Everyone knows that successful teams are built through the draft. A front office that doesn't screw up the draft is the best asset a team can have and while the first round certainly contains star power, the key to a successful draft is what happens after the first round. Whether its grabbing the quarterback of the future or grabbing some missing pieces on the cheap, finding value after the first round is vital to success in the NFL. Here is a guy at each position that may not go in the first round but you should be happy to see donning your team's uniform.
Kirk Cousins QB Michigan State
Projecting quarterbacks could be the most difficult job that an NFL scout has. For every Peyton Manning or Drew Brees there are a half a dozen Ryan Leaf's, Akili Smith's, Tim Couch's or JaMarcus Russels. Basically, when it comes to quarterbacks it truly is an inexact science. Every year GM's and scouts fall in love with athleticism and arm strength. Both happen to be Cousins weakness. A starter in 39 games in a pro-style offense as a Spartan, Cousins does have smarts and accuracy. In Cousins, a team is getting a guy that can come in and be a dependable backup right away. While quarterbacks like Nick Foles and Brock Osweiler have the impressive size and arm strength, Cousins is a proven leader who could develop nicely after a few years as a back up.
Bernard Pierce RB Temple
There is only one runningback in this class guaranteed to go in the first and that is Trent Richardson from Alabama so going with Lamar Miller, Doug Martin or David Wilson here really isn't all that outlandish. A player being overlooked is Bernard Pierce from Temple. In today's NFL, runningback-by-committee is the way to go, if Pierce goes to the right team he could contribute to a committee right away. Pierce is a tough runner with good size at 6-foot and 218 pounds, Pierce rushed for 53 touchdowns in his career at Temple. He has shown that he is able to carry a heavy workload even though he probably won't be asked to at the NFL level. The downside to Pierce is that he has little to no ball skills catching the ball out of the backfield. He has 19 career receptions in three years at Temple but in the right backfield he won't be asked to do be a receiver. Pierce would make a good short-yardage back and around the goalline, possibly as a handcuff to an established back like Darren McFadden in Oakland.
Bradie Ewing FB Wisconsin
The fullback is a dying position in the NFL so it would be surprising to see any full back taken before the fourth round but for teams looking for a solid lead blocker Ewing is their man. Fullbacks are a runningback's best friend and still are able to make a great impact on the running game as the Texans and Ravens have shown commonly utilizing the fullback to lead the way for Arian Foster and Ray Rice respectively. Wisconsin consistently has had one of the best rushing attacks in college football and Ewing has been a big part of that.
Tommy Streeter WR Miami
This wide receiver class is pretty deep with a few first round prospects and a few second round prospects so it is easy to see why Streeter has flown under the radar. Streeter's production at Miami was not all that great (46 rec 811 yards 8 touchdowns) and he probably could have used another year at Miami but the potential is there. At 6-foot-5 and 220 pounds Streeter has the long build that can have success in the NFL and with a 4.40 forty time, he has the straight line speed. Streeter's biggest issue is his ability to create separation with his routes. Streeter would make a great late round addition because route running can be taught and with his large frame and speed the raw talent is there for him to develop into a decent red zone threat a la Plaxico Burress.
Ladarius Green TE Louisiana Lafayette
Unlike the fullback position, the tight end position has evolved and every team will be looking for the next Rob Gronkowski or Jimmy Graham. This may result in Ladarius Green being a bit overrated, but for now he continues to be rated well below the top prospects at the position. Green has decent size but will definitely need to add on some bulk if he wants to stay on the field in running situations (6-foot-5 238 pounds). However, what is intriguing about Green is his pass catching ability and athleticism. Green ran a 4.53 forty and is a rangy pass catcher that could split out occasionally to create matchup problems. He was an integral part of Lafayette's offense and one of the reasons for their successful campaign last year.
Zebrie Sanders OT Florida State
The biggest concern with Sanders is that he isn't physically dominant. What Sanders does bring to the table is versatility. Sanders was a mainstay on Florida State's offensive line for three years and was able to switch from the right to left side seamlessly throughout his time there. While there are certainly more physically imposing tackles ahead of Sanders, an NFL weight room should help and some of them don't have the footwork that Sanders possesses to at least be a stop-gap as a left tackle. Sanders may not be a franchise blindside protector like a Matt Kalil or Joe Thomas but the ability to play both tackle positions and be a consistent starter is extremely valuable and that is what Sanders brings to the table.
Ryan Miller OG Colorado
In the later rounds, it is rare to find a guy that is going to start right away along the offensive line. In Miller, you are getting a guy that can be formed into a good "utility" lineman. At 6-foot-7 and 321 pounds he's a guy that plays guard in a tackles body. Miller doesn't excel at any one area of the game and is an average blocker both in the run and passing game. However, Miller's coaches rave about his strength and conditioning and his work ethic. Miller isn't going to be a starter right off the bat and it is uncertain if he will ever develop into a starter but a high-character guy with that kind of versatility is the kind of player you find on rosters that win. Definitely a nice late round addition.
Michael Brewster C Ohio State
After Peter Konz from Wisconsin, this class isn't high on centers. Brewster may just be the best of the rest despite being ranked just inside the top 5 by most publications. Brewster possesses good size and is one of the bigger prospects at the position at 6-foot-4 and 312 pounds. A three year starter at Ohio State, Brewster is experienced with making calls at the line which is important for centers to be able to at the NFL level. Brewster is by no means a star but in a shallow class he has more promise than most at the position due to his experience at Ohio State and size.
Chandler Jones DE Syracuse
Ok, as a huge fan of Jon Jones, I'm a bit biased here. Chandler is the younger brother of Jon Jones, the current light heavyweight champion of the UFC and the best athlete the sport of MMA has ever seen. Their older brother Art Jones, currently plays for the Baltimore Ravens so its clear that Jones' DNA is an advantage for him. Bloodlines aside, Jones is a tremendous athlete who should be able to rush the passer for years to come. Doesn't have the bulk to play as a full-time DE yet, but could make the transition to OLB on a 3-4 team or just put on the bulk needed to play well against the run. An impressive 6-foot-5 247 pound frame is enhanced by the fact that he has long arms that will help him ward off opposing tackles in space. Jones is one of those players whose stock would be higher if he hadn't suffered an injury at Syracuse but despite missing five games due to an injury in the first game of the season Jones' was able to have a productive campaign. He has the potential to produce like his first round counterparts but will be available in round 2.
Mike Martin DT Michigan
Martin is the perfect example of how measurable and combine results often overshadow game film and intangibles come draft time. While scouts drool over the potential of behemoths with great workout numbers, a team is going to get a solid contributor who brings it every play when they draft Martin. Martin lacks the prototypical size of an NFL DT but his motor is undeniable and his experience as a four year starter in different defensive fronts offers a pretty impressive library of game tape. Martin was the kind of defensive tackle that coaches had to gameplan around and while he won't be that disruptive force in the NFL he's the kind of guy that you want on your team because you know he's going to go hard, every play. That kind of motor is precious at a position that is know to have its fair share of loafers.
Demario Davis OLB Arkansas State
While most of the outside linebacker love is focused on the 3-4 variety who consistently wreak havoc on the quarterback and are the lynchpins of their defense, the 4-3 outside linebacker is becoming a more important position as tight ends continue to grow as a position to create mismatches with. An outside linebacker like Davis will be able to be drafted late and his potential in pass coverage is what makes him an interesting prospect. At 6-foot-2 and 235 pounds, Davis' frame isn't anything to write home about but he possesses great range sideline to sideline and has produced good numbers over a three year career at Arkansas State. Davis' athleticism makes him a good candidate to contribute on special teams while he develops as a linebacker giving him good value in the later rounds.
