Bleacher Report - Articles by The Rant

Debate Of The Week: Was George Kokinis' Firing Warranted?

The Rant — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:52:28 -0500

When the Cleveland Browns football team is brought up in conversation, people laugh, make jokes and pity one of the worst organizations in all of sports.

From an overnight trip to Baltimore to the lack of spending, the Browns are known for having notoriously awful owners since the 1990s.

Is it fate that this city should not have a football team or just bad luck?

The Browns looked promising only two years ago posting a 10-6 record with six players making the Pro Bowl.

But, disaster struck again with the team going 4-12 and ultimately the departure of head coach Romeo Crennel.

In an offseason rumored with coaches names such as Bill Cowher, the Browns ultimately decided on former Jets head coach Eric Mangini, who lost his job due to Brett Favre's failures late in the season.

Man- genius, as he was once called, hired then-Ravens pro personnel director George Kokinis. The Ravens demanded that Kokinis be granted final authority over personnel moves if he were to make the promotion to the Browns organization.

Unfortunately, things went down hill from this point on.

Mangini had full personnel control and final say, like his former employer Bill Belichick while Kokinis was left in the dark on more than one occasion.

The "man-genious" not only traded away the #5 pick to the Jets, ultimately where USC's Mark Sanchez was drafted, but traded away numerous players including former Pro-Bowlers Kellen Winslow Jr and Braylon Edwards. In these trades the Browns were able to get draft picks as well as cast-offs from Manginis previous team.

Not only did Mangini trade for Jets players but ended up making questionable draft picks up and down the draft, passing on top talent to move back and pick up late-round draft picks.

Where was Kokinis while all of these personnel decisions were made? No where to be found is where Kokinis says he was. Not only had Mangini made the final say on roster moves but had not informed Kokinis that the Browns had traded controversial wide receiver Braylon Edwards until the trade was completed.

The Browns are a team of disarray. The offense has been a complete joke as Mangini failed to name a starter until days before the Browns opened their season.

Brady Quinn was given the start but was quickly benched after only 10 quarters of play. Since, Quinn has been benched, came in for relief of the absolutely awful Derek Anderson, who takes the cake for his 2 for 17 effort in a disgusting 6-3 win over the terribly inconsistent Buffalo Bills and is now being looked at as the starter again soon.

The close relationship of friends became a tale of two men fighting for control of a football team.

Not only was the team losing, the front office was becoming divided and some of the best fans in football, the dawg pound, even debated boycotting the Browns opening kickoff this upcoming weekend.

Someone had to take the blame for owner Randy Lerner's mistake of hiring Mangini, who is 1-7 while rumors that he has lost his locker room are spreading each week and unfortunately Kokinis became the scapegoat of the Browns organization.

If the Browns want to become serious contenders year in and year out they need to start over once again because the firing of George Kokinis was unjustified and an acknowledgement of the failures of Manginis' first year as head coach.

Owner Randy Lerner must be willing to pay a coach big money in the off season in addition to spending money on free agents and change the culture and philosophy of the Cleveland Browns organizations because the fans and players don't deserve to lose anymore.

This section can be read at InsidetheGridIron.com , a new website designed by the Rant.

JaMarcus Russell: The Reason Why the Oakland Raiders Are Not Winning Games

The Rant — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:10:43 -0400

Just when you thought things couldn't get any worse in Oakland, JaMarcus Russell is finally benched and then again named the starting quarterback for the Raiders' match-up against the Chargers.

Looking at the Raiders roster, they have talent. They have one of the best defensive lineman in the NFL in Richard Seymour, a talented linebacker crew, and arguably one of the best defensive players in football in Nnamdi Asomugha.

So why does this team continue to struggle? It all starts with the quarterback.

Since the day he was drafted, JaMarcus Russell has not shown he has what it takes to be a championship-caliber NFL quarterback.

Its been a long time since Russell made that amazing Hail Mary throw while at LSU to beat Kentucky.

Russell has been nothing but unwilling to make the extra effort needed to be a starting NFL quarterback.

As a rookie, Russell had one of the longest holdouts in NFL history. The holdout lasted months and essentially ruined Russell's rookie season.

That season Russell cost then Head Coach Lane Kiffin his job. Kiffin was opposed to drafting the LSU star with the No. 1 pick, while tyrant owner Al Davis said Russell was the best player hands down.

As Kiffin was fired, Davis wrote Kiffin a letter which included a section on how Kiffin was wrong in not wanting to draft Russell. Davis is quoted as saying, "JaMarcus is a great player. Get over it."

Apparently, Kiffin is having the last laugh on that one.

Then there was the 300 pound rumor about Russell. Granted Russell is a mammoth of a player at his listed size (6'6" 260lbs), but a 300lb quarterback? I don't think that sounds too successful.

The Raiders have used draft picks on players they don't even need in an effort to help Russell succeed.

Darren McFadden was drafted with the No. 4 overall pick to help give Russell another deadly weapon out the backfield but McFadden has yet to live up to expectations.

Then there is Darrius Heyward-Bay, one of the most baffling top 10 picks of all time.

DHB was a combine star in the 40 yard dash but disappeared in the ACC against some top talent but was drafted with the No. 7 pick and given a signing bonus way out of the rookie slotting, causing a headache for all teams in the surrounding area, and especially Michael Crabtree.

Isn't this the same player who took his receivers for a week to go get some extra work running routes and catching passes? It really doesnt look like it.

Looking at Russell's numbers this year, Tom Cable may have better success behind center.

Russell has two games throwing over 200 yards; one of those include an 86 yard touchdown which was much of the doing of TE Zach Miller as well as WR Louis Murphy who made some great blocks on the run.

Russell has two games throwing over a 60 percent completion percentage and three games under 40 percent passing.

HUH?!?!?!?!

Russel has completed more than 12 passes just once this season. During his career he has thrown more than 20 completions just twice.

How can anyone expect the Raiders to win any games in a season when their quarterback play has been one of the worst, if not the worst, in the NFL.

He has a 47.2 quarterback rating for gods sake!

Russell has two touchdown passes this year and the one to Miller should be credited to him and Murphy, who made that play, and not Russell who made the wide open pass.

One can only feel bad for Russell. He is young and immature and part of an organization that is trying to win but its owner its holding them back.

Maybe Russell should take some of the credit for his poor play. Have you seen his recent interview after the Jets game where Russell asked a reporter if he thought Russell was the problem with the offense?

Hello, have you not seen yourself making careless throws time after time? Making wrong reads play after play? Not giving your team a real chance to succeed and only holding them back?

Too bad Jeff Garcia isn't still in the black and silver because he would win this team some games.

Tom Cable, please make your quarterback accountable for his actions and abysmal play because he is not only making a joke of you, but also the Raiders' proud and die-hard fans as well as the organization.

Hot Off The Press: Week Three Power Rankings

The Rant — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 05:07:32 -0400

Some big movers in this weeks edition. Eli Manning and the Giants take the top spot after defeating the Cowboys. The Ravens defeated a great Charger team while the Bears knocked off the Super Bowl Champs.

Rank (Previous) Team Record Comments
1 3 Giants 2-0 The Giants squeaked by the Cowboys but did Eli Manning look good. The Giants did not run the ball particularly well but the offense moved the ball through the air and the defense is one of the top in the league. The banged up secondary also tore apart Tony Romo.

2 6 Ravens 2-0 Although the Ravens defense was eaten alive by Phillip Rivers, Baltimore was able to come away with a victory on the road. The Ravens offense kept up with the high powered Chargers. Willis McGahee proved he is back to form. Although the defense was scored on often, Ray Lewis made a critical tackle late in the game to preserve the victory.

3 5 Colts 2-0 Peyton Manning was on the sidelines for most of the night but when he was in he was able to make things happen. Dallas Clark went off with the absence of Anthony Gonzalez. The run defense looked bad at times but good teams find ways to win.

4 8 Falcons 2-0 Matt Ryan continues to impress more and more each week. The acquisition of Tony Gonzalaz is clearly working out for the Falcons as he caught all 7 passes that he was targeted. Michael Turner picked up on his slow start last week rushing for over 100 yards. The defense was able to force two turnovers on the turnover prone Panthers.

5 13 Saints 2-0 This offense is electrifying; Drew Brees cannot be stopped. Marques Colstan made two nice touchdown grabs and the Saints got a good contribution from all of their receivers. The defense still allowed nearly 400 yards passing to Kevin Kobb but when you score so many points it isn't as much of a problem.

6 1 Steelers 1-1 After the first series the Steelers did not look like the same team. The loss of Troy Polamalu is bigger than expected as his replacement Tyrone Carter was scored on twice. The rush defense held Matt Forte to 2.2 yards per carry. The Steelers offense failed to establish the run but Ben Roesthlisberger is looking just as sharp as ever.

7 7 Chargers 1-1 San Diego lost a close one at home vs the Ravens. Phillip Rivers had a career game throwing for over 436 yards but had two costly interceptions. Vincent Jackson was targeted seven times, catching six of them for 141 yards. Sproles is a gamer; his speed on the field creates major matchup problems for defenses.

8 9 Minnesota 2-0 Things looked tough in the first half but for the second week in a row the Vikings rode Adrian Peterson in the second half. Favre and Harvin look like they have a special connection. Chad Greenway had two interceptions on Matthew Stafford.

9 17 Jets 2-0 Its official: the Jets are a dangerous team this season. New York was able to make Tom Brady look average for most of the game. Mark Sanchez was only three for five in the first half but was able to turn it around in the second half. The Jets defense is the difference maker this season; they held the Patriots touchdown less and contained Randy Moss. This team is a clone of Ryans former team the Baltimore Ravens.

10 2 Patriots 1-1 Tom Brady did not look like the old Tom Brady in this one. The Patriots were without Wes Welker and it showed. The Patriots were unable to move the ball and never really caught a rhythm. The defense looks like is missing Mayo and Seymour. Expect this team to be back next week.

11 16 Bears 1-1 The Bears responded with a win against the defending champions. Jay Cutler's arm strength is absolutely incredible as he was able to make every throw with the rush in his face. Matt Forte struggled for the second week in a row. This was a huge win as Chicago fans were beginning to panic.

12 4 Eagles 1-1 The Eagles looked like they were definitely missing Donovan McNabb as they were unable to go touchdown for touchdown with the Saints. The defense was unable to contain Drew Brees and the explosive passing attack.

13 18 49ers 2-0 Frank Gore became the first player since Barry Sanders in 1997 to have two runs of 75+ yards on his way to 207 rushing yards. The 49er run defense held the Seahawks to 2.9 yards per carry on the ground. Shaun Hill is a game manager making accurate throws, minimizing turnovers.

14 12 Cowboys 1-1 Tony Romo did not look like the Tony Romo of week one. Marion Barber needs to stay healthy but Felix Jones will be ready to go if Barber is unable to play. The secondary needs to step up right away.

15 21 Texans 1-1 The Texans looked much better this week even though Slaton failed to impress on the ground again. Matt Schuab looked very good despite struggling with an injury. Andre Johnson is monster destroying the Titans secondary. Rookie Brian Cushing was all over the field for the Texans defense.

16 11 Packers 1-1 The Packers defense took a few steps back this week against the Bengals, who face the top two 3-4 teams four times a year. Charles Woodson is thriving in the 3-4 defense as he led the team in tackles, 10, and had two interceptions, one for a touchdown.

17 14 Cardinals 1-1 Kurt Warner looked much better this week than last week completing 24 of 26 passes including his first 15 and broke the NFL record for completion percentage. Larry Fitzgerald was held in check for most of the game. The defense played very well holding the Jags to only three points through nearly three quarters.

18 10 Titans 0-2 Another close one for the Titans, who could be 2-0 but are looking at 0-2 in the standings. The game vs the Texans was ferocious as tempers were flaring but again the Titan pass defense failed allowing Matt Schuab to throw for 357 yards and four touchdowns. Andre Johnson was toying with Corbin Finnegan throughout the game. The run defense again played very well but this team has problems.

19 19 Bills 1-1 Trent Edwards played well in the win vs the Buccs. Running back Fred Jackson had a huge game giving Bills fans some hope when Marshawn Lynn returns.

20 27 Bengals 1-1 Cincinnati played much better this week against a stingy Packer defense. Palmer was inconsistent but overall he has to play well for the Bengals to be successful. Cedric Benson finally appears to be the Bengals answer at running back. This team can easily be 2-0

21            20            Panthers            0-2            Much better game for Jake Delhomme but clearly anything less than four interceptions would be. Delhomme threw for over 300 yards including 130 to Steve Smith. The Panthers could have road their run game a bit more than they did but clearly this team is searching for an identity.

22            26            Broncos            2-0            The Broncos were able to take it to the lowly Browns this week. The Broncos are moving the ball without much help of Brandon Marshall. The defense has been very stingy in the first two wins of the season. The boos were loud when Kyle Orton made bad decisions; the Jay Cutler hangover is still lingering and it wont go away unless the Broncos keep winning.

23            15            Seahawks            1-1            Matt Hasselbeck went down with an injury during the game; that doesn't give much hope to the Seahawks hopes this season. The running game failed to get anything going in the loss to the 49ers. Again this team needs to get healthy and stay healthy for this team to succeed.

24            22            Dolphins            0-2            Tony Sparanos game plan was simple; keep Peyton Manning off the field. The Fins held the ball for over 45 minutes but it wasn’t enough to stop Peyton and co. Horrible clock management in the last three minutes of the game. What in the world were the Dolphins thinking?

25            24            Raiders            1-1            Again if there is a true weakness on this team it is JaMarcus Russel; he is absolutely horrible at times. Richard Seymour wasn’t as dominant as he was in week one but the former pro-bowler, along with Greg Ellis, is helping this defense tremendously. Nnamdi Asomugh presence on the field is ridiculous, the one play he was out the Chiefs scored. Michael Huff is very impressive this season recording 3 interceptions, two more than in his previous three seasons.

26            25            Redskins            1-1            The Redskins are bad lets face it. The offense did not play very well against a team that allowed 28 points to the Seahawks last week. The Redskins defense played well keeping Steven Jackson in check besides a 58 yard run. Jim Zorn needs to get something going fast or its going to be a very long season.

27            23            Jaguars            0-2            Another rough one for this Jaguars team. Maurice Jones Drew isn’t getting enough carries to prove his worth and Garrard is still struggling to throw the ball downfield. The defense was able to contain Larry Fitzgerald but Kurt Warner picked the team apart.

28 28 Buccaneers 0-2 The Bucs finally calmed down but it was too late as they were already down 17-0. The Bccs were horrible on third down converting only 25 percent. Fred Jackson torched the Bucs on the ground as well.

29 29 Chiefs 0-2 Kansas City is pretty bad. They might be worse than the Lions, might is the key word. Matt Cassel struggled for most of the game despite a touchdown to Dwayne Bowe late in the fourth quarter. Bobby Wade proved to be a valuable asset to the Chief passing attack.

