense.

1. Kansas City Chiefs – Eric Fisher OT/ Central Michigan – Yes for the first time in 3 months Texas A&M OT Luke Joeckel has fallen from the top spot. A lot of chatter has been made about Fisher being the favorite of Andy Reid and I can’t say there is a heck of a difference between him and Luke. It will come down to who the coaches liked more, and thought was the better guy. There has been some speculation the Chiefs will try to trade down, but I don’t see it.

OFFENSE – Needs – OL, RB

The offensive line was been slowly dissolving into a weaker unit as a whole. Chris Snee and David Diehl are both getting up there in age, and the need for a rock solid starter for years to come should be a focal point at some point early in 2013. Luckily for the Gmen this year is a great year for lineman and they should have their pick of whoever may fall out of the top 15 this year, or even have the opportunity of taking a solid starter in rounds 2-4. The ability for that prospect to learn the nuances of the line from veterans like Snee and Diehl would also work in the Giants favor.

It’s believed up to 7 offensive linemen could go in the first round. I would not expect the top 4 lineman, Joeckel, Fisher, Cooper, and Warmack to be available at 19; however, guys like D.J. Fluker, and Melenick Watson would be an excellent addition for the Giants. Fluker earned preseason All-SEC recognition in 2012 and went on to earn many honors, including second-team All-America by AP and Walter Camp and first-team All-SEC from the coach and second-team from the media while starting each of the Crimson Tide’s games en route to the national title. Menelik Watson recorded a 27.5-inch vertical jump and 19 strength lifts. He played right tackle at Florida State but the feeling is he can play left tackle. If the Giants decide to go in another direction in round 1, look for Justin Pugh in round 2, or Barrett Jones in Round 3. Both players versatility is unparalleled to the entire lineman class outside of the top 4 lineman in the draft. Pugh may be the biggest reason Ryan Nassib is considered to be a good QB prospect since he kept him on his feet throughout his college career, while Jones was D.J. Flukers’ teammate and has won a national championship playing 3 separate positions on the offensive line (C, OG, and OT.)

Running back is a much smaller need since we’re really talking about a back-up here. David Wilson will be the #1 back going forward and Andre Brown can’t stay healthy, so were looking for a versatile back with some pass catching ability to be a fill in while Wilson and Brown get some rest. Brown will be a free agent after next season so there should be an interest in having some security at the position, but it won’t be until round 4 or lower. Guys I love like Michigan State Le’Veon Bell and North Carolina Giovanni Bernard will be long gone, so the Giants will be looking for a RB who can also be used as a punt returner, or a great blocker on special teams. Enter Florida RB Mike Gillislee. Gillislee went crazy in his senior season after finally getting the starting gig. He totaled 1,152 yards and 10 touchdowns in the SEC. That takes talent, and this kid has some serious upside. Considered a top prep-school prospect coming out of high school, Gillislee sat behind Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps before they both left for the NFL. Don’t get me wrong, he’s not going to be a starter, but he would be more than helpful. He should be chosen in rounds 4 or 5.

DEFENSE – Needs – LB, DB

Dan Connor, Mark Herzlich, Mathias Kiwanuka, Keith Rivers. Those are the best ILB’s on the Giants roster as of now. Kiwanuka is no slouch. He’s a heck of a player and a great LB, but he’s not a natural MLB. Rivers was just signed to a 1 yr. deal, but he’s not a MLB either. Herzlich is a fantastic story, and an inspiration in the locker room, that being said he’s not going to the pro-bowl this year, though I wish him the best on making it one day. The glaring need for a captain in the middle has been a problem for the last two years, and it should be a priority.

The problem is this isn’t a great class of ILB. As a matter of fact I only really like two of them and that’s LSU’s MLB Kevin Minter and Georgia LB Jarvis Jones. Just like Gillislee at Florida, Minter and Jones played in the SEC, which is a tutoring lesson for the NFL. So many great NFL players come from that conference. Minter was clearly the best defensive player on his team at LSU, but is he worth the #19th pick overall? Jones on the other hand would be a gift if he somehow falls to #19. Teams are very skeptical of Jones because of some pretty serious medical concerns. Jones was diagnosed with Spinal Stenosis, a narrowing of the spine that can result in numbness, loss of muscle control, and in some cases paralysis. He has since been cleared by doctors, saying that it was a miss-diagnosis, but that really tainted his draft stock. He is a top 10 talent that will fall some but I’m not sure he makes it to 19. If he should, would the Giants consider him healthy enough for them to draft? That’s a question for Jerry Reece. I think it would be an easy pick myself. Jones isn’t even considered a true MLB, which goes against my own thought process. He’s just too good to pass up if he’s still there. Now if he isn’t I think the Giants should look at OL or a CB in the first round.

