20) Ryan Fitzpatrick, Bills                              at Jets

21) Andrew Luck, Colts                                  at Bears

22) Alex Smith, 49ers                                      at Packers

23) Christian Ponder, Vikings                         vs Jaguars

24) Russell Wilson, Seahawks                        at Cardinals

25) Jake Locker, Titans                                   at Patriots

 RB WR TE DEF K

DALLAS AT NEW YORK GIANTS

American League

Baltimore Orioles
(CL) Jim Johnson (R)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday in a non-save situation needing only 11 pitches to get through the appearance He struck out one batter while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out to get the job done. (09/04/12)
(SU) Pedro Strop (R)–Pitched a 1-2-3 eighth inning on Monday striking out two batters on 10 pitches thrown. With this appearance Strop lowered his earned-run average to 1.83 on the season, which ranks him amongst the best setup men the American League. (09/04/12)
(MR) Darren O’Day (R)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation giving up just one walk in the outing. With this appearance O’Day lowered his earned-run average to 2.30 on the season. (09/03/12)

Boston Red Sox
(CL) Andrew Bailey (R)–Recorded his second save of the season on Tuesday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up one hit in the outing. Bailey is now two-for-two in save chances since taking over the closer role. (09/05/12)
(SU) Vicente Padilla (R)–Picked up his 23rd hold of the season on Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one walk in the outing. With this appearance Padilla lowered his earned-run average to 4.37 on the season. (09/05/12)
(MR) Alfredo Aceves (R)–Pitched one inning of relief on Friday night giving up two runs on one hit while striking out one batter. Aceves has looked horrible as of late and is likely going to be removed completely from the closer role if he keeps this up. (09/01/12)

Chicago White Sox
(CL) Addison Reed (R)–Recorded his 25th save of the season on Monday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up one hit in the outing. He needed 21 pitches to get through the appearance striking out one batter while forcing two ground ball outs to get the job done. (09/04/12)
(SU) Brett Myers (R)– Picked up his seventh hold since joining the White Sox on Monday after pitching 0.2 innings of relief. With this appearance Myers lowered his earned-run average to 3.15 since coming over from the Astros. (09/04/12)
(MR) Matt Thornton (L)– Picked up his 22nd hold of the season despite giving up one run on one hit and one walk in one inning of relief. He needed 14 pitches to get through the appearance forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out while striking out one batter. (09/04/12)
Cleveland Indians
(CL) Chris Perez (R)–Recorded his 34th save of the season on Tuesday night after retiring all three batters he faced in order in the ninth inning. This was his first appearance since last Thursday so expect him to be available on Wednesday. (09/05/12)
(SU) Vinnie Pestano (R)–Picked up his 34th hold of the season on Tuesday after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning striking out two batters. Pestano has now pitched back-to-back days and may get the day off on Wednesday. (09/05/12)
(MR) Tony Sipp (L)–Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Thursday giving up one run on four walks in the appearance. With this outing Sipp raised his earned-run average to 4.70 on the season and has now given up runs in two of his last three games. (08/31/12)

Detroit Tigers
(CL) Jose Valverde (R)–Recorded his 28th save of the season on Sunday night despite giving up one run on three hits in the ninth inning. Valverde got himself into a bit of a jam but was able to limit the damage to just one run. (09/03/12)
(SU) Joaquin Benoit (R)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday night in a non-save situation giving up one hit and one walk in the outing. He got himself into a jam, but was able to work out of it by striking out two batters to get the job done. (09/05/12)
(MR) Phil Coke (L)–Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Monday giving up one walk in the appearance on seven pitches thrown. With this appearance Coke lowered his earned-run average to 3.67 on the season. (09/04/12)

Kansas City Royals
(CL) Greg Holland (R)–Recorded his 11th save of the season on Tuesday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. He struck out one batter in the appearance while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out on just six pitches thrown. (09/05/12)
(SU) Aaron Crow (R)–Picked up his 16th hold of the season on Sunday after striking out the only batter that he faced in the eighth inning. With this appearance Crow lowered his earned-run average to 3.48 on the season. (09/03/12)
(MR) Tim Collins (L)–Picked up the win on Sunday despite being charged with a blown-save after surrendering two runs on three hits and one walk in the sixth inning. With this appearance Collins improved to 5-2 on the season even though it was a rough outing. (09/03/12)
Injured–Joakim Soria (out for season)

Los Angeles Angels
(CL) Ernesto Frieri (R)– Recorded his 16th save of the season on Thursday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. He struck out two batters in the appearance while forcing one ground ball out on 25 pitches thrown. (08/31/12)
(SU) Kevin Jepsen (R)–Picked up his 11th hold of the season on Thursday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one hit and one walk in the outing. With this appearance Jepsen lowered his earned-run average to 3.34 on the season. (08/31/12)
(MR) Scott Downs (L)–Picked up his 20th hold of the season on Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out one batter in the appearance and needed just seven pitches to get the job done. (09/05/12)

Minnesota Twins
(CL) Glen Perkins (L)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Thursday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out one batter while forcing two fly ball outs on just 12 pitches thrown. (08/31/12)
(CL) Jared Burton (R)–Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Thursday giving up one hit in the appearance. He struck out one batter while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out on 16 pitches thrown. (08/31/12)
(MR) Alex Burnett (R)–Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Sunday giving up one run on three hits and one walk while striking out two batters. With this appearance Burnett raised his earned-run average to 2.97 on the season. (09/03/12)
Injured–Matt Capps (15-Day DL)

