GetOuttaHere Articles

All-Star Friday Night

2011-02-19T15:10:00.000-08:00

By: Matt

Last night was the opening night of the NBA’s All-Star Weekend. The highlights of the opening night are two of the weekends more interesting events: the Celebrity Game and Rookie Challenge. The Celebrity Game occurred first and featured a combination of new and old faces. Last year’s … questionable MVP Michael Rappaport returned to attempt futilely to defend his crown (although the video of his training with Jon Barry in preparation to do so was relatively amusing). Teen pop-star Justin Bieber started for the west team and Rob Kardashian (another figure best known among girls ages 10-18) played briefly in front of his brother-in-law, the Los Angeles Lakers’ Lamar Odom. Former NBA Stars Chris Mullen, Mitch Richmond, Scottie Pippen, Rick Fox, Jalen Rose, Magic Johnson, and Bill Walton all appeared either as players and coaches. The game itself was amusing, with the former stars demonstrating that even in old-age and retirement they are still far superior to the rest of humanity in both basketball skill and general athleticism. The game was what it promised to be, a silly pick up game filled with a variety of comedic bits, both scripted and unscripted, that entertained fans for a little while and included a few comical basketball moments. The diminutive Justin Bieber’s ball-handling skills were actually impressive and when he made arguably the most-awkward looking 3-pointer ever made on National TV the females in attendance at the game went wild. The highlight of the game arguably may have come when the 6’8” Scottie Pippen blocked the 5’5” Bieber and then dribbled away with the ball. It was hilarious, and while some people may have wanted for Scottie to pick on someone his own size, Bieber should just consider himself lucky that former two-time MVP Terrell Owens was not playing in this game. One can only imagine what he would have done with the pop-star playing against him in a nationally televised pick-up game (on second thought, one probably CAN’T imagine what TO would have done). With fans voting for the MVP Bieber predictably won the trophy, and while he was arguably both a highlight (the young Canadian’s presence was divisive if nothing else) the trophy probably should have gone to either Pippen or Jalen Rose. Hardly the biggest travesty in sports history.

What was supposed to serve as the true sporting event of the evening, the Rookie Challenge, felt oddly like an extended opening act for the Dunk Contest. And I loved it! Seeing Blake Griffin, DeMarcus Cousins, John Wall, James Harden, and the shockingly ACL-less (a fact mentioned frequently throughout the evening) DeJuan Blair put on a display in athleticism was interesting, exciting, and thoroughly enjoyable. While nobody was going to win any points for defense in this game, the players put on acrobatic displays and Griffin displayed the amazing physical gifts that have made him an ESPN-wunderkind this past year. The game was actually close late, but all anyone will remember were the series of jaw dropping, high flying scores made throughout the evening. One play involving a bounce-off-the-ground-alley-opp pass from Wall to Griffin that ended in a reverse-two-handed slam will live forever in youtube highlight reels and the memories of those lucky enough to see it in person. (for those who weren’t lucky enough, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOxq-G-DYNY&feature=related and you’re welcome).

Hopefully tonight’s dunk contest and continuation of the All-Star festivities will keep up with what was a very successful All Star Friday Night. The only other thing left to say is that, after this years Pro Bowl, even the first night of the NBA All Star Weekend re-affirms what I would have to imagine is the common opinion that the NBA’s all-star festivities are by far the best among the four major sports.

What I'm Thinking About 2/8

2011-02-08T16:56:00.001-08:00

By: Matt

Carmelo Anthony used to be the face of the Denver Nuggets. Although his impact on the Nuggets franchise was less than that of draft-mate LeBron James, Anthony has been one of the NBA's premiere players for the better part of the last decade. Now it appears that the Nuggets would have been better off trading him months ago. Anthony has been vocal in his desire to leave Denver for greener pastures (namely New York). The Nuggets could have traded him before the season began, but felt that they could convince him to stay. They could have traded him early in the season, and nearly did. The New Jersey (soon to be Brooklyn) Nets offered Derek Favors, the third overall pick in this past years draft, and future draft picks. The deal seemed fair, and had the potential to set up the Nuggets for succeeding in the foreseeable future. But it never happened. The Nuggets backed down on these talks and again held onto the disgruntled Anthony. This season has turned into a disaster for the Nuggets. A team that once featured one of the league's best players and competed annually for championships now lacks identity, talent, and direction. The most recent Anthony trade discussions involved the Los Angeles Lakers, and young center Andrew Bynum. Although Bynum is a quality player, receiving him in exchange for Anthony would hardly seem suitable to Nuggets fans. This trade now seems unlikely, and as the days go bye Anthony's value to all teams not named the New York Knicks continues to drop. Now it appears that Nuggets fans will have to settle for nothing in return for their former star. The front office should enjoy having to explain how they messed this up so badly when that time ultimately (and what looks like inevitably) comes.

The Pack are Back

2011-02-07T18:59:00.001-08:00

By: Matt

The Green Bay Packers are Super Bowl Champions, again. Super Bowl XLV continued a recent (and historically shocking) trend of close, competitive, and generally entertaining super bowls. 4 years removed from a late loss in the NFC Championship Game the Packers are now championships. Much has changed over that period, iron man quarterback Brett Favre was let go and his replacement Aaron Rodgers evolved from being ‘the last guy in the green room’ to one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. Defensive guru Dom Capers was brought in to change the traditional 4-3 defense to a modern 3-4 scheme. Defensive leader Aaron Kampman left, new blood was infused with 2011 heroes Clay Matthews and B.J. Raji. The Packers moves were questioned, but in the end, the team made a quick, efficient turnaround and now reign supreme. They dominated the playoffs, becoming just the 2^nd team in history to become champions after winning 3 consecutive road playoff games, and they rallied from the brink of elimination to get there. On the way to the Super Bowl the Packers defeated one of the most electrifying players in Michael Vick and beat the Falcons in a building where they had been previously infallible before ultimately overcoming the vaunted defense of their longtime rival Chicago Bears. When they ultimately got to the Super Bowl, the Pittsburgh Steelers, champions in 2 of the previous 5 years were waiting. The path followed by the Packers would have seemed impossible before the playoffs began, but now it is simply a part of the legend of the 2011 Super Bowl Champions.

The game itself was interesting. Green Bay dominated the first half before allowing Pittsburgh to rally in the 3^rd quarter. The Packers suffered numerous injuries throughout the game, none more important than the loss of premiere cornerback Charles Woodson to a broken collarbone. Even without their defensive captain, the Packers defense stopped the Steelers from driving with 2 minutes left. Had Pittsburgh completed that drive they would have again added to Super Bowl lore and Ben Roethlisberger would be undeniably one of the greatest big game players of all time and all but a lock for the Hall of Fame. Instead the Lombardi Trophy returns to the city Lombardi made famous and predicting the Steelers’ quarterback’s legacy becomes even more complicated.

The Packers could become frequent Super Bowl competitors; their team is among the youngest and most talented in the league, and Aaron Rodgers is among the elite quarterbacks vying to replace the aging Tom Brady and Peyton Manning as a face of the National Football League. At the same time, winning Super Bowl’s is hard. In 1996 the Packers won a super bowl with a 27-year-old Brett Favre (the same age Rodgers is now) and appeared poised to win many more. They went back the next year, but until yesterday remained title-less. The present-day versions of the Packers appear to be a more balanced and talented team, but many balanced and talented teams have failed to ever win a Super Bowl. Ultimately, time will tell if the Packers can/will win again, for now, let the city celebrate. Title-town USA is the home to the champs once again.

Pettitte Calls It A Career

2011-02-03T12:35:00.000-08:00

By Matt:

After an off-season of internal debate veteran left-hander Andy Pettitte formally announced his retirement today. Pettitte spent the past 15 years as a pitcher in the Major Leagues, 13 of which were spent as a member of the vaunted New York Yankees. A member of the “core-four” Yankees who chartered the team’s success in the late 90’s and stayed with the franchise through the 2009 World Series; Pettitte has gained recognition as one of the all-time Yankee greats. The 38 year old veteran will retire with a MLB record 19 post-season wins, a stat clearly padded by the addition of the Wild Card playoff round just prior to the start of his career but an impressive achievement nonetheless. For Pettitte, the future would seem to include debate about Hall of Fame potential and a lot more time spent with his family. As fellow Lousiana native Brett Favre has shown the world of the past 4 off-seasons, retirement can be a very temporary thing, but in Pettitte’s case a return to the Major League’s seems less-than-likely at this point.

As for Pettitte’s now-former team, the Yankees, an off-season that began with great promise has ended with new question marks. The Yankees entered the Hot Stove season with a solid rotation and expectations of adding Cliff Lee and creating a super-rotation. Unfortunately, the lefty Lee spurned the Yankees for the Philadelphia Phillies, the team he played against the Yankees with in the 2009 World Series (where he contributed the Yanks only two Fall Classic losses). After that point it seemed to be a foregone conclusion that baseball’s richest team would add baseball’s most coveted pitcher. Things didn’t play out that way. The loss of Pettite in addition to the failure to add Lee leaves the Yankees with a potentially major lack of starting pitching. The team still has ace pitcher CC Sabathia the highly paid, highly volatile AJ Burnett, and 2010 first-half phenom Phil Hughes. As for the other 2 pitchers, the remaining options are a combination of young, unproven talent and old, potentially washed away talent. Young pitchers Sergio Mitre and Ivan Nova were underwhelming in short starting stints with the Yankees last year. The team has also signed veteran pitchers Bartolo Colon, Freddy Garcia, and former top-prospect Mark Prior. The Yankees hope that some combination of those options will provide consistency for a rotation that is currently marred by a striking lack of consistency. While Sabathia is consistently dominant, Burnett’s ERA inflated rapidly in 2010 and Hughes was an all-star through July and anything but down the stretch. At this point, it appears that the 2011 Yankees will have to win games by having their potent offense and deep, talented bullpen overcome the weaknesses of their beleaguered starting pitching staff. The Yankees were never a dominant pitching team, but Pettitte was a consistent pitcher who proved last year that even at his advanced age he had top-of-the-rotation upside. Losing a face of the franchise from the past 15 years hurts the Yankees, and now the team is left hoping that someone new will capture magic. Or that Pettitte will realize that he isn’t ready to walk away.

What I'm Thinking About 2/2

2011-02-02T12:56:00.001-08:00

By: Matt

This week the Tampa Bay Rays signed both Manny Ramirez and Johnny Damon to fill the remaining holes in an offense left gutted by an off-season intended to reduce team payroll by a significant amount. The signing of this pair of players bring back memories of the duo working together to end the Curse of the Bambino and capture a World Series Championship for the Boston Red Sox. That was nearly 7 years ago and times have changed. Now Ramirez has the long hair instead of Damon, none of them looks like a caveman, both are slower, older, and less defensively capable (although as Damon pointed out in their shared press conference, Manny's removal from Left Field also means the end of his time as Damon's cutoff man). 7 years ago this signing would have been as earth shattering as their former team's addition of Carl Crawford and Adrian Gonzalez was this year. Now Rays fans are left hoping that the two former teammates will be able to capture some lost magic and help a decimated Ray's squad achieve an improbable repeat as AL East Champs. It's hard to see this scenario as likely, but then again, how wise is it to bet against the reunited duo of Johnny and Manny?

Andre the Giant

2011-02-01T12:48:00.001-08:00

By: Chris

Soon after the 2010-2011 NBA Season got underway, the chorus of Sixer fans who wanted Shooting Forward Andre Iguodala to be traded grew louder and louder. Admittedly, I was one of them. After all, Iguodala still displayed his habits that made Philly fans grow to despise him over the years. Basically, he saw himself as a franchise player. Iso-plays resulting in long range jumpers with 15 seconds left on the shot clock became more and more frequent. Yes, the Sixers were and are a young team, but that is no reason for him to believe he can simply take over a game. Let's face it: he is not Kobe Bryant.

His play down the stretch in crunch time situations did not help either. Sure, he had some amazing game winning shots (i.e. playoff game in Orlando, away at the Lakers), but all in all it was fair to say that when we needed a dependable go-to guy, he did not deliver. Then came the rumors that he just fitting well with new Ohio State product Evan Turner. They were not gelling on the court, and a few awkward moments in games seemed to show that they could not move forward on the same team together.

At this point, the Sixers Front Office was absolutely screwed. Iguodala had long been rumored to be on his way out, and paired with his monstrous contract, they had absolutely no leverage. However, they did the smart thing, by announcing Iguodala would not be traded this season. I applaud them for this move.

All that being said, it is now almost the beginning of February, and the landscape has changed quite a bit. Iguodala is averaging 14.7 points per game, 5.2 rebounds, 6.1 assists, all while wisely shooting 54% from the field. His efficiency has increased dramatically. More so than what the statistics show, he is become a TEAM PLAYER. I am not sure whether it has been Doug Collins' coaching methods, or whether Iguodala has become mature enough to realize he is not, and will never be, the teams #1 option.

The Sixers now find themselves in the hunt for a mid to low seed for the playoffs. Although this is not what a lot of Sixer fans, they are winning games. The excitement, at least in some ways, is returning. Now, I believe that Iguodala can actually fit into the 76ers plan for the future. Paired with a young core of Jrue Holiday, Evan Turner, Jodie Meeks, and potentially Spencer Hawes (if the Sixers choose to resign him), basketball could be relevant again in the near future. All in all, Iguodala deserves credit for his transformation, and I hope he continues to play the way he has been in January.

What I'm Thinking About 2/1

2011-02-01T09:25:00.000-08:00

By: Matt

All year long I heard about the greatness of Clay Matthews Jr. and how he was tearing up the NFL week after week. I saw it myself in week 1, and with all the media attention and hype surrounding him I assumed his winning the Defensive Player of the Year award was a foregone conclusion. Yesterday the award went to Pittsburgh Safety Troy Polamalu and my first reaction (one I'm sure I shared with many others) was "CLAY GOT SNUBBED." Then I checked the stats. And then I wondered, why was this guy being touted as the greatest ever in the first place. I am a Clay Matthews fan and believe that he will be an impact defender for years to come, but his numbers this year simply don't back the hype. I don't know that he wasn't deserving of the award, in truth, Polamalu's teammate James Harrison's numbers appear more impressive than both Matthews and Polamalu's. Ultimately, it's not particularly important. The fans still recognize the great year Matthews had, Polamalu is a great player, and a week from now one of these players will be celebrating their winning the big prize and neither will care about the DPOY award any more.

Pro Bowl Post Mortem

2011-01-31T23:06:00.000-08:00

By: Jake

Yes, that title was chosen wisely and reflects the style of play the AFC displayed in this lopsided affair, which had literally no importance, except to give the people of Hawaii a break from 7am NFL starts. And what did these loyal Hawaiians and possibly honeymooners, get for their day in paradise? I could list a myriad of stats to show how awful of a game this was from a purist standpoint; the 9 total turnovers, the 1 total yard in punt returns combined from both teams, or even the 0 rushing attempts from Michael Vick, who despite his off the field issues can be very exciting to watch. Really, the list goes on and on. However, it is also important to remember that this game isn’t about the football purists who want to see hard hits and high intelligence strategy, its about connecting with the fans, and the Pro Bowl players having a little fun after 5 months of grueling work week in and week out.

Throughout the game you would see players signing autographs for the fans and not one of them was seen without a smile from ear to ear. Despite a 42-0 halftime score, the stadium was still filled at the start of the 3^rd quarter and into the final minutes, which shows even more that this was all about the experience and not the actual game. However, the 42 “Game Fan Rating”(on a scale of 1-100) on NFL.com shows that if the NFL wants to make this a more marketable and respectable game, they would be well advised to take a page out of the NHL’s playbook and add some exciting twist to the game. For those who don’t know, the NHL instituted a fantasy draft of the voted all stars by two chosen captains, and the game got hoards of media attention and was a great hit. Given the popularity of fantasy football, especially compared to fantasy hockey, this wouldn’t be the worst idea the NFL could make. I know I’d tune into the draft if Peyton Manning were picking teams with Tom Brady on the other side. And since this game holds no importance like the MLB All Star game, the NFL has free license to do whatever it wants with the game really. This is after all, the NFL. They would have to royally screw up to lose any fans of the game.

To sum up my thoughts on the game and the prospects for its future, keep it in Hawaii, and please mix it up next time. Also, whatever happened to the skills competition?

The Kolb Conundrum

2011-01-31T18:57:00.000-08:00

By: Matt

When the Philadelphia Eagles traded away franchise quarterback Donovan McNabb before the start of this season they expected Kevin Kolb to step in and lead the team. Kolb had been drafted 3 years prior with the intention of being groomed as McNabb’s successor (much like Super Bowl starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers was groomed to replace Brett Favre). Now, less then one year later, the Eagles have found a NEW franchise quarterback and are left facing an unparalleled, and in some ways unenviable, situation.

In just 3 short years as an Eagle Kolb has become one of the team’s most controversial and divisive players. His play on the field varied from terrifying (best seen during a relief stint for McNabb during a 2008 game against Baltimore) to record-breaking (his first two starts in 2009 against New Orleans and Kansas City). The Eagles chose to hand the talented but unproven Kolb the reigns and traded away their controversial leader of nearly a decade. Kolb lasted nearly a week in that role. An injury to Kolb allowed Michael Vick, arguably the NFL’s most electrifying (and controversial) player to return to the spotlight and demonstrate the benefits of new teaching and a new perspective. Kolb was once-again relegated to a back-up role, Vick became the fan-favorite and team leader, and now the Eagles must make a decision: what should be done with Kevin Kolb.

Recent news of an impending Franchise Tag for Vick indicates that the Eagles will attempt to trade Kolb before the NFL draft. As a classic example of the law of unintended consequences, top prospect and consensus #1 overall pick Andrew Luck’s decision to return to Stanford for his senior year has not only crushed the Carolina Panthers hope of getting a new franchise quarterback, but also caused Kolb’s market value to skyrocket. The remaining quarterbacks in the draft all have a fair share of question marks, and many are seen as incapable of playing from day 1. Kolb now has an affordable contract and 4 years of NFL experience in addition to the prerequisite physical skill that made him the Eagles top draft choice in 2007. Trading Kolb would seem logical; teams like Arizona, Minnesota, Oakland, Washington, and Miami all need quarterbacks; however, trading Kolb to one of the many logical suitors isn’t nearly the simple. Because of the impending lockout NFL teams are barred from making trades. The only activity that can occur this off-season (without a new CBA being signed) would be the draft. If the draft occurs before the CBA is signed, no trades can be made, and the Eagles will be forced to keep Kolb. Trading Kolb for draft picks is the most logical course of action for the Eagles, and trading him for a 2012 draft pick may be undesirable to the team. Other teams in need of quarterbacks could also simply draft one, rather than trade away future draft picks to bet on Kolb. If the Eagles don’t want 2012 picks, they would be forced to keep a quarterback who has expressed a desire to start or leave as a backup for another year.

The Kolb situation is complicated, the simplest course of action that would benefit everyone the most may be relegated to the realm of the hypothetical because of the labor strife, and if that occurs, the Eagles will be faced with a small number of options they may not be pleased with any of. Ultimately, what happens with Kolb will be the result of a multitude of factors, the most important of which is the union negotiations that will dominate sports media for the next few seasons (hopefully not). Trading Kolb may seem logical, but given the circumstances and limitations, it may not be possible or advantageous. As frustrating as it may seem, only time can resolve this conflict. Until then, we are all free to speculate. Nobody can change anything now.

76ers Open Season With a Loss

2010-10-27T23:54:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

So its been awhile since we've last posted anything on here (I know thats an understatement) so I thought what better way to spend the waning hours of the night than writing about the Philadelphia 76ers? Since nothing came to mind right away, a 76ers article was about to be made. So here it is:

Watching the Sixers tonight brought back a lot of emotional memories, so it was a really fun experience, until the Heat broke out to a game high 26 point lead. A lot went into that so I'll get to that later. As the game began you could hear the fans really getting into the game. Loud boos came from the stands whenever #6 on the Heat touched the ball. In case you've been living under a rock for the last few months, #6 would be none other than the Lebron James. So on top of the boos for Lebron, I heard a smattering of boos for Bosh too. In front of a sellout crowd for the first time in awhile, the Sixers kept it close the entire first half thanks to the recurring theme of many Heat turnovers. The deficit for the Sixers at half was only 8 despite being greatly overwhelmed by the talent on the Heat. Brand and surprising rookie Evan Turner, who had struggled mightily during the preseason ended up leading the team in rebounds and played major roles in keeping the game closer than it should be given the talent disparity. The Sixers had actually gained the lead before someone turned on 100% 3-Point shooting for James Jones of the Heat, as he drained 3 from downtown and completely changed the way the game was trending. Jones finished the game a devastating 6-9 from long distance and was a real momentum killer.

The Heat stretched their lead to 26 in the 3rd Quarter and seemingly went into Cruise Control, and the Sixers took advantage, cutting the lead to 8 with under a minute to go in the game. After a steal, an offensive foul all but doomed the Sixers, and they ended the game losing by 10. However, from this loss there were a few notable developments in the play of certain players. Most notably, the #2 overall pick in the draft, Evan Turner came off the bench to lead the Sixers with 16 points and he collected 6 rebounds which was good enough for 2nd on the team this night. Turner looked very comfortable on the court and showed a lot of what the Sixers saw in him at Ohio State, where he won National player of the Year. Turner was thrown into the fire defensively as well, having to guard the likes of Lebron and Dwayne Wade in his first ever professional game, and he responded very well in that category as well. Another interesting note was the ineffectiveness of Jrue Holiday. Holiday was projected by many to have a breakout year this year, but tonight's game wont be one of his signature performances, lets just put it that way. Jrue turned the ball over 5 times and only shot 22% from the field scoring 6 points on 2 late game 3 pointers. Thaddeus Young and Lou Williams turned in great performances off the bench, both with 15+ pts. This was a very noticeable trend as the bench outscored the starters 57-30.

Given the circumstances, all in all there were a lot of positives to take from this game. Turner and the bench looked really good in their time on the court, and the newly dubbed Wells Fargo Center was sold out for the first time in a while. The Sixers take on the Atlanta Hawks at the WF Center on Friday and we'll see how this team responds against another high quality opponent, as well as see if new Head Coach Doug Collins feels the need to make any lineup adjustments.

Month 1 as a Pirates Fan

2010-05-02T18:02:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

For this year in the MLB I decided I'd change from being a fan of the World Series favorite St. Louis Cardinals to a younger team who I could really get behind and call my own, so I chose a team with one of the best young players in the MLB, Andrew McCutchen. Its been quite the up and down month as the Pirates started off with two quality wins against the Dodgers but then things have gone down from there. They went on to lose 5 of their next 7, giving up 59 runs in the process. The abysmal pitching was horrifying to watch and the offense didn't really make much noise except for McCutchen and Garrett Jones who homered 3 times in the first 2 games. Andy LaRoche was solid at the plate too but didn't supply the power he was supposed to. After that abysmal slide, the Pirates came home to sweep the division foe Reds and give fans another glimmer of hope. This didn't last long as the very next game the Bucs were shutout in front of their home crowd 8-0 and 20-0 respectively and it was the start of a disastrous 7 game losing streak during which I questioned my transformation into a Pirates fan. But through the tough times one thing gave me hope, #22 in CF. Andrew McCutchen leads the league in stolen bases and still manages to put up solid power numbers especially for a leadoff hitter. He wasn't always the leadoff hitter though. Pirates Manager John Russell had at one point had 20 different line ups through 22 games giving very little stability to the team. This complete lack of a consistent lineup was partly due to trying to jump start the offense but also due to the fact that there aren't really many staples in the line up besides McCutchen and LaRoche. Even Aki Iwamura was subbed out for times to see if a player like Bobby Crosby or Ronny Cedeno could provide more pop. The outfield has been shifted around numerous times as Garrett Jones switches from RF to 1B depending on the troubled young Jeff Clement's status for the game. Even the backstop has been rotating for the Pirates. Ryan Doumit has been playing very well this year, but youngster Jason Jaramillo is almost too good not top play plus he has the arm to throw out runners which is something Doumit lacks.

Overall, this team has been frustrating to watch, but something tells me they'll put something close to a respectable season together once SP Ross Ohlendorf comes back from the DL and a kid from AAA like Brad Lincoln is called up to contribute. I remain optimistic as I am with all my favorite teams and especially can't wait to travel to Pittsburgh and see the best stadium in the MLB in PNC Park. I'll be sporting a brand new black McCutchen jersey by then hopefully.

