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9 Comments Posted on May 17, 2016May 17, 2016 TV

Game of Thrones Power Rankings: S6 Ep4 “Bow To Your Khaleesi!”

Each week, we give every episode at least 24 hours to breathe and for you to get caught up. After that, you’re clicking at your own risk. Spoilers ahead.

Besides that amazing ending to the 4th episode of this 6th season, there were also some major teams being formed as well. First, major fist pump for Jon and Sansa! Theon and Yara are starting a campaign before the Kingmoot. Cersei and Jaime finally have the Queen of Thorns and Kevan on their side. Then Tyrion and Varys did some wheeling and dealing.

So which of these alliances are #1 Contenders for the Tag-Team Title Belts?

Now for the Rankings…

1. Daenerys Stormborn (Previously 22nd)

Say what you will about Beyonce or Taylor Swift, but right now…Daenerys > All.

She didn’t need dragons to prove her point this time because SHE IS ONE. With the help of #TrueDectiveSeason3 (Jorah & Daario, in case you’re new here), she burned the whole Dothraki infrastructure down to the ground. You have to love how she just smiled as Khal Moro flung every insult possible her way before lighting every single one of his cohorts up in their council. Now she has added to her forces with the entire Dothraki population and can return to Meereen to raise more hell before heading west.

2. Sansa Stark (Previously 13th)

This was certainly a moment we all hoped for and I appreciate the Game of Thrones showrunners for not prolonging it any longer. In Castle Black and with Jon’s support, Sansa can build the army she rightfully deserves. It also took her forcing the issue of saving Rickon and the North from Ramsay for Jon to get his head out of his ass a little too. This is where Sansa’s revenge officially begins.

3. Cersei Lannister (Previously 4th)

It’s funny how “Mean Girls”-ish the Small Council was being toward Cersei and Jaime. Cersei has Tommen’s trust now and even without “authority and dignity” (as Ollena points out) she has the trust of the small council again too, using Margaery’s atonement as leverage. Now is her chance to destroy the High Sparrow.

4. Jon Snow (Previously 1st)

I think it’s understandable to have some melancholy after being brought back from the dead, but nobody wanted to see Jon leave Castle Black. Sansa gives him purpose now. Although he seems unsure of the decision he’s making, Rickon in danger and revenge for Sansa should be enough motivation to kick Ramsay’s ass.

5. Brienne (Previously 14th)

Brienne held NOTHING back in this episode. “Oh you guys miss Stannis? I executed that bitch.” Now she’s established herself as a force within Castle Black and can better protect Sansa if the dangerous people there respect her.

6. Night’s King (Previously 6th)

The Night’s King will occupy this spot until we see him again, which appears to be next week. All you need for reference is the “Hardhome” episode.

7. Tyrion Lannister (Previously 2nd)

Tyrion didn’t make any new friends by negotiating with the Masters, but you can see why he was doing it. As we learned from Michael Corleone in The Godfather, “Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer”. He makes a good point that he, Missandei and Grey Worm should have the upper-hand as the Masters underestimate them, but it all may be posturing for when Daenerys returns.

8. Ser Davos (Previously 3rd)

Davos has been great so far this season but now he’s asking questions for answers he probably doesn’t want to hear. Learning that both Stannis and Shireen take the wind out of him, as they were practically his family. Now he’s left with a choice to serve #TeamStark in the war to come or turn his back on them because Brienne killed his king and Melisandre sacrificed his favorite person in the world.

9. Jaime Lannister (Previously 12th)

Not only did Jaime establish his place in the small council again, but he already had a strategy prepared for Kevan and the Queen of Thorns. Kevan may be the hand but Jaime is obviously calling the shots on this plan to get Margaery back and “hopefully” kill the High Sparrow.

10. Melisandre (Previously 7th)

We can see the Red Woman has purpose again as she has obviously pledged allegiance to Jon Snow. Davos’s questions have her reeling a little though, especially the when he points out that Stannis trusted in her more than anyone. It’s still tough to contend with someone who can fire off “blood assassinations” and bring the dead back to life.

11. Olenna Tyrell (Previously 29th)

Big jump for the Queen of Thorns as she sets aside her differences with the Lannister siblings in order to save Margaery and Ser Loras. Jaime and Cersei may just be using her and her motivation only to kill the High Sparrow, but we’re going to see Olenna in all her fiery glory sending her army into action. “Many people will die anyway” was my favorite line from that entire exchange.

12. The High Sparrow (Previously 8th)

He may have the upperhand for now but, man…I am TIRED of this jerk. The weekly soliloquies are getting old and more annoying. I found myself sounding like Homer Simpson while he told that story about his upbringing to Margaery…

13. Tormund Giantsbane (Previously 9th)

Is it me or does Tormund have a HUGE crush on Brienne? He had that “love at first sight” look on his face as she rode in on her horse. He just stared at her while munching on some meat…

Let’s come up with a ship (relationship) name for Tormund and Brienne before someone else does! Send your name with a hashtag to me on Twitter ASAP!

14. Varys (Previously 5th)

Varys didn’t have much to say in this episode, but he did bring the Masters to Mereen to hear Tyrion out. Gaining anyone’s trust makes him more dangerous and powerful. Interested to see where that leads to next week as we see the effects of the deal they made.

15. Ramsay Bolton (Previously 10th)

We learned nothing new about Ramsay. He sucks as a human being and has no regard for any life at all. It’s unfortunate that Osha was brought back after being gone for years to just get killed in his lap. He has also called out Jon Snow, which we hope will be the dumbest decision of his life. Karma’s has to catch up at some point.

16. Petyr Baelish (Previously 18th)

Little Finger’s first appearance this season is a strong one. Like Varys, he knows everything and used his knowledge against Robin’s top general. Robin, like Tommen, may be in charge but we know Baelish is really the one in charge. He is also lending his forces for Sansa’s protection, which should be interesting considering he gave her to Ramsay in the first place.

17. Ser Jorah (Previously 36th)

#TrueDetectiveSeason3 finally solved their mystery by finding Daenerys. Jorah takes a lot of shit from Daario throughout the episode, age jokes and not being good enough for Dany. But it was Jorah’s experience and savviness that gets he and Daario to Daenerys undetected. At the end of the episode, it’s Jorah who keeps his head up as everyone, including Daario, bows in awe of the Kahleesi too.

18. Daario Naharis (Previously 37th)

If Daario wasn’t totally onboard following Daenerys before, he seems to be now. His lack of discipline paid off when he saved Jorah with his trusty knife. But I don’t think he was prepared to see what transpired at the end of the episode. After all the bragging and picking on Jorah, Daario was the one most humbled of the two as he bowed and adverted his eyes.

19. Zombie Mountain (Previously 11th)

I can’t wait for Zombie Mountain to be unleashed on the Sparrows. Do it! Do it now!

20. Wun Wun (Previously 15th)

Also looking forward to this beast being unleashed on the Bolton army.

21. Lord Commander Edd (Previously 16th)

Dolorous Edd being in charge of the Night’s Watch certainly frees Jon up to focus on defeating the Boltons. His loyalty to Jon only improves #TeamStark’s forces too.

22. Yara Greyjoy (Previously 32nd)

Yara had a lot of frustrations to unload on Theon and that was pretty evident. She didn’t want to hear sorries but wasn’t going to let him be the prodigal son either. Accepting his help as she makes a run at control of the Iron Islands was smart though.

23. Jaqen H’gar (Previously 29th)

It would seem we’re going to learn what’s next in Braavos very soon. Hopefully that means we learn more about the super mysterious Jaqen too.

24. “No One” formerly Arya (Previously 20th)

“No One” is going to feel really left out when she finds out Jon and Sansa are taking the fight to Ramsay without her. It would seem she has some work to do in Braavos first…

Sidenote: Does anyone else anticipate a reunion with The Hound coming soon? I don’t think he’s dead…

25. Theon Greyjoy (Previously 35th)

Theon’s home. Yay. He’s also pledging allegiance to his sister, which is probably the best call considering he betrayed her in the rescue attempt. Does being the original heir to the throne give he and his sister enough sway before the Kingsmoot?

26. Tommen Baratheon (Previously 27th)

Good for Tommen, breaking promises with The High Sparrow to help his mother. You wonder if the High Sparrow expected that though and whether or not there’s another trick up the priest’s sleeve. However, Tommen seems to FINALLY be doing something to get Margaery back and that’s a good thing.

27. The Three-Eyed Raven (Previously 23rd)

Where will Doc Brown be taking Bran next as they go “Back to the Future”…or past, whatever.

28. Bran Stark (Previously 24th)

The teaser for the next episode shows Bran seeing the Night’s King for the first time. Learning more about the enemy gets him closer to learning “everything” and hopefully that gets him closer to channeling the dragons to defeat the White Walkers.

29. Ellaria Sand (Previously 28th)

Can we get a “Meanwhile, in Dorne…” soon? It’s weird that Ellaria played such a big part in the premiere and we haven’t seen her since.

30. Leaf (Previously 25th)

Want to see Leaf in some action again soon, but throwing fireballs keeps her in the Top 30.

31. Rhaegal & Viserion (Previously 21st)

As the people of Meereen grow restless, the two dragons on-site are Tyrion’s best chance at keeping order before Daenerys returns.

32. Ghost (Previously 26th)

Ghost now knows his brother Shaggydog is dead. Time for payback…

33. Euron Greyjoy (Previously 31st)

Similar to Ellaria, Euron made his power move early on and we haven’t heard from him since. The Kingsmoot is near and obviously he will be challenging Yara and Theon for control of the Iron Islands. This could get messy because it’s apparent he’s a little crazy…By the way, is it me or does he have some Liev Schreiber to his look?

34. Missandei (Previously 46th)

This was a big episode for both Missandei and Grey Worm. We understood a bit more why neither of them are totally cool with Tyrion. She keeps Tyrion in check a little reminding him that he wasn’t a slave for nearly as long as she and Grey Worm were. When it mattered most too, Missandei even quoted Tyrion to back him in front of the disgruntled freed Meereen citizens.

35. Grey Worm (Previously 47th)

As mentioned just prior, big episode for Grey Worm. You have to appreciate his assertiveness with Tyrion but still supporting him in front of the citizens. Grey Worm doesn’t understand politics like Tyrion and Varys do, but he does know the Masters in this land better. We may learn fast that things don’t roll the same way here as they do in the west where Tyrion is from, diplomatically.