New York Yankees
(CL) Rafael Soriano (R)–Recorded his 34th save of the season on Tuesday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters. Soriano has now pitched three straight days and will likely be given the day off on Wednesday. (08/29/12)
(SU) David Robertson (R)–Took the loss on Monday after giving up one run on three hits in the eighth inning. With this appearance Robertson falls to 1-5 on the season with a 2.28 earned-run average. (09/04/12)
(MR) Boone Logan (R)–Failed to record an out in his appearance on Sunday giving up a hit to the only batter he faced on two pitches thrown. Logan has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be unavailable on Monday. (09/03/12)
Injured–Mariano Rivera (out for the season)

Oakland Athletics
(CL) Grant Balfour (R)–Recorded his 15th save of the season on Monday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up one walk while striking out three batters. With this appearance Balfour lowered his earned-run average to 2.54 on the season. (08/28/12)
(SU) Ryan Cook(R)–Pitched a scoreless seventh inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order on 13 pitches thrown. He struck out one batter while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out to get through the inning. (09/03/12)
(MR) Sean Doolittle (L)–Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Tuesday night giving up two runs on three hits while striking out one batter. He needed 20 pitches to get through the appearance with 16 pitches going over for strikes. (09/05/12)
Injured–Joey Devine (15-Day DL), Jordan Norberto (15-Day DL)

Seattle Mariners
(CL) Tom Wilhelmsen (R)–Recorded his 23rd save of the season on Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Wilhelmsen has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be given the day off on Tuesday. (09/04/12)
(SU) Lucas Luetge (L)–Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Tuesday night retiring both batters he faced in order. He needed 10 pitches to get through the appearance forcing two ground ball outs to get the job done. (09/05/12)
(MR) Oliver Perez (L)–Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Tuesday night giving up one walk while striking out one batter in the outing. With this appearance Perez lowered his earned-run average to 1.66 on the season. (09/05/12)
Injured–George Sherrill (15-Day DL)

Tampa Bay Rays
(CL) Fernando Rodney (R)–Recorded his 42nd save of the season on Tuesday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up one hit while striking out one batter. Rodney has now picked up saves in back-to-back days, but will be sued if needed on Wednesday. (09/05/12)
(SU) Joel Peralta (R)–Picked up his 33rd hold of the season on Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one hit while striking out three batters. With this appearance Peralta lowered his earned-run average to 3.70 on the season. (09/05/12)
(MR) Kyle Farnsworth (R)–Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Friday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. He needed 11 pitches to get through the appearance forcing one ground ball out and two fly ball outs to get the job done. (09/01/12)

Texas Rangers
(CL) Joe Nathan (R)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday in a non-save situation giving up two hits in the appearance. This was Nathan’s first appearance since last Friday, so he will be available for the next few days if needed. (09/04/12)
(SU) Mike Adams (R)–Picked up his 25th hold of the season on Monday despite giving up one run on three hits in the eighth inning. With this appearance Adams raised his earned-run average to 2.60 on the season. (09/04/12)
(MR) Robbie Ross (L)–Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday night needing 17 pitches to get through the appearance. He forced three ground ball outs in the outing which was his first since last Saturday. (08/30/12)

Toronto Blue Jays
(CL) Casey Janssen (R)–Recorded his 19th save of the season on Friday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up two hits while striking out one batter. Janssen has now pitched three straight days and will likely get the day off on Saturday. (09/01/12)
(SU) Brandon Lyon (R)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday night in a non-save situation giving up two hits in the appearance. Since joining the Blue Jays at the trade deadline Lyon has pitched great and is now sitting on a 2.08 earned-run average. (09/05/12)
(MR) Steve Delabar (R)–Pitched a scoreless seventh inning on Monday giving up one walk in the outing. He needed 21 pitches to get through the appearance forcing two ground ball outs and one fly ball out to get the job done. (09/04/12)
Injured–Sergio Santos (out for season)

National League

Arizona Diamondbacks
(CL) J.J. Putz (R)–Was charged with his fifth blown-save of the season on Monday after surrendering one run on two hits and one walk while striking out two batters. This was Putz’s second blown-save in as many days and will likely get Tuesday off to clear his head. (09/04/12)
(SU) David Hernandez (R)–Picked up his 22nd hold of the season on Monday despite giving up two runs on three hits in the eighth inning. Hernandez has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely get the day off on Tuesday. (09/04/12)
(MR) Bryan Shaw (R)–Took the loss on Monday after giving up one run on two hits in the 10th inning. With this appearance Shaw falls to 1-5 on the season with a 4.22 earned-run average, but has been pitching well as of late. (09/04/12)
Injured–Takashi Saito (15-Day DL)

Atlanta Braves
(CL) Craig Kimbrel (R)–Was charged with his third blown-save of the season on Friday night after giving up one run on one hit in the ninth inning. Kimbrel had been on fire as of late so regression was bound to happen at some point. (09/01/12)
(SU) Eric O’Flaherty (L)–Picked up his 22nd hold of the season on Friday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one hit while striking out two batters in the outing. He needed 12 pitches to get through the appearance with nine pitches going over for strikes. (09/01/12)
(MR) Jonny Venters (L)–Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday giving up one walk in the outing. With this appearance Venters lowered his earned-run average to 3.40 on the season and has now put together two straight solid outings. (09/03/12)

