Chiefs Re-Sign Eric Fisher

(photo credit: arrowheadpride.com)

The Kansas City Chiefs have inked offensive tackle and former number one overall pick Eric Fisher to a four-year $48 million deal. The deal was announced by the Chiefs, and the financial terms were disclosed by ESPN's Adam Schefter. Fisher will be guaranteed to make at least $40 million. Fisher is now under contract for six more seasons, and he'll be making $63 million over those six seasons.

"We were able to reach an agreement with Eric and his representatives on a contract extension," Chiefs general manager John Dorsey said. In three seasons, he's grown significantly as a football player in our system. He's a tough, physical presence and a leader on our offensive line. We look forward to keeping him as a part of our organization and community."

Kansas City picked up Fisher's fifth year option in May. He is scheduled to make $3.4 million, and $11.9 million in the next two seasons. Fisher was selected by the Chiefs with the first overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. He lost his job last September, but after his play improved, he regained the starting left tackle job at the midway point of the season.

Fisher allowed 42 quarterback pressures in 2013, 42 pressures in 2014, and 37 pressures in 2015. Fisher is the highest-paid lineman in all of the NFL. Fisher has played in 46 of 48 possible games since 2013, and he's shuffled around the offensive line. Fisher, 25, seems to be locked in at starting left tackle. He's yet to make a Pro Bowl in his career, but if he starts the whole season, he might be able to make it to his first Pro Bowl next season.

2016 AFC South Preview

(photo credit: betlabssports.com)

Jacksonville Jaguars (2015 record: 5-11)

The Jaguars drastically improved a promising roster, after having a very successful draft, and after reeling in some very quality free agents. The team drafted Jalen Ramsey and Myles Jack, both who were considered top-five players in the NFL Draft. Jacksonville will also have Dante Fowler Jr. who will be playing his rookie season, after the number three overall pick in the 2015 draft was out for the whole season with a knee injury. The team brought in Malik Jackson, who was one of the main centerpieces on the Denver Broncos defense last year.

Jacksonville also signed former New York Jets running back Chris Ivory, who will share carries with T.J Yeldon. Jacksonville returns Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns, who formed a dynamic receiving duo last season. Quarterback Blake Bortles enters his third season in the NFL, and it seems like he will be ready to show his full potential. Jacksonville showed flashes of potential last year, which is one of the reasons why they nearly made the playoffs last season. With an improved defense, and an up-and-coming offense, the new-look Jaguars are expected to contend for a playoff spot for the first time since David Garrard was the quarterback.

Projected finish: 9-7, second in AFC South, second AFC Wild Card

Houston Texans (2015 record: 9-7)

The Houston Texans season can described like this: a bumpy rollercoaster. The team started the season 2-5, they played three different quarterbacks, and they suffered a myriad of injuries. However, they managed to barely make the playoffs, and they would end up getting blown out by the Kansas City Chiefs. The team brought in speedy wide receiver Will Fuller in the draft, and they revamped most of their offense. They signed former Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler, and they also brought in former Miami Dolphins running back Lamar Miller.

Houston had the third best defense last year, and they’re led by J.J. Watt, who led the NFL in sacks last season. Watt recently underwent back surgery, but he’s not expected to miss much of the regular season. Houston has an improved roster, but improved teams in the division will make it tough for them to win it again.

Projected finish: 10-6, first in AFC South

Indianapolis Colts (2015 record: 8-8)

Indianapolis had their worst season since 2011, and a big part of it was they had to use four different quarterbacks. After Andrew Luck suffered season-ending injuries against the Broncos, the Colts season seemed to go up in flames. With a weak offensive line, very little running game and a below average defense, Indianapolis just didn’t have enough to make it back to the playoffs.

The Colts did very little to fix their issues, but when Luck is fully healthy, he is usually all they need to succeed. Luck will have a weapon in T.Y Hilton, who can score in many different ways. Indianapolis will have their franchise quarterback, but they might have trouble getting to the playoffs in a much-improved division.

Projected finish: 8-8, third in AFC South

Tennessee Titans (2015 record: 3-13)

It was clear from the start of the season that the Titans were in rebuilding mode. They drafted their franchise quarterback, Marcus Mariota the year before, and while he showed flashes of brilliance, he couldn’t really get going because of injuries, and a very flimsy offensive line. The team drafted Jack Conklin out of Michigan State, who will drastically improve their offensive line.

Tennessee brought in Demarco Murray, the leading rusher in the 2014 season, and they drafted the Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry. Tennessee also has a promising wide receiver in Dorial Green-Beckham, and they recently signed veteran wide receiver Andre Johnson. Tennessee has improved drastically from last season, but it will take some time before they will contend for the playoffs.

