Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesBreak out the champagne: the Nets are not the worst team ever!!!With their 10th win, the Nets have avoided infamy as the worst team in NBA history. Instead they will merely be known as one of the worst teams.The good news is that the Nets have a lot of young players. The bad news is that only Brook Lopez was healthy and consistent this year.Despite the horrible season, the Nets are actually in great shape for the future. They have a new owner in Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov, who is a true lover of basketball and has a history of success as an owner of a professional basketball franchise.Just ask any Knicks fan how much good or bad ownership matters. Virtually every Knicks fan that I know wishes that Prokhorov had bought the Knicks and not Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
the Nets.The Nets are moving to Newark. This is a very underrated move.The Izod Center is a nice place to watch a game or a concert, but it is in the middle of nowhere as far as people go. As such, it was very hard to build a hardcore fan base that would give the Nets a home court advantage. Even when they were winning, they did not regularly sell out.Newark, on the other hand, is a rising city. It just had its first month without a murder since 1966 . It is now a city of commerce with a lot of public transportation options. The Nets should be able to draw more fans, and the Prudential Center is a great place to watch a game. For the first time ever, the Nets might have a real home court advantage.As a New Jersey native, it will be sad when the Nets move to Brooklyn, but that will only help the team itself. Brooklyn will love having its own team. The new arena will not only be built above a subway station, but also above a Long Island Railroad station, so the Nets will be able to tap into not only the Brooklyn market, but the Long Island one as well.Financially, the Nets may finally be ready to compete, but what about the most important part: the players. The Nets will have about $23 million in cap space to spend this year. The real question is, how are they going to use it?The Nets have a center who can score, rebound and block shots. No team has won a NBA title without an all-star caliber big man. Even the Jordan teams had Horace Grant and then Dennis Rodman. Having a quality player like Brook Lopez is a great place to start building a team.It is the rest of the team that needs work. That is why the draft will control free agency. The Nets are guaranteed to have one of the top four picks in the draft. That means either John Wall, Evan Turner, Derrick Favors or DeMarcus Cousins will be in the Nets starting lineup next year.So, based on the pick, here are possible free agent targets. I am going to assume that LeBron James is not going to sign with the Nets because the Nets would not be able to compete for a title next year.John Wall strikes me as the next Jason Kidd. He can get anywhere on the court, has great vision, prefers to pass, plays defense, can score in the clutch and is creative.However, he turns the ball over too much and he is not Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
a good long range shooter, but both of these can be improved through game experience and practice. He is going to be a great player as long as he stays healthy.So, if the Nets get Wall, then what happens?The Nets should then target two players. First, they should try and sign Amare Stoudemire. Amare is healthy and can score in a variety of ways. He can play center but is best at the power forward position. He already plays well with Robin Lopez so there is no reason to think that he wouldn't fit nicely with Brook. A front line of Lopez and Stoudemire immediately becomes the best center and power forward combo in the Eastern Conference.A quality fall back option would be Carlos Boozer. Boozer is not as good a scoreralthough he is very goodbut he is the superior rebounder. With Boozer, the Nets would win the battle of the boards on most nights. Plus, he is very good at running the pick and roll, a staple of NBA offenses.However, with Wall the Nets would no longer need Devin Harris. Harris is a very good player but his style of play and body build has left him vulnerable to injury. The Nets could also try to sign Rudy Gay to a max contract and use Harris in a sign and trade.Memphis has two quality post players and a perimeter scorer in OJ Mayo. What they lack is a top notch point guard. Acquiring Harris for Rudy Gay is a reasonable swap. Plus, Memphis' owner is looking to sell the team and is not likely looking to pay Rudy Gay a max contract.Gay is a phenomenal scorer at the small forward position and has NBA size as well. Put Gay next to Stoudemire and Lopez and it would easily be the best front line in the East.This would leave the Nets with a rotation of Lopez, Stoudemire, Gay, Courtney Lee, Wall, Terrence Williams, Keyon Dooling and Yi Jianlian. Terrence Williams and Courtney Lee would fight it out to start at the shooting guard position. Instead of scorers, they'd be asked to act as secondary players focused on defense and passing, which better suit their abilitiesReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
.Dooling remains the quality backup point guard and Yi gets his minutes as the primary big man off the bench. That team would be a top 4 or 5 team in the East next year.That is the best case scenario and one that is possible.The next scenario involves Evan Turner. Turner is a natural small forward in the Scottie Pippen mold. He can rebound, pass and score in the lane. His jump shot isn't smooth, but it will improve with practice. However, he does have great court vision that can't be taught. He is a bigger and better version of Terrence Williams.With Turner on the roster, the Nets would keep Devin Harris as Turner starts at small forward. The Nets would still target Stoudemire or Boozer to turn a weak front court into a strength.The Nets would still need a pure shooter, though.The max contract for the new power forward will cost the Nets about $15 million. That leaves about $8 million for a shooter.Their best option is Al Harrington of the Knicks. Harrington can score in bunches and is a New Jersey native. He could be a sixth-man scorer when the offense bogs down. While he is primarily a small forward, he can also play the power forward spot when necessary.When Harrington plays, Turner would either sit or move to the shooting guard position. The Nets need more scoring and Harrington would be a great fit.The final option is if the Nets draft a big man like Favors or Cousins. This would eliminate the need to sign Stoudemire or Boozer. Instead, the Nets would need to go for a perimeter scorer.Rudy Gay is the best fit. The Nets can trade Memphis future draft picks, as the Nets would need to keep Harris in this scenario. If Memphis refused to trade Gay, or let him go as a free agent, the Nets will need a new target at small forward.In that case, the best options are the aforementioned Harrington or Travis Outlaw. Outlaw might be willing, but he would probably require a contract that is more than he's worth. He is not a team-changing player.But neither is Harrington.Harrington is Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
probably the better fit, as he would be less expensive and is a better scorer. Harrington would not make the Nets a contender, but he would help prevent a repeat of the disastrous 2009-10 season.So, Nets fans, the best hope for the Nets is to get one of the first two picks in the draft because that would enable the team to become a contender as soon as next year.
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 NBA's Best Nicknames: Who's Is The Best?
I've been thinking, We seem to have run out of good nicknames. Think about it! So, I've done some thinking about my favorite nicknames today and, of all time! But the question is, who is the owner of your favorite nickname?Air Jordan - Michael JordanAgent Zero - Gilbert ArenasAK-47 - Andrei KirilenkoBirdman - Chris AndersonThe Big Ticket - Kevin GarnettThe Black Mamba - Kobe BryantClyde The Glide - Clyde DrexlerCP3 - Chris PaulThe Diesel - Shaquille O'NealDr.J - Julius ErvingDurantula - Kevin New York Giants jersey
DurantHakeem The Dream - Hakeem OlajuwonFlash - Dwyane WadeKing James - LeBron JamesThe Logo - Jerry WestKrypto-Nate - Nate RobinsonMagic - Earvin JohnsonMelo - Carmelo AnthonyMr. Big Shot - Chauncey BillupsRip - Richard HamiltonSkip To My Lou - Rafer AlstonStarbury - Stephon MarburyZo - Alonzo MourningMy personal favorites would have to be AK-47, Durantula, Krypto-Nate, and Skip to my Lou.Did I leave anybody out? Who was your fav. and why?
DurantHakeem The Dream - Hakeem OlajuwonFlash - Dwyane WadeKing James - LeBron JamesThe Logo - Jerry WestKrypto-Nate - Nate RobinsonMagic - Earvin JohnsonMelo - Carmelo AnthonyMr. Big Shot - Chauncey BillupsRip - Richard HamiltonSkip To My Lou - Rafer AlstonStarbury - Stephon MarburyZo - Alonzo MourningMy personal favorites would have to be AK-47, Durantula, Krypto-Nate, and Skip to my Lou.Did I leave anybody out? Who was your fav. and why?
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 The Bucks Are Done in 2010 NBA Playoffs. Are the Brewers Done Too?
Mike Zarrilli/Getty ImagesAnyone who is a fan of the 1994 Kevin Smith film Clerks has probably seenin any number of its dozens of video releasesthe film original ending.Cut before the film was released theatrically, but included on subsequent Laserdisc, DVD, and Blu-ray releases, the original ending New England Patriots jersey
features the shocking twist of store clerk Dante being shot and killed.It a terribly abrupt and disturbing ending, in large part because of the unexpected high degree of fun that had come before.Sunday Eastern Conference quarterfinal game seven beat down of the Milwaukee Bucks at the hands of the Atlanta Hawks was like thatan ugly, shocking, disturbing, completely unsettling end to what had until then largely been a joyous 2009-2010 season.Yes, it is easy for those who either don believe in or don care about the Bucks to quickly dismiss a team that did not make it out of the opening round of the NBA playoffs. (After all, doesn every NBA team make the postseason?)But remember that the Bucks were a team most picked to be among the dregs of the NBA this season. Yet look at what they accomplished:Finishing the season 10 games over .500.Making the playoffs for the first time in four years. (No, not every NBA team makes the postseason.)Pushing a heavily favored Atlanta team to a seven game series in the postseason, even though most thought the series would be finished in five.They were able to accomplish so much after another mid-season injury (January 10) to guard Michael Redd, and a late-season injury to center Andrew Bogut (April 4), who had been having a breakout year.Much of the credit for the Bucks successes this season has to go to GM John Hammond, who deservedly won the NBA Executive of the Year awardlast month, as well as coach Scott Skiles.Hammond decision to draft Brandon Jennings in last year draft and his move to acquire guard/forward John Salmonsfrom the Bulls in February paid huge dividends this season, and Skiles has been unanimously praised for developing a wonderful chemistry with his team, despite making undesirable lineup changes due to injuries.If Milwaukee can resign Salmons (who averaged nearly 20 points a game for the Bucks), if the Bucks can remain relatively injury-free next season, and if Brandon Jennings can improve on New Orleans Saints jersey
his impressive rookie season, the Bucks might have the biggest upside of any team in the NBA, pending what happens in what could be a blockbuster offseason in free agency.Yes, those are big ifs, but should situations fall the right way for the Bucks, their window for success could be opening wide.On the contrary, the window for the Milwaukee Brewers seems to be slamming shut faster than the chances for a Furry Vengeance sequel. (Further proof that you can write anything on Wikipedia: Note the mention of Brooke Shields as Furry Vengeance 's hot wife.)After Sunday humiliating 8-0 loss at San Diego that wrapped up a series in which the big bats of Milwaukee scored a grand total of two runs (and this was a four-game series), it almost hard to believe the Brewers are only five games under .500.If the Brewers hadn had the luxury of playing Pittsburgh six times already, who theyve outscored 61-17 despite only going 4-2 in those games, things might be even worse.Despite a slow start for Prince Fielderwho has only seven more hits than Gregg Zaun, and the Brewers catcher started 0-for-21and despite the awfully offensive offensivedisplay in San Diego, the Brewers bats aren where most are putting the blame. Casey McGehee, Rickie Weeks, and especially Ryan Braun are performing up to expectations (and, in McGehee case, beyond, although he has cooled off a bit).No, despite offseason efforts to overhaul what was the worst pitching staff in the majors in 2009, the Brewers still find themselves unable to get outs.While newly richYovaniGallardohas rebounded from an awful start, and newly acquiredRandy Wolf has been okay, the rest of the lineup has ranged from disappointing to disastrous.Dave Bush has been erratic and Doug Davis has been awful. And the only reason Chris Narvesonis in the rotation is because his chief competition was Jeff Suppan, whose demotion to the bullpen wasthe easiest decision Ken Macha had to makesincecoming to Milwaukee.Worse still has been that bullpen. And not just because Suppannow resides there. Trevor Hoffman, who was so steady last season, has already blown foursaves this season and has held teams scoreless in only six of his first nine outings. New set-up man LaTroy Hawkins has done nothing but remind people why no team who signs him ends up wanting him around very long (the Brewers are his seventh team since joining the Cubs in 2004). And Claudio Vargas comeback to Milwaukee has been about as successful as Vanilla Ice latest comeback .While Milwaukee still resides in the upper half of clubs in terms of offensive production, outhittingteams such as the Yankees, Phillies, and Rays, it clear that their 20- and 17-run games againstNew York Giants jersey
Pittsburgh have exaggerated those numbers.It also becoming clear that they are not going to be able to regularly score as many runs as their pitchers allow.Sound familiar?TheBrewers recent struggles (losing eight of ten as of this writing) haven gone unnoticed by the number crunchers at AccuScore . In the week from April 26 to May 3, theyve dropped the Brewers chances of making the postseason in 2010 from 20.4 percent to just 6.5 percent, the biggest drop of any National League team.And now we don even have Bob Uecker to listen to.Yes, we have not even hit Big Brother 's summer season yet and the Brewers have loads of time to turn things around. I know.But given what were seeing now, ifI had to guess which teamthe Bucks or the Brewers would next make a serious postseason run, my money would be squarely on the Bucks.Get well, Bob. This article is also featured onFan Interference
features the shocking twist of store clerk Dante being shot and killed.It a terribly abrupt and disturbing ending, in large part because of the unexpected high degree of fun that had come before.Sunday Eastern Conference quarterfinal game seven beat down of the Milwaukee Bucks at the hands of the Atlanta Hawks was like thatan ugly, shocking, disturbing, completely unsettling end to what had until then largely been a joyous 2009-2010 season.Yes, it is easy for those who either don believe in or don care about the Bucks to quickly dismiss a team that did not make it out of the opening round of the NBA playoffs. (After all, doesn every NBA team make the postseason?)But remember that the Bucks were a team most picked to be among the dregs of the NBA this season. Yet look at what they accomplished:Finishing the season 10 games over .500.Making the playoffs for the first time in four years. (No, not every NBA team makes the postseason.)Pushing a heavily favored Atlanta team to a seven game series in the postseason, even though most thought the series would be finished in five.They were able to accomplish so much after another mid-season injury (January 10) to guard Michael Redd, and a late-season injury to center Andrew Bogut (April 4), who had been having a breakout year.Much of the credit for the Bucks successes this season has to go to GM John Hammond, who deservedly won the NBA Executive of the Year awardlast month, as well as coach Scott Skiles.Hammond decision to draft Brandon Jennings in last year draft and his move to acquire guard/forward John Salmonsfrom the Bulls in February paid huge dividends this season, and Skiles has been unanimously praised for developing a wonderful chemistry with his team, despite making undesirable lineup changes due to injuries.If Milwaukee can resign Salmons (who averaged nearly 20 points a game for the Bucks), if the Bucks can remain relatively injury-free next season, and if Brandon Jennings can improve on New Orleans Saints jersey
his impressive rookie season, the Bucks might have the biggest upside of any team in the NBA, pending what happens in what could be a blockbuster offseason in free agency.Yes, those are big ifs, but should situations fall the right way for the Bucks, their window for success could be opening wide.On the contrary, the window for the Milwaukee Brewers seems to be slamming shut faster than the chances for a Furry Vengeance sequel. (Further proof that you can write anything on Wikipedia: Note the mention of Brooke Shields as Furry Vengeance 's hot wife.)After Sunday humiliating 8-0 loss at San Diego that wrapped up a series in which the big bats of Milwaukee scored a grand total of two runs (and this was a four-game series), it almost hard to believe the Brewers are only five games under .500.If the Brewers hadn had the luxury of playing Pittsburgh six times already, who theyve outscored 61-17 despite only going 4-2 in those games, things might be even worse.Despite a slow start for Prince Fielderwho has only seven more hits than Gregg Zaun, and the Brewers catcher started 0-for-21and despite the awfully offensive offensivedisplay in San Diego, the Brewers bats aren where most are putting the blame. Casey McGehee, Rickie Weeks, and especially Ryan Braun are performing up to expectations (and, in McGehee case, beyond, although he has cooled off a bit).No, despite offseason efforts to overhaul what was the worst pitching staff in the majors in 2009, the Brewers still find themselves unable to get outs.While newly richYovaniGallardohas rebounded from an awful start, and newly acquiredRandy Wolf has been okay, the rest of the lineup has ranged from disappointing to disastrous.Dave Bush has been erratic and Doug Davis has been awful. And the only reason Chris Narvesonis in the rotation is because his chief competition was Jeff Suppan, whose demotion to the bullpen wasthe easiest decision Ken Macha had to makesincecoming to Milwaukee.Worse still has been that bullpen. And not just because Suppannow resides there. Trevor Hoffman, who was so steady last season, has already blown foursaves this season and has held teams scoreless in only six of his first nine outings. New set-up man LaTroy Hawkins has done nothing but remind people why no team who signs him ends up wanting him around very long (the Brewers are his seventh team since joining the Cubs in 2004). And Claudio Vargas comeback to Milwaukee has been about as successful as Vanilla Ice latest comeback .While Milwaukee still resides in the upper half of clubs in terms of offensive production, outhittingteams such as the Yankees, Phillies, and Rays, it clear that their 20- and 17-run games againstNew York Giants jersey
Pittsburgh have exaggerated those numbers.It also becoming clear that they are not going to be able to regularly score as many runs as their pitchers allow.Sound familiar?TheBrewers recent struggles (losing eight of ten as of this writing) haven gone unnoticed by the number crunchers at AccuScore . In the week from April 26 to May 3, theyve dropped the Brewers chances of making the postseason in 2010 from 20.4 percent to just 6.5 percent, the biggest drop of any National League team.And now we don even have Bob Uecker to listen to.Yes, we have not even hit Big Brother 's summer season yet and the Brewers have loads of time to turn things around. I know.But given what were seeing now, ifI had to guess which teamthe Bucks or the Brewers would next make a serious postseason run, my money would be squarely on the Bucks.Get well, Bob. This article is also featured onFan Interference
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 From Wall to Washington, Kentucky Guard a Likely Selection for No. 1
So John Wall it is! After winning the NBA draft lottery on Tuesday night, Washington should waste no time running to the podium on June 24 and slapping a Wizards cap over Wall head. But what about Gilbert Arenas you ask? Well, what about him? No matter if Arenas stays or goes, Wall is the pick. The type ofDetroit Lions
athletic point guard reminiscent of Rajon Rondo that can run team and control a game isn necessarily a bad thing to have. Ohio State Evan Turner might be the more polished player and perhaps even a better fit with his size and playmaking ability but he simply not the headliner that Wall is. Wall catlike quickness, speed and leadership skills were on full display during his lone year in Kentucky run and fun scheme last season. Anticpated by the feats of John Calipari disciples Derrick Rose and Tyreke Evans, Wall freshman year at Kentucky was laced with expectations but closed under the name of Blue Jesus, a nicknamed dubbed for Wall at local barbershops, an indicator of the success of his one year Kentucky trial. The 6-foot-4 point guard often made fools out of would-be defenders while outshining nearly every player in the country on his way to Freshman of the Year honors and finishing just behind Turner for the Player of the Year award.Far from a finished product, Wall could use some work on his shooting and improve his decision making. A Green Bay Packers jersey
five-turnover, 7-of-18 shooting performance in Kentucky Elite Eight loss to West Virginia magnified that. But improving his game shouldn be a problem for Wall, whose work ethic scouts have raved upon. And for a player that knows he has a ways to go, results should be expected sooner rather than later.Im doing everything I need to right now, Wall told ESPN inside the home of his agent, Dan Fegan, on Tuesday night about improving his jumpshot. You just got to get a lot of reps in, that all it going to take. I think my techniques and my mechanics to do is get a lot of Houston Texans jersey
reps up and just keep working on it everyday.An improved jumper might push Wall into future All-Star considerations but his speed, passing ability and athleticism will be put to use right away in the District. Wizard fans haven had a player to fawn over since Arenas injured his knee three years ago and with the return of a healthy Arenas coupled with the arrival of Wall, things could be on the up and up in Washington.