Bobby Wagner ILB Utah State
While Luke Kuechly and Dont'a Hightower are clearly one and two at inside linebacker, there's a whole lot to like about Bobby Wagner as a valuable pick well after those two are off the board. Wagner was a four year starter at Utah State and was the anchor for the Aggie defense as he racked up over 100 tackles in three of those four seasons. Wagner racked up 147 tackles his final season and has shown that he can be a threat on blitzes and in pass coverage with 4.5 sacks and 2 interceptions. Wagner is a solid tackler that would make a solid contributor on most defenses down the road.
Brandon Boykin CB Georgia
Boykin is one of those players that has so many tools and positives that are seemingly outweighed by one con: his size. At 5-foot-9 and 182 pounds, his size certainly is a concern but it may be hurting his stock too much in the long run. The fact is Boykin has great cover skills and having played in the SEC, he has shown that he can cover larger recievers such as Alshon Jeffrey and Rueben Randle. Boykin offers a corner with solid ball skills and the ability to cover and would make a great nickel back where he can cover the slot receivers. Boykin also offers returning skills and had a part in Georgia's offense. Versatility always boosts value.
George Iloka S Boise State
Taylor Mays aside, it isn't too often that a safety comes around that has the size of a linebacker and the speed of a cornerback. At 6-foot-3 and 225 pounds with a 4.6 forty, Iloka is that kind of player. Unlike Mays, Iloka has the ball skills to make a good safety in the NFL. Despite not having too many interceptions at Boise, Iloka is solid in coverage and has the size and athleticism to cover tight ends. Iloka needs to become more physical to match his tools but he is a great strong safety prospect who can come up and play in the box against the run. Iloka is definitely worth a look and could start early in his career.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Thursday, March 15, 2012
NFL Draft 2012: The Cleveland Browns MUST Take Trent Richardson at Number Four
With the NFL Draft rapidly approaching (ok so it's still like a month away), everyone seems to have an opinion as to who "this" team or "that" team needs. For the Cleveland Browns, there are a lot of needs.
Far be it for me to tell Mike Holmgren or Tom Heckert how to put together a team, their resumes speak for themselves. Holmgren is one of a few coaches to take two franchises to a super bowl as a head coach and has always been heavily involved with personnel choices. Heckert was a major player in putting together a team in Philadelphia that went to four straight conference championship games.
That kind of success doesn't come by accident, so they deserve some patience when it comes to their decisions. If Mike Holmgren could make the Seahawks winners, he can make the Browns winners.
That being said, the Browns must take Trent Richardson with the fourth overall pick in the draft.
The arguments against Richardson have some validity:
Runningbacks just aren't worth top ten picks anymore
We have bigger needs
Justin Blackmon/Morris Claiborne would be better
All of those arguments hold water, I've even used some of those arguments against taking Richardson. Ultimately here's why Richardson is the best choice.
Runningbacks just aren't worth top ten picks anymore
Over the last five years, this has been true. Runningbacks taken in the first round of the draft during that time frame include the likes of Mark Ingram, Jahvid Best, C.J. Spiller, Donald Brown, Felix Jones, Jonathon Stewart and Knowshon Moreno. While these guys haven't been superstars and perhaps wouldn't have been taken in the first round in a re-draft, Adrian Peterson and Darren McFadden would certainly be top ten picks.
Richardson is that good. Runningbacks like Richardson don't come around every year. He isn't the top runninback by default and he has consistently produced in college. Even when backing up last year's lone runningback taken in the first round it was clear that Richardson is special.
Richardson is able to run with both power and speed. He can catch the ball out of the backfield and is already a polished blocker who played in a pro-style offense in college. He is ready to take over from day one and be the focal point of the offense.
For an anemic offense like the Browns. That is definitely worthy of their top pick.
We have bigger needs
This one is sort of a blanket statement and its true. The Browns still have a ton of needs all over the field. A second corner, another linebacker, help along the offensive line and a wide receiver come to mind but the biggest need the Browns have is an offensive identity.
When was the last time the Browns had a bonafide star on the offensive side of the ball?
Take your time....
Time's up.
The answer?
Not since they came back. Cleveland is so desperate for a star that we acted like Mike Alstott 2.0 could carry an NFL offense after literally having one productive season. We're so desperate for an offensive star that we pretend Josh Cribbs is a star.
While Hillis and Cribbs are decent pieces, they are just that, pieces. On any other team those players are role players, definitely not studs. In Trent Richardson, Cleveland would have their first legitimate star player that would start for more than half of the teams in the NFL, filling Cleveland's biggest need.
Justin Blackmon/Morris Claiborne would be better
When the Browns are finally on the clock in April, their choices will likely come down to Justin Blackmon, Morris Claiborne or Trent Richardson. I've heard arguments for all three of these guys, and any of them would be filling an obvious need for years to come. The thing to remember is that the draft is all about value.
The gap between Blackmon and Michael Floyd? Not as large as originally anticipated.
Morris Claiborne and Janoris Jenkins? You are getting a solid starter either way and Haden is already cover corner number one.
The gap between Trent Richardson and Lamar Miller? The Grand Canyon. Night and Day.
This draft has plenty of receivers who could team up with Greg Little to form a formidable duo for years to come. There are plenty of corners that could team up with Joe Haden that will be available at 22 or 37 if the Browns choose to go that route. How many runningbacks in this draft can carry an offense? One, and that's something to get excited about.
Far be it for me to tell Mike Holmgren or Tom Heckert how to put together a team, their resumes speak for themselves. Holmgren is one of a few coaches to take two franchises to a super bowl as a head coach and has always been heavily involved with personnel choices. Heckert was a major player in putting together a team in Philadelphia that went to four straight conference championship games.
That kind of success doesn't come by accident, so they deserve some patience when it comes to their decisions. If Mike Holmgren could make the Seahawks winners, he can make the Browns winners.
That being said, the Browns must take Trent Richardson with the fourth overall pick in the draft.
The arguments against Richardson have some validity:
Runningbacks just aren't worth top ten picks anymore
We have bigger needs
Justin Blackmon/Morris Claiborne would be better
All of those arguments hold water, I've even used some of those arguments against taking Richardson. Ultimately here's why Richardson is the best choice.
Runningbacks just aren't worth top ten picks anymore
Over the last five years, this has been true. Runningbacks taken in the first round of the draft during that time frame include the likes of Mark Ingram, Jahvid Best, C.J. Spiller, Donald Brown, Felix Jones, Jonathon Stewart and Knowshon Moreno. While these guys haven't been superstars and perhaps wouldn't have been taken in the first round in a re-draft, Adrian Peterson and Darren McFadden would certainly be top ten picks.
Richardson is that good. Runningbacks like Richardson don't come around every year. He isn't the top runninback by default and he has consistently produced in college. Even when backing up last year's lone runningback taken in the first round it was clear that Richardson is special.
Richardson is able to run with both power and speed. He can catch the ball out of the backfield and is already a polished blocker who played in a pro-style offense in college. He is ready to take over from day one and be the focal point of the offense.
For an anemic offense like the Browns. That is definitely worthy of their top pick.
We have bigger needs
This one is sort of a blanket statement and its true. The Browns still have a ton of needs all over the field. A second corner, another linebacker, help along the offensive line and a wide receiver come to mind but the biggest need the Browns have is an offensive identity.
