Five years and 249 sacks later, the 2002 1st overall draft pick is now available. Sure, he isn't as appealing now as he was five years ago when he was a bright-eyed rookie launcher out of Fresno St., but he is more appealing then some of the alternatives [we're talking Aaron Brooks, Drew Bledsoe, Vinny Testaverde, Trent Green and fellow bust, Joey Harrington]. What Carr has going for him is that it's obvious to everyone that he still harbors untapped potential. Whether that ever gets tapped will be up to whoever coaches him next. A lot of teams will talk about signing Carr, but there are only a handful who could truly benefit from his services.
The Oakland Raiders
This move won't necessarily make Carr's life better, moving from a porous offensive line to no offensive line, but it makes the most sense. Oakland has two quarterbacks on its roster, one of whom hasn't played football since 2003. Carr also fits in to owner Al Davis's scheme of vertical passing [because apparently Al Davis believes he is the coach of this team as well, which would explain a lot].
Another benefit of signing Carr is that Oakland would be free to take the surest thing in this draft, WR Calvin Johnson. With Johnson, they could either trade or keep the ever-disgruntled Randy Moss. If kept, they would have two of the greatest athletes and physical specimens this generation has seen. If traded, they should be able to get a 3rd rounder to use on offensive line help to protect their new quarterback.
The Minnesota Vikings
QB Depth Chart:
1. Tarvaris Jackson
2. Brooks Bollinger
Now, if you're impressed with that, please stand.
If you are standing, I would like you to find a wall or metal cabinet and smack your head against it numerous times.
For those of you who remained sitting, you know what I'm getting at here. Jackson is, at best, a long term project and Bollinger is a mediocre third string QB. After cutting veteran QB Brad Johnson, who isn't a good starter, the Vikes have no option for starter. Childress would welcome the challenge of molding Carr into a solid quarterback. And if it doesn't work out, at least Jackson gets to learn from the sidelines for one more year.
The other best case scenario for the Vikings would be the Raiders getting Carr. In that situation, it is highly likely that Quinn would drop to the Vikings in the 7th slot. The Vikings would probably take Quinn, which would just leave Jackson as a future backup and possibly trade bait. So he wouldn't much like the situation unless he plans on becoming the next Seneca Wallace.
The Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins have quite the quintessential quarterback quandary. They can't be sure when Daunte Culpepper will be ready, and even when he is, they don't know which Culpepper they'll get. They would like to trade for the Chief's Trent Green, but they are offering a late round pick, knowing that Green will probably only start one year. The Chiefs, on the other hand, are asking for a second rounder. Green would be a nice fit in Miami, but unless the Chiefs release him, it probably won't happen.
New head coach Cam Cameron has a knack for developing quarterback talent, most recently Philip Rivers, who made the Pro Bowl in his first season as a starter. It is widely agreed upon that Carr still has the potential to remove his bust label, and I think that Cameron would be the coach to do that.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers
No, I am completely serious on this one, the Buccaneers might sign Carr. And he would likely become the favorite to get the starter job. I personally like Gradkowski and Simms, but if you're going to stock yourself with quarterbacks, why not go all out? Carr would easily be the most talented of the group, and Gruden is a good mentor. Although it isn't the most likely situation, the Bucs could benefit from adding Carr to their quarterback depth chart.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Monday, March 19, 2007
Play Ball: A.L. West
1. Oakland Athletics
Best Move: Acquiring C/DH Mike Piazza. A DH became a need when Frank Thomas fled North to Toronto. Nobody within the team would've made up for the pop lost by the departure of Thomas. Also, Piazza should be a more successful hitter since he no longer will be an everyday catcher.
Worst Move: Letting Zito hop the pond. Although the rotation is solid, losing a pitcher of Zito's caliber takes a toll. What was previously an elite rotation is now just a good one. Rich Harden isn't ready to take over the number 1 spot and there is no reason to believe number 5 Joe Kennedy or number 3 Esteban Loaiza will be successful.
Season Outlook: It won't be easy, but Oakland looks like the team with all the tools to win the division. Infield depth should be a concern, especially at 3rd base where Antonio Perez is Eric Chavez's back up. Depth in the outfield is solid with Nick Swisher and Bobby Kielty backing up Shannon Stewart, Milton Bradley, and Mark Kotsay. It will be interesting to see if Dan Johnson could take the 1st base job, bumping Swisher permanently to LF. If Swisher takes the 1st base job, Johnson will be used as a back-up there and DH. When Johnson plays first, Swisher can be used in the outfield.
2. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Best Move: Not trading away their young talent at low prices. The Angels are stocked with Major League-ready prospects in C Mike Napoli, 1B Kendry Morales, 1B Casey Kotchman, 2B Howie Kendrick, SS/3B Brandon Wood, OF Juan Rivera, and SP Ervin Santana. Although they fielded many low-ball offers for these players, they held off, which was the smart move.
Worst Move: Signing Gary Matthews Jr. to a large, undeserved contract. Matthews Jr. is well over the hill as far as his opportunity to reach his potential goes. He's a slightly above average fielder with a mediocre bat. I'm pretty sure that his 'catch' is what netted him such a large contract.
Season Outlook: The Angels didn't add a big bat, which it desperately needed, so it will be counting on its young guns like Kendrick and Napoli to put in some power. The rotation also lacks depth, even when Bartolo Colon is healthy. If a pitcher besides Colon goes down, they will be scraping for another starter. As of now, this is the closest team to reaching the A's, but it wouldn't shock me to see them crash and burn to the bottom of the division.
3. Texas Rangers
Best Move: Improving their pitching. The Rangers signed Eric Gagne, Jamey Wright, and Bruce Chen while trading for Brandon McCarthy. If Gagne is healthy, he'll move Akinori Otsuka back into the set-up role that he excels at. McCarthy has the potential to be dominant, but playing in such a launching pad might hurt him.
Worst Move: Not upgrading the outfield. It's not like the Rangers made any bad moves, but they could've tried to upgrade the outfield, especially right field. Nelson Cruz and Marlon Byrd are mediocre reserves and shouldn't be starting on any team.
Season Outlook: If Gagne returns to form and McCarthy, Chen and Robinson Tejeda step up in the back of the rotation, this could be a dangerous team. The infield is stocked with talent on offense and defense, but the outfield lacks offensive production. If they can acquire a big bat in the outfield [Pat Burrell], they could be a team to watch out of the West.
4. Seattle Mariners
Best Move: Signing OF Jose Guillen. Although the move wasn't heralded, it was needed. The alternatives were Willie Bloomquist and Adam Jones. Guillen still has some pop left in his bat and he can get it done in the field. Although he is an injury risk, the Mariners needed an outfielder and Guillen wasn't a bad choice.
Worst Move: Investing $16 million this year in Miguel Batista and Jeff Weaver. The two may be innings eaters, but they are also grossly overpaid. Weaver parlayed postseason success with the Cardinals to offseason riches. At best he is a end of the rotation pitcher that can kill innings, but he isn't worth the investment, especially with his history. Batista is well over the hill and had a BAA pushing .300 last year. He also may hit the 200 inning mark, but with his age and wear, it wouldn't be a shocked if he got gassed.
Season Outlook: 3b Adrian Beltre might finally be getting a handle on AL pitching, which will help. The young duo up the middle, SS Yuniesky Betancourt and 2B Jose Lopez, are amazing defenders and are developing their bats. The outfield should also provide good offense, led by Ichiro. This teams breakdown will be pitching. Expected savior Felix Hernandez needs to step up this season for the team to have a chance. The only other solid starter is Jarrod Washburn, but on any other team he'd be a 2 or 3, as opposed to a 1 in Seattle. As long as the starters and bullpen can get the game to Putz with a lead, they can do all right.
Best Move: Acquiring C/DH Mike Piazza. A DH became a need when Frank Thomas fled North to Toronto. Nobody within the team would've made up for the pop lost by the departure of Thomas. Also, Piazza should be a more successful hitter since he no longer will be an everyday catcher.
Worst Move: Letting Zito hop the pond. Although the rotation is solid, losing a pitcher of Zito's caliber takes a toll. What was previously an elite rotation is now just a good one. Rich Harden isn't ready to take over the number 1 spot and there is no reason to believe number 5 Joe Kennedy or number 3 Esteban Loaiza will be successful.
Season Outlook: It won't be easy, but Oakland looks like the team with all the tools to win the division. Infield depth should be a concern, especially at 3rd base where Antonio Perez is Eric Chavez's back up. Depth in the outfield is solid with Nick Swisher and Bobby Kielty backing up Shannon Stewart, Milton Bradley, and Mark Kotsay. It will be interesting to see if Dan Johnson could take the 1st base job, bumping Swisher permanently to LF. If Swisher takes the 1st base job, Johnson will be used as a back-up there and DH. When Johnson plays first, Swisher can be used in the outfield.
2. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Best Move: Not trading away their young talent at low prices. The Angels are stocked with Major League-ready prospects in C Mike Napoli, 1B Kendry Morales, 1B Casey Kotchman, 2B Howie Kendrick, SS/3B Brandon Wood, OF Juan Rivera, and SP Ervin Santana. Although they fielded many low-ball offers for these players, they held off, which was the smart move.
Worst Move: Signing Gary Matthews Jr. to a large, undeserved contract. Matthews Jr. is well over the hill as far as his opportunity to reach his potential goes. He's a slightly above average fielder with a mediocre bat. I'm pretty sure that his 'catch' is what netted him such a large contract.
Season Outlook: The Angels didn't add a big bat, which it desperately needed, so it will be counting on its young guns like Kendrick and Napoli to put in some power. The rotation also lacks depth, even when Bartolo Colon is healthy. If a pitcher besides Colon goes down, they will be scraping for another starter. As of now, this is the closest team to reaching the A's, but it wouldn't shock me to see them crash and burn to the bottom of the division.
3. Texas Rangers
Best Move: Improving their pitching. The Rangers signed Eric Gagne, Jamey Wright, and Bruce Chen while trading for Brandon McCarthy. If Gagne is healthy, he'll move Akinori Otsuka back into the set-up role that he excels at. McCarthy has the potential to be dominant, but playing in such a launching pad might hurt him.
