Bleacher Report - Articles by Scott Barbine

2009-10 Fantasy Basketball Breakout Players

Scott Barbine — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:21:31 -0400

The following is a list of players who are primed for a breakout season and are ready to contribute in big ways to your fantasy team. It's seen every year, whether a youngster finally puts it all together and breaks out (Jameer Nelson, pre-injury) or gets the chance at consistent playing time (John Salmons).

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The Steroid Era: Time to Accept It

Scott Barbine — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:30:57 -0500

Next on the list, Alex Rodriguez. The list of players who have been caught using steroids is ever growing, and who knows when it will end?

The news on A-Rod got me to thinking.

Why should any of us care anymore?

The past decade of baseball will always be tainted. No one will ever be sure as to who was clean or who was juicing up. A-Rod was one of the few people I believed was clean, and I was wrong.

So I've decided to accept the Steroid Era for what it is. It's an era of men who felt the need to cheat in order to excel.

Another way of looking at it is this: it was juiced-up hitters facing juiced-up pitchers. Does that even the playing field? Not necessarily, but it's the closest I can get to justifying it.

I've accepted the Steroid Era because no matter what, it will always be a part of baseball history. Do we not elect anyone from this era to the Hall of Fame? A-Rod is a Hall of Famer, Barry Bonds is a Hall of Famer, Roger Clemens, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, and Raphael Palmeiro should be too.

I'm sure I'll get many disagreements with this article, and I understand why. Part of me disagrees with myself on this issue. The integrity of the game we all love is tarnished. However, it's too late. Major League Baseball is doing its best to rid itself of such disgrace.

I'll no longer be surprised by anyone being called out for steroids or HGH. If it happens, it happens. And that's what we all have to accept.

I'm not saying embrace the Steroid Era, but just accept it. It's not going to go away. It will be in baseball history forever. It will be a blip in baseball past that no one is proud of.

So, baseball fans, let's move on. Steroids or not. Baseball is still the game we love. The game itself hasn't been performance enhanced. Just the players who feel the need to cheat. So accept what they did, and move on.

MLB's Steroid Era: Time To Accept It

Scott Barbine — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 21:48:36 -0500

Next on the list, Alex Rodriguez. The list of players who have been caught using steroids is ever growing, and who knows when it will end?

The news on A-Rod got me to thinking.

Why should any of us care anymore?

The past decade of baseball will always be tainted. No one will ever be sure as to who was clean or who was juicing up. A-Rod was one of the few people I believed was clean, and I was wrong.

So I've decided to accept the Steroid Era for what it is. It's an era of men who felt the need to cheat in order to excel.

Another way of looking at it is this: it was juiced up hitters facing juiced up pitchers. Does that even the playing field? Not necessarily, but it's the closest I can get to justifying it.

I've accepted the Steroid Era because no matter what, it will always be a part of baseball history. Do we not elect anyone from this era to the Hall of Fame? A-Rod is a Hall of Famer, Bonds is a Hall of Famer, Clemens, McGwire, Sosa, and Palmiero should be too.

I'm sure I'll get many disagreements with this artice, and I understand why. Part of me disagrees with myself on this issue. The integrity of the game we all love is tarnished. However, it's too late. Major League Baseball is doing its best to rid itself of such disgrace.

I'll no longer be surprised by anyone being called out for steroids or HGH. If it happens, it happens. And that's what we all have to accept.

I'm not saying embrace the Steroid Era, but just accept it. It's not going to go away. It will be in baseball history forever. It will be a blip in baseball past that no one is proud of.

So, baseball fans, let's move on. Steroids or not. Baseball is still the game we love. The game itself hasn't been performance enhanced. Just the players who feel the need to cheat. So accept what they did, and move on.

The Loss of Bynum May Ulitmately Be The Los Angeles Lakers' Gain

Scott Barbine — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 12:26:52 -0500

Andrew Bynum was experiencing the best five game stretch of his career before he went down with a knee injury on January 31.

Every Lakers fan was devastated when they heard the news that Bynum would be out a minimum of eight weeks, and possibly out for the season. Granted the loss of Bynum has a significant meaning, not only to the Lakers, but the rest of the NBA.

Without Bynum patrolling the paint, the Lakers may appear weak and soft. And that's why I see this injury to have good hidden within it for the Lakers.

After last years' NBA Finals when the Lakers were slapped around on the inside, Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol were viewed as soft and unable to handle a tough interior presence.

The biggest disappointment may have been Lamar Odom. He looked as though he was disinterested in a few of the games and could care less if he played defense or not.

This year hasn't been much different for Odom. The confidence that Lakers and Odom himself need, wasn't there. Odom didn't take well to coming off the bench this season, but accepted it.

The bench didn't do much for Odom's confidence.

With Bynum's injury, Odom will be inserted back into the starting lineup. In the three games since Bynum went down, Odom has averaged 13 points per game, 8.7 rebounds per game., and 1.7 blocks per game. All of those numbers are improved compared to his season stats of 9.7 ppg, 6.3 rpg, and 1.1 bpg.

The confindence and aggresiveness that Odom has showed since he was named a starter again, is hard to ignore. With Bynum out, the Lakers desperately need Odom to step up and play with swagger.

It looks like Odom is up to the challenge.

If Bynum does return in time for the playoffs, the Lakers will be a deadly team. If they can bring in a refreshed, confident Odom off the bench, the Lakers may be unstoppable.

Who's Next on Brian Cashman's Christmas List?

Scott Barbine — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 07:20:31 -0500

The New York Yankees got their wish, CC Sabathia. The hefty pitcher brought along a hefty price as well, signing with the Yanks for seven years with a contract worth $160 million.

Yankee fans are notoriously impatient and are already looking to see what Yankee GM Brian Cashman will do next.

