Bleacher Report - Articles by DannyBoy SportsTalk

Influx of San Francisco 49ers Writing Leads to Indecision, Angst

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Fri, 29 May 2009 21:52:30 -0400

With so many articles to choose from, where does a reader begin? Why choose Eric’s article on why Jimmy Raye will succeed versus John’s offering on the same topic?

This day and age, the internet has increased output a hundred fold, but has left the door wide open to everyone’s opinion to be included in the discussion.

This isn’t a bad thing. But rather, it leaves readers with indecision and, how does the cream rise to the top?

Does this author think he is the cream? In the vanity of my own mind, I’d love to think so.

Reality? Probably not.

But why should you, the reader take the time to pick my submissions versus all the other talented writers out there? I really don’t know.

I have the same information they do, the same opportunity to post on Bleacher Report as they do.

The difference comes down to one thing: Who is willing to make it happen? Who is willing to do the dirty work to bring about a good article? Who is willing, period?

I love the 49ers, and I love football. I honestly would love to cover the 49ers, and would consider it an honor to cover any team available.

Am I newsman? Or a correspondent? Untouchable or interactive? Fake? Or real?

That is what sets apart the writer. Can you hear his voice in his contributions?

Or does the monotony of the words pour out like a regurgitated meal?

I think Jimmy Raye has his hands full.

I trust Mike Singletary is going to be a great coach.

I believe Michael Crabtree will have 1,000 yards receiving, Frank Gore will have 1,000 yards rushing and Shaun Hill will maintain his position as starting quarterback.

I deem the Niners will go 10-6 this year and make the playoffs.

But what is my opinion?

I’m just another writer, amongst the hundreds, amongst the thousands.

Who will YOU choose?

Have questions about the San Francisco 49ers?Leave them in the comments section, or email them to DannyBoySportsTalk@gmail.com You could be featured in the next column!

2009: Success Of the Mike Singletary Enhancement Effect Remains Key

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Fri, 29 May 2009 02:28:04 -0400

1,300 men are about to embark on a new campaign. It is a struggle between physicality and finesse, between brutish strength and incredible agility. 32 teams will engage in the gridlock on the gridiron, but only one can be crowned as champion.

Okay, so enough of my NFL Films intro voice.

Last year, the San Francisco 49ers began their season with little momentum. A change in offensive coordinators (for the sixth consecutive season) from the plain-Jane Jim Hostler to the mad scientist Mike Martz had many people salivating over possibilities.

But if one thing is true in the NFL, it is this: Possibilities rarely create realities.

Grab hold of your seats, ladies and gentlemen: the 2009 San Francisco 49ers are about to turn possibility into reality.

With a schedule that features four playoff teams from 2008 (Indianapolis, Philadelphia, Tennessee, and Atlanta) hope would seem to be of little supply.

But, wait!

The 49ers play in the weakest division in football, a widely known anomaly known as the NFC West.

If the Cardinals can go 47 years without making it out of the second round of the playoffs, and then make it all the way to the Super Bowl with an 8-8 record, surely anything is possible.

And if it weren’t for two unfortunate endings in games last year (at Arizona and at Miami), the 49ers would have ended 9-7, and been in the playoffs.

This year, the only foreseeable hiccups are those four playoff teams. Every other game is winnable.

With NFC North as competition this season, it is entirely possible for the club to finish at 10-6, or even 11-5 if they steal a win from a playoff team.

With the MSEE (Mike Singletary Enhancement Effect) in full swing, anything is possible.

Vernon Davis has turned from Prima Donna to Model Citizen in a matter of weeks. Ahmad Brooks is changing his talent from being cut to cutting down offenses. Dashan Goldson is finally translating all that ball-hawking skill onto the field instead of off it.

Things are changing at 4949 Centennial Blvd.

Once the premier sports franchise, and just as suddenly, the poster child for what not to do, the San Francisco 49ers are about to come full circle: They are about to take possibility and MAKE it a reality.

Raye Of Sunshine: 49ers OC Not Given Enough Credit

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Wed, 27 May 2009 02:02:32 -0400

New season. New players. New coaches…AGAIN.

Jimmy Raye II brings a wealth of experience and knowledge into the San Francisco 49ers locker room.

The question remains, “Is he a gem pulled from the heap of more-hyped coaches? Or does his experience turn him into Al Davis, the cross-bay crock of a GM for the Oakland Raiders?”

First a bit of a background that got the 49ers into this mess.

In a truly desperate move by a desperate man, “Mad” Mike Martz was hired as offensive coordinator in 2008 by then-head coach Mike Nolan.

Maybe Martz really was mad...at least for accepting the job.

Known as a coach who fits square players into round holes, it seems the selection of Martz was more for ticket sales than for championships.

Martz’ offense, while great at times, was limited when Mike Singletary took over for Mike Nolan midseason (everyone remembers the goal line dive against the Cardinals).

Smash-mouth football became the new offense, and Martz simply did not fit that bill.

After the season, he was unceremoniously let go.

Fast forward to January of this year.

Raye becomes the newest offensive coordinator for the position. According to Matt Barrows of the Sac Bee, he was in the running for the position immediately after the season, despite reports he was a last minute candidate.

With this hire, San Francisco 49er fans everywhere gave a collective sigh while simultaneously debating whether Mike Singletary had lost his mind. Raye, former coordinator of the Chiefs, Raiders, and Redskins, seemed like a scrape-the-bottom-of-the-barrel selection.