athletic point guard reminiscent of Rajon Rondo that can run team and control a game isn necessarily a bad thing to have. Ohio State Evan Turner might be the more polished player and perhaps even a better fit with his size and playmaking ability but he simply not the headliner that Wall is. Wall catlike quickness, speed and leadership skills were on full display during his lone year in Kentucky run and fun scheme last season. Anticpated by the feats of John Calipari disciples Derrick Rose and Tyreke Evans, Wall freshman year at Kentucky was laced with expectations but closed under the name of Blue Jesus, a nicknamed dubbed for Wall at local barbershops, an indicator of the success of his one year Kentucky trial. The 6-foot-4 point guard often made fools out of would-be defenders while outshining nearly every player in the country on his way to Freshman of the Year honors and finishing just behind Turner for the Player of the Year award.Far from a finished product, Wall could use some work on his shooting and improve his decision making. A Green Bay Packers jersey
five-turnover, 7-of-18 shooting performance in Kentucky Elite Eight loss to West Virginia magnified that. But improving his game shouldn be a problem for Wall, whose work ethic scouts have raved upon. And for a player that knows he has a ways to go, results should be expected sooner rather than later.Im doing everything I need to right now, Wall told ESPN inside the home of his agent, Dan Fegan, on Tuesday night about improving his jumpshot. You just got to get a lot of reps in, that all it going to take. I think my techniques and my mechanics to do is get a lot of Houston Texans jersey
reps up and just keep working on it everyday.An improved jumper might push Wall into future All-Star considerations but his speed, passing ability and athleticism will be put to use right away in the District. Wizard fans haven had a player to fawn over since Arenas injured his knee three years ago and with the return of a healthy Arenas coupled with the arrival of Wall, things could be on the up and up in Washington.
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 Can the Bulls Build a New Dynasty? Anything Is Possible
Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesFor Bulls fans, next season starts on July 1st when big names hit free agency. Players like LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Dirk Nowitzki will all be available for the Chicago Bulls, who will be a major player in this year historic free agency.Chicago, a city of Carolina Panthers jersey
rich basketball tradition, continues to look for the next Bulls dynasty. Everyone in Chicago is craving for a Bulls team that can continue the glory that Michael Jordan once established. Michael Jordan Bulls had delivered six titles in two three-peats. With six NBA championships, the Bulls rank third all-time behind the Celtics and the Lakers for most titles won in NBA history.With the availability of the aforementioned free agents this upcoming summer, the Bulls are certainly in position to build another dynasty. However, not all scenarios will guarantee a championship-caliber team for the Bulls at the end of the summer. We will examine the main possible scenario that might happen in this year free agency which could impact the entire future of the Chicago Bulls.The main goal and the ultimate prize of this year free agency is LeBron James. He is regarded by many as the most physically-gifted player the league had ever seen. LeBron can make any team an instant contender for the NBA championship because of his electrifying scoring and passing abilities. Any team in the league would love to add this guy because he can bring you 10 to 30 more wins easily. He is a dominant player without a doubt. If the Bulls can add LeBron James to their brilliant core of Noah, Rose and Deng, they would be definitely become a contender in the Eastern conference. Derrick Rose had stated that he would welcome the opportunity of playing alongside LeBron in many different occasions. James admires Derrick Rose style of Chicago Bears jersey
play and he surely would love to have a very skilled point guard who can take some of the pressure off him. There were many reports that confirmed phone calls between James and Rose in the past few weeks. So there is a sure interest from LeBron to join the Bulls.With LeBron James, the Bulls will be a top team in the East, but in order to get to the dynasty level we are discussing here, there has to be another major move by the Bulls management. This might happen in the form of a sign-and-trade with Toronto to get Chris Bosh, or with Miami for Wade, which seems unlikely. The Bulls, in my opinion has a good chance at a sign-and-trade with the Hawks for Joe Johnson, given he decides to leave Atlanta. The price tag for that move might be Luol Deng and/or Kirk Hinrich, but the Bulls must do that trade if it is possible.Joe Johnson is a very good scorer. He is a player who can create his own shot at any moment, and that would make things a lot easier for LeBron James and Derrick Rose. A starting lineup of Derrick Rose, Joe Johnson, LeBron James, Taj Gibson and Joakim Noah can only spell trouble for teams around the league for years to come. That lineup, in my opinion would be the keystone of another Bulls dynasty.In the NBA, everything is within the realm of Cincinnati Bengals jersey
possibility. Remember when the Celtics obtained both Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen and went on to win the NBA championship in 2008? I bet you no one had even imagined a starting lineup for Boston featuring Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett prior to that championship year.The Bulls have an excellent chance of building another dynasty. Just ask Kevin Garnett when he won his first ring in Boston. He would tell you that, anything is possible.
rich basketball tradition, continues to look for the next Bulls dynasty. Everyone in Chicago is craving for a Bulls team that can continue the glory that Michael Jordan once established. Michael Jordan Bulls had delivered six titles in two three-peats. With six NBA championships, the Bulls rank third all-time behind the Celtics and the Lakers for most titles won in NBA history.With the availability of the aforementioned free agents this upcoming summer, the Bulls are certainly in position to build another dynasty. However, not all scenarios will guarantee a championship-caliber team for the Bulls at the end of the summer. We will examine the main possible scenario that might happen in this year free agency which could impact the entire future of the Chicago Bulls.The main goal and the ultimate prize of this year free agency is LeBron James. He is regarded by many as the most physically-gifted player the league had ever seen. LeBron can make any team an instant contender for the NBA championship because of his electrifying scoring and passing abilities. Any team in the league would love to add this guy because he can bring you 10 to 30 more wins easily. He is a dominant player without a doubt. If the Bulls can add LeBron James to their brilliant core of Noah, Rose and Deng, they would be definitely become a contender in the Eastern conference. Derrick Rose had stated that he would welcome the opportunity of playing alongside LeBron in many different occasions. James admires Derrick Rose style of Chicago Bears jersey
play and he surely would love to have a very skilled point guard who can take some of the pressure off him. There were many reports that confirmed phone calls between James and Rose in the past few weeks. So there is a sure interest from LeBron to join the Bulls.With LeBron James, the Bulls will be a top team in the East, but in order to get to the dynasty level we are discussing here, there has to be another major move by the Bulls management. This might happen in the form of a sign-and-trade with Toronto to get Chris Bosh, or with Miami for Wade, which seems unlikely. The Bulls, in my opinion has a good chance at a sign-and-trade with the Hawks for Joe Johnson, given he decides to leave Atlanta. The price tag for that move might be Luol Deng and/or Kirk Hinrich, but the Bulls must do that trade if it is possible.Joe Johnson is a very good scorer. He is a player who can create his own shot at any moment, and that would make things a lot easier for LeBron James and Derrick Rose. A starting lineup of Derrick Rose, Joe Johnson, LeBron James, Taj Gibson and Joakim Noah can only spell trouble for teams around the league for years to come. That lineup, in my opinion would be the keystone of another Bulls dynasty.In the NBA, everything is within the realm of Cincinnati Bengals jersey
possibility. Remember when the Celtics obtained both Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen and went on to win the NBA championship in 2008? I bet you no one had even imagined a starting lineup for Boston featuring Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett prior to that championship year.The Bulls have an excellent chance of building another dynasty. Just ask Kevin Garnett when he won his first ring in Boston. He would tell you that, anything is possible.
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Chris Paul and the New Orleans Hornets Are As Good as Gone
Green and Gold will be the Hornets new colors come next seasonThe NBA now owns the team that will be formerly known as the New Orleans Hornets and there isn much the city can really do about it.Gary Chouest was to be their white knight in shining armor; instead of riding in on his stead with another 50 Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
clichs in tow, he tucked his tail and walked away from the situation.I don blame him;he has much more to worry about: His business has been severely affected by the recent ban on off-shore drilling. He needs to worry about keeping his pockets lined, not keeping a basketball team in New Orleans.Currently, I am feeling for the true basketball fans in New Orleans. We in Seattle have gone through the same thing you are about to go through and sadly, our two cities are going to end up hating each other in some form or another.Find solace in the fact that the Saints are going to be able to beat the crap out of the Seahawks for the next 15 years and you probably win another Super Bowl or two with Drew Brees.Did Seattle have anything to look forward to when the Sonics left?The Seahawks are going to be rebuilding for the next few years and were only competitive because of a really easy schedule and the Mariners, wellthey are the Mariners.From our experience in Seattle, it doesn matter what you do, it not going to make a difference.You can hold Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
rallies, fight the new owner in court and so on down the line, but it doesn matter.What City Will Get The Hornets?What City Will Get The Hornets?Seattle51.2%Louisville10.5%Kansas City12.9%Anaheim4.8%Chicago2.4%Las Vegas7.2%St. Louis11.0%Total votes: 209The Hornets are gone.Don believe anything Stern says. He not looking for a local bidder, unless that person writes the biggest check. He sell the team and move to Zimbabwe if it helps get the Hornets out of debt.Kansas City has lukewarm interest, Vegas is a thought and so is Anaheim, but an addition to a team in Anaheim would severely oversaturate the L.A. market.Seattle also has interest and Steve Ballmer and Matt Griffin seem to be under a gag order. They had an opportunity to say that they were not going to buy the team today, but instead chose to have no comment.Ballmer and Griffin have more money in their bank accounts than all New Orleans residents combined.New Orleans could save the team if each resident wrote the NBA a check for $722.13, but we know that Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
won happen.I sorry New Orleans, but the Hornets are good and we promise to take very good care of your team here and we be sure to give Charlotte the Hornets name and colors back.Maybe one day, the Jazz will be rightfully returned to you.
clichs in tow, he tucked his tail and walked away from the situation.I don blame him;he has much more to worry about: His business has been severely affected by the recent ban on off-shore drilling. He needs to worry about keeping his pockets lined, not keeping a basketball team in New Orleans.Currently, I am feeling for the true basketball fans in New Orleans. We in Seattle have gone through the same thing you are about to go through and sadly, our two cities are going to end up hating each other in some form or another.Find solace in the fact that the Saints are going to be able to beat the crap out of the Seahawks for the next 15 years and you probably win another Super Bowl or two with Drew Brees.Did Seattle have anything to look forward to when the Sonics left?The Seahawks are going to be rebuilding for the next few years and were only competitive because of a really easy schedule and the Mariners, wellthey are the Mariners.From our experience in Seattle, it doesn matter what you do, it not going to make a difference.You can hold Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
rallies, fight the new owner in court and so on down the line, but it doesn matter.What City Will Get The Hornets?What City Will Get The Hornets?Seattle51.2%Louisville10.5%Kansas City12.9%Anaheim4.8%Chicago2.4%Las Vegas7.2%St. Louis11.0%Total votes: 209The Hornets are gone.Don believe anything Stern says. He not looking for a local bidder, unless that person writes the biggest check. He sell the team and move to Zimbabwe if it helps get the Hornets out of debt.Kansas City has lukewarm interest, Vegas is a thought and so is Anaheim, but an addition to a team in Anaheim would severely oversaturate the L.A. market.Seattle also has interest and Steve Ballmer and Matt Griffin seem to be under a gag order. They had an opportunity to say that they were not going to buy the team today, but instead chose to have no comment.Ballmer and Griffin have more money in their bank accounts than all New Orleans residents combined.New Orleans could save the team if each resident wrote the NBA a check for $722.13, but we know that Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
won happen.I sorry New Orleans, but the Hornets are good and we promise to take very good care of your team here and we be sure to give Charlotte the Hornets name and colors back.Maybe one day, the Jazz will be rightfully returned to you.
