Harry How/Getty ImagesAh, the smell of baseball is in the air. March Madness is over, which means the NBA playoffs are right around the corner.Butler second place finish last night seems to be just about the only thing going for Indiana fans. See more in this week Power Rankings. 1. Cleveland Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
(Last Week Power Ranking: 1) Will Lebron come to NY? That question still remains, but the uncertainty is not affecting the Cavs one bit.As someone who is praying that Lebron leaves Cleveland after this season, here's to hoping he gives it one last "hoorah" and finally brings that championship home, as this team has been taking the rest of the league by storm all season long. 2. Orlando (Last Week Power Ranking: 2)One of the league more consistent teams, Orlando has been going through the motions just to rake up the wins and finish out the season, although Matt Barnes latest outburst this week provided some late season entertainment and amusement. 3. Lakers (Last Season Power Ranking: 3)With the competition so steep in the West, the Lakers are finally beginning to feel the pressure. An injury to Andrew Bynum has slowed this team down, weakening its usually formidable frontcourt game.Lucky for them, the playoffs come with clean slates, and that is when Mr. Fisher likes to fill his own slate up with clutch, big time moments for the history moments. 4. Phoenix (Last Week Power Ranking: 4)After firing Terry Porter last season following a failed succession to the up-tempo Mike DAntoni, the Suns have finally found their way back into the league elite with some familiar factors: an up-tempo style and another MVP-like season from Steve Nash. 5. Denver (Last Week Power Ranking: 7)After a bit of a falling off last week, the Nuggets are back on track, being the first team in this week rankings to move up two spots. A clutch Carmelo Anthony could potentially leapfrog this team to this to the NBA Finals should the Lakers not be able to overcome their various injuries. 6. Utah (Last Week Power Ranking: 6)Can anyone say the surprise team of the season? Well, perhaps not quite, when you consider Jerry Sloan is the coach. The maturing of Deron Williams has certainly propelled this team to one of the West best. It is to be seen, however, whether or not Carlos Boozer will return next season to help repeat this season success. 7. Atlanta (Last Week Power Ranking: 8)Jamal Crawford has truly done wonders for this team. Who knew a career-long loser could help such a winning team? In any event, Atlanta depth has been helping the Hawks soar past some serious contenders. 8. Dallas (Last Week Power Ranking: 5)This team takes a bit of a drop, but just like the Lakers, the Mavs know when the real season starts. Although its heavy winning streaks have ended, you can never count out a team with gritty veterans like Jason Kidd and Dirk Nowitzki. Theyre coming for you, LA! 9. San Antonio (Last Week Power Ranking: 11)Here another team that must be beginning to smell the NBA Finals in the air. No surprise here, but Manu is beginning to remind people why you can never count the Spurs out of the championship conversation. 10. Boston (Last Week Power Ranking: 9)I bet all those Celtics fans are missing Eddie House right about now. The Celtics have fallen off the contention wagon just a bit, and they no longer have a Derek Fisher-like Eddie House to give them a playoff boost. 11. Oklahoma City (Last Week Power Ranking: 12)It sad to think that with the playoffs approaching, the Thunder Cinderella story may be coming to an end. The playoffs are where you separate the men from the boys, but unfortunately, I don believe the Thunder will put up much of San Diego Chargers jersey
a fight against the more mature and experienced teams in the West. 12. Miami (Last Week Power Ranking: 14)The Heat are on fire!!! Um, pun totally intended. But seriously, Miami is definitely coming alive at the right time. Only time will tell whether or not Wade and the gang are able to put up a fight against the East elite. 13. Portland (Last Week Power Ranking: 10)The Blazers showed so much promise early on. As the playoffs approach, it seems as though they may be overtaken by the Spurs and other contenders gunning for that late season surge. 14. Milwaukee (Last Week Power Ranking: 13)The Bucks have certainly turned heads this season. Maybe you could call it luck, because ever since Brandon Jennings fell into their hands, the Bucks have been exceeding all expectations. 15. Charlotte (Last Week Power Ranking: 15) The Bobcats stayed consistent over the week, staying in the same spot. This team has finally started to win, which is something this city may want to get used to with Mr. Jordan in charge. 16. Memphis (Last Week Power Ranking: 17) Just call them the Bucks of the West! Well, not quite, as the Grizzlies bid for the playoffs will fall short once again this season despite exceeding expectations and producing an All-Star in Zach Randolph. Better luck next year, boys. 17. Chicago (Last Week Power Ranking: 18)Things are really coming down to the wire in Chicago. Behind Toronto a game for the East final spot, well have to wait and see whether or not Derrick Rose playoff prediction comes true. 18. Toronto (Last Week Power Ranking: 19) The Raptors better pray they holds on to that final roster spot. The surging Bulls are in front of them in this week power rankings, and if that holds true at the end of the season, Chris Bosh may not be looking to return next season. 19. Houston (Last Week Power Ranking: 16) The Rockets had glimmers of hope this season, but have really never been able to get the job done. As the season nears its end, the Rockets slip down the rankings as the real contenders start to take their rightful places. 20. New Orleans (Last Week Power Ranking: 20)Another stagnant team, the Hornets must now look to this offseason and figure out their financial and point guard situations. I have a feeling both dilemmas may be fixable with just one movewho wants CP3?! 21. Indiana (Last Week Power Ranking: 21)Yet another team in the same spot. Unfortunately for the Pacers, they didn have as much success as Butler this season. Well, at least Indi fans had something to cheer for this season. 22. New York (Last Week Power Ranking: 22)As a Knicks fan, Im still holding onto that epic win against Denver! Oh, that was last San Francisco 49ers jersey
week? Oops, well at least they beat the Clippers this week. That not much of an accomplishment either though. 23. Philadelphia (Last Week Power Ranking: 23)This 76ers season has gone from bad to worse, and there just seems to be no hope in the near future. 24. Golden State (Last Week Power Ranking: 26)The Warriors picked up a bit of momentum with Don Nelson surpassing the coaching record this week. Too bad it doesn mean much now as far as the team chances are concerned. 25. Detroit (Last Week Power Ranking: 27)Things just haven clicked for Detroit this season whatsoever. All I keep thinking is how much Ben Gordon would love to be in the thick of a playoff race with Chicago desperately needing his late game heroics. 26. LA Clippers (Last Week Power Ranking: 24)This team has been in the cellar all season long, and to make matters worse, they lost to the Knicks this week. 27. Sacramento (Last Week Power Ranking: 25)Although the Kings season has not gone well, the team certainly has some promise with its young talent. Better luck next year is all I can say. 28. Washington (Last Week Power Ranking: 29)I can say that I believe many are paying attention to the Wizards play this year. But I can tell you they will continue to be one of the most talked about teams, with Gilbert Arenas still a question mark to return next season. 29. New Jersey (Last Week Power Ranking: 28) Things are looking up for the Nets! They have cap space, good young talent, and the New Jersey is actually out of the power rankings cellar for the second week in a row! 30. Minnesota (Last Week Power Ranking: 30)It sad to say, but Minnesota sole basketball accomplishment this season may be figuring out an Seattle Seahawks jersey
effective role for Darko this season. The Bleacher Report NBA Power Rankings are done by averaging individual feature columnist's tallies. Weekly contributors are: Alex McVeigh (Dallas), Rich Kurtzman (Denver), Denton Ramsey (Houston Rockets ), Jose Salviati (LA Clippers ), Lucas Shapiro (NBA Trades/Breaking News), Keith Schlosser (NY Knicks ), Curtis Finchum (Oklahoma City ), Bryan Toporek (Philadelphia 76ers ) and DeMarco Williams (NBA Lead).
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 Source: Rico Hines To Join Steve Lavin's Staff At St. John's
Jeff Gross/Getty Images Adding Dunlap Would Bring West Coast Feel To NYCBy JOHN P. WISE One Great SeasonRico Hines, who played his college basketball at UCLA under coach Steve Lavin, will be an assistant coach under Lavin at St. John's, according to a source with knowledge of the Red Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
Storm basketball program.The tipster texted OGS late Thursday afternoon saying Hines, who just completed his season as an assistant coach with the NBA's Golden State Warriors, will be Lavin's next hire, but didn't specify when an announcement was expected. Hines, whose bio already has been taken down from the Warriors Web site,played for the Bruins from 1997-2002.The source also confirmed that Mike Dunlap, who's been rumored to be one of Lavin's hopeful hires since Lavin was hired at St. John's, will take the job in Queens if he doesn't get the head coaching job at Oregon or Colorado. Dunlap, an Alaska native known as a strong X-and-O guy, has spent much of his coaching career out west, including the 2009-10 season as the associate head coach at Oregon.Lavin Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
added Tony Chiles, who has strong New York ties, to his staff last week and is hoping to lure Maurice Hicks as well.Hicks is the coach at New York's powerhouse Rice High School, but is interested in the St. John's director of basketball operations job, the source told OGS.This article is also featured onOne Great Season
Storm basketball program.The tipster texted OGS late Thursday afternoon saying Hines, who just completed his season as an assistant coach with the NBA's Golden State Warriors, will be Lavin's next hire, but didn't specify when an announcement was expected. Hines, whose bio already has been taken down from the Warriors Web site,played for the Bruins from 1997-2002.The source also confirmed that Mike Dunlap, who's been rumored to be one of Lavin's hopeful hires since Lavin was hired at St. John's, will take the job in Queens if he doesn't get the head coaching job at Oregon or Colorado. Dunlap, an Alaska native known as a strong X-and-O guy, has spent much of his coaching career out west, including the 2009-10 season as the associate head coach at Oregon.Lavin Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
added Tony Chiles, who has strong New York ties, to his staff last week and is hoping to lure Maurice Hicks as well.Hicks is the coach at New York's powerhouse Rice High School, but is interested in the St. John's director of basketball operations job, the source told OGS.This article is also featured onOne Great Season
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 Suns' Owner Exploits Hot Topic of Immigration to Promote Team
ESPN J.A. Adande posted an article today praising Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver for speaking out against the illegal immigration legislation in Arizona.Sarver is using the hot topic of immigration in Arizona to promote his team and should be absolutely ashamed of himself.Let me be really clear on Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
one thing. I have no problem with Mexican immigrants who come to the United States and become citizens by following the set process.I fully encourage NBA teams in Hispanic cities like Houston, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Miami and San Antonio to celebrate Cinco de Mayo by wearing Spanish jerseys. I think this a great celebration of the communities that support these franchises. Legal immigrants and their herritage should be recognized on days like today.What I do have a problem with is the sector of Mexican immigrants who come to the United States illegally. These people put a strain on our school systems and our economy because they reap benefits of U.S. citizenship without making a contribution.Making a political statement through your sports franchise is wrong. Your views, Mr. Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Sarver, are not shared by your entire organization and fan base and should be kept on a personal level.Using your franchise to promote your political views is a slap in the face to the thousands of fans that have supported and continue to support your team, but do not necessarily support your views.Robert Sarver and J.A. Adande should be ashamed of themselves for using this hot button issue to promote themselves and their businesses.
one thing. I have no problem with Mexican immigrants who come to the United States and become citizens by following the set process.I fully encourage NBA teams in Hispanic cities like Houston, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Miami and San Antonio to celebrate Cinco de Mayo by wearing Spanish jerseys. I think this a great celebration of the communities that support these franchises. Legal immigrants and their herritage should be recognized on days like today.What I do have a problem with is the sector of Mexican immigrants who come to the United States illegally. These people put a strain on our school systems and our economy because they reap benefits of U.S. citizenship without making a contribution.Making a political statement through your sports franchise is wrong. Your views, Mr. Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Sarver, are not shared by your entire organization and fan base and should be kept on a personal level.Using your franchise to promote your political views is a slap in the face to the thousands of fans that have supported and continue to support your team, but do not necessarily support your views.Robert Sarver and J.A. Adande should be ashamed of themselves for using this hot button issue to promote themselves and their businesses.
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 Lakers Nation: 'We Need Boston'
Lakers' Nation is committing one of sports' cardinal sinsand they're doing it on live national TV and they're not even afraid to show it.They're looking ahead."We Want Boston! We Want Boston!"That is because the Lakers/Celtics rivalry casts a shadow much larger than the conference Finals. It's a conflict that has spilt blood for half a century, with the Finals matchup in 2008 reopening the wound that had been scabbed over for 20 years. A rematch, like the stars do on occasion, is lining up.It's almost time.Particularly for Lakers fans, the chance to Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
redeem ourselves for 2008 is so personal and so tantalizing, it's impossible to not be consumed by it.This year, the championship means so much, because it can come at the hands of our arch rival.Last year's championship was important. It fundamentally altered the career of Pau Gasol. It made Phil Jackson the winningest coach of all time. It removed the gorilla named Shaquille from Kobe's back.But let's face it, doing it over the Orlando Magic was a little juiceless.The Lakers and Celtics are hurling toward each other with a full head of steam. The switches have been flipped and both squads are in peak form. Most importantly, there are no excuses for either side.Both teams are healthy. In 2008 the Lakers found themselves in the convenient position of landing in the Finals, starting the Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
season with no expectations and seemingly delighted just to be there.They weren't ready.Now, both teams are champions. There are no lights bright enough to phase either side. The Celtics Big Three have never lost a playoff series. Neither have the Lakers' big three of Kobe, Pau, and Bynum. And neither squad has lost in the Finals with homecourt advantage.Something's gotta give.Game 4 of the 2008 Finals was the worst day of my life . An article on ESPN foreshadowing this year's probable Finals matchup erupted with comments between confident Boston fans and bitter Lakers fans.Some of the comments from Celtics fans were hard for me to read. Even so, much of my irrational hatred for the Celtics has been fostered with a healthy respect for them. I respect the way they battled last season without KG. I admire the way they've handled the two juggernauts (and favorites to win it all) in the east. I admire their 2004 Piston-like teamwork and defense.Againno disrespect to the Suns2008 just stings so bad.Sure, Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
we've won since then, but this is a chance to cleanse that bitter taste with the purifying power of vindication. I thought we'd never get our chance, but the Celtics have lived up to their end of the bargain and are delivering the opportunity for either payback, or for them to ram defeat irreparably further down our throats.But we need the chance.We need this."We Need Boston! We Need Boston!
redeem ourselves for 2008 is so personal and so tantalizing, it's impossible to not be consumed by it.This year, the championship means so much, because it can come at the hands of our arch rival.Last year's championship was important. It fundamentally altered the career of Pau Gasol. It made Phil Jackson the winningest coach of all time. It removed the gorilla named Shaquille from Kobe's back.But let's face it, doing it over the Orlando Magic was a little juiceless.The Lakers and Celtics are hurling toward each other with a full head of steam. The switches have been flipped and both squads are in peak form. Most importantly, there are no excuses for either side.Both teams are healthy. In 2008 the Lakers found themselves in the convenient position of landing in the Finals, starting the Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
season with no expectations and seemingly delighted just to be there.They weren't ready.Now, both teams are champions. There are no lights bright enough to phase either side. The Celtics Big Three have never lost a playoff series. Neither have the Lakers' big three of Kobe, Pau, and Bynum. And neither squad has lost in the Finals with homecourt advantage.Something's gotta give.Game 4 of the 2008 Finals was the worst day of my life . An article on ESPN foreshadowing this year's probable Finals matchup erupted with comments between confident Boston fans and bitter Lakers fans.Some of the comments from Celtics fans were hard for me to read. Even so, much of my irrational hatred for the Celtics has been fostered with a healthy respect for them. I respect the way they battled last season without KG. I admire the way they've handled the two juggernauts (and favorites to win it all) in the east. I admire their 2004 Piston-like teamwork and defense.Againno disrespect to the Suns2008 just stings so bad.Sure, Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
we've won since then, but this is a chance to cleanse that bitter taste with the purifying power of vindication. I thought we'd never get our chance, but the Celtics have lived up to their end of the bargain and are delivering the opportunity for either payback, or for them to ram defeat irreparably further down our throats.But we need the chance.We need this."We Need Boston! We Need Boston!
