It didn't take long into coach Sonny Weaver's first game heading up the Buccaneers to learn what all the talk about magic is about. In the first quarter of the Buccaneers game against the Bengals, starting QB Jameis Winston went down with broken collarbone. While coach Weaver was a bit concerned the players knew they;d be okay, it was Fitzmagic time. In walked the13 year journeyman vet to run the offense and run the offense he did. While the team fell short in overtime it was not because of the play at the QB position. Fitzpatrick turned in an impressive 224 yard 2 TD performance. While the team came up short, coach Weaver felt much better about the outlook going forward.

After a full week with starter resp Fitzpatrick turned on the magic as he led the team to Carolina where his performance was nothing short of fantastic. 18/22 for 324 yards 3 TDs and no INTs was the start line on the day and even that becomes more impressive when you consider he was constantly under seige getting sacked 6 times on the day. "Ryan is a true professional" Head coach Sonny Weaver said. Coach Weaver continued "We feel good about what Ryan brings to the table, and we believe we won't miss a beat as we continue our march towards a playoff berth".

With some big match ups coming up Fitzpatrick will need to keep the magic coming. Of the Bucs next four opponents three are currently playoff caliber teams. The only question for the locker room however isn't if Fitzpatrick can get the job done, it's simply how magical will he be doing it?

Finally the last group is up. This group is the toughest, but also somewhat suprising when you see the teams that fall to the end.

21. Timbo –Chiefs: What if Timbo feels like there is unfinished business in KC?

You can’t deny what Timbo has done this cycle in taking over the chiefs, but up to this writing he hasn’t quite kicked in the door on the MBL title yet. In Madden 18 it may be worth one last run to see if he can pull it off. A good, but costly, secondary highlights a defense with solid pass rushing options to boot. On offense young, fast, but inexperienced weapons is the name of the game. The QB of the future appears to be on the roster with Patrick Mahomes, but it could take a year or two to get him up to speed.

22. Playa -Panthers: What if Playa doesn’t think his QB is a bitch?

Playa is not one to take the politically correct approach, so neither are we when picking his team. Playa has had his fair share of struggles in MBL, but it did appear he found at least some success with Cam Newton. For the sake of this mock we assume Playa can live with Newton and he finds himself running the Panthers in the NFC South. New weapons McCaffrey and Samuel add much needed speed to an offense full of bigger slower weapons. On defense the front 7 is stout, but Thomas Davis will need to be replaced sooner than later.

23. Pricy – Giants:  What if the old lady down at the old folk’s home likes Frank Sinatra?

Pricy finds himself listening to “New York, New York” way too often leading to his eventual destination in the big apple for 18. Pricy shouldn’t be too bummed out about his situation, besides the whole grandma thing, as the Giants have some pieces to work with. If you can get past the Eli Manning contract and skill set there are some receiving weapons to be had with OBJ, Marshall, and Sheppard. On defense a top notch secondary combined with a pair of good defensive ends make the Giants a surprise to fall to #23 in the selection order.

24. Bastin – Eagles: What if Justin had a team he cared about more than pool?

Well then maybe he’d play his games in a timely fashion, which is good for everyone involved. The Eagles have a lot to love, especially for an Eagles fan like Justin. Alshon Jeffrey comes in to give the underrated Carson Wentz a legit #1 option. The offensive line will start the cycle very solid, but will find themselves getting old quickly if not watched closely. On defense the D line is one of the top units in the league, but there will be questions on the outside that must be answered in order to find any meaningful success.

25. Drako – Rams: What if Drako goes back to where it all started?

Could it be?! The return of the Drako defense back where it all started? It could happen, but I have to wonder what the move to a 3-4 means for this projection. Aaron Donald is a beast no matter the system he is in, but outside of that the rest of the defense will need a lot of work. I’m not sure Jared Goff will be the answer in LA long term, but Drako will get a chance to find out in year one with few other options on the roster. Weapons on the offensive side are limited to Gurley and Austin, but Kupp could emerge as a reliable slot WR in year 2.

26. JY – Seahawks: What if JY is the real 13^th man?

JY has had his struggles in MBL but has been relatively solid on the defensive side of the ball. Give him the Legion of Boom and the 12^th man, well you might just have a team that can compete in the NFC West. Defensively, little has to be said about the super powered Seahawks. Offensively the team has weapons in Graham and Baldwin but the line is one of the bottom five in the league. Russell Wilson will be running for his life at times if the line doesn’t find itself upgrading year 1.