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 Fantasy Basketball Positonal Breakdown: Power Forward
Jim McIsaac/Getty ImagesHere is our fourth of five positional breakdowns. Today we are looking at power forwards. This is a very solid and quite deep group, evidenced by a guy like Kevin Garnett being 17th in the rankings. And there is even more new blood fighting their way up the ranks with rookies like Blake Griffin and Demarcus Cousins. So let’s get to the rankings and see how things shake out at power forward, as well as looking at some sleepers and bust candidates. Dirk Nowitzki – Dallas MavericksPau Gasol Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
– Los Angeles LakersAmare Stoudemire – New York KnicksDavid Lee – Golden State WarriorsChris Bosh – Miami HeatJosh Smith – Atlanta HawksTim Duncan – San Antonio SpursDavid West – New Orleans HornetsTroy Murphy – New Jersey NetsLamarcus Aldridge – Portland Trail BlazersZack Randolph – Memphis GrizzliesKevin Love – Minnesota TimberwolvesAntwan Jamison – Cleveland CavaliersJeff Green – Oklahoma City ThunderAndray Blatche – Washington WizardsLuis Scola – Houston RocketsKevin Garnett – Boston CelticsCarlos Boozer – Chicago BullsPaul Millsap – Utah JazzAnthony Randolph – New York KnicksRashard Lewis – Orlando MagicLamar Odom – Los Angeles LakersBlake Griffin - Los Angeles ClippersChanning Frye – Phoenix SunsDemarcus Cousins – Sacramento KingsBoris Diaw – Charlotte BobcatsJ.J. Hickson – Cleveland CavaliersAl Harrington – Denver NuggetsElton Brand – Philadelphia 76ersTyrus Thomas – Charlotte BobcatsCharlie Villanueva – Detroit PistonsDrewReebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
Gooden – Milwaukee BucksAmir Johnson – Toronto RaptorsCarl Landry – Sacramento KingsJason Thompson – Sacramento KingsKenyon Martin – Denver NuggetsTaj Gibson – Chicago BullsAnderson Varejao – Cleveland CavaliersTiago Splitter – San Antonio SpursAnthony Tolliver – Minnesota Timberwolves The number two through four spots are close, but Gasol gets the slight nod over Amare. While Stoudemire has the better offensive game, Gasol’s rebounding and blocks put him just over the top. Not to mention he’s an excellent big man passer.Not as much is made of the effect of going to Miami on Chris Bosh. In Miami Bosh will be the third option, so he won’t be taking 16.5 shots per game, probably more like around 13 – 14. That said, those should be some very good looks at the hoop and he should still be able to get 20 points a game. Lebron will steal around a board or two a game and I think Bosh ends up with around 9 per game. 20 and nine are still pretty good numbers.Emeka Okafor’s presence in New Orleans took a toll on David West’s numbers last year, both blocks and rebounding. For the first time in three seasons West averaged less than eight rebounds per game, finishing the year at 7.4. Okafor hasn’t gone anywhere and chances are West’s numbers don’t jump much higher than eight anymore, but 20 points and eight rebounds isn’t far Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
off from where I project Bosh to finish.Everything inside of me wants to put Kevin Love in the top 10 because it seems I am developing a man crush on the whole Timberwolves team. Al Jefferson is gone and Kevin Love is, for all intents and purposes, the man in Minnesota. I expect big things, but I am trying to remember he hasn’t averaged 30 minutes a game yet and he only started 22 games last year. But in those 22 games, he averaged 13.3 rebounds! He’s got the potential to blow up this year and if his offensive game improves he could average 18 points and 12 boards per game.A lot of people think Luis Scola is going to be effected negatively by Yao’s return, but I don’t see the cause for concern. Scola played alongside Yao in 2008-2009 and had just as many rebounds as he did last year without Yao. And also keep in mind Yao is only playing 24 minutes per game here. So the only effect I can see might be Scola losing a shot or two, but I can’t see it being anything dramatic enough to bring him under 15 points a game.Anthony Randolph is a bit of a wildcard to me this year, and I think some love him more than me, though his spot in these rankings, I feel, is quite generous. There is no doubt the potential is there for him to become one of the better big men in the league, especially considering he’s only 21. Now that he doesn’t have Don Nelson breathing down his neck he should see more playing time in New York, if he can stay healthy, which he’s had a hard time doing. But still, while playing time will increase, don’t expect 35 minutes a game. Health seems to be the only thing that can stop Randolph from being an all-star, but don’t expect him on the team this year.Demarcus Cousins is moving quickly up my board, even since my Top 200 rankings. This is for two reasons, the first of which is his preseason so far. I know it’s only the preseason, but Cousins looks really good out there Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
right now. He’s got to learn to keep his head on straight and stay out of foul trouble, but it’s obvious that he has big time skills. The second reason he is moving up is Samuel Dalembert is hurt. So instead of being the backup center and in the middle of a three-way logjam at power forward, Cousins will now start the season at Center. Dalembert shouldn’t miss much more than a month of the regular season, but if Cousins can make an impression he’ll see his playing time stick, either at power forward or center.Taj Gibson has a similar opportunity as Cousins in that he’ll be the starting power forward when the season tips off thanks to an injury to Carlos Boozer. Unlike Cousins though, Gibson is just keeping the spot warm until Boozer can come back. While he is starting, Taj is a decent play in all formats, as he should progress a little bit from an already solid rookie season. However, once Boozer is back his minutes will tumble, so you’re really just renting him for about a month or so.Sleeper: Amir Johnson. Here is another guy whose potential has my mind swimming with excitement and I can’t help but reach a round or two to get him in drafts, just in case he explodes. He has been brought along slowly between Toronto and Detroit, but this year he’s poised to be the starting power forward and get a chance to see what he can do over 25 – 30 minutes per game and hopefully even more.Consider that in the five games Amir started last year he averaged 17.8 points, six rebounds and one block. He won’t likely produce that kind of point output over the course of a full season, but he should certainly score double digits. And the rebounding and block number should also shoot up, especially without Chris Bosh in town.Amir is essentially the team’s best rebounder and he could easily clear eight rebounds and come close to two blocks a game, as he just has a natural talent for blocking shots. If he lives up to Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
his potential, you’ll be getting one of the steals of the draft at the point that you can grab him.Deep Sleeper: Hakim Warrick. Channing Frye is going to be the starting power forward in Phoenix and I actually like him in that spot quite a bit. However, there should be playing time to spare and Warrick could get close to 20 minutes a game, especially if he makes use of the time he has on the court.He’s a better rebounder than Frye and reports are that Phoenix likes him as a partner with Nash to run the pick and roll now that Amare is gone. Warrick could possibly still manage double digits in points if he gets those 20 minutes per game in.Bust: Zack Randolph. This one might be a bit of a long shot, but I think the pieces might be in place for Randolph to regress a bit coming off the best season of his career. I think he is still going to put up solid numbers, but I think, as the guys around him get better, his numbers will be affected.I think O.J. Mayo has the potential to take a big step forward this year and go over 20 points per game as his shot improves. If he does that I think it’s going to cut into Randolph’s scoring a little.Along the same line of thinking, Marc Gasol is only getting better, and as he gets better, he’s going to start taking more of Randolph’s looks inside the post away. He’s also going to take away some of Randolph’s boards as well. It should be another solid year for Z-Bo, I just think it could look more like 18 & 9 than 21 & Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
12.What are your thoughts on the power forward position? Who are you high on and who are you still “on the fence” with? Let me know your thoughts.To check out previous positional breakdowns follow these links:Point GuardShooting GuardSmall Forward
– Los Angeles LakersAmare Stoudemire – New York KnicksDavid Lee – Golden State WarriorsChris Bosh – Miami HeatJosh Smith – Atlanta HawksTim Duncan – San Antonio SpursDavid West – New Orleans HornetsTroy Murphy – New Jersey NetsLamarcus Aldridge – Portland Trail BlazersZack Randolph – Memphis GrizzliesKevin Love – Minnesota TimberwolvesAntwan Jamison – Cleveland CavaliersJeff Green – Oklahoma City ThunderAndray Blatche – Washington WizardsLuis Scola – Houston RocketsKevin Garnett – Boston CelticsCarlos Boozer – Chicago BullsPaul Millsap – Utah JazzAnthony Randolph – New York KnicksRashard Lewis – Orlando MagicLamar Odom – Los Angeles LakersBlake Griffin - Los Angeles ClippersChanning Frye – Phoenix SunsDemarcus Cousins – Sacramento KingsBoris Diaw – Charlotte BobcatsJ.J. Hickson – Cleveland CavaliersAl Harrington – Denver NuggetsElton Brand – Philadelphia 76ersTyrus Thomas – Charlotte BobcatsCharlie Villanueva – Detroit PistonsDrewReebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
Gooden – Milwaukee BucksAmir Johnson – Toronto RaptorsCarl Landry – Sacramento KingsJason Thompson – Sacramento KingsKenyon Martin – Denver NuggetsTaj Gibson – Chicago BullsAnderson Varejao – Cleveland CavaliersTiago Splitter – San Antonio SpursAnthony Tolliver – Minnesota Timberwolves The number two through four spots are close, but Gasol gets the slight nod over Amare. While Stoudemire has the better offensive game, Gasol’s rebounding and blocks put him just over the top. Not to mention he’s an excellent big man passer.Not as much is made of the effect of going to Miami on Chris Bosh. In Miami Bosh will be the third option, so he won’t be taking 16.5 shots per game, probably more like around 13 – 14. That said, those should be some very good looks at the hoop and he should still be able to get 20 points a game. Lebron will steal around a board or two a game and I think Bosh ends up with around 9 per game. 20 and nine are still pretty good numbers.Emeka Okafor’s presence in New Orleans took a toll on David West’s numbers last year, both blocks and rebounding. For the first time in three seasons West averaged less than eight rebounds per game, finishing the year at 7.4. Okafor hasn’t gone anywhere and chances are West’s numbers don’t jump much higher than eight anymore, but 20 points and eight rebounds isn’t far Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
off from where I project Bosh to finish.Everything inside of me wants to put Kevin Love in the top 10 because it seems I am developing a man crush on the whole Timberwolves team. Al Jefferson is gone and Kevin Love is, for all intents and purposes, the man in Minnesota. I expect big things, but I am trying to remember he hasn’t averaged 30 minutes a game yet and he only started 22 games last year. But in those 22 games, he averaged 13.3 rebounds! He’s got the potential to blow up this year and if his offensive game improves he could average 18 points and 12 boards per game.A lot of people think Luis Scola is going to be effected negatively by Yao’s return, but I don’t see the cause for concern. Scola played alongside Yao in 2008-2009 and had just as many rebounds as he did last year without Yao. And also keep in mind Yao is only playing 24 minutes per game here. So the only effect I can see might be Scola losing a shot or two, but I can’t see it being anything dramatic enough to bring him under 15 points a game.Anthony Randolph is a bit of a wildcard to me this year, and I think some love him more than me, though his spot in these rankings, I feel, is quite generous. There is no doubt the potential is there for him to become one of the better big men in the league, especially considering he’s only 21. Now that he doesn’t have Don Nelson breathing down his neck he should see more playing time in New York, if he can stay healthy, which he’s had a hard time doing. But still, while playing time will increase, don’t expect 35 minutes a game. Health seems to be the only thing that can stop Randolph from being an all-star, but don’t expect him on the team this year.Demarcus Cousins is moving quickly up my board, even since my Top 200 rankings. This is for two reasons, the first of which is his preseason so far. I know it’s only the preseason, but Cousins looks really good out there Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
right now. He’s got to learn to keep his head on straight and stay out of foul trouble, but it’s obvious that he has big time skills. The second reason he is moving up is Samuel Dalembert is hurt. So instead of being the backup center and in the middle of a three-way logjam at power forward, Cousins will now start the season at Center. Dalembert shouldn’t miss much more than a month of the regular season, but if Cousins can make an impression he’ll see his playing time stick, either at power forward or center.Taj Gibson has a similar opportunity as Cousins in that he’ll be the starting power forward when the season tips off thanks to an injury to Carlos Boozer. Unlike Cousins though, Gibson is just keeping the spot warm until Boozer can come back. While he is starting, Taj is a decent play in all formats, as he should progress a little bit from an already solid rookie season. However, once Boozer is back his minutes will tumble, so you’re really just renting him for about a month or so.Sleeper: Amir Johnson. Here is another guy whose potential has my mind swimming with excitement and I can’t help but reach a round or two to get him in drafts, just in case he explodes. He has been brought along slowly between Toronto and Detroit, but this year he’s poised to be the starting power forward and get a chance to see what he can do over 25 – 30 minutes per game and hopefully even more.Consider that in the five games Amir started last year he averaged 17.8 points, six rebounds and one block. He won’t likely produce that kind of point output over the course of a full season, but he should certainly score double digits. And the rebounding and block number should also shoot up, especially without Chris Bosh in town.Amir is essentially the team’s best rebounder and he could easily clear eight rebounds and come close to two blocks a game, as he just has a natural talent for blocking shots. If he lives up to Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
his potential, you’ll be getting one of the steals of the draft at the point that you can grab him.Deep Sleeper: Hakim Warrick. Channing Frye is going to be the starting power forward in Phoenix and I actually like him in that spot quite a bit. However, there should be playing time to spare and Warrick could get close to 20 minutes a game, especially if he makes use of the time he has on the court.He’s a better rebounder than Frye and reports are that Phoenix likes him as a partner with Nash to run the pick and roll now that Amare is gone. Warrick could possibly still manage double digits in points if he gets those 20 minutes per game in.Bust: Zack Randolph. This one might be a bit of a long shot, but I think the pieces might be in place for Randolph to regress a bit coming off the best season of his career. I think he is still going to put up solid numbers, but I think, as the guys around him get better, his numbers will be affected.I think O.J. Mayo has the potential to take a big step forward this year and go over 20 points per game as his shot improves. If he does that I think it’s going to cut into Randolph’s scoring a little.Along the same line of thinking, Marc Gasol is only getting better, and as he gets better, he’s going to start taking more of Randolph’s looks inside the post away. He’s also going to take away some of Randolph’s boards as well. It should be another solid year for Z-Bo, I just think it could look more like 18 & 9 than 21 & Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
12.What are your thoughts on the power forward position? Who are you high on and who are you still “on the fence” with? Let me know your thoughts.To check out previous positional breakdowns follow these links:Point GuardShooting GuardSmall Forward
2010年12月23日星期四
23 Dec 10Blake Griffin Up, John Wall Down in 2010 NBA Rookie Rankings for Week 4
Griffin has been an absolute beat this year.Harry How/Getty ImagesAnother week is just about in the books, which means it’s time to look in the rear-view mirror of Week 4 of the2010 NBA Basketballseason and see how our young lads from the 2010 NBA Draft are holding up. John Wall is banged up and missing action, which by default, gives the equally impressive Blake Griffin the top spot for this week’s rookie rankings. Regardless of where you have them ranked, there’s no doubt that both of these guys have Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
beenweekly fantasy basketballbeasts, and should continue to thrive in their first seasons. Read on to catch some analysis on the top two rooks, as well as the other eight guys who round out this week’s rookie rankings: 1. Blake Griffin, PF, Las Angeles Clippers 2010 stats: 34.3 MPG, 16.5 PPG,10.5 RPG, 1.8 APG, 48.6% FG His points and boards have dipped a bit since his hot start, but he has to be missing Chris Kaman’s help on the inside. He’s handling the pressure to live up to his potential quite well, and averaging a double-double is no easy task, especially as a first-year big. He has defensive lapses from time to time, but he’s still an offensive machine who has yet to score below 10 points in a game on the season. 2. John Wall, PG, Washington Wizards 2010 stats: 39.1 MPG, 18.1 PPG,9.8 APG, 4.0 RPG, 3.3 SPG, 43.9% FG, 26.8% 3 PT Wall is killing it from all over the floor. He’s burning the courts up in minutes and assists, while averaging a masterful and astounding 3.3 steals per game. An injury has kept him out of his team’s past two contests, so he drops by default in this week’s rankings, despite still holding the statistical edge over every other rookie on the season. 3. Eric Bledsoe, PG, Los Angeles Clippers 2010 Stats: 31.1 MPG, 9.8 PPG, 5.2 APG,4.0 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 47.2% FG, 33.3% 3 PT The Clippers aren’t winning games and Bledsoe isn’t putting up John Wall numbers, but a lot needs to be said about this young man’s rising game. Kansas City Chiefs jersey
Firstly, he’s taken over an inconsistent offense that is very young and erratic, while also rendering veteran point guard Baron Davis suddenly expendable. That, and he’s doing all of this while putting up decent numbers in his first year on the big stage, and his first year as atruepoint guard. Which rookie is vastly under rated?Which rookie is vastly under rated?Eric Bledsoe24.1%Derrick Favors6.0%Evan Turner13.1%DeMarcus Cousins11.6%Landry Fields39.2%Other6.0%Total votes: 1994. Landry Fields, G/F, New York Knicks 2010 stats: 27.5 MPG, 10.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.4 APG,58.4% FG, 30.8% 3 PT Fields has been a starter since day one in New York and really hasn’t ever looked back. The second-round pick out of this past year’s draft shoots the ball extremely well, plays defense, hits the boards and makes excellent decisions. In other words, he does all the right things that the majority of the other Knicks’ players don’t. He’s been scoring in double figures lately as if it’s easy at the NBA level, while turning in a massive double-double this week with 21 points and 17 rebounds against the Denver Nuggets. He isn’t the flashiest of rookies, but there’s no doubt about his worth right now, which helps plug him inside the top five. 5. Evan Turner, G/F, Philadelphia 76ers 2010 stats: 30.4 MPG, 9.3 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 42.2% FG,11.1% 3 PT Turner has turned up his level of play recently, and with the injury woes and trade Miami Dolphins jersey
speculation surrounding Andre Iguodala, it seems he’s starting to find his niche in his first season. His season stats aren’t elite yet, and even his recent lines aren’t much to talk about, but it’s important to note his progress. Since being inserted into Philly’s starting lineup six games ago, he’s put up two double-double efforts. Once Turner finally finds some consistency in his shooting stroke, he could catch fire in these rankings. 6. DeMarcus Cousins, F/C, Sacramento Kings 2010 stats: 22.3 MPG, 10.8 PPG,6.6 RPG, 1.2 APG, 41.1% FG Cousins is already butting heads with the coaching staff to a certain degree, and has also lost his spot in the starting lineup. There’s no telling if this is just to keep him in check or if it’s permanent, but his minutes have taken a hit, as has his production. While he’s arguably the third most talented player on this list (at least), he can’t climb with a poor role and bad production at the moment. 7. Wesley Johnson, SF, Minnesota Timberwolves 2010 stats: 28.5 MPG, 9.9 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.2 APG, 40.8% FG, 35.6% 3 PT Johnson’s season line isn’t bad, and he’s still getting solid minutes as a member of the starting lineup in Minnesota. The most encouraging sign is that it looks like he’s starting to find his shot. He’s still a work in progress, especially with more prolific scorers (Kevin Love and Michael Beasley) stealing the show. Gordon drops the hammer.8. Derrick Favors, PF, New Jersey Nets 2010 stats: 20.3 MPG, 7.5 PPG, 6.6 RPG,53.3% FG Everyone knew how raw Favors was coming into the season and despite having a lot of room to grow, Favors is still putting up decent averages in just over 20 minutes per game. You’d like to see more points, but his lack of a scoring prowess has nothing to do with efficiency or strength, as he only attempts 5.5 shots per game. Favors main flaw continues to be foul trouble, but once he can stay on the floor without any major defensive concerns, he could quickly grow into a fierce post threat. 9. Al-Farouq Aminu, F, Los Angeles Clippers 2010 stats: 17 MPG, 7.5 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 46.7% FG,54.2% 3 PT Aminu has a pretty nice well-rounded game. He won’t get the exposure or props he appropriately deserves, as he’s third in the pecking order (as he should be) behind Blake Griffin and Eric Bledsoe, but he’s still got some game. He’s getting Minnesota Vikings
more outspoken with his performances every week, and it’ll be interesting to see how much more productive he gets as the season wears on. 10. Gordon Hayward, G/F, Utah Jazz 2010 stats: 11.3 MPG,2.7 PPG, 1.5 RPG, 41.2% FG, 14.3% 3 PT Hayward’s minutes and production are sporadic at best right now but the next best guys (Monroe and Henry) also have been very inconsistent as of late. Hayward gets the nod here simply based off of his awesome one-handed jam in traffic this week. The analysts calling the game said they didn’t think he had it in him. Neither did we. Kid can ball. Play the Mini SuperStakes Fantasy Basketball game and win cash at Fantazzle!