Worst Move: Not upgrading the outfield. It's not like the Rangers made any bad moves, but they could've tried to upgrade the outfield, especially right field. Nelson Cruz and Marlon Byrd are mediocre reserves and shouldn't be starting on any team.
Season Outlook: If Gagne returns to form and McCarthy, Chen and Robinson Tejeda step up in the back of the rotation, this could be a dangerous team. The infield is stocked with talent on offense and defense, but the outfield lacks offensive production. If they can acquire a big bat in the outfield [Pat Burrell], they could be a team to watch out of the West.
4. Seattle Mariners
Best Move: Signing OF Jose Guillen. Although the move wasn't heralded, it was needed. The alternatives were Willie Bloomquist and Adam Jones. Guillen still has some pop left in his bat and he can get it done in the field. Although he is an injury risk, the Mariners needed an outfielder and Guillen wasn't a bad choice.
Worst Move: Investing $16 million this year in Miguel Batista and Jeff Weaver. The two may be innings eaters, but they are also grossly overpaid. Weaver parlayed postseason success with the Cardinals to offseason riches. At best he is a end of the rotation pitcher that can kill innings, but he isn't worth the investment, especially with his history. Batista is well over the hill and had a BAA pushing .300 last year. He also may hit the 200 inning mark, but with his age and wear, it wouldn't be a shocked if he got gassed.
Season Outlook: 3b Adrian Beltre might finally be getting a handle on AL pitching, which will help. The young duo up the middle, SS Yuniesky Betancourt and 2B Jose Lopez, are amazing defenders and are developing their bats. The outfield should also provide good offense, led by Ichiro. This teams breakdown will be pitching. Expected savior Felix Hernandez needs to step up this season for the team to have a chance. The only other solid starter is Jarrod Washburn, but on any other team he'd be a 2 or 3, as opposed to a 1 in Seattle. As long as the starters and bullpen can get the game to Putz with a lead, they can do all right.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
NFL Mock Draft: Version 3.0
So here it is, the ever coveted post-combine mock draft. For those of you keeping tally, this is number 3 for me, and I will attempt to limit myself to 4. What makes this mock draft so special you ask? Well, for one, it will include two rounds of projections. Yes, two! Secondly, I wrote it, so that is why it is so special. Any other questions? Okay, let us start with the Raiders...
Round 1
1. Oakland Raiders - JaMarcus Russell, QB, LSU
No surprise here. Russell is the most dynamic quarterback talent in the draft and he is at a position of need for the Raiders [but really, what position isn't?]. With his combination of athleticism and size, he's built to take a beating, which is what he will be doing behind a porous offensive line.
2. Detroit Lions - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame
This isn't a reflection of Quinn's rising stock as much as it is a reflection of the Lions needs and actions in free agency. Quinn would be a good fit in Detroit, and I think Mike Martz would be the perfect coach for him. Martz has always worked with true pocket passers like Quinn, but he hasn't had one as hyped as Quinn. With KJ and Tatum Bell in the backfield, Roy Williams on the outside and Quinn under center, the Lions might become a team to watch. But about that defense...
3. Cleveland Browns - Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin
The Browns are in a tough position with this pick. They could take an impact halfback in Adrian Peterson, a defensive standout like Gaines Adams or an O-line stronghold in Thomas. With the depth at running back and defensive end in this draft, I expect them to go with Thomas. Thomas is ready to step in immediately and anchor a line that is on a downslide.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech
Although the Bucs have alot more glaring needs than a wide reciever, Johnson is the best player in the draft, hands down. Gruden has stock-piled mediocre quarterbacks, so he might as well surround them with top tier talent. Johnson, Michael Clayton, Joey Galloway and Alex Smith make for a dynamic group of pass catchers and Cadillac can get going out of the backfield when he is healthy.
5. Arizona Cardinals - Levi Brown, OT, Penn State
The Cardinals are in a position much like that of the Browns and Lions. They have multiple needs, so they could trade down to stockpile picks or they could stay put and take a top tier offensive lineman or defensive playmaker. On the defensive side, Gaines Adams, Amobi Okoye, and Alan Branch would make sense. Brown makes the most sense, however, because they lost LT Leonard Davis through free agency and Brown should be able to fill the void at tackle immediately.
6. Washington Redskins - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
The Redskins are in the market for alot of defensive help, and they acquired CB Fred Smoot and MLB London Fletcher-Baker through free agency. What's next? Adding a pass rusher for a team that didn't have any pass rush makes the most sense. Adams and Jamaal Anderson are the elite talents at end in this draft, and if either drops here, the 'Skins should take them in a hearbeat.
7. Minnesota Vikings - Adrian Peterson, HB, Oklahoma
The Vikings have a wealth of needs on offense, most pertinent of which being wide reciever, but with the depth there, they should be able to get a good one in round 2. Drafting Peterson would give the Vikings a 1-2 punch out of the backfield with him and incumbent Chester Taylor. They could take WR Ted Ginn Jr. or Robert Meachum here, but they would get better value by waiting until the second round. In the second round, the Vikes could find a multitude of wide recievers to fit their needs like Aundrae Allison, Craig Davis, Steve Smith and Jason Hill.
8. Houston Texans - Alan Branch, DT, Michigan
Branch has the size and versatility to play anywhere on the Texans front. He'll probably land at NT, where they wouldn't have to pull him on passing downs. Houstons other top needs are offensive line, quarterback and halfback, but with the top players off the board at those position, they'll likely look to upgrade the defense. Other options include CB Leon Hall or safeties LaRon Landry and Reggie Nelson.
9. Miami Dolphins - Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville
The Dolphins defense is on the decline, mainly because the general age of it is on the incline. In looking to get youner, especially along the line, the 19-year old Okoye makes sense. He is still a but raw but possesses all the tools to develop into a very good defensive tackle. If OT Levi Brown slides to this spot, he becomes an option, as does DE Jamaal Anderson and CB Leon Hall.
10. Atlanta Falcons - Reggie Nelson, S, Florida
Nelson helped his stock by putting on a great show at Florida's pro day. Safety is a major position of need for the Falcons, and Petrino would love an athletic, ball-hawking, centerfield type safety. Petrino also needs big offensive lineman, as he is scraping the zone blocking scheme and going back to a road-grader, man-to-man scheme. After Nelson, look for them to take offensive lineman the rest of the first day.
11. San Fransico 49ers - LaRon Landry, S, LSU
The 49ers shored up alot of their weaknesses through trades and free agency. Their biggest signing was prized CB Nate Clements, who will be joined on the defensive side by former Patriots linebacker Tully Banta-Cain. The prize additions on offense will be WR's Bryan Gilmore and Ashley Lelie, who was acquired via trade. Landry will likely play at FS, across from Michael Lewis, with will move Keith Lewis into the backup safety role at each spot.
12. Buffalo Bills - Leon Hall, CB, Michigan
Hall has drawn comparisons to recently departed Bills' cornerback Nate Clements. He doesn;t have top speed, but he has a great combination of size and athleticism. He should start right away across from Terrence McGee. With the safety position on lockdown from last years rookies Ko Simpson and Donte Whitner, this could be a solid secondary. The Bills will look at defensive end Jamaal Anderson here as well as RB Marshawn Lynch.
13. St. Louis Rams - Aaron Ross, DB, Texas
Even though the Rams signed Todd Johnson from the Bears, he won't really upgrade the safety position. If Ross can't beat out the incumbent Oshiomogho Atogwe, he can be used as a backup at safety and cornerback. The rams will also look at defensive tackle, buy Tank Tyler would be a stretch at this point, so look for them to take one in the second round.
14. Carolina Panthers - Patrick Willis, ILB, Ole Miss
Willis is far and away the best inside linebacker in this draft. He was a three year starter in the SEC, so he has experience. He's very athletic as well, so he is ready to start in the NFL. The Panthers need him too. They don't have any young inside linebackers on their team and they don't have much depth at the position in general. Safety and tight end will also be looked at here, but unless Reggie Nelson or LaRon Landry fall, they will probably go with Willis
15. Pittsburgh Steelers - Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas
Tomlin eventually wants to switch to a 4-3 defense, and Anderson would be a good cornerstone. During the transition this season, he'll be used as a situational pass rusher. Cornerback and safety will also be looked at here, but Anderson is to good of a prospect to pass up. Look for Tomlin to draft defensive players the rest of day one [unless they find a pounding back that they covet] to ease the transition to the Tampa 2 defense.
16. Green Bay Packers - Marshawn Lynch, RB, Cal
As their roster sits now, Noah Herron and Vernand Morency will battle for the starting halfback job. That isn't the greatest battle to have for one of the more important positions on the team. Lynch would walk into camp as the favorite to win the starting job. He's a solid all-around back that Favre could use to his advantage. The Packers are also going to be looking at wide recievers, defensive tackles and cornerbacks.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars - Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska
The jags most glaring need is at safety, but unless one of the top two fall, they will likely focus on end. Carriker has the big body that the Jags usually go for on their defense, but he also has great speed for his size. At 6-6 and pushing 300 lbs., Carriker will be a tough matchup for any offensive tackle.
18. Cincinatti Bengals - Lawrence Timmons, OLB, Florida State
Here is a major thing going for Timmons: he isn't a total head case. And the Bengals could use an outside linebacker, so this seems like a good match. Timmons hasn't worked out the greatest, but it is evident from gametape that he is a top tier athlete for his position. Even though he is raw [started one year at FSU], he has good instincts and attacks the ballcarrier.
19. Tennessee Titans - Ted Ginn Jr., WR, Ohio State
The Titans would be ecstatic if Ginn fell to them here. But they would also be happy with Dwayne Bowe, Dwayne Jarret or Robert Meachum. Losing Drew Bennett via free agency puts the Titans in dire need of a reciever. I wouldn't be surpsrised to see them trade into the top 5 to take a shot at Johnson. I can't even imagine watching VY and Johnson on the field at the same time.
