Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesContrary to popular opinion, the importance of capturing a NBA championship still far outweighs any regular season individual awards, even if the attitude of fans around the league has shifted towards placing a premium on success over 82 games.It perplexes me to ever Cleveland Browns jersey
hear a person make a statement that says championships are not really that important, and have no true bearing on the legacy of a great player.I struggle to see how we could have lost so much perspective, because the onlyreason the extremely long NBA regular season even exists is to establish seeding for the postseason.That's right, the first 82 games represent a month's long, glorified scrimmage that do little to determine who the league's best team is, because that is awarded under the pressure of the postseason.The media and soon-to-be fan biased MVP award has become a point of celebration among fans, and is falsely applied when discussing the level of a player's greatness, without the benefit of postseason success.I'm not suggesting the MVP award doesn't bear some weight on an individual's legacy, but it doesn't stand in comparison of achievement on the game's grandest stage.People will remember who won the MVP award in any given season, and they will also recall if a player had a great postseason in a losing effort, but the name of the eventual champion will be forever etched in history.Long after the memory of regular season greatness has faded or passed, the concrete evidence of a NBA championship will remain, and can rightly be used to justify the elite status of any player.Think about it.Malone, Stockton, Barkley, Kidd, Nowitzki: all great players whose final destination is the Hall of Fame, yet they are all missing the critical piece which would solidify their legacies.When you really give Dallas Cowboys jersey
it thought, those player's inability to succeed when it mattered the most will be their ultimate legacy, and any debate concerning their status as legendary players will touch on that specific failure.Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Kobe Bryant are all great players who cemented their legacies by excelling in the postseason, and any argument concerning those names will end with the fact they were champions.Bryant is a player with wondrous talents, but if he had been unable to win in the postseason, the cries of his many detractors would be amplified, and the impact of his presence would be diminished.Bryant's four championships serve as the last word when discussing his legacy because, even though he has his share of faults, real and perceived, his NBA playoff record stands as a testament to excellence when it mattered the most.Of course all the players previously mentioned will exist as great players regardless if they ever win a championship or not, but for those who feel their status is complete, you are fooling yourselves.The players themselves say they would trade all the regular season awards for one championship, and in a game which thrives on numbers, the final one will always be titles.NBA titles are the only thing which truly separates the legendary players, and for those who performed at a similar level, it is often the determining factor of the better player.So Malone or Duncan?The argument is often made, and for Malone it is lost when considering the ability of Duncan to capture four rings while the title was never delivered to the Mailman.The same line of thought is relevant for any number of players who can be compared on the basis of their talent, but differentiated by their failure to succeed in the postseason.I'm not sure Denver Broncos jersey
how we arrived to the point where the NBA championship is marginalized, but if it stands as the greatest achievement to the best who have ever played the game, then it should exist likewise in our view.Whether you like it or not, great players who utilized the opportunity to lead their teams to the promise land are held in highest esteem.Their performances on the game's grandest stage diminish anything done in the regular season.
2010年12月30日星期四
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 Should People in La La Land Be Worried About The Play Of The Lakers?
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images On Tuesday Night, the Lakers beat the Sacramento Kings 106-100 in front of 18,997 fans at home. It was not the typical victory that Lakers' fans have come to expect. Although the Lakers played the game without the services of Kobe Bryant, the final score was too close for comfort. The Lakers, even with the absence of Kobe Bryant should have beaten the barely breathing Kings by an easy 20 points. This margin of victory against the Kings is just one example of the recent poor play by the Lakers who have lost 3 out of St. Louis Rams jersey
their last 6 contest. This is not the kind of momentum a team wants going into the Playoffs. As the NBA Playoffs are slated to begin soon, the Lakers appear destined to battle a hungry group of talented young players in the Oklahoma City Thunder. Although the Lakers recent lack luster performances may fuel some members of La La land to believe that everything is not going well for the Lakers, this is not the case. The Lakers will prevail, and get their act together, as most veteran teams do when time calls for it. The Lakers have experience and talent, and their recent slump is normal. Their slump just happens to have occurred at an inconvenient point in the season. In the end, the Lakers will get their act together, as well as their winning ways, and all the worrying feelings in La La land will be extinguished.
their last 6 contest. This is not the kind of momentum a team wants going into the Playoffs. As the NBA Playoffs are slated to begin soon, the Lakers appear destined to battle a hungry group of talented young players in the Oklahoma City Thunder. Although the Lakers recent lack luster performances may fuel some members of La La land to believe that everything is not going well for the Lakers, this is not the case. The Lakers will prevail, and get their act together, as most veteran teams do when time calls for it. The Lakers have experience and talent, and their recent slump is normal. Their slump just happens to have occurred at an inconvenient point in the season. In the end, the Lakers will get their act together, as well as their winning ways, and all the worrying feelings in La La land will be extinguished.
29 Dec 10 Should People in La La Land Be Worried About The Play Of The Lakers?
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images On Tuesday Night, the Lakers beat the Sacramento Kings 106-100 in front of 18,997 fans at home. It was not the typical victory that Lakers' fans have come to expect. Although the Lakers played the game without the services of Kobe Bryant, the final score was too close for comfort. The Lakers, even with the absence of Kobe Bryant should have beaten the barely breathing Kings by an easy 20 points. This margin of victory against the Kings is just one example of the recent poor play by the Lakers who have lost 3 out of St. Louis Rams jersey
their last 6 contest. This is not the kind of momentum a team wants going into the Playoffs. As the NBA Playoffs are slated to begin soon, the Lakers appear destined to battle a hungry group of talented young players in the Oklahoma City Thunder. Although the Lakers recent lack luster performances may fuel some members of La La land to believe that everything is not going well for the Lakers, this is not the case. The Lakers will prevail, and get their act together, as most veteran teams do when time calls for it. The Lakers have experience and talent, and their recent slump is normal. Their slump just happens to have occurred at an inconvenient point in the season. In the end, the Lakers will get their act together, as well as their winning ways, and all the worrying feelings in La La land will be extinguished.
their last 6 contest. This is not the kind of momentum a team wants going into the Playoffs. As the NBA Playoffs are slated to begin soon, the Lakers appear destined to battle a hungry group of talented young players in the Oklahoma City Thunder. Although the Lakers recent lack luster performances may fuel some members of La La land to believe that everything is not going well for the Lakers, this is not the case. The Lakers will prevail, and get their act together, as most veteran teams do when time calls for it. The Lakers have experience and talent, and their recent slump is normal. Their slump just happens to have occurred at an inconvenient point in the season. In the end, the Lakers will get their act together, as well as their winning ways, and all the worrying feelings in La La land will be extinguished.
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 Signs of Change: Suns Show Similar Flaws, Get Different Result Against Spurs
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesThe Suns led most of the game. The Spurs made several second-half charges and gave Phoenicians a sick, panicked feeling in their stomachs.Greg Popovich even played his despicable, intentional-foul card on the Suns' worst free-throw shooter.All that is familiar. The end result, Washington Redskins jersey
a 111-102 Suns win, was incredibly different.The Spurs are not the same team that tormented the Suns in the past. Gone is the cold-blooded shooting of Bruce Bowen and Robert Horryand it showed.George Hill and Robert Mason Jr. missed what would have been dagger three's for San Antonio in the past.Those might go in later in the series, and that should keep Phoenix from getting complacent, as they did with Portland in round one. The reserves won't stay cold and the confines won't stay friendly.Still, it's a Game One win, something the Suns have been unable to snag in postseasons past.Phoenix Exorcises (some) DemonsDon't underestimate the importance of this win for Phoenix. They have never played from a position of strength. The Suns have always felt as though they were playing from behind, trying to catch the Spurs.In both single-game and playoff series situations, that's nearly impossible to do.Luckily for Phoenix, they led almost the entire way in Game One. Steve Nash and Jason Richardson were essential in building their various leads, while Stoudemire converted key, contested baskets when the Spurs threatened to overtake them.That kind of crunch-time poise has one of the Suns' biggest downfalls. Phoenix has to feel good knowing that is no longer the case.Still, it was alarming how easily Parker and Ginobili got to the rim in the final two minutes. Phoenix' defense, solid up to that point, went lazy thinking the game was sewn up. Given the history between the teams, the Suns should know better.If it weren't for their double-digit leads, that mental lapse might have proven fatal.Another new strength for Phoenix: their bench. After a shaky first half, the Suns' reserves, strengthened by either Stoudemire or Hill's steady hand, out-worked and out-hustled their San Antonio counterparts.One other observation: When will the Suns truly focus on making Ginobili drive to his right?Spurs Know How to AdjustThe Spurs will grudgingly take a moral victory from knowing they could have Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
won despite Stoudemire, Nash, and Richardson combining for 83 points. Also, Hill wasn't nearly as effective guarding Ginobili as he was on Portland's Andre Miller.No shocker, but at least a disappointment for the Suns.Disappointing for the Spurs was the abysmal play of Richard Jefferson (five points on 1-of-3 shooting). He just doesn't seem to fit as well as his less-talented predecessors. His lack of three-point shooting hurts the spacing on the Spurs' offense. That left San Antonio with the cold shooting of Mason and Hill.If San Antonio chooses to play Hill over Jefferson, as they did for much of Game One, they'll have to figure out how to hide him on defense. Whether it was Nash blowing by him, or Richardson and Grant Hill posting him up, George Hill was an obvious target for the Suns' offense.Given that and his sub-par performance, Parker will likely start for the rest of the series, leaving Hill to contend with the Suns' bench crew.Game Two OutlookPopovich attempted to play small at the end of Game One, with short-term gain and long-term loss. The Suns are used to playing small, and have been since Robin Lopez went out in late-March with injury.Look for reserve DeJuan Blair to make more of an impact than the two-point, two-rebound performance in Game One. His ability Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
o crash the boards seems too good a weapon against the slighter Phoenix frontline.Also, don't expect the Spurs role-players to underperform two games in a row.At the same time, one of the Suns' reserves is due to perform better than bench-best six points. It's a good bet that someone among Dragic, Dudley, Barbosa, and Frye will get a hot hand, especially in front of the home crowd.The biggest key will be the point guard matchup. Will Parker match his starter status with starter production and make Nash pay in the process? Will Nash be able to get the same results he did in Game One, whether it's for himself or others?Oh, and Robin Lopez, a maybe for Game One, could be back.
a 111-102 Suns win, was incredibly different.The Spurs are not the same team that tormented the Suns in the past. Gone is the cold-blooded shooting of Bruce Bowen and Robert Horryand it showed.George Hill and Robert Mason Jr. missed what would have been dagger three's for San Antonio in the past.Those might go in later in the series, and that should keep Phoenix from getting complacent, as they did with Portland in round one. The reserves won't stay cold and the confines won't stay friendly.Still, it's a Game One win, something the Suns have been unable to snag in postseasons past.Phoenix Exorcises (some) DemonsDon't underestimate the importance of this win for Phoenix. They have never played from a position of strength. The Suns have always felt as though they were playing from behind, trying to catch the Spurs.In both single-game and playoff series situations, that's nearly impossible to do.Luckily for Phoenix, they led almost the entire way in Game One. Steve Nash and Jason Richardson were essential in building their various leads, while Stoudemire converted key, contested baskets when the Spurs threatened to overtake them.That kind of crunch-time poise has one of the Suns' biggest downfalls. Phoenix has to feel good knowing that is no longer the case.Still, it was alarming how easily Parker and Ginobili got to the rim in the final two minutes. Phoenix' defense, solid up to that point, went lazy thinking the game was sewn up. Given the history between the teams, the Suns should know better.If it weren't for their double-digit leads, that mental lapse might have proven fatal.Another new strength for Phoenix: their bench. After a shaky first half, the Suns' reserves, strengthened by either Stoudemire or Hill's steady hand, out-worked and out-hustled their San Antonio counterparts.One other observation: When will the Suns truly focus on making Ginobili drive to his right?Spurs Know How to AdjustThe Spurs will grudgingly take a moral victory from knowing they could have Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
won despite Stoudemire, Nash, and Richardson combining for 83 points. Also, Hill wasn't nearly as effective guarding Ginobili as he was on Portland's Andre Miller.No shocker, but at least a disappointment for the Suns.Disappointing for the Spurs was the abysmal play of Richard Jefferson (five points on 1-of-3 shooting). He just doesn't seem to fit as well as his less-talented predecessors. His lack of three-point shooting hurts the spacing on the Spurs' offense. That left San Antonio with the cold shooting of Mason and Hill.If San Antonio chooses to play Hill over Jefferson, as they did for much of Game One, they'll have to figure out how to hide him on defense. Whether it was Nash blowing by him, or Richardson and Grant Hill posting him up, George Hill was an obvious target for the Suns' offense.Given that and his sub-par performance, Parker will likely start for the rest of the series, leaving Hill to contend with the Suns' bench crew.Game Two OutlookPopovich attempted to play small at the end of Game One, with short-term gain and long-term loss. The Suns are used to playing small, and have been since Robin Lopez went out in late-March with injury.Look for reserve DeJuan Blair to make more of an impact than the two-point, two-rebound performance in Game One. His ability Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
o crash the boards seems too good a weapon against the slighter Phoenix frontline.Also, don't expect the Spurs role-players to underperform two games in a row.At the same time, one of the Suns' reserves is due to perform better than bench-best six points. It's a good bet that someone among Dragic, Dudley, Barbosa, and Frye will get a hot hand, especially in front of the home crowd.The biggest key will be the point guard matchup. Will Parker match his starter status with starter production and make Nash pay in the process? Will Nash be able to get the same results he did in Game One, whether it's for himself or others?Oh, and Robin Lopez, a maybe for Game One, could be back.
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 2010 NBA Playoffs: The Game Five That Changed NBA History
Elsa/Getty ImagesGoing into the 2010 NBA Playoffs the consensus was that the Lakers and Cavaliers would face off in the Finals to determine this year's crown.There was the occasional scribe or announcer that mentioned the outside possibility of the Orlando Magic representing the Eastern Conference but that was the end of it. Not only was no one else given a chance, they weren't even mentioned by name.LeBron James, or the King as pundits enjoy calling him, was the NBA's second coming.The only argument anyone gave was the Oakland Raiders jersey
possibility that Kobe Bryant may still have enough in his tank to challenge "The King" for the throne of the NBA's best player. The fans at the "Q" chanted "MVP, MVP, MVP" almost every time James touched the ball during the short first round series versus the Chicago Bulls and again during Game One of the second round against the Boston Celtics.It was as if everyone had had a glass of the proverbial Kool Aid.Enter the Celtics.Although this championship squad, only one season removed, has a seasoned lineup of at least three future Hall of Fame inductees they were simply an afterthought."King" James would treat those men in green as a mere speed bump on his pre-ordained trip to his personal promised land.Well someone forgot to tell James and Co. about what may be the best team in this year's tournament. And a team is exactly what it is.Make no mistake, there may be more talent on a few squads in the league, but none of them have the chemistry or the team concept down like the Boston Celtics.They forced their collective will on the Cleveland Cavaliers to the point that the Cavaliers quit.Yes, they simply quit.Why did that happen though. Did you notice the "King" breathing hard and grasping his shorts as he bent over early on in that Game Five contest?It has since been suggested that he was experiencing extreme stress from the heavy load of carrying his team and I agree with that explanation completely.I never saw James look like that in any game before. He was having trouble getting air and Philadelphia Eagles jersey
was not having fun the way he normally has in the recent past. Against Chicago, as an example, LeBron was still jumping into chest bumps and flying by teammates with high fives even after playing 40-plus minutes.Against a methodical Celtic team he felt trapped as a leader unable to answer the bell and the end was written in stone to the point that the deciding Game Six was a mere afterthought as his teammates looked to him for answers he had no clue how to give.Enter the Eastern Conference Finals and the Orlando Magic.Dwight Howard would surely get past the Boston team just as he and his team had last season.Of course, short memories had already forgotten that Kevin Garnett wasn't in that series last year or that Rajon Rondo had since matured into possibly the best point guard in the league.Kendrick Perkins has muffled Howard's greatness on his own, leaving Garnett to have his way against an outclassed Rashard Lewis and Rondo to run circles around Magic counterpart Jameer Nelson.The Celtics are putting on a show that is spelled T-E-A-M, and finally the "experts" are beginning to notice.Going into the hostile environment of the TD Garden does not bode well for Orlando, and Boston no doubt senses the kill.The Magic are done. The rest of this series will go the Celtics' way just as the Cleveland series had.The two missed free throws by Vince Carter, the frustration on the face of Howard and J.J. Redick's knuckleheaded blunder of advancing the ball before calling a timeout are all indications that Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
Orlando has reached the same fork in the roadthat Cleveland did.Yes, Game Five has already changed the history of three teams.Will the Cavaliers and Magic be joined by the Los Angeles Lakers as well? It won't be long now before we find out.What we do know for sure is that the Lakers had better bring more than a group of NBA stars with them because when they arrive they will be looking square into the eyes of a championship team.
possibility that Kobe Bryant may still have enough in his tank to challenge "The King" for the throne of the NBA's best player. The fans at the "Q" chanted "MVP, MVP, MVP" almost every time James touched the ball during the short first round series versus the Chicago Bulls and again during Game One of the second round against the Boston Celtics.It was as if everyone had had a glass of the proverbial Kool Aid.Enter the Celtics.Although this championship squad, only one season removed, has a seasoned lineup of at least three future Hall of Fame inductees they were simply an afterthought."King" James would treat those men in green as a mere speed bump on his pre-ordained trip to his personal promised land.Well someone forgot to tell James and Co. about what may be the best team in this year's tournament. And a team is exactly what it is.Make no mistake, there may be more talent on a few squads in the league, but none of them have the chemistry or the team concept down like the Boston Celtics.They forced their collective will on the Cleveland Cavaliers to the point that the Cavaliers quit.Yes, they simply quit.Why did that happen though. Did you notice the "King" breathing hard and grasping his shorts as he bent over early on in that Game Five contest?It has since been suggested that he was experiencing extreme stress from the heavy load of carrying his team and I agree with that explanation completely.I never saw James look like that in any game before. He was having trouble getting air and Philadelphia Eagles jersey
was not having fun the way he normally has in the recent past. Against Chicago, as an example, LeBron was still jumping into chest bumps and flying by teammates with high fives even after playing 40-plus minutes.Against a methodical Celtic team he felt trapped as a leader unable to answer the bell and the end was written in stone to the point that the deciding Game Six was a mere afterthought as his teammates looked to him for answers he had no clue how to give.Enter the Eastern Conference Finals and the Orlando Magic.Dwight Howard would surely get past the Boston team just as he and his team had last season.Of course, short memories had already forgotten that Kevin Garnett wasn't in that series last year or that Rajon Rondo had since matured into possibly the best point guard in the league.Kendrick Perkins has muffled Howard's greatness on his own, leaving Garnett to have his way against an outclassed Rashard Lewis and Rondo to run circles around Magic counterpart Jameer Nelson.The Celtics are putting on a show that is spelled T-E-A-M, and finally the "experts" are beginning to notice.Going into the hostile environment of the TD Garden does not bode well for Orlando, and Boston no doubt senses the kill.The Magic are done. The rest of this series will go the Celtics' way just as the Cleveland series had.The two missed free throws by Vince Carter, the frustration on the face of Howard and J.J. Redick's knuckleheaded blunder of advancing the ball before calling a timeout are all indications that Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
Orlando has reached the same fork in the roadthat Cleveland did.Yes, Game Five has already changed the history of three teams.Will the Cavaliers and Magic be joined by the Los Angeles Lakers as well? It won't be long now before we find out.What we do know for sure is that the Lakers had better bring more than a group of NBA stars with them because when they arrive they will be looking square into the eyes of a championship team.