2010 Jaguars Draft Recap

2010-04-24T16:07:00.001-07:00

By: Jake

In what was the most insane first round of an NFL draft I’ve ever seen, the Jaguars may have made one of the most intriguing picks in Tyson Alualu. Alualu was a late riser on the boards right before the draft and was kept pretty much a secret by most NFL insiders but was rumored to go to the Dolphins at pick 12 and the Jaguars couldn’t risk not getting their disruptive DT that they wanted. The Jaguars had no 2nd round pick due to trading it to the Patriots for the pick that yielded Derek Cox last year, but their 3rd round pick was a questionable one. DT D’Anthony Smith was another pick very few knew about but added another body to the much deprived Defensive Line who only recorded 12 sacks last year and gave up a lot on the ground. Smith, a 6’2” 305 lb run stuffer from Louisiana Tech should be extremely good depth at DT and could get significant time if John Henderson is traded in the near future. The next round the Jaguars were able to execute a great trade in which they exchanged their 4th for the Raiders 5th and MLB Kirk Morrison. The Raiders could not work out a contract with Morrison and he became expendable after the team used their 1st round pick on MLB Rolando McClain. Morrison was exactly what the Jaguars needed at MLB after they rotated Durant, D. Smith and even sometime Russell Allen at MLB last year. Morrison has never missed a game in his Pro career and has recorded triple digit tackles in every year also. At 28, he’s a young player who will fit perfectly in the Jags defense and allow Smith and Durant to be even more effective on the outside. Morrison’s deal however is only 1 year deal and the Jaguars will need to resign him next year if they want to keep his services for any longer duration of time.

With no 4th round pick the Jaguars had to wait until the 4th round to pick again and they didn’t hesitate to add more depth and talent to the D-Line as they chose De/OLB Larry Hart from Central Arkansas and Austen Lane from Murray State. Of those two, the more recognizable name is Lane who stands at 6’ 6” and 276 lbs and recorded 12 sacks last year with 22 TFL. Lane was given a 3rd round pick grade by CBS Sportsline so it looks like the Jaguars got great value here in a position of need. 6th round pick Deji Karim from Southern Illinois represents the 4th player in a row taken from a small school. When looking at him, many Jaguars fans can’t help to see a little Maurice Jones-Drew in him, as even his number was similar to MJD’s (31). The 5’9” RB scored 20 times in 2009 and averaged 7.1 ypc in his Senior year at S. Illinois along contributing 2,339 all purpose yards for the Salukis that year. Karim will likely be the Jaguars opening day Kick Returner according to GM Gene Smith. With their final pick in the draft the Jaguars selected their PR for next year in CB Scotty McGee from James Madison.

Tyson Who? You'll See

2010-04-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

Although the Bills started the cascade of surprising picks and questionable trades drafting RB CJ Spiller, the Jaguars definitely raised some eyebrows with the next pick selecting DT/DE Tyson Alualu of Cal. The Hawaiian defensive tackle was thought by many to have a low first or high second grade on him by many experts, yet the Jaguars went ahead and chose him with the 10th pick in the 2010 draft. A few other teams like Miami and Tennessee were also rumored to have an interest in him, which likely scared Jaguars GM Gene Smith into picking him instead of pulling a similar trade to that of the 49ers who traded back 3 spots and only netted an extra 4th rounder. The Dolphins picked at 12 and the Jaguars did not feel like they could have come out of that scenario with Alualu and the extra 4th so he was the pick at #10. Another curios thing to think about is what would the situation have been if the Bills and Raiders had not drafted two of the Jaguars most highly thought of prospects in Spiller and Rolando McClain who the Jaguars were supposedly very high on? All of that is a moot point now as many Jaguars fans are getting more and more used to the pick and beginning to accept Alualu and his awesome last name into the Jaguars family. And frankly after they watch the tape on him, its hard to blame them for their optimism. Gene Smith had an extremely good draft last year, taking two immediate starters on the O-Line, a starting CB who led the team in INT, and a WR who recorded the most receptions for a rookie in Jaguars history, surpassing Maurice Jones-Drew’s record set n his rookie year. On top of those players, he also took TE Zach Miller who was really looking like his fellow Zach Miller in Oakland with his speed and YAC ability throughout the season. Smith didn’t stop there with the productive picks, as 7th round pick Rashad Jennings was the spell back for Maurice Jones-Drew out playing RB Chauncey Washington who many were high on coming off the 2008 campaign.

Some Jaguars fans are worried however, abut the lack of an exciting player being chosen with the #10 overall pick as sagging ticket sales is something they’re beginning to grow weary of hearing about. Many believe a sexy pick like QB Jimmy Clausen who was available at that pick would have boosted revenue and brought an excitement to the team that is needed to sell out a stadium. GM Gene Smith ahs other ideas about that way of approaching the draft, ““I’m not trying to win a popularity contest. I’m about winning a Super Bowl,” he said at the press conference after Day 1 of the draft. And while some people are skeptical of the pick, others like Vic Ketchman of Jaguars.com is happy with the pick and the way that Gene Smith is attacking the draft. In his article about the Alualu pick, he stated that Gene knows that you build a team from the inside out and drafting outstanding DTs and OT’s is the way you win the battles in the trenches and ultimately the game. It is widely known that the Jaguars were worst in the league in pass rushing last year as they recorded only 14 sacks the entire year even after drafting Des with their two first round picks two years ago. The selection of Alualu and the addition of Aaron Kampman in the offseason were clearly direct attempts to fix that gaping hole in the defense that prevented the Jaguars from being effective on the defensive side specifically against the pass. Whether or not this pick will end up being the right one will only be answered in time and at this time we can only speculate. This Jaguars fan however, remains optimistic and trusts the man making the decisions.

Lack of New CBA Raises Questions

2010-02-17T13:55:00.000-08:00

By: Jake

In the NFL, there is a looming Collective Bargaining Agreement end in sight and it will cause many hectic things to come into place in the NFL world. One specifically is the lack of a salary cap on teams in the league. This salary cap has been an item that has placed all of the teams on a level playing field and kept the league competitive, bringing in more and more fans as such a high majority of the teams were constantly competitive. However, one of the things that may come of this lack of agreement is the implementing of a rookie salary cap.

Year after year, we see many young players becoming some of the highest paid players in the league even though they have proven nothing in the NFL. With the opportunity to fix this problem, the NFL and the NFLPA have the chance to fix a problem that has been bugging the heck out of fans who constantly see their teams shell out monstrous contracts to players who have done just as much in the NFL as they have. Every year the contracts get bigger too, only adding to the pressure to get something done I this golden opportunity. This also comes at the time where commissioner Roger Goodell just got his contract extended and has built a reputation of a strong handed leader who does not tolerate any wrong doings from players. The rookies coming in this year have a valid gripe about an implementation of this sort.

Why should they be the first rookie class to be put up to this rookie pay scale? They did just as much to get where the previous class did and they are losing out on money because of unlucky timing? That does not seem fair and it is something that the NFLPA will argue very animatedly. The incoming rookies will also set the standard of how future rookies will handle the new system if one does come into place. As of now nothing is for sure, but many fans are hopeful for something to restrict these money hungry rookies who sometimes take it to the extreme and hold out into a team’s training camp, therefore causing much confusion and strife amongst the team and the new players.

All in all, there are a ton of things that need to be ironed out with the forming of the new Collective Bargaining agreement in the NFL, but at the forefront is the rookie salary Cap. Although it may not be fair to the incoming class of players, it needed to be done sometime along the line.

Why Tim Tebow Will NOT Be a Jaguar

2010-01-28T13:42:00.000-08:00

By: Jake

As I look at more and more mock drafts, I'm getting a little scared seeing that some people still believe that Tim Tebow will be the Jaguars 1st pick in the draft. So as a respectable Jaguars fan, I must explain to the masses (our readers) why he will not be in a Teal uniform next year.

1. Tim Tebow is not worth the 10th/11th overall pick much less a first rounder. He has mechanical issues that need to be addressed majorly, he has huge problems taking snaps from center, and he hasn't played in a pro-style offense before.

2. The Jaguars have other needs. The interior O-Line needs some help protecting Garrard, the D-Line needs someone who can actually get pressure, a stud LB would be welcome, and Safety could use an upgrade for sure.

3. Winning teams attract fans, not gimmicky QBs who run for most of their yards. If the Jaguars want to build a deeper fanbase, they should build a winning team that will attract fans.

4. Selecting Tim Tebow woud cause a schism among fans and a QB controversy is not what the team needs right now. They need one guy they can all get behind and cheer for without him having to look over his shoulder at a guy waiting in the wing.

5. He is not god like everyone says he is.

The Too Early Mock Draft

2010-01-19T08:43:00.000-08:00

By: Jake

It's been a while since we've posted on here, mostly due to school and other things, but what better way to come back than with an NFL Mock Draft? I can't think of any....

With the First pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, the St. Louis Rams select.....
Ndamukong Suh, DT Nebraska
While this may be hopeful thinking, a DT as explosive and disruptive as him does not come along very often. The Rams would be making a very big mistake passing on the consensus best player in this draft class. The Rams have spent their last few 1st round picks on D-Line with Adam Carriker and Jake Long, but what better way to build a dominant defense than stacking your D-Line with young players? Plus, James Laurinaitis looks like a stud in the Middle Linebacker position.

2. Detriot Lions: Russell Okung, OT Oklahoma State
With Matt Stafford getting constantly abused last year and him getting injured as a result, O-Line has to be a priority even for the Lions. Okung is the best OT in the draft and the Lions should take this opportunity to fix the porous O-Line that almost wrecked their #1 overall pick last year. Nowadays, LT is a vital position and the Lions should take the opportunity to replace Jeff Backus and protect Stafford's backside.

3. Tampa Bay Buccanners: Dez Bryant, WR Oklahoma State
The Bucs reach a little here, but they used last years 1st round pick on a QB, so its in their best interest to give him the best weapons possible. Dez Bryant has been out of football for a year, but he's still a huge talent and by far the best WR in the draft. Antonio Bryant could possibly leave this year and how fitting that another Bryant replaces him, they wont even need to make a new jersey.

4. Washington Redskins: Sam Bradford, QB Oklahoma
The Jason Campbell experiment is over and a new regime is in. The Redskins will pull a New York Jets here and draft a new QB for the new coach. Some might have Claussen here, but Bradford will be cleared by his doctors and have a great week at the combine and impress the scouts all over again. Braford was stellar at Oklahoma and has great potential to turn this dismal franchise around especially with emerging target Fred Davis really stepping up. That connection should be good for times to come.

5. Kansas City Chiefs: Eric Berry, DB Tennessee
The Chiefs get a steal here and Berry is the obvious pick. They already have a stud CB in Brandon Flowers and Berry will holster the secondary as the Chiefs hope their previous 1st round picks of Glenn Dorsey and Tyson Jackson mature into pressure that will make life much easier for Berry and Flowers. With players like Jon McGraw and Mike Brown currently holding starting jobs as Safeties, Berry makes even more sense than if he was just the best available player.

6. Seattle Seahawks: Jimmy Claussen, QB Notre Dame
This guy is going to look good in lime/blue... uhh whatever color their uniforms are. Hasselbeck has 1 more year in him and it will allow him to learn the system in Seattle. It has worked for many QBs in the league and no doubt Claussen will benefit from riding the pine for one year and having a mentor in Matt Hasselbeck. Once again, a new Head Coach will draft a QB to be his franchise figurehead. The Seahawks have a pick in 8 more slots, so they can wait to fix some of their defensive problems.

7. Cleveland Browns: Rolando McClain, LB Alabama
The Browns are stuck between a rock and a hard place here with no stud players left that fill a need. I highly considered Joe Haden here, but there is more of a drop off in LBs from McClain to the next LB than from Haden to the next CB. McClain and D'Qwell Jackson will make a nice pair of LBs and if Shaun Rogers can stay healthy maybe the Browns Defense can stop the run and give the Offense some more opportunities (God knows they need them)

8. Oakland Raiders: Bruce Campbell, OT Maryland
The Raiders may actually make a smart decision for once as maybe they learned their lesson about drafting workout freaks. However, I could easily see Al Davis taking Jason Paul-Pierre after he posts astounding numbers at the combine. For some reason, I'm giving the Raiders the benefit of the doubt here and saying maybe Al Davis forgets to take his meds and sleeps through the draft. Then maybe the GM's could do what they're really paid to do.

9. Buffalo Bills: Gerald McCoy, DT Oklahoma
The Bills were 30th in the NFL last year in rush defense, giving up more than 155 yards over game on the ground. They have a big man in Stroud, and McCoy would be perfect to pair with him and they would each take some pressure off each other. McCoy is a monster in the middle and could be a difference maker right away if he can beat out Kyle Williams who had a solid year last year and racked up 4 sacks along with 66 tackles. The fact that Stroud is aging and on the decline is another factor that supports this pick.

10. Jaguars (win coin toss)
If this is the situation when the Jaguars come to pick, I can definitely see them trading back to recoup the 2nd round pick they traded away last year to get William and Mary CB Derek Cox. If they do pick, it will be between Derrick Morgan and Joe Haden. So since I'm not making an imaginary trade, the Jaguars select......
Joe Haden, CB Florida
Haden is the Best available player here and at this point he would make Rashean Mathis expendable. Mathis could be worth a 2nd round pick and many Jaguars fans would be much happier if GM Gene Smith had more picks in this draft after his stunning draft class last year.

11. Denver Broncos: Taylor Mays, S Southern California
The broncos Defense started out very well but to say they faded is an understatement. They finished 26th in run defense last year and are starting Renaldo Hill and Brian Dawkins at Safety so its clear that unit could use an injection of youth. Also, Mays would have the best mentor in the business in Brian Dawkins. Mays was dominating in college and in a system like the Broncos, where Dumervil is constantly adding pressure, Mays would be highly successful.

12. Miami Dolphins: Golden Tate, WR Notre Dame
The Dolphins are in dire need of a legitimate threat of a WR. Devone Bess and Ted Ginn are more supporting receivers than a all in one receiver who can do it all. Tate is a receiver who can do it all. He has the speed and the hands as well as the route running ability to get open on the next level. Tate also was dangerous after the catch as he constantly broke through the tackles of DBs and ran for great Yards After Catch. If the Dolphins want Henne to be successful and lead them to a division title or more, he needs the weapons to throw to who can hold onto the ball, not just run fast.

13. San Francisco 49ers: Anthony Davis, OT Rutgers
The 49ers offense was among the worst in the league mostly due to inconsistent QB play. So one way to fix that is to give him more time. The 49ers could help out Alex Smith by taking Davis here and pairing him with the other young tackle Joe Staley. Davis and Staley could be bookend Tackles and give Smith more time as well as opening holes for one of the best RBs in Frank Gore. The 9ers have another pick later in the round, so they have the luxury of taking whoever they want here.

14. Seattle Seahawks: CJ Spiller, RB Clemson
The Seahawks strike gold in the first round grabbing their RB and QB of the future. Spiller is an electric runner with astounding playmaking ability. The Seahawks had some good success with Justin Forsett later in the year after Julius Jones failed to make an impact, but it looks like forsett is best utilized as a 3rd down back. Spiller will come in right away and be a part of this new offense and regime up in Seattle. Spiller can also return kick, something Seahawks fans were missing last year. Forsett averaged only 24 yards per return last year, so look for spiller t take over those duties fairly quickly.

15. New York Giants: Brandon Spikes, LB Florida
The Giants defense was abysmal last year and Antonio Pierce was injured for most of the year. So with injury problems at LB, which left Chase Blackburn starting at one point will force the Giants to address the need of LB with the fierce LB out of Florida. Spikes has a mean streak (as evidenced by his eye gouging incident) and thats something important in a LB (as long as they can control it). Spikes was a tackling machine at UF and theres no reason to think anything will change at the Pro level with the D-Line in front of him and supporting LB cast.

16. Tennessee Titans: Brandon Graham, DE Michigan
The Titans struggled getting pressure on the QB last year as they ranked 18th in sacks recorded. On top of last years struggles, Kyle VandenBosch is a FA and its likely he wont be back. This leaves a wide open hole for someone to step in and even if its not Graham right away, he could develop into a good pass rusher with the experience he will get this year due to the absence of Vanden Bosch.

17. San Fransisco 49ers: Sean Weatherspoon, LB Mizzou
I struggled between Brandon LaFell and Weatherspoon, but went with Weatherspoon even though he could be a bit of a reach. Weatherspoon will have one of if not the best LB in the game to learn from, and Willis is one of the few playmakers on the team and he can't do it all himself, sot he 49ers take Weatherspoon to compliment him and provide the Defense with a legitimate OLB with a nose for the ball. Weatherspoon also can put pressure on the QB, which is an added pressure. He had 5 sacks last year playing in an undermanned defense at Mizzou.

18. Pittsburgh: Brian Bulaga, OT Iowa
The Steelers O-Line was a mess last year and they yielded the 2nd most sacks of any team during the 2009 campaign. While some of that may be due to Big Ben's penchant for holding on to the ball for in ordinate amounts of time, 50 sacks is wayyy too many for a QB to take in one year. Ben has already been through enough in his life, his protection is an absolute necessity at this point. A solid OT, Bulaga can play either side his rookie year and the Steelers can bench either Willie Colon or Max Starks. Bulaga should start right away and make a big difference in Big Ben's protection.

19. Atlanta Falcons: Derrick Morgan, DE Georgia Tech
The Falcons don't have much in the way of pressure on the QB outside of John Abraham, so they snag up Derrick Morgan who is a great value here at 19. Morgan would start right away and benefit form the double teams placed on Abraham. Morgan is probably the best pure DE in this draft as he can get to the QB, but has some problems with the run sometimes.

20. Houston Texns: Earl Thomas, S Texas
The Texans were severely lacking on Safety position and it showed. There was just no prescense at Safety that scared anyone or made them pay for going deep. They were constantly out of position and in the wrong places. Earl Thomas will finally give them someone respectable back there with a starting job lined up for him. It should be easy for the Texans fans to get behind this pick because they seriously need some playoff football and came so close last year.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Mike Iupati, G Idaho
Iupati is by far the best Guard prospect in the draft and he's been very impressive against the best competition that Idaho faced. The Bengals could use some more beef on their O-Line and Iupati is the guy at 21 for the Bengals. A road plow of a guard, Iupati can pass protect and pave the way for the surprising Cedric Benson. Anyone remember when Rudi Johnson was a top 10 RB? Whatever happened to him?

22. New England Patriots: Jason Paul-Pierre, DE South Florida
Paul Pierre will have a monster combine and his stock will rise from a 2nd round pick to late first round and Belicheck will pounce on the idea of being able to use him anywhere he wants. Also, DE fills a need that the Pats have. Their line is very old and Paul Pierre is a key to the longevity of the Patriots defense along with Jerod Mayo who had a down year last year. Expect him to bounce back and Pierre get elevated sack numbers because of it.

23. Green Bay Packers: Sergio Kindle, OLB Texas
The Packers are going to lose Aaron Kampman in the offseason and their Defense was lit up on National TV against the Cardinals due to little pressure on Warner. Kindle could come in and help Raji shore up the D-Line and finally get some consistent pressure on opposing QBs. Everyone knows the Offense is set up but the once feared D is not doing its job anymore.

24. Philadelphia Eagles: Jerry Hughes, OLB Texas Christian
The Eagles suffered many injuries at the LB position this year and it really highlighted their need for depth at all linebacking positions. Hughes played extremely well at TCU and constantly made plays behind the line. In the NFL today you can never have too many players who get pressure on the QB so Hughes is a great selection for the Eagles here. Now they just need to decide what they're going to do about McNabb and Westbrook.

25. Baltimore Ravens: Arrelious Benn, WR Illinois
The Ravens Offense has surprised people with its explosiveness, but thats mainly due to ray rice and his abilities. The WRs on that roster don't scare anybody and Flacco is coming up on the prime of his carreer where he needs a go to receiver who can be a playmaker. Benn fits the bill here at 25 and his speed should be something to take the pressure off of Rice and Flacco.

26. Arizona Cardinals: Brian Price, DT UCLA
The Cardinals have 3 great RBs in their division (Gore, S. Jackson, and now Spiller), so stopping the run will be an important factor in if they repeat as division champs again next year. Price has the size to plug the holes and speed to get to the passer. He will be a steal if they get him this late in the first round.

27. Dallas Cowboys: Damian Williams, WR, Southern California
With Roy Williams constant disappearing and no real other threat except Miles Austin, the Cowboys will take the best available WR here to keep Romo happy and fans in the seats. Wide receivers from USC haven't fared well in the NFL, but that won't stop someone from taking him in the first round if the need is there and its the right value.

28. San Diego Chargers: Patrick Robinson, CB Forida State
The Chargers could use some youth at CB as Jammer isn't getting any younger and Cromartie has been up and down in his career. Robinson is the 2nd best CB in the draft and the Chargers have the luxury to take what they need at pick 28.

Defenders Fall in Week 6

2009-10-19T10:45:00.001-07:00

By: Matt

In the NFL no phrase is more recited than “Defense Wins Championships.” For three teams, those defenses took a huge hit in week 6. The Cincinnati Bengals were the surprise story of the first third of the NFL season; they lost only one game on a last second miracle catch by Brandon Stokely (whose Broncos are also shockingly undefeated). The Bengals bet division rivals who visited the playoffs last year and a defense which Marvin Lewis had failed to inspire at any point in his tenure, was playing great football. The key to the Bengals newfound defensive success was defensive end Antwan Odom, who recorded 8 sacks in 4 games and kept pressure on quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers. In week 6 the Bengals suffered their second loss of the season to the Houston Texans, but also lost their premiere defender. Odom was seen as a key to the Bengals success and in their first game without him they suffered their worst loss of the year. Those sympathetic to the Bengals plight hope that the team will be able to overcome the loss of their defensive playmaker, but it seems that this loss will plunge the Bengals back into obscurity and out of the playoff race.

The Seattle Seahawks were once the most dominant team in a perennially uncompetitive division. The Seahawks won half a decades worth of NFC West championships and returned to the playoff after losing the Super Bowl in 2005 – a rare feat in the modern NFL. Over the last two years those once dominant Seahawks teams fell apart. Former NFL MVP Shaun Alexander experienced the fastest decline in recent memory and is now out of football and quarterback Matt Hasselbeck missed much of last year with an injury. Offensively the Seahawks are only a shell of the team they once were, but their defensive team is highly talented and had one of the leagues best mike linebackers in Lofa Tatupu. The Samoan linebacker is fantastic both in coverage and run stopping and his defensive presence is a key to Seattle’s success. Tatupu was lost for the season in week 6 and a Seahawks team that routed Jacksonville in week 5 fell to the Arizona Cardinals, one of their now competitive division rivals.

Through the first 4 weeks of the season no team was more impressive than the New York Jets. Rex Ryan’s defense was scary and shut down offensive powerhouses in the New England Patriots and Houston Texans. The Jets 3-4 defense was brought with Ryan from the Ravens and his Jets team seemed just as dominant as the perennial top 5 defense of Baltimore. The Jets linebackers shut down the middle and defensive backs Darelle Revis and Kerry Rhodes were eliminating the leagues best Receivers. While these aspects of the defense were impressive, Jimmy Johnson once explained that there is no more important part of a defense than a big, agile defensive tackle that can close the middle of the line of scrimmage. The Jets had Kris Jenkins, one of the best in the league. Jenkins, much like the Redskins Albert Haynesworth, is a big man who features surprising athletic ability. The presence of Jenkins allowed the Jets to stop the run efficiently and he was a key piece that allowed the rest of the defense to work effectively. The Jets, much like the Seahawks and Bengals, suffered a major loss when Jenkins was knocked out for the rest of the season in week 6. The Jets may be able to recover from the loss of Jenkins, but people also said the same thing about the Tennessee Titans and Albert Haynesworth. It’s hard to imagine the Jets falling as far as Tennessee, but a player of Jenkins caliber will be impossible to replace.

Injuries are a key part of the NFL and teams often prepare to deal with them. Losing a key player this early in the season hurts, but the Jets, Bengals, and Seahawks all have time to adjust and move on. The only thing that works against them is that the injuries had to happen this week, just days after the trade deadline passed.

Apples From the Poisonous Crabtree

2009-10-14T14:04:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

Michael Crabtree's recent ended hold out is a frightening sign to me of what is in store for the NFL in the future if they don't come up with a system for paying rookies under some sort of cap. Crabtree's situation brings a new light to the fact that teams will eventually fold and meet in the middle with big time players who demand big time money even right out of college. Crabtree is not the first one to do this either. It has only been one year since the last holdout close to thris type has happened. Last year's #8 pick Derrick Harvey held out all of training camp and missed a total of 33 days of team activites including preseason games. This alarming pattern is just one more thing that adds to the argument that a Rookie cap has to be put in place by the NFL and agreed upon by the NFLPA.

