Bleacher Report - Articles by S and G Sports

The Top 10 Northwest Sports Teams of All Time

S and G Sports — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:01:33 -0400

After much debate, S and G Sports has rolled out their Top 10 Northwest Sports Teams of All Time. Taking into account unbeaten seasons, National Championships, and the like, we have a list of ten teams that remain in fond memory of Northwest sports fans. As there are so many impressive squads in recent memory, we have added an honorable mention section for some who deserved recognition. So...who made the cut...?

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Seven Reasons Why April is the Best Month in Sports

S and G Sports — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 02:53:56 -0400

So what is the best month in sports? Fans are fondly reminded of months as these were times of their teams' success. Some opt for the abudance of top notch competition from day 1 to day 28, 29, 30, or 31 of the month. In this slideshow, S and G Sports takes a personal look at why April is another favorite sports month of the year. Without any more build-up, S and G's top seven reasons April is sports' top month...

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The Best Month Of The Year? A Rocktober Harvest

S and G Sports — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 18:34:44 -0400

In response to several writers voicing their opinion on the greatest sports month of the year, S and G Sports, after much deliberation, have extracted two months that reign supreme above the rest. This response is our first Great Sports Month.

It has been said that little can compare to the thrill of walking up the stairs of a sporting venue, breathing in the fresh, crisp air of an autumn day. October, or more affectionately referred to in the athletic world as "Rocktober," is our pick for a Top Sports Month of the Year.

‘Rocktober’ falls dead in the thick of Fall. Leaves are full of color and fill the landscape. The days become cool and the air has a sharp chill. The afternoons are filled with brilliant sunshine, while the night sky is dominated by the Harvest moon. In the athletic world, much is occurring amidst the electricity of excitement.

October is beloved by baseball, football, and basketball fans alike. October is the scene of the pedestal of the baseball season, the World Series, along with the heat of football season, and pre-basketball extravaganza.

Fans from across the globe tune their TV sets in to watch the top two baseball teams, arguably of the whole world, compete against each other for their place in the Baseball Shrine. After a month of Spring training, 162 regular season games, and two playoff series, the baseball season comes to a week of a thrilling close.

In the realm of football, the season is fully underway at every level. In college, the September "tune up" games are completed, and vital conference games begin. Rivalries, such as the Tennessee/Bama "Third Saturday in October" and the Oklahoma/Texas "Red River Shootout" excite football fans across the nation.

High School teams also are well into league play, and adolescents pack stadiums boasting their lettermen’s jackets and football jerseys under the Friday night lights.

In the NFL, the season is at full thrust, hurtling towards the playoff picture and the trade deadline, while injuries and highlights fill the Sports’ pages of the daily newspapers.

Basketball fans also perk up during "Rocktober." The regular season is just around the corner. Preseason tourneys are beginning, giving their faithful a glimpse into the level of play the upcoming season. Basketball preview magazines and TV shows are becoming regular, giving the fan everything they need to know for the upcoming season.

With the heightened close of the eight month baseball season, the full heat of the football season, and the anticipation of the upcoming basketball season, it is hard not to pick October as a Top Sports Month.

S and G's Top 10 Candidates for NFL's 2009 Rookie of the Year

S and G Sports — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 14:01:58 -0400

As the NFL Draft nears with each day, S and G Sports has taken an early look at the top candidates for 2009 Rookie of the Year. These players should make seamless transitions from the college game to pro ball. Selections were made based on quality of college career and how well we feel their skills will be utilized in the NFL. It is all too easy to expect the first round choices to win the award, so S and G Sports have also looked at players whose names will not be called until the later rounds. And without further adieu, the Top 10 Candidates for 2009 NFL's Rookie of the Year...

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A New Blockbuster Deal: Could Cutler Head To Philly?

S and G Sports — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:46:51 -0400

Much has been discussed about the saga between Josh McDaniels and Jay Cutler in the Mile High City.

The franchise QB has been quoted he wants out of Denver. He and his parents have put their homes on the market, an ominous sign of the tension between them and the organiztion.

Fresh out of the Bill Belichick system,new head coach McDaniels has been apprehensive (to say the least) in keeping Cutler as his trigger man.

Writers from across the nation have offered their opinion on the matter, suggesting everything from firing McDaniels to releasing Cutler immediately.

S and G Sports, after some deliberation, have uncovered a new alternative to the ‘Colorado Crisis’. Send Jay Cutler to Philadelphia for Donovan McNabb and a 2009 second round pick.

For this trade opportunity to take place, Denver owner Pat Bowlen must be convinced the Josh & Jay relationship is far beyond repair.

As of now, he expects that this will all blow over and everybody will soon hold hands and get along.

Unfortunately, Cutler’s absences from the team workouts have greatly concerned the young HC and his offensive staff. McDaniels, as stated previously, is a disciple of Belichick’s no-nonsense approach and a believer that no player deserves favorable treatment.