With that being said, let’s talk about the CB / S class for the 2013 NFL Draft. This class has some serious talent. Dee Milliner barring any major injury will be a shutdown corner in the NFL. The Giants would need to move way up in the draft to even think about Dee and that’s not Mr. Reece’s style. Instead the Giants should be looking at 3 guys in particular.

(1) Florida State CB, Xavier Rhodes – Rhodes, like Jarvis Jones would have to fall in the draft according to most mock drafts. According to what you read, he could go to the Dolphins at 12, the Bucs at 13 and the Saints at 15. The kid has a 40.5” vertical leap, an 11’ broad jump, and he ran a 4.39 40 at the combine. All 32 teams were present at his pro-day, and is considered by most to be the second best CB prospect in this class.

(2) Texas FS, Kenny Vaccaro – Vaccaro emerged as arguably the best safety in the Big 12 as a junior, posting 82 tackles, eight tackles for loss, two sacks, eight passes broken up and two interceptions. While the Longhorns’ talented defense struggled in 2012, Vaccaro registered a career-high 107 tackles and five turnovers (two interceptions, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery). He has great instincts and hits hard, 2 qualities needed to be successful as a FS in the NFL. Giants’ fans should be thrilled if Vaccaro is taken at #19.

(3) Houston CB, D. J. Hayden – Hayden, also has similarities to Jarvis Jones. Hayden had what could have been a fatal injury last year. Hayden suffered a heart issue — a torn inferior vena cava — which was called the “most unique injury in the history of the draft” by a Packers executive, but he’s getting good news in his team physicals after checking out at the Combine. Hayden was elected to the 2012 ALL Conference USA team even though he only played 9 games after the heart related injury. He was a team Captain at Houston, and shows the willingness to fight through adversity. I would take him last of the three only due to the unbelievable injury he suffered in a practice! Still, he’s very talented and would be a good pick for the Giants.

For those of you who follow my draft and are wondering how I could have written this entire piece without mentioning Florida State DE Bjoern Werner after having him as the Giants pick for many weeks now, I say… I just did. (HA!) I would like to remind everyone reading this that the article is about players the Giants should be looking at to fill a need, not who they think is the best player available at the time. I know, semantics but hey! What can you do?

Follow me on Twitter @Jferguson631

Feb 21, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Syracuse offensive lineman Justin Pugh speaks at a press conference during the 2013 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Justin Pugh from Syracuse is projected as an early second day pick, so if he falls to the Giants, it will be another teams mistake. At 6’5 309lbs, Pugh, can play nearly every position on the offensive line with the most experience at LT. He would be a perfect pick for the Gmen with his versatility. The Giants should continue to look at offensive lineman throughout the draft as they need to get some younger talent on the roster.

19. New York Giants – Zach Ertz, TE/Stanford

Eli Manning got a taste of what life is like with a great pass catching tight end and Zach Ertz would bring him up to date with the rest of the elite passers in the NFL. Brady has Gronkowski, Brees has Graham and Manning would have Ertz. He’s smart, he’s huge and most importantly he’s ready to play right now. Ertz is going to create matchup problems all over for opposing defenses and he can beat defenders up the seam as well. Defensive end and linebacker are areas of need as well but Ertz is too good to pass up if the Giants are serious about exploiting Manning’s skills to their fullest.

Ertz is a 6’5″ big time target for Eli Manning, and as Josh Hill wrote, now gives Eli what some of the other elite passers in the NFL have, and that’s a premier catching tight end. Zach ran a 4.65 40 and had 24 reps of 225lbs to lead the class of TE in this years draft. Still, there are questions about his matador-like blocking which would essentially make him only available on passing downs. I like his overall level of talent, but would question taking him over CB Xavier Rhodes or MLB Kevin Minter.

AFC

1. Denver Broncos (12-3): This team has figured out how to play like the old Indianapolis Colts.  Get a lead, pound the ball, and rush the passer.

2. Houston (12-3): Not the best time to disappear.  Should have shown more effort and energy playing for home field in front of your own crowd.

3. New England (11-4): Played like you figured they would against a poor Jacksonville team.  This team is not the powerhouse everyone thought they were after the Houston game.

4. Indianapolis (10-5): This team shows fight and determination every week, and they have the QB that keeps them in every game.  They now are starting to believe they can win every game.

5. Baltimore (10-5): Got a much needed boost in confidence.

6. Cincinnati (8-6):  They got the chance to win their playoff spot on the field against a division rival….and did…Nice job!

NFC

1. Atlanta (13-2): Home field will be key to this team, but still unproven in big games.

2. Green Bay (11-4): Aaron Rodgers will be the best QB in the NFC playoffs…let’s see if they can protect him against some tough defensive fronts.