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 Chris Bosh to Join LeBron on the Cleveland Cavaliers in Sign-and-Trade?
The speculation on Chris Bosh's next team has run rampant recently.He supposedly created a list of five teams (Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Toronto) that he may sign with.I agree with most people that Bosh will want to leave Toronto for the states this summer.According to some sources, he will wait Miami Dolphins jersey
and see where LeBron James goes, and then join him.Also, it has been said that he wants to do a sign and trade if he leaves Toronto, ostensibly so the Raptors will get something out of it, but more likely so he can get the extra $30 million that would allow him to sign for.All these factors got me wondering, why not Cleveland? LeBron can re-up with the Cavs, and then a sign-and-trade can take place for Bosh. Maybe something like this:Cleveland Trades F Antawn JamisonF J.J. HicksonG Delonte WestFuture Draft Pick/CashT oronto Trades F Chris BoshG Marcus Banks ' expensive contractI don't think you can slice it any other way, the Raptors are screwed if Bosh leaves. They couldn't make the playoffs with him, and won't without him.At least if they do this trade, Hickson may be able toMinnesota Vikings
develop into a second or third option type of a player, and the overpaid Banks would be gone, replaced by West's non-guaranteed contract.The Cavs would give a much better supporting cast for the two stars then the Knicks could, with Mo Williams, Varejao, Parker etc. and Shaq and Z would almost certainly re-sign.I think this team would be even better than a Chicago team with LeBron would. Bosh can get the heck out of Toronto and join a superstar (and get that extra $30 million,) while James can get a winning team without looking disloyal by switching teams. New England Patriots jersey
They would have all those guys, and have a good chance of signing some vets who want to win. If that team couldn't win any championships, then you would, or at least I would, begin to question LeBron's greatness.Everyone winsexcept for Jamison, Hickson, and West.You would have to feel especially bad for Jamison after being rescued from the Wizards, only to be sent back to another rebuilding team.Nothing personal, just good business
and see where LeBron James goes, and then join him.Also, it has been said that he wants to do a sign and trade if he leaves Toronto, ostensibly so the Raptors will get something out of it, but more likely so he can get the extra $30 million that would allow him to sign for.All these factors got me wondering, why not Cleveland? LeBron can re-up with the Cavs, and then a sign-and-trade can take place for Bosh. Maybe something like this:Cleveland Trades F Antawn JamisonF J.J. HicksonG Delonte WestFuture Draft Pick/CashT oronto Trades F Chris BoshG Marcus Banks ' expensive contractI don't think you can slice it any other way, the Raptors are screwed if Bosh leaves. They couldn't make the playoffs with him, and won't without him.At least if they do this trade, Hickson may be able toMinnesota Vikings
develop into a second or third option type of a player, and the overpaid Banks would be gone, replaced by West's non-guaranteed contract.The Cavs would give a much better supporting cast for the two stars then the Knicks could, with Mo Williams, Varejao, Parker etc. and Shaq and Z would almost certainly re-sign.I think this team would be even better than a Chicago team with LeBron would. Bosh can get the heck out of Toronto and join a superstar (and get that extra $30 million,) while James can get a winning team without looking disloyal by switching teams. New England Patriots jersey
They would have all those guys, and have a good chance of signing some vets who want to win. If that team couldn't win any championships, then you would, or at least I would, begin to question LeBron's greatness.Everyone winsexcept for Jamison, Hickson, and West.You would have to feel especially bad for Jamison after being rescued from the Wizards, only to be sent back to another rebuilding team.Nothing personal, just good business
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Philadelphia Sixers Show Promise Against Charlotte Bobcats Despite Bleak Season
Jodie Meeks during a standout performanceMarc Serota/Getty ImagesUnder the sharp beyond-the-arc shooting of Jodie Meeks, the Philadelphia Sixers were able to accomplish an early lead against the Charlotte Bobcats and maintained it through four quarters to capture their sixth win of the season.Meeks came out of the gate on fire by completing six straight three-pointers and compiling 20 points in the first quarter. He ended the night with a game- and career-high of 26 points.Meeks cooled off after the first quarter, but the rest of Atlanta Falcons jersey
the team fed off of his energy and created a lead as large as 21 points. The bench was inserted after the first quarter and the lead dwindled down to single digits because of sloppy play which resulted into turnovers and confusion on the defensive end.This collapse seemed all too reminiscent of the night before as the Sixers led for 47 minutes against the Atlanta Hawks and blew an 18-point lead to fall to the Hawks 93-88. Coach Collins added a couple starters back into the lineup and the Sixers went into the locker room at halftime with an 11-point lead.The Sixers entered the court in the beginning of the third quarter looking lackadaisical on both ends on the floor. They allowed the Bobcats to take uncontested shots, which was initiated by lack of recovery in transition defense and perplexity in performing play-calls. Added to the mediocre play were durations where the team could not buy a basket and the Bobcats capitalized on the offensive end.However, Elton Brand produced a spark for the team and began to set the tone as he fought in the paint for rebound after rebound. Fueled by Brand relentlessness, the Sixers increased their level of aggression and the offense and defense began to gel and play well with unification.They pulled away with the lead at the end of the third quarter. Thaddeus Young added 20 points on the night, Brand scored 15 and gathered 10 rebounds, and Andre Iguodala contributed 15 points and seven assists as the Sixers beat the Bobcats 109-91.This win should give the team confidence as they Baltimore Ravens jersey
head into their next matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tonight. The 76ers have fallen to the Cavaliers twice already in this early season, both losses being single digits.Common ThemesAlthough the Sixers were able to build a lead and hold it, there were many issues that were visible in the game that have haunted them all season and will continue to do so if they don fix their mistakes.The team style of play has been very fast-paced for a couple of years now. To be an effective running team, players have to be able to recover on transition defense, complete passes and make shots when on offense;everything that the Sixers are not managing to achieve.They score points, but at times, they don have a player that they can depend on to make a shot. Fatigue seems to also be a factor. With the 76ers being a running team, this could be perceived as an advantage and a curse. The advantage being that they can get ahead of other teams and score points. The curse for the 76ers is that they tire themselves out faster than the opposing team because they try to score quickly, but as the game progresses, it seems as though the opposing team turns the table on them.Opposing teams capitalize on the Sixers' lack of scoring, resulting in many losses. Fortunately, the Bobcats are not a good team, and like the Sixers, they are trying to find themselves. If the Sixers were facing a premiere NBA team and these same problems arose, undoubtedly the end result would have been plus-one in the loss column.Change NeededThe biggest issue that comes to the forefront is that they do not have a force in the middle that intimidates players to repel them from scoring inside.Spencer Hawes is not what many may consider an All-Star center or one of high caliber. He isn aggressive and is a pushover in the inside. He possesses the height for a typical NBA Center but lacks the skills to be a starter, although he is for the Sixers.Hawes does not frighten even the smallest player from performing a finesse layup or emphatic dunk, reminding of the game play of NBA 2K as players easily route to the hoop.Samuel Dalembert should not have been released if the Sixers were not going to acquire a Center of his stature or better. He was not the best big man, but he was one Buffalo Bills jersey
of the leading shot-blockers in the NBA and generated a presence under the basket.Hawes is still developing and could be a good center coming off the bench, but the Sixers are in immediate need of an acquisition that would coerce opponents to take outside shots instead of taking it to the hoop.In terms of a consistent scorer, Jodie Meeks seems like a diamond in the rough that could not have been discovered at a better time. He could be the answer to scoring points when the Sixers are in a drought.
the team fed off of his energy and created a lead as large as 21 points. The bench was inserted after the first quarter and the lead dwindled down to single digits because of sloppy play which resulted into turnovers and confusion on the defensive end.This collapse seemed all too reminiscent of the night before as the Sixers led for 47 minutes against the Atlanta Hawks and blew an 18-point lead to fall to the Hawks 93-88. Coach Collins added a couple starters back into the lineup and the Sixers went into the locker room at halftime with an 11-point lead.The Sixers entered the court in the beginning of the third quarter looking lackadaisical on both ends on the floor. They allowed the Bobcats to take uncontested shots, which was initiated by lack of recovery in transition defense and perplexity in performing play-calls. Added to the mediocre play were durations where the team could not buy a basket and the Bobcats capitalized on the offensive end.However, Elton Brand produced a spark for the team and began to set the tone as he fought in the paint for rebound after rebound. Fueled by Brand relentlessness, the Sixers increased their level of aggression and the offense and defense began to gel and play well with unification.They pulled away with the lead at the end of the third quarter. Thaddeus Young added 20 points on the night, Brand scored 15 and gathered 10 rebounds, and Andre Iguodala contributed 15 points and seven assists as the Sixers beat the Bobcats 109-91.This win should give the team confidence as they Baltimore Ravens jersey
head into their next matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tonight. The 76ers have fallen to the Cavaliers twice already in this early season, both losses being single digits.Common ThemesAlthough the Sixers were able to build a lead and hold it, there were many issues that were visible in the game that have haunted them all season and will continue to do so if they don fix their mistakes.The team style of play has been very fast-paced for a couple of years now. To be an effective running team, players have to be able to recover on transition defense, complete passes and make shots when on offense;everything that the Sixers are not managing to achieve.They score points, but at times, they don have a player that they can depend on to make a shot. Fatigue seems to also be a factor. With the 76ers being a running team, this could be perceived as an advantage and a curse. The advantage being that they can get ahead of other teams and score points. The curse for the 76ers is that they tire themselves out faster than the opposing team because they try to score quickly, but as the game progresses, it seems as though the opposing team turns the table on them.Opposing teams capitalize on the Sixers' lack of scoring, resulting in many losses. Fortunately, the Bobcats are not a good team, and like the Sixers, they are trying to find themselves. If the Sixers were facing a premiere NBA team and these same problems arose, undoubtedly the end result would have been plus-one in the loss column.Change NeededThe biggest issue that comes to the forefront is that they do not have a force in the middle that intimidates players to repel them from scoring inside.Spencer Hawes is not what many may consider an All-Star center or one of high caliber. He isn aggressive and is a pushover in the inside. He possesses the height for a typical NBA Center but lacks the skills to be a starter, although he is for the Sixers.Hawes does not frighten even the smallest player from performing a finesse layup or emphatic dunk, reminding of the game play of NBA 2K as players easily route to the hoop.Samuel Dalembert should not have been released if the Sixers were not going to acquire a Center of his stature or better. He was not the best big man, but he was one Buffalo Bills jersey
of the leading shot-blockers in the NBA and generated a presence under the basket.Hawes is still developing and could be a good center coming off the bench, but the Sixers are in immediate need of an acquisition that would coerce opponents to take outside shots instead of taking it to the hoop.In terms of a consistent scorer, Jodie Meeks seems like a diamond in the rough that could not have been discovered at a better time. He could be the answer to scoring points when the Sixers are in a drought.
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 Portland Trail Blazers: Can They Challenge the Lakers? Prove It Now
Christian Petersen/Getty Images2010-11 will be a big year for the Blazers. They really need to prove things this year. Last year they had an amazing season considering the circumstances. This year they will have to have good luck as far as their recent injury problems.If they are more Cincinnati Bengals jersey
fortunate this year, or can fight through the misfortune, there is a big opportunity for them to show their stuff in the West.Utah just reshuffled Deron Williams’ supporting cast and is a big question mark. Losing Boozer, Korver, and Matthews will hurt. The additions of Raja Bell, Gordon Hayward, and Al Jefferson could help, but they are still question marks.Even if Denver doesn’t trade Carmelo Anthony, I expect them to take a step back because of bad attitudes, expiring contracts, injuries, and drama. The drama surrounding their star won’t go away until he does.Five of Denver’s top players are in contract years, and that makes a volatile team even more so. Also, three of their top four big men (Martin, Andersen, Harrington) are currently injured.Oklahoma City has been crowned as the next big thing, but they shouldn’t expect to be as lucky with injuries, and they will now be the hunted rather than the hunters. Inconsistency could be a problem also. Kevin Durant is a very good player but he needs to expand his game to bring them to the next level.They could also use some post scoring and three-point shooting. I expect them to be good, but not a top-two team in the conference just yet.Portland is left with a big opening to take the NW division title.Phoenix is going to have a hard time without Amare Stoudemire. Players like Pau Gasol, Zach Randolph, LaMarcus Aldridge, etc., should be able to just dominate Hedo Turkoglu.I expect more of the same from the Spurs and Mavs. A mediocre regular season and okay postseason for the former, and a good regular season and a disappointing playoff run for the latter. Houston is a wildcard, and could finish near the top, or just fight to Cleveland Browns jersey
make the playoffs.Even the Lakers, the perennial conference favorites, look to have holes in their armor. This may finally be the season that Kobe is slowed down by age and injuries. Center Andrew Bynum is once again injured, and will miss the beginning of the season.If Kobe Bryant can’t come back strong, Portland could have a very good chance at winning the regular season conference title.They are potentially one of the deepest teams in the league. They have several good players that continue to improve, and the acquisition of Wesley Matthews was perhaps the most underrated of the year.The main concern for the Trail Blazers will be injuries. Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Nic Batum need to stay at least reasonably healthy, and the bigs are a big variable. If Joel Pzybilla comes back soon that will be helpful, and add that to some success by Greg Oden, and Portland has likely the best lineup down in the middle.If Oden misses the majority of the season, Przybilla doesn’t make a Dallas Cowboys jersey
successful return, and Marcus Camby chimes in with his own injury problems, they are left with Aldridge and two natural small forwards down low.The playoffs are where the Blazers really need to improve. After two consecutive 1st round playoff exits, this may be the year that indicates whether they are the next Los Angeles Lakers, perennial contenders, or the next Dallas Mavericks, perennial disappointers.Can they bring it to the next level?
fortunate this year, or can fight through the misfortune, there is a big opportunity for them to show their stuff in the West.Utah just reshuffled Deron Williams’ supporting cast and is a big question mark. Losing Boozer, Korver, and Matthews will hurt. The additions of Raja Bell, Gordon Hayward, and Al Jefferson could help, but they are still question marks.Even if Denver doesn’t trade Carmelo Anthony, I expect them to take a step back because of bad attitudes, expiring contracts, injuries, and drama. The drama surrounding their star won’t go away until he does.Five of Denver’s top players are in contract years, and that makes a volatile team even more so. Also, three of their top four big men (Martin, Andersen, Harrington) are currently injured.Oklahoma City has been crowned as the next big thing, but they shouldn’t expect to be as lucky with injuries, and they will now be the hunted rather than the hunters. Inconsistency could be a problem also. Kevin Durant is a very good player but he needs to expand his game to bring them to the next level.They could also use some post scoring and three-point shooting. I expect them to be good, but not a top-two team in the conference just yet.Portland is left with a big opening to take the NW division title.Phoenix is going to have a hard time without Amare Stoudemire. Players like Pau Gasol, Zach Randolph, LaMarcus Aldridge, etc., should be able to just dominate Hedo Turkoglu.I expect more of the same from the Spurs and Mavs. A mediocre regular season and okay postseason for the former, and a good regular season and a disappointing playoff run for the latter. Houston is a wildcard, and could finish near the top, or just fight to Cleveland Browns jersey
make the playoffs.Even the Lakers, the perennial conference favorites, look to have holes in their armor. This may finally be the season that Kobe is slowed down by age and injuries. Center Andrew Bynum is once again injured, and will miss the beginning of the season.If Kobe Bryant can’t come back strong, Portland could have a very good chance at winning the regular season conference title.They are potentially one of the deepest teams in the league. They have several good players that continue to improve, and the acquisition of Wesley Matthews was perhaps the most underrated of the year.The main concern for the Trail Blazers will be injuries. Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Nic Batum need to stay at least reasonably healthy, and the bigs are a big variable. If Joel Pzybilla comes back soon that will be helpful, and add that to some success by Greg Oden, and Portland has likely the best lineup down in the middle.If Oden misses the majority of the season, Przybilla doesn’t make a Dallas Cowboys jersey
successful return, and Marcus Camby chimes in with his own injury problems, they are left with Aldridge and two natural small forwards down low.The playoffs are where the Blazers really need to improve. After two consecutive 1st round playoff exits, this may be the year that indicates whether they are the next Los Angeles Lakers, perennial contenders, or the next Dallas Mavericks, perennial disappointers.Can they bring it to the next level?
