tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83131416349360753802024-02-08T06:13:29.148-08:00Life on the 22 Yard LineVeintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-12088236759039528222011-07-27T21:25:00.000-07:002011-07-27T21:25:18.021-07:00Free Agency: Day 2<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Couple of big time signings today, Sidney Rice is a Seahawk while Donovan McNabb became a Viking, Steve Breaston left for Kansas City, Matt Hasselbeck didn’t have to wait long for new work. And the Jets got more interesting (didn’t know that was possible) So let’s dive in!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Sidney Rice, WR Seattle Seahawks: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I’ll be completely honest, this signing caught me by surprise. I knew that the Seahawks had been looking to add a big bodied receiver as they demonstrated by going after Brandon Marshall (who later signed with the Dolphins) and Vincent Jackson (who is still in San Diego).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So when I heard that the Seahawks were in a bidding war with the Vikings over Rice I expected the Seahawks to strike out again and Rice would be with the Vikes for the long term. And I was wrong. This really causes a problem for the Vikings coming into this season that they’ll have to move quickly to fix.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As could be seen by Brett Favre’s early struggles last season the Vikings don’t function well without Rice. Percy Harvin does not play well at the one and is at his best when he can work out of the slot, Bernard Berrian just did not play well and Visanthe Shiancoe is best as a tight end and only as a tight end. Luckily for the Vikings I have a solution that might not cost them a dime more than they’re currently paying.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the beginning of the offseason the Vikings quietly signed Devin Aromashodu away from the Bears. The name might tinkle a little bell in the heads of Vikings fans as Aromashodu was the one who ran away with the Vikings’ chance to win in overtime during Favre’s first season. Aromashodu is tall at 6’2 with great speed and good leaping ability, similar to Rice. Had Rice re signed with the Vikings then I would have expected Aromashodu to take over for the ineffective Berrian at the 2 spot. If the Vikings choose not to move to replace Rice I’m just saying that Aromashodu is an option.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On the flipside this is a definite win for Seattle who got a receiver with the frame and ability they were looking for. This also might give Tarvaris Jackson the slightest of edges when he goes against Leinart and Clipboard Jesus as he has worked previously with the teams new No. 1.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Donovan McNabb, QB Minnesota Vikings: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Like I said, open and shut, the inevitable has happened. McNabb is coming to Minnesota to compete with Christian Ponder and provide veteran guidance to the Vikings. Unfortunately Minnesota (as I just explained in my traditionally long rant format) just lost it’s top receiver. On the upside Minnesota is still a more pleasant team than Washington for McNabb to be a part of. Whether McNabb or Ponder open the season as the starter will be a closely followed battle in camp, though due to the unstable QB situations around the league that doesn’t mean much.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Matt Hasselbeck, QB Tennessee Titans: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The Hasselbeck era in Seattle has ended and Hasselbeck didn’t have to wait long for work, signing on with the Tennessee Titans and providing the calm of a veteran in the wake of Kerry Collins’ surprise retirement. With that handled the Titans can rest easy and allow their rookie QB Jake Locker to learn on the sidelines as opposed to shoving him into the fire from day 1. Expect Hasselbeck to play well with pro bowl running back Chris Johnson by his side.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Steve Breaston, WR Kansas City Chiefs: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">You remember when you were a kid and you lost your favorite toy in October and you were so upset that you were in a funk for several days? That’s how Chiefs QB Matt Cassel felt after losing his offensive coordinator Charlie Weis to Florida. Cassel seemed to be in a slump shortly following the announcement that Weis was departing to the college football world. So what did the Chiefs do to cheer him up? They brought him some new toys. Cassel flowed well with the team’s top wide out, Dwayne Bowe, last year but seemed to suffer from a dearth of other targets. The Chiefs went out and drafted Jonathan Baldwin who stand 6’4 with tremendous leaping ability. In addition Steve Breaston left from the Cardinals to sign on with the young Chiefs.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Santonio Holmes, WR New York Jets: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Holmes, sweet Holmes. Obvious puns aside the Jets got priority one off their offseason wish list by bringing Santonio Holmes to New York for the long haul with a 5 year contract. In the end Holmes was going to head back to the Jets where he has the best chance of winning another Super Bowl and the most motivating coach in the NFL. Side effect: Braylon Edwards is probably too expensive and the Jets are rumored to be dusting off a file entitled Moss, Randy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">DeAngelo Williams, RB Carolina Panthers: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This one was really between Carolina and Denver and Carolina won. Carolina won back it’s leading rusher today with a long term contract preserving the tandem of Williams and Jonathan Stewart. John Fox meanwhile is still minus a running back and I predict he’ll take a long look at Marion Barber.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Other Tales of Interest<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Orton talking with Dolphins: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Things seem to be settling at the quarterback position as Orton seems to have been targeted by the Miami Dolphins who are reportedly in negotiations with the Broncos for a trade. Depending on the deal this could be a win-win for Miami as they get a more steady option at QB to compete with the erratic Chad Henne. The Broncos, depending on what they get in return free up some cap space so they can get those defensive lineman they asked Santa for.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Kolb deal by Friday: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The long talked about deal between the Eagles and the Cardinals regarding Eagles’ second stringer Kevin Kolb is a reality. One need only look to the fact that the Eagles briefly had a link on their website where fans could buy Rodgers-Cromartie jerseys…in Eagles green. Yeah, this deal is going to happen sometime before the end of the week.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Nnamdi still looking at options: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Apparently I was wrong to count the Jets out of the race for Nnamdi Asomugha. Should the Jets pull off a salary cap miracle and sign Asomugha to the Jets they have officially become the league’s best secondary. There can’t be any question about it with the top two corners in the league making life a living hell for all offensive coordinators required to play against them. A deal like this would instantly become the talk of the league and would have ripples that could reach as far as Houston. If the Jets sign Asomugha they’ll have to release Antonio Cromartie who could be sought after by the Houston Texans or other teams who came in second for Asomugha.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Plaxico sweepstakes narrows to two: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Plaxico Burress is scheduled to meet with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants tomorrow, leading to speculation that Burress has decided that one of two teams with whom he has a history. Burress is one of the few free agent wide outs still on the market<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Redskins: All talk, no splash? </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The Redskins, expected to be big spenders in free agency have been strangely quiet these past few days. The Redskins have Brandon Stokely and Donte Stallworth yet barely made a peep about Holmes. Are they waiting for Braylon Edwards? Are they still attempting to buy their way into the race for Asomugha? What is going on in DC?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><strong>Coming soon</strong><br />
More free agency talk, some college football predictions and can't miss games, similar analysis for the pros and my opinion on what's next for Butch Davis.Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-33930099279886261852011-07-27T00:03:00.001-07:002011-07-27T00:03:44.825-07:00Free Agency: Day 1<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ok so technically it’s morning but I still count this as “later tonight”. So today was eventful with several “signings” taking place even though contracts cannot be signed until Friday night. So without further ado.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Notable Signings<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Mark Herzlich, LB New York Giants: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The Giants rectified one of the great injustices of the 2011 draft by making Mark Herzlich an NFL linebacker. Herzlich is everything one can ask for in a player, a brave player who survived cancer and shows great playmaking ability and a dogged determination and proven leadership capabilities. This is also a great signing for the Giants because they receive a linebacker who will bring some leadership to their weak linebacking core.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tarvaris Jackson, QB Seattle Seahawks: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Things just got interesting. Tarvaris Jackson endured a couple of years as the Vikings quarterback before Brett Favre came to town and made Jackson “That one guy with the clipboard”. Regardless T-Jack is being reunited with his old Offensive Coordinator, Darrell Bevel, and will be competing with Clipboard Jesus and…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Matt Leinart, QB Seattle Seahawks: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">And this is where things get very interesting. Bevel has his guy from his old job, but so does Head Coach Pete Carroll. Granted Leinart hasn’t demonstrated the ability, mental make up or leadership capabilities of an NFL QB but I have faith that Carroll believes he can get the old Heisman winner up and running again. Although there is a precedent for Carroll turning trash into treasure. Receiver Mike Williams played for Carroll back in his USC days back when Carson Palmer was still the big man on campus. Williams however was out of the NFL after consistently performing below his potential, being arrogant and struggling with discipline (sound familiar?) This is Leinart’s last best chance and if anyone is going to get the best from Leinart it will be Carroll. It will be an interesting camp battle between Jackson, Clipboard Jesus and USC’s Golden Boy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Pat Devlin, QB Miami Dolphins: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Most of you probably don’t know much about Devlin, in general people tend to remember him because he “played where Joe Flacco went to school”. While Devlin is not the prospect that Flacco was he brings some solid attributes. What I’m curious about is what this means for Miami regarding their QB situation. Is Devlin their project? Or is he their competition for Henne? Does this mean Vince Young is out of the picture? Another interesting camp situation here to keep an eye on.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Jeremiah Masoli, QB San Francisco 49ers: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I singled this out as my last notable signing of the say because it caught my attention the most out of a list I saw earlier today. Masoli, former quarterback for the Oregon Ducks and the Ole Miss Rebels is now an NFL QB. I’m intrigued to see how Harbaugh plays this one. The 49ers are a team in search of a quarterback, some say that the teams pick of Colin Kaepernick is the answer, others say that Alex Smith deserves another shot, and still others question whether it might not be worth it to call up Joe Montana (not really). But I didn’t in my wildest dreams see Harbaugh and Co. looking into Masoli’s corner. Whether Masoli makes the roster is obviously up in the air but I’m curious to see what Masoli does with the spotlight on him again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cap Casualties and Other Players on the Move<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Roy Williams, WR Dallas Cowboys: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We all saw this one coming, but there was something about seeing it in print that made it all so real. Roy Williams was not a good fit in Dallas and ultimately was put on notice the minute Dez Bryant showed up and refused to carry Williams’ pads. From that point on his days were numbered and his game changing fumble on Turkey day didn’t help. The Cowboys have space to clear and have cut co many players today that it’s more a list of who the Cowboys cut today than it is a list of who the Cowboys cut today.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Matt Hasselbeck, QB Seattle Seahawks: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In an effort to break up the soon to be flood of Dallas players I’ll have to describe being cut in the next couple of minutes I write of Matt Hasselbeck and the end of his era in Seattle. Hasselbeck despite throwing more touchdowns than interceptions last season figures to be coveted this offseason (Tennessee anyone?) as his veteran status can stabilize several quarterback situations this offseason.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Marion Barber, RB Dallas Cowboys: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We also saw this coming but the days of Marion the Barbarian and the Dallas backfield are over. Barber should have a good market especially if John Fox strikes out with signing DeAngelo Williams.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Kyle Orton, QB Denver Broncos: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">And so begins the legend of the Mile High Messiah, the Tim Tebow era has begun in Denver and Orton is on the move. Similar to Matt Hasselbeck, Orton is in high demand beyond the walls of Mile High stadium. Orton could end up any number of places, if one thing is for certain it is that Orton will not be out of work for long.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Leonard Davis, G Dallas Cowboys: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The Cowboys have finally gotten serious about improving their offensive line and also about the fact that they needed to get under the cap. So Davis is gone and will find work where a guard is needed. No doubt his three pro bowls in four years will help his case.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Honorable Mention: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Marc Colombo, T Dallas Cowboys<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Still at Large<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Nnamdi Asomugha, CB Oakland Raiders:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> See the article I published earlier, you’ll find all you need.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Kevin Kolb, QB Philadelphia Eagles: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Also dealt with in the article below.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Santonio Holmes, WR New York Jets: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This one has been speculated as a battle between the persuasive power of Rex Ryan and the money of Daniel Snyder. Personally I have my money on the Jets to retain Holmes keeping him as Mark Sanchez’s #1 playmaker. While Holmes might be tempted by a monster contract he is also playing for the most well liked coach in the league on a team that has been to back to back AFC championship games. Whereas the Redskins can offer him a year in which he’ll possibly be playing with John Beck as his quarterback…things to think about.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Braylon Edwards, WR New York Jets: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">One of three wide receivers who the Jets are trying to keep in New York, should Holmes stays then the Redskins may turn to his Watson (I’m not funny, but I try hard) Edwards, in spite of some off field issues and at times shaky hands, has a large frame and a physical styles that would make him a good fit for teams trying to add size at receiver (Redskins, Bears, Chargers etc.)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Plaxico Burress, WR: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Speaking of size at receiver, Plaxico Burress is reportedly having a meeting at some point in the near future with his old team the New York Giants. Almost as widely speculated as Kolb or Asomugha, Burress has been talked about with the Giants, Eagles, Bears, Seahawks and Redskins.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tyson Clabo, T Atlanta Falcons: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">A solid addition to an offensive line, Clabo could simply re sign with the Falcons but has also been talked about with the Vikings, Seahawks, and Bears.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ray Edwards, DE Minnesota Vikings: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Edwards looks to be on his way out in Minnesota, to pursue life elsewhere and possibly as a featured pass rusher. The most likely landing spot I have for Edwards is the Atlanta Falcons who have been looking to add a pass rusher aside from Jonathan Abraham.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Jonathan Joseph, CB Cincinnati Bengals: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Part of one of the league’s best tandems at any position but especially at cornerback, Joseph is a pro bowler at a young age. He’s no Revis but this man can upgrade a secondary. Joseph will probably going to re sign with the Bengals though I’ve also thought that I could see him signing with the Vikings or a team that misses out on the Asomugha sweepstakes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Sidney Rice, WR Minnesota Vikings: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Rice was a star for Brett Favre in his first year with Brett Favre and showed tremendous vision, focus, leaping and playmaking ability. Rice has the assets of a #1, though it remains to be seen how much of Rice’s breakout year was the Favre effect. Rice is being looked at by the Vikings, Seahawks and the Bears as a dark horse.