27.  EricG – Broncos: What if everyone was a mile high for passing on the Broncos?

As we hit the home stretch of the mock I was surprised to see the Denver Bronco’s here at 27. A team that has historically went much earlier has fallen into obscurity. Eric could be set up with a dominant D and reliable weapons from day 1. The top CB duo in the league Harris and Talib will be a dominate tandem for a couple seasons while Von Miller wreaks havoc on opposing QB’s. The main question in Denver is, who is playing QB?

28. Hop – Vikings: What if Hop isn’t full of s***?

Nuff said, here they are at 28…..put up or shut up! Bomber, Gub, Bob, and you…you really want to do this?

29. Serpent – Cardinals: What if Serp didn’t care his team needed walkers to get down the field?

Then he would be in Luck, because these guys are old! When you look up and down this roster you see a lot of guys coming up, or going past, thirty years old. The good news is this roster is setup to compete year one, just don’t look much further past there. On defense there are young stars that will survive the exodus to join the AARP in Peterson and Mathieu. Offensively Palmer and Fitzgerald may have one more run in them, but the focus of this team should be one of the premier backs in the league; David Johnson.

30. Markov –Saints: What if “Ain’ts” aren’t as bad as we think?

I have the Saints landing down here at #30, but when you look at their roster I could actually see them much higher. Now granted Drew Brees won’t last long and his contract is an issue, overall they aren’t horrible. The defense has some big question marks, but when you look at what’s available on offense this team should be able to score some points.

31. JTerrio – Colts: What if you had to choose between a s*** sandwich and a turd burger?

As they say six in one hand, half of the dozen. In this case it’s basically the same thing, but I give the slight edge to the Colts here. While the Colts have their own overrated QB with a large contract to deal with this one is at least young and progressable. Defensively, there are major concerns outside of the veteran CB Vontae Davis but at this point just be happy you aren’t last.

32. Hound- Ravens: What if you are willing to do anything to be in the league?

That is what you’re going to have to ask yourself if you’re the Hound. While the Ravens on paper don’t look horrible, especially on defense, the team is full of big contracts for old players. The biggest of those contracts go to the highly overpaid Joe Flacco. You are probably going to be saddled with this contract the majority of the cycle so get used to being angry come FA. Defensively Weddle and Jefferson are a formidable safety group, but you have to wonder how long before Weddle falls off the proverbial cliff.

And there you have it. A mock draft full of “what ifs” that will probably end up completely wrong.

Part 2 of the "What If" mock draft is the toughest part of doing this. This is where you start to see the domino effects from part 1 come into focus.

11. Gub- Packers:  What if the Lion tamer enters the den?

This is really an intriguing situation. The one person who consistently can beat Bomber decides to commit to playing him twice a year in the same division. It would definitely be a bold strategy that would make for some interesting division races in the NFC North, something we haven’t seen in nearly two years. The packers are loaded on offense with Rodgers, Nelson, Cobb, Adams, and Bennet. The issue for Gub may be an aging defense lacking the weapons to slow down Matt Stafford.

12. Homer-Bills:  What if Homer saw an opportunity he couldn’t pass up?

201-313-1, that is the record of the other three teams currently in the AFC East in this mock and it’s too enticing to pass up. After a cycle of being a fringe playoff team Homer finds a home in a very winnable division. From a team stand point, the Bills have a lot to be excited about. The O line has some strength to it and the weapons are relatively young and explosive. Defensively, the talent up front should give teams in and out of the division something to worry about.

13. Doughboy – Steelers:  What if Doughboy can keep from getting suspended?

This one may teeter on the side of being unbelievable I know, but stay with me. While Doughboy’s suspension struggles as of late are understood, when paired with the explosive Steeler offense of the Killer B’s you may see Doughboy in timeout often in Madden 18. If he can walk the line though this Steelers team is championship ready from day one. With an offensive line only second to Dallas, Doughboy could have all day to think of ways to get in trouble.

14. Chunky – Redskins:  What if Chunky played the Wild Card?

Chunky, the silent assassin, hiding in the wings waiting to strike and strike he does. Train sitting in the NFC East all alone and Chunky doesn’t want to make him wait any longer for a friend. Only issue? Not so sure it will be friendly long for Train as the Redskins will be a formidable foe. Kirk Cousins will provide a good option at QB year 1, but will leave question marks after that. A strong offensive line should allow whoever is toting the rock to have success more often than not. On defense Josh Norman will lock down one side of the field, but questions about the rest of the secondary will need to be answered quickly.