2010年12月23日星期四
23 Dec 10Fantasy Baksetball Roundtable: Who Should You Sell High On?
Nick Laham/Getty ImagesIt’s time for another fantasy basketball roundtable discussion with some of the best fantasy basketball blog guys out there. Last week we looked at buy low candidates and this week we turn our attention to the sell high guys. Here are the thoughts of Daniel and myself.To read the full list of Seattle Seahawks jersey
responses check it out at Life Is Just a Fantasy…Basketball BlogHere was this week’s question: Who do you recommend selling high on, and who are some possible targets?Will’s Sell High: Paul MillsapIt’s been a tremendous start to the season for Paul Millsap, and he’s exceeded mine and everyone else’s expectations, and that’s exactly why it’s time to sell high on him. I am not discounting his talent or anything he has done so far this season, but I don’t see his value getting much higher. I’d try selling him now while that 46 point beatdown of the Heat is still fresh in people’s minds. Millsap has the ability to score a lot of points, that much is clear, but I think his days of being the top scoring option might be fading. Al Jefferson is starting to progress and learn the offense, and as he does, he’s going to start seeing more of those looks inside. To add to that, Mehmet Okur’s looming return will steal minutes and points from both guys, and it’s going to difficult for Millsap to continue averaging the near 22 points he is right now.Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesIn terms of possible trade targets I have two guys I’d look at. First, I’d try and nab Amar’e Stoudemire. He’s struggling, but even in his struggles he’s just a touch below Millsap’s numbers, and he’s going to get it figured out sooner or later. If I can’t get Amar’e then Brook Lopez would be my St. Louis Rams jersey
next target. Another guy not living up to expectations, but there is no way he averages 5.6 rebounds for the season. Not a chance.Daniel’s Sell High: Brandon RoyI’m selling high on Brandon Roy. Obviously, Roy is not quite as high up the list as some people had him to start the year. Still, his knee problems scare me. His minutes are going to be carefully managed, and his stats are going to show it. It’s already been reported that Roy’s knee is not going to get better. He’s going to be playing with pain for the rest of his career. He’s still a very good player, but this injury really hurts his fantasy value. His PPG and RPG are way behind what they were last year, and last year’s numbers weren’t as good as the year before that. It’s sad to see such a talented player deal with a career affecting injury, but that’s what Roy has. Sell him before everybody sees the difference in him. You should be able to get a decent return on Roy based on his name alone.I’mTennessee Titans jersey
buying low on Tyreke Evans. If you look at where his stats are right now, he’s the perfect buy low candidate. His expectations were so high, that his lack of performance will seem all the more dramatic to his owners. I was always somewhat skeptical of some of the potential numbers that were being thrown out there in projections, but Evans is much better than the numbers he is putting up.For more fantasy basketball information like this check out The Rotoprofessor
responses check it out at Life Is Just a Fantasy…Basketball BlogHere was this week’s question: Who do you recommend selling high on, and who are some possible targets?Will’s Sell High: Paul MillsapIt’s been a tremendous start to the season for Paul Millsap, and he’s exceeded mine and everyone else’s expectations, and that’s exactly why it’s time to sell high on him. I am not discounting his talent or anything he has done so far this season, but I don’t see his value getting much higher. I’d try selling him now while that 46 point beatdown of the Heat is still fresh in people’s minds. Millsap has the ability to score a lot of points, that much is clear, but I think his days of being the top scoring option might be fading. Al Jefferson is starting to progress and learn the offense, and as he does, he’s going to start seeing more of those looks inside. To add to that, Mehmet Okur’s looming return will steal minutes and points from both guys, and it’s going to difficult for Millsap to continue averaging the near 22 points he is right now.Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesIn terms of possible trade targets I have two guys I’d look at. First, I’d try and nab Amar’e Stoudemire. He’s struggling, but even in his struggles he’s just a touch below Millsap’s numbers, and he’s going to get it figured out sooner or later. If I can’t get Amar’e then Brook Lopez would be my St. Louis Rams jersey
next target. Another guy not living up to expectations, but there is no way he averages 5.6 rebounds for the season. Not a chance.Daniel’s Sell High: Brandon RoyI’m selling high on Brandon Roy. Obviously, Roy is not quite as high up the list as some people had him to start the year. Still, his knee problems scare me. His minutes are going to be carefully managed, and his stats are going to show it. It’s already been reported that Roy’s knee is not going to get better. He’s going to be playing with pain for the rest of his career. He’s still a very good player, but this injury really hurts his fantasy value. His PPG and RPG are way behind what they were last year, and last year’s numbers weren’t as good as the year before that. It’s sad to see such a talented player deal with a career affecting injury, but that’s what Roy has. Sell him before everybody sees the difference in him. You should be able to get a decent return on Roy based on his name alone.I’mTennessee Titans jersey
buying low on Tyreke Evans. If you look at where his stats are right now, he’s the perfect buy low candidate. His expectations were so high, that his lack of performance will seem all the more dramatic to his owners. I was always somewhat skeptical of some of the potential numbers that were being thrown out there in projections, but Evans is much better than the numbers he is putting up.For more fantasy basketball information like this check out The Rotoprofessor
2010年12月22日星期三
NBA Free Agency: Knicks Sign Amar'e Stoudemire, Where's LeBron James Going?
Otto Greule Jr/Getty ImagesKnicks have officially agreed upon a free agent agreement with Amare Stoudemire on a contract worthalmost 100million for 5 years.My guess is that theKnicks must know whether LeBron's choice is NY or other cities that recruited him. I believetheyhave a strong reason Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
tothinkJames is coming to New York. Here's my reasoning.Reports have beensaying that Knicks had made progress with Amare and the deal was on the table. It was, however, said to be contingent upon LeBron's decision. The offer wasgoing to be off if LeBron chooses NY and wants to bring his handpicked teammate, say Chris Bosh. Now the Knicks have gone ahead and made an agreement.Maybe Knicks were scared of being shut out in this summer and wanted to get at least one elite FA when they can. But if you think about it, it was almostan onehorse race for Amare. He's had meetings with other teams but only Knicks made a serious offer to him. He also wanted tocome to New York knowing thatKnicks werethe only one willing to take a risk on his once fragile body. So what's the Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
hurry when there was very little competition? Surely the Knickscould have waiteduntil LeBron's decision?There was that second meeting.Knicks executives and LeBron's agents hadan extrameeting after all the teams made their one time appeal to LeBron himself. It was supposedly about salary caps and contract offer to Amare. Until that second meeting, offer to Amare was just that, an offer. Now it is an agreement. Knicks brass must have gotten some hint from that meeting. If they got any negative vibe about Amare, Knicks would have held off on theagreement.Chicago can't give him the scoring power inside unless they trade Deng which will be extremely hard or sign David Lee who LeBron never seemed too interested. And what if Wade signs with Chicago first? Then he can't even go Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
to Miami, where it is sobarren at the moment.He could take Bosh to New Jersy but Bosh didn't seem so interested in going there.He could stay in Cleveland which is probably the right thing to dothat isif he has enough confidence in himself that he can win with whichever surrounding cast given to him, without future draft picks and cap room.By Knicks signing Amare and Joe Johnson staying with Hawks, LeBron is getting squeezed. His choices are dwindling.
tothinkJames is coming to New York. Here's my reasoning.Reports have beensaying that Knicks had made progress with Amare and the deal was on the table. It was, however, said to be contingent upon LeBron's decision. The offer wasgoing to be off if LeBron chooses NY and wants to bring his handpicked teammate, say Chris Bosh. Now the Knicks have gone ahead and made an agreement.Maybe Knicks were scared of being shut out in this summer and wanted to get at least one elite FA when they can. But if you think about it, it was almostan onehorse race for Amare. He's had meetings with other teams but only Knicks made a serious offer to him. He also wanted tocome to New York knowing thatKnicks werethe only one willing to take a risk on his once fragile body. So what's the Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
hurry when there was very little competition? Surely the Knickscould have waiteduntil LeBron's decision?There was that second meeting.Knicks executives and LeBron's agents hadan extrameeting after all the teams made their one time appeal to LeBron himself. It was supposedly about salary caps and contract offer to Amare. Until that second meeting, offer to Amare was just that, an offer. Now it is an agreement. Knicks brass must have gotten some hint from that meeting. If they got any negative vibe about Amare, Knicks would have held off on theagreement.Chicago can't give him the scoring power inside unless they trade Deng which will be extremely hard or sign David Lee who LeBron never seemed too interested. And what if Wade signs with Chicago first? Then he can't even go Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
to Miami, where it is sobarren at the moment.He could take Bosh to New Jersy but Bosh didn't seem so interested in going there.He could stay in Cleveland which is probably the right thing to dothat isif he has enough confidence in himself that he can win with whichever surrounding cast given to him, without future draft picks and cap room.By Knicks signing Amare and Joe Johnson staying with Hawks, LeBron is getting squeezed. His choices are dwindling.
2010年12月21日星期二
MLB Trade Rumors: Brewers and Dodgers Discussing Prince Fielder Trade
Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesAccording to Tony Jackson of ESPNLosAngeles.com, the Brewers and Dodgers are discussing a possible trade that would send 1B Prince Fielder to the Dodgers in exchange for 1B James Loney and closer Jonathan Broxton.The Dodgers are a team in need of power and run production which Fielder would provide. Fielder's HR, RBI, BB and OBP numbers would all dwarf the other player's in the somewhat anemic Dodger's offense.While the Brewers would not be getting starting pitching in return, they would be getting a very capable 1B Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
and a once-dominant closer. While Jon Axford acquitted himself admirably in the closer's role for the Brewers, Broxton would be solid insurance if Axford were to falter in 2011.The deal makes sense for both sides. Based on what I had been hearing, I am a bit surprised the Brewers would get as much as is being discussed. If Broxton can regain his form, this could end up being a steal for the Brewers especially if Fielder walks as a free-agent.
and a once-dominant closer. While Jon Axford acquitted himself admirably in the closer's role for the Brewers, Broxton would be solid insurance if Axford were to falter in 2011.The deal makes sense for both sides. Based on what I had been hearing, I am a bit surprised the Brewers would get as much as is being discussed. If Broxton can regain his form, this could end up being a steal for the Brewers especially if Fielder walks as a free-agent.
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 College Football Fans Should Be Careful of the Methods Used To Analyze Teams
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesMost local “Alabama” and national college football analysts and pundits started in January 2010, telling the nation that Auburn was at least two recruiting classes away from having a team capable of contending for the SEC Championship. Teams like Arkansas and Alabama were said to have far “superior” talent in their own division.Auburn was predicted to finish third or fourth in the SEC western division alone. Anyone that questioned this collective wisdom was ridiculed as uninformed or an Auburn homer. The winning by recruiting ranking theory was in full bloom across college football.These same pundits picked Ohio State to win the Big Ten, Southern California to come in nba jersey second in the Pac-10, Alabama to repeat as national champions, Florida to win the SEC East and Texas to win the Big 12. All of this was based on recruiting rankings.What most fans are unaware of is that recruiting rankings are largely based on the teams recruiting the player. Even worse than that, the star value ranking of a player is often based in part on what team these players are committed to.The same recruiting services that rank these recruits are the services that got exactly one preseason conference champion right. Oregon was an easy pick as they largely returned their entire team and won the Pac-10 in 2009. They got nothing else right, even picking Southern California to come in second in the Pac-10.Why would any pundit with common sense base their predictions and forecast on these services?There is no logical answer to that question. Recruiting services have a place in college football. They serve to keep fans informed of the players their team is pursuing and what other teams they are competing with for the recruit.Recruiting services supply some rudimentary analysis of the raw talent of the player and sometimes video clips of the player in action. Their star rating is largely inaccurate and useless.Basing a preseason analysis on the recruiting ranking of any team is not only inaccurate, but magnifies the problem. Recruiting services survive off of paid subscriptions and it is easy to Saints jersey see that recruits from teams with larger fan bases will receive a higher ranking than they would if committed to a team with a smaller fan base.If anyone ever thought predicting a team's success could be done by recruiting rankings, then the performance of Texas, Notre Dame, Miami, Florida, Alabama, UCLA and Georgia in 2010 should cure them of this busted theory. None of the current top five teams in the nation have been in Scout's (one major recruiting service) top five class rankings in the last five years. In fact the majority of the current top five teams have not been in the top 20 classes either.Recruiting class rankings have historically been no more accurate at predicting a team's performance in any particular year than Bills jerseya team all time winning percentage. In fact, Auburn, Oklahoma and LSU are the only teams that should currently be in the top 10 if going by last year's recruiting rankings.When fans start to compare teams and pick their favorites for upcoming bowl games, they should immediately count out any analysis based on recruiting class rankings. In fact they should pay close attention and see what analyst take shortcuts like this in their work.If an analyst is doing their job properly, recruiting rankings will be a very small part of the picture as a whole. Fans should tune out those that do not do their homework in other areas.
19 Dec 10 San Francisco 49ers: Troy Smith Is Latest Cinderella Story For the Niners
That is not a picture of a man looking for his check down receiver.Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesOne of my all-time favorite movies is Cinderella Man, which is based on the life and times of James. J. Braddock, the heavyweight champion of the world from 1935 to 1937. Braddock was an up-and-coming fighter who had his career sidetracked by injury and lost whatever wealth he'd accumulated during the Great Depression. Nearly completely broke, he worked for a time as a longshoreman to feed his family before re-launching his boxing career and winning a string of upsets to earn himself a title shot against Max Baer, the champion at the time. In the movie Braddock is being interviewed by several sportswriters before the big fight and one of them asked "The Bulldog of Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
Bergen," as Braddock was known, how he could explain his comeback. At first, Braddock (played by Russell Crowe, who is superb as always), rattled off his various injuries and his run of bad luck. But then comes the line that makes the movie: "This time around, I know what I'm fighting for." When the writer asks what that was, Crowe replies, "Milk," meaning that prior to his comeback, he had become so destitute that he couldn't even afford to buy milk for his children. That scene has always stuck with me and I believe it is quite applicable to the 49ers' quarterback situation in the present day, as San Francisco has found its own Cinderella Man in Troy Smith, who was once on top of the world as a Heisman Trophy winner but found himself out on the street, castoff by the Baltimore Ravens. Thanks to Troy Smith, "Coach Sing" is smiling more these days.Julian Finney/Getty ImagesBecause of his height—Smith is barely six feet—and the fact that he didn't play in a pro style offense at Ohio State, Smith was virtually ignored by pro scouts during the 2007 draft, despite going 22-2 as starter his last two seasons in college. It didn't help him that his final collegiate game also happened to be his worst, as the Buckeyes were throttled by the Florida Gators 41-14 in the 2006 BCS Championship Game. Smith lasted until the fifth round of the draft and though injuries to Ravens quarterbacks Steve McNair and Kyle Boller opened the door for him to start a couple of games during his rookie year (where he played pretty well, all things considered), the organization never seriously considered him its future. Baltimore traded up in the first round of the 2008 draft to nab Joe Flacco, a big, strapping prototypical pocket passer out of Delaware, and though an illness during the preseason prevented Smith from competing for the job, the writing was on the wall for him anyway. He lasted two years as a backup before being unceremoniously dismissed a few days before the 2010 season opener. He signed on with the 49ers a couple days later as an afterthought. Mainly it was because the coaching staff was completely unsatisfied with the progress (or lack thereof) of third-stringer Nate Davis and somewhat nervous about backup Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
David Carr, who had had a bad training camp. Vernon Davis is always open, even when he's totally not.Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesStarter Alex Smith—who was playing slightly better—got hurt at Carolina and Carr was terrible in relief, so out of sheer luck, Troy Smith finally got a second chance to make a first impression and to his credit, he's run with it. He's playing daring, at times reckless football, but you can see that he is unafraid of failure and confident that when he flings the ball downfield in the general vicinity of a red jersey, that his guy will come down with it and more often than not, and he's been correct. It's a mutually beneficial cycle: The more Smith shows faith in his receivers, the more they show faith in him, which leads to the generally aimless coaching staff to show faith in all of them. Steve Young, another 49ers quarterback who knows a thing or two about being a backup waiting for his chance, is fond of saying that perception is reality. It doesn't matter if Troy Smith is actually better than Alex Smith. What matters is that he believes himself to be better, he carries himself so and he's quickly won over his teammates and coaches. Offensive coordinator Mike Johnson called play-action passes early and often yesterday, and Troy Smith was able to get outside of the pocket and throw deep, regardless of whether his progressions told him to do so, or whether his targets were covered. He played like a man with nothing to lose, which is exactly what he is and more importantly, exactly what the Niners are, whether they like it or not. Noted football historian Frank Gore said he always knew Troy Smith could play because he won the Heisman Trophy. "They don't give you the Heisman if you can't play," he said. Tell it to Gino Torretta, Frank.Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesIt's undeniable that he's been absolutely brilliant and that he's given the 49ers a jolt of energy that they've desperately needed. There's a feeling around the team that with him under center that anything is possible, however unlikely, whether it's converting a fourth-and-18 or roaring back from a 2-6 start to challenge for the division title. For whatever reason, Alex Smith has very seldom played that freely or carelessly. Either it's not in him or it was mercilessly drilled out of him by previous coach Mike Nolan. Smith famously scored a 40 on his pre-draft Wonderlic test and there's a sense that he thinks too much out there for his own good. There have only been a few times where he's been able to say "what the hell" and let it go. There was that second half at Houston last season, where he came in for a struggling Shaun Hill and threw three touchdown passes before the Texans knew what hit them. Or the fourth quarter at Green Bay, when the team was hopelessly behind and he nearly brought them all the way back. The most recent example was against the Eagles, where head whistle Mike Singletary threatened to bench him in the fourth Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
quarter and Smith responded with two straight touchdown drives, repeatedly whistling balls down the seam and trusting Vernon Davis to go get it. Why can't he do that way all the time? Why can't he just shut his brain off and just play? It's a question we may never know the answer to, but it's pretty clear that Alex Smith needs a change of scenery if he's ever going to have a semblance of a respectable pro career. As a former first overall pick, he's financially set for life, and as a guy who got his degree in three years at the University at Utah, he's smart enough to not be wasteful with that money, which might be a part of his problem. Alex Smith will never have to fight for milk.