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 The Lakers Are Back In The NBA Finals
The Lakers are back into the NBA Finals for the third straight year, but they have one more mountain to climb, the Boston Celtics. The Celtics are playing with passion and intensity. They have bonded well as a team and are starting to play to their full potential at the most important time of the year.Kobe Bryant said they taught us what it takes to be a champion... their defensive intensity that they play with and their tenacity that they play with. The Celtics are hungry to win another championship. Rondo is making plays constantly at both ends of St. Louis Rams jersey
the court. The Celtics' starting five has never lost a series.The Lakers won 111-103 despite Pau's struggles on Saturday night at the US Airways Center, where the Suns areespecially electrifying when Channing Frye, Jared Dudley and Jason Richardson get going. The Lakers bench came back to life in game 6, knocking down a few threes. As the game went on the Lakers, led by Kobe and Ron Artest, were the team able to score more consistently. Pau and Lamar both struggled while shooting a combined 5 from 21. Lamar Odom contributed in other ways, snatching 12 boards.Amare looked flustered in the first half, he couldn't get anything to fall but Steve Nash was able to hit his awkward rainbows. Nash had a quiet 21, shooting 8 from 11. There has been a lot of talk this series about Nash having to shoot 20 plus shots for the Suns to win, which he did in game 5 and it led to a two point loss. Grant Hill is an X-factor but he didn't have an impact on the game scoring six points while shooting 2 from 7. Without Kobe the Lakers Tennessee Titans jersey
wouldn't have won the game, he hit shot after shot whenever the Suns looked like they were coming back. "There is only one other player that could hit those shots and that is Michael Jordan and he is doing Hanes commercials," Reggie Miller said.The Suns were playing good defense they weren't biting on any of Kobe's fakes, As Charles Barkley said " These are shots you say let's make him shoot this and that's just greatness"
the court. The Celtics' starting five has never lost a series.The Lakers won 111-103 despite Pau's struggles on Saturday night at the US Airways Center, where the Suns areespecially electrifying when Channing Frye, Jared Dudley and Jason Richardson get going. The Lakers bench came back to life in game 6, knocking down a few threes. As the game went on the Lakers, led by Kobe and Ron Artest, were the team able to score more consistently. Pau and Lamar both struggled while shooting a combined 5 from 21. Lamar Odom contributed in other ways, snatching 12 boards.Amare looked flustered in the first half, he couldn't get anything to fall but Steve Nash was able to hit his awkward rainbows. Nash had a quiet 21, shooting 8 from 11. There has been a lot of talk this series about Nash having to shoot 20 plus shots for the Suns to win, which he did in game 5 and it led to a two point loss. Grant Hill is an X-factor but he didn't have an impact on the game scoring six points while shooting 2 from 7. Without Kobe the Lakers Tennessee Titans jersey
wouldn't have won the game, he hit shot after shot whenever the Suns looked like they were coming back. "There is only one other player that could hit those shots and that is Michael Jordan and he is doing Hanes commercials," Reggie Miller said.The Suns were playing good defense they weren't biting on any of Kobe's fakes, As Charles Barkley said " These are shots you say let's make him shoot this and that's just greatness"
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Should Lakers Fans Root for the Miami Heat?
Elsa/Getty ImagesWith the recent signing of Shaquille O'Neal to the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers fansshould be wondering whether theCelticsare now poised tobethe Lakers'biggestpotential challenge in the 2011 NBA Finals, and whether they should berooting fortheMiami Heat instead of the Celticsto prevail in the Eastern Conference playoffs.Up until Shaq agreed to play for the Celtics as a back-up center this week, it hadbeen widely considered by fans in Lakerdom that the Miami Heat would offer the biggest challenge to the Lakers in Houston Texans jersey
an hypothetical match-up inthe NBA Finalsnext June. Witha trio ofsuperstars inLeBron James, Dwyane Wadeand Chris Bosh, along with a solid supporting cast of role players including Mike Miller, Udonis Haslem, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Eddie House andCarlos Arroyo, this new "super team"had takenon the mantle as the "team to beat" in the Eastern Conference.However, now with therecruiting of Shaq to the Celtics along with the earlier signing of Jermaine O'Neal, all that may have changed. For starters, the team chemistry of the Miami Heathas yet to be tested. Despite having three "superstars" on the team, the Miami Heat have not played a single game in the NBA. Coupled with a relativelyinexperienced coach in Erik Spoelstra, who haslead the team for only two years and has never taken the team past the first round of the playoffs, there are many legitimate questionsas tohow well this new Miami Heat team can gel together and how quickly. Now there is no question that the team hasenoughtalent on its rosterto make a deep playoff run, and may well do so in the years to come, but whether they can manage enough chemistry and understanding of each other's games in their first year together remains unknown.The Boston Celtics, on the other hand,have proven to possessenough talent and team chemistry to win the NBA Championship. Despite onlyacquiring Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen in the 2007-08 season to play alongside their superstar, Paul Pierce, the team went on to win the NBA Championshipthat same year. Rebounding from injuries to Kevin Garnett in the 2008-09 season, the Celticsagain reached the NBA Finals in 2010, losing in Game 7 against the Lakers on the road, and without their injured starting center, Kendrick Perkins.The injury to Perkins, suffered in the first quarter of Game 6, was significant because the Celtics were leading the series, 3-2,coming offfrom back-to-back wins in Boston in Games 4 and 5. A victory in Game 6 would have meant winning the Finals. With Perkins going down midway through the first quarter, the Celtics became hopelessly mismatched and unpreparedin the low-post for the remainder of the game, losing by 22 points.In Game 7, having a couple of days to make adjustments, the Celtics started the game off strongly with Rasheed Wallace taking over the starting center duties from Perkins, and the Celtics led the game by nine pointsafter the first quarter andsix points going into half-time. In the second-half, however, Wallace began experiencing cramps which limited his ability on the floor,and the Celtics lead was trimmed to 4 points by theend of the thirdquarter.Already without their starting center and compounded by Wallace's inability to play, the Celtics' Indianapolis Colts jersey
big men were unable to match theLakers' front-line ofPau Gasol, LamarOdom, andan injury-hamperedAndrew Bynum in the second half, resulting in a 4 point loss.Now in the same scenario, if the Celtics had either Shaq or Jermaine O'Neal on the team, instead of the rarely-used Shelden Williams, it could be argued that the outcome of Game 7, and perhaps even Game 6, might have been different. In Game 7, the Celtics were able to build a solid lead going into the second half,until Wallace began experiencing cramps in the third quarter. If either Shaq or Jermaine O'Nealwas availableto substitute for Wallace, which would have also reduced Kevin Garnett's minutes and allowed for more quality production from their starting power forward, the Celtics might not have experienced their scoring drought in the fourth quarter, which largely contributed to their loss.Fast forward to June 2011, and if both the Lakers and the Celtics reach the Finals again, the match-up becomes much more difficult for the Lakers. One of the main strengths and advantages of the Lakers isthe size and length of their big men. With starters Gasol andBynum, and Odom coming off the bench, the Lakers' front-line isa nightmare match-upfor most teams in the league. With the newly re-vamped Celtics, however, they pose less of a problem.Havingstarters Garnett and Perkins, and Glen Davis, Shaq and Jermaine O'Neal coming off the bench, even with the loss ofthe newly retired Wallace, the Celticspossessa front-line that arguably matches, if not exceeds, the Lakers'.Lakers fans can take comfort that Bynum recently had successful arthroscopic surgery on his right knee,which had limited him in both minutes andcontributionsduring the 2010 playoffs. However, questions still remain whether Bynum will be able to make it through the season without missing a significant number of games, which he has done the past three seasons. This recent surgery is also his secondmajor knee surgery in three years,the previous one being on his Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
left knee in 2008. If Bynum re-injures one of those knees during the regularseason, whether hewill be able to recuperate in time for the playoffs, or miss them completely like he didin 2008,will be a large factor in the Lakers' success in the upcomingpost-season.Even if Bynum is 100% healthy for the 2011 playoffs, the Celtics, with their newly revamped front line, will offer a bigger challenge to the Lakers in the Finals than they did this year. And since the Celtics lost by only 4 points in Game 7 andon the road,itisnot unlikelythat a meeting between these two teams in the Finals next year wouldresult ina victory for the Celtics, especially if they areable to secure home-court advantage like they did in 2008.The Miami Heat, however, seem to bemore evenly matched against the Lakers, with the Lakers having a slight advantage, especially with a healthy Bynum. Dwyane Wade is a superstar in this league, buthis contributions will be negatedby those of Kobe Bryant. Chris Bosh is also an elite player in the NBA, but Pau Gasol is considered as good or better, particularly in passing and defense, which will improve the contributions of his teammates as well. LeBron James has no equal on the Lakers, but Ron Artest has proven himself to be a good defender in the post-season, andwill likely be able to contain James toaround25 pointsa game, while scoring around 10-12 points per game himself. It seems to be a toss-up between the benches of both teams, though the core of the Lakers' bench have played together for many seasons, so it would not be unlikely that the Lakers' bench would outperform the Heat's. The Lakers have also addeda soliddefender to theirreserves inMatt Barnes, who can help guard eitherJamesor Wade. The big "X Factor" for the series, then, seems to be Bynum.If Bynum is healthy, theHeat do not have anyone on their team that can match up with him,particularly ondefense. Coupled together with Gasol, it seems the Lakers would have the advantage offensively and defensively in the Kansas City Chiefs jersey
low-post, which may be the determining factorin the series.While die-hard Lakers fans might feel thattheir teamwill prevail in the NBA Finalsno matter who the opponent is, it seemsthe Lakers'chances for winning their 17th titleimprove if their opponent is the Miami Heatand notthe Boston Celtics. And as a Lakers fan, I know I will be rooting for the Miami Heat to come out on top as Eastern Conference Championsin the 2011 NBA Playoffs.* * *And if he can stay healthy, "Is Andrew Bynum The Lakers' Future Franchise Player?"
an hypothetical match-up inthe NBA Finalsnext June. Witha trio ofsuperstars inLeBron James, Dwyane Wadeand Chris Bosh, along with a solid supporting cast of role players including Mike Miller, Udonis Haslem, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Eddie House andCarlos Arroyo, this new "super team"had takenon the mantle as the "team to beat" in the Eastern Conference.However, now with therecruiting of Shaq to the Celtics along with the earlier signing of Jermaine O'Neal, all that may have changed. For starters, the team chemistry of the Miami Heathas yet to be tested. Despite having three "superstars" on the team, the Miami Heat have not played a single game in the NBA. Coupled with a relativelyinexperienced coach in Erik Spoelstra, who haslead the team for only two years and has never taken the team past the first round of the playoffs, there are many legitimate questionsas tohow well this new Miami Heat team can gel together and how quickly. Now there is no question that the team hasenoughtalent on its rosterto make a deep playoff run, and may well do so in the years to come, but whether they can manage enough chemistry and understanding of each other's games in their first year together remains unknown.The Boston Celtics, on the other hand,have proven to possessenough talent and team chemistry to win the NBA Championship. Despite onlyacquiring Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen in the 2007-08 season to play alongside their superstar, Paul Pierce, the team went on to win the NBA Championshipthat same year. Rebounding from injuries to Kevin Garnett in the 2008-09 season, the Celticsagain reached the NBA Finals in 2010, losing in Game 7 against the Lakers on the road, and without their injured starting center, Kendrick Perkins.The injury to Perkins, suffered in the first quarter of Game 6, was significant because the Celtics were leading the series, 3-2,coming offfrom back-to-back wins in Boston in Games 4 and 5. A victory in Game 6 would have meant winning the Finals. With Perkins going down midway through the first quarter, the Celtics became hopelessly mismatched and unpreparedin the low-post for the remainder of the game, losing by 22 points.In Game 7, having a couple of days to make adjustments, the Celtics started the game off strongly with Rasheed Wallace taking over the starting center duties from Perkins, and the Celtics led the game by nine pointsafter the first quarter andsix points going into half-time. In the second-half, however, Wallace began experiencing cramps which limited his ability on the floor,and the Celtics lead was trimmed to 4 points by theend of the thirdquarter.Already without their starting center and compounded by Wallace's inability to play, the Celtics' Indianapolis Colts jersey
big men were unable to match theLakers' front-line ofPau Gasol, LamarOdom, andan injury-hamperedAndrew Bynum in the second half, resulting in a 4 point loss.Now in the same scenario, if the Celtics had either Shaq or Jermaine O'Neal on the team, instead of the rarely-used Shelden Williams, it could be argued that the outcome of Game 7, and perhaps even Game 6, might have been different. In Game 7, the Celtics were able to build a solid lead going into the second half,until Wallace began experiencing cramps in the third quarter. If either Shaq or Jermaine O'Nealwas availableto substitute for Wallace, which would have also reduced Kevin Garnett's minutes and allowed for more quality production from their starting power forward, the Celtics might not have experienced their scoring drought in the fourth quarter, which largely contributed to their loss.Fast forward to June 2011, and if both the Lakers and the Celtics reach the Finals again, the match-up becomes much more difficult for the Lakers. One of the main strengths and advantages of the Lakers isthe size and length of their big men. With starters Gasol andBynum, and Odom coming off the bench, the Lakers' front-line isa nightmare match-upfor most teams in the league. With the newly re-vamped Celtics, however, they pose less of a problem.Havingstarters Garnett and Perkins, and Glen Davis, Shaq and Jermaine O'Neal coming off the bench, even with the loss ofthe newly retired Wallace, the Celticspossessa front-line that arguably matches, if not exceeds, the Lakers'.Lakers fans can take comfort that Bynum recently had successful arthroscopic surgery on his right knee,which had limited him in both minutes andcontributionsduring the 2010 playoffs. However, questions still remain whether Bynum will be able to make it through the season without missing a significant number of games, which he has done the past three seasons. This recent surgery is also his secondmajor knee surgery in three years,the previous one being on his Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
left knee in 2008. If Bynum re-injures one of those knees during the regularseason, whether hewill be able to recuperate in time for the playoffs, or miss them completely like he didin 2008,will be a large factor in the Lakers' success in the upcomingpost-season.Even if Bynum is 100% healthy for the 2011 playoffs, the Celtics, with their newly revamped front line, will offer a bigger challenge to the Lakers in the Finals than they did this year. And since the Celtics lost by only 4 points in Game 7 andon the road,itisnot unlikelythat a meeting between these two teams in the Finals next year wouldresult ina victory for the Celtics, especially if they areable to secure home-court advantage like they did in 2008.The Miami Heat, however, seem to bemore evenly matched against the Lakers, with the Lakers having a slight advantage, especially with a healthy Bynum. Dwyane Wade is a superstar in this league, buthis contributions will be negatedby those of Kobe Bryant. Chris Bosh is also an elite player in the NBA, but Pau Gasol is considered as good or better, particularly in passing and defense, which will improve the contributions of his teammates as well. LeBron James has no equal on the Lakers, but Ron Artest has proven himself to be a good defender in the post-season, andwill likely be able to contain James toaround25 pointsa game, while scoring around 10-12 points per game himself. It seems to be a toss-up between the benches of both teams, though the core of the Lakers' bench have played together for many seasons, so it would not be unlikely that the Lakers' bench would outperform the Heat's. The Lakers have also addeda soliddefender to theirreserves inMatt Barnes, who can help guard eitherJamesor Wade. The big "X Factor" for the series, then, seems to be Bynum.If Bynum is healthy, theHeat do not have anyone on their team that can match up with him,particularly ondefense. Coupled together with Gasol, it seems the Lakers would have the advantage offensively and defensively in the Kansas City Chiefs jersey
low-post, which may be the determining factorin the series.While die-hard Lakers fans might feel thattheir teamwill prevail in the NBA Finalsno matter who the opponent is, it seemsthe Lakers'chances for winning their 17th titleimprove if their opponent is the Miami Heatand notthe Boston Celtics. And as a Lakers fan, I know I will be rooting for the Miami Heat to come out on top as Eastern Conference Championsin the 2011 NBA Playoffs.* * *And if he can stay healthy, "Is Andrew Bynum The Lakers' Future Franchise Player?"
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 Rajon Rondo Making Case As Elite Point Guard for Boston Celtics
Elsa/Getty ImagesThe Boston Celtics refused to include Rajon Rondo in the 2008 preseason trade that made them instant champions and championship contenders. They haven't looked back since, yet Rondo is often maligned for a lack of an outside shot. Names like Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Derrick Cincinnati Bengals jersey
Rose and young guns like John Wall are projected ahead of him. Williams, Paul and Rose have at least been to the playoffs, but placing Wall ahead of him is a travesty. Williams is the only player I think is worth being in the same category as Rondo, because he knows how to run a team. His scoring prowess came as a surprise to those in the NBA, because he was mostly a setup man for Dee Brown at the University of Illinois. Brown had a cup of coffee in the NBA and Deron is considered a top-five NBA point guard. Rondo still gets the edge because he has won two conference titles and one NBA Finals ring, the ultimate badge of honor for an NBA player. Since Rondo has been there, he is the NBA's most dangerous and valuable point man. Chris Paul and Derrick Rose's assist numbers are misleading, because they give up the ball only when they do not have an available shot. They do not make their teammates better, although Rose may have the opportunity to change that because of his FIBA experience. Paul has yet to spur his supporting cast to greatness. Scoring seems to be the hallmark for being elite at any position in the NBA, yet those scorers hardly win championships intheirprime. Bob McAdoo was an elite scorer early in his NBA career, winning the first of his three scoring championships in his second year. Kevin Durant is the closest in that regard, winning his first scoring championship in his first three years. McAdoo won his two rings as a role player with the Los Angeles Lakers; Cleveland Browns jersey
Durant is just in the infancy of his career, so the jury is still out. He is considered the player a GM would most like to build around. Rajon provides his team with more scoring opportunities than any of the aforementioned players. He is one of the topreboundersat his position, often flirting and achieving triple doubles in a Jason Kidd-like manner. What makes this remarkable is that he is only 6' 1" and Kidd is 6'4". Kidd came into the league without aserviceablejump shot, but through hard work and dedication, he can now hit the open shot. Various reports and comments from his teammates show that Rondo puts in the required work. He is the only point guard whose team consistently wins when his assist numbers are greater than his scoring output. I highly doubt Williams, Paul and Rose's teams could survive such a feat. Paul is considered a great defender, yet Rondo outclasses him in defensive tenacity and resulting play. The only thing NBA experts can find is that he lacks a consistent outside shot, but the kid just continues to Dallas Cowboys jersey
win. This upcoming season Celtic veterans are associating accolades like leader and quiet focus among others on Rondo. He understands it is his responsibility to balance the hodge-podge of personalities and egos in his charge. Rondo is now entering his fifth season, and it will be necessary to see all of these things result in another All-Star appearance and another championship ring. By all accounts his preseason work ethic has him developing the necessary habits to accomplish these goals.