30 31 Rams 0-2 Besides Steven Jackson, Laurent Robinson and Donnie Avery, there aren’t many playmakers on this offense. The defense held Clinton Portis in check and the Redskins without a touchdown.

31 30 Browns 0-2 Good news is Braylon Edwards had one of his best games in the last two seasons but the bad news is that the Browns offense is horrendous. This is a very bad football team that doesn’t appear to be getting any better anytime soon.

32 32 Lions 0-2 Detroit had some things going during the first half especially containing Adrian Peterson. Running back Kevin Smith ran the ball better after struggling last week. Matthew Stafford threw two more interceptions giving him five to one touchdown to Calvin Johnson. When this team finally wins a game they will move up the list.

You can find all the latest stories and intriguing posts @ InsidetheGridIron.com

The Hot Topic: Jets Open Rex Ryan Era with a Bang

The Rant — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 01:02:17 -0400

Rex Ryan and the new-look New York Jets took it to the Houston Texans in a 24-7 victory last Sunday in Reliant Stadium, the home of the Texans.

Rookie golden child Mark Sanchez looked strong in his NFL debut, completing 18 passes for 272 yards and a touchdown. Although Sanchez shined, he wasnt the star of the day.

That award would go to the Jets defense, who held the Texans' No. 3 offense to 183 yards.

The Texans did not even pass midfield during the first three quarters of the game and held last season's electrifying combo of Steve Slaton and Andre Johnson silent.

Slaton was held to only 17 yards rushing on nine attempts while Johnson caught only four passes for 35 yards.

Slaton's 17-yard total was the second lowest of his brief two-year career.

"You work for six months leading up to this first game," Slaton said after the game, according to the Associated Press. "You have all offseason to prepare for this game and then to come out and play like that is upsetting."

The Texan offense wasnt the only thing that struggled against the new-look Jets as the defense allowed 462 yards.

The Jets under Ryan look like a whole different team than in years past.

The defense, led by Ryan's former middle linebacker in Baltimore, Bart Scott, swarmed the Texans on every play.

New York will have its hands full with the Patriots this Sunday.

Ryan and some players have already publicly talked a big game against the Patriots. The Jets even sent out a voicemail to all season ticket holders with Ryan saying he needs the fans' support this weekend.

It will be an intense atmosphere in New York Sunday; if the Jets are able to defeat the rival Patriots, they will be a team to beat this season.

Inside The GridIron: Week One Power Rankings

The Rant — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 20:53:52 -0400

Rank (Old) | Team Record Comments

1 (1) | Steelers 0-0 The Steelers look to extend their dominance.

2 (3) | Patriots 0-0 Tom Brady looks like the Brady of old. It remains to be seen if the young players will step up with the absence of Richard Seymour.

3 (2) | Giants 0-0 Eli Manning will need to replace Plaxico, but expect the Giants to ride Jacobs the whole season.

4 (4) | Eagles 0-0 McNabb and company should be passing early and often this season.

5 (5) | Colts 0-0 If Joseph Addai doesn’t step up, Peyton Manning will have to carry this team for much of the season.

6 (6) | Chargers 0-0 Big expectations in San Diego this season. A healthy tandem of Merriman and LT will take this team far this season.

7 (8) | Ravens 0-0 Derrick Mason is back after a quick scare. This team will be one of the best in the AFC again this season.

8 (9) | Falcons 0-0 Matt Ryan will be even better this season with the addition of Tony Gonzalez. If this team has a weakness, it is on the defense.

9 (7) | Cardinals 0-0 Larry Fitzgerald looks to continue his dominance this season.

10 (10) | Titans 0-0 The Titans have upgraded their receiving corps this season. Chris Johnson and a slimmed-down LenDale White could be deadly.

11 (12) | Vikings 0-0 Brett Favre gives this team a chance to do some damage all year long.

12 (15) | Bears 0-0 The Jay Cutler era has begun. Expectations are high in Chi-town.

13 (11) | Panthers 0-0 This team can only go as far as Jake Delhomme will take them.

14 (19) | Packers 0-0 The new 3-4 will work wonders for this team.

15 (14) | Texans 0-0 Schaub, Slaton and Johnson is scare for any defensive coordinator.

16 (23) | Seahawks 0-0 Matt Hasselbeck has T.J. Whosyourmomma to throw to now.

17 (17) | Dolphins 0-0 The secondary looks much improved with the additions of Sean Smith and Vontae Davis.

18 (14) | Cowboys 0-0 This is Wade Phillips' make-or-break year.

19 (16) | Saints 0-0 The Saints have all the potential in the world, but the defense must step up.

20 (19) | Jets 0-0 Viva la Sanchez!!

21 (24) | Bengals 0-0 Child, Please.

22 (20) | Redskins 0-0 Jason Campbell has been amidst controversy all offseason; it’s a contract year- time to slice critics.

23 (25) | Jaguars 0-0 Maurice Jones-Drew is going to prove he can handle a full load.

24 (23) | Bills 0-0 Offensive coordinator Turk Schonert was fired for his offense being too complex…really, Dick Jauron?

25 (24) | Broncos 0-0 Having Brandon Marshall in uniform is a MUST!

26 (28) | 49ers 0-0 Can Coach Singletary and Shaun Hill bring this team from under the .500 mark?

27 (29) | Raiders 0-0 The addition of Richard Seymour gives this team a huge boost. If only he would report.,,

28 (27) | Browns 0-0 Anderson or Quinn? I put my bet on Quinn to start.

29 (26) | Buccaneers 0-0 Another firing of an offensive coordinator before the season starts? Not smart.

30 (30) | Chiefs 0-0 Is Matt Cassell healthy? Only Todd Haley really knows.

31 (31) | Rams 0-0 Coach Spagnuolo has put this team through a grueling offseason in effort to get tougher on both sides of the ball.

32 (32) | Lions 0-0 The Matthew Stafford era starts now.

Get your weekly football dosage @

www.InsidetheGridIron.com

Richard Seymour Trade: The Raiders Continue Their Unintelligent Ways

The Rant — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 23:13:36 -0400

Update:

As of Sept. 10 the Raiders have imposed a 5 day deadline for Richard Seymour to report or he will be suspended.

Today, the Raiders made another questionable decision, trading for five-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman Richard Seymour.

Seymour, who turns 30 next month, has been one of the best defensive lineman in all of football in his arrival in the NFL in 2001, but he has not been to a Pro Bowl since 2006.

Last season Seymour tied a career high in sacks with eight and only missed one game due to injury—unlike his 2008 season where he only played in eight games and registered 1.5 sacks.

The Raiders bolster a rush defense that has statistically been the worst in football since their 2002 Super Bowl run, and the worst this preseason at 192 yards per game. But the improvement comes at a very steep cost.

The 2011 first-round draft pick could be very costly for the Raiders if their recent struggles continue. If the Raiders don't resign Seymour, then they have given up a first-round pick for a rent-a-player in a year they don't look to be a contender.

The Seymour trade is another in the list of questionable decisions made by Oakland this offseason. The Raiders drafted Darrius Heyward-Bay in the top 10, although he was a late-first-round projection. The Raiders turned around and gave him a super signing bonus out of the rookie slotting, which has caused a fuss in other draft pick signings.

The Raiders have also released quarterback Jeff Garcia only a few months after signing him to backup JaMarcus Russell. The Raiders have no proven veteran quarterback behind the shaky Russell.

It seems the Raiders will never sniff the playoffs again until Al Davis gives up the team or passes on.

Davis has been a tyrant of an owner for years. Recently, the Raiders coaching staff has been a revolving door. No Raider head coach has lasted more than a few years on the job, making it hard for the Raiders to have consistency.

Maybe one of the biggest blunders in recent NFL history was the Raiders' trading for Randy Moss. After two dreadful seasons in Oakland, the Raiders shipped Moss to the Patriots for a fourth-round draft pick. Moss has, once again, become a top receiver in the NFL, and set an NFL record with 22 touchdown receptions in a season.

The Patriots' trading of Seymour has once again solidified them as one of the best-run organizations in all of sports, not just the NFL. The Patriots are able to rebuild and retool year-in and year-out without missing a beat.

Overall, the trade of Seymour gives the Raiders defensive line a superstar who will command double teams and be able to take over a game but at a very costly price.

If the Raiders are able to re-sign Seymour, the trade will not hurt the Raiders long-term. But if Seymour walks away after this season, the Raiders gave up a potentially top-10 draft pick for a one-year rent-a-player.

College Football's Big Three: Tebow, Bradford, and McCoy

The Rant — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 17:02:09 -0400

College Football's Three Headed Monster

The big three of college football or otherwise known as Florida's Tim Tebow, Texas' Colt McCoy, and Oklahoma's Sam Bradford are giving fans everywhere a special treat. All three quarterbacks are amongst college football's best players and Heisman Trophy Candidates. Not to mention, all three are giving their teams a chance at a National Championship and a spot in college football history forever.

Of the three, Tebow may end up the most successful college player with his Heisman, two-National Championships, and potentially a second Heisman and third National title if all goes well this season. Tebow may have very well won the Heisman last season after receiving the most first-placed votes, but lost overall to Bradford and Colt McCoy.

Bradford has the most NFL potential with his magnificent passing abilities that make him the NCAA's most accurate passer. In last year's Heisman Trophy year, Bradford threw for over 4,700 yards and 50 touchdowns to only eight interceptions. But Bradford's Sooners came up short in the loss to Florida in the National Championship game.

McCoy may be the sleeper of the group, which is hard figuring that these three players may be the best in the country; McCoy posses the intangibles and durability that coaches droll over. McCoy's production at Texas has been superior, while his 32-7 record as a starter and second place finish in the Heisman last year show he is ready to take charge.

Tebow, Bradford, and McCoy are superstars in the eyes of almost everyone. Tebow is the ultimate team player and has brought Florida to an even higher level with his competitiveness and bruising style of play. Bradford may be the best passer in college football. His 4,700 yards and 50 touchdowns were done in his sophomore season. Imagine how much he can improve his junior year; scary isnt it. McCoy brings toughness and an edge to Texas football. He is the ideal player for Mack Brown and the state of Texas.

If the NFL Draft were today, Bradford would be the top player chosen while McCoy would probably go first round and Tebow could potentially slip to the later rounds depending on who would mold their offense around him to fit their needs.

But this isn't the NFL, this is college football where players are playing for the love of the game, national championships, and bragging rights forever.

As for the Heisman this year, it will be a close race till the end. Barring any injuries, all three players should be finalist again this season.

Tebow, Bradford, and McCoy all give their teams hope of a National Championship and an undefeated season. Although it will be tough, these players on these teams can make it happen.

The Gators, Longhorns, and Sooners all rank 1,2,3 in the Associated Press pre-season top 25. All three teams are very talented and could end up in a National Championship game.

The Gators received the most first place votes of any team in college football history, receiving 58 of 60 votes or 96.7%; the other two votes went to McCoy and the Longhorns. The Sooners have lost three National Title games since their 2000 Orange Bowl Championship and Texas hasn’t been in the championship game since Vince Young led the charge during the Rose Bowl victory over USC.

Hang on and hold on tight because this year's college football season is going to be a wild one.

NFL Pre-Season Headlines Fail to Disappoint

The Rant — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 22:02:05 -0400

Pre-season football is always a great time for NFL fans everywhere; it means football season has started and only four weeks till the regular season starts. Pre-season rankings and records may not matter in the grand scheme of things, the Lions went 4-0 last season and look where it got them, but it the competition is fierce and eventful.

Not every fan will watch the game for all four quarters because the big name players only play a few snaps but the battles for roster spots are won during the last quarters of preseason.

The 2009-2010 preseason has failed to disappoint from major headlines to position battles and everything in between.

The stories that are eating up much of this year’s pre-season headlines all involve quarterbacks.

-Brett Favre has returned to the NFL in a Minnesota Vikings uniform.

-Michael Vick is given a second chance to get his life together with the Eagles.

-Tom Brady is returning from a devastating injury.

-Ben Roethlisberger is involved in an on-going he said she said rape saga.

-Jay Cutler is the biggest quarterback in a Bears uniform since Jim McMahon.

-The Browns quarterbacks haven’t thrown a touchdown in almost nine months.

-Mark Sanchez may get the starting nod in NY.

-Matthew Stafford is battling Daunte Culpepper for starting quarterback in D-town.

-Philip Rivers and Eli Manning have signed mega-deals while Matt Cassel got a nice deal of his own.

-Kyle Orton looks like he is going to get Josh McDaniels fired before the season even starts.

-Romo is actually completing passes without T.O. and Jessica Simpson.

-Tampa Bay can't decide a starter of their three quarterbacks, and the 49ers have finally named Shaun Hill starter.

Whew! Are you serious? All within two weeks?

Quarterbacks haven’t been the only players in the news; Wide Receiver Donte’ Stallworth was involved in a DUI Vehicular Manslaughter case where he apparently tested positive for marijuana and received a 30-day sentence while only having to serve 24 days.

Bronco receiver Brandon Marshall has been practicing with the scout team and has not traveled with the team nor played in any game yet.

The controversial Terrell Owens has his own reality tv show which has shown him showing his ‘softer’ side.

Of course, Chad Ochocinco has been tweeting about everything from a jousting with San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawn Merriman to his kicking skills during a preseason game; the self-proclaimed “Esteban” Ochocinco kicked an extra point and a kickoff during the Bengals game 7-6 win over the Patriots.

Chad Ochocinco isnt the only one ‘tweeting’ during training camp; some coaches have banned players from using twitter, an online status updating website, during training camp and some players have been fined for complaining about cafeteria food, a la Chargers Antonio Cromartie.

Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys new $1.15 billion stadium seems to have a major flaw as punters kicking the ball down the field may sometimes hit the scoreboard.

If you are a football fan, you’re like McDonald's, because you’re lovin' it! Although games don’t count toward the final record, the NFL season is in full swing. Games have been televised live four days a week while the NFL Network is replaying every preseason game in HD almost every hour of the day.

After a wild two weeks, one can only expect things to get even more interesting during the next two weeks as the pre-season closes. If the NFL regular season is anything like pre-season has been so far, NFL fans are in for a roller coaster of a season.

Florida Gators Worthy Of First Place Votes

The Rant — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:50:19 -0400

Defending National Champion Florida Gators received 58 of 60 first place votes in Saturday's Associated Press Preseason Rankings, the highest total of first place votes in the poll's 59-year history. The two remaining first place votes went to the Texas Longhorns.

But do the Gators deserve to be ranked so much higher than everyone else? The answer is yes, for many reasons.

The Gators have one of the best coaches in college football in Urban Meyer. Meyer is an impressive 44-9 with two national championships in his 5 years at Florida, and previously went 22-2, including an undefeated season with a BCS bowl win, at Utah. He's also produced a top recruiting class since his arrival in the Swamp.

