Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

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Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)




Updated: December 6, 2011, 1:49 PM ET

The Final Stretch: NFL Playoff Picture
__________________________________________________

By Adam Schefter
ESPN.com





With one week left to play, we take a look at the playoff picture. Some slots have already been secure while others could go a number of different directions. Let's take a look at all of the possibilities.







HOME-FIELD ADVANTAGE

Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are still the front-runners to take the AFC, but with a loss and a win by the Buffalo Bills, we could have the Cinderella story of the 2011 season going from 5-11 to home-field advantage.






FIRST-ROUND BYE

Buffalo Bills
On the strength of a 6-game winning streak, the Bills find themselves poised to win the AFC East and earn a first-round bye with a victory over the 4-11 Miami Dolphins this Sunday.
Alternative scenarios:
Buffalo loss / New York win: New York Jets
Buffalo loss / New York loss / Cincinnati win: Cincinnati Bengals
Buffalo loss / New York loss / Baltimore win: Baltimore Ravens




DIVISION WINNERS

Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals and Ravens are tied for first, both at 10-5. Although Cincinnati holds the tie-breaker, it won't play any role as the two teams face each other in week 17. It's simple, win and you're in. The loser will have to hope for a Patriots loss in order to earn a wild card spot.

Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs can clinch the division with either a victory against New England on Sunday, or Broncos loss to the Jets. Neither team appears to pose a serious threat at making a championship run, as both have been erratic throughout the course of the season.




WILD CARD WINNERS

New York Jets
The Jets are in line to make the playoffs unless absolutely nothing goes in their favor. With a win, though, they settle all doubts and also stand a chance at winning the AFC East and a first-round bye, should the Bills lose.

Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens will be closely watching the score of the Patriots vs Chiefs game earlier in the day. If the Patriots win, Baltimore's only shot at the playoffs come with a victory over Cincinnati on Sunday night. With a New England loss, however, they clinch the wild card spot before the game even begins.
Alternative Scenarios:
New England win: New England Patriots
New England loss / Cincinnati loss: Cincinnati Bengals














HOME-FIELD ADVANTAGE

Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons have already clinched home-field advantage regardless of Sunday's outcomes. The question now becomes, do they rest their starters the entire game, or play the for half to prevent rust?






FIRST-ROUND BYE

San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers currently hold all tie-breakers should they find themselves tied with another NFC team.
Alternative Scenarios:
San Francisco loss / New York win: New York Giants
San Francisco loss / New York loss / Green Bay win: Green Bay Packers
San Francisco loss / New York loss / Green Bay loss / Dallas win: Dallas Cowboys




DIVISION WINNERS

New York Giants
With a win, the New York Giants clinch the NFC East regardless of what happens in the Cowboys vs Seahawks match-up. However, with a loss the Cowboys can clinch the division.

Green Bay Packers
The Packers have already clinched their division and our now only playing for a first-round bye. Unfortunately, they're at a disadvantage because they need both the 49ers and the Giants to lose in order to have a chance. At least they have home-field in the wild card round, though.




WILD CARD WINNERS

Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys still have a chance at winning their division, but as it stands now they have at the very least clinched a wild card birth.

Seattle Seahawks
This spot is there's if they win on Sunday. They've got their hands full though against the Dallas Cowboys, and if they lose there's a laundry list of potential suitors.
Alternative Scenarios:
Seattle loss / Arizona win: Arizona Cardinals
Seattle loss / Arizona loss / Chicago win: Chicago Bears
Seattle loss / Arizona loss / Chicago loss / New Orleans win: New Orleans Saints
Seattle loss / Arizona loss / Chicago loss / New Orleans loss / Carolina win: Carolina Panthers

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

Week 17 Games

(4-11) @ (8-7)

(7-8) @ (6-9)

(5-10) @ (8-7)

(12-3) @ (6-9)

(9-6) @ (8-7)

(8-7) @ (8-7)

(10-5) @ (5-10)

(4-11) @ (11-4)

(12-3) @ (4-11)

(10-5) @ (4-11)

(7-8) @ (10-5)

(10-5) @ (7-8)

(6-9) @ (3-12)

(3-12) @ (6-9)

(10-5) @ (9-6)