Harvey and Crabtree aren't even the tip of the iceberg when it comes to rookie hold outs and their inflated egos. Emmitt Smith is another player who heeld out, but we seem to forget all about that since he performed well in his career to say the least. Jamarcus Russell is another famos hold out, ut for quite differnt reasons than Smith. The first overall pick held out 47 days and i'm guessing doesn't regret it as he's gonna need every cent he can get once he either gets cut or not re-signed. This all boils down to young men who have always been the stars of the school (their world) and when they see that other playres re getting more than them, they feel insulted and think they deserve more. This kind of attitude is ruining careers and the fact that its sometimes working only makes the problem worse.

Goodell, please get somethign done, its getting ridiculous that the top 10 picks are making more than some of the people on the pro bowl roster when they've done nothing to prove themselves.

UFL Preview

2009-10-02T10:31:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

Florida Tuskers

The UFL franchise in Orlando features, on paper, the best defense in the upstart league. Head Coach Jim Haslett has experience both as an NFL head coach and defensive coordinator. In New Orleans Haslett was able to win football games with a less-than-ideal offensive situation, Aaron Brooks was his starting QB. Haslett’s Tuskers defense features two former teammates, linebackers Odell Thurman and Anthony Schlegel, and a former Super Bowl MVP in Dexter Jackson. Thurman was once seen as a rising star in the NFL but was sidetracked by off-the-field issues and criminal problems. The UFL is seen as an opportunity for players, young and old, to prepare for a return to the NFL and Odell Thurman has the talent that, if he can prove his ability to keep clean and play hard, an opportunity could come quickly. The Tuskers defense has depth behind the linebackers as well, both cornerbacks, Jackson and Fakhir Brown, are longtime NFL veterans who understand the basics of cornerback play and DeJuan Tribble is a young player who contributes a level of athleticism to the Tuskers’ secondary. The Tuskers’ offense features a 1-2 running tandem of Tatum Bell and Michael Pittman that should be able to provide enough of an offensive threat for the Tuskers defense to win games. Bell was once an NFL starter and his quickness should allow him to be successful against the lesser talent of the UFL. Pittman is a very young runner whose power should help balance the speed of Bell and help the Tuskers in goal line and short yardage situations. Quarterback Brooks Bollinger has NFL experience and could serve as a caretaker quarterback for a team with a theoretically strong defensive and running game. The Tuskers also have former Pro-Bowl punter Todd Sauerbrun is the best special team player in the UFL and if he demonstrates the ability to punt as he did in his NFL career he could help an already talented defense by extending the field.

California Redwoods

Head Coach Dennis Green has control of the UFL’s Los Angeles franchise. In the NFL Green has lead some of the most potent offenses of all time, his Vikings team in the late 90’s set the league scoring record and he assembled the pieces for last years Cardinals Super Bowl team. Despite his offensive background, Green’s UFL team lacks any name-power. Quarterbacks Mike McMahon and Shane Boyd both have little success or recognition as NFL players. Wide Receiver BJ Sams has great speed and was a successful professional return specialist. Green has a stellar track record as a receivers coach and under his tutelage Sams could emerge as one of the UFL’s most dangerous receiving threats, however, with such little talent at quarterback one must wonder if anyone will be able to get the ball to Sams downfield. Linebacker Dontarrious Thomas and defensive back Marviel Underwood are the most recognizable defenders on the Redwoods, however, Dennis Green has never had any level of success as a defensive coach and, if history is any measure, this team will need to score touchdowns to win games. Punter Derrick Frost had limited success with the Redskins and if he is able to pin back returners he could help the Redwoods defense by extending the field.

New York Sentinels

The New York franchise of the UFL is lead by Head Coach Ted Cottrell, a longtime NFL defensive coordinator with no professional head coaching experience. The Sentinels defense features Simeon Rice, easily the best and most recognizable player in the UFL. Rice, 33, is a former Super Bowl champion and a 3 time Pro-Bowler who started beside Warren Sapp on the Buccaneers defense that dominated during the late 90’s and early 2000’s. Despite the presence of Rice, the Sentinels defense lacks any other playmakers or NFL veterans. On offense the Sentinels best player is Wide Receiver Koren Robinson, a two-time NFL veteran who has great ability as a playmaker but, much like Odell Thurman, has suffered from off-the-field problems. Fullback Cecil Sapp is an NFL veteran and will provide a triple threat as a runner, blocker, and receiver out of the backfield. The Sentinels lack any talent at Quarterback, Ingle Martin and Quinn Gray are best known for their strange first names and NCAA accomplishments. Neither quarterback is particularly young or old, but if the Sentinels hope to win one of these veterans will have to step up and find Koren Robinson multiple times per game.

Las Vegas Locomotives

One of the first professional sports teams to grace Las Vegas, the Locomotives feature one of the UFL’s most talented rosters and the Head Coach with the most successful past. At the beginning of the decade Jim Fassel was the Head Coach of the NFC Champion New York Giants. Fassel has had great success both on offense and defense, and has a reputation as a great teacher of football. Quarterback JP Losman is the best-known offensive player in the UFL. The 27-year-old signal caller was a starter in the NFL just two years ago and could easily earn another starting job in his future. Losman is mobile and can make plays with his arm. IF JP can stay healthy he could easily become the most feared weapon in the UFL and is arguably the league’s marquis player. Losman has a number of talented receiving targets. Veteran receiver Az Hakim made a game winning catch in the NFL Championship in 1999 and is a smart veteran who will be able to exploit the younger, less experienced cornerbacks of the UFL. Tab Perry is a speedy ex-Bengal whose athletic ability will shine against UFL secondaries and fellow speedster David Kircus had limited success as a return man and is easily the best #3 receiver in the league. In addition to the three wide receivers, pass-catching tight end John Madsen is a large target – 6’5” 240lbs – and has experience as the Oakland Raiders tight end. Madsen may be the only player paired with a better quarterback now than in his last NFL job and his size alone makes him a scary end zone weapon. On defense the Loco’s have veteran linebackers in Ezra Butler and Tedy Lehman, and cornerback Isaiah Trufant is the younger brother of successful Seahawks’ DB Marcus Trufant. Ultimately, the Locomotives appear capable of scoring a lot of points and if this offense plays up to its apparent ability, this team seems likely to be playing in the Thanksgiving championship game.

Top Matchups: Week 4

2009-09-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

3. Pittsburgh Steelers vs. San Diego Chargers

This rematch of last years AFC Divisional Playoff game features two of the most interesting teams in the AFC. The Steelers won Super Bowl XLIII despite having the toughest schedule in the league. This year’s version of the Steelers seems to lack the clutch that brought last year’s team to the Super Bowl and to victory. Last year the Steelers were a team defined by their ability to make a late, game-winning drive. In two opportunities this year they have fallen short both times. The Steelers have also lost their ability to run the football, the traditional definition of the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Chargers are also a team lacking their traditional identity. For years the Chargers have been defined as LaDainian Tomlinson’s team, this year he has missed 2 games and was on the bench when his backup scored the go ahead touchdown late in week 1. The Chargers are now Phillip Rivers’ team and have shown that their passing offense is one of the leagues best. The Chargers have been playing good football recently and would clearly like revenge for their loss in last year’s playoffs. The Steelers are desperate for a win and will look to get back to .500 by beating the early season Super Bowl favorites. This game will likely be a shootout and the winner could be decided by whichever defense steps up and makes the big plays.

2. Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers

This will mark the first time that Brett Favre will play against the team with which he spent over a decade. Last week Favre showed that he still has the magic that made him beloved in Green Bay by throwing the go-ahead touchdown with just 2 seconds remaining. Green Bay has been up and down this year, dissembling the division rival Bears before falling to a seemingly weak Cincinnati squad. Aaron Rodgers would love the chance to prove that he is better than Brett Favre in a head-to-head matchup, but this game will revolve around Adrian Peterson. The consensus best running back in football was slowed down in San Francisco and will look to rebound against a Green Bay defense that has been solid, despite having changed to a 3-4 system this off-season. If Peterson is able to run effectively the Vikings should win this game and reach 4-0, if not, this game could again come down to Brett Favre’s being able to lead the Vikings late in the game. This game will likely be decided by the ground game, whichever team can run the football effectively should be able to win.

1. New Orleans Saints vs. New York Jets

The top matchup of week four features a battle between two of the league’s remaining undefeated teams. The Jets fell just short of the playoffs last year but under rookie Head Coach Rex Ryan the team has featured one of the leagues most stifling defenses. The Jets have beaten the Patriots, Titans, and Texans, none of who were under .500 last year and all of whom have offenses that can explode on any given Sunday. Rookie Quarterback Mark Sanchez has been simply amazing, making good decisions and serving as the team’s primary offensive playmaker in 2009. While the Jets feature an elite defense, the New Orleans Saints offense has been unbelievable this year. Quarterback Drew Brees is averaging 3 touchdowns per game and the Saints finally appear to have a running game – power backs Mike Bell and Pierre Thomas have each wowed with former #2 draft pick Reggie Bush providing a spark off the bench. The Saints defense has not been particularly impressive, allowing the Lions to score 28 points in week 1 and giving up over 300 passing yards to Eagles backup signal caller Kevin Kolb. Despite their defensive weakness the Saints appear capable of outscoring any team in the league. This game will likely be decided by whichever of these two elite groups is able to better the other. If the Saints offense is able to continue scoring at will the Jets rookie led offense will never keep up, however, if the Jets are able to stop Drew Brees and the Saints, New Orleans’ defense has yet to prove that they can make game-breaking plays. In the end, nobody can know who will win, we can only hope for 60 minutes of great entertainment.

Top Matchups: Week 3

2009-09-25T07:19:00.001-07:00

By: Matt

3. Arizona Cardinals vs. Indianapolis Colts

This primetime matchup features two former playoff teams and two of the most potent offenses in the NFL. After rocky starts in week 1 both the Colts and Cardinals showed fans in week two that there offensive dominance is still present. The Cardinals feature two of the league’s best receivers, Anquan Boldin and playoff phenom Larry Fitzgerald, while the Colts offense is lead by reigning MVP Peyton Manning and a young receiving core. Both of these teams feature high powered passing attacks, but neither team is particularly adept at running the football. In week 2 Arizona showed that sophomore tailback Tim Hightower may be able to carry some of the load, and if the young runner can keep the ball away from Peyton Manning and the Colts that would be a tremendous help to an average Cardinals defense. The Colts will have elite safety Bob Sanders on Sunday Night and when Sanders plays the Colts are a much more successful defensive team. Ultimately, this game will likely be a shootout decided by a big play on defense or an unexpected ability of either of these teams to run the football.

2. Minnesota Vikings vs. San Francisco 49ers

In this game two of the remaining undefeated teams in football will face off. Both of these NFC clubs feature dominant defenses and high-powered running games. Last week both Adrian Peterson, now clearly entrenched as the best running back in football, and Frank Gore, the leading rusher in week 2, showed their dominance and carried their teams to victory. In this game both rushers will face a much greater challenge in trying to get past much stronger defenses. 49ers Middle Linebacker Patrick Willis is one of the best young defenders in football and the Vikings mammoth defensive line always shuts down the running game. This game will likely be decided by the passing attack, something that the Vikings bolstered by signing Brett Favre during this pre-season. After two weeks of managing the game this week could offer fans a chance to see Brett Favre really throw the football for the first time in 2009.

1. New York Jets vs. Tennessee Titans

This game features two of the biggest surprise teams of 2009. The Jets, after falling short of the playoffs in 2008 and firing their coach and quarterback in the offseason, have been simply dominant early this year. The Jets dismantled a Texans team with high expectations in week 1 and shocked the Patriots in week 2. Rookie Quarterback Mark Sanchez has looked great and the unconventional methods and stifling defense of Rex Ryan have produced success. The Titans, the team with the best record in the regular season in 2008, are already halfway to their loss total from last year. Despite valiant efforts against both the reigning champion Pittsburgh Steelers and upstart Houston Texans, the Titans are now 0-2 and facing a do-or-die game in the Meadowlands (no team has ever won a Super Bowl after starting a year 0-3). The Titans rushing attack was phenomenal in Houston, but the Jets defense is much stronger and if they can stop the lighting quick Chris Johnson, spellback LenDale White has been almost absent through two weeks of the 2009 season. The Titans defense could be the group to finally make Mark Sanchez look like a rookie, but the young signal caller has made smart decisions thus far and has shown no reason to expect otherwise. Tennessee is clearly better than their record, but this game could be the final test for a Jets team trying to prove that they are legitimate contenders.

The New Big Ben

2009-09-24T06:21:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

In 2004 the Pittsburgh Steelers drafted a young quarterback in the first round of the NFL draft. They never expected their young signal caller to start that year, but early injuries to incumbent Tommy Maddox thrust a young Ben Roethlisberger into a starting role. That year Roethlisberger was fantastic, he took the reigns of a team that already had a dominant defense and future Hall of Fame running back Jerome Bettis. Under Roethlisberger the Steelers were unstoppable and made it all the way to the AFC Championship Game before suffering their first loss. The next year Roethlisberger took his team to a Super Bowl victory. At the time, Roethlisberger was not seen as an elite passer or offensive weapon, he was a young game manager, and not someone who was going to lead the league’s best passing offense. Roethlisberger was not particularly successful in the Super Bowl, in fact, many argue the Steelers won inspite of, and not because of, their young quarterback. Five years later, the public opinion of Roethlisberger has changed, and his story appears to be unfolding again.

In 2008 the Baltimore Ravens were a team attempting to return to prior greatness. In the past they were a team with a dominant running game and elite defense. They were also a team with absolutely no stability at the quarterback position. Since 1999 the Ravens have starter more quarterbacks than seasons, none was particularly successful. That year the Ravens, much like the Steelers in 2004, had drafted a young quarterback in the first round. Joe Flacco was seen as a player with great size and arm strength who was not yet ready to be the team’s starting quarterback. Incumbent, and former first round bust, Kyle Boller was on the injured reserve, but his former backup and college superstar Troy Smith was expected to start on opening day. Unfortunately, Smith fell ill just prior to the start of the season and the lingering effects of a bad flu forced Flacco into the role of opening day starter. Just like Roethlisberger before him, the big young quarterback had tremendous success. Flacco did not throw for an exceptional number of touchdowns, but he made few mistakes and allowed a Ravens team with a strong running game and defensive legend Ray Lewis to win football games (something they had been unable to do the previous year). Like Roethlisberger, Flacco took his team to the AFC Championship game, where they fell, to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Ben Roethlisberger. The Steelers went on to win Super Bowl XLIII and in his second big game Roethlisberger was an offensive playmaker, leading his team on a scoring drive with less than two minutes to come from behind and win.

This season, Big Ben has continued to look like a franchise quarterback, and his even bigger divisional rival has started to throw touchdowns, a lot of touchdowns. Just as Ben Roethlisberger emerged as a true leader in 2005, Joe Flacco appears to be doing the same in 2009. Whether Big Joe will ultimately achieve the same early career success as Big Ben is impossible to predict, but what is obvious is that in the NFL, history can repeat itself and the re-run is always just as sweet.

MLB Where Art Thou?

2009-09-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

It's late September and usually the playoff talk in the MLB is heating up and you can feel he excitement in the air, but this year has a totally different feeling. The parity that we see in the NFL is quite different from the lack thereof we see in the MLB. The division races are usually causing fans to get t each others throats and yell some not o nice words at each other, but this year theres nothing to argue about. The divisin races are all all but decided with the AL Central having the closest difference at 3 games. Texas is 8 behind Anaheim, Boston is a full 5 games behind New York, and as I said before Minnesota is 3 games behind Detroit. Where is the entertainment and excitement? We want intensity and at least a few meaningful games in the 9th month of the year.

The NL is no different, if not worse. The Phillies are almost done clinching the division as they stand 8 games above Flordia and Atlanta. The Cardinals have been on a tear since their mid season team change where they changed a full one third of their starting line up and stand a comfortable 10 games above the disappointing Cubs. The ever-silent Dodgers are 5 games ahead of the Rockies in th NL West. MLB, if this isn't a sign that something like the cap system that is implemented in almost every other league, then I don't know what is. Please take this scare of no competition as a warning of what could happen in the future and get working on something to keep the smaller markets like Milwaukee and Kansas City competitve.

Back to my main point, the only thing we see on TV right now that generates any ratings or interest is football, notice a trend? NFL's parity and i'm sure Matt can explain this has made it pass MLB as America's favorite game. If the MLB wants that title back it needs to take a look around.

My Prediction of the Jets season

2009-09-21T17:38:00.001-07:00

By: Chris

Originally, before the season started, I had the "incumbent" New England Patriots atop my AFC East preview to win the division. Yet, as the season approached, and as I sat there watching the Jets absolutely dominate the Texans, this team really grew on me. I won't lie, I already had a quasi-man crush on Mark Sanchez, but this further confirmed this notion.

The Jets have a beautiful recipe for success. A stout running game, featuring a smash and dash duo with speedy Leon Washington, and power back Thomas Jones. Sanchez has proved to be extremely poised in the pocket, never putting the ball in danger, and acting as an amazing game manager. Defensively, the Jets are stacked on the line, and their LB core makes me drool. Their secondary is great as well with shutdown corner Darrel Revis (absolutely quieted Randy Moss) and the smack-talking Kerry Rhodes. Yet, the Jets backed it up, and served the Patriots on Sunday. Credit has to go to defensive genius, now head coach, Rex Ryan (who was seemingly dissed by the extremely unclassy Bill Bellichik in post-game hand shakes). Not only did he bring over stud Bart Scott, but he brought some fire for the Jets D, something they had been lacking over previous years. They are for sure one of the best defenses not only in the AFC but the whole league.

Now, you do not have to believe me, but Matt can justify this. My prediction was that the Jets would not only win the game against the Pats but also win the division (yes, going against my previous prediction, but he can vouch for me). Many Pats fans called me delirious, hoping for something that would never happen, and a New York homer. Look what happened.. might as well call me the NFL Nostradamus.

This Jets team is absolutely legit. Great pass rush, amazing talent on all three levels on the defensive side of the field, and a stout offense with a poised young man leading the charge. Look out, AFC, because the Jets are a threat. I am in love with this team, and don't see many things to dislike. I really look for them to break out this year, stun the Patriots, and snag the AFC East crown. Renewed prediction: 12-4 or 11-5

Plaxico Who?

2009-09-21T17:25:00.000-07:00

The game this past Sunday night was an absolute show, not only for Giants and Cowboys fans, but NFL fans as a whole. Witnessing the opening of one of our time's most impressive architectural buildings, Cowboys Stadium, was absolutely breath-taking. The average New York Giant hater figured this to be a prime place for the so called "weakness" of the WR core to be exposed. This has widely been the topic of discussion across the league, especially considering the fact that after star WR Plaxico Burress went out last season, QB Eli Manning failed to hook up with any WR for a touchdown in the latter weeks and playoff games last season.

So much for that. USC product Steve Smith and rising star Mario Manningham combined for an impressive 20 catches, 250+ yards, quieting the doubts, and further proving that this team can win without their pass rush or dominant rushing attack. Jacobs and Bradshaw were virtually shut-down, and the Giants failed to sack Romo throughout the whole game. Eli Manning found a way to win the game, no doubt with the help of his WRs. Manningham made a variety of catches throughout the night, including his now signature move in which Eli dishes him the ball right after the snap, giving Super Mario the opportunity to iso the cornerback, usually ending up with at least a 10 yard gain after several missed tackles and jukes. Also, Manning hooked up with Manningham on a beautiful fade route late in the game. Lacking confidence? I don't think so.

Smith looked like a great possession receiver, making nice leaps and throwing a ridiculous move on Scandrick, leaving the Dallas D frozen to put the Giants ahead in the 4th quarter. To start off the game, he made two great catches, continuing the Giants march down field. Throughout the off-season, Eli stressed the confidence he had in his WRs, and although there is no distinct number one, this looks to be a great group of guys, with huge upside. Hixon, who left the game early with an injury, does not have to be the forced #1 at all anymore. If anything, he has dropped in the recent depth chart, which ultimately means nothing with Coughlin. They will continue to throw a mix of the great possession and route running Steve Smith, and the flashy and speedy Mario Manningham.

As a Giants fan, I am very excited to see these young guns develop and further flourish with Eli Manning. Looks like we have found a great QB to WR connection for years to come...

9 Remain, Whos For Real?

2009-09-21T07:12:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

There are still 9 teams undefeated going into tonight MNF game (Colts vs. Dolphins) and some are surprises and some were very much expected. Being that it the beginning of a new season with new Head Coaches, new QBs, and new stadiums (Dallas).

New York Jets: This team seems to be a legitimate contender early in the season as Mark Sanchez has been as good as advertised throwing for 2 TDs and only 1 INT through 2 games. This goes along with his 435 passing yards and just above 60% completion percentage. Sanchez hasnt been the only bright spot for the Jets as their Defene has shined allowing only 8 points per game so far even after playing the historic offense that is Tom Brady and Randy Moss. CB Darrelle Revis has been shut down for the Jets at CB and already has 1 INT. LB David Harris is playing lights out at LB and leads the team with 16 tackles. This is definitely a team to look out for come December and later on.

Baltimore Ravens: This is somewhat of a surprise, at least to me. I was one of the few who was unimpressed with Flacco after last year,thinking that he heavily benefited from a stout Defense and strong running game. However, Flaco has proved me wrong so far this year throwing 5 TDs and only 2 INTs with the mediocre WR corps he has. RB Ray Rice has surprise a lot of people with his play so far rushing 27 times and achieving a 5.3 ypc. The defense however has not been its normal self while allowing only 41 yards per game on the ground, they've given up and astounding 290 ypg through the air. Ed Reed can't do it all I guess and Fabian Washington and Dominique Foxworth need to step up come playoff time.

Indianapolis Colts: A close game against a seemingly poor Jaguars team has me worried about the Colts. (I'd love to see them fail though) Anthony Gonzalez's injury will be a huge test for Peyton Manning. He's never not had 2 legitimate HOF receivers at his disposal, not to mention a solid offensive line to protect him. The defense has its problems with the run but that will subside a little once Bob Sanders returns, even though he'll be hurt before long after that. I haven't seen enough to make a snap decision on the Colts yet.

Denver Broncos: Oh Denver, how did this happen? You come up with one of the luckiest plays you'll ever see against one of the worst teams, and then spank the Browns. Are they legitimate? No way, everyone including the Broncos fans are amazed that they've even won 2 games this year. How the Titans are 0-2 and this team is 2-0 is mind boggling. San Diego, if you dont win this division it's gonna be one of the most embarrassing things to happen in a while.

New York Giants: Both NY teams are undefeated and its a tough decision to choose which is better. I'm not a big fan of the Giants WR corps and while they have been productive so far, I'm skeptical to say the least that they can keep up what they've been doing, after all, its Mario Manningham and Steve Smith (not the good one). The defense will keep them alive and at a contender status

Minnesota Vikings: Any team with AD Adrian Peterson is a contender and it only gets better when you look at that Defense with both Williams at DT, Antoine Winfield at CB, and Jared Allen rushing the passer. If you can somehow score against them, rookie Percy Harvin has already made his prescense felt catching 2 TDs. Opposite him is Bernard Berrian who's already a proven commodity. Bret Favre seems to have all the poise he needs to be successful in this system and really a proven QB was really all that was missing from last year. Vikings: Contender, not pretender

Atlanta Falcons: The addition of Tony Gonzalez has done wonders for this team and it gives Matt Ryan a quick option if things break down and players like Roddy White can't get open. The offense also has the weapon that is Michael Turner. Turner is a premier RB in the league who can carry the team on his shoulders if need be. The defense has star DE John Abraham and a few ex Jaguars who have already joined ex Jaguar DC Mike Smith and have made an instant impact. Brian Williams has recorded an INT already and Mike Peterson ahs recovered a fumble

New Orleans Saints: Everyone knew this team would make the playoffs this year. By finishing in last in that division last year, they set themselves up perfectly since ever since the NFC South has existed, the last place team from the year before either won the division the next year or made the playoffs as a wild card. This team can be summed up in two words: Drew Brees. He will carry this team as far as he can anf if they want it to be further than the first round, players like Malcom Jenkins and Will Smith will ahve to stop the opposing offense every once and a while.

San Fransisco 49ers: The 49ers are a surpise but kinda not. Evryone knew about Patrick Willis and Frank Gore, but no one really had faith in the receeiving corps or Shaun Hill. All has ben forgiven by 9ers fans as this 2-0 start could not have gone any better for them. Beating the defending NFC champs in Arizona week 1 and beating division rival eattle in week 2 will go a looooong way in how the playoff seeding will look come december.

