The baseball season is fast approaching. Many things have changed this offseason, many teams look new; in good and bad ways. I will try to mow through the different divisions between now and the start of the season.
American League Central
1. Minnesota Twins
Best Move: Extending the contract of C Joe Mauer. The Twins best move appears to be signing C Joe Mauer to a four year extension. They didn't make a splash in free agency, in fact, they didn't even make a ripple. It wasn't a bad move for the Twins, but going out and acquiring a power hitter would've been a smart move.
Worst Move: Signing SP Ramon Ortiz and SP Sidney Ponson. Signing two aging never-have-beens appears to be a pretty dim move by a bright g.m. The Twins have two top pitching prospects, Matt Garza and Glen Perkins, to take the 4 and 5 spots behind Santana, Bonser and Silva. The move would be understandable if it was to add depth, with Liriano likely to miss the season, but planning to start Ponson and Ortiz over Garza and Perkins is ludicrous.
Outlook: Fantastic. The Twins have a lot to look forward to this season. The have the best pitcher in baseball, Johan Santana, last years A.L. batting champ, C Joe Mauer, last years A.L. MVP, 1B Justin Morneau, and one of the top young hitting outfielders, RF Micheal Cuddeyer. If Jason Kubel can bring the power from the DH spot, this team should be unstoppable.
2. Detroit Tigers
Best Move: Trading for OF/DH Gary Sheffield. The Tigers knew what they needed and immediately went out and got it. They paid a heft price, trading three pitching prospects, but the Tigers are stacked with young pitchers.
Worst Move: None. I really can't find where the Tigers screwed up. They could've gone out and got a reliable veteran for the 5th spot in the rotation, but the 24 year old Zach Miner should do just fine.
Season Outlook: The Tigers and the twins should be battling back and forth all season for the division title. There really isn't a glaring weak spot on either roster. With more experience under the belts of their young pitcher, barring a major setback, the Tigers could be back in the Series.
3. Cleveland Indians
Best Move: Most of their signings. The Indians went out and aggressively attacked their weaknesses this offseason. They sign two potential closers, Joe Borowski from the Fins and Keith Foulke from the Red Sox. Foulke has since retired, but the Indians made the effort. They addressed the lack of outfield depth with the signings of David Delluci and Trot Nixon, two veterans who can still play.
Worst Move: Not signing a back of the rotation starter to replace Paul Byrd. Last season, Byrd had a 4.88 era and a 1.51 whip, stats you don't want any starter to have. They signed Roberto Hernandez from the Mets, but he won't make a difference.
Season Outlook: The A.L. Central is going to be a tough division, with four of the five teams having the talent to contend for the title. If the Indians can solve their bullpen problems, there really isn't any reason that they shouldn't put up a fight.
4. Chicago White Sox
Best Move: Acquiring excellent depth. Although the White Sox didn't make any major signings, they shored up their depth at key positions. Signing CF Darin Erstad will bump Brian Anderson into the backup outfielder role, where he'll join Rob Mackowiak. Signing C Toby Hall takes care of any concerns behind Pierzynski. RP Mike MacDougal joins the bullpen and could be a serviceable closer if Jenks gets injured.
Worst Move: Trading Brandon McCarthy. Personally, I think McCarthy was one of the best young pitchers in this league. Although they offset the move by acquiring Gavin Floyd, I still don't like it. McCarthy's development will also take a dive, playing in the launching pad known as Arlington.
Season Outlook: The Sox have a solid all around team as there is no reason not to count them as contenders. If Jenks can stay healthy, their bullpen will be alright. 22 year old LF Ryan Sweeney is the wild card. He hasn't spent much time in the big leagues. But if he falters, they have two solid backups in Mackowiak and Anderson.
5. Kansas City Royals
Best Move: Showing an effort. The Royals actually looked like a team interested in getting better this offseason. Trading for C Jason LaRue and SP Brian Bannister were both good moves. They signed once major leaguers SP Zach Day, SP/RP Brandon Duckworth, and SS Alex S. Gonzalez to minor league contracts. They signed RP Octavio Dotel to close. If they continue to develop their young position players [3B Alex Gordon, 3B/OF Mark Teahen, C Jon Buck] they can make strides.
Worst Move: Signing SP Gil Meche to a $55 million contract. Other than supporting George Bush's third presidential campaign, I can't think of a worst way to blow $55 mil. Meche has a career 4.65 era, .260 baa, and a 1.44 whip. Does that sound like a pitcher deserving of $55 mil? Meche is, at best, a four starter the Royals are putting at one. The only positive to this guy is that he will near 200 innings.
Season Outlook: What season? This is going to be such a bad season, they should be looking forward to 2010. That might be when they stand a chance in this division
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Monday, February 26, 2007
The Fleury of Fingers
I'm not a Barry Bonds fan. I don't like what he did and I don't like what he is doing. I will not cheer for him to get those 22 home runs he needs to break Hank Aaron's record of 755. I really hope that in spring training, he realizes his body can't do this anymore and he retires. I'm not wishing any ill will on him here, I just wish he would stop.
I don't blame Barry Bonds. I don't blame Mark McGwire. I don't blame Slammin' Sammy, Rafeal Palmiero, or anyone else that did steroids. Sure, I wish they would stop and that nobody else would do this. But I will not put the burden on them. I will put the burden on the media.
Why do I blame the media? Well, it's their fault.
The media made Bonds, McGwire and Sosa into heroes. The media made them bigger than life. They became surreal. Bonds, McGwire and Sosa were labeled as the saviors of professional baseball as we know it. It was the media who hyped up every hit, every home run, every time one of the 'roid boys blasted one to the upper deck. They made themselves giants, but the media made them inhuman.
Now it wasn't just the medias fault. The players did choose to take the steroids. But who knows how deep this whole steroid thing goes? What if the trainers, the coaches or even the owners pressured their young power hitters into beefing up their game. They would all have their own reasons. For the trainer, it looks like he or she is doing a great job with developing these young stars. The coach gets the power hitter he needs in the middle of the lineup. The owner can capitalize off of a long ball bomber, making millions of dollars through rising ticket sales. For a young player hoping to make it in the league, pressure from above may seem like a Godsend if you comply to their wishes.
But the media is who I'm zeroing in on. The media flip-flopped. Right in front of our eyes. And they were successful at it too. They went from hailing these hitters as heroes to dropping them as zeros. They screamed out against the injustices that were done. They said how these bombers deceived us, how they distorted our view of reality and how they put a black eye on the game. The media, the same people that said how these bombers were amazing, who distorted our view of them, and said they were a savior for the game.
None of them cared to discuss how McGwire had supersized practically over night. None of them pointed out how Sosa was sculpted with an inhuman-like muscle tone. None of them were screaming foul when guys that have never hit for power were suddenly belting them out of the ballpark.
I think some reporters need to fall on the sword for this one. I was too young when all of this initially happened to remember names, but I remember the impact it had on me.
Mark McGwire was my hero. I had a shirt with his name on it, I had his baseball cards, I immortalized him when I was a kid. Alot of that had to do with how he was talked about on T.V. They were saying how great he was, how he was dragging baseball out of the dark ages. And I'm sure I'm not the only one out there that fell for that. McGwire, Sosa, all of the 'roid boys were heroes to young ballplayers. We wanted to be like them. We wanted the Big Mac section at Busch Stadium. We wanted the cool nickname like Slammin' Sammy. We styled our batting stances after theirs. We would mimic their every action at the plate and in the field. The media made them Gods in our eyes.
The blame should be spread out evenly over everyone involved in the steroid era. And for the most part, it has been. But one group of people that have never been discussed as influences in the steroid era has been the media. They made their bed, it's time to sleep in it.
I don't blame Barry Bonds. I don't blame Mark McGwire. I don't blame Slammin' Sammy, Rafeal Palmiero, or anyone else that did steroids. Sure, I wish they would stop and that nobody else would do this. But I will not put the burden on them. I will put the burden on the media.
Why do I blame the media? Well, it's their fault.
The media made Bonds, McGwire and Sosa into heroes. The media made them bigger than life. They became surreal. Bonds, McGwire and Sosa were labeled as the saviors of professional baseball as we know it. It was the media who hyped up every hit, every home run, every time one of the 'roid boys blasted one to the upper deck. They made themselves giants, but the media made them inhuman.
Now it wasn't just the medias fault. The players did choose to take the steroids. But who knows how deep this whole steroid thing goes? What if the trainers, the coaches or even the owners pressured their young power hitters into beefing up their game. They would all have their own reasons. For the trainer, it looks like he or she is doing a great job with developing these young stars. The coach gets the power hitter he needs in the middle of the lineup. The owner can capitalize off of a long ball bomber, making millions of dollars through rising ticket sales. For a young player hoping to make it in the league, pressure from above may seem like a Godsend if you comply to their wishes.
But the media is who I'm zeroing in on. The media flip-flopped. Right in front of our eyes. And they were successful at it too. They went from hailing these hitters as heroes to dropping them as zeros. They screamed out against the injustices that were done. They said how these bombers deceived us, how they distorted our view of reality and how they put a black eye on the game. The media, the same people that said how these bombers were amazing, who distorted our view of them, and said they were a savior for the game.
None of them cared to discuss how McGwire had supersized practically over night. None of them pointed out how Sosa was sculpted with an inhuman-like muscle tone. None of them were screaming foul when guys that have never hit for power were suddenly belting them out of the ballpark.
I think some reporters need to fall on the sword for this one. I was too young when all of this initially happened to remember names, but I remember the impact it had on me.
Mark McGwire was my hero. I had a shirt with his name on it, I had his baseball cards, I immortalized him when I was a kid. Alot of that had to do with how he was talked about on T.V. They were saying how great he was, how he was dragging baseball out of the dark ages. And I'm sure I'm not the only one out there that fell for that. McGwire, Sosa, all of the 'roid boys were heroes to young ballplayers. We wanted to be like them. We wanted the Big Mac section at Busch Stadium. We wanted the cool nickname like Slammin' Sammy. We styled our batting stances after theirs. We would mimic their every action at the plate and in the field. The media made them Gods in our eyes.
The blame should be spread out evenly over everyone involved in the steroid era. And for the most part, it has been. But one group of people that have never been discussed as influences in the steroid era has been the media. They made their bed, it's time to sleep in it.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Bags Packed
It's deadline time folks. It's also time to watch the talking heads say that they KNOW for a FACT that Kevin Garnett will be Bull and that Jason Kidd will be in Los Angeles by tomorrow. You know what? Not happening. Really, when is trade speculation ever right? I'll tell you when, very rarely. If I was a Bulls fan, I sure as hell wouldn't get to giddy over Garnett because at this point, not even Pau Gasol is looking feasible. LA wants Kidd, but NJ wants Bynum. Now, would Lakers fans really be excited about trading a 19 year old 7-footer for a deteriorating 33 year old point guard. I doubt it.
Who is most likely to move?
Scottie Pippen.