When was the last time the Browns had a bonafide star on the offensive side of the ball?
Take your time....
Time's up.
The answer?
Not since they came back. Cleveland is so desperate for a star that we acted like Mike Alstott 2.0 could carry an NFL offense after literally having one productive season. We're so desperate for an offensive star that we pretend Josh Cribbs is a star.
While Hillis and Cribbs are decent pieces, they are just that, pieces. On any other team those players are role players, definitely not studs. In Trent Richardson, Cleveland would have their first legitimate star player that would start for more than half of the teams in the NFL, filling Cleveland's biggest need.
Justin Blackmon/Morris Claiborne would be better
When the Browns are finally on the clock in April, their choices will likely come down to Justin Blackmon, Morris Claiborne or Trent Richardson. I've heard arguments for all three of these guys, and any of them would be filling an obvious need for years to come. The thing to remember is that the draft is all about value.
The gap between Blackmon and Michael Floyd? Not as large as originally anticipated.
Morris Claiborne and Janoris Jenkins? You are getting a solid starter either way and Haden is already cover corner number one.
The gap between Trent Richardson and Lamar Miller? The Grand Canyon. Night and Day.
This draft has plenty of receivers who could team up with Greg Little to form a formidable duo for years to come. There are plenty of corners that could team up with Joe Haden that will be available at 22 or 37 if the Browns choose to go that route. How many runningbacks in this draft can carry an offense? One, and that's something to get excited about.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Cleveland Browns Free Agency 2012: Why Remaining Conservative is The Right Choice
As a Cleveland Browns fan, the NFL free agency period never really lives up to expectation.
Whether it is the total lack of interest in the elite players available or the complete whiffing on the players the organization does go after (I'm looking at you Jeff Garcia). Free agency has not been kind to the Browns.
That's why, as frustrating as it may be, the Browns must remain conservative when it comes to free agency.
This isn't to say they should completely abstain from spending ANY money, they could definitely fill a few holes and pick up some good talent while remaining frugal but breaking the bank for anyone in this year's class would be a detrimental error.
At this point, going after any of the big names in this year's class (Mario Williams, Vincent Jackson, Peyton Manning, etc.) is just going to slow down what the front office is working to build.
Free agency is for teams that are one or two pieces away. Cleveland is not of those teams.
Adding a big name free agent would be like putting a 72" flat screen HD TV in your living room when you have a leaky roof, broken windows and water damaged floorboards. Big price free agents are for those with mansions.
Ask Redskin fans how building your team through free agency works.
While winning now would be nice, the Browns must realize they are in the best shape they've ever been in since the comeback in '99.
We finally have a front office run by a proven winner. This front office has shown that they deserve the trust of the fans. They have yet to make any truly boneheaded moves and are finally providing a blueprint for success. This front office has done a solid job of drafting, nabbing multiple starters in each draft.
We have one of the best young defenses in the NFL with identifiable needs (another edge rusher, a second cover corner and a linebacker) and a solid offensive line. We still have some broken windows, but we've patched up the roof. Armed with three picks in the first 37 picks of the draft you can be confident that we will get three consistent starters with those three picks (without fear of a Chaun Thompson pick).
So while the Browns may not make it to the playoffs next year, signing a Vincent Jackson or a Mario Williams is not going to change that. Instead they should hold onto their 15 million available dollars, secure their draft picks and allow this front office to continue building their foundation through the draft because they're building a mansion and mansions take time.
Whether it is the total lack of interest in the elite players available or the complete whiffing on the players the organization does go after (I'm looking at you Jeff Garcia). Free agency has not been kind to the Browns.
That's why, as frustrating as it may be, the Browns must remain conservative when it comes to free agency.
This isn't to say they should completely abstain from spending ANY money, they could definitely fill a few holes and pick up some good talent while remaining frugal but breaking the bank for anyone in this year's class would be a detrimental error.
At this point, going after any of the big names in this year's class (Mario Williams, Vincent Jackson, Peyton Manning, etc.) is just going to slow down what the front office is working to build.
Free agency is for teams that are one or two pieces away. Cleveland is not of those teams.
Adding a big name free agent would be like putting a 72" flat screen HD TV in your living room when you have a leaky roof, broken windows and water damaged floorboards. Big price free agents are for those with mansions.
Ask Redskin fans how building your team through free agency works.
While winning now would be nice, the Browns must realize they are in the best shape they've ever been in since the comeback in '99.
We finally have a front office run by a proven winner. This front office has shown that they deserve the trust of the fans. They have yet to make any truly boneheaded moves and are finally providing a blueprint for success. This front office has done a solid job of drafting, nabbing multiple starters in each draft.
We have one of the best young defenses in the NFL with identifiable needs (another edge rusher, a second cover corner and a linebacker) and a solid offensive line. We still have some broken windows, but we've patched up the roof. Armed with three picks in the first 37 picks of the draft you can be confident that we will get three consistent starters with those three picks (without fear of a Chaun Thompson pick).
So while the Browns may not make it to the playoffs next year, signing a Vincent Jackson or a Mario Williams is not going to change that. Instead they should hold onto their 15 million available dollars, secure their draft picks and allow this front office to continue building their foundation through the draft because they're building a mansion and mansions take time.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
2012 NFL Mock Draft- Round 1
It is that time of year again. Time to bust out the hair gel, pretend your Mel Kiper and attempt to get into the mind of the front office for every NFL team. Luckily the Raiders traded away their first round pick so you don't have to try to figure out who they will take but predicting the draft remains one of the toughest things to do in sports. After many hours of evaluating team needs, scouring youtube for highlights (and consulting sodahead13) and a couple gallons of hair gel, here is my first round mock draft for the 2012 draft.
- Indianapolis (2-14) Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford
Has there ever been a more predictable first round pick? People have had Luck penciled in as the number one selection in the 2012 draft since he announced his return to the Cardinal last season. The real question is, how lucky are the Indianapolis Colts? Some franchises wait for over a decade for a franchise quarterback, they will replace theirs before he even leaves the game. Just not fair really.
- Washington (5-11) via St. Louis (2-14) Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor
As of right now this pick belongs to the St. Louis Rams. This is the only hypothetical trade that will be included in this mock draft for the simple reason that this trade is all but guaranteed. If there’s one thing we know about Redskins owner Daniel Snyder it is that he doesn’t mind taking out a mortgage to get the guy he wants. Griffin’s combine numbers will only make his stock soar and while the Redskins have the number six pick, they won’t be willing to wait around to see if he falls. If Griffin can make a Cam Newtonesque impact out the gate is yet to be seen but Washington will be willing to take the gamble.
- Minnesota (3-13) Matt Kalil, OT, USC
Ever go to a restaurant that you are completely unfamiliar with but you are completely starving? There’s all this stuff on the menu and it looks good but you just can’t risk ordering anything you’ve never had before. What do you do? You settle for the old standby. The cheeseburger.
Nobody messes up a cheeseburger and while it may not be phenomenal, it gets the job done. That’s what tackles have become for teams selecting in the top ten. The Vikings could go many directions with this pick, and at number three there are plenty of impact players to be had at this spot but they’ll settle for the old standby, a tackle. If a franchise left tackle tanks they at least make for decent starters at right tackle and the team gets a quality starter. Kalil may not be all that great and he definitely doesn’t compare to other tackles that have been taken this high (although he’s probably better than Robert Gallery). Kalil will make a quality starter in the NFL and that’s good enough to keep the Vikings regime employed and justify this pick.