Not only are the Gators in great shape with Meyer running the show, but they also have the golden boy—and arguably greatest college football player ever—in Tim Tebow.

Tebow is the first sophomore to ever win the Heisman and only player to rush for 20 TDs while throwing for 20 TDs in a single season. Tebow also finished third in the Heisman voting last season, despite receiving the most first place votes after a season where he accounted for 30 passing touchdowns and 12 rushing.

There is some bad news, but it’s for the rest of the nation, because the Gators will be returning all 11 starters on defense, including monsters Carlos Dunlap and Brandon Spikes.

The Gator defense may be even better this season, which is a scary thought considering they held opponents to 285 ypg last year. Florida also has one of the best corners in all of football in Joe Haden, and strong safety Ahmad Black was second-team All-SEC last season.

Can the Gators improve on last year’s 13-1 championship season? The terrifying answer is yes, they can.

Tim Tebow is entering his fourth year, and while the loss of Percy Harvin may hurt, the combination of Emmanuel Moody, Jeffrey Demps, and Chris Rainey ran for a combined 1674 yards and 7.6 ypc last season.

With a healthy Moody, the Gator rushing attack is a strength again this season.

Florida lost a close game to Ole Miss last season, 31-30, but in their 13 wins, the next closest margins of victory were 10, 11, and 23—including the national championship.

The Gators will only play three SEC games at home in the Swamp this season, but they are the favorite to win the SEC and potentially go undefeated.

If I were a betting man, I’d throw my money on the Gators to repeat because there hasn’t been a defending National Championship with this much talent, potential, and firepower in a long time.

Fantasy Football: America's New Pastime

The Rant — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 19:20:25 -0400

Has anything exploded on the scene like fantasy football has the last few years?

Fantasy Football has given people all over the country for root for their hated rival players just because “they are on my fantasy team.” Common phrases such as “I hope we [team of your choice] beat the Vikings today but Adrian Peterson can have a good game because he is on my fantasy team” or “I don’t care if they score on us as long as Drew Brees throws the touchdown.”

Fantasy Football has been a nationwide revolution. Fantasy Football gives fans from all walks of life the ability to act as their own general manager on hundreds of sites, including top ones such as ESPN, Yahoo, CBS and NFL.com. Fans can draft, manage, trade, sign and release their favorite players all in an effort to win their league and bragging rights amongst their peers for an entire year.

Regardless of the fans interest level there are leagues for everyone. Recreational fantasy football leagues; they have that. Super fan ultra-competitive fantasy leagues; yup those too.

Fantasy Football has a weird way of connecting complete strangers all over the country for one common goal: winning. People love competition and why not be involved in your own while watching your favorite team play on Sunday.

What will make a grown man wake up early for work on a Monday morning after a long weekend? Checking their fantasy football scores to see how they have done in the prior days battle.

The "fandemonium" of fantasy football doesn’t stop there. Radio shows will talk about the prior days scores, top story lines and fantasy football points. Monday morning office talk is much of the same too; fantasy football dominates the office talk.

Remember the time that guy drafted Tom Brady with the third pick only to see him get hurt on the first series of the season? Can you believe Ronnie Brown had five touchdowns today? Adrian Peterson killed me this week with that huge rushing day.

With only six days, eight hours and 45 minutes until my leagues fantasy football draft, you can bet I am doing my countless hours of research and mock drafts to ensure I am more prepared than my opponents to take my team to a championship this year.

Thousands of fans will be draft their teams for this years upcoming season within the next week and one thing is for constant amongst all of them: Fantasy Football has become America’s new pastime.

He's Baaaack: Brett Favre Signs with Minnesota Vikings

The Rant — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 02:30:30 -0400

Today Brett Favre signed a two-year, $25 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings, three weeks after head coach Brad Childress’ imposed deadline for Favre to arrive to camp.

Favre's signing might come as a surprise to some, but for many experts, it was expected. Brett Favre has notoriously been known for his hatred of training camp, plus Favre would only come back when he is ready, regardless of deadlines.

Favre's signing gives the Vikings some new hope with their quarterback position, as the newly acquired Sage Rosenfels and Tarvaris Jackson have not pleased anyone in Minnesota, including Childress.

"This is the weekend Brett decided he wanted to come back. And I'm not sure either side ever closed the door," Bus Cook, Favre's agent, told ESPN.

During the first preseason game Rosenfels drove the Vikings on two scoring drives, finishing 10-for-13 for 91 yards, while Jackson struggled against the Indianapolis Colts' second-string defense.

Minnesota will now have a 10-time Pro Bowler at the helm, something they have missed since in 2004 with Daunte Culpepper.

The Vikings appear to be the frontrunner in an NFC North where three teams—the Vikings, Bears, and Lions—will be sporting new starting quarterbacks this season.

The Bears went out and traded for Pro Bowler Jay Cutler, while the Lions drafted Georgia’s Matthew Stafford and signed Culpepper midseason; the Vikings, of course, signed Brett Favre.

Minnesota’s eighth-ranked yards per game offense will be even more dangerous with Favre in control. Teams will no longer be able to stack the box to attempt to stop the league's No. 2 rush offense and Adrian Peterson, thus opening up running lanes for the NFL's most dangerous back.

In addition to Peterson, the stats of wide receivers Bernard Berrian, Sidney Rice, and Bobby Wade will improve from the league's 21st-ranked pass offense. Favre's knowledge of the playbook and the NFC North will help expand the Vikings offense.

First-round draft pick Percy Harvin will add a new dimension to the Vikings offense that has been missing in years past.

Favre is bringing along some baggage with him to Minnesota after his very scrutinized public divorce with Green Bay and late-season collapse with the Jets, costing coach Eric Mangini his job and the Jets a spot in the playoffs.

Dr. James Andrews discovered a slight tear in Favre's rotator cuff and performed offseason surgery to repair a torn biceps tendon but says the injury shouldn’t be a factor this season.

It is safe to say the Vikings will be a much-improved team with Favre as their starting quarterback compared to the inconsistent Jackson and Rosenfels.

If Favre is injury-free this season and able to play within his element, without having to do too much, the Vikings will be a tough team to beat and will be playing in January.

Check out our new website!

The Hot Topic @ www.InsidetheGridIron.com

WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS...is on HoopsTV: Summer League Day Nine and Ten

The Rant — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 15:33:41 -0400

This past weekend, Days 9 and 10 of action at the 2009 NBA Summer League brought the show in Sin City to a close. Of course ballers who had been rolling all week like Blake Griffin of the Clippers (Most Outstanding Player), the Spurs' DeJuan Blair and Portland's Jerryd Bayless left one final, lasting impression with their great play in the week's closeout games, but perhaps the Nuggets Ty Lawson (pictured at left) made the biggest impression.

The kid from UNC really showed what he is made of this week. Lawson hung tough through his early struggles in Vegas, stay composed and positive, then rallied strong over the final three days. HoopsTV 's James Kaikis has that story and all the rest of the details from the final games of the 2009 NBA Summer League. HoopsTV's James Kaikis has those stories and all the rest of the details from this past weekend at the Thomas & Mack Center.

Here are some notes from Day 9 & 10 of the NBA Summer League :

Saturday Notes

Bulls Rally in Final Minutes; Johnson and Hill Impress :

As New York Knicks Coach Mike D'Antoni was on the sidelines, the Chicago Bulls gave the Knicks their fourth loss of the NBA Summer League with a 19-3 run in the final minutes of the fourth quarter. James Johnson again looked very impressive on the court showing his well-rounded abilities. Johnson finished with 20 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists including a fast break ally-oop to Josh Shipp and a nasty crossover reverse lay-up on Jordan Hill. Hill looked impressive for the second straight day scoring 16 points with 9 boards.

Jonny Flynn Comments on the Ricky Rubio Situation :

Jonny Flynn again played lights out scoring 24 points with 4 rebounds and 4 assists in a loss against the New Orleans Hornets. After the game, HoopsTV was able to talk to Flynn about his stance on the Ricky Rubio situation. "It would be great for him to come over and play with me. He can make me a whole lot better of a player and I think I can make him a better player so I would love to have this situation resolved." Flynn went on to say that "He will do whatever it takes to get him (Rubio) to come [to Minnesota]." The combination of Flynn and Rubio in the backcourt together would be exciting for Minnesota and potentially dangerous for opponents.

Grizzles Stay Unbeaten Behind Sam Young's 20 points. :

The Memphis Grizzles smashed the Phoenix Suns 97-60 to push their record to 4-0 thus far. Second round draft pick Sam Young fueled the Grizzles with 20 points, 13 in the first half. No. 2 pick Hasheem Thabeet had his best showing thus far during Summer League but still only managed 10 points and 7 rebounds "I'm trying to play better. I want to be a force," Thabeet said in his postgame interview. In the Suns loss Robin Lopez struggled for the third consecutive game scoring only 1 point and 4 rebounds in 23 minutes.

Griffin, McGee battle as Wiz top Clipps :

Blake Griffin posted his third double-double in four games by scoring 19 points to go along with 10 rebounds and 4 steals, but it was Wizards JaVale McGee who led his team to victory. "Everybody came out and played a good game." McGee told HoopsTV in his postgame interview. The former first round pick finished with 19 points to go along with 4 rebounds and an impressive 7 blocked shots. Wizards guard Nick Young continued his hot streak scoring 19 points in the win.

The NCAA Champ Is Back :

Former UNC Tar Heel, now Nugget point man, Ty Lawson was impressessive for second straight game. Lawson responded after his 26-point effort Friday with a 21 point win in win against the D-League Select. Lawson, who had played much better as of late, was able to find his touch outside going 3-4 from three-point land. The Nuggets received another solid effort from guard Ronald Depree, who added a game-high 22 points off the bench. D-League Select forward Jasper Johnson scored 21 points in 20 minutes in the loss.

Bayless, Jeter, Pendergraph Lead Blazers Past Spurs :

Pooh Jeter and Jared Bayless scored 19 and 18 points as the Blazers guards shined in a 91-74 win over the Spurs. Jeters' shots were dropping throughout the game shooting 8-13 while splitting point guard duties with Bayless. Last years top rookie, Bayless, looked more comfortable against the Spurs but had his fourth straight game of at least 6 turnovers. "I did what I needed to do. Pooh had it going tonight. I just tried to put them [teammates] in spots,"Bayless said. Blazers center Jeff Pendergraph posted a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. For the Spurs, DeJaun Blair again led his team with 16 points and 11 rebounds.

Blair Says He's in the Perfect Situation :

"I fell into the perfect team. This team loves me and it feels amazing." Blair told HoopsTV. DeJuan Blair, who was projected by some as a top 15 pick, slid to the 37th pick in the 2009 draft when the Spurs more than willingly snatched him up. The Spurs have been known for finding gems in the second round and it seems Blair may fit that stereotype. "I've come from nothing to having everything I ever dreamed of." The former Pitt Panther has already signed a three-year guaranteed contract, something that is not typical of second round picks."Hopefully after Timmy [Duncan] is gone, this will be my team until I retire." Blair said. Although those comments might be a little premature, Blair is averaging 16.3 points and 8.7 rebounds in three Summer League games. If Blair has it his way, every team will regret their decision to pass on him.

Sunday Notes

Young, Douglas sit out; McGee, Hill Battle as Wiz drop Knicks :

JaVale McGee came out firing on all cylinders for the second straight day in the Vegas Summer League. McGee was matched up against Knicks Jordan Hill for most of the game but managed 31 points, 8 rebounds and 4 block shots. The Wizards were playing without star guard Nick Young but reserve guard Tyrese Rice picked up the slack and chipped in with 17 points. The Knicks, playing without rookie Tony Douglas, dropped to 0-5 during the '09 NBA Summer League. While Jordan Hill initially struggled this week, Hill looked much better in his final two games. In the loss against the Wizards, Hill scored 21 points and chipped in 7 boards. Knicks Fourth year player Nikoloz Tskitishvilli showed his three-point touch shooting 4-6 from behind the arc in addition to 8 rebounds off the bench.

Flynn named T-Mobile Rookie of the Month :

Johnny Flynn was not only a fan favorite in Vegas this week but before Sunday's action he was announced as the T-Mobile Rookie of the Month. Flynn averaged 15 points and 7.4 assists in 27.4 minutes per game. The first round pick was not only impressive on the court but off the court as well. In numerous post-game interviews with HoopsTV, Flynn was a class act and more than willing to give his opinions on all subjects. "Vegas is great! It's [summer league] definitely been fun. It's good to come out here and learn the NBA game while just enjoying the whole process," Flynn said. If Flynn plays anything like he did during the Summer League, watch out NBA.

Leader of the Pack :

Corey Brewer, the former first round pick and second year guard out of Florida was happy he could help be a leader during the Wolves summer league. "I thought it was pretty good. I'm an old man," Brewer told HoopsTV. "Its cool being the old man though, I've been here a couple years and just teaching the guys the right way and wrong way." Brewer played in four games in the summer league, averaging 12.8 points per game in limited action. Brewers' best game came Sunday during a loss to the Bulls in which the ex-Gator dropped a game high 20 points.

James Johnson impresses as Bulls defeat Wolves :

Although Bulls rookie James Johnson didn't have the best numbers during the summer league, he was easily one of the best players on the court all week. The first rounder added 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists to his Vegas resume in a win vs. the T-Wolves. James was not only able to score and rebound but showed skills passing the ball as well as some nice moves for a big man. The Bulls finished with 5 players in double figures in the win.

Grizzles Go Perfect; Marcus Williams Continues His Roll :

The Memphis Grizzlies finished the Summer League with a 5-0 in a win against the San Antonio Spurs. Marcus Williams has looked great in Vegas and again today finished it for Memphis with the game winning layup. Williams finished with 11 points and 5 dimes while Sam Young and DeMarre Carroll each dropped 16 points and 5 rebounds. Hasheem Thabeet struggled offensively; scoring his first bucket with 3:54 left in the second half. Thabeet wasn't able to get into double figures for the fourth time in five games scoring 9 points. The Spurs who played without DeJuan Blair were led by Ian Mahinmi who scored 15 points and 9 rebounds.

Lawson Reflects on Week in Vegas :

Ty Lawson struggled early in the summer league but was able to get on track during the Nuggets win vs. Hornets in a triple-OT marathon. "I feel good about my performance. The first few games I struggled but it was a fun atmosphere especially with players like Kevin Durant out here," Lawson said. "The first two games I realized what I can and can't do but the next three I found my niche and everything so it was a real successful summer." Lawson finished with 24 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the thriller.

Select Rally from 20 Down to Win on Buzzer Beater :

The D-League Select finished the Vegas Summer League with a win against the Trail Blazers and an impressive 3-2 record. During Sunday's action, Jasper Johnson and Will Frisby led the Select to a 74-73 win. During the last few seconds of the game Kurt Looby stole the Blazer inbound pass and kicked it to Marcus Hubbard, who nailed the long-range three pointer as time expired. With the Blazers playing without Jared Bayless, Dante Cunningham and David Moss each finished the game with 16 points. Cunningham played very well throughout the Summer League leading the Blazers with an average of 18.3 points per game.