The six ringed free agent is attempting a comeback at the primo age of 41. And so far, no teams appear extremely interested. This befuddles me. I mean, why not sign a 41 year old champ to take a spot in your backcourt away from one of your up and comers? Who wouldn't want his playoff experience and excellence. I mean, he doesn't even have that MJ guy to weigh him down anymore. If I was a GM, I'd be jumping at this opportunity to throw a wrench into my contending teams chemistry.
Doc Rivers.
Why he hasn't moved by now is a mystery to me. If I was him, I wouldn't sit around and let them fire me. I would walk away out of sheer embarrassment. His team is 15 games back in the Atlantic division. Which is in the Eastern Conference. They've won 13 games and lost 20 of the last 21 games they've played. [writers note: I don't know if we can call it playing anymore. Now they're just showing up because their contract makes them.] If you don't pay attention to basketball, let me footballize this for you.
What the Celts are doing is equivalent to winning one game in the NFC North.
Yea. It is that bad. And yes, I do blame Doc Rivers. Even when your team is struggling, you have to be able to at least coach them to some wins. Doc should move far, far away.
Mike James.
Kevin McHale should move to. But that case will likely be made on the day when the Timberwolves screw up again. I don't have the time right now to go through all of his screw ups. Instead, I'll focus on one, the signing of Mike James.
Apparently, the Wolves are finally realizing that signing Mike James was a mistake. Really? Because everyone else knew that the second they heard that the Timberwolves had signed Mike James. What was the point in signing a 31 year old career reserve point guard to starter money who has never even been considered as a starter by any other team? Especially when you already have T-Hud and just got Randy Foye through the draft. Hudson is essentially a faster, cheaper version of James. Hudson will never be a starter, just a solid backup. But then they got Foye, who stepped in and played point guard quite effectively as a rook. James's most likely destination is looking like Houston, who he spurned last offseason to come to the Wolves.
Memphis Grizzlies.
If the NBA is looking for a franchise to place in Las Vegas or OK City, the Grizz would be it. This team has floundered in Memphis. The problem is, this would be the second move for the franchise, after moving from Vancouver to Memphis. And really, the Las Vegas Grizzlies or the Oklahoma City Grizzlies, neither sound good. If they trade Pau Gasol, they immediately replace Boston as the worst team in the league. At least Boston has young potential on their team. The Grizzlies have Rudy Gay, a rook whose effort has always been questioned and has never put his talent together. They have Hakim Warrick, who, despite being a 6'9" power forward, averages 4.5 rpg in 25 mpg. That's it. Actually, if I was Las Vegas or Oklahoma City, I would just root for a new franchise. I wouldn't want this heap of crap to become synonymous with my city.
Who is most likely to move?
Scottie Pippen.
The six ringed free agent is attempting a comeback at the primo age of 41. And so far, no teams appear extremely interested. This befuddles me. I mean, why not sign a 41 year old champ to take a spot in your backcourt away from one of your up and comers? Who wouldn't want his playoff experience and excellence. I mean, he doesn't even have that MJ guy to weigh him down anymore. If I was a GM, I'd be jumping at this opportunity to throw a wrench into my contending teams chemistry.
Doc Rivers.
Why he hasn't moved by now is a mystery to me. If I was him, I wouldn't sit around and let them fire me. I would walk away out of sheer embarrassment. His team is 15 games back in the Atlantic division. Which is in the Eastern Conference. They've won 13 games and lost 20 of the last 21 games they've played. [writers note: I don't know if we can call it playing anymore. Now they're just showing up because their contract makes them.] If you don't pay attention to basketball, let me footballize this for you.
What the Celts are doing is equivalent to winning one game in the NFC North.
Yea. It is that bad. And yes, I do blame Doc Rivers. Even when your team is struggling, you have to be able to at least coach them to some wins. Doc should move far, far away.
Mike James.
Kevin McHale should move to. But that case will likely be made on the day when the Timberwolves screw up again. I don't have the time right now to go through all of his screw ups. Instead, I'll focus on one, the signing of Mike James.
Apparently, the Wolves are finally realizing that signing Mike James was a mistake. Really? Because everyone else knew that the second they heard that the Timberwolves had signed Mike James. What was the point in signing a 31 year old career reserve point guard to starter money who has never even been considered as a starter by any other team? Especially when you already have T-Hud and just got Randy Foye through the draft. Hudson is essentially a faster, cheaper version of James. Hudson will never be a starter, just a solid backup. But then they got Foye, who stepped in and played point guard quite effectively as a rook. James's most likely destination is looking like Houston, who he spurned last offseason to come to the Wolves.
Memphis Grizzlies.
If the NBA is looking for a franchise to place in Las Vegas or OK City, the Grizz would be it. This team has floundered in Memphis. The problem is, this would be the second move for the franchise, after moving from Vancouver to Memphis. And really, the Las Vegas Grizzlies or the Oklahoma City Grizzlies, neither sound good. If they trade Pau Gasol, they immediately replace Boston as the worst team in the league. At least Boston has young potential on their team. The Grizzlies have Rudy Gay, a rook whose effort has always been questioned and has never put his talent together. They have Hakim Warrick, who, despite being a 6'9" power forward, averages 4.5 rpg in 25 mpg. That's it. Actually, if I was Las Vegas or Oklahoma City, I would just root for a new franchise. I wouldn't want this heap of crap to become synonymous with my city.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
NFL Mock Draft II - Pre-Combine
This is my pre-combine mock draft. I'll go through the first round with explanations. After the combine, we'll be able to see how much certain players stock rises and drops.
Round 1
1. Oakland Raiders - JaMarcus Russel, QB, LSU
It seems consensus that the Raiders will take Russel with the number one overall in the upcoming draft. They have so many needs and could go so many different ways. Who knows if Joey Porter and/or Randy Moss will return? And it isn't a question of if the offensive line will be pourous, but how pourous will it be? Will LaMont Jordan step up at HB? Expect the Raiders to have the first pick next year too.
2. Detroit Lions - Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin
The Detroit Lions aren't all that far from contending in the NFC North. Expect them to add WR Kevin Curtis and some depth on defense through free agency. Besides that, their main needs are QB and OT. At QB, they have Kitna as a placeholder while they try to develop McCown or Orlovsky. They could also take a QB later in day 1 with high upside such as Houston's Kevin Kolb, Michigan State's Drew Stanton or Ohio State's Troy Smith.
3/4. Cleveland Browns - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma
Adrian Peterson has vast potential. He also has vast potential to be a bust. If he can prove that injuries are a thing of the past, he could be a great running back. The Browns have alot of needs. Chiefly among them being a better defense in general. Look for them to draft defense throughout most of this draft.
3/4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
It seems widely agreed on that the Bucs will take Georgia Tech standout Calvin Johnson with this pick. Although Gruden will have a hard time passing it up, he needs more help on defense. He has a young receiving core he needs to develop. Michael Clayton, Maurice Stovall, Paris Warren, Mark Jones and Chas Gessner are all under 26. Adams will help provide youth on an aging defense and can learn from one of the best, Simeon Rice.
5. Arizona Cardinals - Alan Branch, DT, Michigan
Once again, the Cardinals are in a primo spot to trade down. [Watch for New England offering their two first rounders and grabbing Calvin Johnson here.] If they stay, their prime concern is defense and the offensive line. I don't think Levi Brown will go this high, so they'll go to the defensive line with Branch, DT Amobi Okoye or DE Jamaal Anderson.
6. Washington Redskins - Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas
The atrocious pass rush that the Redskins had last year couldn't possibly be worst. With the addition of Anderson, it will surely get better. Look for the 'Skins to add depth across the board in free agency but they probably won't make any big name signings, which has been their m.o. they last few years.
7. Minnesota Vikings - Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech
As I said in my first draft, I will be absolutely shocked if the best player in college football falls to #7. As I also said, I can't see anywhere else he fits. Unless a trade happens, the Raiders, Redskins and Vikings are the only team at this point to need him. The Raiders need a QB more. The Redskins need a pass rush more. And the Vikings need a WR desperately. They'll think about Brady Quinn here, but if they take a QB, it likely won't be until day 2.
8. Houston Texans - Leon Hall, CB, Michigan
The Texans have many needs. The offensive line has been just that, offensive, and the defense hasn't really stopped anybody. With Mario on the line and DeMeco Ryans in the middle, it's time to get a playmaker on the outside in Hall. The Texans will take O-line help later and try to add a veteran QB like Jake Plummer or Jeff Garcia through free agency. They also will likely take a QB late in day 1 or early in day 2.
9. Miami Dolphins - Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville
The Dolphins don't take Quinn here because they want to see how Culpepper does when he is healthy before investing millions in someone else. They also are in need of offensive line help but need an infusion of youth on defense. The 19-year old Okoye will provide that youth and a burst on the defensive line. He will take blockers off Jason Taylor and emerging young linebacker Channing Crowder.
10. Atlanta Falcons - Ted Ginn Jr., WR/KR/PR/CB, Ohio St.
New Falcons coach Bobby Petrino will find it difficult to pass up such a versatile weapon as Ted Ginn Jr. With Ginn, Vick, Dunn and Norwood on the same offense, teams would have problems matching their speed. Petrino would take full advantage of this by devising a new package for all his playmakers. Look for the Falcons to completely overhaul their O-line, ditching the zone blocking and going to a more traditional scheme. They also need better depth on defense and help at safety.
11. San Francisco 49ers - Reggie Nelson, S, Florida
Expect the 49ers to add some top tier defensive talent through free agency. They have over $30 million to spend on big name free agents such as CB Nate Clements and possibly DE Dwight Freeney or Charles Grant. Nelson would provide the up-and-coming defense with a ball hawking, playmaking safety.
12. Buffalo Bills - Aaron Ross, CB, Texas
With the departure of top cornerback Nate Clements through free agency, corner is an immediate position of need. Ross should be able to step in right away and provide a solid opposite to McGee. The safety spots are already taken care of by sophmores Ko Simpson and Donte Whitner. This defense is young and improving and should only get better next year with the progression of the young backfield and DT's.
13. St. Louis Rams - LaRon Landry, S, LSU
The ends of the line are taken care of between Leonard Little and Victor Adeyanju. A defensive tackle would be nice, but with both Okoye and Branch off the board, value doesn't meet need here. No outside linebacker would be worth the pick either, so it falls between safety and corner. Landry is a good fit and a solid player that can start immediately.
14. Carolina Panthers - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame
Quinn is a player who could either help himself or hurt himself at the combine. If he doesn't even bother to work out and others do, his stock will take a huge hit. Panthers current QB Jake Delhomme didn't look all that sharp last year and he isn't getting any younger. The Panthers also have a need at receiver, safety, linebacker and offensive line but look for them to address those holes through free agency and later in the draft.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers - Chris Houston, CB, Arkansas
Looking at the Steelers depth chart doesn't show any weak spots that stand out. Depth on defense will be a focus this offseason and a talented young corner like Houston would make sense. A versatile linebacker will also be considered here, but once again, nobody matches value for this pick. Look for Tomlin to draft alot of players on the defensive side throughout the draft.