3. Seattle Seahawks (10-5): This team is on a run, and will make some noise in the tournament.

4. San Francisco (10-4-1):  There something different about this team this year, and now they have lost Manningham for the season.

5. Washington Redskins (9-6): Learning to win in big spots, still not sure the offense can hold up.

The Sunday night game will again determine the winner of the NFC East this year, as predicted earlier right here.  We had the teams wrong, but knew the division title would be on the line!

Minnesota Vikings (9-6): When everyone thought they would just work to get AP some yards against a superior team in Houston, they pulled the shocker of the week.  Now must beat the Packers to get in.

Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Chicago Bears:

The Cowboys can win the East if they beat the Redskins Sunday night in Washington, but really put themselves in a bad spot by losing to New Orleans in Dallas last week.  The Giants need to beat the Eagles and hope Minnesota, Chicago, and Dallas all lose, while the Bears must win in Detroit and hope the Vikings fail.

One spot open, and it might come down to the last game of the season …Just how they planned it!

AFC

1. Denver Broncos (11-3): This team has figured out how to play like the old Indianapolis Colts.  Get a lead, pound the ball, and rush the passer.

2. Houston (12-2): Nice bounce back at home. And, they needed to let the Colts know it’s their year for the division.

3. New England (10-4): That was like watching three different games Sunday night.  This team has their faults, but still can make a run.

4. Indianapolis (9-5): This team shows fight and determination every week, and they have the QB that keeps them in every game.  They now are starting to believe they can win every game.

5. Baltimore (9-5): I have no problem making a coaching change at this point, but I think the replacement is untested and over rated.  The change at offensive coordinator only exposed Joe Flacco more.  Limping towards the playoffs.

6. Cincinnati (8-6):  They now have the chance they have been waiting for.  Games against Pittsburgh and Baltimore to finish the season and get in the tournament.

7. Pittisburgh (7-7): Horrific loss to the Cowboys.  Cincy and Cleveland to end the season.

NFC

The NFC is now officially wide open….

1. San Francisco (10-3-1): The Niners seem to be getting back on stride, but still don’t like the QB drama.  Big trip to Seattle on the horizon.

2. Green Bay (10-4): Showing what having a winning team is all about.  Still think they will struggle in the playoffs without a good O-Line.

3. Seattle (9-5): Good defense, good running game, and a pretty good QB.  Let’s see if they make everyone believers vs SF.

4. Atlanta (12-2): Coaching and playing in a dome can de-rail this team.  Still need to show some toughness.

5. New York Giants (8-6): Win and your in…something they have heard for a few years now. They are the only team of the following group that controls their fate.  Win two and you need no help from anyone.

This is where it really gets interesting….

Chicago, Dallas, Washington,  and Minnesota

Chicago (8-6): Needs help and to win their last two. They lose tie-breaker to Giants if they both finish 10-6.

Dallas (8-6): They play Washington last week of the season, could win the division or miss out altogether.

Washington (8-6): They learned an important lesson this week..They can win without RG3.  Eagles and Cowboys to finish.

Minnesota (8-6): Even though NFL.COM has them listed as the 6th seed currently, that isn’t quite correct.  That is based on if the season ended today, and I’m pretty sure they are not canceling the final two weeks of the season.  They can win their last two and still not make the playoffs.

 Follow Joe on Twitter, @tufdan

AFC

1. Denver Broncos (10-3): This team has figure out how to play like the old Indianapolis Colts.  Get a lead, pound the ball, and rush the passer.

2. New England (10-3): Anyone doubt they can make a run again?  This team just doesn’t lose in December.

3. Houston (11-2): Just like the Falcons, too much success early is not always a good thing.  The pressure is back on to show the league they are ready to take the next step.

4. Indianapolis (9-4): This team shows it’s fight and determination every week, and they have the QB that keeps them in every game.  They now are starting to believe they can win every game.

5. Baltimore (9-4): I have no problem making a coaching change at this point, but I think the replacement is untested and over rated.

6. Pittsburgh (7-6): Bad loss to the Chargers at home, now must face a hungry, although beat up, Dallas team.  They need to right the ship quickly.

7. Cincinnati (7-6):  Terrible loss to Cowboys, especially with Philly on a short week followed by their two main rivals Pittsburgh and Baltimore.

NFC

The NFC is now officially wide open….

1. San Francisco (9-3-1): The Niners seem to be getting back on stride, but still don’t like the QB drama.  Big trip to Seattle on the horizon.

2. Green Bay (9-4): Showing what having a winning team is all about.  Still think they will struggle in the playoffs without a good O-Line.

3. Seattle (8-5): Good defense, good running game, and a pretty good QB.  Let’s see if they make everyone believers vs SF.