15. Frye – Browns: What if Frye was that last one standing from 17 left in the AFC North?

It’s a dream scenario for Frye. Sonny and Lipp leave the division and while Doughboy comes in he is probably suspended more often than not. To add to the dream, it appears from a Madden perspective the team is actually pretty talented this year. One of the more underrated O lines in the game should provide Frye with plenty of time in the pocket. On defense three solid cornerbacks and the best rookie in the game will allow Frye to slowly bring along the defense.

16. TFA – Chargers: What if someone was really into homoerotic innuendo?

Obviously he would choose to go to the team with baby blue uniforms right? Well TFA is in luck because the chargers are here and they aren’t half bad. Phillip Rivers is aging quickly which isn’t all bad as you have a year or two to find his replacement. In the meantime Melvin Gordon, Keenan Allen, and Mike Williams provide some weapons for whoever the eventual heir is. On defense Joey Bosa is a star waiting to break out opposite a very good Melvin Ingram. Jason Verrett and Casey Heyward are one of the more underrated CB duos heading into 18.

17. Deca – 49’ers: What if a guy is just crazy enough to get an MBL tattoo?

Then that guy is probably crazy enough to go back to the 49’ers and their horrible roster. Let’s be honest this team is a complete rebuild. There are few bright spots and there could be even fewer if the team parts ways with HB Carlos Hyde as rumored. The good news is Deca is just crazy enough to stick it out and attempt to build a solid squad.

18. Porter – Titans: What if Porter could win a game on MBL Live?

That won’t happen, but at least he will have a good team while attempting to do it! With guys like Lipp and Oktoba in the division the wins may be hard to come by inside the division, but it won’t be because the team isn’t built to do it. A talented young offensive line combined with two tough power backs make this a run first team. Mariotta comes in rated slightly lower than expected, but that should go up as he finds success throwing to a quality receiving group. Defensively, Logan Ryan and Jonathan Cyprien give the secondary some star power while Jarrell Casey and Brian Orkapo will put pressure on the opposing QB’s.

19. Bananas –Bengals:  What if we give Bananas the fastest player in the game?

He would probably explode from excitement for one, but assuming he stayed intact he could be a dangerous player in the AFC. John Ross, that will be the name to watch as he comes in with a blistering 98 speed rating to start the cycle. Combine Ross’s speed with Greens leaping ability and Eiffert’s ability to work the middle of the field, and you have a dangerous offense. How do you overcome all that skill on offense? Getting to the QB is the answer, and with one of the worst O lines in the league that may not be too hard to do. A bad secondary and the aforementioned horrible O line could derail the speed cheese quickly.

20. Kyle - Buccaneers: What if you had a WR core capable of running more than drag routes?

This is exactly the conundrum Kyle finds himself in here at #20. All kidding aside this team is built to go vertical, and with some of the secondaries in this division that may not be difficult to do. Mike Evans is a human highlight reel downfield and DeSean Jackson can still take the top off at his advanced age. OJ Howard will provide Jameis Winston a nice check down target, while the O line should be good enough to give Kyle time to look past the Drag/Flat routes. Defensively is where this team gets a bit shaky. After you get past a solid defensive line this team is a mess. 34 year old Brent Grimes will cover one side of the field for the near future, but outside of Vernon Hargraves the back half of this team lacks talent looking towards the future.

That wraps up part 2 of the "What If" mock draft. Part three will be out soon, but let me know what your thoughts are.

Team selection is a highlight of every MBL cycle. It gives people hope and shapes that owner’s experience, good or bad, for the next year. Rather than trying to predict the always crazy team by team selection, I’m going to take a crack at answering “what if”. With that in mind I present the Madden 18 “What If” mock draft part 1.

1. Bomber- Lions: What if….Lions?

While this is the “what if” draft there is no reason to be dumb about it. Bomber is going back to Detroit to attempt to keep the Lions dynasty rolling. The question becomes, who will attempt to dethrone the king?

2. Lipp- Jags: What if Lipp decides he wants a real defense?

While Lipp has experienced plenty of success orchestrating the Steelers high powered offense, it seems there is a longing in him to not be one of the league’s worst defenses. The Jags provide a haven for someone looking for a young and talented defense. With two young stud corners on long term contracts, and a talented front 7, the Jags would be a great place for someone who wants to try their hand on the defensive side of the ball.