There are talks that they may not be done pursuing pitching. The Yankees have been linked to Sabathia's former teammate, Ben Sheets, along with A.J. Burnett and Derek Lowe. Andy Pettitte is also a free agent, and New York would love to have him back. However, there has been little progress made with Pettitte.

Pitching isn't the only thing that the Yankees are looking to improve. On Nov. 13, New York acquired 1B/OF Nick Swisher from the Chicago White Sox. With Bobby Abreu departing from the Yankee outfield, Swisher may start at first base or in the outfield, which gives the Bombers even more flexibility when it comes to making more offseason moves.

Brian Cashman has visited with free agent first baseman Mark Teixeira, although it now seems unlikely that the Yankees will sign Tex after throwing a bunch of money at Sabathia.

Other offseason scenarios have the Yankees trading second baseman Robinson Cano to the Dodgers for a package that would include outfielder Matt Kemp. With Orlando Hudson as a free agent, this could prove to be a very good move.

Reports say that the Cano-Kemp trade won't happen. However, we've all come to know that when it comes to the Yankees, anything could happen.

Improving the bullpen seems to be on the Yankees' agenda every year, and this year's crop of free agent relievers is a good one. Would the Yankees be able to convince former closers like Chad Cordero and Brian Fuentes to become setup men for Mariano Rivera? Huston Street seems to be available as well.

Every offseason brings excitement for a Yankee fan, and after acquiring CC Sabathia, Yankee fans have to believe there is more to come.

A return to the playoffs doesn't seem to be far off now.

NFL: Coaches Who Could Be On The Move

Scott Barbine — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 09:00:24 -0500

With the regular season beginning to dwindle to the end, some teams are already looking to next year. There will be a few head coaching changes this season like every other.

Being that first year coaches Jim Zorn, John Harbaugh, Mike Smith, and Tony Sparano were so successful, teams may be looking at coordinators across the league, rather than coaches with experience.

There is a fresh batch of coordinators, some with and some without head coaching experience that will be in plenty of interviews.

Then you have the old faces that everyone knows. The former head coaches that have been out of the league for a while but may be looking to get back into the game.

There are plenty of teams that may have a new coach next season including: Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions, and St. Louis Rams.

Here is my list of guys who could find themselves as teams new head coach come next season.

Steve Spagnuolo- Defensive coordinator, New York Giants

Hired in January 2007, Spagnuolo burst onto the scene during the Super Bowl, when he created the game plan that took down the mighty, undefeated New England Patriots.

It makes sense that Spagnuolo has been such a great defensive coordinator, he worked eight years under one of the best, Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson.

One of the biggest assets that Spagnuolo brings is his ability to keep his players level-headed. Rarely do you see a Giants defensive player lose his temper on the field or the sideline. His ability to motivate his players and have them buy into his system has been one of the reasons for his early success.

Jim Schwartz- Defensive coordinator, Tennessee Titans

The defensive coordinator since 2001, Schwartz has had his ups and downs with the Tennessee organization. his defense was dominant when he arrived, struggled during their bad salary cap situation, and once again is one of the most dominant defensive units in the NFL.

Schwartz got his first NFL gig working and doing research for Bill Belichick's Cleveland Browns staff.

Scwartz could be a popular candidate this offseason because of the current coaching trend in the NFL. He is only 42 and is considered a great defensive mind.

Mike Mularky- Offensive coordinator, Atlanta Falcons

We've seen Mularky as a head coach before.

It wasn't very pretty.

Lasting just two seasons as the Bills head coach, Mularky had an unsuccessful stint as the Dolphins offensive coordinator.

This year with the Falcons, his name is once again having his name ring across the NFL as a possible head coach. He has to be partly responsible for the instant maturation of Matt Ryan and that will attract front offices to him right away.

Cam Cameron- Offensive coordinator, Baltimore Ravens

Cameron is another one we've seen fail as a head coach before.

In his defense he took over a very dysfunctional Dolphins team which was built for failure. After a 1-15 season, Cameron was fired.

Cameron has reinvented himself this year with the Ravens. A team that has been known for defense and defense for almost the past decade, finally has an offense worth talking about.

With their solid running game, creative passing routes, and quick development of rookie, Joe Flacco, have the Ravens ready to compete just one season after losing 11 games last year.

Brian Billick- former Baltimore Ravens head coach

A man who won a Super Bowl in his second season as coach and owns a 56 percent winning percentage should not be a TV analyst.

Billick is considered an offensive-minded coach who was the offensive coordinator for the 1998 Minnesota Vikings, which set the record for points scored in a season.

A guy with his offensive prowess would do wonders for a team with young offensive weapons like the Raiders.

I see all of these guys will most likely assume the role of head coach in the future, and maybe as soon as next season.

The Two-Back System Is Here to Stay

Scott Barbine — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 09:51:21 -0500

We've seen the craze developing in the NFL for the past few years now. Teams are straying from that workhorse running back to a backfield-by-committee.

It's been very effective.

About 20 of the 32 NFL teams use multiple running backs rather than depending on one guy to carry the workload.

Many teams have perfected the backfield-by-committee technique and have based their offenses around them.

Other teams are developing the use of multiple backs or now just beginning to get away from the workhorse back.

The Tennessee Titans, Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Giants, New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys, Carolina Panthers, and Minnesota Vikings have all learned how to use their multiple running backs effectively; it doesn't look like they are turning back any time soon.

Many critics raised eyebrows when the Titans drafted a running back in one of the first two rounds three years in a row, but it looks like a good idea now. The "Smash and Dash" combination of LenDale White and rookie Chris Johnson has been one of the top running duos this year. With both backs just 23 years old, it looks like they will be wreaking havoc across the NFL for years to come.

"Earth, Wind, and Fire" is the nickname given to the Giants trio of backs, Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, and Derrick Ward. The backfield triumvirate of the Giants has been unstoppable all season long, even gaining over 200 yards rushing against the stout Ravens defense.

