Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesThis Saturday the UCLA Bruins will try to avoid a major letdown when they host the Washington State Cougars.After starting the season 0-2, the Bruins have knocked off two Top 25 teams, including a major upset over then-No. 7 Texas last week.The Cougars come in on a Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
two-game losing streak and were crushed last week at home by USC 50-16.If you are thinking about betting on the game this weekend, the current college football odds have the Bruins favored by 27 points over the Cougars at home.Washington State (1-3, 0-1 Pac-10)The Cougars have not looked good at all to start the season. Outside of a 23-22 win over Montana State, the Cougars haveneven came close to pulling out a win. Last week against the Trojans the Cougars fell behind 28-13 by the end of the first half, and the game was all but over.Quarterback Jake Tuel is pretty much all the offense the Cougars have, as he threw for 222 yards and a touchdown and led the Cougars with 26 yards on the ground. Tuel, however, did have three interceptions in the game, including one that was returned 25 yards for a score.As bad as the offense has been this season, the defense has been even worse, as they canstop anyone from moving the football on them. Last week the Trojans piled up 613 yards of total offense and were an impressive 8-for-12 on third down conversions. The Cougars are allowing 43 points a game this season, and I think they are going to have a hard time keeping the Bruins offense under that this week.UCLA (2-2, 0-1 Pac-10)I am really impressed with the way head coach Rick Neuheisel has gotten his team to respond after a tough loss to open the season on the road against Kansas State and then being absolutely dominated by Stanford in Week 2, 35-0.The Bruins came back with an impressive 31-13 Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
win over a very good Houston team, and then last week they stunned everyone by going on the road and beating up on Texas 34-12.The Bruins look like they have the pistol formation all figured out, as they ran all over the Longhorns last week for 264 yards. Johnathan Franklin ran for 118 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries, Derrick Coleman added another 94 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries, and quarterback Kevin Prince added 50 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries.Price attempted just eight passes all game but completed five of them, including a one-yard pass to Ricky Marvray for the Bruins' first score of the game.The defense played lights out against the Longhorns, as they allowed just one touchdown late in the fourth quarter when the game was all but over. Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
The defense also forced five turnovers against Texas, and that proved to be the deciding factor in this game.Looking at the OddsNo question that 27 points is a lot to ask a team to cover, but as bad as Washington State is this season, I think the Bruins have no trouble winning this game by more than 30. Last year the Bruins went to Washington State and beat the Cougars 43-7, and I see no reason why they cando the same thing at home this weekend. My final score prediction is UCLA 44, Washington State 13.Interested in making some money this college football season? Check out what our expert college football handicappers have to offer in their weekly college football picks.
2011年1月22日星期六
22 Jan 11 Michigan Football's Plethora of Problems May Have Saved a Coaching Job
Michigan's run defense (Cameron Gordon, Jordan Kovacs) was a bright spot vs. NDJonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesNot long after Michigan barely escaped with a 42-37 win over Massachusetts, it was reported that ESPNMark May called for the ouster of defensive coordinator Greg Robinson.Sure it was a horrible defensiveSan Diego Chargers jersey
performance, especially since there were glimmers of hope during both the Connecticut and Notre Dame games.But donforget, head coach Rich Rodriguez has a ton of problems to deal with, starting with the NCAAinvestigations here and at West Virginia, the difficulty of getting some recruits in school, and the shoddy performances in last yearBig Ten campaign.In more stable years, a coaching change may have been in order.Some blame the defensive problems on defections, some on the system itself, but others see three coordinators in five years as the biggest problem. The loss of Brandon Graham to the NFL and Troy Woolfolk to injury didnhelp either.One thing is for sure: Both players and coaches have owned up to Saturdaydefensive dud. Sophomore linebacker Craig Roh didnmince words.We were terrible on defense, Roh told the Associated Press. We just didnlook like we were prepared to play, and we didnmake adjustments during the game.Granted, this is a young outfit. Consider this: If Michigan was to open next season with the group intact, 10 of the 11 starters San Francisco 49ers jersey
would be back. So without making outlandish changes, tweaking the system might do the trick. Many recommend just simplifying things.Everyone in the stadium can see the shocking coverage lapses in the secondary. Some of the problems are eerily similar to the blown assignments in last seasonIowa game.There are some pretty good athletes on the defense, and seeing them out of position is mystifying. The lack of tackling fundamentals is also puzzling.Coach Rodriguez can finally see his spread option offense clicking on (almost) all cylinders. He's also well aware that Michigan needs all phases of the team to produce if there is any hope for a postseason bowl game.Let's not pretend that were the 1985 Chicago Bears, Rodriguez told reporters after the game. There are a lot of things we need to clean up.Everyone is hoping for Seattle Seahawks jersey
a breather with Bowling Green Saturday so Michigan can not only work on the defense, but also on the offense and special teams. The Wolverines really havenshown much of a power game, but they did tease us in the Notre Dame victory when Stephen Hopkins followed William Campbell into the end zone for a one-yard touchdown.