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Kyle Orton, QB Denver Broncos: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Detailed above in Players on the Move<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Matt Hasselbeck, QB Seattle Seahawks: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Same thing as Orton<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Cullen Jenkins, DE Green Bay Packers: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Jenkins is generally considered to be a fit in almost any 3-4 scheme, I see Jenkins or his brother Kris taking off for DC and piles of money. Possibly both, nothing says franchise like two guys with the same last name (just ask the Williams Wall).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Donovan McNabb, QB Washington Redskins: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This one is actually pretty open and shut from where I’m standing. Reports say that the Vikings are prepared to offer a sixth round pick for McNabb and a conditional sixth rounder. Considering how determined the Shanahans seem to be to get rid of him I think this one is wrapped up, but until Friday it just what I think.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Jamarcus Russell, QB: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This was a joke.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-28875195715621950522011-07-26T13:30:00.000-07:002011-07-26T13:30:19.220-07:00Finally Free<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Finally!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s over, it’s all over! The lockout is over and across the nation people can give thanks that ESPN is no longer 40% “Roger Goodell walking out of a building with DeMaurice Smith” stock footage, which is good because I had run out of things to write about. But that’s all fixed now and I am ready to speculate like there is no tomorrow (I have a lot of exciting things going on in my life, does it show?).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So now that there will definitely be a season we get to ask the really tough questions, Where will Nnamdi Asomugha sign, is Kevin Kolb a Cardinal or an Eagle, Why did Jay Cutler dump Kristin Cavallari, and many more.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">First Things First<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Throughout the lockout there have been a number of names thrown around, Roger Goodell, Demaurice Smith, Vincent Jackson, Tom Brady, Jerry Jones and Nnamdi Asomugha. Of these names the one that probably triggered the fewest group groans was Asomugha, possibly due to several blank stares permeating the room.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Luckily for Asomugha the lockout has created a nice bit of buzz as he has become this year’s most talked about free agent. Asomugha has played shutdown corner for the Raiders since being drafted in 2003. Only the New York Jets’ All Universe cornerback Darrelle Revis has been mentioned more often in recent seasons as the league’s best corner. Asomugha has elected to become a free agent this season as he goes off in pursuit of Super Bowl rings.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Due to the shortcomings of numerous NFL teams at the cornerback position, Asomugha has his pick of teams and I will now piggyback off his real accomplishments by giving my opinion on who he’ll sign with.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Washington Redskins: (<span style="color: red;">Unlikely</span>)<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Redskins are expected to be big spenders in the coming free agency period. So naturally with their deficiencies in most areas of the field many expect them to dish out the dollars to Asomugha. Seems like solid logic until we remember the reason that Asomugha is leaving in the first place. Asomugha is 30 years old and realizes that he’s closer to the of his career than the beginning, Asomugha is leaving the Raiders because he feels there are better chances for him elsewhere in the world. Moving from the Raiders to the Redskins does not make things better, it actually is debatably worse.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Philadelphia Eagles: (<span style="color: #00b050;">Highly likely</span>)<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Eagles, as I’ve noted in an earlier article, weren’t great against the pass and relied a lot on Asante Samuel. But what if the Eagles could make their #1 corner into their #2? What if they signed Asomugha to an on the rise Eagles team, taking pressure off their youth at safety? I feel Asomugha would be game for that. So I will put down the Eagles as my front runners for the Asomugha sweepstakes. The key I see here is whether the Asomugha signing happens before or after a Kolb trade. If Kolb, as has been speculated for weeks, is sent to the Cardinals in exchange for say a 2<sup>nd</sup> rounder and CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie then I would say that it would put the Eagles out of the picture for Asomugha.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dallas Cowboys: (<span style="color: yellow;">Possible</span>)<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Cowboys definitely have an incentive to go after Asomugha, just look what happened the last time they had a shutdown corner added to the roster (Deion Sanders, and they won the Super Bowl). Not to mention that the Cowboys are looking to upgrade their secondary and may be parting ways with Terrance Newman. Jerry Jones loves to throw money at players so this seems like a definite possibility. The only reason I don’t have the Cowboys with the high rating I gave the Eagles is because the Cowboys are making deep cuts to get under the salary cap and might not have space for the monster contract that Asomugha both expects and deserves.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Houston Texans: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">(<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #92d050;">Likely</span>)</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m not going to review the obvious, the Texans have a great offense and their defense was abysmal. Everyone knows that, however the addition of Asomugha would make Houston’s new defensive coordinator, Wade Phillips, giddy. The Texans are talked about often as being a contender for the playoffs if only they could get past Peyton Manning. Having Manning with one less option due to Asomugha’s coverage skills might just be what the Texans need. whether Asomugha feels the same remains to be seen.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Baltimore Ravens:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">(<span style="color: yellow;">Possible</span></b>)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Also well documented are the Ravens’ struggles at CB. And a presence like Asomugha could help lead the Ravens past their hated rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Ravens are adding a player however whom they consider to be a steal, Jimmy Smith who fell to the Ravens at pick #27. Whether the Ravens decide that this is enough and that they will turn their minds to other needs is a storyline I’ll keep an eye on.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tampa Bay Buccaneers: (<span style="color: red;">Unlikely</span>)</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m convinced that sometime within the next decade Josh Freeman and the Bucs will bring home a Super Bowl title. Quote me on it. The Bucs seem to have a winning formula going for them as they’ve built a remarkable roster that was arguably the best team not to make the playoffs. Among these soon to be and already stars are QB Josh Freeman, runningback LeGarrete Blount, WR Mike Williams (not to be confused with the Seahawks’ receiver of the same name), DT’s Gerald McCoy & Brian Price and rookie defensive ends DaQuan Bowers and Adrian Clayborn. Notably missing from this list is troubled cornerback Aqib Talib who will stand trial in 2012 for assault with a deadly weapon. Reportedly the Bucs won’t cut Talib, who is one of the games best young corners. As a result I’m guessing it’s unlikely that Asomugha lands in the Pirate Ship.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Kolb To Arizona?</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Perhaps one of the most talked about QB’s who isn’t a starter (along with Green Bay’s Matt Flynn and the Seahawks’ <s>Clipboard Jesus </s>Charlie Whitehurst) is Kevin Kolb of the Eagles. Most reports seem to agree that Kolb is heading to the Cardinals in exchange for cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a 2<sup>nd</sup> round draft choice. In my opinion everybody wins here as the Cardinals get to have a set starter going into the season and have a reason for Larry Fitzgerald to stay in Arizona. In the QB deficient NFC West that may be all they need to compete with the rising Rams. The Eagles get to sort out their CB situation and get a draft pick in the process.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cutler breaks heart of reality TV star<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Just kidding, I don’t cover celeb gossip. More tonight as we take in the first day of free agency.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-20730253913701932362011-07-17T01:55:00.000-07:002011-07-17T01:55:23.983-07:00Heisman List #2It is 4am, I cannot sleep. I am bored. These are the facts of the case and they are undisputed. In order to make myself feel useful and stave off my boredom I have finished the second Heisman watchlist I mentioned a few weeks ago. What will I write on next? Not even I know.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Heisman List V2</strong></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Andrew Luck<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For all the same reasons as I listed months ago I still have Andrew Luck holding the Heisman (and possibly the glass football) at the end of this next season. Luck is an incredible talent with the size and playmaking ability that you’d ideally look for in a qb to pair with a strong arm and solid scrambling abilities. He may be missing his old coach but I have faith that Luck can rise above this.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Matt Barkley<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Let’s put it this way, a final showdown between Barkley and Luck is must see television. Barkley threw 26 touchdowns last year and many feel that he has just barely scratched the surface of his potential.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Trent Richardson<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mark Ingram’s backup these past two years built quite a bit of hype for himself this past season. Filling in for Mark Ingram, Richardson rushed for a career high 144 yards against Penn State and lead many to believe he could be even better than Ingram. Richardson is a wrecking at 220 lbs and explosive. Look for Richardson’s name to be called a lot during Heisman trophy debates.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Taylor Martinez<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I bumped T-Magic up and Kellen Moore down for this issue. Why? Is it because I believe that Taylor Martinez is better than Kellen Moore? Absolutely not, simply put this is a list built on <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Likelihood </i>not <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Desire, </i>But more on that later. Martinez in my view is better positioned to be in real contention because for reasons I understand yet also don’t comprehend the world just refuses to take Boise State seriously. Martinez plays for Nebraska, a program that I know first hand has a fan base that will kill for it’s team. Nebraska overall garners more respect than Boise State even if Martinez isn’t as statistically impressive as Moore.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></i><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">(DH) Kellen Moore</b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, back to my explanation (rant) about Kellen Moore, were it up to me I’d give Moore the Heisman because he is one of the best QB’s in the college game and is thrilling when the game is on the line (Moore’s bomb to Titus Young was a thing of beauty and you’re missing out if you haven’t seen it) But as I noted earlier, Moore gets very little respect from the establishment. Moore made the final list last year and I believe he’ll make it again this year because he is indeed that good. But he won’t win the Heisman because a quarterback from a more recognized conference and a more recognized program will end up winning it.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">6.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">(DH) Marcus Lattimore<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My views on Lattimore haven’t changed since last issue, he’s an incredible even freakish talent. Lattimore is a dangerous combination of speed, vision and strength and had an incredible season last year before South Carolina was chopped down by Cam Newton and the Auburn Tigers. Between Lattimore and his team mate Alshon Jeffery, who will be an all American wide receiver this year, the college world should tremble</span></div>Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-33414453253537445502011-07-03T14:29:00.000-07:002011-07-03T14:29:14.523-07:00My Thoughts on Terrelle Pryor<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Glad To Be Back<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So it’s good to be writing again because there’s really nothing interesting or exciting to explain why I haven’t been writing. Basically I drew up all the question for the offseason questions and then I graduated and they took my laptop (from which I rescued all of my precious work) and then I embarked on what has essentially been a solid month of nothing but weight room and grad parties. Moral of the story: Writing is easy but finding the time and drive to finish an article after 3-4 hours of working out and the fact that Spongebob (or the sponge themed cartoon of your choice) is on for 3 straight hours is difficult. But now I’m back so let’s delve into what happened while I was gone.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pryor Going Pro<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Terrelle Pryor, former QB of The Ohio State University, has declared for the Supplemental draft scheduled to be held whenever the hell the league feels like it. What has followed and preceded Pryor’s abrupt declaration has triggered a tidal wave of thoughts, comments and people learning that there is actually something called the Supplemental draft. You see the Supplemental draft is rarely a place to find an awe inspiring athlete like Pryor and typically the success rate on Supplemental picks is pretty low. So what’s Pryor got going for him since he was forced to flee Ohio State due to NCAA probes regarding off field issues including free tattoos and cars? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The Pros: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Pryor is a remarkable talent, plain and simple. Pryor stands 6’6” with a fluid running style that once prompted a journalist to say “He doesn’t so much run as he glides over the field”. Pryor runs a 4.5 and with his tall stature has attracted interest as a receiver at the next level. Why not QB, the position he has played for years at the high school and college level? Well that brings us to Pryor’s drawbacks.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The Cons:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> Pryor is not the most accomplished of passers, he owns a quirky throwing motion that all too often drives balls into the turf and his arm strength isn’t top of the line either. Pryor’s main strength is improvising on the run, his gliding run allowing him to buy time to spy an open receiver and chuck the ball in his general direction. But the NFL game for QB’s is different than the one that Pryor experienced in college. In the NFL quarterback’s whose main asset is their legs don’t win championships (Michael Vick prior to 2010, Vince Young), quarterback’s whose mechanics and arm strength allow them to rely on those two things have (Manning, Brady, Brees). Note that these top of the line QB’s, main stays in any conversation about the best in the game, are not at all noted for their rushing abilities but for their pocket presence.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">My Opinion:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> Pryor doesn’t seem to have the intangibles to play QB at a high level in the NFL. At the end of the day Pryor is an athlete who plays quarterback, not the other way around and playing him at QB seems like a risk most teams shouldn’t take. However Pryor’s potential as a receiver intrigues me, he’s got the height, speed and hands to be a great red zone target. The league really can’t seem to get enough of tall targets so Pryor has great potential there that I would say is worth looking into for most teams in the Round 4-5 range.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Teams of Interest: <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Rams (Receiver):</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> The Rams have their quarterback of the future in the phenomenal Sam Bradford, the Rams are also in possession of a rare opportunity, the NFC West is weak, very weak. The starting QB situation is not settled with any one of their rivals. The Rams have an opportunity for dominance of their division and a guaranteed home game if they can put a lot of room between themselves and the rest of the NFC Worst. A big step in the right direction would be to snag Bradford a blue chip target.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pryor could be the answer to Bradford and his OC Josh McDaniels’ prayers. McDaniels however much of an epic fail he may have been as a head coach has proven how dangerous his system can be with one unreal target and a great QB. You want proof? You remember the year the Patriots almost went undefeated, broke several passing records between Tom Brady and Randy Moss? That had a ton to do with McDaniels’ system. Some might argue that Brady’s precision and Moss’ freakish abilities would have made it a productive season regardless but McDaniels has also done stunning work between Kyle Orton and Brandon Lloyd.