16. Green Bay Packers - Marshawn Lynch, RB, Cal
Even if the Pack re-sign RB Ahman Green, they should start looking into the future. Green hasn't been the healthiest of backs and the dual-back backfield has become "it" in the NFL. It is my belief that Lynch is the most complete back in this draft and could possibly rise above AP with a stellar combine and individual workouts.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars - Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU
Does Jacksonville really need a WR? Quite simply, yea. None of their picks have panned out thus far and that has hindered the development of Byron Leftwich. If Leftwich doesn't get it done this year, he could find himself traded or cut next offseason. The only position on defense where they don't have a starter next year us FS. If either Nelson or Landry fall this far, they become an option. One of their other needs, defensive end, is a deep enough position that they can look at one in the second round.
18. Cincinnati Bengals - Tank Tyler, DT, NC State
Who would be a better player for Cincy than a tackle named Tank. Tyler is a big body that can create space for the linebackers and ends. Other defensive help is needed, as is a corrections officer. Outside linebacker is a strong need, with the unsure condition of David Pollack.
19. Tennessee Titans - Sidney Rice, WR, South Carolina
Rice is the playmaking receiver that could allow Vince Young to blossom. The Titans have a young group of receivers but could lose go-to wideout Drew Bennett to free agency. The Titans will try to add depth on the offensive line and at linebacker throughout the draft. They will address the lack of depth at cornerback by aquiring a vet through free agency.
20. N.Y. Giants - Lawrence Timmons, OLB, FSU
By releasing veteran linebackers LaVar Arrington and Carlos Emmons, outside linebacker trumps cornerback as number 1 need. This works out nicely for the Giants, as this years corner class is especially deep and the outside linebackers are not. Look for them to shoot for Eric Wright out of UNLV or Marcus McCauley out of Fresno St. in the second round. Defensive tackle and safety are also concerns on defense.
21. Denver Broncos - Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska
The Broncos could greatly benefit from picking Carriker. He is big and fast like Packers pro-bowler Aaron Kampman. With him on the line, that fast and attaking group of linebackers will be free to fly the field more. Safety is a concern high on their board, but likely won't draft one until later. Look for them to take a receiver in round 2, and a running back and corner at some point on day 2.
22. Dallas Cowboys - Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Ohio St.
The 'Boys top two wide receivers are over 30 years of age and there is no guarentee of how long T.O. will last. Gonzalez could greatly improve his stock in the combine. I've heard rumors of him running the 40 in 4.3, and for a guy who is largely considered a possession receiver, that is a good time. Cornerback is also a concern. Anthony Henry hasn't been what they expected when he was signed. He would fit alot better at free safety.
23. Kansas City - Robert Meachum, WR, Tennessee
Continuing Kansas City's never ending quest for a playmaking wide receiver, Meachum works here. He has good size and speed and showed reliable hands in college. They still need help at linebacker, Derrick Johnson hasn't lived up to the hype thus far. Corner help and depth for an aging offensive will also be addressed in the draft.
24. New England Patriots [via Seattle]- Paul Posluszny, OLB, Penn State
Posluszny seems to make so much sense in New England. He is a smart, instinctive playmaker who isn't loud and obnoxious. Safety and cornerback will also be looked at, but they take Posluszny here because the Jets, Eagles and Saints all have needs at linebacker.
25. N.Y. Jets - Michael Bush, RB, Louisville
Depending on the combine and his pro day workouts, Bush could go anywhere from the first to third rounds. He is still a raw talent at running back [he was a high school QB but switched to HB when Brohm came to campus], but has tremendous upside. He's a bruiser of a back that would be complemented nicley by the shifty incumbent Leon Washington. The Jets also need defensive help, most notably at end and linebacker.
26. Philadelphia Eagles - Darrele Revis, CB, Pittsburgh
Philly seems to have a healthy obsession with cornerbacks, and Revis will be the latest victim. Though I wouldn't call him a victim, more of a beneficiary because Eagle cornerbacks are usually pretty good. Help at defensive end and both linebacker spots will be looked at here. Also wide receiver could be a concern depending on what happens with free agent Donte Stallworth.
27. New Orleans Saints - Daymeion Hughes, CB, Cal
Hughes is the best cover corner in this draft class, as his performance at the Senior Bowl showed. What the Senior Bowl also showed is that he lacks top end speed. Depending on how he runs at the combine, he could work himself above Hall as the first corner taken. Late first round will be about as far as he will drop. The Saints will try to aquire top tier defensive talent via free agency. Look for them to make a run at Emmons, Arrington and Clements among others.
28. New England Patriots - Charles Johnson, DE, Georgia
The Patriots need help at corner and safety, but Johnson is a bargain at this point. He could end up playing either outside linebacker or pass-rush end. Johnson is quick and has a top tier motor in him to get into the backfield quickly.
29. Baltimore Ravens - Ben Grubbs, OG, Auburn
With Bush off the board, no running back is worth this pick. The Ravens line has struggled the last year and a half and could benefit from some youth. Grubbs should be able to start right away. Running back is a high concern, even if they resign Jamal Lewis. If they do, look for them to draft a 3rd down back, like FSU's Lorenzo Booker, late in day 1 or early day 2. If they don't re-sign Lewis, Brandon Jackson, Kenny Irons and Antonio Pittman are all options in round 2.
30. San Diego Chargers - Eric Weedle, S, Utah
As of now, the Chargers should be content with the Jackson-McCardell combination they have on the perimeter. Taking a wide receiver over a safety, a bigger need, doesn't make sense. They will probably take a wideout later in day 1. However, if one of the top tier receivers is left, look for them to go for that and take Meriweather or Griffin in round 2.
31. Chicago Bears - Greg Olson, TE, Miami
I'm sorry Bears fans, but it looks as if Rex Grossman will start next year at quarterback, not bench warmer. So, you might as well make the best of it. Olson is the latest in the line of physically gifted Miami tight ends. Linebacker, safety and offensive line are options here. Levi Brown would be a fantastic backup at tackle or guard, then could eventually take over for the aging John Tait at left tackle.
32. Indianapolis Colts - Patrick Willis, ILB, Mississippi
Dungy should quickly fall in love with Willis. Why? Well, he reminds me of Derrick Brooks, Dungys future HOFer in Tampa. Besides the difference of position, Willis is a heady player who can cover ground quickly and has no problem working in traffic. Cornerback and defensive tackle will also be looked at, but the champs don't have many holes to fill.
Round 1
1. Oakland Raiders - JaMarcus Russel, QB, LSU
It seems consensus that the Raiders will take Russel with the number one overall in the upcoming draft. They have so many needs and could go so many different ways. Who knows if Joey Porter and/or Randy Moss will return? And it isn't a question of if the offensive line will be pourous, but how pourous will it be? Will LaMont Jordan step up at HB? Expect the Raiders to have the first pick next year too.
2. Detroit Lions - Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin
The Detroit Lions aren't all that far from contending in the NFC North. Expect them to add WR Kevin Curtis and some depth on defense through free agency. Besides that, their main needs are QB and OT. At QB, they have Kitna as a placeholder while they try to develop McCown or Orlovsky. They could also take a QB later in day 1 with high upside such as Houston's Kevin Kolb, Michigan State's Drew Stanton or Ohio State's Troy Smith.
3/4. Cleveland Browns - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma
Adrian Peterson has vast potential. He also has vast potential to be a bust. If he can prove that injuries are a thing of the past, he could be a great running back. The Browns have alot of needs. Chiefly among them being a better defense in general. Look for them to draft defense throughout most of this draft.
3/4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
It seems widely agreed on that the Bucs will take Georgia Tech standout Calvin Johnson with this pick. Although Gruden will have a hard time passing it up, he needs more help on defense. He has a young receiving core he needs to develop. Michael Clayton, Maurice Stovall, Paris Warren, Mark Jones and Chas Gessner are all under 26. Adams will help provide youth on an aging defense and can learn from one of the best, Simeon Rice.
5. Arizona Cardinals - Alan Branch, DT, Michigan
Once again, the Cardinals are in a primo spot to trade down. [Watch for New England offering their two first rounders and grabbing Calvin Johnson here.] If they stay, their prime concern is defense and the offensive line. I don't think Levi Brown will go this high, so they'll go to the defensive line with Branch, DT Amobi Okoye or DE Jamaal Anderson.
6. Washington Redskins - Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas
The atrocious pass rush that the Redskins had last year couldn't possibly be worst. With the addition of Anderson, it will surely get better. Look for the 'Skins to add depth across the board in free agency but they probably won't make any big name signings, which has been their m.o. they last few years.
7. Minnesota Vikings - Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech
As I said in my first draft, I will be absolutely shocked if the best player in college football falls to #7. As I also said, I can't see anywhere else he fits. Unless a trade happens, the Raiders, Redskins and Vikings are the only team at this point to need him. The Raiders need a QB more. The Redskins need a pass rush more. And the Vikings need a WR desperately. They'll think about Brady Quinn here, but if they take a QB, it likely won't be until day 2.
8. Houston Texans - Leon Hall, CB, Michigan
The Texans have many needs. The offensive line has been just that, offensive, and the defense hasn't really stopped anybody. With Mario on the line and DeMeco Ryans in the middle, it's time to get a playmaker on the outside in Hall. The Texans will take O-line help later and try to add a veteran QB like Jake Plummer or Jeff Garcia through free agency. They also will likely take a QB late in day 1 or early in day 2.
9. Miami Dolphins - Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville
The Dolphins don't take Quinn here because they want to see how Culpepper does when he is healthy before investing millions in someone else. They also are in need of offensive line help but need an infusion of youth on defense. The 19-year old Okoye will provide that youth and a burst on the defensive line. He will take blockers off Jason Taylor and emerging young linebacker Channing Crowder.
10. Atlanta Falcons - Ted Ginn Jr., WR/KR/PR/CB, Ohio St.
New Falcons coach Bobby Petrino will find it difficult to pass up such a versatile weapon as Ted Ginn Jr. With Ginn, Vick, Dunn and Norwood on the same offense, teams would have problems matching their speed. Petrino would take full advantage of this by devising a new package for all his playmakers. Look for the Falcons to completely overhaul their O-line, ditching the zone blocking and going to a more traditional scheme. They also need better depth on defense and help at safety.
11. San Francisco 49ers - Reggie Nelson, S, Florida
Expect the 49ers to add some top tier defensive talent through free agency. They have over $30 million to spend on big name free agents such as CB Nate Clements and possibly DE Dwight Freeney or Charles Grant. Nelson would provide the up-and-coming defense with a ball hawking, playmaking safety.
12. Buffalo Bills - Aaron Ross, CB, Texas
With the departure of top cornerback Nate Clements through free agency, corner is an immediate position of need. Ross should be able to step in right away and provide a solid opposite to McGee. The safety spots are already taken care of by sophmores Ko Simpson and Donte Whitner. This defense is young and improving and should only get better next year with the progression of the young backfield and DT's.