beenweekly fantasy basketballbeasts, and should continue to thrive in their first seasons. Read on to catch some analysis on the top two rooks, as well as the other eight guys who round out this week’s rookie rankings: 1. Blake Griffin, PF, Las Angeles Clippers 2010 stats: 34.3 MPG, 16.5 PPG,10.5 RPG, 1.8 APG, 48.6% FG His points and boards have dipped a bit since his hot start, but he has to be missing Chris Kaman’s help on the inside. He’s handling the pressure to live up to his potential quite well, and averaging a double-double is no easy task, especially as a first-year big. He has defensive lapses from time to time, but he’s still an offensive machine who has yet to score below 10 points in a game on the season. 2. John Wall, PG, Washington Wizards 2010 stats: 39.1 MPG, 18.1 PPG,9.8 APG, 4.0 RPG, 3.3 SPG, 43.9% FG, 26.8% 3 PT Wall is killing it from all over the floor. He’s burning the courts up in minutes and assists, while averaging a masterful and astounding 3.3 steals per game. An injury has kept him out of his team’s past two contests, so he drops by default in this week’s rankings, despite still holding the statistical edge over every other rookie on the season. 3. Eric Bledsoe, PG, Los Angeles Clippers 2010 Stats: 31.1 MPG, 9.8 PPG, 5.2 APG,4.0 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 47.2% FG, 33.3% 3 PT The Clippers aren’t winning games and Bledsoe isn’t putting up John Wall numbers, but a lot needs to be said about this young man’s rising game. Kansas City Chiefs jersey
Firstly, he’s taken over an inconsistent offense that is very young and erratic, while also rendering veteran point guard Baron Davis suddenly expendable. That, and he’s doing all of this while putting up decent numbers in his first year on the big stage, and his first year as atruepoint guard. Which rookie is vastly under rated?Which rookie is vastly under rated?Eric Bledsoe24.1%Derrick Favors6.0%Evan Turner13.1%DeMarcus Cousins11.6%Landry Fields39.2%Other6.0%Total votes: 1994. Landry Fields, G/F, New York Knicks 2010 stats: 27.5 MPG, 10.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.4 APG,58.4% FG, 30.8% 3 PT Fields has been a starter since day one in New York and really hasn’t ever looked back. The second-round pick out of this past year’s draft shoots the ball extremely well, plays defense, hits the boards and makes excellent decisions. In other words, he does all the right things that the majority of the other Knicks’ players don’t. He’s been scoring in double figures lately as if it’s easy at the NBA level, while turning in a massive double-double this week with 21 points and 17 rebounds against the Denver Nuggets. He isn’t the flashiest of rookies, but there’s no doubt about his worth right now, which helps plug him inside the top five. 5. Evan Turner, G/F, Philadelphia 76ers 2010 stats: 30.4 MPG, 9.3 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 42.2% FG,11.1% 3 PT Turner has turned up his level of play recently, and with the injury woes and trade Miami Dolphins jersey
speculation surrounding Andre Iguodala, it seems he’s starting to find his niche in his first season. His season stats aren’t elite yet, and even his recent lines aren’t much to talk about, but it’s important to note his progress. Since being inserted into Philly’s starting lineup six games ago, he’s put up two double-double efforts. Once Turner finally finds some consistency in his shooting stroke, he could catch fire in these rankings. 6. DeMarcus Cousins, F/C, Sacramento Kings 2010 stats: 22.3 MPG, 10.8 PPG,6.6 RPG, 1.2 APG, 41.1% FG Cousins is already butting heads with the coaching staff to a certain degree, and has also lost his spot in the starting lineup. There’s no telling if this is just to keep him in check or if it’s permanent, but his minutes have taken a hit, as has his production. While he’s arguably the third most talented player on this list (at least), he can’t climb with a poor role and bad production at the moment. 7. Wesley Johnson, SF, Minnesota Timberwolves 2010 stats: 28.5 MPG, 9.9 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.2 APG, 40.8% FG, 35.6% 3 PT Johnson’s season line isn’t bad, and he’s still getting solid minutes as a member of the starting lineup in Minnesota. The most encouraging sign is that it looks like he’s starting to find his shot. He’s still a work in progress, especially with more prolific scorers (Kevin Love and Michael Beasley) stealing the show. Gordon drops the hammer.8. Derrick Favors, PF, New Jersey Nets 2010 stats: 20.3 MPG, 7.5 PPG, 6.6 RPG,53.3% FG Everyone knew how raw Favors was coming into the season and despite having a lot of room to grow, Favors is still putting up decent averages in just over 20 minutes per game. You’d like to see more points, but his lack of a scoring prowess has nothing to do with efficiency or strength, as he only attempts 5.5 shots per game. Favors main flaw continues to be foul trouble, but once he can stay on the floor without any major defensive concerns, he could quickly grow into a fierce post threat. 9. Al-Farouq Aminu, F, Los Angeles Clippers 2010 stats: 17 MPG, 7.5 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 46.7% FG,54.2% 3 PT Aminu has a pretty nice well-rounded game. He won’t get the exposure or props he appropriately deserves, as he’s third in the pecking order (as he should be) behind Blake Griffin and Eric Bledsoe, but he’s still got some game. He’s getting Minnesota Vikings
more outspoken with his performances every week, and it’ll be interesting to see how much more productive he gets as the season wears on. 10. Gordon Hayward, G/F, Utah Jazz 2010 stats: 11.3 MPG,2.7 PPG, 1.5 RPG, 41.2% FG, 14.3% 3 PT Hayward’s minutes and production are sporadic at best right now but the next best guys (Monroe and Henry) also have been very inconsistent as of late. Hayward gets the nod here simply based off of his awesome one-handed jam in traffic this week. The analysts calling the game said they didn’t think he had it in him. Neither did we. Kid can ball. Play the Mini SuperStakes Fantasy Basketball game and win cash at Fantazzle!
2010年12月22日星期三
NBA Free Agency Disclaimer: Buyer Beware!
Mike Stobe/Getty ImagesThis summer has been the most heavily anticipated summer in NBA history. the cream off the crop of NBA superstars are peddling themselves before the end of the CBA (collective Bargaining Agreement) next season. As of this writing the players union has given the NBA a proposal for a new CBA.Teams have been clearing cap space for the last three years hence making thisthe Summer of Lebron.Players like Dywane Wade, Chris Bosh, Amare Stoudemire and Rudy Gay were all supposed to wait their turn at theSan Francisco 49ers jersey
money table. It didn't happen that way. Rudy Gay took one for the home town and got $80 million over five years. Rudy is a nice player but when Memphis needed him to step up his game in order to make the playoffs he failed. Hecontinuedto score but he wasn't been able to figure out how to score to help his team move to the next level.Joe Johnson falls in the same category as Rudy. The difference is that the Atlanta Hawks made the playoffs but his lack of leadership has left them labeled as underachievers. Yet the Hawks front office threw a $119 million contract at him.Amare who made his claim to stardom on the passes of Steve Nash, bolted for the lights off Broadway and agreed to a $100 million dollar deal with the New York Knicks. It seems like the lights have also left Donny Walsh a Seattle Seahawks jersey
little bit dim-witted; he knew his chances of landing Lebron hasdiminishedso this was a move to save face.Three stars whose heart has been questioned get big money because LeBron James' indecsion has caused teams to lose their financial minds.There was even a Darko Milicicsighting that left you wondering if David Kahn has imbibed in some kind of peyote to come up with that grandmaster plan.During one of his forays in the wilds ofMinnesota, he decided that giving Milicic a four year $20 million dollar deal was a good thing. He must have toked a little bit to hardbecausein the same breathe he put Al Jefferson on the trading block.Toronto followed suit with given Amir Johnson a $30 million dollar deal when he has yet to even get consistent NBA minutes.This unexpected twist in the order of St. Louis Rams jersey
free agentsigningscontinues to wreak havoc with team stability and future signings. Miami has gutted its team like a sub-contractor removing rotting pipes.They are willing to mortgage their future for the possibility of adding Lebron James and Chris Bosh to their roster.This free-agent frenzy has yet to be settled and the deals that have yet to be made will seal the deal on the inflated contracts that will hamper team for years to come
money table. It didn't happen that way. Rudy Gay took one for the home town and got $80 million over five years. Rudy is a nice player but when Memphis needed him to step up his game in order to make the playoffs he failed. Hecontinuedto score but he wasn't been able to figure out how to score to help his team move to the next level.Joe Johnson falls in the same category as Rudy. The difference is that the Atlanta Hawks made the playoffs but his lack of leadership has left them labeled as underachievers. Yet the Hawks front office threw a $119 million contract at him.Amare who made his claim to stardom on the passes of Steve Nash, bolted for the lights off Broadway and agreed to a $100 million dollar deal with the New York Knicks. It seems like the lights have also left Donny Walsh a Seattle Seahawks jersey
little bit dim-witted; he knew his chances of landing Lebron hasdiminishedso this was a move to save face.Three stars whose heart has been questioned get big money because LeBron James' indecsion has caused teams to lose their financial minds.There was even a Darko Milicicsighting that left you wondering if David Kahn has imbibed in some kind of peyote to come up with that grandmaster plan.During one of his forays in the wilds ofMinnesota, he decided that giving Milicic a four year $20 million dollar deal was a good thing. He must have toked a little bit to hardbecausein the same breathe he put Al Jefferson on the trading block.Toronto followed suit with given Amir Johnson a $30 million dollar deal when he has yet to even get consistent NBA minutes.This unexpected twist in the order of St. Louis Rams jersey
free agentsigningscontinues to wreak havoc with team stability and future signings. Miami has gutted its team like a sub-contractor removing rotting pipes.They are willing to mortgage their future for the possibility of adding Lebron James and Chris Bosh to their roster.This free-agent frenzy has yet to be settled and the deals that have yet to be made will seal the deal on the inflated contracts that will hamper team for years to come
2010年12月21日星期二
Oliver Perez: The New York Mets' Plan To Replace Takahashi and Feliciano?
Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesAs the year of "Perpetual Pedro" and surprising consistency from Hisanori Takahashi is over, the New York Mets are once again on the look out for bullpen help this upcoming season.Free-agent names have been floating around, but as per GM Sandy Alderson, “You shouldn’t expect us to come Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
back with a high-profile trophy.”So this leaves the Mets to look within the organization to construct next year’s bullpen.Guys like Ryota Igarashi, Pat Misch and Manny Acosta will be asked to step up and prove they are deserving of a spot in the pen, but an interesting name to go along with this group is fan favorite Oliver Perez.Hearing his name being brought up in discussions about next years team does make me uneasy, as I just want to see the team cut their losses and let him go.But if Perez can demonstrate the pitching that Minaya once thought deserving of a three-year, $36 million contract, then I guess management will have to give him a look.But to be perfectly honest, why will this year be any different from the past?His 2010 season was atrocious, going 0-5 with a 6.80 ERA. He has only reached Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
double-digits in the wins column three times in his nine-year career and he has been getting shelled this winter playing in Mexico.Who can the Mets trust to get the ball to K-Rod?Jim McIsaac/Getty ImagesHe is a total loose cannon on the mound which causes the wheels to come off very quickly and that’s the last thing our bullpen needs.I realize I am just stating the obvious and if anyone was barely familiar with the Mets they would understand this also. But giving the terms of his contract, and the year remaining, it only seems right to see what Ollie’s got for 2011.By noReebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
means am I saying that there aren’t better options available outside the organization, because there is a slew, but with the evident lack of funds the team is working with, Ollie could be our Opening Day lefty-specialist…until the inevitable implosion.
back with a high-profile trophy.”So this leaves the Mets to look within the organization to construct next year’s bullpen.Guys like Ryota Igarashi, Pat Misch and Manny Acosta will be asked to step up and prove they are deserving of a spot in the pen, but an interesting name to go along with this group is fan favorite Oliver Perez.Hearing his name being brought up in discussions about next years team does make me uneasy, as I just want to see the team cut their losses and let him go.But if Perez can demonstrate the pitching that Minaya once thought deserving of a three-year, $36 million contract, then I guess management will have to give him a look.But to be perfectly honest, why will this year be any different from the past?His 2010 season was atrocious, going 0-5 with a 6.80 ERA. He has only reached Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
double-digits in the wins column three times in his nine-year career and he has been getting shelled this winter playing in Mexico.Who can the Mets trust to get the ball to K-Rod?Jim McIsaac/Getty ImagesHe is a total loose cannon on the mound which causes the wheels to come off very quickly and that’s the last thing our bullpen needs.I realize I am just stating the obvious and if anyone was barely familiar with the Mets they would understand this also. But giving the terms of his contract, and the year remaining, it only seems right to see what Ollie’s got for 2011.By noReebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
means am I saying that there aren’t better options available outside the organization, because there is a slew, but with the evident lack of funds the team is working with, Ollie could be our Opening Day lefty-specialist…until the inevitable implosion.
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 College Football Odds: Oregon State Not Given Much of a Chance Against Oregon
Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesThe year started with a lot of hope in Corvallis as Mike Riley and the Oregon State Beavers looked to improve upon their 8-5 season that ended with a 44-20 loss to BYU in the MAACO Bowl in Las Vegas.Now, it’s all come down to playing spoiler to No. 2 Oregon’s chances of a national championship as the two square-off in the 114th edition of annual Civil War game.The latest college football odds show the Ducks at -16.5 over the Beavers with a game total of 54.5.A loss in Saturday’s game would end Oregon State’s season without going to a bowl game for the first time since 2005.It’s been an up-and-down season for the Beavs, and it all starts with sophomore quarterback Ryan Katz, who’s been a tough candidate, for the most part, and has shown a lot of guts as a first-year starter.Unfortunately, that has not equated to wins, as the Beavers took on a tough out-of-conference schedule that included Boise State and TCU.Despite Riley’s determination to pit his Beavers against some of the top-ranked teams, Katz has performed well, all things considered, including the loss of No. 1 receiver James Rodgers. He has completed 60.3 percent of his passes for 2,177 yards with 16 touchdowns and eight interceptions and has led an offense that is averaging 24.8 points and 327.2 yards per game.Not bad, right? Wrong.It's bad when your defense is allowing 25.9 points and 400.1 yards per game.One of this year’s biggest disappointments has been the overall performance off running back Jacquizz Rodgers.Rodgers remains one of the best backs in the nation, but his production has been hampered by the absence of a consistent passing game, allowing the opposition’s defense to stack the box without fear of nfl throwback jerseysbeing burned deep. However, the preseason Heisman candidate has still managed 1,097 rushing yards with an impressive 14 touchdowns.When the passing game is on, Quizz is at his best, and Katz has been able to find No. 2 target Markus Wheaton a team leading 45 times for 538 yards and three touchdowns, along with TE Joe Halahuni, who has 29 catches for 376 yards and six touchdowns.For the Ducks, they have had just the opposite season as their rival from the North, undefeated in 11 games and one win away from playing in the National Championship for the first time in the program's storied history.The only way I see it is for the Beavers to come out swinging as they try to get out ahead early and often, as Oregon does have a tendency to start games slow, pouring it on in the second half.Of course, that will mean the Beavers already-shaky defense will have to do its best trying to contain dual-threat QB Darron Thomas, who not only has supplied the Ducks with a potent air assault, hitting Jeff Maehl for 857 yards and 12 touchdowns, but has been the second of a two-headed rushing attack led by Heisman contender, RB LaMichael James.James has had a monster year, rushing for 1,548 yards and 19 touchdowns.Equally as impressive has been an Oregon defense that has allowed yards and points sporadically, but has allowed an average of just 18.3 points and 332.7 yards per game.Matt’s Free Prediction: Oregon State +16.5While I am pretty sure the Ducks will win this one, I am not sure if they will cover the 16.5-point spread. The Beavers are a tough Buffalo Bills jerseyteam at Reser and always get up for their annual game against their bitter southern rivals. Take the dog and the points.Interested in making some money this college football season? Check out what our expert college football handicappers have to offer in their weekly college football picks.The year started with a lot of hope in Corvallis as Mike Riley and the Oregon State Beavers looked to improve upon their 8-5 season that ended with a 44-20 loss to BYU in the MAACO Bowl in Las Vegas.Now, it’s all come down to playing spoiler to No. 2 Oregon’s chances of a national championship as the two square-off in the 114th edition of annual Civil War game.The latest college football odds show the Ducks at minus-16.5 over the Beavers with a game total of 54.5.A loss in Saturday’s game would end Oregon State’s season without going to a bowl game for the first time since 2005.It’s been an up-and-down season for the Beavs, and it all starts with sophomore quarterback Ryan Katz, who’s been a tough candidate, for the most part, and has shown a lot of guts as a first-year starter.Unfortunately, that has not equated to wins, as the Beavers took on a tough out-of-conference schedule that included Boise State and TCU.Despite Riley’s determination to pit his Beavers against some of the top-ranked teams, Katz has performed well, all things considered, including the loss of No. 1 receiver James Rodgers. He has completed 60.3 percent of his passes for 2,177 yards with 16 touchdowns and eight interceptions and has led an offense that is averaging 24.8 points and 327.2 yards per game.Not bad, right? Wrong.It's bad when your defense is allowing 25.9 points and 400.1 yards per game.One of this year’s biggest disappointments has been the San Francisco 49ers jerseyoverall performance off running back Jacquizz Rodgers.Rodgers remains one of the best backs in the nation, but his production has been hampered by the absence of a consistent passing game, allowing the opposition’s defense to stack the box without fear of being burned deep. However, the preseason Heisman candidate has still managed 1,097 rushing yards with an impressive 14 touchdowns.When the passing game is on, Quizz is at his best, and Katz has been able to find No. 2 target Markus Wheaton a team leading 45 times for 538 yards and three touchdowns, along with TE Joe Halahuni, who has 29 catches for 376 yards and six touchdowns.For the Ducks, they have had just the opposite season as their rival from the North, undefeated in 11 games and one win away from playing in the National Championship for the first time in the program's storied history.The only way I see it is for the Beavers to come out swinging as they try to get out ahead early and often, as Oregon does have a tendency to start games slow, pouring it on in the second half.Of course, that will mean the Beavers already-shaky defense will have to do its best trying to contain dual-threat QB Darron Thomas, who not only has supplied the Ducks with a potent air assault, hitting Jeff Maehl for 857 yards and 12 touchdowns, but has been the second of a two-headed rushing attack led by Heisman contender, RB LaMichael James.James has had a monster year, rushing for 1,548 yards and 19 touchdowns.Equally as impressive has been an Oregon defense that has allowed yards and points sporadically, but has allowed an average of just 18.3 points and 332.7 yards per game.Matt’s Free Prediction: Oregon State +16.5While I am pretty sure the Ducks will win this one, I am not sure if they will cover the 16.5-point spread. The Beavers are a tough team at Reser and always get up for their annual game against their bitter southern rivals. Take the dog and the points.Interested in making some money this college football season? Check out what our expert college football handicappers have to offer in their weekly college football picks.