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Browns (Receiver):</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> I’m getting on my soap box for this one, some people think this is a good pick for the Browns as a QB based pick. I disagree with this on quite a few different levels: historical, statistical and just plain common sense. Also I’m a huge Texas fan and McCoy was awesome back in college.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">McCoy showed a lot of potential as a rookie and he did so in the very worst of circumstances. Don’t believe me? Ok let’s play a little game of “Hypothetical matchups” if you were a rookie quarterback which defense would you start against? If you answered Pittsburgh then New Orleans then New England followed by the New York Jets, congratulations you are a braver man than I. Was this me just listing off random teams? Nope those were McCoy’s starts to begin his career. Sound like fun? No, no it does not. McCoy was supposed to be holding a clipboard through each and every single one of those games and yet he led and actually beat the Saints and Patriots in back to back games before losing in overtime to the Jets who were at that time on hot streak behind Mark Sanchez and an inexplicable string of awe inspiring late game heroics. Pretty damn impressive for a short guy. A knock that’s been had on McCoy is his lack of arm strength and how he won’t be able to handle the strong Cleveland winds and this was the cause of his many interceptions in the final weeks of the season. Because it couldn’t have possibly had something to do with the fact that McCoy was going against two of the scariest defenses in the league. It also couldn’t have had something to do with Eric Mangini’s constrictive play calling and general ineptitude at anything. But also Pryor’s arm strength isn’t great and he’d have the exact same criticism leveled against him. Pryor’s real advantage over McCoy is his scrambling prowess (an area McCoy is actually solid in) but Pryor’s scrambling is just unnecessary within the personnel that Cleveland has. Cleveland has one of the best offensive lines in the league anchored by Joe Thomas who in my opinion is the best left tackle in the league. The pocket is there and there’s really no need for him to scramble.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">That was the statistical and common sense (Or at least part of it) so on to the historical which I’ve been looking forward to. In 1989 the Dallas Cowboys selected Troy Aikman of UCLA with the first overall pick in the draft, later that same year at the behest of coach Jimmy Johnson the Cowboys drafted Steve Walsh of Miami with their first pick in the supplemental draft. Both Aikman and Walsh played QB and for the next couple of years both had to spend their time looking over their shoulder for the other and it didn’t allow for the Cowboys to settle on a QB. Granted Johnson was engaged in blatant favoritism to many of his former players (Johnson coached at Miami) but the Walsh pick was the worst. In my opinion the Browns selecting Pryor is similar in that the heir apparent, McCoy now has to worry about being usurped from his starting spot for reason that are not entirely within his control.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To wrap up, Pryor can be of tremendous value to the Browns as a receiver as right now McCoy has few people to throw to the most recognizable of which is Mohammed Massaquoi. No offense intended but the majority of people only know of Massaquoi as “That receiver they show getting decked by James Harrison whenever ESPN wants to talk about violent hits.” While the addition of Greg Little shows promise McCoy certainly won’t complain about another tall receiver.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Bears (Receiver): </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Like I said the league likes tall receivers and Pryor could make a wonderful target for a team in search of a clear cut No.1, granted it would take Pryor time to adjust to some of the ins and outs of his new position but his potential can’t really be ignored. I’d expand more on this but I’ve covered the topic at length in my earlier article about the Bears and by now this article is way longer than I intended.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Redskins (QB) (Receiver)</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">: Things are a mess over in DC, take that statement as you will but in this case the Redskins are in need of, well pretty much everything. If they could find a scouting report saying that Pryor is capable of playing guard, center and QB all at the same time then the Skins are in business. Pryor’s athleticism will be definite draw to a team that is about to start a winless QB and who’s offensive line almost necessitates that the QB be ready to take off for his life. Meanwhile Pryor’s potential as a wideout adds a playmaker to a team with two good tight ends and one legit receiver.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Bills (QB) (Receiver): </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">And so we come to the last of the teams of interest, the Bills seem content with Ryan Fitzpatrick at quarterback but he can’t last forever and the Bills are going to need a franchise QB if they would ever like to see anything besides the basement of the AFC East. Is Pryor their guy? It’s possible, Chan Gailey’s offense favors the mobile which lead to draft day speculation that Newton would not make it past the Bills. The Bills need some excitement in their game and Pryor needs a team. Pryor could also provide another playmaking option opposite the rising star of Stevie Johnson.s<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-91354446772064088532011-06-30T15:06:00.000-07:002011-06-30T15:06:58.726-07:00Make Up TextHello readers,<br />
<br />
As I'm sure you have all been devastated by my prolonged absence (1 solid month) I have a bunch of new articles and ideas buzzing around in my head. So there's probably going to be a bit of break from the Offseason Questions segment I've been doing. I'm thinking I'm going to write about Terrelle Pryor's NFL prospects, T.O's ACL surgery, A new Heisman watchlist, and ssizing up the 2012 QB class. Should come out soon, can't really specify a date. As always input is appreciated (even encouraged, nothing creates web traffic like a good comments battle) send this blog to your friends and family (think of it as an early Christmas gift) and enjoy the fact that the lockout is almost over! No, Seriously!Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-48163221639556763892011-06-30T14:50:00.001-07:002011-06-30T14:50:41.677-07:00Offseason Questions: Green Bay Packers<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Can the Packers Repeat?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">That’s the question on everybody’s mind after the Packers’ victory in last season’s super bowl. The Packers seem stacked coming into next season and various media outlets have firmly situated themselves in their corner. The Packers are stronger on offense than defense with QB Aaron Rodgers returning after a season that vaulted him into the top 3 or 4 QB’s in the league. Also the Packers are stacked at wide out with the Greg Jennings, Donald Driver, rookie Randall Cobb, James Jones, Jordy Nelson and tight end Jermichael Finley. Meanwhile the Packers have some young talent on defense as well in linebacker Clay Matthews and cornerback Tramon Williams. On paper this team is built to win and possibly win big but a couple of potential obstacles could put a halt on another addition to Titletown’s reputation. The Packers play in a tough division and its only getting tougher. Don’t believe me? Fine let’s talk about that for a second. The Bears, are on the rise (aka the up&up) with an improving offensive line and a young QB in Jay Cutler who won the division last year, the Vikings are built to win now with RB Adrian Peterson running downhill, Jarred Allen running after Rodgers, and wide receiver Sidney Rice hoping to regain his ’09 form. But these were probably all things you knew, what you may not know is that the NFC North may have just become the toughest division in the NFC with the Lions on the rise. Let me just say that again, the Detroit Lions are showing promise, lots of it. Between talented but unproven QB Matthew Stafford, rookie wide out Titus Young, Jahvid Best, and Ndamukong Suh the Lions are no longer the division’s punching bag and that could hurt the Packers’ seeding come playoff time. Pair that with the fact that the other top division, the NFC South, may for the first time in a long time field 3 playoff teams and the Packers are going to be fighting hard to make it back.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">He’s Back<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now when one talks about the high injury season that the Packers endured last year this could mean a lot of people. But I’m talking about Finley, Jermichael Finley. Standing at 6’5” weighing 245 pounds Finley was an early pick last offseason to be one of the leagues best tight ends before experiencing a season ending injury chasing down a defender. Finley proved to have big play capability during Aaron Rodgers’ duel with Kurt Warner as he turned in a six catch 159 yard performance (second only to Kellen Winslow’s epic performance against Miami). Now Finley is back, mostly unnoticed compared to the media hype machine that surrounded him last offseason. Opposing coordinators would do well not to pat themselves on the back if the shaky handed wonder James Jones leaves.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m Only One Man<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Let’s be clear, the Packers could not run the ball last year. Attribute it to what you like, Brandon Jackson isn’t good, Kuhn is a fullback, Grant got hurt and Starks would have been good if he had played. Like I said do what you like with it, fact is the Packers sucked at running the ball and Rodgers ran far too much. Rodgers is the key to anything the Packers want to do in the future so it would be nice if he didn’t have to run that much. The Packers ranked 24<sup>th</sup> in rushing at a flat 100 yards, and 6<sup>th</sup> on rushing in the post season averaging 101 yards per game. The rushing average during the regular season was 3.8 and 3.7 in the postseason. Some might say this is really just knit picking a very solid team, that since the NFL is becoming a passing league running the ball is outdated. To that I’ll just say that nothing opens up an offense like a scared defense and if the defense knows that it’s a pass then they have all day to figure out a QB. Main point, Rodgers shouldn’t have to do it all himself, he’s only one man.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Clay Matthews<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’ll be honest, I couldn’t come up with anything catchy or clever for this section regarding “the Claymaker” or the many other variants of his name that I’ve heard. Matthews is an absolute beast who comes from a long line of NFL linebackers and he has not disappointed. Matthews’ week in, week out work ethic has made him a media darling and his nice combination of speed power and relentlessness pursuit earned him a spot in the top 20 NFL Players list. Only one thing is ever really brought up of how Matthews could be better, a little help from his friends, specifically at the opposite outside linebacker spot opposite Matthews. What the Pack decide to do with this spot will be interesting to see going forward.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-55190039149932142492011-05-31T22:07:00.001-07:002011-05-31T22:07:29.846-07:00Off Season Questions: Washington Redskins<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">Washington Redskins</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>So…John Beck</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">Who is this guy? Well John Beck was drafted in 2007 and apparently Mike Shanahan known in some circles as “That guy who benched a first ballot hall of famer in favor of Rex Grossman” thinks “the world of him”. Putting aside for one second my deep seated dislike and lack of respect for Shanahan I think we need to ask why exactly Shanahan thinks he’s so awesome that he deserves to be the starter. Shanahan says, according to ESPN, that he had Beck rated the highest in the 2007 draft class as far as quarterbacks were concerned. High praise right? Well let’s look at that star studded class of JaMarcus Russell, Brady Quinn, Kevin Kolb, Drew Stanton, Trent Edwards, Troy Smith, and Tyler Thigpen. Pretty epic draft class, their entire career records are so poor that Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan is one win short of having more wins than all of them put together. So going back to Shanahan’s opinion, because that’s what it is…an opinion. Beck was not rated the highest in that draft class, that’s Shanahan’s opinion, he has not enjoyed anymore success than anybody in that draft class and has yet to win a single game in the NFL. He’s paired with a lunatic coach and one of the most dysfunctional organizations in the league second only perhaps to the Bengals.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Which Leads Beautifully Into…</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">My next question! How far away from legitness are the Redskins? Answer: A long way, a really long way. The problem starts at the top, owner Daniel Snyder. Snyder has developed a nasty habit of throwing money on free agents and creating a tidal wave of hype that the player cannot hope to live up to. A perfect example of this is quarterback Donovan McNabb who is in limbo as waits to flee DC and never look back. McNabb, as I’ve talked about in earlier articles, was traded midway through last offseason from his beloved Philadelphia Eagles to division rival Washington. So of course several members of the media blew McNabb’s impact so far out of proportion that it was difficult to tell whether the Redskins had acquired McNabb or Gandhi. That the Redskins were viewed as being in contention for the NFC East last season is laughable. The Redskins organization has done this year after year bringing in high price free agents and swearing that this time is different. Back in the day this strategy had some merit and if the ‘Skins think that they’ve uncovered the next Matt Cassel then that’s great for them but I have my doubts. The Redskins this year showed signs of what the Raiders did last season, the beginnings of understanding that teams are built by the draft not by free agents. For instance last year I had the Raiders taking offensive lineman Bruce Campbell because he was fast, the Raiders always draft the fastest guy. Al Davis drafted Darrius Heyward Bay over the far superior prospect, Michael Crabtree due to 40 time. But then the Raiders shocked the world (and perhaps more importantly my mock draft) by taking Rolando McClain who was a solid prospect who instantly improved a pretty suckish Raiders defense. My point being that this season (with no free agency) the Redskins traded down and seem to have taken substance over style in solid pass rusher Ryan Kerrigan and running back Roy Helu (we’ll talk about him in a second). Teams have to be built through the draft especially when you have as many needs as the Redskins. If they continue to build through the draft and ease themselves off the crutch of free agency they should be contenders, till then the East belongs to Dallas, New York and Philly.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>The 100 Million Dollar Man</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">The Redskins have themselves a problem, about 100 million dollars worth of problems. Luckily (and by that I mean unluckily) for the Redskins those problems come nice and wrapped up in the behemoth that is Albert Haynesworth. Haynesworth is a diva defensive tackle who has made a few things abundantly clear. 1. He has no intention of playing nose tackle. 2. He has no intention of being a Redskin. 3. The sooner he leaves the happier everybody (with the possible exception of his new team) will be. Haynesworth is gonna be a tough sell to numerous teams due to his well publicized feud with Shanahan during last offseason, his ridiculously high pay isn’t exactly helping. But like it or not, the moving of Haynesworth will dominate the Redskins organization until he moves.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Helu, Goodbye</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">Yes that is a Roy Helu name pun, it is my first and probably will not be my last. Helu is a solid runner out of the University of Nebraska whose had back to back 1000 yard seasons and had some very strong showings last season. Meanwhile in the Redskins signed backfield there is Ryan Torain who showed flashes of potential last season after Clinton Portis suffered an injury to his groin that made me wince just hearing it. Which one of these men emerges as the featured back of this Redskins offense may prove to be a bigger deal than most people are treating it as. Think about this for a second, the Redskins are starting John Beck at QB (unless Shanahan is just yanking our chain) with possibly Rex Grossman as his backup. This star studded QB line up comes into a suspect offensive line with one real receiver and two good tight ends. That’s it. There’s definite talent on defense (Brian Orakpo is a monster. Fact.) but there’s not enough talent to be on the field most of the game, and if Beck and Sexy Rexy struggle to find their one receiver while DeMarcus Ware rides them to the turf then the ‘Skins better find a damn running game or perish. So which will it be? Helu? Torain? A mysterious stranger from the ranks of the undrafted? Nobody will know till the season gets started.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast"><br />