Projected finish: 6-10, fourth in AFC South 

2016 AFC North Preview

(photo credit: steelersdepot.com)

Baltimore Ravens

The only way to describe the 2015 Baltimore Ravens season is something out of a horror movie. After finishing 10-6 in 2014 Baltimore was decimated by injuries, they would finish the year with 22 players including Quarterback Joe Flacco and Defensive End Terrell Suggs on Injured Reserve. The fact makes predicting how the Ravens perform in 2016 difficult. However if you look further into the cap situation it becomes clear that Baltimore is in the middle of franchise re-build. After franchise legends Ed Reed and Ray Lewis retired Ozzy Newman found his squad in a predicament. As of 2015 the Raven's have five of the highest six contracts belong to players on the wrong side of thirty. The team still has a lot of talent, but they will not age well. They will likely compete for for a wild card playoff berth, but their lack of depth at wide receiver could hinder their offense.

Cincinnati Bengals

Over the last decade the Bengals have been one of the best run organizations which only $0.24 million in dead money. Last season they showed how good they could be, Defensive Tackle Geno Atkins anchored a defensive that ranked second in points allowed.

On the other side of the ball Andy Dalton proved that he could be a franchise Quarterback and was great until a broken thumb ended his season. If it weren't for a meltdown toward the end of the Wild Card game versus Pittsburgh I believe Marvin Lewis would have made the AFC Championship Game. With A.J. Green and rookie Tyler Boyd on the outside, Dalton should have another great season. The Bengals are the favorites to win the division and if Lewis can get the monkey off they should be Super Bowl contenders.

Cleveland Browns

After the garbage fire that was the Johnny Manziel era in Cleveland it seems that the thousandth rebuild since the franchise restarted in 1999. However the Browns are taking a much different approach to this rebuild putting a premium on asset acquisition. This was obvious during the draft when made 14 picks. Nonetheless the Browns will be terrible this season and likely the worst team in the division. Robert Griffin III will have some incredible highlights with Josh Gordon, but those will be the high point for this year.

Pittsburgh Steelers

When the off-season started the Steelers were not only the heavy favorite to win the division, but make the Super Bowl. However the suspensions of Levon Bell and Martavis Bryant due to substance abuse policy violations Ben Rothlisberger's offense will be limited. Pittsburgh's offense will still be one of the best in the league, but their limited defense could be their downfall. The Steelers will probably spend the last half of the season battling Baltimore for second place in the division and one of the Wild Card playoff berths.

Jets Re-Sign Ryan Fitzpatrick

(photo credit: newsday.com)

The New York Jets and quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick have ended their nearly five-month contract dispute. Fitzpatrick has signed a one-year deal worth $12 million, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The contract is fully guaranteed, and the contract includes $3 million in incentives, which could boost the value of the contract to $15 million. According to Schefter, the Jets increased their offer on Wednesday from $8 million, to $12 million, and they gave him until 7 p.m. ET to accept the offer, or else the Jets would’ve moved on from the 33-year-old signal caller.

The situation got bleaker when players were told not to answer any questions about Fitzpatrick. The Jets will have to clear some cap space in order to sign Fitzpatrick. The team has $9.1 million in cap space heading into training camp, which starts this week. Fitzpatrick led the team to a 10-6 record last year, and the team was within one game of making the playoffs, but they lost to the Buffalo Bills in Week 17, which ended their season. He led the Jets to their best offensive season since 1998.

Behind Fitzpatrick, the Jets offense finished 10th in total yards, and 11th in total points. Fitzpatrick threw for a career high 33 touchdowns, and he also threw for 3,905 yards and 15 interceptions. He developed a chemistry with wide receivers Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker, as those two had career-reviving years.

Fitzpatrick has been on six different teams during his career, with his longest tenure coming with the Buffalo Bills. He played with the team from 2009-2012, and he was largely the starting quarterback. He’s also played with the St. Louis Rams, Cincinnati Bengals, Tennessee Titans, and Houston Texans. Fitzpatrick has been plagued by turnovers his entire career, as he’s thrown 116 interceptions in 113 career games. New York was going to have to play Geno Smith or Christian Hackenberg if they didn’t agree to a deal with Fitzpatrick. 

Ranking the Super Bowls, #1: Super Bowl XLIX

(photo credit: azcentral.com)

The Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots faced off in Super Bowl XLIX. The game was played on Feb. 1, 2015 at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, AZ. The Seahawks were looking to repeat after they beat Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII. 

The Seahawks held a 24-14 lead in the fourth quarter, but were forced to punt to the Patriots on a failed third down. Tom Brady would lead the Patriots all the way back to take the lead when he found Julian Edleman to give the Pats a 28-24 lead with 2:02 left.

After one of the craziest catches ever seen by Seahawks wide receiver Jermaine Kearse in which a tipped ball fell into his chest and he grabbed it, the Seahawks were in business. On a 2nd and goal from the one yard line, however, Russell Wilson threw a pass at the goal line that was intercepted by Malcolm Butler. The Patriots held on to win by a final score of 28-24. It was their fourth Super Bowl in franchise history.

Ranking the Super Bowls, #2: Super Bowl XLVI

(photo credit: literock969.com)

The New England Patriots battled their new rivals, the New York Giants on Feb. 5, 2012, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. The Patriots were looking to get revenge for their loss against the Giants in Super Bowl XLII, but Giants quarterback Eli Manning did what he does best: perform nearly perfect when the lights are shining bright. Manning powered the underdog Giants to a surprising 21-17 victory in Super Bowl XLVI. New York, who was plagued by a myriad of injuries during the season, finished the regular season with a 9-7 record. Big Blue set a Super Bowl record for lowest regular season record by a Super Bowl champion. 