Having an Army tank in Brandon Jacobs to wear down the defense, the Giants then send out Bradshaw and Ward to run right past the fatigued opponents.

The New York Jets combination of Thomas Jones and Leon Washington has been just as effective as any ground game in the league. Jones pounds on opposing defenses while Washington runs right past them.

The workhorse back is dying in the NFL. We no longer see teams riding one guy like we did earlier in the decade with guys like Priest Holmes, Marshall Faulk, Eddie George, Curtis Martin, Emmit Smith, and Jerome Bettis.

The teams that rely on one guy today have been struggling with their running games and offenses in general.

Ladainian Tomlinson has fallen off in a big way this year. Fans are calling for more touches from backup Darren Sproles to give LT some rest.

The Browns ran Jamal Lewis into the ground last year and he is showing negative effects this year. Jason Wright and Jerome Harrison have been getting more touches lately and have made the Cleveland offense more effective.

With teams utilizing multiple running backs, is the dawn of the quarterback-by-committee coming soon?

My Early Picks for the 2009 Final Four

Scott Barbine — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 03:38:38 -0500

Last year was one of the most exciting Final Fours in recent memory. We had the Kansas Jayhawks blowing out the North Carolina Tar Heels twice in the same game.

Then we had that memorable championship game. Mario Chalmers' buzzer-beating three-pointer to send the game into overtime will go down as one of the greatest shots in college basketball history.

The 2008 Final Four brought us all four No. 1 seeds, something that had never happened before. I don't foresee that happening again this year, but I do see another fantastic year of college basketball capped off by another tremendous Final Four.

Here are the four teams that I see competing to be crowned National Champions at the end of the year.

University of North Carolina Tar Heels

Even the most casual college hoops fan knows that Roy Williams' crew is the toughest team going into the season, with All-American forward Tyler Hansbrough leading the charge.

Joining Hansbrough are future NBA prospects point guard Ty Lawson, shooting guard Wayne Ellington, and forward Danny Green. Lawson, Ellington, and Green all put their names into the NBA Draft, only to pull them out before the deadline.

UNC goes into the season with the most depth out of any team in the country, and Coach Williams will rely on that heavily. The fast-paced offense of the Tar Heels means that a solid bench is a must. Rotating players early and often has been a staple of North Caroline basketball since Williams became the coach.

Players like Will Graves, Mike Copeland, Deon Thompson, and Bobby Frasor will all factor into the game plan just as much as the stars, although they are lesser known.

Then there are the freshmen. Big men Ed Davis and Tyler Zeller will both see significant minutes as first year players. Davis is projected to be a defensive monster down low and Zeller already has a solid offensive game, as he showed in his first game (18 points).

University of Connecticut Huskies

The Huskies return their prized possession, 7'3" center Hasheem Thabeet. Although his offensive game is still a work in progress, no one can deny his defensive prowess and ability to rebound.

Thabeet has averaged 4.1 blocks per game in his UConn career, a magnificent feat. The giant from Tanzania is also a very good decision maker and makes the shots that he should, shooting a career 58.5 percent from the field.

Thabeet is joined in the frontcourt by senior forward Jeff Adrien. Adrien has quietly been producing great numbers the past two years and will be a force this year alongside Thabeet.

One of the biggest catalysts for success this year will be the return of senior guard A.J. Price. Price went down with an injury in the first round game of the NCAA Tournament in the spring. The Huskies will depend on Price to have a full recovery in order for them to compete this year.

The bench play will be the biggest question for UConn this year. With some role players leaving the team and transferring, coach Jim Calhoun will rely heavily on some highly touted underclassmen, mainly Nate Miles.

Michigan State University Spartans

It seems as though every year coach Tom Izzo brings a competitive team to the table, and this season will be no different.

Junior forward Raymar Morgan seems to be ready to take that star status that he has flashed in the past. Joining Morgan in the frontcourt are big man Goran Suton and super freshman Delvon Roe.

The Spartans have three solid guards that will scare any team. With Kalin Lucas, Chris Allen, and Durrell Summers combined with the great frontcourt, no one in the Big Ten will have enough firepower to match up with MSU this year.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Coach Mike Brey will have a veteran-laden team this year to lead him to the promised land, with four returning starters including stars Luke Harangody and Kyle McAlarney.

Tory Jackson will return at point guard to join McAlarney in the backcourt. Replacing center Rob Kurz will present itself as the only real problem that the Irish will face this year. If Luke Zeller doesn't fill in well, they can always go with a smaller lineup.

Harangody will be in the running for National Player of the Year this season, and there is no reason to think that he can't do it. With the way McAlarney shoots the three ball, it makes it tough on defenses to collapse on Harangody down low.

The stellar combination of Harangody and McAlarney will lead the Fighting Irish to the Final Four, and possibly to the championship.

The NBA's Hidden Gems

Scott Barbine — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 03:23:03 -0500

Their is always that one guy on every team in the NBA that stands out from the others.

For example, Gerald Wallace was wasting away on the Sacramento bench, then became a star when he joined the Bobcats.

Here is my list of hidden gems—guys that could be stars if they had more opportunities to show us what they can do.

Paul Millsap (forward- Utah Jazz)

Although Millsap is considered by many to be undersized for the power forward position, (6'8'', 245 pounds), but he always seems to make a difference when he is in the game.

Millsap is an excellent re-bounder. He played three seasons at Louisiana Tech, and led the nation in rebounding each year, which no one has ever done before.

Stuck behind Carlos Boozer, Millsap doesn't get a whole lot of playing time. He averages around 20 minutes per game—but in those 20 minutes, Millsap makes a difference; whether it's blocking shots, grabbing a big rebound, or making an important shot, Millsap seems to be a factor whenever he plays.