The TEAM FIRST philosophy, so evident in New England’s recent dynasty, has been proven pervasive in the Denver front office by the willingness to trade for players whom McDaniels feels would be better for the whole of the team (e.g. new KC QB Matt Cassel).

Both parties are currently at a standstill, as evidenced by Cutler’s inability to return McDaniel’s calls and McDaniel’s refusal to appease Cutler's ego with apologies for trade talks.

In Philadelphia, the notoriously rabid fanbase has still not fully accepted Donovan McNabb, even after 10 years as an Eagle.

For a Philadelphian, there is one man responsible for four NFC title losses, a Super Bowl loss, and the recent subpar regular season records: Donovan Jamal McNabb.

It doesn’t appear to matter that No. 5 has thrown for 29,000 yards, 194 touchdowns, been to five Pro Bowls, and has taken a once mediocre organization to five NFC Championships.

Now on the final stretch of his career, the Philadelphia faithful would love to see a new, young trigger man grab the helm of the organization into the next decade.

Excuse us: A talented young, new quarterback; not some Houston has been.

McNabb has felt somewhat betrayed by the front office and his fans. His HC Andy Reid has not been the solid rock for his QB, shying away from grabbing a go-to WR and subtly looking at future replacements.

With Cutler gone and McNabb instated as the new face of the franchise, McDaniels will have his veteran and the go ahead to thrust into a successful training camp.

McNabb will be able to start fresh, under an excited young HC with a new system, and an enthusiastic fanbase.

McNabb will have what he always wanted, a hard working big name WR in Brandon Marshall, and will be reunited with longtime teammate and friend in safety Brian Dawkins, who could make a strong case to bring McNabb to the Mile High City.

In addition, McNabb’s constant warring with the defensive-minded NFC East will cease as his opponents shift from the likes of the Giants and the Cowboys to the Raiders and the Chiefs.

Jay Cutler’s move to Philadelphia will prove successful for the City of Brotherly Love. He is a proven gunslinger with a Pro Bowl and several Bronco franchise records under his belt (remember, John Elway was the QB there). At 25 years of age, he has the potential to don the Eagle jersey well into the next decade.

Unlike McNabb’s recent problems with injuries, which has been a source of derision by the fans, Cutler started all 16 games the past season.

Offloading McNabb and bringing in Cutler will be the solidifying piece to the youth movement that has befallen Philadelphia this offseason (refer to S & G Sports Article: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/139276-spreading-my-wings-a-close-look-at-the-2009-philadelphia-eagles).

This quarterback change will not be a major drop off for Coach Reid as Cutler has blossomed under a similar passing attack at Denver and in college at Vanderbilt, amassing impressive stats on both teams.

His rocket arm and decent mobility will make him a dual youthful threat to take the pressure off RB Brian Westbrook.

With this evidence presented, the Cutler—McNabb trade makes sense.

McDaniels wants a veteran quarterback to vault his team to the playoffs, and Reid desires a young gunslinger to take his club to the next level.

That being said, however, this possible blockbuster deal begs the question: Should high profile stars' trade demands be catered to?

S and G Sports believes not, as one man does not make a team, but as in the case of Jay Cutler, there are always exceptions to the rule.

In Search of Its Prey: Seattle Seahawks' 2009 Overview

S and G Sports — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 01:28:55 -0400

For those bird people of the Northwest: Catch a early glance of your boys. An outlook by S and G Sports

Season Recap

The 2008 campaign was a story of unfortunate headlines for the Men of the Emerald City. Coach Mike Holmgren announced his intention to retire at the end of the season. Former league MVP Shaun Alexander was released in favor of journeymen RBs Julius Jones and TJ Duckett.

By the fifth week of the season, the four starting WRs had a total of two games playing experience. As injuries started to increase, coined by Pro Bowl QB Matt Hasselbeck and LB Lofa Tatupu, the defeats in the W/L column began to amount.

Instead of a season capped by an expected playoff appearance for their beloved HC, the Seahawks plunged headfirst into the cellar of the league.

Unlike previous seasons of dominance in the NFC West and consistent playoff bids, Seattle won only four games. While the newbies filling roles for talented starters played aggressively and showed glimpses of brilliance, the Hawks were unable to compete with their conference foes.

Although much of the past season was utter gloom for this rainy city, there are indeed glimmers of hope for 2009. Jim Mora Jr., successor to Holmgren, is the energetic, optimistic force the organization needs. Many of those previously injured players return healthy and hungry.

The fanbase remains consistent, excited, and LOUD. And, the Seahawks get a Top-Five pick in this year’s Draft to aid their aging needs. Hope is what the Seahawks, four years out from a Super Bowl appearance, are clinging to.

Will hope be enough?

Offseason Moves

The biggest stories in free agency for Seattle have been highlighted around the d-line and wide receiver positions. Seattle signed the top free agent WR this off season in T.J. Houshmandzadeh, who many expected would be in a Vikings uniform.

Perhaps this will be the No. 1 wideout that QB Matt Hasselbeck has been looking for since the departure of Darrell Jackson.