New York defeated the Dallas Cowboys in Week 17 in order to win the NFC East. The Giants defeated the Atlanta Falcons 24-2, the Green Bay Packers 37-20, and the San Francisco 49ers 20-17, en route to Super Bowl XLVI. The Patriots finished the regular season with an AFC-best 13-3 record. They defeated the Denver Broncos 45-10, and the Baltimore Ravens 23-20, in order to make it back to the Big Game. The Patriots entered the game as 2.5 point favorites. The game was broadcasted by NBC, with Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth on the call. 

The game would go down in NFL lore, which is why it broke the record for the most-watched program in American television history. The Giants jumped out to an early 9-0 lead. Tom Brady was called for an intentional grounding penalty in the end zone, which gave New York the 2-0 lead. Manning then connected with Victor Cruz on a two-yard touchdown, which put the Giants up nine.

The Patriots would respond with three straight scoring drives. Stephen Gostkowski converted on a 29-yard field goal, and Brady hooked up with Danny Woodhead on a 4-yard touchdown pass, which gave New England the 10-9 lead at halftime. Shortly after the quarter started, Brady found Aaron Hernandez for a 12-yard touchdown, which gave New England the 17-9 advantage. 

The Patriots would never score again in the game. Lawrence Tynes converted two field goals, which tied the game at 17. The Giants had the ball at their own 12-yard line. The most important play on this drive came in the middle of the possession. Manning found Mario Manningham, who was covered by multiple Patriots defenders, for a first down. From there, the Giants would get the decisive touchdown. Ahmad Bradshaw scored on a six-yard rushing touchdown, and the two-point conversion failed. However, Brady failed to score on the final drive of the game, as the Giants were the champions of the NFL once again. 

New York won their fourth Super Bowl in franchise history. Manning earned MVP honors, after completing 30 of his 40 pass attempts, for 296 yards and one touchdown. Hakeem Nicks had 10 catches for 109 yards, which led all Giants receivers. Brady completed 27 of his 41 pass attempts, for 276 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. Aaron Hernandez caught eight passes for 67 yards and one touchdown. 

Ranking the Super Bowls, #3 Super Bowl XLII

(photo credit: deepishthoughts.com)

When the New England Patriots came into Glendale, AZ on Feb. 3, 2008 they were 12 point favorites. If you took a public poll instead of asking Las Vegas, that number would probably be higher. Led by MVP Tom Brady and coach Bill Belicheck New England had dominated the NFL. They were the only team to finish the regular season 16-0 and had the chance to be the first team to go undefeated since the Miami Dolphins did in 1972. The Patriots had a dynamic offense led by Brady, Wes Welker, who was the co-leader in receptions, and Randy Moss who set the single season record for touchdown receptions.

The New York Giants took a more unlikely route to the Super Bowl than their AFC counterparts. After finishing 10-6 in the regular season Tom Coughlin caught some post season magic. The Giants became the first NFC Wildcard team to make the title game and were only the third team to win three road playoff games. Much of this success would thanks to Eli Manning becoming more consistent as a passer. After leading the league in interceptions thrown with 20, Manning would only throw one during the postseason.

The Giants were the first ones on the board when Lawrence Tynes knocked down a 32 yard field goal with five minutes left in the first quarter. Early in the second frame New England took the lead as Laurence Maroney punched in the ball from a yard out. Even though this game is known for the last minute heroics this was a defensive battle. New York's defense led by Michael Strahan kept Brady under duress all night sacking him five times. The Patriots' defense was stellar as well holding the Giants to three points until early in the fourth.

Manning found David Tyree from five yards out to give New York a 10-7 lead with 11:05 left in the game. It looked like the Giants pulled off the upset until Brady got the ball back with 7:54 on the clock. As he had done with the precision of a clock San Mateo's favorite son completed eight passes while driving 80 yards. As Brady found Moss in the end zone with 2:45 left, it looked like once again Brady had put the Vince Lombardi trophy on ice.

Then the improbable happened as Manning orchestrated one of the most memorable drives in football history. After a pass which was almost picked off, New York faced a 3rd and 5 from their 44 with 1:16 remaining. Manning was able to escape the pocket and break out of a sack to heave a throw towards Tyree. Somehow Tyree was able to come down with the ball on his helmet while Pats Safety Rodney Harrison draped on him for a 32 yard gain. Four plays later, Manning found Plaxico Burress for a touchdown with 39 seconds left. After the point after was converted, the Patriots attempted some hail marys but they were futile as the Giants won 17-14.

NFL Reinstates Browns WR Josh Gordon

(photo credit: zhiphopcleveland.com)

Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon has been reinstated on a conditional basis from his indefinite suspension. Gordon was previously suspended indefinitely after violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy for the fourth time in his career.