Rose and young guns like John Wall are projected ahead of him. Williams, Paul and Rose have at least been to the playoffs, but placing Wall ahead of him is a travesty. Williams is the only player I think is worth being in the same category as Rondo, because he knows how to run a team. His scoring prowess came as a surprise to those in the NBA, because he was mostly a setup man for Dee Brown at the University of Illinois. Brown had a cup of coffee in the NBA and Deron is considered a top-five NBA point guard. Rondo still gets the edge because he has won two conference titles and one NBA Finals ring, the ultimate badge of honor for an NBA player. Since Rondo has been there, he is the NBA's most dangerous and valuable point man. Chris Paul and Derrick Rose's assist numbers are misleading, because they give up the ball only when they do not have an available shot. They do not make their teammates better, although Rose may have the opportunity to change that because of his FIBA experience. Paul has yet to spur his supporting cast to greatness. Scoring seems to be the hallmark for being elite at any position in the NBA, yet those scorers hardly win championships intheirprime. Bob McAdoo was an elite scorer early in his NBA career, winning the first of his three scoring championships in his second year. Kevin Durant is the closest in that regard, winning his first scoring championship in his first three years. McAdoo won his two rings as a role player with the Los Angeles Lakers; Cleveland Browns jersey
Durant is just in the infancy of his career, so the jury is still out. He is considered the player a GM would most like to build around. Rajon provides his team with more scoring opportunities than any of the aforementioned players. He is one of the topreboundersat his position, often flirting and achieving triple doubles in a Jason Kidd-like manner. What makes this remarkable is that he is only 6' 1" and Kidd is 6'4". Kidd came into the league without aserviceablejump shot, but through hard work and dedication, he can now hit the open shot. Various reports and comments from his teammates show that Rondo puts in the required work. He is the only point guard whose team consistently wins when his assist numbers are greater than his scoring output. I highly doubt Williams, Paul and Rose's teams could survive such a feat. Paul is considered a great defender, yet Rondo outclasses him in defensive tenacity and resulting play. The only thing NBA experts can find is that he lacks a consistent outside shot, but the kid just continues to Dallas Cowboys jersey
win. This upcoming season Celtic veterans are associating accolades like leader and quiet focus among others on Rondo. He understands it is his responsibility to balance the hodge-podge of personalities and egos in his charge. Rondo is now entering his fifth season, and it will be necessary to see all of these things result in another All-Star appearance and another championship ring. By all accounts his preseason work ethic has him developing the necessary habits to accomplish these goals.
2010年12月23日星期四
23 Dec 10Rajon Rondo Is Sorely Missed during Celtics' Losing Streak
Arguably the most important piece in the Celtics' playoff runMike Ehrmann/Getty ImagesAfter a hot start to the season, a two game losing streak against a very shorthanded Oklahoma City Thunder and the Toronto Raptors snapped the Celtics back into reality. Victory comes at a price, much like all Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
else.They steamrolled the Thunder, who were at full force. They beat the Bulls. They closed down the Heat. Twice.The very same Celtics.Well. Not really. In those games, the Celtics were playing with Rajon Rondo.Rondo ended the last minutes of the game against the OKC Thunder on the bench and was out tonight.Let's take a look back at last year: The Celtics looked much like they do in their current state, uninterested, demotivated and generally tired. There was doubt about whether they were even going to get past the first round of the playoffs. But, much to everybody'ssurprise, they fought through and were five minutes away from lifting Banner 18.What changed?Rondo. Rajon Rondo. His emergence in the playoffs was huge.The Celtics now need a point guard much Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
more than anything else. They have the offensive options and the defensive capabilities. They need a conductor.What Rondo also seems to bring is motivation. They say he is, by nature, quiet and withdrawn. The transformation that took place in last year's playoffs made him much more vocal, at least on the court. I swear I hear Rondo's voice over the crowd in every game.Tonight the starting point guard was Nate Robinson. He did step up by producing 22 efficient points on eight of 14 shooting. However, the deal was the same as he racked up just two assists. Robinson is like a very small shooting guard rather than a point guard.The other player who can somewhat fit the point guard bill, Delonte West, did not see many minutes as he is recovering from his back injury and Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
does not know the playbook as well.On one hand, Rondo needs rest. He has played the greater part of many games. On the other hand, the Celtics need a true point guard type player.Hopefully, Delonte's injury is over soon. Rondo's leadership is much needed and he needs to be healthy
else.They steamrolled the Thunder, who were at full force. They beat the Bulls. They closed down the Heat. Twice.The very same Celtics.Well. Not really. In those games, the Celtics were playing with Rajon Rondo.Rondo ended the last minutes of the game against the OKC Thunder on the bench and was out tonight.Let's take a look back at last year: The Celtics looked much like they do in their current state, uninterested, demotivated and generally tired. There was doubt about whether they were even going to get past the first round of the playoffs. But, much to everybody'ssurprise, they fought through and were five minutes away from lifting Banner 18.What changed?Rondo. Rajon Rondo. His emergence in the playoffs was huge.The Celtics now need a point guard much Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
more than anything else. They have the offensive options and the defensive capabilities. They need a conductor.What Rondo also seems to bring is motivation. They say he is, by nature, quiet and withdrawn. The transformation that took place in last year's playoffs made him much more vocal, at least on the court. I swear I hear Rondo's voice over the crowd in every game.Tonight the starting point guard was Nate Robinson. He did step up by producing 22 efficient points on eight of 14 shooting. However, the deal was the same as he racked up just two assists. Robinson is like a very small shooting guard rather than a point guard.The other player who can somewhat fit the point guard bill, Delonte West, did not see many minutes as he is recovering from his back injury and Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
does not know the playbook as well.On one hand, Rondo needs rest. He has played the greater part of many games. On the other hand, the Celtics need a true point guard type player.Hopefully, Delonte's injury is over soon. Rondo's leadership is much needed and he needs to be healthy
2010年12月22日星期三
LeBron James to Announce Free Agent Decision! Wade and Bosh to Follow?
Elsa/Getty ImagesESPN has reported that LeBron James will announce his decision on where he wants to play this Thursday, July 8 at 9P.M. on ESPN.Adrian Wojnarowski from Yahoo Sports is also reporting that Wade and Bosh will have a conference call with James this Wednesday to confirm each other’s plans. This means that Thursday could be a huge day for the NBA and its history.All the time we have been waiting could come to end soon, and it would seem we should have some strong indications on where players are going, Houston Texans jersey
but we still don’t. Sources say LeBron’s most likely destination is back to Cleveland, yet he has not said anything publicly that would hint at that. Wade and Bosh are said to be considering the Bulls and Heat, with the Nets having a long shot chance. The Knicks could also make a play for one of these free agents, but it might require some movement of pieces.All we know is that Thursday has the potential to be one of the biggest days in NBA history, and the scary part is there are no games or drafts going on.
but we still don’t. Sources say LeBron’s most likely destination is back to Cleveland, yet he has not said anything publicly that would hint at that. Wade and Bosh are said to be considering the Bulls and Heat, with the Nets having a long shot chance. The Knicks could also make a play for one of these free agents, but it might require some movement of pieces.All we know is that Thursday has the potential to be one of the biggest days in NBA history, and the scary part is there are no games or drafts going on.
2010年12月21日星期二
MLB Free Agent Signings: Troy Tulowitzki, Javier Vazquez, Juan Uribe
Doug Pensinger/Getty ImagesTwo Thumbs UpThe Colorado Rockies locked up Troy Tulowitzki through the 2020 season with the announcing of a seven-year, $134 million contract earlier today.Basically, Tulowitzki is going to be a member of the Rockies for the majority of his playing career. He'll be 36 when his current contract is up.You can't blame the Rockies for this one. The 25-year old shortstop is quickly developing into one of the best shortstops in the game, if he isn't already.He plays solid defense, runs well and swings a mighty bat.The Rockies will end up with a huge bargain in the end and that's what they are hoping for—but it doesn't come without risk.Tulowitzki has missed significant time in two seasons now. He sat out most of 2008 with a torn quad muscle. This past season, he suffered a broken wrist New Orleans Saints jersey
after being hit in the hand. The injury caused him to miss a month of the season.Had he not suffered the injury, Tulowitzki would have been well on his way to another 30 homer, 100 RBI campaign.I think we will see a 40-homer season from Tulowitzki at some point.2011 Forecast: .299, 33 HR, 115 RBI, 15 SB, 105 RTwo Thumbs DownIn other news, the Dodgers are reportedly close to signing a three-year, $21 million deal with SS Juan Uribe.Uribe hit .248 in 148 games with the Giants last season, while posting career highs in homeruns (24) and RBIs (85).I don't know why the Dodgers insist on paying Uribe that kind of money to play infield for them. He provides decent pop, but I doubt very seriously that he'll reach 20 homeruns again.His defense is average at best, and he produces a lot of outs (career .256 average, .300 OBP).Uribe hit .280 with 13 homers and 34 RBIs in 261 ABs at AT&T Park last season. To extend upon that, he hit .346 in 182 ABs at AT&T Park with 9 homers and 32 RBI in 2009.In contrast, Uribe hit a paltry .215 on the New York Giants jersey
road in 2010 and .241 in 2009. Maybe the team that signs him should consider benching him on the road.This will be another waste of money for the Dodgers organization.2011 Forecast: 400 ABs, .250, 17 HR, 60 RBI, 45 RMarlins Bolster Their StaffJavier Vazquez also cashed in, signing a one-year deal worth $7 million.Normally, I would say this is a good move, given his poor history pitching for the Yankees, but there are too many red flags here.He isn't getting any younger, for one, but he also lost velocity on his fastball last year.Couple that with career worst ratios in HR/9 (1.8), BB/9 (3.7) and his worst K/9 since his last stint with the Yankees (6.9) and you've got yourself quite a risk.Vazquez likes to use his fastball up in the zone after working his breaking pitches down in the dirt to produce strikeouts. It's harder to do that when you don't have your old velocity.Don't expect a miraculous recovery in velocity, either. That's unlikely at his age.He will really have to use his other pitches effectively if he wants to avoid another 2010 season.The good news is that he is a different pitcher in the National League—for the better. Another positive, Vazquez only allowed hitters to hit .258 against him last year and 18 of his 32 homers allowed came at Yankee Stadium.It's a risky deal for Florida, made even worse by his no-trade clause. That will make dealing him at the break very difficult should he register any success with the Marlins.2011 Forecast: 165 IP, 6-8, 4.35 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 140 KsMore to ComeThe Winter Meetings are upon us and New York Jets jersey
there are still some very high-profile free agents on the market. It should make for an interesting conclusion to the offseason.Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comment box below.
after being hit in the hand. The injury caused him to miss a month of the season.Had he not suffered the injury, Tulowitzki would have been well on his way to another 30 homer, 100 RBI campaign.I think we will see a 40-homer season from Tulowitzki at some point.2011 Forecast: .299, 33 HR, 115 RBI, 15 SB, 105 RTwo Thumbs DownIn other news, the Dodgers are reportedly close to signing a three-year, $21 million deal with SS Juan Uribe.Uribe hit .248 in 148 games with the Giants last season, while posting career highs in homeruns (24) and RBIs (85).I don't know why the Dodgers insist on paying Uribe that kind of money to play infield for them. He provides decent pop, but I doubt very seriously that he'll reach 20 homeruns again.His defense is average at best, and he produces a lot of outs (career .256 average, .300 OBP).Uribe hit .280 with 13 homers and 34 RBIs in 261 ABs at AT&T Park last season. To extend upon that, he hit .346 in 182 ABs at AT&T Park with 9 homers and 32 RBI in 2009.In contrast, Uribe hit a paltry .215 on the New York Giants jersey
road in 2010 and .241 in 2009. Maybe the team that signs him should consider benching him on the road.This will be another waste of money for the Dodgers organization.2011 Forecast: 400 ABs, .250, 17 HR, 60 RBI, 45 RMarlins Bolster Their StaffJavier Vazquez also cashed in, signing a one-year deal worth $7 million.Normally, I would say this is a good move, given his poor history pitching for the Yankees, but there are too many red flags here.He isn't getting any younger, for one, but he also lost velocity on his fastball last year.Couple that with career worst ratios in HR/9 (1.8), BB/9 (3.7) and his worst K/9 since his last stint with the Yankees (6.9) and you've got yourself quite a risk.Vazquez likes to use his fastball up in the zone after working his breaking pitches down in the dirt to produce strikeouts. It's harder to do that when you don't have your old velocity.Don't expect a miraculous recovery in velocity, either. That's unlikely at his age.He will really have to use his other pitches effectively if he wants to avoid another 2010 season.The good news is that he is a different pitcher in the National League—for the better. Another positive, Vazquez only allowed hitters to hit .258 against him last year and 18 of his 32 homers allowed came at Yankee Stadium.It's a risky deal for Florida, made even worse by his no-trade clause. That will make dealing him at the break very difficult should he register any success with the Marlins.2011 Forecast: 165 IP, 6-8, 4.35 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 140 KsMore to ComeThe Winter Meetings are upon us and New York Jets jersey
there are still some very high-profile free agents on the market. It should make for an interesting conclusion to the offseason.Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comment box below.