4. Atlanta (11-2): Coaching and playing in a dome can de-rail this team.  Still need to show some toughness.

5. New York Giants (8-5): This is the team that showed everyone else how to finish a season.  Two tough road games ahead, but they aren’t known as the road warriors for nothing.

This is where it really gets interesting….

Chicago, Dallas, Washington, Minnesota, St. Louis, and Tampa

Chicago has one last chance to make a stand this week vs Green Bay, but Cutler is not 100%.

Dallas pulled off a big win, and now faces Pittsburgh, but Dez Bryant might be gone for the season.

Washington continues to show fight and win big games, but can Robert Griffin finish the season healthy?

St. Louis won a close one in Buffalo to stay alive and they now face Minnesota and Tampa who they must beat to have any chance.

Minnesota and Tampa continue to lose games at the most critical time, neither one can afford another defeat.

This weeks games feature:

Giants vs. Falcons

Redskins vs. Browns

Cowboys vs. Steelers

Colts vs Texans

Broncos vs Ravens

Vikings vs Rams

Buccaneers vs Saints

Packers vs Bears

49ers vs Patriots

And you wonder why the NFL is so popular. Somewhere the schedule maker is smiling one huge smile!

AFC

1. Houston (11-1):  The Texans are in and now they get to play for home field advantage.

2. New England (9-3): They have won the East, again, and now try and secure a home date.

3. Denver (9-3): They have won the West, and they too start the fight for a home playoff appearance.

4. Baltimore (9-3): Could have won their division, but fell to Pittsburgh.  Now they have Washington, NYG in the next two.

5. Indianapolis (8-4): Pretty much assured a playoff spot at this point, unless they go winless.

6. Cincinnati (7-5): They keep on rolling.  They next head to Dallas and try to end the Cowboys season.

7. Pittsburgh: (7-5): Nice win in Baltimore, now if Big Ben returns they stay alive.

8. The Jets, Miami and Buffalo all stand at 5-7 and I don’t think they will catch any of the above teams.

NFC

1. Atlanta (11-1): Won their division and now need to make sure they stay home.

2. San Francisco (8-3-1): Bad loss to St. Louis and have left themselves vulnerable to losing a bye week.

3. Green Bay (8-4): I’m sure they liked playing a team with only one pass rusher instead of four.  They are still a good team.

4. Giants (7-5): Tough game in Washington, but the D played well.  Offense needs to be more efficient.

5. Chicago (8-4): The defense is starting to show some signs of slowing, and losing to Seattle at home hurt their division title hopes.

6. Seattle: (7-5): Biggest win in recent team history.  Let’s see how they finish

7. Washington, Dallas, Tampa Bay, and Minnesota are all 6-6 with St. Louis at 5-6-1.  Dallas and Washington play each other the last game of the season, so they both can’t run the table.  That leaves the door open for the others.

Some great games coming up include Green Bay vs. Chicago, and  Dallas vs. Washington

A great finish awaits us!

AFC

1. Houston (10-1): Although showing a few cracks in the armor, and dealing with more than  few injuries on defense, they will win this division, and probably be the number one seed in the AFC.

2. Denver (8-3): After surviving the hard part of the schedule with a respectable record, they can now coast to a division title.

3. Baltimore (9-2): I still see a few flaws in this team, but if they defeat Pittsburgh this weekend the division is theirs.

4. New England (8-3): Playing what was considered the easiest schedule of the year, they will easily win the East.

5. Indianapolis (7-4): Interesting thing here is they play Houston twice, and Houston has always been the second fiddle.  Will the Texans play the game in week 17 at full strength?

6. Cincinnati (6-5): This team has really hit it’s stride at the right moment.  Games against San Diego, Dallas, Philly, before finishing with Pittsburgh and Baltimore. They will need to win the next three, or face elimination at the hands of tough division rivals.

7. Pittsburgh (6-5): This all rests on the health of Big Ben.  Baltimore, San Diego, Dallas, Cincinnati, and Cleveland remain.

8. Miami (5-6): I throw them in just to get to 8 teams…but the above 7 will fight for the 6 spots.

NFC

1. Atlanta (11-1): The Falcons will finally get a home playoff game…let’s see if that helps.

2. San Francisco (8-2-1): Here is another team that ran into a little identity crisis before getting back on track.  I think the QB situation needs to be settled quickly before it becomes a distraction.

3. Chicago (8-3): The Bears received a huge boost when the Packers failed to show on Sunday night in New York. Seattle, Minny, Green Bay, Arizona, and Detroit to finish. With three division games left anything can happen, especially with only two remaining home games.

4. New York Giants (7-4): The Giants know how to go on a run when needed. With Seattle, Detroit, Tampa, New Orleans, Dallas, Green Bay, and Minnesota all losing last week they are in a good spot even if the division eludes them somehow.