But, fear not 49ers fans.

You have much to hope for.

With the Chiefs, Raye turned Tony Gonzalez into the perennial Pro Bowler you see today.

There may be hope for Vernon Davis yet.

As for running backs, Raye’s stable has included such remarkable names as Tony Richardson, Amos Zereoue, and Donnell Bennett. I know those were some marquee running backs, but Frank Gore they are not.

One notable runner was Stephen Davis in 2001, when he amassed 1,432 yards with Raye as play caller. Gore should easily pass 1,400 yards this season, given the Mike Singletary Enhancement Effect (from here on, it will be known as the MSEE) he seems to have on players.

As for receivers, his best stable of receivers came with the Chiefs in 2000. Aside from Tony Gonzalez, Derrick Anderson and Sylvester Morris were the primary targets. Isaac Bruce, Josh Morgan, and Michael Crabtree already wets the pallet more than the drier-than-an-Alabama-summer combo of Anderson and Morris.

Have hope, Niner Nation!

When talent was available, Raye has made the most of it. He also never had a head coach quite like Mike Singletary.

Consider his effect the same as Mike D’Antoni's in the NBA: stats become padded and players develop their games. The “Raye”s will be shining down in the Bay Area, players will be better than before, and the 49ers will return to their rightful spot atop the NFC West.

Call it a Hunch.

Have questions about the San Francisco 49ers?

Leave them in the comments section, or email them to DannyBoySportsTalk@gmail.com You could be featured in the next column!

Frank Gore: We Hardly Knew Thee

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Sat, 16 May 2009 11:38:10 -0400

Frank Gore, the third-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers in 2005, endured much trial and tribulation before entering the NFL.

In his rookie season, Frank Gore was a mere backup, amassing only 608 yards. Worries about durability and understanding of the playbook came from every corner of the 49ers headquarters.

Gore’s response after the season?

“I want to be something special in this league. Every opportunity I get, I'm going to try my best to be special. We have three great backs on this team. I'm just going to train hard and compete for the starting job next year.”

Gore backed up that statement by taking the starting job from incumbent Kevin Barlow during his sophomore campaign (Barlow? Remember that guy? Is he even alive?). Gore scampered for an amazing 1,695 yards, amassing the best single season for a running back in team history.

Setting ablaze the 49er faithful, Gore then predicted a 2,000-yard season.

Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to produce anywhere near that goal, and has since totaled fewer yards each season. Frank Gore: We hardly knew thee.

Does this mean he is dead? Not yet. But if this pace keeps going, he might be destroyed by time, injury, and a few defenses before he crushes that record.

But that is just one man’s opinion. What is Mr. Gore’s opinion on the matter? Here are a few questions I’d like to know.

1. Coming out in 2005, the knock on you was the injuries to your knees. What has been the difference between college and the NFL, as far as health concerns?

· Do you train differently now as opposed to when you played at Miami?

· What areas do you focus on to remain injury-free?

2. Where do you see the offense going in 2009?

· Is offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye the answer?

· Does the playbook offer a new look for the offense?

· How does Raye coach? Hands-on? Or through X’s and O’s?

3. Is this a make-or-break year for the 49ers?

· Where do you expect the 49ers offense to rank in 2009?

· How many yards will you rush for in 2009? Still hoping for the 2,000-yard season?

4. Many people are beginning to wonder if your first season as a starting running back was a fluke. How do you respond to the doubters?

· How are you handling the expectations?

· Are there any special ways you will be proving them wrong?

· Is the 2,000-yard season still a goal of yours?

5. Who do you want to win the competition at QB?

· Why?

· Is there a favorite?

· How does the starting QB affect your play?

What questions would YOU ask Frank Gore? Leave your comments in the section below, or contact DannyBoy at dannyboysportstalk@gmail.com!

Patriots Look to Trade Into Top Ten of the Draft

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 10:39:32 -0400

Speculation is running rampant that the New England Patriots are desperately after LSU's Tyson Jackson.

They are seeking a complement, if not a replacement, for Richard Seymour, whose contract runs out after the season.

Jackson has been one of the least talked about players, and probably for good reason. So many teams were so high on him, no one wanted to tip their hand.

Some mock drafts have him going as high as the fourth spot to the Seahawks.

Make no mistake, Belichick will scramble, but look for him to work a deal with the 49ers at No. 10. Call it a payback for coughing up the seventh overall selection last year.

NFL Mailbag: The Kansas City Chiefs, Jay Culter, and the Draft

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 03:03:05 -0400

An all new mailbag for your reading pleasure. This week, we tackle the Chiefs.

"So now that we know that Jay Cutler is on the block, will his exit affect the top three (1-3) in the draft? Will Detroit pick Curry or will he fall to No. 3? I don't think KC can afford to not pick him. With Cutler out of the [AFC] West and Cassel under center, with LJ [Larry Johnson], D-Bowe [Dwayne Bowe], and [Tony] Gonzalez, maybe, just maybe, we will contend for the West title. Would love to know your take."

—Joe (AKA) RedDogg

Joe, do you mind if I call you RedDogg? Anyhow, the whole Cutler situation just put a huge crimp into the plans of about 12 teams in the league. His landing spot is going to define many team's draft strategies as well as the future of Mark Sanchez.

From what I have heard, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (no Garcia) and possibly the New York Jets (sans Favre) are the major players.