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 NFL Fantasy Football Start 'Em Sit 'Em Week 10: Garrard In, Favre Out
Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesHere’s some sit and start advice as you set your lineups for Week 10 of the NFL season. Quarterbacks Start David Garrard, Jacksonville Jaguars Garrard threw for 238 yards and two touchdowns the last time he faced Houston, who ranks last in the Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
league with both 298.3 passing yards allowed per game and 20 passing TDs allowed. Sit Brett Favre, Minnesota Vikings You might be tempted to roll out the old man after his monster game against Arizona, but remember that was against a horrible team at home. He’s travelling to Chicago to face the Bears, who have allowed just five touchdown passes. Running BacksStartMarshawn Lynch, Seattle Seahawks The Seahawks should stop the bleeding this week against Arizona. Lynch should help lead the way. The Cardinals rank 28th with 135.3 rushing yards allowed per game. LeGarrette Blount, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Blount took a step back last week going for just 46 yards. That was against Atlanta though, and they rank sixth in the league with 95.9 rushing yards allowed per game. This week he takes on lowly Carolina, who ranks 25th with 124.8 ypg. Sit BenJarvus Green-Ellis, New England Patriots Green-Ellis mustered just 14 yards on nine carries against Cleveland last week. What do you think he’s going to do against Pittsburgh’s top-ranked run defense? They are giving up just 58.3 yards per game and 2.6 yards per carry. Wide ReceiversStartMichael Crabtree, San Francisco 49ers Marc Serota/Getty ImagesCrabtree comes out of the bye with a favorable matchup against the Rams. He has three touchdowns in his past four games. Dez Bryant, Dallas Cowboys Jason Garrett takes over and should breathe some life into the Cowboys offense. Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
The Giants have the No. 2 pass defense, but I expect the explosive Bryant to make some plays downfield. SitSteve Smith, Carolina Panthers I love Steve Smith, but with Matt Moore gone for the year, I don’t see how you can start him. Their offense is such a mess. Tight EndsStart Dustin Keller, New York Jets Keller had a solid showing against Detroit, catching four passes for 59 yards. Another good game should be in order as the Jets travel to Cleveland to take on the Browns. Sit Jermaine Gresham, Cincinnati Bengals The Colts remain one of the top teams at keeping tight ends in check. Carson Palmer will be busy hitting his WRs and Gresham will be the forgotten man. KickersStart Dan Carpenter, Miami Dolphins Carpenter was human last week against Baltimore, but should be back in the saddle against Tennessee, who has allowed more field goals (20) than any other team. SitRyan Longwell, Minnesota Vikings On the flip side, Longwell faces the Bears, who have allowed just seven FGs. Plus, Longwell has just eight of his own on the year. DefensesStart Tampa Bay Buccaneers The Bucs take on the Panthers who are trying to swim upstream without a paddle. They simply have too many obstacles to overcome. Sit Baltimore Ravens The Ravens are not the same unit that has intimidated teams for over a decade. They aren’t a must start anymore, especially when they take on Atlanta. Also check out: Sneaky Week 10 Fantasy Football Pick-ups Week 10 Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Get ‘em or Don’t Sweat ‘em Waiver Wire Advice Week 10 Fantasy QB Rankings Week 10 Fantasy RB Rankings Week 10 Fantasy WR Rankings Week 10 Fantasy TE Rankings Week 10 Fantasy K Rankings Week 10 Fantasy DEF RankingsWeek 10 Fantasy IDP Rankings Week 10 Fantasy Sleepers
league with both 298.3 passing yards allowed per game and 20 passing TDs allowed. Sit Brett Favre, Minnesota Vikings You might be tempted to roll out the old man after his monster game against Arizona, but remember that was against a horrible team at home. He’s travelling to Chicago to face the Bears, who have allowed just five touchdown passes. Running BacksStartMarshawn Lynch, Seattle Seahawks The Seahawks should stop the bleeding this week against Arizona. Lynch should help lead the way. The Cardinals rank 28th with 135.3 rushing yards allowed per game. LeGarrette Blount, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Blount took a step back last week going for just 46 yards. That was against Atlanta though, and they rank sixth in the league with 95.9 rushing yards allowed per game. This week he takes on lowly Carolina, who ranks 25th with 124.8 ypg. Sit BenJarvus Green-Ellis, New England Patriots Green-Ellis mustered just 14 yards on nine carries against Cleveland last week. What do you think he’s going to do against Pittsburgh’s top-ranked run defense? They are giving up just 58.3 yards per game and 2.6 yards per carry. Wide ReceiversStartMichael Crabtree, San Francisco 49ers Marc Serota/Getty ImagesCrabtree comes out of the bye with a favorable matchup against the Rams. He has three touchdowns in his past four games. Dez Bryant, Dallas Cowboys Jason Garrett takes over and should breathe some life into the Cowboys offense. Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
The Giants have the No. 2 pass defense, but I expect the explosive Bryant to make some plays downfield. SitSteve Smith, Carolina Panthers I love Steve Smith, but with Matt Moore gone for the year, I don’t see how you can start him. Their offense is such a mess. Tight EndsStart Dustin Keller, New York Jets Keller had a solid showing against Detroit, catching four passes for 59 yards. Another good game should be in order as the Jets travel to Cleveland to take on the Browns. Sit Jermaine Gresham, Cincinnati Bengals The Colts remain one of the top teams at keeping tight ends in check. Carson Palmer will be busy hitting his WRs and Gresham will be the forgotten man. KickersStart Dan Carpenter, Miami Dolphins Carpenter was human last week against Baltimore, but should be back in the saddle against Tennessee, who has allowed more field goals (20) than any other team. SitRyan Longwell, Minnesota Vikings On the flip side, Longwell faces the Bears, who have allowed just seven FGs. Plus, Longwell has just eight of his own on the year. DefensesStart Tampa Bay Buccaneers The Bucs take on the Panthers who are trying to swim upstream without a paddle. They simply have too many obstacles to overcome. Sit Baltimore Ravens The Ravens are not the same unit that has intimidated teams for over a decade. They aren’t a must start anymore, especially when they take on Atlanta. Also check out: Sneaky Week 10 Fantasy Football Pick-ups Week 10 Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Get ‘em or Don’t Sweat ‘em Waiver Wire Advice Week 10 Fantasy QB Rankings Week 10 Fantasy RB Rankings Week 10 Fantasy WR Rankings Week 10 Fantasy TE Rankings Week 10 Fantasy K Rankings Week 10 Fantasy DEF RankingsWeek 10 Fantasy IDP Rankings Week 10 Fantasy Sleepers
19 Dec 10 2011 NFL Draft: California Golden Bears Cameron Jordan Scouting Report
Harry How/Getty ImagesCameron Jordan6’4, 282 pounds | Defensive end | California Pass rush: Where Jordan is ahead of many college ends is that he has an array of pass rush moves. His best is a power move where he slaps with his lead hand and pulls his other arm over to get past the blocker.He also employs a nice spin and a rip move. Don’t let his size fool you, Jordan isn’t just a power rusher. He lines up over the right tackle most of the time, yet he's a little slow on stunts. He will have some Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
trouble against the quickest tackles who can simply mirror him.Pursuit: He shows good quickness off the snap. Good timing. Fairly strong in pursuit. Jordan doesn’t move laterally as well as other ends, or even as well as Cameron Heyward. Stiff in the hips on his movement. Gives a good effort, but maybe not a hair-on-fire kind of player that will work all over the line.Run defense: Very stout against the run. Jordan is a big, strong end who keeps a good base against the run. Since he’s hard to move around, Jordan is a natural lane closer.Run defense isn’t always evident in the stat sheet. Often pushes the lineman back into the pocket to slow down the ball carrier, which allows teammates to make the tackle. Has the quickness to get outside to contain the edge.Strength: Jordan is NFL ready in the strength category. He’s powerful enough to hold the edge and consistently close rushing lanes. Strong enough to beat double teams, as long as the second blocker doesn’t go low. Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
He will lose some of his strength advantage by getting high in his stance.Tackling: Because Jordan is so strong, he’s a devastating tackler. When he can wrap up, the play is over. Where Jordan could improve is keeping his knees bent and when closing in the short area. He's the kind of power tackler where you wonder if he’s hurt the ball carrier. Technique: As good as Jordan is, he has some technique flaws. Most notably, he’ll let offensive linemen get inside him for contain. This allows linemen to work him inside into the trash, knocking him out of the play. Jordan will tend to engage only once on a blocker and not make a second move. He could do a better job of guarding his feet from blind side blocks.Final word: Jordan has proved Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
as a senior that his game isn’t predicated on playing next to Tyson Alualu. Still, he’s not the top five talent some have been purporting. What he is, though, is a very good power end with the ability to play in the 3-4. With so many teams playing a 3-4 scheme, he should hear his name called in the first round.This article is also featured onNew Era Scouting
trouble against the quickest tackles who can simply mirror him.Pursuit: He shows good quickness off the snap. Good timing. Fairly strong in pursuit. Jordan doesn’t move laterally as well as other ends, or even as well as Cameron Heyward. Stiff in the hips on his movement. Gives a good effort, but maybe not a hair-on-fire kind of player that will work all over the line.Run defense: Very stout against the run. Jordan is a big, strong end who keeps a good base against the run. Since he’s hard to move around, Jordan is a natural lane closer.Run defense isn’t always evident in the stat sheet. Often pushes the lineman back into the pocket to slow down the ball carrier, which allows teammates to make the tackle. Has the quickness to get outside to contain the edge.Strength: Jordan is NFL ready in the strength category. He’s powerful enough to hold the edge and consistently close rushing lanes. Strong enough to beat double teams, as long as the second blocker doesn’t go low. Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
He will lose some of his strength advantage by getting high in his stance.Tackling: Because Jordan is so strong, he’s a devastating tackler. When he can wrap up, the play is over. Where Jordan could improve is keeping his knees bent and when closing in the short area. He's the kind of power tackler where you wonder if he’s hurt the ball carrier. Technique: As good as Jordan is, he has some technique flaws. Most notably, he’ll let offensive linemen get inside him for contain. This allows linemen to work him inside into the trash, knocking him out of the play. Jordan will tend to engage only once on a blocker and not make a second move. He could do a better job of guarding his feet from blind side blocks.Final word: Jordan has proved Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
as a senior that his game isn’t predicated on playing next to Tyson Alualu. Still, he’s not the top five talent some have been purporting. What he is, though, is a very good power end with the ability to play in the 3-4. With so many teams playing a 3-4 scheme, he should hear his name called in the first round.This article is also featured onNew Era Scouting
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 Jeff Reed's Time as a Pittsburgh Steeler Could Come to an End
Jared Wickerham/Getty ImagesWith the Steelers down 17-3, Jeff Reed missed a 26-yard field goal.Now, this did not lose the game. I don't blame Jeff Reed for the loss.That being said, I'm about done with him. I'm done with his whining. After the game last night, Jeff Reed talked to the media and had some interesting things to say.Thanks to the good folks at steelersdepot.com, who has the entire interview with Reed, everyone got to hear a sour Reed speak after the game. Dressed in a "haters hate" t-shirt, Reed Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
went on to say that the fans are only there to bash him and then went on to blame to the turf for his misses.Reed said that he didn't want to make excuses, yet he made excuses. Not only is Reed not playing well, he is becoming a hypocrite and a blemish on the Pittsburgh Steelers.Reed has been playing at Heinz Field since 2002, so I automatically dismiss that excuse. As for the fans bashing him, don't give them a reason to bash you. Make some field goals, especially the ones that you're supposed to make.All offseason, Reed complained about his contract and said that he feels betrayed, yet the Steelers franchised him, making him one of the highest paid kickers in the league this year.Reed is not playing like a player that doesn't have a contract should be. Instead of blaming the fans, the field and the Steelers, Reed needs to take a long look at himself because he only has himself to blame.Should the Steelers replace Jeff Reed ?Should the Steelers replace Jeff Reed ?yes67.6%no14.0%only if he continues to struggle18.4%Total votes: 136Now it seems that Reed's time as the Pittsburgh Steelers kicker could be coming to an end. ESPN's Adam Shefter is reporting that the Steelers are considering cutting Reed.The Steelers are reportedly going to Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
bring in multiple kickers for workouts on Tuesday, which could spell the end for Reed in Pittsburgh.Reed is 15 of 22 on field goals this season and his kicking percentage of 68.2 is the lowest of his career—lower than the 71.9 percent in 2003, his second year in the NFL. Reed missed nine field goals that season and the Steelers finished 6-10.I'm going to assume that the Steelers will replace Reed. I think it's time and probably should have done before the season.
went on to say that the fans are only there to bash him and then went on to blame to the turf for his misses.Reed said that he didn't want to make excuses, yet he made excuses. Not only is Reed not playing well, he is becoming a hypocrite and a blemish on the Pittsburgh Steelers.Reed has been playing at Heinz Field since 2002, so I automatically dismiss that excuse. As for the fans bashing him, don't give them a reason to bash you. Make some field goals, especially the ones that you're supposed to make.All offseason, Reed complained about his contract and said that he feels betrayed, yet the Steelers franchised him, making him one of the highest paid kickers in the league this year.Reed is not playing like a player that doesn't have a contract should be. Instead of blaming the fans, the field and the Steelers, Reed needs to take a long look at himself because he only has himself to blame.Should the Steelers replace Jeff Reed ?Should the Steelers replace Jeff Reed ?yes67.6%no14.0%only if he continues to struggle18.4%Total votes: 136Now it seems that Reed's time as the Pittsburgh Steelers kicker could be coming to an end. ESPN's Adam Shefter is reporting that the Steelers are considering cutting Reed.The Steelers are reportedly going to Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
bring in multiple kickers for workouts on Tuesday, which could spell the end for Reed in Pittsburgh.Reed is 15 of 22 on field goals this season and his kicking percentage of 68.2 is the lowest of his career—lower than the 71.9 percent in 2003, his second year in the NFL. Reed missed nine field goals that season and the Steelers finished 6-10.I'm going to assume that the Steelers will replace Reed. I think it's time and probably should have done before the season.
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Brad Childress Fired: Both Minnesota Vikings and Brett Favre Are Out of Control
Matthew Stockman/Getty ImagesThe Minnesota Vikings fired head coach Brad Childress finally in what one wonders is a move that could have been influenced and or demanded by Brett Favre. The history is what it is in Minnesota. These two never got along. And there was always a leak about Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
things going on in that locker room, but it was leaking like a sieve as of late.It didn’t matter if it was pertaining to Favre or other players. But even after the firing of Brad Childress I have to ask, does Brett Favre have the right to tell a coach to get out of his face? Is Brett Favre immune to the rants and raves of a coach on the sideline after he obviously blew it on the field? Why should he? Just because he is Brett Favre? This is the problem of why players think they are better than anyone else or the game. Brett Favre needs to be fined, and suspended. He is no different than any other player on the sidelines who has to answer to his coach. And if coaches let him get away with it that is a problem too. “Ohhhh we have to be careful because it is Brett Favre.” Should Brett Favre Be Allowed To Give It To The Coach, Just Because Of Who He Is? Should Brett Favre Be Allowed To Give It To The Coach, Just Because Of Who He Is? Yes18.3%No81.7%Total votes: 229Listen Brett; You lead the NFL in interceptions. You think if Favre ever coached he would accept that from anyone? NO WAY!Lord forbid anyone question the great Brett Favre. Should Favre get away with it? Just because he has played 20 years in the league, he can act a jerk? He has no right to be disrespectful to any coach. He has to be accountable like a Peyton Manning is. If a coach told Manning to do something he would do it. He accepts his role, and has accountability. And forgive me Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
for saying this to all Brett Favre fans howeverhe is no Peyton Manning. Favre is a jerk. He always has been a jerk. Do that to me, and I am coach, I am right back in his face telling him knock the crap off listen to what coaches are saying to you. Yes I know he knows why he threw the interception, but if that was any other quarterback, he hears it from his coach. No wonder this team is in disarray. This is a classic example of both the coaches and players not respecting each other. So is Brett going to be even worse with the firing of Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
Childress? Who knows. But what I do know is no Brett, you can’t get in the face of your superior, just because you make 29 times more than he does. Attitude is everything, and your stinks. Maybe if you lead by example your team could win. Your selfish attitude sucks. And if you don’t like it go home to Mississippi, and enjoy the good life of retirement.
things going on in that locker room, but it was leaking like a sieve as of late.It didn’t matter if it was pertaining to Favre or other players. But even after the firing of Brad Childress I have to ask, does Brett Favre have the right to tell a coach to get out of his face? Is Brett Favre immune to the rants and raves of a coach on the sideline after he obviously blew it on the field? Why should he? Just because he is Brett Favre? This is the problem of why players think they are better than anyone else or the game. Brett Favre needs to be fined, and suspended. He is no different than any other player on the sidelines who has to answer to his coach. And if coaches let him get away with it that is a problem too. “Ohhhh we have to be careful because it is Brett Favre.” Should Brett Favre Be Allowed To Give It To The Coach, Just Because Of Who He Is? Should Brett Favre Be Allowed To Give It To The Coach, Just Because Of Who He Is? Yes18.3%No81.7%Total votes: 229Listen Brett; You lead the NFL in interceptions. You think if Favre ever coached he would accept that from anyone? NO WAY!Lord forbid anyone question the great Brett Favre. Should Favre get away with it? Just because he has played 20 years in the league, he can act a jerk? He has no right to be disrespectful to any coach. He has to be accountable like a Peyton Manning is. If a coach told Manning to do something he would do it. He accepts his role, and has accountability. And forgive me Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
for saying this to all Brett Favre fans howeverhe is no Peyton Manning. Favre is a jerk. He always has been a jerk. Do that to me, and I am coach, I am right back in his face telling him knock the crap off listen to what coaches are saying to you. Yes I know he knows why he threw the interception, but if that was any other quarterback, he hears it from his coach. No wonder this team is in disarray. This is a classic example of both the coaches and players not respecting each other. So is Brett going to be even worse with the firing of Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
Childress? Who knows. But what I do know is no Brett, you can’t get in the face of your superior, just because you make 29 times more than he does. Attitude is everything, and your stinks. Maybe if you lead by example your team could win. Your selfish attitude sucks. And if you don’t like it go home to Mississippi, and enjoy the good life of retirement.
2010年12月16日星期四
Until the past couple weeks, the New York Jets used their passing game sparingly, only when they really needed it. It has now become a major part of their offensive game plan.
Second-year quarterback Mark Sanchez looks more Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
confident and comfortable running the offense. The coaching staff has opened the playbook, allowing Sanchez to play football. The results are paying off when it counts.
All the questions surrounding Sanchez and whether or not he had the ability to handle an NFL offense seem to be slipping away.
From last season, everyone expected the Jets' running game to be the big play threat. Shonn Greene and new addition LaDainian Tomlinson had the explosiveness to break a game open with a long run. The question was always whether or not Sanchez was ready to control the passing game as Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
well and give the Jets a balanced offensive attack.
Sanchez still has some accuracy problems. For the year, he is 30th in the league, among quarterbacks that have thrown at least 150 passes, with a 55.1 completion percentage. However, he has been showing a knack for coming up big with the game on the line. He is becoming a clutch quarterback on a team that needs it.
Late in games, Sanchez seems to get better. Maybe he gets more focused in crunch time.
It’s not just making plays. Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
Sanchez is making big plays. He has teamed with wide receivers Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards and Jerricho Cotchery and tight end Dustin Keller to form a dangerous aerial assault.
Continue the full article at Double G Sports.
Second-year quarterback Mark Sanchez looks more Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
confident and comfortable running the offense. The coaching staff has opened the playbook, allowing Sanchez to play football. The results are paying off when it counts.
All the questions surrounding Sanchez and whether or not he had the ability to handle an NFL offense seem to be slipping away.
From last season, everyone expected the Jets' running game to be the big play threat. Shonn Greene and new addition LaDainian Tomlinson had the explosiveness to break a game open with a long run. The question was always whether or not Sanchez was ready to control the passing game as Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
well and give the Jets a balanced offensive attack.
Sanchez still has some accuracy problems. For the year, he is 30th in the league, among quarterbacks that have thrown at least 150 passes, with a 55.1 completion percentage. However, he has been showing a knack for coming up big with the game on the line. He is becoming a clutch quarterback on a team that needs it.
Late in games, Sanchez seems to get better. Maybe he gets more focused in crunch time.
It’s not just making plays. Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
Sanchez is making big plays. He has teamed with wide receivers Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards and Jerricho Cotchery and tight end Dustin Keller to form a dangerous aerial assault.
Continue the full article at Double G Sports.
2010年12月15日星期三
Indianapolis Colts: The Real Reasons for the Team's Collapse
The Dime Package has been on an extended break. After the commiserations of the Colts loss in Super Bowl XIV and a subsequent extended trip overseas, I started the 2010 Colts' season like many other fans, firmly planted on my couch. What I expected was another year of title contention, a march to another 12-win season, and a steady dose of Peyton Manning and his magnificent offensive weapons.
What I got was a completely different season.
Still, I had stayed away from the keyboard and my beloved column. An 0-2 division record didn't inspire me to write. Ron Jaworski's comments on "diminishing skills" didn't make me flinch. Like many Colts fans, I was metaphorically fat and happy on the legacy of the Manning era of Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
Colts history. I channeled my inner Monty Python and decided the early season indignities were but a flesh wound.
And then came last night.
All of a sudden the Colts problems became clear. So, in the lobby of a downtown Indianapolis hotel, surrounded by whisperings of the imminent demise of the season, I am here to discuss what really is the problem with the 2010 Colts.