Blake Griffin Named Summer Leagues Most Outstanding Player :

Blake Griffin was announced as the MOP of the Vegas Summer League before the beginning of the Clippers game vs the Suns. The No. 1 pick finished with averages of 19.2 points per game and 10.8 rebounds per game. Not only did Griffin win the award but also was far and wide the all-around best rookie during the summer league. Scouts marveled of his potential and playing power. Many believe he is ready to make an immediate role in the NBA this season.

http://www.hoopstvonline.com/news/nbasllvwkndrecap07-20.html

What Happen in Vegas...Is on HoopsTV: Summer League Day Eight

The Rant — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 12:34:17 -0400

WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS...IS ON HoopsTV
Lead Story by: James Kaikis

Day 8 of the 2009 NBA Summer League saw some very familiar names make their way back into the headlines.

Sacto teammates Jason Thompson (23 & 10) and Tyreke Evans (18 points & 4 dimes) helped pull down the Kings first W. Both have been outstanding so far during Sin City action.

Austin Daye of the Pistons was a force again on Day 8. Daye hit for yet another double-double and as we have mentioned before, Daye has really turned heads in Vegas.

But the player we have been talking about all week that made the biggest headlines on Friday was former UNC Tar Heel Ty Lawson. Lawson's struggles this week have been well documented, but on Day 8 Lawson finally found his groove and then some.

HoopsTV's James Kaikis has that story and all the rest of the details from Day 8 at the NBA Summer League in Vegas.

Here's some notes from Day 8 of the NBA Summer League:

Daye Reflects on Performance

Pistons Austin Daye has been one of the top performers thus far in the NBA Summer League and on Day 8 he was good for 20 points and 10 rips. "I think I played really well. I had a game where I struggled but I bounced back." Daye said of his performance this week.

"We played really well as a team and won 4 out of 5 games. I'm really happy about that."

Daye finished the summer league with averages of 17 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. The Pistons first-round pick finished strong with three double-doubles in the last three games.

Team Tyreke Gets Back on Track

After a disappointing game against the D-League Select, Evans looked phenomenal vs. the Knicks. The first round pick was all over the court making nice passes, hitting shots with ease and playing tough defense.

In the first few minutes of the game Evans showed superior ball skills with a nasty crossover and fade away that made the crowd ooh and ahhh. Evans finished the game with 18 points, 4 assists and 3 steals.

Kings' second-year man Jason Thompson continued to impress the Vegas crowds. On Day 8 he posted yet another double-double (23 & 10).

Hill Struggles; JT Rolls On

Knicks first-round draft pick Jordan Hill really hasn't been the player many though he would be in this summer league.

"I still have a little work [to do]." Hill told HoopsTV. "I'm just trying to get better every time I step on the court."

Hill finished the game with 12 rebounds but went 3-11 from the field with 8 points. Hill was matched up against Kings Jason Thompson for some of the night. Thompson finished with 23 points and 10 boards. "

He is a good player." Hill said of Thompson. "He came out ready to play and did his thing; I just gotta be ready next time." Hill has the next two days to get his game going.

Flynn and Ellington Lead T-Wolves Charge

Jonny Flynn and Wayne Ellington led to Timberwolves to an 89-82 victory over the Washington Wizards on Friday. Flynn was able to get to the basket early and often scoring 21 points and 5 assists off the bench.

"That is one thing that makes me special," Flynn said. "My ability to get a piece of the paint every time and creating shots for myself and other players."

When Flynn slowed down in the second half, Ellington picked up the pace, scoring nine of his 19 points in the second half. In a losing effort, Wizards guard Nick Young had 23 points.

"Lil' Peep" Pops Off:

Anthony "Lil' Peep" Roberson had a nice makeup game after a 0 point effort against Milwaukee two days ago. Roberson was able to find his shots shooting 9-16 from the field and finishing with 24 points.

Bulls' rookie James Johnson again struggled from the field scoring only 8 points but showed his versatility with 7 assists to go along with his 10 rebounds. "I was just trying to get a feel for the guys" Johnson said of his performance.

For the Thunder, No. 3 pick James Harden played very well scoring 20 points with 12 of those coming from beyond the arc.

Lawson Breaks Funk; Scores 26

In a matchup versus the 2008 NBA summer League's top player, Jared Bayless, Lawson finally broke his shooting slump going 11-16 from the field and finishing with 26 points to go along with 5 rebounds and 5 assists.

Lawson told HoopsTV "it felt good just to get back in a rhythm." The Denver point guard played very well on defense as well. Lawson was explosive to the basket on numerous occasions and looked much more comfortable on the court than in his previous summer league games. The Nuggets defeated the Blazers 111-93.

Friday finals from Las Vegas

Detroit 92, Cleveland 86 : Daye goes for 20 & 10 (What else is new?) and the Pistons go to 4-1.

Sacramento 84, New York 71 : Thompson's double-double (23 & 10) brings home Sacto's first victory.

Minnesota 89, Washington 82 : Flynn (21 points) and Ellington (19) push Wolves to the W. We should probably get used to reading that first line.

Chicago 80, Oklahoma City 74 : Bulls guard and HTC Cat Anthony Roberson puts up 24. Thunder rookie James Harden scores 20.

Denver 111, Portland 93 : The Nuggs' Lawson hits for 26 and Weems throws in 24.

Phoenix 95, D-League Select 89 : In a losing effort former UMass star Gary Forbes had 26 and HTV cat Curtis "Hardest Worker" Stinson filled the stat sheet with a double-double (13 & 10 boards).

http://www.hoopstvonline.com/news/nbasllvfrirecap07-18II.html

What Happens in Vegas...Is on HoopsTV: Summer League Day Seven

The Rant — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 16:18:50 -0400

Just two days ago, Golden State's Anthony Randolph tied the NBA Summer League scoring record with a 42 point outburst. Yesterday on Day 7 of the 2009 NBA Summer League , Randolph's teammate Anthony Morrow tore up that record by hanging 47 points on the Hornets. Morrow shot 18-for-26 from the field, including 7-for-9 from 3-land in what can only be described as a filthy display of pure shooting skills. In other news, Blake Griffin clearly won his much hyped match up with Hasheem Thabeet, Toronto rookie DeMar DeRozan (pictured above) had a smooth night and former Kentucky scoring machine Jodie Meeks finally got unleashed. HoopsTV's James Kaikis has those stories and all the rest of the details from Day 7 at the Thomas & Mack Center.

Here's some notes from Day 7 of the NBA Summer League :

Morrow Drops Record 47 points:

On Tuesday, Anthony Randolph tied the summer league record with 42 points. Two days later, teammate Anthony Morrow broke the record with an impressive 47 points. In a postgame interview Randolph told Hoops TV. "When he had 17 in the first 5 minutes, I told him you better break that [record] and score 48 or 50." Morrow did just that in an absolutely brilliant performance. As the record drew closer, fans and players of both teams were cheering for Morrow to get the ball. "I definitely heard them [the fans]." Morrow said. "Coming out here and giving the fans a show is a real blessing to me." Morrow finished 18 of 26 from the field including 7 of 9 from three-point land.

Douby's Game Winner Gives Bucks 1st Loss:

Quincy Douby led the Raptors in another close one again in Thursday's opening game. Douby scored 17 points off the bench, but none more critical than the desperation shot with 1.3 seconds remaining. "I just shot it with confidence", Douby said of his late game heroics. Jodie Meeks led all scores with 29 including three three-pointers in a row and a late three-pointer that gave the Bucks the lead with 15.1 seconds left. "I just tried to tell myself to keep going and play solid." Meeks said of his performance. Despite the loss, the Bucks played very well, especially Joe Alexander, who continually made open shots and drove to the basket. This game was full of nifty passes and high-flying dunks. Jennings wowed the crowd on numerous occasions, especially with an under-the-leg pass to a trailing Joe Alexander and DeMar DeRozan had a monstrous put-back jam that sent the crowd into a frenzy.

Rockets finish 5-0; Dorsey Ties Record:

The Houston Rockets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 92-77 to finish 5-0. In the first half, neither team could buy a basket from the paint but the second half turned into a much different game. Chase Budinger led the Rockets charge and finished the game with 25 points. The Rockets Joey Dorsey was unstoppable on the glass throughout the game; Dorsey tied the Summer League Record with 20 rebounds. In a losing effort, center Chinemelu Elonu led the Lakers with 16 points and 8 rebounds while forward Ben McCauley scored 11 points and pulled down 10 rebounds in only 17 minutes of play.

Golden Boy Continues To Struggle:

No. 7 draft pick Steph Curry again could not find his shot, going 4-10, and then he sat 10 of the final 12 minutes of the fourth quarter as the Warriors went on a run to win the game. Curry was seen after the game getting some advice from all-star point guard Chris Paul. "He was just encouraging us to keep doing what we're doing," Curry said of Paul. The Warriors finished the summer league with a 4-1 record and were worth the price of admission with their spectacular play.

Blair Revenge Project:

"They had a chance to pick me that's all I can say." Blair said in his postgame interview with Hoops TV. It is obvious that Blair is out to prove the rest of the league that he belongs. Blair, the 37th pick of the NBA Draft, again played well despite all the criticism that a 6-7 power forward can't make it in the NBA. Blair told Hoops TV "he is just going out there to play, win, and learn." Blair finished the contest against the Thunder with 20 points and 5 rebounds. Blair's presence was felt on both ends of the court, as he hustled on offense and defense. In the Spurs win, George Hill and Malik Hairston added 20 and 16 points, respectfully.

Griffin Posts Another Double-Double:

With a star studded audience that included players such as Kevin Durant, Rudy Gay, and Chris Paul to name a few, the battle of 2009 overall No. 1 selection Blake Griffin and No. 2 pick Hasheem Thabeet turned into anything but a battle. Griffin was simply dominant. Griffin scored a team high 18 points and grabbed a game high 15 rebounds to go along with 5 assists. The No. 1 pick showed why he was the top player chosen by showcasing his stunning post moves and a couple of vicious dunks in the first half. One unidentified player, provided some comic relief when he loudly jeered Thabeet as the rookie was on the foul line, by singing-out loudly, "U-G-L-Y, you don't got no alibi you ugly! Ya, ya, you ugly. Welcome to the NBA Hasheem!!" Ugly is a fairly accurate description of Thabeet's performance against the Clippers. The No. 2 pick looked lost and was out muscled on the court for most of the game, scoring only 7 points and grabbing 3 rebounds.

Thursday finals from Las Vegas:

Toronto 84, Milwaukee 83: Milwaukee rookie Jodie Meeks scored 29 on 12-23 (4-8 from 3) shooting in the Bucks first loss.

Houston 92, L.A. Lakers 77: Houston's Joey Dorsey put up a double-double (11 points & 20 rips), while teammate Chase Budinger scored 25.

Golden State 104, New Orleans 84: Morrow breaks the NBASL scoring record with a 47 spot. He hit on 18-26 shots. With that kind of hot hand, hopefully Morrow headed straight to the tables at the Palms after the game.

San Antonio 85, Oklahoma City 76: G-Hill had 20 & 9 dimes for the Spurs.

Cleveland 75, Dallas 62: Tarence Kinsey hit for 20 on 16-18 shooting from the charity stripe. The Mavs are now 0-4.

Memphis 85, L.A. Clippers 68: Marcus Williams continues to turn heads—22 points and 5 assists.

http://www.hoopstvonline.com/news/nbasllvthurecap07-17.html

What Happens in Vegas...Is On HoopsTV: Summer League Day Six

The Rant — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 15:17:22 -0400

I am currently covering the NBA Summer League in Vegas for Hoops Tv. Check out my story from Day Six.

Day Six of the 2009 NBA Summer League saw a host of fresh names take over the spotlight in Las Vegas. Of course, it helped that Golden State's Anthony Randolph had the day off.

Names like Austin Daye of the Pistons, Sacramento second-year man Jason Thompson, Daye's teammate DaJuan Summers, and Blazers 2009 second-round pick Dante Cunningham were just a few of the names creating a buzz at the Thomas & Mack Center on Day Six.

HoopsTV's James Kaikis has those stories, and all the rest of the details from Day Six of the NBA Summer League covered.

Just Another Summer's Daye

Detroit Pistons' rookies Austin Daye and DeJuan Summers both man-handled the New York Knicks in Wednesday's opening game. Daye dropped 27 points and 13 rebounds on the Knicks, leading all players in both categories. Daye showed off his smooth stroke and uncanny ability to get to the basket time and time again.

Second round pick DeJuan Summers again made sure his name wouldn't be lost in the shuffle by scoring 26 points including some high flying dunks. Knicks rookie Jordan Hill, who looked inconsistent at times, had 14 points in the loss.

Milwaukee Stays Perfect

The Bucks played very well-rounded basketball as they defeated the Bulls 87-72. Joe Alexander led the way with 18 points, despite not being able to find consistency in his shot throughout the first half.

Amir Johnson dominated opponents in the paint, adding another 17 points and eight rebounds. College scoring sensation Jodie Meeks added 16 points. Brandon Jennings added 14 points and nine assists.

Jennings said, "All I'm trying to do is prove that I can run the team and win games."

Jennings, who told Hoops TV that his new nickname is now "Young Buck", was tossing no-look passes from everywhere on the court.

Rooks DeRozen & Clark Showcase Skills in Tight Game

DeMar DeRozen and the Toronto Raptors defeated Earl Clark and the Phoenix Suns in a sloppy, nail-biter game in which both teams combined for 49 fouls and 37 turnovers.

DeRozen played very well, scoring 20 points with ease. DeRozen, who was guarded closely by Taylor Griffin throughout the game, showed signs of brilliance, swishing nearly every shot he took early in the game.

Quincy Douby helped propel the Raptors to the victory after falling behind nine points in the fourth quarter.

Earl Clark looked great for the Suns, despite only shooting 5-12 with five turnovers. Clark showed his versatility and range, scoring on open looks from just inside the three-point line. Clark also added a game-high 12 rebounds in the contest, in which center Robin Lopez seemingly disappeared most of the game.

Thompson Has Big Day, Evans Goes Quiet

"I guess on a summer league note, it's almost a triple-double," Jason Thompson jokingly said of his 31-point, 10 rebound and nine foul performance. "I'm just trying to be more aggressive, not just with the points, but with the rebounds."

Thompson couldn't do enough to get the Kings their first win against the D-League Select squad, even though it seemed like his name was called after every point. Thompson was all over the court; setting picks, rebounding and dominating in the post.

The man everyone came to see, Tyreke Evans, had his worst offensive output during the summer league thus far. Evans, who didn't start for Sacto, did not seem to have the regular edge coming off the bench, and went 1-5 with five points and three assists.