20. New York Giants - Jon Beason, OLB, Miami [FL]
By releasing veteran linebackers LaVar Arrington and Carlos Emmons, the Giants made outside linebacker their #1 position of need, even ahead of corner. Beason's stock has been rising ever since he has declared for the draft. I doubt that he will challenge Timmons for the top spot, but it might get close.
21. Denver Broncos - Robert Meachum, WR, Tennessee
Besides Rod Smith, who is quickly showing his age, and Javon Walker, who is always a health question mark, they don't have alot at WR. Brandon Marshall showed flashes of brilliance last year but was inconsistent. Meachum would likely step in as the slot WR and learn under Smith until he is ready to take a step back. Defensive end, cornerback and safety are other needs for an otherwise strong Broncos team.
22. Dallas Cowboys - Darrelle Revis, CB, Pittsburgh
The Cowboys need a FS more than they need a corner, but by drafting a corner, they can move Anthony Henry to free safety where he would likely be more productive at this point in his career. They should also be looking to get younger at wide receiver, both T.O. and Terry Glenn are getting up there in age. Behind those two, there really isn't anybody on the roster ready to step up.
23. Kansas City Chiefs - Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC
Jarrett could see his stock skyrocket if he runs well at USC's pro day, but if not, this is about as far down as he will go. He's the playmaker on the edge that the Chiefs could use. If they don't use this pick on a wideout, they'll target a corner like Arkansas's Chris Houston. Offensive tackle is also a need, but anybody but Brown and Thomas would be a reach here.
24. New England Patriots [via Seattle] - Paul Posluszny, LB, PSU
Posluszny seems to make so much sense in New England. He is a smart, instinctive playmaker who isn't loud and obnoxious. He can play on the inside or on the outside. 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. New York Jets - Ben Grubbs, OG, Auburn
The Jets could go get a TE, OLB or CB here, but guard is just as much a need and Grubbs is a better player than they could get at those three positions. Grubbs should be able to start at right guard immediately. Halfback might've been a need until they acquired Thomas Jones via trade, but don't be surprised if they take one early on day two.
26. Philadelphia Eagles - Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU
By losing Donte Stallworth in free agency the Eagles lose their number 1 wideout and deep threat. With Jeremy Bloom being ready for next season, he can be the deep threat, but neither him, Hank Baskett or Jason Avant will be able to step in as a starter. Cornerback and safety is also a position of need, so look for them to address the defense in later rounds.
27. New Orleans Saints - Chris Houston, CB, Arkansas
Houston's stock is flying higher than ever because of his workout at the combine and it wouldn't be surprising to see him rise into the late teens. Cornerback should be priority number 1 for the Saints. They will also be looking at acquiring depth and youth at linebacker and a pass-catching tight end.
28. New England Patriots - Jarvis Moss, DE/OLB, Florida
Moss fits into New England's mold of tweeners that can play on the line or a few yards back. He is a fantastic athlete who will provide pressure from the edge. He is a bit raw but will have time to develop.
29. Baltimore Ravens - Charles Johnson, DE/OLB, Georgia
The Ravens lost their Mr. Versatility [Adalius Thomas] in free agency, so it makes sense to go out and get one in the draft. He should step right into Thomas's shoes and start on the outside in the Ravens 3-4 scheme. The two other positions of need are cornerback, due to lack of depth, and tackle, due to the departure of free agent Tony Pashos.
30. San Diego Chargers - Sidney Rice, WR, South Carolina
A reciever combination of Vincent Jackson and Rice would give the Chargers some primo mismatches. Jackson, who is 6-5, and Rice, who is 6-4, each have great speed and athleticism for their size. Safety and guard are other positions of need, but those will likely be taken care of later or through free agency.
31. Chicago Bears - Greg Olson, TE, Miami
If the Bears are commited to Grossman as their quarterback, they might as well get him some weapons. Olson is the top TE in the draft and would be a steal at this point. Depth on defense, especially at safety and defensive tackle, will be keyed in on throughout the draft.
32. Indianapolis Colts - LaMarr Woodley, DE/OLB, Michigan
Woodley would start off as a pass rush specialist as they work him into the spot left open by departing OLB Cato June. Woodley is the athletic type of linebacker that Dungy prefers for his defense. Defensive tackle, running back and wide reciever are other needs for the defending champs.
Round 2
1. Oakland Raiders - Justin Blalock, OG, Texas
2. Detroit Lions - Daymeion Hughes, CB, Cal
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Tank Tyler, DT, N.C. State
4. Cleveland Browns - Anthony Spencer, DE/OLB, Purdue
5. N.Y. Jets [via Washington] - Zach Miller, TE, Arizona State
6. Arizona Cardinals - Brandon Mebane, DT, Cal
7. Houston Texans - Tony Ugoh, OT, Arkansas
8. Miami Dolphins - Jonathan Wade, CB, Tennessee
9. Minnesota Vikings - Anthony Gonzalez, WR, OSU
10. San Francisco 49ers - Aaron Sears, OT, Tennessee
11. Buffalo Bills - Michael Bush, RB, Louisville
12. Atlanta Falcons - Josh Beekman, OG, Boston College
13. Carolina Panthers - Drew Stanton, QB, Michigan State
14. Pittsburgh Steelers - Brandon Meriweather, S, Miami [FL]
15. Green Bay Packers - Eric Wright, CB, UNLV
16. Jacksonville Jaguars - Michael Griffin, S, Texas
17. Cincinatti Bengals - Justin Harrell, DT, Tennessee
18. Tennessee Titans - Quentin Moses, DE/OLB, Georgia
19. N.Y. Giants - Marcus McCauley, CB, Fresno St.
20. St. Louis Rams - Ryan McBean, DT, Oklahoma St.
21. Dallas Cowboys - Aundrae Allison, WR, Eastern Carolina
22. Kansas City Chiefs - Joe Staley, OT, Michigan State
23. Seattle Seahawks - Eric Weedle, S, Utah
24. Denver Broncos - Marcus Thomas, DT, Florida
25. Philadelphia Eagles - Josh Wilson, CB, Maryland
26. New Orleans Saints - Rufus Alexander, OLB, Oklahoma
27. N.Y. Jets - Aaron Rouse, S, Virginia Poly
28. New England Patriots - Jason Hill, WR, Washington St.
29. Baltimore Ravens - C.J. Gaddis, Clemson
30. San Diego Chargers - Manny Ramirez, OG, Texas Tech
31. Chicago Bears - Prescott Burgess, OLB, Michigan
32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers [via Indianapolis] - Josh Gattis, S, Wake Forest
Round 1
1. Oakland Raiders - JaMarcus Russell, QB, LSU
No surprise here. Russell is the most dynamic quarterback talent in the draft and he is at a position of need for the Raiders [but really, what position isn't?]. With his combination of athleticism and size, he's built to take a beating, which is what he will be doing behind a porous offensive line.
2. Detroit Lions - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame
This isn't a reflection of Quinn's rising stock as much as it is a reflection of the Lions needs and actions in free agency. Quinn would be a good fit in Detroit, and I think Mike Martz would be the perfect coach for him. Martz has always worked with true pocket passers like Quinn, but he hasn't had one as hyped as Quinn. With KJ and Tatum Bell in the backfield, Roy Williams on the outside and Quinn under center, the Lions might become a team to watch. But about that defense...
3. Cleveland Browns - Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin
The Browns are in a tough position with this pick. They could take an impact halfback in Adrian Peterson, a defensive standout like Gaines Adams or an O-line stronghold in Thomas. With the depth at running back and defensive end in this draft, I expect them to go with Thomas. Thomas is ready to step in immediately and anchor a line that is on a downslide.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech
Although the Bucs have alot more glaring needs than a wide reciever, Johnson is the best player in the draft, hands down. Gruden has stock-piled mediocre quarterbacks, so he might as well surround them with top tier talent. Johnson, Michael Clayton, Joey Galloway and Alex Smith make for a dynamic group of pass catchers and Cadillac can get going out of the backfield when he is healthy.
5. Arizona Cardinals - Levi Brown, OT, Penn State
The Cardinals are in a position much like that of the Browns and Lions. They have multiple needs, so they could trade down to stockpile picks or they could stay put and take a top tier offensive lineman or defensive playmaker. On the defensive side, Gaines Adams, Amobi Okoye, and Alan Branch would make sense. Brown makes the most sense, however, because they lost LT Leonard Davis through free agency and Brown should be able to fill the void at tackle immediately.
6. Washington Redskins - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
The Redskins are in the market for alot of defensive help, and they acquired CB Fred Smoot and MLB London Fletcher-Baker through free agency. What's next? Adding a pass rusher for a team that didn't have any pass rush makes the most sense. Adams and Jamaal Anderson are the elite talents at end in this draft, and if either drops here, the 'Skins should take them in a hearbeat.
7. Minnesota Vikings - Adrian Peterson, HB, Oklahoma
The Vikings have a wealth of needs on offense, most pertinent of which being wide reciever, but with the depth there, they should be able to get a good one in round 2. Drafting Peterson would give the Vikings a 1-2 punch out of the backfield with him and incumbent Chester Taylor. They could take WR Ted Ginn Jr. or Robert Meachum here, but they would get better value by waiting until the second round. In the second round, the Vikes could find a multitude of wide recievers to fit their needs like Aundrae Allison, Craig Davis, Steve Smith and Jason Hill.
8. Houston Texans - Alan Branch, DT, Michigan
Branch has the size and versatility to play anywhere on the Texans front. He'll probably land at NT, where they wouldn't have to pull him on passing downs. Houstons other top needs are offensive line, quarterback and halfback, but with the top players off the board at those position, they'll likely look to upgrade the defense. Other options include CB Leon Hall or safeties LaRon Landry and Reggie Nelson.
9. Miami Dolphins - Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville
The Dolphins defense is on the decline, mainly because the general age of it is on the incline. In looking to get youner, especially along the line, the 19-year old Okoye makes sense. He is still a but raw but possesses all the tools to develop into a very good defensive tackle. If OT Levi Brown slides to this spot, he becomes an option, as does DE Jamaal Anderson and CB Leon Hall.