Bergen," as Braddock was known, how he could explain his comeback. At first, Braddock (played by Russell Crowe, who is superb as always), rattled off his various injuries and his run of bad luck. But then comes the line that makes the movie: "This time around, I know what I'm fighting for." When the writer asks what that was, Crowe replies, "Milk," meaning that prior to his comeback, he had become so destitute that he couldn't even afford to buy milk for his children. That scene has always stuck with me and I believe it is quite applicable to the 49ers' quarterback situation in the present day, as San Francisco has found its own Cinderella Man in Troy Smith, who was once on top of the world as a Heisman Trophy winner but found himself out on the street, castoff by the Baltimore Ravens. Thanks to Troy Smith, "Coach Sing" is smiling more these days.Julian Finney/Getty ImagesBecause of his height—Smith is barely six feet—and the fact that he didn't play in a pro style offense at Ohio State, Smith was virtually ignored by pro scouts during the 2007 draft, despite going 22-2 as starter his last two seasons in college. It didn't help him that his final collegiate game also happened to be his worst, as the Buckeyes were throttled by the Florida Gators 41-14 in the 2006 BCS Championship Game. Smith lasted until the fifth round of the draft and though injuries to Ravens quarterbacks Steve McNair and Kyle Boller opened the door for him to start a couple of games during his rookie year (where he played pretty well, all things considered), the organization never seriously considered him its future. Baltimore traded up in the first round of the 2008 draft to nab Joe Flacco, a big, strapping prototypical pocket passer out of Delaware, and though an illness during the preseason prevented Smith from competing for the job, the writing was on the wall for him anyway. He lasted two years as a backup before being unceremoniously dismissed a few days before the 2010 season opener. He signed on with the 49ers a couple days later as an afterthought. Mainly it was because the coaching staff was completely unsatisfied with the progress (or lack thereof) of third-stringer Nate Davis and somewhat nervous about backup Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
David Carr, who had had a bad training camp. Vernon Davis is always open, even when he's totally not.Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesStarter Alex Smith—who was playing slightly better—got hurt at Carolina and Carr was terrible in relief, so out of sheer luck, Troy Smith finally got a second chance to make a first impression and to his credit, he's run with it. He's playing daring, at times reckless football, but you can see that he is unafraid of failure and confident that when he flings the ball downfield in the general vicinity of a red jersey, that his guy will come down with it and more often than not, and he's been correct. It's a mutually beneficial cycle: The more Smith shows faith in his receivers, the more they show faith in him, which leads to the generally aimless coaching staff to show faith in all of them. Steve Young, another 49ers quarterback who knows a thing or two about being a backup waiting for his chance, is fond of saying that perception is reality. It doesn't matter if Troy Smith is actually better than Alex Smith. What matters is that he believes himself to be better, he carries himself so and he's quickly won over his teammates and coaches. Offensive coordinator Mike Johnson called play-action passes early and often yesterday, and Troy Smith was able to get outside of the pocket and throw deep, regardless of whether his progressions told him to do so, or whether his targets were covered. He played like a man with nothing to lose, which is exactly what he is and more importantly, exactly what the Niners are, whether they like it or not. Noted football historian Frank Gore said he always knew Troy Smith could play because he won the Heisman Trophy. "They don't give you the Heisman if you can't play," he said. Tell it to Gino Torretta, Frank.Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesIt's undeniable that he's been absolutely brilliant and that he's given the 49ers a jolt of energy that they've desperately needed. There's a feeling around the team that with him under center that anything is possible, however unlikely, whether it's converting a fourth-and-18 or roaring back from a 2-6 start to challenge for the division title. For whatever reason, Alex Smith has very seldom played that freely or carelessly. Either it's not in him or it was mercilessly drilled out of him by previous coach Mike Nolan. Smith famously scored a 40 on his pre-draft Wonderlic test and there's a sense that he thinks too much out there for his own good. There have only been a few times where he's been able to say "what the hell" and let it go. There was that second half at Houston last season, where he came in for a struggling Shaun Hill and threw three touchdown passes before the Texans knew what hit them. Or the fourth quarter at Green Bay, when the team was hopelessly behind and he nearly brought them all the way back. The most recent example was against the Eagles, where head whistle Mike Singletary threatened to bench him in the fourth Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
quarter and Smith responded with two straight touchdown drives, repeatedly whistling balls down the seam and trusting Vernon Davis to go get it. Why can't he do that way all the time? Why can't he just shut his brain off and just play? It's a question we may never know the answer to, but it's pretty clear that Alex Smith needs a change of scenery if he's ever going to have a semblance of a respectable pro career. As a former first overall pick, he's financially set for life, and as a guy who got his degree in three years at the University at Utah, he's smart enough to not be wasteful with that money, which might be a part of his problem. Alex Smith will never have to fight for milk.
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 Patriots-Steelers: Why the Steelers Should Thank the Patriots for the Rout
Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesThe Pittsburgh Steelers have been here before. 6-2 at the halfway point with a pivotal conference matchup at home. Three previous times in the Mike Tomlin era, the Steelers have had the ninth game of the season at home, going 1-2 (win against the Browns in 2007, loss to the Colts in 2008, loss to the Bengals last season).The Steelers hosted the New England Patriots this evening, and the home team suffered its worst home loss in the Tomlin era, 39-26. In the previous three games I mentioned, the Steelers Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
reacted differently, so the aftereffects of tonight's embarrassment is anyone's guess.Will they take the loss and bounce back like the champions they would become as they did in 2008, or will they go on a multi-game losing skid, as they did last season? The next few weeks will reveal who the 2010 Steelers truly are. The Steelers could end up taking this game as a lesson in humility well-learned, or this could be the beginning of the end.Now for some observations and overreactions from tonight's game:How Bad are Keenan Lewis and Crezdon Butler?The only reason I ask this question is because, once again, embattled cornerback William Gay was beaten for touchdowns, this time by Patriots rookie tight end Rob Gronkowski; not once, not twice, but three times. Gay has had some good moments this season (the blocked punt against the Bengals, the 4th-down stop against the Ravens) but for the most part, he has been the target of opposing QBs this season.How are the Steelers going to finish the 2010 season?How are the Steelers going to finish the 2010 season?Just making the playoffs34.2%Playing in the conference championship game21.1%Playing in the Super Bowl2.6%Winning the Super Bowl23.7%Missing the playoffs18.4%Total votes: 38The Steelers figured that Gay, a starter last season, could be an effective nickelback; after all, he held his own in that position in 2008. However, whether by lack of talent or confidence (likely both), Gay has looked very bad. Tonight he was at his worst. Lewis has not made enough strides to be inserted in any defensive packages, and he did not help his cause tonight with mental mistakes on special teams. Butler has not cracked the game-day roster, and it is unlikely he will, unless the injury bug visits the secondary.My guess: The Steelers will stick with Gay for the rest of the season (much to the chagrin of many in the Steeler Nation) and will not offer him a new deal when his contract runs out next spring.Energy Crisis in Heinz Field I don't know whether it was Hines Ward getting hit hard in the first quarter or the Patriots' offense surgically cutting the Steelers defense to pieces on the first drive of the game, but there was no real emotion or sense of urgency on the Steelers' side tonight.Maybe it was Patriots QB Tom Brady being 5-1 at Heinz Field and the Patriots' style of offense that took the energy and life out of the Steelers. Maybe it was the third consecutive night game or coming off three consecutive road games. Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
Who knows?Whatever it was, the energy level of the team was lacking tonight, and it needs to be addressed by Coach Tomlin immediately. This is where head coaches in the NFL earn their pay. Tomlin did it 2008—the Steelers did not suffer consecutive losses that season. Of course, Tomlin could not rally the team effectively last season.Next week against the upstart Oakland Raiders will help tell the story of what kind of team (and coach) the Steelers have this season.The Antwaan Randle El Experience Part II Needs To Be Stopped ASAPRandle El, the former Super Bowl XL hero, came back to the Steelers this season to help revitalize a receiving corps that lost Santonio Holmes to the New York Jets and added two rookies this past April. Randle El looked to regain his former role as an underrated third receiver for the Steelers this year. For the most part, though, he has done next to nothing. Tonight, he did even less.Randle El has never been compared to Cris Carter in comparison of good hands, but he was always thought to be at least reliable. Tonight, Randle El dropped a crucial touchdown pass that set the tone of offensive futility that would haunt the Steelers for most of the game. Randle El should be given lesser roles for the rest of the season, and the Steelers should consider releasing him if his play does not improve.The Steelers have a developing rookie in Emmanuel Sanders, who showed flashes of good talent tonight, and speedster Antonio Brown should be getting close. There is also the veteran Arnaz Battle, who was brought in as a special teamer but has shown he can catch a pass or two every once in a while.For all those reasons, the Steelers should scale back Randle El's role in the offense.It Is Getting Harder and Harder To Defend Jeff ReedReed, whom I consider the most underrated kicker in the league, missed another kick at home today, this time from 26 yards. Reed now has missed five field goals at home, seven overall this season. Reed, of course, was designated the franchise tag and has no deal after 2010. Given his off-the-field issues and poor performance on the field, Reed is not doing anything to earn the long-term contract he desires.If Reed keeps struggling to make kicks, he will definitely play his way out of Steel City.The Defense Is Still Playing...Off Past ReputationThe Steelers came into tonight's game leading the league in scoring defense and rushing defense. Sure, the injuries to Aaron Smith and Brett Keisel are tough, but nobody would dare run on the Steelers, especially the "soft" Patriots...right? Wrong.The Patriots, when Tom Brady was not cutting them up with short completions, gashed them with runs by BenJarvis Green-Ellis. The Patriots rushed for over 100 yards against the Steelers' defense. That was by far the most telling statistic on a night filled with embarrassing statisticsThe Steelers are playing as if the opposition fears them. Well, Tom Brady does not fear them. After tonight, he is now 6-1 against the Steelers, 4-1 against defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau. The Steelers have struggled when they do not blitz often (see the Baltimore and New Orleans games) and against great QBs (see the New Orleans game, the fourth quarter of Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
last week's game in Cincinnati and tonight's game).Of course, not every team has Tom Brady or Drew Brees, but the Steelers defense got exposed for who they really are. They are slow to cover, passive most of the time and can be thrown on with ease. Why run the ball against the Steelers when you can gash them for first downs with short crossing routes?To make matters worse, safety Troy Polamalu has struggled mightily the last few weeks. He has been caught flat-footed and guessing wrong more than I care to count, resulting in big plays for the opposing offenses. Unfortunately, the secondary will not magically improve, but LeBeau can try to protect them by putting more pressure on the quarterback.I realize that this is tough to do against a team like New England with its short rhythm passing game, but it must be corrected soon or the Steelers giving up 30 plus points will be commonplace the rest of the season.The Steelers defense got their helping of humble pie tonight. It is up to the veteran group to overcome the injuries and step up not allow a disaster like tonight occur again. Time will tell if this group of Blitzburgh will bounce back or fold.Speaking of Bad, How Much Worse Can the Steelers' Offensive Line Get?The Steelers have come under heavy criticism in the past because of poor offensive line play, something that has been much a part of Mike Tomlin's tenure in Pittsburgh. Sure, Ben Roethlisberger holds the ball too long sometimes (and he did tonight as well), but tonight was one of the five worst performances by the Steelers' offensive line in the past four years.Now that is saying something.I really thought the loss of Max Starks would not have as heavy aftereffects as many thought, but if tonight is any indication, the Steelers are in huge trouble if they keep Jonathan Scott in the lineup. If Scott struggled against the likes of Tully Banta-Cain, how is he going to handle the likes of Terrell Suggs and other elite pass rushers?The Steelers might have fixed the center problem by drafting Maurkice Pouncey this past April. The Steelers need to fix the tackle problems before Ben Roethlisberger and any running back getting hit in the backfield suffers a serious injury. The Jonathan Scott experiment needs to end, and the Steelers should consider seeing what they have in Tony Hills. Anyone would be better than Scott. Then again, Hills could also be horrendous, too.Now I could go even further and do my weekly Bruce Arians bashing concerning play-Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
calling (it was pretty awful tonight as usual), but he was like the ninth thing wrong with the Steelers tonight.Did we all overrate the Steelers? Was tonight an anomaly?Sure, the Steelers do not match up well against the Patriots offense, but this was absurd. Speaking of last season, one of the five straight losses that sunk the Steelers' hopes of repeating as Super Bowl champs was at the hands of the Oakland Raiders. Coming up next? The Oakland Raiders, who are even better this season than in 2009.Let's all hope tonight was just a minor setback for the Steelers and not a sign of things to come.