If Millsap were a starter on another team, we has the potential to be an All-Star.

Trevor Ariza (guard/forward- Los Angeles Lakers)

Ariza is one of the most athletic players you will find in the NBA today. With great speed and strength, Ariza is a fantastic on-the-ball defender.

The 6'8'' Ariza played just one season at UCLA before entering the NBA draft in 2004. Many people believe that Ariza would have benefited from more time in college.

The Knicks selected Ariza with the 43rd overall pick, and he was traded to Orlando after just two seasons with New York. Midway through last season, Ariza was traded again—this time, to L.A.

There have been talks from the Lakers organization that they want him in the starting lineup.

With an improved jump shot, stellar defense, and an uncanny ability to finish around the rim, Ariza is just one opportunity away from becoming a star.

Gerald Green (guard/forward- Dallas Mavericks)

Most people know Green for his high-flying and imaginative dunks from the NBA Slam Dunk competitions. But Green was originally a first-round draft pick of the Boston Celtics and was thought to be a future cornerstone for the organization.

Then, on July 31, 2007, Green was part of the trade that sent Kevin Garnett to the Celtics.

Green never really found a spot in the Timberwolves' rotation and was shipped off the Houston. In the off-season, Green was acquired by the Dallas Mavericks, a move that has already been paying dividends for Dallas. Green has a very good outside shot, and a well-known ability to finish off his dunks with authority.

If Green can improve his defense and find consistent minutes, watch out. Green was compared to Tracy McGrady coming out of high school.

Tony Allen (guard/forward- Boston Celtics)

A lot of people may forget, but Allen was on his way to becoming a star in the 2006-07 season. In a stretch of 14 games in December, Allen was averaging 19 points per game. Then Allen blew out his knee on a breakaway dunk, and missed the remainder of the season.

Allen found minutes hard to come by last year, but has already improved this season, averaging about 11 points per game off the bench.

The former first-round draft pick is considered a hound on defense. With the loss of James Posey, the Celtics will count on Allen to fill that defensive stopper role. Allen has a good mid-range jump shot and is and underrated passer.

It's hard to think that he will get his opportunity in Boston playing behind Ray Allen and Paul Pierce, but if Allen can find a place where he can get over 30 minutes a game, he will be a rising star.

NFL Midseason Report: End of Year Predictions

Scott Barbine — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 10:01:46 -0500

We're half way through the 2008 season and opinions and views on almost every team has flip-flopped from the beginning of the season. We have an undefeated team and it's not the Patriots or Colts. The Cowboys aren't a guarantee for the playoffs anymore.

Here are my end of season projections from the midway point.

AFC East

Patriots 11-5 (3rd seed)
Jets 9-7 (6th seed)
Dolphins 8-8
Bills 8-8

AFC West

Broncos 8-8 (4th seed)
Chargers 7-9
Raiders 5-11
Chiefs 3-13

AFC North

Steelers 12-4 (2nd seed)
Ravens 10-6 (5th seed)
Browns 6-10
Bengals 3-13

AFC South

Titans 14-2 (1st seed)
Colts 9-7
Jaguars 7-9
Texans 7-9

NFC East

Giants 13-3 (1st seed)
Redskins 11-5 (5th seed)
Eagles 10-6
Cowboys 8-8

NFC West

Cardinals 11-5 (3rd seed)
Rams 6-10
Seahawks 5-11
49ers 4-12

NFC North

Bears 10-6 (4th seed)
Packers 9-7
Vikings 8-8
Lions 1-15

NFC South

Panthers 11-5 (2nd seed)
Buccaneers 10-6 (6th seed)
Saints 8-8
Falcons 8-8

AFC Wild-Card Round

Ravens over Broncos
Patriots over Jets

NFC Wild-Card Round

Cardinals over Buccaneers
Redskins over Bears

AFC Divisional Round

Titans over Ravens
Steelers over Patriots

NFC Divisional Round

Giants over Redskins
Panthers over Cardinals

AFC Conference Championship

Titans over Steelers

NFC Conference Championship

Giants over Panthers

Superbowl XLIII

Titans over Giants

Superbowl MVP

Chris Johnson (running back, Titans)

With the first pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions select...

Matthew Stafford, quarterback from Georgia.

NFL's Big Names That Could Use a New Home Next Season

Scott Barbine — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:25:56 -0500

It seems that every year there are a group of players that just need a change of scenery. Whether they are stuck behind another player on the depth chart or just a victim of struggles, players often re-invent themselves when they slip on a new jersey. I want to list a few players who could benefit from a change of address next year.

Larry Johnson

Johnson seems like he can't keep himself out of trouble in K.C. With all accusations of assault on women and disappointing coaches, he hasn't seen much of the field this season.

The Chiefs may be going in a new direction as well. With rookie Jamal Charles and Kolby Smith developing into solid running backs, the Chiefs may look to dump the high salary of Johnson.

Johnson's numbers have been steadily declining the past couple of years and needs to turn things around quick before he is a forgotten star.

Possible fits in 2009: Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns, Seattle Seahawks

Matt Cassel

Signs are pointing to a healthy 2009 season for Tom Brady. That means back to a reserve role for Matt Cassel. The USC product has done a respectable job in place of Brady and may want to keep a starting gig next year.

He won't get that in New England.

This is the last year remaining on Cassel's contract, and he will be eligible to be a free agent.

Possible fits in 2009: Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Vikings, San Fransisco 49ers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New York Jets

T.J. Houshmandzadeh

I'm not sure anyone in the Bengals' organization wants to remain there. Good news for T.J., his contract is up after this season.

The Bengals' locker room is in shambles, and their main vocal leader, Carson Palmer, has been shut down for the remainder of the season.

Houshmandzadeh has been playing in the shadow of Chad Johnson for his entire career and could break out completely if he is out from behind Johnson.