Housh will fit nicely opposite Deion Branch (if he’s ever healthy) in Seattle’s West Coast offense.

The Seahawks have shown a strong commitment this offseason to their defensive line by signing former Packer DT Colin Cole to a multi-year contract. Additionally, LB Julian Peterson was traded to Detroit for DT Cory Redding and a fifth-round pick. The signing of these players should help solidify the Seahawks’ run defense, which ranked 19th this past year.

However, another big question remains: What will Seattle do about long-time OT Walter Jones? It is clear that he is not the perennial Pro Bowl force he once was. Re-signing Ray Willis will help, but he is not the future. Utility man Floyd “Pork Chop” Womack is now a Cleveland Brown. Is there a future heir to Jones’ throne in this year’s draft?

This free-agency period for Seattle has been a ‘this-for-that’ story. They sign Houshamandzadeh, but lose WR Bobby Engram to Kansas City. LBs D.D. Lewis and Lance Laury are re-signed, but Julian Peterson is now a Detroit Lion.

Same case for RB Maurice Morris, as Motown has signed him away from Seattle. Adding several new d-linemen has been noted, but they have lost Rocky Bernard and Howard Green in the process.

HC Jim Mora Jr. has been somewhat under the radar during this offseason, and we do not expect that to change. Could he possibly be gearing up to make a big play in the draft? Some major concerns have been answered certainly, but more remain to be addressed.

A great question now arises in the Evergreen State. Will the Seahawks have intrinsically done enough in the offseason through the Draft and Free Agency to resurrect Seattle to the forefront of the NFC West Title hunt?

Draft Expectations

First Round, Pick No. 4

The Seahawks will spend this Top-Five selection on the best defensive player available. Seattle got busy stockpiling on defensive tackles this off season, but have discovered losing Julian Peterson is going to be costly. This pick, the Seahawks feel, will be his replacement.

S and G Sports Recommends: DE/OLB Brian Orakpo, Texas

Second Round, Pick No. 37

After much speculation, HC Jim Mora Jr. pulls the trigger on the heir apparent to OT Walter Jones. We believe that in this tackle studded Draft this year, there will be plenty of quality hogs available in the early to mid second round.

S and G Sports Recommends: OT Jamon Meredith, South Carolina

Third Round, Pick No. 68

Seattle would be wise to add an immediate starting safety at this point in the draft. Getting a rangy player who can drop into deep coverage and smack cocky receivers down is a must in the pass happy NFC West.

This is clearly an indictment against incumbent FS Brian Russell, who is an average safety at best.

S and G Sports Recommends: S Rashad Johnson, Alabama

Fourth Round, Pick No. 101

Seattle really whiffed when letting Maurice Morris sign with the Detroit Lions. Although he was purely a complementary back, his return skills and hands out of the backfield were far too valuable to lose.

That being said, expect the Hawks to add another physical back who can take carries off from Julius Jones and eventually anchor the running game. Take a hike TJ, just like you’ve done your entire career...

S and G Sports Recommends: RB James Davis, Clemson

Sixth Round, Pick No. 165

Good news: The Seahawks added a true No. 1 WR in T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Not so good news: Housh is 31 and may have just a few productive years left. Expect Seattle to add another big threat here.

The receiving corps is not in shambles as Nate Burleson and Deion Branch are back from injuries and solid complimentary pieces, but do not count on them for much more than that. Hasselbeck will salivate at the prospect of having a tall, beefy possession man down in the red zone.

S and G Sports Recommends: WR Patrick Turner, USC

Seventh Round, Pick No. 196

It is clear that Hasselbeck’s clock is ticking a little more loudly now. On the other hand, he still has enough talent to make another three-or-four-year run with Seattle before grave doubts arise.

Seneca Wallace and David Greene have not proven themselves as suitable heirs, even after four years of opportunity. Expect the Seahawks to draft a QB here that can learn from Hasselbeck and jockey for the backup position this season.

S and G Sports Recommends: QB Curtis Painter, Purdue

An Early Look at the 2009 Campaign

Hope will not be enough for a playoff appearance, but we project improvement. A 7-9 or 8-8 season (Translation: A second place finish in the worst division of the league) can be expected from Seattle.

This will be a much needed jump in the right direction for this organization to stabilize themselves the next few seasons. Forward progress or bust for Mora and Co.

S and G Sports Prediction: 7-9, Tied for Second in NFC West with San Francisco

Spreading My Wings: A Close Look at the 2009 Philadelphia Eagles

S and G Sports — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 00:50:18 -0400

S and G Sports have taken a close look at the Philadelphia Eagles as they head into the 2009 NFL Draft in April. A recap of the '08 season, free agency analysis and our take on the draft is included.

Season Recap

A suspect 3-3 start through seven weeks left fans wondering if their beloved Eagles were primed for the postseason. Two separate three game win streaks and a season sweep of the defending Super Bowl Champion New York Giants hurtled the Birds into serious postseason talk. Capped off with a 44-6 dismantling of the Dallas Cowboys in the season finale and some good fortune, Philadelphia punched the final ticket to the playoffs at 8-7-1.