The NFL announced Gordon’s reinstatement to the league on Monday. Gordon will be suspended for four games, and he will be allowed to participate in training camp, which starts this week. Gordon will also be allowed to play in Cleveland’s preseason games, and he will be allowed to participate in all team meetings and activities. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a letter to Gordon that he has full confidence that Gordon will make the right choices.

Gordon has been suspended three other times for drug violations. He was suspended two games in 2013, 10 games in 2014, and he was banned for the entire 2015 season. Gordon was denied reinstatement in April after he failed a test because of diluted marijuana samples. The amount of marijuana that Gordon took wasn’t enough for a suspension, but it was handled like a positive test. ESPN’s Adam Schefter said in April that Gordon’s reinstatement would be delayed 60-90 days, if there were no “red-flag tests.”

The Browns will now sit down with Gordon to assess whether or not they will hold onto the 25-year-old receiver. Gordon will end his suspension on Oct. 3, and if the Browns retain him, he will play his first game against the New England Patriots in Week 5, which is when Tom Brady will return from his Deflategate suspension. Gordon has hauled in 161 catches, for 2,754 yards and 14 touchdowns in 35 career games with the Browns. Gordon made his first Pro Bowl in 2013, when he lead the league in receiving yards (1,646), and caught nine touchdowns.

Ranking the Super Bowls, #4: Super Bowl XLIII

(photo credit: pinterest.com)

On Feb. 1, 2009 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Florida, the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Arizona Cardinals 27-23 in Super Bowl XLIII. 

The Steelers had finished the regular season with a 12-4 record to win the AFC North division. They defeated the San Diego Chargers 35-24 in the Division Round, and the Baltimore Ravens 23-14 in the AFC Conference Championship to reach the Super Bowl. Linebacker James Harrison earned Defensive Player of the Year honors, anchoring a unit that lead the league in yards allowed and points allowed. 

The Cardinals finished the regular season 9-7 to win the NFC West division. In the playoffs, Arizona defeated the Atlanta Falcons, 30-24, in the Wild Card round, the Carolina Panthers, 33-13, in the Divisional Round, and the Philadelphia Eagles, 32-25, in the NFC Championship to advance to the Super Bowl. 

The only points of the first quarter came on a field goal by Steelers' kicker Jeff Reed on the opening drive, after two long completions from quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to Hines Ward and Heath Miller. Pittsburgh extended their lead to 10 when running back Gary Russell scored on a one-yard rushing touchdown on the second play of the second quarter. On a later possession, Arizona used a 45-yard connection between quarterback Kurt Warner and receiver Anquan Boldin to get to the Steelers one yard line, where Warner found tight end Ben Patrick to cut the lead to 10-7. 

With 18 seconds left in the first half, Warner attempted a pass into the end zone intended for Boldin. The ball was tipped, then intercepted on the goal line by Harrison. What took place thereafter goes down as one of the most memorable plays in Super Bowl history. Harrison avoided the sideline and numerous Cardinals (sprinting forward, cutting back) on his way to diving across the plane as tons expire for a 17-7 Steelers halftime lead. 

In the third quarter, the only scoring was again a Jeff Reed field goal. Down 20-7, Arizona started their comeback. First, an eight-play, 87-yard drive that ended with Warner finding Larry Fitzgerald for a touchdown to cut the lead to 20-14 with 7:33 remaining. After a holding penalty by the Steelers in the end zone awarded the Cardinals a safety and two points, Fitzgerald took another Warner pass 64 yards for a touchdown and their first lead of the game; 23-20 with just over two minutes left. 

Pittsburgh drove the ball all the way to the Cardinals six-yard line, and with 34 seconds left, Roethlisberger hit Santonio Holmes in the back corner of the end zone to take the (final) lead, 27-23. A sack-fumble of Warner with 15 seconds left effectively ended the Cardinals' chances and the game.

Holmes earned Super Bowl MVP honors by hauling in nine receptions for 131 yards and the touchdown. The victory was the sixth Super Bowl championship for the Pittsburgh franchise, which still stands as the league record for most Super Bowl wins. 

Ranking The Super Bowls, #5: Super Bowl XXV

(photo credit:topbet.eu)

The New York Giants won Super Bowl XXV by defeating the Buffalo Bills 20-19 in one of the most exciting games in Super Bowl history. The victory was the Giants' second in the Super Bowl in five years. Super Bowl XXV was kicked off with arguably the best version of the national anthem, which was sung by the late Whitney Houston, and finished with a missed field goal that still stings the fans of the Buffalo Bills.

The Giants severely dominated the Buffalo Bills in time of possession with their run first offense, eating up 40 minutes, 33 seconds, which is a Super Bowl record. In the Bills previous two playoff games, they racked up 95 points, and between the Giants defense and their run dominated offense, the Bills only had the ball on offense for 19:27. The Bills had the ball for less than eight minutes in the second half.

The Giants offense ran a remarkable 73 plays on offense, 14 of which came on their initial drive in the third quarter. That 75-yard drive ate up a Super Bowl record 9:29 before their running back, Ottis Anderson, ran it in from one yard out for a touchdown.