(10-5) @ (10-5)

Games with playoff implications are highlighted

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

Week 17 Preview

Miami Dolphins (4-11) @ Buffalo Bills (11-4)

Forecast: 22°

Sunday, January 1, 1:00PM
Tee Maker Motors Field, Orchard Park, NY

Injury Report
Miami Dolphins:
[Doubtful] LB Cameron Wake - Broken Ribs
[OUT] C Joe Berger - Torn Shoulder Labrum - 1 week
[OUT] C Jake Grove - Broken Collarbone - 4 weeks
[OUT] TE Anthony Fasano - Broken Jaw - Out for season

Buffalo Bills:
[Probable] CB Zackary Bowman - Knee
[OUT] LG Andy Levitre - Broken Collarbone - 1 weeks
[OUT] LB Thomas Howard - Torn Tricep - Out for season


Key Facts

4 game losing streak	6 game winning streak
Brandon Marshall 70 Receptions 798 Yards, 4 TDs	Fred Jackson 1,512 Total Yards 12 Touchdowns
Reggie Wells starting at center because of injuries	32nd in the NFL in 3rd down %

Coverage:




Analyst Picks:

Dan Marino

The Bills are the hottest team in the NFL right now. This pains me to say this but I'm taking the Bills in this one.



Boomer Esiason

Yeah, the Dolphins have nothing to play for at this point other than pride. The Bills have shown their will to win these last 6 weeks, I think they keep the streak rolling.



Bill Cowher

That was an impressive drive at the end of last week to lead the Bills downfield, Leinart is really coming into his own as a quarterback. Add to that the way this defense is playing, Buffalo is a contender.



Shannon Sharpe

Simply put, I'm impressed. Although I think Buffalo's gotten by off an easy schedule and fluke wins, but they should win this game regardless.



James Brown

You guys touched on all of it, this is a pretty easy game to pick. Bills win this, the division, and a first-round bye. Today's forecast, pigs... flying?

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

Spoiler Alert!
Brown and the Dolphins stole the show in this overtime thriller

Ronnie Brown celebrates after scoring his game-winning touchdown in overtime.

BUFFALO, NY -- It was all in place. The Bills would beat the last place Miami Dolphins and then celebrate their first AFC East title since 1995. They'd enjoy an extra week off to prepare for the divisional playoff game at home and have time to heal any lingering injuries. There was only one problem; the Miami Dolphins had a better idea.

CJ Spiller carried the ball 12 times for 86 yards

In a back-and-forth ballgame that saw several lead changes, it was evident that the Dolphins simply wanted to win more. At one point, the Bills sat starter Matt Leinart in favor of Colt McCoy, with the intention of preserving him for the playoffs. This move didn't backfire as McCoy was completed all 5 of his passes before being replaced by Leinart, but it just speaks to the mentality that Buffalo had surrounding this game. Leinart started the game off with 8 straight completions, before throwing his first incompletion in the form of an interception to Koa Misi. At the time of the substitution, Buffalo only had a 4 point lead near the end of the 3rd quarter. Once Miami tied the game, Leinart was inserted back into the lineup for the remainder of the 4th quarter and overtime.

After Fred Jackson had a tough time getting the running game going, the Bills started giving second-year running back CJ Spiller carries and he saw much greater success running the ball. Rookie linebacker Logan Ellis also had a game to write home about, as he earned the most playing time he's had all season and got his first sack.

Ronnie Brown scores on a 36 yard run to win the game

Ultimately, Ronnie Brown and the Miami offense were able to take advantage of the second-string players in the game tied the game at 23 with 1:41 remaining in regulation. The Bills attempted to make a comeback with a now rusty Leinart at quarterback, but after a sack put them in a 2nd & 24 hole, they were forced to punt the ball away on 4th down to send the game into overtime.

The overtime coin toss landed in favor of Miami, but thanks in part to a Kyle Williams sack, the drive ended a 3-and-out. After the punt, the Bills saw themselves with favorable field position starting at the Miami 44, but Randy Starks got a sack of his own, forcing a 3rd-and-20. The next play resulted in an interception, forcing that would put the Dolphins on their own 20. On the first play of the drive, Chad Henne was able to connect with Brandon Marshall for a 37-yard completion to reach the Buffalo 43. A couple of plays later, Ronnie Brown broke free of Buffalo defenders and carried the ball 36 yards to the end zone for the triumphant victory.