36. Hodor (Previously 35th)

Hodor.

37. Podrick Payne (Previously 48th)

Podrick looked pretty badass riding in with Brienne and Sansa. Didn’t get a word in at the dinner table, but hey…that’s not his thing.

38. Kevan Lannister (Previously 38th)

We’re learning quickly that Kevan is not as overpowering as his late brother but it’s good to see him come around Jaime and Cersei’s way of thinking. He’s also motivated to get Lancel back. Unfortunately, I don’t think Lancel comes out of this thing safely.

39. Qyburn (Previously 30th)

Lurking in the basement shadows, giving candy to kids, trying to be Varys…things seem to be going alright for Qyburn and he’s got Maester Pycelle looking for his shoulder too.

40. Tyene Sand (Previously 34th)

Lack of Dorne screen-time makes it tough to keep Tyene high in this list or much higher than her sisters. But you have to like her best of the three, based on her history so far.

41. Nymeria Sand (Previously 43rd)

…yep…

42. Obara Sand (Previously 44th)

Did “Obara’s Not Impressed face” catch on yet?

43. Robin Arryn (Previously NR)

First appearance for Robin since Sansa’s SLAP last season was pretty important, especially for Sansa. I actually didn’t even consider this kid would grow like Bran did, but he has an army and he has entrusted decision making to Little Finger.

44. Aeron Greyjoy (Previously 38th)

You get a feeling Aeron is going to rise on this list after the Kingsmoot.

45. Smalljon Umber (Previously 41st)

My fingers are still crossed for a double-cross from Smalljon.

46. Harald Karstark (Previously 42nd)

Whatever Smalljon was referring to regarding Harald and children makes me really nervous about Rickon.

47. Rickon Stark (Previously 45th)

…at least Rickon is serving as motivation for Jon and Sansa to take out Ramsay.

48. Drogon (Previously 53rd)

Whenever you’re done licking your wounds, Drogon, feel free to come back.

49. Meera (Previously 54th)

Anyone else think Meera’s just been sitting in that same spot this entire time, outside of the cave? Bran seeing her father in his Tower of Joy vision should increase her importance sooner than later.

50. Lhazareen (Newbie)

Missandei might get jealous of Dany’s new friend.

51. Waif (Previously 49th)

What’s next for Waif, now that she can’t pick on Arya anymore?

52. Gilly (Previously 39th)

I just pictured Gilly singing “I’m on a Boat!” by Lonely Island. Someone should make that video asap.

53. Samwell Tarley (Previously 40th)

…and Samwell’s still puking.

54. Queen Margaery (Previously 51st)

Margaery seems to have a good understanding of what the High Sparrow is trying to do with her and Lancel but the sooner she can get rescued, the better.

55. Bronn (Previously 52nd)

WHERE’S BRONN?

56. Khal Savo’s widow (Previously 50th)

Not so much like Daenerys now, are ya?

57. Yohn Royce (Previously NR)

Yohn should probably be much higher on this list because he is a commander, but Robin was THIS close to throwing him out of the Moon Door…

58. Septa Unella (Previously 56th)

Your time will come, Septa. And it’s coming soon.

59. Lancel Lannister (Previously 57th)

Bringing up Lancel as a reason for Kevan to help Cersei only makes it more obvious he’s going to die.

60. Ser Loras Tyrell (Previously 58th)

Loras has seen better days. Just not sure if those will be coming anytime soon…or ever again.

61. Mace Tyrell (Previously 59th)

This guy is so unimportant that he wasn’t even present at this last small council meeting.

62. Maester Pycelle (Previously 60th)

Keep farting, old man. This is where you’ll be for a long time.

Anyone too high or too low in this week’s rankings? Let me know on Facebook or Twitter. Don’t forget to checkout The Piffcast, where we regularly discuss the show.

Previous Power Rankings

S6 Ep. 1 – “Too Old For This Sh*t”

S6 Ep. 2 – “You Bastards!”

S6 Ep. 3 – “Oathbroken, Mic Drop”

Leave a comment Posted on May 16, 2016May 23, 2016 Piffcast

Piffcast: The Fourteenth – “Classic Rock is a Right of Passage” w/ James VanOsdol

Super excited to have radio DJ/podcast host/author/music lover James VanOsdol join the show! I refer to him as Chicago Radio’s Renaissance Man (Rivet Radio, Q101, 97.9 The Loop, WGN Radio, WKQX < – – That’s why). We discuss his Sunday night program, Demo 312 on WKQX 101.1, promoting new local alternative music. We also get his take on the current state of podcasting and talked about his own podcast, Car Con Carne...it’s the world’s only food podcast recorded in a car (with a wicked theme song). Plus, I shamelessly geek out a little and that’s okay. (21:43 mark, to jump ahead)

TJ and I also talk about how we got to where we are, why we do what we do, and whole lot more.

Follow for more on Facebook and Twitter. You can subscribe to the show on iTunes too!

Leave a comment Posted on May 15, 2016May 16, 2016 TV

Game of Thrones + Star Wars = Tower of Joy Lightsaber Battle

There aren’t enough fire emojis to do Sunday night’s Game of Thrones episode justice.

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥#GameOfThrones

— Tormanu Giantsbane (@ManuclearBomb) May 16, 2016

There were some major moves made for some characters to rise in our weekly Game of Thrones Power Rankings. The S6 Ep4 list will be up on Tuesday. Here are the current rankings, if you’re curious.

Until then, enjoy what the World Wide Web has blessed us with…

YouTuber and apparent Internet genius, EricThePooh, disabled the embed option but you can see the full video here. You may have been blue-balled a little, due to the Three-Eyed Raven’s abrupt ending to the flashback. However, Ser Arthur Dayne wielding two red lightsabers might be even better than all of Darth Maul’s collective screen-time in The Phantom Menace.

For more, follow along on Facebook or Twitter. Be sure to subscribe to The Piffcast on iTunes too.

Leave a comment Posted on May 12, 2016 sports

Gronk’s on the Madden Cover, But Is He Cursed?

Thursday evening on SportsCenter, the new Madden ’17 cover was revealed with Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski appropriately spiking the ball.

Rob Gronkowski will grace the cover of Madden 17. #LIVEonSC pic.twitter.com/stljpsiLZi

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 12, 2016

Gronkowski always spikes the ball after a touchdown pass, and this seems to symbolize an achievement of making the cover. As the league’s premiere tight end, a 4-time Pro Bowler, 3-time All-Pro, and 66 touchdowns in 6 seasons, he has certainly earned it. The first thought many have when they hear an NFL Superstar has graced the cover, though, is whether or not said player is cursed for it.

John Madden is not only a Hall of Fame NFL head coach and beloved broadcaster, but his brand has been a staple for the gamer community since 1988 when “John Madden Football” was released on PC. Only Madden had appeared on the cover from ’88 until 1994, when the Cowboys tackle Erik Williams and 49ers defensive lineman Karl Wilson appeared in the cover’s background. Williams was a Pro Bowler, but missed half of the ’94 season after being injured in a serious car accident. Wilson was never a player of much significance, but he wasn’t a 49er the season he graced the cover of Madden. Madden would go back to being the lone figure on his video game covers until 1999.

Over the years, players who graced the cover have either taken a step back in their production, were injured, or something else went wrong that season. Let’s take a look at every Madden cover player to see if Gronkowski should be worried.

1998 Garrison Hearst – RB, 49ers

1997 – 1,019 rush yards, 194 receiving, 6 total touchdowns

1998 – 1,570 rush yards, 535 receiving, 9 total touchdowns

1998 Dorsey Levens – RB, Packers

Barry Sanders was in the background of the John Madden version.

1998 – 4 starts, 540 total yards, 1 TD

1999 – 14 games, 1,607 total yards, 10 TD

2000 Eddie George – RB, Titans

1999 – 1,762 total yards, 13 touchdowns

2000 – 1,962 total yards, 16 touchdowns

2001 Daunte Culpepper – QB, Vikings

2000 – 3,937 pass yards, 33 TDs, 16 INTs

*2001 – 2,612 pass yards, 14 TDs, 13 INTs

*Missed the last 5 games of the season because of a knee injury.

2002 Marshall Faulk – RB, Rams

2001 – 2,147 total yards, 21 touchdowns

*2002 – 1,490 total yards, 10 touchdowns

Started just 10 games battling injuries.

2003 Michael Vick – QB, Falcons

2002 – 2,936 pass yards, 777 rush yards, 24 total TDs

2003 – Missed 11 games due to a preseason fibula injury.

2004 Ray Lewis – MLB, Ravens

2003 – 120 tackles, 6 INTs

2004 – 100 tackles, 0 INTs

2005 Donovan McNabb – QB, Eagles

2004 – 3,875 pass yards, 31 TDs, 8 INTs

2005 – Went on IR after 9 games and feuded with Terrell Owens

2006 Shaun Alexander – RB, Seahawks

2005 – 1,880 rush yards, 27 touchdowns

2006 – Broke his foot in Week 3

2007 Vince Young – QB, Titans

2006 – 2,199 pass yards, 19 total touchdowns, 12 INTs

2007 – 2,546 pass yards, 9 touchdown passes, 17 INTs

2008 Brett Favre – QB, Packers/Jets

2007 – 4,155 pass yards, 28 TDs, 15 INTs

2008 – 3,472 pass yards, 22 TDs, 22 INTs

2009 Troy Polamalu and Larry Fitzgerald

Polamalu played just 5 games because of injuries in 2009

Fitzgerald scored a career high 13 touchdowns in 2009

2010 Drew Brees – QB, Saints

2009 – 4,388 pass yards, 34 TDs, 11 INTs

2010 – 4,620 pass yards, 33 TDs, 22 INTs

2011 Peyton Hillis – RB, Browns

2010 – 1,177 rush yards, 11 TDs

2011 – Missed 6 games with injuries and strep throat.

2012 Calvin Johnson – WR, Lions

2011 – 96 catches, 1,681 yards, 16 TDs

2012 – 122 catches, 1,964 yards 6 TDs

2013 Barry Sanders (25th Anniversary)

Was voted by fans to be on the cover.

