Things I Think I Think
1 I think I still can't get over how well Houston middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans (below) played on Monday night against the Vikings. In 41 minutes he had 16 tackles—including two tackles for loss—and a sack. The Texans have to make sure that they sign Ryans, who could become a restricted free agent in 2010. He's the heart and soul of their defense.
2 I think the NFL shouldn't be so unyielding about the blackout rule. It's unrealistic to expect that Detroit, with its 29% unemployment rate, will fill a 64,500-seat stadium regularly. It would be a grand gesture on the league's part if it allowed struggling franchises to televise a couple of nonsellout home games in their local markets.
3 I think Bears fans who were worried about my picking Chicago to lose to New England in Super Bowl XLVI should relax. The last time my Super Bowl prediction was right was in 1994.
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PHOTO
BRETT DAVIS/US PRESSWIRE (RYANS)