10. Atlanta Falcons - Reggie Nelson, S, Florida
Nelson helped his stock by putting on a great show at Florida's pro day. Safety is a major position of need for the Falcons, and Petrino would love an athletic, ball-hawking, centerfield type safety. Petrino also needs big offensive lineman, as he is scraping the zone blocking scheme and going back to a road-grader, man-to-man scheme. After Nelson, look for them to take offensive lineman the rest of the first day.
11. San Fransico 49ers - LaRon Landry, S, LSU
The 49ers shored up alot of their weaknesses through trades and free agency. Their biggest signing was prized CB Nate Clements, who will be joined on the defensive side by former Patriots linebacker Tully Banta-Cain. The prize additions on offense will be WR's Bryan Gilmore and Ashley Lelie, who was acquired via trade. Landry will likely play at FS, across from Michael Lewis, with will move Keith Lewis into the backup safety role at each spot.
12. Buffalo Bills - Leon Hall, CB, Michigan
Hall has drawn comparisons to recently departed Bills' cornerback Nate Clements. He doesn;t have top speed, but he has a great combination of size and athleticism. He should start right away across from Terrence McGee. With the safety position on lockdown from last years rookies Ko Simpson and Donte Whitner, this could be a solid secondary. The Bills will look at defensive end Jamaal Anderson here as well as RB Marshawn Lynch.
13. St. Louis Rams - Aaron Ross, DB, Texas
Even though the Rams signed Todd Johnson from the Bears, he won't really upgrade the safety position. If Ross can't beat out the incumbent Oshiomogho Atogwe, he can be used as a backup at safety and cornerback. The rams will also look at defensive tackle, buy Tank Tyler would be a stretch at this point, so look for them to take one in the second round.
14. Carolina Panthers - Patrick Willis, ILB, Ole Miss
Willis is far and away the best inside linebacker in this draft. He was a three year starter in the SEC, so he has experience. He's very athletic as well, so he is ready to start in the NFL. The Panthers need him too. They don't have any young inside linebackers on their team and they don't have much depth at the position in general. Safety and tight end will also be looked at here, but unless Reggie Nelson or LaRon Landry fall, they will probably go with Willis
15. Pittsburgh Steelers - Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas
Tomlin eventually wants to switch to a 4-3 defense, and Anderson would be a good cornerstone. During the transition this season, he'll be used as a situational pass rusher. Cornerback and safety will also be looked at here, but Anderson is to good of a prospect to pass up. Look for Tomlin to draft defensive players the rest of day one [unless they find a pounding back that they covet] to ease the transition to the Tampa 2 defense.
16. Green Bay Packers - Marshawn Lynch, RB, Cal
As their roster sits now, Noah Herron and Vernand Morency will battle for the starting halfback job. That isn't the greatest battle to have for one of the more important positions on the team. Lynch would walk into camp as the favorite to win the starting job. He's a solid all-around back that Favre could use to his advantage. The Packers are also going to be looking at wide recievers, defensive tackles and cornerbacks.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars - Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska
The jags most glaring need is at safety, but unless one of the top two fall, they will likely focus on end. Carriker has the big body that the Jags usually go for on their defense, but he also has great speed for his size. At 6-6 and pushing 300 lbs., Carriker will be a tough matchup for any offensive tackle.
18. Cincinatti Bengals - Lawrence Timmons, OLB, Florida State
Here is a major thing going for Timmons: he isn't a total head case. And the Bengals could use an outside linebacker, so this seems like a good match. Timmons hasn't worked out the greatest, but it is evident from gametape that he is a top tier athlete for his position. Even though he is raw [started one year at FSU], he has good instincts and attacks the ballcarrier.
19. Tennessee Titans - Ted Ginn Jr., WR, Ohio State
The Titans would be ecstatic if Ginn fell to them here. But they would also be happy with Dwayne Bowe, Dwayne Jarret or Robert Meachum. Losing Drew Bennett via free agency puts the Titans in dire need of a reciever. I wouldn't be surpsrised to see them trade into the top 5 to take a shot at Johnson. I can't even imagine watching VY and Johnson on the field at the same time.
20. New York Giants - Jon Beason, OLB, Miami [FL]
By releasing veteran linebackers LaVar Arrington and Carlos Emmons, the Giants made outside linebacker their #1 position of need, even ahead of corner. Beason's stock has been rising ever since he has declared for the draft. I doubt that he will challenge Timmons for the top spot, but it might get close.
21. Denver Broncos - Robert Meachum, WR, Tennessee
Besides Rod Smith, who is quickly showing his age, and Javon Walker, who is always a health question mark, they don't have alot at WR. Brandon Marshall showed flashes of brilliance last year but was inconsistent. Meachum would likely step in as the slot WR and learn under Smith until he is ready to take a step back. Defensive end, cornerback and safety are other needs for an otherwise strong Broncos team.
22. Dallas Cowboys - Darrelle Revis, CB, Pittsburgh
The Cowboys need a FS more than they need a corner, but by drafting a corner, they can move Anthony Henry to free safety where he would likely be more productive at this point in his career. They should also be looking to get younger at wide receiver, both T.O. and Terry Glenn are getting up there in age. Behind those two, there really isn't anybody on the roster ready to step up.
23. Kansas City Chiefs - Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC
Jarrett could see his stock skyrocket if he runs well at USC's pro day, but if not, this is about as far down as he will go. He's the playmaker on the edge that the Chiefs could use. If they don't use this pick on a wideout, they'll target a corner like Arkansas's Chris Houston. Offensive tackle is also a need, but anybody but Brown and Thomas would be a reach here.
24. New England Patriots [via Seattle] - Paul Posluszny, LB, PSU
Posluszny seems to make so much sense in New England. He is a smart, instinctive playmaker who isn't loud and obnoxious. He can play on the inside or on the outside. 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. New York Jets - Ben Grubbs, OG, Auburn
The Jets could go get a TE, OLB or CB here, but guard is just as much a need and Grubbs is a better player than they could get at those three positions. Grubbs should be able to start at right guard immediately. Halfback might've been a need until they acquired Thomas Jones via trade, but don't be surprised if they take one early on day two.
26. Philadelphia Eagles - Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU
By losing Donte Stallworth in free agency the Eagles lose their number 1 wideout and deep threat. With Jeremy Bloom being ready for next season, he can be the deep threat, but neither him, Hank Baskett or Jason Avant will be able to step in as a starter. Cornerback and safety is also a position of need, so look for them to address the defense in later rounds.
27. New Orleans Saints - Chris Houston, CB, Arkansas
Houston's stock is flying higher than ever because of his workout at the combine and it wouldn't be surprising to see him rise into the late teens. Cornerback should be priority number 1 for the Saints. They will also be looking at acquiring depth and youth at linebacker and a pass-catching tight end.
28. New England Patriots - Jarvis Moss, DE/OLB, Florida
Moss fits into New England's mold of tweeners that can play on the line or a few yards back. He is a fantastic athlete who will provide pressure from the edge. He is a bit raw but will have time to develop.
29. Baltimore Ravens - Charles Johnson, DE/OLB, Georgia
The Ravens lost their Mr. Versatility [Adalius Thomas] in free agency, so it makes sense to go out and get one in the draft. He should step right into Thomas's shoes and start on the outside in the Ravens 3-4 scheme. The two other positions of need are cornerback, due to lack of depth, and tackle, due to the departure of free agent Tony Pashos.
30. San Diego Chargers - Sidney Rice, WR, South Carolina
A reciever combination of Vincent Jackson and Rice would give the Chargers some primo mismatches. Jackson, who is 6-5, and Rice, who is 6-4, each have great speed and athleticism for their size. Safety and guard are other positions of need, but those will likely be taken care of later or through free agency.
31. Chicago Bears - Greg Olson, TE, Miami
If the Bears are commited to Grossman as their quarterback, they might as well get him some weapons. Olson is the top TE in the draft and would be a steal at this point. Depth on defense, especially at safety and defensive tackle, will be keyed in on throughout the draft.
32. Indianapolis Colts - LaMarr Woodley, DE/OLB, Michigan
Woodley would start off as a pass rush specialist as they work him into the spot left open by departing OLB Cato June. Woodley is the athletic type of linebacker that Dungy prefers for his defense. Defensive tackle, running back and wide reciever are other needs for the defending champs.
Round 2
1. Oakland Raiders - Justin Blalock, OG, Texas
2. Detroit Lions - Daymeion Hughes, CB, Cal
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Tank Tyler, DT, N.C. State
4. Cleveland Browns - Anthony Spencer, DE/OLB, Purdue
5. N.Y. Jets [via Washington] - Zach Miller, TE, Arizona State
6. Arizona Cardinals - Brandon Mebane, DT, Cal
7. Houston Texans - Tony Ugoh, OT, Arkansas
8. Miami Dolphins - Jonathan Wade, CB, Tennessee
9. Minnesota Vikings - Anthony Gonzalez, WR, OSU
10. San Francisco 49ers - Aaron Sears, OT, Tennessee
11. Buffalo Bills - Michael Bush, RB, Louisville
12. Atlanta Falcons - Josh Beekman, OG, Boston College
13. Carolina Panthers - Drew Stanton, QB, Michigan State
14. Pittsburgh Steelers - Brandon Meriweather, S, Miami [FL]
15. Green Bay Packers - Eric Wright, CB, UNLV
16. Jacksonville Jaguars - Michael Griffin, S, Texas
17. Cincinatti Bengals - Justin Harrell, DT, Tennessee
18. Tennessee Titans - Quentin Moses, DE/OLB, Georgia
19. N.Y. Giants - Marcus McCauley, CB, Fresno St.
20. St. Louis Rams - Ryan McBean, DT, Oklahoma St.
21. Dallas Cowboys - Aundrae Allison, WR, Eastern Carolina
22. Kansas City Chiefs - Joe Staley, OT, Michigan State
23. Seattle Seahawks - Eric Weedle, S, Utah
24. Denver Broncos - Marcus Thomas, DT, Florida
25. Philadelphia Eagles - Josh Wilson, CB, Maryland
26. New Orleans Saints - Rufus Alexander, OLB, Oklahoma
27. N.Y. Jets - Aaron Rouse, S, Virginia Poly
28. New England Patriots - Jason Hill, WR, Washington St.
29. Baltimore Ravens - C.J. Gaddis, Clemson
30. San Diego Chargers - Manny Ramirez, OG, Texas Tech
31. Chicago Bears - Prescott Burgess, OLB, Michigan
32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers [via Indianapolis] - Josh Gattis, S, Wake Forest
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Bustin' Brackets and Breakin' Heads [wait, that was Chris Simon]
To view my bracket, click this sentence anywhere.