The Giants were without their starting quarterback, Phil Simms, who was lost for the season with a leg injury in week twelve. But backup quarterback, Jeff Hostetler, filled in admirably, and helped lead the Giants to Super Bowl XXV. During that record setting Super Bowl drive, Hostetler converted on three third-down plays, including a 11-yard pass to running back David Meggett, a 14-yard pass to wide receiver Mark Ingram, as well as a nine yard pass to tight end Howard Cross that gave the Giants a 17-12 lead in the third quarter.

Midway through the second quarter, the Bills jumped out to an early lead over the Giants before Jeff Hostetler was able to close the gap with a 14-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Stephen Baker to make it 12-10.

The Bills were able to recapture the lead in the fourth quarter, however, when running back Thurman Thomas ran for a 31-yard touchdown run to open the quarter. Giving Buffalo a 19-17 lead over New York. The Giants took the lead back though, with a 21-yard field goal by kicker, Matt Bahr, making it 20-19. With time running out, it set the stage for arguably the most heartbreaking field goal misses in Super Bowl history, and making kicker, Scott Norwood, famous or notorious for all the wrong reasons. His 47-yard missed field goal still resonates with Bills fan today.

Ottis Anderson was named MVP of Super Bowl XXV, rushing for 102 yards on 21 carries with a touchdown. Jeff Hostetler also had a very productive Super Bowl, completing 20-of-32 passes for 222 yards with a touchdown pass.

For the Bills, running back Thurman Thomas had a 190 yards from scrimmage, which included 135 yards rushing on 15 carries, while catching five passes for 55 yards.

Ranking the Super Bowls, #6: Super Bowl XXXVI

(photo credit: boston.cbslocal.com)

Before the New England Patriots became a dynasty, and Tom Brady was a household name there was Super Bowl XXXVI.  On Feb. 3, 2002 the Patriots were huge underdogs to the St. Louis Rams.  The Patriots had a tall task in front of them to get a win on that February night as the Rams came in with "The Greatest Show on Turf" offense lead by Kurt Warner.  The Rams even gained more total yards than the Patriots but the Pats came out victoriously.

By huge underdogs it should be noted that the Rams were favored over the Patriots by 14 points.  The Rams had 427 total yards to the Patriots 267.  Kurt Warner had 365 yards passing but only threw one touchdown to his two interceptions.  Tom Brady, on the other hand, only threw for 145 yards but also one touchdown as well.  A little bit of a surprising stat line for a Super Bowl MVP but Brady was awarded the MVP trophy after the game was over.

The game appeared to be headed to overtime after Warner threw a 26 yard touchdown pass to tie the game with only 1:30 left in the fourth quarter.  Nobody thought that a no name quarterback at the time, Brady, would be able to drive his team done the field with no timeouts to win the game.  Brady drove down the field and set Adam Vinatieri up for a 48 yard field goal to win the game as time expired.

Ranking the Super Bowls, #7: Super Bowl XXXVIII

(photo credit: bostonglobe.com)

Super Bowl XXXVIII was played between the New England Patriots and Carolina Panthers. The game was played on Feb. 1, 2004 at Reliant Stadium in Houston, TX. The Patriots were looking to win their second Super Bowl in three years. The Panthers were in their first Super Bowl, looking for their first Lombardi Trophy.

The game was back and forth the entire way, and fans knew they were in for an exciting finish. The Patriots won Super Bowl XXXVI over the St Louis Rams on a field goal by Adam Vinatieri as time expired. Vinatieri would get his chance to win another Super Bowl for the Patriots.

With nine seconds left and the game tied at 29, he lined up to kick a 41 yard field goal. He converted on the kick and the Patriots were up 32-29 with four seconds left. The Panthers would be unable to return the kick all the way and the Patriots did win their second Super Bowl in three years. 

Ranking the Super Bowls, #8: Super Bowl XXIII

(photo credit: espn.go.com)

The Cincinnati Bengals and the San Francisco 49ers played for the Lomnardi Trophy in Super Bowl XXII, which was held on Jan. 22, 1989 at Joe Robbie Stadium in Miami, FL. This was the first time in 10 years that Miami was hosting a Super Bowl. This was the second time these teams met in the Super Bowl, with the first meeting coming seven years earlier. The Bengals posted a 12-4 record during the regular season, while San Francisco compiled a record of 10-6 during the regular season.

The Bengals defeated the Seattle Seahawks 21-13, and the Buffalo Bills 21-10, en route to their second Super Bowl appearance in franchise history. The 49ers cruised to their third Super Bowl in franchise history by defeating the Minnesota Vikings 34-9, and the Chicago Bears 28-3. San Francisco became the first team to win an NFC Championship on the road since 1979.

San Francisco entered as seven point favorites, and the game was broadcasted by NBC, with Dick Enberg and Merlin Olsen on the call. This game was a low-scoring affair throughout, especially in the first half, as the team's traded field goals, meaning the score was tied at three apiece at the halftime break. This was the first time there was a tie at halftime in Super Bowl history.

San Francisco's Mike Cofer and Cincinnati's Jim Breech both converted on field goals, which made the score 6-6. The Bengals took a lead bigger than three, after Stanford Jennings returned a kick-off 93 yards, which gave the Bengals the 13-6 lead. San Francisco would tie it up in the fourth, when Joe Montana connected with Jerry Rice on a 14-yard touchdown, which tied the game at 13.

