Indianapolis Colts at the New York Giants
8:30 PM ESPN
The Colts are coming off a tough loss to the Steelers in which Ben Roethlisberger had six touchdown passes, while the Giants are coming off a bye-week that followed a road loss to division rival Dallas.
The Colts can score at will, and TY Hilton has been a factor for the Colts this season, and they shouldn't have any issues throwing the ball tonight against a banged up Giants secondary, if they can start running early and mix up the plays the Giants will have issues stopping them. The Colts have the number one ranked passing attack in yards this season.
The Giants come off their bye-week, having lost back to back games to division rivals Philadelphia and Dallas, they need to win this game in order to get back to 4-4 on the season and make and turn things around to make a playoff run. With Romo being injured and Nick Foles as well the Giants can take advantage of that while they sit out for their respective teams. The Giants 25th ranked pass defense in yards will need to step up tonight to help them win.
Prediction: Giants win a shootout 35-31 and Eli Manning enjoys a turnover free day
*ALL STATS FROM: WWW.NFL.COM*
Monday, November 3, 2014
Monday, October 13, 2014
The Sunday Seven: Seven Takeaways from Week 6 Sunday NFL Action
ONE
The Dallas Cowboys are for real, I was not sold on them before the season, their defense was suspect and their first game showed me that they were even more suspect, but since then they have turned it around. They are now 5-1 and are tied atop their division for the lead with the Philadelphia Eagles, I did not see this coming. Tony Romo did not throw one interception in Seattle and running back Demarco Murray has been a beast this season and is leading the league in rushing all while having six straight games of a 100 yards or more. He has 785 rushing yards in six games, the second best in rushing yards to him is the Steelers Le'Veon Bell who has 542 yards which is 243 less than Murray. Look out for the Cowboys this season, there is something special going on in Dallas.
TWO
The New York Jets are dead despite what Rex Ryan says, they are 1-5 and are riding a five game losing streak heading into Thursday night's match up with the New England Patriots. I like that Rex has confidence, but they have no help around Geno Smith on the offense and their secondary is not very good which is the opposite of what a Rex Ryan defense is. Oh and 2013 first round pick Dee Milliner is injured again, sorry Rex but the Jets are dead and the fault lays on the GM John Idzik.
THREE
Ladies and Gentlemen Tom Brady is back, as is the Patriot offense, Brandon LaFell caught two touchdowns from Brady who tossed four scores, the other two went to both Tim Wright and Brian Tyms. Tom was back at it again in Buffalo, it seems like the offense is clicking now and the line is blocking well.
FOUR
Do not look at the Oakland Raiders record as an indication to how Derek Carr is playing because he IS getting better. Despite the interception at the end of the game down the left sideline he played a great game, he threw for 282 yards and four scores on the day and kept Oakland in the game the whole time. He will continue to improve and grow in this offense and gain confidence as well.
FIVE
Yes, the Cleveland Browns are better than the Pittsburgh Steelers and are looking pretty good right now with two big home wins over the Steelers (this past Sunday) and the Saints a few weeks ago. Brian Hoyer is playing very well with just one interception on the season and this is without Josh Gordon at receiver. The run game also seems to be doing well there in Cleveland along with the defense. The Browns could be making a playoff run.
SIX
The Panthers continue to impress despite the tie, before the season started I was worried about their offensive capabilities but they have been playing well and Cam Newton continues to mature and grow in that Panther offense. As long as they can continue to put up points they will be a tough team to play against.
SEVEN
The Chargers may have found a diamond in the rough in undrafted rookie Branden Oliver who stepped up when he was called to after both Ryan Matthews and Donald Brown went down with injuries. He can get the tough yards, and he scored the late game touchdown with just under two minutes to go that won the game. He will continue to be a factor for the Chargers as the season goes along.
*All Statistics from WWW.NFL.COM*
The Panthers continue to impress despite the tie, before the season started I was worried about their offensive capabilities but they have been playing well and Cam Newton continues to mature and grow in that Panther offense. As long as they can continue to put up points they will be a tough team to play against.
SEVEN
The Chargers may have found a diamond in the rough in undrafted rookie Branden Oliver who stepped up when he was called to after both Ryan Matthews and Donald Brown went down with injuries. He can get the tough yards, and he scored the late game touchdown with just under two minutes to go that won the game. He will continue to be a factor for the Chargers as the season goes along.
*All Statistics from WWW.NFL.COM*
Sunday, October 12, 2014
2014 NFL Season Monday Night Football Predictions Week 6
San Francisco 49ers at the St. Louis Rams
8:30 PM ESPN
The 49ers are coming off of back to back home wins over the Eagles and the Chiefs and now hit the road to face a division rival in a big game to better their record to 4-2. They have been running the ball well as of late and are 4th best in the league on the ground, only downside to their run game is that they only have three rushing touchdowns on the season. Their defense is top two in total yards and ninth in points allowed which is a must need in this league and also a factor to keep the team in games no matter the opponent. The 49ers will continue to run the ball and will do it well on Monday night because that has been part of their winning recipe this season.
The Rams are eight in total offensive yards, seventh in passing yards and eighteenth in rushing yards and scores an average of 21 points a game. Those numbers are not bad especially because they are down to their third string quarterback who I feel played well last week against the Eagles last week. The downside for the Rams heading into the game against their divisional opponent is that they are ranked 31st against the run which will hurt them against a run heavy team such as the 49ers. If the Rams can turn their run defense around they will be better on Monday against the 49ers because they are first in passing yards allowed.
Prediction:
The 49ers will run the ball early and often and gain 225 yards on the ground with 4 touchdowns in a 35-14 victory on the road in St. Louis.
All statistics from: www.nfl.com
8:30 PM ESPN
The 49ers are coming off of back to back home wins over the Eagles and the Chiefs and now hit the road to face a division rival in a big game to better their record to 4-2. They have been running the ball well as of late and are 4th best in the league on the ground, only downside to their run game is that they only have three rushing touchdowns on the season. Their defense is top two in total yards and ninth in points allowed which is a must need in this league and also a factor to keep the team in games no matter the opponent. The 49ers will continue to run the ball and will do it well on Monday night because that has been part of their winning recipe this season.
The Rams are eight in total offensive yards, seventh in passing yards and eighteenth in rushing yards and scores an average of 21 points a game. Those numbers are not bad especially because they are down to their third string quarterback who I feel played well last week against the Eagles last week. The downside for the Rams heading into the game against their divisional opponent is that they are ranked 31st against the run which will hurt them against a run heavy team such as the 49ers. If the Rams can turn their run defense around they will be better on Monday against the 49ers because they are first in passing yards allowed.
Prediction:
The 49ers will run the ball early and often and gain 225 yards on the ground with 4 touchdowns in a 35-14 victory on the road in St. Louis.
All statistics from: www.nfl.com
Friday, October 10, 2014
Jetting in the Wrong Direction: Time for John Idzik to go
The New York Jets have started the season at 1-4 and are currently on a four game losing streak and now have to face the Denver Broncos on Sunday then hit the road and play their division rival Patriots on Thursday night. The Jets could be staring at a 1-6 start, and the reason for this is Jets General Manager John Idzik who failed to land anyone in free agency to help build the team and has instead decided to build via the draft.
I like building a team via the draft, but Geno Smith needs help on offense and Rex Ryan does not have the shutdown corner he needs to run his style of defense. The Jets did not land big named players such as Darrelle Revis or Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie on the defensive side of the ball. On the offensive side the inked receiver Eric Decker and running back Chris Johnson, again losing out on receivers such as Emmanuel Sanders, DeSean Jackson or Golden Tate.
It is time to get rid of Idzik and move on with a better GM and build with free agency as well, there is really no reason to be $20 million under the cap following the free agent market that featured many players the Jets could have signed to improve both sides of the ball. Geno Smith would better off with DeSean Jackson or Emmanuel Sanders at receiver then Eric Decker who cannot seem to shake the injury bug.
Idzik's lack of helping land better players is hurting Geno Smith grow, the defense improve and the chances of Rex Ryan keeping his job as well.
It is time the Jets went out and got some better players on both sides of the ball, it is much needed.
I like building a team via the draft, but Geno Smith needs help on offense and Rex Ryan does not have the shutdown corner he needs to run his style of defense. The Jets did not land big named players such as Darrelle Revis or Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie on the defensive side of the ball. On the offensive side the inked receiver Eric Decker and running back Chris Johnson, again losing out on receivers such as Emmanuel Sanders, DeSean Jackson or Golden Tate.
It is time to get rid of Idzik and move on with a better GM and build with free agency as well, there is really no reason to be $20 million under the cap following the free agent market that featured many players the Jets could have signed to improve both sides of the ball. Geno Smith would better off with DeSean Jackson or Emmanuel Sanders at receiver then Eric Decker who cannot seem to shake the injury bug.
Idzik's lack of helping land better players is hurting Geno Smith grow, the defense improve and the chances of Rex Ryan keeping his job as well.
It is time the Jets went out and got some better players on both sides of the ball, it is much needed.
Sunday, October 5, 2014
2014 NFL Season Monday Night Football Predictions Week 5
Seattle Seahawks at the Washington Redskins
8:30 P.M. ESPN
The Seattle Seahawks are coming off a bye week which was right after an overtime victory over the Denver Broncos after the Broncos came back and tied it up with little time left on the clock. The Seahawks have played very well this season, they are 5th in points per game on offense and 12th in points allowed on defense. Overall the Seahawks are 6th in yards allowed on defense, and they are a force to be reckoned with.
The Redskins are coming off a Thursday Night Football loss in which they lost by the score of 45-14 and quarterback Kirk Cousins threw four interceptions in the game. That was against the Giants secondary which is good but not as good as the Seahawks secondary. The Redskins will have to play mistake free football in order to win this game and will have to posses the ball for a while as well. That is how the Chargers beat the Seahawks.
Prediction:
Seahawks go to 3-1 on the season by winning 34-17, Russell Wilson will throw for two scores and Richard Sherman will have an interception.
8:30 P.M. ESPN
The Seattle Seahawks are coming off a bye week which was right after an overtime victory over the Denver Broncos after the Broncos came back and tied it up with little time left on the clock. The Seahawks have played very well this season, they are 5th in points per game on offense and 12th in points allowed on defense. Overall the Seahawks are 6th in yards allowed on defense, and they are a force to be reckoned with.
The Redskins are coming off a Thursday Night Football loss in which they lost by the score of 45-14 and quarterback Kirk Cousins threw four interceptions in the game. That was against the Giants secondary which is good but not as good as the Seahawks secondary. The Redskins will have to play mistake free football in order to win this game and will have to posses the ball for a while as well. That is how the Chargers beat the Seahawks.
Prediction:
Seahawks go to 3-1 on the season by winning 34-17, Russell Wilson will throw for two scores and Richard Sherman will have an interception.
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Patriot Woes: What Should be done on Offense?
It is no secret that the New England Patriots offense is struggling this season especially after their loss in Kansas City on Monday night where they were shut out in the first half and had two second half touchdowns which were there first second half touchdowns this season. The first was a Brady to LaFell connection and the second a Jimmy Garoppolo to Gronkowski connection when he came in following the benching of Tom Brady.
I keep hearing that Brady is done, that he is no longer a great quarterback. Really? This whole offensive issue does not solely fall on his shoulders. The New England Patriots did not surround him with the proper talent this season and it is showing, Edelman and Gronkowski are his two main targets and Gronk is still coming back from an injury that he suffered last season. The main issues are that they cannot protect Brady and that they have not given him the deep threat that is needed. I do believe that Brady does take some blame, he does need to play better as well.
I still do not believe that it is time to hit the panic button just yet, the Patriots can attempt to make a trade before the deadline and help Brady out. Here are some players the Patriots should trade for:
Brandy Lloyd, San Francisco 49ers- He is on a team with Anquan Boldin, Stevie Johnson and Michael Crabtree at the wide receiver position and he has already been in New England. He can come back and be a help along with a familiar face to Tom Brady.
Stevie Johnson, San Francisco 49ers- Again he is on a team that has a ton of talent at the receiver spot, the Patriots know him from his days in Buffalo, and I think he would be a great fit for the Patriots.