Hubris.
Overconfidence can come in many forms. Obviously the fans' overconfidence has nothing to do with the Colts' current record. However, the hubris of one individual can have a direct effect on the talent the Colts put on the field.
Forgive me if I feel slightly nervous for typing these words in the heart of a city that bleeds Colts' football, but I am starting to see some cracks in the impressive resume of general manager Bill Polian.
Pause, and you can almost hear the gasps of loyal Colts fans.
You would think I would be more forgiving. I lived through the 1991 season, a 1-15 debacle on an epic scale. I remember countless Jeff George games where he would miraculously snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. I remember the hope of the Eric Dickerson trade, the single division title, and the handful of years that followed, years that teased but never delivered.
After all, despite last night's homicide, the Colts are still tied atop the AFC South standings. Houston and Tennessee appear to be tripping over themselves as they race to the basement of the division. Only Jacksonville stands in the way of the Colts and another division title, and I'll be honest, I don't have a lot of faith in a Jack Del Rio-led team coming through down the stretch.
Chances are that the Colts will find a way to make the playoffs. I'm struggling to decide if that's a good thing or not.
Making the playoffs and losing a game to, say, the Jets in a wild card might reinforce Polian's belief that this team is close. He might reason that, in the end, the injuries simply were too much to overcome. He may even suggest that we, as fans, should be proud that a battered Colts team fought so valiantly to reach the post season in the first place.
Pride, though, has nothing to do with it. Blocking, on the other hand, has everything to do with it.
The downfall of the 2010 Colts started back in 2007. That's when Polian made the first of many mistakes in regards to the offensive line. In 2007, Polian used a 2008 first round pick to move up to take Arkansas tackle Tony Ugoh. Three years later, Ugoh's name can not be found on Steelers 10 Santonio Holmes jersey
the roster.
The following year, Polian spent the Colts top pick (a second rounder) on Arizona State center Mike Pollak. Pollak is apparently better than Ugoh since he is still on the roster. However, he can't beat out free agent rookie Jeff Linkenbach. Troubling considering Linkenbach's impression of a bull fighter in the ugly loss to the Chargers.
A year after the Pollak pick, the offensive line suffered the greatest indignity from Polian. They became the scapegoat of the Super Bowl loss to the Saints. The ultimate scapegoat was deemed to be Ryan Lilja, who was allowed to return to his first professional team, the Kansas City Chiefs.
Now would be a good time to add the Lilja starts for the Chiefs and that the Chiefs are one of the league's best running teams.
With Lilja's departure, little was done to replace him. Low round draft picks and free agents were brought in. Nothing has helped.
The Colts can't run the ball. Sure, it doesn't help that Joseph Addai is hurt and that Donald Brown doesn't run with the same power he had early in his rookie season a year ago, but it's hard to imagine the running game improving with Addai's return. The Colts can't run the ball, and opposing defenses know it.
This has led to the Colts passing. A lot. No, not a lot. Actually, it's more of a grotesque number. Manning is on pace to break Drew Bledsoe's record for pass attempts in a season.
Incidentally, Bledsoe set that record in 1994, leading a one-dimensional Patriots team into the playoffs and an early exit.
With teams knowing Manning has to pass 40-50 times a game, teams a getting pushing to get more pressure on him. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem. Manning is consistently one of the least sacked quarterbacks in the league. However, this year the pressure is getting there. Two of Manning's interceptions against San Diego were a direct result of being hit as he was passing.
Creating pressure and turnovers brings out what I believe to be Manning's only weakness, his desire to do anything it takes to win. Pressure leads Manning to make throws he wouldn't normally attempt when he has time, or when he's fighting a large deficit.
If anything, the fact that the Colts are 6-5 should be an example of how great Peyton Manning is. Looking at the way this team blocks, runs, and even tackles, it's a miracle they are in the thick of the division race. That's clearly on Manning's shoulders. The coaches should be commended too. Time and again, the Colts seem to find a player overlooked by other teams and get that player to produce on the field. This year, Blair White, a walk-on at Michigan State, has played well in relief of the numerous injuries the Colts have had to their receiving corps. But for ever player like White, or last year's Jacob Lacey, the Colts seem to have their fair share of Linkenbachs, Pollaks and Ugohs.
That would be fine if the busts and misses weren't all offensive lineman.
At 34, the Manning era in Indianapolis has 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
a finite number of years left. For the Colts to remain Super Bowl contenders, and not just playoff also-rans, Polian needs to revamp the offensive line. Time may be running out on the 2010 season, but the future seasons hinge uponthe decisions Polian makes in regards to guys that have Manning's back.
What I got was a completely different season.
Still, I had stayed away from the keyboard and my beloved column. An 0-2 division record didn't inspire me to write. Ron Jaworski's comments on "diminishing skills" didn't make me flinch. Like many Colts fans, I was metaphorically fat and happy on the legacy of the Manning era of Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
Colts history. I channeled my inner Monty Python and decided the early season indignities were but a flesh wound.
And then came last night.
All of a sudden the Colts problems became clear. So, in the lobby of a downtown Indianapolis hotel, surrounded by whisperings of the imminent demise of the season, I am here to discuss what really is the problem with the 2010 Colts.
Hubris.
Overconfidence can come in many forms. Obviously the fans' overconfidence has nothing to do with the Colts' current record. However, the hubris of one individual can have a direct effect on the talent the Colts put on the field.
Forgive me if I feel slightly nervous for typing these words in the heart of a city that bleeds Colts' football, but I am starting to see some cracks in the impressive resume of general manager Bill Polian.
Pause, and you can almost hear the gasps of loyal Colts fans.
You would think I would be more forgiving. I lived through the 1991 season, a 1-15 debacle on an epic scale. I remember countless Jeff George games where he would miraculously snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. I remember the hope of the Eric Dickerson trade, the single division title, and the handful of years that followed, years that teased but never delivered.
After all, despite last night's homicide, the Colts are still tied atop the AFC South standings. Houston and Tennessee appear to be tripping over themselves as they race to the basement of the division. Only Jacksonville stands in the way of the Colts and another division title, and I'll be honest, I don't have a lot of faith in a Jack Del Rio-led team coming through down the stretch.
Chances are that the Colts will find a way to make the playoffs. I'm struggling to decide if that's a good thing or not.
Making the playoffs and losing a game to, say, the Jets in a wild card might reinforce Polian's belief that this team is close. He might reason that, in the end, the injuries simply were too much to overcome. He may even suggest that we, as fans, should be proud that a battered Colts team fought so valiantly to reach the post season in the first place.
Pride, though, has nothing to do with it. Blocking, on the other hand, has everything to do with it.
The downfall of the 2010 Colts started back in 2007. That's when Polian made the first of many mistakes in regards to the offensive line. In 2007, Polian used a 2008 first round pick to move up to take Arkansas tackle Tony Ugoh. Three years later, Ugoh's name can not be found on Steelers 10 Santonio Holmes jersey
the roster.
The following year, Polian spent the Colts top pick (a second rounder) on Arizona State center Mike Pollak. Pollak is apparently better than Ugoh since he is still on the roster. However, he can't beat out free agent rookie Jeff Linkenbach. Troubling considering Linkenbach's impression of a bull fighter in the ugly loss to the Chargers.
A year after the Pollak pick, the offensive line suffered the greatest indignity from Polian. They became the scapegoat of the Super Bowl loss to the Saints. The ultimate scapegoat was deemed to be Ryan Lilja, who was allowed to return to his first professional team, the Kansas City Chiefs.
Now would be a good time to add the Lilja starts for the Chiefs and that the Chiefs are one of the league's best running teams.
With Lilja's departure, little was done to replace him. Low round draft picks and free agents were brought in. Nothing has helped.
The Colts can't run the ball. Sure, it doesn't help that Joseph Addai is hurt and that Donald Brown doesn't run with the same power he had early in his rookie season a year ago, but it's hard to imagine the running game improving with Addai's return. The Colts can't run the ball, and opposing defenses know it.
This has led to the Colts passing. A lot. No, not a lot. Actually, it's more of a grotesque number. Manning is on pace to break Drew Bledsoe's record for pass attempts in a season.
Incidentally, Bledsoe set that record in 1994, leading a one-dimensional Patriots team into the playoffs and an early exit.
With teams knowing Manning has to pass 40-50 times a game, teams a getting pushing to get more pressure on him. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem. Manning is consistently one of the least sacked quarterbacks in the league. However, this year the pressure is getting there. Two of Manning's interceptions against San Diego were a direct result of being hit as he was passing.
Creating pressure and turnovers brings out what I believe to be Manning's only weakness, his desire to do anything it takes to win. Pressure leads Manning to make throws he wouldn't normally attempt when he has time, or when he's fighting a large deficit.
If anything, the fact that the Colts are 6-5 should be an example of how great Peyton Manning is. Looking at the way this team blocks, runs, and even tackles, it's a miracle they are in the thick of the division race. That's clearly on Manning's shoulders. The coaches should be commended too. Time and again, the Colts seem to find a player overlooked by other teams and get that player to produce on the field. This year, Blair White, a walk-on at Michigan State, has played well in relief of the numerous injuries the Colts have had to their receiving corps. But for ever player like White, or last year's Jacob Lacey, the Colts seem to have their fair share of Linkenbachs, Pollaks and Ugohs.
That would be fine if the busts and misses weren't all offensive lineman.
At 34, the Manning era in Indianapolis has 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
a finite number of years left. For the Colts to remain Super Bowl contenders, and not just playoff also-rans, Polian needs to revamp the offensive line. Time may be running out on the 2010 season, but the future seasons hinge uponthe decisions Polian makes in regards to guys that have Manning's back.
2010年12月13日星期一
NFL Week 13 Odds: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Getting 3 Points Against Atlanta Falcons
Larry French/Getty ImagesWith last Sunday’s 20-17 victory over Green Bay, the Atlanta Falcons have put themselves in position to earn home-field advantage in the postseason.At 9-2, the Falcons hold the best record in the NFC. They enter Sunday’s matchup with division rival Tampa Bay riding a five-game win streak.The Falcons are hoping that their win streak is a good omen. The last time Atlanta won five in a row was during its 1998 Super Bowl season. Home-field advantage would nfl jerseys
certainly go a long way toward helping Atlanta get back to the big game, considering it is 19-1 all-time at the Georgia Dome with Matt Ryan under center.With Chicago and New Orleans both breathing down Atlanta’s neck, the Falcons must take care of business when they head out on the road for three straight weeks. Both of Atlanta’s losses have come on the road.The second win in Atlanta’s current win streak came against the Bucs. Despite outgaining Tampa Bay 365-278 and dominating the time of possession, the Falcons had to stop the Bucs on fourth down from their own two in order to escape with a 27-21 win.While Atlanta has won the past four head-to-head meetings, the Buccaneers have won 12 of the last 17.NFL oddsmakers are expecting a tight game Sunday, listing the Falcons as a three-point favorite with the total set at 44.5.Tampa Bay (7-4) has made major strides since winning only three games last season, but it is yet to record a signature win. The Bucs haven’t defeated a team with a winning record here in the 2010 season. They have lost to the likes of New Orleans, Pittsburgh, Atlanta and Baltimore by a combined 63 points.The good news is Tampa Bay’s last two losses to winning teams have come by just six and seven points, respectively.Tampa Bay must find a way to take something away from Atlanta Sunday or it will be at its mercy.Atlanta boasts perhaps the most balanced offense in the league. Ryan, who Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
completed 24 of 28 passes for 198 yards and a score last week, has been playing out of his mind. The third-year signal-caller has completed 69.9 percent of his throws for 1,300 yards with 10 touchdown strikes and only one interception during Atlanta’s winning streak.Last week, Ryan posted a passer rating of over 100.0 for a third straight game. The Falcons are now 15-0 when Ryan’s quarterback rating is 100.0 or higher.Running back Michael Turner makes Ryan’s life a lot easier because he commands so much respect from opposing defenses. Turner went over the century mark for a fourth time in five games with a 110-yard rushing performance against Green Bay.He rushed for 107 yards and two scores in Atlanta’s first meeting with Tampa Bay.Turner could be poised for another big game considering how poor the Bucs have defended the run. Tampa Bay is surrendering 132.5 yards per game on the ground (27th in the NFL).It is worth noting that the Buccaneers are 1-10 against the number in their last 11 games as a home underdog.Tampa Bay has done an excellent job of hanging around this season by taking good care of the football. Two Josh Freeman interceptions, however, proved football jerseys
costly against the Falcons the first time around.Freeman has a chance to be the hero Sunday against an Atlanta defense that has struggled against the pass. The Falcons rank 27th in the NFL at 252.9 passing yards per game allowed.Tampa Bay enters Sunday’s contest having cashed five straight tickets for backers.Bet with confidence in Week 13 by playing the same plays as world champion handicapper Jimmy Boyd!
certainly go a long way toward helping Atlanta get back to the big game, considering it is 19-1 all-time at the Georgia Dome with Matt Ryan under center.With Chicago and New Orleans both breathing down Atlanta’s neck, the Falcons must take care of business when they head out on the road for three straight weeks. Both of Atlanta’s losses have come on the road.The second win in Atlanta’s current win streak came against the Bucs. Despite outgaining Tampa Bay 365-278 and dominating the time of possession, the Falcons had to stop the Bucs on fourth down from their own two in order to escape with a 27-21 win.While Atlanta has won the past four head-to-head meetings, the Buccaneers have won 12 of the last 17.NFL oddsmakers are expecting a tight game Sunday, listing the Falcons as a three-point favorite with the total set at 44.5.Tampa Bay (7-4) has made major strides since winning only three games last season, but it is yet to record a signature win. The Bucs haven’t defeated a team with a winning record here in the 2010 season. They have lost to the likes of New Orleans, Pittsburgh, Atlanta and Baltimore by a combined 63 points.The good news is Tampa Bay’s last two losses to winning teams have come by just six and seven points, respectively.Tampa Bay must find a way to take something away from Atlanta Sunday or it will be at its mercy.Atlanta boasts perhaps the most balanced offense in the league. Ryan, who Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
completed 24 of 28 passes for 198 yards and a score last week, has been playing out of his mind. The third-year signal-caller has completed 69.9 percent of his throws for 1,300 yards with 10 touchdown strikes and only one interception during Atlanta’s winning streak.Last week, Ryan posted a passer rating of over 100.0 for a third straight game. The Falcons are now 15-0 when Ryan’s quarterback rating is 100.0 or higher.Running back Michael Turner makes Ryan’s life a lot easier because he commands so much respect from opposing defenses. Turner went over the century mark for a fourth time in five games with a 110-yard rushing performance against Green Bay.He rushed for 107 yards and two scores in Atlanta’s first meeting with Tampa Bay.Turner could be poised for another big game considering how poor the Bucs have defended the run. Tampa Bay is surrendering 132.5 yards per game on the ground (27th in the NFL).It is worth noting that the Buccaneers are 1-10 against the number in their last 11 games as a home underdog.Tampa Bay has done an excellent job of hanging around this season by taking good care of the football. Two Josh Freeman interceptions, however, proved football jerseys
costly against the Falcons the first time around.Freeman has a chance to be the hero Sunday against an Atlanta defense that has struggled against the pass. The Falcons rank 27th in the NFL at 252.9 passing yards per game allowed.Tampa Bay enters Sunday’s contest having cashed five straight tickets for backers.Bet with confidence in Week 13 by playing the same plays as world champion handicapper Jimmy Boyd!