Philadelphia’s Super Bowl quest was to be achieved on the road, beating NFC North Champ Minnesota. A second defeat of the Giants in the Meadowlands and third in the season was enough to push the #6 seed Eagles into their fifth title game in 10 years. The Sons of the Cheese Steak City came up a few plays short, losing a 32-25 heartbreaker to the Cinderella Story Arizona Cardinals.

The Eagles impressed their fans by turning around what was thought to be a lost season only to see their Super Bowl hopes dashed again in the NFC Title for a fourth time. Are the Eagles primed for another deep 2009 run?

Off-Season Review

Talk around Philly is a youth movement within the organization. Fans quickly turned hostile after stalwart S Brian Dawkins and RB Correll Buckhalter signed free-agent deals with Denver. Former starting CB Lito Sheppard got his trade demand, now he plays for the Jets. O-Line concerns have intensified as OT Tra Thomas and S Sean Considine signed with the Jaguars and OT Jon Runyan is not expected to get a new contract.

Contract talks with QB Donovan McNabb have stalled as McNabb awaits what the offseason will yield in terms of offensive playmakers. The nervous tension that once seemed nonexistent has now clouded the belief of the Eagle Faithful.

On the other hand, Philly has signed what is expected to be Dawkins’ replacement, former Cleveland S Sean Jones. Also added to the mix are OT Stacy Andrews and Raiders’ S Rashad Baker, whose INT against Tampa Bay secured Philly a spot in the playoffs. Sheppard will not be missed long in PHI as CB Joselio Hanson’s performance earned him a five-year contract.

With all the chaos in ’09 Free Agency, one big question belies the Eagles: What are they gearing up for? After the off-loading of many of their centerpieces, the Eagles are sitting about $40 million under the salary cap and now hold 12 draft picks heading into April’s NFL Draft.

Many expected Philly to make a run at a big-name wide receiver (Anquan Boldin, T.J. Houshmandzadeh) but such talks have not materialized to date. Another big question is how the Eagles will now proceed with RB Brian Westbrook. His injury-riddled ’08 campaign has legitimized doubts that he is not an every down back. The safest assumption right now is that GM Tom Heckert and Co. will keep their moves tight to the chest and out of the public eye.

Draft Expectations and Projections

After consulting many draft boards and conversations, S and G Sports has laid out what we believe is how the Eagles will attack the 2009 NFL Draft. Below we have listed the selection Philly has and who we believe might make sense at each pick.

1st Round, Pick #21

Expect the Eagles to spend a 1^st round draft choice on a tackle to fill either of the voids by Tra Thomas and Jon Runyan. Combining another offensive tackle here with newcomer Stacy Andrews will give McNabb and Westbrook some additional assurance up-front.

S and G Sports Recommends: OT Eben Britton, Arizona

1st Round, Pick #28(from CAR)

Philadelphia earns this selection after trading out of the first round last year, allowing the Panthers to draft OT Jeff Otah from Pittsburgh. That being said, we expect the pick to remain on the offensive side of the ball. It is clear that the Eagles cannot go far with just Westbrook in the backfield. RB Lorenzo Booker was a nice pick-up, but HC Andy Reid is not convinced that he is any better than a situational back.

S and G Sports Recommends: RB Knowshon Moreno, Georgia

2nd Round, Pick #53

Now onto the defense. Coaches and analysts alike are enamored with the brilliant blitzing packages put together by DC Jim Johnson. That being said, the Eagles have lacked a solid starter opposite DE Trent Cole for some time now. Don’t expect Philly to wait long before pulling the trigger on another pass rusher.

S and G Sports Recommends: DE Robert Ayers, Tennessee

3rd Round, Pick #85

The depth at safety for the Eagles is not enough to sustain injuries and the like. With a deep safety class, we believe Philly will dip their hand into the mix and add another young playmaker to the secondary. This rookie will certainly have some huge shoes to fill as fans are still torn up over the loss of Brian Dawkins.

S and G Sports Recommends: S Nic Harris, Oklahoma

4th Round, Pick 117

Head Coach Andy Reid has heard the flak for running a pass happy offense with only an adequate wide receiving crew. Year after year, he remains committed to his system. The same thing goes for how he drafts wide receivers (exception: 2ndround DeSean Jackon, last year). Reid will use a mid-round choice here to add a threat now voided by new Patriot Greg Lewis.

S and G Sports Recommends: WR Mike Wallace, Mississippi

5thRound, Pick 133(from CLE)

TE L.J. Smith is not expected to come back to Philly. Brent Celek has certainly impressed in his short time with the Eagles, especially in the red zone. However, Philly would be wise to add another tight end to the staff, preferably one that can run block and give McNabb a big target down the seams.