performance, especially since there were glimmers of hope during both the Connecticut and Notre Dame games.But donforget, head coach Rich Rodriguez has a ton of problems to deal with, starting with the NCAAinvestigations here and at West Virginia, the difficulty of getting some recruits in school, and the shoddy performances in last yearBig Ten campaign.In more stable years, a coaching change may have been in order.Some blame the defensive problems on defections, some on the system itself, but others see three coordinators in five years as the biggest problem. The loss of Brandon Graham to the NFL and Troy Woolfolk to injury didnhelp either.One thing is for sure: Both players and coaches have owned up to Saturdaydefensive dud. Sophomore linebacker Craig Roh didnmince words.We were terrible on defense, Roh told the Associated Press. We just didnlook like we were prepared to play, and we didnmake adjustments during the game.Granted, this is a young outfit. Consider this: If Michigan was to open next season with the group intact, 10 of the 11 starters San Francisco 49ers jersey
would be back. So without making outlandish changes, tweaking the system might do the trick. Many recommend just simplifying things.Everyone in the stadium can see the shocking coverage lapses in the secondary. Some of the problems are eerily similar to the blown assignments in last seasonIowa game.There are some pretty good athletes on the defense, and seeing them out of position is mystifying. The lack of tackling fundamentals is also puzzling.Coach Rodriguez can finally see his spread option offense clicking on (almost) all cylinders. He's also well aware that Michigan needs all phases of the team to produce if there is any hope for a postseason bowl game.Let's not pretend that were the 1985 Chicago Bears, Rodriguez told reporters after the game. There are a lot of things we need to clean up.Everyone is hoping for Seattle Seahawks jersey
a breather with Bowling Green Saturday so Michigan can not only work on the defense, but also on the offense and special teams. The Wolverines really havenshown much of a power game, but they did tease us in the Notre Dame victory when Stephen Hopkins followed William Campbell into the end zone for a one-yard touchdown.
2011年1月18日星期二
18 Jan 11 ASU Football: Steven Threet Is the 'Gem' Dennis Erickson and Devil Fans Love
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesThe Monday before the 2010 season opener against Portland State, fans in the valley of the sun were awaiting Dennis Ericksonquarterback decision. Erickson tabbed Steven Threet, a transfer from Michigan, as his starting quarterback and leader of his new no huddle spread offense. Through Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
three games, including one on the road at one of the toughest environments, Steven Threet is the perfect man for the job. That is in no way a hit to back up Brock Osweiler, but Threet has been impressive, not just in terms of numbers, but also with the intangibles that normally go unnoticed. A field general has been desired in Tempe, Threet has command of this offense, and the ears of his troops on the field. The man in the spotlight has to voice the sentiment of his squad. Following the Wisconsin game, Threet expressed his opinion on the near upset versus the Badgers.I donbelieve in moral victories, he said. The Sun Devils played as good of a game as a team can without winning. Thatthe bottom line. ASU still lost, but Threetperformance was impressive, even without a touchdown to his name. In the past couple seasons, the Sun Deviloffense was pathetic to watch, and an intense struggle to score to say the least. Last Saturday against the Wisconsin Badgers, ASUformerly anemic offense pushed one of the Big Tenbest defensive units up and down the field. ASUexecution made the Badgers look like Portland Statedefense in the season opener. Big plays in the running game and audibles by the Threet at the line of scrimmage gave the Sun Devils the upper hand, but in the end it was not enough.I think we have a gem, Dennis Erickson said in regards to Threetperformance against Wisconsin. With yet another big game for ASU this weekend at Sun Devil Stadium, the job does not get any easier for the gem. The Oregon Ducks are the fifth ranked team in the country, and for good reason. Both the Ducks offensive and defensive units are ranked first in the country. Chip Kelly, Oregonhead coach, has engineered the Ducks offense to 189 points in 180 minutes of football.Pretty impressive. The Sun Devil defense is going to have a major test, but for the first time this season, Oregondefense will be tested. Oregon played Tennessee earlier this year, but the Volunteers were no match for the Duckexperienced defensive side. Matt Simms, Tennessee quarterback and son of former New York Giant great Phil Simms, was overwhelmed by the speed and effectiveness of Oregon, and could only manage a 51 percent completion percentage. Against a team as good as Oregon, a number that low will not get it done no matter what your last name is. Steven Threet essentially had his worst game in terms of statistics against Wisconsin, and to describe his effort as anything other than admirable would be silly. Threet completed 64 percent of his passes (21-of-33), for 211 yards and noReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