For the Select, Trey Johnson added 20 points off the bench, all in the second half.

Bayless Making It a Point to Play His Role

Last year, Jared Bayless was dropping nearly 30 points a game on his way to the top rookie award. This year, Bayless is concentrating on his new role as primarily a point guard.

"The focus is to be a floor general out there, putting players in the spots to be in, and putting them into positions to do what they do." Bayless said.

Bayless played well in a loss against the Rockets, scoring 13 points, but showed flashes of his scoring abilities and his increased leadership abilities in his second year in the summer league.

Bayless could be heard yelling commands to the players throughout the game, and even had a half-time chat with head coach Nate McMullen in the media section, discussing where he should be on the floor at certain times.

GM Kevin Pritchard has been discussing possible deals for a new point guard to lead the Blazers, but Bayless feels he's ready to take make an impact this season.

"I'm hoping I can. It's just the opportunity that presents itself; if it does I'm gonna take advantage of it."

NCAA Champ's Woes Continue

After going 0-8 overall in his first summer league game, Lawson went 1-8 and finished with seven points, despite starting and playing 27 minutes. Lawson just could not find his rhythm throughout warm-ups and the game.

He did finish with a game high four assists, but one had to wonder if Ty can shake off the rust and find his shot.

Wednesday finals from Las Vegas:

Detroit 96, New York 73 : Daye (27 & 13) and Summers (26 & 8) were the 1-2 knockout punch for the Pistons.

Milwaukee 87, Chicago 72 : Joe Alexander had 18, and the Bucks are 4-0. Has that last line ever been written before?

Toronto 74, Phoenix 73 : The Rooks shined as Demar Derozen (TOR) hit for 20, and Earl Clark (PHX) had 13 & 12 rips.

NBA D-League Select 105, Sacramento 89 : Jason Thompson had 31 & 10, but Sacto is now 0-4.

Houston 87, Portland 82 : Cunningham had 22 for the Blazers, while HTV cat James White had 16 for the Rockets.

Denver 77, Washington 70 : Andray Blatche continues to impress -- 27 points, 15 boards & three dimes. But if Blatche can make this happen in the regular season remains to be seen.

http://www.hoopstvonline.com/news/nbasllvthurecap07-16.html

Derrick Mason Abruptly Retires Leaving Ravens In a Hole

The Rant — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:36:12 -0400

In an offseason where the Ravens were looking to add another big play receiver to play alongside Mason, they will now be searching for his replacement.

ESPN has reported that Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Derrick Mason has announced his retirement on the website JOCKlife.com.

"I have had a tremendous career and I played for two great teams, I had fun. In my career, I have been able to do everything but win a Super Bowl. I've had the opportunity to play on great teams and with great players. After 12 years, I have seen it all and done it all," Mason said.

"Right now, I am content with the decision I am making. All good things come to an end and I am ready to see what else life has to offer."

A Ravens spokesman said that Mason has yet to send a letter to the NFL informing them of his retirement, but the abrupt decision comes as a huge blow to the Ravens, who have been in search of another wide receiver target this offseason.

The Ravens have been unsuccessful in adding big names like Anquan Boldin and Brandon Marshall, both whom have been targeted as potential candidates.

Mason, who was entering the final year of his contract, had been unsuccessful in negotiating a long-term contract this offseason.

Replacing Mason's leadership, along with his 80 catches for 1,037 yards, won't be easy. Demetrius Williams will fill the void of the No. 2 receiver alongside the inconsistent Mark Clayton.

The addition of TE L.J. Smith should help the passing game, but second year quarterback Joe Flacco might have a few bumps along the way.

The Ravens are nearly out of options; the Marshall front has been quiet, and Boldin has remained MIA in the media since firing Drew Rosenhaus.

The Browns may still be interesting in moving Braylon Edwards, but the chances of the two in-division rivals making a trade is almost zero.

Unfortunately for the Ravens, time may have run out.

If the Ravens don't add another receiving piece to their puzzle, it could be a tough sophomore season for Joe Flacco and head coach John Harbaugh.

Mountain West Conference's Bid for Equality Denied by Major Conferences

The Rant — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 18:51:27 -0400

The Mountain West Conference has been in the spotlight of national sports news lately, for its failed bid to break through the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) barriers.

The Mountain West feels they are deserving of an automatic bid in the BCS, as they should. Last year the Utah Utes made an impressive and improbable run at an undefeated season and a National Championship only to be shunned from the BCS Title game, and into the Sugar Bowl vs. Southeastern Conference (SEC) powerhouse Alabama. The Utes smashed favorite Alabama, in a romping that left many wondering if the Utah deserved to be in the National Championship Game vs. Florida.

The Mountain West finished with two teams in the top 10 of the final AP voting, No. 2 Utah and No. 7 TCU, which tied them with the SEC for most of any conference. The Mountain West also finished with three teams in the top 25, including No. 25 BYU, which was tied for fourth among the top conferences. Not to mention, the underrated MWC went 6-and-1 during the regular season vs. the Pac-10, and finished with the best record, 8-and-5, against BCS schools.

After years of debate for a playoff system, Mountain West Commissioner Craig Thompson believed it was time for the MWC to get the respect it deserved and formally propose a playoff system.

The Mountain West’s proposal was very detailed. First, a conference would qualify for an automatic bid only if the teams have a winning percentage of at least .400 in games against the current qualifying leagues over a two-year period. This would mean the MWC would be the seventh conference to have an automatic bid starting next season.

Additionally, a 12-member committee would chose which teams receive an at-large bid and would be in charge of seeding the eight-teams chosen for the playoff.

The Sugar, Orange, Rose and Fiesta bowls would each host the four first-round playoff games. The four bowls would also be given the chance to host the semifinals and championship game in the following two weeks.

Finally, the MWC proposed for the 11 major conferences and Notre Dame to have equal representation in the BCS presidential oversight committee, and for revenues to be distributed equally among all conferences.

Undoubtedly, the MWC proposal was the best proposal to date, but was ultimately shutdown by the 10 major conferences and Notre Dame.

“The Mountain West appreciates the thorough review that each conference gave our reform proposal,” said Commissioner Craig Thompson in a statement. “However, the MWC continues to believe that there are fundamental flaws in the BCS system that need to be addressed”.

Days later, the Mountain West reluctantly signed the BCS television agreement with ESPN, putting any major changes on hold until after the 2013 season.

“The Mountain West believes it has no choice at this time but to sign the agreements. If a conference wishes to compete at the highest levels of college football, and the only postseason system in place for that is the BCS, no one conference can afford to drop out and penalize its football programs and student-athletes.”

The statement by the Mountain West could not be any clearer; the MWC had no choice.

If the conference did not sign the agreement, it would hurt the teams in the MWC for numerous reasons: The conference would also not receive any money from the BCS and in a recession, conferences can not afford to miss out on at least $9.5 million per season. Moreover, recruiting top players to play in the Mountain West would take a dramatic hit, thus causing the conference to play at a much lower level and hurting its chances at playing in bowl games.

"The Mountain West will continue its efforts for change, including a request for dialogue with representatives of the BCS," University of Utah president Michael Young said. "Our goal is to ensure the eventual outcome of these endeavors is what our universities and student-athletes need, what the vast majority of American sports fans want, and what is long overdue: an equitable system."

The ball is now in the Mountain West’s hands. The conference seemingly has a four-year tryout to prove it belongs with the other conferences. If the conference can compete at a high level yearly, with teams in the top 25 and winning bowl games against the BCS schools, then in 2014 the BCS will have no choice but to change its current dubious system.

Steve "Air" McNair: A Winner's Career in Retrospect

The Rant — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 01:39:24 -0400

On the celebration of our nation's independence, sports fans around the country took a moment of silence to remember a historic NFL player.

Steve McNair, 36, was found dead in his Nashville apartment on a Saturday afternoon; his death has been classified as a homicide.

“Air McNair” was known for his toughness and an uncanny approach to the quarterback position. McNair was described as a warrior among teammates because he frequently played hurt, week in and week out.

The multidimensional McNair was a winner from the start. He led Mount Olive High School to a Mississippi state championship and was even drafted by the Seattle Mariners to play professional baseball.

Ultimately, McNair turned down the baseball offer to attended Alcorn State University to play quarterback rather than play defensive back at LSU or Southern Miss. At Alcorn State, he became one of the most successful Division 1-AA (now known as Football Championship Subdivision) players to ever step foot on the gridiron.

During McNair’s senior season in 1994, he received the Walter Payton award as the top player in NCAA Division 1-AA. In addition, McNair was an All-American and Heisman Trophy Finalist after producing nearly 6,000 yards in the air and on the ground while compiling a whopping total of 53 touchdowns.

In his four-year career, McNair amassed 14,496 career-passing yards and 16,823 yards of total offense; both are still Division 1-AA records.

As a revolutionist during his days at Alcorn State University, McNair caught the attention of the Houston Oilers and then-new head coach Jeff Fisher, who ended up drafting him with the third overall pick in the 1995 NFL Draft.

McNair continued his ruggedness and tough style of play with the Oilers, providing a one-two punch with 1996 first round pick and Heisman winner running back Eddie George.

The Tennessee Titans were born in 1999 with Air McNair as the face of the franchise. McNair, with the help of backup Neil O’Donnell, led the Titans to a 13-3 record and a trip to Super Bowl XXXIV.

The Titans played one of the most memorable Super Bowls to date against the St. Louis Rams as McNair orchestrated a 73-yard final drive that came up one-yard short on the last play of the game, as Rams linebacker Mike Jones stopped receiver Kevin Dyson at the goal-line with time expired.

The Titans under McNair’s control were a perennial top force in the NFL. The Titans posted a 43-21 regular season record from 2000 to 2003.

During the 2003 season, McNair was named co-MVP with division rival Peyton Manning despite not practicing the final two months of the season due to injuries. McNair, who was always known for being an admirable player on and off the field, had nothing but great things to say about himself and rival Manning.

“My words cant express how I feel being co-MVP with another great quarterback like Peyton," he said at the time. "It’s very emotional right for me that people look at me as being one of the top quarterbacks of the NFL, one of the top players, and co-MVP.”

McNair’s post-MVP Titan career was injury-ridden and did not feature the storybook ending he had hoped for, but his luck changed on June 7, 2006, when he was traded to the Baltimore Ravens.

McNair showed flashes of his old form during the 2006 campaign, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 16 touchdowns and leading the way to a 13-3 record and the AFC North Division title. Despite the regular season success, the Ravens lost to the Colts in the playoffs.

In April of 2008, McNair retired with three Pro-Bowls, 31,304 passing yards, and 174 touchdowns on his resume.

Fans will remember McNair as a player who defied odds and was undoubtedly one of the toughest players to ever put on a helmet, from his days at Mount Olive High School to his retirement. McNair proved he could play quarterback, spurning guaranteed money in pro baseball and a Division I scholarship to play defensive back at two bigtime colleges.

McNair was one of the few players from I-AA to get Heisman recognition and the first black small-college quarterback to get national exposure since Doug Williams in 1978.

By all accounts, McNair was a one-of-a-kind person, teammate, and friend. The community will remember him as always very giving and generous. His teammates will remember him for his passion and willingness to leave it on all the field. His friends will remember him as someone who significantly impacted their lives forever and will be greatly missed.

The Hot Topic @ InsidetheGridIron.com

Mile-High Fiasco: Brandon Marshall Asks for Trade

The Rant — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 05:26:28 -0400

Again, the Denver Broncos are in the news for one of their best players wanting out of the Mile-High city, as Pro Bowl Wide Receiver Brandon Marshall asked for a trade.

The Broncos have already traded away a Pro Bowl quarterback for the mediocre Kyle Orton, and draft picks thus new head coach Josh McDaniels can’t afford to give into another player’s demands.

Brandon Marshall, despite his off-field troubles, has been one of the most productive wide receivers in the NFL over the last two seasons: posting 206 receptions for 2590 yards and 13 touchdowns. Although the Broncos have solid weapons in Eddie Royal, Jabar Gaffney, and Brandon Stokley, Marshall is irreplaceable.

This offseason, receivers such as Braylon Edwards and Anquan Boldin had been shopped around to no avail. The Browns and Cardinals failed to field any substantial offers for their big time wide receivers, so what makes Brandon Marshall and his agent believe the Broncos will get enough in return for them to trade their oft-troubled best player?

Marshall is looking for a big contract extension but Denver isn’t his ideal situation. He has lost his Pro Bowl quarterback and is playing in a new system. Statistically, his stock may be at its highest point; Marshall and his agent know this. The Broncos gave into Cutler's demands so Marshall will make his attempt to get his way.

Marshall needs the Broncos just as much as McDaniels needs Marshall. McDaniels needs Marshall to be his big go-to receiver, as Randy Moss was in New England and Marshall needs the Broncos offense to perform at a high level, so he can receive his fat paycheck.

There lies a problem if Marshall does not receive a contract extension this season. If the Collective Bargaining Agreement is not renegotiated, the NFL will have an uncapped year in 2010—meaning players would have to have six years of service in order to be eligible for free agency.

Brandon Marshall is well aware of the current CBA situation and does not want to be stuck in Josh McDaniels rebuilding stage without an extension: thus his request for a trade.

The Broncos, who have been stuck in a whirlwind of controversy this offseason, need to handle the situation accordingly. They cannot give into another players demand for a trade when things aren’t going their way. This could create a domino effect when players such as phenomenon left tackle Ryan Clady or emerging Eddie Royal are unhappy and want new contracts.

Look for Marshall to suit up for the Broncos this season with a chip on his shoulder in efforts to get his payday or his one-way ticket out of Denver.

Hot Topic @ InsidetheGridIron.com

Why Mark Sanchez Holds the Edge Among Fellow Rookie Quarterbacks

The Rant — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 07:17:18 -0400

Three quarterbacks were chosen in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft, but only one will make a dramatic impact on his team; the big apple's own Mark Sanchez.

Although Sanchez is in the midst of a quarterback ‘competition’ of his own with the unimpressive Kellen Clemens, Sanchez is sure to come out on top by the start of the season.

Sanchez, who has wowed coaches during minicamp, has all the tools that scouts drool over: rare accuracy, legitimate NFL arm strength, strong intangibles, and mobility in the pocket.

Playing in a pro-style offense at USC, Sanchez threw for 3,207 yards with 34 touchdowns, leading the Trojans to a 12-1 record. Sanchez impressed scouts and coaches with his exceptional leadership skills and rare abilities that translated to success on the field.

The Jets traded up in the draft to nab Sanchez and have already invested $28 million guaranteed and upward of $60 million over five years to their new face of the franchise and poster boy. In a huge New York market, where the pressure is on, it would be tough for everyone involved to have Sanchez ride the pine for most of his rookie season.