- Cleveland (4-12) Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama
This is where things start to get interesting. This pick may just hinge on how fast wide receiver Justin Blackmon runs the 40 yard dash and how well he does in the combine in general. Should Blackmon’s stock say as solid as it right now this could very easily be the pick or the team could go with cornerback Morris Claiborne to further solidify a promising defense and form a formidable duo with you cornerback Joe Haden.
In the end the Browns will look to find something they have not had since their comeback in 1999: a true featured back. Peyton Hillis may be brought back for depth and would make a great third down back but he isn’t the long term answer in Cleveland. Richardson would bring life to an otherwise dead offense and relieve some pressure from Colt McCoy.
- Tampa Bay (4-12) Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU
Replacing Ronde Barber with Morris Claiborne is akin to replacing Peyton Manning with Andrew Luck. A longtime staple of the Buccaneer defense, Barber’s leadership will not be easy to replace. His play however, could be matched very early in Claiborne’s career and he will make an impact right away.
- St. Louis (2-14) Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State
Was 2011 more rough to anyone than Sam Bradford? He went from unquestioned quarterback of the future to competing with AJ Feeley for the title of best quarterback on the roster. Bradford gave the term “sophomore slump” a whole new meaning and if Matt Barkley had decided to leave then the Rams may have thought about dealing Bradford and going after a quarterback in the draft. However, the Rams should look to surround Bradford with more weapons going forward and Blackmon would be a great complement to new addition Brandon Lloyd. If Bradford can’t find success with those two catching the football then something is drastically wrong and the search for a quarterback will be on.
- Jacksonville (5-11) Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina
Is it too early to give up on Blaine Gabbert already? Probably so, and with Ryan Tannehill the best available quarterback left it probably won’t cross the team’s mind to take a flier on a quarterback. At this point the Jaguars would be best served to take the best available player. That would be Quinton Coples. Coples is a freak athlete and will certainly put pressure on quarterbacks. Elite pass-rushers are always at a premium in the NFL and while the Jaguars have used high picks on defensive linemen before the Giants have shown that you can never have too many.
- Miami (6-10) Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina
Miami needs a right tackle desperately. However, not too many right tackles go in the top ten so it is hard to imagine them taking one simply because of the financial factors but a trade down so they can select one later in the first round is a very real possibility. If they keep the pick it could be Ingram. A defensive end at South Carolina Ingram, has the prototypical build to move to outside linebacker in the 3-4 and current starter Jason Taylor isn’t getting any younger.
- Carolina (6-10) Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
While Cam Newton garnered plenty of national attention with his explosive play and the Panthers were able to put up good numbers on offense, they had one of the worst defenses in the league. That is why they must use this pick on a defensive player. Many people have the Panthers taking an offensive tackle here but Cam Newton has enough scrambling ability to wait one more year for an elite tackle. Kirkpatrick has great size and plays with physicality and attitude. He would be a cornerstone for this defense for years to come and could develop into an elite cover corner.
- Buffalo (6-10) Jonathon Martin, OT, Stanford
The Bills most glaring need is definitely an edge rusher but if Ingraham is gone at this point, Courtney Upshaw would be a reach so the Bills could and should go offensive line. Martin is a solid prospect and did a great job of keeping Andrew Luck’s blindside clear. With all of the money invested into quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick’s new deal Martin would be a great insurance plan.
- Kansas City (7-9) Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa
After a rough start to the season mostly due to injury, Romeo Crennel was able to step in and lead the Chiefs to a respectable finish so expectations will be high for this team to contend next year. As with many teams in this year’s draft their needs don’t really match what spot they will be drafting in but adding a blue-chip offensive lineman is never a bad idea. Riley Reiff is a physical mauler in the running game and would make a nice right tackle that could eventually develop into a left tackle if need be.
- Seattle (7-9) Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M
STRETCH ALERT. Remember last year when everyone said that Jake Locker was clearly an early second round pick? Then remember when Tennessee inexplicably took him with the eighth pick? Don’t be fooled again, some team will probably fall in love with Tannehill’s intriguing size and arm strength and take him way too early. That team is most likely Seattle. With Tavaris Jackson clearly not the answer and Charlie Whitehurst not looking too good either the Seahawks must muster up a semblance of a passing game if they don’t want Marshawn Lynch to implode next year.
- Arizona (8-8) Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor
Larry Fitzgerald WAS Arizona’s offense last year. Fitzgerald is among the best in the game, but even he needs other threats to be present to succeed. Arizona could definitely use a playmaking wide receiver to alleviate the pressure on Skelton and Fitzgerald and once again make the Cardinals have a feared passing game like they did when they had Anquan Boldin across from Larry Fitzgerald.
The question becomes which wide receiver they will take. After Blackmon the picture becomes very muddled. Malcolm Floyd possesses great size and ability to win jump balls, Kendall Wright is a versatile, electrifying type that should continue to see his stock rise and Alshon Jeffrey continues to lurk despite seeing his stock drop recently. At this point Wright’s stock is almost even with Floyd’s and he would be a much better complement to Fitzgerald.
- Dallas (8-8) David DeCastro, G, Stanford
Where to begin with Dallas? They could just take anyone from Harvard at this spot and have them manage the timeouts for Jason Garrett. Could have given them two more wins this year… What more do you want from a rookie? A more practical pick would be David DeCastro out of Stanford. The Cowboys could use a more physical offensive line to block for breakout runningback DeMarco Murray and DeCastro would be a great fit.
- Philadelphia (8-8) Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
This could be the best marriage in terms of need-player-pick fit. Kuechly is deserving of the 15th pick and is exactly what the Eagles need. After the “dream team” was exposed for lack of good linebackers time and time again, Kuechly could step in right away and be a force in the middle of their defense. Keuchly is a solid tackler who plays hard but isn’t the most flashy of linebackers it will be interesting to see if the combine hurts his stock at all.
- New York Jets (8-8) Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame
A tackle would sure be nice here as the Jets offensive line definitely took a step back in 2011 as the team was unable to “ground and pound” like Rex Ryan wanted to do. However with Reiff and Martin off the board in this scenario the Jets will look to improve another area of need on offense- wide receiver.
Plaxico Burress was decent at times as the team’s primary redzone target but its clear his time is limited. It also appears that Santonio Holmes may be on his way out and wasn’t consistent when he was on the field in 2011. With the Jets losing hope in Mark Sanchez Malcolm Floyd could be just the right receiver to step in and make an immediate impact right away. Adding Floyd would also make the Jets a more attractive option for Peyton Manning should he choose to play elsewhere in the face of Andrew Luck’s acquisition.
- Cincinnati - from Oakland (8-8) Mark Barron, S, Alabama
Cincinnati basically stole this pick from Oakland in exchange for the quarterback formerly known as Carson Palmer so its only right that they slightly reach for a player. Barron would be filling in a huge need for the Bengals so this isn’t a horrible pick and some big boards have Barron ranked this high. The Bengals have youth all over the field and could continue building a bright future by adding a playmaker like Barron to their secondary.
- San Diego (8-8) Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama
This could be the steal of the draft. Upshaw put his talents on display for the entire country to see in the national championship game so if Upshaw slides all the way back to San Diego they will be more than happy to scoop him up. Upshaw would provide a boost to the Charger pass rush that has made San Diego’s defense great but has been missing since the departure of Shawne Merriman.