touchdowns. Sure the touchdowns were not there, but as the story has been, missed opportunities in the end zone were the downfall in Madison.Threet has a 144.80 QB rating on the year, and a number close to that or better is needed this Saturday night versus a team that will be deeply entrenched in BCS Championship talk come December. If the Sun Devils are going to have a shot, the game will be won and lost with the leader at quarterback. Another moral victory will do nothing for the Sun Devils heading into three tough road games. A 2-2 record will be all ASU has to show for their performances. It is time to win, and nobody knows that more than the two faces in the spotlight: Dennis Erickson on the sidelines and Steven Threet in the shotgun running the offense. Behind Threetarm, the offense will have to provide the fireworks to fight punch for punch with the Ducks. There is no doubt that this game is going to be entertaining. Even the ASU brass, Erickson included, has been pushing Sun Devil Nation to come out and fill Sun Devil Stadium. There is no doubt that the fans will get their moneyworth with these two teams playing. The Ducks can put up the points, and this season ASU has done much of the same. Both defenses are top notch, but ASU has struggled with Oregonoption in the past. Although the scores have been one-sided recently, with Oregon claiming the last five games. Arizona State has not beaten Oregon since Dirk Koetter and Andrew Walter were the faces of Sun Devil football. In 2002, Walter completed one of the greatest comebacks and single game performances in Pac-10 history.Do you think Threet will lead ASU to an upset of #5 Oregon?Do you think Threet will lead ASU to an upset of #5 Oregon?Yes46.7%No53.3%Total votes: 75Against the very same Oregon Ducks that ASU will face Saturday night, Walter threw for a school-record 536 yards and four touchdowns, and the Sun Devils rallied from a 21-0 second-quarter deficit to win 45-42. Walter did not just beat the Ducks that day in Autzen, but he managed to accomplish that same feat two more times to end his career perfect against Oregon (3-0). Threet is in a similar mold as Walter, and could be the major difference from a 4-8 team in 2009, and an upper echelon Pac-10 team in 2010. On Saturday night, the Sun Devils will put their team to the test against the best. Can Threet perform his best against the best? After Saturdayperformance at Wisconsin, Threet is in fact the difference for this yearASU team. Threet is the missing puzzle piece from a dismal 2009 team, and a team that was ranked ninth in the preseason poll. Nobody was sure if Threet could do the job, or even keep the job through the season. Three weeks into the season, ASU was back on the national scene last Saturday but came up short against Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
the number 11 team in the nation. Not too bad for a bottom of barrel Pac-10 team, right? ASU dropped another big game, and a loss is all the maroon and gold have to show for it. However, a similar opportunity is in front of them. This Saturday night at home, versus the Ducks is the perfect stage to prove to the naysayers what type of team Arizona State really is. Programs are built on statement games, and ASU has been on the short end of the stick on too many occasions. Steven Threet might just be that performer to make a big-time statement in a big-time game for the Sun Devils.
three games, including one on the road at one of the toughest environments, Steven Threet is the perfect man for the job. That is in no way a hit to back up Brock Osweiler, but Threet has been impressive, not just in terms of numbers, but also with the intangibles that normally go unnoticed. A field general has been desired in Tempe, Threet has command of this offense, and the ears of his troops on the field. The man in the spotlight has to voice the sentiment of his squad. Following the Wisconsin game, Threet expressed his opinion on the near upset versus the Badgers.I donbelieve in moral victories, he said. The Sun Devils played as good of a game as a team can without winning. Thatthe bottom line. ASU still lost, but Threetperformance was impressive, even without a touchdown to his name. In the past couple seasons, the Sun Deviloffense was pathetic to watch, and an intense struggle to score to say the least. Last Saturday against the Wisconsin Badgers, ASUformerly anemic offense pushed one of the Big Tenbest defensive units up and down the field. ASUexecution made the Badgers look like Portland Statedefense in the season opener. Big plays in the running game and audibles by the Threet at the line of scrimmage gave the Sun Devils the upper hand, but in the end it was not enough.I think we have a gem, Dennis Erickson said in regards to Threetperformance against Wisconsin. With yet another big game for ASU this weekend at Sun Devil Stadium, the job does not get any easier for the gem. The Oregon Ducks are the fifth ranked team in the country, and for good reason. Both the Ducks offensive and defensive units are ranked first in the country. Chip Kelly, Oregonhead coach, has engineered the Ducks offense to 189 points in 180 minutes of football.Pretty impressive. The Sun Devil defense is going to have a major test, but for the first time this season, Oregondefense will be tested. Oregon played Tennessee earlier this year, but the Volunteers were no match for the Duckexperienced defensive side. Matt Simms, Tennessee quarterback and son of former New York Giant great Phil Simms, was overwhelmed by the speed and effectiveness of Oregon, and could only manage a 51 percent completion percentage. Against a team as good as Oregon, a number that low will not get it done no matter what your last name is. Steven Threet essentially had his worst game in terms of statistics against Wisconsin, and to describe his effort as anything other than admirable would be silly. Threet completed 64 percent of his passes (21-of-33), for 211 yards and noReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