Sanchez holds the edge to make more of an impact this season than his fellow first-round quarterbacks for two reason: Sanchez has the best shot to start the season, as his team's starting quarterback, and the Jets have a better supporting cast than the Lions and Buccaneers.

Even though the Jets play the seventh toughest schedule this season, Sanchez won’t need to throw the ball 30 times a game because he can hand the ball off to last years AFC leading rusher Thomas Jones. Sanchez also has the speedy Leon Washington and fellow rookie Shonn Greene in his backfield arsenal.

New head coach Rex Ryan brings an aggressive, unorthodox style of play to an underachieving defense that has talent at nearly every position. If the defense plays to their potential, the Jets will resemble last years Baltimore Ravens, who started rookie Joe Flacco and made it to the AFC Championship game.

Coach Ryan and Sanchez have once frustrated Jets fans believing they will be in the playoffs this season after last years Brett Favre failure and playoff collapse.

Sanchez already has his mind made up about where he will be when the season starts. “I feel like I’m going to be on the field and that’s what you always want to do. You don’t grow up dreaming of being a backup, so I’m going to go for it.”

Undoubtedly, Sanchez will be the Jets starting quarterback from week one and will make the bigger impact on his team than both Matthew Stafford and Josh Freeman.

Debate of the Week @ InsidetheGridIron.com

Senior Spotlight: UNLV's Ryan Wolfe

The Rant — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 17:13:58 -0400

Here is an article written for UNLVs school paper www.unlvrebelyell.com

Senior wide receiver Ryan Wolfe is in the midst of writing the final chapters of a storybook UNLV football career.

The two-time Mountain West Conference First-Team Wide Receiver has already set school records in receptions (209), receiving yards (2,735) and 100-yard games (10). Wolfe is also 54 receptions away from becoming the Mountain West Conference’s all time reception leader.

“Anytime you get your name put into something that a bunch of people are going to see for years to come its good to know that there’s going to be some recognition in some of the hard work that you’ve put in."

Wolfe, who has already graduated, has been refining his football skills this offseason in preparation for the upcoming season. Wolfe is UNLV’s first legitimate All-American candidate in years and has a chance at being drafted in next year’s NFL draft.

Until then, Wolfe will be continue to play a vital role in the turnaround of a Rebel Football team that has come from consecutive 2-10 seasons to a 5-7 record last season. The pressure is on the Rebels, especially the senior leaders, to take the next step and over the .500 mark.

“There should be pressure on all of us seniors, this is our last year and this is our team. We need to lead the way and show all the guys what kind of standard we need to set”.

Wolfe and the Rebels look to move up in the MWC standings this season. Quarterback Omar Clayton has become more comfortable in the offense and with the emergence of fellow wide receiver Phillip Payne, the offense will look to improve statistically again this year.

UNLV will have their hands full this season with home games against Oregon State, Hawaii, BYU, and Utah. But the Rebels have their eyes set on October 3, where the Rebels will travel to a hostile Reno environment in hopes of bringing the Cannon back to UNLV.

The Rebels No. 1 goal is to beat Reno and get the cannon back, according to Wolfe.

“As a team, I think we have a stepping stone of goals, number one to beat Reno, get the cannon back, it’s going to be a pretty intense atmosphere going back up to Reno.”
Wolfe has put up impressive numbers against UNR catching 16 passes for 276 yards, and two touchdowns in three games.

The Rebels will look to Wolfe to help defeat Reno and have a successful year in the Mountain West.

As for Wolfe, he doesn’t care much for individual awards or records but only hopes to be remembered as a player who gave his all and his aid in turning around UNLV into a winning program.

“I want to be remembered as a guy who always went 100 percent no matter what I was doing and a guy who helped turn a program around that came from 2-10 to consecutive winning seasons.”

Check out my website InsidetheGridiron.com

The Curse Of Marian Hossa

The Rant — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:48:18 -0400

For the second year in a row, Marian Hossa stood on the ice as a Stanley Cup loser.

At this time last year, Hossa sat and watched as the Detroit Red Wings celebrated their Stanley cup victory on the Pittsburgh Penguins' home ice at Mellon Arena. Hossa, set to become a free agent, decided if you can't beat them, join them, turning down a seven-year, $49 million contract with the Penguins for a one-year, $7.45 million contract.

“I wanted the best chance to win the Stanley Cup and I feel like Detroit is the team,” Hossa said after signing his contract. “I know I could get more money somewhere else [Pittsburgh, Edmonton], but the thing that I was looking for for myself was to win the Stanley Cup".

Hossa again was quoted saying "...but I know I made the right decision. I truly believe that I made the right decision.”  

Wrong, Mr. Hossa! Obviously Hossa did not make the right choice, as he watched the Penguins, whom he spurned in free agency, win Lord Stanley’s Cup on the road in Game Seven without the help of Hossa.

The Penguins paid a hefty price for Hossa, who played a total of 32 games for Pittsburgh, at the 2008 trade deadline by trading fan favorite Colby Armstrong, Erik Christenson, super-prospect Angelo Esposito, and a first-round draft pick.

The loss of Hossa not only hurt the Penguins organization, but the fans of Pittsburgh were utterly disappointed and upset. The Pens thought they finally had a dynamic scoring threat aside superstar Sid the Kid, which meant more Stanley Cup appearances to come, only to see Hossa do the unthinkable and join the opposing forces.

The 2008-09 Penguins didn't look like the Stanley Cup runner-ups, sliding into 10th place in the Eastern Conference standings while Marian Hossa and the Red Wings were sitting pretty in second place of the Western Conference.

The Pens fired head coach Michel Therrien and replaced him with Dan Bylsma, who led the Pens to a 34-11-4 record (including the playoffs). While the Pens caught fire and skyrocketed in the standings and into the playoffs, thoughts of a rematch became more of a possibility.

Both the Red Wings and Penguins faced adversity and Game Seven scares in the playoffs, but ultimately the Penguins and Red Wings would face off again with Hossa sporting a red and white No. 81 jersey instead of a black and gold No. 18 jersey this time.

As the Red Wings and Penguins battled for seven games, Marian Hossa pulled a Houdini disappearing act, posturing a 'monstrous' three assists during the Stanley Cup Finals as he was booed, in Pittsburgh, and hit hard every time he touched the puck. As the final siren went off, Hossa again watched the opposition celebrate their Stanley Cup victory.

Was it karma or just tough luck for Hossa? He pulled a fast one on the Penguins, who believed they had the dynamic first-line scorer they had been missing, and it bit him right in the behind.

Although the Red Wings look like they will re-sign Hossa and will make another Stanley Cup appearance down the road, the city and fans of the Pittsburgh Penguins thank the Red Wings for bringing The Curse to Detroit and Lord Stanley's Cup to the deserving Pittsburgh Penguins.

A Note to Brett Favre: Please Stay Home

The Rant — Tue, 26 May 2009 01:34:45 -0400

The Brett Favre saga continues as the once storied Green Bay Packer quarterback continues to make daily headlines about a possible return to the NFL. Will he return and quarterback the Minnesota Vikings? That remains to be seen but should he? Absolutely not.

Brett Favre decided to retire, for the first time, in March 2008 as the NFL all-time leader in passing yards, passing touchdowns, and most wins by a starting quarterback. Favre told the Packers he was mentally tired and would not make a return to the NFL unless he had a legitimate shot at winning another Super Bowl.

Favre-less months went by until June, when Favre admitted he had been guilty of retiring early and made it known he wanted to make a comeback. Under heavy public scrutinity general manager Ted Thompson and the Packers made it known they had moved on with former first-round pick Aaron Rodgers as their starting quarterback.

Favre acted in a childish and immature manner creating a circus and public standoff with his former employer and forcing his way onto the Packers roster by sending in his letter of reinstatement.

The Packers, rumored to have offered as much as $20 million to Favre to stay retired, did the only thing they could do and traded Favre to the Jets. During his only season with the Jets, Favre showed flashes of his old Packer form during the first few months of the seasons, but a torn bicep and four of five losses to end the season; Favre and the Jets were sent home packing costing head coach Eric Mangini his job.

The rumors continued to fly this offseason as the Jets released Favre from the reserve/retired list. Is Brett Favre really debating another comeback, but this time with the enemy?

It should be out of the question for Favre to want to return to the NFL again, especially with the Minnesota Vikings.

Brett Favre has been the heart and soul of the Green Bay Packers since his fourth game of the 1992 season when he became starting quarterback until he retired in 2008. Favres spectacular career included 10 trips to the Pro Bowl, three first team All-Pro selections, three MVP awards, and a Super Bowl championship while setting countless records all with the Packers.

The fans have given Favre everything since his arrival; doesn't he owe it to the city of Green Bay to not join the hated rival Vikings? How devastated would the fans of Green Bay be to have Favre return to Lambeau sporting the purple and white?

Brett Favre is synonymous with the Green Bay Packers and it should stay that way. Many times veterans feel they still have it and refuse to hang it up, joining team after team, hurting their legacies. For example, Jerry Rice is arguably the greatest wide receiver in NFL history, but he continued to play team after team until retiring with the Denver Broncos in training camp. Does Favre really want to go down the same road?

As much as NFL fans would love to see Favre back in the league, he needs to keep his legacy in tact and stay home. Fans should be talking about how Favre brought greatness back to a storied Green Bay Franchise, not how Favre let his ego get the best of him and hurt his legacy by playing injury ridden, sub-par season(s) with the Jets and possibly the Vikings.

Brett Favre will be praised as a Packer-great forever but if he is to walk into Green Bay on November 1 as a member of the Minnesota Vikings, it will be a sad and regretful day for NFL fans everywhere.

Note: Coming Soon—www.InsidetheGridiron.com will be having a Debate of the Week section during the 2009 NFL season. Check out the opposite side of the spectrum in Long Island Sounds article.

NFL Power Rankings: The Three-Months-Too-Early Edition

The Rant — Fri, 22 May 2009 05:56:42 -0400

Alright, ladies and gentlemen, I give you the three-months-too-early edition of my NFL Power Rankings. I was in a good mood, so I decided to spend countless hours making power rankings. I will say not everyone, of course, will like my rankings, but that is fine.

These rankings are due to change in a few weeks after OTA's and training camp. Please check it out!

About the rankings: The Super Bowl Champion Steelers take the top spot due to the fact that they are returning almost the same team, if not a better team, than last season's. The Patriots could easily be No. 1, but it will depend on the health of Tom Brady.

Many teams—such as the Cowboys, Bears, and Packers—have the potential to skyrocket up the rankings, but we will have to wait and see how the 2009 season plays out.

Rank (Prev.) Team Record Comments

1 (1) Steelers 0-0

The Steelers return much of the roster that made them Super Bowl Champions in 2008. Running back Rashard Mendenhall, who missed most of his 2008 rookie season, will be a major addition to the ground game and look for new starting middle linebacker Lawrence Timmons, who has a rare combination of speed and size, to make a huge impact on the leagues top defense.

With Ben Roesthlisberger solidifying himself as one of the NFLs elite, the Steelers appear poised for another Super Bowl run.

2 (2) Giants 0-0

This may be a surprise to some but the Giants have a front seven that keeps offensive coordinators up all night. The Giants had a chance to trade their first round pick for Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards who, despite all his drops, has the potential to be one of the best receivers in the league but instead drafted North Carolina's Hakeem Nicks to fill Plaxico Burress's shoes.

If Eli Manning plays at a consistently high level, the Giants could be the NFC representative in Miami.

3 (3) Patriots 0-0

The Patriots went 11-5 last season with Matt Cassel as their starter. If the Patriots have a healthy Tom Brady, this team has the potential for another 14 win season. The Patriots spent three second round picks and signed cornerbacks Shawn Springs and Leigh Bodden in an attempted to address their defensive needs.

The defense will be in question throughout the season as well as the health of Tom Brady but if both go according to plan then the Patriots may have a chance at another undefeated regular season.

4 (4) Eagles 0-0

The Eagles had one of the most impressive offseasons in the league. The additions of Jason Peters and Stacey Andrews will solidify the once aging offensive line while speedy receiver Jeremy Maclin and running back LeSean McCoy should give Donovan McNabb more weapons in his arsenal.

The loss of seven-time Pro Bowl free safety Brian Dawkins could sting if new safety Sean Jones doesn't play up to his potential. If McNabb can stay healthy the Eagles have the potential to have a better offense than the team that went to the Super Bowl in 2004.

5 (5) Colts 0-0

Peyton Manning is still an Indianapolis Colt which is why the Colts are still in the top five. The departures of head coach Tony Dungy, offensive coordinator Tom Moore and offensive line coach Howard Mudd could create more of a problem than initially thought.

Moore and Mudd have been coaching Manning since Day One and life will take some adjusting but if anyone can handle it, its Manning. The addition of Donald Brown with a healthy Joseph Addai will help get a ground game going that struggled last season.

6 (6) Chargers 0-0

Philip Rivers and the Chargers entered last seasons playoffs as the leagues hottest team. The Chargers had tough luck losing the first two games last season by a combined 3 points and became the first team in history to make the playoffs after starting a season 4-8.

The Chargers will return sack-master Shawn Merriman and the addition of first round pick Larry English will make the Chargers defense tough to game plan against. A healthy LaDainian Tomlinson and a speedy Darren Sproles will give the Chargers one of the best one-two punches in the NFL.

7 (7) Cardinals 0-0

The Cardinals appear to be the same old Cardinals, at least in the management department. After a scare by quarterback Kurt Warner flirting with the 49ers, the Cardinals return most of the high-powered offense that got them into the Super Bowl, minus offensive coordinator Todd Haley.

Haley's departure may be underestimated due to Haley's brilliant use of route combinations that kept defenses on their heels. The Cardinals did the right thing by not trading disgruntled receiver Anquan Boldin for a second round pick but Boldin is still insisting on a trade.

The Cardinals stole running back Chris Wells at the end of the first round. Wells will join Warner and company giving the Cardinals one of the top offenses again in 2009.

8 (8) Ravens 0-0

The loss of defensive coordinator Rex Ryan and middle linebacker Bart Scott will undoubtedly hurt but the Ravens have enough talent on the defensive side of the ball to not be a top unit in 2009.

Quarterback Joe Flacco showed his ability to manage games without making unnecessary throws. If the offense is able to show a little firepower and provide some production out of the passing game the Ravens could once again be in the AFC Championship.

9 (9) Falcons 0-0

Quarterback Matt Ryan and head coach Mike Smith aided in the turn around of dismal Falcon franchise in just one year. The emergence of Matt Ryan makes the Falcons instant front-runners in the NFC South.

The addition of Tony Gonzalez should not only help Ryan but will cause defenses to back off receiver Roddy White, who had a career year in 2008.

The Falcons defense took a hit in free agency especially with the loss of longtime linebacker Keith Brooking but the Falcons used all but one of their draft picks on the defensive side of the ball. If Ryan continues the progress he made on his 2008 season, the Falcons will be a forced to reckon with this season and beyond.