Since the New York Jets went on to defeat the Denver Broncos, this loss resulted in the Buffalo Bills winning only a wild card spot in this year's playoffs. Certainly a disappointment to miss out on a bye, the Bills may have lucked out as they face the 8-8 Chiefs, whom the Bills have already defeated, in the first round. Their first round matchup will take place next Sunday, January 8th at 4:30PM on CBS.


Snap Shots


Left-to-right/Top-to-bottom
1. Lawrence Wilson forces yet another fumble with a big hit on a kick return.
2. Marlon Moore scores a second quarter touchdown.
3. Torri Bonner takes a pass 46 yards for a score on the strength of good blocking by Bills receivers.
4. Matt Leinart throws his first pick in _ game to Koa Misi.
5. Paul Posluszny prevents a long Ronnie Brown run from reaching the end zone.
6. Vontae Davis steps in front of a pass to make Leinart's second interception of the day.
7. Roscoe Parrish finally has a kick return TD that's not called back due to penalty.
8. Logan Ellis earns the first sack of his young career.
9. Brian Hartline catches the game-tying reception late in the 4th quarter.
10. The teams partake in the overtime coin toss.
11. Brandon Marshall shakes Donte Whitner for a 37-yard pickup that landed the Dolphins in Buffalo territory.

The Official
Southwest Airlines "Wanna Get Away?"
Moment of the Game

Jordunn Williams attempts to lateral the ball to....nobody...on a kick return. The Miami Dolphins would recover the fumble

Box Score

NFL Scoreboard - Miami Dolphins (4-11) at Buffalo Bills (11-4)

January 1, 2012 1 2 3 4 OT F Miami Dolphins 0 13 3 7 6 29 Buffalo Bills 3 7 10 3 0 23 Top Performers Miami Dolphins - Stats R. Brown - 21 car, 145 yds, 1 TD C. Henne - 11/19, 179 yds, 2 TD Buffalo Bills - Stats T. Bonner - 2 rec, 65 yds, 1 td R. Parrish - 92 yd kickoff return for TD	Team Stats Comparison MIA BUF First Downs 11 14 3rd Down Efficiency 1-11 6-14 4th Down Efficiency 0-0 0-0 Total Yards 335 324 Passing Yards 158 188 Rushing Yards 177 136 Penalties-Penalty Yards 1-15 2-20 Turnovers 0 3 Time of Possession 28:12 39:13
Scoring Summary First Quarter MIA BUF BUF 2:46 M. Crosby, 49 Yd FG 0 3 Second Quarter MIA BUF MIA 12:40 M. Moore 21 Yd pass from C. Henne (Carpenter) 7 3 BUF 8:09 T. Bonner 49 Yd pass from M. Leinart (Crosby) 7 10 MIA 1:55 D. Carpenter, 30 Yd FG 10 10 MIA 0:02 D. Carpenter, 20 Yd FG 13 10 Third Quarter MIA BUF BUF 10:05 M. Crosby, 20 Yd FG 13 13 MIA 2:05 D. Carpenter, 48 Yd FG 16 13 BUF 1:54 R. Parrish, returned kickoff 92 Yds (Crosby) 16 20 Fourth Quarter MIA BUF BUF 8:03 M. Crosby, 33 Yd FG 16 23 MIA 1:41 B. Hartline 7 Yd pass from C. Henne (Carpenter) 23 23 Overtime MIA BUF MIA 9:54 R. Brown, 36 Yd run 29 23
Miami Dolphins Passing C/ATT YDS TD INT C. Henne 11/19 179 2 0 Rushing ATT YDS AVG TD R. Brown 21 145 6.9 1 R. Williams 8 36 4.5 0 N. Wynn 1 -4 -4.0 0 Receiving REC YDS AVG TD B. Marshall 3 81 27.0 0 R. Brown 2 26 13.0 0 R. Wallace 2 28 14.0 0 M. Moore 1 21 21.0 1 B. Hartline 1 7 7.0 1 Defense TKL SACK INT TD P. Wheeler 8 0 0 0 W. Allen 7 0 0 0 R. Starks 7 2 0 0 K. Dansby 6 0 0 0 K. Langford 4 1 0 0 K. Misi 4 0 1 0 V. Davis 0 0 1 0 Kick Returning NO. YDS TD LONG M. Moore 6 133 0 23 V. Davis 1 21 0 21 Punt Returning NO. YDS TD LONG M. Moore 2 11 0 7 Kicking FGM/A XPM/A PTS LONG D. Carpenter 3/3 2/2 11 49 Punting NO. YDS AVG IN 20 B. Colquitt 7 277 39.5 0 Buffalo Bills Passing C/ATT YDS TD INT M. Leinart 15/22 189 1 2 C. McCoy 5/5 22 0 0 Rushing ATT YDS AVG TD C. Spiller 12 86 7.1 0 F. Jackson 12 13 1.0 0 D. McFadden 2 12 6.0 0 Receiving REC YDS AVG TD L. Evans 5 43 8.6 0 D. McFadden 3 40 13.3 0 T. Bonner 2 65 32.5 1 A. Bryant 2 22 11.0 0 C. Spiller 2 8 4.0 0 Defense TKL SACK INT TD J. Byrd 6 0 0 0 P. Posluszny 6 0 0 0 K. Williams 5 1 0 0 L. Ellis 4 1 0 0 M. Stroud 2 1 0 0 Kick Returning NO. YDS TD LONG R. Parrish 5 158 1 92 J. Stupar 1 5 0 5 Punt Returning NO. YDS TD LONG J. Williams 6 52 0 16 Kicking FGM/A XPM/A PTS LONG M. Crosby 3/4 2/2 11 50 Punting NO. YDS AVG IN 20 B. Moorman 4 179 44.7 2