2014 Richard Sherman – CB, Seahawks

2013 – Pro Bowl, Won Super Bowl

2014 – Pro Bowl, Lost Super Bowl

2015 Odell Beckham Jr. – WR, Giants

2014 – 91 catches, 1,305 yards, 12 TDs

2015 – 96 catches, 1,450 yards, 13 TDs

Of the 20 players on the Madden cover, 7 were injured but 6 had significantly better seasons. The remaining 7 either played worse, had a normal season…or were Barry Sanders. The “Madden Curse” hasn’t applied to anyone over the past 4 years. Hopefully Gronkowski can breathe easier for it. I’m sure he will.

For more, follow on Facebook or Twitter.

10 Comments Posted on May 10, 2016June 15, 2016 TV

Game of Thrones Power Rankings: S6 Ep3 “Oathbroken, Mic Drop”

Each week, we give every episode at least 24 hours to breathe and for you to get caught up. After that, you’re clicking at your own risk. Spoilers ahead.

This wasn’t the most exciting of episodes for many, but it was for me. Jon’s awake and alive. The Tower of Joy fight scene was excellent. Arya aka ‘No One’ is finally getting interesting again. Cersei and Jaime are back to being Cersei and Jaime. And…

…justice was served. Suck it, Olly

1. Jon Snow (Previously 1st)

Nothing makes sense to Jon after he’s woken up. The last thing he remembers was Olly and the conspirators stabbing him in the heart for doing what he felt was right. Then he he got to know “nothing” really well in the afterlife. As Tormund said, the men baring witness to Jon’s resurrection see him as a god. He has also freed himself from his duties of the Night’s Watch…because he served until it ended (he died).

Where does Jon go now? He has the support of Castle Black, the Wildlings, Davos and Melisandre. Hopefully Sansa catches him in time before he goes anywhere.

2. Tyrion Lannister (Previously 2nd)

Tyrion quoting himself as “a wise man” and wanting to play “Never Have I Ever…” was one of my favorite things from this young season. As slow as the Meereen storyline may be, Tyrion is in his element calling shots and gathering every bit of an advantage as he can against those who oppose him. You also get the feeling he was trying to dig into Greyworm and Missandei’s pasts a little too.

3. Ser Davos (Previously 3rd)

“Now go fail again.”

Davos seems like the ultimate bring-back-to-life coach. As Melisandre comes in throwing prophecies and purpose at Jon after JUST RISING FROM THE DEAD, Davos slows the roll while instilling some direction. He and Melisandre are similar in the way that they are better served as council and motivation for their leader. Davos is much less abrasive than Melisandre which should help Jon transition to his new arc better.

4. Cersei Lannister (Previously 5th)

Technically Cersei isn’t the queen, but she sure is acting like one. Since regaining Tommen’s trust, Cersei is back to her old self and looking for vengeance. She has Varys’s “little birds” reporting to her about everything everyone is saying (if only she had Twitter), Jaime, and Zombie Mountain. The old folks that walked away from her at the table might be in for a rude awakening.

5. Varys (Previously 10th)

Seeing Varys pull the backdoor deals is an underrated aspect to the show. It is indeed a game for power and as the G.I. Joes say, “knowing is half the battle.” Varys also takes an honorable approach, choosing negotiations over torture to find out about the Meereen’s conspirators.

6. Night’s King (Previously 6th)

The Night’s King will occupy this spot until we see him again. All you need for reference is the“Hardhome” episode.

7. Melisandre (Previously 4th)

This was Melisandre’s “Young Frankenstein” moment, although after the fact. Getting shown the door, subtly, puts her behind Davos but they both have the same goals for Jon. Davos sees Jon as a beacon of justice for Westeros and Melisandre sees him as the destined ruler. I don’t see her allowing Jon to leave Castle Black without her by his side, based on her prophecy.

8. The High Sparrow (Previously 12th)

The High Sparrow is a master manipulator, isn’t he? Seeing him sit down and bring King Tommen to his level on the bench signified the power he may have. I also get the feeling Tommen is being used as bait to get the Sparrow’s hopes up before Cersei brings it all crashing down. This is a game, after all.

9. Tormund Giantsbane (Previously 8th)

The Wildling leader is by far the most distinctive in both appearance and presence. Providing some comic relief for Jon was cool too. Similar to Melisandre and Davos, he and his army will likely go where Jon goes.

10. Ramsay Bolton (Previously 14th)

It’s hard to hate any character on TV more than this one, but everything seems to be coming up Ramsay these days. He defeated Stannis’s army. Winterfell is his. And now he has his Stark (Rickon). Nobody wins forever on this show though. Umber may have tipped us off a little, using Roose pledging his allegiance to Rob Stark as an example of why he won’t kneel to Ramsay.

11. Zombie Mountain (Previously 11th)

Pretty sure Zombie Mountain made Maester Pycelle shit himself. When Ser Gregor Clegane gets to participate in another trial by combat, there’s going to be a lot more of that happening…and blood.

12. Jaime Lannister (Previously 13th)

Jaime is doing and saying all the right things by his family and King’s Landing. He also gave the elders, like his uncle and the Tyrells, a chance to work together. He leads the King’s Guard and that will come in handy when he and Cersei take the Sparrow’s keep.

13. Sansa Stark (Previously 7th)

Getting to Castle Black will be huge for Sansa. Even without Jon in charge, Dolorous Edd sympathizes with him and likely will with Sansa as well. Word can then spread that the Starks are back in business, that the Wildlings are united with Castle Black, and hopefully “the North remembers” what the Boltons did.

14. Brienne (Previously 9th)

It would be nice for Brienne to finally get some backup, especially protecting Sansa. We’ve seen her hold her own in a Bolton camp, in King’s Landing and in battle. Working with the Night’s Watch should be an upgrade in circumstances.

15. Wun Wun (Previously 15th)

Stone Cold Wun Wun. I’m going to have THIS in everyone’s heads when they see him again.

16. LORD COMMANDER Edd (Previously 18th)

Dolorous Edd stepped up and took over for Jon on top of the wall in battle. He does it again for all of Castle Black. Having fought at Hardhome gives him better experience than most to lead the Night’s Watch when Winter finally comes too.

17. Khal Moro (Previously 18th)

From within the giant Dothraki camp, Khal Moro is the best chance Daenerys has. He obviously respects her and could have punished her for going out on her the minute he met her. So he will have some sway when the council that decides her fate meets. I also think he will key for any possible alliance Daenerys forms with the Dothraki and her city of Meereen.

18. Petyr Baelish (Previously 21st)

As Civil War appears to be shaping up in the North, Little Finger is going to play a major role in who wins. My money is on his feelings for Sansa Stark, which I already believe is the winning side.

19. Jaqen H’gar (Previously 28th)

Mr. Mysterious seems to have big plans for Arya in Braavos and maybe further, as he has her hit list and all he would need to know about her. And he can take away and give back sight, so he gets more interesting every episode.

20. “No One” formerly Arya (Previously 33rd)

A girl has no name, so I guess we can’t call her Arya anymore…

Now that she’s graduated from the Daredevil school of blind fighting, “No One” is more dangerous than ever. I hope someone has dubbed the Rocky IV montage music to her “training scene” too.

21. Rhaegal & Viserion (Previously 24th)

Best thing Tyrion (and Daenerys) has going for himself are these dragons. When diplomacy fails, dragon fire will certainly do when it comes to those trying to overthrow Meereen.

22. Daenerys Stormborn (Previously 12th)

We’ve seen this movie before with Daenerys, and come on…ENOUGH of the name dropping already, please? That doesn’t seem to be going well so far this season. The Khal widow trying to compare herself to Daenerys doesn’t realize who she’s dealing with though, and I don’t see the Dothraki council’s decision playing much of a factor in her future with her best men and probably a dragon looking for her.

23. The Three-Eyed Raven (Previously 22nd)

Okay, Raven…what have you been doing with Bran for the last year if he hasn’t learned “everything” already? If it wasn’t for the Three-Eyed Raven, we wouldn’t have seen that awesome fight scene from the Tower of Joy. But then again, he did cut it short on us…That’s so Raven.

24. Bran Stark (Previously 23rd)

Learn EVERYTHING already, Bran. Then change the world like you were meant to.

25. Leaf (Previously 29th)

She throws fireballs, guys. Like Super Mario.

26. Ghost (Previously 27th)

I’d say Ghost has some revenge to exact on the jerks who keep killing his family members…just saying.

27. Tommen Baratheon (Previously 19th)

I want to think Tommen is playing The Sparrow and trying to earn his trust, but nothing has really suggested that he isn’t easily manipulated by anyone. He wants to see his wife and he wants to make things up to his mother. Hopefully his balls have dropped finally and he can start acting like a king to make both happen.

28. Ellaria Sand (Previously 20th)

Haven’t seen Ellaria since she made Dorne bloody with Martel blood, but she is in charge. However, now she’s got Cersei’s birds spying on her…so have fun with that.

29. Olenna Tyrell (Previously 45th)

The “Queen of Thorns” finally graced us with her presence, but I don’t think she’s being very savvy by being defiant with Cersei and Jaime. We know she doesn’t care for either of them, being responsible for Joffrey’s death, but they are probably the best chance she has to getting Margaery out. Then again, Cersei is the reason why both Margaery and Loras are in the mess that they are…so point taken.

30. Qyburn (Previously NR)

The original Dr. Frankenstein on the show has now found out how Varys gathered his information. Be honest though, you were worried those candied plums were poisoned too. Things like that happen in King’s Landing.

31. Euron Greyjoy (Previously 25th)

“I am the storm.” – Looking forward to what that means in the upcoming episode and how it will effect Theon’s return.

32. Yara Greyjoy (Previously 26th)

There seem to be a lot of politics going on in this season. A Dothraki council deciding Daenerys’s fate. A high council in King’s Landing at odds. Meereen’s council dealing with surrounding cities. Now another deciding who will lead the Iron Islands. Yara has put in the time to rule and become the first woman to do so. What will Theon returning and Euron have to do with that though?

33. Kevan Lannister (Previously 38th)

Kevan not listening to his niece and nephew at the council table reminded me of, well…Congress. Not being proactive to avenge them and standing by while the king’s wife is still being held by the High Sparrow isn’t a good look for the current Hand.

34. Tyene Sand (Previously 31st)

If attention is being brought back to Dorne, as Cersei and Jaime have suggested, that only means Tyene will be back in action. She would also appears keen enough to snuff out Qyburns newly recruited birds.