Chicago Cubs
(CL) Carlos Marmol (R)–Took the loss on Sunday after surrendering two runs on two hits and two walks in the ninth inning. With this appearance Marmol raised his earned-run average to 4.15 on the season. (09/03/12)
(SU) James Russell (L)–Pitched a scoreless seventh inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out one batter in the appearance while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out on 11 pitches thrown. (09/03/12)
(MR) Shawn Camp (R)–Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. He needed 18 pitches to get through the appearance striking out one batter while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out. (09/03/12)

Cincinnati Reds
(CL) Aroldis Chapman (L)–Recorded his 35th save of the season on Tuesday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up just one hit. He struck out two batters in the appearance and is now sitting on 117 strikeouts on the season. (09/05/12)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)–Picked up his seventh hold of the season on Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. With this appearance Broxton lowered his earned-run average to 4.09 since joining the Reds. (09/05/12)
(MR) Sean Marshall (L)–Picked up his 18th hold of the season on Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 seventh inning. He struck out one batter in the appearance while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out on 18 pitches thrown. (08/28/12)
Injured–Ryan Madson (out for season), Nick Masset (15-Day DL)

Colorado Rockies
(CL) Rafael Betancourt (R)–Recorded his 27th save of the season on Sunday despite giving up one run on three hits in the appearance. With this outing Betancourt raised his earned-run average to 2.57 on the season. (09/03/12)
(SU) Matt Belisle (R)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday night in a non-save situation giving up one hit while striking out one batter. With this appearance Belisle lowered his earned-run average to 3.07 on the season. (09/05/12)
(MR) Matt Reynolds (L)-Pitched 0.1 innings of relief on Sunday giving up one hit and one walk on 10 pitches thrown. Reynolds has now pitched two of the last three days, but should be available out of the bullpen on Monday. (09/03/12)

Houston Astros
(CL) Wilton Lopez (R)–Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Sunday giving up one run on two hits in the appearance. Lopez has now pitched three straight days and will likely be unavailable to pitch on Monday. (09/03/12)
(SU) Fernando Rodriguez (R)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation striking out all three batters he faced in order. He threw just 11 pitches in the appearance with nine pitches going over for strikes. (09/03/12)
(MR) Rhiner Cruz (R)–Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Tuesday night giving up one hit while striking out one batter. With this appearance Cruz lowered his earned-run average to 6.80 on the season. (09/05/12)
Injured–Francisco Cordero (15-Day DL)

Los Angeles Dodgers
(CL) Kenley Jansen (R)–Jansen is out indefinitely with a recurrence of an irregular heartbeat. He has now been placed on the disabled-list as of yet, but if he is going to need blood thinners he will likely miss the rest of the season. (08/30/12)
(CL) Ronald Belisario (R)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. He needed 12 pitches to get through the appearance forcing three ground ball outs. (09/05/12)
(CL) Brandon League (R)–Picked up the win on Monday night after pitching two innings of scoreless relief. He struck out two batters in the appearance while forcing two ground ball outs and two fly ball outs to get the job done. (09/04/12)
Injured– Todd Coffey (15-Dal DL)

Miami Marlins
(CL) Steve Cishek (R)–Recorded his 12th save of the season on Monday after retiring the final batter of the ninth inning needing only two pitches to get through the appearance. With this appearance Cishek lowered his earned-run average to 2.48 on the season. (09/04/12)
(SU) Heath Bell (R)–Picked up his 11th hold of the season on Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 seventh inning. He struck out one batter in the appearance while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out to get the job done. (09/04/12)
(MR) Mike Dunn (L)–Took the loss and was charged with his third blown-save of the season on Tuesday night after giving up one run on one hit without recording an out. He threw just three pitches in the appearance and was pulled for Carlos Zambrano to get out of the seventh inning. (09/05/12)
Injured–Juan Oviedo (15-Day DL)

Milwaukee Brewers
(CL) John Axford (R)–Recorded his 24th save of the season on Tuesday night after retiring the final batter of the ninth inning on seven pitches thrown. Axford has now put together three straight solid outings so maybe he has turned the corner. (09/05/12)
(SU) Francisco Rodriguez (R)–Picked up his 25th hold of the season on Tuesday after pitching a scoreless seventh inning. He retired all three batters he faced in order striking out two batters on 13 pitches thrown. (09/05/12)
(MR) Jim Henderson (R)–Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Tuesday night giving up one hit while striking out two batters. He needed 18 pitches to get through the appearance with 15 pitches going over for strikes. (09/05/12)

New York Mets
(CL) Frank Francisco (R)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. He needed 11 pitches to get through the appearance forcing two ground ball outs and one fly ball out to get the job done. (09/03/12)
(SU) Jon Rauch (R)–Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out two batters in the appearance while forcing one fly ball out on 13 pitches thrown. (09/03/12)
(MR) Bobby Parnell (R)–Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Monday giving up two hits and one walk in the appearance. Parnell has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be given the day off on Tuesday. (09/04/12)
Injured– Tim Byrdak (15-Day DL)

Philadelphia Phillies
(CL) Jonathan Papelbon (R)–Took the loss and was charged with his fourth blown-save of the season on Sunday after surrendering three runs on two hits and one walk in the ninth inning. With this appearance Papelbon falls to 3-6 on the season with a 3.02 earned-run average. (09/03/12)
(SU) Antonio Bastardo (L)–Pitched a scoreless seventh inning on Friday retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out two batters in the appearance while forcing one fly ball out on just 14 pitches thrown. (09/01/12)
(MR) Josh Lindblom (R)–Pitched a scoreless seventh inning on Tuesday night giving up one hit while striking out two batters. With this appearance Lindblom lowered his earned-run average to 3.48 on the season. (09/05/12)
Injured–David Herndon (15-Day DL)