The Lions will be in the bidding, but I don't see a team giving up the No. 1 overall pick for a QB with an attitude. Plus, they don't have any other bargaining chips. Finally, they will take Matthew Stafford because every new coach who picks first overall wants a cornerstone (see: Nolan, Mike).

The Rams already have Marc Bulger (getting older, though), and new coach Steve Spagnuolo likes veteran presence. They will draft either Eugene Monroe or Jason Smith at No. 2.

As for your Chiefs, after giving up their second-round pick for a QB with exactly 16 starts since high school, they're going to want to protect their investment. Look for them to take whichever offensive tackle is not taken by the Rams.

The Seahawks will scoop up Aaron Curry at number 4. Why else trade Julian Peterson to the Lions if you didn't have someone in mind to replace that kind of production?

The Chiefs' personnel scares me. Gonzalez wants out even if he denies it. Johnson might go to jail, and he still wants out. I would not call this a stable bunch.

If there is one thing that can bring this team together, it's a new coaching staff and philosophy. Todd Haley is a good offensive coordinator, and it should be interesting to see him lead a whole team.

The AFC West Division reminds me of their counterpart in the NFC: Weak. The Chargers are one year and a myriad of injuries from turning into the Seahawks; the Chiefs will be similar to the 2007 Cardinals: Good but not good enough. The Broncos, without Cutler, look like the Rams when Bulger was injured, and the Raiders are a mirror image of their bay-area rival, the 49ers (enough said there).

Look for KC to finally capitalize on Denver's mistakes and jump up into respectability. They will not win the division because the Chargers are still too good. A record of 7-9 could be achievable if Cassel has a decent season, and Glenn Dorsey begins to anchor the defensive line.

Look for the Chiefs to grab an offensive tackle, to bring Cassel along slowly, and to finish with either a 6-10 or 7-9 record.

Have questions about YOUR team? Leave them in the comments section, or email them to DannyBoySportsTalk@gmail.com You could be featured in the next column!

How the Los Angeles Lakers Became the Best Team in the NBA

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 00:31:43 -0500

Los Angeles Lakers 110, Boston Celtics 109, (OT).

That is the stat that matters.

Maybe the 17-for-29 showing from the charity stripe isn’t a flattering percentage, but nonetheless, the Lakers still came out on top.

You are probably thinking, “So what? They barely beat the Celtics in OT.”

And you are right.

But one can never underestimate the power of a victory over a rival.

A victory over an opponent with the best record in the NBA is a huge moral boost. When you combine that with the win coming against your most storied enemy in a playoff type atmosphere, the rest of the league can only fear what is to come.

You see, the Celtics are the most hated rival of the Lakers. This war has raged since 1959, with no end in the foreseeable future. And now, the Lakers have defeated them twice in the regular season, earning a much deserved swagger heading into the All-Star break.

If there is one thing that people are underestimating, it is the loss of Andrew “Baby Shaq” Bynum, the Lakers' budding superstar. It was at this time last year that the Lakers lost Bynum and managed to steal Pau Gasol from the Grizzlies, setting the stage for a magnificent run into the finals.

Is another blockbuster trade on the horizon? According to Mitch Kupchak, the answer will not be coming from another team.

But isn’t that the standard answer from general managers around the league?

Phil Jackson, ever the Zen Master, left the door to that idea cracked open.

“We'll talk about it. We'll try to improve the club if there's a necessary thing to do. That's what you have to do in this business.”

Rumblings around the league have linked the Lakers to more than a few big men, most notably the Raptors' Jermaine O’Neal (again?) and Brad Miller of the Sacramento Kings.

Miller would make the most sense both because of experience and luxury tax considerations. With the Lakers going sour on Vladamir Radmanovic and Chris Mihm not able to break the rotation, swapping those two and a second rounder for Miller may benefit both teams.

Look for Kupchak to turn over every rock looking for a presence in the middle.

As for the second half, only time will tell.

But one thing is for sure. A confident team is a dangerous team.

Look out, NBA.

The Lakers are now, officially, the best team in the league.

Super Bowl Prediction: Steelers-Cardinals

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 13:47:56 -0500

Ok, let's make this easy:

Steelers 27, Cardinals 13.

If I am wrong, come and rail on me in the comments.

If I am right, come become my fan.

Sound like a plan? Does to me.

GO STEELERS!

Does Kobe Bryant Belong in The All-Time Top 50?

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 19:42:59 -0500

Kobe Bryant: one of the most prolific scorers of all time.

Kobe Bryant: three championship rings and an MVP Trophy.

Kobe Bryant: Top 50 of All Time?

The upper echelon of the NBA includes Wilt Chamberlain, Magic Johnson, Dr. J, and His Airness himself.

According to NBA.com, the top 50 players of all time have combined for 107 NBA Championships, 49 Most Valuable Player Awards, 17 Rookie of the Year honors, 447 All-Star Game selections, 36 scoring titles, 923,791 total points, and 410,327 total rebounds.

Impressive indeed.

I submit that Bryant has a greater career PPG (25.0) than 43 of the 50 players and is tied with two. Bryant has averaged more assists per game than 32 of the game’s greatest (4.7). He has also out-rebounded 14 of the 50 players on that same list (5.3).

The case for Bryant reaches far beyond statistics, though. It reaches into greatness. It grabs hold of history and begins to separate out the wheat from the chaff.

Beyond scoring titles, beyond MVP’s, beyond even championships, we must reflect upon these things: dominance, drive, and sportsmanship.

These are characteristics that some men have, and some men learn. Bryant is the latter.