</div><!--EndFragment-->Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-18964801662153783542011-05-22T13:26:00.001-07:002011-05-22T13:26:42.880-07:00Off Season Questions: New York Giants<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">New York Giants</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Can Eli Manning Step It Up</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">For most quarterbacks a season where they threw for over 4000 yards and threw over 30 touchdowns would be cause for celebration. Not for Eli Manning, the Giants quarterback also threw 25 interceptions, which held back a Giants team that just missed the playoffs. If Manning ever wants to see the Super Bowl again (and maybe have something over his elder brother) he’s gonna have to step up his accuracy. The weapons are there in human safety blanket Steve Smith, playmaker Hakeem Nicks and the field stretching presence of Mario Manningham but can Manning deliver?</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Do the Giants have a running back they can count on?</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">Ahmad Bradshaw had a good season rushing for over 1000 yards and being a solid option in the passing game. That being said Bradshaw has proven to be injury prone and the Giants may not be able to count on him to be there every down. Then there’s Brandon Jacobs… Color me skeptical of Jacobs abilities who turns 29 in July and frankly if I was the Giants I wouldn’t have him back. It wasn’t just Jacobs’ less than great production, that he looked tentative at times trying to pick what hole he wanted to go through it was the “Manning Bowl” where I made my decision. It’s generally frowned upon in football to act like a 2 year old. Lists of things that are unacceptable in the sport of football include grabbing people’s facemask, holding, running in the wrong direction oh yeah and hurling your helmet into the stands because you got pulled from the game. Guess which one of these helped me decide that Jacobs can’t be depended on? The Giants’ need at running back is far from dire, Bradshaw can be a home run hitter when he wants, but the Giants may need to start looking for somebody more long term.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>The Boy Who Would Be <s>King </s>Prince</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">One pebble can cause 1000 waves. Similarly on shutdown cornerback can cause 3-4 wins. That’s the potential impact of Former Husker, now Giant Prince Amukamara. Amukamara is blazing fast, with great coverage skills that served him well in a great Nebraska defense under Coach Bo Pelini. With a 4.43 40 time Amukamara has the speed and the height (6’) to cover Jackson or Austin. With Prince presumptively taking over the 1 spot at CB half of the field may now be unavailable to a bevy of very good NFC East offenses. With a very strong defensive line and a good pool of safeties lead by Kenny Phillips Amukamara may be the missing piece to put this already pretty dominant unit over the top.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Revenge is a Dish Best Served Sometime This Season</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">As you might have noticed last season, the Giants got owned by the Eagles. True, the slot blitzes in the second game kept Vick and his hapless offensive line guessing but there was still the fact that the Giants lost and DeSean Jackson shall never be forgotten for the miraculous play that he made that day. With the Eagles sitting pretty at the top of the division the Giants need to hit them where it hurts, right in the win/loss column. The Giants get their first shot at the Eagles in week 3. It should be a hard hitting game as the Giants try and reap their vengeance for the utter humiliation the Giants suffered when this happened…http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnutUk02Sk0</div><!--EndFragment-->Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-18138816545087043032011-05-22T13:25:00.001-07:002011-05-22T13:25:36.219-07:00Off Season Questions: Philadelphia Eagles<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">Philadelphia Eagles</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Can Michael Vick stay healthy?</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">Wow. That’s all many people could say after seeing quarterback Michael Vick last season. This was not the Michael Vick that Altanta fans knew, the Vick who made one read and ran for it. Vick was making multiple reads throwing ropes to Jackson and Maclin, completing passes efficiently, staying in the pocket, and not throwing interceptions. It was truly an incredible transformation to watch and by midseason nobody really seemed to care about Kevin Kolb as anything besides Vick’s insurance policy. Which is coincidentally the whole point of this question. Vick was nearly superhuman throughout the season except for when he was hurt. Part of that can be attributed to simply pathetic effort on the part of the Eagles line, but part of that lie on Vick’s scrambling which can open him up to big hits. Vick’s ability to escape more often than not is not in question, what is in question is what happens on the times that he doesn’t.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Oh To Be Young and Full of promise</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">The Eagles have one of the best young nucleuses in the league. Period. DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy and Brent Celek are some of the best at their position and coupled with reborn superstar Michael Vick have given the Eagles an edge similar to the University of Oregon last season, they can score from anywhere at any time. Can the offense score enough points to cover up lapses by a still suspect Eagles defense?</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Much Ado About Kevin</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">You really can’t just let this one slip by if you’re going to write about the Eagles this offseason. What’s going to happen to Kevin Kolb? Is he staying or going? And if (probably) going, where’s he going to go? The best package I’ve heard of was mentioned by John Clayton of ESPN in his mailbag, Arizona Cardinals second round picks in the next two drafts. Some might be reading this right about now and be asking why not a first rounder? I must admit I was asking myself the same question considering Kolb is almost certainly better than anyone the Cardinals or any other NFC West team besides the Rams has on the roster. Well that’s actually the problem, the Cardinals play in the worst division in the history of the NFL, that’s not my opinion it’s a fact. The NFC West was won last season, for the first time in league history, by a team that lost more games than it won. Thus a young guy like Kolb at the controls of a potentially very potent offense in Arizona might be able to get back to the top of the division and thus become a playoff contender moving their pick to the early 20’s as opposed to say #12. Second round picks are more predictable in that respect and offer a longer term pay off to the Eagles. Will Andy Reid buy it? That’s the question</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Behind a Strong Philly Offense Theres…</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">A pretty weak defense. Yup for all the prolific exploits of the Eagles offense (Miracle at the New Meadowlands included) the defense was softer than it should have been. The return of the injured Brandon Graham should lend some help to this defense but the addition of a shut down corner (Nnamdi Asomugha anybody?) would go a long way toward helping the Eagles.</div><!--EndFragment-->Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-47045655627241088422011-05-22T13:24:00.000-07:002011-05-22T13:24:12.213-07:00Off Season Questions: Dallas Cowboys<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">Dallas Cowboys</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Will the defense perform under Rob Ryan?</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">Last year the Cowboys were in popular talks for the Super Bowl, the stage seemed set perfectly. The Cowboys fresh off a fairly productive season, winning their first playoff game in years, Romo was playing well and the team had a pair of good wide outs in Miles Austin and unproven (at the time) rookie Dez Bryant. The Super Bowl was going to be at the Jerry Dome, hopes had rarely been higher in Big D. Then of course the Cowboys ran into a problem, their defense. While the Dallas defense is home to a number of very good players (DeMarcus Ware, Keith Brooking and debatably Terrance Newman) the defense was atrocious last year surrendering 31 touchdown passes. In a division with the score from anywhere offense of the Philadelphia Eagles, and the stable of receivers chomping at the bit in New York, Dallas can no longer depend solely upon a strong offense. The question is whether this unit just needs a new season or whether Dallas needs an infusion of youth on defense.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Ball’s In Your Court</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">Slightly related to the first question, the Cowboys did nothing to replace Safety Alan Ball who was an absolute liability in coverage last year. True, this wasn’t the strongest class of safeties with the first safety going in the second round, but it has become blatantly obvious that Ball is holding Dallas back and it will be interesting to see whether Jerry Jones and the Boys decide to make a play for Sam Huff if/when free agency starts.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Can Tony Romo win the Big Game?</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">Throughout his career quarterback Tony Romo has faced criticism for choking under pressure, being more interested in hanging with celebrities than playing football and just not appearing completely focused at times. Coming back from a broken clavicle that sidelined him early in the season (effectively dashing any hopes the Cowboys had of a playoff run) Romo has a lot of questions to answer if he wants to remain the unquestioned starter of this team. Romo may never have had a more dangerous collection of pass catchers with Dez Bryant returning for his second season after a strong rookie season before being sidelined by an ankle injury, Miles Austin as his reliable #1 wideout and his good friend Jason Witten still attacking the center of the field. Romo’s backfield is strong with Felix Jones, Demarco Murray and possibly Marion Barber still backing him up. There will be no excuse for Romo to underperform this season and it will be a hellish offseason this time next year if he does.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Can the Cowboys make the playoffs?</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">There are few division that are tougher in the NFL than the NFC East. With the exception of the Redskins (We’ll get to them in a little bit) all these rosters seem loaded with either big name players or players who are about to be big including Ware, Austin, Vick, Jackson, Tuck, Amukamara, Phillips, Nicks, Smith, Rolle, Bryant, Manning (I have my doubts but I’m obligated to put him on the list because he won a super bowl) and McCoy. Between all of these names it’s very legitimate to wonder whether the Cowboys have missed their window and this division is the Michael Vick show now. With a talented roster and a few key free agent pickups Big D could reinsert themselves in the conversation, but for now we just don’t know.</div><!--EndFragment-->Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-2125691498758268392011-05-09T17:13:00.000-07:002011-05-09T17:13:52.834-07:00Super Exciting Update TimeTranslation: Me talking about how I'm super busy this week but how there's light at the end of the tunnel.<br />
<br />
Sup guys,<br />
So it's the last week of high school (bittersweet etc.) and next week is finals. So there's good news and bad news there, bad news is that I'm swamped for the rest of week. Good news is that it's looking like I'll have next to no finals so I got a solid week to do what I do best, write sports articles when I could be using my time for something society considers "productive". Bottom line: Off season questions are gonna come out in droves next week. Also if you have an issue you want me to talk about, or a question you want me to answer it'll be time for my second mailbag (the first one was less than successful) drop it in there. I've been getting some questions about what I'm going to do once I'm out of offseason questions. To that I can't give a specific answer, but I can tell you that I have a lot of free time and an obsessive streak regarding football...so I'll figure something out.Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-71919688397997957422011-05-08T11:32:00.000-07:002011-05-08T11:36:22.768-07:00And We're BackSorry I'm late sports fans, been in Phoenix (8th place in Nationals for Mock Trial, boom goes the dynamite!) Well here's that long awaited draft coverage.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">1.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton, QB Auburn</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">The Panthers pulled the trigger on a potential superstar here. Newton is an incredible athlete Capable of things that are nothing short of mind boggling. Prime concerns with Newton are a learning curve as he transitions from the spread offense that he ran in college to a more pro style system with the Carolina Panthers. There have also been some concerns about whether Newton’s running abilities will be as effective at the pro level among fast and stronger defenders than he faced. That being said the Panthers had to make a call on how to get themselves out of the cellar. The Panthers have a TON of work to do in almost every area but Newton is, in my view, a step in the right direction.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">2.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Denver Broncos: Von Miller, OLB Texas A&M</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">John Fox went defense here…good. Denver’s defense was horrible last year against the run. While Miller is suspect against the run his abilities to rush the passer are almost unquestionable. Miller has evolved since his freshman year from a diva who consistently missed class into a real hard worker and a class act. Miller will be a good addition to the Denver defense and should make an exciting pairing with 2009 Sack leader Elvis Dumervil.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">3.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Buffalo Bills: Marcell Dareus, DT Alabama</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">It wasn’t the pick I made, but it was the pick that the Bills needed and my hat’s off to them for that. The Bills also had an atrocious run defense last year, whereas their offense was ok. The Bills ignored the temptation to take the much over hyped Blaine Gabbert here and instead chose a player they can build a defense around as the Bills attempt to claw their way back to respectability.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">4.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Cincinnati Bengals: AJ Green, WR Georgia</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">Bust proof. That’s really the only way to start a paragraph concerning newly minted Bengals receiver AJ Green. Green is the next in a long line of play making wide outs who have gone in the first round recently. Among those counted on this list are Larry Fitzgerald, Calvin Johnson& Andre Johnson. Good company to be in as AJ Green marks the end to the Ochocinco era and brings a field stretching threat to a potentially potent Cincy pass attack.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">5.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Arizona Cardinals: Patrick Peterson, CB LSU</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">Great pick by the Cardinals, Peterson comes into another tired defense and makes their job much easier by simply taking away half of the field. Peterson is a fantastic prospect with coverage skills that are vaguely similar to sealing somebody in a biodome. Cornerback wasn’t a massive need for the Cardinals but they realized an opportunity here and they took it.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">6.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Atlanta Falcons: Julio Jones, WR Alabama</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">Shocking trade by the Falcons (two first round picks and some picks in the 4<sup>th</sup>) to move up to #6 to grab Julio Jones, interesting choice. The Falcons needed a #2 receiver to put opposite Roddy White and Jones may fit the bill to perfection. Was it worth the trade? We’ll find out this season!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">7.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>San Francisco 49ers: Aldon Smith, DE Mizzou</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">I was left scratching my head on this one. The 49ers have very real needs at quarterback as the only quarterback who looks to be coming back is named Alex Smith and the people of San Francisco have had 5 years to note how much better things might have been if they had drafted Aaron Rodgers. Yet with his first draft pick as NFL coach Jim Harbaugh decided on a defensive end. Smith is an up and coming junior from Mizzou who will probably be very productive in a very solid 49er defense that is lead by 3X Pro Bowler, Patrick Willis</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">8.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Tennessee Titans: Jake Locker, QB Washington</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">Billed as the “anti Vince Young” the Titans chose Washington QB Jake Locker. Locker was once heralded as “Tim Tebow, if Tim Tebow could throw” and was projected to be going #1 this time last year. After a return to school to claim a bowl win over a fearsome Nebraska defense that harassed him into interceptions and an all around bad showing in a regular season defeat, Locker brings some possible stability to a Titans franchise that is clearly rebuilding despite having home run threat and former 2000 yard rusher, Chris Johnson.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">9.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Dallas Cowboys: Tyron Smith, OT USC</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">The Cowboys take a lineman in the first round for the first time since Jerry Jones started being “the Boss” in Dallas. A three year starter at the right tackle spot on the USC Smith is a solid prospect with a huge amount of upside and a high ceiling as a prototypical left tackle.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">10<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Jacksonville Jaguars: Blaine Gabbert, QB Mizzou</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">Gabbert took a bit of a tumble to a spot originally occupied by the Redskins who traded down in the ever-present quest for more draft picks. Gabbert is never going to be elite, not probably, <u>never </u>but Gabbert will be a solid starter for this still young Jaguars team that is looking to take control of the house that Peyton Manning built. In my opinion Jacksonville would have been better served finding somebody ready to play right away but Gene Smith has an apparent vision and Blaine Gabbert is right in the middle of it.