Kenny Britt, St. Louis Rams- He is playing on a one year deal on a team that is down to its third string QB, the Rams could get some value for him and the Patriots could get a player that I feel still has a lot left in the tank. He is only 26 so he is still young and if he plays well he could see a longer term contract. He has baggage but the Patriots are no strangers to signing those types of players.
There is always the possibility of signing a free agent as well, here is a list of free agent receivers that should be looked at regardless of how they have played:
Nate Burleson
Mario Manningham
Jacoby Ford
Final thought: The New England Patriots need to run the ball more, it will help take pressure off of Tom Brady and will open up the passing game. If Brady can play with a good running game it will be a benefit to the passing attack that has not shown up this season and if teams are looking for the run and Brady can throw it over the top they may be hesitant to rush the passer. That helps because that offensive line has been leaky this season.
I keep hearing that Brady is done, that he is no longer a great quarterback. Really? This whole offensive issue does not solely fall on his shoulders. The New England Patriots did not surround him with the proper talent this season and it is showing, Edelman and Gronkowski are his two main targets and Gronk is still coming back from an injury that he suffered last season. The main issues are that they cannot protect Brady and that they have not given him the deep threat that is needed. I do believe that Brady does take some blame, he does need to play better as well.
I still do not believe that it is time to hit the panic button just yet, the Patriots can attempt to make a trade before the deadline and help Brady out. Here are some players the Patriots should trade for:
Brandy Lloyd, San Francisco 49ers- He is on a team with Anquan Boldin, Stevie Johnson and Michael Crabtree at the wide receiver position and he has already been in New England. He can come back and be a help along with a familiar face to Tom Brady.
Stevie Johnson, San Francisco 49ers- Again he is on a team that has a ton of talent at the receiver spot, the Patriots know him from his days in Buffalo, and I think he would be a great fit for the Patriots.
Kenny Britt, St. Louis Rams- He is playing on a one year deal on a team that is down to its third string QB, the Rams could get some value for him and the Patriots could get a player that I feel still has a lot left in the tank. He is only 26 so he is still young and if he plays well he could see a longer term contract. He has baggage but the Patriots are no strangers to signing those types of players.
There is always the possibility of signing a free agent as well, here is a list of free agent receivers that should be looked at regardless of how they have played:
Nate Burleson
Mario Manningham
Jacoby Ford
Final thought: The New England Patriots need to run the ball more, it will help take pressure off of Tom Brady and will open up the passing game. If Brady can play with a good running game it will be a benefit to the passing attack that has not shown up this season and if teams are looking for the run and Brady can throw it over the top they may be hesitant to rush the passer. That helps because that offensive line has been leaky this season.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Recapping the First Quarter of the 2014 NFL Season
The first quarter of the 2014 season came to an end after the Chiefs rolled over the Patriots 41-14 on Monday night in Kansas City. There has been some great action and there have been some changes since the start of the season, here is a recap of the first quarter.
Biggest Surprise
The 1-3 Saints, they have not looked great on the road including a loss to the Cleveland Browns and their defense has not been great either. With a roster as great as theirs this is certainly a big surprise.
The Least Surprising
The Raiders firing of Dennis Allen, the Raiders looked awful under Allen this season and with a record of 8-28 as a head coach it was sure that the time would come that he was no longer in Oakland.
Biggest Upset
The Tampa Buccaneers went on the road to Atlanta in week 3 and got clobbered and beaten in every aspect of the game and lost 56-14. They looked down and out but in week 4 they went into Pittsburgh and beat the Steelers when quarterback Mike Glennon found Vincent Jackson in the end zone for the game winning touchdown making the final score 27-24.
Game of the Quarter
Denver Broncos at the Seattle Seahawks in week 3 was quite the game, it seemed that the Broncos did not have a chance in the game in the second half until the 4th quarter when things got interesting. Peyton Manning marched the Broncos down the field to tie the game up with very little time left on the clock in Seattle which is hard to do. However in overtime the Seahawks got the ball first and won on a Marshawn Lynch touchdown.
First Quarter Offensive MVP
Andrew Luck, he has played behind an offensive line that is suspect and is still putting up great numbers, he has thrown a league high 13 touchdowns and ran in another score. He will continue his magic this season and help the Colts improve from their 2-2 record, I think he will be in the MVP talk at the seasons end.
First Quarter Defensive MVP
Kyle Fuller, yes a rookie is my pick for the first quarter defensive MVP, he is tied for the league lead with three interceptions and has been a bright spot in that Bears secondary and whole defense overall. He picked Colin Kaepernick twice on the road and Geno Smith on the road, along with his three picks he has two forced fumbles.
Team with the Most Questions
Well it seems that the New England Patriots have been the team with the most questions following the loss to the Chiefs on Monday Night Football in week 4. They have only scored two second half touchdowns all season long, they have struggled to score and their offensive line has been leaky and turned into a revolving door on Monday night. Many are questioning if Brady is on the decline, I do not think so but this team needs to address many needs and fix that offensive line and get that passing game back on track.
Questionable Change
When I heard the Bills made the change from EJ Manuel to Kyle Orton at quarterback I was surprised, I think Manuel should not have been benched for Orton. I undertand Manuel has not played well but he is still learning, he did not have a full season under his belt his rookie year and he needs more playing time. While Orton has had a lot of playing time in his career I feel this was the wrong move.
Quarterback Questions
The Jets and Titans have questions at quarterback, the Jets do because Geno Smith has not played well this season and the fan base was chanting "we want Vick" during the Jets home loss to the Lions on Sunday. There will be a lot of questions with the Jets until either Geno turns his play around or Vick enters.
As for the Titans I say this because Jake Locker has once again been injured and he has not played a full season which should be a cause for concern within the organization. This could be Locker's last season in a Titan uniform.
Biggest Turnaround from 2013
The Houston Texans are surprising me this year, I felt they were going to struggle with Ryan Fitzpatrick at quarterback who is making mistakes this season and has a history of making mistakes and having turnovers. Right now I am wrong, they are 3-1 and have a great defense, JJ Watt has been awesome this season and even caught a touchdown! Right now the Houston Texans have the biggest turnaround from last season.
Record Breaker
During the Falcons blowout win over the Buccaneers on Thursday Night Football their wide receiver and kick return extraordinaire Devin Hester made history when he took a punt back for a touchdown. On that return he broke the record of 19 kick return touchdowns that he had shared with Deion Sanders and is now in first place in NFL history with 20, and I think we will see more of that before he retires.
*ALL STATISTICS TAKEN FROM WWW.NFL.COM*
Biggest Surprise
The 1-3 Saints, they have not looked great on the road including a loss to the Cleveland Browns and their defense has not been great either. With a roster as great as theirs this is certainly a big surprise.
The Least Surprising
The Raiders firing of Dennis Allen, the Raiders looked awful under Allen this season and with a record of 8-28 as a head coach it was sure that the time would come that he was no longer in Oakland.
Biggest Upset
The Tampa Buccaneers went on the road to Atlanta in week 3 and got clobbered and beaten in every aspect of the game and lost 56-14. They looked down and out but in week 4 they went into Pittsburgh and beat the Steelers when quarterback Mike Glennon found Vincent Jackson in the end zone for the game winning touchdown making the final score 27-24.
Game of the Quarter
Denver Broncos at the Seattle Seahawks in week 3 was quite the game, it seemed that the Broncos did not have a chance in the game in the second half until the 4th quarter when things got interesting. Peyton Manning marched the Broncos down the field to tie the game up with very little time left on the clock in Seattle which is hard to do. However in overtime the Seahawks got the ball first and won on a Marshawn Lynch touchdown.
First Quarter Offensive MVP
Andrew Luck, he has played behind an offensive line that is suspect and is still putting up great numbers, he has thrown a league high 13 touchdowns and ran in another score. He will continue his magic this season and help the Colts improve from their 2-2 record, I think he will be in the MVP talk at the seasons end.
First Quarter Defensive MVP
Kyle Fuller, yes a rookie is my pick for the first quarter defensive MVP, he is tied for the league lead with three interceptions and has been a bright spot in that Bears secondary and whole defense overall. He picked Colin Kaepernick twice on the road and Geno Smith on the road, along with his three picks he has two forced fumbles.
Team with the Most Questions
Well it seems that the New England Patriots have been the team with the most questions following the loss to the Chiefs on Monday Night Football in week 4. They have only scored two second half touchdowns all season long, they have struggled to score and their offensive line has been leaky and turned into a revolving door on Monday night. Many are questioning if Brady is on the decline, I do not think so but this team needs to address many needs and fix that offensive line and get that passing game back on track.
Questionable Change
When I heard the Bills made the change from EJ Manuel to Kyle Orton at quarterback I was surprised, I think Manuel should not have been benched for Orton. I undertand Manuel has not played well but he is still learning, he did not have a full season under his belt his rookie year and he needs more playing time. While Orton has had a lot of playing time in his career I feel this was the wrong move.
Quarterback Questions
The Jets and Titans have questions at quarterback, the Jets do because Geno Smith has not played well this season and the fan base was chanting "we want Vick" during the Jets home loss to the Lions on Sunday. There will be a lot of questions with the Jets until either Geno turns his play around or Vick enters.
As for the Titans I say this because Jake Locker has once again been injured and he has not played a full season which should be a cause for concern within the organization. This could be Locker's last season in a Titan uniform.
Biggest Turnaround from 2013
The Houston Texans are surprising me this year, I felt they were going to struggle with Ryan Fitzpatrick at quarterback who is making mistakes this season and has a history of making mistakes and having turnovers. Right now I am wrong, they are 3-1 and have a great defense, JJ Watt has been awesome this season and even caught a touchdown! Right now the Houston Texans have the biggest turnaround from last season.
Record Breaker
During the Falcons blowout win over the Buccaneers on Thursday Night Football their wide receiver and kick return extraordinaire Devin Hester made history when he took a punt back for a touchdown. On that return he broke the record of 19 kick return touchdowns that he had shared with Deion Sanders and is now in first place in NFL history with 20, and I think we will see more of that before he retires.
*ALL STATISTICS TAKEN FROM WWW.NFL.COM*
Friday, September 26, 2014
2014 NFL Season Monday Night Football Predictions Week 4
New England Patriots at the Kansas City Chiefs
8:30 PM ESPN
The New England Patriots improved to 2-1 on the season against the Oakland Raiders by the score of 16-9, the downfall of the Patriots this season has been their offensive line and their ability or rather lack there of to score points in the second half of games which is only 12 in three games this season so far. They are ranked 1st in pass yards allowed on defense and 12th in rush yards allowed which is a good sign considering that their offensive ranks are not that great.
The Chiefs won their first game of the season against the Miami Dolphins on the road and were able to run the ball very well despite not having Jamaal Charles. Their offensive rankings are better than New England's this season in regards to total yards and rushing. As of right now Jamaal Charles is expected to play Monday Night against New England which is a plus for the Chiefs. If he can go not only can he hurt any team on the ground but also in the passing attack as well.
Prediction:
The Patriots squeak out a close one 21-17 on the road by running the ball early and shutting down Alex Smith and the Chiefs pass game.
*all stats from www.nfl.com*
*all stats from www.nfl.com*
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
New York Jets Quarterback Question: Geno Smith or Michael Vick?
Following the Jets loss last night on Monday Night Football I started seeing a lot of Geno Smith and Michael Vick talk as it pertains to who should be the Jets starting quarterback.
Geno Smith threw two interceptions one a pick 6 and the other was an interception in the end zone and the Jets lost by 8 as Geno Smith's last pass attempt was caught out of bounds in the back of the end zone which would have helped the Jets get closer to tying the game up.
So the questions of whether or not Geno had regressed started right after as well as if Vick is the better option as the starting quarterback. I say Geno Smith should still be the starting quarterback for the New York Jets.
When you look at how Michael Vick's career two things jump out at me: lack of durability throughout his career and turnovers within the recent years when he was in Philadelphia. So why would the Jets want to turn to someone who cannot stay on the field? Sure he can run well, but he is also turnover prone just like Geno Smith, so it is better to stick with the second year guy.