OperationSports.com

Telford's Take:
This was a disappointing loss (aren't they all?), we took this game far too lightly. Hopefully we got this out of our systems and can come back strong against the Chiefs next week. Jackson just had an off day, he will be our starter. I was impressed with Leinart's play outside of the picks, both of those were just poor decisions. I have a feeling our defense will be back to its turnover-forcing self in the playoffs.

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

Week 17 Recap

Games in Gray = Overtime

	10
	23

	3
	20

	22
	17

	20
	23

	34
	24

	20
	26

	16
	21

	29
	23

	26
	13

	28
	34

	12
	31

	37
	27

	10
	17

	13
	24

	20
	10

	20
	14

NFL Standings

NFL Standings - 2011 Season

AFC East	W	L	T	PCT	DIV	PF	PA
y-New York Jets	11	5		68.8	4-2	384	310
x-Buffalo Bills	11	5		68.8	3-3	424	311
x-New England Patriots	10	6		62.5	4-2	441	346
Miami Dolphins	5	11		31.3	1-5	260	346
AFC North	W	L	T	PCT	DIV	PF	PA
y-Baltimore Ravens	11	5		68.8	4-2	366	286
Cincinnati Bengals	10	6		62.5	4-2	277	262
Pittsburgh Steelers	7	9		43.8	3-3	229	238
Cleveland Browns	3	13		18.8	1-5	278	384
AFC South	W	L	T	PCT	DIV	PF	PA
z-Indianapolis Colts	13	3		81.3	5-1	441	291
Houston Texans	7	9		43.8	2-4	320	321
Tennessee Titans	7	9		43.8	2-4	266	319
Jacksonville Jaguars	4	12		25.0	3-3	270	370
AFC West	W	L	T	PCT	DIV	PF	PA
y-Kansas City Chiefs	8	8		50.0	4-2	293	310
Oakland Raiders	7	9		43.8	3-3	282	353
Denver Broncos	7	9		43.8	2-4	385	332
San Diego Chargers	6	10		37.5	3-3	312	369
NFC East	W	L	T	PCT	DIV	PF	PA
y-Dallas Cowboys	11	5		68.8	4-2	356	303
x-New York Giants	10	6		62.5	6-0	357	341
Washington Redskins	7	9		43.8	2-4	318	327
Philadelphia Eagles	4	12		25.0	0-6	280	397
NFC North	W	L	T	PCT	DIV	PF	PA
y-Green Bay Packers	10	6		62.5	4-2	389	328
Chicago Bears	8	8		50.0	3-3	308	326
Minnesota Vikings	6	10		37.5	3-3	285	291
Detroit Lions	5	11		31.3	2-4	319	377
NFC South	W	L	T	PCT	DIV	PF	PA
z-Atlanta Falcons	12	4		75.0	5-1	355	297
New Orleans Saints	8	8		50.0	4-2	401	343
Carolina Panthers	8	8		50.0	2-4	331	343
Tampa Bay Buccaneers	6	10		37.5	1-5	279	378
NFC West	W	L	T	PCT	DIV	PF	PA
y-San Francisco 49ers	11	5		68.8	5-1	348	267
x-Arizona Cardinals	9	7		56.3	3-3	322	293
Seattle Seahawks	9	7		56.3	3-3	292	288
St. Louis Rams	4	12		25.0	2-4	255	331