reacted differently, so the aftereffects of tonight's embarrassment is anyone's guess.Will they take the loss and bounce back like the champions they would become as they did in 2008, or will they go on a multi-game losing skid, as they did last season? The next few weeks will reveal who the 2010 Steelers truly are. The Steelers could end up taking this game as a lesson in humility well-learned, or this could be the beginning of the end.Now for some observations and overreactions from tonight's game:How Bad are Keenan Lewis and Crezdon Butler?The only reason I ask this question is because, once again, embattled cornerback William Gay was beaten for touchdowns, this time by Patriots rookie tight end Rob Gronkowski; not once, not twice, but three times. Gay has had some good moments this season (the blocked punt against the Bengals, the 4th-down stop against the Ravens) but for the most part, he has been the target of opposing QBs this season.How are the Steelers going to finish the 2010 season?How are the Steelers going to finish the 2010 season?Just making the playoffs34.2%Playing in the conference championship game21.1%Playing in the Super Bowl2.6%Winning the Super Bowl23.7%Missing the playoffs18.4%Total votes: 38The Steelers figured that Gay, a starter last season, could be an effective nickelback; after all, he held his own in that position in 2008. However, whether by lack of talent or confidence (likely both), Gay has looked very bad. Tonight he was at his worst. Lewis has not made enough strides to be inserted in any defensive packages, and he did not help his cause tonight with mental mistakes on special teams. Butler has not cracked the game-day roster, and it is unlikely he will, unless the injury bug visits the secondary.My guess: The Steelers will stick with Gay for the rest of the season (much to the chagrin of many in the Steeler Nation) and will not offer him a new deal when his contract runs out next spring.Energy Crisis in Heinz Field I don't know whether it was Hines Ward getting hit hard in the first quarter or the Patriots' offense surgically cutting the Steelers defense to pieces on the first drive of the game, but there was no real emotion or sense of urgency on the Steelers' side tonight.Maybe it was Patriots QB Tom Brady being 5-1 at Heinz Field and the Patriots' style of offense that took the energy and life out of the Steelers. Maybe it was the third consecutive night game or coming off three consecutive road games. Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
Who knows?Whatever it was, the energy level of the team was lacking tonight, and it needs to be addressed by Coach Tomlin immediately. This is where head coaches in the NFL earn their pay. Tomlin did it 2008—the Steelers did not suffer consecutive losses that season. Of course, Tomlin could not rally the team effectively last season.Next week against the upstart Oakland Raiders will help tell the story of what kind of team (and coach) the Steelers have this season.The Antwaan Randle El Experience Part II Needs To Be Stopped ASAPRandle El, the former Super Bowl XL hero, came back to the Steelers this season to help revitalize a receiving corps that lost Santonio Holmes to the New York Jets and added two rookies this past April. Randle El looked to regain his former role as an underrated third receiver for the Steelers this year. For the most part, though, he has done next to nothing. Tonight, he did even less.Randle El has never been compared to Cris Carter in comparison of good hands, but he was always thought to be at least reliable. Tonight, Randle El dropped a crucial touchdown pass that set the tone of offensive futility that would haunt the Steelers for most of the game. Randle El should be given lesser roles for the rest of the season, and the Steelers should consider releasing him if his play does not improve.The Steelers have a developing rookie in Emmanuel Sanders, who showed flashes of good talent tonight, and speedster Antonio Brown should be getting close. There is also the veteran Arnaz Battle, who was brought in as a special teamer but has shown he can catch a pass or two every once in a while.For all those reasons, the Steelers should scale back Randle El's role in the offense.It Is Getting Harder and Harder To Defend Jeff ReedReed, whom I consider the most underrated kicker in the league, missed another kick at home today, this time from 26 yards. Reed now has missed five field goals at home, seven overall this season. Reed, of course, was designated the franchise tag and has no deal after 2010. Given his off-the-field issues and poor performance on the field, Reed is not doing anything to earn the long-term contract he desires.If Reed keeps struggling to make kicks, he will definitely play his way out of Steel City.The Defense Is Still Playing...Off Past ReputationThe Steelers came into tonight's game leading the league in scoring defense and rushing defense. Sure, the injuries to Aaron Smith and Brett Keisel are tough, but nobody would dare run on the Steelers, especially the "soft" Patriots...right? Wrong.The Patriots, when Tom Brady was not cutting them up with short completions, gashed them with runs by BenJarvis Green-Ellis. The Patriots rushed for over 100 yards against the Steelers' defense. That was by far the most telling statistic on a night filled with embarrassing statisticsThe Steelers are playing as if the opposition fears them. Well, Tom Brady does not fear them. After tonight, he is now 6-1 against the Steelers, 4-1 against defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau. The Steelers have struggled when they do not blitz often (see the Baltimore and New Orleans games) and against great QBs (see the New Orleans game, the fourth quarter of Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
last week's game in Cincinnati and tonight's game).Of course, not every team has Tom Brady or Drew Brees, but the Steelers defense got exposed for who they really are. They are slow to cover, passive most of the time and can be thrown on with ease. Why run the ball against the Steelers when you can gash them for first downs with short crossing routes?To make matters worse, safety Troy Polamalu has struggled mightily the last few weeks. He has been caught flat-footed and guessing wrong more than I care to count, resulting in big plays for the opposing offenses. Unfortunately, the secondary will not magically improve, but LeBeau can try to protect them by putting more pressure on the quarterback.I realize that this is tough to do against a team like New England with its short rhythm passing game, but it must be corrected soon or the Steelers giving up 30 plus points will be commonplace the rest of the season.The Steelers defense got their helping of humble pie tonight. It is up to the veteran group to overcome the injuries and step up not allow a disaster like tonight occur again. Time will tell if this group of Blitzburgh will bounce back or fold.Speaking of Bad, How Much Worse Can the Steelers' Offensive Line Get?The Steelers have come under heavy criticism in the past because of poor offensive line play, something that has been much a part of Mike Tomlin's tenure in Pittsburgh. Sure, Ben Roethlisberger holds the ball too long sometimes (and he did tonight as well), but tonight was one of the five worst performances by the Steelers' offensive line in the past four years.Now that is saying something.I really thought the loss of Max Starks would not have as heavy aftereffects as many thought, but if tonight is any indication, the Steelers are in huge trouble if they keep Jonathan Scott in the lineup. If Scott struggled against the likes of Tully Banta-Cain, how is he going to handle the likes of Terrell Suggs and other elite pass rushers?The Steelers might have fixed the center problem by drafting Maurkice Pouncey this past April. The Steelers need to fix the tackle problems before Ben Roethlisberger and any running back getting hit in the backfield suffers a serious injury. The Jonathan Scott experiment needs to end, and the Steelers should consider seeing what they have in Tony Hills. Anyone would be better than Scott. Then again, Hills could also be horrendous, too.Now I could go even further and do my weekly Bruce Arians bashing concerning play-Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
calling (it was pretty awful tonight as usual), but he was like the ninth thing wrong with the Steelers tonight.Did we all overrate the Steelers? Was tonight an anomaly?Sure, the Steelers do not match up well against the Patriots offense, but this was absurd. Speaking of last season, one of the five straight losses that sunk the Steelers' hopes of repeating as Super Bowl champs was at the hands of the Oakland Raiders. Coming up next? The Oakland Raiders, who are even better this season than in 2009.Let's all hope tonight was just a minor setback for the Steelers and not a sign of things to come.
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Tom Brady Continues Domination of Peyton Manning in New England Patriots Win
Tom Brady and Peyton Manning Squared Off in Their 12th MeetingJim Rogash/Getty ImagesIn one of the most anticipated games of the season, Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts squared off against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in Foxboro Sunday afternoon. It was the 12th Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
time the two Hall of Fame quarterbacks met, and again Tom Brady walked away with the victory.Following a penalty on the opening kickoff, the Colts began the game with the ball on their own 11. Five minutes into the drive, Peyton Manning threw an interception to safety Brandon Meriweather.The Patriots capitalized on the error and scored two minutes later on a 22-yard pass to Wes Welker.On their ensuing possession, the Colts managed a first down, but were later forced to punt. The Patriots held the ball for the remaining six minutes of the first quarter and scored again shortly into the second, when Brady connected with tight end Aaron Hernandez for an eight-yard TD.The Colts got on the board in their following drive when Manning marched the Colts 69 yards for the score, a one-yard pass to tight end Gijon Robinson.Indianapolis kicked off to the Patriots, who began their next series from their own 35. Three pass plays from Brady to Gronkowski, Branch, and Woodhead and four running plays culminated in another touchdown for the Pats when BenJarvus Green-Ellis took it in from six yards out.Tom Brady Leads Patriots to Victory Over ColtsJim Rogash/Getty ImagesNot to be outdone, Manning completed seven passes in the next three and a half minutes, leading the Colts to another touchdown, an 11-yard pass to Reggie Wayne. They would go into the locker room down just seven, 21-14.Neither team scored on their opening possession of the second half. But with six minutes left in the third quarter, the Patriots struck again when Danny Woodhead broke free for a 36-yard touchdown run.The Colts barely had the ball on their next drive, Manning coughing up another interception, when he threw it to Patriot cornerback Devin McCourty on their second play.The Patriots made the Colts pay for their mistake again, adding a Shayne Graham field goal at the end of their next offensive series. The three points would be the difference as a late charge led by Peyton Manning fell short.Two touchdowns from Manning to Blair White with eight and five minutes left in the game were not enough, as the Patriots held off the Colts' final drive with two and a half minutes to go. Manning took the ball 50 yards on eight plays, but was thwarted by his third interception of the game—to safety James Sanders—with 37 seconds left.The Patriots won 31-28 and go to 8-2, tied with the Jets for best record in the AFC, while the Colts slide to 6-4, tied—believe it or not—with the Jacksonville Jaguars for the best record in the AFC South.Who is the better quarterback?Who is the better quarterback?Tom Brady91.3%Peyton Manning8.8%Total votes: 240OvertimeIn the 12 times they have met, including three in the postseason, Brady and the Patriots have defeated Manning and the Colts two-thirds of the time (eight games). More recently, though, Manning has taken the win four of the last six times.Here is the breakdown on all the Brady-Manning matchups:1. Sep 30, 2001 - First MeetingColts 13 - Patriots 44. In the third game of Tom Brady's career, he notched his first win in a Patriot pounding. Both Brady and Manning threw for under 200 yards. Brady had no touchdowns, but the Pats scored three on the ground while Manning threw and ran for a TD.Brady 1 - Manning 02. Oct 21, 2001Patriots 38 - Colts 17. 2001 was the last season the Patriots and Colts were in the same division, so they met for a second time that year, just three weeks later, in Indianapolis. Again, New England would take home a convincing win. This time Brady threw for 200 yards and three TDs while Manning threw for 335 and one. The Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
Colts failed to make the playoffs in 2001, while the Patriots would go on to win the Super Bowl against the St. Louis Rams.Nov 30, 2003Andy Lyons/Getty ImagesBrady 2 - Manning 03. Nov 30, 2003Patriots 38 - Colts 34. The two teams did not meet in 2002. They resumed their budding rivalry in the 12th game of the 2003 season, both entering with a record of 9-2. Manning threw four touchdowns, but it wasn't enough, as Brady threw for two and the Pats ran two in.Brady 3 - Manning 04. Jan 18, 2004 (playoffs)Colts 14 - Patriots 24. They met again that season in the AFC Championship Game. Both Manning and Brady threw for 237 yards, but Manning had four interceptions. The Patriots would win the Super Bowl again in 2003, defeating the Carolina Panthers.Brady 4 - Manning 05. Sep 9, 2004Colts 24 - Patriots 27. They faced off in the Thursday night season opener in 2004. Manning could not keep up with the stellar Brady, who threw for 335 and 3 TDs.Brady 5 - Manning 0Brady Owns the Career Matchup Against Manning: 8-4...Jim Rogash/Getty Images6. Jan 16, 2005 (playoffs)Colts 3 - Patriots 20. They met in the playoffs for the second year in a row, and for the second time Brady and the Patriots advanced and Manning and the Colts went home. Brady ran and threw for a touchdown, while the New England defense held Manning at bay. Again, the Pats won the Super Bowl that year, this time against the Philadelphia Eagles.Brady 6 - Manning 07. Nov 7, 2005Colts 40 - Patriots 21. Finally, six games after their first meeting, Manning's Colts defeat Brady's Patriots for the first time, and in the hostile confines of Gillette Stadium. Both quarterbacks recorded three touchdowns, but the difference was in the running game, where the Colts recorded two more.Brady 6 - Manning 18. Nov 5, 2006Colts 27 - Patriots 20. Manning takes his second in a row from Brady and the Pats, again on the road. It was Peyton's day as he threw for over 300 yards while Tom gave away four interceptions.Brady 6 - Manning 2...But Manning Has Won 4 of the Last 6Elsa/Getty Images9. Jan 21, 2007 (playoffs)Patriots 34 - Colts 38. Manning and the Colts savor playoff redemption against their nemesis the New England Patriots, as this time, it's the Colts who win the AFC Championship Game. The Colts scored 17 points in the fourth quarter for the comeback win. They would go on to win the Super Bowl against the Chicago Bears.Brady 6 - Manning 310. Nov 4, 2007Patriots 24 - Colts 20. In 2007, the Patriots won this and all of their other regular season games. Brady was solid enough with three touchdowns and two interceptions. Manning threw and ran for a score, but the Colts fell short. The Patriots would eventually lose their first game of the season in the Super Bowl, to the New York Giants.Brady 7 - Manning 311. Nov 15, 2009Patriots 34 - Colts 35. Brady was hurt for nearly all of 2008, so the two quarterbacks did not meet (note - the Colts defeated Matt Cassel and the Pats 18-15 in '08), but they made up for it in this matchup, arguably their most exciting regular season meeting. Brady went for 375 and three TDs, while Manning outdid him with 327 and four. The Colts came from behind, scoring 21 points in the 4th quarter. They were aided by Patriot coach Bill Belichick's decision to try and run out the clock by going for it on 4th-and-2. The conversion failed and Manning marched the Colts Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
down the field with under two minutes to go, finishing the game with a touchdown pass to Reggie Wayne.Nov 15, 2009Jamie Squire/Getty ImagesBrady 7 - Manning 412. Nov 21, 2010Colts 28 - Patriots 31. Manning's 400 yards and two 4th quarter touchdowns were not enough to defeat the Patriots. Brady managed a solid game, going 19 for 25 with two TDs, while Manning sealed the Colts' fate with three critical interceptions. The Pats scored two on the ground as well, notching another win against the Colts.Brady 8 - Manning 4Follow your Patriots and sign up for weekly newsletters at the Bleacher Report Patriots Site.Follow your Colts and sign up for weekly newsletters at the Bleacher Report Colts Site.
time the two Hall of Fame quarterbacks met, and again Tom Brady walked away with the victory.Following a penalty on the opening kickoff, the Colts began the game with the ball on their own 11. Five minutes into the drive, Peyton Manning threw an interception to safety Brandon Meriweather.The Patriots capitalized on the error and scored two minutes later on a 22-yard pass to Wes Welker.On their ensuing possession, the Colts managed a first down, but were later forced to punt. The Patriots held the ball for the remaining six minutes of the first quarter and scored again shortly into the second, when Brady connected with tight end Aaron Hernandez for an eight-yard TD.The Colts got on the board in their following drive when Manning marched the Colts 69 yards for the score, a one-yard pass to tight end Gijon Robinson.Indianapolis kicked off to the Patriots, who began their next series from their own 35. Three pass plays from Brady to Gronkowski, Branch, and Woodhead and four running plays culminated in another touchdown for the Pats when BenJarvus Green-Ellis took it in from six yards out.Tom Brady Leads Patriots to Victory Over ColtsJim Rogash/Getty ImagesNot to be outdone, Manning completed seven passes in the next three and a half minutes, leading the Colts to another touchdown, an 11-yard pass to Reggie Wayne. They would go into the locker room down just seven, 21-14.Neither team scored on their opening possession of the second half. But with six minutes left in the third quarter, the Patriots struck again when Danny Woodhead broke free for a 36-yard touchdown run.The Colts barely had the ball on their next drive, Manning coughing up another interception, when he threw it to Patriot cornerback Devin McCourty on their second play.The Patriots made the Colts pay for their mistake again, adding a Shayne Graham field goal at the end of their next offensive series. The three points would be the difference as a late charge led by Peyton Manning fell short.Two touchdowns from Manning to Blair White with eight and five minutes left in the game were not enough, as the Patriots held off the Colts' final drive with two and a half minutes to go. Manning took the ball 50 yards on eight plays, but was thwarted by his third interception of the game—to safety James Sanders—with 37 seconds left.The Patriots won 31-28 and go to 8-2, tied with the Jets for best record in the AFC, while the Colts slide to 6-4, tied—believe it or not—with the Jacksonville Jaguars for the best record in the AFC South.Who is the better quarterback?Who is the better quarterback?Tom Brady91.3%Peyton Manning8.8%Total votes: 240OvertimeIn the 12 times they have met, including three in the postseason, Brady and the Patriots have defeated Manning and the Colts two-thirds of the time (eight games). More recently, though, Manning has taken the win four of the last six times.Here is the breakdown on all the Brady-Manning matchups:1. Sep 30, 2001 - First MeetingColts 13 - Patriots 44. In the third game of Tom Brady's career, he notched his first win in a Patriot pounding. Both Brady and Manning threw for under 200 yards. Brady had no touchdowns, but the Pats scored three on the ground while Manning threw and ran for a TD.Brady 1 - Manning 02. Oct 21, 2001Patriots 38 - Colts 17. 2001 was the last season the Patriots and Colts were in the same division, so they met for a second time that year, just three weeks later, in Indianapolis. Again, New England would take home a convincing win. This time Brady threw for 200 yards and three TDs while Manning threw for 335 and one. The Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
Colts failed to make the playoffs in 2001, while the Patriots would go on to win the Super Bowl against the St. Louis Rams.Nov 30, 2003Andy Lyons/Getty ImagesBrady 2 - Manning 03. Nov 30, 2003Patriots 38 - Colts 34. The two teams did not meet in 2002. They resumed their budding rivalry in the 12th game of the 2003 season, both entering with a record of 9-2. Manning threw four touchdowns, but it wasn't enough, as Brady threw for two and the Pats ran two in.Brady 3 - Manning 04. Jan 18, 2004 (playoffs)Colts 14 - Patriots 24. They met again that season in the AFC Championship Game. Both Manning and Brady threw for 237 yards, but Manning had four interceptions. The Patriots would win the Super Bowl again in 2003, defeating the Carolina Panthers.Brady 4 - Manning 05. Sep 9, 2004Colts 24 - Patriots 27. They faced off in the Thursday night season opener in 2004. Manning could not keep up with the stellar Brady, who threw for 335 and 3 TDs.Brady 5 - Manning 0Brady Owns the Career Matchup Against Manning: 8-4...Jim Rogash/Getty Images6. Jan 16, 2005 (playoffs)Colts 3 - Patriots 20. They met in the playoffs for the second year in a row, and for the second time Brady and the Patriots advanced and Manning and the Colts went home. Brady ran and threw for a touchdown, while the New England defense held Manning at bay. Again, the Pats won the Super Bowl that year, this time against the Philadelphia Eagles.Brady 6 - Manning 07. Nov 7, 2005Colts 40 - Patriots 21. Finally, six games after their first meeting, Manning's Colts defeat Brady's Patriots for the first time, and in the hostile confines of Gillette Stadium. Both quarterbacks recorded three touchdowns, but the difference was in the running game, where the Colts recorded two more.Brady 6 - Manning 18. Nov 5, 2006Colts 27 - Patriots 20. Manning takes his second in a row from Brady and the Pats, again on the road. It was Peyton's day as he threw for over 300 yards while Tom gave away four interceptions.Brady 6 - Manning 2...But Manning Has Won 4 of the Last 6Elsa/Getty Images9. Jan 21, 2007 (playoffs)Patriots 34 - Colts 38. Manning and the Colts savor playoff redemption against their nemesis the New England Patriots, as this time, it's the Colts who win the AFC Championship Game. The Colts scored 17 points in the fourth quarter for the comeback win. They would go on to win the Super Bowl against the Chicago Bears.Brady 6 - Manning 310. Nov 4, 2007Patriots 24 - Colts 20. In 2007, the Patriots won this and all of their other regular season games. Brady was solid enough with three touchdowns and two interceptions. Manning threw and ran for a score, but the Colts fell short. The Patriots would eventually lose their first game of the season in the Super Bowl, to the New York Giants.Brady 7 - Manning 311. Nov 15, 2009Patriots 34 - Colts 35. Brady was hurt for nearly all of 2008, so the two quarterbacks did not meet (note - the Colts defeated Matt Cassel and the Pats 18-15 in '08), but they made up for it in this matchup, arguably their most exciting regular season meeting. Brady went for 375 and three TDs, while Manning outdid him with 327 and four. The Colts came from behind, scoring 21 points in the 4th quarter. They were aided by Patriot coach Bill Belichick's decision to try and run out the clock by going for it on 4th-and-2. The conversion failed and Manning marched the Colts Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
down the field with under two minutes to go, finishing the game with a touchdown pass to Reggie Wayne.Nov 15, 2009Jamie Squire/Getty ImagesBrady 7 - Manning 412. Nov 21, 2010Colts 28 - Patriots 31. Manning's 400 yards and two 4th quarter touchdowns were not enough to defeat the Patriots. Brady managed a solid game, going 19 for 25 with two TDs, while Manning sealed the Colts' fate with three critical interceptions. The Pats scored two on the ground as well, notching another win against the Colts.Brady 8 - Manning 4Follow your Patriots and sign up for weekly newsletters at the Bleacher Report Patriots Site.Follow your Colts and sign up for weekly newsletters at the Bleacher Report Colts Site.