Vick is at the end of his career and at this point in his career is a "stopgap" quarterback, unless Geno goes down or is playing poorly in a blowout there really is no reason to see Vick go in and play. This whole notion that Rex Ryan needs to keep his job and should start the best guy is rather ridiculous as well.
Geno Smith has tossed four interceptions this season and has lost one fumble, not a great start to a 2-12 season but let Geno Smith finish the season and if the Jets feel that he is not worthy of being the future of the franchise then it would be best if they looked elsewhere for another quarterback.
Monday, September 22, 2014
New England Patriots Offense: Cause for Concern?
The New England Patriots were less then stellar on offense against the Oakland Raiders on Sunday, their second half struggles continued again as well, in three games this year the Patriots have scored a total of 12 points, 6 each in the past two games and none in their first game.
Their defense has shown up the past two games as well, which is huge, because their offense is not doing to well. Should there be a cause for concern? I do not think there should be that great a concern, the Patriots had a slow start their first three games last season as well.
Should there be a cause for concern? No, look at their stats from their first three games last year and this year (from the Patriots official website):
First three games of 2013:
19.6 points per game
232.6 pass yards by Brady per game
5 Touchdowns to 2 interceptions
122.6 yards rushing per game
No rushing touchdowns
4 total turnovers
12 second half points
First three games of 2014:
22 points per game
210.6 yards per game
3 passing touchdowns and no interceptions
105 rush yards per game
3 total turnovers
12 Second half points
The Patriots do need to improve, but even after last season's slow start the Patriots were able to make it all the way to the AFC title game. The Patriots did add Brandon LaFell to help the passing game this season, he has not done much but I think he will be a nice addition for them them as the season goes along. Their secondary has improved which is big and they should be a big factor in the Patriots success the last 13 games of the year.
The Patriots need to continue to run the ball which will help open up the passing game, I feel that if the Patriots can do this then Danny Amendola can have a larger role in this offense as well as second year receivers Aaron Dobson and Kenbrell Thompkins. It will also help Rob Gronkowski, there is no reason to panic, however if the offense continues to struggle the Patriots should be concerned.
As of right now Julian Edelman and Shane Vereen continue to be factors in the passing game and Stevan Ridley has not fumbled this season which will make him a a key factor on the ground
The Patriots know how to get things done and they will turn their offense around.
Their defense has shown up the past two games as well, which is huge, because their offense is not doing to well. Should there be a cause for concern? I do not think there should be that great a concern, the Patriots had a slow start their first three games last season as well.
Should there be a cause for concern? No, look at their stats from their first three games last year and this year (from the Patriots official website):
First three games of 2013:
19.6 points per game
232.6 pass yards by Brady per game
5 Touchdowns to 2 interceptions
122.6 yards rushing per game
No rushing touchdowns
4 total turnovers
12 second half points
First three games of 2014:
22 points per game
210.6 yards per game
3 passing touchdowns and no interceptions
105 rush yards per game
3 total turnovers
12 Second half points
The Patriots do need to improve, but even after last season's slow start the Patriots were able to make it all the way to the AFC title game. The Patriots did add Brandon LaFell to help the passing game this season, he has not done much but I think he will be a nice addition for them them as the season goes along. Their secondary has improved which is big and they should be a big factor in the Patriots success the last 13 games of the year.
The Patriots need to continue to run the ball which will help open up the passing game, I feel that if the Patriots can do this then Danny Amendola can have a larger role in this offense as well as second year receivers Aaron Dobson and Kenbrell Thompkins. It will also help Rob Gronkowski, there is no reason to panic, however if the offense continues to struggle the Patriots should be concerned.
As of right now Julian Edelman and Shane Vereen continue to be factors in the passing game and Stevan Ridley has not fumbled this season which will make him a a key factor on the ground
The Patriots know how to get things done and they will turn their offense around.
Sunday, September 21, 2014
2014 NFL Season Monday Night Football Predictions Week 3
Chicago Bears at the New York Jets
8:30 PM ESPN
The Chicago Bears are coming off a comeback victory against the 49ers on the road and there is no reason to believe they cannot win on the road against the Jets. Jay Cutler had 4 touchdown passes to no picks against the 49ers, 3 of those touchdowns went to receiver Brandon Marshall. The Bears offense has many weapons outside of Marshall including Alshon Jeffery, Santonio Holmes, Martellus Bennett and Matt Forte.
The New York Jets are coming off a road loss in Green Bay which included blowing a 21-3 lead, this loss also had a controversy surrounding it as well, a timeout was called negating a game tying touchdown by Geno Smith. The Jets played good defense at home in week 1 against the Raiders, they could make things interesting if they can force Jay Cutler into throwing interceptions.
Prediction: Bears win 24-13, Cutler has two touchdown passes and they pull away in the 4th quarter.
8:30 PM ESPN
The Chicago Bears are coming off a comeback victory against the 49ers on the road and there is no reason to believe they cannot win on the road against the Jets. Jay Cutler had 4 touchdown passes to no picks against the 49ers, 3 of those touchdowns went to receiver Brandon Marshall. The Bears offense has many weapons outside of Marshall including Alshon Jeffery, Santonio Holmes, Martellus Bennett and Matt Forte.
The New York Jets are coming off a road loss in Green Bay which included blowing a 21-3 lead, this loss also had a controversy surrounding it as well, a timeout was called negating a game tying touchdown by Geno Smith. The Jets played good defense at home in week 1 against the Raiders, they could make things interesting if they can force Jay Cutler into throwing interceptions.
Prediction: Bears win 24-13, Cutler has two touchdown passes and they pull away in the 4th quarter.
Friday, September 19, 2014
The NFL "Personal Conduct" Policy, How it Should Be
In light of
the recent domestic violence and child abuse issues in the NFL here is what I
think should be done in the “Personal Conduct” area as in punishments for the listed offenses above and other offenses as well in this piece.
*All suspensions that are not life
time bans will have game checks forfeited during the suspensions entirety*
-Sexual
assault, domestic violence and child abuse should lead to a lifetime ban from
the National Football League, this is just not for players but it should be for
anyone who is employed by the league.
People around the world lose their jobs for these offenses, the NFL must
follow the same pattern and be strict as well.
-Positive
drug tests for marijuana, this should not be a suspension of more than two
games for the first offense, second offense should be four games and
counseling, anything beyond that is six games or more.
-Positive
drug tests for non-steroid drugs that are not marijuana a four game suspension
with mandatory counseling, second offense is six games and rehabilitation for
said drug(s), third offense is a whole season.
-Steroid
positive tests is a mandatory life time ban, there should be no second chance
to those that use steroids or HGH.
-DUI, public
intoxication arrests a two game suspension that is immediate, a second time
offense is six games and a third time is a season long suspension. Beyond a third time offense is a ban from the
NFL.
-Taking the
life of another person such as intoxication manslaughter is an automatic
lifetime ban.
-Felony
Charges such as burglary and assault an automatic ban as well.
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Breaking Down the Washington Redskins Quarterback Situation
Robert Griffin III went down in Sundays match up against the Jaguars in our nations capitol and his backup Kirk Cousins came in and helped lead the Redskins to 41 points. Debate has started since on who should be the starting quarterback in Washington. There have been reports that head coach Jay Gruden favors Cousins, and that he would be a better fit under Gruden's West Coast Offense. While he may be a good fit, remember this: The Jaguars could not get after the quarterback on Sunday and their secondary was pretty bad.
Cousins shredded a defense that could not do much, however I still think he is worthy of being a starter in the NFL, no knocks on him, but please remember what he was up against Sunday. RGIII looked good on his three throws. One was incomplete, but that was a deep ball that DeSean Jackson dropped. I also feel that he played better than it probably looked against the Texans despite no touchdown passes in the 17-6 loss on the road, also remember the Texans blocked a Redskin punt which was returned for a touchdown.
RGIIIs stats from the game in Houstong (from: www.nfl.com):
29-37 (78.3 completion percentage) passing for 267 yards
Ran three times for just 2 yards and had two fumbles, lost one
However I like his completion percentage in the game and nobody should give up on RGIII this season. He needs to comeback healthy this season and continue to improve under Gruden's system, and I feel he can do just that.
Here is how Washington should handle the situation: Continue to start Cousins until RGIII is healthy and put RGIII back in, even if Cousins is playing well. Griffin is the pick that Washington spent a lot of picks on to acquire back in 2012. If Cousins plays well then Washington could trade him after the conclusion of this season before he becomes a free agent after the 2015 season, it would be wise for them to get some picks for Cousins if shows he has a lot of potential while Griffin heals.
This whole idea that Griffin is not good enough for Gruden's system makes me laugh, give him some time and he will show why he was picked right after Andew Luck.
Cousins shredded a defense that could not do much, however I still think he is worthy of being a starter in the NFL, no knocks on him, but please remember what he was up against Sunday. RGIII looked good on his three throws. One was incomplete, but that was a deep ball that DeSean Jackson dropped. I also feel that he played better than it probably looked against the Texans despite no touchdown passes in the 17-6 loss on the road, also remember the Texans blocked a Redskin punt which was returned for a touchdown.
RGIIIs stats from the game in Houstong (from: www.nfl.com):
29-37 (78.3 completion percentage) passing for 267 yards
Ran three times for just 2 yards and had two fumbles, lost one
However I like his completion percentage in the game and nobody should give up on RGIII this season. He needs to comeback healthy this season and continue to improve under Gruden's system, and I feel he can do just that.
Here is how Washington should handle the situation: Continue to start Cousins until RGIII is healthy and put RGIII back in, even if Cousins is playing well. Griffin is the pick that Washington spent a lot of picks on to acquire back in 2012. If Cousins plays well then Washington could trade him after the conclusion of this season before he becomes a free agent after the 2015 season, it would be wise for them to get some picks for Cousins if shows he has a lot of potential while Griffin heals.
This whole idea that Griffin is not good enough for Gruden's system makes me laugh, give him some time and he will show why he was picked right after Andew Luck.
Friday, September 12, 2014
2014 NFL Season Monday Night Football Predictions Week 2
Philadelphia Eagles at the Indianapolis Colts 8:30 P.M. ESPN
The Eagles are coming off a home win over the Jaguars after
falling behind 17-0 and rallying in the second half to win 34-17 by racking up
34 unanswered points. They ran for just
over 140 yards against the Jaguars and Nick Foles had a pair of touchdown
passes, their offense looked much better in the second half. Darren Sproles had an impact as did Jeremy
Maclin who is coming off missing an entire season due to injury. The offense was clicking on all cylinders,
and once it really gets going, the Eagles will be able to put up a good chunk
of points.
The Colts fell short against the Broncos on the road in
their comeback attempt on Sunday evening, I felt they came alive later in the
game. Andrew Luck had two interceptions
on the evening but was able to turn things around and almost brought the Colts
back to tie the game up. It should be
noted that he did this all behind an offensive line that could been seen as
stitched together, but he got it done.
Andrew Luck proved once again along with the Colts that they will not be
counted out until the clock strikes zero on the clock.
Prediction: The Eagles offense is a both talented and quick,
the Eagles will take this one on the road 34-24
Monday, September 8, 2014
Ray Rice: My Reaction to the Decisions Made by the Ravens and the NFL
Today a video was posted on TMZ of the incident involving Ray Rice and his now wife (then fiance) in a hotel elevator.
The video was pretty awful to say the least, and not long after that video appeared online the Ravens decided to terminate the contract of Ray Rice and cut him, and after that the NFL made the decision to indefinitely suspend Ray Rice. This was the best thing to have happened, the NFL really did drop the ball on his pathetic excuse of a punishment of just 2 games, and sadly it took this video for this punishment to be handed out by both the Ravens and the NFL.
Sure it is great he is no longer on an NFL roster and he is suspended indefinitely but it does not right the wrong at all. In no way should it have taken this long for this to happen, in an older blog I said that he should have been suspended 4 games and docked 6 games worth of pay. I feel now that was not even harsh enough, but I was not happy about how he just got 2 games and not 4 like players who test positive for smoking marijuana.