5. Green Bay: (7-4): Not everyone can rush the passer like the Giants, but anyone who can will be able to give this team trouble. Minnesota, Detroit, Chicago, Tennessee, and Minnesota decides this division and their seeding in the playoffs.

6. Seattle (6-5), Tampa Bay (6-5), Minnesota (6-5):  All of these teams had a chance to take a step towards the playoffs or fighting for the division, and they all lost last week, some in horrific fashion. The division is now out of reach for all of them, and they will fight each other and themselves down the stretch.

9. Washington (5-6): The Redskins have one realistic shot….beat the Giants for the division.  After the upcoming Monday affair they have Baltimore, Cleveland, Philly, and Dallas. I’m not sure they can jump all three teams ahead of them to get a wild card spot, but stranger things have happened.

10. Dallas (5-6) New Orleans (5-7): Many are predicting that these teams still have a shot, but again both teams lost big games last week.

Six teams for one spot will be exciting and exactly what the league wants heading into December.

Follow Joe on Twitter, @tufdan

Week 10 may prove to be the week everything changed, or it might just be an aberration.

1. Houston: I finally get to drop Atlanta out of the top spot.  Nice job traveling to Chicago and proving they can play defense, and on a sloppy field.

2. Chicago: Of course the question now becomes how healthy is Jay Cutler?  With the Niners, the Vikings twice, and Seattle in the next four they are going to need him.

3. Atlanta: Starting to show the fatigue of winning a lot of games late.

4. Green Bay: Their stretch of tough games starts now too.  Will the loss of Clay Matthews put the final nail in that defenses coffin for a few weeks?

5. Giants: The bye comes a week late. A 6-game schedule remaining consists of Green Bay, N.O., Washington, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Atlanta. Can they win 4 of these?

6. New England: Playing just well enough to win and finding ways to protect their secondary.

7. San Fran: Losing Alex Smith may be the most unimportant injury for any team this week.  We will see how good a coach Harbaugh is going forward.

8. Denver: Peyton delivering on his promise.

9. Seattle: Nice dismantling of The Jets. But that’s really not that difficult a task.

10.Pittsburgh: Losing Big Ben for three weeks when two of those weeks include games against Baltimore could prove fatal.

11. Baltimore: Time to prove you can play against a big boy defense.  Let’s see what you really got.

12. Tampa: This up and down team continues to move up and down the rankings.  With the NFC so wide open at this point, they are still in the mix.

13. Cincy: Made a nice statement against a tired Giants team, but the real tests remain ahead in Baltimore and Pittsburgh.

14. Minnesota: They seem to have righted the ship. Let’s see if they can stay consistent.

15. Dallas: Again with the wide open NFC, they have climbed back into a race for a wild card spot.

Here is where we start to look at playoff possibilities, and eliminate teams from consideration.

NFC: Atlanta, Giants, Chicago, Green Bay, San Fran, Seattle, Minnesota, Tampa Bay, New Orleans, Dallas, Detroit, St. Louis and Arizona are all still looking for playoff spots.  However everyone from Tampa on down needs to think they have to win 5 of the next 7.

AFC: Houston, Baltimore, New England, Denver, Indianapolis, and Pittsburgh are in great shape at the moment. San Diego, Miami, Cincy and Tennessee are in a battle for their lives, but one of them will make the playoffs under the current scenario.  Pittsburgh and Big Ben’s injury could be the key to the playoff hopes of a few of these teams.

Gone: The Jets, Oakland, Buffalo, Cleveland, Jacksonville, Carolina, Washington and Philadelphia.

Follow Joe on Twitter, @tufdan. 

Here’s how the Giants were ranked:

ESPN has them at #10, dropping them from #5.

Fox has them at #14, dropping them from #9.

CBS has them at #12 dropping them from #9.

While I would say that they were better than a top ten team before this, I would also have to say they are certainly better than more than 18 teams in this league, especially with all the injuries that occurred this weekend.

We publish our own rankings on Saturday each week…..where do you think the Giants should be ranked?

The pre-season pretenders that other polls had ranked in the top ten have proven to be paper tigers.  The cream rises and most of it is from the NFC.

1. Atlanta: Still undefeated and the schedule provides little in the way of resistance until the Giants come to town in December.

2. Chicago: It’s nice to have a defense that doesn’t even need the offense to dress.  Great match-up against the Texans on Sunday this week, followed by the Niners, Vikings, Seahawks, and Vikes again.

3. Houston: Again, great match-up against the Bears defense on Sunday Night. After that it’s smooth sailing.

4. Giants: Stumbled against Pittsburgh. Defense looked better while offense suddenly struggling.  Division still in their control. Cincy, the bye and a banged up Green Bay after that.