Pittsburgh Pirates
(CL) Joel Hanrahan (R)–Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday night in a non-save situation giving up one walk while striking out one batter. With this appearance Hanrahan lowered his earned-run average to 2.44 on the season. (09/05/12)
(SU) Jason Grilli (R)–Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday retiring all three batters he faced in order. He needed 13 pitches to get through the appearance forcing one fly ball out while striking out two batters.(08/30/12)
(MR) Tony Watson (L)–Pitched 0.1 innings of relief on Tuesday night giving up one hit in the appearance. He needed seven pitches to get through the appearance forcing a fly ball out to get out of the eighth inning. (09/05/12)

San Diego Padres
(CL) Luke Gregerson (R)–Recorded his fourth save of the season on Tuesday night after pitching a scoreless 11th inning giving up one walk in the outing. Going into Tuesday Gregerson had given up one run on two straight outings, so it was nice to see him bounce back in this matchup. (09/05/12)
(SU) Dale Thayer (R)–Pitched 0.1 innings of relief on Tuesday giving up two runs on three hits in the appearance. With this outing Thayer raised his earned-run average to 3.99 on the season despite pitching well as of late. (09/05/12)
(MR) Cory Burns (R)–Took the loss on Monday night after giving up one run on three hits in the 11th inning. With this appearance Burns fell to 0-1 on the season with a 3.72 earned-run average in limited duty. (09/04/12)
Injured–Huston Street (15-Day DL)

San Francisco Giants
(CL) Sergio Romo (R)–Pitched two innings of relief on Tuesday night retiring all six batters he faced in order. He struck out two batters in the appearance while forcing four ground ball outs to get the job done. (09/05/12)
(SU) Jeremy Affeldt (L)–Failed to record an out in his appearance on Tuesday giving up one hit and one walk in the appearance. He threw just eight pitches in the outing in what was his first appearance since Sunday. (09/05/12)
(MR) Santiago Casilla (R)–Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Tuesday night retiring both batters he faced in order. He needed only five pitches to get through the appearance forcing two fly ball outs to get the job done. (09/05/12)
Injured–Brian Wilson (out for season)

St. Louis Cardinals
(CL) Jason Motte (R)–Recorded his 33rd save of the season on Monday after pitching 1.2 innings of relief. He struck out two batters in the appearance while forcing one ground ball out and two fly ball outs to get the job done. (09/04/12)
(SU) Mitchell Boggs (R)–Picked up his 27th hold of the season on Monday despite giving up two runs on two hits and one walk in 0.1 innings of relief. With this appearance Boggs raised his earned-run average to 2.18 on the season. (09/04/12)
(MR) Marc Rzepczynski (L)–Pitched 1.1 innings of relief on Friday night giving up one hit while striking out one batter on 23 pitches thrown. With this appearance he lowered his earned-run average to 4.46 on the season. (09/01/12)

Washington Nationals
(CL) Tyler Clippard (R)–Recorded his 30th save of the season on Monday despite giving up one run on two hits in the ninth inning. Clippard has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be given the day off on Tuesday. (09/04/12)
(SU) Sean Burnett (L)–Was charged with his third blown-save of the season on Sunday after surrendering two runs on three hits in the seventh inning. Burnett has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be given the day off on Monday. (09/03/12)
(MR) Drew Storen (R)–Picked up his eighth hold of the season on Monday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. Storen retired all three batters he faced in order striking out one batter while forcing two fly ball outs on just nine pitches thrown. (09/04/12)
Injured–Henry Rodriguez (15-Day DL)

Get all your latest up-to-date daily bullpen news by following @mlbdailybullpen.

NFC EAST

New York Giants (13-7)

New Faces: TE Martellus Bennett, T Sean Locklear, LB Keith Rivers, RB David Wilson (first-round pick), WR Rueben Randle and CB Jayron Hosley.

Key Losses: OT Kareem McKenzie, CB Aaron Ross, DE Dave Tollefson, TE Jake Ballard, WR Mario Manningham, RB Brandon Jacobs.

Strengths: Coming off career-best year, two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning seems to be getting better. With Jason Pierre-Paul, Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora, the defensive line might be finest in league; that makes Corey Webster-led secondary better. Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks give Manning 1-2 punch at wide receiver and Randle is going to surprise many in rookie season.

Weaknesses: While the offensive line protects Manning well, it did nothing with running game last season, finishing last in NFL. Only time run game looked good in preseason was with Wilson in backfield. With TE Jake Ballard gone, free agent signee Martellus Bennett needs to step up. Early injuries to Terrell Thomas and Prince Amukamara have thinned depth at cornerback.

Expectations: Many think Giants were lucky to win second Super Bowl in five years with late-season rush. Guess what? They have talent to do it again, especially if Manning stays healthy and D-line makes life miserable for opposing QB. If Wilson runs as well as he did against Bears, watch out.

Philadephia Eagles (8-8)

New faces: MLB DeMeco Ryans, LB Mychal Kendricks, DT Fletcher Cox (first-round pick), QB Nick Foles, S O.J. Atogwe, P Mat McBriar.

Key losses: LT Jason Peters (injury), CB Asante Samuel.