13. St. Louis Rams - LaRon Landry, S, LSU
The ends of the line are taken care of between Leonard Little and Victor Adeyanju. A defensive tackle would be nice, but with both Okoye and Branch off the board, value doesn't meet need here. No outside linebacker would be worth the pick either, so it falls between safety and corner. Landry is a good fit and a solid player that can start immediately.
14. Carolina Panthers - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame
Quinn is a player who could either help himself or hurt himself at the combine. If he doesn't even bother to work out and others do, his stock will take a huge hit. Panthers current QB Jake Delhomme didn't look all that sharp last year and he isn't getting any younger. The Panthers also have a need at receiver, safety, linebacker and offensive line but look for them to address those holes through free agency and later in the draft.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers - Chris Houston, CB, Arkansas
Looking at the Steelers depth chart doesn't show any weak spots that stand out. Depth on defense will be a focus this offseason and a talented young corner like Houston would make sense. A versatile linebacker will also be considered here, but once again, nobody matches value for this pick. Look for Tomlin to draft alot of players on the defensive side throughout the draft.
16. Green Bay Packers - Marshawn Lynch, RB, Cal
Even if the Pack re-sign RB Ahman Green, they should start looking into the future. Green hasn't been the healthiest of backs and the dual-back backfield has become "it" in the NFL. It is my belief that Lynch is the most complete back in this draft and could possibly rise above AP with a stellar combine and individual workouts.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars - Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU
Does Jacksonville really need a WR? Quite simply, yea. None of their picks have panned out thus far and that has hindered the development of Byron Leftwich. If Leftwich doesn't get it done this year, he could find himself traded or cut next offseason. The only position on defense where they don't have a starter next year us FS. If either Nelson or Landry fall this far, they become an option. One of their other needs, defensive end, is a deep enough position that they can look at one in the second round.
18. Cincinnati Bengals - Tank Tyler, DT, NC State
Who would be a better player for Cincy than a tackle named Tank. Tyler is a big body that can create space for the linebackers and ends. Other defensive help is needed, as is a corrections officer. Outside linebacker is a strong need, with the unsure condition of David Pollack.
19. Tennessee Titans - Sidney Rice, WR, South Carolina
Rice is the playmaking receiver that could allow Vince Young to blossom. The Titans have a young group of receivers but could lose go-to wideout Drew Bennett to free agency. The Titans will try to add depth on the offensive line and at linebacker throughout the draft. They will address the lack of depth at cornerback by aquiring a vet through free agency.
20. N.Y. Giants - Lawrence Timmons, OLB, FSU
By releasing veteran linebackers LaVar Arrington and Carlos Emmons, outside linebacker trumps cornerback as number 1 need. This works out nicely for the Giants, as this years corner class is especially deep and the outside linebackers are not. Look for them to shoot for Eric Wright out of UNLV or Marcus McCauley out of Fresno St. in the second round. Defensive tackle and safety are also concerns on defense.
21. Denver Broncos - Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska
The Broncos could greatly benefit from picking Carriker. He is big and fast like Packers pro-bowler Aaron Kampman. With him on the line, that fast and attaking group of linebackers will be free to fly the field more. Safety is a concern high on their board, but likely won't draft one until later. Look for them to take a receiver in round 2, and a running back and corner at some point on day 2.
22. Dallas Cowboys - Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Ohio St.
The 'Boys top two wide receivers are over 30 years of age and there is no guarentee of how long T.O. will last. Gonzalez could greatly improve his stock in the combine. I've heard rumors of him running the 40 in 4.3, and for a guy who is largely considered a possession receiver, that is a good time. Cornerback is also a concern. Anthony Henry hasn't been what they expected when he was signed. He would fit alot better at free safety.
23. Kansas City - Robert Meachum, WR, Tennessee
Continuing Kansas City's never ending quest for a playmaking wide receiver, Meachum works here. He has good size and speed and showed reliable hands in college. They still need help at linebacker, Derrick Johnson hasn't lived up to the hype thus far. Corner help and depth for an aging offensive will also be addressed in the draft.
24. New England Patriots [via Seattle]- Paul Posluszny, OLB, Penn State
Posluszny seems to make so much sense in New England. He is a smart, instinctive playmaker who isn't loud and obnoxious. Safety and cornerback will also be looked at, but they take Posluszny here because the Jets, Eagles and Saints all have needs at linebacker.
25. N.Y. Jets - Michael Bush, RB, Louisville
Depending on the combine and his pro day workouts, Bush could go anywhere from the first to third rounds. He is still a raw talent at running back [he was a high school QB but switched to HB when Brohm came to campus], but has tremendous upside. He's a bruiser of a back that would be complemented nicley by the shifty incumbent Leon Washington. The Jets also need defensive help, most notably at end and linebacker.
26. Philadelphia Eagles - Darrele Revis, CB, Pittsburgh
Philly seems to have a healthy obsession with cornerbacks, and Revis will be the latest victim. Though I wouldn't call him a victim, more of a beneficiary because Eagle cornerbacks are usually pretty good. Help at defensive end and both linebacker spots will be looked at here. Also wide receiver could be a concern depending on what happens with free agent Donte Stallworth.
27. New Orleans Saints - Daymeion Hughes, CB, Cal
Hughes is the best cover corner in this draft class, as his performance at the Senior Bowl showed. What the Senior Bowl also showed is that he lacks top end speed. Depending on how he runs at the combine, he could work himself above Hall as the first corner taken. Late first round will be about as far as he will drop. The Saints will try to aquire top tier defensive talent via free agency. Look for them to make a run at Emmons, Arrington and Clements among others.
28. New England Patriots - Charles Johnson, DE, Georgia
The Patriots need help at corner and safety, but Johnson is a bargain at this point. He could end up playing either outside linebacker or pass-rush end. Johnson is quick and has a top tier motor in him to get into the backfield quickly.
29. Baltimore Ravens - Ben Grubbs, OG, Auburn
With Bush off the board, no running back is worth this pick. The Ravens line has struggled the last year and a half and could benefit from some youth. Grubbs should be able to start right away. Running back is a high concern, even if they resign Jamal Lewis. If they do, look for them to draft a 3rd down back, like FSU's Lorenzo Booker, late in day 1 or early day 2. If they don't re-sign Lewis, Brandon Jackson, Kenny Irons and Antonio Pittman are all options in round 2.
30. San Diego Chargers - Eric Weedle, S, Utah
As of now, the Chargers should be content with the Jackson-McCardell combination they have on the perimeter. Taking a wide receiver over a safety, a bigger need, doesn't make sense. They will probably take a wideout later in day 1. However, if one of the top tier receivers is left, look for them to go for that and take Meriweather or Griffin in round 2.
31. Chicago Bears - Greg Olson, TE, Miami
I'm sorry Bears fans, but it looks as if Rex Grossman will start next year at quarterback, not bench warmer. So, you might as well make the best of it. Olson is the latest in the line of physically gifted Miami tight ends. Linebacker, safety and offensive line are options here. Levi Brown would be a fantastic backup at tackle or guard, then could eventually take over for the aging John Tait at left tackle.
32. Indianapolis Colts - Patrick Willis, ILB, Mississippi
Dungy should quickly fall in love with Willis. Why? Well, he reminds me of Derrick Brooks, Dungys future HOFer in Tampa. Besides the difference of position, Willis is a heady player who can cover ground quickly and has no problem working in traffic. Cornerback and defensive tackle will also be looked at, but the champs don't have many holes to fill.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Time Bomb in the Bay
We are now seven days away from the NFL scouting combine and the Chargers still do not have a staff. That is a problem. Having your coaches observe players that could be pertinent to the future of their team is usually a good idea. But at least they're trying. As of Wednesday, here is a list of coaches they've contacted [to my limited knowledge]:
Ron Rivera, Defensive Coordinator, Bears
Rex Ryan, Defensive Coordinator, Ravens
Ron Zimmer, Defensive Coordinator, Falcons
Norv Turner, Offensive Coordinator, 49ers
Mike Singletary, Assistant Head Coach, 49ers
As you can see by looking at the list, the Bolts are probably looking for a defensive mind to coach this football team. Bad idea. They need a creative offensive mind that knows how to develop quarterbacks. Enter Mike Martz, engineer of the Greatest Show on Turf, developer of Kurt Warner and Marc Bulger among others. Martz would find new and brilliant ways to use superhuman halfback LaDanian Tomlinson. He would also greatly help the ascent of young pro bowl quarterback Phillip Rivers. Martz can develop Vincent Jackson into his number one wideout. Also, he'll have a new toy to tinker with in Antonio Gates. Keep in mind, he's never had a tight end with the ability or versatility of Gates. On top of all this fantastic news, he wouldn't touch the defense. He would leave that to his defensive coordinator. Oh yeah, and he has had some success in the playoffs.
You may ask, "But Colby, what becomes of that improving defense if they hire an offensive minded coach?" Well, good friend, that has an easy answer. Well, two easy answers. Ron Rivera's contract is out at the end of the month. They could simply lure him away from the Windy City with a promise of money and great success. With Martz running the team, Rivera would have complete control of the defense. "But Colby," you ask,"what if Rivera stays loyal to the Bears?" Turn to answer number two. Mike Singletary is going to be a great head coach someday. But first he needs to put in some time as a coordinator. Opportunity knocks, he answers, and you have a perfect match. And, as an added bonus, he was a coach at the Senior Bowl. For you football illiterate, this means he got up close and personal with some of the drafts most intriguing prospects.
As of now, the Bolts are barking up the wrong tree. But I'm not saying all those guys don't deserve head coaching jobs. They probably do. But it shouldn't be this one. Right now, the Chargers need someone with head coaching experience. They need someone who has been to the playoffs and shown they can be victorious. They need someone who can maximize the mass of potential that they have on the offensive side of the ball. They need someone that isn't a wild card. They need Mike Martz.
Now you're amazed. Admit it. "Colby, how are you so smart? It's unbelievable!"
I know, my friend, I know.
Ron Rivera, Defensive Coordinator, Bears
Rex Ryan, Defensive Coordinator, Ravens
Ron Zimmer, Defensive Coordinator, Falcons
Norv Turner, Offensive Coordinator, 49ers
Mike Singletary, Assistant Head Coach, 49ers
As you can see by looking at the list, the Bolts are probably looking for a defensive mind to coach this football team. Bad idea. They need a creative offensive mind that knows how to develop quarterbacks. Enter Mike Martz, engineer of the Greatest Show on Turf, developer of Kurt Warner and Marc Bulger among others. Martz would find new and brilliant ways to use superhuman halfback LaDanian Tomlinson. He would also greatly help the ascent of young pro bowl quarterback Phillip Rivers. Martz can develop Vincent Jackson into his number one wideout. Also, he'll have a new toy to tinker with in Antonio Gates. Keep in mind, he's never had a tight end with the ability or versatility of Gates. On top of all this fantastic news, he wouldn't touch the defense. He would leave that to his defensive coordinator. Oh yeah, and he has had some success in the playoffs.