35. Hodor (Previously 30th)

What you talk’n bout, Willis…er…Hodor?

36. Ser Jorah Marmont (Previously 36th)

#TrueDetectiveSeason3 continues…

And you can imagine Ser Jorah will catch up to Daenerys in time before this Dothraki council seals her fate.

37. Daario Naharis (Previously 37th)

…part 2 of #TrueDetectiveSeason3. My suspicions have shifted a little from Daario to the other Meereen power couple, but not entirely…

38. Aeron Greyjoy (Previously 44th)

It would appear Aeron will have a lot to say when it comes to who leads the Iron Islands next. How much will it matter though?

39. Gilly (Previously 49th)

Gilly’s joy at sea was so delightful. Having a stronger stomach puts her ahead of Samwell too, but you have to admire her for trusting his decision to leave her and Little Sam with his family. Kinda get a feeling how that will go though…

40. Samwell Tarley (Previously 48th)

Samwell has no idea what Jon’s been through. It’s going to be fun to see when he finds out. Training to become a Maester will make a big difference to assist Jon, but you have to wonder how safe he and Gilly will be with a family that sent him to Castle Black in the first place.

41. Smalljon Umber (Newbie)

I’m wildly torn on Smalljon Umber. Talking down to both Ramsay and Harald Karstark was very entertaining. Killing Shaggydog and handing Rickon over to them was not. I’m still not totally sure Ramsay should be trusting him, which counts as hope for the rest of us…I guess?

42. Harald Karstark (Previously 49th)

Harald has positioned himself nicely in a potential empire, but nobody who gets close to Ramsay stays there…or alive.

43. Nymeria Sand (Previously 40th)

Still doing great Indiana Jones impressions, I’m sure.

44. Obara Sand (Previously 41st)

The “Obara’s Not Impressed” face would make a pretty good meme.

45. Rickon Stark (Previously 52nd)

Hey, it’s Rickon! Oh no, Ramsay has him. Sucks to be Rickon.

46. Missandei (Previously 42nd)

Missandei hasn’t been particularly warm to Tyrion or his methods of managing Meereen. She knows the Masters’ practices pretty well and scoffs at Tyrion’s suggestion that they’ll try to be diplomatic with the leaders of the other cities. When Tyrion suggested they play a game to learn about her and Grey Worm’s pasts, that got me wondering whether or not there was more to her story than we knew.

47. Grey Worm (Previously 43rd)

Where Missandei goes these days, Grey Worm follows. He also seems tentative around Tyrion. I don’t see him turning on his own Unsullied, but he would do anything for her…I hope I’m wrong about this notion.

48. Podrick Payne (Previously 34th)

I know this is a hefty slide for Pod, but I’m not sure how useful he’ll be in Castle Black. Then again, Pod is just full of surprises.

49. Waif (Previously 32nd)

Well, now that Arya’s training is done, who is Waif going to take joy in beating up now?

50. Khal Savo’s widow (Newbie)

This woman should be enough motivation for Daenerys to not stick around Vaes Dothrak. This is you if you stick around, Stormborn.

51. Queen Margaery (Previously 46th)

Margaery’s situation remains shitty until Tommen, Cersei and the King’s Guard make their move on the Sparrows. But she’s serving as motivation for them and her grandmother to do something soon.

52. Bronn (Previously 47th)

When does Jaime enlist Bronn for help again? I hope soon.

53. Drogon (Previously 50th)

…still licking his wounds, I suppose?

54. Meera (Previously 51st)

Still feeling sorry for herself, but her father being a part of Bran’s vision of the Tower of Joy should change things, and hopefully will bring the two closer together.

55. Osha (Previously 53rd)

Being presented to Ramsay as a gift is something I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy…Then again, I’m a pretty spiteful person.

56. Septa Unella (Previously 54th)

Your time will come, Septa. (so says the Iron Maiden tune)

57. Lancel Lannister (Previously 57th)

…yours too, Lancel. Probably in the Trial By Combat against Zombie Mountain. Don’t suppose Cersei will hesitate to let him get crushed.

58. Ser Loras Tyrell (Previously 56th)

Still don’t feel great about Loras’s odds.

59. Mace Tyrell (Previously 59th)

Even Hodor says more than this jerk.

60. Maester Pycelle (Previously NR)

Congrats, Master Pycelle! You’ve taken Olly’s place as last in the rankings. And you shit yourself.

Anyone too high or too low in this week’s rankings? Let me know on Facebook or Twitter. Don’t forget to checkout The Piffcast, where we regularly discuss the show.

More Power Rankings

S6 Ep. 1 – “Too Old For This Sh*t”

S6 Ep. 2 – “You Bastards!”

S6 Ep. 3 – “Oathbroken, Mic Drop”

S6 Ep. 4 – “Bow To Your Khaleesi”

S6 Ep. 5 – “What Willis Was Talking About”

S6 Ep. 6 – “The Ties That Bind”

S6 Ep. 7 – “There Will Be Blood”

S6 Ep. 8 – “I Choose Violence”

Leave a comment Posted on May 9, 2016 Piffcast

Piffcast: The Thirteenth – Jessica Kleinschmidt and The Winter Soldier

Making her return to The Piffcast is FanDuel sportswriter Jessica Kleinschmidt! With Chicago being the hottest town in baseball at the moment, we ask Jessica to settle a few Cubs/White Sox arguments for their respective fanbases that will likely come up before the Crosstown Cup series. We also cast our own version of the Space Jam sequel, but with Major League Baseball players. Find out if your favorites make the cut! (27:21 mark, if you’d like to jump ahead)

Now that Captain America: Civil War is finally here, TJ and I (WITHOUT ANY SPOILERS) discuss what the movie got right compared to Batman v. Superman. I also reveal where it ranks in my “Favorite Movies of 2016 so far” list.

Feel free to react as you listen on Facebook or Twitter. Subscribe on iTunes here and listen to our past Piffcast episodes.

3 Comments Posted on May 6, 2016 Fantasy Football

2016 Fantasy Football Rankings: Wide Receivers 2.0

Following free agency, the NFL draft, and unfortunately a few suspensions, there’s a disturbance in the balance of the force at wide receiver. #2’s change teams, top prospects get selected, and Martavis Bryant gets busted for violating the league’s substance policy.

With new players in the mix, the rankings have changed significantly since our original list. Checkout who’s moved where and joined the Top 40.

1. Julio Jones, Atlanta Falcons

Julio Jones led the league in catches (136) and receiving yards (1,871) last season and was neck-and-neck for best overall at the position with Antonio Brown. Helping put Jones over the top were some free agent additions that should give him more chances in the end zone. The Falcons signed All-Pro center Alex Mack to sure up the middle of their offensive line and give Matt Ryan more time to find Jones getting open. Then they picked up Mohamed Sanu, who should draw some attention away from Jones down the field.

2. Odell Beckham Jr., New York Giants

Odell Beckham Jr. has video game ability. In two seasons, he has scored nearly as many touchdowns (25) as games played (26). Down the stretch from Weeks 8-13, OBJ averaged 7 catches and 132 yards while scoring 8 touchdowns over that span. In the “Josh Norman incident” that eventually led to a one-game suspension, Beckham still caught 6 passes for 76 yards and a touchdown. His quarterback, Eli Manning, challenged OBJ to get better. If this dude gets any better, he’ll easily be in the Julio/Antonio discussion…maybe better. Getting a healthy Victor Cruz back and adding Oklahoma slot WR to a group with Dwayne Harris should open things up for Beckham to excel to that level.

3. Antonio Brown, Pittsburgh Steelers

Losing Bryant for the season doesn’t help Antonio Brown. Although Brown tied the league lead for receptions (136), was 2nd in yards (1,834), and scored a few more touchdowns than Jones (10), Bryant took a lot of pressure off of him to get open deep and over the middle. That’s not to say the running back combo of Le’Veon Bell and DeAngelo Williams won’t keep defenses honest, but they’ll be able to scheme for Brown better than in the past unless Markus Wheaton and Darrius Heyward-Bay can step up in Bryant’s absence. Brown’s return ability is an X-Factor that will still set him apart from Jones and OBJ for production.

4. DeAndre Hopkins, Houston Texans

Besides Brock Osweiler, DeAndre Hopkins is the next biggest winner from the Texans’ 2016 NFL Draft. They added a burner in Notre Dame WR Will Fuller, who will take the top off defenses while Hopkins works the outside and middle of the field. They also selected Braxton Miller from Ohio State, who will need some polishing while converting from QB to WR but will draw attention away from Hopkins in the red zone. The new Texans offensive weapons should help him build on the 111 catches, 1,521 yards and 11 touchdowns he recorded in 2015.

5. Allen Robinson, Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars have had a great offseason so far, improving their defense mightily in the draft and free agency. They also added strength to their offensive line and Chris Ivory who should help the ascending Blake Bortles stay upright in 2016. That only helps Allen Robinson, who broke out in 2015 with 80 catches, 1,400 yards and a league leading 14 touchdowns.

6. AJ Green, Cincinnati Bengals

AJ Green saw his #2 and #3 WRs, Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu, walk in free agency. They may not have had the talent of Green, but they did have similar builds and commanded attention. To replace them, the Bengals added New England WR Brandon LaFell and 2nd round pick Tyler Boyd from Pitt. It will be interesting to see how the new supporting cast benefits Green but you know for sure he’ll get most of Andy Dalton’s targets after a nice resurgence in 2015 for 86 catches, 1,297 yards and 10 touchdowns.

7. Jarvis Landry, Miami Dolphins

Jarvis Landry was Miami’s best player in 2015. In the right scheme, Landry could jump to former LSU teammate Odell Beckham Jr.’s level. Enter new head coach Adam Gase, who is committed to utilizing Landry’s freakish speed and catching ability downfield. Despite scoring just 5 touchdowns and another from returning, Landry recorded 110 catches last season 1,157 yards. If Ryan Tannehill can improve like Jay Cutler did under Gase, you can expect those touchdown numbers to do the same.