2010年12月12日星期日
Fantasy Football Positional Rankings With Commentary For Week 14
Anquan Boldin the top fantasy football receiver for Week 14? The Texans will likely oblige.Jared Wickerham/Getty ImagesWe are a culture of rankings. We rank our favorite movies, restaurants and honey-do list priorities. Breakfast cereal? I easily have Lucky Charms ranked well ahead of Shredded Wheat. A Ford Mustang ranked higher than a Ford Fiesta. Vacuuming the living room ranked a few notches below cleaning the toilet on my annoying household chores list.Rankings provide order to an otherwise chaotic Colts jersey
situation. Like picking a fantasy football starter between two able candidates with the whole season hanging in the balance. Week 14 is a critical one. For some, it is the first week of playoffs. For others, it is the last opportunity to make a playoff push. Who should you start? The following rankings are a good place to start that discussion:QUARTERBACK1. Aaron Rodgers at Detroit. Rodgers continues to quietly produce solid fantasy stats regardless of the situation or opponent. This week, he gets a cupcake matchup as the Packers try to jockey themselves to the top of the NFC-North. Rodgers will be slinging the pigskin early and often.2. Michael Vick at Dallas. Vick has become a scoring machine this year and plays a Dallas squad that is both potent enough to keep the scoring high and a defense that can allow some big QB numbers.3. Drew Brees vs. St. Louis. Brees has struggled at times this season to produce the consistently awesome fantasy stats we’ve grown fond of … a game vs. porous St. Louis will fix that this week.For my full list of Week 14 QB rankings, go here.RUNNING BACK1. Peyton Hillis at Buffalo. Few players have done so much when so many expected so little. Hillis’ amazing fantasy production will continue against Buffalo’s run defense.2. Michael Turner at Carolina. The Panthers defense isn’t exactly the Steel Curtain, and Turner will have plenty of opportunities while the Falcons protect their big lead with clock management late.3. Ray Rice at Houston. Rice has been disappointing at times this season, but his versatility in both the running and passing game will pay big dividends here vs. a cakewalk Texans defense.For my full list of Week 14 RB rankings, go here.WIDE RECEIVER1. Anquan Boldin at Houston. The Texans allow a ton of fantasy pointage to opposing receivers, and Boldin will shine in primetime Monday night football.2. Greg Jennings at Detroit. See Aaron Rodgers above. Jennings has nfl jersey
finally developed into the weekly playmaker we expected to see out of him before.3. Roddy White at Carolina. White has been in a mini-slump compared to the jaw-dropping numbers we saw earlier in the season. But he’s still an elite option and playing a Carolina defense that isn’t going to be able to keep up with him.For my full list of Week 14 WR rankings, go here.TIGHT END1. Antonio Gates vs. KC. A big game for the Chargers. Gates is banged up and you need to make sure he’s playing on gameday, but if he’s out there, expect him to be productive in a game the Chargers need to win.2. Jason Witten vs. PHI. Witten doesn’t have the chemistry with Jon Kitna that he did with Tony Romo, but Witten still should produce against an Eagles defense that is kind to tight ends.3. Vernon Davis vs. SEA. Davis has been in and out of fantasy relevance all season, but should show up this week in a divisional game where the Niners need his playmaking ability.For my full list of Week 14 TE rankings, go here.Want more Week 14 help? We've started publishing our game-by-game fantasy projections
situation. Like picking a fantasy football starter between two able candidates with the whole season hanging in the balance. Week 14 is a critical one. For some, it is the first week of playoffs. For others, it is the last opportunity to make a playoff push. Who should you start? The following rankings are a good place to start that discussion:QUARTERBACK1. Aaron Rodgers at Detroit. Rodgers continues to quietly produce solid fantasy stats regardless of the situation or opponent. This week, he gets a cupcake matchup as the Packers try to jockey themselves to the top of the NFC-North. Rodgers will be slinging the pigskin early and often.2. Michael Vick at Dallas. Vick has become a scoring machine this year and plays a Dallas squad that is both potent enough to keep the scoring high and a defense that can allow some big QB numbers.3. Drew Brees vs. St. Louis. Brees has struggled at times this season to produce the consistently awesome fantasy stats we’ve grown fond of … a game vs. porous St. Louis will fix that this week.For my full list of Week 14 QB rankings, go here.RUNNING BACK1. Peyton Hillis at Buffalo. Few players have done so much when so many expected so little. Hillis’ amazing fantasy production will continue against Buffalo’s run defense.2. Michael Turner at Carolina. The Panthers defense isn’t exactly the Steel Curtain, and Turner will have plenty of opportunities while the Falcons protect their big lead with clock management late.3. Ray Rice at Houston. Rice has been disappointing at times this season, but his versatility in both the running and passing game will pay big dividends here vs. a cakewalk Texans defense.For my full list of Week 14 RB rankings, go here.WIDE RECEIVER1. Anquan Boldin at Houston. The Texans allow a ton of fantasy pointage to opposing receivers, and Boldin will shine in primetime Monday night football.2. Greg Jennings at Detroit. See Aaron Rodgers above. Jennings has nfl jersey
finally developed into the weekly playmaker we expected to see out of him before.3. Roddy White at Carolina. White has been in a mini-slump compared to the jaw-dropping numbers we saw earlier in the season. But he’s still an elite option and playing a Carolina defense that isn’t going to be able to keep up with him.For my full list of Week 14 WR rankings, go here.TIGHT END1. Antonio Gates vs. KC. A big game for the Chargers. Gates is banged up and you need to make sure he’s playing on gameday, but if he’s out there, expect him to be productive in a game the Chargers need to win.2. Jason Witten vs. PHI. Witten doesn’t have the chemistry with Jon Kitna that he did with Tony Romo, but Witten still should produce against an Eagles defense that is kind to tight ends.3. Vernon Davis vs. SEA. Davis has been in and out of fantasy relevance all season, but should show up this week in a divisional game where the Niners need his playmaking ability.For my full list of Week 14 TE rankings, go here.Want more Week 14 help? We've started publishing our game-by-game fantasy projections
2010年12月11日星期六
Pittsburgh Steelers Ben Roethlisberger Motorcycle Accident Bill Cowher Terry Bradshaw Kellen Winslow Jerome Mathis Jay Williams Jeff Kent
On Monday, in the traffic accident heard 'round the world, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger crashed his motorcycle into a sedan at a local intersection. Roethlisberger flew through the air, hitting his helmetless head off the car's windshield. Immediately, people began fearing that the former 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
first-round pick had either died or sustained severe injuries that would abruptly end his promising football career. By the grace of the man upstairs, Roethlisberger's injuries weren't all that serious, even though they did require lengthy surgery at Pittsburgh's Mercy Hospital. In the end "Big Ben" escaped with a broken jaw, broken nose and a lot of lost teeth. Truly, it could have been much worse.The most startling detail to come from the accident was that the 24-year-old was not wearing a helmet as he rode the motorcycle. With such a great life and so many positive things ahead, it's a wonder how Roethlisberger could have been so foolish. In the wake of a motorcycle accident suffered by Cleveland Browns tight end Kellen Winslow last year, Steelers coach Bill Cowher lectured Roethlisberger about motorcycle safety. The QB claimed in the past that he rode cautiously and with a crowd, but he was alone on his Pittsburgh joyride. There's no word as to the speed Roethlisberger was driving at, or whose fault the accident was.It's amazing how things can change. Roethlisberger went from winning a Super Bowl this past February to nearly passing away just four short months later. Had Roethlisberger lost his life, it would have been one of the most tragic, devastating deaths in the history of sports. In fact, tragic wouldn't have been a strong enough word to describe such a thought. Luckily, Roethlisberger survived, and is expected to be ready at the start of the season in September.13 months ago, the best QB in Pittsburgh Steelers history, Terry Bradshaw, criticized Roethlisberger for riding a motorcycle. He publicly warned him to put the bike away until his career ended. Perhaps the four-time Super Bowl winner was a prognosticator in this case. Many laugh off Bradshaw as little more than a jokester, but he was certainly proven right in this terrible situation.Along with Roethlisberger and Winslow, other pro athletes to suffer recent motorcycle accidents are the Houston Texans' Pro Bowl kick returner Jerome Mathis, former Chicago Bulls point guard Jay Williams and Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Jeff Kent. All have been high-profile players at some point in their respective careers. Williams, a former first-round pick for the Bulls, saw his basketball career come to a stunning end after his accident.Had Roethlisberger suffered an injury that would have kept him out for any period of time this season, veteran Charlie Batch would have taken over as the Steelers' starting QB. Batch, a good friend of Roethlisberger's, was at the hospital visiting his superior. Although Batch has had starting experience in the past, envisioning him leading the Steelers 36 Bettis Black Jersey
anywhere special would have been quite difficult.For the time being, Batch will take most of the snaps in mini-camp. Pittsburgh's rookie third-stringer, Omar Jacobs, will also see plenty of snaps.Be thankful, Steeler fans. In less than three months, your franchise player will line up under center--as usual--in a primetime showdown with the Miami Dolphins. Roethlisberger and the Steelers will begin their title defense that day. By then, we'll all be glad that football is the topic, instead of what could have been an incredibly unfortunate loss of one of America's best and most recognizable athletes.--Connor J. Byrne can be reached at .Get more on Ben Roethlisberger
2010年12月9日星期四
San Francisco 49ers Ray Anderson Atlanta Falcons
Two things are certain.1) The San Francisco 49ers are still looking to hire someone for the newly-created team president position.2) It won't be current Atlanta Falcons vice-president Ray AndersonAnderson decided to stay with the Falcons despite the fact that he was regarded as the frontrunner for the position and he would have likely been given the opportunity to become the first African-American team president.According to Anderson the decision was made due to a "timing issue". I guess the timing is never quite right when you're considering joining a ballclub that has won only six games over the past two seasons. Nevertheless, Anderson was very cordial about the whole matter and thanked the San Francisco 49ers for their consideration.The 49ers must now regroup and re-evaluate their list of 43 Polamalu black jersey
existing candidates. This is a very important decision and should not be taken lightly. In the meantime, they can continue working on outlining the actual role that the new president will perform for the team. Apparently, the front office hasn't even finished outlining the job description yet.Hopefully, one of the top prerequisites will be winning
existing candidates. This is a very important decision and should not be taken lightly. In the meantime, they can continue working on outlining the actual role that the new president will perform for the team. Apparently, the front office hasn't even finished outlining the job description yet.Hopefully, one of the top prerequisites will be winning
San Francisco 49ers "Expectations are high for Aubrayo Franklin"
The San Francisco 49ers signed nose tackle 2010 pro bowl 4 Brett Favre Blue jersey
Aubrayo Franklin to a three year, $6 million contract in early March with the expectation that he could be the man in the middle for the defense. The 49ers ranked 19th in rushing defense last season, allowing 121.0 yards per game on the ground. Coach Mike Nolan has ties to Franklin from his days in Baltimore as the Ravens' D-coordinator. And it's evident that Nolan has the utmost confidence that Franklin, a fifth-round pick in 2003, can solidify the middle and help improve the team's rush defense.Last year, Franklin saw playing time as the primary backup to Ravens starting defensive tackle Kelly Gregg. San Francisco defensive end Marques Douglas was a teammate of Franklin's in Baltimore, and the former shared his thoughts on the latter in a Q & A session on the 49ers' official Web site."I think he's finally going to get a chance to step out and prove that he can be a full time starter in this league. He was behind some good people in Baltimore and whenever you're behind good people you have to sit there patiently and know that your time is going to come," said Douglas."Now his time has come. He's going to have to really understand that he's no longer a back up. His role has changed and it's that of a starter. When you're a starter there's a whole different level of expectations right at the front," he continued.Franklin's patience should pay off this season, and his performance will be a critical factor in determining whether the Niners' 3-4 defense will be successful. If Franklin can clog the middle and 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
absorb blockers, he will open rushing lanes for the team's explosive blitzing linebackers. The recent addition of D-lineman Sam Rayburn, who was signed to a one-year deal for the minimum salary of $595,000, should provide some depth at nose tackle, too, and he's also expected to back up veteran Bryant Young at left DE. Despite picking up Rayburn, the team has lofty expectations for Franklin, who is determined to take full advantage of his new opportunity.
Aubrayo Franklin to a three year, $6 million contract in early March with the expectation that he could be the man in the middle for the defense. The 49ers ranked 19th in rushing defense last season, allowing 121.0 yards per game on the ground. Coach Mike Nolan has ties to Franklin from his days in Baltimore as the Ravens' D-coordinator. And it's evident that Nolan has the utmost confidence that Franklin, a fifth-round pick in 2003, can solidify the middle and help improve the team's rush defense.Last year, Franklin saw playing time as the primary backup to Ravens starting defensive tackle Kelly Gregg. San Francisco defensive end Marques Douglas was a teammate of Franklin's in Baltimore, and the former shared his thoughts on the latter in a Q & A session on the 49ers' official Web site."I think he's finally going to get a chance to step out and prove that he can be a full time starter in this league. He was behind some good people in Baltimore and whenever you're behind good people you have to sit there patiently and know that your time is going to come," said Douglas."Now his time has come. He's going to have to really understand that he's no longer a back up. His role has changed and it's that of a starter. When you're a starter there's a whole different level of expectations right at the front," he continued.Franklin's patience should pay off this season, and his performance will be a critical factor in determining whether the Niners' 3-4 defense will be successful. If Franklin can clog the middle and 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
absorb blockers, he will open rushing lanes for the team's explosive blitzing linebackers. The recent addition of D-lineman Sam Rayburn, who was signed to a one-year deal for the minimum salary of $595,000, should provide some depth at nose tackle, too, and he's also expected to back up veteran Bryant Young at left DE. Despite picking up Rayburn, the team has lofty expectations for Franklin, who is determined to take full advantage of his new opportunity.
2010年12月2日星期四
Bob Sanders Profile Week 10
If you saw the play where the ' Bob Sanders hurled his body over his own defensive line to pound shifty running back Laurence Maroney into the turf last weekend in New England, you'll know what I'm talking about.Just when it looked like the Patriots' rookie was about to shoot through a hole for a nice gain, Sanders went vertical Dallas Cowboys jersey
and met him shoulder high, looking more like a human missile or comic book superhero than a mild-mannered guy from northern Pennsylvania. The free safety's return from injury couldn't have come at a more perfect time for Indianapolis this past Sunday night as the team took on its conference nemesis. With two starting tackles out once again (Corey Simon and Montae Reagor) and fellow safety Mike Doss recently going on injured reserve, the Colts were obviously vulnerable going against Tom Brady and the Pats. But 11 tackles and an interception later, Sanders stood out as the spark that lit a fire under the Colts' defense.Stellar play is not new to the third-year pro out of the University of Iowa. Last December he had a career-best 20 tackles (12 solo) versus San Diego. He then became the club's first defensive back to earn Pro Bowl honors since Jerry Logan and Rick Volk in 1971. Sanders finished the season with 118 tackles (71 solo), four passes defended, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and one interception.Of course, Sanders' hard-hitting style of play doesn't come without a downside. Of the 41 regular-season games he's been on the Colts' roster, he has been listed as questionable, doubtful or out 22 times on Indy's injury report.Should he stay healthy the rest of 4 Brett Favre White jersey
the 2006 campaign, Bob Sanders will single-handedly raise the Colts' defensive unit from nothing special to above average. He is that good.As much as I dislike clichés, Sanders is a bona fide difference maker on the football field. And the Colts are no doubt happy to have him back.Get more analysis
and met him shoulder high, looking more like a human missile or comic book superhero than a mild-mannered guy from northern Pennsylvania. The free safety's return from injury couldn't have come at a more perfect time for Indianapolis this past Sunday night as the team took on its conference nemesis. With two starting tackles out once again (Corey Simon and Montae Reagor) and fellow safety Mike Doss recently going on injured reserve, the Colts were obviously vulnerable going against Tom Brady and the Pats. But 11 tackles and an interception later, Sanders stood out as the spark that lit a fire under the Colts' defense.Stellar play is not new to the third-year pro out of the University of Iowa. Last December he had a career-best 20 tackles (12 solo) versus San Diego. He then became the club's first defensive back to earn Pro Bowl honors since Jerry Logan and Rick Volk in 1971. Sanders finished the season with 118 tackles (71 solo), four passes defended, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and one interception.Of course, Sanders' hard-hitting style of play doesn't come without a downside. Of the 41 regular-season games he's been on the Colts' roster, he has been listed as questionable, doubtful or out 22 times on Indy's injury report.Should he stay healthy the rest of 4 Brett Favre White jersey
the 2006 campaign, Bob Sanders will single-handedly raise the Colts' defensive unit from nothing special to above average. He is that good.As much as I dislike clichés, Sanders is a bona fide difference maker on the football field. And the Colts are no doubt happy to have him back.Get more analysis
Tight ends for tight situations
If there was one play in the fourth quarter of the AFC Championship game that typified the unpredictability of the ' offense, it was a pass Peyton Manning completed on second-and-10 from his own 31-yard line to the New England Patriots' 37.The receiver lobbied for it in the huddle, then lost his defender with a quick Jets 6 Sanchez Jersey
move to the outside -- just as he'd promised. Manning found him on the left sideline, and the Colts knew they probably had at least a tying field goal.What's interesting is, the receiver wasn't Marvin Harrison or Reggie Wayne, the two wideouts everyone mentions in the same breath as Manning. It was Bryan Fletcher, a second-year pro and the third-string tight end.You know about tight ends -- tall, hulking guys who probably played basketball in high school and have the heft to block even defensive linemen when necessary. When they catch the ball, it's usually when the quarterback has exhausted all his other options. They are his life-line, the final read as the alternatives blur through the QB's racing mind like pictures of fruit on a slot machine.Tight ends become important in the red zone, because they are large targets. Generally speaking, they don't go streaking down the sideline.Except in Indianapolis, where starter Dallas Clark and backups Ben Utecht and Fletcher all have more than a 10-yard average per catch. Clark snagged 30 passes for 367 yards in 2006, Utecht had 37 catches for 377 yards and Fletcher's numbers were 18 grabs for 202 yards. By contrast, Desmond Clark of the Chicago Bears had a Monster of the Midway year with 45 catches, 626 yards and six touchdowns, but reserves John Gilmore and Gabe Reid contributed very little to the offense.As defenses pay more attention to Harrison and Wayne, Clark has emerged as Manning's favorite and most effective receiver in the postseason. The 6-foot-3, 254-pound University of Iowa grad caught nine passes in the playoff opener against Kansas City, six of them for first downs. Held to two catches by Baltimore, he made both of them count for over 20 yards, setting up two of Adam Vinatieri's five field goals. And then, in the conference title game, his six catches covered 137 yards.Over the past two years, all tight ends in the NFL have been compared to San Diego's Antonio Gates. But since returning from four weeks of injury downtime, Clark has looked more like Gates than Gates.His right knee injury against Philadelphia on Nov. 26 was first thought to be a torn ACL. But team doctors advised rest rather than season-ending surgery, and the knee came around in time for Clark to retake the field for the last regular-season game.This is a guy you've got to love, a small town boy (Fort Dodge, Iowa) who walked on at the University of Iowa as a linebacker. A couple of days after the Colts' 38-34 victory put them in the Super Bowl, Clark made a call to his old high school -- Twin River Valley -- and talked to the assembled student body over the PA system. He told them he was having the time of his life.What makes Clark different from the league's other marquee tight ends -- Gates and Tony Gonzalez -- is that he is only the No. 3 receiver. But while he has the size and the gumption to block effectively, he's also fast enough to be a slot receiver or even split out as a third wideout.The Bears, we keep hearing, never blitz. So if Clark doesn't have to stay home to keep unexpected flying bodies from colliding with Manning, he'll be free to ply the middle of the field -- where he'll probably be defended by another small-town hero, Chicago 4 Brett Favre White jersey