touchdowns. Sure the touchdowns were not there, but as the story has been, missed opportunities in the end zone were the downfall in Madison.Threet has a 144.80 QB rating on the year, and a number close to that or better is needed this Saturday night versus a team that will be deeply entrenched in BCS Championship talk come December. If the Sun Devils are going to have a shot, the game will be won and lost with the leader at quarterback. Another moral victory will do nothing for the Sun Devils heading into three tough road games. A 2-2 record will be all ASU has to show for their performances. It is time to win, and nobody knows that more than the two faces in the spotlight: Dennis Erickson on the sidelines and Steven Threet in the shotgun running the offense. Behind Threetarm, the offense will have to provide the fireworks to fight punch for punch with the Ducks. There is no doubt that this game is going to be entertaining. Even the ASU brass, Erickson included, has been pushing Sun Devil Nation to come out and fill Sun Devil Stadium. There is no doubt that the fans will get their moneyworth with these two teams playing. The Ducks can put up the points, and this season ASU has done much of the same. Both defenses are top notch, but ASU has struggled with Oregonoption in the past. Although the scores have been one-sided recently, with Oregon claiming the last five games. Arizona State has not beaten Oregon since Dirk Koetter and Andrew Walter were the faces of Sun Devil football. In 2002, Walter completed one of the greatest comebacks and single game performances in Pac-10 history.Do you think Threet will lead ASU to an upset of #5 Oregon?Do you think Threet will lead ASU to an upset of #5 Oregon?Yes46.7%No53.3%Total votes: 75Against the very same Oregon Ducks that ASU will face Saturday night, Walter threw for a school-record 536 yards and four touchdowns, and the Sun Devils rallied from a 21-0 second-quarter deficit to win 45-42. Walter did not just beat the Ducks that day in Autzen, but he managed to accomplish that same feat two more times to end his career perfect against Oregon (3-0). Threet is in a similar mold as Walter, and could be the major difference from a 4-8 team in 2009, and an upper echelon Pac-10 team in 2010. On Saturday night, the Sun Devils will put their team to the test against the best. Can Threet perform his best against the best? After Saturdayperformance at Wisconsin, Threet is in fact the difference for this yearASU team. Threet is the missing puzzle piece from a dismal 2009 team, and a team that was ranked ninth in the preseason poll. Nobody was sure if Threet could do the job, or even keep the job through the season. Three weeks into the season, ASU was back on the national scene last Saturday but came up short against Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
the number 11 team in the nation. Not too bad for a bottom of barrel Pac-10 team, right? ASU dropped another big game, and a loss is all the maroon and gold have to show for it. However, a similar opportunity is in front of them. This Saturday night at home, versus the Ducks is the perfect stage to prove to the naysayers what type of team Arizona State really is. Programs are built on statement games, and ASU has been on the short end of the stick on too many occasions. Steven Threet might just be that performer to make a big-time statement in a big-time game for the Sun Devils.
2011年1月15日星期六
15 Jan 11 "Rating the St. Louis Rams: Defensive Line" Leonard Little La'Roi Glover
The St. Louis Rams' 2006 defensive line was the flash point for the team's season-long aversion to defense and is the culprit most directly responsible for the unit's two greatest weaknesses: stopping the run and putting pressure (or in this case lack thereof) on the quarterback.The Rams' line saw nearly a complete overhaul in the '06 season, losing tackles Damione Lewis and Ryan Pickett to free agency and mislaying end Anthony Hargrove because he was otherwise engaged at drama camp (demoted and traded for missing practice and refusing to give an explanation).St. Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
Louis' defense not only gave up the second-most rushing yards in the league last year, the unit also allowed a maddening amount of big plays from NFL rushing juggernauts such as Green Bay's Noah Herron and Seattle's Maurice Morris.In the same mold, the D-line was utterly ineffectual (with a lone exception) pressuring the opposing quarterback. Disguising coverages and sending blitzing LBs and DBs should be a normal part of defensive coordinator Jim Haslett's scheme, not a necessity due to the front four being nullified every passing down. QBs had all day to throw against the Rams; and given time like that, even Eli Manning will burn you.Let us grade the starting defenders along the Rams' defensive line from this past season:Leonard Little, DE; Height: 6-3, Weight: 263; Age: 32 The stalwart Little was the lone consistent bright spot for the Rams' D-line. Little added 13 sacks, also singlehandedly preserving the team's win at Green Bay and giving the Rams a chance to beat Seattle in a game they had, at that point, given away. Little proved that he is the type of defender who can change the outcome of a game (a rarity in today's NFL) and was rewarded with a contract extension. For a "small" lineman Little plays the run surprisingly well, although he occasionally gets erased when large blockers can get their hooks in.Stopping the run: BRushing the passer: APrognosis for 2007 should be: Starting LEJimmy Kennedy, NT; Height: 6-4, Weight: 325; Age: 27 The lone first-round draft pick remaining on the line, more due to contract length than winning the battle of Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