3. Train- Cowboys: What if Train decided he wanted to run the ball?

He paid his dues being the punching bag of the NFC North for a season so it is a pretty safe bet he is ready to move on in 18. During that beating it became apparent that Train really had some struggles running the ball…like at all. Fear not though Train! The Cowboys are the "training wheels" of learning how to run the ball and should make even a horrible rusher like yourself good. With three starters over 93 this O line is built to let Zeek eat, and with some curious (inflated) ratings on the defensive side of the ball the Cowboys should be a tough team to beat.

4. Oktoba- Texans: What if Oktoba wanted to relive his Texans glory days?

This is a tough one for me as it seems hard to place him anywhere except the Eagles. When looking at teams, division always plays a roll and when you look at the AFC South it has historically been a bad division, but not in 18! Joining forces with Lipp (Jags) Oktoba and the Texans are suited to contend early. Watson will provide a good young QB for the entire cycle, and with weapons like Hopkins and Mill along with a stout defense the Oktoba should find himself in the wild card hunt day one.

5. Bob- Bears: What if Bob wanted to win?

Well the easy answer is he wouldn’t be the bears but don’t let that get in the way of a good story. After leaving the Bears for the desert in Arizona Bob will return to the NFC North to take on Bomber and the high powered Lions attack.While the Bears aren’t set to compete early on, they do have a top back in Jordan Howard and a serviceable defense. A division title may not be in the cards, but a playoff birth may not be out of the question in what could be a depleted NFC.

6. OSU- Dolphins: What if OSU really just wanted to piss off TFA?

It is no secret TFA wants to head to Miami and take a shot at running the perennially bad AFC East division. With an opportunity to play in a favorable division, piss TFA off, and control a surprisingly stacked roster this would be a great place for OSU to make a run. The offense is young and ferocious bosting a strong running attack and talented threats on the outside, but with some questions along the line and secondary it could take a season to get this machine fully humming.

7. Delvar- Jets: What if Delvar can’t quit the Jets?

The reality is, Delvar is a glutton for punishment. The Jets will be one of the worst rosters in all of Madden 18, but Delvar doesn't care. Outside of aging star Matt Forte and rookie Jamal Adams this team doesn't have much in the cupboard. The team will need a complete overhaul, but the good news is they will have the cap to do it and Delvar should be in it for the long haul to see the rebuild through.

8. Sonny- Raiders: What if I finally get away from Lipp and can win a division?

The struggles of beating Lipp and the Steelers have been covered to death. 3-12 in Madden 17, but who’s counting right? What would be possible if I could get a fresh start somewhere new? Well the Raiders would be a good place to find out. Situated in the AFC West the inevitable Sonny/Lipp match up will still take place but under different circumstances. With a strong O line, a dynamic (see what I did there?) QB/WR combo, and a tank at HB the offense should be one of the tops in the league. Defensively some questions will remain, but not facing Lipp twice a year should help from the start.

9. Unisolated- Patriots: What if Unisolated doesn’t F**k up the Patriots?

It is well noted that Unisolated had no clue what he was doing year one, and the contracts he gave out proved it. Add in the late offseason departure of Tom Brady year one and the Patriots became a raging dumpster fire early in the cycle that never was quite extingushed. With the assurance that Brady won’t retire year one, along with Unisolated’s better grasp of contracts, we may get to see what the Patriots are really made of….or maybe not.

10. Star- Falcons: What if Star wanted a change of scenery?

The Titans are a stacked team heading into Madden 18, and it’s not really debatable, but sometimes you just want a change of scenery. While many would consider Lipp coming to the division an issue, Star would welcome such a scenario as he owned him throughout the Madden 17 cycle. If you’re looking for a change of scenery though, you could do a lot worse than the Falcons. With one of the top offensive units in the game and a great young corner on the other side, they have the building blocks to be a top team throughout the cycle.

There you have it, the top 10 of the "What If" mock draft is in the books. Part two will be out soon, but let me know what your thoughts are.

When picking a team for a new Madden CFM, many users want to know how "young" a team is. I have compiled a scatter chart showing a teams distribution of players based on age and rating overall. While not a perfect data set this will allow you to look at "talent" and break it down by age groupings.

For reference the Y Axis is the OVR rating and the X Axis is age.

When picking a team for a new Madden CFM, many users want to know how "young" a team is. I have compiled a scatter chart showing a teams distribution of players based on age and rating overall. While not a perfect data set this will allow you to look at "talent" and break it down by age groupings.

For reference the Y Axis is the OVR rating and the X Axis is age.

When picking a team for a new Madden CFM, many users want to know how "young" a team is. I have compiled a scatter chart showing a teams distribution of players based on age and rating overall. While not a perfect data set this will allow you to look at "talent" and break it down by age groupings.