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">11<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Houston Texans: JJ Watt, DE Wisconsin</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">The Texans had two ways that they could go with this draft pick, cornerback and defensive end as they transition to Wade Phillips’ 3-4 set in an effort to improve a defense that routinely blew games for a <u>very </u>impressive offensive unit. The good news is that the Texans are stacked at nearly every skill position with starters by the name of Andre Johnson Matt Schaub and Rushing leader Arian Foster. Bad news is that the pass defense was one of the NFL’s worst last season (I’m guessing everyone has already seen Glover Quinn’s moment of glory?). In JJ Watt the Texans make a great pick to pair with or replace 2006 #2 overall selection, Mario Williams. Watt is an impressive player who is as Jon Gruden so accurately put it “a self made man” who went from being a blocking tight end at Central Michigan to playing Defensive End at Wisconsin.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">12<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Minnesota Vikings: Christian Ponder, QB Florida State</div><div class="MsoListParagraph">Seriously? No, seriously? That was about all I could say for about 5 minutes after the Vikings shocked everyone in attendance and just about every person in Minnesota who hasn’t switched allegiance to the Packers (and to those people I can only shake my head in deep disappointment). Ponder is smart, very smart and has a good arm and had some Heisman hype coming into the past season. But the guy just cannot stay healthy and was a high second round prospect at best in my view. The Vikings probably could have and should have traded down and snagged Ponder in the second and focused time on a defensive end. Also the Vikings have been plagued of late with injuries to their cornerbacks (Antoine Winfield has not looked 100% since he hurt his ankle and Cedric Griffin is a miracle if he comes back even close to as good as he was following his injury). That the Vikings let a grade A prospect like Prince Amukamara slip by them in favor of a quarterback who could have waited till later in the draft was a deplorable lapse by the Vikings regime. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">13Detroit Lions: Nick Fairley, DT Auburn</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">Around the time that this pick was announced the Bears, Packers and Vikings threw up a prayer that their interior line held up in the face of a suddenly fierce Detroit defensive line. The Lions decided here that they would place priority on finding somebody to somehow make Ndamukong Suh more scary than they would protecting Stafford’s blind side. Jeff Backus can only hold up for so much longer but it’s hard to fault the Lions for this selection because a Suh-Fairley tandem is going to be a nightmare to deal with.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">14<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn, DE North Carolina</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">With Julio Jones off the board the Rams made the smart choice and looked defense with this pick. Content to find a playmaker for Sam Bradford in a later round (and they did but more on that in offseason questions, which will be coming soon) the Rams selected an absolute monster in Robert Quinn. The Rams have all the makings of a possible dynasty of NFC West championships considering the epic floundering that is going on in the rest of the division at the quarterback position. Watch out for the Rams to be in the playoff conversation this season.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">15<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Miami Dolphins: Mike Pouncey, C Florida</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">There are three words that can regularly be heard in draft analysis and those words are the same words one might use to describe a failed relationship (shoulda, coulda, woulda). In this case I should have seen this draft pick coming as I had heard rumors that Miami was looking to improve their interior protection, the Dolphins could have had a top running back prospect to take pressure off Chad Henne who just isn’t ready for prime time, and I would have pulled the trigger on that pick. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">16<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Washington Redskins: Ryan Kerrigan, DE Purdue</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">It’s always a shame to see somebody be told they have to play for the Redskins. Nothing personal but this organization has been dysfunctional for years and I have deep seated issues with Mike Shanahan. That being said the Redskins have a solid character player and versatile defensive end who will add well to a team that clearly has a long way to go before they can even begin to think about going to the playoffs.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">17<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>New England Patriots: Nate Solder, OT Colorado</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">Well played Belichick, well played. With this Belichick takes a line prospect with good upside and the frame that one would look for when assessing a prospect. Nobody knows better than Belichick the importance of protecting your quarterback. In Solder Belichick has plan B if Matt Light leaves in free agency.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">18<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>San Diego Chargers: Corey Liuget, DT Illinois</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">The Chargers add some defensive talent here as the Chargers come back from a season where they didn’t win the AFC West, something that was totally unthinkable just a few months ago. Phillip Rivers will be glad of the help as he tries once again to strap the team to his back and launch them into the Super Bowl that his right arm has been promising San Diego for years.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">19New York Giants: Prince Amukamara, CB Nebraska</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">Massive steal here for the Giants, never in any of the drafts, predictions and endless coverage that I watched was there any idea that Prince Amukamara would last this long. Amukamara has tremendous speed and good coverage skills. What’s more the ceiling is fairly high on Aumkamara because originally he was recruited to Nebraska to play running back and only afterwards was moved to cornerback. The Giants add a potential shutdown corner to an already potent defensive mix.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">20<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn, DE Iowa</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">Nice choice here for the Buccaneers as they add another youthful player to a squad that should have made the playoffs last season and was denied by a BS rule about division winners automatically making the playoffs (even if that division has made the decision to try playing the game without quarterbacks). Clayborn joins a (for lack of a better nickname) Fearsome Foursome in sophomore defensive tackles Gerald McCoy and Brian Price and rookie Da’Quan Bowers. This Bucs unit is literally bursting with potential to really ruin Matt Ryan, Jimmy Clausen/Cam Newton, and Drew Brees’ collective days.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">21<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Cleveland Browns: Phil Taylor, NT Baylor</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">The Browns make a shrewd choice here selecting Shaun Rogers replacement while making off with the Falcons’ first rounder for 2012. Maybe this Holmgren guy knows a thing or two about football. Taylor is a massive force who should provide support to a Browns unit that faces potent running games in the Steelers’ Rashard Mendenhall and the Ravens’ Ray Rice.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">22<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo, OT Boston College</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">And so it begins. The Colts’ offensive line has gotten long in the tooth in recent years and struggled mightily this year to protect Peyton “Nobody knows who the Colts are without me” Manning. Manning will be glad of the support as he looks to capture another Super Bowl ring so he can stop hearing all this hype about some guy named Tom Brady.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">23<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Philadelphia Eagles: Danny Watkins, G Baylor</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">I’ve got a riddle, what do you do when you have arguably the most dangerous corps of skill players in the NFL? If you said “Protect your quarterback” congratulations! You have common sense. If I had to pick a team that is most likely to genuinely frighten a defense I would go with the Eagles, between Desean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy, Brent Celek and Michael Vick the Eagles can and will score from anywhere and everywhere. Vick shocked the world this past season by showing that he has learned to read defenses, check down when necessary, and go through more than one progression before sprinting away. You know what makes all of these things easier? Time. Vick will certainly be happy of the extra time and frankly just the amazing life story of Danny Watkins. Watkins is from Canada and grew up wanting to be, and is a fireman whose entire engine showed up to cheer loudly for him at the draft. Watkins originally played rugby and went on to be a very good offensive lineman at Baylor. While at the age of 25 Watkins is older than most prospects and doesn’t have as much time you can’t really be mad at a choice like this.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">24<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>New Orleans Saints: Cameron Jordan, DE Cal</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">The Saints are a team with few true needs, so they added to their defensive line with a prospect who I was shocked to see last this long. Jordan is one half of a VERY good first round for the Saints. We’ll get to the other guy in a couple of picks.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">25<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Seattle Seahawks: James Carpenter, G/T Alabama</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">First thoughts of many people after this selection was announced “Who is James Carpenter?” To answer this question, James Carpenter was a tackle in one of the most bruising offensive line units I have seen. That is to say that James Carpenter is part of the Alabama offensive line. The unit has been described as (due in no small part to Carpenter) Mauling, brutal, incredibly physical, and talented. Many had Carpenter with a late second round grade so I’m going to say this may have been a reach with other prospects still on the board that could have been a help to Seattle.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">26<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Kansas City Chiefs: Jonathan Baldwin, WR Pitt</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">The events surrounding this pick were interesting to say the least. The Ravens were originally slated to pick at #26 but ran out of time after failing to secure a deal with the Bears. As a result they “passed” and the Chiefs chose in their stead. The Chiefs selected Jonathan Baldwin a 6’4” coverage nightmare with tremendous body control and the ability to leap spectacularly and grab balls most can’t even think of touching. He should be a good compliment to Dwayne Bowe who appeared to come into his own last year.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">27<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Baltimore Ravens: Jimmy Smith, CB Colorado</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">Color me skeptical as far as this pick is concerned. Smith is a good player and fills an area of desperate need for the Ravens, an area that may well have cost them a shot at the AFC Championship game. But Smith has a number of red flags after reportedly failing three separate drug tests at the combine that ultimately cost him a shot at being in the top 15. Maybe it’s nit picking but I can’t recall anyone ever looking less excited to be told that they’re going to be an NFL player. Smith may be a headcase, on the upside for Ravens fans he’s in a locker room with Ray Lewis who will certainly do his best to help Smith get his act together.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">28<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>New Orleans Saints: Mark Ingram, RB Alabama</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">Now there’s that other prospect I was talking about earlier. The Saints trade their first rounder for 2012 for a tremendously talented back in Alabama’s Mark Ingram. Ingram is not the fastest RB in the draft (that title went to Oakland’s Taiwan Jones) but he’s a hard nosed runner who fights for every inch and is tremendous after contact.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">29<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi, OT Wisconsin</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">The Bears drafted for need here and if you are Jay Cutler you say thank you 1000X over. The Bears line was horrible last year giving up 60 sacks and even more hits on QB Jay Cutler. Without having had a first round pick in two years the Bears’ Jerry Angelo redeems himself somewhat by picking a potential starter for years to come.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">30<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>New York Jets: Muhammad Wilkerson, DE Temple</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">The Jets add another great prospect to their defense. The Jets are sort of like the “Anti Texans” they have great coverage, actually superb coverage between Antonio Cromartie and All universe cornerback Darelle Revis. But next to no pass rush and depend on the wacky blitz packages of head coach Rex Ryan. With Wilkerson the Jets get a pass rusher to give Tom Brady yet another thing to think about in New Meadowlands stadium.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">31<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Pittsburgh Steelers: Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">The Steelers add another face to their defensive line unit. I suspect that this pick was really more for the sake of depth than it was need as the Steelers already have a great defensive front in Brett Keisel, his beard and the other two guys on the line.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">32<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Green Bay Packers: Derek Sherrod, OT Mississippi State</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">A year ago the Packers realized that Aaron Rodgers on his feet was better than Aaron Rodgers on the ground. One year later the Packers decided this logic still made sense, hence Derek Sherrod.</div>Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-32605845734270006492011-04-27T12:08:00.000-07:002011-04-27T12:08:07.812-07:00Mock Draft 2.0<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">1. Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton, QB Auburn</div><div class="MsoNormal">I’ve been hearing a lot of hype lately that the Panthers are going to pull the trigger on Newton. Like him or not Newton is the only quarterback in this draft class with elite potential, Gabbert is at best a better version of Mark Sanchez, Locker is inaccurate and Mallet in addition to character concerns has issues outside the pocket that don’t make him a fantastical candidate behind a poor offensive line in Charlotte. Newton will in all probability sit behind Jimmy Clausen until such time as Clausen has proven his inferiority to Newton.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">2. Denver Broncos: Marcell Dareus, DT Alabama</div><div class="MsoNormal">Denver boasted one of the poorest run defenses in the league last year. While their multiple defensive holes may be distracted from by the imminent return of 2009 sack king, Elvis Dumervil, a massive presence like Bama’s Dareus would go a long way toward stopping the run. With new coach John Fox at the helm this is sure to be a defensive pick. I’d also like to take this moment to say that Elway is not nor should he take a quarterback with this pick or any other. Tebow has not been given a decent chance at an NFL career, and there’s no point ignoring obvious defensive issues because Tebow is a bit unorthodox.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">3. Buffalo Bills: Blaine Gabbert, QB Mizzou</div><div class="MsoNormal">Were it up to me I would not pull the trigger on this pick, granted, Gabbert is not the unknown factor that is Cam Newton, as inaccurate as Jake Locker or have the character concerns that accompany Ryan Mallet. In fact Gabbert’s crime is that he is too <u>much</u> of a known factor, he’s going to be a middle of the road QB in the mold of Kyle Orton, Carson Palmer or debatably Mark Sanchez. There’s no point in using a #3 overall pick on a guy who’s going to lead you to 8-8 more often than not.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">4. Cincinnati Bengals: AJ Green, WR Georgia</div><div class="MsoNormal">Last night Bengals receiver Chad Ochocinco made it very clear on his twitter account that he was on his way out in Cincy. With a talented group of up and comers left over from the “Carson just needs more weapons” phase of the Bengals there’s going to be a nice hole opening up for a playmaker. That playmaker is AJ Green, an absolutely bust proof #1 wide out. Green is the next in a line of elite receivers in the NFL, Green could find himself paired with the strong armed Ryan Mallet or whoever the Bengals bring in at quarterback.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller, OLB Texas A&M</div><div class="MsoNormal">Arizona fell hard last year due in no small part to the loss of franchise quarterback Kurt Warner. Unfortunately for the Arizona faithful their franchise QB is not waiting for them here. In fact if I know Whisenhunt their franchise QB is on somebody else’s team right now. So the Cardinals receive Von Miller a top ranked pass rusher who could immediately become a terror off the edge similar to Clay Matthews.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">6. Cleveland Browns: Robert Quinn, DE North Carolina</div><div class="MsoNormal">Cleveland would love to snag a playmaker for up and coming quarterback Colt McCoy but I don’t think Holmgren and Browns GM Tom Heckert feel comfortable snagging Julio Jones this high. Since I don’t do trade projections, I mocked them Robert Quinn. A clutch playmaker at North Carolina, Quinn would have been a lock for a top 5 pick had he not been suspended this season. After losing Shaun Rogers the defense will be happy of the assistance. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson, CB LSU</div><div class="MsoNormal">A bit of a tumble here for Peterson who is one of the best cornerback prospects to come along in a while. At over 6 feet tall Peterson is a cover corner who has the potential to be the next Darelle Revis. Jim Harbaugh will gladly snag him at #7.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">8. Tennessee Titans: Nick Fairley, DT Auburn</div><div class="MsoNormal">Fairley was once in contention for the #1 spot, after weighing in at the combine below 300 pounds though he takes a bit of a fall here to the Titans who are desperately searching for pass rushers as they try to reinvigorate their defense. The Titans are also desperately searching for a quarterback after Bud Adams cut Vince Young loose, but it’d be a stretch to take Jake Locker anywhere above #20.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">9. Dallas Cowboys: Tyron Smith, OT USC</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Cowboys have needs along their offensive line, with no free agency to tackle this issue I have the Cowboys picking the best tackle in the draft in Tyron Smith. Starting at right tackle for USC Smith shows solid footwork and all the physical attributes that one looks for in a top flight tackle. After seeing Alex Barron single handedly throw away the season opener for the Cowboys Jason Garret will be happy to welcome in some new talent.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">10. Washington Redskins: JJ Watt, DE Wisconsin</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Redskins have a lot of needs including but not limited to Quarterback, Running back, O line, linebacker and wide out. With no quarterbacks worth taking this high the Shanahan regime takes DE JJ Watt to pair along side freak of nature Brian Orakpo.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">11. Houston Texans: Prince Amukamara, CB Nebraska</div><div class="MsoNormal">Last time I was mocking this round I sent Da’Quan Bowers to Houston. This time through I knocked him down one spot after considering how truly abysmal Houston’s pass defense is. I know the rule of the AFC South is to apply as much pressure to Manning as possible but this draft is deep at defensive end and the Texans can probably snag somebody to Wade Phillips liking in the second while getting him a top flight cornerback.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">12. Minnesota Vikings: Da’Quan Bowers, DE Clemson</div><div class="MsoNormal">Bowers slips to Minnesota here as the rebuilding Vikings look to rebuild the dominant front four that they had last season with Ray Edwards as a free agent. Bowers is an athletic freak with great pass rushing ability who falls to #12 over concerns over surgery on his knee.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">13. Detroit Lions: Anthony Castonzo, OT Boston College</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Lions make a decision here that they have put off getting a new left tackle for entirely too long. The Lions have been drafting well over the past couple of years and have a good set of skill players in Calvin Johnson, Jahvid Best and real potential in former #1 overall draft pick Matthew Stafford. That’s not even mentioning the behemoth one of a kind talent that is Ndamukong Suh. That being said Jeff Backus cannot last forever and Stafford is in danger so long as there is not a top flight tackle guarding him from Julius Peppers, Jared Allen and Clay Matthews.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">14. St. Louis Rams: Julio Jones, WR Alabama</div><div class="MsoNormal">A year ago the Rams drafted Sam Bradford out of Oklahoma with the hopes of getting a franchise quarterback. Wish granted. Bradford has shown that he is most definitely the guy that the Rams are going to want under center for the next 10 years displaying uncanny accuracy and playmaking ability. The only draw back is that Bradford’s top target is Danny Amendola. Those of you who are not Ram’s fans or nerds like me probably just fought down the urge to Google who exactly is Danny Amendola. The point is that Jones is the big target that Bradford needs to make plays downfield as the Rams appear to be ready to dominate the NFC West this season.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">15. Miami Dolphins: Mark Ingram, RB Alabama</div><div class="MsoNormal">Like just about everyone else in the drafting world I have Ingram mocked to the Phins as they try to readjust from a disappointing season.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Muhammad Wilkerson, DE Temple</div><div class="MsoNormal">GM Gene Smith takes a solid pass rusher to add to this young Jaguars team as they seek to put still more pressure on Peyton Manning.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">17. New England Patriots (Oakland Raiders): Gabe Carimi, OT Wisconsin</div><div class="MsoNormal">Nobody knows better than Bill Belichick and Tom Brady the importance of protecting your quarterback. I mocked them Solder last time but after some film review I’ve come to the conclusion that Solder needs some technique work and Belichick may need someone to step in next season if Matt Light is a free agent.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">18. San Diego Chargers: Aldon Smith, DE Missouri</div><div class="MsoNormal">As I stated much more sarcastically last time, the Chargers need pass rushers as they try to claw their way back into the playoffs. Aldon Smith serves that purpose just fine.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">19. New York Giants: Corey Liuget, DT Illinois</div><div class="MsoNormal">I’ll admit that this pick had me flummoxed for a while as I tried to think what the Giants needed. The Giants’ defense got absolutely wrecked last season by Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. Knowing the Giants’ strength comes from their line I drafted them mid first round prospect Corey Liuget of Illinois.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ryan Kerrigan, DE Purdue</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Buccaneers shocked the world last year after they finished 10-6 but missed the playoffs due to the absolutely bogus rule that Seattle who didn’t even win half their games was guaranteed a playoff spot based solely on the merit of winning the worst division in the history of football. Picking at #20 the Bucs will look for an end to pair with last year’s top pick Gerald McCoy and 2<sup>nd</sup> round pick Brian Price.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">21. Kansas City Chiefs: Akeem Ayers, OLB UCLA</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Chiefs also shocked the world last year after having a very solid 2010 draft and improved play from quarterback Matt Cassel. This pick could go a couple different ways. On defense it’s pass rush, though the Chiefs could also grab a #2 wide out to put opposite Dwayne Bowe who I’m still not entirely sold on. I chose pass rush this time around though it really could go either way.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">22. Indianapolis Colts: Derek Sherrod, OT Mississippi State</div><div class="MsoNormal">There’s one rule if you play in the AFC South and you don’t play for the Colts. Pressure. Every team is going to come after Manning so Polian takes a great lineman prospect to protect Manning from the oncoming pass rush.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">23. Philadelphia Eagles: Nate Solder, OT Colorado</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Eagles’ line play was average at best last year and more often than not resurgent QB/human highlight reel Michael Vick was the one bailing out his line. It’s supposed to be the other way around… Following Vick’s injuries last year Andy Reid makes the logical choice to protect his quarterback as opposed to not doing so.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">24. New Orleans Saints: Cameron Jordan, DE Cal</div><div class="MsoNormal">Not many needs for this Saints team, Cameron Jordan is a fairly versatile player and the Saints could use a boost along their defensive line.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">25. Seattle Seahawks: Jake Locker, QB Washington</div><div class="MsoNormal">Jake Locker sneaks into the first round here for a Seahawks team in the worst division for quarterbacks. It’s obvious after a couple of minutes watching Charlie Whitehurst that he’s better as “Clipboard Jesus” than “Starting Quarterback Jesus”. Locker is a QB with wheels and a lot of popularity in Seattle as the hometown hero.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">26. Baltimore Ravens: Jimmy Smith, CB Colorado</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Ravens are thin at cornerback, really thin. Jimmy Smith is a mid first round prospect who’s thin on character recommendations, really thin. Smith prevents himself falling into the second round here by going to a team desperate to fill it’s need at cornerback.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">27. Atlanta Falcons: Randall Cobb, WR Kentucky</div><div class="MsoNormal">Randall Cobb’s stock is on the rise, and the Falcons are looking for a #2 wideout to make defenses have to back off top flight play maker Roddy White. The Falcons also are looking for a pass rusher but there’s more than enough of them that the Falcons can afford to wait and see what’s available when they pick next.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Patriots look for some additional pass rush here to continue the transformation of a young defense. It’s quite possible the Pats could trade out of this spot but I’m not going to risk it here and mock Belichick the pass rusher he was missing last season.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">29. Chicago Bears: Mike Pouncey, C/G Florida</div><div class="MsoNormal">The undisputed best center in the draft and twin brother of Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey, Mike Pouncey provides an immediate boost to a truly pathetic Bears interior line. There’ll be much more work to do but the idea of Jay Cutler not taking 60 sacks a season has to carry at least a little appeal to Bears coach Lovie Smith.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">30. New York Jets: Adrian Clayborn, DE Iowa</div><div class="MsoNormal">Clayborn falls a long way here to the Pass rush needy Jets. Clayborn is a dogged pass rusher who has shown off some plays that defy the abilities of mere mortals. However teams could also be concerned that Clayborn due to medical issues is incapable of fully extending his right arm and has some below average upper body strength as a result. But I’m betting Rex Ryan will love Clayborn’s heart and pass rushing abilities and take him at #30.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Aaron Williams, CB Texas</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Steeler defense was completely and totally lights out to start this season without Ben Roethlisberger. However the Steelers will meet their match in offenses like the Saints and Packers with a vast collection of talented receivers and an elite quarterback if they don’t pick up more cornerbacks. You know what they say, they can never be too deep at cornerback.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">32. Green Bay Packers: Ryan Williams, RB Virginia Tech</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Packers rushing attack was al but non existent this season. There were times where QB Aaron Rodgers had more rushing yards than either of the running backs. The Packers are a dangerous team with the return of tight end Jermichael Finley and a talented corp of receivers. With the offensive line soon to be anchored by Brian “I could not look any more like a Packer if I tried” Bulaga, GM Ted Thompson takes a running back as insurance on Ryan Grant and James Starks.</div><!--EndFragment-->Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-14878235111422777172011-04-22T16:23:00.000-07:002011-04-22T16:23:44.478-07:00Quick UpdateHello people who read my blog and the two people who follow it,<br />
<br />
I'm sorry I haven't come out with my new 4 questions series or a new mock draft. There's good reasons for both of these things, I decided to postpone my offseason questions segment until after the draft. It just seemed like a multitude of new questions and answers will spring up after the draft that would invalidate me putting up the series now. Secondly I'm going to put up themock draft the day before the draft, 1. because I've been a little swamped of late and I want to make sure it's a high quality mock draft. 2. Because it will be better to have that copy to base my post draft analysis off of. I'm only going to do the first round because I do have other obligations.<br />
<br />
Also put questions in the mailbag, no such thing as a stupid question.<br />
Alright till next timeVeintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-71565201661323714092011-04-17T17:39:00.000-07:002011-04-17T17:39:07.286-07:00Why This Could be the Year of the BearsSo a little intro is necessary here. I was involved in a back and forth with friend and reader Eric Laorr (that's your shout out, you don't get another one) and wrote him this novel about how I can see Jay Cutler and Lovie Smith hoisting the Lombardi trophy next season. Without further ado here it is.<br />
<br />
This is our year if we do three things<br />
1. Protect Cutler<br />
2. Grab a #1 wideout<br />
3. Improve Cutler's throwing technique<br />
There's a lot of pretty good guys on the open market and some guys the Bears can reach in the draft. Much as I love the idea of Titus Young on the Bears I have to retract my idea that he would be a great fit. The Bears need a tall wideout at the one spot so they can have Knox running streaks at the two and rotate Hester and Bennett in the slot with Olsen mving out in certain sets and attacking the middle of the field. This should also maximize Hester's punt return abilities while also giving Cutler a good target to work with. The only reason I'm taking back my hope that the Bears snag Kellen Moore's best buddy is because he has a similar skill set to Knox and I'm just not down for another Chester Taylor.<br />
<br />
It's kind of a domino effect if you think about it, but first a small anecdote...<br />
A football coach has one open spot on his roster and the choice is between two players, he has them run a 40 to make his decision. One player has perfect technique and runs a 4.3, the other has awful form and runs a 4.3.<br />
<br />
Which should he choose?<br />
<br />
If you've heard this anecdote before then your reaction is to say that he should pick the second kid because that kid has more potential and upside if you teach him perfect form. The first kid has hit his ceiling.<br />
<br />
Incidentally the same thing applies to Jake Locker but that's something that I already discussed in my mock draft a couple of posts down. The real reason I told that story is that in this case the Bears are the second kid. The Bears made it all the way to the NFC championship game while not exactly playing the kind of football conducive to championship opportunities. The line play was about as sloppy as you will ever see (See New York Giants game), their wideout corp was unimpressive at time but lacked a dynamic go to playmaker a la Brandon Marshall that made Cutler so good in Denver, the defense was solid but also had its share of failures. So why do I think this is the Bears year? Because they made it to the gateway of the Super bowl and almost won that game with not their first string, not their second string (seriously? Todd Collins?), but their third string QB who almost beat the soon to be Super Bowl champions.<br />
<br />
That's about as poor technique as it gets and yet they still made it. With a few tweaks and improvements along the offensive line (Pouncey, Solder, Carimi or Sherrod would be good starting points for a truly awful unit) Cutler will have the time that is so critical to his success and development in a Mike Martz offense that values time above all else. With the big #1 target we talked about earlier Cutler can finally "just lay it up there" (Jonathan Baldwin I'm looking at you) Cutler has his go to guy and conversely this receiving core has a player who can distract a defense from the woefully under rated Johnny Knox and solid playmaker within the offense like Forte, Olsen, Hester or Bennett.<br />
<br />
Finally it's time for the second year of the Cutler-Martz marriage to take on an important part of marriage, making the person you're bound to into a better person. Martz has to spend time hammering Cutler on the details of his footwork, stance and overall decision making. Cutler is a gun slinger, nothing is going to change that but somebody has to teach him to take an extra second (which he'll have thanks to his new linemen) to evaluate how fast he would have to sling the ball to fit it through that impossibly tight hole. <br />
<br />
Cutler's formative years as a QB have been spent in the midst of two cardinal sins of QB development: Poor O-line play and inconsistent play calling. Cutler went to Vandy and while it is damned impressive in anybody to make it through SEC football Cutler is a special case. Trapped behind a line that couldn't hope to compare with the size and speed of most SEC D-lines Cutler had to count on fleet feet and a rocket arm to keep the season alive. The upside is Cutler can throw on the run just as well as Rodgers, but but he is prone to thinking he can make any play at any time and struggles at times to just give up on the play. Which is sometimes the smartest decision. He throws in all sorts of strange angles anc ontrotions of his body out of habit, some technique work would really improve his accuracy. Cutler must stay in Martz's system if he is to grow into an elite QB instead of just an elite talent. Otherwise the Bears run the risk of turning him into a MUCH more talented version of Alex Smith, who never realized any of his potential and will go down as a massive bust. WHile Smith will go down many other reasons, the constantly revolving doorat OC will be the dagger that nobody remembers.<br />
<br />
So those are my three tips to a succesful Bear season. From the other side of the endzone this is Veintidos.Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-86174359828655857892011-04-17T08:29:00.001-07:002011-04-17T08:29:36.939-07:00Mailbag:Insert your important questions regarding the fate of football in the comments section below.Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-29116044628011833462011-04-17T08:27:00.000-07:002011-04-17T08:27:45.466-07:00Solo ArtistHey Sports fans,<br />