2010年12月16日星期四
16 Dec 10 Tom Brady Leads NFL MVP Race in Week 12: Ranking the Top 5 Candidates
Jim Rogash/Getty ImagesEleven weeks into an unpredictable NFL season, the MVP race is really starting to heat up.Like most years, this is a race dominated by quarterbacks, and while the leading candidates remain the same, the shuffle amongst them continues.Here's where they sit this week.1. Tom Brady - QB - New England PatriotsBrady has thrown for 2,362 yards and 19 touchdowns while completing 65 percent of his passes, accumulating a passer rating of 100.6 so far this season. He has the Patriots boasting the best record Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
(tied) in the NFL at 8-2.Brady has outdueled other MVP candidates Peyton Manning and Philip Rivers, beating the Chargers in San Diego in Week 7 and the Colts at home in Foxboro just this weekend. In games against Pittsburgh and Baltimore, two of the league's best defenses, he managed two more wins.Despite the highly publicized departure of Randy Moss, leaving New England with a middle of the road receiving corps, the Patriots have continued on their road to success nobly. Undrafted journeyman Danny Woodhead is the head of their committee of running backs.The major blemishes on Brady's MVP résumé are the two interceptions in the loss at the Jets and the baffling loss to Cleveland, where he struggled with completing passes. His totals aren't quite as high as the other candidates either.Dilip Vishwanat/Getty ImagesBottom line: Brady has taken one of the more mediocre offenses he has played with and still managed great numbers and beaten other top NFL teams, and there are few things you can count against him. 2. Matt Ryan - QB - Atlanta FalconsRyan has thrown for 2,518 yards and 18 touchdowns and has completed 63 percent of his passes, all of that adding up to a 92.1 passer rating. This is the lowest passer rating of the five top contenders, but like Brady he boasts the best record (tied) in the NFL at 8-2, putting the Falcons atop the NFC.Ryan and Atlanta's only two losses came in road games against the Eagles and the Steelers, two of the league's tougher teams. They had an impressive win going into New Orleans to beat the defending Super Bowl champions and impressive home wins against the Buccaneers and the Ravens.Ryan is close to having the most talent around him of anyone on this list, including Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez and Michael Turner.White was in consideration for this top five list, and while he didn't make it he's in the top 10 for sure giving Ryan a top notch go-to target. Turner wears down defenses with his bruising style and helps the Falcons set up an excellent play action pass. This talent helps, but Ryan is still the one delivering the ball.Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesRyan's only downside is that both losses were some of the few games that he threw inceptions in. Also, his stats don't quite match up with the likes of Rivers or Manning.Bottom line: Ryan has led the talented offense around him to the top spot in the NFC, but mistakes in what could have been two huge wins might count against him. 3. Philip Rivers - QB - San Diego ChargersBy the numbers, Rivers is having the best season with 3,177 yards, 23 touchdowns and a 65 percent completion rate for a combined passer rating of 105.0. At this pace, Rivers is on track to break Dan Marino's record for passing yards in a single season, set back in 1984.Like most years, Rivers and the Chargers have been excellent at home, losing just one game this season there, to New England. Their most impressive win came against the now 6-4 Jaguars in Week 2 at home, which is not an exceptional win. However, mistakes on special teams have cost San Diego a lot of their games, and their losses don't necessarily reflect Rivers' play.No one deserves more praise for making the best with what they have than Philip Rivers this season. This is the first season without L.T., Vincent Jackson is yet to make it on the field this season and Antonio Gates and Malcom Floyd have been sidelined with injuries. Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
Despite missing all of those players, Rivers used players like Seyi Ajirotutu and Randy McMichael to still pump out offense.Elsa/Getty ImagesRivers has two major blemishes: interceptions and losses. Rivers has thrown an interception in seven different games this year for a total of nine. He is 5-5 this year, losing games on the road to subpar teams like St. Louis and Seattle, as well as losing to division opponents Kansas City and Oakland.Bottom line: Rivers is having an exceptional, possibly record-breaking year by making the best of the players put around him, but interceptions and losses hurt him.4. Peyton Manning - QB - Indianapolis ColtsIn pursuit of a fifth MVP, Manning has thrown for 3,059 yards and 20 touchdowns and completed 65 percent of his passes, accumulating a passer rating of 94.2 so far. The Colts are struggling more than usual this year, at 6-4 and second in the AFC South.Manning and the Colts' best win was their dissection of the Giants in Week 2, followed by a Week 5 win against Kansas City. Indy is undefeated at home this year as well.However, losses at divisional opponents Jacksonville and Houston make up two of their four losses, while the other two come from losses at Philadelphia and New England. Those are tough teams to beat for the road on the most part, and he has had success at home against some good teams.Nick Laham/Getty ImagesThe Colts offense has been plagued with injuries, most notable the loss of Dallas Clark at tight end and most of the running back corps. Manning's done well making the best out of Austin Collie, Pierre Garcon and Jacob Tamme, but he has still has Reggie Wayne at his disposal too.Manning's big downsides are the losses and the fact that six of his seven interceptions were in losses decided by a field goal or less. However, while he may be the reason for those losses, he is the main reason the team is in them in the first place.Bottom line: Riddled with injuries and having a down year by his standards, Manning still has the level of play that makes him a candidate, but the mistakes against other good teams have lost the team games.5. Michael Vick - QB - Philadelphia EaglesIn limited time Vick has only managed 1,608 yards, 11 touchdowns and a 63 percent completion rate but owns a 108.7 passer rating. His ground contributions are also noteworthy: 375 yards and five touchdowns. The Eagles are 5-2 when he's played and are atop the NFC East, and he holds the best individual performance of the year with the prime time performance against Washington.Some impressive wins on his résumé include the Colts, Giants and Jaguars. In the losses against Green Bay and Washington he wasn't able to stay on the field the entire game, which is the chief reason they lost those games in most people's opinions. The Eagles did beat the Falcons too, but Kevin Kolb won that game.It's between Vick and Ryan for the best supporting casts. Vick has a huge weapon in the dangerous DeSean Jackson and another good target in Jeremy Maclin. LeSean McCoy provides a good punch between the tackles, but Vick shares duties in running the ball. He is yet to throw a pick, which accounts for the high Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
passer rating.Vick's big downside is his overall lack of production. Even if you include his rushing stats, he still has the fewest yards, touchdowns and wins and lowest completion rate of all the contenders on this list.Bottom line: Vick has been great, but only when he can manage to stay on the field, so the overall lack of production and wins land him on the bottom of the list.This is how it breaks down this week, but with the way the league has been so far, you can expect it to be completely different next week.
(tied) in the NFL at 8-2.Brady has outdueled other MVP candidates Peyton Manning and Philip Rivers, beating the Chargers in San Diego in Week 7 and the Colts at home in Foxboro just this weekend. In games against Pittsburgh and Baltimore, two of the league's best defenses, he managed two more wins.Despite the highly publicized departure of Randy Moss, leaving New England with a middle of the road receiving corps, the Patriots have continued on their road to success nobly. Undrafted journeyman Danny Woodhead is the head of their committee of running backs.The major blemishes on Brady's MVP résumé are the two interceptions in the loss at the Jets and the baffling loss to Cleveland, where he struggled with completing passes. His totals aren't quite as high as the other candidates either.Dilip Vishwanat/Getty ImagesBottom line: Brady has taken one of the more mediocre offenses he has played with and still managed great numbers and beaten other top NFL teams, and there are few things you can count against him. 2. Matt Ryan - QB - Atlanta FalconsRyan has thrown for 2,518 yards and 18 touchdowns and has completed 63 percent of his passes, all of that adding up to a 92.1 passer rating. This is the lowest passer rating of the five top contenders, but like Brady he boasts the best record (tied) in the NFL at 8-2, putting the Falcons atop the NFC.Ryan and Atlanta's only two losses came in road games against the Eagles and the Steelers, two of the league's tougher teams. They had an impressive win going into New Orleans to beat the defending Super Bowl champions and impressive home wins against the Buccaneers and the Ravens.Ryan is close to having the most talent around him of anyone on this list, including Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez and Michael Turner.White was in consideration for this top five list, and while he didn't make it he's in the top 10 for sure giving Ryan a top notch go-to target. Turner wears down defenses with his bruising style and helps the Falcons set up an excellent play action pass. This talent helps, but Ryan is still the one delivering the ball.Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesRyan's only downside is that both losses were some of the few games that he threw inceptions in. Also, his stats don't quite match up with the likes of Rivers or Manning.Bottom line: Ryan has led the talented offense around him to the top spot in the NFC, but mistakes in what could have been two huge wins might count against him. 3. Philip Rivers - QB - San Diego ChargersBy the numbers, Rivers is having the best season with 3,177 yards, 23 touchdowns and a 65 percent completion rate for a combined passer rating of 105.0. At this pace, Rivers is on track to break Dan Marino's record for passing yards in a single season, set back in 1984.Like most years, Rivers and the Chargers have been excellent at home, losing just one game this season there, to New England. Their most impressive win came against the now 6-4 Jaguars in Week 2 at home, which is not an exceptional win. However, mistakes on special teams have cost San Diego a lot of their games, and their losses don't necessarily reflect Rivers' play.No one deserves more praise for making the best with what they have than Philip Rivers this season. This is the first season without L.T., Vincent Jackson is yet to make it on the field this season and Antonio Gates and Malcom Floyd have been sidelined with injuries. Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
Despite missing all of those players, Rivers used players like Seyi Ajirotutu and Randy McMichael to still pump out offense.Elsa/Getty ImagesRivers has two major blemishes: interceptions and losses. Rivers has thrown an interception in seven different games this year for a total of nine. He is 5-5 this year, losing games on the road to subpar teams like St. Louis and Seattle, as well as losing to division opponents Kansas City and Oakland.Bottom line: Rivers is having an exceptional, possibly record-breaking year by making the best of the players put around him, but interceptions and losses hurt him.4. Peyton Manning - QB - Indianapolis ColtsIn pursuit of a fifth MVP, Manning has thrown for 3,059 yards and 20 touchdowns and completed 65 percent of his passes, accumulating a passer rating of 94.2 so far. The Colts are struggling more than usual this year, at 6-4 and second in the AFC South.Manning and the Colts' best win was their dissection of the Giants in Week 2, followed by a Week 5 win against Kansas City. Indy is undefeated at home this year as well.However, losses at divisional opponents Jacksonville and Houston make up two of their four losses, while the other two come from losses at Philadelphia and New England. Those are tough teams to beat for the road on the most part, and he has had success at home against some good teams.Nick Laham/Getty ImagesThe Colts offense has been plagued with injuries, most notable the loss of Dallas Clark at tight end and most of the running back corps. Manning's done well making the best out of Austin Collie, Pierre Garcon and Jacob Tamme, but he has still has Reggie Wayne at his disposal too.Manning's big downsides are the losses and the fact that six of his seven interceptions were in losses decided by a field goal or less. However, while he may be the reason for those losses, he is the main reason the team is in them in the first place.Bottom line: Riddled with injuries and having a down year by his standards, Manning still has the level of play that makes him a candidate, but the mistakes against other good teams have lost the team games.5. Michael Vick - QB - Philadelphia EaglesIn limited time Vick has only managed 1,608 yards, 11 touchdowns and a 63 percent completion rate but owns a 108.7 passer rating. His ground contributions are also noteworthy: 375 yards and five touchdowns. The Eagles are 5-2 when he's played and are atop the NFC East, and he holds the best individual performance of the year with the prime time performance against Washington.Some impressive wins on his résumé include the Colts, Giants and Jaguars. In the losses against Green Bay and Washington he wasn't able to stay on the field the entire game, which is the chief reason they lost those games in most people's opinions. The Eagles did beat the Falcons too, but Kevin Kolb won that game.It's between Vick and Ryan for the best supporting casts. Vick has a huge weapon in the dangerous DeSean Jackson and another good target in Jeremy Maclin. LeSean McCoy provides a good punch between the tackles, but Vick shares duties in running the ball. He is yet to throw a pick, which accounts for the high Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
passer rating.Vick's big downside is his overall lack of production. Even if you include his rushing stats, he still has the fewest yards, touchdowns and wins and lowest completion rate of all the contenders on this list.Bottom line: Vick has been great, but only when he can manage to stay on the field, so the overall lack of production and wins land him on the bottom of the list.This is how it breaks down this week, but with the way the league has been so far, you can expect it to be completely different next week.
2010年12月15日星期三
Rams vs. Broncos: A Prime Example Of Too Little Too Late For Denver
Justin Edmonds/Getty ImagesToday there were two Denver Broncos teams that showed up: the one in the first quarter and the game's last seven minutes. The one in the rest of the game was, well, not worth watching. Once again, the first two series were a perfect example of 4 Brett Favre White jersey
scripted plays. Everyone was making the right blocks, the right reads and moved the ball like a machine. Then there was that incredible comeback that just fell short. This was also about the only place the Bronco D showed up in pass defense. And the O took off on the back of Eddie Royal, who may have finally gotten tired of Brandon Lloyd getting all the love. I was also impressed with how the team came back when they could have just laid down after all the crap that has gone on the past two days with Spygate II. But I think this was more a show of the team playing for the team rather than for their head coach. I saw some incredible individual efforts from guys like LBs Joe Mays and DJ Williams, WR Eddie Royal, Safeties Brian Dawkins and Reynaldo Hill and QB Kyle Orton. What I didn't see was much out of the O-line much of the time when they were often playing matador blocking and letting the pass rush get to Orton way too often. I also didn't see the No. 11 draft choice in Moreno paying dividends with his inability to once again hold onto the ball, costing Denver a possession and a FG which was the margin in this game. Was this game the beginning of the end or the beginning of the beginning for the Broncos?Was this game the beginning of the end or the beginning of the beginning for the Broncos?It was the beginning of the end, at least for Little “Hoody” McDaniels31.7%It was the beginning of the beginning for next year when we get a whole bunch of Jets 6 Sanchez AFL50th jersey
high draft choices that will be used on the DEFENSIVE side of the ball 24.4%It was just another loss in the sad saga of McDaniels' short reign of terror in Denver43.9%Total votes: 41I also watched the inability of rookie CB Perrish Cox to step in and step up for the injured Andre Goodman. He has physical skills and may turn into a very good CB, but he is not there yet, as proven by his play today and last week. I saw that Denver's lack of stability on the defensive coaching staff has hurt this team. "Wink" Martindale may some day be a pretty good D Coordinator, but he has a lot to learn about teaching some basic fundamentals and being in control of his side of the ball. I saw the future for the Rams in QB Sam Bradford. He played like a five year veteran in his decision-making and his poise. Part of that was due to a complete lack of a pass rush, but he still was impressive. Bradford will be a great QB for the Rams and a key piece for them on which to base their rebuilding. But maybe the most painful thing I saw today was how one man (Josh McDaniels) dismantled a very good offensive team and squandered a lot of high draft choices on players who have not produced. (Alphonso Smith, Richard Quinn, Demarius Thomas, Tebow, etc.). These 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
draft pickscould have and should have been used to add quality and depth to a defense that had the building blocks but not enough pieces to be a consistent defense in the NFL. And lastly, I saw a faithful fan base being skewered by this same young, immature and not-ready-for-primetime head coach. They came today to watch their beloved Broncos win a home game and although it was close, it was still a L in the W-L column. And they deserved better. Just one Bronco(maniac)'s opinion.
scripted plays. Everyone was making the right blocks, the right reads and moved the ball like a machine. Then there was that incredible comeback that just fell short. This was also about the only place the Bronco D showed up in pass defense. And the O took off on the back of Eddie Royal, who may have finally gotten tired of Brandon Lloyd getting all the love. I was also impressed with how the team came back when they could have just laid down after all the crap that has gone on the past two days with Spygate II. But I think this was more a show of the team playing for the team rather than for their head coach. I saw some incredible individual efforts from guys like LBs Joe Mays and DJ Williams, WR Eddie Royal, Safeties Brian Dawkins and Reynaldo Hill and QB Kyle Orton. What I didn't see was much out of the O-line much of the time when they were often playing matador blocking and letting the pass rush get to Orton way too often. I also didn't see the No. 11 draft choice in Moreno paying dividends with his inability to once again hold onto the ball, costing Denver a possession and a FG which was the margin in this game. Was this game the beginning of the end or the beginning of the beginning for the Broncos?Was this game the beginning of the end or the beginning of the beginning for the Broncos?It was the beginning of the end, at least for Little “Hoody” McDaniels31.7%It was the beginning of the beginning for next year when we get a whole bunch of Jets 6 Sanchez AFL50th jersey
high draft choices that will be used on the DEFENSIVE side of the ball 24.4%It was just another loss in the sad saga of McDaniels' short reign of terror in Denver43.9%Total votes: 41I also watched the inability of rookie CB Perrish Cox to step in and step up for the injured Andre Goodman. He has physical skills and may turn into a very good CB, but he is not there yet, as proven by his play today and last week. I saw that Denver's lack of stability on the defensive coaching staff has hurt this team. "Wink" Martindale may some day be a pretty good D Coordinator, but he has a lot to learn about teaching some basic fundamentals and being in control of his side of the ball. I saw the future for the Rams in QB Sam Bradford. He played like a five year veteran in his decision-making and his poise. Part of that was due to a complete lack of a pass rush, but he still was impressive. Bradford will be a great QB for the Rams and a key piece for them on which to base their rebuilding. But maybe the most painful thing I saw today was how one man (Josh McDaniels) dismantled a very good offensive team and squandered a lot of high draft choices on players who have not produced. (Alphonso Smith, Richard Quinn, Demarius Thomas, Tebow, etc.). These 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
draft pickscould have and should have been used to add quality and depth to a defense that had the building blocks but not enough pieces to be a consistent defense in the NFL. And lastly, I saw a faithful fan base being skewered by this same young, immature and not-ready-for-primetime head coach. They came today to watch their beloved Broncos win a home game and although it was close, it was still a L in the W-L column. And they deserved better. Just one Bronco(maniac)'s opinion.