Kobe is known for his 81-point effort, his feud with Shaq, and his ability to pass up a shot like a fat kid passes up ice cream. All selfish attributes.

But there seems to be a new Kobe Bryant. Having begun to see that his team isn’t spelled Ko-Me, it is clear that his intentions are to make those around him better.

He hasn’t hit the level Jordan ascended to, nor can he come up to Wilt’s height. But Kobe has begun to carve out his own niche.

Maybe it isn’t to be called the next Magic Johnson, Kevin McHale, or Scottie Pippen, but his niche can certainly be described as unforgettable.

Here is one author who asks for a re-do to the 50 best of all time. Maybe this time instead of Hal Greer or Dolph Schayes, we can have the best of any generation included: Kobe Bryant.

Do you disagree? Leave your comments in the section below, or contact DannyBoy at dannyboysportstalk@gmail.com!

If Julius Peppers Is Aiming for a 3-4 Defense or Bust, Are 49ers a Possibility?

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 04:53:41 -0500

This just in:

Julius Peppers has decided against re-signing with the Carolina Panthers. In doing so, he has made it known that his desire is to play in a 3-4 defense where his strengths would be better suited.

Immediately, it became clear that the front runners should be the San Francisco 49ers.

Why?

Obtaining Peppers would result in two things happening.

First, the pass rush would certainly improve. Peppers tallied 14 1/2 sacks last year, and has 41 in his first four years.

But secondly, and most importantly, the secondary play would increase. A great pass rush means cornerbacks don't have to cover their man as long. A rested cornerback means a frustrated wide receiver.

A frustrated wide receiver means big play potential is severely limited. It also means Mark Roman may finally go from being known as "the free safety who hasn't had a pick in over two years" to "the free safety who went two years without a pick." Big difference, there.

Justin Smith and Julius Peppers on the same defense? Greg Manusky, defensive coordinator of the 49ers, must be salivating at the endless possibilities and overwhelming pass rush opportunities.

Those two attacking the quarterback would be like a certain cream on athlete's foot. Boom, tough-actin' Tinactin!

Here is one author who hopes the 49ers are willing to trade, or in the case of a franchise tag, offer a term sheet to Peppers. The possibilities are worth dreaming about. Just ask Manusky.

Tim Tebow Will Do NOTHING in the NFL

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 18:48:15 -0500

Tim Tebow—man among boys.

It’s said every time, in just about every imaginable way possible. Tim Tebow is a great athlete, a scholar, and most assuredly a leader. The media have proclaimed him their most recent darling.

But this author has found a need to bring this revelation: Tim Tebow will do NOTHING in the NFL.

How can that be so categorically stated, you ask? This isn’t a Tebow bashing like you think, but a reality check into what is really going on.

You see, his college career so far has been spectacular, winning a Heisman Trophy and a couple National Championships. He has been surrounded by world-class talent and given the best coaching money can buy. But is he a product of great genes and a passion to win, or of a system designed to inflate statistics?

Urban Meyer, upon being hired at Florida in 2005, installed an offense known simply as the Spread. It is an offense that constantly uses three wideouts and a running back, while the quarterback lines up in shotgun formation. It leaves open the possibility of running the option to keep defenses honest. It is an offense most college defenses are simply not adept to handle. It is an offense that makes quarterbacks momentarily immortal.

Another well respected college coach, Jeff Tedford of Cal, has been known to take average passers and have them churn out gaudy numbers because of his quarterback-friendly system. I submit to you the following names of “highly touted prospects” coached by Tedford: Aaron Rodgers, Kyle Boller, Joey Harrington, Akili Smith, and Trent Dilfer. Enough said.

So far, Meyer has produced Alex Smith, a former number one overall draft pick. His play so far hasn’t materialized into anything but mediocrity. Will Tebow follow suit?

Tebow, for his career, has amassed 6,391 yards passing and 67 touchdowns along with 11 interceptions. He also ran for 2,037 yards and 43 touchdowns in a little over two and a half years. Awesome numbers.

Alex Smith racked up 5,203 yards with 47 touchdowns versus eight interceptions to go with 1072 yards rushing in the same time frame.

Pretty similar stats when you take into consideration that Smith attempted 61 less passes and ran 189 fewer times.

But what does Coach Meyer say about Tebow?

"I think [Tebow] is very similar to Alex Smith," Meyer has been quoted saying by ESPN.com. Even Meyer himself is making the correlation easier with every word coming out of his mouth.

We have seen that Alex Smith has not been able to translate his success in college up to the NFL ranks. We have seen that pupils of these passer-friendly college offenses tend to become busts.

Will Tebow follow in Smith’s footsteps? This author says yes. Just remember, I didn’t want to say I told you so. So I’ll just say you heard it here first.

Do you disagree? Leave your comments in the section below, or contact DannyBoy at dannyboysportstalk@gmail.com!

Giving Out the Anaheim Ducks' 2008-09 Midseason Awards

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 17:18:06 -0500

We have officially met the halfway mark for the 2008-2009 NHL season and what a wild ride it’s been.

Sidney Crosby dominating Brett Mclean.

The Red Wings forgetting there is supposed to be a Stanley Cup hangover.

Alexander Ovechkin signing a contract even Scott Boras would envy, keeping him a Capitol for life.

But there is one thing that hasn’t hit the front pages: the struggles of the Anaheim Ducks.

Their power play has been magnificent heading into the mid-point of the schedule, but something seems to be lacking. There seems to a missing cog in the machine that is the Ducks.