You may ask, "But Colby, what becomes of that improving defense if they hire an offensive minded coach?" Well, good friend, that has an easy answer. Well, two easy answers. Ron Rivera's contract is out at the end of the month. They could simply lure him away from the Windy City with a promise of money and great success. With Martz running the team, Rivera would have complete control of the defense. "But Colby," you ask,"what if Rivera stays loyal to the Bears?" Turn to answer number two. Mike Singletary is going to be a great head coach someday. But first he needs to put in some time as a coordinator. Opportunity knocks, he answers, and you have a perfect match. And, as an added bonus, he was a coach at the Senior Bowl. For you football illiterate, this means he got up close and personal with some of the drafts most intriguing prospects.
As of now, the Bolts are barking up the wrong tree. But I'm not saying all those guys don't deserve head coaching jobs. They probably do. But it shouldn't be this one. Right now, the Chargers need someone with head coaching experience. They need someone who has been to the playoffs and shown they can be victorious. They need someone who can maximize the mass of potential that they have on the offensive side of the ball. They need someone that isn't a wild card. They need Mike Martz.
Now you're amazed. Admit it. "Colby, how are you so smart? It's unbelievable!"
I know, my friend, I know.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Random Thoughts on 2/13/07
- The Celtics skid has hit an epic low of 18 games. So this much I know, if Doc Rivers retains his job after this season, they were tanking to get Durant or Oden. Really, there is not other excuse for a team playing this horrific. Especially in the Atlantic. Yeah, the conference with one team barely above .500. They should hire Marty Schottenheimer, he's known to be good at turnarounds.
- Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano says he'll walk after this season if he doesn't get an extension now. I don't blame Zambrano. Not at all. With the price of pitchers at a premium, he deserves to make near what Zito makes. And he's worried about injury security to. With Mark Prior and Kerry Wood around, one can never know when they'll contract the insanely-ridiculous injury bug from them.
- Duke. No star power. Four straight loses. Dropped out of every poll. Faces #21 Boston College at Boston College Wednesday night. Could very well lose five straight. Actually, they might not win another game. The only gimme they have left is St. Johns. Well, it was supposed to be a gimme. Right now, not even the previously all-defeated Iona is a gimme.
- But cheer up Dukies. North Carolina lost both games to VaTech this season. However, they're still in the top 25. Sorry.
- 2 to 1 - The Bengals trade for Randy Moss and Ricky Williams to improve their rep. The Pacers buy NFL Sunday Ticket from their jail cells.
- Whoever accused Ron Zook of wrong-doing [cough-Notre Dame-cough] should be sanctioned. Accusations without warrant bring negative press to the sport, the recruiting process and the NCAA. Zook is a masterful recruiter that hasn't violated any rules. Just because Zook can out-text Weis doesn't mean Notre Dame has to get all jealous about it.
- Joe Cullen, an assistant coach for the Detroit Lions, was cited twice within a week last season. The first for driving nude through suburbs, the second for drunken driving with a BAC of .12. AND HE IS STILL ON THE LIONS STAFF. If we didn't have enough evidence that Matt Millen and the rest of the Lion's powers-that-be are certifiable cracks, this is it.
- Flyers star Peter Forsberg says he has no problem remaining in Philly. I just think he's confused. With all the hype about Greg Oden coming to Philly, he got excited and thought he was getting a new teammate. I can't blame him. When your playing for a team as bad as the Flyers, delusion is a convenient escape.
Long Schott
The San Diego Chargers are playing russian roulette with their latest move. One week before the scouting combine and a few weeks before free agency, the Chargers are coachless. And in more ways than one.
By firing head coach Marty Schottenheimer, the Bolts are missing some key pieces of their staff. Both coordinators, Cam Cameron and Wade Phillips, are head coaches now. Tight end coach Rob Chudzinski is the offensive coordinator in Cleveland. Linebacker coach Greg Manusky is now the defensive coordinator in San Francisco. On top of all this, Cameron took strength and conditioning coach Matt Schiotz with him to Miami.
Oh, the holes they have dug.
With the majority of the appealing candidates hired elsewhere, the Chargers will be scraping at the scrap heap. Besides Chicago defensive coordinator Ron Rivera, not many high profile candidates are available. Even if they hire Rivera to be the head coach, they'll still have to fill the coordinator spots and other holes. On top of all those changes, the new leader will likely want to bring in some of his own guys as well.
This is definitely what a 14-2 team with a solid base for a Super Bowl run should be going through. No doubt.
I agree that if somebody were to be fired, it should've been Marty. A.J. Smith has proved himself to be a brilliant G.M., a position where such skills are rare. Marty, on the other hand, can be replaced much easier than Smith. That's not saying anything against Marty. He's a great coach and whoever gets him next year will be lucky. That said, finding a G.M. like A.J. Smith is like finding the needle in the haystack. Finding a coach like Marty is like finding a cow on the farm.
But they fired Marty. And whats done is done. So let us move on to the larger picture. What will happen to this 14-2 team with one of the all-time greatest runners, an up and coming defense and a young QB?
I'll tell you what will happen. There will be a setback. A major one at that.
Whoever comes in is going to want to implement their own system. They're going to want to get rid of some players and add some new ones. Phillip Rivers is going to have to learn a new offense. The new coaching staff is going to have to learn the most effective way to use LT. The defense will have to go through an adjustment period. The team is going to struggle with inconsistency throughout the season.
What becomes of Marty? Well, Bolts owner Dean Spanos is giving him $4 million not to coach this season. But in 2008, look for many suitors to come calling. He managed to completely reverse the clubs fortunes from 2003 to 2004, going 4-12 in '03 to 12-4 and division champs in '04. Teams looking for this titan of turnarounds should be numerous, including the perennial Raiders, Lions and Browns. Other teams with the potential to enter the conversation could be the Vikings, Panthers, Texans and Redskins.
So who is next in the bay? Well the top two candidates, Phillips and Cameron, have already been whisked away by other suitors. Rivera seems to be the most obvious choice as of now. Pete Carrol's name will inevitably pop into the conversation, and with good reason to. If Carrol is looking for vengeance after being fired twice in four years of NFL head coaching jobs, the Bolts would be his best bet. Dennis Green is a name to be thrown around to. To my knowledge, he is living in the bay right now. Green would be a good fit for an accomplished team needing that extra push.
With the fire burning in the bay right now, there is alot of smoke. And where there is alot of smoke there is alot of haziness. The Chargers will remain a force to be reckoned with, but we won't know how forceful until the smoke clears.
By firing head coach Marty Schottenheimer, the Bolts are missing some key pieces of their staff. Both coordinators, Cam Cameron and Wade Phillips, are head coaches now. Tight end coach Rob Chudzinski is the offensive coordinator in Cleveland. Linebacker coach Greg Manusky is now the defensive coordinator in San Francisco. On top of all this, Cameron took strength and conditioning coach Matt Schiotz with him to Miami.
Oh, the holes they have dug.
With the majority of the appealing candidates hired elsewhere, the Chargers will be scraping at the scrap heap. Besides Chicago defensive coordinator Ron Rivera, not many high profile candidates are available. Even if they hire Rivera to be the head coach, they'll still have to fill the coordinator spots and other holes. On top of all those changes, the new leader will likely want to bring in some of his own guys as well.
This is definitely what a 14-2 team with a solid base for a Super Bowl run should be going through. No doubt.
I agree that if somebody were to be fired, it should've been Marty. A.J. Smith has proved himself to be a brilliant G.M., a position where such skills are rare. Marty, on the other hand, can be replaced much easier than Smith. That's not saying anything against Marty. He's a great coach and whoever gets him next year will be lucky. That said, finding a G.M. like A.J. Smith is like finding the needle in the haystack. Finding a coach like Marty is like finding a cow on the farm.
But they fired Marty. And whats done is done. So let us move on to the larger picture. What will happen to this 14-2 team with one of the all-time greatest runners, an up and coming defense and a young QB?
I'll tell you what will happen. There will be a setback. A major one at that.
Whoever comes in is going to want to implement their own system. They're going to want to get rid of some players and add some new ones. Phillip Rivers is going to have to learn a new offense. The new coaching staff is going to have to learn the most effective way to use LT. The defense will have to go through an adjustment period. The team is going to struggle with inconsistency throughout the season.
What becomes of Marty? Well, Bolts owner Dean Spanos is giving him $4 million not to coach this season. But in 2008, look for many suitors to come calling. He managed to completely reverse the clubs fortunes from 2003 to 2004, going 4-12 in '03 to 12-4 and division champs in '04. Teams looking for this titan of turnarounds should be numerous, including the perennial Raiders, Lions and Browns. Other teams with the potential to enter the conversation could be the Vikings, Panthers, Texans and Redskins.
So who is next in the bay? Well the top two candidates, Phillips and Cameron, have already been whisked away by other suitors. Rivera seems to be the most obvious choice as of now. Pete Carrol's name will inevitably pop into the conversation, and with good reason to. If Carrol is looking for vengeance after being fired twice in four years of NFL head coaching jobs, the Bolts would be his best bet. Dennis Green is a name to be thrown around to. To my knowledge, he is living in the bay right now. Green would be a good fit for an accomplished team needing that extra push.
With the fire burning in the bay right now, there is alot of smoke. And where there is alot of smoke there is alot of haziness. The Chargers will remain a force to be reckoned with, but we won't know how forceful until the smoke clears.
Friday, February 9, 2007
NFL Draft: Player Rankings
In this first addition of my player rankings, I will be ranking 5 to 10 players at each position. I will also include a sleeper at the end of each position. My sleepers are a player I believe will be taken late day 1 and into day 2 that I think can make a impact in the NFL. There won't be any explanation process in this ranking. My next mock draft will likely run a days weeks before the NFL Combine. After the Combine, I will post an updated mock draft and player rankings.
Quarterback
1. JaMarcus Russel, LSU
2. Brady Quinn, ND
3. Drew Stanton, Michigan St.
4. Kevin Kolb, Houston
5. Matt Moore, Oregon St.
sleeper - John Beck, BYU
Breakdown: Russel has the highest ceiling of the bunch but I think he is being overhyped. Stanton and Kolb each have underrated athletic ability and the potential to be solid starters. Moore is going to be a very good career backup.
Halfback
1. Adrian Peterson, Oklahoma
2. Marshawn Lynch, Cal
3. Michael Bush, Louisville
4. Brandon Jackson, Nebraska
5. Kenny Irons, Auburn
6. Antonio Pittman, OSU
sleeper - Lorenzo Booker, FSU
Breakdown: Peterson, Lynch and Bush are the cream of the crop for running backs. Peterson has excellent skills but will have to answer durability questions; as will Bush. Lorenzo Booker is going to excel as a 3rd down back, much like Kevin Faulk.
Fullback
1. Brian Leonard, Rutgers
2. Jason Snelling, Virginia
3. LeRon McClain, Alabama
4. Stan White Jr., OSU
5. Deon Anderson, Connecticut
Breakdown: Brian Leonard is versatile and may end up at halfback or H-back. He could become the next Mike Alstott. Stan White Jr. has solid hands out of the backfield.