19 Dec 10 Last-Minute Remarks on Sunday Night Football Week 12 Picks
Bob Levey/Getty ImagesWeek 12 (November 28):Tentative game: San Diego IndianapolisProspects: 6-3 vs. 4-5; the Chargers win over the Texans potentially put the NFL in a difficult situation. They had a bye this week, so they couldn’t make it back to .500, but they’re close Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
enough, and have enough upward momentum that history suggests will continue, that the NFL will have to weigh its tentative game bias against the present iffy state of the game and the strength of the alternatives. 6-3 vs. 4-5 still isn’t so lopsided to rule the game out.Protected games: Eagles-Bears (FOX) and Jags-Giants (CBS).Other possible games mentioned on last week’s Watch and their records: Titans (5-4)-Texans (4-5), Chiefs (5-4)-Seahawks (5-4), Packers (6-3)-Falcons (7-2), and Bucs (6-3)-Ravens (6-3).Impact of Monday Night Football: None.Analysis: I said last week that the best situation for Colts-Chargers left Packers-Falcons at 6-3 vs. 6-3 and Colts-Chargers at 6-3 v. 4-5, but that the same situation could very easily coincide with Bucs-Ravens being 6-3 vs. 7-2, but even then Packers-Falcons could get the nod based on name teams and people’s general feeling that the Bucs are beneficiaries of a weak schedule. I felt the Ravens needed to win on Thursday night to have any shot at theReebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
flex at all. Not only did that not happen, it’s now very difficult for the NFL to pass up a battle between two teams that might be the best two in the NFC. Worth noting that both of these would be moves from a CBS game to a Fox game, with a Fox-to-CBS move unlikely in the remaining weeks to force Week 17 to go to a CBS game, and Green Bay would be maxed out on NBC appearances with Packers-Patriots unlikely to be flexed out, and a potential huge Week 17 game with the Bears. Would the NFL keep a 6-3 vs. 4-5 game with a 6-3 vs. 7-2 game available of this caliber? One need only look to this same week, and this same Colts-Chargers game, two years ago. But 7-2 wasn’t the best record in the league then… Final prediction: Indianapolis Colts Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
San Diego Chargers (no change), but a flex would not surprise me one iota. (Lack of announcement is probably to see if Eagles-Bears at 5-3 vs. 6-3 is worthy of Fox late game vis-a-vis Bucs-Ravens, which may be a good sign for flexing in Packers-Falcons.)This article is also featured onSports.MorganWick.com
enough, and have enough upward momentum that history suggests will continue, that the NFL will have to weigh its tentative game bias against the present iffy state of the game and the strength of the alternatives. 6-3 vs. 4-5 still isn’t so lopsided to rule the game out.Protected games: Eagles-Bears (FOX) and Jags-Giants (CBS).Other possible games mentioned on last week’s Watch and their records: Titans (5-4)-Texans (4-5), Chiefs (5-4)-Seahawks (5-4), Packers (6-3)-Falcons (7-2), and Bucs (6-3)-Ravens (6-3).Impact of Monday Night Football: None.Analysis: I said last week that the best situation for Colts-Chargers left Packers-Falcons at 6-3 vs. 6-3 and Colts-Chargers at 6-3 v. 4-5, but that the same situation could very easily coincide with Bucs-Ravens being 6-3 vs. 7-2, but even then Packers-Falcons could get the nod based on name teams and people’s general feeling that the Bucs are beneficiaries of a weak schedule. I felt the Ravens needed to win on Thursday night to have any shot at theReebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
flex at all. Not only did that not happen, it’s now very difficult for the NFL to pass up a battle between two teams that might be the best two in the NFC. Worth noting that both of these would be moves from a CBS game to a Fox game, with a Fox-to-CBS move unlikely in the remaining weeks to force Week 17 to go to a CBS game, and Green Bay would be maxed out on NBC appearances with Packers-Patriots unlikely to be flexed out, and a potential huge Week 17 game with the Bears. Would the NFL keep a 6-3 vs. 4-5 game with a 6-3 vs. 7-2 game available of this caliber? One need only look to this same week, and this same Colts-Chargers game, two years ago. But 7-2 wasn’t the best record in the league then… Final prediction: Indianapolis Colts Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
San Diego Chargers (no change), but a flex would not surprise me one iota. (Lack of announcement is probably to see if Eagles-Bears at 5-3 vs. 6-3 is worthy of Fox late game vis-a-vis Bucs-Ravens, which may be a good sign for flexing in Packers-Falcons.)This article is also featured onSports.MorganWick.com
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 Cleveland Browns: Could Jonathan Haggerty Have Helped a Struggling WR Group?
The Cleveland Browns are sitting in third place in the AFC North in this 2010 NFL regular season and even though their playoff chances seem slim right now, they are poised to play the spoiler against every team that is playoff-bound for the remainder of this season. How great would it be for the Browns to Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
beat the Pittsburgh Steelers and/or the Baltimore Ravens in the final two weeks of the season and ruin one of their playoff chances? It would be a sweet ending to the season. but that is not the point of this article. The point is it right now is that many Browns fans are jumping on the, "We need a wide receiver," bandwagon with Georgia junior A.J. Green topping the list. Remember that Green is only a junior and there is no guarantee that he will even declare his eligibility. Also, what if undrafted rookie receiver Jonathan Haggerty never got injured in the first preseason game this season? Haggerty is a 6'1", 200-pound receiver who runs the 40-yard dash in 4.4 seconds. During training camp, there was a buzz for Haggerty by both the coaching staff and reporters in attendance. What round should the Browns possibly draft a WR in the 2011 NFL Draft?What round should the Browns possibly draft a WR in the 2011 NFL Draft?First round46.1%Second round40.6%Third round10.2%After the fourth round3.2%Total Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
votes: 471After nearly a half dozen observations on my own, I can say that Haggerty could have been a sleeper for the Browns offense this season barring an injury he sustained against the Green Bay Packers. It is quite evident that the Browns could have really used his skills. A four-year starter from Southwest Oklahoma State, Haggerty had 59 receptions for over 750 yards and six touchdowns as a senior. Not stellar stats in college, but he has great work ethic and is highly intelligent as said by Browns coach Eric Mangini during training camp before the start of Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
the 2010 season. Regardless of what could have happened, Haggerty is a prospect who should get his shot at making the team once again next training camp and helping a receiver group that sorely could have used his talents this season, too. Follow Bleacher Report's 2010 NFL coverage on Twitter by clicking here.(Also posted on Dawg Scooper: The Cleveland Browns Source)
beat the Pittsburgh Steelers and/or the Baltimore Ravens in the final two weeks of the season and ruin one of their playoff chances? It would be a sweet ending to the season. but that is not the point of this article. The point is it right now is that many Browns fans are jumping on the, "We need a wide receiver," bandwagon with Georgia junior A.J. Green topping the list. Remember that Green is only a junior and there is no guarantee that he will even declare his eligibility. Also, what if undrafted rookie receiver Jonathan Haggerty never got injured in the first preseason game this season? Haggerty is a 6'1", 200-pound receiver who runs the 40-yard dash in 4.4 seconds. During training camp, there was a buzz for Haggerty by both the coaching staff and reporters in attendance. What round should the Browns possibly draft a WR in the 2011 NFL Draft?What round should the Browns possibly draft a WR in the 2011 NFL Draft?First round46.1%Second round40.6%Third round10.2%After the fourth round3.2%Total Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
votes: 471After nearly a half dozen observations on my own, I can say that Haggerty could have been a sleeper for the Browns offense this season barring an injury he sustained against the Green Bay Packers. It is quite evident that the Browns could have really used his skills. A four-year starter from Southwest Oklahoma State, Haggerty had 59 receptions for over 750 yards and six touchdowns as a senior. Not stellar stats in college, but he has great work ethic and is highly intelligent as said by Browns coach Eric Mangini during training camp before the start of Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
the 2010 season. Regardless of what could have happened, Haggerty is a prospect who should get his shot at making the team once again next training camp and helping a receiver group that sorely could have used his talents this season, too. Follow Bleacher Report's 2010 NFL coverage on Twitter by clicking here.(Also posted on Dawg Scooper: The Cleveland Browns Source)
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Cincinnati Bengals: 2010 Comedy Tour Reaches New High
Andy Lyons/Getty ImagesThe Cincinnati Bengals are now a comedy act. The Abbott and Costello of the NFL. How can a team blow a 28-7 lead at home, to a 1-8 Buffalo Bills team? For the first time in NFL history, a team has trailed by 17 or more at halftime and come back to win by 18 or more. Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
How can an allegedly "stout" defense allow Ryan "Crazy Legs" Fitzpatrick to lead his team to 35-second half points? How in the world does Fitzpatrick throw FOUR touchdowns? How can Chad Ochocinco only have three receptions when he was in single coverage for most of the afternoon? Why is Marvin Lewis kicking a field goal with a no-name kicker down 11 with about five minutes to play? How does Cedric Benson have another fumble? Why has Bobbie Williams turned into a holding machine? Why does Carson Palmer look like he is playing to get cut and escape the wrath of the Bengals? Why have the Bengals lost 10 straight to the Bills, a team that hasn't made the playoffs since 2000? There are way too many questions and zero answers. The offense has taken a beating this year for underachieving with so much "talent." Well 10 games into the season the most reliable receiver is Jordan Shipley, a rookie third-round pick. Benson has a huge case of fumblitis that is losing him millions of dollars in free agency. Jordan Palmer looked better than his big brother on Sunday. That is behind laughable. The real head scratcher lies on the defensive side of the ball. A top five defense brings back all 11 starters. Sounds like the unit will be playing at the same level this year right? Not even close. The lack of pressure on the QB is a joke. The name "Domato Peko" and the word "sack" have never been used together. Robert Geathers was washed up in 2008. The linebackers are over pursuing Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
everything. Dhani Jones may be able to tackle the globe, but he can't catch a speedy running back. Rey Maualuga puts forth a lot of effort but the reason he dropped to the second round in the '09 is showing up regularly. He runs around like a chicken with his head cut off, he doesn't fill the proper gaps at times and he is forced out of a play way too often. The secondary is solid. The tandem of Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph is one of the best in the league. The aging safeties have been decent enough. But you can't cover receivers for six to eight seconds on every play. Good QBs have been having field days against the Bengals. The Bengals 2010 comedy tour continues in front of a national audience on Thanksgiving night against the Jets. The storyline should be about Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
the Bengals exacting revenge on the team that knocked them out of the playoffs last January. Instead, it's can the Bengals even score a TD on the stellar Jets D? Charlie Chaplin would be proud of the Bengals. They are cracking up NFL fans all across the country.
How can an allegedly "stout" defense allow Ryan "Crazy Legs" Fitzpatrick to lead his team to 35-second half points? How in the world does Fitzpatrick throw FOUR touchdowns? How can Chad Ochocinco only have three receptions when he was in single coverage for most of the afternoon? Why is Marvin Lewis kicking a field goal with a no-name kicker down 11 with about five minutes to play? How does Cedric Benson have another fumble? Why has Bobbie Williams turned into a holding machine? Why does Carson Palmer look like he is playing to get cut and escape the wrath of the Bengals? Why have the Bengals lost 10 straight to the Bills, a team that hasn't made the playoffs since 2000? There are way too many questions and zero answers. The offense has taken a beating this year for underachieving with so much "talent." Well 10 games into the season the most reliable receiver is Jordan Shipley, a rookie third-round pick. Benson has a huge case of fumblitis that is losing him millions of dollars in free agency. Jordan Palmer looked better than his big brother on Sunday. That is behind laughable. The real head scratcher lies on the defensive side of the ball. A top five defense brings back all 11 starters. Sounds like the unit will be playing at the same level this year right? Not even close. The lack of pressure on the QB is a joke. The name "Domato Peko" and the word "sack" have never been used together. Robert Geathers was washed up in 2008. The linebackers are over pursuing Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
everything. Dhani Jones may be able to tackle the globe, but he can't catch a speedy running back. Rey Maualuga puts forth a lot of effort but the reason he dropped to the second round in the '09 is showing up regularly. He runs around like a chicken with his head cut off, he doesn't fill the proper gaps at times and he is forced out of a play way too often. The secondary is solid. The tandem of Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph is one of the best in the league. The aging safeties have been decent enough. But you can't cover receivers for six to eight seconds on every play. Good QBs have been having field days against the Bengals. The Bengals 2010 comedy tour continues in front of a national audience on Thanksgiving night against the Jets. The storyline should be about Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
the Bengals exacting revenge on the team that knocked them out of the playoffs last January. Instead, it's can the Bengals even score a TD on the stellar Jets D? Charlie Chaplin would be proud of the Bengals. They are cracking up NFL fans all across the country.
2010年12月16日星期四
16 Dec 10 Oakland Raiders May Be Haughty, Hearty and Hefty in Challenging The Dolphins
Marc Serota/Getty ImagesWhoa! The Oakland Raiders were in a strange state of mind after the bye week. Were they haughty and overconfident, yet careless?Are they humbled and broken now? No, I don't think so. Cheer up, Oakland Raiders. There is still time for you to redeem yourselves in 2010.Well, Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
that was last week. Now it's time to start over again and to focus on a "win" against the Miami Dolphins. Let's just say that some of us never, ever give up on the Oakland Raiders.Looking at the pattern of the win-loss record for thelast eleven weeks of 2009, here is the chart: 7891011121314151617Miami LWLWWLWWLLLOaklandLLbyeLWLWLWLL;The Miami Dolphins had a win-loss record of 7-9 in 2009. Although their record looks better in 2009, they lost the last three games of the 2009 season. On the other hand, the Oakland Raiders won the game in Week 15, but lost the last two games of the 2009 season.The performance of the Oakland Raiders in the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers can be seen as an "outlier." The trend of the performance of the team before that game was upward.Consistency has been an issue for the Oakland Raiders and it remains so.It's a new day and the Oakland Raiders are still on their way "up" in the NFL.It's a new day and the Oakland Raiders are still on their way "up" in the NFL.I agree. 87.7%I disagree3.1%Uncertain.9.2%Total votes: 424Let's just say that if the Oakland Raiders play heartily and put up a hefty offense and defense, then things just might be redeemable in 2010.Can the Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Oakland Raiders put up a fight and get three consecutive wins, again, after bye weekin 2010?Why not?Buckle your seat belts, Raider Nation, because this Sunday, there may be a head-on collision between the Miami Dolphins and the Oakland Raiders.After aweek of taunts and criticism, the Raiders ought to be ready and steady enoughto get back on track.Just win, baby!
that was last week. Now it's time to start over again and to focus on a "win" against the Miami Dolphins. Let's just say that some of us never, ever give up on the Oakland Raiders.Looking at the pattern of the win-loss record for thelast eleven weeks of 2009, here is the chart: 7891011121314151617Miami LWLWWLWWLLLOaklandLLbyeLWLWLWLL;The Miami Dolphins had a win-loss record of 7-9 in 2009. Although their record looks better in 2009, they lost the last three games of the 2009 season. On the other hand, the Oakland Raiders won the game in Week 15, but lost the last two games of the 2009 season.The performance of the Oakland Raiders in the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers can be seen as an "outlier." The trend of the performance of the team before that game was upward.Consistency has been an issue for the Oakland Raiders and it remains so.It's a new day and the Oakland Raiders are still on their way "up" in the NFL.It's a new day and the Oakland Raiders are still on their way "up" in the NFL.I agree. 87.7%I disagree3.1%Uncertain.9.2%Total votes: 424Let's just say that if the Oakland Raiders play heartily and put up a hefty offense and defense, then things just might be redeemable in 2010.Can the Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Oakland Raiders put up a fight and get three consecutive wins, again, after bye weekin 2010?Why not?Buckle your seat belts, Raider Nation, because this Sunday, there may be a head-on collision between the Miami Dolphins and the Oakland Raiders.After aweek of taunts and criticism, the Raiders ought to be ready and steady enoughto get back on track.Just win, baby!