5. Green Bay: This spot in jeopardy due to mounting injuries. Bye week.

6. San Fran: Rams, Bears, Saints. Rams will keep them moving forward.

7. Pittsburgh: Showed some of their old toughness in New York this week.  Games against Chiefs, Rams and Browns should keep them going.

8. New England: Lack of competition helps as they try and rebuild the back end of the defense, although the Colts and Dolphins have now become competitive.

9. Denver: Just how Elway pictured it.  Carolina, San Diego  and Kansas City

10. Seattle: This team made the correct choice at QB, and now has a chance to grow into a very competitive bunch.

11. Baltimore: Won a close one in Cleveland.  This isn’t going to be an easy road.  Ray Rice and Flacco need to carry them from here on out.

12. Detroit: Looked like they need to look for the remainder of the season.  Every week is crucial since the division is probably out of reach.

13. Miami: Can play with anyone. Big test looming vs New England.

14. Tampa: Anther team where every week is crucial.  Division is lost. Can’t afford to lose too many more conference games.

15. Cincy: Last stand against the Giants this week.

While the rest of the teams have chances of making the playoffs, most of them had a big opportunity this week to make a move and failed.

16. San Diego: Sean Payton would look good in Powder Blue … NO?

17. New Orleans: Had the benefit of playing the Dead Eagles this week. Every game a must win.

18. Indy: Very emotional team with a good young QB.  If the season ended today…. well, it doesn’t so never mind.

19. Minnesota: Spoke to friends up north this week. They think it’s over. Wild card only possibility.

20.  I can’t really distinguish between the rest. Just pitiful and some teams might actually make the playoffs

The Rest: Dallas, Washington, Philly, Buffalo, Arizona, The Jets, St. Louis, Tennessee, Oakland, Carolina, Cleveland, K.C. and Jacksonville

 Follow Joe on Twitter, @tufdan

1. Atlanta: Is Philly that bad? A desperate Dallas and almost dead New Orleans, followed by Cards, Bucs, Saints again and Panthers.  Who will be their first loss?

2. Giants: You make your own breaks is how the saying goes.  They have set themselves up to have a successful season and the division is already theirs to lose. Pittsburgh at home, a trip to Cincy, and then the late bye in week 11

3. Chicago: Competition takes a step up soon: Tennessee, Houston, Niners, Vikings, Seahawks and Vikes again.

4. Houston: Bills, Bears, Jags and Lions should keep them on top in the South

5. Green Bay: Again, the schedule is their friend for the short term but then it gets interesting. Arizona, Lions, Giants and Vikes.

6. San Fran: Nice statement in the division on Monday. After the bye they get Rams, Bears, Saints and Rams again.  Bears game will be fun.

7. New England: Offense will keep them going for a few weeks with Bills, Colts, Jets and Dolphins up next.

8. Pittsburgh: Nice test this week in New York vs. Giants followed by Chiefs, Rams and Browns.

9. Denver: They have survived the early test, now the schedule turns in their favor. Cincy, Carolina, San Diego and K.C.

10. Minnesota: Bad stumble.  That division isn’t going to be easy to win. Seattle, Lions, Bears, Packers. … Could spell doom or give them a big bump.

11. Miami: Well coached and proved the backup can step in and win.

12: Baltimore: Let’s see if they can adjust to a new era of defense

13. Washington: If the coaches can stop experimenting and just call the plays, they will be fine.

14. Dallas: They fought valiantly but ultimately shot themselves in the foot.

15. Seattle: Showing some toughness and a very good defense. On the right path.

At week 8 there sure are a lot of mediocre teams:

16: Buffalo: Still alive, but need to find the defense

17: Cincinnati: A real disappointment. Time to show anything is now.

18. Detroit: Saved their season with a last second score. Time to play 45 minutes if not 60.

19. Tampa: Still talented, despite the coaches college tricks

20: Arizona: Total freefall.

The Rest:  Philly, San Diego, The Jets, St. Louis, New Orleans, Tennessee, Oakland, Indy, Carolina, Cleveland, K.C., and Jacksonville

1. Atlanta: Their test starts this week.  Philly, Dallas and New Orleans are all in need of a win.

2. Giants: Perhaps the most complete team.  The defense bends, the offense moves at will.

3. Chicago: Nice showing by the defense, but the competition really wasn’t there.  They really see nothing for a while with Carolina and Tennessee up next.

4. Houston: Nice bounce back. Bye week this week to get everything back in order.

5. Green Bay: The loss of Woodson could be big here but with Jacksonville and Arizona up next, it won’t show up for a while.

6. San Fran: Struggled against the Seahawks, but did win. Next up a flailing Arizona team on Monday night.  Offense needs to step it up.

7. New England: Defensive secondary still weak, but offense looking better. Schedule is favorable.

8. Pittsburgh: If they could actually catch Ben’s passes, they would be more impressive. Washington will test their hurting defense.