This indefinite suspension was brought upon by the video, and should have been brought upon originally but what actually happened, that and the release should have happened or at the very least a lengthy team suspension, which did not happen.
Both the Ravens and the NFL messed up this entire situation, and the truth is domestic violence is a disturbing topic that had minor consequences until now.
I liked the NFL's new policy until recently, now I think the policy should be a zero tolerance policy, a one strike and you are out policy if you will. Once a player is involved in domestic violence and charges are brought they should be banned from the NFL. There is no excuse for hitting a woman no matter how angry you may get, no man or woman is lesser than the other, this is fact.
There also needs to be an investigation of Roger Goodell and the Ravens organization to see if they are being honest about not having seen the video until today. If it shows that both the NFL and the Ravens were aware of this video prior to its release all over the internet and national TV today there needs to be harsh punishment.
This incident is only getting uglier because of the new evidence, and I truly hope that the NFL and the Ravens did not know about this tape, because if they did things will just get worse.
Oh and I think it is time for Roger Goodell to take a bow and no longer be league commissioner, he has made a fair amount of mistakes in is tenure.
Domestic violence is ugly, and that video showed just how bad it is....
The video was pretty awful to say the least, and not long after that video appeared online the Ravens decided to terminate the contract of Ray Rice and cut him, and after that the NFL made the decision to indefinitely suspend Ray Rice. This was the best thing to have happened, the NFL really did drop the ball on his pathetic excuse of a punishment of just 2 games, and sadly it took this video for this punishment to be handed out by both the Ravens and the NFL.
Sure it is great he is no longer on an NFL roster and he is suspended indefinitely but it does not right the wrong at all. In no way should it have taken this long for this to happen, in an older blog I said that he should have been suspended 4 games and docked 6 games worth of pay. I feel now that was not even harsh enough, but I was not happy about how he just got 2 games and not 4 like players who test positive for smoking marijuana.
This indefinite suspension was brought upon by the video, and should have been brought upon originally but what actually happened, that and the release should have happened or at the very least a lengthy team suspension, which did not happen.
Both the Ravens and the NFL messed up this entire situation, and the truth is domestic violence is a disturbing topic that had minor consequences until now.
I liked the NFL's new policy until recently, now I think the policy should be a zero tolerance policy, a one strike and you are out policy if you will. Once a player is involved in domestic violence and charges are brought they should be banned from the NFL. There is no excuse for hitting a woman no matter how angry you may get, no man or woman is lesser than the other, this is fact.
There also needs to be an investigation of Roger Goodell and the Ravens organization to see if they are being honest about not having seen the video until today. If it shows that both the NFL and the Ravens were aware of this video prior to its release all over the internet and national TV today there needs to be harsh punishment.
This incident is only getting uglier because of the new evidence, and I truly hope that the NFL and the Ravens did not know about this tape, because if they did things will just get worse.
Oh and I think it is time for Roger Goodell to take a bow and no longer be league commissioner, he has made a fair amount of mistakes in is tenure.
Domestic violence is ugly, and that video showed just how bad it is....
Sunday, September 7, 2014
2014 NFL Season Monday Night Football Predictions Week 1
New York Giants at the Detroit Lions
7:10 P.M. ESPN
Both the Giants and Lions are coming off disappointing seasons and are looking to turn things around in 2014. They both drafted quality players and went out in free agency to land more talent as well, and both drafted within the top 15 picks as well.
The Giants are looking to get back into the playoffs this season and the Lions are as well. The Lions offense has more spark to it now with the addition of Golden Tate in free agency and Tight End Eric Ebron in the draft.
The Giants signed Mario Manningham, they drafted receiver Odell Beckham, signed running back Rashad Jennings and landed two quality cornerbacks in Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Walter Thurmond.
Prediction:
The Lions offense will be to much for the Giants to handle on the road. Lions win 31-16
San Diego Chargers at the Arizona Cardinals
10:20 P.M. ESPN
The Chargers made the playoffs last season and are looking to go beyond the divisional round of the AFC playoffs. They added cornerback Brandon Flowers in free agency which is huge to help them against teams will great quarterbacks such as one team in their own division: The Denver Broncos. The Chargers will be a team to watch this season for sure. Their quarterback Philip Rivers also made strides last season and turned things around for himself as well getting back into his older form instead of being so mistake prone. I feel he will continue to get better in 2014.
The Cardinals are looking to make the playoffs for the first time since 2009, the last season Kurt Warner played in the desert. In 2013 they fell just short of the playoffs despite their 10-6 record, they are looking to build on that this season. They signed cornerback Antonio Cromartie who will now pair with Patrick Peterson to form a pretty unique duo in Arizona. Carson Palmer could have another 4,000 yard season, and if he can keep the mistakes down this team could be a playoff team.
Prediction:
The Cardinals and Chargers will both play tough and it will be close, but the Cardinals will come out on top. Cardinals win 24-20.
7:10 P.M. ESPN
Both the Giants and Lions are coming off disappointing seasons and are looking to turn things around in 2014. They both drafted quality players and went out in free agency to land more talent as well, and both drafted within the top 15 picks as well.
The Giants are looking to get back into the playoffs this season and the Lions are as well. The Lions offense has more spark to it now with the addition of Golden Tate in free agency and Tight End Eric Ebron in the draft.
The Giants signed Mario Manningham, they drafted receiver Odell Beckham, signed running back Rashad Jennings and landed two quality cornerbacks in Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Walter Thurmond.
Prediction:
The Lions offense will be to much for the Giants to handle on the road. Lions win 31-16
San Diego Chargers at the Arizona Cardinals
10:20 P.M. ESPN
The Chargers made the playoffs last season and are looking to go beyond the divisional round of the AFC playoffs. They added cornerback Brandon Flowers in free agency which is huge to help them against teams will great quarterbacks such as one team in their own division: The Denver Broncos. The Chargers will be a team to watch this season for sure. Their quarterback Philip Rivers also made strides last season and turned things around for himself as well getting back into his older form instead of being so mistake prone. I feel he will continue to get better in 2014.
The Cardinals are looking to make the playoffs for the first time since 2009, the last season Kurt Warner played in the desert. In 2013 they fell just short of the playoffs despite their 10-6 record, they are looking to build on that this season. They signed cornerback Antonio Cromartie who will now pair with Patrick Peterson to form a pretty unique duo in Arizona. Carson Palmer could have another 4,000 yard season, and if he can keep the mistakes down this team could be a playoff team.
Prediction:
The Cardinals and Chargers will both play tough and it will be close, but the Cardinals will come out on top. Cardinals win 24-20.
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
2014 NFL Division Winners and Wildcard Team Predictions
AFC
East- New England Patriots
The Patriots added help on both sides of the ball in the offseason. Lafell will be a solid target for Brady and they should be able to run the ball well too. Expect them to put up points
On the defensive side of the ball you acquired Brandon Browner and Darrelle Revis. This helps big time, if they have to go into Denver in the playoffs they can compete with Manning and his arsenal surrounding him.
South- Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are in a rather easy division to win. The Texans are not strong at QB, however I feel Mallett could be good for them with time if he can develop there. The Jaguars are rebuilding again and the Titans won't be much trouble.
Andrew Luck is also looking to build and with the addition of Hakeem Nicks to add to his receiving corp he can make even more noise. I think he will be a top 5 QB at the seasons end.
North- Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are hungry once again. I almost put the Ravens here but I think the Bengals have more then enough talent on both sides of the ball.
AJ Green is a monster on offense, and they added some talent via the draft on both sides of the ball. They look strong in depth at the running back spot, which is huge, in the AFC North being able pound the ball is a must.
West- Denver Broncos
I think this is a no brainier, the Broncos signed some quality players during the offseason which is going to be big for them, sure they lost Decker but they got Emmanuel Sanders. They also signed Aqib Talib and Demarcus Ware to help on defense.
Wildcard Teams
1.) Baltimore Ravens- They will make the playoffs this year, I feel Flacco can bounce back and they will be fine without running back Ray Rice for the first few games. The Ravens have a lot to be excited about, oh and they signed Steve Smith to help create more depth at the receiver spot!
2.) Kansas CIty Chiefs- The Chiefs had a great year last season, and there is no reason in my mind why they cannot do the same. Alex Smith is growing more and more in Andy Reid's offense every day and they have a lot of talented players on both sides of the ball. The Chiefs will just beat out the Chargers for this Wildcard Spot.
NFC
East- Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are far above the rest of their division on offense, and they will be an offense that will put up points in 2014. I do not feel the loss of DeSean Jackson will actually be that big. The Have Jeremy Maclin back so I feel he can step in and do some damage. I also like the addition of Darren Sproles to the backfield, he can do it all both running and catching.
South- New Orleans Saints
The Saints drafted well and picked up a great free agent in Jairus Byrd who is a top safety in this league. They will only get better in 2014, the Saints are looking to come back this season even hungrier then last season.
North- Green Bay Packers
The Packers will get back a fully healthy Aaron Rodgers and they can run the ball as well to help keep him from dropping back and taking a beating. They also added Julius Peppers on the defensive side of the ball in free agency and to me got a steal in the draft when Ha Ha Clinton-Dix fell to them in the first round.
East- New England Patriots
The Patriots added help on both sides of the ball in the offseason. Lafell will be a solid target for Brady and they should be able to run the ball well too. Expect them to put up points
On the defensive side of the ball you acquired Brandon Browner and Darrelle Revis. This helps big time, if they have to go into Denver in the playoffs they can compete with Manning and his arsenal surrounding him.
South- Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are in a rather easy division to win. The Texans are not strong at QB, however I feel Mallett could be good for them with time if he can develop there. The Jaguars are rebuilding again and the Titans won't be much trouble.
Andrew Luck is also looking to build and with the addition of Hakeem Nicks to add to his receiving corp he can make even more noise. I think he will be a top 5 QB at the seasons end.
North- Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are hungry once again. I almost put the Ravens here but I think the Bengals have more then enough talent on both sides of the ball.
AJ Green is a monster on offense, and they added some talent via the draft on both sides of the ball. They look strong in depth at the running back spot, which is huge, in the AFC North being able pound the ball is a must.
West- Denver Broncos
I think this is a no brainier, the Broncos signed some quality players during the offseason which is going to be big for them, sure they lost Decker but they got Emmanuel Sanders. They also signed Aqib Talib and Demarcus Ware to help on defense.
Wildcard Teams
1.) Baltimore Ravens- They will make the playoffs this year, I feel Flacco can bounce back and they will be fine without running back Ray Rice for the first few games. The Ravens have a lot to be excited about, oh and they signed Steve Smith to help create more depth at the receiver spot!
2.) Kansas CIty Chiefs- The Chiefs had a great year last season, and there is no reason in my mind why they cannot do the same. Alex Smith is growing more and more in Andy Reid's offense every day and they have a lot of talented players on both sides of the ball. The Chiefs will just beat out the Chargers for this Wildcard Spot.
NFC
East- Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are far above the rest of their division on offense, and they will be an offense that will put up points in 2014. I do not feel the loss of DeSean Jackson will actually be that big. The Have Jeremy Maclin back so I feel he can step in and do some damage. I also like the addition of Darren Sproles to the backfield, he can do it all both running and catching.
South- New Orleans Saints
The Saints drafted well and picked up a great free agent in Jairus Byrd who is a top safety in this league. They will only get better in 2014, the Saints are looking to come back this season even hungrier then last season.
North- Green Bay Packers
The Packers will get back a fully healthy Aaron Rodgers and they can run the ball as well to help keep him from dropping back and taking a beating. They also added Julius Peppers on the defensive side of the ball in free agency and to me got a steal in the draft when Ha Ha Clinton-Dix fell to them in the first round.
West- Seattle Seahawks
I know they lost some defensive players, but they can definitely make up for that with all the talent they have. Russell Wilson continues to improve as well as the offense, this team could be the first since the New England Patriots to win back to back titles.
Wildcard Teams:
1.) San Francisco 49ers
They have a ton of talent in their receiving corps, but Frank Gore is not getting younger and I feel that will hurt the team some on offense. Not a whole lot, but enough to perhaps see them struggle a little to start the season. They also lost Donte Whitner and Carlos Rogers on the defensive side hurting their secondary.