For reference the Y Axis is the OVR rating and the X Axis is age.

When picking a team for a new Madden CFM, many users want to know how "young" a team is. I have compiled a scatter chart showing a teams distribution of players based on age and rating overall. While not a perfect data set this will allow you to look at "talent" and break it down by age groupings.

For reference the Y Axis is the OVR rating and the X Axis is age.

I look back at Project Fat's preseason predictions to determine how out of his mind he really was.

AFC West

What Fat Wrote…

1. Raiders 11-5

I know this prediction will get a lot of criticism but we truly believe we have a winning formula here in Oakland. Things began to look up towards the end of the season last year and we improved upon that team. Adding another weapon in TE Casas to help take the pressure off of Cooper and Crabtree especially in the red zone.

What Actually Happened…

8-8

This was a total homer prediction from the start. While 8-8 was a nice upward movement from the embarrassingly bad 3-13 the previous season, it was well short of the writers lofty goals. Casas did have a good season contributing just over 500 yards, it was really just a replacement of the same production the Raiders got out of the two TE’s they used the previous season.

What Fat Wrote…

2. Broncos 9-7

Another team that struggled last season will turn in a winning record this time around. Moving on from Peyton and passing the baton onto Mike Glennon the Broncos look to take better care of the football on their way to a 9-7 record.

What Actually Happened…

14-2

Fat was a bit too conservative here, as the Broncos put up a league best 14 wins on their way to the #1 seed in the AFC. The turnovers were cut down with Glennon only throwing 24 INTs on the season, roughly half the total INTs thrown by Bronco’s QBs a year ago.

What Fat Wrote…

3. Chiefs 7-9

This team on the other end of things. Winning the division last season and failing to improve along with the Raiders and the Broncos they will be chasing and find themeselves having a hard time keeping up. They even lost the best pass rusher Tamba Hali to the rival Raiders.

What Actually Happened…

7-9

Hey look, he actually got one right! The biggest reason here is the emergence of the Broncos, not so much the Raiders. Turnover of ownership towards the end of the season makes this team an interesting one to watch in the future.

What Fat Wrote…

4. Chargers 5-11

This team will see some improvement as well but they did lose a difference maker on defense in Eric Weddle who decided to pack up and head to Detroit. Team that had issues closing out games doesn't see that change just yet.

What Actually Happened…

3-13

A bit too much credit given to a historically bad franchise. Once again, with ownership turnover this one’s future can only be brighter. Will be interesting what direction this franchise heads next season.

AFC South

What Fat Wrote…

1. Jaguars 11-5

Jacksonville had a ton of success with their young team but failed to do much in the playoffs. I predict them with the same record and once again making the playoffs even with a possible change at the QB position. Bortles wasn't terrible but he was the reason they didn't make it farther and the front office may be ready to move on.

What Actually Happened…

4-12

Ownership turnover early in the season was the demise of the Jags. The once mighty rushing attack of Yeldon and Robinson came up 17 TDs short of their previous years totals. New ownership will need to get this rushing attack back on track to have any hope of reclaiming the AFC South.

What Fat Wrote…

2. Titans 11-5

This team battles all the way to the end of the season and doesn't allow the Jags to coast. Team made a big splash in free agency by adding the services of Arian Foster and Matt Forte. Talk about a two headed monster, these guys will carry the Titans to the playoffs.

What Actually Happened…

9-7

While the record was overly optimistic the commentary was spot on. The Titans battled the Colts down the stretch for the division, but came up just short of the crown. The only miss was the prediction of the two headed monster. It looks like the Forte/Foster experiment didn’t pan out in Tennessee, and I expect to see one back on the FA market this off season.

What Fat Wrote…

3. Colts 6-10

The Colts switch places with the Titans. The team is not what is was last year. It was old and they lost a lot of players on this team. It is going to take them a while to become relevant again and poor Andrew Luck is along for the ride.

What Actually Happened…

9-7

The demise of the Colts may have been a bit premature, and the #7 ranked defense was a big part of it. Luck was along for the ride, but it was actually him being dragged along by the defense rather than the other way around.

What Fat Wrote…

4. Texans 2-14

This team has a lot of holes still. They do have arguably the best player in football in J.J. Watt but he can not do it by himself. Same as the colts. There road is long and windy and it may take this team a couple of early first rounders to find there groove.

What Actually Happened…

4-12

Slow and steady is how you win the race, but this improvement is that of a snail’s pace. The Texans finished 2 games better than Fat’s prediction, and one game better than last year, but it is going to take more to contend in this division.