It seems they lack a certain fortitude known as finishing: Finishing checks, finishing shots, finishing their opponent. They simply cannot systematically take down a team the way they did in their last title run in 2007.

These Ducks just don’t go from puck drop to siren sound. They aren’t careening on the boards, their forecheck is lacking, and their aggression is misplaced.

Perhaps the extended losses of Teemu Selanne and Francois Beauchemin have played a role in this dysfunction. Maybe the aging of Chris Pronger and Scott Neidermayer are slowly eradicating this team.

They just aren’t finishing when they need to. That is what’s wrong. That is what’s missing.

Nonetheless, they stand in second among their peers in a suddenly competitive Pacific Division.

Let’s look at this year’s mid-season awards for the Ducks.

The Prestige Award: Best Shot

This goes to the rook, Bobby Ryan for his magical spinorama vs. the Kings for his first career hat trick. That definitely should have made the SportsCenter Top 10. Just in case you fell asleep on the couch, you can view it here.

The White Knuckle Tire Iron: Best Fight

Anytime you have brains and brawn, you have favor with me. And this time is no different. Ivy League grad George Parros and counterpart Jody Shelley of the San Jose Sharks battle it out for the second time this season. On December 11, each heavyweight left with a little blood on their jersey. This is a great fight! This is hockey, folks!!

The Windex® Cup: Best Check into the Glass

In my pursuit to crown a winner for the Windex® Cup, it became abundantly clear the Ducks could not cut a check without bouncing it. So, here is a clip of Linden using Norton to redefine streak-free shine!

The Golden Staph Infection: Worst Front Office Debacle

This is more of a defection that left an infection in the hearts of Ducks fans everywhere. Brian Burke’s worst kept secret of the season came to pass when he left to become GM of the Toronto Maple Leafs. It brought to close both a storied (NHL Champions) and turbulent (see: Lowe, Kevin) time in the franchise’s history.

Check out this interview for the hypocrisy that is Burke.

Ladies and Gentleman, your 2008 Anaheim Ducks Award Winners!!

Do you think differently? Leave your comments in the section below, or contact DannyBoy at dannyboysportstalk@gmail.com!

San Francisco 49ers' End of Season Grades: Defense

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 06:26:58 -0500

Welcome back, 'Niners Faithful, for the second installment of First Annual DannyBoy SportsTalk End of Season Grades for the San Francisco 49ers, or as I like to call it for short, FADBSTEOSGFTSF4. I still can't think of a better name.

Suggestions? Leave them in the comments.

You can find Part One 49ers-2008-end-of-season-grades-offense" target="_blank" title="here.">here.

Part Three will be coming out next week, as Special Teams and coaching grades will be handed out.

Buckle up, it's going to be a bumpy ride...

Position	Name	Grade
DE
	Justin Smith	A
	Many media types groaned about the 49ers overpaying him. I guarantee no one in the organization thinks the same way. He dominated!
	Ray McDonald	C-
	"Jumpy", as Matt Barrows of the Sac Bee has called him, tallied six encroachment or offside penalties to go along with only one sack.
	Kentwan Balmer	D+
	Defensive Lineman in their rookie years always have difficulty. (see: Williams, Mario).
DT
	Aubrayo Franklin	A-
	Anytime a DT in 3-4 is known for making plays, it means he isn't filling gaps like he is supposed to.
	Ronald Fields	A-
	Though he didn’t get many tackles, holding the point for Willis was much more important.
	Isaac Sopoaga	B+
	A fancy new $20 million contract for 41 tackles and a sack? How long can "potential" sustain this strong man?
MLB
	Patrick Willis	A
	The only reason an A+ wasn't awarded for this Pro-Bowler was the drop in stats. Even that can be explained by the Martz Offense.
	Takeo Spikes	A
	The free agent was well worth the investment, and even asked to come back. Now that isn't something you have heard from potential escapees the past few seasons.
	Jeff Ulbrich	B+
	The man went from starter to bench warmer without a peep. Then went out and reigned immortal on Special Teams.
	Ahmad Brooks	N/A
	When you are released by a 4-11 team, either you don't have what it takes, or there was some politicking. Either way, he made no impact for the 'Niners.
OLB
	Manny Lawson	B+
	Manny being Manny is a whole new meaning with this man. He was rounding into shape after the knee injury. Lawson finished with 45 tackles and three sacks.
	Parys Haralson	A
	Someone give this man a pay raise! He led the team in sacks with 8.5, 3.5 of which came in the last five games of the season.
	Roderick Green	D
	Pass Rushing is his specialty, and he didn't even do that well. The Nolan holdover may not make it to training camp.
	Tully Banta-Cain	D
	This $4 million a year man probably wont be back. Haralson was destined for the Weakside spot, and someone had to go. The overpaid are generally the most expendable.
	*Jay Moore*	N/A
	The second year in a row his season was lost. The 49ers have no idea what to expect from this guy. 2009 might be make-or-break it time for Moore.
CB
	Nate Clements	A
	Except for the Dallasgame, his season was excellent. 63 tackles is nothing to laugh at from a cornerback.
	Walt Harris	B+
	Walt is starting to lose a step. None-the-less, he finished with three interceptions and 54 tackles. What more could you want?
	*Shawntae Spencer*	N/A
	His season was lost to a knee injury, and it helped bring around some younger players. Unless he has an awesome camp next year, he might be gone.
	Tarell Brown	B-
	Brown came up big in Week Three, and ended the season with 30 tackles and 2 picks. He has the ball-hawking the Niners need.
	Reggie Smith	N/A
	He only recorded 3 tackles this season, but the 3rd round pick will see more playing time in his sophomore season.
	Marcus Hudson	C
	Hudson was more of an insurance policy this season. His seven tackles were nothing to get excited about.
	Donald Strickland	B
	The 49ers love this guy for intensity and drive. He might overtake Spencer for the nickelback role in 2009.
	Allen Rossum	B
	Although listed at CB, Rossum is a return man/arena-style offensive specialist. His grade is for his impact on the return game this season.
Safety
	Michael Lewis	A
	This linebacker in the secondary did everything asked of him, even placing second in tackles on the team with 96. Of course, a couple interceptions would be nice.
	Mark Roman	C
	A center fielder really should make more plays than Roman. He is reliable, not so much flashy. Look for the Niners to upgrade via the draft if Taylor Mays is available.
	Keith Lewis	B+
	Another ST stalwart, Lewis is known for hard hits. In my book, if you scare your opponent, then you did your job. Lewis definitely did his.
	Dashon Goldson	C-
	Look for Goldson to start at FS next season. His grade is this low because he didn't take advantage of the Roman situation, even though the job was his to take.