2.) Chicago Bears
The Bears are so loaded on offense they can keep up in scoring with opposing offenses if their defense falls short again this season. I think Jay Cutler will have a career year and the Bears could make a deep run in the playoffs if he can keep the turnovers down and the defense plays well.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Mo'ne Davis: Game Changer
The 2014 Little League World Series is over, but something very special took place during the course of the tournament. Mo'ne Davis made headlines for her play in the series, she became the first female to throw a complete game shut out in the Little League World Series on August 15th. Her shutout gained national attention, as it should have because now girls can look up to her and hopefully more of them will get involved in baseball.
There have been gender roles in place since the beginning of time, Mo'ne is another role breaker, and yes a game changer. When most people hear baseball they think of males playing the sport, and when they hear softball they think of females playing that sport. I find that funny because I constantly see co-ed softball teams all over the place, especially for local leagues that are for fun.
Mo'ne can now help bridge the gap and perhaps more females will want to play baseball at all levels, and next year we could see even more more females in the Little League World Series.
I am glad that Mo'ne gained attention, and I think a lot of good has come from it, and more will over time.
Mo'ne is special, she is now that role model for girls to look up to and say "hey, I can play baseball too!"
In 2015 we will see what happens!
The St. Louis Rams Quarterback Situation, Present and Future
PRESENT
This past Saturday evening Rams starting quarterback Sam Bradford went down with an injury, which was later determined to be an ACL tear in his left knee which was the same injury on the same knee from the season before.
The Rams have decided to stick with backup Shaun Hill as their starter, he is a journeyman but I think the Rams are making the right choice with Shaun Hill. He can manage games for the Rams, he has a running game that I feel can be a big lift to that offense this year and with the addition of Tre Mason through the draft it will only get better.
They also have Tavon Austin at receiver along with free agent Kenny Britt who I think can turn his career around in St. Louis and you cannot forget about tight end Jared Cook.
Shaun Hills career stats are as follows (taken from www.nfl.com):
41 Touchdowns
23 Interceptions
Completion percentage 61.9%
Sure he does not have the best stats, but they are better off sticking with him over trading for Mark Sanchez or Ryan Mallett which will cost them a pick or a few picks to acquire.
FUTURE
Sam Bradford will miss all of the 2014 season, meaning that for the third time in his first five seasons that he will not play an entire season. He started and played in all 16 games his rookie season in 2010 and again in 2012. He started and played in 10 games in 2011 and started and played in 7 games in 2013 before tearing his ACL in his left knee. (stats from www.nfl.com)
The Rams are going to have to make a difficult decision with him, but if I am the Rams organization I would cut him after the 2014 season is over. He cannot stay on the field, and I know it is not his fault, but they need to figure something out soon. They took a good look at Johnny Manziel before the draft and passed up on him, now they may have to look towards the future with another QB by drafting one in the 2015 draft.
I can never fault a player for being injured so much, but as stated the Rams are looking for a QB of the future, and it is hard to call Bradford one when if you expect him to play full seasons and he has only played two full seasons in five years.
Sam Bradford may have a future in the NFL, but it will not be with the St. Louis Rams.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
End of an Era for the Miami Heat's Big 3?
The Miami Heat fell to the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday evening in game 5 to lose the NBA Championship 4 games to 1, and The Heat's "Big 3" are now 2-2 in title games since they joined forces during the 2010-2011 season and have made all 4 title game series since becoming the "Big 3". The question now is, will they still be the Big 3 by the summers end?
I say yes, they have all expressed wanting to stay, and why not? They have made 4 straight title games since they formed the Big 3 and are 2-2 in those games, losing the 2011 Championship to the Mavericks, they beat the Thunder in 2012 and the Spurs in 2013, Ray Allen deserves credit for saving them that series. Then they came out and lost in 2014, and lost 3 straight after evening up the series at 1-1 to go home without another trophy. They should still be proud of their accomplishments as a team.
Now while I say the Big 3 will stay intact I feel there will be some changes to this team, and I think the Big 3 needs to help with that as well.
-Lebron, Wade and Bosh need to take pay cuts to help add more talent
-Use money to go out and sign Carmelo Anthony
-Possibly cut ties with Mario Chalmers
By doing that you can help Lebron out, he really carried the load in the Championship series, Chalmers was pitiful, Bosh did not look all that great and Wade had issues. He was 3 of 13 shooting during game 4, and his injury issues have hindered him as well.
The Heat had a big coming out party in 2010 when Lebron said "Not 2, not 3, not 4, not 5, not 6, not 7" when talking about how many championships he wanted to win with Wade and Bosh in Miami (link here to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9BqUBYaHlM#t=229
I think with the team they have now they can win a title in the 2014-2015 season, because after they lost to the Mavericks in the 2010-2011 season they came back with a title game in 2012. So to count them out would be absurd.
There is one thing I would like to add to that, going to 4 straight championships must be exhausting, so they will have to rest this off-season, stay healthy (mainly Wade...) and come back and work even harder then last year. They can beat anyone in the East, but when it comes to the West, well that is a different story.
By Summer's end the Big 3 will still be the Big 3 in Miami.
I say yes, they have all expressed wanting to stay, and why not? They have made 4 straight title games since they formed the Big 3 and are 2-2 in those games, losing the 2011 Championship to the Mavericks, they beat the Thunder in 2012 and the Spurs in 2013, Ray Allen deserves credit for saving them that series. Then they came out and lost in 2014, and lost 3 straight after evening up the series at 1-1 to go home without another trophy. They should still be proud of their accomplishments as a team.
Now while I say the Big 3 will stay intact I feel there will be some changes to this team, and I think the Big 3 needs to help with that as well.
-Lebron, Wade and Bosh need to take pay cuts to help add more talent
-Use money to go out and sign Carmelo Anthony
-Possibly cut ties with Mario Chalmers
By doing that you can help Lebron out, he really carried the load in the Championship series, Chalmers was pitiful, Bosh did not look all that great and Wade had issues. He was 3 of 13 shooting during game 4, and his injury issues have hindered him as well.
The Heat had a big coming out party in 2010 when Lebron said "Not 2, not 3, not 4, not 5, not 6, not 7" when talking about how many championships he wanted to win with Wade and Bosh in Miami (link here to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9BqUBYaHlM#t=229
I think with the team they have now they can win a title in the 2014-2015 season, because after they lost to the Mavericks in the 2010-2011 season they came back with a title game in 2012. So to count them out would be absurd.
There is one thing I would like to add to that, going to 4 straight championships must be exhausting, so they will have to rest this off-season, stay healthy (mainly Wade...) and come back and work even harder then last year. They can beat anyone in the East, but when it comes to the West, well that is a different story.
By Summer's end the Big 3 will still be the Big 3 in Miami.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
At a Glance: Vince Young Part 1: The Career
Vince Young announced his retirement on Saturday, marking the end of a career that was rocky. He fell out of favor with his coach Jeff Fisher in Tennessee and spent 2011 on the Eagles as the back up to Michael Vick, Young had to come in and play in 6 games that season, starting 3 of them. Since that he has failed to land a team and was recently cut by the Browns just days after they drafted Johnny Manziel.
Here are numbers from Vince Young's career:
60 games
50 starts
31-19 record as a starter
8,964 passing yards
1,459 rushing yards
46 passing touchdowns
51 interceptions
12 rushing touchdowns
40 fumbles
12 fumbles lost
Young was picked at number 3 overall back in 2006, he is going to be considered a bust because of his rocky career and sometimes spotty play. While I think he had potential to be something special it was not a great start for Young who played for Fisher who did want Young to begin with. Things took a turn for the worst in 2009 when Young disappeared after having a game against the Jaguars when he was booed, he was found after a search by the police. The only one who spoke out on what happened was his mother who said he was hurting.
He had some success with the Titans all the way until 2010 which was he last season as a Titan. It seemed like he had a bright future his rookie season when he almost took the Titans to the playoffs and fell just short when the lost to the Patriots. In 2007 he took the Titans to the playoffs.
2008 he started one game and was injured and Kerry Collins took over, Young appeared in just 3 games that season.
As mentioned in 2009 he disappeared for a few hours from his home but had success that season, he finished third in comeback player of the year voting.
In 2010 he could not finish the season due to injury and was released in July of 2011 by the Titans.
He played in 6 games for the Eagles in 2011 and that was it, he has not played another game since.
Young had so much potential to be something special in the NFL, but injuries, his sometimes spotty play and issues with coaching helped that come short. As much as I like Vince Young and he has a winning record in the NFL he will go down as a bust because he never lived up to his hype nor the responsibility of being a high first round draft pick.
Sure Young did some great things in his career, but at the days end, people will most likely remember his issues in the NFL, both on and off the field. If you ask me he will not get another call from an NFL team, his career is officially over....
Stats and news from www.nfl.com
Here are numbers from Vince Young's career:
60 games
50 starts
31-19 record as a starter
8,964 passing yards
1,459 rushing yards
46 passing touchdowns
51 interceptions
12 rushing touchdowns
40 fumbles
12 fumbles lost
Young was picked at number 3 overall back in 2006, he is going to be considered a bust because of his rocky career and sometimes spotty play. While I think he had potential to be something special it was not a great start for Young who played for Fisher who did want Young to begin with. Things took a turn for the worst in 2009 when Young disappeared after having a game against the Jaguars when he was booed, he was found after a search by the police. The only one who spoke out on what happened was his mother who said he was hurting.
He had some success with the Titans all the way until 2010 which was he last season as a Titan. It seemed like he had a bright future his rookie season when he almost took the Titans to the playoffs and fell just short when the lost to the Patriots. In 2007 he took the Titans to the playoffs.
2008 he started one game and was injured and Kerry Collins took over, Young appeared in just 3 games that season.
As mentioned in 2009 he disappeared for a few hours from his home but had success that season, he finished third in comeback player of the year voting.
In 2010 he could not finish the season due to injury and was released in July of 2011 by the Titans.
He played in 6 games for the Eagles in 2011 and that was it, he has not played another game since.
Young had so much potential to be something special in the NFL, but injuries, his sometimes spotty play and issues with coaching helped that come short. As much as I like Vince Young and he has a winning record in the NFL he will go down as a bust because he never lived up to his hype nor the responsibility of being a high first round draft pick.
Sure Young did some great things in his career, but at the days end, people will most likely remember his issues in the NFL, both on and off the field. If you ask me he will not get another call from an NFL team, his career is officially over....
Stats and news from www.nfl.com
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Why the NFL Needs a Developmental League
It seems that many NFL coaches do not like the rules of the off-season work outs and the limited time they now have with their players. It can hinder evaluating players especially rookies both drafted and undrafted who are trying to make the team.
So how can this be fixed?
A developmental league, players can play there and learn the game, it will allow playing time as well as more time with other players trying to get better and play in the NFL. Now if a rookie or veteran is cut and cannot find another team they can come here and show their skills and become better players.
The NFL Europe folded in 2007, but some Super Bowl winning quarterbacks have played there, being Kurt Warner and Brad Johnson, Johnson did not have the career Warner did but still won a Bowl. Jake Delhomme also played in the NFL Europe as well.
Bills running back Fred Jackson played in NFL Europe and has had success in the NFL in his career.
Here are some notable undrafted players who are successful or had success in the NFL:
Arian Foster, Houston Texans 6,777 total yards 52 total touchdowns
Wes Welker, Denver Broncos, 5 1,000 plus receiving yard seasons, 5 100 plus reception seasons
Kurt Warner (3 Super Bowl appearances and a Super Bowl win as well as great stats in his career)
Priest Holmes, set the single season mark for most total touchdowns in a season with 27 in 2003, this record was broke in 2005.
Rod Smith, holds numerous records for undrafted receivers, has over 11,300 receiving yards and 68 touchdowns.
Jeff Saturday, played center for the Ravens, Colts and Packers, very successful career.
Antonio Gates, San Diego Chargers he is just over 800 yards shy of 10,000 career receiving yards and needs 13 more touchdowns to hit 100 for his career.
Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys 4 4,000 plus passing yard seasons, 208 passing touchdowns
Players do not always have to be drafted to play well in the NFL, and you can be a late round pick and have a great career such as:
Tom Brady
Shannon Sharpe
Marques Colston
T.J. Houshmandzadeh
Jamal Anderson
Terrell Davis
Ronde Barber
Russell Wilson is a steal as well
The point I am trying to make is that you have to look at the players I have mentioned and look at their careers, I feel not many young players have the opportunities these players did when they entered the NFL. A league to help young players develop is needed, you never know when another late round pick, a steal in the draft, or undrafted player could become a great.
The NFL really needs this to help with the rules of the off-season workouts. It will also benefit players and the NFL could make some more profit off of this as well, if they do the right thing they can make it work this time.
The way it should work it:
12 teams, 4 divisions of 3 teams
10 week season
4 team playoffs
If the NFL really wants to help players out this is a must, coaches will most likely support this as well to help them look for talent to build their rosters and help their team win more games.
It is time the NFL listens to coaches and players and make sure with their new rules there are other ways for evaluating talent and ensuring players in the league now can have a chance like the players I have talked about.
*ALL STATISTICS ARE FROM WWW.NFL.COM*
*ALL STATISTICS ARE FROM WWW.NFL.COM*
Thursday, May 29, 2014
My Take on the 2014 New York Jets Quarterback Situation
Ah yes, another year of quarterback problems with the Jets... first it was Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow in 2012, then in 2013 it was Mark Sanchez and Geno Smith and in 2014 it is Geno Smith and Michael Vick.
Vick has stated he is the backup but then has also said he could help take the Jets to the super bowl all while still being a company man and saying that the starting job is Geno's and Vick is there to help him.
Rex Ryan stated it is an open competition and has added it will be hard to beat Geno out in said competition.
So what is it? Is Vick really just there to be a backup and help Geno or is he there to compete for the starting job.
Geno played well down the final four games last season and helped the Jets to a season ending record of 8-8 which surprised many in the sports world. Now he may have to fight to keep that very job he held onto last season despite some horrific play at times (oh and accounted for 25 of the Jets 29 total turnovers), but again played well down the stretch of the final 4 games.
Vick lost his job last season and has had many injury issues and turnover problems as well in his career, so is he really any better then Geno Smith? I don't think so, sure a fresh start may help him, but he has shown erratic styles of play and has been injured often, so he should be the backup unless he really outshines Geno in the pre-season.
So this is what I think should be done:
Start Geno Smith unless Vick is clearly better than he is in the pre-season and the mini-camps and OTAs. He needs to develop and with added talent he should be just fine, and considering that he is turnover prone like Vick is, I would say let him learn some more because of how he played down the stretch last season. I think he will be confident and come out better with a full season under his belt and some new weapons to help him become a better quarterback.
If he struggles let Vick step in and mentor Geno while trying to help the Jets win games, that makes the most sense, Vick has been through a lot in the NFL so he makes a great backup to a young QB who plays in a big marker that is New York sports.
The reason why I think Rex Ryan wants competition is that he is worried about his job and needs someone who will games, meanwhile I think Vick is stating what he is because the GM is going to want the guy he drafted starting.
Either way Geno should start unless Vick is clearly and by a mile much better then Geno is.
This could be the start of another mess in Jets quarterback history....
Vick has stated he is the backup but then has also said he could help take the Jets to the super bowl all while still being a company man and saying that the starting job is Geno's and Vick is there to help him.
Rex Ryan stated it is an open competition and has added it will be hard to beat Geno out in said competition.
So what is it? Is Vick really just there to be a backup and help Geno or is he there to compete for the starting job.
Geno played well down the final four games last season and helped the Jets to a season ending record of 8-8 which surprised many in the sports world. Now he may have to fight to keep that very job he held onto last season despite some horrific play at times (oh and accounted for 25 of the Jets 29 total turnovers), but again played well down the stretch of the final 4 games.
Vick lost his job last season and has had many injury issues and turnover problems as well in his career, so is he really any better then Geno Smith? I don't think so, sure a fresh start may help him, but he has shown erratic styles of play and has been injured often, so he should be the backup unless he really outshines Geno in the pre-season.
So this is what I think should be done:
Start Geno Smith unless Vick is clearly better than he is in the pre-season and the mini-camps and OTAs. He needs to develop and with added talent he should be just fine, and considering that he is turnover prone like Vick is, I would say let him learn some more because of how he played down the stretch last season. I think he will be confident and come out better with a full season under his belt and some new weapons to help him become a better quarterback.
If he struggles let Vick step in and mentor Geno while trying to help the Jets win games, that makes the most sense, Vick has been through a lot in the NFL so he makes a great backup to a young QB who plays in a big marker that is New York sports.
The reason why I think Rex Ryan wants competition is that he is worried about his job and needs someone who will games, meanwhile I think Vick is stating what he is because the GM is going to want the guy he drafted starting.
Either way Geno should start unless Vick is clearly and by a mile much better then Geno is.
This could be the start of another mess in Jets quarterback history....
Predicting the Rookie Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year Awards
No rookie has set foot in a real NFL game yet and will not
until September but here are who I think will win the offensive and defensive
rookie of the year awards:
Offense- Sammy Watkins, Buffalo Bills
The Bills traded Stevie Johnson to the 49ers meaning Watkins
will play a bigger role on the Bills, I like his chances to have 1,200 yards
receiving with 11-13 touchdowns. He can
make a lot of big plays and can help EJ Manuel out as well, he can also benefit
from the run game of the Bills as well on play action passes. Being the number one receiver as a rookie for
him will not be a problem, I foresee a great rookie season for Watkins.
Defense- Khalil Mack
Khalil Mack is a great talent who could have gone at number
1 to the Texans over Clowney, but regardless I still feel he will make a major
impact on his team and in the NFL. He
can rush the passer and in that AFC West division they need that help, Philip
Rivers and Peyton Manning are nothing to mess with and Alex Smith can put up
numbers here and there. Also think about
who the Chiefs running back is: Jamal Charles, Mack can help defend against
that rush attack as well. I say Mack
will make an instant impact from his first game on.
Sunday, May 18, 2014
2014 NFL Rookie Quarterbacks: Start or Sit?
START
Teddy Bridgewater, Minnesota
Draft experts have called him the "Most NFL Ready QB", so it only makes sense that he starts in 2014, he is better than Ponder and Matt Cassel. He will have Adrian Peterson to take pressure off of him as well as Greg Jennings and Cordarrelle Patterson as his receivers. He may struggle but it will be the growing pains of a rookie, and in a division that is so competitive he can learn a great deal his first year in the league.
Johnny Manziel, Cleveland
I was worried when I heard the news of Josh Gordon and what looks to be a season long suspension for failing yet another drug test. However with the signing of Austin Miles I am feeling a bit better about his weapons. That being said he is also going to be under the Kyle Shannahan offense, he had RGIII run the read-option in Washington which worked well RGIII's rookie season. I feel that Manziel and running back Ben Tate can run that behind a strong line in Cleveland, it will help Manziel win some games in that tough AFC North division.
SIT
Blake Bortles, Jacksonville
Justin Blackmon may not be back in 2014 at all, so that is one big loss for any quarterback to lose a receiver with his talent, and the Jaguars are now in the post Maurice Jones-Drew era who is a top-tier running back in the NFL. It would be best to let Bortles sit behind Chad Henne for the 2014 season while he learns the system in Jacksonville and can take over in 2015 when the Jaguars add more talent. I am a big Bortles fan, but I do not want to see him go to ruin in Jacksonville. While I really like the receivers they picked in the second round they still need to get more help.
Derek Carr, Oakland
The Raiders added pieces in the draft and free agency which gives me the feeling that they are a win now team, and with a veteran like Matt Schaub the Raiders will look to him to win games. Carr is a second round pick which means that the Raiders will not have to commit to Carr right now. It would be better if he backed up Schaub until he needs to go in a game or take over if Schaub struggles or the Raiders have a bad season and need a change at the QB spot. Carr has a lot of talent I think he will be the future QB of this franchise, but there is no need to throw him in right away this season.
Teddy Bridgewater, Minnesota
Draft experts have called him the "Most NFL Ready QB", so it only makes sense that he starts in 2014, he is better than Ponder and Matt Cassel. He will have Adrian Peterson to take pressure off of him as well as Greg Jennings and Cordarrelle Patterson as his receivers. He may struggle but it will be the growing pains of a rookie, and in a division that is so competitive he can learn a great deal his first year in the league.
Johnny Manziel, Cleveland
I was worried when I heard the news of Josh Gordon and what looks to be a season long suspension for failing yet another drug test. However with the signing of Austin Miles I am feeling a bit better about his weapons. That being said he is also going to be under the Kyle Shannahan offense, he had RGIII run the read-option in Washington which worked well RGIII's rookie season. I feel that Manziel and running back Ben Tate can run that behind a strong line in Cleveland, it will help Manziel win some games in that tough AFC North division.
SIT
Blake Bortles, Jacksonville
Justin Blackmon may not be back in 2014 at all, so that is one big loss for any quarterback to lose a receiver with his talent, and the Jaguars are now in the post Maurice Jones-Drew era who is a top-tier running back in the NFL. It would be best to let Bortles sit behind Chad Henne for the 2014 season while he learns the system in Jacksonville and can take over in 2015 when the Jaguars add more talent. I am a big Bortles fan, but I do not want to see him go to ruin in Jacksonville. While I really like the receivers they picked in the second round they still need to get more help.
Derek Carr, Oakland
The Raiders added pieces in the draft and free agency which gives me the feeling that they are a win now team, and with a veteran like Matt Schaub the Raiders will look to him to win games. Carr is a second round pick which means that the Raiders will not have to commit to Carr right now. It would be better if he backed up Schaub until he needs to go in a game or take over if Schaub struggles or the Raiders have a bad season and need a change at the QB spot. Carr has a lot of talent I think he will be the future QB of this franchise, but there is no need to throw him in right away this season.
Monday, May 12, 2014
2014 NFL Draft Recap
Best Draft: St. Louis Rams
The Rams helped solidify their offensive and defensive lines in the first round of the draft and got some other key parts following that round and I loved their selection of Tre Mason to help their offense. I believe that the drafting of Michael Sam will be beneficial as well, he can help the defensive front and I am fan of the picks of corners and safeties as well. In the NFC West you have to protect your QB and get after the opponnets QB.
Worst Draft: Dallas
Sure they got offensive line and defensive help early on in the draft but they waited until the 7th round for secondary help. If they did not wait so long and have picked Ha Ha Clinton-Dix in the first round I would not have them here in this spot. While I understand they had 3 picks in the first 5 rounds it is ridiculous to wait until the last round to fix that woeful secondary.
Team That Surprised Me: New York Jets
When they took Safety Calvin Pryor in the first round instead of a receiver I was concerned because they need to help Geno Smith grow as a player. Then they picked a tight end in the second round and 2 receivers in the 4th round, that is huge for a team that needs offensive help and as mentioned help Geno Smith become a better QB by adding talent around him.
Random Thoughts:
Loved the Patriots selection of Jimmy Garoppolo, I will admit that it surprised me but I do love it because he can sit behind Brady (who is his favorite player) and learn from him and grow in the Patriots system.
When the Browns traded their pick to the Bills to move from 4 to 9 I was pretty surprised, and considering that Josh Gordon may be gone all of 2014 due to suspension I felt Sammy Watkins would have made more sense at 4 then taking Justin Gilbert at 8.
Blake Bortles to the Jaguars shocked me, I had him going at 3 in my first mock draft but then recanted that and said Sammy Watkins would go there, especially because of the Justin Blackmon situation. I do like Bortles and the Jaguars need a franchise QB, which is something they have not had in a while...
The Buccaneers spending all of their picks on offense was great, they want to improve and did so by drafting well. Mike Evans will be big there and will help Vincent Jackson out as well as whoever their quarterback will be in 2014. They took a tight end in the second round, a running back in the third and offensive linemen to follow that, great draft, this team could make some big noise in 2014.