attrition, Kennedy was given the chance to start at nose tackle to see if he was the future. In a word, no. In three words, not even close.Kennedy played in every game for the Rams last season. However, you wouldn't know it because the announcers seldom, if ever, called his name. Seemingly the latest bust in a long line of DT choices, Kennedy is entering his contract year, and if he ever had anything to prove, the time is next season. Don't hold your breath, Rams fans; it's time to put the Jimmy Kennedy Experiment on hiatus.Stopping the run: D-Rushing the passer: FPrognosis for 2007 should be: Best-case scenario, backup DT seeing occasional time in rotation.La'Roi Glover, DT; Height 6-2, Weight 290; Age: 33 next seasonLet's face it, Glover is not the player he was in New Orleans, and the Rams (over)paid him as if he were. However, the DT is still the player he was in Dallas, which his numbers reflect. Glover flourished in New Orleans and Dallas because he was surrounded by talented players, and the onus was not put upon him to do it all. However, on a Rams team that merely masqueraded as a defense, Glover was simply part of the problem. Glover is too old to shoulder the burden of being the prominent run stopper on the line, but not so old that he cannot be a good, or even excellent, complementary player. His future will parallel what the Rams do in the offseason.Stopping the run: DRushing the passer: CPrognosis for 2007 should be: Whether he is a starter is immaterial; he should play little more than half the snaps per game.Victor Adeyanju, DE; Height: 6-4, Weight: 270; Age: 24For a player who's supposed strength is stopping the run, Adeyanju didn't make a noticeable impact overall in the porous Rams run defense. Adeyanju played reasonably well for a rookie, but the Rams need much more help than what he will bring to the table; and the DE is a major liability in pass-rushing situations. However, Adeyanju showed ability in his first year and will be given time to develop.Stopping the run: DRushing the passer: FPrognosis for Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
2007 should be: Should not start, but he ought to see a lot of time in rotation.The Rams must spend their free agent dollars on the defensive line this offseason. The draft may provide assistance long term, but this team needs help now and can't afford to blow yet another high-round pick on an ineffective DT. The Rams have to fork out the dough this year in free agency to acquire a proven DE to play opposite Little, as well as procuring one, if not two, quality defensive tackle(s). Otherwise, the only thing the Rams will stuff next year is their shot at the playoffs.Did you know th is one of the few national football portals that churns out daily NFL and NCAA coverage during the offseason? Tell your friends about us. (4)
Louis' defense not only gave up the second-most rushing yards in the league last year, the unit also allowed a maddening amount of big plays from NFL rushing juggernauts such as Green Bay's Noah Herron and Seattle's Maurice Morris.In the same mold, the D-line was utterly ineffectual (with a lone exception) pressuring the opposing quarterback. Disguising coverages and sending blitzing LBs and DBs should be a normal part of defensive coordinator Jim Haslett's scheme, not a necessity due to the front four being nullified every passing down. QBs had all day to throw against the Rams; and given time like that, even Eli Manning will burn you.Let us grade the starting defenders along the Rams' defensive line from this past season:Leonard Little, DE; Height: 6-3, Weight: 263; Age: 32 The stalwart Little was the lone consistent bright spot for the Rams' D-line. Little added 13 sacks, also singlehandedly preserving the team's win at Green Bay and giving the Rams a chance to beat Seattle in a game they had, at that point, given away. Little proved that he is the type of defender who can change the outcome of a game (a rarity in today's NFL) and was rewarded with a contract extension. For a "small" lineman Little plays the run surprisingly well, although he occasionally gets erased when large blockers can get their hooks in.Stopping the run: BRushing the passer: APrognosis for 2007 should be: Starting LEJimmy Kennedy, NT; Height: 6-4, Weight: 325; Age: 27 The lone first-round draft pick remaining on the line, more due to contract length than winning the battle of Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
attrition, Kennedy was given the chance to start at nose tackle to see if he was the future. In a word, no. In three words, not even close.Kennedy played in every game for the Rams last season. However, you wouldn't know it because the announcers seldom, if ever, called his name. Seemingly the latest bust in a long line of DT choices, Kennedy is entering his contract year, and if he ever had anything to prove, the time is next season. Don't hold your breath, Rams fans; it's time to put the Jimmy Kennedy Experiment on hiatus.Stopping the run: D-Rushing the passer: FPrognosis for 2007 should be: Best-case scenario, backup DT seeing occasional time in rotation.La'Roi Glover, DT; Height 6-2, Weight 290; Age: 33 next seasonLet's face it, Glover is not the player he was in New Orleans, and the Rams (over)paid him as if he were. However, the DT is still the player he was in Dallas, which his numbers reflect. Glover flourished in New Orleans and Dallas because he was surrounded by talented players, and the onus was not put upon him to do it all. However, on a Rams team that merely masqueraded as a defense, Glover was simply part of the problem. Glover is too old to shoulder the burden of being the prominent run stopper on the line, but not so old that he cannot be a good, or even excellent, complementary player. His future will parallel what the Rams do in the offseason.Stopping the run: DRushing the passer: CPrognosis for 2007 should be: Whether he is a starter is immaterial; he should play little more than half the snaps per game.Victor Adeyanju, DE; Height: 6-4, Weight: 270; Age: 24For a player who's supposed strength is stopping the run, Adeyanju didn't make a noticeable impact overall in the porous Rams run defense. Adeyanju played reasonably well for a rookie, but the Rams need much more help than what he will bring to the table; and the DE is a major liability in pass-rushing situations. However, Adeyanju showed ability in his first year and will be given time to develop.Stopping the run: DRushing the passer: FPrognosis for Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