2010年12月13日星期一
Thank God for the Pittsburgh Steelers
Karl Walter/Getty ImagesCall me old fashioned, but I like big hits and defense.I enjoy running backs who fight for an extra half-yard rather than go out of bounds. Football is a sport where toughness and heart are supposed to matter most. At least, it was a sport where toughness and heart mattered.Sorry, but the NFL's feverish focus on safety (really, just head safety) is ruining the game.The in-season rule changes are unclear and misguided. What's the goal? To make sure no defensive player scratches any offensive player?All of nfl throwback jerseys
a sudden, concussions have become the equivalent of cancer; as if once a player has a concussion his career are quality of life are ruined. Really? How many concussions did Troy Aikman have? (Googling...) 10! He had 10 concussions and is still perfectly capable of doing play by play ever Sunday. Where's the former great whose life has been ruined by concussions?I know I'm being a little extreme. Medical staffs across the league are more informed than they were since Aikman played. It makes sense to keep a player sidelined if he suffers a concussion during a game; I get that. What I don't get is hyper-obsession with preventing concussions from ever happening.Enter the Pittsburgh Steelers.Ever since James Harrison was first fined for a hit that was not flagged, the Pittsburgh Steelers have been vocal in their criticisms of the NFL and commissioner Roger Goodell. There hasn't been this much questioning of a commissioner since David Stern initiated an NBA dress code.Harrison said he contemplated retirement after receiving the first fine. While it seemed excessive, is it really that ridiculous to imagine a hard hitter like Harrison walking away? I don't think that was charade for the media. Harrison has a job because he works hard and knocks guys out. Now, suddenly, he's doing something wrong? He's not the only one confused.James Harrison is still in the league and has received three fines since being punished for his hit on Mohamed Massaquoi. He hasn't been the only Steeler, however, to call the rule nfl jersey
changes into question.Normally reserved safety Troy Polamalu questioned the power sharing in the NFL. He targeted commissioner Goodell as being too powerful and reasonably suggested that a panel be created (to include current players) to judge which hits are worthy of fines. Completely reasonable requests. Beyond sharing a fantastic idea, Polamalu also demonstrated a sense of humor by saying, "If people want to watch soccer, they can watch soccer."Hines Ward is the latest member of the black and gold to come out and question the NFL's direction. His main point was that it is hypocritical to crack down on big hits for the safety of players while attempting to extend the length of the season."They don't care about the safety of the game. If the league was so concerned about the nfl jerseys
safety, why are you adding two more games on?" he said.It's refreshing to hear players defend the way the game should be played. Football will never be 100% safe. I understand that some people have a problem with that; however, they should focus their efforts on youth and high school football first. Kids don't get paid millions of dollars to take on the risk of injury, NFL players do.Let them play.This article is also featured onThe Life and Mind of David DeRyder
a sudden, concussions have become the equivalent of cancer; as if once a player has a concussion his career are quality of life are ruined. Really? How many concussions did Troy Aikman have? (Googling...) 10! He had 10 concussions and is still perfectly capable of doing play by play ever Sunday. Where's the former great whose life has been ruined by concussions?I know I'm being a little extreme. Medical staffs across the league are more informed than they were since Aikman played. It makes sense to keep a player sidelined if he suffers a concussion during a game; I get that. What I don't get is hyper-obsession with preventing concussions from ever happening.Enter the Pittsburgh Steelers.Ever since James Harrison was first fined for a hit that was not flagged, the Pittsburgh Steelers have been vocal in their criticisms of the NFL and commissioner Roger Goodell. There hasn't been this much questioning of a commissioner since David Stern initiated an NBA dress code.Harrison said he contemplated retirement after receiving the first fine. While it seemed excessive, is it really that ridiculous to imagine a hard hitter like Harrison walking away? I don't think that was charade for the media. Harrison has a job because he works hard and knocks guys out. Now, suddenly, he's doing something wrong? He's not the only one confused.James Harrison is still in the league and has received three fines since being punished for his hit on Mohamed Massaquoi. He hasn't been the only Steeler, however, to call the rule nfl jersey
changes into question.Normally reserved safety Troy Polamalu questioned the power sharing in the NFL. He targeted commissioner Goodell as being too powerful and reasonably suggested that a panel be created (to include current players) to judge which hits are worthy of fines. Completely reasonable requests. Beyond sharing a fantastic idea, Polamalu also demonstrated a sense of humor by saying, "If people want to watch soccer, they can watch soccer."Hines Ward is the latest member of the black and gold to come out and question the NFL's direction. His main point was that it is hypocritical to crack down on big hits for the safety of players while attempting to extend the length of the season."They don't care about the safety of the game. If the league was so concerned about the nfl jerseys
safety, why are you adding two more games on?" he said.It's refreshing to hear players defend the way the game should be played. Football will never be 100% safe. I understand that some people have a problem with that; however, they should focus their efforts on youth and high school football first. Kids don't get paid millions of dollars to take on the risk of injury, NFL players do.Let them play.This article is also featured onThe Life and Mind of David DeRyder
2010年12月12日星期日
McFired: Denver Broncos End The McDaniels Saga; Studesville In As Coach
Josh Mcdaniels posted a record of 11-17 as head coach of the BroncosJustin Edmonds/Getty ImagesAccording to Bill WIlliamson of ESPN, Josh McDaniels has been relieved of his head coaching duties with the Denver Broncos.McDaniels was highly recruited after leading the Patriots, as 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
offensive coordinator, to one of the most potent offensive seasons in history. Right away, McDaniels left an indelible mark on the franchise by trading away then franchise quarterback Jay Cutler for Kyle Orton. But the questionable moves did not end there. McDaniels traded away substantial draft picks for players that are no longer on the Broncos roster and began a feud with disenchanted Broncos receiver Brandon Marshall.In spite of all of these things, McDaniels still came out of the gate with guns blazing. The Broncos started the 2009 season 6-0 and it appeared that Broncos owner Pat Bowlen had struck gold with his young talent.However, the honeymoon did not last long. The Broncos struggled the rest of the season, finishing 8-8 and again missing the playoffs for the fourth straight season.In this past offseason, McDaniels made yet another questionable move, in moving up to draft highly touted college phenom Tim Tebow with a first round pick. Despite clamoring from the fans, McDaniels has limited Tebow's playing time. The struggles continued for McDaniels. The Broncos are in the midst of one of the worst losing stretches in over 40 years.The Denver Broncos are currently 3-9 and will not make the playoffs for a fifth straight year, their longest playoff drought since 1976.How do you feel about McD's firingHow do you feel about McD's firingGreat-Lets move on!92.9%Awful-Where do we go from here?7.1%Total votes: 14To add insult to injury, a story broke two weeks ago alleging that McDaniels was involved in taping a practice session of the San Francisco 49ers while the teams were playing against one another in London. Both the organization and McDaniels were fined $50,000 for the incident and the gray cloud over McD's head grew darker. As recent as last week, Pat Bowlen stated that he did not intend to make a coaching change and there was speculation that McD would survive the duration of his contract.After yet another division loss on 6 Sanchez White Jersey
Sunday, this time to the Chiefs, Bowlen changed courses and decided to pull the plug on McD.Broncos running backs coach Eric Studesville has been named interim head coach. Studesville was the running backs coach in Buffalo for six years before taking the job in Denver this season.More to come as this story develops.
offensive coordinator, to one of the most potent offensive seasons in history. Right away, McDaniels left an indelible mark on the franchise by trading away then franchise quarterback Jay Cutler for Kyle Orton. But the questionable moves did not end there. McDaniels traded away substantial draft picks for players that are no longer on the Broncos roster and began a feud with disenchanted Broncos receiver Brandon Marshall.In spite of all of these things, McDaniels still came out of the gate with guns blazing. The Broncos started the 2009 season 6-0 and it appeared that Broncos owner Pat Bowlen had struck gold with his young talent.However, the honeymoon did not last long. The Broncos struggled the rest of the season, finishing 8-8 and again missing the playoffs for the fourth straight season.In this past offseason, McDaniels made yet another questionable move, in moving up to draft highly touted college phenom Tim Tebow with a first round pick. Despite clamoring from the fans, McDaniels has limited Tebow's playing time. The struggles continued for McDaniels. The Broncos are in the midst of one of the worst losing stretches in over 40 years.The Denver Broncos are currently 3-9 and will not make the playoffs for a fifth straight year, their longest playoff drought since 1976.How do you feel about McD's firingHow do you feel about McD's firingGreat-Lets move on!92.9%Awful-Where do we go from here?7.1%Total votes: 14To add insult to injury, a story broke two weeks ago alleging that McDaniels was involved in taping a practice session of the San Francisco 49ers while the teams were playing against one another in London. Both the organization and McDaniels were fined $50,000 for the incident and the gray cloud over McD's head grew darker. As recent as last week, Pat Bowlen stated that he did not intend to make a coaching change and there was speculation that McD would survive the duration of his contract.After yet another division loss on 6 Sanchez White Jersey
Sunday, this time to the Chiefs, Bowlen changed courses and decided to pull the plug on McD.Broncos running backs coach Eric Studesville has been named interim head coach. Studesville was the running backs coach in Buffalo for six years before taking the job in Denver this season.More to come as this story develops.
2010年12月11日星期六
Pittsburgh Steelers "Aaron Smith: More important than many knew"
On Dec. 11, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin announced that defensive end Aaron Smith might be out for the season because of a torn bicep muscle. Unfortunately for the Steelers, Tomlin's initial suspicions were confirmed correct later.Talk about a bad week. 4 Brett Favre White jersey
First came a 21-point defeat to the New England Patriots. Next, the loss of the best player on the Steelers whom you've never heard of. "[Smith] came out a few times and that was worrisome because this guy doesn't come out of games," Tomlin said after the New England game.High praise, and Smith deserves it. After all, a lot has been said about Pittsburgh's offensive running game and how it dictates the team's performance. Well, how about the Steelers' run defense? Anyone who has watched this team play over the years knows that stopping the run is just as important to what it has been all about as anything else.Said another way, the Steelers were third in the NFL in rushing 'D' in 2005 and '06, and they were first in '04. This season (2007), Pittsburgh was once again third in the NFL in that department. However, the Steelers weren't consistent. And Aaron Smith, apparently, was a major reason why. Consider the following:When Smith was in the game for a significant amount of time, the Steelers surrendered approximately 70 yards rushing per game through 10 contest. Further, they only gave up 100 yards rushing on two occasions.During the seven games that Smith was out (we're counting the Denver game as one where he missed time because he left in the first quarter), the Steelers allowed roughly 125 yards rushing per week. In addition, they gave up 100 yards rushing to their opponents on three separate occasions and 90 yards on three more. Even if you take the two Jacksonville losses out of the equation (both of which Smith didn't play in), the Steelers still yielded an average of 103 ground yards per game when Smith was out, which is 30 more yards than when he was in.Were other playersJets 6 Sanchez Jersey
injured on defense for the Steelers this season? Of course. Casey Hampton and Troy Polamalu had their share, for example. But the interesting thing is that before the season, most people who weren't close followers of the Steelers didn't know how important Smith was to the defense.As Pittsburgh heads into the offseason, one thing is for sure: Everyone should now know how integral Smith really is to the Steelers' defense.
2010年12月9日星期四
San Francisco 49ers Alex Smith Ken Dorsey
This week, the San Francisco 49ers announced that due to a knee strain, first overall draft choice, rookie quarterback, Alex Smith will not start for the 49ers – instead third year player, Ken Dorsey will. Smith was made the starter in place of Tim Rattay, who struggled in his starts with the 49ers. Ironically, the 49ers will face Rattay's new team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, this Sunday. Naturally, this quarterback change raises a couple of eyebrows.The first question I ask is how badly is Smith hurt? I have been a proponent of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
starting him since I found out the San Francisco 49ers were not going to bring in a veteran who could teach him anything. Of course behind the 49ers makeshift offensive line, there was always a risk to shattering his confidence, or his body. Smith's mobility is obviously in question, which against the ‘Bucs' defense, could have the 49ers worried at the potential for Smith to be further injured. So the team decides to sit him, and let him get healthy. After all, there is no pressure right? Tim Rattay is not there to take back the starting spot.But what if Ken Dorsey steps up to the plate and hits a grand slam? What if Dorsey pulls a Drew Brees and flat out shines in his start? The 49ers are financially and outwardly committed to Alex Smith being the team's starter for the future, and the rest of the season, but if Dorsey lights things up on Sunday the team could have a serious quarterback controversy on the plate. If Dorsey is effective as the team's starter, the 49ers may go back on their word of starting Smith for the rest of the season. All along head coach Mike Nolan has reiterated time and time again, the team's goal is to win the NFC West. If Dorsey can legitimately give the team that chance then what?Having a competent quarterback is something the San Francisco 49ers have been missing for a while. That is why they drafted and paid big time for Smith this off-season. Personally, I have always been a fan of Dorsey's, and although I do not know if he can be a legitimate quarterback in the NFL, I would not be shocked if he is able to put up a good performance this weekend. If Dorsey is successful, the 49ers will have a very hard time sitting him back down on the bench and starting Smith. This could damage Smith's confidence more than playing him against a blitz-heavy team. It will also put strain in the 49ers locker room, possibly dividing Dorsey and Smith supporters.The real question is for the future though. If Dorsey steps up and shines, do the 49ers give up on Smith? I really do not know what the answer to this question is. The Chargers stayed with Brees when he began to perform, but they had much more invested in Brees than the 49ers have in Dorsey (a former 7th round pick). The team has a ton of financial considerations invested in Smith. It could benefit from him learning behind a competent quarterback (unlike learning behind Tim Rattay), if Dorsey can be that competent quarterback, it could really help develop Smith. But the question still remains, who would be the present, and who would be the future? Is it the same player?I suppose if Dorsey does shine, the 49ers will be able to go back to the original plan of sitting Smith and just playing him in 43 Polamalu white jersey
opportunities that give him the chance to succeed a la Joe Montana and Steve DeBerg. But with such a commitment to Smith as the starter, pulling him, and pushing him in every direction may be the worst thing the 49ers can do to his development. It may also make Dorsey, a young quarterback, very unhappy with his situation.All this is of course based on the hypothetical that Dorsey performs well this weekend. Is it far fetched? Sure. But is it impossible? Absolutely not.