I thought it was odd that the Texans did not take a quarterback until the 4th round, but I will say this, Tom Savage could be a steal, Bill O'Brien will do all he can to help him bring out the most of his ability. May not play much this season, but I think he can be a future star in Houston.
The Carolina Panthers made a great choice by taking receiver Kelvin Benjamin in the first round but I felt they could have drafted another one. Either way loved that pick, though they should have still picked another one at some point in the draft.
The Bengals selection of A.J. McCarron should make for an interesting time if Dalton struggles this season and loses another playoff game to go to 0-4 in the playoffs.
The Eagles picked receivers in the second and third rounds, love it, will help them out and I think Nick Foles will appreciate it.
The Vikings selected whom many consider the most NFL ready QB in Teddy Bridgewater, I feel he will sit for a few weeks to start the season but will be the Vikings QB at the seasons end.
The Rams helped solidify their offensive and defensive lines in the first round of the draft and got some other key parts following that round and I loved their selection of Tre Mason to help their offense. I believe that the drafting of Michael Sam will be beneficial as well, he can help the defensive front and I am fan of the picks of corners and safeties as well. In the NFC West you have to protect your QB and get after the opponnets QB.
Worst Draft: Dallas
Sure they got offensive line and defensive help early on in the draft but they waited until the 7th round for secondary help. If they did not wait so long and have picked Ha Ha Clinton-Dix in the first round I would not have them here in this spot. While I understand they had 3 picks in the first 5 rounds it is ridiculous to wait until the last round to fix that woeful secondary.
Team That Surprised Me: New York Jets
When they took Safety Calvin Pryor in the first round instead of a receiver I was concerned because they need to help Geno Smith grow as a player. Then they picked a tight end in the second round and 2 receivers in the 4th round, that is huge for a team that needs offensive help and as mentioned help Geno Smith become a better QB by adding talent around him.
Random Thoughts:
Loved the Patriots selection of Jimmy Garoppolo, I will admit that it surprised me but I do love it because he can sit behind Brady (who is his favorite player) and learn from him and grow in the Patriots system.
When the Browns traded their pick to the Bills to move from 4 to 9 I was pretty surprised, and considering that Josh Gordon may be gone all of 2014 due to suspension I felt Sammy Watkins would have made more sense at 4 then taking Justin Gilbert at 8.
Blake Bortles to the Jaguars shocked me, I had him going at 3 in my first mock draft but then recanted that and said Sammy Watkins would go there, especially because of the Justin Blackmon situation. I do like Bortles and the Jaguars need a franchise QB, which is something they have not had in a while...
The Buccaneers spending all of their picks on offense was great, they want to improve and did so by drafting well. Mike Evans will be big there and will help Vincent Jackson out as well as whoever their quarterback will be in 2014. They took a tight end in the second round, a running back in the third and offensive linemen to follow that, great draft, this team could make some big noise in 2014.
I thought it was odd that the Texans did not take a quarterback until the 4th round, but I will say this, Tom Savage could be a steal, Bill O'Brien will do all he can to help him bring out the most of his ability. May not play much this season, but I think he can be a future star in Houston.
The Carolina Panthers made a great choice by taking receiver Kelvin Benjamin in the first round but I felt they could have drafted another one. Either way loved that pick, though they should have still picked another one at some point in the draft.
The Bengals selection of A.J. McCarron should make for an interesting time if Dalton struggles this season and loses another playoff game to go to 0-4 in the playoffs.
The Eagles picked receivers in the second and third rounds, love it, will help them out and I think Nick Foles will appreciate it.
The Vikings selected whom many consider the most NFL ready QB in Teddy Bridgewater, I feel he will sit for a few weeks to start the season but will be the Vikings QB at the seasons end.
Thursday, May 8, 2014
2014 NFL Draft: First Round Reactions
The draft started the way many predicted it would with Jadaveon Clowney going to the Texans, that was a great pickup, no need for them to rush to get a quarterback, and now Carr is available to start of the second round tomorrow.
I liked how the St. Louis Rams drafted Greg Robinson to help protect Sam Bradford and then getting Aaron Donald, they are building both of those lines to help stand up to NFC West defenses and also create one of their own.
The Jets need help on offense and selected safety Calvin Pryor, which is a great choice but this was a bit of a surprise to me. Rex Ryan landed a solid safety who can be an enforcer which is something he wants, I still think the Jets should have selected a receiver here.
The Browns traded 3 times in the 1st round and picked Johnny Manziel with the 22nd pick, that I really like, and I also was a fan of the Justin Gilbert pick. Now Manziel will have a top-tier receiver in Josh Gordon to throw to and Ben Tate to run the ball, oh and Jordan Cameron at tight end who I really like. This team could be a Cinderella team in 2014.
The Jaguars selection of Blake Bortles shocked me even though I did have him at that pick in my first mock draft. Considering how the the Texans are building a ferocious pass rush the Jaguars need a QB who is strong and can take the punishment.
The Bills trading up for Sammy Watkins surprised me as well, I think he will be a nice fit for the Bills and can help E.J. Manuel grow as a player, but they may have gave up a little to much for him.
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix falling to the Packers at 21 surprised me as well, but good for the Packers!
The fact that ZERO running backs were taken in the first round was no surprise, I think only one will be selected before the third round.
Derek Carr's fall out of the first round took me by surprise, I think the Texans will take a shot on him to start the second round, if not I would not be shocked if Oakland took him in the second round.
Manziel falling to 22 took my by surprise, however I did say Bridgewater would wait the longest and he did.
The Cowboys selection of Zack Martin made no sense to me, sure they want to protect Romo, but their defense is in the need of the biggest improvement on that team.
I loved that the Bears took Odell Beckham to help fix their defense, should be one of a good chunk of defensive players selected by them in this draft.
I liked how the St. Louis Rams drafted Greg Robinson to help protect Sam Bradford and then getting Aaron Donald, they are building both of those lines to help stand up to NFC West defenses and also create one of their own.
The Jets need help on offense and selected safety Calvin Pryor, which is a great choice but this was a bit of a surprise to me. Rex Ryan landed a solid safety who can be an enforcer which is something he wants, I still think the Jets should have selected a receiver here.
The Browns traded 3 times in the 1st round and picked Johnny Manziel with the 22nd pick, that I really like, and I also was a fan of the Justin Gilbert pick. Now Manziel will have a top-tier receiver in Josh Gordon to throw to and Ben Tate to run the ball, oh and Jordan Cameron at tight end who I really like. This team could be a Cinderella team in 2014.
The Jaguars selection of Blake Bortles shocked me even though I did have him at that pick in my first mock draft. Considering how the the Texans are building a ferocious pass rush the Jaguars need a QB who is strong and can take the punishment.
The Bills trading up for Sammy Watkins surprised me as well, I think he will be a nice fit for the Bills and can help E.J. Manuel grow as a player, but they may have gave up a little to much for him.
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix falling to the Packers at 21 surprised me as well, but good for the Packers!
The fact that ZERO running backs were taken in the first round was no surprise, I think only one will be selected before the third round.
Derek Carr's fall out of the first round took me by surprise, I think the Texans will take a shot on him to start the second round, if not I would not be shocked if Oakland took him in the second round.
Manziel falling to 22 took my by surprise, however I did say Bridgewater would wait the longest and he did.
The Cowboys selection of Zack Martin made no sense to me, sure they want to protect Romo, but their defense is in the need of the biggest improvement on that team.
I loved that the Bears took Odell Beckham to help fix their defense, should be one of a good chunk of defensive players selected by them in this draft.
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
2014 NFL Draft Predictions
Here are my predictions for the 2014 NFL Draft
The Rams will have two possible teams willing to trade up to the number 2 pick:
The Lions will go from 10 to 2 by trading the following:
2014 1st round pick
2015 1st round pick
2014 2nd round pick
And with that pick they select: Sammy Watkins.
The Falcons go from 6 to 2 by trading:
2014 1st round pick
2014 3rd round pick
And with that pick they select: Khalil Mack.
The Jacksonville Jaguars will take offensive players in the first three rounds
Round 1: Sammy Watkins, WR
Round 2: Jimmy Garoppolo, QB
Round 3: Tre Mason, RB
The Texans will take AJ McCarron at the top of the second round
The Jets WILL take a receiver in the first round, and their division rival Patriots could as well.
The Quarterback that will take the biggest fall in the first round and maybe slip into the second round is Teddy Bridgewater, he could end up waiting a long time in the room just like Brady Quinn did.
If the Cardinals do not take Derek Carr at 20 the Bengals could snag him at 24 (Sorry Andy Dalton, but you are struggling in the playoffs).
The Texans will take a tight end at the top of the 3rd round to help AJ McCarron out.
Tajh Boyd will go to the Eagles in the 4th round and will be groomed to be NFL ready in Chip Kelly's offense.
The Denver Broncos will take Zach Mettenberger to develop behind Manning.
Only ONE running back will be selected in the first two rounds, and that by the Titans, they will take Carlos Hyde from Ohio State.
The Browns, Chiefs, Eagles and Panthers will all take a receiver in the first round of the draft.
Look for the Chargers to draft heavily on the defensive side of the ball.
The Cowboys should also draft heavily on the defensive side of the ball, but Jerry Jones will make bone-headed decisions as always....
That is it folks, one more night of sleep and then the NFL DRAFT!!!!!!
The Rams will have two possible teams willing to trade up to the number 2 pick:
The Lions will go from 10 to 2 by trading the following:
2014 1st round pick
2015 1st round pick
2014 2nd round pick
And with that pick they select: Sammy Watkins.
The Falcons go from 6 to 2 by trading:
2014 1st round pick
2014 3rd round pick
And with that pick they select: Khalil Mack.
The Jacksonville Jaguars will take offensive players in the first three rounds
Round 1: Sammy Watkins, WR
Round 2: Jimmy Garoppolo, QB
Round 3: Tre Mason, RB
The Texans will take AJ McCarron at the top of the second round
The Jets WILL take a receiver in the first round, and their division rival Patriots could as well.
The Quarterback that will take the biggest fall in the first round and maybe slip into the second round is Teddy Bridgewater, he could end up waiting a long time in the room just like Brady Quinn did.
If the Cardinals do not take Derek Carr at 20 the Bengals could snag him at 24 (Sorry Andy Dalton, but you are struggling in the playoffs).
The Texans will take a tight end at the top of the 3rd round to help AJ McCarron out.
Tajh Boyd will go to the Eagles in the 4th round and will be groomed to be NFL ready in Chip Kelly's offense.
The Denver Broncos will take Zach Mettenberger to develop behind Manning.
Only ONE running back will be selected in the first two rounds, and that by the Titans, they will take Carlos Hyde from Ohio State.
The Browns, Chiefs, Eagles and Panthers will all take a receiver in the first round of the draft.
Look for the Chargers to draft heavily on the defensive side of the ball.
The Cowboys should also draft heavily on the defensive side of the ball, but Jerry Jones will make bone-headed decisions as always....
That is it folks, one more night of sleep and then the NFL DRAFT!!!!!!
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
2014 NFL First Round Mock Draft 2.0
1. Houston Texans
Pick: Jadeveon Clowney DE, South Carolina
I have said in the past I think the Texans would take Blake Bortles here but I think taking Clowney is a solid choice here, they play Andrew Luck two times a year and they need to get to him and any other QB they play as well. The Texans could easily take a QB at the top of the second round.
2. St. Louis Rams
Pick: Greg Robinson OT, Auburn
The Rams acquired receiver Kenny Britt in free agency so now they can turn their focus on the offensive line to better protect Sam Bradford so they can keep him upright and healthy this season.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick: Sammy Watkins WR, Clemson
With Justin Blackmon's uncertain future in Jacksonville they need to address this issue now in the draft.
4. Cleveland Browns
Pick: Johnny Manziel QB, Texas A&M
The Browns worked Johnny Manziel out in College Station, Texas, after not seeming to be interested in him much things seemed to have changes. Manziel is exciting and to me makes a lot of sense for this team, they have a running back in Ben Tate and a great number one receiver in Josh Gordon, Manziel could also learn from Brian Hoyer as well.