OperationSports.com

x - clinched wild card, y - clinched division, z - clinched home-field advantage

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)



2011 NFL Final Power Rankings
__________________________________________________

ESPN.com

As another NFL regular season is in the books, we take this opportunity to wrap up who excelled and who hopes to have a great take with a top 10 pick in the draft. The first round of the playoffs look to have some great match-ups, as the Bills take on the higher seeded but lower ranked Chiefs, the Cowboys are clearly favored against the 12th ranked Cardinals, and the Patriots-Ravens and Giants-Packers games appear to be very evenly matched. This weekend has all the makings of the start to another year of great January football.

Editor's note: "LW" indicates each team's ranking in the previous edition of the 2011 Power Rankings.

2011 Power Rankings: Final

	RK (LW)	TEAM	REC	COMMENT
	1 (1)	Colts	13-3	Always a favorite, it should come as no surprise that the Colts are at #1 and threatening to be the first Super Bowl home team. (Kuharsky)
	2 (2)	Falcons	12-4	Hot off a breakout season, the Falcons are the early favorites to represent the NFC in Super Bowl XLVI. (Sando)
	3 (5)	Jets	11-5	The Jets rode a stingy defense on their way to the AFC East title, Mark Sanchez will determine how far they get in the playoffs. (Clayton)
	4 (6)	Ravens	11-5	The Ravens got hot towards the end of the season and now find themselves representing the AFC North in the playoffs. (Walker)
	5 (3)	49ers	11-5	Does Charlie Whitehurst have what it takes to lead a team in the playoffs? (Sando)
	6 (10)	Cowboys	11-5	The Cowboys snuck up on people due to the Giants leading most of the year, but their high-powered offense will be tough to stop. (Clayton)
	7 (11)	Patriots	10-6	Never count the Patriots out as a threat in the playoffs, regardless if they barely made it there in the first place. (Clayton)
	8 (4)	Bills	11-5	Despite finishing the season 6-1, there are still doubts about Buffalo's ability to compete in January. The Miami game was a perfect showcase. (Clayton)
	9 (8)	Packers	10-6	After a hot and cold season, the Packers are unsure which Aaron Rodgers their going to get in the post-season. (Walker)
	10 (7)	Giants	10-6	The Giants got off to a slow start, then got hot and looked like they had the NFC East locked, then blew it. Raises questions about the playoffs. (Clayton)
	11 (9)	Bengals	10-6	Losing a "win and you're in" is never a fun way to end a season. Better luck next year. (Walker)
	12 (15)	Cardinals	9-7	Arizona wound up the victor in a crowded wild card race. However, there are concerns over the quarterback position. (Sando)
	13 (13)	Chiefs	8-8	Winning the worst division in football has got to be such a bittersweet claim, especially if they get eliminated first round. (Kuharsky)
	14 (12)	Seahawks	9-7	They could have sealed a wild card birth with a win, instead they have to start wondering if now is the time to find the heir to Matt Hasselbeck. (Sando)
	15 (14)	Saints	8-8	Had they not lost Drew Brees to injury and lost week 16, they might have found themselves in the playoffs. They need to find a reliable halfback this off-season. (Sando)
	16 (16)	Bears	8-8	Maybe they'll finally get Cutler some receivers to throw to now that their dormant offense caused them to miss the playoffs again. (Walker)
	17 (17)	Panthers	8-8	How long will they continue to sequester two every-down backs in the same backfield? Move one for receivers or O-line help. (Sando)
	18 (18)	Steelers	7-9	Ben Roethlisberger might be on his way out the door after a disappointing season. (Walker)
	19 (19)	Broncos	7-9	Inconsistency killed them this year, but they should take solace in the receiver duo of Demaryius Thomas and Victor Cruz. (Kuharsky)
	20 (20)	Texans	7-9	Until they get some semblance of defense, they will continue to have disappointing seasons. (Kuharsky)
