by Nick Ferraro

 1. Chicago Bears – The Bears showed some vulnerability on Monday, but still escaped with a win.  At least we know they’re human now.

2.      Indianapolis Colts – The Colts porous run defense gets a test Sunday in trying to stop Clinton Portis and the Skins.
3.      Denver Broncos – The Broncos appeared to have a preseason game plan in place on offense for the Raiders.  It didn’t matter with the way their defense is playing.
4.      San Diego Chargers – The Chargers moved to 4-1 for the year having lost the only game they’ve played against a decent team.  The trip to Kansas City is never easy for division opponents, and it should tell us more about the Chargers.
5.      Seattle Seahawks – The Seahawks established themselves as the leader in the NFC West with a gutsy performance on the road against the Rams.
6.      New England Patriots – The Pats have two very winnable road games before hosting the Colts.  I’m looking forward to that one.
7.      New Orleans Saints – The Saints won a tight game against a solid opponent Sunday.  That says a lot about this team and their chances to hold off Carolina.
8.      Philadelphia Eagles – Losing to New Orleans is certainly not the embarrassment it used to be, but giving up as many big plays as the Eagles did is a concern.
9.      Carolina Panthers – The Panthers are rounding into form along with the improved health of Steve Smith.
10.  Jacksonville Jaguars – Sunday’s game in Houston is a must-win for the Jags if they want us to continue believing they are an elite team.