Do you think a player received a bad grade? Leave your comments in the section below, or contact DannyBoy at dannyboysportstalk@gmail.com!

San Francisco 49ers' 2008 End of Season Grades: Offense

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 17:33:45 -0500

Alright, 'Niner faithfuls.

It’s time for the First Annual DannyBoy SportsTalk End of Season Grades for the San Francisco 49ers, or as I like to call it for short, FADBSTEOSGFTSF4. OK, the name might need some work.

The 49ers ended the season on an AWESOME note, having won five of the last seven games. Mike Singletary did an incredible job of motivating the team, and this author is thankful to have him aboard for the next few seasons.

In case you haven’t read these grades before (and considering it’s the First Annual, you haven’t), here is how it works: Each individual player will receive a grade for the season followed by a brief synopsis of how they performed. Names in italics are injured.

This week, the offense is up. Stay tuned, because next week, the defensive grades may surprise you.

Position	Name	Grade
Quarterback
	Shaun Hill	B+
	Hill led the resurgence, while amassing a passer Rating of 87.0, best for a starting QB in SF since Jeff Garcia in 2001.
	J.T. O'Sullivan	D-
	O'Sullivan possesses a great arm, but his penchant for holding on to it too long forced too many turnovers.
	Jamie Martin	N/A
	Martin didn't play a snap; what do you expect from a 38-year-old emergency quarterback?
	*Alex Smith*	N/A
	Smith's season ended early, and it is 50/50 whether he returns, based on how much of a pay cut he is willing to take on his almost $10 million salary for 2009.
Running Back
	Frank Gore	A-
	Gore managed a record third straight 1,000-yard season, despite some fumbling issues and missing two games with a bum ankle.
	DeShaun Foster	C-
	Foster had very little impact, and in his two starts, really didn't do much to impress.
	Michael Robinson	C
	Robinson is rated this highly not because of his offense, but for his prowess on Special Teams. The man was a maniac out there.
	Thomas Clayton	N/A
	Clayton did not see any time on offense, though if preseason were any measure, he could start on at least 15 teams.
Fullback
	*Zak Keasey*	B
	Keasey's season ended early in October. Too bad; he was shaping up to be a great bruiser for Gore.
Wide Receiver
	Isaac Bruce	A
	Bruce did what he does best: make it look easy. At age 36, he still led an improving receiving corps in almost every category.
	Bryant Johnson	C+
	The $2 million pick-up was strictly a rental; After struggling with hamstring injuries all season, he still was No. 2 in receptions.
	Josh Morgan	A
	What more would you like from this year's Marques Colston? He'll be a star in this league, hopefully not after the T.O. kind.
	Jason Hill	B+
	Hill emerged late in his second season, catching a pass in the final eight games. Sleeper waiting to happen!
	*Arnaz Battle*	B-
	Battle always seems to do just enough; his season was cut short but still managed 24 receptions for 318 yards.
	Dominique Zeigler	C
	Zeigler was held back by Nolan's penchant for veterans; not so with Singletary. The first year player may surprise in his second season.
Tight End
	Vernon Davis	B
	VD is a blocking machine; just ask Joey Porter. The only thing stopping an A here is the lack of offensive production from the sixth overall pick.
	Delanie Walker	C+
	YAC (Yards After Catch) being his specialty, Walker returned more kicks than he caught passes. A generous grade for minimal impact.
	Billy Bajema	D
	Known for his blocking capabilities, his impact on the passing game was minimal.
	Sean Ryan	D
	Ryan receives a grade this low only because he was brought in to fill more of an H-Back role, rather than TE.
Tackle
	Joe Staley	A
	Staley looked a whole lot better when his quarterback started getting rid of it sooner (see: switch from O'Sullivan to Hill)
	Barry Sims	D+
	Sims surrendered the sack at Miami that ended the comeback. The rest of his season wasn't much better.
	Jacob Bender	N/A
	Bender really didn't get too much of a look on the field.
	*Jonas Jennings*	F
	Jennings receives an F because he played in 29 out of a possible 64 games. That's a measly 45 percent, folks.
	Damane Duckett	N/A
	Duckett was stashed on IR before the season began. The former DT turned offensive two years back and needs some more seasoning.
Guard
	David Baas	B
	B for Baas. He overcame a major chest injury to help anchor the line.
	Adam Snyder	B
	The jack of all offensive line positions did well when called upon. Of course, a quick release makes any lineman look better (see: switch from O'Sullivan to Hill).
	Tony Wragge	B
	Wragge played exactly like he was asked; fill the gap until Rachal is ready. He did so admirably.
	Chilo Rachal	C
	Another of the young bucks to impress when given playing time, Rachal will only get better with time.
Center
	Eric Heitmann	A
	Heitmann was gushed about by former OC Mike Martz. Snubbed comes to mind regarding the Pro Bowl for the man who made Kris Jenkins look like Chris Rock.
	Cody Wallace	N/A
	Wallace didn't play enough to merit a grade. The future is learning from a great present (see: Martz's man crush on Heitmann).