8. Demaryius Thomas, Denver Broncos

Demaryius Thomas didn’t put up the double-digit touchdown totals that we were used to for the 3 seasons before. Part of that was thanks to a weird quarterback situation with deteriorating Peyton Manning and newbie Brock Osweiler. The other part was adjusting the scheme to run more to makeup for the quarterback issues. Thomas still caught 105 balls and racked up 1,304 yards. Whether it’s Mark Sanchez or 1st round pick Paxton Lynch throwing to him, I would anticipate Thomas’s touchdown numbers will normalize to 10+ coming off a Super Bowl winning season.

9. Doug Baldwin, Seattle Seahawks

Doug Baldwin and Russell Wilson did some special things in the second half of last season. During that crazy Week 10-15 stretch where Wilson threw 21 touchdowns, 11 of them went to Baldwin. My optimism for Wilson in 2016 is the same for Baldwin as I hope the Seahawks coaching staff realizes they have something good chucking downfield. Baldwin only recorded 3 games for 100+ yards in 2015. I expect him to have plenty more this season.

10. Alshon Jeffery, Chicago Bears

The best wide receiver that could’ve hit free agency this offseason is staying with the Bears thanks to the franchise tag. He’s being a little suspicious by not joining the team for voluntary practices but it’s a serious “prove it” year if he wants to make #1 WR money with the Bears or another team. We saw both Dez Bryant and Demaryius Thomas do big things in similar circumstances in 2014. It’s not hard to imagine Jeffery to do the same when he averaged 105.6 yards and 8 catches for the 6 games he was healthy last season. Kevin White should also help draw coverage away from Jeffery this year too.

11. Dez Bryant, Dallas Cowboys

There’s going to be a chain reaction of positives for the Cowboys offense after selecting Ezekiel Elliott 4th overall in the draft. When the Cowboys get their running game going, like they did in 2014 with DeMarco Murray, Tony Romo gets set up to make big plays passing and Dez Bryant is go-to target when he does. As long as he stays healthy, I would feel more confident in seeing the 2014 version of Bryant, who caught 88 passes for 1,320 yards and 16 touchdowns, than the one that averaged just 44 yards per game in 2015.

12. Sammy Watkins, Buffalo Bills

If there’s a team I don’t feel great about in 2015, it’s the Buffalo Bills. Their head coach is in full “Sideshow Rex” mode and I’m worried he’s going to crash and burn the whole thing if they don’t come out hot to start the season. However, Sammy Watkins will do his best to make things interesting as one of the most athletic offensive weapons in the league. He turned just 60 catches into 1,047 yards and 9 touchdowns last season. If Tyrod Taylor can stay in one piece with his dual-threat style (same goes for RB duo LeSean McCoy and Karlos Williams), those numbers should greatly improve as Watkins is far and away Buffalo’s best receiving option.

13. Brandon Marshall, New York Jets

The Jets drafted a quarterback in the second round and Ryan Fitzpatrick is still a free agent. Start the clock on the Brandon Marshall time bomb. Marshall has bristled at any thoughts of bringing in other quarterback instead of Fitzpatrick and fans of his past 3 teams should know when negativity starts, a bad atmosphere in the locker room will follow. Marshall’s feelings aside, he did have arguably his best statistical season as a pro in 2015 – 109 catches, 1,502 yards and a league/career high 14 touchdowns. Do you trust a rookie who was very inconsistent at Penn State, Geno Smith or someone other than Fitzpatrick to help him repeat?

14. Jordy Nelson, Green Bay Packers

Before having to miss all of 2015, Jordy Nelson was coming off the best season of his career. In 2 of the 4 seasons before his injury, Nelson recorded 13+ touchdowns. 3 of those 4 seasons, he racked up 1,250+ yards. His absence effected everyone in the receiving core. Randall Cobb didn’t benefit from Nelson drawing coverage away. James Jones was fine for a few touchdowns but wasn’t setting the world on fire. The younger receivers had moments too but kept getting hurt. If Nelson is right, it should feel like 2014 again (98/1,519/13) and that boosts Rodgers’s value.

15. Amari Cooper, Oakland Raiders

The Raiders upgraded their offensive line in Free Agency, in turn upgrading everything. They’ve been compared to the vaunted Cowboys line so if we go by that model, we project a stronger season for Latavius Murray. If Murray is running well, that sets up Derek Carr better. And if Carr is making big plays, that’s great news for 2nd-year WR Amari Cooper. It’s fair to assume the QB/WR combo is going to grow and expand on Cooper’s already lethal 14.9 yards per catch.

16. Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona Cardinals

Larry reached Legend status last year when he won the divisional championship game with 8 catches, 176 yards and the go-ahead touchdown. He was a monster in that game and back to himself during the season, as the Cardinals had him positioned all over the field to make plays. It helps that every skilled position player on the field can score from anywhere too.

17. Allen Hurns, Jacksonville Jaguars

Allen Hurns and Robinson makeup one of the deadliest WR duos in football. While Robinson was putting up All-Pro type numbers, Hurns was taking advantage of the attention he drew – scoring a touchdown in 7 straight games, 9 total and recording 1,031 yards. Much like Robinson’s case, Hurns’s numbers should only improve as long as Bortles can be protected better.

18. Jeremy Maclin, Kansas City Chiefs

Jeremy Maclin brought the surge in production from his final year in Philadelphia to his first season in Kansas City. Maclin ended the streak of WRs unable to catch a touchdown in Week 3 and added 7 more throughout the season. If Jamaal Charles can stay healthy, Maclin should be able to continue the arial success as defenses load the box to stop the run game.

19. Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Mike Evans saw his reception and yardage numbers rise in his sophomore season for Tampa Bay, but his touchdown total dropped by 75%. I’m going to go ahead and say that trading up to draft a kicker won’t fix that for Evans, but Year 2 of Jameis Winston may as long as his

20. Keenan Allen, San Diego Chargers

Before going on IR after 8 games last season, Keenan Allen was on pace for 178 targets and 134 catches. He and Danny Woodhead are Philip Rivers’s safety blankets in the passing game, and that’s a good thing for Fantasy Football. Coverage should soften on him after the Chargers added Travis Benjamin and the best pass catching TE in the draft, Hunter Henry. Also worth considering is the fact that Allen had his most productive season (2013) when the last time Ken Whisenhunt was Chargers offensive coordinator.

21. T.Y Hilton, Indianapolis Colts

T.Y. Hilton’s numbers over the first 3 seasons of his career had him on track for “Top 10 receiver” status. However his growth was stunted due to Andrew Luck’s struggles and eventual season ending injury. He caught just 5 touchdowns (4 in just 2 games) and topped 100 only twice. If Luck is right, Hilton may be a great value pick as your draft progresses. Theoretically, Donte Moncrief and Phillip Dorsett should stretch secondaries out for Hilton to take advantage downfield and over the middle.

22. Brandin Cooks, New Orleans Saints

In his sophomore season, Brandin Cooks proved to be the explosive player that we expected after he was drafted. He stayed healthy all season and racked up 84 catches, 1,138 yards and 9 touchdowns. His potential was most evident down the stretch, as he topped 100 yards and scored in 3 of his final four games. Drafting WR Michael Thomas from Ohio State will only help Cooks shake coverage, as will the growth of Brandon Coleman and Willie Snead.

23. Randall Cobb, Green Bay Packers

We saw the best and the meh-est of Randall Cobb the past 2 seasons. Paired with a healthy Nelson in 2014, Cobb caught 91 passes for 1,287 years and 12 touchdowns. When thrusted into the #1 role after Nelson was ruled out in the preseason, Cobb caught just 79 passes (with the same number of targets) for 829 yards and 6 touchdowns.

24. Michael Crabtree, Oakland Raiders

As mentioned regarding Cooper, the Raiders offensive line makes everyone else better and that includes Michael Crabtree. 2015 was Crabtrees best season since 2012, with 85 catches for 922 yards and 9 touchdowns. Those numbers should only improve as Derek Carr does.

25. Emmanuel Sanders, Denver Broncos

Emmanuel Sanders and Thomas have been one of the best WR duos in the league in the past but with a really big question mark at the quarterback position, it’s difficult to project what either wide receiver will do in 2016. With turmoil at the position in 2015, Sanders recorded 30 less catches, nearly 300 less yards, and 3 less touchdowns than in 2014. Most of the offense coming off a Super Bowl win is returning, except for the quarterbacks, and the Broncos added Russell Okung at left tackle. Sanders has the ability to be an excellent possession target, no matter who lines up under center.

26. Kelvin Benjamin, Carolina Panthers

The Super Bowl runner-ups didn’t have a healthy #1 quality WR on the roster and Cam Newton still threw 35 touchdown passes. Now he gets his big bad red zone target, Kelvin Benjamin, back. Look for his rookie stat line of 73 catches, 1,008 yards and 9 touchdowns to only grow in 2016.

27. Golden Tate, Detroit Lions

Golden Tate is the #1 WR in Detroit and picked up AJ Green’s #2, Marvin Jones. I hadn’t figured Tate to be a #1 but when thrust into the role in 2014 (with Calvin Johnson dealing with injuries), he had a Pro Bowl season catching 99 passes for 1,331 yards and 4 touchdowns. He continued being a quality PPR with 90 catches in 2016, and should be back in the spotlight this season in year 2 of the Jim Bob Cooter offense.

28. Julian Edelman, New England Patriots

I love Julian Edelman, but I start to worry if the wear and tear of being the grindy Patriots g0-to WR is catching up with him. He missed 7 games last season, missed 2 the season before and gutted through injuries for their Super Bowl run then. However, he’s the man you trust most in the receiving core and should benefit from the emphasis of double TEs with Rob Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett terrorizing defenses. You wonder if he’ll suffer though potentially without Tom Brady in the first quarter of the season.

29. John Brown, Arizona Cardinals

John Brown recorded two definitive boom or bust games of the season last year. In Week 6 against the Steelers, he caught 10 passes for 196 yards. Two weeks later, he gave fantasy owners a goose egg with 0 catches on 3 targets. We learned more about how Bruce Arians will use information in the media and his lineup as decoys and misdirection, as Brown was clearly hurt in the game. When Brown is healthy, he’s one of the best deep ball threats in football. He’ll be a savvy WR3 pick following up his 65 catches, 1,003 yards and 7 touchdowns last season.

30. Corey Coleman, Cleveland Browns

First rookie on the list is Corey Coleman because he’s immediately projected to be Cleveland’s #1 WR and he’s the most explosive player at his position from the draft. The All-American out of Baylor finished 2015 with the most touchdowns in college football (20) and also won the Biletnikoff Award. The Browns drafted 5 WRs and some will make the roster, but Brian Hartline and Andrew Hawkins will be the guys taking pressure off Coleman to let him do big things.