S and G Sports Recommends: TE Travis Beckum, Wisconsin

5thRound, Pick 145(from NYJ)

Security is the choice here in the late rounds. Expect Coach Reid to hear Johnson’s call-outs for more linebackers that can drop in coverage and attack the line of scrimmage. While he may not start right away, expect this draft pick to be a contributor on special teams and be a solid back-up to Chris Gocong, Stewart Bradley, and Akeem Jordan.

S and G Sports Recommends: LB Zack Follett, California

5th Round, Pick 151(from NE)

The Eagles will continue to stockpile their corners with those that can turn and run with the elites of the NFL. While starters out of late round selections are not widely expected early on, such thoughts will not enter the mind of the Eagles here.

S and G Sports Recommends: CB Jerraud Powers, Auburn

6th Round, Pick 181

The Eagles will look here for another offensive tackle they can groom into a starter down the road. With all the uncertainty about the Eagles perimeter blockers, having solid depth here will help convert such thoughts into optimism.

S and G Sports Recommends: OT Phil Trautwein, Florida

6th Round, Pick 182 (from MIN)

The uncertainty with the Eagles running game (ahem, the Brian Westbrook show) warrants enough doubts to continue adding insurance to the backfield. While we doubt expect Reid to deviate from his pass-first philosophy, the Eagles kissed off some victories in failing to convert short yardage situations.

S and G Sports Recommends: RB P.J. Hill, Wisconsin

7th Round, Pick 213

McNabb is not getting any younger, however, the Eagles have drafted their future, at least who they think is their future QB in Kevin Kolb. No indictment against Donovan here. A strong armed, smart signal caller would be a wise choice here, one that can humble himself to a veteran that has established himself among the elite QBs of the NFL.

S and G Sports Recommends: QB Cullen Harper, Clemson

An Early Look at the 2009 Campaign

The Eagles are taking a very conservative approach to the offseason and preseason preparations. Many teams, like the Redskins and Broncos have gone out and spent big money in free agency to throttle their teams to the postseason. Philadelphia does not have a lot of changes to make, but the big voids at safety, o-line, and running back ought not to go unnoticed.

That being said, expect the Eagles to make a concerted run for the NFC East Title, falling just short to a Giants squad that has reloaded on the defensive side. A playoff appearance is in the cards for Philly, but their veteran leadership will leave Eagles fans grasping, but falling just short again.

S and G Sports Predicts: Eagles 10-7, Advance to NFC Divisional Round

S and G Sports 2009 Draft Outlook: Surprises, Gimme's, the Down and Dirty

S and G Sports — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:35:25 -0400

Version 1.0

Combine results are in. Free Agency has twisted the fates of some. Suggestions from the likes of McShay, Mayock, McGuire, and Kiper have been analyzed. Here is the preview of the 2009 NFL Draft, S and G Sports style:

1. DETROIT Jason Smith OT, Baylor

New Head Coach Jim Schwartz shows his commitment by building his foundation from the inside out by drafting the four year Baylor product. Smith will be able to step in and start immediately to protect QB Daunte Culpepper.

2. ST. LOUIS Eugene Monroe OT, Virginia

The Rams missed out on OT Jake Long last year and will make sure not to miss a key OL this year. Should the Lions pass on Smith, look for him to land here. Either way, the Rams choice at No. 2 is the heir apparent to Hall of Famer Orlando Pace.

3. KANSAS CITY Aaron Curry LB, Wake Forest

The best linebacker in the draft this year. Smart, Instinctive, and Athletic. Haley needs Curry to help solidify and even create a sense of defense. At the very least, the Chiefs desperately need even a hint of talent the defensive side of the ball.

Perhaps hints of another Derrick Thomas are buzzing around Kansas City.

4. SEATTLE Brian Orakpo DE/OLB, Texas

Great hybrid player who will make an immediate impact as a pass rushing defensive end or blitzing outside linebacker, something lacked in Seattle for some time. A big reason for the Seahawks shift from glory to goat last year was due to the ineffective pass rush against good passing teams.

With Orakpo, they fill a desperate need, and provide Mora with a glimmer of hope.

5. CLEVELAND Everette Brown DE, Florida State

Pass rushing demon extraordinaire. The Browns ended last year with 17 sacks, with no one tallying more than four. The lack of pass rush cost Crennel his job, and has kept Cleveland from playoff contention for years.

With E. Brown, the Dawg Pound gets a tremendously quick, aggressive player, who can step in and give Big Ben and Kitty Carson nightmares throughout the season.

6. CINCINNATI Andre Smith OT, Alabama

Cincinnati needs help on the offensive line after the Eagles snatched up OT Stacy Andrews this offseason. We know that Cincy is laden with problem children, but Smith here at No. 6 is an absolute gift.

7. OAKLAND B.J. Raji DT, Boston College

With the seventh pick, the Raiders can go out and grab a big man run stuffer who can provide an anchor for the interior of the defense. They tried this with Sapp, but quickly realized his old age and big mouth created more problems than solutions. With Raji, they will grab a young, high octane tackle who can work his magic to put AFC West RBs on their back.