Strengths: Eagles have dynamic offense led by QB Michael Vick, All-Pro RB LeSean McCoy and WRs DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin. Four offensive linemen return, which helps continuity. Defensive line deep and really gets after QBs. Eagles have nice mix of veterans and young talented players.

Weaknesses: Offensive line has to make up for loss of its best player, Peters, and protect Vick, who is prone to injury. Defense needs to step up in second year under coordinator Juan Castillo, who seemed overmatched at times last season. Revamped LBs have to show more consistency and make an impact.

Expectations: Tragedy struck Eagles when Garrett Reid, son of coach Andy Reid, died during training camp. Players rallied around the coach and several dedicated the season to the memory of Garrett. And, after nine playoff appearances, five trips to the NFC title game and one Super Bowl loss in Reid’s 14 seasons, fans and the organization feel nothing short of hoisting Vince Lombardi Trophy will be good enough.

Dallas Cowboys (8-8)

New faces: CB Brandon Carr, CB Morris Claiborne (first-round pick), QB Kyle Orton, FB Lawrence Vickers, OL Mackenzy Bernadeau, OL Nate Livings, LB Dan Connor.

Key losses: WR Laurent Robinson, CB Terrence Newman, TE Martellus Bennett, LB Keith Brooking, LB Bradie James.

Strengths: DeMarcus Ware, the perennial Pro Bowl LB with 99 1/2 career sacks, 19 1/2 last season, and a defense with year under coordinator Rob Ryan. Additions of free agent Carr and Claiborne strengthen secondary. QB Tony Romo coming off one of best seasons — 4,184 yards passing with 31 TDs and 10 interceptions.

Weaknesses: Depth at receiver behind hamstrung Miles Austin and Dez Bryant. Robinson excelled his one season with Romo as a No. 3 receiver, but turned that into a big free-agent deal elsewhere. Austin dealt with hamstring issues again during preseason after missing six games last year. Cowboys tried to upgrade offensive line with additions of free agents Bernadeau and Livings. But both had injury issues, the starting tackles switched sides and expected starting center Phil Costa was hurt throughout preseason.

Expectations: Owner Jerry Jones opened camp talking about return to glory days of his early ownership, when Cowboys won three Super Bowls in four-year span. Jones, who turns 70 in October, may still have to wait a little longer. Cowboys, with one postseason win the past 15 seasons, could make it back to playoffs. But getting Jones’ fourth Super Bowl title — sixth in franchise history — probably a stretch.

Washington Redskins (5-11)

New faces: QB Robert Griffin III (first-round pick), WR Pierre Garcon, WR Josh Morgan, S Brandon Meriweather, S Madieu Williams, CB Cedric Griffin, G Josh Leribeus, RB Alfred Morris, K Billy Cundiff

Key losses: S LaRon Landry, S Oshiomogho Atogwe, WR Jabar Gaffney, QB John Beck, K Graham Gano, TE Chris Cooley.

Strengths: Defensive front seven looks solid, with ageless LB London Fletcher anchoring unit hitting stride in third year of coordinator Jim Haslett’s 3-4 scheme. DE Jarvis Jenkins, who missed rookie year with injury, makes line deeper and stronger. Offenses will find it hard to account for outside LBs Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan, who between them should post impressive sack total. TE Fred Davis is a keeper, if he can avoid more off-the-field problems. Rookie QB Griffin will be joy to watch as he learns pro game.

Weaknesses: Coach Mike Shanahan likes to say he has more depth, but that could translate into lots of backup talent and not enough starting talent at some positions. No substantial upgrade to offensive line that has allowed 40 sacks each of the last three years, and RT Jammal Brown is sidelined again after hip surgery. None of RBs has ever rushed for 1,000 yards in a season, and 33-year-old Santana Moss is only WR with 1,000 yards receiving in a season. New SS Meriweather and Williams are reclamation projects.

Expectations: RGIII. RGIII. RGIII. Season is all about rookie and his learning curve. Redskins appear headed for fifth consecutive last-place finish in NFC East, but at least they’ll be entertaining as marketable, fleet-footed rookie with strong arm begins career that might just resuscitate franchise.

NFC NORTH

Green Bay Packers (15-2)

New faces: C Jeff Saturday, RB Cedric Benson, OLB Nick Perry (first-round pick).

Key losses: S Nick Collins, C Scott Wells, LT Chad Clifton, QB Matt Flynn, RB Ryan Grant.

Strengths: Reigning NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers directs what is arguably league’s most dangerous passing offense. Addition of Benson, signed as a free agent in middle of camp, could make Packers better running team and open up play-action passing game even more. Packers could use more no-huddle offense with addition of Saturday, given his experience in system where plays are called at line of scrimmage.

Weaknesses: Defense. Packers struggled to stop anybody last season, lost linebacker Desmond Bishop to a torn hamstring in the first preseason game and still are unsettled in the defensive backfield. Green Bay used its first six draft picks on defensive players and several of those players, including Perry, could be called upon to play significant roles. Also have questions about offensive line depth and backup quarterback, where Graham Harrell has struggled in preseason.

Expectations: With Rodgers at controls, Packers poised for another Super Bowl run — as long as defense can do a little more to hold up its end of bargain.

Detroit Lions (10-7)

New faces: CB Kevin Barnes, CB Bill Bentley, WR Ryan Broyles, OT Riley Reiff (first-round pick).

Key Losses: CB Eric Wright, CB Aaron Berry.