31. Eric Decker, New York Jets

Eric Decker was excellent in 2015 and plays like an excellent #2 wide receiver, having recorded 10+ touchdowns 3 times. I’m just not sure about the Jets’ quarterback situation. I don’t have much confidence in Geno Smith and even less in Christian Hackenberg. If they sign Ryan Fitzpatrick though, he shoots up the list.

32. Travis Benjamin, San Diego Chargers

Travis Benjamin may not be the #1 man in San Diego like he was in Cleveland, but at least he has a much better quarterback throwing to him (Rivers > McCown + Manziel) and one who throws at a much higher volume. Rivers threw more passes than anyone in 2015 and Benjamin makes a better receiving option than Danny Woodhead. If by chance Allen were to get hurt again, he would easily have Top 20 value. Being a returner with a knack for scoring helps too.

33. Marvin Jones, Detroit Lions

Besides scoring 10 touchdowns in 2013, Marvin Jones has never produced like a #1 wide receiver. He was still the highest valued unrestricted free agent WR and he landed in a Top 10 passing offense. Fortunately, he doesn’t have to be the #1 option in Detroit as Golden Tate has had enough experience in the role. As the #2 in the Detroit last season, Tate was targeted 128 times. Jones would love that kind of attention in his new uniform.

34. Tyler Lockette, Seattle Seahawks

In his rookie season, Tyler Lockett was an All-Pro. Not necessarily for receiving, but because he was the best return specialist in football. He scored touchdowns on both kick and punt returns, then added 6 more through the air. Twice he scored multiple TDs and he’s capable of doing it many more times in 2016…especially if Wilson keeps chucking it like he did in the second half of 2015.

35. DeSean Jackson, Washington

The 3-time Pro Bowler is coming off an injury plagued season, but his potential as a home run threat in 2016 improved immensely with the selection of TCU’s Josh Doctson in this year’s draft. With Pierre Garçon, Doctson and newly extended Jordan Reed commanding coverage, D-Jax should be freed up to burn opposing defenses down the field. It’s worth noting that Jackson has only played all 16 games twice in his 6-year career, but he’s very capable of monster games with Kirk Cousins vying for a long-term deal.

36. Steve Smith Sr., Baltimore Ravens

Take 2 on Steve Smith Sr.’s farewell tour. Not too many people expected Smith to put up the 79 catches, 1,065 yards and 6 touchdowns that he did in 2015, moving to Baltimore. He’s a crazy person who runs on pride and physicality. There isn’t much logic to having him ranked here besides his penchant for defying odds and being the most proven WR weapon that Joe Flacco has on the roster this year. This season will be his swan song and you know he’ll try to make it count.

37. Laquon Treadwell, Minnesota Vikings

Laquon Treadwell wasn’t the first to go but the Vikings may have selected the best all-around wide receiver in the 2016 draft. He won’t beat you with speed, but he’s the best pure route runner and will catch anything within his radius. Stefon Diggs will be cutting the top off defenses while Treadwell can be a PPR machine over the middle for Bridgewater.

38. Jordan Matthews, Philadelphia Eagles

As it stands, the Eagles roster is not built to run very much, despite new HC Doug Peterson coming from a running system in Kansas City. Jordan Matthews is the #1 WR in Philadelphia and has better company with the addition of Rueben Randle and will be the best option for rookie quarterback Carson Wentz. His catch numbers and yardage are trending upward his young 2-year career, and has scored 16 touchdowns over that time.

39. Mohamed Sanu, Atlanta Falcons

Mohamed Sanu landed in a better situation than his former teammate, Marvin Jones. Coverages will lean Julio Jones’s way which should open things up on Sanu’s end. He’s also young and has all the measurables to do some big things, especially in the end zone.

40. Victor Cruz, New York Giants

Victor Cruz makes this installment of the Top 40 after hearing he is 100% healthy. The Giants added Sterling Shepard for the slot receiver role and we know what OBJ can do, but that just gives Cruz the Rueben Randle targets. It’s doubtful he has the same wheels, but Cruz had a nose for the end zone in 2012 and could find it again without double coverage.

Anyone too high or too low? Was anyone left out? Let me know on Facebook or Twitter.

More Position Rankings:

Running Backs (2.0)

Quarterbacks (2.0)

Wide Receivers (1.0)

9 Comments Posted on May 3, 2016June 15, 2016 TV

Game of Thrones Power Rankings: S6 Ep2 – “You Bastards!”

Each week, we give every episode at least 24 hours to breathe and for you to get caught up. After that, you’re clicking at your own risk. Spoilers ahead.

I think Carice van Houten, who plays Melisandre, summed up Season 6’s second episode perfectly.

Happy now? 😜

— Carice van Houten (@caricevhouten) May 2, 2016

Very happy, Carice. Very damn happy.

It was also a big episode for the bastards of Thrones. Ramsay followed the Sand Snakes’ lead. Tommen got closer to growing a pair. Then, dun dun dun, Jon Snow got (as the kids say) woke. And dragons…

But first a quick moment for the fallen:

– Roose Bolton

– Walda Bolton

– Baby Bolton

– Balon Greyjoy

– That jerk that shot an arrow at Wun Wun

Let’s begin now.

1. Jon Snow (Previously 10th)

The wait is over, Thrones friends! It didn’t even take 3 days for Jon to rise from the dead, thanks to Melisandre (and Ser Davos, even more). As Roose Bolton feared, a living Stark in the north is much more powerful than any Bolton (we’ll get that later). With Sansa heading his way to Castle Black, and a reputation for being almost immortal, Jon’s going to have quite a following in future days.

2. Tyrion Lannister (Previously 3rd)

“That’s what I do…I drink, and I know things.”

And knowing’s half the battle. Tyrion get major props for respecting the dragons and releasing them from their chains, without being eaten or burnt to a crisp. As the allies to Meereen fall, the dragons become an even fiercer weapon than whatever forces they neighboring “master” cities can conjure. In Daenerys’s absence, Tyrion wields that power now.

3. Ser Davos Seaworth (Previously 4th)

Melisandre may have brought Jon back to life, but it took Davos pushing her to do so. It was like was representing the fans of the show that didn’t want to believe Jon Snow was dead and his pep talk was on a Super Bowl coach level, if you ask me. One can assume now that he would be Jon’s #2 as their forces build.

4. Melisandre (Previously 11th)

To be honest, I loved Emo Melisandre. I was half-expecting to see her black eye-liner, goth lipstick and listening to Hawthorn Heights, given her mood after the first episode. But she kept her clothes on, got to work, and performed one more miracle…just like Davos said she would.

5. Cersei Lannister (Previously 13th)

If anyone knows the game as well as Tyrion, it’s his sister Cersei. The plan for revenge appears to be in motion now, as she has guilted her way back into King Tommen’s good graces. One can assume she’ll be the one influencing his decisions going forward regarding the Sparrows and getting Margaery back. The King’s Guard seemed pretty relieved too, when she chose to not sick her Zombie Mountain on them.

6. Night’s King (Previously 5th)

I’ll just continue to refer to the “Hardhome” episode, until he appears again.

7. Sansa Stark (Previously 1st)

Sansa got her BIG LONG OVERDUE WIN last week and she seems set to head to Castle Black. That will definitely be the best course of action with Jon coming back from the dead and the opportunity to bring the north together, first against Ramsay.

8. Tormund Giantsbane (Previously 19th)

Besides Wun Wun totally ragdolling a dude, Tormund led the charge into Castle Black. This one was way easier than the first time in Season 4. He also put one Crow down, which seemed to satisfy him greatly, and gave Alliser some fantastic sass. He’ll obviously be Jon’s key to the Wildling Army going forward, who will be amazed to see him walking again.

9. Brienne (Previously 2nd)

It’s good to be on #TeamSansa, and really #TeamStark in general at the moment. One could imagine there will be some hiccups on the way to Castle Black, but Brienne has proven herself capable of handling just about anything at this point. You have to appreciate how polite she was with Sansa, when she totally could have pulled the “I told you so” card on her.

10. Varys (Previously 6th)

Varys has to feel better after seeing Tyrion tame the dragons in their lair. His resourcefulness for information surrounding Meereen also appear to be the council’s best asset after the dragons.

11. Zombie Mountain (Previously 15th)

First #ZombieMountainSmash of the season was a great one. Jerk totally had it coming. The relief in the King’s guard’s faces was pretty priceless too after they realized they didn’t have to fight him…yet. Now unleash him on the damn Sparrows already!

12. The High Sparrow (Previously 16th)

The High Sparrow remains high in the rankings here after flexing his mafia style muscles on Jaime. Very bold to send a message during his daughter’s funeral ceremony. I have to think Jaime will make him pay for that soon.

13. Jaime Lannister (Previously 7th)

Like Cersei, Jaime seems to have influence over Tommen as well…and that’s going to come in handy as the Lannister siblings start their revenge campaign on everyone ever. Savvy to concede to the Sparrow when it’ll be way better to kill him down the road.

14. Ramsay Bolton (Previously 35th)

WORST. PERSON. EVER.

With that said, Ramsay is now the last Bolton in charge of his house and army. He also has zero honor, so that makes him more dangerous than most. He’s likely making a big mistake attacking Castle Black though, as his father warned. I also don’t think the Karstarks are the best house to align with, considering the head of the family broke his oath to Rob Stark in the first place.

15. Wun Wun The Giant (Previously 36th)

Who didn’t cheer when Wun Wun walked into Castle Black. All he needed was Stone Cold Steve Austin’s entrance music.

16. Dolorous Edd (Previously 18th)

Did anyone expect to be calling Dolorous Edd “Lord Commander” when they first met him? Good for Edd, sticking by Jon’s side and rounding the Wildlings. We saw the leadership qualities in him during “Watchers on the Wall” and it’s cool that he has evolved to this now.

17. Daenerys Stormborn (Previously 12th)

We’ll likely learn more about Daenerys’s situation in the next episode, but for now she has Khal Moro’s protection and she’s safe. I still get the feeling she will be commanding even more respect in a short time’s notice with a new Dothraki army.