LB Brian Urlacher.Meanwhile, Fletcher and Utecht are also frequent targets for Manning, who's likely to throw to anyone who's legal. Utecht is more of a possession receiver, but Fletcher -- light for a TE at 230 pounds -- can go deep.He proved that two weeks ago.Original Super Bowl insight
move to the outside -- just as he'd promised. Manning found him on the left sideline, and the Colts knew they probably had at least a tying field goal.What's interesting is, the receiver wasn't Marvin Harrison or Reggie Wayne, the two wideouts everyone mentions in the same breath as Manning. It was Bryan Fletcher, a second-year pro and the third-string tight end.You know about tight ends -- tall, hulking guys who probably played basketball in high school and have the heft to block even defensive linemen when necessary. When they catch the ball, it's usually when the quarterback has exhausted all his other options. They are his life-line, the final read as the alternatives blur through the QB's racing mind like pictures of fruit on a slot machine.Tight ends become important in the red zone, because they are large targets. Generally speaking, they don't go streaking down the sideline.Except in Indianapolis, where starter Dallas Clark and backups Ben Utecht and Fletcher all have more than a 10-yard average per catch. Clark snagged 30 passes for 367 yards in 2006, Utecht had 37 catches for 377 yards and Fletcher's numbers were 18 grabs for 202 yards. By contrast, Desmond Clark of the Chicago Bears had a Monster of the Midway year with 45 catches, 626 yards and six touchdowns, but reserves John Gilmore and Gabe Reid contributed very little to the offense.As defenses pay more attention to Harrison and Wayne, Clark has emerged as Manning's favorite and most effective receiver in the postseason. The 6-foot-3, 254-pound University of Iowa grad caught nine passes in the playoff opener against Kansas City, six of them for first downs. Held to two catches by Baltimore, he made both of them count for over 20 yards, setting up two of Adam Vinatieri's five field goals. And then, in the conference title game, his six catches covered 137 yards.Over the past two years, all tight ends in the NFL have been compared to San Diego's Antonio Gates. But since returning from four weeks of injury downtime, Clark has looked more like Gates than Gates.His right knee injury against Philadelphia on Nov. 26 was first thought to be a torn ACL. But team doctors advised rest rather than season-ending surgery, and the knee came around in time for Clark to retake the field for the last regular-season game.This is a guy you've got to love, a small town boy (Fort Dodge, Iowa) who walked on at the University of Iowa as a linebacker. A couple of days after the Colts' 38-34 victory put them in the Super Bowl, Clark made a call to his old high school -- Twin River Valley -- and talked to the assembled student body over the PA system. He told them he was having the time of his life.What makes Clark different from the league's other marquee tight ends -- Gates and Tony Gonzalez -- is that he is only the No. 3 receiver. But while he has the size and the gumption to block effectively, he's also fast enough to be a slot receiver or even split out as a third wideout.The Bears, we keep hearing, never blitz. So if Clark doesn't have to stay home to keep unexpected flying bodies from colliding with Manning, he'll be free to ply the middle of the field -- where he'll probably be defended by another small-town hero, Chicago 4 Brett Favre White jersey
LB Brian Urlacher.Meanwhile, Fletcher and Utecht are also frequent targets for Manning, who's likely to throw to anyone who's legal. Utecht is more of a possession receiver, but Fletcher -- light for a TE at 230 pounds -- can go deep.He proved that two weeks ago.Original Super Bowl insight
2010年12月1日星期三
camp toss-up: Strongside linebacker"
There’s one good thing about summer when it comes to the NFL: You can turn almost any negative into a positive.At this time last year, the and Lane Kiffin, then their rookie head coach, were dealing with what, at that time, seemed to be an encouraging little road bump. They had too many players -- which meant too many camp battles -- for nearly every position.Even at this time in 2007, Kiffin still hadn’t figured out who’d be his starting quarterback for the year -- and who’d be the backup, for that matter. He headed into preseason having to deal with the flux of having three QBs -- Josh McCown, Daunte Culpepper and Andrew Walter -- all battling for one spot.It all seemed hopeful back then. There were so many capable players on one roster, which encouraged a 10 Santonio Holmes White jersey
competitive atmosphere and forced Kiffin to choose the one who emerged as the best player.Or … there just wasn’t one player good enough.After another 4-12 season, we’ve all found out that was the reason why there were so many camp battles. Looking back, having to choose among McCown, Culpepper and Walter is no fantasy camp.Luckily, just two days after the Raiders’ first official 2008 depth chart was released, that won’t be a problem this year. A quick glance reveals only two positions up for grabs heading into preseason: Center (which I discussed last week) and strongside linebacker, which I’ll examine now.Currently, there are three applicants up for the final linebacker spot alongside standouts Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard. The three are Sam Williams, Robert Thomas and Ricky Brown; Williams and Thomas have starting experience with Oakland, while Brown has only seen time on special teams in the NFL. That doesn’t mean, however, that Brown is out of the race. In fact, he may be leading it.? Sam Williams: The 28-year-old Williams has the most starting experience with the Raiders of the three linebackers, filling a No. 1 role in 20 games with the silver and black over the last five seasons. Unfortunately, the former third-round pick hasn’t used that starting time very effectively, never emerging as the type of dynamic player the Raiders had hoped he'd be when drafting him out of Fresno State.Williams’ best season came back in 2006, when the 260-pounder started 12 games and recorded 44 tackles (38 solo) and a sack. Last season, his production saw a major drop-off, with just four starts and 16 tackles to show for the year. In the end, Williams will likely to a back seat to both Thomas and Brown. The Clayton, Calif., native has become the player who's always there, but he's never quite good enough in Oakland. Unfortunately for him, nothing has changed that this year.? Robert Thomas: The most experienced of the three, Thomas has started in 49 games with three different teams since entering the NFL in 2002. The 28-year-old started 10 games with Oakland last season and posted his most productive season in the league since 2003 with the St. Louis Rams. The 6-feet, 235-pounder registered 62 tackles (51 solo) as the team’s primary starter, proving to be a reliable option at outside linebacker.Thomas, though, doesn’t quite fit in with the Raiders' linebacking corps. Though dependable, he doesn’t possess the explosiveness and playmaking ability that both Morrison and Howard have, making him appear as the odd man out. As the season rolls along, Thomas will undoubtedly see his share of time on the field. To start, though, his name may sit No. 2 on the depth chart.? Ricky Brown: The young wild card of the three, Brown is the type of player coach’s and fans can get excited about. The 24-year-old hasn’t played strongside linebacker since his days at Boston College three years ago, but the former undrafted free agent has been taking the bulk of reps this camp with the first-team defense. A native of Cincinnati, Brown has spent his first two years with Oakland almost exclusively on special teams, playing in 19 games (with one start in Week 16 last year) and registering 21 total tackles.Brown came out of the same draft as Howard in ‘06, and, surprisingly, he isn’t far off in the measurables department. Howard (6-3, 240) ran the 40-yard dash in 4.42 seconds; Brown (6-2, 235) ran it in 4.48. 10 Santonio Holmes black jersey
Howard ran the 20-yard shuttle in 4.29 seconds; Brown topped that, recording a 3.96-second shuttle. In addition, they also differed by just one one-hundredth of a second in the three-cone drill.With the ‘08 preseason just one day away, don’t expect Brown’s undersized résumé to prevent him from beating out the aged veterans. This deep into camp, it’s a testament to his work ethic that he’s even leading this tight race. Expect Brown to hang on, and join the two explosive linebackers he’s watched from the sidelines since becoming a Raider two short years ago.Anthony Carroll can be contacted at Training Camp: An entirely new kind of fantasy game! (21)
competitive atmosphere and forced Kiffin to choose the one who emerged as the best player.Or … there just wasn’t one player good enough.After another 4-12 season, we’ve all found out that was the reason why there were so many camp battles. Looking back, having to choose among McCown, Culpepper and Walter is no fantasy camp.Luckily, just two days after the Raiders’ first official 2008 depth chart was released, that won’t be a problem this year. A quick glance reveals only two positions up for grabs heading into preseason: Center (which I discussed last week) and strongside linebacker, which I’ll examine now.Currently, there are three applicants up for the final linebacker spot alongside standouts Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard. The three are Sam Williams, Robert Thomas and Ricky Brown; Williams and Thomas have starting experience with Oakland, while Brown has only seen time on special teams in the NFL. That doesn’t mean, however, that Brown is out of the race. In fact, he may be leading it.? Sam Williams: The 28-year-old Williams has the most starting experience with the Raiders of the three linebackers, filling a No. 1 role in 20 games with the silver and black over the last five seasons. Unfortunately, the former third-round pick hasn’t used that starting time very effectively, never emerging as the type of dynamic player the Raiders had hoped he'd be when drafting him out of Fresno State.Williams’ best season came back in 2006, when the 260-pounder started 12 games and recorded 44 tackles (38 solo) and a sack. Last season, his production saw a major drop-off, with just four starts and 16 tackles to show for the year. In the end, Williams will likely to a back seat to both Thomas and Brown. The Clayton, Calif., native has become the player who's always there, but he's never quite good enough in Oakland. Unfortunately for him, nothing has changed that this year.? Robert Thomas: The most experienced of the three, Thomas has started in 49 games with three different teams since entering the NFL in 2002. The 28-year-old started 10 games with Oakland last season and posted his most productive season in the league since 2003 with the St. Louis Rams. The 6-feet, 235-pounder registered 62 tackles (51 solo) as the team’s primary starter, proving to be a reliable option at outside linebacker.Thomas, though, doesn’t quite fit in with the Raiders' linebacking corps. Though dependable, he doesn’t possess the explosiveness and playmaking ability that both Morrison and Howard have, making him appear as the odd man out. As the season rolls along, Thomas will undoubtedly see his share of time on the field. To start, though, his name may sit No. 2 on the depth chart.? Ricky Brown: The young wild card of the three, Brown is the type of player coach’s and fans can get excited about. The 24-year-old hasn’t played strongside linebacker since his days at Boston College three years ago, but the former undrafted free agent has been taking the bulk of reps this camp with the first-team defense. A native of Cincinnati, Brown has spent his first two years with Oakland almost exclusively on special teams, playing in 19 games (with one start in Week 16 last year) and registering 21 total tackles.Brown came out of the same draft as Howard in ‘06, and, surprisingly, he isn’t far off in the measurables department. Howard (6-3, 240) ran the 40-yard dash in 4.42 seconds; Brown (6-2, 235) ran it in 4.48. 10 Santonio Holmes black jersey
Howard ran the 20-yard shuttle in 4.29 seconds; Brown topped that, recording a 3.96-second shuttle. In addition, they also differed by just one one-hundredth of a second in the three-cone drill.With the ‘08 preseason just one day away, don’t expect Brown’s undersized résumé to prevent him from beating out the aged veterans. This deep into camp, it’s a testament to his work ethic that he’s even leading this tight race. Expect Brown to hang on, and join the two explosive linebackers he’s watched from the sidelines since becoming a Raider two short years ago.Anthony Carroll can be contacted at Training Camp: An entirely new kind of fantasy game! (21)
Five fresh faces show up big, lead Raiders to win
It was a weekend of new faces and second-year standouts for the .The silver and black debuted its new roster on Friday in an 18-6 home win over the San Francisco 49ers to jump-start its preseason. A handful of first-time Raiders and second-year returnees propelled Oakland to the winner's circle.It 36 Bettis Black Jersey
was an easy-to-watch effort for at least half of the Bay Area, with Oakland dominating San Francisco in nearly every statistical category. The Raider offense outran the 49ers’ by 78 yards, the ‘D’ forced four turnovers, and the special teams put a touchdown on the scoreboard.Nearly all of those accomplishments came as a result of a play made by a fresh face -- either a first-year Raider or second-year player. Here are five of those players who led Oakland to victory Friday and showed they’re ready for the 2008 season.? Johnnie Lee HigginsHiggins didn’t get credit for all he did Friday. Even so, he still had a huge day. The sophomore wideout from UTEP had a 39-yard punt return negated by an illegal block to the back midway through the first quarter. The illegal block by fullback Oren O’Neal came after Higgins was already two steps past the defender; nevertheless, the long return was called back. A quarter later, though, the 24-year-old took back an Andy Lee punt 53 yards for a score, putting Oakland on the board for the first time of the ‘08 preseason.? Darren McFaddenMcFadden’s NFL debut came with a lot of cheers and no disappointment. The first-round running back was allotted 12 carries by head coach Lane Kiffin, and he averaged 4.0 yards per attempt. McFadden showed off his explosiveness early on, running off the edge and past a pack of 49er defenders on a third-and-1 situation to pick up 6 yards and a first down. On the Arkansas rookie’s first drive, pickups of 4, 3, 5, 6 and another 6 yards were made. There were plenty of positives to take away from the 20-year-old’s NFL debut. ? Louis RankinOakland is probably the hardest roster to make if you’re an undrafted free agent running back. Yet Rankin did all he could Friday to make sure his coaches think twice before making any sudden decisions. The former Washington Huskies ball carrier led the team in rushing with 91 yards on just eight attempts, thanks largely in part to a 72-yard scamper on the second play of the fourth quarter. Last year with Washington, the Stockton, Calif., native rushed for 1,294 yards on 233 carries, good for 5.6 yards per try. He gained 11.4 yards per rush on Friday.? Michael BushIt was a long-awaited debut for the 245-pound second-year running back, but it was a good one. Bush’s first NFL carry went for a hard-earned 7 yards and his second went for 6. On the day, the ex-Louisville standout fell short of matching fellow RBs Justin Fargas and McFadden’s numbers on the ground, gaining 27 yards; however, he did win in the TD and pass-catching categories. The 24-year-old received a pair of throws for 29 yards, including a 23-yard screen that set up his 5-yard touchdown carry on the opening drive of the third quarter.? Gibril WilsonWilson wasn’t all over the stat sheet: He had just three tackles on the day. However, he was all over the field. The 26-year-old, who signed with Oakland during the offseason for his ability to swarm to the football, did just that Friday. The fifth-year safety was in on nearly every play he was on the field for (two drives) and was very quick to respond in pass coverage. On the team’s defensive debut, the ex-Giant was in on two of the three tackles made on2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
the drive. On the team’s second defensive stand, Wilson made the drive-ending tackle on running back DeShaun Foster for a loss of 4 yards. Only one exhibition game into the ‘08 season, it looks as if Oakland made a very sound free agent investment.Anthony Carroll can be contacted at Training Camp: An entirely new kind of fantasy game! (36)
was an easy-to-watch effort for at least half of the Bay Area, with Oakland dominating San Francisco in nearly every statistical category. The Raider offense outran the 49ers’ by 78 yards, the ‘D’ forced four turnovers, and the special teams put a touchdown on the scoreboard.Nearly all of those accomplishments came as a result of a play made by a fresh face -- either a first-year Raider or second-year player. Here are five of those players who led Oakland to victory Friday and showed they’re ready for the 2008 season.? Johnnie Lee HigginsHiggins didn’t get credit for all he did Friday. Even so, he still had a huge day. The sophomore wideout from UTEP had a 39-yard punt return negated by an illegal block to the back midway through the first quarter. The illegal block by fullback Oren O’Neal came after Higgins was already two steps past the defender; nevertheless, the long return was called back. A quarter later, though, the 24-year-old took back an Andy Lee punt 53 yards for a score, putting Oakland on the board for the first time of the ‘08 preseason.? Darren McFaddenMcFadden’s NFL debut came with a lot of cheers and no disappointment. The first-round running back was allotted 12 carries by head coach Lane Kiffin, and he averaged 4.0 yards per attempt. McFadden showed off his explosiveness early on, running off the edge and past a pack of 49er defenders on a third-and-1 situation to pick up 6 yards and a first down. On the Arkansas rookie’s first drive, pickups of 4, 3, 5, 6 and another 6 yards were made. There were plenty of positives to take away from the 20-year-old’s NFL debut. ? Louis RankinOakland is probably the hardest roster to make if you’re an undrafted free agent running back. Yet Rankin did all he could Friday to make sure his coaches think twice before making any sudden decisions. The former Washington Huskies ball carrier led the team in rushing with 91 yards on just eight attempts, thanks largely in part to a 72-yard scamper on the second play of the fourth quarter. Last year with Washington, the Stockton, Calif., native rushed for 1,294 yards on 233 carries, good for 5.6 yards per try. He gained 11.4 yards per rush on Friday.? Michael BushIt was a long-awaited debut for the 245-pound second-year running back, but it was a good one. Bush’s first NFL carry went for a hard-earned 7 yards and his second went for 6. On the day, the ex-Louisville standout fell short of matching fellow RBs Justin Fargas and McFadden’s numbers on the ground, gaining 27 yards; however, he did win in the TD and pass-catching categories. The 24-year-old received a pair of throws for 29 yards, including a 23-yard screen that set up his 5-yard touchdown carry on the opening drive of the third quarter.? Gibril WilsonWilson wasn’t all over the stat sheet: He had just three tackles on the day. However, he was all over the field. The 26-year-old, who signed with Oakland during the offseason for his ability to swarm to the football, did just that Friday. The fifth-year safety was in on nearly every play he was on the field for (two drives) and was very quick to respond in pass coverage. On the team’s defensive debut, the ex-Giant was in on two of the three tackles made on2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
the drive. On the team’s second defensive stand, Wilson made the drive-ending tackle on running back DeShaun Foster for a loss of 4 yards. Only one exhibition game into the ‘08 season, it looks as if Oakland made a very sound free agent investment.Anthony Carroll can be contacted at Training Camp: An entirely new kind of fantasy game! (36)
LaDainian Tomlinson
If the can find a way to control San Diego running back LaDainian Tomlinson on Sunday, they can head into week seven with a chance to break even-something far easier said than done. Through four games this season Oakland has yet to allow a single rusher to pass the century-mark. However, Sunday's 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
game at Network Associates Coliseum will surely be the greatest test that Oakland will have to face all season.While Tomlinson is the key factor in the game for the Chargers, Oakland must rely on their defensive line to provide them with another strong game in both pass-rush and run-defense. The Raiders first priority must be to control the San Diego offensive line, especially on rushing plays. If the mammoth duo of Warren Sapp and Ted Washington can provide a strong push on the interior of the line it will cause Tomlinson to rely purely on individual athleticism to gain yardage-a talent that he definitely possesses. On passing plays, look for ends Bobby Hamilton, Derrick Burgess, and Tommy Kelly to collapse the pocket around Drew Brees and knock down balls at the line of scrimmage.Offensively, the will be facing the 7th-ranked rush defense and 26th-ranked pass defense in the NFL. This does not mean that Oakland should turn away from their running game by any means. In the Raiders' only win of the season, first-year starter LaMont Jordan rumbled for 126 yards and a touchdown. Another solid outing for Jordan will allow fantasy stud Kerry Collins to open up the passing attack led by wideouts Randy Moss and Jerry Porter. Also look for tight end Courtney Anderson to exploit the weak San Diego secondary by running free down the middle of the field.On the sidelines, Coach Norv Tuner must find a way to penetrate San Diego's 3-4 defensive scheme that has stifled several rushers already this season. San Diego head coach Marty Schottenheimer holds a dominating 23-7 all-time record against Oakland-he is 3-0 in his career against Norv Turner. Oakland already has four pre-game advantages over San Diego. For one, they are heading into Sunday's game with an extra week of rest and preparation. Secondly, San Diego has had a day of training taken away from them due to last week's Monday Night battle with Pittsburgh. Thirdly, Oakland is hot coming off 6 Sanchez Green Jersey
a win, while San Diego lost their last outing. And last-but surely not least-Oakland is playing with the home crowd behind them.With each of these underlying factors in mind, Sunday could prove to be a tremendous opportunity for the to turn their season around and cause a bit of commotion in the AFC West.