Strengths: One of best passing games in league with QB Matthew Stafford connecting with All-Pro WR Calvin Johnson, steady veteran Nate Burleson, second-year pro Titus Young, rookie Broyles and one of NFL’s better pair of TEs Brandon Pettigrew, Tony Scheffler. DT Ndamukong Suh and DE Cliff Avril lead seven-deep defensive line that will be counted on to provide pressure without lots of blitzing from back seven.

Weaknesses: Need to run consistently, and stop the pass more consistently. Speedy Jahvid Best slowed by concussions, second of which knocked him out of last season on Oct. 16, and he will miss at least first six games this season. RB Mikel Leshoure suspended by NFL for first two games. RB options are Kevin Smith and Keiland Williams. Detroit’s secondary is weakest link, and it got worse when Wright signed with Tampa Bay, and Aaron Berry was cut after an arrest-filled offseason.

Expectations: A second straight trip to the playoffs for first time since 1994-95. Backfield problems on both sides of the ball will likely keep them waiting for a second postseason victory since winning the 1957 NFL title.

Chicago Bears (8-8)

New faces: WR Brandon Marshall, RB Michael Bush, QB Jason Campbell, KR/WR Eric Weems, DE Shea McClellin (first-round pick).

Key losses: None.

Strengths: Jay Cutler and Matt Forte are healthy and happy and that’s best news at Halas Hall. Cutler had Bears headed back to playoffs last season but broke right thumb trying to make tackle on an interception return. From there, Bears collapsed, losing five straight before winning season finale. Forte has bounced back from season-ending knee injury and after long wait to get new contract he wanted. Add Bush and Marshall to mix and Bears should have potent attack under new offensive coordinator Mike Tice.

Weaknesses: Face-of-franchise LB Brian Urlacher had arthroscopics procedure on left knee during training camp and his status is not clear. Urlacher says he’ll be ready for season opener. Biggest question on offense is who will handle left tackle spot that protects Cutler’s blind side? J’Marcus Webb and Chris Williams are vying to start. There’s also concern about depth at safety after preseason injuries to returning starter Chris Conte and backup Brandon Hardin.

Expectations: After new GM Phil Emery restocked roster, playoffs are a must or coach Lovie Smith will be feeling the heat big-time.

Minnesota Vikings (3-13)

New faces: LT Matt Kalil (first-round pick), WR Jerome Simpson, TE John Carlson, SS Harrison Smith (first-round pick), CB Josh Robinson, CB Chris Carr, WR Jarius Wright.

Key losses: LG Steve Hutchinson, PK Ryan Longwell, LB E.J. Henderson, TE Visanthe Shiancoe, TE Jim Kleinsasser, RG Anthony Herrera, CB Cedric Griffin.

Strengths: Defensive line still as good as any group in league, led by All-Pro Jared Allen and his 22 sacks. TE Kyle Rudolph has become favorite of QB Christian Ponder and could have breakout year. Adding Kalil to offensive line that struggled often in 2011 should help Ponder feel safer in pocket. WR Percy Harvin, assuming he stays healthy and happy, one of most versatile players around. RB Adrian Peterson is in line to suit up for opener after major knee surgery last December, and CBs Chris Cook and Antoine Winfield are back from troubles that sidelined them down stretch last season.

Weaknesses: Ponder still unproven after erratic rookie year. Despite consistent pressure up front, secondary was decimated in 2011. Even with injury-free season, adding rookies Smith and Robinson, there is much to improve in NFC North division dominated by standout QBs and WRs. When Simpson serves three-game suspension, Harvin will be lone standout in a WR corps that’s been underwhelming for years. Carlson signed to big contract to complement Rudolph in two-TE sets, but sprained knee kept him out for most of training camp. Peterson, though he has been ahead of schedule throughout his rehab, up against torn ACL wisdom that insists a player doesn’t return to normal in first season back.

Expectations: Finishing anywhere but last place would be win for team in full rebuilding mode. First half of schedule favorable enough that one of league’s youngest teams could start strong and create confidence, but still huge talent gap before they can close in on Packers, Lions, Bears. Most important gauge of success will simply be progress for everyone from Ponder to Peterson to coach Leslie Frazier.

NFC SOUTH

New Orleans Saints (14-4)

New faces: LB Curtis Lofton, DT Brodrick Bunkley, LG Ben Grubbs.

Key losses: LG Carl Nicks, LB Jonathan Vilma (suspended), CB Tracy Porter, WR Robert Meachem, coach Sean Payton (suspended).

Strengths: Saints have virtually all key players back from offense that broke NFL records for yards passing and total yards last season, starting with QB Drew Brees and favorite targets TE Jimmy Graham, WR Marques Colston. Also back is versatile RB Darren Sproles and reliable RB Pierre Thomas.

Weaknesses: Defensive front four unproven and will have to be better in order for new defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s scheme to work. DE Will Smith is best returning pass rusher, but is suspended first four games in connection with bounty investigation. DE Cameron Jordan enters second season with potential, but remains unproven. DT Sedrick Ellis trying to rebound from off-year and Saints hoping free-agent acquisition Bunkley will live up to expectations.

Expectations: Even with Payton suspended for e season in connection with bounty probe, Saints are playoff contenders. They have wealth of experience on coaching staff and across leadership positions on offense and defense. Many key veteran leaders from Saints’ 2009-10 Super Bowl run — Brees most importantly — still on squad, as are most top assistants. Lone new coordinator is Spagnuolo, whose 2007 Giants defense won a Super Bowl against a previously unbeaten Patriots team whose single season scoring records still stand.