18. Khal Moro (Previously 14th)

Khal Moro seems honorable. You worry about characters like him on this show though, as they let their guard down to the dangerous ones within their inner circle. Trusting Daenerys is smart and can pay off big time, if he survives.

19. Tommen Baratheon (Previously 27th)

Tommen gets Top 20 status for simply being the king. He will also have the right people advising him as he makes his move to rescue his wife. The “should’ve, would’ve, could’ve” babble was a little whiny, but he’s being pointed in the right direction now. Unfortunately, Kings don’t last long this show.

20. Ellaria Sand (Previously 9th)

Inactivity makes Ellaria slide a little. Not sure how relevant her storyline will be for a while, but it’s hard not to assume she’s in control of Dorne at the moment and that’s enough to respect at the moment.

21. Petyr Baelish (Previously 22nd)

Hey, where’s Little Finger at? Not sure if he knew what would transpire with Sansa and the Boltons would happen, but he would look pretty damn smart if he did. Houses are going to be choosing sides in the north soon, and you wonder how much influence he has when they do.

22. The Three-Eyed Raven (Previously 31st)

Finally! Some Three-Eyed Raven magic!

For the time being, I’d like to compare the Raven to Doc Brown and Bran is Marty McFly as they travel through time to learn about what’s to come.

23. Bran Stark (Previously 32nd)

Bran McFly is kinda grown up and learning about his family’s past. It’s impressive, but not as impressive as taking control over Hodor, a Direwolf or like…a dragon. It’ll all make sense soon though, right? (That’s what they keep telling us)

24. Rhaegal & Viserion (Previously 50th)

Unchained and ready to get after it! For now, the dragons are the biggest X-Factor to the Meereen storyline. If Tyrion wants to restore order, he’ll need their help to do it by striking fear into just about EVERYONE. After what happened in the fighting pits, that seems pretty plausible.

25. Euron Greyjoy (Newbie)

After Euron tossed his big brother over the rail, I immediately thought of the scene from Monty Python and the Holy Grail

And now he’s “running” for King of the Iron Islands. Great.

26. Yara Greyjoy (Previously NR)

I’m confused. Balon told Yara she would become ruler. Apparently she still has a chance because she has to be “chosen”. Does that change when Theon returns though? Euron doesn’t seem too keen on letting either take charge…

27. Ghost (Previously 40th)

You knew something was going to happen when Ghost got up, right? He’s gonna be SO HAPPY, I can’t wait (I’m a dog lover, I can’t help my excitement over things like this).

28. Jaqen H’gar (Previously 30th)

The most mysterious character ever gets even more mysterious, as he tests Arya and her commitment to having no name. Is he going to give her sight back to her? How powerful is this guy? And where did Waif go?

29. Leaf (Previously NR)

Apparently “The Children” age? Leaf appears a bit older since we saw her in S4. She also knows way more than anyone other than the Raven and can throw fireballs. I think that’s Top 30 worthy.

30. Hodor (Previously 39th)

HODOR USED TO TALK NORMAL! In the flashbacks, that may be the most intriguing mystery of all…and I think it’s going to have to do with Benjen being sentenced to the Wall.

31. Tyene Sand (Previously 17th)

Like Ellaria, I’m not sure how active Tyene and her sisters will be for a while. She’s definitely the most impressive of the 3 snakes, and will probably lure Bronn to her side if the opportunity ever arises.

32. Waif (Previously 43rd)

Okay, either Waif is super shifty or she has powers like Jaqen too. Guess we’ll see soon, won’t we.

33. Arya Stark (Previously 44th)

Yay, Arya’s catching on! And she has a roof again! Her story needs to speed up though. This is taking a while. I would recommend she take lessons from the Daredevil School of Blind Fighting too.

34. Podrick Payne (Previously 21st)

All I know about Pod is that you should never doubt him. Always has a surprise up his sleeve for those who underestimate him.

35. Theon Greyjoy (Previously 8th)

Theon takes a tumble only because he’s abandoning Sansa. She’s in good hands, but it wouldn’t hurt to have him nearby. I assume there will be payoff to him returning home, but for now he’s riding into a pretty murky situation there.

36. Ser Jorah Marmont (Previously 28th)

#TrueDetectiveSeason3 continues…

37. Daario Naharis (Previously 29th)

…still think this guy’s shady though.

38. Kevan Lannister (Previously 23rd)

Alright Kevan, ready your Lannister Army on some Sparrows…and then Ramsay because his father defied you.

39. Harald Karstark (Newbie)

I think Harald is way over his head with Ramsay. 1) Bad idea to trust this jerk. 2) I don’t see how much sway the Karstarks really have after defying the Starks when they built their forces in the north.

40. Nymeria Sand (Previously 24th)

Doing great Indiana Jones impressions, I’m sure.

41. Obara Sand (Previously 25th)

“Greedy bitch”, according to her sister. Take it up with her, not me. She said it.

42. Missandei (Previously 38th)

Missandei can’t do too much without Daenerys but she did offer some valuable info to Tyrion, as he wanted to confirm how peaceful the dragons can be around strangers.

43. Grey Worm (Previously 42nd)

Okay Greyworm, stop being a Negative Nancy already and bring some boat burners to justice.

44. Aeron Greyjoy (Newbie)

Aeron seems very sagely, but I have no idea what his agenda is with Yara and now Euron returning. And what does he have to say when Theon gets home?

45. Queen of Thorns (Previously 33rd)

I think she’s bringing Hell to dinner soon…The longer her grandchildren wait, the more the heat gets cranked up.

46. Queen Margaery (Previously 26th)

Margaery can’t do much from her cell, but she is serving as motivation for Tommen to bring down the Sparrows…and a good excuse for Cersei’s revenge.

47. Bronn (Previously 37th)

What’s Bronn up to anyway? In a bar, singing…missing Tyene? Probably.

48. Samwell Tarley (Previously 45th)

Sam is missed A LOT since leaving Castle Black.

49. Gilly (Previously 46th)

…but at least Sam has Gilly.

50. Drogon (Previously 41st)

Whenever Drogon is done licking his wounds, he can go save Daenerys. Anytime now…(tick, tick, tick)

51. Meera (Previously 47th)

I’m pretty confident that while Bran was training with the Raven for a year, Meera just sat out in the snow the entire time, feeling sorry for herself.

52. Rickon Stark (Previously 48th)

“Never gonna give you up” – Rickon Astley

53. Osha (Previously 49th)

…you neither.

54. Septa Unella (Previously 51st)

Hoping for a Cersei/Maergary double-team finishing move on her. A boy can dream.

55. Ser Alliser Thorne (Previously 20th)

Lord Commander Edd is going to have fun with Alliser. At least he got one more bark at his men in before Wun Wun silenced them.

56. Ser Loras Tyrell (Previously 52nd)

…I still don’t feel too good about Ser Loras, unfortunately.

57. Lancel Lannister (Previously 53rd)

Zombie Mountain’s coming for ya, Lancel.

58. Olyvar (Previously 55th)

The Sparrows don’t seem too keen on people of his ilk. Despite selling out Loras, I don’t get the impression they spared Olyvar either.

59. Mace Tyrell (Previously 55th)

Still. So. Damn. Worthless.

60. Olly (Previously 56th)

Jon won’t look away when he cuts this brat’s head off.

Anyone too high or too low in this week’s rankings? Let me know on Facebook or Twitter. Don’t forget to checkout The Piffcast, where we regularly discuss the show.

More Power Rankings

S6 Ep. 1 – “Too Old For This Sh*t”

S6 Ep. 2 – “You Bastards!”

S6 Ep. 3 – “Oathbroken, Mic Drop”

S6 Ep. 4 – “Bow To Your Khaleesi”

S6 Ep. 5 – “What Willis Was Talking About”

S6 Ep. 6 – “The Ties That Bind”

S6 Ep. 7 – “There Will Be Blood”

S6 Ep. 8 – “I Choose Violence”

Leave a comment Posted on May 2, 2016 Piffcast

Piffcast: The Twelfth One – Dad Bands, blink-182, and Parts Unknown

Musician, web-artist, woodworker, and friend of the show, Nic Kaiser joins us “in-studio” for the whole episode. Checkout his work at NicKaiser.com! We discuss some of the projects he’s worked on, the bands he’s played in (Farraday and Robot Love Story), TV shows we’re watching, the new blink-182 album, guilty pleasure music, the Dad Band he and TJ play in, Anthony Bourdain and more.

We also make our final predictions for what will go down in Captain America: Civil War. Be sure to get your own predictions in to us. Best one (most entertaining) will win a Piffcast Prize!

Feel free to react as you listen on Facebook or Twitter. Subscribe on iTunes here.

4 Comments Posted on April 28, 2016 Fantasy Football

2016 Fantasy Football Rankings: Quarterbacks 2.0

On the day of the 2016 NFL Draft, let’s revisit the current Fantasy quarterback landscape. One of the biggest moves in Free Agency came at the position, but there were other moves that both helped and hurt the value for multiple QBs. See who rises or falls as you prepare WAY TOO EARLY for your draft this summer.

1. Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

Save your Super Bowl 50 hot takes. It’s highly probable you reached your Fantasy Championship last year because you had Cam Newton starting down the stretch. The 13 touchdowns he threw in weeks 12-14 would suggest so. The offseason moves the Panthers made prior to this week would suggest they are committed to continue running with him and Jonathan Stewart. Letting Josh Norman walk freed up $14 million more of cap room to work with. Let’s see what else is added to Newton’s offense, on top of a returning Kelvin Benjamin.

2. Tom Brady, New England Patriots

(For now, Brady stays here until we know for sure that his suspension will hold up for the season)

Last year’s biggest steal for many (before his suspension was lifted) just added another scary red zone target in Martellus Bennett. Tom Brady was a magician last year with a depleted receiver group, yet threw the 3rd highest touchdown total of his career (36) and averaged 298 yards per game. He’ll be 39 as the 2016 season starts, but there wasn’t much evidence of him slowing down yet.

3. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

Okay, I’ve come to my senses. Aaron Rodgers is good at football, I know. I still wouldn’t recommend spending a 1st or early 2nd round pick on him, but adding Jared Cook to Rodgers’ arsenal helps in the red zone. The Packers aren’t particularly known for 2-TE looks, but they have that option now from 25 yards and in. If Eddie Lacy meets his “comeback” hype too, the Packers offense could be devastating and that would benefit Rodgers owners the most.

