Chargers lead early power rankings

There are 192 unpredictable days between now and the opening kick for Super Bowl XLV. But, hey, why put off today what I kinda, sorta think might possibly be the best and worst teams in the NFL's 92nd season.

So here's one person's very early NFL power rankings. (Online sportsbook Bodog's odds to win Super Bowl XLV are in parentheses.)

1. Chargers (10-1): Despite some contract issues, they still have the easiest route to winning a division title and home-field advantage. They also have the experience, the QB in Philip Rivers and the talent to take advantage of it. Finally.

2. Ravens (12-1): Receiving corps no longer a weakness, thanks to GM Ozzie Newsome.

3. Colts (9-1): As long as Peyton Manning and Bill Polian are around, the Colts are a favorite.

4. Vikings (12-1): Barring an outbreak of injuries or Brett Favre saying no to another 13 million bucks, a Super Bowl victory is the only acceptable goal.

5. Cowboys (10-1): Avoiding a playoff trip to the Metrodome is a must for the Cowboys' dream of playing the Super Bowl at the Jerry Dome.

7. Packers (12-1): They certainly have the quarterback to take down Favre and the Vikings in the NFC North.

8. Jets (10-1): The Jets had the most aggressive and successful offseason of last season's final four teams.

9. 49ers (25-1): The pieces are in place to win the NFC West, but success still hinges on Alex Smith.

10. Falcons (28-1): Healthy again, Atlanta is my sleeper team to win the NFC.

11. Patriots (12-1): If Bill Belichick can find some playmakers on defense, the Patriots will be OK.

13. Giants (25-1): If the running backs stay healthy and the offensive line returns to form, Eli can lead them back.

14. Bengals (30-1): The defense is sound, but can Carson Palmer handle an Ochocinco-T.O. circus?

15. Texans (28-1): The league's toughest schedule and a spot behind the Colts overshadow a strong team.

16. Dolphins (30-1): If he's healthy and happy, Brandon Marshall makes Miami a threat in the AFC East.

17. Cardinals (50-1): They seem to have lost too much talent, including their leader, Kurt Warner.

19. Steelers (20-1): Ben Roethlisberger's suspension gets fading Steelers off to a slow start.

20. Bears (30-1): Can DE Julius Peppers and offensive coordinator Mike Martz save Lovie Smith's job?

21. Redskins (25-1): Donovan McNabb and Mike Shanahan improve the team, but there are still holes to fill.

22. Eagles (20-1): It's hard not to think of this as a rebuilding year in Philly.

23. Panthers (40-1): Coach John Fox has bounced back many times before. Can he do it in a contract year?

25. Chiefs (90-1): Hiring ex-Patriots coordinators Charlie Weiss and Romeo Crennel should help.

26. Raiders (55-1): Call me crazy, but the Raiders seem to be improving.

27. Jaguars (75-1): Looks like the final season in Jacksonville for Jack Del Rio.

28. Lions (100-1): Call me even crazier, but the Lions seem to be improving.

29. Browns (80-1): It's hard to get excited about Jake Delhomme assuming control of a putrid offense.

31. Buccaneers (100-1): The Bucs are at least a few years away from respectability.

32. Rams (100-1): It's going to be a long and painful season for Sam Bradford.

Note: Under this scenario, the Chargers and Vikings should meet in Super Bowl XLV. A Vikings victory obviously would end the annual offseason FAVRE WATCH!

Unless, of course, he chooses to defend his title at age 42 ...