AFC North

What Fat Wrote…

1. Bengals 12-4

You know I really hate to say it but this team is really good. They added some good depth in free agency and I think they will improve on there league leading sack total from last season. That will result in the extra W in the win column. As for some other teams I have mentioned, this team is bound to good for some time,

What Actually Happened…

11-5

Close, but just missed it here. The sack totals dipped a bit as Dunlap couldn’t find the magic of 2015 that lead to a league leading sack total. In this stacked division it will be important to continue to build and reload going forward.

What Fat Wrote…

2. Steelers 10-6

Rough season for the Steelers last year at 9-7. A team I  believe with the players they have on offense shouldn't struggle as much. They did and they addressed the area of opportunity a bit but aside from that I believe this team will be more potent offensively and make some things happen. Ryan Shazier was the center fielder for the Steelers and they anticipate improvement this season.

What Actually Happened…

10-6

Nailed it! Who would have thought though that 10-6 would have only got you 3^rd place in the division and a spot on the couch for the playoffs? The offense did improve slightly, but it was mostly due to the reduction of INTs by Big Ben. Shazier came back to earth after an absurdly large amount of INTs the year before.

What Fat Wrote…

3. Browns 9-7

Well what is there to say about the Browns. They gave away all there picks claiming they don't need any help this season. They have what they need. Hello Cleveland!!! Reality is you missed the playoffs and you decided not to address it. You'll continue to be second the Bengals in the state of Ohio until you come to that realization.

What Actually Happened…

4-12

Fat missed big, but who could have guessed Browns ownership would close up shop early after an embarrassing loss to the Dolphins (38-3…Never Forget)? The dumping of picks in hindsight to everyone besides Brown ownership was an obvious mistake. It will take a bit of work this off season to get back to the playoffs in the AFC North.

What Fat Wrote…

4. Ravens 6-10

The Ravens got off to a decent start last season but the truth is they need some help. Mostly at the WR position. They refused to give up on the Ray Rice project. Should have shown that guy to the elevator and out of the building. See what I did there. Instead they bring him back and had a terrible draft to boot and gave Flacco nothing to throw too and he is also aging. Ravens lose two more than last year.

What Actually Happened…

11-5

Looks like Fat’s prediction got taken to the elevator and Ray Riced. See what I did there? Perriman and Brown emerged as legit targets for Flacco allowing the offense to put up enough points to take the division. The running game wasn’t great, but it didn’t seem to hurt them in the long run.

AFC East

What Fat Wrote…

1. Bills 13-3

This Bills team fell just shy of the Super Bowl trophy losing to the Falcons. A team that didn't have a clue what the identity was in Buffalo. Well let me tell you, they have a talented QB up in the frozen tundra in Tyrod Taylor. Had an MVP caliber season but also coming just short there as well. Seems to be a trend. None the less, this team is good and they will stay that way as long as they stick to the game plan.

What Actually Happened…

10-6*

The asterisk is because an ownership suspension probably effected this record a bit. Fat very easily could have been right here, but that cheating bastard in Buffalo screwed him…I kid…..kind of. Taylor had a decent year, but nothing like the MVP campaign he put on the previous year. Rookie HB Ashton Bryant carried the Bills to a wildcard birth after a tough start during the suspension, and should be a force for years to come.

What Fat Wrote…

2. Jets 10-6

A team that finished .500 a year a go will be looking to improve on that this year and I think they have a team that can do it and the defense is going to be the key. They made a couple questionable draft picks this year addressing the defense instead of the offense but I think they believe they can do just enough to win if the defense plays the way it should.

What Actually Happened…

6-10

The Jets are going to do, what the Jets are going to do, and that is underachieve. Fat expected improvement and what we got was regression. Petty took a big step back from his sensational rookie year, and the draft and lack of talent came back to bite them.

What Fat Wrote…

3. Dolphins 5-11

They do not see improvement this season and I don't think this will be asurprise to anyone. They signed a couple of CB's that don't show a ton of promise since they will be THE guys in Miami. Oh well, at least Miami has Taut's take to look forward to every week.

What Actually Happened…

4-12

The Dolphins were close to Fat’s prediction, but also give us the most memorable moment in MBL history (38-3…Never Forget). The offense did take a huge step forward, but the defense took a huge step back. One or the other is going to have to give next season.

What Fat Wrote…

4. Patriots 3-13

An owner who made the playoffs for the first time will see himself on the outside looking in once again. It is not an easy division to be in here in the East and they will be the bottom feeders. Hate to use that term but it is what it is. Patriots struggle from now and the foreseeable future.