4. Carson Palmer, Arizona Cardinals

Carson Palmers numbers were very similar to Tom Brady’s last season. The Cardinals also brought the band back together, re-signing Jermaine Gresham, Chris Johnson, and Jaron Brown. They are 5 deep in quality WRs, and the Top 3 stack up with any group in the league. As long as the 36-year old can be held upright, you should get the consistent 2 touchdowns and 290 yards per game at least.

5. Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks

Russell Wilson’s 21/2 TD-to-INT ratio from Week 10-15 are exactly why you put him in the Top 5. He put up his highest touchdown total in 2015 (34), which was 14 more than the season prior. What makes you hesitant is his annual slow start. Since being drafted in 2012, Wilson has averaged 1.3 touchdowns and 210.25 yards per game through through first 5 weeks of the season. What’s nice is that he hardly turned the ball over, but you’re hoping Seahawks play-callers stick to the formula they found last season, attacking downfield with Doug Baldwin and Tyler Lockett.

6. Blake Bortles, Jacksonville Jaguars

In his first two seasons, Blake Bortles was the most sacked quarterback in the league. Improving his touchdown total by 24 (35 in 2015) was pretty encouraging though, as was finding chemistry with two of the game’s most consistent receivers. The Jaguars added some offensive line help picking up former Steelers tackle Kelvin Beachum and improved their defense by signing Malik Jackson and Tashaun Gipson. Having Chis Ivory in the backfield too should also help forcing opposing defenses to fill the box. It’s safe to assume #BortlesKombat will continue to heat up.

7. Eli Manning, New York Giants

Eli Manning, of all people, has challenged Odell Beckham Jr. to improve for next season. I guess a quarterback and captain is responsible for that, but Beckham continued to be the best thing going for the Giants offense having scored 25 touchdowns in 2 seasons. Manning seems to finally be getting a healthy Victor Cruz back and Dwayne Harris made solid strides as the #3 guy. Coming off the highest touchdown total of his career (35), Manning should build on it with another year of OBJ and the same offensive play-calling should make.

8. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

Drew Brees missed his first game since 2009 last season and still finished the season with 32 touchdowns and 4,870 yards (324 yards per game). He’s younger than Brady but might have a bit more wear-and-tear. However, the extension Sean Payton received makes me think he’s going to come out firing with his QB this year. Brees has an elite deep option in Brandin Cooks, two other solid receivers in Brandon Coleman and Willie Snead, a new red zone threat in Coby Fleener and two effective pass catching running backs…Things are looking bright.

9. Derek Carr, Oakland Raiders

After adding Donald Penn, the Raiders offensive line is now one of the best in all of football. When he wasn’t under pressure, Derek Carr had a passer rating of 96.4 last year. That and the 32 touchdowns he threw should improve as his chemistry with Amari Cooper and Michael Crabtree do as well.

10. Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers

Losing Martavis Bryant hurts the Steelers offense a lot. He is a top tier talent and Ben Roethlisberger wasn’t necessarily his best during his 5-game suspension last season, 7 touchdowns and 6 interceptions. Roethlisberger’s longtime go-to tight end also retired. However, the Steelers upgraded at the position by signing Ladarius Green and they still have Antonio Brown, plus Le’Veon Bell returns. I don’t know if you can trust Big Ben to stay in one piece all season, but his knack for 3+ touchdown games and average of 328 yards per last season make him Top 10 worthy.

11. Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts

Which Andrew Luck will we get this year? The one who went 2-5 and threw just 15 touchdown passes last season, or the one who threw 40 the year before? The Colts didn’t add much to their offensive line to protect him but they do still have speedsters T.Y. Hilton and Donte Moncrief to throw downfield to. It will be interesting to see how Luck bounces back.

12. Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers

Philip Rivers could be had for great value. With a healthy Keenan Allen through 8 games, Rivers averaged 344 yards and 2 touchdowns per game. Then Ken Whisenhunt rejoined the Chargers staff, who helped Rivers get his groove back in 2013, and they added the Cleveland Browns’ #1 receiver, Travis Benjamin. If everyone stays healthy, the Chargers could have a very high powered offense.

13. Andy Dalton, Cincinnati Bengals

Andy Dalton had a great season before his injury last year. 25 touchdowns and 7 interceptions are much better than the 19 and 17 before then. His #2 and #3 receivers, Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu, left via free agency but it doesn’t hurt to have weapons like AJ Green, Tyler Eifert and Giovani Bernard. Brandon LaFell also joins the Bengals offense and possibly a first round quality receiver too from this year’s draft.

14. Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions

Matthew Stafford is coming off his 2nd 30+ touchdown season of his career (32), but he’s going to be doing so without Calvin “Megatron” Johnson. The Lions did their best to fill the need at WR by picking up Marvin Jones, the best WR on the market after Alshon Jeffrey was franchised tagged, and Golden Tate has proven he can shine without Megatron. What’s also encouraging are the 17 touchdowns Stafford threw in the final 6 weeks of the season. His two running backs, Ameer Abdullah and Theo Riddick, are strong in the passing game as well.

15. Kirk Cousins, Washington

I’m not sure how Kirk Cousins is supposed to feel about getting franchise tagged and then seeing Josh Norman get a $75 million contract after. If he wants to get paid more somewhere though, it would be in his best interest to play like the guy who threw 11 touchdown passes and zero interceptions over his last 3 games. He finished the season with a 101.6 passer rating and a healthy Jordan Reed can only help that continue in 2016.

16. Jay Cutler, Chicago Bears

It’s taken a long time but it finally appears the Chicago Bears are putting a proper offense around Jay Cutler. The franchise tagged the best WR in free agency, Alshon Jeffrey. They sured up the right side of their offensive line by adding tackle Bobby Massie and kicking Pro Bowler Kyle Long back to guard. They also get to find out what Kevin White is made of. Continuity in offensive scheme and better coaching should keep the arrow pointing up for Cutler.

17. Ryan Tannehill, Miami Dolphins

We go from one Adam Gase project to the next. Ryan Tannehill was on a steady track, improving on touchdown totals for his first 3 seasons, but took a step back in 2015 with a coaching staff that really didn’t seem to know what they were doing. He can throw and he can run. His new head coach specializes in utilizing quarterbacks with Tannehill’s talent in play-action, minimizing their mistakes. His Top WR, Jarvis Landry, also looks ready to explode.

18. Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons

Matt Ryan should be much higher, but his 2015 season makes it very fair to doubt his abilities. With arguably the best WR in football, Julio Jones, and an emerging star at running back, Devonta Freeman, Ryan only threw 21 touchdowns last year. Only once did he throw 3 or more touchdowns in a game. Only ONCE in his career has thrown 30+ touchdowns in a season. Too often did you see him turn the ball over on scoring drives or get stopped because of his own inaccuracy. The Falcons upgraded his protection this year by adding Alex Mack at center and replaced Roddy White with Mohamed Sanu. It’s now or never, Matty Ice.

19. Jameis Winston, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

While Marcus Mariota started out hot, Jameis Winston may have finished the 2015 season looking like the better rookie quarterback. Despite losing 5 of his last 7 games, Winston’s numbers improved after a 5 touchdown performance against the Eagles. He also gets back the best RB that was available in free agency, Doug Martin, and hopefully Mike Evans finds a cure for “the drops”. It will be interesting to see how the team handles itself without Lovie Smith and with Dirk Koetter in charge.

20. Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys

It’s really tough to feel confident in Tony Romo as the #1 Fantasy quarterback on your roster. The backfield situation looks better with a committee of Darren McFadden, Alfred Morris and a healthy Lance Dunbar. If those guys get going, you might get the 34-TD Romo. If they don’t, then you have to worry about another season ending injury. Health will be key for both Romo and Dez Bryant in 2016. If by chance they draft Ezekiel Elliott though, you can feel a lot better about the Cowboys in general.

21. Brock Osweiler, Houston Texans

There was one quarterback signing in the offseason that made serious waves and that was Brock Osweiler to Houston. He traded throwing to Demaryius Thomas for DeAndre Hopkins and an offensive scheme that earned Brian Hoyer a 100+ passer rating in 5 of his 11 games started. It’s hard to predict how good Osweiler will be after such a small sample size. He threw 10 touchdowns and 6 interceptions in 7 games with Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders as his options. Do Hopkins, Cecil Shorts III, Jalen Strong and fellow signee Lamar Miller help him improve those numbers?

22. Joe Flacco, Baltimore Ravens

“Is Joe Flacco a elite?” – One of my favorite Twitter jokes in sports.

Flacco’s never thrown more than 27 touchdowns in his career. He followed up his highest season total with a season-ending injury and just 14 TDs in 10 games. The Ravens are committed to Flacco though, extending him for another 3 years in the offseason. He’ll have Steve Smith Sr. playing his final season and wanting to go out with a bang. They also added Mike Wallace and Benjamin Watson to improve the receiving corps and prepare for for the annual Dennis Pita injury.

23. Marcus Mariota, Tenesse Titans

Marcus Mariota had probably the most impressive start to his career you could ask for, throwing 4 touchdowns in the opener against his rookie counterpart, Jameis Winston. He’d match that total again vs. the Saints while adding 371 yards. However, he was shut out in the TD column 5 times and was only healthy for 12 games. Trading for DeMarco Murray shows the Titans are very committed to the run for 2016, which should help take pressure off Mariota in his sophomore season and set up his passing game better.

24. Alex Smith, Kansas City Chiefs

Alex Smith is a very good game manager, at this point in his career and he can at times be a decent waiver pickup when your #1 guy is on a bye. Twice in 2015, Smith threw 2 touchdowns and ran for another and he was finally back to finding wide receivers in the end zone again (that’s progress, considering the year and half long streak of not throwing TDs to WRs). Smith will also be getting Jamaal Charles back, who is monster when catching the ball out of the backfield.

25. Teddy Bridgewater

In year 3 of the Teddy Bridgewater era, the Vikings bulked up their offensive line by adding Andre Smith and Alex Boone. After being sacked 44 times last season, that’s a welcomed upgrade for Bridgewater. He’s thrown only 14 touchdowns in each of his first 2 seasons and the Vikings have yet to improve their receiver depth, but more attention to Adrian Peterson by defenses should open things up for Bridgewater this time around.