- Chicago (8-8) Alshon Jeffrey, WR, South Carolina
Chicago’s most glaring need (as always it seems) is wide receiver. The Bears could probably trade out of this pick and still land Jeffrey so that remains a possibility but the Bears were looking solid until Matt Forte and Jay Cutler’s injuries became too much. Adding another playmaker to the roster would help Forte and Cutler as they try to stay healthy next year. Jeffrey’s stock has dropped recently as questions about his speed have creeped up so the combine will be huge for him but Jeffrey’s size and hands alone make him a great red zone target and separates him from the receivers already on the Bears roster.
- Tennessee (9-7) Michael Brockers, DT, LSU
The Titans need help on the interior of their offensive line in the worst way, their running game was awful at times last year and it wasn’t all Chris Johnson’s fault. However, if Brockers is still available at this point the Titans would have to take him. He doesn’t necessarily fit a need, the Titans defensive tackle position could be worse, but Brockers could be the best 4-3 defensive tackle in the draft and it is unlikely he makes it to the 20th pick. He would be the Titans most dominating defensive tackle since splitting ways with Albert Haynesworth.
- Cincinnati (9-7) Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska
Seriously, the Raiders should be banned from making trades. As if Cincinnati needed more young talent they will have two selections in the first round. Expect the Bengals to go secondary twice as it truly is their largest area of need. By far. By pairing up cornerback Alfonzo Dennard with safety Mark Barron, the Bengals would have the beginnings of a solid secondary when Leon Hall returns from injury in 2013.
- Cleveland - from Atlanta* (10-6) Cordy Glenn, OG/OT, Georgia
Cleveland once again has many holes to fill and a couple different ways they could go with this pick. Vontaze Burfict could be a good gamble at this spot if the team doesn’t feel that D’Qwell Jackson will return but his attitude concerns will probably sink his stock. If Andre Branch is still available at this point he would be hard to pass up as a complement to Jabaal Sheard, however his build and skillset are more suited for the 3-4. This leaves Cordy Glenn as the best option. Glenn is a massive lineman with great run blocking skills. It is undetermined whether he will play tackle or guard at the NFL level but honestly for the Browns it wouldn’t matter. Both right tackle and guard are in need of an upgrade so Glenn could fill in at either spot.
- Detroit (10-6) Alan Branch, DE, Clemson
This pick may hinge on whether they bring back defensive end Cliff Avril who will have a mighty high price tag coming off of an eleven sack season. If they chose to let him walk the Lions could spend yet another pick on the defensive line. While the Lions running game is in need of help, the Lions have never been known to draft based on need and Branch could be the best player left on the board at this point. Branch is purely a speed rusher but with Kyle Vanden Bosch, Nick Fairley and Ndamukong Suh already in place he should have plenty of open lanes to the quarterback.
- Pittsburgh (12-4) Vontaze Burfict, LB, Arizona State
Burfict could be the Dez Bryant of this draft. Seen as a top-ten talent, Burfict’s inability to control his emotions has seen his stock spiral downward. The interviewing process will be very important for Burfict to show that he can get his issues under control and be a productive player at the NFL level. Pittsburgh is a perfect fit for Burfict, who seems to attract extremely gifted linebackers with attitude problems (looking at you James Harrison).
- Denver (8-8) Devon Still, DT, Penn State
Lost in the shuffle of Tebowmania was just how good Denver’s defense was last year. Von Miller was among the most impactful rookies in the league last year. If Denver is going to win with Tebow long term it will take a true commitment to defense. The addition of Still who provides great athleticism at the defensive tackle position gives this front seven yet another young talent to be excited about.
- Houston (10-6) Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford
The Stanford Cardinal could have a four first round draft picks come April. That’s gotta be a record for them. Houston has done a great job in the draft of putting together a front seven that is among the best in the NFL. This year they should look to give the offense some more fire power. The tight end is constantly evolving in the NFL and becoming a bigger part of NFL offenses. With Owen Daniels definitely regressing in 2011 Fleener would provide a great target for Matt Schaub to have when he comes back and would leave Andre Johnson to see more single coverage.
- New England - from New Orleans* (13-3) Zach Brown, OLB, North Carolina
New England got this pick from New Orleans in the trade that got the Saints Mark Ingram. The chances of New England keeping this pick are small as the Patriots tend to ship off picks that don’t suit exactly what they need. The Patriots could use help in the secondary but this is an awkward spot for the remaining talent in the secondary to go so they will go best available if they are in this situation. That would be Zach Brown (not Zac Brown), who may see his stock shoot upward in the combine.
- Green Bay (15-1) Janoris Jenkins, CB, South Alabama
What does the team that has everything draft? The Packers don’t show too many weaknesses so this is a great spot to take a gamble. Janoris Jenkins would be just that. Jenkins, a former Florida Gator, has loads of upside but character issues forced his transfer to South Alabama and have kept his stock lower than it could have been. Charles Woodson is elite but is getting long in the tooth. The Packers would be a nice spot for Jenkins to land because they have established leaders to show Jenkins the way and he isn’t needed to have an impact right away.
- Baltimore (12-4) Dont’a Hightower, LB, Alabama
As everyone knows, the Ravens love to load up on talent in the front seven of the defense. This draft should be no different. Hightower would be the perfect pick for the Ravens as it would provide them with an heir apparent to Ray Lewis, who despite evidence to the contrary, won’t play forever. Hightower was a dominating force for Alabama’s defense and could see his stock rise if he is impressive at the combine.
- San Francisco (13-3) Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin
The Niners are easily the NFL’s most improved team this year and they were able to land one of the more underrated rookies with last year’s first round pick, Aldon Smith. Smith quietly racked up 14 sacks in his rookie campaign and became an integral part of a dominating defense. This year the Niners would love to add a playmaking wide receiver to the mix after a disappointing season from free agent addition, Braylon Edwards. However, at this point there aren’t any receivers left on the board that fit this spot so San Fransisco could look to solidify the interior with a solid blocker that could play guard or center.
- New York Giants (9-7) David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
Somehow the Giants went from 9-7 to the super bowl so obviously, they are a pretty well put together team. However, despite having a great offense the runningback situation remains largely unresolved. While things are rolling fairly smoothly now Brandon Jacobs hasn’t always been the happiest guy so it wouldn’t be too surprising if they looked for another solid running back to back up Ahmad Bradshaw and eventually take the lead role. Wilson is an explosive runner with great open field speed yet enough bulk to develop into a featured back. Wilson would improve the Giants running game and offer their offense more balance.
- New England (13-3) Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson
As mentioned earlier, one never knows if New England will actually use their pick or trade it away to stockpile more future picks (Bill Bellicheck needs his own episode of hoarders). In this scenario they would probably keep it as Thompson is well worth a late first round pick and fills a need for the Patriots. Aside from Vince Wilfork, the Patriots don’t have much in the way of defensive tackles and the Albert Haynesworth experiment went horribly wrong. Thompson would infuse more young talent into the position and give the Patriots an even better pass rush.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Bowl Week 2: The Week of Disappointment
After a brief hiatus due to the craziness of school, I'm bringing the blog back with a healthy dose of college football! Each week I'll be previewing the bowl games in the week ahead. As always you can check out my work for Bleacher Report by visiting my writer profile here
With bowls season properly kicked off (who doesn't love some classic MAC bowl action), week two offers a slightly better four game slate and some teams we really didn't think we'd see this early. Neither did they. Boise, TCU and Southern Miss all could have conceivably been playing in much larger bowls than this and it will be interesting to see if there is any let down factor going into their respective games. Without further ado, here are the four games for Week 2 of bowls season, plus predictions.
Beef 'O' Brady St. Petersburg Bowl
December 20th, 8 p.m.