Cincinnati would take the lead again after Breech converted on a field goal from 40 yards out. The game is remembered because of the 49ers game winning drive. San Francisco had the ball on their own eight-yard line, and they drove 92 yards in under three minutes, ultimately setting up the game winning score, which was a 10-yard pass from Montana to John Taylor. San Francisco was able to hang on to win their third Super Bowl in franchise history.

Legendary head coach Bill Walsh would go on to retire after the game. Jerry Rice took home Super Bowl MVP honors after catching 11 passes for 215 yards and one touchdown. Joe Montana completed 23 of his 36 pass attempts, for 357 yards and two touchdowns. Roger Craig had 17 carries for 71 yards, and he hauled eight passes for 101 yards. Boomer Esiason completed 11 of his 25 pass attempts for 144 yards and one interception. Ickey Woods had 20 carries for 79 yards.

Cris Collinsworth led all Bengals receivers, as he caught three passes for 40 yards. Cincinnati has only recorded one postseason win since 1988, which was a Wild Card win over the Houston Oilers. That is the longest active postseason win drought in the NFL today.

Ranking the Super Bowls, #9: Super Bowl XIII

(photo credit: steelers.com)

On Jan. 21, 1979, the AFC-champion Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the NFC-champion Dallas Cowboys 35-31 in Super Bowl XIII. The game was held at the Orange Bowl in Miami, FL, the fifth and last time it would ever be played in that stadium.

During the 1978 regular season, the Steelers went 14-2 to win the AFC Central, earn the number one overall seed in the AFC, and a first-round bye. In their first two playoff games, against the Denver Broncos and Houston Oilers, the Steelers defeated their opponents by a combined score of 67-15, and outgained them 804 yards to 360. The “Steel Curtain” defense had led the league in fewest points allowed, and finished third in yards allowed.

Running back Franco Harris recorded the sixth of his eight career 1,000 yard seasons (1,082), Lynn Swann and John Stallworth combined for 102 catches, 1,678 yards and 20 touchdowns, and Terry Bradshaw earned NFL MVP honors, leading the league with 28 touchdowns while his 84.7 QB rating was good enough for second in the league.

After starting 6-4, Dallas won six games in a row to finish the regular season 12-4, good enough to win the NFC East and earn the second overall seed in the conference. They defeated the Atlanta Falcons 27-20 in the Divisional Round, then shut out the Los Angeles Rams on the road, 28-0, in the Conference Championship. The Cowboys’ offense led the league in points scored and was second in total yards. Quarterback Roger Staubach finished with 3,190 yards, 25 touchdowns, and an 84.9 rating, ranking fourth, second and first in the league, respectively.

Second-year running back Tony Dorsett ran for 1,325 yards, placing fourth in the league. Dallas spread their passing offense around, having five different players each record at least 34 receptions, and four players accumulated at least 500 receiving yards. The Cowboys’ “Doomsday Defense” gave up the third-fewest points and second-fewest yards in the league during the regular season.

The first four scores of Super Bowl XIII were all big plays, split evenly between the two teams. John Stallworth had touchdown receptions of 28 and 75 yards for Pittsburgh, while Staubach threw a 39-yard touchdown pass to Tony Hill and Mike Hegman returned a fumble 37 yards for Dallas. Pittsburgh finished the first half scoring with a seven-yard touchdown pass from Bradshaw to Rocky Bleier. The Steelers took a 21-14 lead into the halftime break.

The two teams could muster just a single Cowboys field goal in the third quarter, making the score 21-17 heading into the last frame. Pittsburgh took a commanding 35-17 lead after a 22-yard Franco Harris rushing touchdown and Lynn Swann caught an 18-yard touchdown from Bradshaw. Dallas kept fighting, though, scoring first on a touchdown pass from Staubach to Billy Joe DuPree, then again when Butch Johnson had a four-yard touchdown reception. Alas, a final onside kick attempt by the Cowboys was recovered by Pittsburgh, ending Dallas’ hopes at completing a full comeback.

Terry Bradshaw won Super Bowl MVP honors, completing 17 of 30 passes (identical to Staubach) for 4 touchdowns (to Staubach’s 3) and a solitary interception (matched by Staubach).

The Cowboys were making their fifth appearance in the Super Bowl, and after this loss now had a record of two wins and three losses. They had just won the previous year over the Denver Broncos and would not return again until 14 years later for Super Bowl XXVII. Pittsburgh and Dallas are tied with the New England Patriots and Denver Broncos for most Super Bowls competed in (8), though Pittsburgh has the most victories (6), one more than the Cowboys. The Steelers would win again the following year, in Super Bowl XIV over the Los Angeles Rams, moving them to 4-0 in the Super Bowl to that point.

Ranking the Super Bowls, #10: Super Bowl X

(photo credit: nydailynews.com)

Super Bowl X between the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers was held on Jan. 18, 1976 at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida. Pittsburgh was the defending Super Bowl champion, having defeated the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IX. In this matchup, Pittsburgh became the third team to win back-to-back Super Bowls, beating Dallas 21-17.