Wide Receiver
1. Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech
2. Ted Ginn Jr., OSU
3. Dwayne Bowe, LSU
4. Sidney Rice, South Carolina
5. Anthony Gonzalez, OSU
6. Dwayne Jarrett, USC
7. Robert Meachum, Tennessee
sleeper - Jason Hill, Washington St.
Breakdown: Calvin Johnson is the best player in college football. Both Bowe and Rice have an excellent combination of speed and size. Jarrett is dropping due to lack of speed. Jason Hill is a solid wideout who will make a good slot receiver on most teams.
Tight End
1. Greg Olson, Miami
2. Zach Miller, Arizona St.
3. Matt Spaeth, Minnesota
4. Joe Newton, Oregon State
5. Clark Harris, Rutgers
sleeper - Ben Patrick, Delaware
Breakdown: Not as flashy as some previous tight end classes. Olson and Miller are the only two with potential to start right away. At 6'7", Newton has great size and could provide a reliable red zone target.
Offensive Tackle
1. Joe Thomas, Wisconsin
2. Levi Brown, Penn State
3. Tony Ugoh, Arkansas
4. Joe Staley, Central Michigan
5. Marshal Yanda, Iowa
sleeper - Doug Free, Northern Illinois
Breakdown: This is a solid class of tackles led by Thomas. Thomas, Brown and Ugoh could all end up as franchise left tackles. Free was part of the line that led the way for the fleet footed Garret Wolfe.
Offensive Guard
1. Ben Grubbs, Auburn
2. Josh Beekman, Boston College
3. Arron Sears, Tennessee
4. Justin Blalock, Texas
5. Tim Duckworth, Auburn
sleeper - Andy Alleman, Akron
Breakdown: Grubbs is the only guard in the bunch that could break into the first round. Sears has potential to be a first year starter. Beekman should also be good, looking at BC's pedigree for breeding offensive lineman.
Offensive Center
1. Ryan Kalil, USC
2. Kyle Young, Fresno State
3. Samson Satele, Hawaii
4. Enoka Lucas, Oregon
5. Uche Nwaneri, Purdue
Breakdown: Kalil leads the group of centers with his experience in a pro style offense at USC. In Hawaii, Satele did mostly shotgun snaps, so he'll have to show the ability to get the ball in the right spot under center.
Defensive End
1. Gaines Adams, Clemson
2. Jamaal Anderson, Oklahoma
3. Adam Carriker, Nebraska
4. Charles Johnson, Georgia
5. Tim Crowder, Texas
6. Quentin Moses, Georgia
7. Jarvis Moss, Florida
8. Lamarr Woodley, Michigan
9. Victor Abiamiri, Notre Dame
10. Jay Moore, Nebraska
sleeper- Ikaika Alama-Francis, Hawaii
Breakdown: Defensive ends this year are deep and talented. As many as 5 could go in round 1. Woodley, Moses and Moss may all be switched to a 3-4 OLB. Alama-Francis has the potential to develop into a stud on the end.
Defensive Tackle
1. Amobi Okoye, Louisville
2. Alan Branch, Michigan
3. Tank Tyler, NC State
4. Justin Harrell, Tennessee
5. Quinn Pitcock, OSU
sleeper- Ryan McBean, Oklahoma St.
Breakdown: The 19-year old Amobi Okoye is one of the stories of the year in sports. Okoye has an outstanding motor and can get in the backfield. Branch and Tyler are each big bodies that can anchor a line.
Outside Linebacker
1. Lawrence Timmons, FSU
2. Paul Posluszny, Penn State
3. Rufus Alexander, Oklahoma
4. Michael Okwo, Stanford
5. Earl Everett, Florida
sleeper- Jon Beason, Miami
Breakdown: This outside linebacker class isn't especially deep. Posluszny was a great college player who should be a dependable pro. Beason is undersized but can move well.
Inside Linebacker
1. Patrick Willis, Mississippi
2. Buster Davis, FSU
3. Brandon Siler, Florida
4. Zach Diles, Kansas State
5. David Harris, Michigan
sleeper- Jon Abbate, Wake Forest
Breakdown: Willis is an athletic linebacker that can make plays across the field. Davis reminds me of a bowling ball, when he gets rolling there is no stopping him.
Cornerback
1. Leon Hall, Michigan
2. Aaron Ross, Texas
3. Chris Houston, Arkansas
4. Darrele Revis, Pittsburgh
5. Daymeion Hughes, Cal
6. Marcus McCauley, Fresno St.
7. Eric Wright, UNLV
sleeper - C.J. Gaddis, Clemson
Breakdown: Hall is the best all-around corner of this class. He reminds me of Nate Clements. McCauley had a great junior season but struggled last year and in the Senior Bowl. Wright has great athleticism and could develop into a top tier cornerback.
Safety
1. LaRon Landry, LSU
2. Reggie Nelson, Florida
3. Eric Weedle, Utah
4. Brandon Meriweather, Miami
5. Michael Griffin, Texas
sleeper- Michael Johnson, Arizona
Breakdown: Landry, a 4 year starter, is a ballhawk that knows where to be and when. Nelson is a playmaker from the safety position and flies all over the field. Meriweather is going to have a fun time answering questions about his part in the brawl.
Quarterback
1. JaMarcus Russel, LSU
2. Brady Quinn, ND
3. Drew Stanton, Michigan St.
4. Kevin Kolb, Houston
5. Matt Moore, Oregon St.
sleeper - John Beck, BYU
Breakdown: Russel has the highest ceiling of the bunch but I think he is being overhyped. Stanton and Kolb each have underrated athletic ability and the potential to be solid starters. Moore is going to be a very good career backup.
Halfback
1. Adrian Peterson, Oklahoma
2. Marshawn Lynch, Cal
3. Michael Bush, Louisville
4. Brandon Jackson, Nebraska
5. Kenny Irons, Auburn
6. Antonio Pittman, OSU
sleeper - Lorenzo Booker, FSU
Breakdown: Peterson, Lynch and Bush are the cream of the crop for running backs. Peterson has excellent skills but will have to answer durability questions; as will Bush. Lorenzo Booker is going to excel as a 3rd down back, much like Kevin Faulk.
Fullback
1. Brian Leonard, Rutgers
2. Jason Snelling, Virginia
3. LeRon McClain, Alabama
4. Stan White Jr., OSU
5. Deon Anderson, Connecticut
Breakdown: Brian Leonard is versatile and may end up at halfback or H-back. He could become the next Mike Alstott. Stan White Jr. has solid hands out of the backfield.
Wide Receiver
1. Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech
2. Ted Ginn Jr., OSU
3. Dwayne Bowe, LSU
4. Sidney Rice, South Carolina
5. Anthony Gonzalez, OSU
6. Dwayne Jarrett, USC
7. Robert Meachum, Tennessee
sleeper - Jason Hill, Washington St.
Breakdown: Calvin Johnson is the best player in college football. Both Bowe and Rice have an excellent combination of speed and size. Jarrett is dropping due to lack of speed. Jason Hill is a solid wideout who will make a good slot receiver on most teams.
Tight End
1. Greg Olson, Miami
2. Zach Miller, Arizona St.
3. Matt Spaeth, Minnesota
4. Joe Newton, Oregon State
5. Clark Harris, Rutgers
sleeper - Ben Patrick, Delaware
Breakdown: Not as flashy as some previous tight end classes. Olson and Miller are the only two with potential to start right away. At 6'7", Newton has great size and could provide a reliable red zone target.
Offensive Tackle
1. Joe Thomas, Wisconsin
2. Levi Brown, Penn State
3. Tony Ugoh, Arkansas
4. Joe Staley, Central Michigan
5. Marshal Yanda, Iowa
sleeper - Doug Free, Northern Illinois
Breakdown: This is a solid class of tackles led by Thomas. Thomas, Brown and Ugoh could all end up as franchise left tackles. Free was part of the line that led the way for the fleet footed Garret Wolfe.
Offensive Guard
1. Ben Grubbs, Auburn
2. Josh Beekman, Boston College
3. Arron Sears, Tennessee
4. Justin Blalock, Texas
5. Tim Duckworth, Auburn
sleeper - Andy Alleman, Akron
Breakdown: Grubbs is the only guard in the bunch that could break into the first round. Sears has potential to be a first year starter. Beekman should also be good, looking at BC's pedigree for breeding offensive lineman.
Offensive Center
1. Ryan Kalil, USC
2. Kyle Young, Fresno State
3. Samson Satele, Hawaii
4. Enoka Lucas, Oregon
5. Uche Nwaneri, Purdue
Breakdown: Kalil leads the group of centers with his experience in a pro style offense at USC. In Hawaii, Satele did mostly shotgun snaps, so he'll have to show the ability to get the ball in the right spot under center.
Defensive End
1. Gaines Adams, Clemson
2. Jamaal Anderson, Oklahoma
3. Adam Carriker, Nebraska
4. Charles Johnson, Georgia
5. Tim Crowder, Texas
6. Quentin Moses, Georgia
7. Jarvis Moss, Florida
8. Lamarr Woodley, Michigan
9. Victor Abiamiri, Notre Dame
10. Jay Moore, Nebraska
sleeper- Ikaika Alama-Francis, Hawaii
Breakdown: Defensive ends this year are deep and talented. As many as 5 could go in round 1. Woodley, Moses and Moss may all be switched to a 3-4 OLB. Alama-Francis has the potential to develop into a stud on the end.
Defensive Tackle
1. Amobi Okoye, Louisville
2. Alan Branch, Michigan
3. Tank Tyler, NC State
4. Justin Harrell, Tennessee
5. Quinn Pitcock, OSU
sleeper- Ryan McBean, Oklahoma St.
Breakdown: The 19-year old Amobi Okoye is one of the stories of the year in sports. Okoye has an outstanding motor and can get in the backfield. Branch and Tyler are each big bodies that can anchor a line.
Outside Linebacker
1. Lawrence Timmons, FSU
2. Paul Posluszny, Penn State
3. Rufus Alexander, Oklahoma
4. Michael Okwo, Stanford
5. Earl Everett, Florida
sleeper- Jon Beason, Miami
Breakdown: This outside linebacker class isn't especially deep. Posluszny was a great college player who should be a dependable pro. Beason is undersized but can move well.
Inside Linebacker
1. Patrick Willis, Mississippi
2. Buster Davis, FSU
3. Brandon Siler, Florida
4. Zach Diles, Kansas State
5. David Harris, Michigan
sleeper- Jon Abbate, Wake Forest
Breakdown: Willis is an athletic linebacker that can make plays across the field. Davis reminds me of a bowling ball, when he gets rolling there is no stopping him.
Cornerback
1. Leon Hall, Michigan
2. Aaron Ross, Texas
3. Chris Houston, Arkansas
4. Darrele Revis, Pittsburgh
5. Daymeion Hughes, Cal
6. Marcus McCauley, Fresno St.
7. Eric Wright, UNLV
sleeper - C.J. Gaddis, Clemson
Breakdown: Hall is the best all-around corner of this class. He reminds me of Nate Clements. McCauley had a great junior season but struggled last year and in the Senior Bowl. Wright has great athleticism and could develop into a top tier cornerback.