ESPN
Florida International vs Marshall
Outlook: Florida International-Marshall may not be a marquee matchup but the Beef 'O' Brady bowl is definitely among the elite when it comes to bowls with awesome names. If there was a player on either of these teams named Beef 'O' Brady they probably would be heavily favored in this game. Florida International comes into this game at 8-4 and Marshall owns a record of 6-6
Chances are, you haven't seen Florida International play. Chances are you should. If only for wide reciever T.Y. Hilton. Hilton has struggled with hamstring injuries this year but when he's healthy he is an electrifying playmaker that is sure to be scooped up by an NFL team come April. This could be Hilton's first year without a kickoff return for a touchdown so it'll be interesting to see if he can prevent that from happening by taking one to the house. With some time off before the bowl game it could be enough time for Hilton to come back at full strength. If that's the case he is the kind of receiver that can take over a game.
Marshall may have the worst resume of any bowl team. All six of their losses have been by double digits and they don't have any wins that would indicate they are a good team. They lack playmakers, their quarterbacks are only so-so and they have only won one game on the road this year. Beef 'O' Brady would be very disappointed to see this team in his bowl.
Prediction: Looking at the outlook this one would appear to a no-brainer. So much so that "trap game" comes to mind... Every bowl season there are a few bowls where a team that has no business being in a bowl game plays out of their mind and shocks everyone. All signs point to FIU dominating this game but anything can happen in bowl season. That being said, FIU's Head Coach Mario Cristobal is one of the best young coaches in the country and there is no way he lets his team overlook Marshall
FIU 38 Marshall 7
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
December 21st, 8 p.m.
ESPN
TCU vs Louisiana Tech
Outlook: The Horned Frogs of TCU come into this game as one of three teams playing this week that could have crashed the BCS party. While Boise State came the closest, the Frogs were just two spots in the BCS poll away from crashing the party. If it weren't for a puzzling 40-33 loss in overtime to SMU we would probably be evaluating TCU's chances of beating Clemson in a BCS bowl.
However, TCU did lose to SMU and now must turn their attention to winning the Poinsettia. One year after winning the Rose bowl Poinsettias might not smell so sweet but they will need to come to play if they want to beat the streaking Louisiana Tech Bulldogs.
After Louisiana Tech started the season an abysmal 1-4 the Bulldogs have reeled off seven straight to win their conference and post an 8-4 record. Most of the Bulldogs turnaround can be attributed to quarterback Colby Cameron taking the reigns as the starter mid-season. Cameron has only thrown two interceptions all year and has proved to be an efficient passer. Cameron will look to test the TCU defense and score with TCU.
For TCU, this is a chance to win one more bowl game as a Mountain West team and they will do so with an atypical TCU team. Despite a very successful season in terms of wins and losses, this may be the worst TCU defense that Gary Patterson has had since 2005 when the Frogs went 5-6 and didn't even make it to a bowl game. All of this has been covered up because the Frogs have a great offense that hasn't missed a beat with the departure Andy Dalton. In fact, when all is said and done sophomore quarterback Casey Pachall (PAW-Hall) may be better than Dalton. A solid performance in this game could be a great launch to a successful campaign next year in their Big 12 debut.
Prediction: Colby Cameron and Louisiana Tech certainly showed toughness and perseverance in making a great comeback after a rough start to the season. The Bulldogs may just be scrappy enough to hang with the Frogs for a while as TCU has gotten off to a lot of bad starts throughout the season. TCU definitely has holes in the secondary that can be exposed. If Louisiana Tech wants to win they will have to build a lead early. However, TCU will do whatever they want as long as they show up to play and don't let any let downs they may perceive affect their preparedness. Gary Patterson won't let that happen.
TCU 38 Louisiana Tech 13
MAACO Las Vegas Bowl
December 22, 8 p.m.
ESPN
Arizona State vs. Boise State
And the winner for the most disappointed team after the BCS games were announced for 2011 is... That's right! Boise State! You have to feel bad for Boise here. Two years in a row they opened up the season with impressive wins on the road and climbed up the BCS later only to be beaten by a conference foe they should have beat on a missed field goal. The Broncos come into the Las Vegas bowl boasting and 11-1 record. Arizona State will come into the game with a 6-6 record.
While Boise may be the most disappointed team in the country, Arizona State has been the most disappointing team in the country. Call them the anti-Louisiana Tech. After starting the season 5-1 and gaining a small amount of national notoriety the Sun Devils folded down the stretch going 1-5 in the final six games. The collapse led to the dismissal of head coach Dennis Erickson and the Sun Devils will now be entering a period of transition. An upset over Boise State could give the fans a sense of hope going forward.
If Arizona State is able to pull the upset, they will have to get an extraordinary effort from linebacker Vontaze Burfict. Burfict leads the Sun Devils and tackles and is sure to hear his name called early in the 2012 NFL draft. He may also be the only bright spot for the entire Sun Devils season.
Boise will of course be led by senior quarterback Kellen Moore, and Boise's explosive offense. We all know that Boise can score points but Boise's defensive line remains their greatest strength that tends to be underrated a bit. It will be interesting to watch that impressive defensive line attack the Arizona State offense.
Prediction: This may be the biggest mismatch in the entire bowl season. Boise was literally a few feet away from being in a BCS game so there is always the chance that they come in flat. Even if they do, Boise is better in every facet of the game and should have no problem handling the Sun Devils. Even if Burfict has 35 tackles and 3 sacks Moore and the Bronco offense will look to take out their frustrations on Arizona State; this one could get ugly.
Boise State 45 Arizona State 20
Sheraton Hawaii Bowl
Nevada vs Southern Miss
Rounding out the trio of mid major teams playing this week that could have went to the BCS are the Southern Miss Golden Eagles. Larry Fedora's team only lost two games this year. Both single digit losses to teams that they were obviously better than (@ Marshall and @ UAB). The country saw just how good the Golden Eagles could be when they ran over the highly rated and unbeaten Houston Cougars 49-28 in the C-USA championship game.
Nevada comes into this game with a 7-5 record in a year marked with inconsistency as they were forced to replace quarterback Colin Kaepernick. The Wolf Pack are lead on offense by wide receiver Rishard Matthews who has at least one receiving touchdown in his last four games and has amassed 91 catches for 1,364 yards and 8 touchdowns. Nevada will definitely look to get Matthews involved early and often.
Prediction: Southern Miss definitely has the advantage of momentum coming off of the surprising blowout victory over Houston. However, head coach Larry Fedora is headed to North Carolina next year and weird things can happen when a coach who is on his way out coaches his former team for the bowl game. As long as Southern Miss does not let that affect them it should be their game for the taking.
Southern Miss 27 Nevada 20
With bowls season properly kicked off (who doesn't love some classic MAC bowl action), week two offers a slightly better four game slate and some teams we really didn't think we'd see this early. Neither did they. Boise, TCU and Southern Miss all could have conceivably been playing in much larger bowls than this and it will be interesting to see if there is any let down factor going into their respective games. Without further ado, here are the four games for Week 2 of bowls season, plus predictions.
Beef 'O' Brady St. Petersburg Bowl
December 20th, 8 p.m.