9. Minnesota: With Arizona and Tampa next they should hang around the NFC North … but that will be the winningest division overall this year.

10. Denver: The Broncos sneak back into the top 10 momentarily.  They will need to start winning regularly to stay.

11. Washington: Losing to the Giants is not the end of the world.  That offensive scheme will beat a lot of people if they can stay healthy.

12. Miami: A win over The Jets in New York will move this team to new heights if they pull it off.  Two weeks to prepare.

13. Baltimore: I’m afraid this might be the first stop off this falling elevator.  Need to find an answer for injuries on defense.

14.Seattle: Nice showing against San Fran, but again this isn’t soccer, they need to score more points.

15. Arizona: The other falling elevator in the group.  From 4-0 to 4-3.  San Fran on Monday.

After some of the performances last week, I am tempted to stop here, but it’s early….

16. Dallas: So Romo isn’t the worst QB in the NFC this week, but losing another piece on their offensive line could spell doom.  Giants in town this Sunday.

17. Buffalo: Points for only losing by one?  The defense has completely disappeared.  With Houston and New England up next, that’s not going to cut it.

18. Cincinnati: Lost the week before the Big game, then lost the Big game.

19. Philly: Need wins versus Atlanta and New Orleans to show the world Andy Reid is not done and changes were warranted.

20. San Diego: The schedule might help after the bye week.  Cleveland, K.C., Tampa before a re-match with Peyton.

The Rest: The Jets, Detroit, St. Louis, Tampa, New Orleans, Tennessee, Oakland, Indy, Carolina, Cleveland, K.C. Jacksonville

1. Atlanta: I don’t believe this will last.  I think they were pushed around by Oakland and Carolina, but they did find a way to win.  Three desperate teams await them and will decide if they deserve this spot. Philly, Dallas and New Orleans.

2. Giants: This team amazes everyone at times.  If the defense played like that every week, they would easily be the most complete team. Home to a pesky Washington, Dallas, Pittsburgh and Cincy next.

3. Chicago: This team has three weeks to solidify it’s position.  Detroit, Carolina and Tennessee up next.

4. San Francisco: Not sure why they tried to change who they are last week.  Alex Smith is not the QB you want when trailing by 10 or more in a game.  The Wildcat only works against that other New York team.  Seahawks on short rest this Thursday.

5. Houston: Is the loss of Brian Cushing this big or did they just have a bad night against the wrong team? Baltimore and the bye next.

6. New England: I know they lost but I still think they will find the proper identity and move on. Jets and Rams next.

7. Green Bay: Rogers and the offense showed how good they are.  St. Louis, Jacksonville and Arizona next.

8. Baltimore: I think the loss of Lewis, Webb, and the limiting of Ngata will be too much to overcome.  A very upset Houston up next.

9. Seattle: This QB is for real right now, and the D is very good.  A good showing against San Fran will go a long way.

10. Pittsburgh: Which way will they go? Cincy and Washington to decide their top ten fate.

11. Minnesota: Bad loss to Washington.  Arizona and Tampa up next.

12. Denver: Peyton just needs time to throw.  Saints and Bengals up next.

13. Arizona: Two bad losses in a row with Minnesota and San Fran up next.  Need to right the ship quick.

14. Miami: Big mover of the week is Miami.  Bye week and a re-match with the Jets to come.  Well coached team.

15. Washington: I hate to move them up after a one man show beats a poorly coached team, but no one else looked all that good last week.  Let’s see if they play well against the Giants this week, as they always do!

16. Cincinnati: Terrible loss to Cleveland, who was due for a win after some hard fought games. Pittsburgh next.

17. Buffalo: They seem to have figured it out after opening night. Defense finally showed up a little.  Tennessee, Houston, New England and Miami. In other words, a tough road.

18. Detroit:  Showed well after the bye but they need to start playing complete games soon.

19. St. Louis: Green Bay, New England and San Fran will probably bury this team for a while.

20. Philadelphia: Coaching changes already.  Reid and Vick in trouble. Atlanta and New Orleans after the bye week.

The Rest: San Diego, Dallas, The Jets, Tampa, New Orleans, Tennessee, Oakland, Indy, Carolina, Cleveland, K.C. and Jacksonville

Hard to believe how fast the season progresses and now it’s time to start believing in some teams:

1. Houston: Looking like the most balanced team so far. A Monday night showcase against the hapless Jets will bring them national attention next week.

2. San Francisco: After taking a week to re-group, they showed their weapons on Sunday.  They now get three straight home games versus the Bills, Giants, and Seahawks.  This will be a nice run to see how talented they really are.

3. Atlanta: Nice win against a feisty division opponent. Three of the next four against NFC East opponents, with Oakland and a bye week in between.