What Actually Happened…

10-6

Outside of his prediction for himself, this may have been his worst prediction ever. Not only do the patriots find their way back into the playoffs, but they take the division from the reigning AFC champion. Looks like Fat may want to ask the Patriots ownership for some tips on how to run a franchise.

NFC West

What Fat Wrote…

1. 49ers 10-6

The 9ers will see themeselves drop a game this season. I don't think the defense can carry them like it did last season. The offense had a hard time picking up first downs and the defense played lights out. Don't see the ame results though.

What Actually Happened…

10-6

Nailed it! The 49’ers hit Fats mark but fell just shy of finding themselves in the playoffs. Lots of talk coming from the organization that Kapernicks time in San Fran may be up. The 49’ers may have to take a step back next season to take a big one forward down the road.

What Fat Wrote…

2. Seahawks 10-6 

The Hawks get closer to winning the division and will most likely have the best chance this season to win it. I think themeselves as well as the 9ers will begin there downward spiral soon enough. There best off season addition was a Punter. Good luck Hawks.

What Actually Happened…

11-5

Missed it by that much. The Seahawks finished a game better than fat’s prediction but did find themselves taking the division and a spot in the playoffs. As for the downward spiral, who knows? Pete Carrol recently announced his retirement after a tough first round playoff exit.

What Fat Wrote…

3. Rams 8-8

The Rams did not play well at all last season but I think they will see good improvement. There record may be a component of there schedule but then again they do have some tough games which is why I think they fall short.

What Actually Happened…

10-6

Fat was wrong on the record, but right on the sentiment. The rams may have been the hottest team in the league when the season ended. Finding themselves in the playoff with a chance to take it all, I’d have to say this was one most didn’t see coming.

What Fat Wrote…

4. Cardinals 5-11

There is a lot of hype around the Cardinals but I personally don't see what it is all about. They about to go through a transition at the QB position and that can make any team struggle. I do think they have a lot of good young talent but they won't be able to win now.

What Actually Happened…

3-13

The record was a little worse than projected. The QB transition has not gone smoothly and injuries during the year didn’t help. After a suspect draft last year, the long term outlook for this team isn’t looking good.

NFC East

What Fat Wrote…

1. Eagles 12-4 

A big part of this prediction has to do with the stud QB they just drafted. I know I am putting my own words in my mouth because I just spoke about the Cardinals and the struggles they will face with the new QB but I believe this guy is ready now. The one thing that does scare me a bit is the O-Line. We shall see.

What Actually Happened…

12-4

I have to give props to the Fat one here. I didn’t see this one coming, but looks like he did as he nailed the record. The reasoning for the prediction was off as it wasn’t the QB Patrick, but rather the running of Demarco Murary  and a top 5 defense that carried the team to the playoffs.

What Fat Wrote…

2. Cowboys 9-7

The Cowboys won the biggest game of there seaosn to propel them to the NFC Championship. They defeated the 16-0 Detroit Lions in a game where they simply dominated and controlled the clock all game. Running the ball with ease against one of the best run defenses in the MBL. They did fall short of the ultimate prize and they won't be back to the playoffs this season.

What Actually Happened…

9-7*

This one gets an asterisk even though he predicted it correctly. Sometimes you are right, sometimes you get lucky, then sometimes it’s a complete fluke. Early in the season this record looked to be to the over side, but a change in ownership actually helped this franchise versus hurting others. I think the new ownership has this team on the right path moving forward.

What Fat Wrote…

3. Giants 8-8

There was a lot of excitement in New York after the free agency period ended. All i saw was Taut 2.0 and the singing of the retirement community that wanted to get the band back together, Now although it does help them improve, they are still not anywhere close to being able to compete with the Eagles and Cowboys. Plus, Eli Manning called it quits.

What Actually Happened…

10-6

The Giants over achieve just to prove Fat wrong! Not really, but it’s a good narrative right? The giants put together a solid year, but as usual for this ownership, some late season letdowns have them just on the outside looking in for the playoffs. Will this ownership group ever find their way to the Promised Land (Playoffs)?

What Fat Wrote…

4. Redskins 2-14

A team that did nothing to improve on their team. Had a bad draft and couldn't convinve anyone on the open market that the Redskins were headed in the right direction. I wish I could say they made the most out of the RG3 trade but he might have been able to help them win 3.