The Final Four
UCLA[2]: The Champion
Guard play is all important in the tourney, and the Bruins are stocked. Starters Aaron Afflalo, Darren Collison, and Josh Shipp[who is listed at forward, but at 6-5, he's a 2 guard] all score in double digits. They're deep at the position to, with Michael Roll and Russel Westbrook coming off the bench. The Bruins weaknesses are lack of size and experience. Lorenzo Mata is the tallest on the team at 6-9, and the only other solid big men are forwards Luc Richard Mbah a Moute at 6-8 and Alfred Aboya at 6-8. Mbah a Moute is the best big man, so look for him to stay on the floor when they go to a four guard set with Afflalo, Collison, Shipp, and Roll or Westbrook. There are no seniors on the team, and the point guard, Collison, is only a sophomore. But last year, a young Florida team got it done, so why not UCLA.
Ohio State[1]: The Runner-Up
Ohio State goes 0-2 in major championships on the year. But unless you are a Florida or UCLA fan, no ripping them. Atleast they got there. Depth is by far this teams best strength, 9 guys average double digit minutes. They have four talented guards, led by freshman Daequan Cook and Mike Conley Jr. They also have superfrosh 1B, Greg Oden, who provides a dominant force in the middle. What are their weaknesses? Although Cook and Conley Jr. are good, neither can dominate the game from the guard spot, which is needed late in close games. They also lack depth behind Greg Oden. Look for head coach Thad Matta to use alot of three and four guard sets.
Texas[4]: The Champ of the East
Texas has a tough road to the final four, but they have the team to make it. Led by superfrosh 1A, Kevin Durant, Texas will never be out of a game. Freshman point guard D.J. Augustin continues to improve and impress as leader of the court. The Longhorns can go 7 deep and have depth across the board. Size is a concern with this team, their tallest true guard is 6-2 Justin Mason [starters D.J. Augustin and A.J. Abrams are 5-11 and 5-10, respectively]. Sophomore F-C Connor Atchley will have to be the size in the middle, and Durant will end up playing alot of PF against taller teams. The Longhorns have the same weakness as Ohio St. and UCLA, a lack of experience. The starting line-up consists of four freshman and one sophomore. The only senior on the roster, G Craig Winder, only plays about 7 mpg in a deep guard rotation
Oregon[3]: The Champ of the Midwest
The Ducks started the season hotter than a mallard flambe, but cooled off around midseason. They managed to survive a deep and tough Pac-10 and win the title. Guards Aaron Brooks, Bryce Taylor and miniature sized frosh Tajuan Porter can light up a scoreboard against anyone. 6-9 junior Maart Leunen is the force in the middle, averaging 11 ppg and 8.5 rpg. The Ducks will go to a four guard set early in games to set the tempo and get ahead. Behind Brooks, Taylor and Porter, they have reliable juniors Malik Hairston[11.1 ppg, 6.0 rpg] and Chamberlain Oguchi, who excels on the defensive side of the ball. Oregon is an up-and-down team, but winning the Pac-10 tournament by slaughtering USC showed me that they are ready to return to their early season tempo.
The Sleepers
Arizona Wildcats, 8 seed, Midwest
The Wildcats have an explosive offense led by point guard Mustafa Shakur [6.9 apg]. Sophomore forward Marcus Williams and frosh forward Chase Budinger led the team in scoring at 16.8 and 15.6 respectively. With such a dynamic offense, Arizona can beat anyone in the tournament. The problem with their offense is that if it is off on a certain night [which happens often], their defense cannot carry the team. But when the offense is on, they're near unstoppable, they went 12-1 when they scored over 80 points. They lack size in the middle, with 6-10 Ivan Radenovic and 6-9 Jordan Hill being the only big guys that see a significant amount of playing time. If they can beat Purdue by playing a good game, and keep that rolling against Florida, they have a chance to make the Elite 8 and battle Pac-10 foe, Oregon [who shelled them in the first round of the Pac-10 tourney] for a spot in the Final Four.
Villanova Wildcats, 9 seed, West
Led by seniors Mike Nardi and Curtis Sumpter, the Wildcats could break out in the tournament and surprise some people. Star frosh Scottie Reynolds is the third player in the trifecta that 'Nova will count on to get them far. This team isn't like previous teams, with 4 guys that are 6-7 or taller averaging more than 20 minutes. The problem with that stat is that two of the guys are 6-7 and the other two are 6-8. The teams only size is 6-10, 280 lb. frosh Casiem Drummond, who only plays about 8 minutes per game. Throughout the season though, the Cats proved they could beat tough teams by winning at Georgetown and at home against Notre Dame, Texas and Syracuse. With Sumpter healthy and Reynolds improving rapidly, Villanova could make a run beat the oft-upset Kansas in the second round.
Washington State Cougars, 3 seed, East
It's hard to call Washington State a sleeper team since they are a 3 seed, but if you haven't been paying attention to college basketball, this team will shock you. Predicted to finish at the very bottom of the Pac-10, they finished the season pushing for a spot in the top 10 in the polls. Tony Bennett deserves coach of the year honors for steering his team through a tough Pac-10. The Cougars don't turn the ball over [10.4 tpg] and rarely allows an opponent to light them up [58.8 points against pg]. This is a well-rounded team led by well rounded junior guard Kyle Weaver [11.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg, and 4.5 apg]. 6-1 junior guard Derrick Low is the teams leading scorer with 13.6 ppg. Robbie Cowgill and Aron Baynes, both standing at 6-10, have the middle on lockdown. The Cougars have alot of depth to, so they won't tire easily. Don't be surprised if they make it to an Elite Eight matchup against Texas.
Nevada Wolfpack, 7 seed, South
Even of you're a casual fan of college basketball, you've heard of Nevada forward Nick Fazekas. The three-time WAC player of the year and All-American is a big reason for his teams success, but he isn't the only weapon they have. Scoring wing Marcelus Kemp is dropping 18.3 ppg and Ramon Sessions is an all-around force [12.5 ppg, 4.8 rpg, and 4.7 apg]. And ofcourse there is Fazekas, who averages a double-double [20.5 ppg and 11.2 rpg]. This team has the skill, the depth and the size to make a huge impact in this years tournament.
The Final Four
UCLA[2]: The Champion
Guard play is all important in the tourney, and the Bruins are stocked. Starters Aaron Afflalo, Darren Collison, and Josh Shipp[who is listed at forward, but at 6-5, he's a 2 guard] all score in double digits. They're deep at the position to, with Michael Roll and Russel Westbrook coming off the bench. The Bruins weaknesses are lack of size and experience. Lorenzo Mata is the tallest on the team at 6-9, and the only other solid big men are forwards Luc Richard Mbah a Moute at 6-8 and Alfred Aboya at 6-8. Mbah a Moute is the best big man, so look for him to stay on the floor when they go to a four guard set with Afflalo, Collison, Shipp, and Roll or Westbrook. There are no seniors on the team, and the point guard, Collison, is only a sophomore. But last year, a young Florida team got it done, so why not UCLA.
Ohio State[1]: The Runner-Up
Ohio State goes 0-2 in major championships on the year. But unless you are a Florida or UCLA fan, no ripping them. Atleast they got there. Depth is by far this teams best strength, 9 guys average double digit minutes. They have four talented guards, led by freshman Daequan Cook and Mike Conley Jr. They also have superfrosh 1B, Greg Oden, who provides a dominant force in the middle. What are their weaknesses? Although Cook and Conley Jr. are good, neither can dominate the game from the guard spot, which is needed late in close games. They also lack depth behind Greg Oden. Look for head coach Thad Matta to use alot of three and four guard sets.
Texas[4]: The Champ of the East
Texas has a tough road to the final four, but they have the team to make it. Led by superfrosh 1A, Kevin Durant, Texas will never be out of a game. Freshman point guard D.J. Augustin continues to improve and impress as leader of the court. The Longhorns can go 7 deep and have depth across the board. Size is a concern with this team, their tallest true guard is 6-2 Justin Mason [starters D.J. Augustin and A.J. Abrams are 5-11 and 5-10, respectively]. Sophomore F-C Connor Atchley will have to be the size in the middle, and Durant will end up playing alot of PF against taller teams. The Longhorns have the same weakness as Ohio St. and UCLA, a lack of experience. The starting line-up consists of four freshman and one sophomore. The only senior on the roster, G Craig Winder, only plays about 7 mpg in a deep guard rotation
Oregon[3]: The Champ of the Midwest
The Ducks started the season hotter than a mallard flambe, but cooled off around midseason. They managed to survive a deep and tough Pac-10 and win the title. Guards Aaron Brooks, Bryce Taylor and miniature sized frosh Tajuan Porter can light up a scoreboard against anyone. 6-9 junior Maart Leunen is the force in the middle, averaging 11 ppg and 8.5 rpg. The Ducks will go to a four guard set early in games to set the tempo and get ahead. Behind Brooks, Taylor and Porter, they have reliable juniors Malik Hairston[11.1 ppg, 6.0 rpg] and Chamberlain Oguchi, who excels on the defensive side of the ball. Oregon is an up-and-down team, but winning the Pac-10 tournament by slaughtering USC showed me that they are ready to return to their early season tempo.