Possible fits in 2009: Tennessee Titans, San Fransisco 49ers, Miami Dolphins, Seattle Seahawks, Oakland Raiders, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Chicago Bears

Mike Peterson

Things are starting to get rocky with Peterson and the Jaguars. After being kicked out of a team meeting and practice, Peterson has yet to be allowed back to the Jags practice facilities.

The veteran linebacker was upset earlier this year when he was snubbed from being named a team captain.

With the relationship between Peterson and Head Coach Jack Del Rio beginning to break apart, a new team may be just what Peterson needs.

Possible fits in 2009: New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos

NFL Midseason Awards

Scott Barbine — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 12:50:30 -0500

Halfway through the 2008 NFL season, it's midseason award time.

MVP: Clinton Portis (Running Back, Washington Redskins)

Portis has been quietly putting together a monster season. Through eight games, he has had 944 rushing yards along with seven rushing touchdowns, all while averaging five yards per carry.

The Skins running back is the catalyst for the surprising Washington team, and without him they wouldn't be nearly as successful.

If Portis can remain healthy and keep his numbers up for the rest of the season, Portis will end with his best season by far in his seven-year career.

Offensive Player of the Year: Drew Brees (Quarterback, New Orleans Saints)

With the way Brees has been playing this year, Dan Marino's record of 5,084 yards is in danger. With 2,563 yards through eight games, Brees is on pace to throw for 5,126, a number that would break Marino's all-time single season passing record.

Not only has Brees been passing for big yards, he also has 15 touchdowns compared to only seven interceptions, and a passer rating of 101.6.

If Brees breaks Marino's record, it will be nearly impossible to give the award to anyone else.

Defensive Player of the Year: Albert Haynesworth (Defensive Tackle, Tennessee Titans)

The defensive line of the 8-0 Titans is anchored to the 320-pound, 6'6'' monster in the middle. Defensive tackles don't rake in big stats because their main job is to stuff the run and take multiple blocks from the offensive line. Haynesworth has done this better than anyone this year.

With six sacks through the half-way point, Haynesworth has already matched his career high from a year ago.

Offenses cannot game plan on how they won't get hurt by Haynesworth, but how he will hurt them the least. With Haynesworth constantly breaking through double teams, the quarterback's only worry is Big Al coming at him.

Offensive Rookie of the Year: Chris Johnson (Running Back, Tennessee Titans)

There were a lot of people questioning the Titans' pick of Johnson with the 24th overall pick in the draft. It appears the Titans knew what they were doing.

Johnson leads the AFC in rushing with 715 yards. Even with teammate LenDale White scoring the majority of the touchdowns, Johnson still has managed to find the end zone six times, rushing five of them.

The tremendous speed and ability to change directions on a dime have made the transition from college to the pros simple for Johnson.

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Chris Horton (Safety, Washington Redskins)

The 249th overall pick in the draft has proved to be a heck of a value. Through seven games, Horton is tied among rookies with three interceptions and has added 37 total tackles, which ties him for fifth.

After last year's tragedy of losing Sean Taylor, the Redskins needed a new safety. It looks like they found a good one.

Although no one can replace Sean Taylor, Horton is doing a good job of easing into the role.

Coach of the Year: Jeff Fisher (Tennessee Titans)

When your team is the only unbeaten team remaining, it's tough to make the argument for anyone else. Fisher is the longest tenured coach with his current team, and it seems like he enjoys the game more and more every week.

The ultimate "glue" coach, Fisher always seems to find a way to rally his team to win while facing adversity. Whether it be a scuffle between teammates (Keith Bulluck and Cortland Finnegan in week five) or having his team come back from a deficit, Fisher is by far this year's coach of the year.

Best Story of the Year: Atlanta Falcons

After last year's drama-filled season, things could only have gotten better for Arthur Blank's franchise, and they've been better than expected.

Michael Vick's arrest and Bobby Petrino's midseason runaway created a dismal season for the Falcons. But hope was on the horizon.

With rookie Matt Ryan, free agent pick up Michael Turner, the emergence of wide-out Roddy White, and the will to win of new head coach Mike Smith, Atlanta is contending for a playoff spot this year.

Second Best Story of the Year: Kurt Warner (Quarterback, Arizona Cardinals)

The 37-year-old Warner is having a season reminiscent of his MVP days in St. Louis. Second in the league with 2,431, the Arizona quarterback is leading the way to what seems a playoff berth.

Since 2002, Warner's career has been swaying in the balance. Uncertainty surrounding his arm strength and even if he could just hold onto the ball, brought up questions of whether it was worth it for Warner to resume his career.

I'd say it's been worth it.

With a 104.2 quarterback rating and an almost guaranteed 300 yards passing per game, Warner is looking young again.

It's a great sight to see.

Disappointment of the Year: Dallas Cowboys

Many considered the Cowboys a Super Bowl contender going into the year. Now they are desperate just to make a playoff run.

At 5-4, the Cowboys find themselves tied for last in the NFC East. They have a bye this week and it couldn't have come at a better time. Tony Romo will be returning from his finger injury and the Cowboys will be getting much needed rest.

It seems as though Wade Phillips is losing control of his team and it's only a matter of time before T.O. becomes the T.O. of old.

I'm hoping they can turn things around because they are far too talented to be in their situation.

Well halfway through the season we've seen a lot of unexpected things. Let's hope the second half gives us just as much excitement.

Baseball's Best: Scott's 2008 Season Awards

Scott Barbine — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 08:57:32 -0400

Another Major League Baseball season has wrapped up and it's time to give out the season awards. Most of the time the hardware only goes to those players who are on contending teams, I don't believe that is really fair. I think stats should come in more than win total.

If you have a fantastic player on a team that wins 70 games and take him off it, they will lose even more. So being on a contender does not factor into my decisions.