2007 should be: Should not start, but he ought to see a lot of time in rotation.The Rams must spend their free agent dollars on the defensive line this offseason. The draft may provide assistance long term, but this team needs help now and can't afford to blow yet another high-round pick on an ineffective DT. The Rams have to fork out the dough this year in free agency to acquire a proven DE to play opposite Little, as well as procuring one, if not two, quality defensive tackle(s). Otherwise, the only thing the Rams will stuff next year is their shot at the playoffs.Did you know th is one of the few national football portals that churns out daily NFL and NCAA coverage during the offseason? Tell your friends about us. (4)
2011年1月13日星期四
14 Jan 11 Seattle Seahawks "No one should have been surprised by what Ruskell did in draft"
Once again, Tim Ruskell is taking heat for the Seattle Seahawks’ draft. And once again, he probably will prove all of his critics wrong. No one should be surprised that Ruskell ignored conventional wisdom and followed his own evaluations, drafting a guy many had rated as a second-rounder.No one should have Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
been surprised because Ruskell has done it before. In 2005 – Ruskell’s first year as team president -- he drafted center Chris Spencer in the first round even though the Seahawks had a greater need at defensive end. Spencer was considered a bit of a reach but was the highest-rated player on the Seahawks’ board at the time. Then Ruskell traded up in the second round to take linebacker Lofa Tatupu. That was considered a colossal stretch even though Tatupu played a position of extreme need, and Ruskell took a lot of heat for that move. Of course, three Pro Bowls later, Tatupu has more than proven Ruskell right on that pick.By now, everyone should know what Ruskell is looking for when he drafts. He wants players from big schools who were successful against the highest competition and started for at least three years. And he wants high-character players who are intelligent leaders. Ruskell’s MO so far has been to draft the top guy on his board with the first pick and generally go for need with the second selection, even if it costs a little bit. After matching need to value with cornerback Kelly Jennings in 2006, Ruskell traded Seattle’s 2007 first-round pick for receiver Deion Branch and then drafted another cornerback (Josh Wilson) with the second-round choice even though the Seahawks had greater needs at tight end and guard.So, with tight end, guard and defensive tackle the top needs (again) this year, it should have been no surprise to see Ruskell draft defensive end Lawrence Jackson in the first round. Or to move up in the second round again to fillReebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
a need by drafting tight end John Carlson. That’s how Ruskell operates: The guy he really wants at the price he wants followed by the player he really needs even if he has to pay a bit more.This year, Ruskell got as much out of his draft position as he could. The Seahawks traded down from 25th overall and added selections in the fifth and seventh rounds before taking the player they wanted all along. As with his other drafts, Ruskell has been criticized because the player he took was rated lower than a few other players at positions that might have helped. But Ruskell obviously wasn’t sold on defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer or end Phillip Merling, who both were productive for only one year in college. Ruskell also agreed with the prevailing sentiment that no tight end was worth a first-round pick (although the New York Jets drafted Dustin Keller 30th overall, two choices after the Hawks took Jackson). And all of the quality linemen the Seahawks might have drafted were gone by the 21st pick. So the Seahawks dropped down three picks and still got the guy they wanted. It was similar to the move Ruskell made in 2005, when he traded down three spots and took Spencer 26th overall.And just like in 2005, when the Seahawks jumped up to get Tatupu in the second round, the Hawks went up again in that round because they realized they were sitting too low to get Carlson. In 2005, it cost them a fourth-round pick (they sent two to Carolina, but they had received one from Oakland in the first-round trade). This time, the Hawks burned a third-rounder to make sure they filled their biggest need with their highest-rated tight end.Ruskell admitted he hated to let go of the third-round pick because those players tend to carry the most value of any round in the draft (unless a team makes the mistake the Seahawks made in Ruskell’s first year and draft someone like quarterback David Greene). But in his short time as the Seahawks’ top personnel guy, Ruskell has proven he can find the right players in the second round -- Tatupu is among the NFL's top Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
linebackers, and defensive end Darryl Tapp and Wilson both look like up-and-comers.Once again, Ruskell is taking a lot of flak for another unconventional draft. But no one should have been surprised by what he did, and no one should be surprised by what his new players do over the next few years.