Atlanta Falcons (10-7)

New faces: CB Asante Samuel, G Peter Konz, OT Lamar Holmes

Key losses: MLB Curtis Lofton, KR-PR Eric Weems.

Strengths: With WR Julio Jones bulked up for second season, Atlanta’s passing attack could be among league’s best if offensive line protects QB Matt Ryan and ball is distributed equally to Jones, WR Roddy White, TE Tony Gonzalez and WR Harry Douglas under new offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter. Samuel’s addition boosts secondary with third proven veteran to pair with CBs Brent Grimes and Dunta Robinson. FS Thomas DeCoud and SS William Moore entering primes and should benefit from blitz packages installed by new defensive coordinator Mike Nolan.

Weaknesses: MLB Akeem Dent untested as he attempts to replace Lofton. Offensive line has new respected position coach in Pat Hill, but it returns same starters that got Ryan hit 84 times and sacked 24 times last year. RT Tyson Clabo, considered best player on line, allowed two sacks in third preseason game. RB Michael Turner could be slowing down. He averaged just 2.7 yards per carry through three preseason games.

Expectations: If Falcons don’t make playoffs and then win at least one game, Ryan and coach Mike Smith will be highly criticized. They are 0-3 in playoffs since Smith was hired and Ryan was drafted No. 3 overall in 2008.

Carolina Panthers (6-10)

New faces: FB Mike Tolbert, FS Haruki Nakamura, LB Luke Kuechly (first-round pick), G Amini Silatolu, PR Joe Adams.

Key losses: TE Jeremy Shockey, G Travelle Wharton, WR Legedu Naanee, LB Dan Connor.

Strengths: Carolina fifth in scoring in 2011 and most of offense returns along with coordinator Rob Chudzinski. Cam Newton starred as rookie by throwing for more than 4,000 yards. Running game should be among best with Tolbert added to already strong mix that includes DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart and Newton. Newton’s ability to run — 14 rushing TDs — makes Carolina difficult to defend. And it doesn’t hurt to have Steve Smith still catching passes.

Weaknesses: Defense and special teams remain concerns. Carolina lost three key players last year to injury — LBs Jon Beason and Thomas Davis and DT Ron Edwards. With all three back and Kuechly looking good, Panthers have chance to improve their 27th-ranked defense. Special teams coverage units allowed 3 TDs last year.

Expectations: Panthers thinking big. Pro Bowl center Ryan Kalil promised a Super Bowl when he took out full-page ad in local newspaper. Several players and coach Ron Rivera have backed him up. Team has talent, but needs to stay healthy on defense. If offense remains same and defense makes moderate improvements, team could be playoff bound.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12)

New faces: S Mark Barron (first-round pick), WR Vincent Jackson, G Carl Nicks, CB Eric Wright, RB Doug Martin (first-round pick), TE Dallas Clark, LB Lavonte David.

Key losses: TE Kellen Winslow, S Tanard Jackson, C Jeff Faine, CB Elbert Mack, S Sean Jones, LB Geno Hayes.

Strengths: It’s first-year coach Greg Schiano’s team, but continued development of QB Josh Freeman will determine whether Bucs can escape NFC South cellar and contend for playoff berth in division featuring Drew Brees, Matt Ryan, Cam Newton. Two-time Pro bowl guard Davin Joseph out for the season (right knee). Still, offensive line figures to be strong with addition of All-Pro Carl Nicks. Free agent catch Vincent Jackson gives Freeman bona fide go-to receiver, and Martin is being counted on to help running game that ranked 27th a year ago.

Weaknesses: Have invested heavily in past three drafts to improve porous defense that allowed league-high and franchise-worst 494 points, while ranking last against run, in sacks and turnover margin. Seventh overall pick S Mark Barron and second-rounder Lavonte David being counted on to make impact. Five-time Pro Bowler Ronde Barber making transition from cornerback to free safety in 16th season, and free agent pickup Eric Wright has moved into Barber’s old spot. Biggest key to improvement figures to be whether tackle Gerald McCoy can remain healthy and show why he was third overall pick in 2010 draft.

Expectations: Bucs finished last season on 10-game losing streak, yet don’t feel they’re starting from scratch under Schiano — lured from Rutgers after Raheem Morris was fired. Freeman threw for 25 touchdowns and six interceptions in 2010, but regressed last season with 16 TDs and 22 interceptions. Schiano hopes to ease burden on his young QB with solid running game. If Freeman can revert to form of two years ago, chances of narrowing gap between Bucs and division rivals New Orleans, Atlanta and Carolina will improve.

NFC WEST

San Francisco 49ers (14-4)

New faces: WR Randy Moss, WR Mario Manningham, RB Brandon Jacobs, CB Perrish Cox, RB Rock Cartwright, QB Josh Johnson, RB LaMichael James, WR A.J. Jenkins (first-round pick).

Key losses: OL Chilo Rachal, CB Shawntae Spencer, LB Blake Costanzo.

Strengths: Depth and familiar faces. GM Trent Baalke and coach Jim Harbaugh brought back entire starting 11 from defense that was tops at stopping run and became first team in NFL history not to give up rushing TD through first 14 games. Also went 36 straight without allowing 100-yard runner. Have capable backups on defense, and there’s plenty of RBs to spell three-time Pro Bowler Frank Gore at times. TEs Vernon Davis and Delanie Walker are quite the 1-2 tandem. Also, cornerback spot has play-making ability among starters and reserves. Carlos Rogers re-signed and he shared team lead with six interceptions along with franchise safety Dashon Goldson.