Safety
1. LaRon Landry, LSU
2. Reggie Nelson, Florida
3. Eric Weedle, Utah
4. Brandon Meriweather, Miami
5. Michael Griffin, Texas
sleeper- Michael Johnson, Arizona
Breakdown: Landry, a 4 year starter, is a ballhawk that knows where to be and when. Nelson is a playmaker from the safety position and flies all over the field. Meriweather is going to have a fun time answering questions about his part in the brawl.
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Random Thoughts on 2/8/07
- Noel Devine has so much talent, it would be a shame if it went to waste. He should enroll in Hargrave or Milford and get his life straightened out. Next year, enrolling at a solid program such as West Virginia or Rutgers would be good for him. He should avoid schools that always have controversy and media around them.
- The Trojans signed the top two halfbacks in this years #1 recruiting class. They swiped Joe McKnight away from LSU and signed in-state star Marc Tyler. They don't remind anyone of the Bush-White super squad, but they will definitely be pounding the Pac-10 for awhile.
- Every team in every sport should start including clauses in players contracts regarding clubs. If a player is involved in any scrum or shooting at a club, his club should be able to terminate his contract. I don't know how the legalities would work, but it would probably keep more players out of late night clubs.
- Peyton Mannning. The one and only office-supply store worker. In a few weeks, the Colts QB will have another Peyton Manning on the block. 26 year old Bears fan Scott Wiese signed a pledge in a Decatur bar the Friday prior to the Super Bowl pledging to change his name to Peyton Manning if the Bears lost. Wiese is currently in the process of legally changing his name. The only problem is nobody will mistake him for Manning. Wiese isn't 6'5" and doesn't have a laser-rocket arm.
- Don't be surprised if there is a new QB in Houston next season. The team isn't happy with Carr and there will be a few veterans available. Head Coach Gary Kubiak will look to bring in Denver's Jake Plummer. Jeff Garcia could also be available out of Philly. If the Texans acquire a vet, look for them to draft a QB late in day 1 of the draft. Houston's Kevin Kolb makes sense. He is a hometown QB and has the potential to be a good NFL player.
- Are we watching the downfall of Duke? Doubtful, but I can keep my hopes up. They are now 18-6 and have lost 3 straight, including two games at Cameron. They should, in all fairness, fall out of the top 25. I don't know the exact cause of the problem, but I can speculate. One glaring problem is lack of a dominant player. Nobody on this team stands out. It was supposed to be 6'10" F-C Josh McRoberts, but he is only putting up a paltry 12.9 ppg and 7.9 rpg. The only other players averaging double-digit points is junior G DeMarcus Nelson and frosh shooter Jon Scheyer, averaging 14.3 and 12.3 respectively. Also, PG Greg Paulus isn't the playmaker they need him to be. In a tough ACC, the Dukies will need to step it up down the stretch.
- In more bad news for Duke, North Carolina may actually improve in football. Shocking, I know. North Carolina landed ESPN's 11th ranked freshman class. Butch Davis got some good in-state players to stay close to home and went elsewhere to stock his team. Greg Paulus' younger brother and Gatorades New York player of the year Mike Paulus signed on to be QB for the Tar Heels. Davis also got other big signings in S Quantavius Sturdivant and WR Greg Little, who he stole away from Notre Dame.
- I'm not sold on Wade Phillips being a success in Dallas. He's had two previous NFL head coaching jobs and neither stand out. He is a successful coordinator, but that doesn't always translate to head coach success. It's my belief that Dallas really wants OC Jason Garrett to be head coach eventually, so why not make him head coach now? Surround him with experienced guys at the coordinator spots and let him flourish. By hiring Phillips to be a placeholder for Garrett, the Cowboys are pretty much saying that they hope Phillips flames out within a few years so they can promote Garrett.
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
The Power Rankings: NBA Style
Welcome to the madness. For those of you who haven't been paying attention, this NBA season has been an especially interesting one. The NBA has everything from fights to chants about a Japanese cooking device. Some of the teams once thought of as bad may actually be decent (see: Jazz, Rockets, Raptors). Some of the teams once though to be good may actually be bad (see: Heat, Nets). Some teams once thought to be solid may not even lose 20 games (see: Suns, Mavs). So in my effort to track all this madness, I will attempt to do a weekly power rankings of the NBA. Hibachi.
The Top 10
1. Dallas Mavericks (39-9) 1st Southwest
The Mavs have won 9 of their last 10 and are 25-2 since December 11. In my opinion they have one of the most dynamic and versatile starting 5 in the league. The Mavs should easily coast to a Southwest title because no other team has shown the ability to beat them.
2. Phoenix Suns (37-10) 1st Pacific
The Suns are in the same boat as the Mavs. No other team in the Pacific poses a threat and the Suns should be able to take this division with ease. The tempo they play at suits their personnel perfectly. Steve Nash is making a run at a three-peat for MVP.
3. Utah Jazz (32-17) 1st Northwest
No surprise that the three teams leading their divisions in the West are at the top of the power rankings. The scary thing about the Jazz is that they just keep getting better. They have a wealth of young, talented players that will continue to improve with experience. PF Carlos Boozer is averaging a double-double and should be considered as a MVP contender.
4. Houston Rockets (30-17) 3rd Southwest
With a winning record of 13-7 without Yao, this team could really turn it up when he gets back. Mutombo has stepped up in Yao's absence and should provide size off the bench when he returns. Sixth man Luther Head is improving and is a legit threat to score from the arc.
5. San Antonio Spurs (32-16) 2nd Southwest
You can never count out the Spurs as a contender. With the talent this team has, they could step up at anytime and try to take control of the division. That said, the way the Mavs are playing, the Spurs would have to be near perfect to win the Southwest.
6. Detroit Pistons (28-18) 1st Central
Finally, an Eastern conference team. Lets face it, the Eastern conference is equivalent to the NFC in football and the NL in baseball. They're bad. The Pistons are barely the cream of the crop.
7. Washington Wizards (28-19) 1st Southeast
The injury to Jamison will hurt this team without a doubt. It's time to find out if Arenas can really carry a team. The don't have many challengers in the Southeast. The Magic have the potential and the Heat have the talent but neither team has put anything together.
8. Chicago Bulls (28-21) 2nd Central
With two All-Star snubs on the team, they should have motivation to push for the lead in the central. I no longer consider Ben Gordon a sixth man. He may not start, but he averages 31.8 mpg, more than two of the starters.
9. Los Angeles Lakers (30-19) 2nd Pacific
Phil Jackson is a genius. Besides Kobe, he has a point guard named Smush, a forward who is considered one of the biggest busts of all-time and no depth. This team doesn't have a lot of hope this season, but if Bynum keeps improving and they get Kobe a backcourt mate, watch out.
10. Toronto Raptors (25-23) 1st Atlantic
What?!?!?! An Atlantic team above .500?!?! This is news. The funny part about this is that the Raptors could be better. They have the star in Bosh and they have the depth. What they need to do is play GF Morris Peterson more. He should be starting and playing 35 minutes per game.
The Mediocres
11. Cleveland Cavaliers (27-21) 3rd Central
12. Los Angeles Clippers (24-23) 3rd Pacific
13. Indiana Pacers (26-22) 4th Central
14. Orlando Magic (25-23) 2nd Southeast
15. Miami Heat (23-25) 3rd Southeast
16. Minnesota Timberwolves (22-26) 3rd Northwest
17. New Orleans/OK City Hornets (21-27) 4th Southwest
18. Golden State Warriors (23-26) 4th Pacific
19. New Jersey Nets (22-27) 2nd Atlantic
20. Charlotte Bobcats (18-30) 5th Southeast
21. Denver Nuggets (23-23) 2nd Northwest
22. New York Knicks (21-28) 3rd Atlantic
23. Portland Trailblazers (20-29) 4th Northwest
24. Atlanta Hawks (18-29) 4th Southeast
25. Sacramento Kings (20-26) 5th Pacific
The Oden/Durant Sweepstakes
26. Philadelphia 76ers (16-33) 4th Atlantic
If every team in the Atlantic didn't play each other so much, I can't even comprehend how many losses they would have. But with 3 first rounders in a draft chock full of talent, the future is actually looking bright for Philly.
27. Seattle Supersonics (17-31) 5th Northwest
Seattle has dropped 15 straight road games. I think I found the problem.
28. Milwaukee Bucks (18-30) 5th Central
Michael Redd is back for a team that without him is really, really bad. Really.
29. Memphis Grizzlies (12-36) 5th Southwest
Expect there to be talks about the Grizz moving soon. St. Louis and Las Vegas immediately come to mind.
30. Boston Celtics (12-34) 5th Atlantic
Ummm, I can't even come up with words to express how bad this team is. Wow. And NFL fans thought the Raiders were as close as it gets to a guarenteed win. You have to go back a month to find the Celts last win. And they play more than one game per week.
The Top 10
1. Dallas Mavericks (39-9) 1st Southwest
The Mavs have won 9 of their last 10 and are 25-2 since December 11. In my opinion they have one of the most dynamic and versatile starting 5 in the league. The Mavs should easily coast to a Southwest title because no other team has shown the ability to beat them.
2. Phoenix Suns (37-10) 1st Pacific
The Suns are in the same boat as the Mavs. No other team in the Pacific poses a threat and the Suns should be able to take this division with ease. The tempo they play at suits their personnel perfectly. Steve Nash is making a run at a three-peat for MVP.
3. Utah Jazz (32-17) 1st Northwest
No surprise that the three teams leading their divisions in the West are at the top of the power rankings. The scary thing about the Jazz is that they just keep getting better. They have a wealth of young, talented players that will continue to improve with experience. PF Carlos Boozer is averaging a double-double and should be considered as a MVP contender.
4. Houston Rockets (30-17) 3rd Southwest
With a winning record of 13-7 without Yao, this team could really turn it up when he gets back. Mutombo has stepped up in Yao's absence and should provide size off the bench when he returns. Sixth man Luther Head is improving and is a legit threat to score from the arc.
5. San Antonio Spurs (32-16) 2nd Southwest
You can never count out the Spurs as a contender. With the talent this team has, they could step up at anytime and try to take control of the division. That said, the way the Mavs are playing, the Spurs would have to be near perfect to win the Southwest.
6. Detroit Pistons (28-18) 1st Central
Finally, an Eastern conference team. Lets face it, the Eastern conference is equivalent to the NFC in football and the NL in baseball. They're bad. The Pistons are barely the cream of the crop.
7. Washington Wizards (28-19) 1st Southeast
The injury to Jamison will hurt this team without a doubt. It's time to find out if Arenas can really carry a team. The don't have many challengers in the Southeast. The Magic have the potential and the Heat have the talent but neither team has put anything together.
8. Chicago Bulls (28-21) 2nd Central
With two All-Star snubs on the team, they should have motivation to push for the lead in the central. I no longer consider Ben Gordon a sixth man. He may not start, but he averages 31.8 mpg, more than two of the starters.