	21 (23)	Redskins	7-9	The 'Skins need to find future replacements for McNabb and Portis fast before their talented defense is on its way out as well. (Clayton)
	22 (21)	Titans	7-9	The Titans sure hope second-year quarterback Rusty Smith is the future of the franchise. (Kuharsky)
	23 (24)	Raiders	7-9	Will Al Davis sell the team? Or continue to neglect to draft a franchise quarterback? (Kuharsky)
	24 (22)	Chargers	6-10	How can such a talented team lose so many games? Perhaps they should bring Schottenheimer back in a Parcells/Dolphins role. (Kuharsky)
	25 (27)	Dolphins	5-11	It's tough playing in such a crowded division, but they have most of the tools to be a contender next year. (Clayton)
	26 (25)	Vikings	6-10	Luke McCown? No. Chad Pennington? No. Joe Webb? Not likely. They need to find a quarterback, and fast if they want to keep AP happy. (Walker)
	27 (26)	Buccaneers	6-10	Is it too early to give up on Josh Freeman? How about Raheem Morris? All I know is something needs to change. (Sando)
	28 (29)	Lions	5-11	Talented young pieces in place, how many more good drafts do they need in order to leave the basement? (Walker)
	29 (28)	Jaguars	4-12	Gene Smith vows to make drastic changes this off-season, it's safe to assume David Garrard and the QB position tops that list. (Kuharsky)
	30 (31)	Eagles	5-11	Philadelphia had a surprisingly awful season, they need to take a serious look at their defense and Kevin Kolb before next year. (Clayton)
	31 (30)	Jaguars	4-12	Offensive line, defense, and #1 receiver are all areas that need to be addressed this off-season if they'll have a chance to finally compete next year. (Sando)
	32 (32)	Browns	3-13	At least they look to have a franchise quarterback in Ryan Parker. Unfortunately, that's about all they have. (Walker)

[bryanjayyy]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

Tough loss, but nice job on the power rankings.

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

Tough loss, but nice job on the power rankings.

Thank you, took a bit of trial and error with the html code but I think I've got it looking pretty close to ESPN's. Hopefully someone can put together a table generator for it so it's easier to do and so other people can use it in their franchises.

[antixnette]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

Probably the best franchise thread I've ever seen.

Good Job.

[Nunyerbiz]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

I agree with jayyy, nice touch with the power rankings. That's one handsome fake-ESPN table you've assembled. It had me fooled at first, seeing the Buffalo Bills dropping from the fourth spot gave me some flashbacks... For a second I thought it was 1991 and I was back in high school.

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)




Updated: January 6, 2012, 7:06 PM ET

2011 NFL Award Winners
__________________________________________________

Associated Press


Most Valuable Player

Peyton Manning - QB
Indianapolis Colts
Even though 2011 was Manning's worst statistical season in recent memory, he still managed to lead the Colts to having the best record in the NFL yet again. From a statistical perspective, it could be argued that Manning was outperformed by Tom Brady and Michael Turner, but ultimately the Associated Press determined he was a more valuable component to his team and awarded him with his record 5th MVP.
86.7 QB Rating | 56% Completion | 4,648 Yards | 38 Touchdowns
(Runner Up: QB Tom Brady - NE)


Offensive Player of the Year

Tom Brady - QB
New England Patriots
The everlasting Manning vs Brady debate will continue to be fueled thanks to the Associated Press awarding the two distinguished quarterbacks as Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year, respectively. Although some feel Brady was more deserving of the MVP this season, OPOY is not award to receive either.
99.4 QB Rating | 63% Completion | 4,315 Yards | 38 Touchdowns
(Runner Up: QB Peyton Manning - IND)