Pittsburgh won the AFC Central with the best record in the AFC, going 12-2. The Steelers used the league’s second-best rushing offense, led by Franco Harris and his 1,246 yards, and the “Steel Curtain” defense that gave up the second-fewest points in the league, to physically intimidate and dominate their opponents to the tune of a league best +211 point differential.

Mel Blount won AP Defensive Player of the Year in large part to leading the league with 11 interceptions. The passing game wasn’t flashy, but Terry Bradshaw targeted Lynn Swann enough for Swann to tie for a league-high 11 touchdowns. In the playoffs, the Steelers defeated the Baltimore Colts, 28-10, and the Oakland Raiders, 16-10, on their way to the Super Bowl.

Dallas’ offense gained the third-most yards in the league and their defense gave up the fifth-fewest yards to propel them to a 10-4 record, placing second in the NFC East and clinching the NFC’s Wild Card spot in the playoffs. Roger Staubach led the offense with 2,666 passing yards. In the first round of the playoffs, they traveled to Minnesota and won 17-14 on a late Drew Pearson touchdown. In the Conference Championship game, they went to Los Angeles and demolished the Rams, 37-7. Super Bowl X was Dallas’ third trip to the Super Bowl, previously losing in Super Bowl V but emerging victorious in Super Bowl VI.

Lynn Swann was this game’s biggest story. He had just one touchdown, but it was the game-winner that gave Pittsburgh their final margin late in the game. His four catches totaled 161 yards, and two of them came in spectacular fashion, going down as two of the most memorable receptions in Super Bowl history.

Dallas started the game’s scoring when Staubach found Pearson for a 29-yard score in the first quarter. Pittsburgh responded when Bradshaw hit Randy Grossman for a two-yard touchdown catch. The score was tied 7-7 after the first quarter. Over the next two quarters, the only scoring either team could put together was a Dallas 37-yard field goal by Toni Fritsch ten seconds into the second quarter.

The fourth quarter provided a little more drama. Three minutes into the quarter, Dallas faced a 4th-and-13 from their own 16-yard line. Punter Mitch Hoopes received the snap and lined up his punt. Pittsburgh’s Reggie Harrison fired through the line and blocked the punt. The ball soared back through Dallas’ end zone for a safety, shrinking Dallas’ lead to 10-9. After the ensuing free kick to the Steelers, they drove to the Dallas 20-yard line before settling for a 36-yard field goal by Roy Gerela for their first lead of the game, 12-10, with nine minutes remaining.

Looking to respond quickly, Dallas encountered disaster on the first play from scrimmage on their next drive. Staubach’s pass to Drew Pearson was intercepted by Pittsburgh’s Mike Wagner, who returned it to the Cowboys’ 7-yard line. The Cowboys’ defense managed to stifle the Steelers’ offense, and Pittsburgh had to settle for another Gerela field goal, giving them a 15-10 lead with seven minutes remaining.

After a Dallas three-and-out, Swann’s touchdown pushed Pittsburgh’s advantage to an insurmountable 21-10 with just 3:31 left. Staubach found Percy Howard for a 34-yard touchdown with just under two minutes left, and when the Steelers went three-and-out on their next drive, Dallas had a glimmer of hope. But Staubach’s throw into the end zone with 18 seconds left was intercepted by Glen Edwards, sealing the Cowboys’ fate.

Ranking The Super Bowls, #11: Super Bowl XLVII

(photo credit: youtube,com)

Super Bowl XLVII was one of the most exciting Super Bowls in recent memory. It had a little of everything, including brothers who happened to be head coaches for the respected teams, as well as a black out of the lights in the Superdome that shut down play. Not only was it an action packed game that came down to the wire, but it was also middle linebacker Ray Lewis' last game.

Super Bowl XLVII saw the Baltimore Ravens defeat the San Francisco 49ers 34-31, despite a late surge by San Francisco. It was the Ravens second Super Bowl title in franchise history, while the 49ers lost for the first time in six appearances. Joe Flacco threw for three touchdowns for the Ravens, helping his head coach, John Harbaugh, win his first Super Bowl by defeating his brother Jim, the 49ers head coach.

After Jacoby Jones of the Ravens return a kickoff for 108-yards for a touchdown to start the second half, giving Baltimore a 28-6 lead, the game seemed out of reach. However, moments later, half of the lights in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome went out due to a power outage, causing the game to be put on hold. The power outage came after a sack on 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick by Author Jones of the Ravens with 13:28 left in the third quarter. The outage caused a 34-minute delay.

After the delay, the 49ers went on a furious rally, scoring 17 straight points in just under five minutes to cut the Ravens lead to 28-23. Included in the flurry of points was a 31-yard touchdown pass from Kaepernick to wide receiver Michael Crabtree, as well as a six-yard touchdown run by running back Frank Gore.