Weaknesses: Receiving corps was priority after Niners wideouts managed one catch for 3 yards in 20-17 OT loss to Giants in NFC title game. That’s big reason they took low-risk chance on Moss after he spent year out of football, and added two pieces from New York’s title team in Manningham and Jacobs.

Expectations: Ended franchise-worst eight-year stretch without playoff berth or winning record — and now they want to take success to Super Bowl. While even Harbaugh has acknowledged 49ers might not match last season’s win total facing tougher schedule, he knows players are much further along running his system than a year ago. Harbaugh insists team never “flirted” with Peyton Manning (now in Denver) and that Alex Smith has been his No. 1 guy all along.

Seattle Seahawks (7-9)

New faces: QB Russell Wilson, QB Matt Flynn, TE Kellen Winslow Jr., WR Braylon Edwards, DT Jason Jones, DE Bruce Irvin (first-round pick), LB Bobby Wagner.

Key losses: LB David Hawthorne, TE John Carlson, RB Justin Forsett, OL Robert Gallery, DE Raheem Brock.

Strengths: Seattle may have best secondary in NFL led by safety Earl Thomas. They are backbone of stout defense where every move coach Pete Carroll has made since taking over has worked. Offensive line now has a year working with Tom Cable and hopes to build off second-half success of a year ago when Marshawn Lynch was most productive RB in NFL. If Lynch can keep churning out yards, it should open up passing game for receivers Sidney Rice, Kellen Winslow and Edwards.

Weaknesses: More risk than weakness with choice of rookie Russell Wilson as starting quarterback. First goal is run and not ask QB to win games, but can Wilson transfer what he’s done in preseason to games that count? One knock on Seattle’s talented defense is lack of a pass rush. That’s why they drafted Irvin and signed Jason Jones, but there’s been little in preseason to show rush is improved. There’s also significant concerns whether Rice and Winslow can stay healthy considering their track record of injuries.

Expectations: Carroll is 14-18 in two regular seasons in Seattle — albeit with division title and playoff victory in Year 1. It’s rare for coaches to survive three consecutive sub-.500 seasons, so even with difficult schedule that features four East Coast road trips, anything less than winning record and contending for playoff spot will be disappointment.

Arizona Cardinals (8-8)

New faces: CB William Gay, OG Adam Snyder, WR Michael Floyd (first-round pick), OT Bobby Massie.

Key losses: CB Rashad Johnson, OT Levi Brown.

Strengths: For first time in years, defense considered strength. All but one starter back from unit that was main reason team rebounded from 1-6 start to win seven of nine and finish 8-8 — second in division. Much will depend on improvement of CB Patrick Peterson. Peterson is a spectacular punt returner. He was first player in NFL with four punt returns of 80 yards or more for TDs. On offense, everything revolves around WR Larry Fitzgerald, but that involves getting him the ball, and shaky QB situation makes that problematic. The ground game, though, looks strong with 1-2 punch of RBs Beanie Wells and Ryan Williams.

Weaknesses: QB battle between Kevin Kolb and John Skelton going down to wire shows how unsettled position is. Team has accumulated talented group of receivers alongside Fitzgerald, but someone has to get them the ball. Other potential weakness is offensive line. It wasn’t that great to begin with, then LT Levi Brown went down with season-ending triceps injury. Run blocking adequate, but preseason pass protection was scary.

Expectations: Hoping defense is as good as advertised, and that Wells and especially Williams, who missed all of rookie season with knee injury, can move ball one ground while QB situation somehow settles behind a porous offensive line. If not, 8-8 might be overachievement.

St. Louis Rams (2-14)

New faces: Coach Jeff Fisher, CB Cortland Finnegan, C Scott Wells, DE Kendall Langford, WR Steve Smith, DE Trevor Laws, LB Mario Haggan, LB Rocky McIntosh, OT Barry Richardson, FB Ovie Mughelli, DT Michael Brockers (first-round pick).

Key losses: CB Ron Bartell, WR Brandon Lloyd, DE James Hall, K Josh Brown, P Donnie Jones, C Jason Brown.

Strengths: Youth. Rams boast one of NFL’s younger rosters, giving them measure of patience during rebuilding process. Rookies will start at CB, DT, K and P and are top backups at WR and RB. Fisher also inherits handful of stalwarts in QB Sam Bradford, RB Steven Jackson, MLB James Laurinaitis and DE Chris Long along with the free agent pickups to help bring kids along. There’s developing talent on an offense that trailed NFL with 12-point average last season.

Weaknesses: A ton of roster turnover, with six new starters on offense, seven on defense plus both specialists, so expect growing pains. There were 50 players 24 or younger on roster before initial round of cuts. Offensive line unsettled with T Jason Smith, the No. 2 pick of 2009 draft but dogged by concussions, running behind low-budget free agent pickup Barry Richardson all preseason. There’s also competition at left guard. Even with WR Danny Amendola back from injury, and with Steve Smith apparently ready for major role, Rams lack No. 1 pass catcher and counting on rookies Brian Quick, Chris Givens getting up to speed quickly. Pass rush from Long, Robert Quinn will be essential with CB Janoris Jenkins learning on the go.

Expectations: Fisher prepared to live with youthful mistakes as he launches rebuilding effort that probably won’t pay off for a few years, especially given daunting schedule. Doubling victory total an acceptable goal for new regime not taking many shortcuts.