Defensive Player of the Year

DeMarcus Ware - LB
Dallas Cowboys
Many felt Ware was snubbed of Defensive Player of the Year honors when he corralled 20 sacks in an impressive 2008 campaign. Since then, although his sack numbers haven't reached that point again, his penchant for playing hard-nosed defense has continued. All that talent and determination has finally manifested into a season the Associated Press deemed worthy of the DPOY award.
97 Tackles | 12.5 Sacks | 2 Interceptions | 1 Touchdown
(Runner Up: LB Sean Merrigan - NYG)


Offensive Rookie of the Year

Khamari Dansby - WR
Buffalo Bills
Picking Dansby as Rookie of the Year came as a surprise to a lot of sports writers. Many predicted the award would go to 4th overall pick Ryan Parker, quarterback of the Cleveland Browns. Instead, this 3rd-round big play threat earned it based on his 6 touchdowns and noteworthy 21.5 yards per reception average for the rejuvenated Bills.
36 Receptions | 773 Yards | 6 Touchdowns
(Runner Up: QB Ryan Parker - CLE)


Defensive Rookie of the Year

Sean Merrigan - LB
New York Giants
The Giants got quite the ball-hawk when they selected Merrigan in last spring's draft. Even as a rookie, he came in second place in the race for defensive player of the year, fueled by his 133 tackles and 6 sacks. Merrigan may have already cemented himself among the top linebackers in the business with such a strong rookie campaign.
133 Tackles | 6 Sacks | 2 Fumbles Forced | 1 Fumble Recovery
(Runner Up: LB Joseph Denard - TB)


Coach of the Year

Jim Caldwell
Indianapolis Colts
After taking over the head coaching position in 2009, Caldwell has managed to keep the Colts playing in the top tier of teams with as smooth of a transition as one can experience. A third consecutive winning season, in which the Colts finished with the best record in the league, has earned him his first Coach of the Year award.
13-3 Record
(Runner Up: Mike Smith - ATL)


Best QB: Peyton Manning - IND / Tom Brady - NE
Best HB: Michael Turner - ATL / Fred Jackson - BUF
Best WR: Reggie Wayne - IND / Andre Johnson - HOU
Best OL: Jeff Saturday - IND / Nick Mangold - NYJ
Best DL: Robert Mathis - IND / Antwan Odom - CIN
Best LB: DeMarcus Ware - DAL / Sean Merrigan - NYG
Best DB: Darrelle Revis - NYJ / Morgan Burnett - GB
Best Kicker: Ryan Longwell - PIT / Nate Kaeding - SD

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

Probably the best franchise thread I've ever seen.

Good Job.

Thanks man that means a lot. Glad you like it

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)



NFL Expert Picks - Wild Card Round


Each week on ESPN.com, the brain trust of Bristol University convenes and our experts offer their predictions for the upcoming slate of NFL games.

NFL Expert Picks - Wild Card Round

	Allen	Golic	Hoge	Jaworski	Mortensen	Schefter	Schlereth	Wickersham	Accuscore	Pick 'em
NE @ BAL Sat 4:30PM
ARI @ DAL Sat 8:00PM
BUF @ KC Sun 4:30PM
NYG @ GB Sun 8:00PM

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

Wild Card Round Preview

New England Patriots (10-6) @ Baltimore Ravens (11-5)

Forecast: 26°

Saturday, January 7, 2012 4:30PM
Vandelay World Bank Field, Baltimore, MD

Injury Report
New England Patriots:
[OUT] LB Jerod Mayo - Broken Hand - 3 weeks
[OUT] LB Tully Banta-Cain - Compound Fracture - Out for season
[OUT] SS James Sanders - Broken Jaw - Out for season

Baltimore Ravens:
[OUT] CB Domonique Foxworth - Broken Jaw - Out for season
[OUT] LT Rashad Butler - Torn Groin Muscle - Out for season
[OUT] WR David Reed - Torn Groin Muscle - Out for season
[OUT] LT Michael Oher - Torn Pectoral Muscle - Out for season