game at Network Associates Coliseum will surely be the greatest test that Oakland will have to face all season.While Tomlinson is the key factor in the game for the Chargers, Oakland must rely on their defensive line to provide them with another strong game in both pass-rush and run-defense. The Raiders first priority must be to control the San Diego offensive line, especially on rushing plays. If the mammoth duo of Warren Sapp and Ted Washington can provide a strong push on the interior of the line it will cause Tomlinson to rely purely on individual athleticism to gain yardage-a talent that he definitely possesses. On passing plays, look for ends Bobby Hamilton, Derrick Burgess, and Tommy Kelly to collapse the pocket around Drew Brees and knock down balls at the line of scrimmage.Offensively, the will be facing the 7th-ranked rush defense and 26th-ranked pass defense in the NFL. This does not mean that Oakland should turn away from their running game by any means. In the Raiders' only win of the season, first-year starter LaMont Jordan rumbled for 126 yards and a touchdown. Another solid outing for Jordan will allow fantasy stud Kerry Collins to open up the passing attack led by wideouts Randy Moss and Jerry Porter. Also look for tight end Courtney Anderson to exploit the weak San Diego secondary by running free down the middle of the field.On the sidelines, Coach Norv Tuner must find a way to penetrate San Diego's 3-4 defensive scheme that has stifled several rushers already this season. San Diego head coach Marty Schottenheimer holds a dominating 23-7 all-time record against Oakland-he is 3-0 in his career against Norv Turner. Oakland already has four pre-game advantages over San Diego. For one, they are heading into Sunday's game with an extra week of rest and preparation. Secondly, San Diego has had a day of training taken away from them due to last week's Monday Night battle with Pittsburgh. Thirdly, Oakland is hot coming off 6 Sanchez Green Jersey
a win, while San Diego lost their last outing. And last-but surely not least-Oakland is playing with the home crowd behind them.With each of these underlying factors in mind, Sunday could prove to be a tremendous opportunity for the to turn their season around and cause a bit of commotion in the AFC West.
LaMont Jordan Randy Moss
Last week's loss to Philadelphia was apparently a momentous wake-up call for several - most notably running back LaMont Jordan and kicker Sebastian Janikowski. A week after tallying only 19 yards on 16 carries, LaMont Jordan put his head down 26 times for a 126-yard effort in Oakland's home win to 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
Dallas 19-13. Sebastian Janikowski, who let six points slip away from him last week, had a perfect game in Oakland to add 13 points onto LaMont Jordan's six.Despite 13 penalties for 85 yards, Oakland was able to hold the lead for the entire game. The young secondary held Cowboy quarterback Drew Bledsoe to just 11 completions for 212 yards on 26 attempts. Ranked third in NFL passer rating coming into Sunday's game, Bledsoe's yardage total and completion percentage was his worst of the 2005 season thus far. On the other side of the field, Kerry Collins threw another pickless game with 13 completions for 218 yards. Marshall standout Randy Moss reached the 100-yard mark for the third time in just four games this season with 123 yards.Perhaps more important than the 100-yard games by both Randy Moss and LaMont Jordan was the exceptional performance of the Raiders defensive line. In spite of facing 22 carries by running back Julius Jones, Oakland's line held him to only 76 yards-an average of just 3.5 yards per carry. Additionally, Oakland consistently collapsed the pocket around statue Drew Bledsoe, causing him to force several bad throws. Off-season acquisition Derrick Burgess reached the quarterback twice, while veteran Warren Sapp also had success on the line with a sack of his own. Along with eight tackles on the game, strong safety Derrick Gibson also reached Bledsoe for a sack on a vital third down blitz.Only with less than five minutes left in the fourth quarter was Dallas within reach of their first lead of the game. Set up by a 57-yard pass to Terry Glenn with 4:14 left in the game, Dallas was facing a first and ten from the Oakland 11-yard line with just over two minutes left. On first down, Julius Jones ran off the left tackle for eight yards to the Oakland three-yard line-the closest Dallas would get to capturing their first lead. Tommy Kelly stuffed Julius Jones two yards behind the line of scrimmage on second down, 6 Sanchez White Jersey
followed by two Bledsoe incompletions on third and fourth down.At the expense of the Dallas Cowboys, the 1-3 can now head into their bye week with their heads up and their hopes high. Oakland's next opponent is the San Diego Chargers on October 16th.
Dallas 19-13. Sebastian Janikowski, who let six points slip away from him last week, had a perfect game in Oakland to add 13 points onto LaMont Jordan's six.Despite 13 penalties for 85 yards, Oakland was able to hold the lead for the entire game. The young secondary held Cowboy quarterback Drew Bledsoe to just 11 completions for 212 yards on 26 attempts. Ranked third in NFL passer rating coming into Sunday's game, Bledsoe's yardage total and completion percentage was his worst of the 2005 season thus far. On the other side of the field, Kerry Collins threw another pickless game with 13 completions for 218 yards. Marshall standout Randy Moss reached the 100-yard mark for the third time in just four games this season with 123 yards.Perhaps more important than the 100-yard games by both Randy Moss and LaMont Jordan was the exceptional performance of the Raiders defensive line. In spite of facing 22 carries by running back Julius Jones, Oakland's line held him to only 76 yards-an average of just 3.5 yards per carry. Additionally, Oakland consistently collapsed the pocket around statue Drew Bledsoe, causing him to force several bad throws. Off-season acquisition Derrick Burgess reached the quarterback twice, while veteran Warren Sapp also had success on the line with a sack of his own. Along with eight tackles on the game, strong safety Derrick Gibson also reached Bledsoe for a sack on a vital third down blitz.Only with less than five minutes left in the fourth quarter was Dallas within reach of their first lead of the game. Set up by a 57-yard pass to Terry Glenn with 4:14 left in the game, Dallas was facing a first and ten from the Oakland 11-yard line with just over two minutes left. On first down, Julius Jones ran off the left tackle for eight yards to the Oakland three-yard line-the closest Dallas would get to capturing their first lead. Tommy Kelly stuffed Julius Jones two yards behind the line of scrimmage on second down, 6 Sanchez White Jersey
followed by two Bledsoe incompletions on third and fourth down.At the expense of the Dallas Cowboys, the 1-3 can now head into their bye week with their heads up and their hopes high. Oakland's next opponent is the San Diego Chargers on October 16th.
2010年11月30日星期二
Shaun Alexander Sebastian Janikowski
In all fairness to the organization and owner Al Davis, it may not be quite fair to revisit the 200 NFL Draft and tell them how badly they messed up by not drafting a running back from the University of Alabama named Shaun Alexander. Quite a few other teams passed up on the 2005 MVP, who was selected by the Seattle Seahawks with the 19th overall selection. He was actually the fourth player taken at his position, following Jamal Lewis (taken 5th by Baltimore), Thomas Jones (taken 7th by Arizona), and Ron Dayne (taken 11th by the New York Giants). However, I feel forced to remind Davis of how badly he botched the 17th overall pick because of the simple fact that he took a kicker in the first round. Then-head coach John Gruden (yes, I'm pointing out another Davis blunder by referring to Gruden as then-coach) lobbied hard for Davis to pick Alexander, but the stubborn owner balked, and felt the Raiders pressing need was on special teams since spotty field goal kicking cost them a playoff birth in '99. The Raiders ended up drafting Sebastian Janikowski. Granted, in 1999 the duo of Napoleon Kaufman and Tyrone Wheatley combined for over 1600 yards on the ground. They would team up for 1500 the next year before Kaufman left the game to become a minister and Wheatley began to succumb to knee, hamstring, and shoulder injuries that eventually ended his career. The problem is that at the time, it wasn't for certain that Janikowski would even be able to play in the league, as he was facing bribery charges and possible deportation back to Poland. A kicker had not been selected in the first round since 1979 when the New Orleans Saints selected Russell Erxleben of Texas with the 11th pick.Janikowski has remained a Raider his whole career and somehow avoided prison by beating the bribery charge, as well as drug and assault charges in separate incidents. He also received probation for a 2002 drunk driving conviction. His career has been above average at best. Certainly not worthy of a 17th overall pick.Alexander, on the other hand, has now posted five consecutive years with at least 1175 yards on the ground, and also claimed the NFL MVP Award this past season after rushing for 1880 yards and setting a league record with 28 touchdowns.Ironically, in the second round of that same draft, the hit pay dirt when they selected West Virginia wide receiver Jerry Porter with the 47th overall pick.
2010年11月25日星期四
Oakland Raiders "Five big first-round Raider busts"
In taking a break from incessantly compiling and recompiling mock drafts – Sorry, the NCAA basketball sweet what? – this writer took a tangent into Oakland Raiders history, particularly in reference to an opportunity to draft ultra-talented legacy player Chris Long. Like most franchises, the Raiders’ history on Draft Day is a bit of a mixed bag well representing the hit-or-miss game that is 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
the NFL draft. After yesterday considering the great Oakland/Los Angeles first-rounders, the following is a list of black-and-silver busts. You may want to cover your eyes, Raider Nation: This is gonna get ugly.? Eldridge Dickey, 1968, no. 25 overall. Not a victim of injuries or ability to “make the leap” to the pro game, Dickey’s pro career was instead derailed by simple unenlightened thinking. After running up Manning-like figures of 6,523 passing yards and 67 TDs at Tennessee State, the ambidextrous (!) QB was naturally drafted in the first round by the Raiders ... who then opted to morph him into a wide receiver, despite having reportedly outplayed some other rookie quarterback named Kenny Stabler over the course of the summer. Dickey’s fatal flaw? He was black. Dickey eventually sat out an entire two years of his four year “career,” and his imposed failure must go down as one of the darkest chapters in Raider history.? Curt Marsh, 1981, no. 23 overall. After landing Ted Watts with the no. 21 overall, the Raiders went with University of Washington OL Marsh two picks later. Marsh’s career unfortunately became an unending string of injuries, which eventually made for some kind of record for futility in running up 30 surgical procedures culminating in the amputation of part of one of his legs. Marsh was on the Raiders roster for Super Bowl XVIII, but had been on IR throughout the 1983 season. In 1986, he was out of football, having played 45 games in six years, including one full season. Today, Marsh is a motivational speaker.? Bob Buczkowski, 1986, no. 24 overall. The only thing keeping Raider backers from incessantly slagging off their new DE in the late 80s was the unpronouncable last name. After a terrible preseason, Buczkowski rode the bench for much of 1986 and finally registered his first sack in 1987. Thereafter, he was released and hung around for two more seasons in the NFL. On the plus side, Buczkowski recently made news in 2005 in a bust related to his co-ownership of Buckwild Entertainment, an escort-and-cocaine service in Pittsburgh.? Todd Marinovich, 1991, no. 24 overall. It’s okay, Raider Nation, the flashbacks will go away. Eventually. Like in 20 or 25 more years. A prototypical big bust, Marinovich is typically gleefully mentioned on any list of biggest sports flops, including The Worldwide Leader in [American] Sports’ creatively titled “The 25 Biggest Sports Flops,” on which readers in 2005 placed the QB in the fourth spot. Do you suppose Marinovich is thankful for the existence of Ryan Leaf?? Darrell Russell, 1997, no. 2 overall. Story arc of a modern-day NFL player’s biography: Drafted second overall by a storied franchise; makes consecutive Pro 36 Bettis White Jersey
Bowls in sophomore and junior seasons in the NFL; starts taking a higher class of recreational pharmaceutical; begins racking up suspensions based on violation of substance policy; ultimately gets suspends from the league altogether for multiple offenses; dies in car wreck. The Darrell Russell Story. The end.
the NFL draft. After yesterday considering the great Oakland/Los Angeles first-rounders, the following is a list of black-and-silver busts. You may want to cover your eyes, Raider Nation: This is gonna get ugly.? Eldridge Dickey, 1968, no. 25 overall. Not a victim of injuries or ability to “make the leap” to the pro game, Dickey’s pro career was instead derailed by simple unenlightened thinking. After running up Manning-like figures of 6,523 passing yards and 67 TDs at Tennessee State, the ambidextrous (!) QB was naturally drafted in the first round by the Raiders ... who then opted to morph him into a wide receiver, despite having reportedly outplayed some other rookie quarterback named Kenny Stabler over the course of the summer. Dickey’s fatal flaw? He was black. Dickey eventually sat out an entire two years of his four year “career,” and his imposed failure must go down as one of the darkest chapters in Raider history.? Curt Marsh, 1981, no. 23 overall. After landing Ted Watts with the no. 21 overall, the Raiders went with University of Washington OL Marsh two picks later. Marsh’s career unfortunately became an unending string of injuries, which eventually made for some kind of record for futility in running up 30 surgical procedures culminating in the amputation of part of one of his legs. Marsh was on the Raiders roster for Super Bowl XVIII, but had been on IR throughout the 1983 season. In 1986, he was out of football, having played 45 games in six years, including one full season. Today, Marsh is a motivational speaker.? Bob Buczkowski, 1986, no. 24 overall. The only thing keeping Raider backers from incessantly slagging off their new DE in the late 80s was the unpronouncable last name. After a terrible preseason, Buczkowski rode the bench for much of 1986 and finally registered his first sack in 1987. Thereafter, he was released and hung around for two more seasons in the NFL. On the plus side, Buczkowski recently made news in 2005 in a bust related to his co-ownership of Buckwild Entertainment, an escort-and-cocaine service in Pittsburgh.? Todd Marinovich, 1991, no. 24 overall. It’s okay, Raider Nation, the flashbacks will go away. Eventually. Like in 20 or 25 more years. A prototypical big bust, Marinovich is typically gleefully mentioned on any list of biggest sports flops, including The Worldwide Leader in [American] Sports’ creatively titled “The 25 Biggest Sports Flops,” on which readers in 2005 placed the QB in the fourth spot. Do you suppose Marinovich is thankful for the existence of Ryan Leaf?? Darrell Russell, 1997, no. 2 overall. Story arc of a modern-day NFL player’s biography: Drafted second overall by a storied franchise; makes consecutive Pro 36 Bettis White Jersey
Bowls in sophomore and junior seasons in the NFL; starts taking a higher class of recreational pharmaceutical; begins racking up suspensions based on violation of substance policy; ultimately gets suspends from the league altogether for multiple offenses; dies in car wreck. The Darrell Russell Story. The end.
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