8. JACKSONVILLE Michael Crabtree WR, Texas Tech

Crabtree’s surgery has cost him several millions, but let’s not get too hasty about him falling out of the Top 10. The Jaguars struck out with WR Jerry Porter, having to release him after just one year. We would be shocked to see Crabtree have that same fate.

9. GREEN BAY Vontae Davis CB, Illinois

With the aging and decrepit corner situation in the Cheese State, and the desire to move Charles Woodson to safety, Davis will fit perfectly here. Davis performed masterfully in the Combine drills, and showed his metal against the likes of Terrelle Pryor and Darryll Clark during the season. The purest corner on the board.

10. SAN FRANCISCO Malcolm Jenkins CB/S, Ohio State

Singletary is a defensive man. As a professional player and in his mannerisms as a head coach. This is why we think he will pass up on a quarterback and grab Jenkins, an athlete who can fill a glaring need in the atrocious secondary.

Jenkins can play either corner or safety, both of which the 49ers needs, and will be a demon on special teams as well.

11. BUFFALO Aaron Maybin DE/OLB, Penn State

The Bills need something off the edge, which is more of a need in the league this year that it has been in the past few years. Lets face it: Aaron Schobel isn’t going to lead a team to the Super Bowl, let alone the playoffs.

Perhaps Maybin won’t be that cornerstone immediately, but he will provide Jauron with exactly what he is looking for: a menace from the LOS to the sideline.

12. DENVER Tyson Jackson DE, Louisiana State

Josh McDaniels is the new head man in the Mile High City. And with his first pick he will understand Gerard Warren is not the man to win them more ball games. Jackson is a great fit in a 34 defense, which Denver will utilize this upcoming season.

He has been well coached and is known for his coachability, which is a major plus for a new coach, a new staff, and a new system.

In addition, he as played against the best in the SEC (Oher, A. Smith, etc), making him that much more ready to jump into a significant role.

13. WASHINGTON Michael Oher OL, Mississippi

There are those who feel this Rebel's stock plummeted with a relatively quiet senior year. But with a strong Combine and postseason play, he is well worth the 13 th pick. The Redskins’ offensive line is aging. Drafting an OT like Oher who can step in and play guard or tackle lends them some much needed help to a thin staff.

14. NEW ORLEANS Brian Cushing LB, Southern Cal

The Saints have problems everywhere. From running back inconsistencies, to a swiss cheese secondary, to players getting in trouble with the feds (ahem, Charles Grant). The Saints have gone a long way from their year of glory.

As many coaches will say- a great place to start the rebuilding process is on the line or in the LB core. Although NO doesn’t have a particularly standout O and D line, they do have a pressing need at outside linebacker.

Cushing can step in and play alongside Vilma and Morgan (if he’s healthy) and immediately give the Saints a potentially dominating LB machine.

15. HOUSTON Larry English DE/OLB, Northern Illinois

Now, many believe Kubiak will spend this pick nabbing a quarterback to compete with Schaub or a wide receiver to line up opposite Johnson. We respectfully disagree.

With the release of Anthony Weaver and a bunch of ragtag linebackers, with exception to DeMeco Ryans, the Texans find themselves amidst those in need of an edge presence.

English is one of the most versatile defensive players in the draft, well versed at defensive end as well as at outside linebacker.

Houston can place him at either position, and throw him in on special teams as well, an area that hurt the Texans this past year.

16. SAN DIEGO Peria Jerry DT, Mississippi

Jamal Williams is quickly finding he’s not getting any younger, and Igor Olshansky has departed for the lure of Dallas. With the addition of Jerry, San Diego will have another capable nose tackle, and ‘soon to be’ Williams’ replacement.

If Jerry develops into the player many scouts feel he will, losing Olshansky may not cause a lot of tears to fall in the front office.

17. NEW YORK JETS Jeremy Maclin WR, Missouri

Expect new HC Rex Ryan to draft the dual receiver-return man out Mizzou here. He will be able to work underneath the coverage and be an explosive part of the Jets’ return game. RB Leon Washington can’t do it all for long.

18. CHICAGO Michael Johnson DE, Georgia Tech

As has been the case the past three years, the Bears have multiple holes to fill. Lovie Smith can go several ways here. We feel that Johnson will be the best fit and fill the greatest need.

Alex Brown and Adewale Ogunleye are each post 30, and Mark Anderson, the once esteemed rookie, totaled a whopping one sack last season. Johnson is a 6’7" monster, who terrorized the ACC with his deceptive speed and giant paws capable of providing any quarterback with fits.

19. TAMPA BAY Matthew Stafford QB, Georgia

Stafford’s fall to No. 19 is really not of his own doing. The abundance of quality tackles causes him to wait longer than expected. However, he will be walking into a team with a solid RB in Derrick Ward, Cadillac Williams, and Earnest Graham, as well as a defense anchored by All-Pro CB Ronde Barber.

Didn’t this discussion follow QB Matt Ryan last year?