ESPN
Florida International vs Marshall
Outlook: Florida International-Marshall may not be a marquee matchup but the Beef 'O' Brady bowl is definitely among the elite when it comes to bowls with awesome names. If there was a player on either of these teams named Beef 'O' Brady they probably would be heavily favored in this game. Florida International comes into this game at 8-4 and Marshall owns a record of 6-6
Chances are, you haven't seen Florida International play. Chances are you should. If only for wide reciever T.Y. Hilton. Hilton has struggled with hamstring injuries this year but when he's healthy he is an electrifying playmaker that is sure to be scooped up by an NFL team come April. This could be Hilton's first year without a kickoff return for a touchdown so it'll be interesting to see if he can prevent that from happening by taking one to the house. With some time off before the bowl game it could be enough time for Hilton to come back at full strength. If that's the case he is the kind of receiver that can take over a game.
Marshall may have the worst resume of any bowl team. All six of their losses have been by double digits and they don't have any wins that would indicate they are a good team. They lack playmakers, their quarterbacks are only so-so and they have only won one game on the road this year. Beef 'O' Brady would be very disappointed to see this team in his bowl.
Prediction: Looking at the outlook this one would appear to a no-brainer. So much so that "trap game" comes to mind... Every bowl season there are a few bowls where a team that has no business being in a bowl game plays out of their mind and shocks everyone. All signs point to FIU dominating this game but anything can happen in bowl season. That being said, FIU's Head Coach Mario Cristobal is one of the best young coaches in the country and there is no way he lets his team overlook Marshall
FIU 38 Marshall 7
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
December 21st, 8 p.m.
ESPN
TCU vs Louisiana Tech
Outlook: The Horned Frogs of TCU come into this game as one of three teams playing this week that could have crashed the BCS party. While Boise State came the closest, the Frogs were just two spots in the BCS poll away from crashing the party. If it weren't for a puzzling 40-33 loss in overtime to SMU we would probably be evaluating TCU's chances of beating Clemson in a BCS bowl.
However, TCU did lose to SMU and now must turn their attention to winning the Poinsettia. One year after winning the Rose bowl Poinsettias might not smell so sweet but they will need to come to play if they want to beat the streaking Louisiana Tech Bulldogs.
After Louisiana Tech started the season an abysmal 1-4 the Bulldogs have reeled off seven straight to win their conference and post an 8-4 record. Most of the Bulldogs turnaround can be attributed to quarterback Colby Cameron taking the reigns as the starter mid-season. Cameron has only thrown two interceptions all year and has proved to be an efficient passer. Cameron will look to test the TCU defense and score with TCU.
For TCU, this is a chance to win one more bowl game as a Mountain West team and they will do so with an atypical TCU team. Despite a very successful season in terms of wins and losses, this may be the worst TCU defense that Gary Patterson has had since 2005 when the Frogs went 5-6 and didn't even make it to a bowl game. All of this has been covered up because the Frogs have a great offense that hasn't missed a beat with the departure Andy Dalton. In fact, when all is said and done sophomore quarterback Casey Pachall (PAW-Hall) may be better than Dalton. A solid performance in this game could be a great launch to a successful campaign next year in their Big 12 debut.
Prediction: Colby Cameron and Louisiana Tech certainly showed toughness and perseverance in making a great comeback after a rough start to the season. The Bulldogs may just be scrappy enough to hang with the Frogs for a while as TCU has gotten off to a lot of bad starts throughout the season. TCU definitely has holes in the secondary that can be exposed. If Louisiana Tech wants to win they will have to build a lead early. However, TCU will do whatever they want as long as they show up to play and don't let any let downs they may perceive affect their preparedness. Gary Patterson won't let that happen.
TCU 38 Louisiana Tech 13
MAACO Las Vegas Bowl
December 22, 8 p.m.
ESPN
Arizona State vs. Boise State
And the winner for the most disappointed team after the BCS games were announced for 2011 is... That's right! Boise State! You have to feel bad for Boise here. Two years in a row they opened up the season with impressive wins on the road and climbed up the BCS later only to be beaten by a conference foe they should have beat on a missed field goal. The Broncos come into the Las Vegas bowl boasting and 11-1 record. Arizona State will come into the game with a 6-6 record.
While Boise may be the most disappointed team in the country, Arizona State has been the most disappointing team in the country. Call them the anti-Louisiana Tech. After starting the season 5-1 and gaining a small amount of national notoriety the Sun Devils folded down the stretch going 1-5 in the final six games. The collapse led to the dismissal of head coach Dennis Erickson and the Sun Devils will now be entering a period of transition. An upset over Boise State could give the fans a sense of hope going forward.
If Arizona State is able to pull the upset, they will have to get an extraordinary effort from linebacker Vontaze Burfict. Burfict leads the Sun Devils and tackles and is sure to hear his name called early in the 2012 NFL draft. He may also be the only bright spot for the entire Sun Devils season.
Boise will of course be led by senior quarterback Kellen Moore, and Boise's explosive offense. We all know that Boise can score points but Boise's defensive line remains their greatest strength that tends to be underrated a bit. It will be interesting to watch that impressive defensive line attack the Arizona State offense.
Prediction: This may be the biggest mismatch in the entire bowl season. Boise was literally a few feet away from being in a BCS game so there is always the chance that they come in flat. Even if they do, Boise is better in every facet of the game and should have no problem handling the Sun Devils. Even if Burfict has 35 tackles and 3 sacks Moore and the Bronco offense will look to take out their frustrations on Arizona State; this one could get ugly.
Boise State 45 Arizona State 20
Sheraton Hawaii Bowl
Nevada vs Southern Miss
Rounding out the trio of mid major teams playing this week that could have went to the BCS are the Southern Miss Golden Eagles. Larry Fedora's team only lost two games this year. Both single digit losses to teams that they were obviously better than (@ Marshall and @ UAB). The country saw just how good the Golden Eagles could be when they ran over the highly rated and unbeaten Houston Cougars 49-28 in the C-USA championship game.
Nevada comes into this game with a 7-5 record in a year marked with inconsistency as they were forced to replace quarterback Colin Kaepernick. The Wolf Pack are lead on offense by wide receiver Rishard Matthews who has at least one receiving touchdown in his last four games and has amassed 91 catches for 1,364 yards and 8 touchdowns. Nevada will definitely look to get Matthews involved early and often.
Prediction: Southern Miss definitely has the advantage of momentum coming off of the surprising blowout victory over Houston. However, head coach Larry Fedora is headed to North Carolina next year and weird things can happen when a coach who is on his way out coaches his former team for the bowl game. As long as Southern Miss does not let that affect them it should be their game for the taking.
Southern Miss 27 Nevada 20
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Bowl Season 2011: Potatoes, Cowboys and Aztecs Oh My!
After a brief hiatus due to the craziness of school, I'm bringing the blog back with a healthy dose of college football! Each week I'll be previewing the bowl games in the week ahead. As always you can check out my work for Bleacher Report by visiting my writer profile here
For this week, the slate is rather light. There are only three bowl games this week, all of them kicking off on Saturday. Here are the matchups:
Gildan New Mexico Bowl
December 17th, 2 p.m.
ESPN
Temple vs Wyoming
Outlook: The Gildan New Mexico bowl places the Mountain West third place team Wyoming team against the #4 team in the MAC, Temple.
Wyoming should consider it a considerable leap forward for their program to be in a bowl game, especially in light of star quarterback Austyn Carta-Samuels unexpectedly transferring at the beginning of the year. Versatile freshman quarterback Brett Smith has stepped in nicely at the position, starting every game this year for the Cowboys. Smith is an exciting quarterback who has shown he can get things done with his arm and his athleticism after throwing for 18 touchdowns and rushing for 645 yards and 10 more touchdowns. The Cowboys will look to spread the ball around in the passing game while using the two headed monster of Smith and runningback Alvester Alexander to set up play action.