2010年12月15日星期三
Atlanta Falcons Invincible in Dome, Difficult To Beat in Reality
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesWith all due respect to a team with a relatively exalted turnaround,reachingthe level of prominence at theGeorgia Dome, a venue thatendures an engaging consciousness for the realization of theAtlanta Falcons, it's very perceptible gathering an assumptionin 36 Bettis White Jersey
whichAtlantais truly an understatement in the league.After this one, the Falcons are deprived of a prospering streak, perhaps the longestwinning streak since 1998, capping its third straight winning season. Insuch a prolificbusiness,owner Arthur Blank acquired not onlythe franchise in 2002,but has flourishedas the largest owner-funded foundation in the National Football Leagueestablishedto serve the youth, providing grants to nonprofit organizations across thestate ofGeorgia. So there are the Falcons in the finestjoyride,reaching astride with an intimidating offensive scheme led by the weaponry ofa discounted Matt Ryan.For now, however, thereis a proper reaction thatthe epitome of this team isperseverance, conviction andunityas a way toinfluence kidsin the Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation, brainwashed by the zealous psyche of thetalented and poised NFC South competitors. Endowed with much star power, from the explosive rushing attack of Michael Turner to the masterfulpassing ability of Ryan, the Falconshave been brilliantasfootball lords wrongly disregardsa 9-2 record.Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesFor those of you who are stilldoubtful of the miraculous progress, the annulment is overblownbadly overshadowing the incredible juncture, having wonnine of10 games within arigid schedule. It amazes me when the Falcons areprecisely the hottest team in the NFC, if not in all of football, howa stubborn-minded populationdepreciates the glamour and quality ofthe relentless Atlanta.It's as if theFalcons are still erstwhile, andnot destructive orpotentfor the postseason tocement as a vitalburdenagainst its opponent. And finally,onceit all began inone of the most loudest venues, defensive endJohn Abraham, theFalcons' sack leader, had recovered from a groin injury he sufferedtwo weeks ago. Last week, he tried to endurethe pain and play, butafter workoutshours before kickoff the coaching stafflisted him inactive and coachMike Smith carefully took precautionary actions on seemingly the Falcons' best defensive star.Now, all thisgibberishregarding the Falcons isn't all sotrue, not if they are thepowerful ones of the NFC, amazingly reminding us of the relevancy and titillation ofAmerica's popular sport. How good are the Falcons? In truth,this team is under the radar and misunderstood for alltheir immeasurable weapons, depth and size. How clutch are the Falcons?Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesWith nine secondsleft,Matt Bryant booted a 47-yard field goal to give the Falcons a20-17 win over thesizzling Green Bay Packersin an amazing Sunday matinee. At the beginning of a thrilling showcase, the Falcons exposedablistering,lethal rushing attack. The inexplicable speed of Turner exhausted the wearybodies of Packers defenders, andhe was allowed to demonstrate quickness and agility on his home turf, leading the Falcons inconsiderably a much-needed win.At long last, it appeared thatAtlantaseriously loomed a menace in the NFC, a conference no one ever imagined the Falcons beingon the pathwaytojustify much description. As to the immediate future, the Falconsbalance and polish is a sign of ambition, builtaround the instantimprovement ofSmith's vigorouscapacity as a defensive specialist, Ryan's mobility and precision, and lastly Turner's motion on the ground.On both sides of the ball,in the midst oftheFalcon's emergence,what fun to watcha dynamic offense dictate themomentum in every game.Make no mistake,they find ways to win by either brilliantly attacking on the ground or through the air. This is what best describes the Falcons, an offense-oriented team with the habit of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
maneuvering the pace of the game and outplaying a solid defensive unit. But soon enough, insidetheir domain, wherea noisyfan base unconditionally loves the Falcons, they'll be consideredin conversationfor mounting to superiority in the league as winning has evolved intocommonplace. Admittedly,any other town,rooting on any other team, should be nervous, somewhat terrified of the Falconsthird straight winning season.My assumption ispeople will dwell on the impressive streak in the postseason,but as of now, the folksbarely raveon such a brilliant season theFalcons are entertaining, busypraising other teams based on tradition andgrandiosity. The disrespect looms at Atlanta, even if therabid fans appreciate the growth ofthe overlooked Falcons.It's time for the worldto realizethis team is real.The problem, of course, is that no one iskind in recognizing the rapid quickness of Turner. He couldn't possibly have been forgotten, where he has harvested hisaccomplished careeras the primary running backof a predominantteam. All because of his speedy cleats, he had 110 yards on the ground, leading the Falcons to another significant scene, becoming acommon pattern in Atlanta.Before the Falcons played the Packers on Sunday, which had won its last three games, Ryan was already verified as a star. What is knowingly is that a star was born, ever since his arrival a few seasons ago, during his impressive rookie season, a year the Falcons' faithful became accustomed to his ability to shine as a team leader and inside the locker room. It's very alarming what the Falcons have done in their domain, as the Packers fell victim at an energized place where the carnival crowd turned nuts, witnessing the home team run the ball and throw it."We are fighting for home-field advantage," Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson said. "We are on a roll and feeling good in here. It's huge to play here. It's home. It's energy. We play with more confidence here. It's a family atmosphere. We feed off the crowd and they feed off of us. When I came here from Houston, they used to say, 'Hey baby, we're in the dome today.' And I was like, 'What does that mean?' I found out."Yeah, it's home sweet dome.There’s no place like a festive, electrifying environment. Afterwards, the Falcons celebrated and won seven consecutive games in the dome, just as Ryan improved to 19-1 at home, amazingly winning 15 straight games within its territory. It's worth pointing out that the Falcons prefer home cooking, rather than room service. What mattered the most is that the Falcons featured a rare breed in Ryan, carefully flinging the ball to his favorite target receiver Roddy White. As usual, he accounted for 24 of 28passes that ultimately was a factorindemoralizing the Packers anddismantling defensive coordinator Dom Capers' philosophy by exploiting hisefficient mobility and craftiness to connect with nine different receivers against one of 36 Bettis Black Jersey
the league's top defenses and produce two 14-play, 80-yard, seven-and-a-half-minute touchdown drives."He's smart. He read our coverages. He ran outside the pocket and made some third-down throws. I had a lot of respect for him coming in. I feel no differently now," Capers said.It would be fair to applaud the special teams, most notably by Eric Weems when he returned a kickoff 40 yards and endured a yanking of the facemask, which led to a penalty on Matt Wilhelm. In the next sequence, Ryan started from the Packers 49 and simplycompleted four consecutive passes to advance the ball to the 29, to make way forthe game-winning field goal.For one afternoon the Packers, one of thetop-notch teams, led byAaron Rodgers, had trouble slowing down the Falcons unstoppable speed on defense.It's alwaysnice to credit the winners.In retrospect, the Falcons are real.
whichAtlantais truly an understatement in the league.After this one, the Falcons are deprived of a prospering streak, perhaps the longestwinning streak since 1998, capping its third straight winning season. Insuch a prolificbusiness,owner Arthur Blank acquired not onlythe franchise in 2002,but has flourishedas the largest owner-funded foundation in the National Football Leagueestablishedto serve the youth, providing grants to nonprofit organizations across thestate ofGeorgia. So there are the Falcons in the finestjoyride,reaching astride with an intimidating offensive scheme led by the weaponry ofa discounted Matt Ryan.For now, however, thereis a proper reaction thatthe epitome of this team isperseverance, conviction andunityas a way toinfluence kidsin the Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation, brainwashed by the zealous psyche of thetalented and poised NFC South competitors. Endowed with much star power, from the explosive rushing attack of Michael Turner to the masterfulpassing ability of Ryan, the Falconshave been brilliantasfootball lords wrongly disregardsa 9-2 record.Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesFor those of you who are stilldoubtful of the miraculous progress, the annulment is overblownbadly overshadowing the incredible juncture, having wonnine of10 games within arigid schedule. It amazes me when the Falcons areprecisely the hottest team in the NFC, if not in all of football, howa stubborn-minded populationdepreciates the glamour and quality ofthe relentless Atlanta.It's as if theFalcons are still erstwhile, andnot destructive orpotentfor the postseason tocement as a vitalburdenagainst its opponent. And finally,onceit all began inone of the most loudest venues, defensive endJohn Abraham, theFalcons' sack leader, had recovered from a groin injury he sufferedtwo weeks ago. Last week, he tried to endurethe pain and play, butafter workoutshours before kickoff the coaching stafflisted him inactive and coachMike Smith carefully took precautionary actions on seemingly the Falcons' best defensive star.Now, all thisgibberishregarding the Falcons isn't all sotrue, not if they are thepowerful ones of the NFC, amazingly reminding us of the relevancy and titillation ofAmerica's popular sport. How good are the Falcons? In truth,this team is under the radar and misunderstood for alltheir immeasurable weapons, depth and size. How clutch are the Falcons?Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesWith nine secondsleft,Matt Bryant booted a 47-yard field goal to give the Falcons a20-17 win over thesizzling Green Bay Packersin an amazing Sunday matinee. At the beginning of a thrilling showcase, the Falcons exposedablistering,lethal rushing attack. The inexplicable speed of Turner exhausted the wearybodies of Packers defenders, andhe was allowed to demonstrate quickness and agility on his home turf, leading the Falcons inconsiderably a much-needed win.At long last, it appeared thatAtlantaseriously loomed a menace in the NFC, a conference no one ever imagined the Falcons beingon the pathwaytojustify much description. As to the immediate future, the Falconsbalance and polish is a sign of ambition, builtaround the instantimprovement ofSmith's vigorouscapacity as a defensive specialist, Ryan's mobility and precision, and lastly Turner's motion on the ground.On both sides of the ball,in the midst oftheFalcon's emergence,what fun to watcha dynamic offense dictate themomentum in every game.Make no mistake,they find ways to win by either brilliantly attacking on the ground or through the air. This is what best describes the Falcons, an offense-oriented team with the habit of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
maneuvering the pace of the game and outplaying a solid defensive unit. But soon enough, insidetheir domain, wherea noisyfan base unconditionally loves the Falcons, they'll be consideredin conversationfor mounting to superiority in the league as winning has evolved intocommonplace. Admittedly,any other town,rooting on any other team, should be nervous, somewhat terrified of the Falconsthird straight winning season.My assumption ispeople will dwell on the impressive streak in the postseason,but as of now, the folksbarely raveon such a brilliant season theFalcons are entertaining, busypraising other teams based on tradition andgrandiosity. The disrespect looms at Atlanta, even if therabid fans appreciate the growth ofthe overlooked Falcons.It's time for the worldto realizethis team is real.The problem, of course, is that no one iskind in recognizing the rapid quickness of Turner. He couldn't possibly have been forgotten, where he has harvested hisaccomplished careeras the primary running backof a predominantteam. All because of his speedy cleats, he had 110 yards on the ground, leading the Falcons to another significant scene, becoming acommon pattern in Atlanta.Before the Falcons played the Packers on Sunday, which had won its last three games, Ryan was already verified as a star. What is knowingly is that a star was born, ever since his arrival a few seasons ago, during his impressive rookie season, a year the Falcons' faithful became accustomed to his ability to shine as a team leader and inside the locker room. It's very alarming what the Falcons have done in their domain, as the Packers fell victim at an energized place where the carnival crowd turned nuts, witnessing the home team run the ball and throw it."We are fighting for home-field advantage," Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson said. "We are on a roll and feeling good in here. It's huge to play here. It's home. It's energy. We play with more confidence here. It's a family atmosphere. We feed off the crowd and they feed off of us. When I came here from Houston, they used to say, 'Hey baby, we're in the dome today.' And I was like, 'What does that mean?' I found out."Yeah, it's home sweet dome.There’s no place like a festive, electrifying environment. Afterwards, the Falcons celebrated and won seven consecutive games in the dome, just as Ryan improved to 19-1 at home, amazingly winning 15 straight games within its territory. It's worth pointing out that the Falcons prefer home cooking, rather than room service. What mattered the most is that the Falcons featured a rare breed in Ryan, carefully flinging the ball to his favorite target receiver Roddy White. As usual, he accounted for 24 of 28passes that ultimately was a factorindemoralizing the Packers anddismantling defensive coordinator Dom Capers' philosophy by exploiting hisefficient mobility and craftiness to connect with nine different receivers against one of 36 Bettis Black Jersey
the league's top defenses and produce two 14-play, 80-yard, seven-and-a-half-minute touchdown drives."He's smart. He read our coverages. He ran outside the pocket and made some third-down throws. I had a lot of respect for him coming in. I feel no differently now," Capers said.It would be fair to applaud the special teams, most notably by Eric Weems when he returned a kickoff 40 yards and endured a yanking of the facemask, which led to a penalty on Matt Wilhelm. In the next sequence, Ryan started from the Packers 49 and simplycompleted four consecutive passes to advance the ball to the 29, to make way forthe game-winning field goal.For one afternoon the Packers, one of thetop-notch teams, led byAaron Rodgers, had trouble slowing down the Falcons unstoppable speed on defense.It's alwaysnice to credit the winners.In retrospect, the Falcons are real.