10 (10) Titans 0-0

The Titans added weapons to their offense in first round draft pick receiver Kenny Britt and free agent Nate Washington. With the emergence of the game changing Chris Johnson and power of LenDale White, the Titans offense has much more potential in 2009.

Look for second year defensive tackle Jason Jones, who had 3.5 sacks and three forced fumbles against the Steelers in week 16, to help fill the void left by Pro Bowler Albert Haynesworth. The Titans will only go as far as aging quarterback Kerry Collins will take them.

11 (11) Panthers 0-0

Jake Delhomme signed a five-year extension this offseason keeping him under contract 'til 2014 assuring him the Panthers have confidence in his abilities as a starting quarterback.

Delhomme did not have the best season in 2008 but the much anticipated breakout of DeAngelo Williams along with a strong showing by rookie running back Jonathan Stewart gave the Panthers the potential to run over any team in their path.

The Panthers hope to continue this trend in the 2009 season. Linebacker Jon Beason has established himself as one of the best 4-3 middle linebackers in the NFL. It remains to be seen if defensive end and franchise player Julius Peppers will be in uniform at the start of the season.

12 (12) Vikings 0-0

The controversy of who will be the Vikings starting quarterback for the 2009 season continues; whether it be Sage Rosenfels, Tarvaris Jackson or even Brett Favre, quarterback play is the only thing keeping this team from being a consistent contender year in and year out. Running back Adrian Peterson has the potential to be one of the best in our generation.

The addition of receiver Percy Harvin will give the offense even more speed causing problems for opposing defenses. The Vikings defense, led by a Pro Bowl studded defensive line, is near the top in the league every year. This team will only go as far as the quarterback will take them.

13 (13) Cowboys 0-0

Tony Romo can now take a deep breathe as Terrell Owens has now moved on. It will be up to receiver Roy Williams to prove he is worth a first, third and fifth round draft pick.

Look for Romo's favorite target Jason Witten to have another big year along with the two headed monster in the physical Marion Barber and the speedster Felix Jones.

The Cowboy defense will have more depth on the defensive line with defensive end Igor Olshanksy and at linebacker with the addition of Keith Brooking. The Cowboys will be searching for their first playoff win since 1996 but it remains to be seen if Romo and company will be able to deliver.

14 (14) Texans 0-0

Is this the year the Texans finally post a winning record? Matt Schaub must stay healthy throughout the whole season especially with Sage Rosenfels gone.

Running back Steve Slaton proved to be a steal in the third round and will continue to be the Texans leading rusher. Receiver Andre Johnson appears to be making sure the NFL takes notes on his big play abilities.

The Texans have potential on offense to cause some disruptions in the AFC South. The defense led by linebacker DeMeco Ryans and monstrous defensive end Mario Williams are hoping first round pick linebacker Brian Cushing will help the Texans into the playoffs this season.

15 (15) Bears 0-0

The Jay Cutler era has started in Chicago. The Bears gave up a lot for Cutler but he will prove he was worth the investment. The Bears missed an opportunity to sign wide receiver Torry Holt this offseason and are still thin at the wide receiver position.

Running back Matt Forte, who rushed for over 1200 yards and caught 63 passes in his rookie season, will take some of the pressure off Cutler both in the backfield and in the open field.

The Bears defense has the playmakers to be a top-10 defense but they must play to the level of their abilities. The Bears have the potential to make some noise in the NFC if all goes well in Cutler-town.

16 (16) Saints 0-0

How many more games can Drew Brees win single- handily? Brees had a special year in 2008 and can hope to continue his success. It remains to be seen if running backs Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas will be able to handle more carries with the departure of Deuce McAllister.

Bush has been a special player since arriving in the NFL but he has yet to show he can carry a load. The addition of defensive coordinator Gregg William may be the most important offseason pickup. Williams will have the responsibility of cleaning up a defense that allowed 24.6 points per game, 26th in the NFL.

17 (17) Dolphins 0-0

The Dolphins had a special season in 2008 under first year head coach Tony Sparano. Quarterback Chad Pennington played well and will continue to prove his critics wrong. Second-round pick quarterback Pat White is the ideal fit for the wildcat offense, giving Sparano more options at his disposal.

Joey Porter and company can thank The Tuna for bringing back Jason Taylor and using a first round pick on cornerback Vontae Davis, who should provide immediate dividends. The Dolphins have the toughest schedule heading into 2009 so it remains to be seen if they will have the same success as they did last season.

18 (18) Jets 0-0

Head coach Rex Ryan will bring a new style to a defense that has potential. Ryan will use players in a way they have never been used before, turning small players into superstars. New addition middle linebacker Bart Scott will bring toughness to a defense that includes stud cornerback Darrelle Revis.

Second-year player Vernon Gholston should be the biggest beneficiary of Ryans arrival. First round quarterback Mark Sanchez may be the missing piece that the Jets have been looking for. If running backs Thomas Jones and Leon Washington are happy and playing to the best of their abilities, the Jets can be a sleeper team in the AFC.

19 (19) Packers 0-0

The Packers had one of the best drafts after stealing defensive tackle B.J. Raji and linebacker Clay Matthews. The conversion from the 4-3 to 3-4 will be closely monitored and much of the success of the team will ride on the defense buying into the switch.

After last season's Brett Favre fiasco, the Packers are ready to move on for good. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers showed he can be a special player in his first season as a starter. If Aaron Rodgers continues his progression as a starting quarterback and the defense buys into the 3-4 then this team will be playing in January.

20 (20) Redskins 0-0

Year two of the Jim Zorn era might not be what owner Daniel Snyder is looking for. The Redskins added the prized possession of free agency in mammoth defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, but will he really be worth $100 million? The addition of Brian Orakpo will help get some pressure on the passer but it might not be enough.

The offense is loaded with talent but it hasn't translated on the scoreboard. The Redskins struck out looking in their attempt to get Jay Cutler. Quarterback Jason Campbell has been more than professional with the media this offseason but he could be on his way out of town by seasons end.

21 (21) Bills 0-0

Oh Buffalo, did you really think the addition of Terrell Owens would help the progression of Trent Edwards? Yes Edwards now has more weapons at his disposal and the consistent double teams on wide receiver Lee Evans will back off but is Owens worth the headache?

The Bills drafted center Eric Wood and offensive lineman Andy Levitre to help sooth the losses of tackle Jason Peters and guard Derrick Dockery. The Bills defense played well last season and the addition of first round defensive end Aaron Maybin will only help.

22 (22) Broncos 0-0

The Broncos have been under the microscope all offseason. New head coach Josh McDaniels has all eyes on him in the locker room after trading away Pro Bowl quarterback Jay Cutler for Kyle Orton and draft picks.

First-round draft running back Knowshon Moreno will provide an immediate impact to a position that was down to its seventh-string last season.

The defense struggled mightily last season but will benefit with the additions of first round pick Robert Ayers, and free agents Andra Davis and Brian Dawkins.

23 (23) Seahawks 0-0

It's hard to believe Mike Holmgren is gone but the show must go on with head coach Jim Mora. The addition of wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh will help a passing game that ranked 29th in pass yards.

The defense was atrocious last season but the Seahawks brought some youth to their team especially with linebacker Aaron Curry, who was the top rated player on many teams boards. The Seahawks have the potential to be be contenders in the NFC West but they must stay healthy, especially quarterback Matt Hasselbeck.

24 (24) Bengals 0-0

The success of the Bengals hangs on the shoulders of former Pro Bowl quarterback Carson Palmer. First round tackle Andre Smith, once thought to potentially be the top pick in the draft, will give the Bengals a solid anchor on the offensive line. The Bengals have upgraded their defense with free agent Tank Johnson and draft picks Rey Maualuga and Michael Johnson.

The character issues still persist in Cincinnati but if head coach Marvin Lewis can keep this team under control and Palmer can regain his once injury-free superstar form the Bengals can be a surprise team this season.

25 (25) Jaguars 0-0

The Jaguars may have missed their chance to make a splash in the AFC but they have made some right moves on offense this offseason using their first two draft picks on tackles Eugene Monroe and Eben Britton.

The Jags also added free agent tackle Tra Thomas as well as receiver Torry Holt while subtracting bust receivers Jerry Porter, Matt Jones and Reggie Williams. The Jaguars might not be a favorite to win the division so coach Jack Del Rio will have to do something to win some games this season.

26 (26) Buccaneers 0-0

The Buccaneers will be in rebuilding mood in the 2009 season. First year head coach Raheem Morris will have his hands full with an aging defense that will attempt to learn a new system from the old Tampa Two.

Morris released long time fan favorites Derrick Brooks and Warrick Dunn and let other veterans walk. The drafting of quarterback Josh Freeman in the first round gives the Buccaneers a quarterback but Freeman won't be ready to take hold of the reigns anytime soon.

27 (27) Browns 0-0

Plain and simple the Browns are a mess. With new coach Eric Mangini bringing in a few of his former Jet players, the team still has many questions. The Browns failed to trade wide receiver Braylon Edwards and declined two first-round offers for quarterback Brady Quinn.

The additions of second round receivers Brian Robiskie and Mohamed Massaquoi should give the Browns a few more options especially if Donte Stallworth is lost for the season due to his legal issues. This team is not very good so Mangini will have his hands full.

28 (28) 49ers 0-0

49ers fans rejoiced when two-time Biletnikoff winner Michael Crabtree fell into their laps. Crabtree will give whichever quarterback stars, whether it be Alex Smith or Shaun Hill, a big play receiver week in and week out. 49er fans can't be happier with the team promoting Mike Singletary to head coach.

The 49ers will sure play with more fire on defense under tackle extremist Patrick Willis. If Singletary has his players playing his style of football and the quarterback position is figured out, then this team might be able to surprise some teams.

29 (29) Raiders 0-0

The Raiders make one smart offseason move by signing head coach Tom Cable, who is tough enough to keep this team in check but again the Raiders made people shake their heads by drafting wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey at No. 7.

The Raiders can only hope that DHB will give quarterback JaMarcus Russell a go to receiver. The Raiders have a solid linebacker core anchored by middle linebacker Kirk Morrison. The Raiders can only hope the work ethic of JaMarcus Russell improves, otherwise this team stays at the bottom of the NFL for another year.

30 (30) Chiefs 0-0

The Chiefs stole Matt Cassel and Mike Vrabel from the Patriots for only a second round pick. The Chiefs drafted 3-4 defensive end Tyson Jackson a little high at No. 3 but new general manager Scott Pioli knows what he is doing from his days in New England.

Head coach Todd Haley will open up an offense that has been poor the past few seasons. Look for wide receiver Dwayne Bowe to have a big season with Matt Cassel throwing him the ball. Pioli and Haley will have this team playing at a very high level, just not this year.

31 (31) Rams 0-0

The Rams are a team that will be rebuilding under new head coach Steve Spagnuolo, who will bring a tough aggressiveness style to the defense. The Rams made two key moves drafting tackle Jason Smith, to ease the departure of Orlando Pace, and drafting James Laurinaitis in the second round.

The Rams will be riding running back Steven Jackson for most of the season. This season will be much the same as last but if Marc Bulger can stay healthy, they may steal a few games.

32 (32) Lions 0-0

Good news Detroit: The Lions will win more games than last year. The Lions have made the right moves this offseason.

The Matt Mullen era is over now it is time to rebuild. Head coach Jim Schwartz has much work to do this season and beyond. The Lions added linebackers Larry Foote and Julian Peterson to bring some leadership to the team.

The new $78 million face of the franchise Matthew Stafford should sit and learn this season and maybe even next. Schwartz and the Lions have their work cut out for them this season to say the least.

Don't Crown the Patriots as Champions Yet: Tom Brady Has Much To Prove

The Rant — Wed, 20 May 2009 03:55:55 -0400

The 2007 New England Patriots finished the regular season with an extraordinary record of 16-0. Not only had the Patriots won every game, becoming the first team to go 16-0 and the first undefeated season since the 1972 Miami Dolphins, but they slaughtered their competition in almost every "contest."

Although their undefeated season came to an end with a shocking loss to the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII, the team had made an historic run and appeared to be the front runners going into the 2008 NFL Season.

Fast forward to September 7, 2008, when the NFL world and Patriots fans held their breath as the two-time Super Bowl MVP lay on the ground clutching his knee in pain. The unthinkable became a reality as the almighty poster boy of the NFL, Tom Brady, was carried off the field and later placed on injured reserve, ending his season.

The Patriots, under the inexperienced yet impressive Matt Cassel, finished the season 11-5 but missed the playoffs. Cassel thrived under then offensive coordinator Josh McDaniel's system, throwing for 3,693 yards and 21 touchdowns, leaving the Patriots with a sufficient backup plan if Tom Brady wasn't 100 percent for the upcoming season.

Matt Cassell was traded from the Patriots to the Kansas City Chiefs for a second round pick in the NFL draft. Did this mean New England and Bill Belichick had enough confidence that Tom Brady will be fully healed and ready to go for the 2009 season?

The Patriots must be sold on Brady's progress because backups Kevin O'Connell and Matt Gutierrez have attempted seven passes combined. At least Matt Cassel had 39 career attempts going into the season, right?

So the question we are all wondering; is Tom Brady ready to step out on the field and play at a competitive level? Word out of New England is Brady has been practicing without any restrictions and moving without any problems. The Patriots say he will be the same Tom Brady he was before the injury, but I'm not so sure I believe he is 100 percent.

The preseason power rankings are already popping up everywhere, with the Patriots claiming the top spot in most of them. They have added weapons on offense in running back Fred Taylor, tight end Alex Smith, and wide receiver's Greg Lewis and Joey Galloway.

They have also used three second round picks on the defensive side of the ball, in addition to signing CBs Bodden and Springs, but is this enough to be given the top spot in the rankings?

The problem; Super Bowls are not won in the offseason and has anyone seen Tom Brady play in a live game yet? Does adding seven aging veterans and a few rookies to your roster automatically make you the favorite for Super Bowl XLIV? I don't think so.

The rest of the AFC East will not lay down and let Brady and the Patriots go back to their division winning ways. Last year's division winning Miami Dolphins are bringing back much of the same team with the primary addition of Jason Taylor and rookie Vontae Davis.

The Jets and Bills believe they have added the necessary playmakers (see Mark Sanchez and some guy who goes by T.O.?) to push their teams into the playoffs. Even if Tom Brady is near his top form, the rest of the division will not go quietly like years past.

I never want to see an injury hurt a player's legacy, but Brady has much to prove this upcoming season. Will he return to his Pro-Bowl MVP form or will he join the ranks of mediocrity?

All eyes are on Tom Brady to perform this season but the crown shouldn't be handed to the Patriots just yet, because Brady has much to prove this season.

Reflecting on the 2006 Draft: Mario Williams Was the Right Choice

The Rant — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 20:12:36 -0400

Looking back at the 2006 Draft, the Houston Texans were heavily criticized for taking defensive end Mario Williams over the famous USC running back Reggie Bush.