20. DETROIT Rey Maualaga LB, Southern Cal

We chose Maualuga both as a value and need based pick. Maualuga is a feared hitter and destructive tackler, following in the footsteps of former SC linebackers Rivers, Seau, and Lua.

With Maualaga, Detroit will acquire a tremendous asset in its quest to outmuscle the power running games of the NFC North. In addition, we do not see how Schwartz can pass on Maualuga with him still on the board.

21. PHILADELPHIA Eben Britton OT, Arizona

Head Coach Andy Reid’s tradition of surrounding himself with men his size does not end here. The Eagles will lose OTs Jon Runyan and Tra Thomas in free agency, so expect them to take the best available OT here at No. 21.

22. MINNESOTA Percy Harvin WR, Florida

Adding a speedster like Harvin to the Vikings will add a huge threat for new QB Sage Rosenfels. Defenses will have to remove one man from that box to slow down RBs Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor. Could this move get them over the hump?

23. NEW ENGLAND Clay Matthews OLB, Southern Cal

With the loss of Mike Vrabel, and the young ages of Bruschi, Colvin, and Seau, Belichick is in dire need of new, motivated blood at the linebacker position alongside Jerod Mayo.

Matthews, although not as well known or discussed as his contemporaries, is nonetheless as gifted an athlete as they come by. The Patriots can position him at inside or outside backer, and use his speed to place him perfectly into their stunting 34 system.

24. ATLANTA James Laurinaitis LB, Ohio State

Losses in the linebacking core (example: Keith Brooking to Dallas) mean that Mike Smith will have to wait on grabbing a receiver or defensive lineman until the second and third rounds.

With Laurinaitis on the board, Smith will overlook the fact that the linebacker from OSU had somewhat of a down year after two ‘dream come true’ seasons. Laurinaitis is a solid tackler with natural leadership abilities, two attributes which will help the Falcons tremendously.

25. MIAMI Brandon Pettigrew TE, Oklahoma State

VP Bill Parcells is a mastermind when it comes to draft day. He has a very good feel as to what they need and has had tremendous success in picking top talent. Pettigrew bring a physical presence as a blocker in the run game and big target for QB Chad Pennington in the red zone.

26. BALTIMORE Darrius Heyward Bey WR, Maryland

DHB is not going far from home as he gets tutelage from veteran WR Derrick Mason. His size at 6’3’’ is quite imposing and sub 4.3 speed will be a nightmare for anyone he lines up against.

Expect the reins to start being eased of QB Joe Flacco.

27. INDIANAPOLIS Hakeem NicksWR, North Carolina

Expect Indy to move on quickly beyond the Marvin Harrison era as QB Peyton Manning gets another threat in the aerial assault. Nicks has phenomenal hands and will be a welcomed presence in their offensive package.

28. PHILADELPHIA Knowshon Moreno RB, Georgia

The Eagles are befuddled to see Moreno fall this far and don’t waste much time in deciding to scoop up this superstud. Moreno carved up defenses at Georgia and will benefit from not having to be the guy immediately.

Expect Moreno to be drafted as a versatile compliment to Pro Bowler Brian Westbrook.

29. NEW YORK GIANTS William Beatty OT, Connecticut

The Giants look to add depth to their offensive line in selecting William Beatty. While not expected to start immediately, expect Beatty to be used at both tackle positions as a back-up to David Diehl and Kareem McKenzie.

30. TENNESSEE Alphonso Smith CB, Wake Forest

Here is a major reason the Tennessee Titans did not go the distance last season: Cortland Finnegan and Nick Harper. Who in their right mind feels they can win a Super Bowl (or at least a playoff game) rolling their dice with an underachiever and a wash out?

Alphonso Smith will contend immediately for the starting role, and will have it at least next year as Harper is 34 (plays like he’s 74). Smart, fast, and has a knack for the ball.

31. ARIZONA Chris “Beanie” Wells RB, Ohio State

It’s clear that RB Edgerrin James is not the future of the Cards running game. That being said, Tim Hightower cannot be expected to carry the load alone. Picking up Beanie Wells here adds a physical bruising back that will help balance up their potent offense.

32. PITTSBURGH Alex Mack OL, Ohio State

The Steelers draft one of their own here, a big nasty, versatile offensive lineman. The former All-American from Cal will be asked to step in at all five o-line positions. Tomlin is looking to the future in Mack, foreseeing a new version of Alan Faneca.

2009 NFL Scouting Combine: Take Six

S and G Sports — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 02:38:08 -0500

As the 2009 NFL Scouting Combine has come to a close, here are S & G Sports’ six biggest takeaways.

No Show = No Dough

The Combine for many was a chance to prove yourself of being an NFL talent, unless of course your name was Alabama LT Andre Smith or Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree. Both of these players had been expected by many to flex their talent at the Combine and cement their names in the Top five of this year’s NFL Draft.