been surprised because Ruskell has done it before. In 2005 – Ruskell’s first year as team president -- he drafted center Chris Spencer in the first round even though the Seahawks had a greater need at defensive end. Spencer was considered a bit of a reach but was the highest-rated player on the Seahawks’ board at the time. Then Ruskell traded up in the second round to take linebacker Lofa Tatupu. That was considered a colossal stretch even though Tatupu played a position of extreme need, and Ruskell took a lot of heat for that move. Of course, three Pro Bowls later, Tatupu has more than proven Ruskell right on that pick.By now, everyone should know what Ruskell is looking for when he drafts. He wants players from big schools who were successful against the highest competition and started for at least three years. And he wants high-character players who are intelligent leaders. Ruskell’s MO so far has been to draft the top guy on his board with the first pick and generally go for need with the second selection, even if it costs a little bit. After matching need to value with cornerback Kelly Jennings in 2006, Ruskell traded Seattle’s 2007 first-round pick for receiver Deion Branch and then drafted another cornerback (Josh Wilson) with the second-round choice even though the Seahawks had greater needs at tight end and guard.So, with tight end, guard and defensive tackle the top needs (again) this year, it should have been no surprise to see Ruskell draft defensive end Lawrence Jackson in the first round. Or to move up in the second round again to fillReebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
a need by drafting tight end John Carlson. That’s how Ruskell operates: The guy he really wants at the price he wants followed by the player he really needs even if he has to pay a bit more.This year, Ruskell got as much out of his draft position as he could. The Seahawks traded down from 25th overall and added selections in the fifth and seventh rounds before taking the player they wanted all along. As with his other drafts, Ruskell has been criticized because the player he took was rated lower than a few other players at positions that might have helped. But Ruskell obviously wasn’t sold on defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer or end Phillip Merling, who both were productive for only one year in college. Ruskell also agreed with the prevailing sentiment that no tight end was worth a first-round pick (although the New York Jets drafted Dustin Keller 30th overall, two choices after the Hawks took Jackson). And all of the quality linemen the Seahawks might have drafted were gone by the 21st pick. So the Seahawks dropped down three picks and still got the guy they wanted. It was similar to the move Ruskell made in 2005, when he traded down three spots and took Spencer 26th overall.And just like in 2005, when the Seahawks jumped up to get Tatupu in the second round, the Hawks went up again in that round because they realized they were sitting too low to get Carlson. In 2005, it cost them a fourth-round pick (they sent two to Carolina, but they had received one from Oakland in the first-round trade). This time, the Hawks burned a third-rounder to make sure they filled their biggest need with their highest-rated tight end.Ruskell admitted he hated to let go of the third-round pick because those players tend to carry the most value of any round in the draft (unless a team makes the mistake the Seahawks made in Ruskell’s first year and draft someone like quarterback David Greene). But in his short time as the Seahawks’ top personnel guy, Ruskell has proven he can find the right players in the second round -- Tatupu is among the NFL's top Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
linebackers, and defensive end Darryl Tapp and Wilson both look like up-and-comers.Once again, Ruskell is taking a lot of flak for another unconventional draft. But no one should have been surprised by what he did, and no one should be surprised by what his new players do over the next few years.
2011年1月12日星期三
13 Jan 11 New Orleans Hornets Buzz: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesAs the New Orleans Hornets continue their surge toward the postseason, it becoming more and more clear who they are, and who they are not.After the recent Hilton Armstrong dump, it appears this team as built will both make the playoffs, and keep it core intact. While that certainly good news for this year, fans can help but be concerned going forward.The Good:David West, Emeka Okafor, and Chris Paul are among the best big-three in the league. As they continue to develop their chemistry, the results will get better and better.Marcus Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
Thornton looks great. You can tell he gaining confidence with each passing game. His energy and hustle play a big part in our game plan and it appears as of now that he the steal of the draft, along with DeJuan Blair.Chris Paul has undoubtedly been the leader of the Hornets for some time now, but it only recently that he has started taking the clutch shots. In the past he has deferred to teammates David West or Peja Stojakovic, but now it appears that he considered himself the first option and them more of secondary targets. Paul hasn disappointed, blowing by opponents at will for dozens of lay ups in the waning seconds.Coach Jeff Bower and Tim Floyd appear to know what to do. Sure they are trying some new stuff with lineups, but thus far there haven been too many complaints. Winning tends to quiet the critics.The Bad:The team desperately needs another big man, especially if West, Okafor, or Songaila were to get hurt. As of now, Posey is playing as a small four, which simply won work against bigger, deeper teams. Without any salary cap space to work with it doesn appear help is on the way. It odd to even think this, but Sean Marks will have a huge impact when he returns.Lack of luxury tax space going forward. The Hornets head into next year above the projected luxury tax line, which will again make them sellers instead of buyers in the traditional sense. On the other hand, they will have the valuable expiring contracts of Peja and Morris Peterson, which can be used to acquire players from teams looking to shed salary. Chris Paul is still hurt. It mayReebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
not look like it since he throwing up god-like stat lines, but the evidence is clear. Coming in from the off season he was shooting over 60 percent from the floor. After his injury he closer to 40 percent. Missing jumpers is a clear sign that a player doesn have his legs under him. It unfortunate that the team lost so many games early on. Paul needs rest, but in order to get him some, the team needs win enough games to assure a playoff spot. Without CP3, they tend to lose. The situation is very similar to last year, when the Hornets burned Paul throughout the second half of the season andsimply ran out of steam against a relatively healthy and rested Denver squad.The Ugly:Hornets owner George Shinn had surgery today.