And the awards go to...

NL MVP- Ryan Howard (Close behind: Chase Utley, Albert Pujols, Carlos Delgado, David Wright, Manny Ramirez, Hanley Ramirez, Matt Holliday)

Another monster run-producing year for Howard earns him the award. The Phillies first baseman blasted a league leading 48 bombs, drove in a league leading 146 RBI, scored 105 runs, all with a sub-par .251 batting average.

Being a huge part of a World Series champion doesn't hurt his chances either.

AL MVP- Josh Hamilton(Close behind: Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis, Carlos Quentin, Justin Morneau, Grady Sizemore, Ian Kinsler)

Hamilton led the way for a potent Rangers offense. He finished second in the majors with 130 RBI, 32 homers, 98 runs, and a .306 batting average.

It's hard to imagine that this guy has made such a huge step in his life from being a drug addicted wash-up, to a premier star at the Major League level.

With some better pitching, Hamilton could be leading his Rangers into the playoffs in the near future.

NL Cy Young- Tim Lincecum (Close behind: Johan Santana, Brandon Webb, Dan Haren, Ryan Dempster, CC Sabathia)

Lincecum broke out in a big way this year finishing with an 18-5 record, a major league leading 265 strikeouts, a 2.62 ERA in 227 innings pitched.

The guy had an fantastic year. It's not easy winning 18 games at the major league level but doing for the sorry Giants is and even greater feat.

If Sabathia had pitched the entire year in the N.L., he would deserve the award more.

AL Cy Young- Fransisco Rodriguez (Close behind: Cliff Lee, Roy Halladay, Mike Mussina, Daisuke Matsuzaka)

It's tough to go against a guy who finished with a record 62 saves and 18 more saves than the second highest total of the year.

K-Rod finished with his record 62 saves, a 2-3 record, a 2.24 ERA, and 77 strikeouts in 68 1/3 innings.

If not for Rodriguez's record breaking year, Cliff Lee would have ran away with the award with his 22-3 record.

NL Rookie of the Year-Geovany Soto (Close behind: Jair Jurrjens, Joey Votto, Jay Bruce)

Soto is clearly the catcher of the present and future for the Cubbies. The pitchers really seemed to enjoy having Soto behind the plate and Lou Piniella seemed to enjoy have Soto at the plate.

With 23 homeruns, 86 RBI, 66 runs, and a .285 batting average, there really wasn't much competition for Soto for this award.

AL Rookie of the Year-Evan Longoria (Close behind: Jacoby Ellsbury, Alexei Ramirez, Denard Span, Mike Aviles, Chris Davis, Armando Gallaraga, Brad Ziegler)

Longoria proved to be everything he was hyped up to be when he finished the year with 27 bombs, 85 RBI, 67 runs, and a .272 batting average.

Just days after his call-up, Longoria was rewarded with a nine year deal with 17.5 million dollars guaranteed. He seemed worth that contract as he led the surprising Tampa Bay Rays to the World Series.

Had Ramirez remained healthy, he may have challenged Longoria for this award a bit more.

This season provided us with plenty of story-lines and excitement right down to the final out. Out of nowhere players surprised us and usual stars disappointed us. I can only hope next year brings the same amount of enjoyment. (And maybe a return to the post season for the Yanks)

James Posey: Overrated?

Scott Barbine — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:03:07 -0400

NBA analysts and experts have been raving about the New Orleans Hornets' addition of James Posey because they believe his championship experience will lift them over the top.

James Posey was a member of both the Miami Heat's and the Boston Celtics' championship teams. Immediately after he hit the free agent market, following the Celtics' championship run, it seemed as though teams were running for the chance to sign him.

"He brings that 'championship swagger,'" said former Celtics teammate Sam Cassell.

I'm not too sure about that, however. I don't understand how.

During championship runs, Posey averaged 28.6 minutes a game for Miami and 24.6 for Boston. Posey was a solid defensive bench player who could hit an open three-pointer.

The Hornets are getting a career 41 percent shooter and a good defender, but does he really take the Hornets to another level? Undoubtedly he'll be a good player to come off the bench, and he may start a few games, but Posey has averaged double digits in just three times in his nine-year career.

People believe he has that "championship swagger" because he has been on winning teams, but if Utah Jazz were to pick up Robert Horry today, would they be favored because of him? Heck, Horry has seven rings—that would make any team a favorite, right?

Posey isn't the type of player that will win games for you on his own. He won't account for more wins or more losses. He is a solid role player and not much else.

I just don't buy the fact that Posey is such a great addition. I don't buy into the "championship swagger." I don't buy that a reserve on two championship teams is the kind of guy that will put you over the top.

Blazing a Trail To a Potential NBA Dynasty

Scott Barbine — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 08:03:39 -0400

Over the past couple of years, the Portland Trail Blazers have shed themselves of the " Jail Blazers" nickname and have become one of the young, exciting teams in the NBA.

The 2006 NBA Draft will go down as possibly the biggest draft in Blazers history. With the fourth overall pick, they selected Tyrus Thomas, who they ended up trading to Chicago for the second overall pick, LaMarcus Aldridge. The Blazers then swung a deal with Boston for Randy Foye, who they then traded to Minnesota for Brandon Roy. They later made a trade with Phoenix to acquire Spanish guard, Sergio Rodriguez.

With the 2006 draft, their core of young players was starting to grow.

And then came the 2007 NBA draft. The Blazers were only the sixth seed in the lottery and figured to be missing out on the Greg Oden and Kevin Durant sweepstakes. That was until Lady Luck worked her magic.

The Blazers won the first overall pick in the 2007 draft and selected super-prospect Greg Oden. They made another trade with Phoenix, in which the Blazers snagged yet another Spanish player, Rudy Fernandez.