9. Los Angeles Lakers (30-19) 2nd Pacific
Phil Jackson is a genius. Besides Kobe, he has a point guard named Smush, a forward who is considered one of the biggest busts of all-time and no depth. This team doesn't have a lot of hope this season, but if Bynum keeps improving and they get Kobe a backcourt mate, watch out.
10. Toronto Raptors (25-23) 1st Atlantic
What?!?!?! An Atlantic team above .500?!?! This is news. The funny part about this is that the Raptors could be better. They have the star in Bosh and they have the depth. What they need to do is play GF Morris Peterson more. He should be starting and playing 35 minutes per game.
The Mediocres
11. Cleveland Cavaliers (27-21) 3rd Central
12. Los Angeles Clippers (24-23) 3rd Pacific
13. Indiana Pacers (26-22) 4th Central
14. Orlando Magic (25-23) 2nd Southeast
15. Miami Heat (23-25) 3rd Southeast
16. Minnesota Timberwolves (22-26) 3rd Northwest
17. New Orleans/OK City Hornets (21-27) 4th Southwest
18. Golden State Warriors (23-26) 4th Pacific
19. New Jersey Nets (22-27) 2nd Atlantic
20. Charlotte Bobcats (18-30) 5th Southeast
21. Denver Nuggets (23-23) 2nd Northwest
22. New York Knicks (21-28) 3rd Atlantic
23. Portland Trailblazers (20-29) 4th Northwest
24. Atlanta Hawks (18-29) 4th Southeast
25. Sacramento Kings (20-26) 5th Pacific
The Oden/Durant Sweepstakes
26. Philadelphia 76ers (16-33) 4th Atlantic
If every team in the Atlantic didn't play each other so much, I can't even comprehend how many losses they would have. But with 3 first rounders in a draft chock full of talent, the future is actually looking bright for Philly.
27. Seattle Supersonics (17-31) 5th Northwest
Seattle has dropped 15 straight road games. I think I found the problem.
28. Milwaukee Bucks (18-30) 5th Central
Michael Redd is back for a team that without him is really, really bad. Really.
29. Memphis Grizzlies (12-36) 5th Southwest
Expect there to be talks about the Grizz moving soon. St. Louis and Las Vegas immediately come to mind.
30. Boston Celtics (12-34) 5th Atlantic
Ummm, I can't even come up with words to express how bad this team is. Wow. And NFL fans thought the Raiders were as close as it gets to a guarenteed win. You have to go back a month to find the Celts last win. And they play more than one game per week.
Monday, February 5, 2007
The Recap: NFL 06-07
With the 2006-2007 NFL season dead and gone, I think it is time for a little retrospective piece. In some respects, this season was quite shocking and very entertaining. There were also many things we saw coming. Let us take a look back at the season that was.
Before the season: Peyton Manning was the best quarterback not to win a Super Bowl.
After the season: Peyton Manning is the best quarterback to win a Super Bowl and not appear in a ridiculous amount of ads. No, wait.
Before the season: Tony Dungy and Lovie Smith were both nice guys who happened to be African-American.
After the season: Tony Dungy becomes the first African-American coach to win the Super Bowl. Lovie Smith becomes the answer to the trivia question, "Who was the first African-American coach to lose a Super Bowl?"
Before the season: The Carolina Panthers were the most complete team in the league.
After the season: The Carolina Panthers are the most complete team with the 14th overall pick in the NFL Draft.
Before the season: LaDanian Tomlinson and Shaun Alexander were the elite running backs of the NFL.
After the season: LaDanian Tomlinson is quite possibly God.
Before the season: Reggie Bush is God.
After the season: Reggie Bush is more or less a glorified wide receiver who happens to line up behind the QB.
Before the season: The Raiders couldn't possibly get worse.
After the season: Oops.
Before the season: The NFC was going to top the AFC as the best conference.
After the season: Well, atleast the Raiders have an excuse.
Before the season: Donovan Mcnabb finally has a chance to lead the Eagles to the Super Bowl.
After the season: Jeff Garcia finally has a chance to lead the Eagles to the Super Bowl.
Before the season: Tiki Barber was on the inside track to the Hall of Fame.
After the season: Tiki Barber is on the inside track to make millions outside of football. Because of football.
Before the season: The Bengals were getting arrested.
After the season: The Bengals are still getting arrested.
Before the season: Peyton Manning was the best quarterback not to win a Super Bowl.
After the season: Peyton Manning is the best quarterback to win a Super Bowl and not appear in a ridiculous amount of ads. No, wait.
Before the season: Tony Dungy and Lovie Smith were both nice guys who happened to be African-American.
After the season: Tony Dungy becomes the first African-American coach to win the Super Bowl. Lovie Smith becomes the answer to the trivia question, "Who was the first African-American coach to lose a Super Bowl?"
Before the season: The Carolina Panthers were the most complete team in the league.
After the season: The Carolina Panthers are the most complete team with the 14th overall pick in the NFL Draft.
Before the season: LaDanian Tomlinson and Shaun Alexander were the elite running backs of the NFL.
After the season: LaDanian Tomlinson is quite possibly God.
Before the season: Reggie Bush is God.
After the season: Reggie Bush is more or less a glorified wide receiver who happens to line up behind the QB.
Before the season: The Raiders couldn't possibly get worse.
After the season: Oops.
Before the season: The NFC was going to top the AFC as the best conference.
After the season: Well, atleast the Raiders have an excuse.
Before the season: Donovan Mcnabb finally has a chance to lead the Eagles to the Super Bowl.
After the season: Jeff Garcia finally has a chance to lead the Eagles to the Super Bowl.
Before the season: Tiki Barber was on the inside track to the Hall of Fame.
After the season: Tiki Barber is on the inside track to make millions outside of football. Because of football.
Before the season: The Bengals were getting arrested.
After the season: The Bengals are still getting arrested.
Thursday, February 1, 2007
Kevin Durant, Your Future #1 NBA Draft Pick
Kevin Durant and Greg Oden. Greg Oden and Kevin Durant. Which way should it go? Personally, I am on the side of Kevin Durant first and Greg Oden second. Going into this season, every talking head was salivating over man-child Greg Oden. It was considered a done deal that he would be the number one choice in the upcoming NBA draft. Along came Kevin Durant, Texas' 6'9" do it all freshman baller. When you get compared to both Kevin Garnett and T-Mac, you know you can ball. With Durant in the picture, the talking heads suddenly aren't sure who will be the number one pick. Due to their incompetence, let me settle it right here.
It'll be Durant. I don't care who ends up with the first pick. Durant is 6'9", can handle it and shoot it like a guard one second and the next he's underneath picking up boards. He's got enough range to nail the trey (38% from the arc), enough power to fight for boards (11.6 rpg), and he can play D (1.5 spg and 1.7 bpg). By the way, on top of all this, he's averaging 25 points in 34 minutes. The three line isn't the only place he can drop it from. He's shooting 49% from the floor and 83% from the stripe. He's considered a SF, but in actuality, can play anywhere from the 1 to 4 spot. Also, he can guard any position on the floor, from the PG to C. In the NBA, he probably won't be able to handle most centers, but his versatility will still come in handy on defense. For opposing defenses, he creates and epic mismatch. He has the size of a PF but the quickness of a SG. NBA teams should have no problem deciding who the number one player in this upcoming draft is. It'll be Kevin Durant.
Don't misunderstand me here. Greg Oden is an absolute beast. I think he will become a great player in the NBA. But he is a center. Sure, center is a very important position to any championship team. But as Shaq proved to us, a center cannot be truly dominant without a ballhandler to work off of. Centers need someone to get them the ball in space. They need someone to kick it out to. They need someone to make defenders respect the outside game. Ballhandlers, on the other hand, can dominate with simply role players in the middle. Players like Durant and McGrady can do it anywhere on the court. They can score from the perimeter or the semi-circle. They create space and opportunities with their ballhandling for themselves and others. They can take over a game in crunch time in ways a center cannot. Greg Oden is a very talented baller, but not the dominant force that Durant is.
This debate is bound to go back and forth all season. But I'll stick to my guns. Durant is going to be the better player between Oden and him. I have no doubts about it. And now, neither should you.
Update (2/6): The day that I wrote the majority of this piece, 1/31, Durant went off on Texas Tech for 37 points and 23 boards. In a February 3 game against Big 12 contender Kansas State, Texas may have lost but Durant had arguably one of the most amusing moments in sports this year. In one 10-second span, Durant rejected three consecutive shots from K-State's Clent Stewart before finally gaining possession of the ball. That is up there with Nate Robinson stuffing Yao. I'd love to put a link to a Youtube video clip of the awesomeness here, but the brains that be decided to block Youtube on the school computers. Let me hear three hoorays for bureaucrats!
It'll be Durant. I don't care who ends up with the first pick. Durant is 6'9", can handle it and shoot it like a guard one second and the next he's underneath picking up boards. He's got enough range to nail the trey (38% from the arc), enough power to fight for boards (11.6 rpg), and he can play D (1.5 spg and 1.7 bpg). By the way, on top of all this, he's averaging 25 points in 34 minutes. The three line isn't the only place he can drop it from. He's shooting 49% from the floor and 83% from the stripe. He's considered a SF, but in actuality, can play anywhere from the 1 to 4 spot. Also, he can guard any position on the floor, from the PG to C. In the NBA, he probably won't be able to handle most centers, but his versatility will still come in handy on defense. For opposing defenses, he creates and epic mismatch. He has the size of a PF but the quickness of a SG. NBA teams should have no problem deciding who the number one player in this upcoming draft is. It'll be Kevin Durant.
Don't misunderstand me here. Greg Oden is an absolute beast. I think he will become a great player in the NBA. But he is a center. Sure, center is a very important position to any championship team. But as Shaq proved to us, a center cannot be truly dominant without a ballhandler to work off of. Centers need someone to get them the ball in space. They need someone to kick it out to. They need someone to make defenders respect the outside game. Ballhandlers, on the other hand, can dominate with simply role players in the middle. Players like Durant and McGrady can do it anywhere on the court. They can score from the perimeter or the semi-circle. They create space and opportunities with their ballhandling for themselves and others. They can take over a game in crunch time in ways a center cannot. Greg Oden is a very talented baller, but not the dominant force that Durant is.
This debate is bound to go back and forth all season. But I'll stick to my guns. Durant is going to be the better player between Oden and him. I have no doubts about it. And now, neither should you.
Update (2/6): The day that I wrote the majority of this piece, 1/31, Durant went off on Texas Tech for 37 points and 23 boards. In a February 3 game against Big 12 contender Kansas State, Texas may have lost but Durant had arguably one of the most amusing moments in sports this year. In one 10-second span, Durant rejected three consecutive shots from K-State's Clent Stewart before finally gaining possession of the ball. That is up there with Nate Robinson stuffing Yao. I'd love to put a link to a Youtube video clip of the awesomeness here, but the brains that be decided to block Youtube on the school computers. Let me hear three hoorays for bureaucrats!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