Thornton looks great. You can tell he gaining confidence with each passing game. His energy and hustle play a big part in our game plan and it appears as of now that he the steal of the draft, along with DeJuan Blair.Chris Paul has undoubtedly been the leader of the Hornets for some time now, but it only recently that he has started taking the clutch shots. In the past he has deferred to teammates David West or Peja Stojakovic, but now it appears that he considered himself the first option and them more of secondary targets. Paul hasn disappointed, blowing by opponents at will for dozens of lay ups in the waning seconds.Coach Jeff Bower and Tim Floyd appear to know what to do. Sure they are trying some new stuff with lineups, but thus far there haven been too many complaints. Winning tends to quiet the critics.The Bad:The team desperately needs another big man, especially if West, Okafor, or Songaila were to get hurt. As of now, Posey is playing as a small four, which simply won work against bigger, deeper teams. Without any salary cap space to work with it doesn appear help is on the way. It odd to even think this, but Sean Marks will have a huge impact when he returns.Lack of luxury tax space going forward. The Hornets head into next year above the projected luxury tax line, which will again make them sellers instead of buyers in the traditional sense. On the other hand, they will have the valuable expiring contracts of Peja and Morris Peterson, which can be used to acquire players from teams looking to shed salary. Chris Paul is still hurt. It mayReebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
not look like it since he throwing up god-like stat lines, but the evidence is clear. Coming in from the off season he was shooting over 60 percent from the floor. After his injury he closer to 40 percent. Missing jumpers is a clear sign that a player doesn have his legs under him. It unfortunate that the team lost so many games early on. Paul needs rest, but in order to get him some, the team needs win enough games to assure a playoff spot. Without CP3, they tend to lose. The situation is very similar to last year, when the Hornets burned Paul throughout the second half of the season andsimply ran out of steam against a relatively healthy and rested Denver squad.The Ugly:Hornets owner George Shinn had surgery today.
12 Jan 11 NBA Trade Rumor: Utah's Ronnie Brewer To Memphis, Helps Both Teams
Al Bello/Getty ImagesAlthough the talk has died down a touch, there are still rumors that the Memphis Grizzlies will be players as the NBA trading deadline approaches.One of the biggest rumors is that Utah guard/forward Ronnie Brewer will be traded to Memphis. Memphis would send one of their three 2010 New York Giants jersey
first-round picks to Utah. Ryan gave a great summary of this deal from Utah's point of view .The Jazz says that it is looking for a first-round and, potentially, a second pick for Brewer. I like the idea of Brewer for the Grizzlies, but the idea of giving up another pick could be a little steep.But I believe Brewer would help Memphis in four ways:Point guard issue solved? If Brewer got inserted into the starting lineup, it would solve any point guard issues. O.J. Mayo would slide over to the point. Brewer would play 2-guard. I am not sure if Mayo would want to be point guard, but that would allow the five best players on the team to be on the floor at once.Bench depth Sending Conley to the bench, or having Brewer as the sixth man, would dramatically increase the team's back court depth. On a team with almost no depth, any addition would help.Brewer would not take away shots He has not taken more than nine shots in any game in January and so he would would not take shots from Zach Randolph, Rudy Gay, etc.Three first-round draft picks are too much for MemphisLet's be honest, do you really believe that Memphis would pay rookie contracts to three players in one off-season?If they did, you know at least one would be a bust. So, it is better to get a reasonably decent player for one of those picks.One thing that mightNew York Jets jersey
complicate this deal is the playoff race.Utah and Memphis are currently dueling for a playoff spot. So would the Jazz be willing to help one of their competitors? Is their asking price for a player averaging 10 points a game too high?There are some hurdles that will keep this deal from happening. But the Grizzlies can complete this deal and not give up a current player.Utah gets a first-rounder (and maybe more) and Memphis gets a young guard to push for a playoff berth.
first-round picks to Utah. Ryan gave a great summary of this deal from Utah's point of view .The Jazz says that it is looking for a first-round and, potentially, a second pick for Brewer. I like the idea of Brewer for the Grizzlies, but the idea of giving up another pick could be a little steep.But I believe Brewer would help Memphis in four ways:Point guard issue solved? If Brewer got inserted into the starting lineup, it would solve any point guard issues. O.J. Mayo would slide over to the point. Brewer would play 2-guard. I am not sure if Mayo would want to be point guard, but that would allow the five best players on the team to be on the floor at once.Bench depth Sending Conley to the bench, or having Brewer as the sixth man, would dramatically increase the team's back court depth. On a team with almost no depth, any addition would help.Brewer would not take away shots He has not taken more than nine shots in any game in January and so he would would not take shots from Zach Randolph, Rudy Gay, etc.Three first-round draft picks are too much for MemphisLet's be honest, do you really believe that Memphis would pay rookie contracts to three players in one off-season?If they did, you know at least one would be a bust. So, it is better to get a reasonably decent player for one of those picks.One thing that mightNew York Jets jersey
complicate this deal is the playoff race.Utah and Memphis are currently dueling for a playoff spot. So would the Jazz be willing to help one of their competitors? Is their asking price for a player averaging 10 points a game too high?There are some hurdles that will keep this deal from happening. But the Grizzlies can complete this deal and not give up a current player.Utah gets a first-rounder (and maybe more) and Memphis gets a young guard to push for a playoff berth.
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