We all know how Oden missed his first season due to injury, but now the Blazers are at full strength with even more added fire power. The Blazers traded their first round selection, Brandon Rush, to Indiana for their first rounder, point guard Jerryd Bayless.

The 2008-09 Portland Trail Blazer team looks primed to make a run at the playoffs. Many people think they are still a year or two away from being competitive, but with the experience that Roy and Aldridge already have, and if Oden is all that he's cracked up to be, watch out.

Roy, Aldridge, and Oden have all become household names, but there is much more to this Blazers squad. They may have the most talented bench in the league. With veteran Steve Blake looking to man the point at the beginning of the season, the Blazers will bring Bayless and Rodriguez off the bench at the point guard spot.

The Blazers also have a cluster of talent at the shooting guard and small forward positions. Roy is the obvious starter at the two spot and it looks as though the very athletic Travis Outlaw will start at the three. That means Spanish sensation Fernandez and youngster Martell Webster will come in as instant offense.

The big men are set with Aldridge and Oden being the starters. The Blazers also bring in immense talent off the bench with Channing Frye and Ike Diogu.

Their coach Nate McMillan has to be considered as one of the top coaches we have in the NBA. He has been able to keep his young team under control and play with veteran savvy, even though many are in their first three years in the league.

This year's Blazers team could easily make it into the playoffs as one of the bottom three teams but in years ahead, they could be making championship runs if their core is still in tact.

With the trifecta of Roy, Aldridge, and Oden all being 24 years old or younger, this will be a very dangerous team for a long time.

Fantasy NBA: Underrated/Overrated Avenue

Scott Barbine — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 16:58:08 -0400

I'm starting a series of articles of NBA players that I find to be either underrated or overrated in the fantasy world. I will do one of each with each article. This is the inaugural underrated/overrated avenue. Enjoy.

Underrated—Andre Miller

Some of you may be confused by this because he is a name that is well known in the fantasy world. However, look at his stats and then look at some of the players taken before him in drafts. According to ESPN's average draft position (ADP), Miller is going around pick 50. Some players before him: Jason Terry (48), Manu Ginobili (46), Ray Allen (42), Hedo Turkoglu (41), and Mike Dunleavy (36).

Those are some good fantasy players, but have their flaws, which is why I see Miller as a more valuable fantasy commodity. Terry now has Jason Kidd in his backcourt. It's hard to see him getting more than three assists a game this year. Ginobili is injured. I'd rather have a healthy Miller over an injured Manu any day. Ray Allen is on the decline and has to share the ball with KG and Paul Pierce. Turkoglu and Dunleavy each had one productive fantasy year and are bit of a mystery.

Andre Miller now has the luxury of dumping the ball off to Elton Brand. Miller had a drop in assists last year because he was counted on to do more scoring, which he did. His scoring average was up three points from his career average. Now with Brand, Igoudala, emerging stud Thaddeus Young, and bench spark plug Lou Williams, look for Miller's assist totals to be back up around eight a game. Miller adds about 15 ppg, 1.2 steals, and shoots about 45 percent to add to the solid assist totals.

Miller is also going into a contract year, and we all know what that can do for a player. I see Miller performing as a top six or seven point guard this year. If you can snag him, don't miss that chance.

Overrated—Kevin Garnett

Don't get me wrong, I do not view KG as an overrated basketball player, just fantasy wise. Garnett's ADP is around pick nine. Nine? Compare his stats with those of David West and there isn't much disparity. West's ADP? 40.

If I am sitting at the No. 9 spot, there are some other names usually available that I would take over KG in a heartbeat. Deron Williams (11), Elton Brand (16), and Josh Smith (17) are some examples.

KG's numbers are good, just not worthy of a first rounder anymore. Being part of the "Big Three" (KG, Pierce, and Allen), his numbers are expected to drop with so much talent around him. Garnett's numbers are more of a late second rounder to mid third rounder now.

I fully expect some disagreements here and I look forward to hearing your side on these guys. I'll be doing my next overrated/underrated avenue in the next few days.

Time to Believe in The Titans

Scott Barbine — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 16:34:40 -0400

They've had a soft schedule. That's all hear when I talk to people about the Tennessee Titans fantastic start. Not many people are taking the Titans seriously but folks, it's about time you do.

The Titans have gotten off to such a hot start behind a physical defense and a strong running game. When you can do those things well and add that to the fact that they don't turn the ball over, that is a recipe for success.

Here's why the Titans have been consistently winning football games.

Defense

If you only allow 11 points per game, you are going to win games. It all starts up front. The Titans defensive line is anchored by the big man, Albert Haynesworth. The defense revolves around him and the opposing offenses can't come up with a game plan for him because he is impossible to stop. When you double up on Haynesworth, Kyle Vanden Bosch is bound to get to your quarterback, making it quite the dilemma for offensive coordinators.

The depth in the defensive line is fantastic. Jevon Kearse, Dave Ball, Kevin Vickerson, Jacob Ford, and Jason Jones all get into the rotation so everyone stays fresh and healthy.

The linebacking crew is led by veteran Keith Bulluck. He is joined by David Thornton and Stephen Tulluch. Each one has the speed to chase down the ball carrier and they have a nose for sniffing out where the play is going. They can cover the tight ends and running backs on passing plays as well and are sure tacklers in the open field.

The secondary has improved immensely this season and is led by youngsters, Cortland Finnegan and Michael Griffin, who each have four interceptions. Nick Harper and Chris Hope round out the starters. This group may be the best group of tacklers assembled in a secondary.

Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz really has this group playing hard-nosed defense.

Offense

Just like on the defensive side of the ball, it all starts up front. Their offensive line consists of tackles Michael Roos and Dave Stewart, guards Jake Scott and Eugene Amano, and center Kevin Mawae. This group has allowed just two sacks all year and have opened up huge holes for the Titans' running backs.