Top Matchups: Week 2

2009-09-18T11:33:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

3. San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks

These two division rivals both shocked the NFL with week one victories. The 49ers came away with a narrow victory over the Arizona Cardinals, 2008’s surprise Super Bowl contender and decisive NFC West winner. The Cardinals were a team expected to have one of the NFL’s most unstoppable offenses, but instead it was the 49ers defense that dominated the field. Under Head Coach Mike Singletary the Niners are above .500 and have played very solid football. While many people consider the 49ers a dark horse playoff candidate, the Seattle Seahawks were once the dominant force in 2007. Over the last five years no team has been more dominant within their division than the Seatle Seahawks, a team led by elite runner Shaun Alexander and young quarterback Matt Hasslebeck. The Seahawks of today are not quite the tema they used to be: Mike Holmgren, the man who assembled the 2005 NFC Champions, is no longer the head coach and Shaun Alexander has quickly fallen from grace and retired from football. Despite their losses, the Seahawks were considered the best team in their division in 2008. Injuries quickly derailed the team but this year they are healthy and dominated the Saint Louis Rams in week one. This week’s matchup again features a powerful defense and a great offense. One can expect both some big offensive plays from Seattle and even bigger hits from San Francisco’s stingy defense. Whichever team wins this game may come down to a battle between the 49ers offense and Seahawks defense, two of the weaker groups in the league this year. The results of this game could prove decisive in ultimately deciding the winner in one of the NFL’s tightest and now most unpredictable divisions.

2. San Diego Chargers vs. Baltimore Ravens

This week 2 matchup features two AFC playoff teams from 2008 that struggled in victories in week 1. San Diego came back in the fourth quarter to defeat division rival Oakland in a Monday Night showdown. The Chargers offense flourished, but former MVP LaDainian Tomlinson sat on the bench while Darren Sproles scored the game-winning touchdown for the Bolts. Tomlinson may not be washed up yet, but it is hard to imagine that he will have much success against a Ravens defense that is one of the best in the league. San Diego quarterback Phillip Rivers will need to play his best against the Ravens if his team hopes to win. Against Oakland the Chargers run defense seemed notably porous, something that was particularly chilling to fans of a team that featured the league’s second worst pass defense in 2008. Baltimore, much like San Diego, struggled in week 1, but came away with a victory over the lowly Kansas City Chiefs. Baltimore will likely look to exploit the poor run defense that Oakland exposed on Monday night with the three-headed running monster of Ray Rice, LeRon McClain, and Willis McGahee. While both of these teams made the playoffs last year, week one showed that the NFL may better understand these two one-sided clubs this year. This game could prove important in AFC playoff berths and will also feature some of the league’s biggest playmakers both on offense and defense.

1. Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants

The top matchup of week one is a prime-time matchup between two bitter division rivals. In week one the Dallas Cowboys dominated the Buccaneers in Tampa and quarterback Tony Romo reminded the world that in the spring he is still one of the league’s elite signal callers. This week the Cowboys will show the world their $1 Billion Stadium and 60 yard video monitor that has become the source of much pre-season controversy. Dallas would like to open up their new stadium with a key win over the Giants, but New York’s defense dominated the Redskins in week one and the Giants proved that they could win games without Plaxico Burress. These two teams are two of the NFL’s most talented and either one, along with the Philadelphia Eagles, could easily win this division. IF both of these teams play in week 2 the quality of football they showed in week 1, this Sunday Night Special will easily prove to be the highlight of week 2. Come December this game could be critical in deciding the NFC Playoff Race, for now it is simply a showdown between two of the league’s most hated enemies.

Rebirth by the Bay?

2009-09-15T07:20:00.001-07:00

By: Matt

In the history of the NFL, few teams have been as successful as the Oakland Raiders and the San Francisco 49ers. The Raiders, one of the original AFL franchises, has played in a Super Bowl in 4 of the 5 centuries the game has existed, winning 3 and playing in countless historic matchups along the way. During the early part of the current decade it appeared that the Raiders were ready to return to greatness after a lackluster 90’s; young Head Coach Jon Gruden took the team to the playoffs in 2001 and they made it to the Super Bowl the following year. Unfortunately for Oakland, age and poor management caught up the team quickly, plummeting the Raiders into the bottom of the NFL. Recently, the Silver and Black have been known for drafting speedy busts and double-digits in the loss column. Although the Raiders begun this season with a loss, their Monday Night performance against the division rival San Diego Chargers, a Super Bowl favorite in 2009, has many people thinking that one of sports most notorious franchises may be back. New Head Coach Tom Cable is a former offensive lineman determined to craft a team that can run the ball, play solid defense, and play fundamentally sound football. Last night, a Raiders team loaded with talent finally showed flashes of excellence: young running backs Darren McFadden and Michael Bush each ran for over 50 yards, most of which were gained by running directly into the heart of the San Diego defense. The Raiders offensive line created holes all day and Oakland was able to use time and methodically drive the ball. The Raiders defense, often a bright spot for the team, was relatively successful, holding the offensively potent Chargers to 24 total points and only 10 in the first 3 quarters. Oakland is still a young football team, but if last night was any indication, football fans might be seeing a lot more of the Oakland Raiders in the future.

The team that lives just across the bay from the Raiders has also fallen on hard times. In the 80’s and 90’s the San Francisco 49ers were the best team in football. They won 5 Super Bowl’s from 1981 to 1994, were a perennial playoff team, set numerous league records, both team and individual and both regular and post-season. The 49ers appeared to be a team that would never falter, they would simply remain dominant forever. Unfortunately, ownership change and sudden injuries to both Steve Young and Jerry Rice quickly took apart a rock solid franchise. Although Steve Mariucci and Jeff Garcia were able to preserve playoff berths and the West Coast offense, those trademarks of Bill Walsh and the 49ers of the past decades are now gone. In recent years the 49ers have been a team without a quarterback, 1^st overall pick Alex Smith was a tremendous bust and only journeymen such as J.T. O’Sullivan have started in his absences. Last year the team fired their Head Coach and replaced him with a football legend: Mike Singletary. Singletary, a Hall of Fame middle linebacker and former Ravens assistant is one of the best young coaches in the league, he was a linebackers coach to both Ray Lewis and Patrick Willis, and his defense has become one of the NFL’s most talented and well coached. Under Singletary the Niners are 6-4, including a loss in his premiere as an interim coach. The new-look-Niners are a team with a dominant defense lead by Willis and cornerback Nate Clements, a pro-bowl caliber runner in Frank Gore, and a passing game that should be able to pick up the necessary yards. Although the Niners lack the big-name talent of many other teams, they have continued to win games and against strong opponents. In their first game this year the 49ers held Larry Fitzgerald and the high-flying Cardinals to just 16 points, intercepting quarterback Kurt Warner twice and sacking him three times. San Francisco, much like Oakland, plays in a notably weak division, and is a young team that looks ready to make a playoff run. While it is hard to predict the NFL, particularly after only one week, it would appear that these two once proud teams are ready to become prominent once again.

Top Matchups: Week 1

2009-09-09T07:47:00.001-07:00

By: Matt

1. Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears

This opening week matchup features two teams hated rivals with playoff aspirations. The Bears made, arguably, the biggest offseason move when they traded for Pro-Bowl Quarterback Jay Cutler, clearly the best passer to play for the Bears in over a decade. The Bears defense will likely remain powerful, but Green Bay’s offense is one of the most potent in the NFL. Green Bay Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has lived up to the expectations for the man who replaced Brett Favre and receiver Greg Jennings is one of the best young players in the NFL. Both of these teams are young and talented, and the outcome of this matchup could ultimately have a major impact on who ultimately wins the NFC North division crown (the Minnesota Vikings won last year).

2. Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Tennessee Titans

This year’s season Thursday Night Opener features the team with the best record in the AFC last season and the reigning Super Bowl champions. The Titans and Steelers are still regarded as playoff caliber teams and this matchup will give an early glimpse as to whether or not they can defend their accomplishments in 2008. Tennessee suffered a major loss when elite Defensive Tackle Albert Haynesworth left the team in Free Agency and joined the Washington Redskins. Haynesworth was a dominant player and it remains to be seen if the Titans dominant defense will remain effective without its best player. The Steelers will play without last year’s number 3 receivers Nate Washington, now a member of the opposing Titans, and may have to play without starting Linebacker Lawrence Timmons.

3. Carolina Panthers vs. Philadelphia Eagles

This matchup features the two teams that could have easily met in the NFC Championship game and two of the most talented offensive rosters in the NFL. The Eagles, who lost their 4^th NFC Championship in 8 years, added RB LeSean McCoy, WR Jeremy Maclin, FB Leonard Weaver, LT Jason Peters and now have a fully healthy Brian Westbrook. After struggling to run the ball last year the eagles now appear fully capable of hosting a dominant rushing attack, however, the opponent has a two headed rushing attack that features sophomore bruiser Jonathon Stewart and NFL TD leader DeAngelo Williams. Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme struggled mightily in last years NFC Divisional playoff game and his performance in week one could define both his future and the Panthers season: if Delhomme struggles the Panthers will likely struggle and may choose to replace their longtime signal caller. This matchup could likely be an offensive showdown and has the potential to be one of the most exciting games of the first week.

Another Blow to Broncos Offense

2009-08-29T05:09:00.001-07:00

By: Matt

Expectations were high when the Denver Broncos hired Josh McDaniels as their new head coach this off-season. McDaniels was the offensive genius of the New England Patriots who turned Matt Cassel into a starter and led to Tom Brady throwing a record 50 touchdowns passes. The Broncos offense in 2008 was one of the most potent in the NFL. Young quarterback Jay Cutler was a Pro Bowler and one of the NFL’s most promising rising stars. Cutler’s top target, Brandon Marshall, was one of the league’s biggest and strongest wide receivers. It was believed that under McDaniels there would be an offensive explosion in Denver; Cutler and Marshall would each be a year more experienced and new running backs Correll Buckhalter and Knowshon Moreno were a massive upgrade over the Broncos many runners of 2008.

Disappointment came quickly in the McDaniels era. Cutler, the first potential franchise quarterbacks to play for Denver since John Elway retired ten years prior, was angry. McDaniels had tried to trade for his quarterback, Matt Cassel, and then lied about it. Cutler distrusted McDaniels and refused to play for the Broncos. People assumed that the tension would simmer down and Cutler would return to Denver, but it never happened. Just as John Elway spurned the Colts in 1983, Cutler left the Broncos in 2009 and joined the Chicago Bears (another team long deprived of an elite field general). Broncos fans were outraged, they had gone from having a pro-bowl quarterback to hosting a quarterback controversy between a Bears reject and comeback first-round bust. To make the situation worse, Brandon Marshall was also angry at the Broncos and wanted to leave.

Through the first 3 weeks of the pre-season it seemed that the Marshall situation would be OK; the receiver had vocalized his desire to be traded but had played for the Broncos anyway. That changed in a practice this past week when Marshall refused to catch footballs, instead slapping them to the ground, and even went so far as to punt one ball. The Broncos, already annoyed with prima donna players such as Cutler, immediately suspended Marshall for conduct detrimental to the team, the same thing that Terrell Owens was infamously suspended for by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2005. IF history repeats itself, Marshall will be traded and the powerful Broncos offense of 2008 will be but a distant memory. It is hard to believe that a team as talented as the Broncos could really be sent back to the rebuilding phase, but the team now lacks the talent to truly compete, even in a weak NFC East. McDaniels, a coach people hoped could turn the Broncos offensive talent into a carbon copy of the New England Patriots,’ now has no pieces to build with. Despite high hopes for the young head coach, it appears that McDaniels will follow in the footsteps of Charlie Weiss and Romeo Crennel, two highly touted Patriots coordinators who failed to inspire as head coaches. One would imagine that it would be hard for the Broncos to recover from the loss of Cutler and a disgruntled Marshall; however, in the NFL, nothing is ever exactly what it seems.

Plan B Gets an A

2009-08-29T04:36:00.001-07:00

By: Matt

It seemed like a match made in heaven. The Philadelphia Phillies, reigning World Series Champions, were a division winner with pitching woes. The Toronto Blue Jays were a rebuilding team with a disgruntled ace. The outcome seemed obvious, the Phillies would trade the Jays a handful of prospects for Roy Halladay. No other team had the prospects to satisfy the Jays. No team was as desperate for pitching help as the Phillies, whose playoff ace, Cole Hamels, had been consistently inconsistent in 2009. It only seemed like a matter of time before the Phillies and Jays reached a deal. Names such as Michael Taylor, Domonic Brown, JA Happ, and Kyle Drabek were thrown out as potential centerpieces, but despite the depth of talent in the Phillies farm negotiations reached a snag. The Jays wanted Drabek and Brown, the Phillies refused to trade either, and neither organization would compromise. Fans were sure that eventually one GM would give in, but neither did. In the end, the Phillies gave up on Roy Halladay and chose their plan B: trading lesser prospects for reigning AL Cy Young Winner Cliff Lee.

At first, Phillies fans were confused, Cliff Lee was the 2008 CY Young winner, but he was also 9-7 in 2009 and appeared to be far less dominant than in 2008. After four starts one thing is obvious: the fans were wrong. While Cliff Lee was only one game over .500 in Cleveland people failed to realize that as an Indian Lee received, arguably, the worst run support of any pitcher in baseball. After one month as a Phillie Lee has re-established himself as an elite pitcher and undeniable ace. In 2008 CC Sabathia joined the Milwaukee Brewers to help in a late season run. Sabathia was dominant with the Brewers, making himself a candidate for the NL Cy Young award despite only playing half a season in the National League. Amazingly, through five starts, Cliff Lee has been better than Sabathia. Sabathia was 4-0 with a sub 2 ERA but Lee is 5-0 and has a .680 ERA and 2 complete games with more strikeouts and fewer walks than Sabathia. Throughout the first half of 2009 it appeared that pitching would be the Phillies Achilles heel, now it is one of their greatest strengths. By not making the trade for Roy Halladay the Phillies were able to keep JA Happ, a Rookie of the Year candidate with a record above .750. The Phillies also signed Pedro Martinez, whose pitch velocity has returned to the low 90’s, well above his high mark while with the New York Mets. Today, the Phillies have a staff that features a true ace in Lee, a potential ace in Hamels, two workhorses in Joe Blanton and JA Happ, and two interchangeable, crafty veterans in Pedro Martinez and Jaime Moyer. After struggling to hold off opponents through the early months of the season, the Phillies now have 6 qualified starting pitchers and a tie for the fewest losses in the NL. Nobody knows if the Phillies newfound pitching success will last, but what people do know is that thus far, Plan B Lee gets an A+.

Dancing Tour of 90’s Continues

2009-08-29T04:34:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

Reality TV show Dancing With The Stars has made a tradition of inviting an NFL player to compete in every season. While the competition has featured modern players such as Jason Taylor and Warren Sapp, the inclusion of Michael Irvin in this year’s competition completes a re-run tour of the NFL in the 1990’s.

In the last stretch of the 20^th century there were two titans of the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers. During the 90’s both teams won their then record fifth Super Bowl and from 1992 to 1995 no other team came close to a Super Bowl win. The Cowboys and 49ers each featured the greatest skill position players of the decade now recognized as some of the more successful Dancing With The Stars competitors. 49ers wide receiver Jerry Rice holds nearly every meaningful receiving record and finished second in the reality TV competition; Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith holds the record for all-time rushing yards and is the only professional athlete to ever win the Dancing title. Michael Irvin, the only current Hall of Fame member of the three, was the leading receiver on the Cowboy’s dynasty of decade. During the 90’s no teams were able to compete with the Cowboys and 49ers and they often made moves to counter the other. The Cowboys began by stealing 49ers linebacker Charles Haley, the 49ers countered by stealing former Cowboy Michael Norton Jr, and Deion Sanders, arguably the greatest cornerback of all-time, played for both teams, winning a Super Bowl in each of his first seasons. During the early 90’s the Cowboys and 49ers faced each other in three consecutive NFC Championship games and renewed, and intensified, a lost rivalry from the late 70’s and early 80’s (the Cowboys and 49ers had faced each in NFC Championship games in each of the prior two decades with each team winning once).

After the Cowboys 1995 Super Bowl victory injuries to the teams’ quarterbacks, Hall of Famers Steve Young and Troy Aikman, de-railed the two titans and in 1996 the Green Bay Packers, and their age-less wonder Brett Favre emerged as the new dominant power in the NFC. While the often legendary battles between the Cowboys and 49ers seem like a distant memory to some, nearly 15 years have passed since the final playoff match up between the two teams and neither has been to a Super Bowl since. While history is never forgotten, time has began to fade the luster of this once great match up and younger football fans fail to realize that two teams that are now borderline playoff contenders were once the two greatest teams in football. Despite the occasion re-airing of the 1992 NFC Championship Game the great rivalry has faded into the past; however, thanks to Dancing With The Stars, some of the greatest players on the two greatest teams on the 90’s are able to remain on-screen for one last season. Maybe someday legendary quarterbacks Aikman and Young will have their Dancing showdown.

Note: Lawrence Taylor, the greatest Defensive player of the 1990’s and Super Bowl winner has also competed on Dancing With The Stars.

NFL Fan Q&A Session: Dallas Cowboys

2009-08-24T19:45:00.000-07:00

By: Chris

(note, picture displayed above is not a real reflection of fan interviewed)

To take a break from the division predictions (at a pretty good spot considering the AFC divisions are now done), we are going to start a new series of articles. Once in a while, we will post a Q&A session with a fan of a certain team in the NFL to get the and idea of the general sentiment of that fan base. To start off, we have the pleasure to interview a fan of the Dallas Cowboys. Answering our questions today: Brendan from California.

Where do you see the Cowboys ending up this season? What is your prediction?

I have the Cowboys finishing third in a very tough division, and possibly grabbing a WC spot. 9-7 or 10-6 sounds accurate to me. I think the offense will be just as good, if not better without TO. Marion Barber and Felix Jones will be back, hopefully 100%, and along with Tashard Choice should comprise one of the NFL's best Three-Headed Rushing attacks. Dem Hataz will say that Roy Williams isn't up to being a #1 WR. That's okay, because Jason Witten will be the guy with the most targets at the end of the season. He will tear up the middle of the field, and if you try to put 8 in the box, Williams will burn you deep. D-Ware returns as the catalyst of a very strong rushing attack. I think Terence Newman is top-10 if he can stay healthy, and those two specifically will be the standouts of the Dallas Defense.

Thoughts on the Romo-Simpson break-up?
Jessica is an overrated piece of *** to be honest. She's hot I guess, but generic. From a sports perspective, this is nothing but gold for the Cowboys. She was a huge distraction. Glad she's gone. I think Tony made the right decision.

Describe (in one word) the Vick signing by the Eagles. Describe (in one word) how you feel about it.
Risky for the first. Undetermined for the second (it could roll either way).

Do you like Jerry Jones? Why or why not?
I like him, he has a genuine desire to win football games, and won't rest until his team is a dynasty once again.

Sure, he's a "genius" per say, but that bonehead installed a jumbotron that conflicts with the dimensions of a playing field. Epic fail if you ask me. What's your response?
No more of an epic fail than the band box in the Bronx. It was an unintentional (but fixable) architectural error, that I'm sure will be dealt with.

How did it feel to lose to the Giants in the NFC Championship game after beating them twice in the regular season? (Sorry, I had to.)
Next question.

Last (but certainly not least), how does it feel to have the NFL's hottest cheerleaders?
It feels like... well.. maybe I shouldn't say it on here, I don't think I'm allowed.

Thanks for your time. Any final comments?
Nothing. Well... maybe. Go USA?

NFL Division Preview Series: AFC WEST

2009-08-24T07:58:00.000-07:00

By: Chris

1. San Diego Chargers (10-6)

Looking back on last season's standings, it is hard to believe the Chargers finished with a mediocre 8-8 record. Phillip Rivers had a career year, throwing for over 4,000 yards and putting up an impressive 105.5 QB rating. Much of the mediocrity lays in the fact that Ladanian Tomlinson's stats declined for the third straight year. The usually potent and sure-fire Pro Bowler was nagged by injuries all season and averaged a career low (minus his rookie season) 3.8 yards per carry. Many believe the age of decline is at 30 for NFL running backs and within a few years, they are done. Not the case with LT, in my opinion. I think he'll bounce back and have a very strong year, in combination with speedy spell back Darren Sproles. Rivers is poised to put up another great year as he is backed by the one of the NFL's finest O-line units and surrounded by receiver threats including Vincent Jackson, Antonio Gates, even Chris Chamber. Defensively, the much-hyped Antonio Cromartie had a very disappointing season following his double digit INT break out campaign in '07. The defense also boasts the ever improving Shawn Merriman and shut down corner Quentin Jammer. The defense is key for the Chargers this season, as the offense will most likely produce and put up big numbers. Still, they are lucky to be in a soft division and therefore are the clear favorite to finish on top.

2. Denver Broncos (7-9)

Sure, preseason doesn't mean much, but Kyle Orton hasn't looked great. Looking at his career numbers, it's hard to pick out one season that was remotely good, other than last season's (what could be called) "one year wonder". Still, his supporting cast is severely improved from his days in Chicago with guys like Eddie Royal, Tony Scheffler, and what should include Brandon Marshall, whose future in Denver is much in doubt. Recently, the Broncos traveled to Seattle for a preseason game. The disgruntled WR was left at home. At this point, the situation doesn't look pretty and who knows how it will go from here. The rest of the offense is quite concerning, starting with the running game. At least Broncos front office was smart enough to patch up the hole with the acquisition of Buckhalter and draft pick Knowshon Moreno. Still, whether this is enough to provide a decent rush is yet to be seen. Defensively, Bailey seems to have lost a bit of a step this past season, and entering September he will be 31 years old. The acquisition of Brian Dawkins was huge, even though I'm not sure how he will play in such a new setting having been with the Eagles his whole life. Overall, the team has many questions that remain unanswered. Once they hit the field, time will tell. It's hard not to put them second, considering the crap that comes after them in the division. Look for them to definitely miss the playoffs.

3. Oakland Raiders (7-9)

Although the record isn't fabulous, I still think the Raiders will surprise some teams. Jamarcus Russell is due to show some of his talent that left fans in awe watching his run with the LSU Tigers. Russell does have a few targets, including Heyward-Bay and TE Zach Miller. Additionally, Darren McFadden is an explosive back who was limited by his turf toe injury suffered in Week 2 all season and could go wild once healthy. Defensively, the Raiders feature the NFL's #1 cornerback in Nnamdi Osomugha, who is virtually the definition of shut-down CB. The much under-appreciated Kirk Morrison leads the front seven which lacks a big name on the line, but still provides decent pressure on the quarterback and plug on the rush. This team is full of talent (Morrison, Oso, Heyward-Bay, McFadden, Russell) but it is all about channeling that talent and converting it to success Tom Cable who seems more keen on instigating fights at camp rather than putting a winning product on the field. Get it together Larry.

4. Kansas City Chiefs (6-10)

Last, and least, the Chiefs of Kansas City. Even with some nice offensive additions including Matt Cassell and Amani Toomer, the team is definitely lacking offensive fire power. Larry Johnson is virtually useless behind a terrible offensive line with the exception of stud Left Guard Brian Waters. Cassell, to me, is the definition of a "system quarterback". He truly fed off of Bill Belichick's spread offense loaded with weapons like Welker and Moss. In reality (aside from last year), Cassell has never been a starter since high school. Now, with the pressure on and the franchise QB label, I'm not sure he can live up to the hype. As for his #1 receiving target, Dwayne Bowe has reportedly slacked off with offseason workouts, leading me to believe Cassell won't perform up to expectations with a slacking #1 and dismal supporting cast. The Chiefs' defense was never anything to write home about, although the FO did try to address this need by drafting beastly 3-4 DE Tyson Jackson. Aging linebackers like Mike Vrabel and Zach Thomas provide no upside to the defense, whose secondary isn't impressive either. This team will tank pretty early and most likely end up with another good draft pick for next year's draft.

NFL Division Preview Series: AFC SOUTH

2009-08-24T06:58:00.000-07:00

By: Chris

1. Tennessee Titans (12-4)

As previously mentioned, I love the combinations of having a stout defense and dominant rushing attack which are key ingredients to a legit championship run. The Titans have both. Chris Johnson is poised to repeat his superb rookie campaign last season, and with Lendale (previously LenWHALE) White looking more athletic after offseason workouts, they should prove to be a nice 1-2 punch. The Titans were 7th in the league in rushing yards per game, and still have their O-line, including stud LT Michael Roos, intact. At QB, they have the grizzled vet Kerry Collins who is a great game manager and does enough to win games, mostly by never putting up remarkable stats. This season, he has a new weapon in possession/speed combination receiver Nate Washington, which can't hurt. On the defensive side of the football, the Titans suffered a huge loss in Albert Haynesworth. By far one of the biggest forces on the defensive line in the league, but smartly, the Titans didn't pay $100 million+ for this guy. Last year's defense was in the top 10 for both passing and rushing yards per game. Look for their pass defense to continue to thrive, boasting one of the best 1-2 cornerback combos in the league in Cortland Finnegan and Nick Harper, with reliable safeties Chris Hope and Michael Griffin over the top. This team has all of the elements to be a legit playoff team: rushing attack + defense + a veteran QB that knows his role. Look for them to make some hay in the AFC playoffs.