2010年12月13日星期一
NFL Week 13 Fantasy RB Rankings: Charles in Charge
Week 13 RB Player Rankings brought to you by pyromaniac.com Rankings for QBs, WRs, and TEsClick for the RB Rankings Nos. 11-32 10. LeSean McCoy (vs Hou) McCoy should be able to have his way with this Texans defense, along with every other offensive position player on the Eagles for that matter. I mean the kid has barely averaged over 14 carries a game this year, yet still he’s seventh in the league in total yards with 1,227 (111.5 yards/game). 9. Mike Tolbert (vs Oak) Tolberticus Touchdownimust strikes again! The 2010 pro bowl 4 Brett Favre Blue jersey
guy just keeps on rolling out the TDs as he took yet another ball into the endzone last week against the Colts. Even if rookie Ryan Mathews does make it back this week, Tolbert has done enough to hold onto the starting job and have yet another easy match-up against one of the worst rush Ds in the league this Sunday. 8. Maurice Jones-Drew (@ Ten) MJD has rattled off four straight 100-yard games now with a TD in two of them, so go ahead and ride him while he’s hot. Another 100-yard effort is easily within his reach, but the Titans have been super-stingy in allowing rushing TDs, so don’t expect all-world fantasy numbers this week. 7. Michael Turner (@ TB) “The Centaur” had a real nice game against the Bucs the first time around (107 yards, two TDs), but that was back in the comfort of the Georgia Dome. Indeed he has put together some nice outings as of late, but he’ll be walking into a charged up inner-division game on the road this Sunday which always has the possibility of being a tough contest. Either way, Turner should be able to come close to the numbers he put up last time around against these guys. 6. Steven Jackson (@ Ari) The Beast should be able to have one of his best games of the year this Sunday as the Cardinals rush defense just flat out stinks. If a 31-year old Brian Westbrook can run for 136 yards and a TD against them, I’m scared to think what S-Jax might do. 5. Arian Foster (@ Phi) Foster might be the biggest surprise in the league this season as he currently leads the NFL in rushing yards, total yards and rushing TDs (though Michael Vick, Peyton Hillis, Dwayne Bowe and Brandon Lloyd might have something to say about that). He’s been better at home 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
this year, but the chance of him going for less than 140 total yards with a TD are as slim as they get. 4. Peyton Hillis (@ Mia) The 'Big Twinkie' went ballistic last week putting up 194 total yards (131 rushing) on the Panthers with three TDs. He might never see those numbers again in his career, but he’s become one of the steadiest plays in fantasy and can’t be left on your bench no matter who the Browns play. At the very least, you have to expect a TD out of him seeing that he’s scored in every single week except one (Week 6 at Pittsburgh). 3. Chris Johnson (vs Jax) Not many people can stop Chris Johnson, but when you combine Rusty Smith and Jeff Fisher, you pretty much have an unbeatable combination. Last week was an absolute nightmare for CJ28 owners, but believe me, with Kerry Collins coming back against this Jacksonville defense, Johnson should be able to get you back all those points you lost last week and more. 2. Adrian Peterson (vs Buf) If Purple Jesus is healthy enough to go this weekend, don’t be surprised to see him whip off his best fantasy day of the year. He went nuts earlier in the season against a bad Detroit rush D (160 yards, two TDs) and was all set to do so (before injuring his ankle) against an equally poor defense in Washington last week. Buffalo’s D is worse than both of them. 1. Jamaal Charles (vs Den) Charles said after last week’s game that he feels as good as he’s felt all year and that it feels like 6 Sanchez White Jersey
the season is just starting. If this is true, then look out fantasy world, ‘cause ‘The Ostrich’ is about to go a little nutty. Click for the RB Rankings Nos. 11-32 Week 13 rankings for QBs, WRs, and TEs There are no teams with RBs on a bye this week
guy just keeps on rolling out the TDs as he took yet another ball into the endzone last week against the Colts. Even if rookie Ryan Mathews does make it back this week, Tolbert has done enough to hold onto the starting job and have yet another easy match-up against one of the worst rush Ds in the league this Sunday. 8. Maurice Jones-Drew (@ Ten) MJD has rattled off four straight 100-yard games now with a TD in two of them, so go ahead and ride him while he’s hot. Another 100-yard effort is easily within his reach, but the Titans have been super-stingy in allowing rushing TDs, so don’t expect all-world fantasy numbers this week. 7. Michael Turner (@ TB) “The Centaur” had a real nice game against the Bucs the first time around (107 yards, two TDs), but that was back in the comfort of the Georgia Dome. Indeed he has put together some nice outings as of late, but he’ll be walking into a charged up inner-division game on the road this Sunday which always has the possibility of being a tough contest. Either way, Turner should be able to come close to the numbers he put up last time around against these guys. 6. Steven Jackson (@ Ari) The Beast should be able to have one of his best games of the year this Sunday as the Cardinals rush defense just flat out stinks. If a 31-year old Brian Westbrook can run for 136 yards and a TD against them, I’m scared to think what S-Jax might do. 5. Arian Foster (@ Phi) Foster might be the biggest surprise in the league this season as he currently leads the NFL in rushing yards, total yards and rushing TDs (though Michael Vick, Peyton Hillis, Dwayne Bowe and Brandon Lloyd might have something to say about that). He’s been better at home 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
this year, but the chance of him going for less than 140 total yards with a TD are as slim as they get. 4. Peyton Hillis (@ Mia) The 'Big Twinkie' went ballistic last week putting up 194 total yards (131 rushing) on the Panthers with three TDs. He might never see those numbers again in his career, but he’s become one of the steadiest plays in fantasy and can’t be left on your bench no matter who the Browns play. At the very least, you have to expect a TD out of him seeing that he’s scored in every single week except one (Week 6 at Pittsburgh). 3. Chris Johnson (vs Jax) Not many people can stop Chris Johnson, but when you combine Rusty Smith and Jeff Fisher, you pretty much have an unbeatable combination. Last week was an absolute nightmare for CJ28 owners, but believe me, with Kerry Collins coming back against this Jacksonville defense, Johnson should be able to get you back all those points you lost last week and more. 2. Adrian Peterson (vs Buf) If Purple Jesus is healthy enough to go this weekend, don’t be surprised to see him whip off his best fantasy day of the year. He went nuts earlier in the season against a bad Detroit rush D (160 yards, two TDs) and was all set to do so (before injuring his ankle) against an equally poor defense in Washington last week. Buffalo’s D is worse than both of them. 1. Jamaal Charles (vs Den) Charles said after last week’s game that he feels as good as he’s felt all year and that it feels like 6 Sanchez White Jersey
the season is just starting. If this is true, then look out fantasy world, ‘cause ‘The Ostrich’ is about to go a little nutty. Click for the RB Rankings Nos. 11-32 Week 13 rankings for QBs, WRs, and TEs There are no teams with RBs on a bye this week
2010年12月12日星期日
Josh McDaniels Fired: What It Means for the Denver Broncos
Todd Haley was much nicer to Josh McDaniels in their second postgame meeting yesterday, maybe even he knew it was over for McD in Denver.Justin Edmonds/Getty ImagesJust in at 4:20 p.m. MT on this Monday afternoon, Josh McDaniels has been "relieved of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
head coaching duties," a nice way to say, "We fired our head coach because he couldn't win." After starting his head coaching tenure 6-0 in 2009, McDaniels' Broncos lost 17 of the last 22 games, and in the process have lost respect and credibility—especially in the wake of "Spygate 2." And whether or not McDaniels looked at the taped walkthrough of the 49ers practice in London, it was only the last in a long line of incidents that were isolated events, but combined to snowball quicker than an avalanche rumbling down the Rocky Mountains. To begin McDaniels' head coaching tenure, people were divided immediately—partly because so many were in shock that Mike Shanahan was fired and longed for him to still be the coach. And while McDaniels was undoubtedly compared to his successor, arguably the most successful head coach in Broncos history in Shanahan, the real dividing line came when the word came out that McDaniels wanted to trade Jay Cutler for Matt Cassel. Of course, a multitude of terrible personnel moves, including not playing Peyton Hillis in 2009 and trading him for Brady Quinn, the possible busts in first-round picks Robert Ayers, Demaryius Thomas and Tim Tebow, getting rid of Brandon Marshall and Tony Scheffler—and the list goes on—were likely major reasons McD was fired. Was it the right decision to fire Josh McDaniels?Was it the right decision to fire Josh McDaniels?Yes84.3%No15.7%Total votes: 2,569He was also off-putting and some called him egomaniacal. And while it was somewhat hard to pinpoint what made people classify him in such a light, McDaniels was classically always late to his weekly press conferences. He's a smart man, a math major in college, and his offensive scheme is legendarily extensive. But another downfall of McDaniels was overthinking play-calling and an inability to reach the red zone with supposedly the most potent offensive scheme in the league. The Broncos became laughably bad, and for die-hard Denver fans, it was a position none are comfortable with. Blatantly, the 2010 team is worse than any Broncos team in the last 40 years; Denver hasn't been this terrible since the '60s. Pat Bowlen understands the history, he knows that he made the wrong decision on McDaniels, and even though he said last week he didn't "want to make a coaching change at this time," McD forced his hand. Should he have been given the chance to play out the season? Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
Probably, but then again, what warranted it? McDaniels couldn't beat the shaky Raiders or sorry 49ers, or even the historically terrible Rams at home. Simply, the Broncos couldn't win under McDaniels—always for one reason or 10 others (injuries, penalties, blown opportunities, horrible third-down percentage, etc.)—and Bowlen and the Broncos fanbase grew tired of it. No game in memory was less filled by paying fans at Mile High Stadium than last week versus the Rams. The stadium boasts a sell-out streak of 40 years in total, and the Broncos weren't good for all of them—a telling sign that fans had lost hope in their team and its head coach. What this means for the Broncos is that a major dividing line among fans is gone and a new spirit of hope can once again be instilled in a Denver franchise that has been one of the best in the NFL since the '80s. It also means that this rebuilding project that McDaniels started, which is at most halfway to a point that the team can be a winner, will now likely have to be restarted completely once again. The Denver defense needs to be completely redone. They will probably only have Elvis Dumervil, Robert Ayers, DJ Williams and Justin Bannan anyway, and a defensive coach is the direction that may be the best fit for the Broncos. Bill Cowher and John Gruden are high on fans' wish lists, and seemingly Bowlen's as well, but whether either would want to coach in Denver is unknown. But Bowlen does love offense, and Gary Kubiak is close to being fired in Huston—would the Broncos bring him back to Denver? As of now, the Broncos named Eric Studesville, the RB coach in Buffalo for six seasons, as interim head coach and there will be a press conference in the morning. Whomever Bowlen ultimately decides upon, he must be diligent in deciding the next man in charge, and he should at least consider signing a GM to make personnel decisions—something Bowlen has basically never had in 27 years as the owner. Maybe Bill Parcells is interested in being in charge upstairs in the Mile High City? The only thing certain right now is that McDaniels is gone, a weight has been lifted off the collective consciousness of Broncos Country and the focus toward the future can now be re-established. Where they go from here is once again in Bowlen's (and COO Joe Ellis') hands. Rich Kurtzman is a freelance journalist actively seeking a career in journalism. Steelers 10 Santonio Holmes jersey
Along with being a Denver Broncos and Denver Nuggets Featured Columnist for bleacherreport.com, Kurtzman is the CSU Rams Examiner and the Colorado/Utah Regional Correspondent for stadiumjourney.com. Follow Rich on twitter and/or facebook!
head coaching duties," a nice way to say, "We fired our head coach because he couldn't win." After starting his head coaching tenure 6-0 in 2009, McDaniels' Broncos lost 17 of the last 22 games, and in the process have lost respect and credibility—especially in the wake of "Spygate 2." And whether or not McDaniels looked at the taped walkthrough of the 49ers practice in London, it was only the last in a long line of incidents that were isolated events, but combined to snowball quicker than an avalanche rumbling down the Rocky Mountains. To begin McDaniels' head coaching tenure, people were divided immediately—partly because so many were in shock that Mike Shanahan was fired and longed for him to still be the coach. And while McDaniels was undoubtedly compared to his successor, arguably the most successful head coach in Broncos history in Shanahan, the real dividing line came when the word came out that McDaniels wanted to trade Jay Cutler for Matt Cassel. Of course, a multitude of terrible personnel moves, including not playing Peyton Hillis in 2009 and trading him for Brady Quinn, the possible busts in first-round picks Robert Ayers, Demaryius Thomas and Tim Tebow, getting rid of Brandon Marshall and Tony Scheffler—and the list goes on—were likely major reasons McD was fired. Was it the right decision to fire Josh McDaniels?Was it the right decision to fire Josh McDaniels?Yes84.3%No15.7%Total votes: 2,569He was also off-putting and some called him egomaniacal. And while it was somewhat hard to pinpoint what made people classify him in such a light, McDaniels was classically always late to his weekly press conferences. He's a smart man, a math major in college, and his offensive scheme is legendarily extensive. But another downfall of McDaniels was overthinking play-calling and an inability to reach the red zone with supposedly the most potent offensive scheme in the league. The Broncos became laughably bad, and for die-hard Denver fans, it was a position none are comfortable with. Blatantly, the 2010 team is worse than any Broncos team in the last 40 years; Denver hasn't been this terrible since the '60s. Pat Bowlen understands the history, he knows that he made the wrong decision on McDaniels, and even though he said last week he didn't "want to make a coaching change at this time," McD forced his hand. Should he have been given the chance to play out the season? Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
Probably, but then again, what warranted it? McDaniels couldn't beat the shaky Raiders or sorry 49ers, or even the historically terrible Rams at home. Simply, the Broncos couldn't win under McDaniels—always for one reason or 10 others (injuries, penalties, blown opportunities, horrible third-down percentage, etc.)—and Bowlen and the Broncos fanbase grew tired of it. No game in memory was less filled by paying fans at Mile High Stadium than last week versus the Rams. The stadium boasts a sell-out streak of 40 years in total, and the Broncos weren't good for all of them—a telling sign that fans had lost hope in their team and its head coach. What this means for the Broncos is that a major dividing line among fans is gone and a new spirit of hope can once again be instilled in a Denver franchise that has been one of the best in the NFL since the '80s. It also means that this rebuilding project that McDaniels started, which is at most halfway to a point that the team can be a winner, will now likely have to be restarted completely once again. The Denver defense needs to be completely redone. They will probably only have Elvis Dumervil, Robert Ayers, DJ Williams and Justin Bannan anyway, and a defensive coach is the direction that may be the best fit for the Broncos. Bill Cowher and John Gruden are high on fans' wish lists, and seemingly Bowlen's as well, but whether either would want to coach in Denver is unknown. But Bowlen does love offense, and Gary Kubiak is close to being fired in Huston—would the Broncos bring him back to Denver? As of now, the Broncos named Eric Studesville, the RB coach in Buffalo for six seasons, as interim head coach and there will be a press conference in the morning. Whomever Bowlen ultimately decides upon, he must be diligent in deciding the next man in charge, and he should at least consider signing a GM to make personnel decisions—something Bowlen has basically never had in 27 years as the owner. Maybe Bill Parcells is interested in being in charge upstairs in the Mile High City? The only thing certain right now is that McDaniels is gone, a weight has been lifted off the collective consciousness of Broncos Country and the focus toward the future can now be re-established. Where they go from here is once again in Bowlen's (and COO Joe Ellis') hands. Rich Kurtzman is a freelance journalist actively seeking a career in journalism. Steelers 10 Santonio Holmes jersey
Along with being a Denver Broncos and Denver Nuggets Featured Columnist for bleacherreport.com, Kurtzman is the CSU Rams Examiner and the Colorado/Utah Regional Correspondent for stadiumjourney.com. Follow Rich on twitter and/or facebook!
2010年12月11日星期六
Pittsburgh Steelers "The Great 18: Unit evaluation for 2008"
The NFL's free agency period, set to commence Feb. 29, is looming. Here , we are in the process of setting the Pittsburgh Steelers' priorities before they delve into the free-agent market. Eight through 18 have been discussed, leaving the seven most important positions the Steelers will have to address this offseason. Here are the links for 8-18. 8. Cornerback9. Outside linebacker; 10. Inside linebacker.11. Nose tackle; 12. Strong safety.13. Quarterback; 14. Running back.15. Tight end; 16. Punter; 17. Kicker; 18. Long snapper.Steelers 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
QB Ben Roethlisberger drew a definitive line in the sand of Heinz Field this off-season, mentioning his desire to have a "tall receiver,". Understandably, the receiver who is in the process of rewriting the Steelers receptions record book, 6-foot-0 Hines Ward, is slightly miffed at the idea of size mattering at that position. With Ward on the negative side of 30 years, and Nate Washington not at all likely to earn much in Pittsburgh past his restricted free agent season of 2008, will the Steelers throw a bone to their franchise signal-caller? Perhaps the most intriguing positional situation the Steelers have this year, at No. 7...7. Wide ReceiverHines Ward, 11th season; Santonio Holmes, third season; Nate Washington,
fourth season; Cedrick Wilson, eighth season; Willie Reid, third season; Jeremy Bloom, third season; Dallas Baker (PS), second season; Gerran Warren (PS), second year. In case you didn't notice, and judging by Ward's record-breaking season in 2007, you didn't, Santonio Holmes became the first Steeler since Plaxico Burress in 2001 to out-gain Ward in receiving yards and lead the team. Holmes' 18.1 yards per catch was the highest in the NFL, and he missed three games. He's poised to have an elite-level season in 2008 - regardless of the fact he stands 5-foot-11 and not 6-foot-4. Ward wasn't a chump last year, either. He led the team with 71 catches, and seven touchdowns, while playing most of the season with a sprained knee. He had surgery this off-season, and is supposed to recover in time for mini-camp in May. After those two, however, the picture gets a bit more muddled. Not for a lack of talent, mind you, but for issues in priority. Veteran Nate Washington is expected to receive a mid-level tender offer from the Steelers before he enters 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
restricted free agency Feb. 29. That means the Steelers will have to make a qualifying offer on a one-year deal, or give him a long-term extension, or he will become an unrestricted free agent. If the Steelers make Washington a mid-level tender offer (a one-year deal for around $780,000, which is guaranteed) they would receive a third-round pick if another team signed Washington to an offer sheet, and the Steelers elected not to match it. Has Washington earned more than that? Probably not. While he had a career-high five touchdowns in 2007 - three over the last three regular season games - Washington has had suspect hands over his career, and even with an incredible amount of athletic ability, he hasn't played consistently well enough to get much past the "potentially good" label. Along with Washington, Cedrick Wilson could be in his final year with the Steelers as well. With one year left on the four-year contract he signed with the Steelers before the 2005 season, Wilson's tenure is probably best described as "disgruntled." He publically complained about not getting the ball on multiple occaisons in multiple seasons, and he'll turn 30 before the end of next season. He had 18 catches in 2007 - the same amount as second-string running back Najeh Davenport. With two strong starters, and two unsigned receivers after 2008, the Steelers have to ask themselves whether the lack of a known third receiver is something they should address high and early in this year's draft. Consider this: The Steelers have taken pass-catching tight ends (Heath Miller and Matt Spaeth) on the first day of the draft in 2005 and 2007. There are some sizeable wide receiver prospects who could be available at the 23th pick in this year's draft. Oklahoma's Malcolm Kelly (6-foot-4) and Indiana's James Hardy (6-foot-6) are the two best WR prospects likely to go in the first round. Keep an eye on what the Steelers could do in the second round at this position, as the Steelers haven't looked that way since drafting Antwaan Randle-El in the second round in 2002. They took Dallas Baker in the seventh round last year, and he spent the 2007 season on the practice squad. They36 Bettis White Jersey
also signed KR/WR Jeremy Bloom for the 2008 season, but he isn't likely to assume a receiving role. If Bloom can show some ability in the return game, third-year man Willie Reid is not likely to return. Reid has done very little to show the Steelers he should stick around, which is another reason why the team could look for a receiver on Day 1 of the draft.