What Actually Happened…

4-12*

Another asterisk, another new owner. This team is a long term rebuild, but they did manage to get a couple more wins than Fat had projected. Hopefully new ownership gets them on the right course sooner rather than later.

NFC North

What Fat Wrote…

1. Lions 14-2

16-0 last season is the only time it has ever happened in the MBL. The Lions quickly took the first exit out of the playoffs losing to the Cowboys in a heart breaker** The team made some tough calls in regards to some of there players but this team is confident in its MVP and the direction they are headed. They did land a big name in Eric Weddle as well.

What Actually Happened…

13-2-1

Fat was a shanked field goal from being right on this one. Matt Stafford reclaimed his MVP form leading the Lions back to the playoffs and back to a #1 seed. Hopefully for them, it turns out a little better than last time around.

What Fat Wrote…

2. Vikings 8-8**

Vikings will fall short once again. They can't and won't get out of the shadow of the Lions. A lot of controversy surrounded this team last season whether it be true or not, the team isn't at the level of their counterpart. Could be 2 more seasons until they get there so hold on.

What Actually Happened…

8-7-1

See comments on Lions to understand why he ever so slightly missed on this prediction. The Vikings do appear to be stuck behind the Lions for the division, but also seem to be the Lions biggest test each time they play.

What Fat Wrote…

3. Packers 7-9

This team played the Lions tough both times they met last year in the regular season. There is a lot of young talent and the front office has made it very clear they are going to build within. I think they are smart for doing so but they better do something fast. Aaron Rodgers won't be around forever.

What Actually Happened…

9-7

Fat underestimated the Packers a bit, but no one can blame him. I believe this may be this owners first time guiding a team to a winning record. Rumors keep swirling that Rodgers could be out of town soon, but I’m not sure that is necessarily the best course going forward.

What Fat Wrote…

4. Bears 4-12

A team that was in the news for a very surprising change at the ownership level. This will be part of there lackluster season. The team tried a lot to improve this team but it is hard to do when the City isn't very appealing to the players. This could be another team in for a long road of irrelevance.

What Actually Happened…

2-14

Fat gave way too much credit to this train wreck! Seriously though, this rebuild is going to be long and it’s going to be tough. Ownership is going to have to weather a couple more bad seasons before they will get to see the fruit of their labors.

NFC South

What Fat Wrote…

1. Falcons 14-2

One N Only is your season 12 Super Bowl champion. I saved the best for last. He again will propel this team to another playoff berth in a division it will be at the top of for a while. The potent offense matched with the equally good defense is a recipe for success. Congrats to the Champs and it is time to try and repeat.

What Actually Happened…

10-6

Fat misses again! Honestly, after such a slow start who would have guessed he’d even be able to claw his way back into the division race, let alone a playoff birth? While most divisions have clear tiers of talent this division looks to be competitive for years to come.

What Fat Wrote…

2. Bucs 8-8

WhiteShaft has something brewing in Tampa. Jameis Winston had an ok rookie campaign but turned the ball over way to much. I believe the coaching staff addresses the issue and you see a team that will be competitive in every game and eventually its division with the Falcons.

What Actually Happened…

10-6

Fat flops again as the Bucs improve a bit quicker than expected. The Bucs were in the hunt down the stretch, but fell just a bit short for the division. This will be a team to watch into the future.

What Fat Wrote…

3. Panthers 7-9

The Panthers had an amazing season last year but I don't see it happening again. Tampa improved but I just don't think the consistency will be there. Cam Newton is a great young QB matched up with Kelvin Benjamin but I just don't know if I see the chemistry. I feel the Panthers fall off a little bit.

What Actually Happened…

10-6

Wrong again you Fat fuck! Sensing the animosity? Yea, me too. These Panthers still had a bit of bite in them. The Panthers finished in the cluster at the top of this division and backed their way into the playoffs.

What Fat Wrote…

4. Saints 1-15

They refuse to go 0-16 again and improve on a terrible season. The team made a questionable pick with the #1 Overall selection in Nick Gordon and unless they can win some games, it will be forever deemed the wrong move. Brees is nearly done himself and then this team will be in even more trouble.

What Actually Happened…

0-16

Fat was too optimistic. This thing is a dumpster fire and a half and the outlook isn’t great. Who takes a WR #1 overall on a 0-16 team? These Saints do that’s who! Hopefully after another rough year they look to try and build the foundation a bit more, or trade the pick for multiple picks, rather than taking the flashy route.

That will about do it. As it turns out Fat wasn’t horrible at picking he was just horribly biased in a few places. I look forward to laughing at….I mean reading his predictions again next year!