2. Indianapolis Colts (11-5)

Even though Peyton Manning has been critiqued for having an "average" season last year, he still finished with over 4,000 yards passing (for the 3rd straight year), had over 65% of passes completed (for the 7th straight year), and threw even less picks last season than the year before. Still, this guy is arguably the best QB in football and therefore does assessed rather strictly sometimes. Either way, I expect for him to bounce back this season after looking a little hesitant at times in certain situations in regard to his past offseason knee injury. At this point, he looks great in camp and is praising the team overall. The offense carries over from last year, with no marquee additions, and Manning still has his spread offense weapons including Wayne, Gonzalez, and Clark. Meanwhile, their draft pick Donald Brown, has shown promise in the preseason and could be a nice sleeper this season, as he figures to steal some carries from aging Joseph Addai. The Colts are arguably deeper and more talented on the defensive side of the football field. Starting at the ends, with the scary double digit sack combo of Mathis and Freeney, opposing QBs constantly deal with pressure in their face. The secondary features an unbelievable safety tandem in All Pro stud Bob Sanders and his counterpart, tackle machine Antoine Bethea. One of the most underrated corners in the league, Kelvin Hayden, completes a legit 1-2 punch with Marlin Jackson, making the Colts defense very pass-proof (6th in the league in pass defense, allowing a mere 188.1 passing yards per game). This team is more than solid, but the division, conference, and schedule is tough, yet they are playoff bound for sure.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-8)

After a dismal and disappointing 2008 campaign, the Jaguars truly can't go any lower. The loss of Fred Taylor, although not major, should still not be overlooked. It's time for versatile back Maurice Jones-Drew to step into the #1 spot now and prove that he is an every down back. David Garrard, usually one of the rather quiet Top 15 quarterbacks in the league statistically, had a 20 point QB rating drop from the previous year. Now, with the addition of future Hall of Famer Torry Holt as their #1, he looks to improve that and return to old form. Furthermore, the offensive line, now completely healthy after being plagued by injuries last season, looks to be one of the best units in the AFC, with the addition of Tra Thomas. On the defensive side of the football, I am concerned about the lack of pressure from the defensive ends. Harvey and Hayward combined for a pitiful 8 sacks last season, allowing QBs enough time to let plays develop and pick apart the defense. In the middle, Big John Henderson is one of the top tackles in the league, and really plugs up the hole with his size (6'7", 335 lbs). The linebacking core is an underrated trio, especially Daryl Smith and young stud Justin Durant, who now moves to MLB with the loss of the aging Mike Peterson. The secondary, lead by shutdown corner Rashean Mathis and Free Safety Reggie Nelson, have upside. Overall, it is hard to imagine the Jaguars finishing any worse than last season, yet it won't be enough to make the playoffs in this tough division and conference.

4. Houston Texans (8-8)

Lastly, the Houston Texans. Although featuring two of the NFL's elite players on each side of the football in big time receiver Andre Johnson and freak defensive end Mario Williams, the team lacks consistency and stability to improve upon last season. Matt Shaub, who when healthy can absolutely light up a score board with weapons like Daniels and Walter, has struggled with injuries and rendered the Texans pass offense as ineffective at times, especially when Dan Orlovsky or Rex Grossman will have to come in. Steve Slaton was one of the three rookies to break out last season, rushing for over 1200 yards and 9 TDs. He will have to carry more of the load if Shaub goes down. On the defensive side of the football, DeMeco Ryans leads a Texans D that was subpar last season, ranking 22nd in the league in total yards per game. Mario Williams and Antonio Smith combine to make a wonderful combo off the ends, yet the tackles aren't apt at plugging up the hole, further disappointing Texan fans in regard to the young Amobi Okoye, who didn't show improvement after his stellar rookie year. Remember, he is still 22, and still possesses tremendous upside. Their secondary is what really hurt them last year, and it is hard to see any improvement there this season. In the NFC, this would be a solid team, but taking into account the division and conference, it is hard to imagine the Texans in the playoffs.

NFL Division Preview Series: AFC NORTH

2009-08-23T22:56:00.001-07:00

By: Chris

1. Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5)

Overall, this division is still relatively mediocre. In addition to the frequent Superbowl slump that haunts teams following their championship win, there are a few further concerns when I look at the Pittsburgh Steelers. Still, these concerns do not amount to create a large enough threat to their chances as AFC North champs. My first concern is the lack of rushing attack. Last season, the Steelers ranked 23rd in the league in rushing yards per game and were among teams like Chicago, St. Louis, Cleveland, and other sub-par squads. Per rush, the Steelers amounted only 3.7, which ranked 29th in the league. Willie Parker needs to return to old form, since the spell backs Mendenhall (bothered by injuries himself) and Moore weren't exactly stellar in their short stints either. Next, Big Ben. The guy was sacked 49 times, ranking him 4th in the NFL, which tells me he takes a beating every Sunday he is out there. Just recently, he limped off the field with a minor foot injury. Again, not good news. Finally, the famous Steeler D which has been flat out dominant over the past few years is starting to age. Guys like Harrison and Farrior are both 30+ years old, and although they are obviously still producing at a very high level, it is hard to imagine this upward trend continuing for much longer. Overall though, if the team can keep the injury bug away, they should have another solid season and for sure be a contender. Still, I have them at a stellar 11-5 record after a bit of a bounce back following the Superbowl.

2. Baltimore Ravens (10-6)

After the Ravens rather surprising performance in 2008, racking up 11 wins and a deep run into the playoffs, it is hard to figure they will repeat this with key losses like Bart Scott and former defensive coordinator Rex Ryan. Although stats do not show it, Flacco has been praised league-wide as holding a very high NFL IQ, and being one of the smartest quarterbacks in the league. Although last year he was able to heavily rely on the dominant Ravens D, I believe this year things will change. Flacco is due for a breakout year, and with the return of veteran #1 receiver Derrick Mason alongside Todd Heap and other receivers, his arsenal remains intact. Additionally, the Ravens added multiple-time-Pro Bowler Matt Birk. Along with Flacco, with the help of the newly bolstered O-line, the speedy RB Ray Rice is going to have a much improved season as well. Slowly but surely, carries will be distributed more to Rice than to the aging, injury-ridden Willis McGahee. That is my evaluation for the offense. Underlining point: Two youngsters due for a breakout, evidently showing a shift from defense to offense. Still, the Ravens D will be dominant, however, after such an astounding performance last season by the whole unit composed of playmakers like Ed Reed and Ray Lewis, the D looks to decline a fraction. Bart Scott was a huge loss and the afore mentioned playmakers are a year older. The D-Line is still stout and full of talent, featuring the likes of All Pro stud NT Haloti Ngata and more, making it very tough to have any adequate rushing attack against them. Still, the Ravens will change their identity a bit, and the offense will get more recognition season.

3. Cincinatti Bengals (7-9)

For this squad, there is nowhere to go but up. Carson Palmer looks to be fully healthy after off-season surgery and his now regenerated relationship with Chad Ochocinco spells nothing but TD in my mind. Still, the team has holes like the loss of stud WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh to Free Agency. Yet, Bengals FO was able to patch that hole with the addition of veteran Laveranues Coles, on top of the fact that former thug Chris Henry is looking fabulous in preseason. On the other hand, their rushing attack, if you even want to call it that, is dismal. For two straight years, Cedric Benson has averaged 3.5 yards per carry or less, and his compliment Brian Leonard, hasn't even sniffed the endzone once his whole career. The offensive line unit is below mediocre, and Palmer will most likely have to absorb a few hits and rushes week in and week out. Look for the Bengals to absolutely air it out all day... until Palmer goes down. As for the defense, starting with the line upfront, the Bengals really lack a big rushing defender that puts pressure on the QB. They ranked 30th in the league with a pitiful season sack number totalling 17. As for their LB core, Dhani Jones and Keith Rivers are both solid (Side note: Look out for Rivers, the guy is a young machine). Their secondary is still below average even after acquiring Roy "I can't do anything but hit hard" Williams. Small improvement from last year, but still a pretty bad team.

4. Cleveland Browns (4-12)

Lastly, the Cleveland Browns. Off the bat, the QB situation is already making me feel uneasy. Having still not decided between Quinn or Anderson, the Browns are truly lacking an offensive identity. Both quarterbacks have been nothing more than average, and if no one breaks out soon, the rest of the season (which won't be pretty) will most likely be run as a "QB by committee" system. As for Braylon Edwards, I hope he is done seeing his shrink. Enough with the dropped balls already, please, especially considering he is either in or soon-to-be-in his contract year. No messing around anymore Braylon, or else your talent will be forever wasted. One of the bright spots of the team is the offensive line, already featuring stud LG Eric Steinbach, and now new rookie starting Center Alex Mack after moving Hank Fraley to RG. Meanwhile the rushing attack wasn't pretty either, ranking 26th in the league in yards per game and almost last in terms of yards per carry. Jamal Lewis, already way past his prime, is looking at another declining year. The defense isn't much prettier. The big name (pun intended) is Shaun Rogers, whose heart really does not seem to be with this team. Still, his talent on the field is undeniable and he's a great run stuffer and tackler at the NT position. D'Qwell Jackson is a truly special player whose talents are unfortunately (as harsh as it sounds) being wasted in the dump that Cleveland is. Cornerback Eric Wright has immense potential, but is not surrounded by the right elements (no pass rush, subpar complimentary corner) to put him over the top. Look for this team to continue their way to another high draft pick in next years draft and make absolutely no noise in the upcoming season. Sorry folks.

NFL Division Preview Series: AFC EAST

2009-08-23T19:23:00.000-07:00

By: Chris

1. New England Patriots (12-4)

Amid reports both from the Patriots camp and preseason games that quarterback Tom Brady has looked better than ever, throwing across his body and moving around the pocket, it is easy to crown the Patriots champs of the much improved AFC East. This division, which used to be one of the least competitive divisions in the league, has improved in the offseason, yet the Patriots, now locked and reloaded, are poised to finish on top. Even after the horrific knee injury, followed by an infection causing further setback, it seems like Brady did that much more to come back to old form. Having added yet another weapon in grizzled veteran receiver Joey Galloway to the squad, Brady has a plethora of threats including Randy Moss and Wes Welker to dish the ball around in the spread offense. Additionally, an acquisition that could be overlooked, is running back Fred Taylor. The longtime Jaguar now seems to have set his sights on snagging a ring before retiring, and he finally provides at least some level of assurance for a running game that ranked as one of the worst in the NFL during the Patriots' epic 18-1 run. It's hard not to improve their running game, considering Maroney has never fully developed into the hard-nosed runner that they wished, and overall they barely even ran the ball anyway. On the defensive side of things, the Pats are still stacked in the box with Warren, Wilfork, and Seymour followed by Thomas, Bruschi, Mayo, and Woods to complete their 3-4 defense. This defensive unit will need to most likely hold opponents to under 21 points or so, as the offense will be sure to deliver big scores. Combined with their reloaded offense, stout defense, and a relatively easy schedule, look for the Pats to bounce back and finish the season 12-4, and return to title contention.

2. New York Jets (10-6)

For the first time in a (seemingly) long, long time, the Jets' pick at the NFL Draft was not booed, but rather celebrated. QB Mark Sanchez was the obvious pick, and luckily, they were able to trade up for him and bring him to the lesser talented New York team. Last season, the supposedly "no heart for this team" Favre led the team to a mediocre 9-7 record. Now, with Rex Ryan as their coach, I believe the Jets will be able to step up their defensive game (albeit having lost Pace for a chunk of the season). Still, there is one positive that arises from the suspension and that is the spot opening up which they are allowing the strong, young Vernon Gholston to sub until Pace returns. A good recipe for championship contention includes a good rushing attack (Thomas Jones + Leon Washington) and a good defense, which the Jets seem to have as well (with upside). Do not expect Mark Sanchez to post Matt Ryan-like numbers, but the fact is he will be able to deliver. He already looks good in preseason and they really don't need him to throw for 300 yards a game, but rather just avoid making mistakes and forcing turnovers. The Jets raced out to an 8-3 start, and as the season progressed, ended up fading along with Favre's arm. This will not happen with Sanchez. Look for this team to surprise and maybe, just maybe, grab an AFC Wildcard berth.

3. Miami Dolphins (7-9)

After a pleasantly surprising 11-5 record this season, one can't help but see a decline for '09. The usually erratic Chad Pennington actually finished second in MVP voting (Wow! Who would have thought that going into the season?). Even with Parcells on-board, I don't see this team making noise in an already tough division and conference, coupled with a tough schedule. If Pennington repeats his performance, I will gladly shut up. The team's success does not only lie in the passing game though, which I predict will be mediocre at best, but also their rushing attack. The much-hyped Ronnie Brown is far from a typical rushing back, which Miami was able to mold and take advantage of through the Wildcat formation. He went absolutely wild one game, and if excluded, his season as a whole is rather unremarkable, with a yard-per-rush hovering a hair above 4.0. One has to consider though, the effectiveness of the Wildcat might be either a) limited as teams will no be preparing to stop this previously unknown tactic or b) advance having now added Pat White as a double threat (arm wise and leg wise). As for the defense, they obviously have one of the NFL's most exciting pass rushers in Joey Porter and a solid stud, Channing Crowder. The rest of the box is mostly mediocre, which is made up for with their solid secondary. I am a huge Gibril Wilson + Will Allen fan and think Bell is better than people give him credit for. Still, this team is doomed to decline from their shocking '08 performance. Again, due to tough schedule + even tougher division = mediocre 7-9 finish for the Jets.

4. Buffalo Bills (7-9)

As much as I love Trent Edwards and other talented, young players the Bills have, ultimately this team will have loads of trouble racking up significant wins this season. Almost by default, the Bills are always last in this division, sorry Buffalo. I'm wondering how long T.O. will last before he absolutely blows up. Buffalo was front-page news for barely a week, and things seemed to have calmed down again. Evans + Owens does provide an intriguing and explosive wide receiver duo, but I would feel much more comfortable if passes were thrown from a guy with a stronger arm rather than the "short-pass-accurate" Trent Edwards. The suspension of Marshawn Lynch which is set to last three games certainly doesn't help, although I am excited at the prospect of Fred Jackson being a starter for that stretch. Defensively, the line upfront seems to be getting older and older, with dinosaur-like veterans like Shobel and Stroud who are heavily declining. Still, there are glimmers of upside include Penn State product Paul Posluszny and secondary studs Donte Whitner and Terrence McGee. Overall, this team does not have the firepower and talent on both sides of the football to make any noise in the AFC. Still, don't write them off for the future.

2009 Pro Football Hall of Fame

2009-08-09T16:32:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

This weekend the NFL Hall of Fame’s Class of 2009 was inducted. Each member made significant contributions to both the NFL and their teams. This article profiles each of the honorees.

Derrick Thomas – As a member of the Kansas City Chief’s during the 1990’s Derrick Thomas was, arguably, the most feared linebacker in the NFL. Thomas was a nightmare for quarterbacks around the league, he set the single game record for sacks when he took down the Seattle Seahawks signal-caller 7 times. In addition to setting the record, Thomas is really the only player to challenge this record: he almost recorded and 8^th sack in the game where he set the record and two years later had 6 in the 3^rd quarter before being benched in the blowout victory over the Raiders. Thomas made the Pro-Bowl in 9 of his 11 seasons and was taken tragically from the NFL when, at the age of 31, he died in a car crash.

Bob Hayes – At the time of his NFL career, “Bullet” Bob Hayes was not only the fastest player in the NFL but also the fastest man alive. An Olympic gold-medal winner, Hayes was critical to the infusion of speed into football in the 1970’s. As a member of the Dallas Cowboys during the 60’s and 70’s Hayes was the teams top receiver during both of the Cowboy’s NFL Championship losses to the Packers, one of which was the legendary ice bowl, their Super Bowl 5 loss and 1971 Super Bowl Victory. Widely regarded as one of the most dangerous players in football, the delay in Hayes’ enshrinement is the result of a drug-dealing bust during his post-career life.

Bruce Smith – The defensive anchor of a Buffalo Bills team that went to 4 consecutive Super Bowls during the early 90’s, Bruce Smith is one of the greatest defensive lineman of all-time. While he was not the biggest, fastest, or strongest DE of all time, Smith is the greatest statistical pass rusher of all time, holding a record 200 career sacks. Smith was the defensive anchor of a Bills team known for its plethora of stars, a list that includes Jim Kelly, Thurman Thomas, Andre Reed, and Cornelius Bennett. Smith is an 11-time all-pro who recorded over 10 sacks in a record 13 seasons.

Rod Woodson – One of the greatest cornerbacks of all-time, Rod Woodson is 17-year veteran who played in two Super Bowls for the Steelers and Ravens. Throughout his career Woodson was a terror too quarterbacks, often shutting down an entire half of the field and eliminating team’s best receivers. Woodson is 2^nd all-time in career sacks with 71 and holds the record for interception returns for touchdowns, 12. Woodson’s lengthy career seemed unlikely in the mid 90’s when he suffered a severe knee injury that would have ended the career of a lesser player. Woodson recovered and went on to continue playing for nearly a decade.

Randall McDaniel – An elite guard, Randall McDaniel anchored the Minnesota Vikings offensive line for over a decade. A smart player, McDaniel was equally effective at blocking speed rushers as he was at blocking power rushers. McDaniel was an elite guard for his entire career, playing in 11 Pro-Bowls, making the All-Pro roster 9 times, and starting in 202 consecutive games and 13 playoff games.

Ralph Wilson Jr. – The owner of the Buffalo Bills for nearly half a century, Ralph Wilson Jr, has been one of the NFL’s greatest owners throughout his reign. The Bills have often been a competitive team with elite NFL talent. In the 70’s the Bills had OJ Simpson, one of the most prolific running backs in league history, and the 90’s Bills made it to a record 4 consecutive Super Bowls. Wilson was instrumental to the AFL-NFL merger that created the Super Bowl and helped to make football the most popular sport in America. Wilson has also preserved a good relationship with Buffalo, one of the league’s smaller markets. While Wilson has started to play games in Canada, has kept his team in Buffalo, avoiding the infamy received by former owners Art Model and Jim Irsay, who moved their teams from Cleveland and Baltimore respectively.

Jags Training Camp Capsule

2009-08-07T20:59:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

With the annual intra-squad scrimmage coming up tomorrow (Saturday), now is a good time to check up on how training camp has gone thus far for the Jags.

My early thoughts from what i've heard about the camp, are very very positive. No serious injuries like the one mentioned in the article below and no off the field drama like the Eagles Juqua Parker's marijuana arrest. All this is a big plus for the Jaguars who were bitten badly by the injury bug last year as more than half the O-Line missed at least 6 weeks, while both guards were lost for the season in the first game. However the play of the rookie WRs has been the biggest and best surprise of all. WR Jarrett Dillard out of Rice University has stood out the most in practice, making catch after catch after catch from QB David Garrard. WR Mike Thomas also stood out in the return game and as a slot receiver going across the middle. Second year WR Mike walker has gotten past a slow start and really shined just like he did last year during cap. Hopefully with a year under his belt and time to get over the chronic injuries of last year, he can achieve his full potential as a 3rd round receiver last year.

The absence of first round pick Eugene Monroe is starting to give fans eerie memories of last years Derrick Harvey holdout which lasted 32 days and caused him to lose much of the learning time he needed as a rookie, even though he showed many flashes near the end of the season and ended up with 19 tackles and 3.5 sacks. Monroe's absence would be much scarier for the team had they not signed free agent OT Tra Thomas in the offseason. Thomas provides the Jaguars with plenty of depth and a great mentor to catch up Monroe when he finally signs his deal. There is much speculation that Monroe's deal is being held up by that of Michael Crabtree and BJ Raji who the Jaguars seem to be waiting to sign. The Jaguars also hope that Monroe's agent recognizes that the Raiders vastly over paid when they gave the surprise pick of the draft, Darrius Heyward-Bey, a 5 year 38 million dollar contract.

Another big story out of camp is how great the starting group of LBs is looking. Daryl Smith is looking like the solid veteran he his, second year LB Justin Durant is making tons of plays behind the line of scrimmage, and Clint Ingram appears to have rebounded from a sub-par year and is reportedly laying the wood. If the Jaguars want to have any success, they are gonna need stellar years out of all 3. However, this group cannot withstand a season ending injury due to the lack of depth behind them as it consists of Thomas Williams and Brian Iwuh.

Last but not least, the D-line. All eyes are on last years first round pick Derrick Harvey and second round pick Quentin Groves. How they develop into pass rushers will be a huge part of how well the defense performs in the 2009 season. After cutting Paul Spicer, Harvey has a starting spot all lined up for him and a DT in John Henderson who will routinely take up double teams. The mentioning of Henderson brings up the next major thing to keep an eye on during the remainder of training camp and pre-season, third round DT Terrance Knighton. Ever since the Jaguars traded Marcus Stround before the draft last year, the Jaguars have seen how much they actually do miss him. And all of our hopes are that Knighton can make us forget about Stroud and bring back the days where no one ever ran on the Jags.

After the first few pre-season games and before the season starts, expect to see some more reports on how things are stacking up for Jacksonville.

Another Blow to Eagles Defense

2009-08-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

The Philadelphia Eagles have been one of the best and most consistent teams in the NFC over the last 9 years. After losing in the NFC Championship last year, the Eagles 5^th appearance in 8 years, the team appeared poised to make a championship run in 2009. The Eagles Offense this year is arguably the most talented group the team has had since Terrell Owens joined the team in 2004. Quarterback Donovan McNabb and running back Brian Westbrook are still around, the offensive line is deep and talented, and the receiving core includes sophomore sensation DeSean Jackson, veteran Kevin Curtis, and rookies Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy, and Cornelius Ingram could all become big contributors. Offensively, Donovan McNabb finally has the “weapons” he has so desperately wanted since TO’s departure in 2006.

While the Eagles offense is talented, the trademark feature of the team during their extended run of success was the defense. Defensive Coordinator Jim Johnson came to the team the same year as Head Coach Andy Reid and Brian Dawkins has long been the heart of both the defense and team. The Eagles defense, even when the offense has struggled, has kept the team in contention; however, Dawkins left after the team refused to pay their emotional leader, Johnson recently passed away as a result of cancer, and now middle linebacker Stewart Bradley has a torn ACL and will likely miss the season. The injury to Bradley is scary for a multitude of reasons: the Eagles line backing core clearly the weakest part of the defense and Bradley was really the only great linebacker on the roster, Bradley was the middle linebacker and a new player will have to receive a green dot and become the defensive play caller, and Bradley was also a player whose position and talent made him a likely candidate to take Dawkins place as the emotional leader of the defense. While none of these losses alone would cripple the Eagles, the combination of the three will undoubtedly have a tremendous impact on what has been a rock-solid team. New Defensive Coordinator Sean McDermott knows the schemes but lacks the experience of Johnson and will likely fail to bring and remove pressure in as timely a fashion as his predecessor. Dawkins was an aging veteran, but he was clearly the leader of the team (the Eagles beards during last season’s playoffs was Dawkins idea). The Eagles defense still has talent, but in one off-season the team has lost its brain, brawn, and heart. The talent of the Eagles offense could take the team to the playoffs, but the compound blows to the defense will hurt the team. Ultimately, the defense today is not nearly as good as it was 5 months ago, and the team has fallen from Super Bowl contender and will be hard pressed to reach their final goal.

Update: UFL Team Names Leaked

2009-08-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

A reporter from the Orlando Sentinel has leaked the supposed names of the four UFL teams:

Orlando Tuskers

San Francisco RockFish

Las Vegas Locomotives

New York Sentinels

No color schemes or jersey plans have been leaked and the names of the teams have yet to be officially announced. However, the strange names of the teams warrant more research and explaining before judgement can be passed.

First, why not start with the Orlando Tuskers. A "Tusker" is a wild boar that has constantly inhabited the everglade region of Florida. So, at first glance, the name may be a bit confusing, but with proper knowledge, it can make sense. (The name was initially not that appealing to me, but now its growing on me as a pretty good name that I can see people referring to their team by) Next, we will investigate the San francisco RockFish. A "RockFish" according to Yourdictionary.com is : any of various fishes of rocky coastal areas, as the striped bass, various groupers, and various scorpaenids. So by connecting San Francisco's rocky coast and it's history of fishing prowess, the name makes sense... kinda. Third, we have the Las Vegas Locomotives. Las Vegas is currently home to the only railroad station that is inside a casino-hotel, but that is hardly the reason that I believe they were given this name. Today, Las Vegas is the site of where the original Union Pacific Railroad Depot was back when it originally started. Last but not least, the New York Sentinels. I believe they were just given this name because it sounds cool and is a respected sporting name. Sure, there might be some history about sentinels in New York, but I stick to my reasoning.