The Sleepers
Arizona Wildcats, 8 seed, Midwest
The Wildcats have an explosive offense led by point guard Mustafa Shakur [6.9 apg]. Sophomore forward Marcus Williams and frosh forward Chase Budinger led the team in scoring at 16.8 and 15.6 respectively. With such a dynamic offense, Arizona can beat anyone in the tournament. The problem with their offense is that if it is off on a certain night [which happens often], their defense cannot carry the team. But when the offense is on, they're near unstoppable, they went 12-1 when they scored over 80 points. They lack size in the middle, with 6-10 Ivan Radenovic and 6-9 Jordan Hill being the only big guys that see a significant amount of playing time. If they can beat Purdue by playing a good game, and keep that rolling against Florida, they have a chance to make the Elite 8 and battle Pac-10 foe, Oregon [who shelled them in the first round of the Pac-10 tourney] for a spot in the Final Four.
Villanova Wildcats, 9 seed, West
Led by seniors Mike Nardi and Curtis Sumpter, the Wildcats could break out in the tournament and surprise some people. Star frosh Scottie Reynolds is the third player in the trifecta that 'Nova will count on to get them far. This team isn't like previous teams, with 4 guys that are 6-7 or taller averaging more than 20 minutes. The problem with that stat is that two of the guys are 6-7 and the other two are 6-8. The teams only size is 6-10, 280 lb. frosh Casiem Drummond, who only plays about 8 minutes per game. Throughout the season though, the Cats proved they could beat tough teams by winning at Georgetown and at home against Notre Dame, Texas and Syracuse. With Sumpter healthy and Reynolds improving rapidly, Villanova could make a run beat the oft-upset Kansas in the second round.
Washington State Cougars, 3 seed, East
It's hard to call Washington State a sleeper team since they are a 3 seed, but if you haven't been paying attention to college basketball, this team will shock you. Predicted to finish at the very bottom of the Pac-10, they finished the season pushing for a spot in the top 10 in the polls. Tony Bennett deserves coach of the year honors for steering his team through a tough Pac-10. The Cougars don't turn the ball over [10.4 tpg] and rarely allows an opponent to light them up [58.8 points against pg]. This is a well-rounded team led by well rounded junior guard Kyle Weaver [11.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg, and 4.5 apg]. 6-1 junior guard Derrick Low is the teams leading scorer with 13.6 ppg. Robbie Cowgill and Aron Baynes, both standing at 6-10, have the middle on lockdown. The Cougars have alot of depth to, so they won't tire easily. Don't be surprised if they make it to an Elite Eight matchup against Texas.
Nevada Wolfpack, 7 seed, South
Even of you're a casual fan of college basketball, you've heard of Nevada forward Nick Fazekas. The three-time WAC player of the year and All-American is a big reason for his teams success, but he isn't the only weapon they have. Scoring wing Marcelus Kemp is dropping 18.3 ppg and Ramon Sessions is an all-around force [12.5 ppg, 4.8 rpg, and 4.7 apg]. And ofcourse there is Fazekas, who averages a double-double [20.5 ppg and 11.2 rpg]. This team has the skill, the depth and the size to make a huge impact in this years tournament.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
NFL Player Rankings: Post Combine
These are my post combine player rankings. Soon to follow will be my NFL Mock Draft: Version 3.0.