QB Ben Roethlisberger drew a definitive line in the sand of Heinz Field this off-season, mentioning his desire to have a "tall receiver,". Understandably, the receiver who is in the process of rewriting the Steelers receptions record book, 6-foot-0 Hines Ward, is slightly miffed at the idea of size mattering at that position. With Ward on the negative side of 30 years, and Nate Washington not at all likely to earn much in Pittsburgh past his restricted free agent season of 2008, will the Steelers throw a bone to their franchise signal-caller? Perhaps the most intriguing positional situation the Steelers have this year, at No. 7...7. Wide ReceiverHines Ward, 11th season; Santonio Holmes, third season; Nate Washington,
fourth season; Cedrick Wilson, eighth season; Willie Reid, third season; Jeremy Bloom, third season; Dallas Baker (PS), second season; Gerran Warren (PS), second year. In case you didn't notice, and judging by Ward's record-breaking season in 2007, you didn't, Santonio Holmes became the first Steeler since Plaxico Burress in 2001 to out-gain Ward in receiving yards and lead the team. Holmes' 18.1 yards per catch was the highest in the NFL, and he missed three games. He's poised to have an elite-level season in 2008 - regardless of the fact he stands 5-foot-11 and not 6-foot-4. Ward wasn't a chump last year, either. He led the team with 71 catches, and seven touchdowns, while playing most of the season with a sprained knee. He had surgery this off-season, and is supposed to recover in time for mini-camp in May. After those two, however, the picture gets a bit more muddled. Not for a lack of talent, mind you, but for issues in priority. Veteran Nate Washington is expected to receive a mid-level tender offer from the Steelers before he enters 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
restricted free agency Feb. 29. That means the Steelers will have to make a qualifying offer on a one-year deal, or give him a long-term extension, or he will become an unrestricted free agent. If the Steelers make Washington a mid-level tender offer (a one-year deal for around $780,000, which is guaranteed) they would receive a third-round pick if another team signed Washington to an offer sheet, and the Steelers elected not to match it. Has Washington earned more than that? Probably not. While he had a career-high five touchdowns in 2007 - three over the last three regular season games - Washington has had suspect hands over his career, and even with an incredible amount of athletic ability, he hasn't played consistently well enough to get much past the "potentially good" label. Along with Washington, Cedrick Wilson could be in his final year with the Steelers as well. With one year left on the four-year contract he signed with the Steelers before the 2005 season, Wilson's tenure is probably best described as "disgruntled." He publically complained about not getting the ball on multiple occaisons in multiple seasons, and he'll turn 30 before the end of next season. He had 18 catches in 2007 - the same amount as second-string running back Najeh Davenport. With two strong starters, and two unsigned receivers after 2008, the Steelers have to ask themselves whether the lack of a known third receiver is something they should address high and early in this year's draft. Consider this: The Steelers have taken pass-catching tight ends (Heath Miller and Matt Spaeth) on the first day of the draft in 2005 and 2007. There are some sizeable wide receiver prospects who could be available at the 23th pick in this year's draft. Oklahoma's Malcolm Kelly (6-foot-4) and Indiana's James Hardy (6-foot-6) are the two best WR prospects likely to go in the first round. Keep an eye on what the Steelers could do in the second round at this position, as the Steelers haven't looked that way since drafting Antwaan Randle-El in the second round in 2002. They took Dallas Baker in the seventh round last year, and he spent the 2007 season on the practice squad. They36 Bettis White Jersey
also signed KR/WR Jeremy Bloom for the 2008 season, but he isn't likely to assume a receiving role. If Bloom can show some ability in the return game, third-year man Willie Reid is not likely to return. Reid has done very little to show the Steelers he should stick around, which is another reason why the team could look for a receiver on Day 1 of the draft.
2010年12月9日星期四
San Francisco 49ers Alex Smith Tim Rattay
The San Francisco 49ers suffered a tough defeat in the high elevation of Mexico City. Losing to one of the leagues worst teams, the Arizona Cardinals, and doing so in an ugly fashion. The 49ers only points came off two first quarter defensive touchdowns. Ultimately though, the 14-0 lead was 2010 pro bowl 4 Brett Favre Blue jersey
washed out due to the fact that the offense could not pass the 50-yard line, and could not stay on the field.Injuries highlighted the San Francisco 49ers roster this week. The team was without linebackers Julian Peterson, and Jamie Winborn (who is now on the trading block in a peculiar decision by rookie head coach Mike Nolan). Also missing from action were receivers Arnaz Battle and Rashaun Woods (Woods is lost for the season) and tight end Eric Johnson. But it was the defensive backfield and offensive line that were in the most trouble, with starting DBs Mike Rumph and Ahmed Plummer out, and starting left tackle Jonas Jennings unavailable. Injuries continued to mount in this game, and the will be licking their chops as they come to San Francisco this week to face a reeling 49ers team.If ever there was a silver lining, it was Mike Nolan's epiphany this week to start first round pick Alex Smith at quarterback. Smith may not be any better than Tim Rattay, but at the very least he cannot be any worse. Smith was the first overall pick in the draft, and as a rookie will no doubt struggle at quarterback. But at least the 49ers can satisfy themselves in knowing that he is getting valuable experience. Of course, providing pass protection for Smith will be no 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
easy task given the state of the offensive line.Bryan Hersh is the creator of www.49ersparadise.com. His 49ers site is a fan favorite, and a great resource for all football fans. Be sure to check it out for the latest 49ers news including constantly updated news, original content, and a great participative community.
washed out due to the fact that the offense could not pass the 50-yard line, and could not stay on the field.Injuries highlighted the San Francisco 49ers roster this week. The team was without linebackers Julian Peterson, and Jamie Winborn (who is now on the trading block in a peculiar decision by rookie head coach Mike Nolan). Also missing from action were receivers Arnaz Battle and Rashaun Woods (Woods is lost for the season) and tight end Eric Johnson. But it was the defensive backfield and offensive line that were in the most trouble, with starting DBs Mike Rumph and Ahmed Plummer out, and starting left tackle Jonas Jennings unavailable. Injuries continued to mount in this game, and the will be licking their chops as they come to San Francisco this week to face a reeling 49ers team.If ever there was a silver lining, it was Mike Nolan's epiphany this week to start first round pick Alex Smith at quarterback. Smith may not be any better than Tim Rattay, but at the very least he cannot be any worse. Smith was the first overall pick in the draft, and as a rookie will no doubt struggle at quarterback. But at least the 49ers can satisfy themselves in knowing that he is getting valuable experience. Of course, providing pass protection for Smith will be no 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
easy task given the state of the offensive line.Bryan Hersh is the creator of www.49ersparadise.com. His 49ers site is a fan favorite, and a great resource for all football fans. Be sure to check it out for the latest 49ers news including constantly updated news, original content, and a great participative community.
San Francisco 49ers "Can Niners get better if Alex Smith doesn't?"
Does a team need a great quarterback to make it to the Super Bowl?Not necessarily. Trent Dilfer is one example. Brad Johnson is another. Ben Roethlisberger was a good quarterback when his Pittsburgh Steelers won it all in January 2006, but hardly a great one.What's needed, rather, is a quarterback who plays within the system, provides enough of a passing game to keep the defense guessing, and doesn't make mistakes.Which brings us to the San Francisco 49ers' Alex Smith. So far, making mistakes has been a recurring part of 4 Brett Favre White jersey
his M.O. -- not just interceptions (27 in two years) but fumbles (10 last season, five of them lost).By all accounts, Smith is a gutsy, intelligent athlete who demonstrates reasonable accuracy on short passes and can run effectively when necessary. And in fairness, some of his unfortunate decisions over the past two seasons may have come thanks to trying to learn under two very different offensive coordinators.Still, one has to wonder if there isn't an "emperor's new clothes" aspect to all the optimism about Smith coming out of spring workouts. By at least one eyewitness account, the third-year man from Utah was usually on the money with his short and intermediate throws but still inconsistent with deeper passes.Moreover, Smith didn't exactly finish the 2006 season in a rush. Although he did have an exceptional game against Seattle late in the year, his quarterback rating was less than 70 for three of his last four contests. For the season, he averaged just over 6 yards a completion and completed only eight passes over 40 yards.Not that he has to suddenly morph into Peyton Manning. But because new O-coordinator Jim Hostler wants to continue the "vertical" passing game installed by Norv Turner, doesn't Smith need to become a little more vertical?True, his receiving corps should be better this time around, if touted newcomers Ashley Lelie and Darrell Jackson can get over nagging injuries. A healthy Vernon Davis would also provide Smith with the best of both worlds -- a short-range security blanket with the speed to break some of those plays for long gains.What's different this year for Smith is that the team expectations are considerably higher, and that could prove interesting. His rookie year was pretty ghastly (how many other pro quarterbacks ever had a one-to-11 touchdown pass/interception ratio?), but that was within the context of a bad team. It also set the bar so low that a 16-TD/16-INT sophomore season was considered a major improvement.49ers player personnel director Scot McCloughan is obviously trying very hard to keep the pressure of his young quarterback, saying last month, "He'll be more valuable to the team in the future than in 2007."Yet what if 49er fans, emboldened by a strong draft and some eye-catching free-agent signings, decide that the future is now? It's easy to be patient with a struggling QB when the whole team is floundering, but what if Smith begins to look like an impediment to significant progress?Would San Jets 6 Sanchez Jersey
Francisco bench him in favor of Dilfer, Smith's backup, and risk destroying the youngster's confidence? Or would they keep playing him, thereby telling the fans that the team isn't quite ready for prime time just yet?RealFootball365.com: Where there's no such thing as an offseason for San Francisco 49ers football.
his M.O. -- not just interceptions (27 in two years) but fumbles (10 last season, five of them lost).By all accounts, Smith is a gutsy, intelligent athlete who demonstrates reasonable accuracy on short passes and can run effectively when necessary. And in fairness, some of his unfortunate decisions over the past two seasons may have come thanks to trying to learn under two very different offensive coordinators.Still, one has to wonder if there isn't an "emperor's new clothes" aspect to all the optimism about Smith coming out of spring workouts. By at least one eyewitness account, the third-year man from Utah was usually on the money with his short and intermediate throws but still inconsistent with deeper passes.Moreover, Smith didn't exactly finish the 2006 season in a rush. Although he did have an exceptional game against Seattle late in the year, his quarterback rating was less than 70 for three of his last four contests. For the season, he averaged just over 6 yards a completion and completed only eight passes over 40 yards.Not that he has to suddenly morph into Peyton Manning. But because new O-coordinator Jim Hostler wants to continue the "vertical" passing game installed by Norv Turner, doesn't Smith need to become a little more vertical?True, his receiving corps should be better this time around, if touted newcomers Ashley Lelie and Darrell Jackson can get over nagging injuries. A healthy Vernon Davis would also provide Smith with the best of both worlds -- a short-range security blanket with the speed to break some of those plays for long gains.What's different this year for Smith is that the team expectations are considerably higher, and that could prove interesting. His rookie year was pretty ghastly (how many other pro quarterbacks ever had a one-to-11 touchdown pass/interception ratio?), but that was within the context of a bad team. It also set the bar so low that a 16-TD/16-INT sophomore season was considered a major improvement.49ers player personnel director Scot McCloughan is obviously trying very hard to keep the pressure of his young quarterback, saying last month, "He'll be more valuable to the team in the future than in 2007."Yet what if 49er fans, emboldened by a strong draft and some eye-catching free-agent signings, decide that the future is now? It's easy to be patient with a struggling QB when the whole team is floundering, but what if Smith begins to look like an impediment to significant progress?Would San Jets 6 Sanchez Jersey
Francisco bench him in favor of Dilfer, Smith's backup, and risk destroying the youngster's confidence? Or would they keep playing him, thereby telling the fans that the team isn't quite ready for prime time just yet?RealFootball365.com: Where there's no such thing as an offseason for San Francisco 49ers football.
2010年12月2日星期四
Acquiring, keeping stars fuels home Super Bowl talk
While the 49ers never participated in a home Super Bowl, they did play in a close-to-home one when they triumphed in the 19th edition held at nearby Stanford University. And it’s conceivable that the Buccaneers have a marginal chance to get to this year’s championship game in their regular stadium, while Dallas could play in the 45th edition at its new venue assuming Wade Phillips can win a playoff game by then.Still, discussion about whether the Colts would be the first genuine home team to compete for The Vince began by the time 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
most people had read the third or fourth syllable of “Indianapolis” in stories about the city being awarded the honor of hosting the best day of 2012.People were ready to theorize that the Colts wouldn’t have to leave the area code to compete for a championship just as quickly as they would dismiss the Dolphins’ odds of being able to sleep in their regular dwellings the night before playing the Super Bowl of the season after next. Short of a roof growing over Gillette Stadium and Massachusetts hosting the event, no other announcement of the game’s site would engender such vigorous speculation; the Colts have, mildly, earned that level of esteem.The immediate thought is of how many present Colts will still be current at that point of the future. For one, the game would take place at the conclusion of Peyton Manning’s 14th year, and there’s no reason to think he won’t still be engaging in his trademark dismantling of pass defenses. Unless he decides to leave the game in order to pursue a Jason Taylor-style Hollywood path except as a full-time commercial actor, his career lasting four more seasons can be safely classified as likely.The outlook isn’t as optimistic for Marvin Harrison, whose priority should be playing a game in the 2008 season, not the last game of the 2011/12 postseason. Still, it would be possible, just as sure as it’s probable Reggie Wayne would be around for his 11th campaign.Joseph Addai would be at the end of his sixth year, meaning he enjoys high prospects of still residing in the backfield even for a position with a notoriously short shelf life. Dallas Clark would be finishing his ninth season, so the recently re-signed tight end would likely continue to be part of the team, too.As for the biggest defensive name, Dwight Freeney will be 31, and assuming that his current injury is an aberration and not the first in a history, it would be foolish to bet against him still holding a roster spot. On the other hand, although a year younger, Bob Sanders has a more extensive record of wounds; as it was when they won it all the season before last, his presence may be the difference between the Colts getting there and this scenario never becoming an actuality.But the more interesting thing isn’t so much who sticks around but rather why chat about there being a home team for the NFL’s final game of that season came about so easily. Regardless of how many of Indianapolis’ prominent faces remain, there is obviously confidence that this team will maintain elite status for at least that long. Discussion about whether the Colts can be the first to accomplish the feat is itself testament to the way the squad is constructed.Instead of whining about the constraints of the salary cap or market size, this franchise has established what can officially be called a pattern of prudent drafting, adding precisely whom it needs and focusing on the lines when necessary instead of falling for glint.Further, they’ve not only added skilled players at precisely the right times but managed to re-sign many of them, as potential free agents don’t tend to automatically bolt. Edgerrin James was the biggest exception, but it’s safe to proclaim that didn’t really end up costing this team.The Colts are a cooperative venture, as they bring aboard winners devoted to the franchise. While every single professional athlete professes that team success is the ultimate goal, the reality is that many are basely motivated by the scent of a little bit more money.Alternatively, Indianapolis has emerged as a city where players want to stay thanks to a nearly decadelong string of success along with the selfless characteristics of the players themselves. It’s not only refreshing, it’s also why triumph is not ethereal for the 36 Bettis Black Jersey
Colts as it is for so many other teams.The current players are of course valuable, but even more crucial is that they’re components in an unremittingly churning system. The fact that it’s tough to imagine any Indianapolis superstars playing elsewhere paired with a sterling draft record fuels discussion about both city and team hosting a Super Bowl even more than playoff streaks or seasons of 12-plus wins. Those are the results, but shrewd additions and retaining talent are the causes.
most people had read the third or fourth syllable of “Indianapolis” in stories about the city being awarded the honor of hosting the best day of 2012.People were ready to theorize that the Colts wouldn’t have to leave the area code to compete for a championship just as quickly as they would dismiss the Dolphins’ odds of being able to sleep in their regular dwellings the night before playing the Super Bowl of the season after next. Short of a roof growing over Gillette Stadium and Massachusetts hosting the event, no other announcement of the game’s site would engender such vigorous speculation; the Colts have, mildly, earned that level of esteem.The immediate thought is of how many present Colts will still be current at that point of the future. For one, the game would take place at the conclusion of Peyton Manning’s 14th year, and there’s no reason to think he won’t still be engaging in his trademark dismantling of pass defenses. Unless he decides to leave the game in order to pursue a Jason Taylor-style Hollywood path except as a full-time commercial actor, his career lasting four more seasons can be safely classified as likely.The outlook isn’t as optimistic for Marvin Harrison, whose priority should be playing a game in the 2008 season, not the last game of the 2011/12 postseason. Still, it would be possible, just as sure as it’s probable Reggie Wayne would be around for his 11th campaign.Joseph Addai would be at the end of his sixth year, meaning he enjoys high prospects of still residing in the backfield even for a position with a notoriously short shelf life. Dallas Clark would be finishing his ninth season, so the recently re-signed tight end would likely continue to be part of the team, too.As for the biggest defensive name, Dwight Freeney will be 31, and assuming that his current injury is an aberration and not the first in a history, it would be foolish to bet against him still holding a roster spot. On the other hand, although a year younger, Bob Sanders has a more extensive record of wounds; as it was when they won it all the season before last, his presence may be the difference between the Colts getting there and this scenario never becoming an actuality.But the more interesting thing isn’t so much who sticks around but rather why chat about there being a home team for the NFL’s final game of that season came about so easily. Regardless of how many of Indianapolis’ prominent faces remain, there is obviously confidence that this team will maintain elite status for at least that long. Discussion about whether the Colts can be the first to accomplish the feat is itself testament to the way the squad is constructed.Instead of whining about the constraints of the salary cap or market size, this franchise has established what can officially be called a pattern of prudent drafting, adding precisely whom it needs and focusing on the lines when necessary instead of falling for glint.Further, they’ve not only added skilled players at precisely the right times but managed to re-sign many of them, as potential free agents don’t tend to automatically bolt. Edgerrin James was the biggest exception, but it’s safe to proclaim that didn’t really end up costing this team.The Colts are a cooperative venture, as they bring aboard winners devoted to the franchise. While every single professional athlete professes that team success is the ultimate goal, the reality is that many are basely motivated by the scent of a little bit more money.Alternatively, Indianapolis has emerged as a city where players want to stay thanks to a nearly decadelong string of success along with the selfless characteristics of the players themselves. It’s not only refreshing, it’s also why triumph is not ethereal for the 36 Bettis Black Jersey
Colts as it is for so many other teams.The current players are of course valuable, but even more crucial is that they’re components in an unremittingly churning system. The fact that it’s tough to imagine any Indianapolis superstars playing elsewhere paired with a sterling draft record fuels discussion about both city and team hosting a Super Bowl even more than playoff streaks or seasons of 12-plus wins. Those are the results, but shrewd additions and retaining talent are the causes.
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