Big Papi In Big Trouble

2009-07-30T20:20:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

"I would suggest everybody get tested, not random, everybody," he said. "You go team by team. You test everybody three, four times a year and that's about it." This is what Red Sox DH David Ortiz said when asked about the steroids testing. However, he didn't stop there. When asked about what the consequences of a positive steroids test should be, he replied,"Ban 'em for the whole year". Now these words have undoubtedly become infamous as obviously he himself reportedly tested positive for steroids in 2003 along with former teammate Manny Ramirez. This report will certainly cast a dark shadow on the World Series Championships that the Red Sox won with those players during that time frame.

But know judgement day comes for Manny (again) and especially David Ortiz. How will he handle the reporters and their questions? That question is on the mind of every sorts fan right now. However, that is not where this article ends. What really needs to be talked about is the legitimacy of the rings that were won by the steroid using catalysts of the offense that steamrolled through the AL and all the way through to win the World Series. When does baseball step in and take away the accomplishments that these two players accrued? Is it even necessary considering the circumstances that most everyone else in the league was using performing enhancers too? The answer ultimately has to be that we do void the awards of the cheaters who were caught and reward the ones who did it the honest, right way, with no outside help. It may be tough and painstaking to legally get the names of the people on the list, but it needs to be done in order to make things right.

The people who took the steroids had their moments in the spotlight, and broke the records and they'll never be forgotten for what they did, but the MLB can't send the message that we're going to let the cheaters keep their awards, and pretty much reward the ones who took the enhancers and made the sport look good. You would never let a thief keep the money after he stole it from a bank. It just doesn't make sense. The MLB has a lot of work to do to fix tis gigantic mess, which they really made for themselves, if they want to come out smelling like roses.

Would Favre Have Helped?

2009-07-28T17:31:00.001-07:00

By: Matt

After a summer of indecision former Green Bay legend Brett Favre has decided to stay retired and not prematurely end his second retirement to join the Minnesota Vikings. Last year Favre retired, but quickly returned and left Green Bay to join the New York Jets. The Jets became a better team, but they did not make the playoffs and Favre did not go out on top. The Minnesota Vikings, unlike the Jets, were a playoff team without Favre, but few have thought about whether Favre would have made the playoff incumbent a better team.

Even with Favre, the best player on the Vikings Offense would have been third year runningback Adrian Peterson, a pro-bowler in every year of his short career and arguably the most dangerous runner in the league. The Vikings also added Percy Harvin, a multi-faceted players from Florida. Harvin, despite his rookie status, is a dangerous player and playmaker that, along with Peterson, is likely to be a key component in the Vikings offense. The Vikings offense is already highly talented, what they need to win is a game-manager and not a third playmaker. Although Favre is the all-time touchdown leader he also throws a lot of interceptions, last year he led the league with 22, and his gunslinger mentality would be a detriment to a Vikings team that wins by running the ball and playing solid defense. The Vikings have tried using a playmaker at quarterback when they started Tarvaris Jackson in the playoffs, the team lost and Jackson lost his job. Adding Favre would bring experience to the quarterback position, but not the type of mentality that the Vikings need. The current Vikings Quarterbacks, Jackson, Sage Rosenfels, and John David Booty, represent a group much better suited to help the Vikings win. Rosenfels is a veteran game manager who seems to be the best fit; however, it seems likely that a #4 will start games at Quarterback for the Vikings. John David Booty, the current #4 in Minnesota, was a Heisman candidate at USC, a school that has produced countless NFL quarterbacks over the last 10 years, and is also the youngest quarterback on the Vikings roster. Booty has talent and having sat on the bench last year will give him a greater level of comfort with the Offense than Rosenfels. Booty has the right mentality to play quarterback in Minnesota and, if he plays well this summer, could show Head Coach Brad Childress that he is the right guy for the Vikings. The Vikings do not have any big names or amazing talents at the quarterback position, but given the surrounding talent on their offense, one has to wonder if they need one.

Bobcats trade Okafor, original Face of the Franchise

2009-07-28T12:27:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

Today the Charlotte Bobcats traded Emeka Okafor to the New Orleans Hornets for their center Tyson Chandler. The swap marks only the most recent of the connections between the teams. The Bobcats were founded in 2004 as a result of the Hornets relocation to New Orleans. In 2004 the expansion Bobcats had the 2nd pick, but drafted Emeka Okafor, a player widely considered the best talent in the draft. At the time, it seemed that the Bobcats had the face of their franchise, and that their stay as a lowly expansion team would be short.

Those early expectations for Charlotte have been proven very wrong. Dwight Howard, the player taken before Okafor has proven himself as easily the best player taken in 2004 and possibly the best Center in basketball. Howard’s Magic recently lost the NBA Finals while the Bobcats have yet to record a winning season. The Bobcats today are a much better team than they were in 2004, but they are not the team that anyone expected to see. The expansion franchise has already fired two head coaches, and now has the successful but traditional Larry Brown. Under Brown the team has become competitive by creating roster filled with hard working players with high basketball IQ’s. That description is fitting for Chandler, the big man who will be charged with anchoring Brown’s defense. The Bobcats will likely reach the playoffs within the next few years, but that is a result of an incredibly weak Eastern Conference. After drafting Okafor, the Bobcats added Raymond Felton and Sean May the next year, and Adam Morrison the year after. All 3 players were considered talented athletes with high ceilings. None of them have reached them. May and Morrison couldn’t stay healthy and are now playing elsewhere (Morrison was traded to the Lakers and May was not-resigned this off-season). Felton is still considered a talented young point guard, but he has not lived up to his draft potential and coach Brown has already drafted D.J. Augustin to take Felton’s place.

Trading Okafor has completed a transformation of the Bobcats from a talented but uninspired team into a collection of players who lack truly elite ability but know how to win and play smart basketball. Stated another way; the Bobcats have finally become a Larry Brown basketball team, a smart team with one offensive star. The trade of Emeka Okafor comes as a surprise to many, but it is a smart decision that will give the new Bobcats a more legitimate Center with much greater size. With Larry Brown as coach, and a roster filled with experienced, smart veterans the Bobcats will likely become a contender for an Eastern Conference playoff spot; but one has to wonder, if the Bobcats continue to trade away their draft picks, when will they contend for anything more?

Ranking the NHL Mascots

2009-07-27T21:21:00.001-07:00

By: Jake

For the first NHL article on GetOuttaHereArticles.blogspot.com, I have decided to take an in-depth look into..... the NHL Mascots. Yes, I will be giving you my rankings of the top 5 NHL mascots and the bottom 5.

Top 5:

1. Gnash, Nashville Predators

Gnash is the epitome of a mascot. His tough exterior which features two protruding fangs and a chilling stare that would strike fear into any opposing fan. Just the attitude he brings with his facial expression is swagger enough to make him the unanimous #1.

2. Blades, Boston Bruins

Once again, we have another mascot with two fangs and a chilling stare. This time its not coming from an extinct animal, but a giant brown bear. Blades' huge blue eyes and smug smirk add the finishing touches to a classic mascot who no one would wanna drop the gloves with.

3. WildWing, Anaheim Ducks

WildWing is a cartoon adaptation made to fit the new look of the team, but you'd never guess that by looking at him. His face mask is straight out of a horror movie and his glare will give you nightmares. I give him creativity points for involving the duck aspect by painting part of the mask orange and having it curve like a beak.

4. Iceburgh, Pittsburgh Penguins

Iceburgh is the first mascot to place as a soft lovable character. (This one's for you Dan) The first thing that jumped out at me was his clever name, it very nicely melds the penguin theme with the name of the city. His cheerful demeanor cannot help but make you smile when you look at him, so he earns #4 in the rankings.

5. Tommy Hawk, Chicago Blackhawks

While it is a stretch to tie the native american definition of blackhawk and a literal black hawk, the Blackhawks get the benefit of the doubt here as Tommy Hawk is a great representation of the hawk, a very "beautiful" bird. His red eyes and sharp beak are two more qualifications for this mascot to be ranked #5.

Bottom 5:

5th Worst: Stormy, Carolina Hurricanes

Stormy is an "ice hog", which I am surprised anyone thought would be a great idea for a mascot. It took a lot of research to find out why the hell they would choose that as a mascot for a team named the Hurricanes, but I found out why: there is an abundance of hog farms in the Carolinas. What else is there to say? Ice Hog, hmmmm.......

4th Worst: Spartacat, Ottawa Senators

Spartacat has many downfalls and one is clearly his name. Spartacat is definitely a mouthful and just doesn't roll off the tongue the way Iceburgh does. But his main problem that is glaring to me, is his absolutely awful hair. I mean wtf were the designers thinking? "Ok lets get some hair outta the drain and throw it on the mascots head, that'll look really good". Well it doesn't look good at all.

3rd Worst: Thunderbug, Tampa Bay Lightning

Thunderbug never stood much of a chance from the beginning as his name makes you hate him before you see him. His spread out eyes and seemingly red eyeliner give him a girlish look especially with the black fur above the eyes which can easily be mistaken for eyelashes. Don't even get me started on the antenna either....

2nd Worst: Youppi, Montreal Canadiens

Youppi is supposed to represent a Canadian? Uhhhh.... Am I the only one not getting why he looks very confused and for some reason hasn't had access to a razor for a good 20 years?

Worst: Stinger, Columbus Blue Jackets

Stinger is the worst mascot in the NHL. Can you guess why? Yep, it is the combination of gigantic red eyes, a full lime green body, and the two right angle pieces of black cardboard that are supposed to look like eyebrows. Not to mention, he always looks frustrated. Just wait until he reads this article.....

The Best & Worst Athlete Tweets

2009-07-27T14:36:00.001-07:00

By: Chris

Recently, Twitter has exploded onto the scene as the perfect mean for fans to religiously follow their favorite athletes and celebrities, hearing it straight from the source. Here are some of the best and worst "Tweets" over the past few months:

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Shaquille O'Neal

"Happy birthday , main harry potter charachter dude" posted July 23rd, 4:28 AM

Nice touch with the spelling, Shaqtus. You completely failed to recall the name of one of the most famous actors in the world yet you still seem to feel the need to wish them a happy birthday. Wow.

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Mark Madsen

"wondering about airport screening lines and taking your shoes off for metal detector....bacteria/fungus/parasites on the ground? barefeet?" posted on July 20th, 11:50 AM

Hm.. so a site that fans follow you through (wait... does anybody follow him?) is where you ask about foot fungus at an airport?

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Chad Johnson

"My damn television lamp light went out, the sound is on but no picture, can i get the lamp light for my TV from HOME DEPOT?" posted on July 27th, 8 hours ago

Yes, Chad, the megastore for home improvement and construction services is sure to have a bulb. I mean, Best Buy or Circuit City surely don't carry that.

"My flight get to ATL at 7pm, is somebody gonna pick me up? Straight up i am serious, trying to interact with my damn followers, no kidnappin"

Great idea. Let some one you don't know pick you up! That's the way to teach kids. Chad

'Advocate of Driving with Strangers' Ochocinco.

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Paul Pierce

"Lakers vs orlando. Looked like a german sherperd vs a poodle that's ok the rotwieler celtics will b back in 2o10" posted June 17th, 4:06 PM

Ah.. the horrible grammar, horrible similes, horrible trash talk. Stay classy, Pierce.

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Andy Roddick

"definitely had buerhle on the bench for my fantasy baseball team toady..... doh!"

Many people feel the guy's pain, including Jake on this site actually too. Very personal guy, displayed here in one of his tweets.

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Jose Canseco

"Manny Ramirez tested positive for performance enhancing drugs and has been suspended by MLB for 50 games." Posted May 7th, 6:05 AM

Oh the irony... it almost seems cynical of him to be breaking/posting the news like that.

"Of the 103 unnamed palyers on the list who tested positive for steroids in 2003, Manny Ramirez's name is most likely on the list, 90%"

Damn, this guy sort of predicted it. Maybe the seemingly useless **** coming out of his mouth (or sometimes on paper in his books) might not be so worthless after all.

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Eli Manning

"pro bowl was fun"

Very exciting Eli. Which is more boring.. this tweet or his on-the-field football expression?

Pete Rose’s Potential Return

2009-07-27T14:08:00.001-07:00

By: Matt

It was reported this week, just days after Jim Rice and Rickey Henderson were inducted into the Hall of Fame, that Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig is considering removing the permanent ban of Pete Rose from the MLB. Selig is widely regarded as both the worst commissioner in sports today and in the history of baseball; however, this decision could become a small positive among Selig’s many mistakes. Pete Rose was banned from baseball for gambling on games, an action that warrants some type of punishment, but not a lifetime ban.

There are a number of reasons why Pete Rose deserves to have his lifetime ban removed. The first of those reasons is Rose’s play: Rose was a dominant player; he won World Series’, Gold Gloves, an MVP, and went to 17 All-Star games. Rose was a dominant player for over 20 years, the majority of which he was not involved with gambling. Rose’s actions as a manager have prevented him from entering the Hall of Fame, a place where his numbers absolutely indicate he belongs to be, as a player. Rose was an elite talent who, despite his misdeeds, should be remembered. While Rose’s career numbers warrant a Hall of Fame induction, the greatest reason why Rose should have his ban removed is because he never gambled against his own teams. Gambling on sports is bad; gambling on your own games is worse, but Rose never bet against himself or his team. Pete Rose was the consummate competitor, he played 100%, 100% of the time and his gambling money on his team shows the faith he had in him self and his players. Pete Rose broke the rules of baseball and for that he deserved to be punished, but when commissioner Bart Giamatti suspended Rose he was a rookie commissioner trying to make his mark on the sport. As a new commissioner Roger Goodell increased the NFL’s punishment of rulebreakers, in the late 1980’s commissioner Giamatti did the same thing. Sadly, Bart Giamatti died under a year into his tenure as commissioner and only 8 days after suspending Rose, making the suspension his dying action. Had Giamatti survived the Rose suspension would be viewed differently and it’s importance would be lessened. Had Giamatti died, Pete Rose would not be suspended from baseball today and this would not be a question. Now, nearly 20 years after the death of commissioner Giamatti, Rose could return to baseball, and clearly should.

Around the NBA: July 26th

2009-07-27T12:24:00.000-07:00

By: Chris

In this segment, I'll briefly comment on the events/news of the past few days concerning the NBA. Here are the top three stories:

ESPN.com: "Heat's Wade continues Odom recruitment in LA"

Apparently, via Wade's twitter account (http://twitter.com/DWadeOFFICIAL), he has flown to LA in an effort to convince Odom to rejoin him in South Beach (see above). At this point, Odom is in a really tough spot. After stupidly having played tough guy with Jerry Buss (a la Trevor Ariza) over just a few millions, Buss promptly pulled the offer and promised to never re-offer the same amount. Odom truly screwed himself over there, as Miami really can't provide more money than the Lakers were offering. Why would he do that? Didn't Odom see that the Lakers easily moved past Ariza and ended up getting an upgrade for the same, if not cheaper? Ultimately, I believe Odom will return to LA. Even with the addition of the 6-10 forward, the Heat would still be lagging behind teams like the Magic, Cavs, and Celtics. As for Wade, if this does not work out, I'm not too certain about his status regarding his extension or staying in Miami. He really seems to love the fans and city, and vice versa, but at some point one has to realize he is a winner and would love to go get a championship again. Conclusion: Odom will sign with LA, for a lot less, because he frankly was an idiot and pushed too hard. Wade will be stuck again on a mediocre team and ditch in 2010 for a contender.

Yahoo! Sports: "Nash signs 2-year, 22 million extension with Suns"

Honestly, I'm puzzled by what the Suns are doing. Seemingly in a limbo between being contenders and rebuilders, they seemed to have further taken a step to being old and mediocre by signing the 35 year old permanently back-injured Nash. This seems to be more a move out of respect and loyalty (unlike say.. the Philadelphia Eagles) and they really wish for him to end his career there. Still, I really don't know what to think of the Suns right now and it really wouldn't surprise me if Stoudamire wants out. Even though they were one of the top teams in the West the past few years, they never ever seemed to have enough to get over the hump and were just never poised to be much of a title contender. Anyways, good luck to Nash and the rest of his career. The guy is a class act and deserved this extension!

NBA.com: "Mavs, free agent Gooden agree to contract"

The fact that we are talking about Gooden's signing just shows how lifeless and dead recent happenings have been in the NBA. However, boy, the Mavs got a steal after they lost out with Marcin Gortat, I mean Gooden has so much more upside and potential! All kidding aside, this is still a solid move for the Mavs. They did need help in the front court and Gooden is just a "show up every game to play" player who can board and is at least average on the offensive end. At 27, he still hasn't peaked (although his ceiling isn't much higher than the level he plays at now) but at least he isn't aging. Not a fan of though goatee-twisted-facial-hair-thing though (Stay classy ;-). See above. Good luck Drew!

Obviously, not much new in the NBA world. Hence, I am announcing my Eastern and Western conference previews coming in the next few days or weeks!

Selig... Need I Say More?

2009-07-27T11:14:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

The recent report that Bud Selig is now considering lifting the lifetime ban on Pete Rose just makes it even more evident who the worst commissioner in sports is. (as if it was even close before this) Selig has already wreaked havoc on baseball and its fans by doing nothing throughout the steroid era. His turning a blind eye to to steroid madness has ended up coming back to bite him in the worst way. Fans have lost almost all confidence in all the players and nowadays EVERYONE is under suspicion of steroid use. It seems more guilty until proven innocent than the opposite. Had Selig taken a stronger stance on the roids, he could possibly be known as one of the best of his time, however he chose to let it go and watch the fireworks that ensued. Sure it may have temporarily "saved" baseball, but in the long run, it's killing it slowly.

The steroids are undoubtedly the blackest mark on Selig's career, but not far behind is his decision to make the All-Star game count for home field advantage. There are so many things wrong with this proposition, but i'll start with the fact that players like Ryan Zimmerman of the Nationals are "playing" for the home field advantage they will never need. If you are going to make the game count for something as important as home field advantage in the biggest series of the year, don't require that at lest one person from each team is required to be in the game. Also, the managers of the All Star teams sure don't manage like they need to win the game. If they really wanted to win, why would you pull Tim Lincecum or Roy Halladay when they are one the best pitchers in their respective leagues? The only answer is that they are more concerned with getting everyone in the game and preserving arms for the regular season than winning the game.

Last but not least, the story that inspired this article, the Pete Rose possible reinstatement. If Bud Selig has the gall to reinstate a player/manager after he was given a lifetime ban, I will lose the single shred of respect I still have for him. Rose was given that ban for a reason. Just because The Hall of fame voting came along doesn't mean you should go out and start reinstating people who committed the ultimate no-no and bet on baseball, especially because he bet on games in which he managed himself. That type of man, no matter is accomplishments on the field, is not someone you want representing your league in its most famous shrine that is Cooperstown, New York. Bud, be sensible for once and forget about this idea, you're already going toi be remembered as one of the worst commissioners of all-time, don't make it any worse than it already is.

Farewell Andre: A Recap of the Saga

2009-07-26T21:57:00.000-07:00

By: Chris

A few days ago, Andre Miller signed a 3 year, $21 million offer from the Portland Trailblazers, ending the continuing contract, sign & trade, and other negotiations that were ongoing over the past few weeks. Miller's departure leaves a bitter taste in the mouths of Sixer fans. Last season after losing in the first round of the playoffs against the Orlando Magic, Miller didn't even show up for the season-ending team meeting. Furthermore, the 76ers were actually interest in retaining the aging point guard, yet his ridiculous demands of having a contract north of 30 million over 3 years (minimum) were too much. Not only is Miller almost 34 now, but he also has no 3 point shot nor seems to be that great of a locker room guy. Last season there were many plays in which I doubted whether Miller put in any effort on defense, or maybe he just loved getting burned by opposing guards on a nightly basis.

The thing that Philly basketball fans are most disappointed in is GM Ed Stefanski's inability to somehow get any type of return for losing Miller. Many had predicted a sign and trade in which the Sixers would land above-solid point guards such as Chris Duhon from the Knicks or Kirk Hinrich from the Bulls. Neither worked out, and the Sixers were left with nothing but the hard realization that Lou Williams is the current starting point guard of the 76ers. Still, I have been advocating all along for the Sixers either to get a great point guard (Hinrich for example, who can dish, shoot the 3, and be a field general) or just forget about it and throw the young gun platoon of 2009 NBA Draft pick Jrue Holiday and Lou Williams. There is no point in signing a guy like Jamal Tinsley either who is aging like Miller and would just eat the minutes of the young guys that are developing and in need of minutes on the court.

In retrospect regarding the Miller situation, many believe that Stefanski made a grave mistake by not trading him at the deadline this year. This presents an argument that can get pretty heated at times. One side is that the Sixers were playing very well at that point (the deadline) and Miller was one of the key reasons for this great play. The Sixers were poised to make the playoffs, around the 5th seed or so, which meant that in a way they were "contending". So, it would make sense to keep your best player, and go to the playoffs and see what happens. Others clearly see that there was no chance against the Eastern Conference powerhouses like the Celtics, Cavs, etc. and at that point it would have been better to dump Miller and get something formidable in return. Stefanski didn't do this. I just never think, regardless of the situation, a team should just give up and shed one of their key players when clearly they are a playoff team. If in sports if you are mediocre and can't necessarily compete with the powerhouses that you just dump talent, then the league would only have around 5 top teams with the rest not even needing any hope or aspiration to make noise in the playoffs. As I repeatedly say, "you never know". The Sixers last season were up 2-1 on the Orlando Magic. Yes, the Orlando Magic which ended up going to the NBA Finals.

Overall, good riddance to Miller. His tenure here in Philly was solid, but I was just a bit disappointed in the way he left the city. I doubt he'll get a warm reception when he returns. As for Stefanski, he hasn't done anything (aside from the Kapono deal) in terms of signing free agents. Get on it, Ed!

Rejuvenated Cards Look to be Major Contenders

2009-07-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

Sure, I could've used some horrible pun involving the use of the word "Holliday", but since I love our readers (all 4 of them), I decided not to. All fun aside, the addition of a star like Matt Holliday adds what would look like one of the final pieces to complete this team. Holliday brings a huge bat to the line up and also does the job of being the protector of Pujols that the Cards have been looking for since he started playing. You can look at him as the player Scott Rolen was for the Cards in '06 when they won the WS against the Tigers. Holliday will enter an already crowded outfield which includes star fielder Rick Ankiel, Rookie of the Year Colby Rasmus and Ryan Ludwick who is 2nd on the team with 17 HRs and is hitting .275. With the likely move being benching Rasmus in favor of Holliday, it will only make the Cards better having a hitter like Rasmus available to spot start of pinch hit whenever you want.

One other addition that has immensely improved the cards is the addition of Julio Lugo. Not only is Boston paying most of his salary this year, but he also adds an element of speed to the lineup that it was missing. Despite the questions about his work ethic, maybe a true baseball environment like St. Louis, will be the inspiration he needs to become an integral part of this team if its going to advance far into the playoffs.

As we all know, pitching in the playoffs is what wins Titles, and the Cardinals have no lack of pitching. Ace Chris Carpenter who has a 2.26 ERA through 15 games of work, has successfully comeback from a early season setback and pitched beautifully this season alongside the 11-6 Adam Wainwright who is sporting a slim 2.95 ERA more than half way through the season. However, the solid pitching does not end there as Kyle Lohse stands as a very good 3rd pitcher despite his 4-6 record. The cardinals are also blessed with All-Star closer Ryan Franklin who is 22 of 24 in save situations and has posted a 1.25 ERA and a 3:1 K to BB ration.

It looks like something special is in the works over in St. Louis and it will surely be interesting to watch it all unfold in the next 2 months.

An apple a day, keeps the Doc away...

2009-07-26T21:02:00.000-07:00

By: Chris

If not the apple, then Blue Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi is keeping Roy Halladay from teams desperately looking to add a stud pitcher for a late-season spurt and ace for the playoffs. Halladay is an incredible pitcher, and is most likely the best in the league this year. Over the past few years, he has shown that he is a dependable, hard-working horse with electric stuff. One of the teams clawing for Halladay are the Philadelphia Phillies, who have reportedly already been turned down twice. At this point, it looks to be unlikely that Halladay will be moved (at least according to Ricciardi) but the amount of leverage he is holding right now is incredible.