LenDale White and rookie sensation Chris Johnson have been remarkable thus far. They have been the perfect "thunder and lightning" combination. Through six games Johnson has 549 rushing yards and is averaging 5.3 yards per carry to go along with three touchdowns. White has 314 rushing yards and has been a goaline stalwart with eight scores.

Replacement quarterback Kerry Collins has been all he's needed to be, efficient. He hasn't been making the same mistakes that we've seen earlier in his career. Collins has gotten tight end Bo Scaife involved early and often in games and has become his favorite target. Alge Crumpler, Brandon Jones, Justin Gage, and Justin McCareins have all been almost evenly involved in the passing game as well.

You cannot forget kicker Rob Bironas when speaking of the Titans success. He is 10-for-10 so far this season and has made his last 18 kicks dating back to last season.

The Titans face the Indianapolis Colts next week on ESPN's Monday Night Football. This will be the teams first meeting this year and if the Titans can pull the win out at home, I don't see how they finish anywhere but first in the AFC South.

NBA Fantasy: Big Names To Avoid on Draft Day

Scott Barbine — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 03:35:03 -0400

Every year, there are a few big name players that don't produce on the level of fantasy brilliance that we have become used to seeing. Whether it is due to aging, injury, or just poor play, we see it every year.

I'll give you a few names that I could see having a down year.

Steve Nash

I'm sure I'll be catching some flack for this one, but I could definitely see Nash producing less that what we are accustomed too. The first reason is that he will be turning 35 years old during the season. It's not easy to keep up his level of production at that age.

Another reason is Goran Dragic. The 22-year-old was already told that he would be playing at least 20 minutes per game this season, which will ultimately cut into Nash's minutes. Dragic plays better defense than Nash, and with D'Antoni gone, that is important.

I'm not saying Nash will be a complete bust, but I also don't believe that he will produce first round numbers again this year.

Jason Kidd

Another aging point guard, Kidd will be turning 36 years old this season. Kidd missed 31 games last year, and I could see him missing more as aging basketball players become frailer.

Sure, he gives you a great assist number and great rebounding numbers for a point guard, but that is almost cancelled out because he shoots a career 40 percent from the field. His scoring is also a lot lower than what you'd like out of a guy being drafted in his spot.

Ray Allen

Allen's scoring dropped off a complete nine points per game last year when he joined the Boston Celtics. He will always be a great source for three pointers and field goal percentage, but will he be as energized now that he has his ring?

With Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce on the team, Allen is only the third scoring option on a defensive-minded team. With the Celtics looking to get more out of Tony Allen and first-rounder J.R. Giddens, Allen may see a drop in playing time this year.

Yao Ming

This pick is based solely on Yao's inability to stay on the court. He has missed at least 25 games the last three seasons. I'm not the kind of person who wants two-thirds of a season out of a high draft pick. Yao's injuries have cost many people their chance at a fantasy title and I don't believe he's worth the risk.

You can wait couple rounds and scoop up an Andrew Bogut, Andris Biedrins, or Al Horford.

NBA Fantasy Sleepers for the 2008-09 Season

Scott Barbine — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 04:45:38 -0400

In my opinion, the definition of a real sleeper is a player who has the potential to be great, but hasn't had the chance to show it yet. Here is my list of players who have the potential to breakout this year.

Wilson Chandler

In the the newly installed D'Antoni offense, Chandler has the chance to become the Shawn Marion of the New York Knicks offense.

He is great at running the floor and can finish in the lane. For a team desperate for a new identity, Coach Mike D'Antoni will feel pressure from the front office to go with some youth and athleticism. Chandler fits that bill. He has to beat out Quentin Richardson for the starting gig—it can't be that hard.

Amir Johnson

This one is a stretch, but the guy was an absolute beast in the National Basketball Developmental League and I see it transferring to eventual NBA success.

In the 2006-07 NBDL season, Johnson averaged 18.9 points 9.7 rebounds 1.18 steals and 3.14 blocks per game. Granted, those numbers were accumulated against lesser talent than the NBA, but it gives you an idea of what this kid can do.

Antonio McDyess and Jason Maxiell stand in his way of significant playing time. But with McDyess being 34-years-old now, it isn't hard to believe that the Detroit Pistons will try to insert Johnson into the lineup more this year.

If an injury hits someone in the Piston's front court, look for Johnson to get some real playing time.

Hakim Warrick

The 6'9'' Warrick figures to finally get a good amount of playing time as a full-time starter. In years past, Warrick was stuck behind Pau Gasol but now he is the front court leader of the rebuilding Memphis Grizzlies.

Outside of Rudy Gay and O.J. Mayo, there really isn't much as far as scoring for the Grizzlies, so look for Warrick to get some added points. A 17 points, eight rebound, and one block per-game year isn't out of the realm of possibility for Warrick.

Luke Ridnour

Most people believe that Ramon Sessions will be taking over at the point guard spot for the Milwaukee Bucks. but people also forget that Ridnour was one of the original 32 members chosen to try out for our Olympic team a few years ago.

Ridnour is a pass-first point guard, which is exactly what the Bucks need with talented scorers like Michael Redd, Richard Jefferson, and Andrew Bogut on the floor. Ridnour's defense has improved over the past couple of seasons, which should help him stay on the court under Scott Skiles.

Mike Conley

Conley seems to be the forgotten rookie from last year. If he can remain healthy, he'll be the one dishing the ball off to Rudy Gay and O.J. Mayo.

Andray Blatche

With Brenden Haywood possibly out for the year and Etan Thomas coming back from heart surgery, Blatche could be in for some serious playing time.

He averaged 1.4 blocks in only 20 minutes per game last season. If an injury occurs to either Thomas or Antawn Jamison, look for Blatche to put up huge rebounding and blocks numbers.