Click here for Part 2 of 3 in the FADBSTEOSGFTSF4 Series.

Do you think a player received a bad grade? Leave your comments in the section below, or contact DannyBoy at dannyboysportstalk@gmail.com!

Best in Show: Los Angeles Lakers Top Boston Celtics in Finals Rematch

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 19:04:43 -0500

The title to this article should read, “The Celtics had a great run, but the better team won.”

All the hoopla can finally rest.

All the boasting, and egotistical statements and self-proclaimed awesomeness of the Celtics can be buried for now. History will repeat itself when these teams meet in the finals in 2009, only with a different outcome.

Final score: Lakers 92, Celtics 83.

This author already new the outcome over a month ago. You can find the prediction here.

The truth of the matter is that the Celtics, with the fourth longest winning streak in NBA history, fell for another of the Zen Master’s tricks.

Phil Jackson knew that the Celtics were a dominating force, and that with success, pride inevitably follows. The bigger the win streak, the harder they fall.

By now, you’re asking yourself, “What the heck is this guy talking about? Zen Master Trick? Riiiggghhhttt…!”

Let’s start from the beginning.

December 2nd, the Lakers lost a heartbreaker to the Indiana Pacers, who were subsequently manhandled by the Celtics just a night later. Coincidence?

A week later, the Lakers were thrown for a loop with a loss to the lowly Sacramento Kings. Fluke win for a young team?

On the 19th and 20th of December, the Lakers gave two buzzer-beaters away to the Heat and Magic, two eastern conference teams. Accident?

Not at all, my loyal readers. It was merely a ploy by the great Phil Jackson, holder of nine, soon to be 10, championship rings. When you are the best team in the league, it’s easy to win games. But being the best team in the league, and losing games to prove you are the best, that’s just genius.

You see, by losing games to lesser teams, the Lakers were planting seeds into the minds of every Celtic player, coach, administrator and fan everywhere: “We ARE better than the Lakers.”

Humble, almost standoff-ish about their win streak with the season’s biggest game coming up, Doc Rivers, the head coach even said, "No one even mentioned it. We just want to keep playing, and keep winning. And we want to try to keep getting better."

But if you paid close attention, you could almost see them licking their chops at their pending victory. The pride of success was finally settling in. Pride comes before destruction, according to ancient proverbs.

All tied up at 77 with five minutes to play, the Lakers began to unleash their potential. Pau Gasol stepped up huge with seven points in the last three minutes, including a demoralizing rejection of a Ray Allen three-pointer. How is that for toughness, Celtics fans?

The game ended with a 13-2 run by the Lakers, who showed the world that sometimes you can win by losing.

And you thought throwing games was only for draft status.

Teixeira Shold Be Angels' Priority, Not Sabathia

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 14:35:59 -0500

It seems to this writer that picking up CC Sabathia is like making the rich, richer.

You see, the Angels are one of the few franchises to boast a projected rotation of John Lackey, Jered Weaver, Ervin Santana, and Joe Saunders. Nothing to scoff at there. That is truly a four man rotation worth salivating over, with all four picking up double digit wins this past season.

Not to mention the young guns sitting in the minors: Highly regarded pitching prospects such as Nick Adenhart and Dustin Mosely.

This all seems like a great idea, right?

Wrong.

The rich might be getting richer, but the Angels are forgetting to diversify their portfolio. In attempting to sign Sabathia to a preposterous sum only presumed to be larger than the Yankees’ offer, they are signaling that the offensive side of the ball is being put on the back burner.

So much for the Hot Stove.

When the Angels landed Mark Teixeira from the Braves before the trade deadline, it signaled a new beginning. One in which the Angels had an offense to match up with their impressive pitching.

It signaled the Angels might finally be able to trade punches with the dreaded Boston Red Sox. The same Sox, who, if the rumors swirling around are true, are a definite possibility to land Teixeira.

Poor Teixeira, soon to be multi-millionaire who only wants to find a home before the holidays end. Should he take the multi-million dollar offer from the Angels and fill the gaping wide hole his departure would inevitably create?

Or should he take the multi-million dollar offer from the Red Sox, and help fill the gaping wide hole Manny Ramirez left? Decisions. Decisions.

Teixeira landing back in an Angel uniform would be like learning not to invest in oil: A bright idea. But, it all depends on if the Angels are satisfied with their monotony of leaving the playoffs early, or want to diversify their already incredible portfolio of players and make another run at a championship.

Here’s one man who hopes the Angels realize that pitching stops the opponent from scoring, but being held run-less won’t earn a win, either.