To be in J.P. Ricciardi's position right now is like sitting on top of the baseball GM world (At least for the moment. Considering the team is garbage and has no hopes of ever making it past the "road block" of the Red Sox and Yanks in the AL East, his short-reigned supremacy and hype will all come to an end after the deadline, where he will basically disappear). However, the guy is playing his cards so, so, so right. By setting a deadline, he is not only giving himself a cushion for teams that are entering the negotiations late but he is also giving himself plenty of time to completely seal any deal that might come up, which some teams fail to do after the deadline looms closer and closer. Additionally, by publicly stating that it "won't be likely" that Halladay will be traded, he further grips his leverage over the situation as well as saying that if Halladay wasn't moved, it wouldn't be a big deal and they would be happy to keep him another year until he comes off the books.

Still, Riccardi has to stop playing tough at some point. Why keep Halladay for another year if your team is not even a contender anyway? Might as well dump him off now and get solid prospects for the farm and future. At some point though, the Blue Jays might receive a "rape" offer from a team like the Phillies. Although they haven't been caught in the trap yet, it seemingly is going in that direction. That is what Riccardi is sitting on, like a lion observing its prey, waiting for a mistake to then go in for the kill. The next few days should be very, very interesting. Teams, like the Phillies, whose starting rotation really needs a fix especially for the playoffs (although recent play has demonstrated they can very well win without) will be looking to acquire this stud ace. You virtually never see a guy of this caliber and talent (starting pitcher) getting dangled the way Halladay is right now. Somebody WILL take advantage, yet get robbed in the process. C'est la vie.

NBA Draft 2008: Revisited and Re-ranked!

2009-07-26T20:45:00.000-07:00

By: Chris

As this year's draft class are finishing up contracts and summer league play.. predictions are already being thrown around. What stats will Griffin put up? Will Thabeet be an impact player down low? Will young Jrue Holliday play significant minutes for the 76ers? All of these questions can only be answered at the end of the season. In fact, evaluating NBA talent is quite difficult, hence the number of rather frequent busts seen in the first round, many times in the lottery picks. This small article will do the easy thing: evaluating talent after a year's play and re-ranking how the draft "should have been" if you would. As the saying goes.. hindsight is 20/20. Here we go...

1. Chicago Bulls PG - Derrick Rose (NBA Draft 2008 Pick #1)

This one is pretty obvious. Aside from the fact that I have a notorious man crush on Rose, he really was able to produce right away from the start of the season and his career. Averaging a nice combination of 17 ppg and 6 dimes, the Bulls have found their future PG, a position that is so crucial to a team's success. He proved to be a big leader too, in addition to showing streaks of clutch play in the playoffs (his playoff ppg average increased to 19) which vaulted him not only to the top rookie spot of the '08 class, but also an elite and respected player in the league (albeit no Wade or Kobe yet). The guy can score at will, isn't afraid to take it to the hole, unselfishly dishes the ball, and can play D (The block on Andre Miller, anyone?)

2. New Jersey Nets PF/C - Brook Lopez (2008 NBA Draft Pick #10)

The Nets really found a "diamond in the rough" as Lopez miraculously dropped to number 10 in the draft. Brook is a rare breed that some teams are desperately in need of (76ers for one): A big 7 footer that can bang down low. His 13 point and 8.1 rebound average in his rookie campaign, paired with a staggering 1.8 blocks, set Lopez far apart from the other big men. Great shooting percentages from the field and the line make this guy truly a rare combination from all aspects!

3. Orlando Magic SG - Courtney Lee (2008 NBA Draft Pick # 22)

This pick easily qualifies as one of the top steals of the draft in which the Orlando Magic were able to pick NBA-ready talent even past the lottery picks. Lee's great value was measured well when he was a core piece in a blockbuster deal that made Christmas come early for the Magic in acquiring All-Star guard Vince Carter. Lee is a stud perimeter defender and has a nicely-rounded offensive game as well, including a solid three point stroke. In the playoffs, he eventually earned a starting job and was able to "show off" his skills, where his stock seemed to gain immensely. Now, the Magic have cashed in, opting for the (in their mind) better "Win Now" option in Carter.

4. Memphis Grizzlies SG - O.J. Mayo (2008 NBA Draft Pick # 3)

Anytime a rookie comes out of the draft and lights up opposing teams for almost 19 points per game, they deserve a spot in the top 5 in these rankings. Mayo, although nothing special on the defense end, lead the rookies in points per game and shot almost two three pointers a game. He was an offensive juggernaut, much like teams expected him to be coming out of USC's system, and is at least one of the bright spots going forward for the Grizz franchise.

5. Miami Heat SF - Michael Beasley (2008 NBA Draft Pick #2)

Although Beasley disappointed early on, which included his lack-luster play resulting in his virtually permanent demotion to the bench for the season, he still was able to make up in the latter half and playoffs. Obviously the expectations were set extremely high during the Rose vs. Beasley draft rivalry, and they were shattered after Beasley, frankly said, sucked and Rose flourished. Still, the guy has talent, put up a good amount of points and boards, to go along with the occasional three and solid shooting percentages. On my board, he drops to 5.

So, that wraps up the Top 5. As said before.. hindsight is ALWAYS 20/20 making it quite easy to look back and call some draft picks absolute crap or others amazing steals. Either way, the 08 Draft went as predicted (well.. maybe not for Lopez dropping that far) and teams really can't get criticized by drunk-sounding fans that get on local sports radio shows to scream about draft picks. Drop the bottle, get off the couch, and try to scout some NBA-ready talent first.

Media Silence for Big Ben

2009-07-26T18:54:00.001-07:00

By: Matt

The sports world was shocked this past week when Ben Roethlisberger, quarterback of the reigning Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers, was accused of rape. What is even more shocking than the accusations is that ESPN, by far the largest broadcaster of sports television, has chosen to provide minimum coverage of the story. The charges themselves come as a surprise. Roethlisberger has had no reputation for poor behavior off of the field, he has never been involved in anything criminal since being drafted 11^th overall in 2004. The only controversy about Roethlisberger stemmed from a motorcycle accident in 2006 in which the only victim was Roethlisberger himself. The controversy was about whether an NFL quarterback should ride a motorcycle. Roethlisberger has addressed the media and has stated that the charges are “reckless and false.” Given Roethlisberger’s lack of a prior record and clean reputation it would come as a major shock if the allegations are proven true; however, the actions of ESPN with regard to the coverage of the allegations will likely prove more lasting.

While the charges against Roethlisberger may not be true, they are undeniably an important news story. The fact that there has been no investigation into the charges is irrelevant, in the past NBA superstar Kobe Bryant faced similar charges and became a fixture in ESPN’s “the lead.” Football fans and supporters of an open media alike have been left asking why as the most popular figure in sports media has ignored the story. No clear reason has been given for why ESPN is protecting Roethlisberger, but it would not be a far reach to assume that there is a racial component. To call ESPN racist would be an unfair claim; however it is hard to say they don’t see color when Michael Vick coming home was a major news story for 4 days, Steve McNair’s blood-alcohol level at the time of his murder was reported within hours, and Kobe Bryant’s rape charges were scrutinized for months while Roethlisberger is given a pardon.

Ultimately, ESPN’s actions have made a rape accusation into a media behavior controversy. Hopefully, the charges against Roethlisberger, who will likely remain a dominant starting quarterback for the next 10 years, will be proven false and the issue at the heart of this article will fade away. What people will remember about this incident will likely not be the real story, but the way the ESPN decided to reverse their normal course of action and protect the reputation of the young Steeler. There may be a valid and acceptable reason for ESPN’s questionable actions, but until anyone hears it, questions about the network’s integrity will remain.

Nothing Lasts Forever

2009-07-19T18:10:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

Growing up as a basketball lover in the greater Philadelphia area during the mid 90’s I had the privilege of being able to watch Allen Iverson throughout the duration of his 76ers tenure and his prime. Iverson, the #1 overall pick in the legendary 1996 NBA Draft, was an immediate star in Philadelphia. Despite his small size, 6’0” 165lbs, Iverson was a stud; he was faster, more agile, and tougher than anyone else. Throughout the first 8 years of his career Iverson was one of the most feared scoring threats in the NBA, he averaged over 30 points and could score both from the 3 point line and on a fast break. Iverson took hits, went to the foul line, won over the hearts of fans despite a “bad-boy” reputation, and carried a 76ers team made up of mediocre role-players to the NBA Finals. As a little boy, it was hard to imagine that Iverson would ever fade, in a decade with the Sixers he never lost a step, defenders never learned how to counter his cross-over dribble (a move Iverson perfected), and he never stopped competing. Iverson was also an ironman, he played hurt and rarely was able to be hurt badly enough that he had to sit. One year Iverson suffered a wrist injury that was supposed to sideline him for a month, the Sixers started to lose and he was back after only a week. Pound-for-pound, Allen Iverson was the toughest athlete in sports and when he left Philadelphia I realized that I would never see another player like AI again. I also believed that Iverson would remain an elite NBA player for the better part of the next 10 years.

I was wrong. After becoming league MVP and one of the most feared players in basketball over 10 years with the Sixers, in just 3 years since leaving Iverson has faded. Iverson no longer has the lightning quickness he possessed while in Philadelphia, defenders have learned how to prevent his drive, and AI’s inability to make jumpers at will has left him a shell of his former self. While Philadelphians will always love AI, it seems that the man who once carried a franchise cannot find one that wants him. Like Raef LaFrentz before him Iverson became an expiring contract, and after that deal ended AI was left as an over-the-hill free agent. Detroit wouldn’t start him, Iverson wouldn’t come off the bench, and now he might retire. Today, Iverson is left trying to decide whether to sign with the lowly Los Angeles Clippers or equally bad Memphis Grizzlies as a potential starter, with Dwayne Wade’s Miami Heat as a 6^th man, or to retire after an esteemed 13 year career.

Long after winning NBA MVP honors Allen Iverson is, much like Karl Malone and Gary Payton, as a veteran player trying to win a Championship before his time runs out. Last time he was seen on the court Iverson had lost his iron-man reputation, he had lost his speed, and he had even lost his well recognized number 3. Sadly, it seems that Iverson will not be able to reach the ultimate stage again, and he, like Karl Malone, will retire without a ring; however, Iverson’s legacy will still be great, he brought respect back to the 76ers, revolutionized the fast break, and brought a new swagger to the NBA. For 76ers fans, the image of Iverson with his hand to his ear will live forever, and regardless of how his career ends, his accomplishments will land him in the Hall of Fame and in the hearts of Philadelphians as well.

Vick's Reputation Will Follow Him

2009-07-18T19:54:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

With Mike Vick's 2 month house arrest ending this monday (July 20th) much speculation is being made about his future playing football in the NFL or even at all. Overall, Vick has lost 2 years of NFL football and most of his fortune. But is that really enough?

When you consider what he did, bankrolled, and allowed to happen on his property, you can't help but cringe at the grisly details. Stories of dogs being hung by their necks because they didn't "perform" well in the ring. Dogs being slammed to the ground until the last breath is crushed out of him. But no, he didn't stop there, he even drowned the dogs by holding them underwater s they struggled for breath under his hands. Dogs being wet down with hoses and being electrocuted to death. All while Vick either sat by and watched or even participated. Not only did Vick assist in the brutal killings of the dogs outside the rings, but he undoubtedly assisted in the countless deaths of dogs inside the dog fighting rings by providing a place for the fights to take place and funding the operation.

All of this brings the question: Does a human being like this deserve the privilege of playing in the NFL? No, a truly sick and disturbed man like Mike Vick who can watch innocent dogs, who were sometimes stolen from neighborhood families, fight to the death and somehow get enjoyment or entertainment out of it certainly does not deserve a second chance, especially on such a big stage like the NFL. Because playing in the NFL is a privilege, not a right.

Some people may argue that "Mike Vick payed his debt to society, give him a second chance", well somehow they are missing how twisted and disturbed the man is. True, he did pay his debt to society, and I have no problem with him being released to do whatever he wants as a normal citizen, but to allow such a man like Mike Vick in the league is a disgrace. Believe me, I am one of the biggest Jaguars fans out there, my room is painted teal, I have Jaguars band aids, and much more, but if they were to somehow sign Vick, I'd go to Home depot the day of the announcement and paint my room any other color. I'm sure i'm not alone too, there are many groups who have written letters to Goodell and many others who will protest any team who signs him. Vick will obviously be a Public Relations nightmare as Americans own a total of 73 million dogs and you bet a good percentage of their owners are NFL fans who cannot imagine their precious dog being drowned, electrocuted, beat to death, or hung, much less in a dog fight, ending up like this:

(WARNING- Graphic Content: http://www.jollybengali.net/theconfluence/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/gypsy.jpg). Any team that signs Vick is playing with fire because they are guaranteed to lose many season ticket holders who simply will not support a person like Mike Vick.

Graham Harrell Left Out In The Cold

2009-07-18T12:47:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

The star of the Texas vs. Texas Tech upset this year was forced to sign a 2 year deal with the already QB heavy Saskatchewan RoughRiders, who have 4 more quarterbacks under contract. Harrell, who became the first QB in college history to throw for 5,000 yards in consecutive seasons reportedly had many offers from the upstart UFL, but declined due to a close relationship with a kick returner who already plays for the RoughRiders. Harrell's career numbers at Texas Tech leave some wondering why he wasn't drafted and how he only worked out for one NFL team at mini-camps. The one reason they all cite is arm strength. However, if you look at game tape from any of his college games, to the naked eye, there seems to be no deficiency at all. But then again, I'm not an NFL scout.

In my opinion, Harrell would have been the wisest to accept a contract from the UFL and go where he'll have starting time and an American audience who already know him and respect him. Not only would this be better for him as an NFL prospect, but it would just be one more reason that people would tune into the new league and watch a few games. With that and the connection that supposedly is between the UFL and the NFL, Harrell could easily have a backup job depending on his performance. We can only think of a very slim group of players who have successfully come from the CFL to play in the NFL, leaving Harrell a big challenge in front of him if he indeed wants to someday be an NFL QB.

Phillies Add Pedro to Fix Pitching Woes

2009-07-13T20:18:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

The reigning World Series Champion Phillies have struggled throughout this year. While they did win 9 of their last 10 games going into the all-star break, they slumped through the month of June and leadoff hitter Jimmy Rollins got off to the worst start of his career. While injuries and the Rollins’ struggles have hurt the Phillies, the biggest problem has been the Starting Rotation. Brett Myers, the Phillies #2 starter went down early with a hip injury and, IF he recovers, the soonest he could be available is September. Cole Hamels has also struggled; the 25-year-old southpaw was arguably the best pitcher in baseball at the end of last year. He was named both World Series and NLCS MVP, he won his last 3 starts (all of which were in the playoffs) and at times was simply un-hittable. After being penciled in as the opening day starter Hamels suffered a minor elbow injury and missed the first few games of the season. Even when he has played, Hamels has been inconsistent. After winning 15 games in 2007 and 14 last year Hamels has only 5 wins going into the All-Star break this year, he has lost games where he only gave up 2 runs, but he has also been roughed up, particularly when he gave up 5 runs in two innings in his final start before the All-Star break. Ultimately, Hamels has a 4.87 era and a .500 record, numbers that hardly back the title of staff ace Hamels seemed to have earned during the post-season. The injury to Myers, and to his young and inconsistent replacement Antonio Bastardo, and the underwhelming play of Hamels leaves the Phillies starters with a 5.03 era, ranked last in the NL. Clearly, something needs to be changed.

The change that Phillies fans are clamoring for is a trade for Roy Halladay. Halladay has been, arguably, the best pitcher in baseball over the last few years, he is going to start the All-Star game this year, and would easily become the staff ace and leading right hander in the Phillies rotation. The price for Halladay is high, the Jays would definitely want a highly valued player like young starter J.A. Happ, top pitching prospect Kyle Drabek, or young outfielder Michael Taylor. A package for Halladay would likely hurt the Phillies long-term future, but the best offensive team in baseball could potentially be a dynasty over the next 3-4 years with a pitcher like Halladay at the top of the rotation. If Cole Hamels ever returns to form, the Phillies could have the best 1-2 punch in all of baseball, however, the dream situation seems unlikely. Phillies GM Reuben Amaro Jr. feels that the cost for Halladay is too high, and the likelihood of a trade for the highly touted pitcher is looking like a lost opportunity. While Halladay may remain a Jay, the Phillies have made a move, they signed veteran right-hander Pedro Martinez.

Pedro, most recently seen as a member of the New York Mets, ironically the Phillies hated division rival, is not the pitcher he once was. In the late 90’s and early 2000’s Martinez was one of the best power pitchers in baseball, now he has a mid 80’s fastball, but he has produced results. Clearly, the 37 year old Pedro is not a long-term solution, but signing Martinez to the reported 1 year, $4 million deal makes a lot of sense for the Phillies. Martinez is no longer an elite pitcher, he does not have his great power, and he has lost some of his ability to generate K’s at will, but he is still Pedro Martinez. Despite his advanced age, Pedro could stabilize a Phillies rotation that has been anything but stable in 2009, and his experience and control could make him an effective pitcher for the Phillies. Pedro won’t be the rotation, but if Cole Hamels gets under control and Jaime Moyer and Joe Blanton pitch effectively, the Phillies starting pitching will not be the problem it has been so far in 2009. The other advantage to signing Martinez is that it is a 0 risk move, the Phillies lose no players, and in the worst case would simply cut the pitcher. Martinez will take a physical in Philadelphia on Tuesday; however, the team has scouted the pitcher twice in the Dominican Republic already, making Tuesday’s visit a formality. Nobody can know if adding Pedro will help the Phillies, but change is good and adding a future hall-of-famer can never hurt.

Fan Vote: Yay or Nay?

2009-07-11T17:44:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

They do it in every sport and we all vote, but is it best for the game?

Every year, the "experts" come out with their "snub list" after the all-star game, which is usually a list of deserving players who were left out of the all-star game because of the biased fans who wanted their team's players in the game. This kind of fan involvement is particularly detrimental to players of small market teams who have a smaller fanbase and cannot compete with markets like New York, Los Angeles, or Dallas.

This year we got a good taste of this when the Philadelphia fans voted OF Shane Victorino into the game over San Francisco's Pablo Sandoval. Sandoval is hitting .331 and carrying the Giants this year offensively, while Victorino is hitting only .314 and serving as number two batter for the Phillies. Not only does Sandoval have a better batting average, but he also has 8 more HRs and 11 more RBIs.This is definitely not the first time something like this has happened. Last year's NFL Pro Bowl had Brett Favre make the Pro Bowl over Phillip Rivers who had 4 more TDs and 6 less INTs than Favre. Once again showing that a major market like New York can "out-vote" one like San Diego.

Because of this flawed system, many deserving players that play in smaller markets don't get the recognition they deserve. The only way to fix this is to either have the fan vote count significantly less or just let writers vote for everything.

Top 10 NFL Receiving Corps

2009-07-09T15:07:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

1. Arizona Cardinals- No doubt here, Larry Fitzgerald has established himself as the best WR in the game, and then you add in Anquan Boldin AND Seteve Breaston, (all 3 were 1,000 yd receivers) and you have a truly complete WR corps that strikes fear into every teams defense.

2. New England Patriots- Again, the easy pick is the Patriots. Randy Moss is likely a future HOFer and Wes Welker is a constant 1,000 yard receiver. These two make this choice a no brainer especially with Brady coming back. We all know his accord with Moss.

3. Carolina Panthers- When you think Carolina Panthers, you think of Steve Smith, but not many people realize how well Muhsin Muhammad succeeded with Delhomme at the helms. The 2 time pro bowl WR had a astounding 923 yards and 5 TDs last year. He did all this with Steve Smith ahead of him taking most of the receptions and a very strong running game.

4. Denver Broncos- The Broncos come in 4th just behind the Panthers with the pairing of Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal. Marshall was dominating at times and invisible at others. This combined with his tendency to fumble dropped the Broncos to 4th even with Rookie Eddie Royal being 20 yards away from a 1,000 yard season. Add in Scheffler at TE and you have #4 in the rankings.

5. Green Bay Packers- This underrated group comes in at #5 with two 1,000 yard receivers in Jennings and Driver. Aaron Rodgers was wildly successful last year thanks to the development of Jennings and the reliability of Driver, not to mention the emergence of Jordy Nelson, as a surprise receiver who chipped in 400 yards and 2 TDs

6. Buffalo Bills- The Bills surprised everyone by signing T.O. to a contract in the off-season, and it lands them in #6. The combination of Lee Evans, T.O. and Josh Reed asa slot receiver is hard to deny a place in the top 5, but they just missed it. If Trent Edwards becomes a legitimate QB, this group could definitely rise by the end of next year.

7.Houston Texans- They do have a dynamic duo of WR and TE in the Andre Johnson and TE Owen Daniels who shockingly had 862 yards and 2 TDs. However, Kevin Walter is what puts this team so high on the list as he had 900 yards and 8 TDs last year on a team with a disfunctional QB rotating door between Sage Rosenfels and Matt Schaub.

8. Atlanta Falcons- Once again, an off-season addition vaults a team into the top ten. Tony Gonzalez is a key receiver that Matt Ryan will know he can throw to on 3rd down if he gets in trouble. Add him to Roddy White, who has put up back to back very impressive seasons, and you have a very dangerous pairing who will definitely wreak havoc on opposing defenses. Last but not least, Mike Jenkins is not a bad 2nd receiver to compliment Gonzalez and White.

9. Pittsburgh Steelers- The reigning Champs have reason to be excited again next year as they fall into the rankings at #9. When you have both Santonio Holmes, who makes catch after catch and gets a lot of YAC, and the timeless Hines Ward, the top 10 is no stretch for you. When you throw in TE Heath Miller too, this teams corps gets even scarier.

10. San Diego Chargers- The Chargers have a very well balanced receiving corps led by Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates. These players give Phillip Rivers many options on each play, and if some how they're both covered, Chris Chambers and Malcom Floyd probably aren't. Even though Chambers hasn't performed to the expectations of when they traded him, he's a good 3rd WR.

Nike’s Censorship: Will it work?

2009-07-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

LeBron James has been the most famous and noted player in the NBA since the day he was drafted, and possibly even before then. James, once a high school kid with tremendous talent, has lived up to his pre-draft hype, becoming one of the best players in basketball. The reigning MVP has become a media darling, any time he says the word 2010 an alarm goes off in sports news stations around the country, puppets were made in his honor and he has his own line of shoes. James can do no wrong; he talks about leaving his team in a free agency two years away, argues with future Hall of Famer Charles Barkley about the appropriateness of his actions, and now is un-prohibited from getting posterized in public. At a skills academy hosted by King James in Akron Ohio this Monday, basketball Jesus himself got dunked on, by Jordan Crawford, a college guard from Xavier. Nike, to prevent potential damage to James’ reputation as the greatest athlete in basketball, confiscated all tapes of the dunk and has prevented the footage from being seen. While Nike has successfully prevented the world from seeing James get dunked on, will their China-esque censorship prevent the star from being humiliated? It is hard to imagine that the tape would be even remotely comparable to a classic Shawn Bradley posterization video. Kobe has been dunked on before, Shaq flopped against Dwight Howard, Michael Jordan whiffed a dunk in an All-Star game, but somehow all of these star’s reputations were preserved without Nike being there to prevent the world from seeing their less-than-shining moments. It is hardly unfair to say that LeBron James’ reputation and marketability would be completely unaffected by allowing the world to see the video. What Nike has accomplished with their disappearing act is outrage the basketball loving public. The public’s imagination likely has created a much worse image of James being dunked on than the true event was, and now the whole world is talking about one minor incident in a skills academy that counts for nothing in the Basketball world. Earlier today Jordan Crawford received a segment on Sports Center, countless articles have been written, and now instead of blowing over quickly, the censorship incident has become a black mark on LeBron’s permanent record. Congratulations Nike, I hope you accomplished what you set out to do.