5.Oakland Raiders
Pick: Khalil Mack OLB, Buffalo
The Raiders are in a win now mode, and they need to draft some players to add some beef to their defense. Mack can be a force on this defense and help win games in 2014.
6. Atlanta Falcons
Pick: Jake Matthews OT, Texas A&M
The Falcons need to help protect Matt Ryan who took a beating last year, if they want to win more games this is a big need and Matthews is the person I think who can help.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick: Mike Evans WR, Texas A&M
Pair him up with Vincent Jackson! It looks like Josh McCown will be the starter this season so adding weapons for him is a must. Evans would be a great complimentary receiver across from Jackson.
8. Minnesota Vikings
Pick: Blake Bortles QB, UCF
The Vikings need a quarterback, I feel Bortles will do well here, he will have Greg Jennings to throw to and Adrian Peterson to help take the load off his back his rookie year.
9. Buffalo Bills
Pick: Eric Ebron Tight End, North Caronlina
The Bills need to help out EJ Manuel by getting him some more weapons on offense.
10. Detroit Lions
Pick: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix FS, Alabama
The Lions play against some of the best quarterbacks and receivers in the NFL all within their own division, the time is now to bolster that secondary. Clinton-Dix makes sense here, he will help his corners with the over the top help to help try and reduce big plays.
11. Tennessee Titans
Pick: Teddy Bridgewater QB, Louisville
The Titans could be looking to add some competition with Jake Locker who I think has one year left to show he should be the future of this team.
12. New York Giants
Pick: Taylor Lewan OT, Michigan
Giants need to help protect Manning, that will of course help reduce turnovers if he has more time in the pocket.
13. St. Louis Rams
Pick: C.J. Mosley ILB, Alabama
The Rams play in the NFC West which features some of the very best defenses in the NFL, they too need to strengthen their defense. This pick makes a lot of sense here.
14. Chicago Bears
Pick: Aaron Donald DT, Pittsburgh
The Bears ranked dead last in the NFL last year in run defense, adding a young tackle on the defensive side will help improve that.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: Justin Gilbert CB, Oklahoma State
The Steelers will need some more help in the secondary, their pass defense was ranked 9th last season but the more young talent to help the better. They play AJ Green two times a year and the Ravens just inked Steve Smith this off-season.
16. Dallas Cowboys
Pick: Anthony Barr OLB, UCLA
With the departure of DeMarcus Ware the Cowboys must help fix the issue on defense, this could be the first of many defensive players selected by the Cowboys in the draft.
17. Baltimore Ravens
Pick: Calvin Pryor FS, Louisville
The Ravens need to continue to build that secondary, pairing him with last years first found pick safety Matt Elam will only help this team continue to build.
18. New York Jets
Pick: Kelvin Benjamin WR, Florida State
The Jets need OFFENSE to continue to improve as a ball club and help Geno Smith grow. It is time they take a receiver in the first round in the Rex Ryan era.
19. Miami Dolphins
Pick: Austin Seferian-Jenkins TE, Washington
The Dolphins need to continue to build that offense to help Ryan Tannehill grow in Miami.
20. Arizona Cardinals
Pick: Derek Carr QB, Fresno State
Carson Palmer has stated he would not be bothered if the Cardinals take a quarterback in the draft and the Cardinals should start planning for a post-Palmer team. Carr can sit behind Palmer and learn, of course if Palmer struggles they can yank him for Carr.
21. Green Bay Packers
Pick: Bradley Roby CB, Ohio State
Green Bay needs to continue to improve on their secondary, their passing defense ranked 24th in yards allowed last season.
22. Philadelphia Eagles
Pick: Brandon Cooks WR, Oregon State
Brandon Cooks 4.33 speed in the 40 is perfect for this offensive system that Chip Kelly installed.
23. Kansas City Chiefs
Pick: Odell Beckham JR WR, LSU
The Chiefs need help opening up their passing game, they should take Beckham here to help improve their offense and help Alex Smith.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
Pick: Kyle Fuller CB, Virginia Tech
The Bengals secondary may play well but they are not getting younger back there, this is a great chance to add youth and talent to the secondary.
25. San Diego Chargers
Pick: Darqueze Dennard CB, Michigan State
The Chargers need to work on their secondary, this is a way to do just that.
26. Cleveland Browns
Pick: Davante Adams WR, Fresno State
The Browns need another receiver to pair with Josh Gordon, taking one here makes sense to pair a QB they should take at their number 4 pick.
27. New Orleans Saints
Pick: Louis Nix DT, Notre Dame
The Saints play teams that like to run the ball, this pick can help them to stop their opponents from racking those yards up.
28. Carolina Panthers
Pick: Marqise Lee WR, USC
The Panthers need help at the receiver position badly, Newton would appreciate the help, a receiver in the first round makes a lot of sense.
29. New England Patriots
Pick: Stephon Tuitt DE, Notre Dame
The Patriots need to add some youth to their defensive line, sure they have Vince Wilfork but adding youth will help.
30. San Francisco 49ers
Pick: Ra'Shede Hageman DT, Minnesota
Does not hurt the 49ers for adding more talent here at this position, after all they play in the NFC West and play a run happy Seahawks team who has Russell Wilson who is athletic and can make a lot of plays by extending them. Adding a player who can help go after a quarterback helps as well.
31. Denver Broncos
Pick: Xavier Su'a-Filo OG, UCLA
The Broncos lost their left guard in free agency, the Broncos must protect Manning's blindside, their lack of pass protection shown in the Super Bowl will only worsen if they cannot draft someone here to help.
32. Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Joel Bitonio OT, Nevada
The Seahawks can always add more talent and depth to their offensive line to help with the run game and passing game.
Pick: Jadeveon Clowney DE, South Carolina
I have said in the past I think the Texans would take Blake Bortles here but I think taking Clowney is a solid choice here, they play Andrew Luck two times a year and they need to get to him and any other QB they play as well. The Texans could easily take a QB at the top of the second round.
2. St. Louis Rams
Pick: Greg Robinson OT, Auburn
The Rams acquired receiver Kenny Britt in free agency so now they can turn their focus on the offensive line to better protect Sam Bradford so they can keep him upright and healthy this season.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick: Sammy Watkins WR, Clemson
With Justin Blackmon's uncertain future in Jacksonville they need to address this issue now in the draft.
4. Cleveland Browns
Pick: Johnny Manziel QB, Texas A&M
The Browns worked Johnny Manziel out in College Station, Texas, after not seeming to be interested in him much things seemed to have changes. Manziel is exciting and to me makes a lot of sense for this team, they have a running back in Ben Tate and a great number one receiver in Josh Gordon, Manziel could also learn from Brian Hoyer as well.
5.Oakland Raiders
Pick: Khalil Mack OLB, Buffalo
The Raiders are in a win now mode, and they need to draft some players to add some beef to their defense. Mack can be a force on this defense and help win games in 2014.
6. Atlanta Falcons
Pick: Jake Matthews OT, Texas A&M
The Falcons need to help protect Matt Ryan who took a beating last year, if they want to win more games this is a big need and Matthews is the person I think who can help.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick: Mike Evans WR, Texas A&M
Pair him up with Vincent Jackson! It looks like Josh McCown will be the starter this season so adding weapons for him is a must. Evans would be a great complimentary receiver across from Jackson.
8. Minnesota Vikings
Pick: Blake Bortles QB, UCF
The Vikings need a quarterback, I feel Bortles will do well here, he will have Greg Jennings to throw to and Adrian Peterson to help take the load off his back his rookie year.
9. Buffalo Bills
Pick: Eric Ebron Tight End, North Caronlina
The Bills need to help out EJ Manuel by getting him some more weapons on offense.
10. Detroit Lions
Pick: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix FS, Alabama
The Lions play against some of the best quarterbacks and receivers in the NFL all within their own division, the time is now to bolster that secondary. Clinton-Dix makes sense here, he will help his corners with the over the top help to help try and reduce big plays.
11. Tennessee Titans
Pick: Teddy Bridgewater QB, Louisville
The Titans could be looking to add some competition with Jake Locker who I think has one year left to show he should be the future of this team.
12. New York Giants
Pick: Taylor Lewan OT, Michigan
Giants need to help protect Manning, that will of course help reduce turnovers if he has more time in the pocket.
13. St. Louis Rams
Pick: C.J. Mosley ILB, Alabama
The Rams play in the NFC West which features some of the very best defenses in the NFL, they too need to strengthen their defense. This pick makes a lot of sense here.
14. Chicago Bears
Pick: Aaron Donald DT, Pittsburgh
The Bears ranked dead last in the NFL last year in run defense, adding a young tackle on the defensive side will help improve that.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: Justin Gilbert CB, Oklahoma State
The Steelers will need some more help in the secondary, their pass defense was ranked 9th last season but the more young talent to help the better. They play AJ Green two times a year and the Ravens just inked Steve Smith this off-season.
16. Dallas Cowboys
Pick: Anthony Barr OLB, UCLA
With the departure of DeMarcus Ware the Cowboys must help fix the issue on defense, this could be the first of many defensive players selected by the Cowboys in the draft.
17. Baltimore Ravens
Pick: Calvin Pryor FS, Louisville
The Ravens need to continue to build that secondary, pairing him with last years first found pick safety Matt Elam will only help this team continue to build.
18. New York Jets
Pick: Kelvin Benjamin WR, Florida State
The Jets need OFFENSE to continue to improve as a ball club and help Geno Smith grow. It is time they take a receiver in the first round in the Rex Ryan era.
19. Miami Dolphins
Pick: Austin Seferian-Jenkins TE, Washington
The Dolphins need to continue to build that offense to help Ryan Tannehill grow in Miami.
20. Arizona Cardinals
Pick: Derek Carr QB, Fresno State
Carson Palmer has stated he would not be bothered if the Cardinals take a quarterback in the draft and the Cardinals should start planning for a post-Palmer team. Carr can sit behind Palmer and learn, of course if Palmer struggles they can yank him for Carr.
21. Green Bay Packers
Pick: Bradley Roby CB, Ohio State
Green Bay needs to continue to improve on their secondary, their passing defense ranked 24th in yards allowed last season.
22. Philadelphia Eagles
Pick: Brandon Cooks WR, Oregon State
Brandon Cooks 4.33 speed in the 40 is perfect for this offensive system that Chip Kelly installed.
23. Kansas City Chiefs
Pick: Odell Beckham JR WR, LSU
The Chiefs need help opening up their passing game, they should take Beckham here to help improve their offense and help Alex Smith.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
Pick: Kyle Fuller CB, Virginia Tech
The Bengals secondary may play well but they are not getting younger back there, this is a great chance to add youth and talent to the secondary.
25. San Diego Chargers
Pick: Darqueze Dennard CB, Michigan State
The Chargers need to work on their secondary, this is a way to do just that.
26. Cleveland Browns
Pick: Davante Adams WR, Fresno State
The Browns need another receiver to pair with Josh Gordon, taking one here makes sense to pair a QB they should take at their number 4 pick.
27. New Orleans Saints
Pick: Louis Nix DT, Notre Dame
The Saints play teams that like to run the ball, this pick can help them to stop their opponents from racking those yards up.
28. Carolina Panthers
Pick: Marqise Lee WR, USC
The Panthers need help at the receiver position badly, Newton would appreciate the help, a receiver in the first round makes a lot of sense.
29. New England Patriots
Pick: Stephon Tuitt DE, Notre Dame
The Patriots need to add some youth to their defensive line, sure they have Vince Wilfork but adding youth will help.
30. San Francisco 49ers
Pick: Ra'Shede Hageman DT, Minnesota
Does not hurt the 49ers for adding more talent here at this position, after all they play in the NFC West and play a run happy Seahawks team who has Russell Wilson who is athletic and can make a lot of plays by extending them. Adding a player who can help go after a quarterback helps as well.
31. Denver Broncos
Pick: Xavier Su'a-Filo OG, UCLA
The Broncos lost their left guard in free agency, the Broncos must protect Manning's blindside, their lack of pass protection shown in the Super Bowl will only worsen if they cannot draft someone here to help.
32. Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Joel Bitonio OT, Nevada
The Seahawks can always add more talent and depth to their offensive line to help with the run game and passing game.
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