In the case of Smith, we have not seen nor heard much from Smith since the SEC Title Game. He was suspended for the Sugar Bowl by Head Coach Nick Saban and after weighing in at the Combine, he announced that he was out of shape to workout and left for training in Atlanta.

Who does this guy think he is exactly? Smith has kissed off millions with his foolishness, now adding more reasons for GMs to pass on him in the Draft.

Crabtree found out about his stress fracture in Indy and after measuring in at 6’1’’ as opposed to 6’3’’ as advertised, might need to prepare for a longer than expected wait for his name to be called.

Pitt RB LeSean McCoy opted not to work out because he had the flu, a move that may push him out of the first round, where he was expected to be drafted by Arizona. While at some times this is not their fault, in the case of Crabtree it leaves us with one question: are these guys really who we thought they were?

Where is the Glamour???

Lack of Quarterback Standout

Perhaps the most watched and publicized events at any given combine are the QB workouts. People want to see how the arm looks, how the passes are thrown, and how the scouts respond to the workout. It seems every year one QB stands above the rest and is the subject of the sports world conversation.

Last year, the buzz swirled around Boston College product Matt Ryan. He performed masterfully, and donned the Falcon jersey in the Top Five of the Draft.

Jay Cutler, a relatively unknown kid from Vandy prior to the 2005 Combine, had a great week and was Denver’s first pick in the draft. This year, we waited to see who the stand out would be. And we’re still waiting...

Pat White put up some good numbers here sporadically, while ‘big names’ Sanchez and Stafford performed better in their interviews than they did working out. Not sure if GMs will be willing to shell out $60 million+ for a nice chat and sporadic performance. Maybe all is quiet in preparation for next year.

A DB’s Worst Nightmare

Fans were treated to a WR clinic during the playoffs as Arizona megastar Larry Fitzgerald single-handedly dominated any CB in his way, carrying his Cardinals to an unlikely date in the Super Bowl.

With that in mind, scouts are looking hard for those who have that explosive play-making ability. However, it is tough to project wide receivers to the NFL because there is little to no press coverage in college ball.

Hence, all the more emphasis is placed on precise footwork in drills, catching with the hands, and solid 40 times.

Maryland’s Darrius Heyward-Bey and Ole Miss’s Mike Wallace took note, turning in low 4.3 40 times, that will elevate their draft stock. Heyward-Bey’s combine has cemented himself as a first round selection.

Ohio State’s Brian Robiskie son of Falcons WR Coach Terry Robiskie showed off the knowledge he gleaned from his old man, wowing scouts in his sub 4.4 40 times and impressive body control in drills.

Be prepared for a year with several wide receivers being drafted in the first round.

A Recipe WR’s Love

Speed Speed Speed. Speed KILLS. You can be a lame duck ‘on field’ player and still get into the first round by running a superb 40. All athletes aspiring to be in the NFL know this. And if you play a ‘fast’ position such as a defensive back, you eat, breathe, and live speed. We would expect these ‘speed’ positions to run the best 40 times.

You might even think that these men would be some the greatest 40 sprinters on the globe. You would assume right?

That is why you should never assume. Who would have ever expected that as a collective whole, the defensive backs ran the slowest times in the history of the Combine? In the past two Combines, the collective average for the DBs’ 40 was a 4.53.

That was the AVERAGE. Easily 3-5 men ran 4.4s and below. This year, no one really expected the Combine to be a first round DB extravaganza, but come on guys. Nine DBs and an average of a 4.64? Hat tipped to Chris Clemons. At least he seemed to try.

Will the Real No. 1 Please Stand Up?

The NFL Scouting Combine left us with more questions than it did answers. Experts galore have long been raving about the rocket arm of Georgia QB Matthew Stafford and all but ready for Crabtree to be selected by Seattle.

Wake Forest LB Aaron Curry has made his presence known and earned himself a certain top 10 selection. Question: There is no doubt as to there being talent this year, but is there a true No. 1? Can the Detroit Lions, currently on the clock, honestly be settled about their No. 1 selection for this year?

It is tough to say.

While many are certain on Stafford, remember this is the same Detroit Lions who passed on RB Rashard Mendenhall last year, opting for BC OT Gosder Cherilus, a pick that was widely unexpected given the Lions atrocious ground game.

Case in point, at about 12 noon on Apr. 25, be prepared for a surprise for the first selection to be read off by NFL Commissioner Roger Goddell.

High Cost of Living: Injury

Part of playing high level football is experiencing unfortunate events. That’s reality for ya. Contracts get terminated, players collide with media, and fans berate a team for a poor performance (ahem, Philly). High profile players get injured in the midst of a career-defining week.

One slip of the foot, and you can kiss the first-round and millions of dollars goodbye. That may be the story of the ’09 Combine, when a gray haired Todd McShay analyzes this week a decade down the road.

Rey Maualuga, the great LB from SC (who isn’t a great LB from SC?) injured his hammy during a workout. Michael Crabtree, the big headline of this year’s Combine, hurt his foot and backed out of the workouts, possibly costing himself a Top-Five slot and a large stack of dough.