4. Arizona Cardinals: Not sure how they are doing it, but they are doing it.  I think the dream ends soon with Rams, Buffalo, Minny, and San Fran on the horizon.  Let’s see where they sit after that run.

5. Baltimore: They continue to find ways to win, and using Ray Rice more is a good place to start.  K.C., Dallas and Houston up next.

6. Giants: Stumbled a little in Philly, and lost another piece in the secondary.  Cleveland at home before a trip to San Fran, home to Washington, a trip to Dallas, and back home for Pittsburgh.

7. Chicago: Nice win in Dallas..notice the multitude of Bears fans in Dallas? … Big win on short rest only because of next three.  Jags, Lions, and Panthers should move them up.

8. New England: Thought they were done in Buffalo…guess not…Broncos and Seahawks will provide test to see if they stick in the top 10.

9. Green Bay: O-Line needs help fast.  Indy, Houston, St, Louis, and Jacksonville should keep them afloat.

10. Denver: Time to show what they can do against the big boys.  Patriots, Chargers, Saints, Bengals.

11. San Diego: While we all wait for the collapse f this team, their schedule takes a turn for the better.  N.O., Denver, Cleveland and K.C.

12. Pittsburgh:  Coming off the bye week they get Philly, Tennessee, and Cincinnati.  Time to show who you are.

13. Philadelphia: Still doing it with smoke and mirrors, but if Andy Reid decides to be true to his west coast style, and use McCoy more..they could make a nice move here.  Pittsburgh, Detroit, Atlanta, and New Orleans await.  Stealing one against NY could provide a nice lift.

14. Minnesota: Nice win on the road in the division. Tenn, Washington, Arizona, and Tampa should keep them on the right track.

15. Cincinnati: Not sure where this team belongs, but the talent is there.  Miami, Cleveland, Pittsburgh before the bye should provide some insight.

16. Seattle: Battle of the underachievers Sunday with Carolina with New England and San Fran to follow.  This defense is ferocious, but this isn’t soccer, you need to score sometime.

17. Washington: Nice win in the end, but the defense was carried off the field a few weeks back.  Atlanta, Minny, NYG…Not sure they can hang on.

18. Dallas: Awful job by the offense on MNF.  Now must face Baltimore, Carolina, NYG, and Atlanta…Could be done early if they don’t figure it out soon.

19. Detroit: Actually think they might be done early this year.  Stafford struggling and D looks bad.  Eagles and Bears up next, both with good offenses.

20. Carolina: Not sure who this team is, but I do know Cam needs to stop dancing and start winning. A very tough Seattle defense up next before the bye week.

21. Jets: If they lose Holmes for any length of time, you might as well start Tebow, because there is no one to throw to anyway.  Houston on MNF next.  Jet fans might want to make other plans for that night.  New England, Miami, and Seattle after that….

22. St. Louis: Playing hard and deserve a mention.

The Rest: Buffalo, Tampa, New Orleans, Tennessee, Indy, Miami, Oakland, Cleveland, K.C. and Jax

KEY RANKINGS:

1. New York Giants

Best addition: RB David Wilson, first-round pick

With Eli Manning and the front four, the Giants are still mighty Giants, and rookies Wilson and Rueben Randle will make up for key departures. The Giants will need to hang tough with a schedule even stronger than last season’s.

9. Philadelphia Eagles

Best addition: MLB DeMeco Ryans, trade acquisition

No one is talking about them as the Dream Team this year, and the perceived lower expectations may be just what Michael Vick and Andy Reid need for a big rebound.

10. Dallas Cowboys

Best addition: CB Morris Claiborne, first-round pick

It must have hurt to see the Giants wrestle the division away and then go on to win it all. The Cowboys have rebuilt their back seven pass defense, but they still go as Tony Romo does.

25. Washington Redskins

Best addition: QB Robert Griffin III, first-round pick

Griffin brings more than a dash of much-needed electricity to the offense, the entire team and the city. It will be fun watching him, even it if comes with significant growing pains.

SURPRISES?:

7. Denver Broncos

Best addition: QB Peyton Manning, free-agent pickup

This team already got to the divisional playoff round with a questionable passing game. If Peyton Manning is Peyton Manning, they can go a few miles higher.

12. New Orleans Saints

Best addition: G Ben Grubbs, free-agent pickup

Sean Payton is gone for the season and Gregg Williams is gone for good, which means Drew Brees will have more riding on his arm than usual. Now would be a good time to give Brees that big raise.

19. New York Jets

Best addition: S LaRon Landry, free-agent pickup

The Jets were a mediocre team last season, and despite the flashy Tebow pickup, there are still  big questions about just how much substance they have on both sides of the ball.

What do you think of these rankings?

SI.com ranks the Giants at number 11, up 7 spots from last week. Where else do they fall as the last week of the regular season begins?

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