Quarterbacks
1. JaMarcus Russel, LSU
2. Brady Quinn, Notre Dame
3. Drew Stanton, Michigan State
4. Kevin Kolb, Houston
5. Troy Smith, Ohio State
6. Trent Edwards, Stanford
7. Jordan Palmer, Utah
8. Chris Leak, Florida
9. John Beck, BYU
10. Jeff Rowe, Nevada
Sleeper - Paul Thompson, Oklahoma
Halfbacks
1. Adrian Peterson, Oklahoma
2. Marshawn Lynch, Cal
3. Michael Bush, Louisville
4. Brandon Jackson, Nebraska
5. Kenny Irons, Auburn
6. Antonio Pittman, Ohio State
7. Tony Hunt, Penn State
8. Lorenzo Booker, Florida State
9. Kenneth Darby, Alabama
10. Darius Walker, Notre Dame
11. Dwayne Wright, Fresno State
12. DeShawn Wynn, Florida
13. Gary Russel, Minnesota
14. Selvin Young, Texas
15. Kolby Smith, Louisville
Sleeper #1 - Nate Ilaoa, Hawaii
Sleeper #2 - Garret Wolfe, Northern Illinois
Fullbacks
1. Brian Leonard, Rutgers
2. LeRon McClain, Alabama
3. Cory Anderson, Tennessee
4. Dion Anderson, Connecticut
5. Jason Snelling, Virginia
Sleeper - Stan White Jr., Ohio State
Wide Recievers
1. Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech
2. Ted Ginn Jr., Ohio State
3. Robert Meachum, Tennessee
4. Dwayne Jarrett, USC
5. Dwayne Bowe, LSU
6. Anthony Gonzalez, Ohio State
7. Sidney Rice, South Carolina
8. Aundrae Allison, Eastern Carolina
9. Jason Hill, Washington State
10. Steve Smith, USC
11. Craig Davis, LSU
12. David Clowney, Virginia Tech
13. Johnnie Lee Huggins, UTEP
14. Rhema McKnight, Notre Dame
15. Courtney Taylor, Auburn
16. Paul Williams, Fresno State
17. Joel Filani, Texas Tech
18. Jacoby Jones, Lane
19. Dallas Baker, Florida
20. David Ball, New Hampshire
Sleeper #1 - Steve Breaston, Michigan
Sleeper #2 - Matt Trannon, Michigan State
Sleeper #3 - Mike Mason, Tennessee State
Tight Ends
1. Greg Olson, Miami
2. Zach Miller, Arizona State
3. Matt Spaeth, Minnesota
4. Ben Patrick, Delaware
5. Scott Chandler, Iowa
6. Joe Newton, Oregon State
7. Clark Harris, Rutgers
8. Martez Milner, Georgia
9. Jonny Harline, BYU
10. Anthony Pudewell, Nevada-Reno
Sleeper - Dante Rosario, Oregon
Offensive Tackles
1. Joe Thomas, Wisconsin
2. Levi Brown, Penn State
3. Tony Ugoh, Arkansas
4. Aaron Sears, Tennessee
5. Joe Staley, Michigan State
6. Doug Free, Northern Illinois
7. Marshal Yanda, Iowa
8. Ryan Harris, Notre Dame
9. James Marten, Boston College
10. Chase Johnson, Wyoming
11. Corey Hilliard, Oklahoma State
12. Brandon Frye, Virginia Tech
13. Julius Wilson, UAB
14. Adam Koets, Oregon State
15. Chris Denman, Fresno State
Sleeper - Allen Babre, Missouri Southern
Offensive Guards
1. Justin Blalock, Texas
2. Ben Grubbs, Auburn
3. Josh Beekman, Boston College
4. Manny Ramirez, Texas Tech
5. Andy Alleman, Akron
6. Dan Santucci, Notre Dame
7. Tim Duckworth, Auburn
8. Kasey Studdard, Texas
9. Mike Jones, Iowa
10. Nathan Bennett, Clemson
Sleeper - Uche Nwaneri, Purdue
Centers
1. Ryan Kalil, USC
2. Samson Satele, Hawaii
3. Doug Datish, Ohio State
4. Dan Mozes, West Virginia
5. Enoka Lucas, Oregon
Sleeper - Mark Fenton, Colorado
Defensive Ends
1. Gaines Adams, Clemson
2. Jamaal Anderson, Arkansas
3. Adam Carriker, Nebraska
4. Anthony Spencer, Purdue [tweener]
5. Charles Johnson, Georgia [tweener]
6. Jarvis Moss, Florida [tweener]
7. Quentin Moses, Georgia [tweener]
8. Victor Abiamiri, Notre Dame
9. Tim Crowder, Texas
10. Ray McDonald, Florida
11. Dan Bazuin, Central Michigan
12. Ikaika Alama-Francis, Hawaii
13. Baraka Atkins, Miami[FL]
14. Brian Robison, Texas [tweener]
15. Jay Moore, Nebraska [tweener]
Sleeper #1 - Xzavie Jackson, Missouri
Sleeper #2 - Justin Hickman, UCLA
Defensive Tackles
1. Amobi Okoye, Louisville
2. Alan Branch, Michigan
3. Tank Tyler, N.C. State
4. Brandon Mebane, Cal
5. Justin Harrell, Tennessee
6. Marcus Thomas, Florida
7. Ryan McBean, Oklahoma St.
8. Quinn Pitcock, Ohio State
9. Turk McBride, Tennessee
10. Kareem Brown, Miami
11. Jay Alford, Penn State
12. Derek Landri, Notre Dame
13. David Patterson, Ohio State
14. Antonio Johnson, Mississippi St.
15. Jeremy Clark, Alabama
Sleeper #1 - Matt Toeaina, Oregon
Sleeper #2 - Paul Soliai, Utah
Inside Linebackers
1. Patrick Willis, Ole Miss
2. Paul Posluszny, Penn State
3. Brandon Siler, Florida
4. Buster Davis, Florida State
5. Earl Everett, Florida
6. David Harris, Michigan
7. Jon Abbate, Wake Forest
8. H.B. Blades, Pittsburgh
9. Micheal Okwo, Stanford
10. Nate Harris, Louisville
Sleeper #1 - Zac Deossie, Brown
Sleeper #2 - Zach Latimer, Oklahoma
Outside Linebackers
1. Lawrence Timmons, Florida State
2. Jon Beason, Miami[FL]
3. LaMarr Woodley, Michigan [Tweener]
4. Rufus Alexander, Oklahoma
5. Prescott Burgess, Michigan
6. Stewart Bradley, Nebraska
7. Juwan Simpson, Alabama
8. KaMichael Hall, Georgia Tech
9. Tony Taylor, Georgia
10. Rory Johnson, Mississippi
Sleeper - Dallas Sartz, USC
Cornerbacks
1. Leon Hall, Michigan
2. Aaron Ross, Texas
3. Darrelle Revis, Pittsburgh
4. Chris Houston, Arkansas
5. Daymeion Hughes, Cal
6. Marcus McCauley, Fresno St.
7. Jonathan Wade, Tennessee
8. Eric Wright, UNLV
9. Josh Wilson, Maryland
10. Tanard Jackson, Syracuse
11. C.J. Gaddis, Clemson
12. David Irons, Auburn
13. A.J. Davis, NC State
14. Ryan Smith, Florida
15. Tarell Brown, Texas
16. Fred Bennett, South Carolina
17. Deandre Jackson, Iowa State
18. Kenny Scott, Georgia Tech
19. Reggie Lewis, Florida
20. C.J. Wilson, Baylor
Sleeper #1 - Dashon Goldson, Washington
Sleeper #2 - Corey Graham, New Hampshire
Safety
1. Reggie Nelson, Florida
2. LaRon Landry, LSU
3. Brandon Meriweather, Miami[FL]
4. Michael Griffin, Texas
5. Eric Weedle, Utah
6. Josh Gattis, Wake Forest
7. Aaron Rouse, Virginia Poly
8. Michael Johnson, Arizona
9. Kevin Payne, Louisiana-Monroe
10. Sabby Piscitelli, Oregon State
Sleeper #1 - Gerald Alexander, Boise State
Sleeper #2 - Nedu Ndukwe, Notre Dame
Kickers
1. Mason Crosby, Colorado
2. Justin Medlock, UCLA
3. Nick Folk, Arizona
4. Jesse Ainsworth, Arizona State
5. Matt Clark, Auburn
Punters
1. Daniel Sepulveda, Baylor
2. Adam Podlesh, Maryland
3. Kody Bliss, Auburn
4. Brandon Fields, Michigan State
5. Alex Reyes, Texas Tech
Quarterbacks
1. JaMarcus Russel, LSU
2. Brady Quinn, Notre Dame
3. Drew Stanton, Michigan State
4. Kevin Kolb, Houston
5. Troy Smith, Ohio State
6. Trent Edwards, Stanford
7. Jordan Palmer, Utah
8. Chris Leak, Florida
9. John Beck, BYU
10. Jeff Rowe, Nevada
Sleeper - Paul Thompson, Oklahoma
Halfbacks
1. Adrian Peterson, Oklahoma
2. Marshawn Lynch, Cal
3. Michael Bush, Louisville
4. Brandon Jackson, Nebraska
5. Kenny Irons, Auburn
6. Antonio Pittman, Ohio State
7. Tony Hunt, Penn State
8. Lorenzo Booker, Florida State
9. Kenneth Darby, Alabama
10. Darius Walker, Notre Dame
11. Dwayne Wright, Fresno State
12. DeShawn Wynn, Florida
13. Gary Russel, Minnesota
14. Selvin Young, Texas
15. Kolby Smith, Louisville
Sleeper #1 - Nate Ilaoa, Hawaii
Sleeper #2 - Garret Wolfe, Northern Illinois
Fullbacks
1. Brian Leonard, Rutgers
2. LeRon McClain, Alabama
3. Cory Anderson, Tennessee
4. Dion Anderson, Connecticut
5. Jason Snelling, Virginia
Sleeper - Stan White Jr., Ohio State
Wide Recievers
1. Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech
2. Ted Ginn Jr., Ohio State
3. Robert Meachum, Tennessee
4. Dwayne Jarrett, USC
5. Dwayne Bowe, LSU
6. Anthony Gonzalez, Ohio State
7. Sidney Rice, South Carolina
8. Aundrae Allison, Eastern Carolina
9. Jason Hill, Washington State
10. Steve Smith, USC
11. Craig Davis, LSU
12. David Clowney, Virginia Tech
13. Johnnie Lee Huggins, UTEP
14. Rhema McKnight, Notre Dame
15. Courtney Taylor, Auburn
16. Paul Williams, Fresno State
17. Joel Filani, Texas Tech
18. Jacoby Jones, Lane
19. Dallas Baker, Florida
20. David Ball, New Hampshire
Sleeper #1 - Steve Breaston, Michigan
Sleeper #2 - Matt Trannon, Michigan State
Sleeper #3 - Mike Mason, Tennessee State
Tight Ends
1. Greg Olson, Miami
2. Zach Miller, Arizona State
3. Matt Spaeth, Minnesota
4. Ben Patrick, Delaware
5. Scott Chandler, Iowa
6. Joe Newton, Oregon State
7. Clark Harris, Rutgers
8. Martez Milner, Georgia
9. Jonny Harline, BYU
10. Anthony Pudewell, Nevada-Reno
Sleeper - Dante Rosario, Oregon
Offensive Tackles
1. Joe Thomas, Wisconsin
2. Levi Brown, Penn State
3. Tony Ugoh, Arkansas
4. Aaron Sears, Tennessee
5. Joe Staley, Michigan State
6. Doug Free, Northern Illinois
7. Marshal Yanda, Iowa
8. Ryan Harris, Notre Dame
9. James Marten, Boston College
10. Chase Johnson, Wyoming
11. Corey Hilliard, Oklahoma State
12. Brandon Frye, Virginia Tech
13. Julius Wilson, UAB
14. Adam Koets, Oregon State
15. Chris Denman, Fresno State
Sleeper - Allen Babre, Missouri Southern
Offensive Guards
1. Justin Blalock, Texas
2. Ben Grubbs, Auburn
3. Josh Beekman, Boston College
4. Manny Ramirez, Texas Tech
5. Andy Alleman, Akron
6. Dan Santucci, Notre Dame
7. Tim Duckworth, Auburn
8. Kasey Studdard, Texas
9. Mike Jones, Iowa
10. Nathan Bennett, Clemson
Sleeper - Uche Nwaneri, Purdue
Centers
1. Ryan Kalil, USC
2. Samson Satele, Hawaii
3. Doug Datish, Ohio State
4. Dan Mozes, West Virginia
5. Enoka Lucas, Oregon
Sleeper - Mark Fenton, Colorado
Defensive Ends
1. Gaines Adams, Clemson
2. Jamaal Anderson, Arkansas
3. Adam Carriker, Nebraska
4. Anthony Spencer, Purdue [tweener]
5. Charles Johnson, Georgia [tweener]
6. Jarvis Moss, Florida [tweener]
7. Quentin Moses, Georgia [tweener]
8. Victor Abiamiri, Notre Dame
9. Tim Crowder, Texas
10. Ray McDonald, Florida
11. Dan Bazuin, Central Michigan
12. Ikaika Alama-Francis, Hawaii
13. Baraka Atkins, Miami[FL]
14. Brian Robison, Texas [tweener]
15. Jay Moore, Nebraska [tweener]
Sleeper #1 - Xzavie Jackson, Missouri
Sleeper #2 - Justin Hickman, UCLA
Defensive Tackles
1. Amobi Okoye, Louisville
2. Alan Branch, Michigan
3. Tank Tyler, N.C. State
4. Brandon Mebane, Cal
5. Justin Harrell, Tennessee
6. Marcus Thomas, Florida
7. Ryan McBean, Oklahoma St.
8. Quinn Pitcock, Ohio State
9. Turk McBride, Tennessee
10. Kareem Brown, Miami
11. Jay Alford, Penn State
12. Derek Landri, Notre Dame
13. David Patterson, Ohio State
14. Antonio Johnson, Mississippi St.
15. Jeremy Clark, Alabama
Sleeper #1 - Matt Toeaina, Oregon
Sleeper #2 - Paul Soliai, Utah
Inside Linebackers
1. Patrick Willis, Ole Miss
2. Paul Posluszny, Penn State
3. Brandon Siler, Florida
4. Buster Davis, Florida State
5. Earl Everett, Florida
6. David Harris, Michigan
7. Jon Abbate, Wake Forest
8. H.B. Blades, Pittsburgh
9. Micheal Okwo, Stanford
10. Nate Harris, Louisville
Sleeper #1 - Zac Deossie, Brown
Sleeper #2 - Zach Latimer, Oklahoma
Outside Linebackers
1. Lawrence Timmons, Florida State
2. Jon Beason, Miami[FL]
3. LaMarr Woodley, Michigan [Tweener]
4. Rufus Alexander, Oklahoma
5. Prescott Burgess, Michigan
6. Stewart Bradley, Nebraska
7. Juwan Simpson, Alabama
8. KaMichael Hall, Georgia Tech
9. Tony Taylor, Georgia
10. Rory Johnson, Mississippi
Sleeper - Dallas Sartz, USC
Cornerbacks
1. Leon Hall, Michigan
2. Aaron Ross, Texas
3. Darrelle Revis, Pittsburgh
4. Chris Houston, Arkansas
5. Daymeion Hughes, Cal
6. Marcus McCauley, Fresno St.
7. Jonathan Wade, Tennessee
8. Eric Wright, UNLV
9. Josh Wilson, Maryland
10. Tanard Jackson, Syracuse
11. C.J. Gaddis, Clemson
12. David Irons, Auburn
13. A.J. Davis, NC State
14. Ryan Smith, Florida
15. Tarell Brown, Texas
16. Fred Bennett, South Carolina
17. Deandre Jackson, Iowa State
18. Kenny Scott, Georgia Tech
19. Reggie Lewis, Florida
20. C.J. Wilson, Baylor
Sleeper #1 - Dashon Goldson, Washington
Sleeper #2 - Corey Graham, New Hampshire
Safety
1. Reggie Nelson, Florida
2. LaRon Landry, LSU
3. Brandon Meriweather, Miami[FL]
4. Michael Griffin, Texas
5. Eric Weedle, Utah
6. Josh Gattis, Wake Forest
7. Aaron Rouse, Virginia Poly
8. Michael Johnson, Arizona
9. Kevin Payne, Louisiana-Monroe
10. Sabby Piscitelli, Oregon State
Sleeper #1 - Gerald Alexander, Boise State
Sleeper #2 - Nedu Ndukwe, Notre Dame
Kickers
1. Mason Crosby, Colorado
2. Justin Medlock, UCLA
3. Nick Folk, Arizona
4. Jesse Ainsworth, Arizona State
5. Matt Clark, Auburn
Punters
1. Daniel Sepulveda, Baylor
2. Adam Podlesh, Maryland
3. Kody Bliss, Auburn
4. Brandon Fields, Michigan State
5. Alex Reyes, Texas Tech
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Play Ball: A.L. East
1. New York Yankees
Best Move: Getting rid of OF Gary Sheffield and SP Randy Johnson. Both Sheff and the Big Unit had become clubhouse enigmas over the past few years and the Yanks needed to get them out. D-Town was the perfect suitor for Sheff. They were in the market for a power hitter to play DH and possibly put in some time at first base. Arizona wanted a pitcher and the trade made sense since Johnson had success there. Also, by trading the two stars, they freed up room for prospects to make an impact. That's right, the Yankees really do have prospects.