Baltimore's kicker, Justin Tucker,  kicked a 19-yard field goal to give the Ravens a 31-23 lead with 12:54 left in the game. But on the next 49ers possession, they marched right down the field, scoring on Kaepernick's 15-yard touchdown run, leaving only 9:57 left on the clock. The score cut Baltimore's lead to 31-29, forcing Jim Harbaugh to go for a two-point conversion to try and tie the game. Unfortunately for the 49ers, Kaepernick could not connect with wide receiver, Randy Moss, allowing for the Ravens to hold on to their slim lead.

With 4:19 left to go in game, Ravens kicker Justin Tucker kicked a 38-yard field goal to give Baltimore a 34-29 lead, and some much needed breathing room. The 49ers, however, were able to drive down the field once again, and setting the stage for San Francisco to possibly take the lead. But unfortunately for San Francisco, they weren't able to capitalize on the drive, turning the ball over on downs. They were awarded a safety though when Ravens punter, Sam Koch, ran out of the end zone with only four seconds remaining in the game. But with that, Super Bowl XLVII was decided.

It was clear to the fans in the stadium, and those watching around the world, that Super Bowl XLVII was one of most exhilarating games they have ever watched. Quarterback Joe Flacco was named Super Bowl MVP, completing 22-of-33 passes for 287 yards with three touchdowns. Ray Lewis, the Ravens 13-time Pro Bowler, who was playing in his last game, collected seven tackles in his final game.

Colin Kaepernick of the 49ers finished with 302 yards passing, along with a touchdown and an interception. He also had 62 yards rushing. Running back Frank Gore added 110 yards rushing on 19 carries with one touchdown. Michael Crabtree caught five passes for 109 yards with a score, and Ravens wide receiver Anquan Boldin had six catches for 104 yards with a touchdown.

Ranking the Super Bowls, #12: Super Bowl XLV

(photo credit: post-gazette.com)

On Feb. 6, 2011 two of the NFL's most decorated teams faced off for a chance to add another Lombardi trophy to their trophy case.  From the AFC came the Pittsburgh Steelers, with their six Super Bowl titles, looking to add a seventh. On the NFC side was the Green Bay Packers with three Super Bowl titles, looking to get their fourth. They also featured two explosive offensives lead by two of the top tier quarterbacks in the league.  The Green Bay Packers were lead by Aaron Rodgers at quarterback who was dealing with replacing Brett Favre, a legend in himself.  The Pittsburgh Steelers were lead by Ben Roethlisberger. Roethlisberger was looking to get his third Super Bowl Championship under his belt after winning two already.

Green Bay came out quick, jumping to a 21-3 lead. But the Steelers scored a touchdown right before halftime to close the gap a little bit at 21-10.  They would keep getting closer and eventually close the gap to a 28-25 score in the fourth quarter.  The Packers kicker, Mason Crosby, kicked a field goal right before the two minute warning to put the team from Wisconsin up 31-25 on the team from Pittsburgh.  The Steelers were unable to score after that and the Packers won the game with the score 31-25.

Aaron Rodgers finally got the monkey off of his back as he now tied up Brett Favre's Super Bowl wins amount at one.  Rodgers was named Super Bowl MVP. He passed for 304 yards and three touchdowns.  The Packers grabbed their fourth Super Bowl victory.  Roethlisberger played pretty well, as well, throwing for 263 yards as well and two touchdowns but he also threw two interceptions.  Jordy Nelson was Rodgers favorite target throughout the game as he recorded nine receptions for 140 yards and a touchdown.

Stay tuned for the Super Bowl rankings, as the top 10 are about to be revealed.

New York Jets Sign Muhammad Wilkerson to Five-Year $86 Million Contract

(photo credit: sportingnews.com)

The New York Jets signed defensive lineman Muhammad Wilkerson to a five-year $86 million contract, prior to the 4 P.M. deadline on Friday for long-term deals for franchise-tagged players. According to what sources told ESPN’s Dan Graziano, Wilkerson will be getting $36.75 million in guaranteed money. The contract includes a $15 million signing bonus, and a $53.5 million injury guarantee. 

Wilkerson will be making an average of $17.2 million per season. The amount of money Wilkerson will make per season is the most in Jets franchise history, and his guaranteed money is the second most in Jets franchise history behind Darrelle Revis, who was guaranteed to make $39 million. The 26-year-old received the non-exclusive franchise tag on March 1, which meant he was allowed to talk to any team he wanted, but if he were to sign with any other team, that franchise would have to give two first round picks to the Jets. 

Wilkerson was unhappy about playing under the franchise tag, and he said that he considered skipping training camp. He told the New York Post that he felt unwanted by the Jets. Wilkerson missed the team’s offseason workouts and mandatory minicamp. Wilkerson made the Pro Bowl for the first time in his career after recording a team-high 12 sacks. Wilkerson also recorded 64 tackles and he forced two fumbles. 

Wilkerson broke his right leg in the final game of the season against Buffalo, which required surgery. Wilkerson was the Jets first round pick in 2011, and he’s been a starter since his rookie season. Wilkerson has compiled 36 sacks in five seasons with New York. The Jets figure to have a very formidable defensive line for a long time with Wilkerson, Sheldon Richardson, and 2015 first round pick Leonard Williams.