Todd McShay said the Texans worst pick of the 2006 draft was, of course, Mario Williams. McShay's explanation was that, "Williams is cheaper and fits a much bigger position of need, but passing on USC running back Reggie Bush with the No. 1 overall selection was a mistake that the Texans might never live down".

So far, the Texans are living it down.

Gene Wojciechowski of ESPN was quoted as saying, "Houston could have chosen USC tailback Reggie Bush, but instead got sloppy drunk on "measureables" and potential rather than actual production. Hel-lo, did you see how many contrails and broken ankles Bush left behind this season?"

Looking back, I think the Texans may have been sober making the decision. Maybe the Texans should have drafted QB Vince Young?

Today, when talking about the 2006 draft, the Texans are smiling saying, "I told you so."

Looking at Reggie Bush's professional career thus far, one really isn't impressed. Yes Bush has been a great slash player catching passes and returning kicks but as a starting No. 1 running back, he cant carry a full load. He has more receiving yards—1599—than rushing yards—1550—in addition to a 3.7 yards per carry average over his career.

These aren't numbers you would expect out of a guy who was considered by many as the consensus No. 1 pick.

Reggie Bush very well may not be the best running back taken in the first round of the 2006 draft. Comparing No. 2 pick Reggie Bush to No. 27 pick DeAngelo Wiliams is almost a non-comparison. The "Home-Run Hitter" Reggie Bush has seven carries of 20+ yards and one of 40+ yards as compared to DeAngelo Williams, who has 25 carries of 20+ yards and six of 40+ yards.

Mario Williams may not have been the only Williams selected in the first round who is having a better career than the Saint's No. 2 pick.

The drunk sloppy decision of Mario Williams has produced 14 and 12 sacks respectively the last two years since his disappointing rookie season where Williams produced only 4.5 sacks. Williams 2008 statistics were comparable to Julius Peppers of the Panthers and Jared Allen of the Vikings, both of whom are arguably the best players at their positions.

Williams has been one of the most scrutinized No. 1 draft picks in the last decade. After a disappointing rookie season, that showed few signs of superstar and more signs of bust, Williams has come into his own. At 6'6'' 283 and 24 years old, Williams will look to continue his path to being a dominant force in the NFL.

The Texans took a lot of heat for making the decision but looking back at the 2006 draft, Mario Williams was the right decision HANDS DOWN.

The Pittsburgh Steelers...Where Will They Go at the Wide-Receiver Position?

The Rant — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:20:02 -0400

With the departure of Wide Receiver Nate Washington, who had 104 catches 1,705 yards, and 12 touchdowns in his years of service with the Steelers, the Steelers are left with an unproven No. 3 wide receiver.

Last year's second-round pick, Limas Sweed, who had an unimpressive six catches and numerous drops in 11 games of work, is the new No. 3, or so it seems.

Do the Steelers want to force a player who consistently dropped balls and missed assignments (except for the one huge crack back he had on the Ravens) in his first season of work to fill the role of the No. 3 receiver of the defending Super Bowl Champions?

I don't think the Steelers want to do that. I feel as though Limas has potential but I don't feel he is ready for such a big step. Not only that but who will be the fourth option? Will it be inexperienced Dallas Baker?

The Steelers are one of the best-run organizations, not only in football, but ALL of sports. They bring in very few free agents, and when they do, almost all are major contributors.

The Steelers have brought in veteran Joey Galloway to the South side for a visit. Galloway has visited three teams: The Steelers, the Bills, and the Patriots. The Bills have signed T.O. and the Patriots traded for Greg Lewis from the Eagles.

Galloway seemed to be an interesting idea, but he signed with the Patriots this offseason.

Additionally, ESPN insider believes the Steelers may be interested in wide receiver Torry Holt of the St. Louis Rams, who was released before a roster bonus kicked in this month.

Holt will certainly draw more a decent amount of interest, but the Steelers will not get into a bidding war over a 32 year old coming off one of his worst seasons of his career.

Holt may still have a year or two left in the tank after posting consecutive 93 catch seasons in years before. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison is still on the market but his demands for a high dollar contract have turned teams away and the Steelers interest is slim to none.

So where do the Steelers go with the need of a wide receiver? I don't anticipate drafting another receiver high in the draft after spending a second round pick on Limas last year.

The Steelers have an aging but productive defensive line and a mid-round draft pick would probably be spent on a defensive need rather than a wide out. The Steelers will probably lure a veteran to play the No. 3 option and use Limas more as the season progresses.

Also, more of the double tight end set will be used with Matt Spaeth as not only a blocker but an occasional pass catcher. Spaeth posted 17 total catches with 12 of those in back to back games against the Colts and the Chargers.

The all-around Health Miller, who caught 48 passes in 14 games, should catch an additional 10 to 15 passes this season without Nate Washington in the lineup.

Whichever direction the Steelers decide to go, it will be a productive one. Again, the Steelers are one of the best-run organizations in all of sports, and with one of the best management staffs in the business, a decision will be made without the Steelers missing a beat on offense.

Michael Vick: New England Patriots' Wildcat?

The Rant — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:07:19 -0400

Hate it or love it, the NFL is always evolving. New coaches bring in new philosophies and new ideas to do whatever they have to do to get the job done.

My favorite example of this is Tony Sparano, who took a 1-15 Miami Dolphins team and introduced a new formation that utilized the unbelievably athletic Ronnie Brown as the premier player in the package. In Miami's horrible 1-15 season, Brown was on his way to a career season before his knee injury.

The wildcat formation not only gives defenses something new to game plan, but gives offenses the ability to play a little playground football.

Thus my prediction: Michael Vick will come back to the NFL and put on a show. Not only is Vick an athlete but he has had nothing to do but work out in jail. I feel it would be too hard to come back as a prototypical quarterback because it would be difficult to get adjusted to the speed of the game again after a long absence.

Think about it, a team could acquire Vick and use him as a punt and kick returner, wide receiver, and the showcase of the wildcat formation. Not only do teams use wildcat sparingly, but the quarterback throws very sparingly.

Why not use Vick in the wildcat—running the ball and threatening to throw 60 yards downfield from anywhere in the backfield. Vick is going to have some suitors because teams and coaches have to win, and although Vick will be looked at as a distraction if his production on the field is phenomenal, people will forget what he has done in the past.

Who would risk adding Vick to their locker room? Teams will be lining up but I feel one team stands above everyone else: the New England Patriots. Many people, including myself, feel as though Oakland will make a run at Vick because all the castoffs go to Oakland (T.O. did not though).

Who else would be able to control Vick like Bill Belichick? Randy Moss has been rejuvenated with the Patriots and look for Fred Taylor to have a productive season this year with the team.

Vick could provide a change of pace in the wildcat and use Tom Brady on other parts of the field (as Chad Pennington did). The Patriots could be early favorites to contend for another Super Bowl.

Michael Vick to Randy Moss?

The only thing that sounds better than that is Tom Brady to Randy Moss.

Jason Smith or Matthew Stafford? The Right Choice for Detroit

The Rant — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:02:40 -0400

Detroit Lions' fans, keep your head up, because fortunately for you, the only place you can go is up.

Detroit hasn't been the best of places for football in recent years. Just think, Matt Millen won't be drafting Joey Harrington at No. 3, or maybe, a whole bunch of wide receivers when there are a lot of glaring needs.

The Lions have already been hitting with their offseason moves. The most important is the signing of head coach Jim Schwartz, who is going to bring a toughness and an edge to a team that has been lackluster in recent years.

Peterson, Henry, Jackson, and Buchanon bring a new look to a defense that allowed 30+ points a record 11 times.

The Lions have needs all over the field, and believe it or not, Schwartz knows this.

He also knows that if he takes a quarterback and he fails, Schwartz just lost himself a career as a NFL head coach. But if he takes a quarterback and he excels, he's a genius (i.e., Mike Smith of the Falcons).

Last year, Tony Sparano and the Miami Dolphins knew of this situation and passed on QB Matt Ryan and took LT Jake Long.

This wasn't necessarily a bad move looking back at Ryan's rookie season, but it helped both coaches in their first seasons tremendously.

The Dolphins were able to get themselves a fine left tackle who will anchor their offensive line for the next decade and address their quarterback situation with a veteran quarterback, while drafting a quarterback in the second round—Chad Henne, Long's teammate at Michigan.

For the Lions, first and foremost, there are very few people sold on Matthew Stafford.

When you're going to throw at least $72 million over six years—which is what Matt Ryan got at the No. 3 pick in last year's draft—as a management and coaching staff, you better be 100 percent sure that this is your guy.

If not, your team can be cash strapped for a few years, and someone is going to lose their job.

If you're Stafford, you better be ready for all the big lights and criticism, because for every small, wrong move you make, people will jump on you in an instant.

Are the Lions going to take a risk at a quarterback with the No. 1 pick and, if he fails, once again become the laughing stock of the NFL?

I think the people in Detroit are tired of quarterbacks making bold predictions—goodbye, Jon Kitna—and want to win some games and turn around a franchise that has been pretty dismal as of late.

Looking at the prospects who came in for visits: Stafford, Smith, Curry, and Raji, who or what seems to be the most logical choice?

I won't take Curry because that's way too much money for a linebacker who may only play two downs or Raji, who can't keep his weight down.

If I'm the Lions at No. 1, I'm going to take Smith.

Why not Smith? He is a big, athletic tackle who has experience at TE. Not only do you have Gosder Cherilus at right tackle but putting Jason Smith at left tackle gives you a pretty good outside of the offensive line.

Although Dante Culpepper might not be the long term solution, he doesn't have to be. There was a time when he was a $100 million quarterback and a sought after commodity in Minnesota.

Those days are long gone, but he still has enough in the tank to be a mediocre quarterback. If not, Jeff Garcia and Byron Leftwich are still out there.

If you need someone to come in and play well enough to win games, you can get a veteran from the streets. It's better to risk it on a proven veteran than a rookie who is going to get a huge contract.

There may be a quality offensive lineman around at No. 20, but what if Mark Sanchez or Josh Freeman, who could be this year's Joe Flacco, are still available? Do you wait 19 picks and draft a quarterback who may be as good or better than Stafford in the long run?

Josh Freeman could possibly be a great pick at No. 20, if he plays well enough to win games, and his contract will be much smaller than paying a quarterback at No. 1.

Freeman or Sanchez could just be a possibility, but if Schwartz has enough confidence in Drew Stanton, it is a possibly he could be the No. 2 guy until the team is ready to draft a quarterback. I feel the Lions have too many needs to draft a quarterback No. 1.

If he is a bust, the Lions have failed again and are the same old Lions. But, if the Lions go with the safe pick in Smith and don't draft a quarterback, who will have high expectations to bring this team back from day one, they can develop the team to the point where they are a quarterback or one player away from fielding a competitive team.

In addition to drafting a quarterback or bringing in a veteran free agent, which isn't likely, Jay Cutler still seems to be a strong possibility.

The Lions have the most ammunition to trade to get Cutler. I'm pretty sure, if I were in the situation, I would take Cutler over any of the quarterbacks available in this year's draft.

The Lions might not even need to give up their No. 1 pick to attain Cutler. John Clayton previously said on ESPN Radio that the Lions seem to be the most logical choice in a Cutler trade.

If I'm Jim Schwartz, I'm going to draft Smith at No. 1 and give my No. 20 and maybe another second-rounder or whatever it takes to get Cutler in a Lions uniform.

If the Lions have two first round offensive tackles, Kevin Smith, Calvin Johnson, and Cutler on offense with the additions on defense then, this team can make little noise, especially in the NFC North.

So I end with this; the Detroit Lions have made significant moves this offseason for the betterment of their franchise. I believe that they will keep going in this direction, and with a few right moves in the next coming weeks, will have a legitimate shot at not being the same old Lions anymore.

The Jay Cutler Situation: An Outsider's Perspective

The Rant — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 07:57:46 -0400

Although, I am not a Denver Bronco fan (hang with me), I root for Jay Cutler. This is one situation that has me so intrigued and entertained that every time I open a text from 79710, which is ESPN's NFL Update, I'm hoping it is a Jay Cutler-Josh McDaniels soap-opera story.

It all starts with Mike Shanahan, who had to be the scapegoat in this NFL era where if you don't win every year someone must not be doing their job right. Shanahan was a quarterback when he played and he coached some of the greats like Steve Young and, of course, John Elway.

After John Elway, he needed someone to bring his offense back to the glory days. He fell in love with a guy with a huge arm from Vanderbilt. Jay Cutler was a surprise pick by many after the team made it to the AFC Championship the year before.

Moving forward, Cutler took over the starting position his rookie season. The comparisons to Elway or the "next coming" of Elway started. (Cutler has said he has the best arm in the history of the Denver Broncos.)

After not finishing the season strong and not winning games in which they should have, Mike Shanahan is fired. This lies the problem because on Jan. 11, 2009 Josh McDaniels is hired to bring the high-powered offense back to Denver.

But McDaniels runs a system. The same system former Patriot offensive coordinator Charlie Weis installed as offensive coordinator of the team. The Patriots have run the Erhardt-Perkins system since 2000.

Since its installation, they have won three Super bowls with some guy who slipped into the sixth round named Tom Brady. There is no doubt in my mind that New England saw something that Tom Brady could provide them in A SYSTEM that every other team passed up for six-and-a-half rounds didn't see.

The Patriots did the same thing drafting Matt Cassel in the seventh round of the 2005 draft. Do you really think that Josh McDaniels is going to ditch the Patriots' way and the Erhardt-Perkins system just because Mike Shanahan's Jay Cutler is a Denver Bronco.

Absolutely not.

McDaniels is going to do what he has learned in his brainwashing tenure with the Patriots, and that is win with a quarterback who will run HIS system. If he feels Jay Cutler can't run what he wants to do to be successful, he will get rid of him. I don't blame McDaniels for trying to get the guy who got him his first NFL Head Coaching job in Matt Cassel.

McDaniels is installing the Patriot way into Mile-High Country and putting fear into players in the locker room rather than letting the players say this is their team. As Bronco fans, people should think whatever it takes to win and get back into the playoffs.

If that means trading Jay Cutler for draft picks or some other need, then so be it. The Broncos have made some major upgrades to a suspect defense but it isn't going to be enough to take the Broncos immediately to the Super Bowl. McDaniels knows this.

Jay Cutler may need to take the backseat and just play football. McDaniels and Cutler could both suffer from this situation. Cutler may be unhappy playing in Denver if the situation isnt resolved and if McDaniels trades Cutler, he better start praying he has someone who is gonna win him some games or he will be scrutinized for years to come.

Unfortunately for Cutler, the NFL is a BUSINESS and it's something he has to deal with. Either way, Cutler will still have to lace up the cleats and McDaniels will be pressed to win games, whether Cutler is a Bronco or not.