<br />
So first off I'm sorry about the delay, there's been a lot going on back in Minnesota and I was out of town for two days but that's no excuse. So yes, very sorry for the delay on this new article. With that being said I hope you all enjoy the (hopefully) three articles I'm coming out with today.<br />
<br />
So about the runningback position, we all know where it is and how it looks. Unless you had a very specific skill set like quarterback or lineman chances are that you've played runningback in a game of touch football. All around the position is a pretty simple concept: Ball is snapped, QB hands ball off, run through hole into daylight. See? Simple concept, difficult in real life. But unfortunately due to a couple of different factors this traditional view of the ground game is fading into the rear view. I put it down to this:<br />
<br />
1. More teams have quarterbacks playing at a franchise (Important distinction, franchise does not mean elite) level<br />
2. The rise of the spread offense in college<br />
3. Most teams want a collection of guys with different skill sets as opposed to one man who is really good at downhill running.<br />
<br />
So let's talk about #1 for a sec, think quickly whose the best quarterback in the game (Brett Favre is retired right now so does not count)? Tick, tock, tick, tock and done. Now here's the likely list you came up with, top 5 or so<br />
<br />
1. Peyton Manning, Colts<br />
2. Tom Brady, Patriots<br />
3. Aaron Rodgers, Packers<br />
4. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers<br />
5. Phillip Rivers, Chargers<br />
<br />
Ok now for another quick quiz, because I like quizzes, how many of those quarterbacks have a tailback that you can name qithout having to give it a serious amount of thought?<br />
<br />
Ok now that that's over chances are you could only name one without spending a fair amount of time searching your memories. The answers were:<br />
<br />
1. Joseph Addai/ Mike Hart/ Donald Brown<br />
2. Ben Jarvus Green-Ellis/Danny Woodhead<br />
3. James Starks/ Ryan Grant/ John Kuhn<br />
4. Rashard Mendenhall (This is the one you most likely got)<br />
5. Ryan Matthews/ Mike Tolbert<br />
<br />
So as you may have noticed all but one of these quarterbacks has more than one running back and only one of them has a running back that someone outside the fan base of that franchise can think of off the top of his/her head. So why?<br />
<br />
Because good running teams almost always lose to good passing teams, more and more often there is team with a quarter back who can make the miracle throw on fourth and 2 with time running out to keep the drive alive. Most teams can't match that even with incredible talents like the Vikings' Peterson or the Rams' Jackson. So the common knowledge around the NFL is to do RB by committee and have many guys with many different skill sets. Except on occasion this can go very wrong for almost all involved. Let me turn your attention to the Chicago Bears offseason last year. Right out of the gates of free agency there was reason to believe that this could be a good season. Two big free agents and one guy who was important but nobody had ever heard of were standing in front of the camera holding Bears jerseys with massive smiles on their faces. Who could it be? Why it was Julius Peppers: the freakishly athletic DE from Charlotte, Chester Taylor: Brett Favre's go to guy on third down, and Brandon Manumaleuna: A Tight End from San Diego who blocks well.<br />
<br />
Now at the time this seemed like the super friends were coming to town, Cutler had very little blocking so there was Brandon, The Bears needed help on defense and there was Julius, Cutler needed somebody to throw to so there was...Wait a second where was Chester Taylor?<br />
<br />
That question plagued Chicagoans throughout most of the season as Matt Forte blazed the field taking full advantage of the Mike Martz system. The more Chicago rediscovered the Forte of his 2008, the more Chicago realized that Jerry Angelo had panicked and thrown away millions on a third down back who wasn't even in on third down. Taylor averaged 2.4 yds, Forte 4.5. So why was Taylor on the team, well he was supposed to compliment Forte with his utter mastery of...the exact same skill set of Matt Forte. Forte catches the ball well and is a pretty good runner, Taylor (important distinction) WAS able to catch the ball well and was a pretty good runner. So when Forte rocketed upward and Taylor collected dust on the sidelines millions of dollars that could've been spent upgrading the line or getting Cutler a top flight receiver were literally sitting in a jersey marked #29.<br />
<br />
And so on to point #2 the rise of the spread. Well for those of you not acquainted with the spread offense the quarterback takes most of his snaps out of the shotgun and his wideouts spread out across the whole field with the running back (if he's even in) to his right or left. The thing is that this form of system isn't conducive to finding the down hill running talent of a Peterson or Jackson. And even the spread utilizes a loaded backfield. So coming out of college you have bunch of running backs who are good possibly even great at one thing, but only that ONE thing. That's why for the first time since 1962 there's a very real chance that the first round may only take one RB (Mark Ingram). There's just too much choice that can be used in the later rounds to find an above average player and harmonize him with the quartet in your backfield. Ironically this has also answered point #3.<br />
<br />
So what did we learn? teams that only focus on their running back (Titans, Browns, Vikings sorta, The Rams before Sam Bradford) pretty much hit their glass ceiling at 9-7. Teams with franchise QB's and a solid running back (Bucs, Bears, Falcons, Ravens) Produce decent records and can go deep in the playoffs and have real shots at Super Bowl rings. (Actually that's the whole point of my next article about the Bears hopefully out later today). Then there are teams like the Patriots, Colts, and Chargers who have quarterbacks who can handle the entire team if they need to and are almost as good with no running game as they are with it. Though this applies less to Rivers because he missed the playoffs last season but that's a post for my new segment which I have yet to name. The basic concept behind it is that I will be doing 4 offseason questions and a prediction about whether that team will make the playoffs. I'm taking a stand on not naming it "4 Downs with Veintidos" so if anyone has ideas for what to call it please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I think I'll be doing them by division and I'll probably start with the NFC East. this post might come tonight or sometime this week depending on my homework schedule.<br />
<br />
Also if you have a burning question about football such as Where do you see the Browns ending up in the hierarchy in the AFC North, Who should the Giants draft, How does Christian Ponder stack up, who is going to draft Andrew Luck, And just what is Randy Moss gonna be doing next season then drop it in the comments section of the mailbag I'll be setting up in 5 minutes. Till then from the other side of the end zone this is Veintidos signing off.Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-28363107967228304382011-04-11T22:38:00.000-07:002011-04-11T22:38:03.635-07:00A Tale of Two QuarterbacksAs I sit here at the end of the day I got struck with inspiration, right from the goatee framed mouth of Mark Schlereth. You see with the recent lock out (No, I have no commentary on the forced mediation) we've had to endure what seems like more QB speculation than normal as teams start thinking that they MUST draft a QB as the NFL slowly forgets that runningback used to be a solo not a barbershop quartet. But I'm getting off track, teams need QB's it's the most important position bar none. Good running teams in the NFL used to make the playoffs even if their QB was only playing mediocre to average. Perfect example of how that's changed, two seasons ago the Titans had only the 6th 2000 yard runner ever in CHris Johnson they were getting iffy to acceptable play from QB Vince Young. So what happened to this speed driven offense with their quarterback who so often bailed Texas out by just taking over games? Surely when combined with an incredible talent like Johnson this dynamic duo shook up the world raising a Lombardi trophy bathed in the bright lights and blue-silver confetti of victory. <br />
Nope! Not even close, actually they missed the playoffs. You see what I'm talking about the game is all about the quarterback position and what you;ve done there lately (just ask the NFC West). So in that spirit we have to talk about free agent QB's and I don't mean Bulger I'm talking about the only two QB's who I think have a chance at making a big difference in the team they go to next season. I'm speaking of course about Donovan McNabb and Kevin Kolb.<br />
This time last year there was no lock out, people could've cared less about preseason, all people were worried about is that anticipation that one feels when the snow finally melts away from the football field and people might look in their stadiums or their living rooms for the unmistakable arc of a perfect spiral against a blue autumn sky. Hope springs eternal in the offseason and these two are a much needed booster shot if you put them in the right system.<br />
I'm gonna start with McNabb, McNabb has recently come up in the conversation for the Minnesota Vikings. I'm being really flexible with how i use recently because really these rumors have been going on since last offseason while the whole of Viking nation sat with baited breath waiting for Brett Favre to come back to the dome. In reality it would have been a good choice to take Donovan but hindsight is 20/20. McNabb would fit well with the Vikings for a couple of the very same reasons that things didn't work out with the Redskins. The Vikings' window to claim the Lombardi trophy, and provide some vindication for robbing my friend Eli Leonard of all hope every year, is rapidly closing. Some think a young gun at QB is the answer and I can definitely see where fans of the Vikings would get that feeling. However there is a very solid argument that it would be best to put a band aid on it and make one last run. <br />
McNabb could be that band aid. In Washington McNabb had one true receiver a tight end and a half and a running game that was spotty at best especially after Clinton Portis suffered a very painful sounding groin injury. In addition to all of that the Shanahans contributed next to nothing but a circus atmosphere and treated the future hall of famer like he was something they found at the bottom of their shoe. Does this sound like a formula for victory? Didn't think so. With the Vikings McNabb would find some younger more explosive weapons to take the weight off him (Harvin, Rice, Peterson) a better offensive line unit than where he was living previously. And I just get the feeling that Frazier will not abuse McNabb in the same inexcusable fashion that the Shanahans did.<br />
Then of course there's Kolb, this time last year there was NO WAY, none, zilch, zero way that anyone could have predicted such an unfortunate change in fortune for Kolb. Last offseason McNabb was on the trade block with Mike Vick as the Eagles waited in vain for a QB market to open up for Vick. Rumors swirled, McNabb to Arizona, no Oakland, no Minnesota, Carolina? Washington? Nope that could never happen. Regardless the message was abundantly clear, Donovan was the past, Kevin the future. The storyline was perfect, a young smart QB with a very specific yet impressive stat to his name (first QB to ever throw back to back 300 yd games in his first two starts). A young core of skill players from human highlight reel DeSean Jackson to underestimated running back LeSean McCoy. Reid the Veteran coach hitting the reset button after being swept by the Cowboys. And then...Clay Matthews happened. A year later Kolb is the hottest commodity on the fictional free agent market (which is like being worth 20 million theoretical dollars on South Park). Kolb's young, reportedly commands respect and has a decent arm that could flourish given the chance in a west coast system predicated on short passes.<br />
But obviously these two carry some problems, other wise they'd have contracts where they are now (unless of course you are McNabb in which case I'd just not come to Redskins camp just to see how many times Shanahan made me do the conditioning test before he realizes that he's lost the rest of the locker room). Well McNabb is getting along in years and closer by far to the end of his career than the beginning. He wasn't effective last year, missing easy throws and struggled throughout the season. Though in fairness there's really no reason to ever think that Rex Grossman was better than where you were. Kolb's record as a starter isn't all that impressive (I think it's 1-5) and there isn't a ton of film on him as a result. Also I do have my suspicions that Kolb may have his stats inflated thanks to DeSean and co.<br />
Regardless those are my two impact free agent QB's. To those of you wondering where Palmer was on this list there's some reasons for this.<br />
1. I do not do Palmer speculation, both the quarterback's I mentioned are for sure leaving their current teams. Palmer hasn't been traded and might retire just to escape the Bengals<br />
2. Carson's not going to make a huge impact due to his injuries. He's not the same since 2005 when he suffered a truly awful knee injury.<br />
Tomorrow: A look at the decline of the running back position and the rise of overly crowded backfields.Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-40901853501142864082011-04-10T18:09:00.000-07:002011-04-10T18:09:56.043-07:00Way too early feature of the week: Preseason Heisman watchlistSo today I decided that it was a good day for a Heisman watchlist (why not it's a rainy day and it's assassins season at Breck). SO without further ado here is my first Way Too Early Feature of the Week.<br />
<br />
1. Andrew Luck QB, Stanford<br />
Luck had a truly heisman worthy season last year throwing for over 3000 yards and putting together a highlight reel that had him as a lock for the #1 spot in the draft. However something happened right as Panthers fan began projecting Luck draped in black and blue Luck decided he wasn't quite finished with the world of college football and is back this year with a new coach and dreams of a national championship. Make no mistake, Stanford has a strong shot at the glass football and after a runner up finish in the balloting this year Andrew Luck has a chance to have "His name forever followed by the words Heisman Trophy Winner"<br />
<br />
2. LaMichael James RB, Oregon<br />
An absolute burner James is an absolute home run hitter and a threat every time he comes near a football. That being said James may not have it so easy this time around with three Oregon offensive linemen graduating. That being said Oregon has transformed itself into a national powerhouse that demands respect even if it has to rip it from Lane Kiffin's fingers. Which segways perfectly into...<br />
<br />
3. Matt Barkley QB, USC<br />
Barkley is good...really good. Barkley after a rough staret as the first freshman ever to start at QB for the Trojans may really hit his stride this year after two years. I know it's not a actual stat but you gotta admire Barkley sticking it out at USC despite all the turnover as first his coach then several scholarships left campus and he was given Runaway Lane as a consolation prize. On top of all of that he was told that for the next two years he would never win a bowl game. Through it all Barkley has played and played well. I'm excited to see him do battle with Andrew Luck.<br />
<br />
4. Kellen Moore QB, Boise State<br />
I feel kind of guilty putting Moore at the bottom of my rankings but I also think that his chances are slim. Moore is an absolute phenom with pinpoint accuracy and nerves of steel both of which he showed in a game against Nevada. Moore is a proven winner who could go head to head with any QB on this list and come out with a chance of winning. But the qulaity of Moore's competition is going to count against him and in the end I can't see him coming away with the Heisman despite what I'm sure will be a season for the ages.<br />
<br />
Dark horses: This year I'm putting two sophomores as my dark horses. They're not really dark horses so much as they are people who I believe will get their first real crack at the award next season. For those I've picked lightning fast Nebtraska QB Taylor Martinez. Martinez is a human highlight reel who exhibits a good arm and houdini feet. There are reports that there is no qurterback in the college game who runs the zone read option system as well as "T-Magic" and after seeing his play, I'm forced to agree. The other is South Carolina RB Marcus Lattimore who has drawn comparisons in style to Vikings RB Adrian Peterson. Lattimore started at running back for a very good South Carolina team last year that almost won the SEC. With his quarterback Stephen Garcia suspended indefinitely we might be seeing a lot more of Lattimore busting through the secondary and into the end zone...no complaints here.Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-24484305641784679612011-04-07T21:06:00.000-07:002011-04-07T21:12:40.880-07:00Mock Draft 1.0We're about 21 days out from the draft so I figured there is no better time for me to start in on my mock draft, I'll be doing a new one of these precisely whenever I feel like it...just kidding probably on a weekly basis. So with that out of the way let's get started<br />
<br />
1. Carolina Panthers: Blaine Gabbert, QB Mizzou<br />
For the Panthers I have Gabbert going #1 for a couple of reasons, the #1 reason is because I genuinely believe that Jimmy Clausen does not have what it takes to be an NFL QB and at this point the Panthers have very little to lose by just starting over. That being said I also believe that Gabbert is one of the most over rated prospects in the draft, his stat line isn't all that impressive especially when you consider that his competition isn't exactly amazing in the Big 12. None the less I still have him going as #1 for right now.<br />
<br />
2. Denver Broncos: Marcell Dareus, DT Alabama<br />
I made this pick because, as the good folks at ESPN will tell you, the Broncos are in a great position at the moment. Now I know what some of you are thinking, anything involving a record of 4-12 doesn't necessarily conjour up those warm, fuzzy feelings huh? Well be that as it may the Broncos have their pick of defensive talent which they will sorely need and that John Fox will almost certainly want with his first draft pick as the new head coach in the Mile high city. I was tempted briefly to put in Patrick Peterson who I'm really high on at the moment but I also believe that Denver's struggles against the run started up front so I chose the top rated DT prospect in this draft.<br />