Worst Move: None. I can't think of a glaringly bad move they made. They actually did a good job by sitting on their hands this offseason and not throwing mass amounts of money in the direction of top free agents.
Season Outlook: The Yanks should do pretty good this year. Their pitching appears solid and chemistry is up. Boston and Toronto will challenge and Tampa Bay could pester them, but the Yankees are too talented to lose the division.
2. Boston Red Sox
Best Move: Signing SS Julio Lugo. Signing SP Daisuke [Dice-K is not a nickname, it is the phonetic pronunciation of his name] Matsuzaka, OF J.D. Drew and retooling the bullpen were all good moves, but signing Lugo was the best. Lugo is the 5th starting shortstop for Boston over the past 5 years. He adds speed to a line-up that previously had a lack of barn-burners. His slick glove in the field will also come in handy.
Worst Move: Not signing a veteran backup for young 2B Dustin Pedroia. Pedroia is small and fresh, and will have his setbacks. The BoSox would've been smart to go out and grab a slick fielding backup for Pedroia. In general the Sox infield depth is quite weak.
Season Outlook: The battle for 2nd place will go back and forth between Boston and Toronto, but Bostons pitching should put them on top in the end. They have a solid offense and starting pitching. The Sox big question is the bullpen. No closer has been established and their likely won't be a true closer all season. The closer candidates are RHP Joel Piniero, a former starter, and right-handed relievers Julian Tavarez, Brendan Donnelly and Mike Timlin. Piniero is the favorite, but I prefer Donnelly.
3. Toronto Blue Jays
Best Move: Re-signing All-Star OF Vernon Wells. Letting Wells walk would've been a killer for this franchise. He has been the reason this team rose from the depths of the league. He has been the reason they have been able to lure some big name free agents far North.
Worst Move: Signing SP's John Thompson and Tomo Okha. Thompson and Okha were signed to fill the fourth and fifth spots of the rotation. The problem here is that the Jays already have better, younger prospects ready to fill those spots. Signing never-have-beens to block their prospects is not a smart move for a team looking to get a playoff berth in a tough division.
Season Outlook: The Jays will challenge for 2nd place and a wild card into the playoffs, but they'll fall short. This team is just a few pieces from competing in the East. Improved hitting, especially from the shortstop spot, would help this team immensely. Toronto's well being will flow with how successful Wells and SP Roy Halladay are.
4. Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Best Move: Signing Akinori Iwamura. The Rays didn't do much this offseason. And for a team looking to get out of the 'lovable losers' label, they didn't do much to improve their standing. Iwamura should be a solid 3rd baseman, but he won't make the difference between 4th in the division and challenging.
Worst Move: Their worst move was their lack of moves. They needed to improve their bullpen, get depth at starting pitcher and get better in general. There was a wealth of relievers out there this offseason, but they didn't actively pursue any. They could've went after a second tier starter, but they didn't do that either.
Season Outlook: This is always going to be the team that has the breakout potential that never happens. Every year we hear about all the young prospects they have [this year it's OF Elijah Dukes] that are ready to bust out and save this team. If Dukes does break out, they can trade some outfielders for solid starting pitching. Otherwise, they'll be on the bottom looking up once again.
5. Baltimore Orioles
Best Move: Signing OF's Aubrey Huff and Jay Payton. Huff and Payton provide immediate pop to an offense that has lacked in that area. They also surround Miggy with actual talent. Although Payton and Huff are on the downsides of their careers, they can still be productive enough to help this team.
Worst Move: Blowing millions on mediocre bullpen arms. The signings of Jamie Walker, Danys Baez, Chad Bradford, Scott Williamson, and Jeremy Guthrie weren't bad signings. However, the money they paid for these guys is unbelievable. None of them have been or will be considered top relievers in this league yet all of them are getting paid as such.
Season Outlook: Three words: Goodbye Miguel Tejada.
Best Move: Getting rid of OF Gary Sheffield and SP Randy Johnson. Both Sheff and the Big Unit had become clubhouse enigmas over the past few years and the Yanks needed to get them out. D-Town was the perfect suitor for Sheff. They were in the market for a power hitter to play DH and possibly put in some time at first base. Arizona wanted a pitcher and the trade made sense since Johnson had success there. Also, by trading the two stars, they freed up room for prospects to make an impact. That's right, the Yankees really do have prospects.
Worst Move: None. I can't think of a glaringly bad move they made. They actually did a good job by sitting on their hands this offseason and not throwing mass amounts of money in the direction of top free agents.
Season Outlook: The Yanks should do pretty good this year. Their pitching appears solid and chemistry is up. Boston and Toronto will challenge and Tampa Bay could pester them, but the Yankees are too talented to lose the division.
2. Boston Red Sox
Best Move: Signing SS Julio Lugo. Signing SP Daisuke [Dice-K is not a nickname, it is the phonetic pronunciation of his name] Matsuzaka, OF J.D. Drew and retooling the bullpen were all good moves, but signing Lugo was the best. Lugo is the 5th starting shortstop for Boston over the past 5 years. He adds speed to a line-up that previously had a lack of barn-burners. His slick glove in the field will also come in handy.
Worst Move: Not signing a veteran backup for young 2B Dustin Pedroia. Pedroia is small and fresh, and will have his setbacks. The BoSox would've been smart to go out and grab a slick fielding backup for Pedroia. In general the Sox infield depth is quite weak.
Season Outlook: The battle for 2nd place will go back and forth between Boston and Toronto, but Bostons pitching should put them on top in the end. They have a solid offense and starting pitching. The Sox big question is the bullpen. No closer has been established and their likely won't be a true closer all season. The closer candidates are RHP Joel Piniero, a former starter, and right-handed relievers Julian Tavarez, Brendan Donnelly and Mike Timlin. Piniero is the favorite, but I prefer Donnelly.
3. Toronto Blue Jays
Best Move: Re-signing All-Star OF Vernon Wells. Letting Wells walk would've been a killer for this franchise. He has been the reason this team rose from the depths of the league. He has been the reason they have been able to lure some big name free agents far North.
Worst Move: Signing SP's John Thompson and Tomo Okha. Thompson and Okha were signed to fill the fourth and fifth spots of the rotation. The problem here is that the Jays already have better, younger prospects ready to fill those spots. Signing never-have-beens to block their prospects is not a smart move for a team looking to get a playoff berth in a tough division.
Season Outlook: The Jays will challenge for 2nd place and a wild card into the playoffs, but they'll fall short. This team is just a few pieces from competing in the East. Improved hitting, especially from the shortstop spot, would help this team immensely. Toronto's well being will flow with how successful Wells and SP Roy Halladay are.
4. Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Best Move: Signing Akinori Iwamura. The Rays didn't do much this offseason. And for a team looking to get out of the 'lovable losers' label, they didn't do much to improve their standing. Iwamura should be a solid 3rd baseman, but he won't make the difference between 4th in the division and challenging.
Worst Move: Their worst move was their lack of moves. They needed to improve their bullpen, get depth at starting pitcher and get better in general. There was a wealth of relievers out there this offseason, but they didn't actively pursue any. They could've went after a second tier starter, but they didn't do that either.
Season Outlook: This is always going to be the team that has the breakout potential that never happens. Every year we hear about all the young prospects they have [this year it's OF Elijah Dukes] that are ready to bust out and save this team. If Dukes does break out, they can trade some outfielders for solid starting pitching. Otherwise, they'll be on the bottom looking up once again.
5. Baltimore Orioles
Best Move: Signing OF's Aubrey Huff and Jay Payton. Huff and Payton provide immediate pop to an offense that has lacked in that area. They also surround Miggy with actual talent. Although Payton and Huff are on the downsides of their careers, they can still be productive enough to help this team.
Worst Move: Blowing millions on mediocre bullpen arms. The signings of Jamie Walker, Danys Baez, Chad Bradford, Scott Williamson, and Jeremy Guthrie weren't bad signings. However, the money they paid for these guys is unbelievable. None of them have been or will be considered top relievers in this league yet all of them are getting paid as such.
Season Outlook: Three words: Goodbye Miguel Tejada.
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Thoughts over the past week
- Barry Bonds stated the other day that he has been receiving death threats. No shocker there. But Bud Selig was shocked when he heard the news. He was overheard saying, "You just now got those?"
- At 6'5" and nearing 240 lbs., Georgia Tech WR Calvin Johnson ran a 4.35 40 at the combine. This is after not planning on running. And not having his own shoes. He had to borrow a quarterbacks shoes to run. Yea, so, ummm, I'm quite speechless when it comes to this guy. I'll just let this picture explain. And this one. And this one. And this one. Satisfied yet? No? Okay, one more. This one.
- The Bears drudged Lovie Smith out of the hellish world of underpaid NFL coaches. I know if I were going to make $1.45 million next year alone, I would be outraged.
- The NFL is thinking of instituting a 'three strikes and you're out rule' when it comes to players in legal problems. Besides the fact that it is an idiotic idea, I actually might want to see it go into effect. The Bengals would self implode. I would put the over/under at 9 months.
- Texas SF/PF/C/SG/PG Kevin Durant had another double-double last night. Nothing shocking there. The fact that he had it done in the first half against Texas A&M, the 6th ranked team in the nation, is beastly. This guy should be in the top 5 for player of the year talks, if not number one.
- Three claps for the Blue Devils who finally got a good shot on the Tar Heels. It didn't score them any points, but Gerald Henderson's right cross lit up Tyler Hansbrough more than the Dukie's have lit up scoreboards all year. Then, in a post game press conference, Coach K preceded to take responsibility for the act. Then dole it out elsewhere. He's just practicing for his end of the season press conference. "We'll take all responsibility, but...".
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