Lakers-Celtics: Christmas Comes Wrapped in Gold and Green

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 19:23:08 -0500

In the EA franchise NBA 20-whatever, you can trade for any number of players and they mesh instantly, dishing the ball and alley-ooping as if they had played together for 10 years.

This past season featured two blockbuster trades, when the Minnesota Timberwolves and the team formerly known as the Seattle Supersonics dealt Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen to the Boston Celtics for peanuts on the dollar. It amounted to forming an All-Star team in real life—the kind 12 year old kids dream up while playing the PS3.

But the Lakers were not to be outdone. They followed by stealing (and yes, that read stealing) Pau Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies for a rookie and the rights to Kwame Brown’s still warm body. Kobe Bryant had just been paired with Andrew Bynum (aka Baby Shaq) and now the formidable Pau Gasol.

Could the rivalry get any better?

Just in case you were living in a cave the last few decades, Celtics-Lakers rivalries go back to 1958-59. Nine times before last year, these teams met in the NBA Finals, resulting in a dominating seven titles for the Celtics.

Last year was a continuation in the greatest battle in NBA history. The storied rivalry met again upon the grandest stage of basketball known to man.

To grasp the true reality of the situation, we must look at the drama surrounding the teams coming into the season. The Celtics had many a new face to learn, and soundly unified themselves through the mantra, “Ubuntu.” They spent all season long learning to play nice, and dominated on their way to a 66-16 record.

The Lakers, on the other hand, spent training camp prepared to lose Kobe Bryant, who made tidal waves by demanding a trade. Finally overcoming the trade rumors and beginning to play ball, they lost the immensely-improving Bynum for the rest of the year.

In EA’s world, Gasol would have filled admirably into Bynum’s shoes—but in real life, teams need time to gel, especially in an offense as incredibly difficult to learn as the triangle. They finished with a 57-25 record.

Then came the Finals. The result was a sloppy, inconsistent effort by the reforming Lakers, and the Celtics took the O’Brien home after six games.

This season, after having time to work out the kinks, the Lakers seem to be on the war path. The Celtics have picked up where they left off on their trek towards greatness.

But one thing seems to stand out in this author’s mind—the Lakers are built for the long haul, two deep in every position, meant to slam each opponent through the first 82 games. Meanwhile, the Celtics have found success by coasting through the mediocrity of the NBA, and then dominating in the postseason.

So, having that in mind, and after having sifted through all the statistics, this author has an early present for all the Lakers fans out there: Christmas afternoon will find a victorious LA team making a statement in a preview of the 2009 NBA Finals. The only way the Celtics can win this match-up is in EA's world.

How Championships Are Won: 49ers Not So Far Away

DannyBoy SportsTalk — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 20:46:46 -0500

Super Bowl contenders are not built overnight. They are built line upon line, player upon player, talent upon character. The San Francisco 49ers know all about Super Bowl contention, having won a league-best five so far.

Looking at the 49ers’ first Super Bowl victory, it becomes painfully clear how they were so successful. Every foundation must start with solid, if unspectacular, players. Core players such as Randy Cross, Lawrence Pillars and Freddie Solomon weren’t household names. But they were leadership, they were intangibles, they were the re-bar and cement that formed the foundation.

And Bill Walsh knew it was time to build upon that very groundwork. Jack “Hacksaw” Reynolds, Fred Dean, Ronnie Lott, Joe Montana, and Dwight Clark led the list of bricks and mortar that defined the walls of success: Players who made plays, men who shone brilliantly.

Could Joe Montana have thrown “The Catch” in 1981 if it weren’t for Randy Cross and the rest of the offensive line? I highly doubt it. Could the 49ers have won five Super Bowls on the shoulders of Paul Hofer? It’s possible, but very unlikely. And this is the point: Foundation will not win alone.

The 2008 San Francisco 49ers are a team of blue-collar players, lunch pail-toting men who plug in their work and go home. That is the beginning of foundation.

Players like Nate Clements, Shaun Hill, and even Mark Roman fill the bill of lading on “character” players. Yet something is lacking from this team. A certain flair for the dramatic, the flash-in-the-pan-type playmakers are void on this roster.

This author submits to you that the hated Dallas Cowboys have stumbled upon what Bill Walsh found out so long ago. Teams are built upon foundations, but the walls are what you look at.

Terrell Owens is the type of dynamic missing. Tank Johnson is the force that is lacking. And Pacman Jones is the flamboyance left to be desired. And how does that locker room stay in one piece? The foundation is what keeps the walls standing.

This author isn’t stating that the 49ers should go out and pick up every troublemaker on the planet. We have the disasters of Lawrence Phillips and Antonio Bryant to remind us of how those types of experiments turn out. But now that the core, the structure is firmly entrenched, how about building some walls?

Scot McCloughan needs to stop looking for the re-bar. He needs to find some bricks and mortar that Mike Singletary can build with. The head coach single-handedly turned Vernon Davis from a whiny, emotional child into a growing playmaker in just one game. That, my friends, is how to deal with ego.

Enough with the safe bets. Enough with the Kentwan Balmers and the Alex Smiths. Coming out of college, Joe Montana was thought to be a product of the system he led, with a weak arm and poor speed. How many scouts are kicking themselves now?

We need more Frank Gores and Josh Morgans, players with loads of talent that just need a little polishing. We need more Patrick Willises and Joe Staleys.

Don’t take it from this author. Look at every Super Bowl winner ever. This is how championships are won.