Key Playmakers

Tom Brady	Cedric Benson	Wes Welker
Quarterback	Halfback	Wide Receiver
99.4 QB Rating 63% Completions 4,315 Yards 38 TD / 12 INT	334 Carries 1,180 Yards 3.5 Average 7 Touchdowns	86 Receptions 1,236 Yards 14.3 Average 7 Touchdowns

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Joe Flacco	Ray Rice	Anquan Boldin
Quarterback	Halfback	Wide Receiver
99.6 QB Rating 64% Completions 3,587 Yards 24 TD / 6 INT	321 Carries 1,121 Yards 3.4 Average 11 Touchdowns	87 Receptions 1,192 Yards 13.7 Average 10 Touchdowns

Coverage:




Analyst Picks:

Dan Marino

Patriots in the post-season? I don't care how many games they lost during the season, this team is as capable of dominating a playoff game as any team. I think they're making a run for another title.



Boomer Esiason

This game is going to go down to the wire, classic match-up of high octane offense against smash-mouth defense. I like this Baltimore team but New England just has that valuable playoff experience.



Bill Cowher

Defense, and being able to control the tempo by running the ball--that's how playoff games are won. Baltimore edges New England in both of those categories, I say they take this one but it'll be one heck of a game.



Shannon Sharpe

Wooo, this kind of match-up is what NFL playoff football is all about. Like Boomer and Dan touched on though, this New England team has more playoff experience than any other team. That's what is going to take them over the top in this game.



James Brown

The Ravens are the defending champs! If that's not experience I don't know what is.

[bichettehappens]

Re: Unfinished Business: Buffalo Bills Story (Madden 11 Franchise)

Wild Card Round Preview

Arizona Cardinals (9-7) @ Dallas Cowboys (11-5)

Forecast: 71°

Saturday, January 7, 2012 8:00PM
Scarn Paper Co. Dome, Arlington, TX

Injury Report
Arizona Cardinals:
[OUT] LB O'Brien Schofield - Torn Tricep - 6 weeks
[OUT] QB Matt Moore - Compound Fracture - Out for season
[OUT] HB Larod Stephens-Howling - Broken Jaw - Out for season

Dallas Cowboys:
[OUT] FS Danny McCray - Dislocated Ankle - 2 weeks
[OUT] LB DeMarcus Ware - Broken Ribs - 2 weeks
[OUT] LG Leonard Davis - Fractured Hip - Out for season
[OUT] RG Deuce Lutui - Fractured Elbow - Out for season
[OUT] C Phil Costa - Torn Pectoral Muscle - Out for season

Key Playmakers

Beanie Wells	Larry Fitzgerald	Darnell Dockett
Halfback	Wide Receiver	Defensive Tackle
284 Carries 1,174 Yards 4.1 Average 8 Touchdowns	91 Receptions 1,101 Yards 12.0 average 6 Touchdowns	57 Tackles 11 Tackle Assists 1 Tackle For Loss 16 Sacks

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Tony Romo	Miles Austin	Dez Bryant
Quarterback	Wide Receiver	Wide Receiver
81.4 QB Rating 59% Completions 4,075 Yards 28 TD / 22 INT	107 Receptions 1,409 Yards 13.1 Average 8 Touchdowns	69 Receptions 797 Yards 11.5 Average 7 Touchdowns

Coverage:



Analyst Picks:

Terry Bradshaw

This Cowboys team is just too stacked. They won't even have DeMarcus Ware this week, and yet still that defense is scary. Provided Romo can avoid mistakes they should win this one easily.



Howie Long

Yeah the name of the game in the playoffs is defense, and that Dallas pass rush is just going to be too tough for Derek Anderson to handle. Then factor in Romo, Austin, Bryant, and Witten on the other side of the ball... This is a solid team.



Jimmy Johnson

Even though Paul Pasqualoni's in his first year as head coach of the Cowboys, I think his team is talented enough to carry them through this round. It will be interesting to see if he gets out-coached in later rounds, though.



Michael Strahan

It pains me to say this, you know I hate picking Dallas in games, but they should win this one. On paper they're the superior team, although you never know, anything can happen in the playoffs...



Curt Menefee

This one's looking unanimous, just too many weapons on both sides of the ball.