Athletes Mourning of Michael Jackson a Real "Thriller"

2009-07-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, died late last month in a hospital in Los Angeles. Jackson’s death was shocking and unexpected, the 50 year old gained fame early in life as a member of The Jackson 5. As a solo act Jackson was one of the most successful musicians of all time, but later in life his true colors showed (and also faded). In 1984 Jackson had the first of countless plastic surgeries that left his face disfigured in a multitude of ways, his skin faded as a result of vidaligo, and he was revealed to be a child molester and general pedophile. Horror stories of Jackson’s Neverland Ranch and Jesus juice came out. The former world famous musician became a literal freak, a should-be social pariah whose former fame prevented him from receiving the unacceptable status he should have had. Jackson’s passing was a shock, but the emotion and affection shown for him in death is completely undeserved. One must wonder what is wrong with society when Michael Vick is hated for his vicious actions against dogs, Barack Obama is criticized by PETA for swatting a fly, but Michael Jackson is beloved despite traumatizing multiple children. The relation to sports comes because many athletes have joined the rest of society in showing respects for a man undeserving of respect. Many athletes twittered about their feelings, and Ron Artest has chosen to wear #37 in honor of the number of weeks Thriller topped sales charts. Athletes, as with all other celebrity figures, have failed to mention the crimes of Jackson, and have remembered him only for his musical prowess. As people seen in the social mainstream, athletes have an ability to criticize the horrible actions of Jackson, but have instead chose to celebrate the child-molesting musician. I am not going to lie, I enjoy Jackson’s music and was even looking forward to hearing what he has prepared for his new tour, but I also understand that Michael Jackson was not a good or sane person, and that he is not someone deserving of the respect or honor he has received over the last few weeks. Ultimately, this is a minor issue that will soon be irrelevant, but you have to wonder, when OJ Simpson dies someday would the NFL running back discussing the inspiration they received from The Juice be able to get away without criticism?

Pistons Bail on Curry, and Avery Johnson too?

2009-07-08T12:43:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

Last week the Detroit Pistons fired rookie Head Coach Michael Curry. Under Curry the Pistons earned a playoff berth as the 7^th seed in a week Eastern Conference and were quickly blown out by the best team in the regular season, the Cleveland Cavaliers. While one might think that firing a Head Coach who took his team to the playoffs is harsh, Curry’s reign as the headman in Detroit was hardly a success. Over the last 10 years the Pistons have been a perennial championship contender and NBA powerhouse. Under Curry, that began to end, former Center Ben Wallace was let go after the 2005-06 season, but Wallace has hardly been an NBA since leaving Detroit. The real end to the Pistons ‘dynasty’ came when team point guard Chauncy Billups was traded for Allen Iverson midway through this season. By making the Iverson deal the Pistons got an elite scorer; however, the loss of Billups proved critical. Without one of the best true point guards running their offense the Pistons became inefficient, and Iverson, for the first time in his career, was unable to stay healthy. Curry was forced to decide whether or not to start Iverson, and in the process made an enemy of longtime team swingman Rip Hamilton. The Pistons further fell apart when they made the process of setting a starting line-up a long and painful one, and the trade for Iverson transformed the Pistons from a competitor to another team trading talent for cash (in the form of an expiring contract) and no chance for glory. After the up and down season that only ended with a playoff appearance due to rampant injury and a lack of talent in the East, Head Coach Michael Curry was fired, but one is left to wonder as the Pistons search for their new Head Coach, why did they hire Curry in the first place.

Curry was a Pistons assistant coach, but over their extended run of excellence, the Pistons Head Coaches were Larry Brown and Flip Saunders, two veteran coaches who had proven their ability to win in the NBA. Curry, unlike his two predecessors, was unproven and naïve, and the results of his one season in charge were hardly unpredictable. To replace Curry, the Pistons have selected John Keuster, an assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers and formerly with the Pistons. While Keuster has been a coach on two successful teams, Michael Curry also had a good pedigree, but his one-year could be described as disastrous. Keuster may be successful, but with Avery Johnson available for hire and apparently willing to come to Detroit, passing on the proven coach is, to say the least, a questionable decision.

With the recent additions of Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva the Pistons appear geared for success, and while Keuster could potentially turn talent into results, his lack experience as an NBA Head Coach will cost the Pistons a few games this year. I hope that the Pistons are successful if for no other reason than the fact that Detroit needs something to be proud of. That being said, it is hard to understand what the Detroit front office is thinking. Insanity has been defined as “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” That is exactly what the Pistons are doing by hiring Keuster just one year after hiring Michael Curry, another former Pistons assistant. It’s hard to imagine that the Pistons will return to Championship form, but sometimes in sports the seemingly insane decision turns out to be the best one.

Top Rookie RB's: Good Fantasy Picks or Not?

2009-07-06T13:39:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

As fantasy Football is already being offered on Yahoo! (with free Stattracker), now is a good time to begin to take a look at the new additions to the most important position on your roster: the RB's. As evidenced by last years crop of Steve Slaton, Chris Johnson, and Matt Forte, rookie RBs can have an impact on fantasy teams, and in a big way. This year we have a crop of RBs that could or could not hold up the standard set by last years trio. As we go pick by pick from this years draft, we'll give your our "expert" opinion on wether or not to pick up each player in your draft this year.

Knowshon Moreno - Denver Broncos

This back is definitely worth a shot this year as the Broncos will likely switch to a more conservative offense since Cutler is now in Chicago and Orton is not as good a passer. With fewer passes comes more runs and that is gold for fantasy owners who have this RB. He will undoubtedly be the starting RB come September and he will likely not have to share very many carries even though the team signed FAs Correll Buckhalter and LaMont Jordan, both career journeymen. Moreno will get all the goal line carries and 3rd down plays as he is also a threat in the passing game as well.

Donald Brown - Indianapolis Colts

Brown, who rushed consistently for more than 2,000 yards at UConn, will not have the same success this year in Indy. Not even close. Brown was drafted by the Colts as a compliment to Joesph Addai and nothing more. That usually spells trouble for fantasy owners, and this case is no different. Also, being on the Colts, Brown will likely block for a good portion of his game time since the Colts love to throw the ball so much. Brown may be a nice back to have in DEEP leagues, but bot in any other situation.

Chris "Beanie" Wells - Arizona Cardinals

On most other teams, Wells would be a surprisingly good fantasy RB, but he's stuck on the Cardinals, who are obviously known for their daunting passing attack. On top of that, Wells will likely share carries with second year RB Tim Hightower, who will also get most of the 3rd down plays and goal line rushes since he has proved he has a good nose for the endzone and is also a much better receiver than Wells out of the back field. Wells is a better pick than Brown, but not by much.

LeSean McCoy - Philadelphia Eagles

McCoy is probably the 2nd best rookie RB to take in this years fantasy drafts despite the man in front of him being Brian Westbrook. Westbrook has been the sole workhorse for the Eagles for a long time and is now on his last legs. Therefore its only a matter of time before he goes down with another injury or gets a reduced amount of carries, which will then go to McCoy. Although the eagles do pass a lot, McCoy shows a lot of promise and will take advantage of the lack of men in the box because of McNabb's arm.

Shonn Greene - NY Jets

Greene was a surprising pick for a team that already had two quality backs in Thomas Jones and Leon Washington. This means Greene will not be a good fantasy pick at all even though his big stature might lead to some goal line carries and TDs. Overall, not a good pick at all and I wouldn't expect him to be drafted in any league unless you an only draft players with colors as last names.

Steve McNair Lost Far Too Soon

2009-07-05T18:01:00.001-07:00

By: Matt

Yesterday a true human tragedy occurred when recently retired Quarterback Steve McNair was found dead in Nashville. Over his NFL career McNair was one of the best players in football; he amassed 201 total touchdowns, 37 rushing and 174 passing, over 30,000 passing yards and 3,500 rushing yards, had a career 82.8 QB rating, and did it all in only 9 seasons with over 10 games played. McNair was statistically one of the best, and in 2003 not even the NFL could justify overlooking McNair to give Peyton Manning the MVP award, splitting the ultimate individual honor between the two quarterbacks. While McNair’s statistics are impressive, stats can never give the true picture of a professional athlete.

During the late 90’s McNair became the face of the Tennessee Titans during the very beginning of their existence. Because of the dominant and exciting play of the man known as Air McNair the transition from being the Houston Oilers to the Tennessee Titans was relatively quick and seamless. McNair, along with Donovan McNabb and Michael Vick, was a weapon at quarterback, a multi-faceted player who made defenses afraid (and use a spy). In 1999 McNair brought a franchise notes only for their unfulfilled promises and playoff losses within one yard of being Super Bowl champions. Over the rest of his career McNair became a playoff fixture, leading the Titans to multiple playoff berths and 10+ win seasons as well as leading the 2006 Ravens to a division best 13-3 record. In addition to being one of the most successful players of the early 2000’s Steve McNair was also one of the toughest players in NFL history, he played hurt, played without practicing, and played through injury and chronic pain. While McNair spent the better part of his career fighting against pain, injury ultimately forced the quarterback to retire following the 2007 season.

McNair’s death is truly shocking and saddening, he was a good player and a good man. McNair leaves behind a wife and four sons. May he rest in peace.

"Surprise/Sexy Picks" in the AFC

2009-07-04T22:39:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

(Disclaimer: Not my actual, serious picks, just for fun)

Every year there are the "sexy" picks like the Arizona Cardinals, who look like contenders every year, but before last year, have failed. These picks are usually not teams that are proven or have been contenders for a long time. My "Sexy Picks" or "Surprise Picks" for this year:

1. NY Jets (I love this defense with the addition of Bart Scott on top of the stellar Defense that it was last year. Mark Sanchez will have to come up big this year for this pick to come true, and I believe he can with the strong running game consisting of thomas Jones and Leon Washington.)

2. Baltimore Ravens (Flacco has a year under his belt and ca only get better from his season last year where he won 2 playoff games as a rookie. They shored up the line for Flacco by drafting Michael Oher and the Defense will always be in top shape with Ed Reed and Ray Lewis fueling the longtime staple of the Ravens)

3. Houston Texans (Schaub will stay healthy for once and come up big for the Texans who finally have a RB that can be effective to take a man off of coverage and open up the field even more for Andre Johnson. The defense should be amazing next year with the addition of Brian Cushing and the maturation of Mario Williams, not to mention DeMeco Ryans.)

4. KC Chiefs (Matt Cassell and Dwayne Bowe make for a deadly combination along with Larry Johnson in the backfield to give KC their best Offense in a while. The Defense will be improved with the evolvement of CB Brandon Flowers. How former teammates Tyson Jackson and Glenn Dorsey play will go a long way to how well this team does to shock the league)

5. Pittsburgh Steelers (Can't leave them out of the playoffs, they're the defending Super bowl champs)

6. Jacksonville Jaguars (The additions of Tra Thomas and Eugene Monroe are huge catalysts that will start their running game back up. Torry Holt gives the always mobile Garrard a reliable target for once, and the Defense will benefit from Derrick Harvey having a full training camp, which will take some pressure off of the CBs)

Can the Jets Back Up Their Coach’s Bark?

2009-07-03T23:48:00.000-07:00

By: Matt

Every year one team becomes a major story in the NFL; usually this team would be the Washington Redskins and their free agent flirtation or the Oakland Raiders and their need for speed. This year, New York’s other football team, the Jets, have quietly become that major off-season player. Early in the off-season the Jets fired quarterback Brett Favre, removing themselves from the drama of Favre’s to join or not to join dilemma with the Minnesota Vikings. The most notable Jet this off-season has not been the ageless quarterback, or any player in fact; the face of the Jets for 2009 has become 46-year-old rookie Head Coach Rex Ryan. Ryan, the brains behind last years Ravens defense, replaced former rising star Eric Mangini as the Jets head coach and quickly became a favorite among both fans and media outlets when he opened his mouth and proceeded to never stop talking.

The rookie coach began his public career when he put the New England Patriots, the early Super Bowl favorites and dynastic ‘big-dogs,’ on alert that the Jets were going to compete. Ryan then got into an argument with Channing Crowder, a linebacker for the division-rival Miami Dolphins. During their war of words Ryan even stated that he felt he could win in a physical brawl with the linebacker (given his ‘advanced’ age and somewhat plump physique] this is an unlikely outcome). Ryan’s flashy personality and willingness to be open with the media should come as a surprise to nobody, to find the roots for Ryan’s behavior one needs look no further than his father, Buddy Ryan. The elder Ryan gained fame as the defensive mastermind of the 1985 Chicago Bears and as Head Coach of the Philadelphia Eagles during their Gang Green era. Buddy Ryan would often badmouth other coaches, including those on his coaching staff, and do things that other were considered improper (for example: the Bounty Bowl, punching Kevin Gilbride, and his relationships with Bears Head Coach Mike Ditka and Eagles owner Norman Brahman). Given the controversial status of his father it would be surprising if the Jets new coach had NOT inherited some of his fathers … ‘uniqueness.’

What may surprise people is that the Jets have quietly made moves that could allow them to back up their coach’s big words. By adding former Pro-Bowl cornerback Lito Sheppard, safeties Jim Leonhard and Abram Elam, and linebacker Bart Scott the Jets have created great depth for their defense and have assembled enough pieces to create some of the complicated but successful defense run by Ryan with the Ravens in years past. The Jets defense has enough talent across the board that the general talent of the defensive group could overshadow their lack of a truly elite defensive player. The Jets have also found a potential franchise quarterback in 4^th overall selection Mark Sanchez. The USC quarterback comes from a system that has produced a number of NFL quarterbacks (the success of these men is more questionable) and Sanchez may be the most physically gifted of the group. Quarterback Brett Favre achieved some success, but his league high 22 interceptions were a big negative for a Jets offense that now features running backs Thomas Jones, Leon Washington, and Shonn Greene. If the Jets can find a quarterback who will make some plays and few mistakes (ironically, a fair description of a man they cut last year, Chad Pennington) than their running game could carry them to success. The AFC is a tough conference, and the AFC East is one of the best divisions in it, but if the Jets live up to their potential then they could find a way to sneak into the playoffs and start to live up to their coach’s big promises.

The UFL: Does it Have a Chance?

2009-07-03T21:22:00.000-07:00

By: Jake

You have to give Tim Armstrong and William Hambrecht some credit. They got this far with their successful draft, big name coaches, and established sites for their games, along with a deal with a National TV network for broadcasting their games. Versus Network has agreed to show all of the games for the new league with four teams stationed in: Las Vegas, NV, San Francisco, CA, Orlando, FL, and New York, NY. Their games will be played on Thursdays during the same season as the NFL, College Football, and High school Football, with the Championship being played the day after Thanksgiving.

As for the big name coaches I mentioned, they include former NFL coaches Denny Green, Jim Fassel, and Jim Haslett. Coaching the other team will be long time Defensive Coordinator Ted Cottrell. Not only are the coaching names big, but NFL players like Brooks Bollinger, JP Losman, BJ Sams, and LaBrandon Toefield will also be featured (Okay, not so much the players) But either way you can't miss players like Cecil Sapp and Chris Perry (Okay, maybe you can). However, in all seriousness, the UFL looks to make a name for itself by offering a contract to FA QB Mike Vick once the season starts, pending legal issues. Vick is not under contract for any NFL team, and if he receives a suspension form Commissioner Goodell, he might want to consider the Orlando team's offer as a way to get back into the groove as a football player after being removed form it for so long. Although none of the teams have names yet, I believe this league is worth watching for a game or two. I mean, what else is there to watch on Thursdays besides The Office?

Why I was Wrong About Stallworth

2009-07-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Stallworth better pray after what he did

By: Jake

Apparently I had a little too much faith in humanity as I just learned that Donte Stallworth tested positive for marijuana after he killed Mario Reyes as he was running to catch a bus around 7:15 in the morning. I stuck my neck out for him in my last article about this case saying 30 days was not as much of a travesty as some people were making it out to be, but now it makes me sick that he got away with this. I know people make mistakes and do drink and drive, but to not only have have drunk too much, but smoked some weed before hand adds a whole new dimension to the case. I have a personal vendetta against drugs of all types, so hearing that he was high, or had smoked within enough time that it showed up in his blood made me take back everything I said defending him before.

Thankfully, Stallworth's smoking will catch up with him as it will undoubtedly be taken into consideration when Commissioner Goodell dishes out his punishment which was already going to be likely at least 8 games. At this rate with all the superstars like Vick, Plaxico, Pacman, and Henry getting in trouble, Goodell will likely be especially harsh as it seems that his message isn't getting through to the players. All in all, I hope Stallworth doesn't pay this year and has a lot of time to think about what he did and all the damage he caused.

MLB "Young Guns " Offense of 2009: Future All-Star Team?

2009-06-29T22:38:00.000-07:00

By: Chris

Here is my take for the best collection of offensive players that are all aged 24 and under in the MLB. It will be interesting to see how these players turn out in the future and the prospect of them being studs vs. duds. (Note: This would also be a sick payroll team as most of these players are earning league minimum this year)

Catcher - Pablo Sandoval - (.340 AVG, .391 OBP, .965 OPS, 11 HRs, 38 RBIs, 33 Rs)

This coveted switch-hitting stud out of Venezuela has lived up to the hype and has really carried the rather offense-lacking San Francisco Giants lineup swinging a big stick so far this season. This guy looks to be a stud for years to come if he keeps up what he is doing so far.

1st Base - Chris Davis - (.209 AVG, .267 OBP, .707 OPS, 15 HRs, 31 RBIs, 31 Rs)

This was very tough as the young, 1st baseman stock was very low. Still, although Davis' average and on base numbers make you probably want to throw up that cheese burrito you just ate (it was in the fridge a few days), he still has immense potential and is considered by many to have an unlimited supply of power. His 15 HRs is not a bad start, yet one still has to take into consideration that he plays in Arlington. Still, this lefty-hitter starts at first for me.

2nd Base - B.J. Upton - (.249 AVG, .332 OBP, .715 OPS, 6 HRs, 50 Rs, 28 SB)

Yet again, 2nd basemen seemed to be in very low supply. Therefore I went with a bit of a cheap pick in choosing Upton, the clutch Tampa Bay Ray who has struggled a bit this season. Still, his speed on the base path and discipline at the plane makes this guy a clear pick (Note: I trust his ability to return defensively to 2nd base from Center Field)

Shortstop - Jed Lowrie - '08 (.258 AVG, .339 OBP, .739 OPS, 2 Hrs, 46 RBIs, 34 Rs)

Sure, this might seem like a big-time homer pick (as a matter of fact, it is), but there is some sense behind this pick. Even battling wrist pain last year (which hampered his stats a bit) Lowrie still put up respectable stats. It is this same injury that is keeping him out this season, by the way. Also, in 49 games at short he never made ONE error = great defense. Solid guy overall.

3rd Base - Evan Longoria (.306 AVG, .384 OBP, .959 OPS, 16 HRs, 63 RBIs)

No comment. I mean really, he is the best 3B in all of baseball right now so he is a lock for this team (he is only 23, unbelievable!). The sky is the limit for this kid, and I can only see him increasing exponentially in the next few years. He is a true pleasure to watch (this, coming from a Red Sox fan)

Left Field - Jeremy Hermida (.256 AVG, .355 OBP, .745 OPS, 8 HRs, 29 RBIs, 27 Rs)

Although 2009 has been a bit of an "off" season compared to the other two, Hermida is still showing that he has the power to put up around 18 homers in a season, even as he is struggling. His eye at the plate has actually improved so that is a good sign as well. Not exactly a Gold Glover in the field, yet is a serviceable defenseman. Adds a bit of pop to the lineup.

Center Field - Adam Jones (.309 AVG, .362 OBP, .878 OPS, 12 HRs, 44 RBIs, 50 Rs)

This guy has been one of the few, if not only, bright spots of the Orioles this season. His defense is absolutely filthy and he has proved that he can be more than apt at producing offensively. Combining both speed, power, and defense while keeping his batting eye and average in check, Jones is another MLB young gun looking at a bright future ahead.

Right Field - Justin Upton (.318 AVG, .399 OBP, .978 OPS, 14 HRs, 45 RBIs, 48 Rs, 10 SBs)

This guy has been coveted for a few years now, ever since he has been a 'spect early in the farm system. He is truly starting develop, even at the ridiculously young age of 21 he is doing it all. As you can see from the above stats, he gets on base, has power, has speed, and his defense is good as well. Overall, a great 5-tool player that looks to further flourish into a top-tier player in the MLB.

Designated Hitter - Denard Span (.280 AVG, .374 OBP, .751 OPS, 4 HRs, 24 RBIs, 40 Rs, 12 SBs)

This guy is great in the leadoff spot for the Twins as he has an amazing eye and can get on base. Once on-base, he is a threat on the base path as well which makes him an overall solid pick for this team, in addition to the above-average defense he plays after inheriting the position from Torii Hunter, although it is not up to par with that of Adam Jones.

The Lineup....

1. Denard Span (DH)

2. Adam Jones (CF)

3. Justin Upton (RF)

4. Evan Longoria (3B)

5. Pablo Sandoval (C)

6. BJ Upton (2B)

7. Jeremy Hermida(LF)

8. Chris Davis (1B)

9. Jed Lowrie (SS)

Wow.

NL Division Capsules

2009-06-25T22:24:00.000-07:00

by: Jake

NL West

Los Angeles Dodgers
San Francisco Giants
Colorado Rockies
San Diego Padres
Arizona D-Backs

The surprise here is obviously the San Francisco Giants as they sit a distant 7 games back from the NL Leading Dodgers, but as of today (June 25) they hold the Wild card spot. The team has definitely flew under the radar as they have been getting stellar pitching from both Matt Cain and last years Cy Young, Tim Lincecum. Cain leads the team with a 9-1 Record and is surprisingly in Cy young contention himself, as he sports a 2.28 ERA with 76 Ks on the season. The pitching has not been the only surprise for the Giants as Aaron Rowand has kept up to his usual standards of a .300 avg with 8 HR while 3^rd baseman Pablo Sandoval is leading the team with a .335 avg and chipped in another 8 HR and 35 RBIs. While the Dodgers will run away with this division barring a gigantic collapse, the giants should be there in the end in strong contention for a Wild card berth.

NL Central

St. Louis Cardinals
Milwaukee Brewers
Cincinnati Reds
Chicago Cubs
Houston Astros
Pittsburgh Pirates

It doesn’t get any better than Albert Pujols, and that is evidenced by the fact that the Cardinals are hovering in first place with minimal help in the lineup with the exception of Chris Duncan and Yadier Molina who have been chipping in their fair share of hitting and defensive play on top of that. Their pitching has been a pleasant surprise as Carpenter has successfully come back from his surgery and looks to have returned to his previous form. The Brewers who stand in 2^nd place, 1 game back of the Cardinals have been the opposite as they have been relying on the strong hitting of Prince Fielder, Ryan Braun, Mike Cameron, and Craig Counsell to keep them alive in the division. As you look further down in the division you see the Reds and Cubs who have both struggled with consistency in both hitting and pitching.

NL East

Philadelphia Phillies
New York Mets
Florida Marlins
Atlanta Braves
Washington Nationals

Atop the worst division in the NL sit the defending World Series champion Phillies who have struggled at times to say the least. SS Jimmy Rollins is causing havoc in the media in Philadelphia with his “sub-par” .211 avg, as Manuel continues to hit him in the leadoff spot. The pitching of the Phillies has also been less than stable as Cole Hamels has not preformed to his potential, Brett Myers was lost for the year, and Brad Lidge has been the exact opposite of who he was last year. The Mets have their share of problems too as they have gotten bit severely by the injury bug, which has caused them to fail to gain ground on the Phillies during their mid-season hardships. While the Marlins and Braves are not out of reach, they just don’t have the talent that the other teams have to have a shot at winning the division

Manny playing in the Minors: Fair/Unfair?

2009-06-25T21:30:00.000-07:00

By: Chris

Is it fair, or is it unfair that Manny Ramirez, currently under a 50-game suspension from the MLB for failing a drug test, is given the opportunity to start rehabbing in the minors before the suspension is over? In my opinion, the answer is a clear NO. To be frank, this guy is a flat out jack ass. After reading one of his quotes pre-game before his second rehab stint, this notion was just confirmed. He bluntly said, "People love me everywhere I go". Hey Manny, next time try to be a little more humble, please. Don't get me wrong, I loved him as a player and even personality (except his latter year[s] where things came crashing down) as a Red Sox player, but the fact is he is a cheater. In this day and age in baseball, I am doubting virtually every single power hitter in the league (Please, Pujols, tell me you're clean), and although this might seem ridiculous, some of my biggest baseball heros growing up, including Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa, are cheaters and for that I have very disappointingly lost all respect for them. There is no chance in hell any of them deserve a shot to in the hall...

Back to Manny: The fact is, I still don't think he has realized or learned from what has happened. He comes up with the same bull**** as all cheaters, stating that they had no clue what their doctors were giving them. In this case, Manny was taking a female fertility drug. Are you kidding me? Not only should that be embarrassing in and of itself, but additionally this drug has been linked as something to diminish side effects at the end of a steroid cycle. The fact is, Manny keeps on lying yet still acts as if he is king. Therefore, why should he be given the opportunity to get a head start on his suspension and be available right when it ends? Last time I checked, the minor leagues also had drug policies which he clearly has violated, and albeit that he was not a player playing in that league during the time he tested positive, there is no reason why he should be playing now. Bottom line: Serve out your suspension, then make your way back into the league. Selig, how are you letting this happen?