<br />
3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton, QB Auburn<br />
A really big hit or miss target here for the Bills, Newton is probably the most controversial figure in this draft with many contending that he has a Roethlisberger like skill set with even better scrambling skills, others think that he's a shady kid who came out of nowhere and is destined to be a bust. I chose Newton for this spot because I think Chan Gailey wants Newton's mobility and realizes that Fitzpatrick is not the type to take the Bills to a deep playoff run. Newton offers a chance for the Bills to find a true franchise guy with the mobility that Gailey likes in a QB<br />
<br />
4. Cinncinati Bengals: AJ Green. WR Georgia<br />
Here I decided that the Bengals are going to be pressing the reset button here as they get younger at wideout it would be nice to have a dynamic young leader for a young corp of possibly talented pass catchers (Gresham and Shipley) to open up the middle of the field for Shipley and Gresham to cry havoc and let slip the <strike>hogs</strike> dogs of war (I'm a fan of Archer). Of course this pick could really go a lot of different ways especially the elephant in the room, Carson Palmer. Note: what follows is the only Carson Palmer related speculation I will be doing until a new CBA is in place and he is either traded or leaves Mike Brown for the wonderful life of retirement. Also I DO NOT DO LABOR TALKS. I figure you deserve to know that. But yeah I'm not going to mock the Bengals a qb here because there's nobody worth taking this high.<br />
<br />
5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller, LB Texas A&M<br />
Arizona could use a QB but I have my doubts (and by doubts I mean I think there is no chance) that the Cardinals organization goes draft to fill this need. Whisenhunt is on the hot seat and the team is in no position to be breaking in a rookie QB. The best course of action therefore considering the sturdiness of Arizona's wide out corp (Larry Fitz heals all wounds) I figured the Cardinals defense would like a blue chip pass rusher and could make a run at Kolb when/if there is free agency.<br />
<br />
6. Cleveland Browns: Patrick Peterson, CB LSU<br />
Here I went with a top flight cornerback for Mike Holmgren's new regime. This pick could also easily be Julio Jones but I decided that I really like the idea of Peterson being paired up with Joe Haden in the back 7 of Cleveland's defense. It would be a step in the right direction aka out of the AFC north basement.<br />
<br />
7. San Francisco 49ers: Prince Amukamara, CB Nebraska<br />
Again there are no QB's worth taking this high (2nd round?) but either way Jim Harbaugh's defense could benefit from one of the best cover corners I've seen in some time. Amukamara is a blazing fast prospect second only to Peterson in this draft in terms of corners.<br />
<br />
8. Tennessee Titans: Robert Quinn, DE/OLB North carolina<br />
The Titans are also in desperate need of a QB, their offensive coordinator is designing a system with no idea who his QB is. But I'll say this for the last time I promise, there are no QB's worth taking this high. So I gave them a truly fantastic pass rushing prospect in Robert Quinn an absolute nightmare operating off the edge who would no doubt be going in the top 5 if he had not been suspended this season. If the Titans are planning on trying to claw their way past Peyton Manning and the Colts they will need to pressure Manning early and often and hit the Colts where it hurts, their O-line but more on that later<br />
<br />
9. Dallas Cowboys: Tyron Smith, OT USC<br />
If there's a pick in my top 10 that I'm not sure about there is no doubt that it is this guy. Tyron Smith in my opinon projects well as the OL with the most upside. That being said the 'Boys could use some defensive help, and I made this pick based on an interesting tidbit that surfaced this morning. Mike Pouncey, twin brother of Steelers center Maurkice, tweeted that he is almost certain he is going to Dallas. I'm skeptical about this at best because I really can't see Pouncey going in the top 10 as a center based off my assesment of him. Then again Jake Long went #1 and I couldn't have called that one either so I'll keep a finger on the pulse of this one.<br />
<br />
10. Washington Redskins: JJ Watt, DE Wisconsin<br />
This one is also kind of a toss up when you assess all the needs that Washington has, Quarterback, Running back, Wide Receiver, anything involving line play, coach (yeah I said it). So where to begin? I chose Watt in the process giving the Redskins a pass rusher to pair with the juggernaut that is Brian 'Holy Crap He's Strong' Orakpo.<br />
<br />
11. Houston Texans: Da'Quan Bowers, DE Clemson<br />
Once a candidate for #1 overall Bowers takes a bit of a tumble here after reports surfaced that he failed a team physical on his left knee. In addition to that I have my concerns about Bowers' production over the first two years of his career compared with his junior campaign. Here he falls out of the top 10 ending up with the End needy Texans as they look to change defensive systems to suit new coordinator Wade Phillips. Though I could also see the Texans going for a DB if both of the top flight defensive backs weren't already off the board. I'd explain why I think the Texans need this...but this speaks for itself <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlvOUG8nuZ4">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlvOUG8nuZ4</a><br />
<br />
12. Minnesota Vikings: Nick Fairley, DT Auburn<br />
Also once a candidate for #1 Fairley is considered a bit on the light side (291 lbs) for a defensive tackle but I know that the Vikes are in need of D-Line help as what was once a truly epic conglomerate of quarterback eaters (Allen, Williams, Williams and Edwards) is on the verge of what could be a massive decline as the Vikes haven't got a real backup plan for Williams' inevitable retirement (38 years old) besides Jimmy Kennedy. So I gave the Vikings a player who basically lived in the SEC backfield through the second half of this past season despite my concerns that he's a possible one year wonder.<br />
<br />
13. Detroit Lions: Akeem Ayers, OLB UCLA<br />
Lost in the midst of Von Miller's stellar combine performance is a great pass rushing option by the name of Akeem from the magical land of California. Ayers is a solid OLB which will strengthen a maturing Lions defense in year two of the Suh era. Of course the better choice here is to take an offensive tackle considering that Stafford is in danger of losing the early stages of his career to injuries and an aging Jeff Backus must face the likes of Peppers, Allen and Matthews 6 times collectively throughout the year. So yeah investing in some protection where your multi million dollar star player can't see...might want to get on that. But the Lions seem to not be in crisis mode about it so I mocked them Ayers.<br />
<br />
14. St. Louis Rams: Julio Jones, WR 'Bama<br />
If Jones somehow slips this far there should literally be a exactly 2 seconds off the clock between Goodell saying who the Lions pick and who the Rams pick. That's one second to stamp Jones' name on the envelope and one second to deliver it. Jones may have lost some very catchable balls in his time at Bama but Jones is the only wide out in this draft who comes close to AJ Green's skill set. A dynamic playmaker with blazing speed and rock solid toughness (he played hurt through out his junior season at Bama), Sam Bradford and Josh McDaniels may become the next youtube phenom if there is a camera phone present as they do a choreogrpahed jig of glee with the kind of awe inspiring pizz zazz not seen since the Jackson 5.<br />
<br />
15. Miami Dolphins: Mark Ingram, RB 'Bama<br />
Surprised? Yeah I didn't think so. Everybody has Ingram charted for the Dolphins as he is definitely the best running back prospect in this draft with a keen sense of balance and determination that remind me of a young Emmit Smith. <br />
<br />
16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Muhammad Wilkerson, DE Temple<br />
I went with a pass rusher here for Jacksonville for the same reason I chose Bowers for Houston. To beat the Big P (Peyton Mannning) you need to focus on the three P's. Pressure, pressure and pressure. Jacksonville's pass rush is lacking and Aaron Kampman tore his ACL again. So I mocked them a defensive end. Made sense to me.<br />
<br />
17. New England Patriots (Oakland Raiders): Nate Solder, OT Colorado<br />
Here I decided that Belichick is painfully aware that his #1 priority must be to protect Brady even if it means putting some pads on over that hoody and doing it himself. Belichick has a ton of momentum for this draft with 6 picks in the first three rounds. So I mocked the Patriots the most established tackle on the grounds that Matt Light's contract is coming up soon and it could pay to have an insurance policy on Brady blind side (and by could I mean anyone who hasn't grasped this concept needs to review any game of football...ever)<br />
<br />
18. San Diego Chargers: Aldon Smith, DE Mizzou<br />
Pop quiz! Name the starting defensive lineman for the Chargers, name their biggest pass rushing threat, how about anybody on their defense who is not Quentin Jammer? If you had no response to any of these questions congratulations!! You have a life and are not just some nerd who spends his nights writing mock drafts...oh wait. Anyway my point is that there is nothing to fear from the San Diego pass rush since Shawn Merriman injured his knee and lost his burst. So the Chargers get to add a pass rushing threat as they desperately try to thread the needle while QB Phillip Rivers is still in his side slinging prime.<br />
<br />
19. New York Giants: Corey Liuget, DT Illinois<br />
I decided on Liuget because I feel that the Giants will continue to try and build around their defense and when they build around their defense they start with the guys up front. A nice presence in the middle might add a new dimension to this unit. Which is good because their line backing corp is unremarkable and the team plays best when its line plays best.<br />
<br />
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Cameron Jordan, DE Cal<br />
This pick is tentative as both me and the guy who runs Walter Football (Huge fan of his work) are determined that the Bucs' best bet is to take an edge player (lot of that going around) to pair with last year's #3 overall pick DT Gerald McCoy. I say tentative because NFC South blog editor Pat Yasinkas contended a few days ago that Aqib Talib a rising star on the field at the corner position has run afoul of the law and might be heading to prison. Talib brings a lot to the table as a cover corner who dominates an entire half of the feeling and who QB's were just beginning to fear. This really made the whole defense concept start clicking. Coach Rahim Morris will need to look into back up plans in case Talib is suspended or worse.<br />
<br />
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Jonathan Baldwin, WR Pitt<br />
Baldwin presents an intriguing prospect to the Kansas City Chiefs building off of last year's surprise run and early exit from the playoffs. While dealing with the loss of offensive coordinator Charlie Weis, Kansas City must right the ship with quarterback Matt Cassel. The best way to do this that I can think of at the moment is to find him a compliment to #1 receiver and go to guy Dwayne Bowe. Options are always better than no options and I'm still not completely sold on Bowe's sudden resurgence after years of flirting with the bust label. We'll see in the coming year if he's all hype or all real.<br />
<br />
22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo, OT Boston College<br />
The logic behind this is pretty simple, Peyton Manning (like most people) is better equipped to accurately throw a football while standing still than while lying on his back. If the Colts are serious about making more run like the ones of yester year and not being labeled as chokers who got lucky once they must strengthen the unit up front. Maybe a running back in the later rounds, but not here.<br />
<br />
23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod, OT Miss. St.<br />
The same thing I just said for Manning applies here, Vick was an absolute nightmare for a defense last year suddenly showing a new found ability to make more than one read, running only when he needed to and surrounded by one of the best corps of skill playersin the NFL. That being said it's easier to throw with his ribs intact and his quad not bruised. Head Coach Andy Reid will make this call to keep Vick in the pocket more. Something he'll need if he pulls the trigger on a Kolb trade.<br />
<br />
24. New Orleans Saints: Ryan Kerrigan, DE Purdue<br />
It's hard to mock for the Saints because they have so few needs, I'd mock them a guard if we had any idea as to whether or not blue chip guard Carl Nicks was leaving...but we don't so I gave them a defensive end because I had too many. Oh yeah and because of this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0GXdQdDLKM">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0GXdQdDLKM</a><br />
<br />
25. Seattle Seahawks: Jake Locker, QB Washington<br />
Locker falls here to the hometown Seattle Seahawks and their 2nd year coach Pete Carrol. Locker presents an interesting figure to say the least. A quarterback who was in the running to go #1 overall last year drops to 25 here after scouts noticed some difficulties with his accuracy. That being said Locker was apparently deadly accurate on his pro day. But that has to be taken with the grain of slat that there was no defense at his pro day. I have Locker going here because Carrol doesn't know what will happen with Matt Hasselbeck, new regimes mean new QB's, Locker is a hometown hero and the fact that in spite of his awesome beard Charlie Whitehurst (aka Clipboard Jesus) was an epic waste of money by Carrol and is clearly not the answer for the team's long term issues.<br />
<br />
26. Baltimore Ravens: Brandon Harris, CB Miami<br />
"It's in Dallas this year" there was at time last summer where you couldn't turn on ESPN without seeing Anquan Boldin, newly minted Ravens wideout talking about Ray Lewis' call to him essentially declaring that with him on the roster that Baltimore was now unstoppable and would be charging full speed to the playoffs. About a week later basically the entire defensive backs section of the Raven's defense was injured in some way. Both starting corners were injured (one in a non contact drill tore his ACL of all the rotten luck) Ed Reed feared ball hawk of the Ravens defense was sidelined in the meantime whilst he recovered from hip surgery. My point is this the Ravens have two massive needs in this draft: Cornerback and wide out. I had Titus Young mocked here but I figure the Ravens' needs at corner are far greater than their need of a speed receiver to stretch the field.<br />
<br />
27. Atlanta Falcons: Torrey Smith, WR Maryland<br />
I also considered mocking Mike Smith and his team a pass rusher here but I decided that Matt Ryan needed another receiver more than John Abraham needed someone else to put on the belt with. Torrey Smith presents a nice option for Ryan to go to that should ease the coverage off of Rowdy Roddy White<br />
<br />
28. New England Patriots: Gabe Carimi, OT Wisconsin<br />
Carimi is here for the exact same reason as my last Patriots pick.<br />
<br />
29. Chicago Bears: Mike Pouncey, C/G Florida<br />
The twin brother of Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey Mike Pouncey isn't quite as talented as his brother but will still provide a massive upgrade at left guard that will make Jay Cutler feel a little better dropping back and delivering the ball.<br />
<br />
30. New York Jets: Justin Houston, OLB Georgia<br />
Consider this as a QB would, you have the most feared cornerback in the game blanketing your favorite wideout to the point you're not quite sure where Revis Island begins. Ok So you look to the other side and one of the best finesse corners in the league (Antonio Cromartie) is blanketing the other. What would you do? If your answer was check the slot then you've found the weakness...unless of course there's a massive pass rushing linebacker by the name of Justin Houston already in the midst of sacking you. Ryan's defense could really benefit from a pass rusher who is not named Jason Taylor.<br />
<br />
31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Aaron Williams, CB Texas<br />
Pittsburgh's front office has really been gooving on the first round sleection over the past few years (Polamalu, Pouncey, Hampton and Roethlisberger to name a few) so surely the front office noticed that the Steelers' iron curtain defense has a hole a hole that can be exploited by teams built like the Saints or even worse the Packers, teams with a clearly defined #1 but that have such talented receivers that you need an extra CB just to cover them all. The Steelers got beat in the Super Bowl on that, Mike Tomlin is gonna have a fire in his mind about how to claim another super bowl ring and will want to address this issue since there are no more first round linmen on the board at this point and he just missed out on the chance to draft the brother of his star center.<br />
<br />
32. Green Bay Packers: Ryan Williams, RB VT<br />
The Packers realized through this year that while it can be done if you have a tremendously talented QB no NFL offensive attack should be almost completely air based. Green Bay had next to no ground game throughout most of the year before alighting on the James Starks option. That being said Green Bay could stand to bring on another running back or a rush linebacker to compliment Clay Matthews.<br />
<br />
Whew! All done and with a newfound respect for Mel Kiper and anybody else who does draft analysis. Hope you enjoy this sports fans, and be on the look out for some new articles either today or tomorrow!Veintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8313141634936075380.post-41085092423397460522011-04-07T18:06:00.000-07:002011-04-07T18:06:33.699-07:00Well I guess this is helloSup football fans,<br />
<br />
So it is getting near draft season and I thought to myself "You know what I've always wanted? A football blog". So being bored and whatnot I decided I'd go for it. Probably not going to get many people interested in my "expert" opinion but for those of you who do find this kinda cool or interesting let me just say thanks. So with that out of the way...LET'S GET READY FOR SOME FOOTBALLVeintidoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311373572883829814noreply@blogger.com0