starting him since I found out the San Francisco 49ers were not going to bring in a veteran who could teach him anything. Of course behind the 49ers makeshift offensive line, there was always a risk to shattering his confidence, or his body. Smith's mobility is obviously in question, which against the ‘Bucs' defense, could have the 49ers worried at the potential for Smith to be further injured. So the team decides to sit him, and let him get healthy. After all, there is no pressure right? Tim Rattay is not there to take back the starting spot.But what if Ken Dorsey steps up to the plate and hits a grand slam? What if Dorsey pulls a Drew Brees and flat out shines in his start? The 49ers are financially and outwardly committed to Alex Smith being the team's starter for the future, and the rest of the season, but if Dorsey lights things up on Sunday the team could have a serious quarterback controversy on the plate. If Dorsey is effective as the team's starter, the 49ers may go back on their word of starting Smith for the rest of the season. All along head coach Mike Nolan has reiterated time and time again, the team's goal is to win the NFC West. If Dorsey can legitimately give the team that chance then what?Having a competent quarterback is something the San Francisco 49ers have been missing for a while. That is why they drafted and paid big time for Smith this off-season. Personally, I have always been a fan of Dorsey's, and although I do not know if he can be a legitimate quarterback in the NFL, I would not be shocked if he is able to put up a good performance this weekend. If Dorsey is successful, the 49ers will have a very hard time sitting him back down on the bench and starting Smith. This could damage Smith's confidence more than playing him against a blitz-heavy team. It will also put strain in the 49ers locker room, possibly dividing Dorsey and Smith supporters.The real question is for the future though. If Dorsey steps up and shines, do the 49ers give up on Smith? I really do not know what the answer to this question is. The Chargers stayed with Brees when he began to perform, but they had much more invested in Brees than the 49ers have in Dorsey (a former 7th round pick). The team has a ton of financial considerations invested in Smith. It could benefit from him learning behind a competent quarterback (unlike learning behind Tim Rattay), if Dorsey can be that competent quarterback, it could really help develop Smith. But the question still remains, who would be the present, and who would be the future? Is it the same player?I suppose if Dorsey does shine, the 49ers will be able to go back to the original plan of sitting Smith and just playing him in 43 Polamalu white jersey
opportunities that give him the chance to succeed a la Joe Montana and Steve DeBerg. But with such a commitment to Smith as the starter, pulling him, and pushing him in every direction may be the worst thing the 49ers can do to his development. It may also make Dorsey, a young quarterback, very unhappy with his situation.All this is of course based on the hypothetical that Dorsey performs well this weekend. Is it far fetched? Sure. But is it impossible? Absolutely not.
an Francisco 49ers "Mike Nolan chose the right Greg Manusky for the job"
When the San Francisco 49ers' Mike Nolan eschewed promoting linebackers coach Mike Singletary to defensive coordinator to replace the fired Billy Davis in the offseason, some criticized the coach for basically slapping one of his own assistants in the face.But Nolan had some very good 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
reasons for bypassing Singletary and hiring Greg Manusky away from the San Diego Chargers. First of all, Singletary -- despite his extreme inexperience as a coach -- was already being viewed as a potential head coach by several teams. Even though he has been coaching pro linebackers for just four seasons, Singletary already has garnered interest over the past two offseasons from the Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, Dallas Cowboys and Chargers. Hiring him would most likely have meant replacing him within a year or two. Meanwhile, Manusky had a proven track record with the Chargers over the past five seasons, leading a Pro Bowl-populated linebacker corps on one of the league's best defenses."I wanted to get an NFL-experienced guy into the job -- someone that had been around it, seen it, done it the right way," Nolan told reporters when he hired Manusky in early February. "We will continue to collectively put a game plan together, but that will be Greg's call. I think he's got a great mind to do it."Manusky's mind-set comes from 12 years as an NFL linebacker and coaching tutelage under Tony Dungy, Marty Schottenheimer and Wade Phillips. When he retired after the 1999 season, Manusky went directly into coaching. In 2000, he volunteered with Dungy's Tampa Bay Buccaneers during training camp; and in 2001, he was hired by Schottenheimer -- his former coach in Kansas City -- to tutor the Washington Redskins' linebackers. In 2002, Manusky followed Schottenheimer to San Diego, and in five seasons with the Chargers, Manusky sent four of his linebackers to the Pro Bowl while also learning the intricacies of the 3-4 defense under Phillips. "I learned a lot about the game from Wade, as well as Dave Adolph, Marty and Tony Dungy," Manusky told the 49ers' website. "Those are probably my biggest influences, and they taught me so much about the game from when I was a player and now as a coach. I have loads of respect for all of them, and yet they all have different ways of coaching. I think it's important to take the best traits from each one and then mix it with what you do best and your own coaching personality." Manusky's personality was recently gaged in a survey Nolan administered to his coaches, and the 49ers' new defensive coordinator was labeled a "Supervisor," which means he "likes to run things, has no time to waste, gets things done, needs to improve on slowing down and being patient." Along with his knowledge of the 3-4 defense Nolan wants to run, those are traits that should serve Manusky well as he attempts to fashion a unit that is much better than the San Francisco defense that in 2006 surrendered an NFL-high 412 points, ranked 26th in yards allowed (223 per game), and gave up 25 touchdown passes (fourth most in the league) and a 63.9 completion percentage (third worst in the league).Manusky has a lot of work to do, with 10 new defenders to insert into his scheme. He has a lot of good players -- led by top free-agent cornerback Nate Clements and first-round linebacker Patrick Willis -- but he does not think that automatically means the 49ers will turn into the Northern California version of the Chargers."You'd like to say all the right things -- we are going to stop the run, we're going to sack the QB, knock down every pass -- but that's not realistic," Manusky told 49ers.com. "It's what our players can do, and putting them in the right position to do it. We don't want to try to force a square peg in a round hole. Even from an identity standpoint or schematically, you don't ever want to take a player and try to force him into a mold. That's one of the biggest things I've learned in coaching, because sometimes what works for one team doesn't work for another. "This defense is going to go where the players take it, more than anything else," Manusky said. "Even though we've got an idea of where we want it to go and where we think it will go, the players will dictate that." But Manusky's maniacal "Supervisor" persona will dictate one factor: "The one thing I can say about this defense is that I'll expect these guys to play with passion. You've got to go out there and play with excitement, energy and passion. That was my approach as a player, that's what I believe I bring to the table from a coaching perspective, and that's what I'll expect from our players." Nolan is confident the players will respond to Manusky."He 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
did a great job with San Diego's 3-4 and is familiar with what we want to do," Nolan told Pro Football Weekly. "He's very knowledgeable, passionate, energetic and thorough. I like his command, and I think he will do a real good job for us. I also think in a few years I'll probably be replacing another guy."So, then, how can the 49ers' defense fail with two future head coaches leading the way this season?Get daily San Francisco 49ers , and coming soon, keep tabs on the NFL via the official RealFootball365 podcast!
reasons for bypassing Singletary and hiring Greg Manusky away from the San Diego Chargers. First of all, Singletary -- despite his extreme inexperience as a coach -- was already being viewed as a potential head coach by several teams. Even though he has been coaching pro linebackers for just four seasons, Singletary already has garnered interest over the past two offseasons from the Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, Dallas Cowboys and Chargers. Hiring him would most likely have meant replacing him within a year or two. Meanwhile, Manusky had a proven track record with the Chargers over the past five seasons, leading a Pro Bowl-populated linebacker corps on one of the league's best defenses."I wanted to get an NFL-experienced guy into the job -- someone that had been around it, seen it, done it the right way," Nolan told reporters when he hired Manusky in early February. "We will continue to collectively put a game plan together, but that will be Greg's call. I think he's got a great mind to do it."Manusky's mind-set comes from 12 years as an NFL linebacker and coaching tutelage under Tony Dungy, Marty Schottenheimer and Wade Phillips. When he retired after the 1999 season, Manusky went directly into coaching. In 2000, he volunteered with Dungy's Tampa Bay Buccaneers during training camp; and in 2001, he was hired by Schottenheimer -- his former coach in Kansas City -- to tutor the Washington Redskins' linebackers. In 2002, Manusky followed Schottenheimer to San Diego, and in five seasons with the Chargers, Manusky sent four of his linebackers to the Pro Bowl while also learning the intricacies of the 3-4 defense under Phillips. "I learned a lot about the game from Wade, as well as Dave Adolph, Marty and Tony Dungy," Manusky told the 49ers' website. "Those are probably my biggest influences, and they taught me so much about the game from when I was a player and now as a coach. I have loads of respect for all of them, and yet they all have different ways of coaching. I think it's important to take the best traits from each one and then mix it with what you do best and your own coaching personality." Manusky's personality was recently gaged in a survey Nolan administered to his coaches, and the 49ers' new defensive coordinator was labeled a "Supervisor," which means he "likes to run things, has no time to waste, gets things done, needs to improve on slowing down and being patient." Along with his knowledge of the 3-4 defense Nolan wants to run, those are traits that should serve Manusky well as he attempts to fashion a unit that is much better than the San Francisco defense that in 2006 surrendered an NFL-high 412 points, ranked 26th in yards allowed (223 per game), and gave up 25 touchdown passes (fourth most in the league) and a 63.9 completion percentage (third worst in the league).Manusky has a lot of work to do, with 10 new defenders to insert into his scheme. He has a lot of good players -- led by top free-agent cornerback Nate Clements and first-round linebacker Patrick Willis -- but he does not think that automatically means the 49ers will turn into the Northern California version of the Chargers."You'd like to say all the right things -- we are going to stop the run, we're going to sack the QB, knock down every pass -- but that's not realistic," Manusky told 49ers.com. "It's what our players can do, and putting them in the right position to do it. We don't want to try to force a square peg in a round hole. Even from an identity standpoint or schematically, you don't ever want to take a player and try to force him into a mold. That's one of the biggest things I've learned in coaching, because sometimes what works for one team doesn't work for another. "This defense is going to go where the players take it, more than anything else," Manusky said. "Even though we've got an idea of where we want it to go and where we think it will go, the players will dictate that." But Manusky's maniacal "Supervisor" persona will dictate one factor: "The one thing I can say about this defense is that I'll expect these guys to play with passion. You've got to go out there and play with excitement, energy and passion. That was my approach as a player, that's what I believe I bring to the table from a coaching perspective, and that's what I'll expect from our players." Nolan is confident the players will respond to Manusky."He 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
did a great job with San Diego's 3-4 and is familiar with what we want to do," Nolan told Pro Football Weekly. "He's very knowledgeable, passionate, energetic and thorough. I like his command, and I think he will do a real good job for us. I also think in a few years I'll probably be replacing another guy."So, then, how can the 49ers' defense fail with two future head coaches leading the way this season?Get daily San Francisco 49ers , and coming soon, keep tabs on the NFL via the official RealFootball365 podcast!
2010年12月2日星期四
Randy Moss Jerry Porter Commentary
The have a pair of problem children on their hands; their names are Randy and Jerry.This offseason, owner Al Davis will have the opportunity to put both, just one or neither up for adoption.To let both stray the market, it would cost the Raiders $10.5 million -- a scenario that seems highly unlikely. Cutting ties with just 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
one-half of the two-pronged problem, though, is not a far-fetched solution.With Oakland's season less than a week from its end, the team should look to ship out the elder of the two children -- Randy Moss.Moss, to start, holds a higher trade value than the benched Porter. The 29-year-old veteran has surpassed the coveted 1,000-yard bar seven times in his career, as opposed to Porter, who is yet to do so. In nine seasons, the 6-foot-4 Moss has caught 676 balls for 10,700 yards and 101 touchdowns. Porter, on the other hand, has hauled in just 240 passes for 3,234 yards and 24 touchdowns in two fewer seasons, which includes 46 career starts.From the Raiders' point of view, Porter also holds more upside for the future.At 28 years old, No. 84 is just one younger than Moss, but has essentially three years fewer of wear-and-tear on his body after sitting out the bulk of 2000, 2001 and 2006. In the last two seasons, Moss has seen injuries to his ribs, groin, pelvis and ankle, while Porter has remained virtually injury-free.Moss hasn't outclassed Porter on the field in recent years, either.Last season, when both wideouts were the primary targets in Norv Turner's offensive game plan, the 6-2 Porter was on the receiving end of more passes than the big-play Moss, with just 63 fewer yards. Porter led the team with 76 receptions, good for 942 yards and five touchdowns. This season, with Porter riding the bench, Moss has posted career lows in catches (42), yardage (553) and touchdowns (three), and has dropped eight passes.Off the field, Porter also holds the slight edge.Up until the hard-nosed Art Shell took the helm, Porter wasn't considered to be a misfit or nonconformist. The former second-round pick out of West Virginia hasn't seen a jersey other than the 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey White jersey
silver and black since entering the NFL in 2000. Since that time, Porter has endured records ranging from 4-12 to 12-4, has played in a Super Bowl and has been listed as both a first and fifth wideout on the depth chart.He has also taken orders from four different coaches.Not surprisingly, he has only had a problem with the fourth.Visit RaidersLive.com now to join the Jan. 12 Raiders mailbag. (31)
one-half of the two-pronged problem, though, is not a far-fetched solution.With Oakland's season less than a week from its end, the team should look to ship out the elder of the two children -- Randy Moss.Moss, to start, holds a higher trade value than the benched Porter. The 29-year-old veteran has surpassed the coveted 1,000-yard bar seven times in his career, as opposed to Porter, who is yet to do so. In nine seasons, the 6-foot-4 Moss has caught 676 balls for 10,700 yards and 101 touchdowns. Porter, on the other hand, has hauled in just 240 passes for 3,234 yards and 24 touchdowns in two fewer seasons, which includes 46 career starts.From the Raiders' point of view, Porter also holds more upside for the future.At 28 years old, No. 84 is just one younger than Moss, but has essentially three years fewer of wear-and-tear on his body after sitting out the bulk of 2000, 2001 and 2006. In the last two seasons, Moss has seen injuries to his ribs, groin, pelvis and ankle, while Porter has remained virtually injury-free.Moss hasn't outclassed Porter on the field in recent years, either.Last season, when both wideouts were the primary targets in Norv Turner's offensive game plan, the 6-2 Porter was on the receiving end of more passes than the big-play Moss, with just 63 fewer yards. Porter led the team with 76 receptions, good for 942 yards and five touchdowns. This season, with Porter riding the bench, Moss has posted career lows in catches (42), yardage (553) and touchdowns (three), and has dropped eight passes.Off the field, Porter also holds the slight edge.Up until the hard-nosed Art Shell took the helm, Porter wasn't considered to be a misfit or nonconformist. The former second-round pick out of West Virginia hasn't seen a jersey other than the 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey White jersey
silver and black since entering the NFL in 2000. Since that time, Porter has endured records ranging from 4-12 to 12-4, has played in a Super Bowl and has been listed as both a first and fifth wideout on the depth chart.He has also taken orders from four different coaches.Not surprisingly, he has only had a problem with the fourth.Visit RaidersLive.com now to join the Jan. 12 Raiders mailbag. (31)
Titans safety Tank Williams was arrested early Thursday and charged with driving under the influence February 17 2005
NASHVILLE, Tennessee - Titans safety Tank Williams was arrested early Thursday and charged with driving under the influence after police said an officer saw his car make a rolling stop at a downtown intersection. The 24-year-old player smelled of alcohol and had red and watery eyes when his car was stopped near downtown, arresting officer Ron Bright said. Police said Williams agreed to a blood alcohol test and registered 0.08 percent, the minimum reading for intoxication under Tennessee law. Williams declined to speak to reporters as he left the Criminal Justice Center after being booked and posting a $1,000 bond. Steelers 43 Polamalu jersey
Titans cornerback Samari Rolle was arrested Tuesday on assault charges after a Valentine's Day altercation with his wife, authorities said. Police said Danisha Rolle, 27, was treated for a cut over her left eye and released from Baptist Hospital in Nashville Monday night. "Unfortunately with this being a legal matter, I am unable to comment on the particulars of the situation," Samari Rolle said in a statement. "We are cooperating in this process and it is our wish that our privacy would be respected." Hospital personnel contacted Brentwood Police and authorities obtained a warrant after a preliminary investigation. Police said the incident occurred Monday night. Rolle turned himself in on a single charge of simple assault, a misdemeanor, Chief Ricky Watson said. The 27-year-old Rolle posted $1,000 bond and was released, officials said. If convicted, he faces probation up to 11 months and 29 days in jail. "Samari notified us that he has hired an attorney to represent him," coach Jeff Fisher said. "We will continue to monitor the situation." The Rolles Steelers 43 Polamalu jersey
have been married since November 2003 and have two children. Samari Rolle's first court appearance is set for Feb. 24. Rolle appeared in 12 games in 2004 before undergoing surgery on his left knee. He finished with just one interception and 28 tackles. Rolle's best season was in 2000, when he went to the Pro Bowl after making seven interceptions. The Titans drafted Rolle in the second round in 1998 out of Florida State.
Titans cornerback Samari Rolle was arrested Tuesday on assault charges after a Valentine's Day altercation with his wife, authorities said. Police said Danisha Rolle, 27, was treated for a cut over her left eye and released from Baptist Hospital in Nashville Monday night. "Unfortunately with this being a legal matter, I am unable to comment on the particulars of the situation," Samari Rolle said in a statement. "We are cooperating in this process and it is our wish that our privacy would be respected." Hospital personnel contacted Brentwood Police and authorities obtained a warrant after a preliminary investigation. Police said the incident occurred Monday night. Rolle turned himself in on a single charge of simple assault, a misdemeanor, Chief Ricky Watson said. The 27-year-old Rolle posted $1,000 bond and was released, officials said. If convicted, he faces probation up to 11 months and 29 days in jail. "Samari notified us that he has hired an attorney to represent him," coach Jeff Fisher said. "We will continue to monitor the situation." The Rolles Steelers 43 Polamalu jersey
have been married since November 2003 and have two children. Samari Rolle's first court appearance is set for Feb. 24. Rolle appeared in 12 games in 2004 before undergoing surgery on his left knee. He finished with just one interception and 28 tackles. Rolle's best season was in 2000, when he went to the Pro Bowl after making seven interceptions. The Titans drafted Rolle in the second round in 1998 out of Florida State.
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