MAC representative Temple looks to cap off Steve Addazio's first year as head coach with a bowl victory behind a strong effort from star runningback Bernard Pierce. Pierce has been a stud for Temple since becoming the starting tailback his freshman year. Pierce has rushed for 25 touchdowns this year and has recovered nicely from last year's campaign where he struggled with injuries.
Prediction: Wyoming has a nice story and the Brett Smith era seems to be starting off rather nicely. With three more years as a starter and all of the best teams in the Mountain West Wyoming is definitely a team to have an eye on in the next few years. However, Temple has played really well this year and Bernard Pierce is one of the two best runningbacks nobody has heard of (more on that later). Temple's physical defense and ground game will prove too much for the Cowboys of Wyoming.
Temple 24 Wyoming 10
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
December 17, 5:30 p.m.
ESPN
Ohio vs Utah State
Outlook: Nothing says "opening day of bowl season" quite like the "famous" Idaho Potato Bowl. This year's matchup features the 9-4 Ohio Bobcats and the 7-5 Utah State Aggies. Don't let the records fool you, this could be a very close matchup and a good game.
Ohio and Utah State couldn't be more opposite. Ohio, likes to let breakout quarterback Tyler Tettleton get out and throw the ball. Tettleton has passed for over 3,000 yards with 26 touchdowns to only 10 interceptions; all while adding over 600 yards on the ground and 9 rushing touchdowns. It will be interesting to see how the Utah State defense will try to slow Tettleton down.
Utah State has been inconsistent this year, but they bring a great ground attack to the table. The Aggies have ranked 6th in the nation in rushing, compiling a team average of 277.5 rushing yards per game. The running attack is led by playmaking runningback Robert Turbin. The junior ran for 1,416 yards and 19 scores on the year and will look to test Ohio's defense (ranked 29th in the country).
Prediction: Both teams have had their fair share of close games and Ohio has the better record and will come into this game as favorites. If Tyler Tettleton can bounce back from his worst game of the year and play at the level he has played all year he should be able to get the job done. This one could be close and may just be a high scoring game.
Ohio 35 Utah State 31
R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
December 17, 9 p.m.
ESPN
San Diego State vs UL-Lafayette
Outlook: Capping off ESPN's Saturday tripleheader of bowl games is the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl. This bowl matches up the 8-4 Aztecs of San Diego State against the 8-4 Ragin' Cajuns of UL-Lafayette.
The Aztecs will look to utilize the other best runningback no one has heard of: Ronnie Hillman. Hillman came to San Diego State as the highest rated recruit to come to the school since Marshall Faulk. He hasn't disappointed. The versatile Hillman has ran for 1656 yards and 19 touchdowns in only his sophomore year.
Looking to top Hillman and the Aztecs will be UL-Lafayette and quarterback Blaine Gautier will look to use their efficient offense to control the tempo and keep the ball away from San Diego State's balanced attack. Gautier has an impressive touchdown to interception ratio of 4:1. They will look to force SDSU to make the most of every position.
Prediction: Both of these teams sport the same 8-4 record and both failed to reach their goals in terms of conference play. A bowl win for either would be a nice consolation prize. SDSU has two NFL prospects playing in two of the most important positions on the offensive side of the ball in senior quarterback Ryan Lindley and sophomore runningback Ronnie Hillman. The Aztecs navigated a tougher schedule with the same results as the Ragin' Cajuns. Look for the Aztecs balance to build a nice early lead and the run game to hold on in the second half.
San Diego State 31 UL-Lafayette 17
For this week, the slate is rather light. There are only three bowl games this week, all of them kicking off on Saturday. Here are the matchups:
Gildan New Mexico Bowl
December 17th, 2 p.m.
ESPN
Temple vs Wyoming
Outlook: The Gildan New Mexico bowl places the Mountain West third place team Wyoming team against the #4 team in the MAC, Temple.
Wyoming should consider it a considerable leap forward for their program to be in a bowl game, especially in light of star quarterback Austyn Carta-Samuels unexpectedly transferring at the beginning of the year. Versatile freshman quarterback Brett Smith has stepped in nicely at the position, starting every game this year for the Cowboys. Smith is an exciting quarterback who has shown he can get things done with his arm and his athleticism after throwing for 18 touchdowns and rushing for 645 yards and 10 more touchdowns. The Cowboys will look to spread the ball around in the passing game while using the two headed monster of Smith and runningback Alvester Alexander to set up play action.
MAC representative Temple looks to cap off Steve Addazio's first year as head coach with a bowl victory behind a strong effort from star runningback Bernard Pierce. Pierce has been a stud for Temple since becoming the starting tailback his freshman year. Pierce has rushed for 25 touchdowns this year and has recovered nicely from last year's campaign where he struggled with injuries.
Prediction: Wyoming has a nice story and the Brett Smith era seems to be starting off rather nicely. With three more years as a starter and all of the best teams in the Mountain West Wyoming is definitely a team to have an eye on in the next few years. However, Temple has played really well this year and Bernard Pierce is one of the two best runningbacks nobody has heard of (more on that later). Temple's physical defense and ground game will prove too much for the Cowboys of Wyoming.
Temple 24 Wyoming 10
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
December 17, 5:30 p.m.
ESPN
Ohio vs Utah State
Outlook: Nothing says "opening day of bowl season" quite like the "famous" Idaho Potato Bowl. This year's matchup features the 9-4 Ohio Bobcats and the 7-5 Utah State Aggies. Don't let the records fool you, this could be a very close matchup and a good game.
Ohio and Utah State couldn't be more opposite. Ohio, likes to let breakout quarterback Tyler Tettleton get out and throw the ball. Tettleton has passed for over 3,000 yards with 26 touchdowns to only 10 interceptions; all while adding over 600 yards on the ground and 9 rushing touchdowns. It will be interesting to see how the Utah State defense will try to slow Tettleton down.
Utah State has been inconsistent this year, but they bring a great ground attack to the table. The Aggies have ranked 6th in the nation in rushing, compiling a team average of 277.5 rushing yards per game. The running attack is led by playmaking runningback Robert Turbin. The junior ran for 1,416 yards and 19 scores on the year and will look to test Ohio's defense (ranked 29th in the country).
Prediction: Both teams have had their fair share of close games and Ohio has the better record and will come into this game as favorites. If Tyler Tettleton can bounce back from his worst game of the year and play at the level he has played all year he should be able to get the job done. This one could be close and may just be a high scoring game.
Ohio 35 Utah State 31
R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
December 17, 9 p.m.
ESPN
San Diego State vs UL-Lafayette
Outlook: Capping off ESPN's Saturday tripleheader of bowl games is the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl. This bowl matches up the 8-4 Aztecs of San Diego State against the 8-4 Ragin' Cajuns of UL-Lafayette.
The Aztecs will look to utilize the other best runningback no one has heard of: Ronnie Hillman. Hillman came to San Diego State as the highest rated recruit to come to the school since Marshall Faulk. He hasn't disappointed. The versatile Hillman has ran for 1656 yards and 19 touchdowns in only his sophomore year.
Looking to top Hillman and the Aztecs will be UL-Lafayette and quarterback Blaine Gautier will look to use their efficient offense to control the tempo and keep the ball away from San Diego State's balanced attack. Gautier has an impressive touchdown to interception ratio of 4:1. They will look to force SDSU to make the most of every position.
Prediction: Both of these teams sport the same 8-4 record and both failed to reach their goals in terms of conference play. A bowl win for either would be a nice consolation prize. SDSU has two NFL prospects playing in two of the most important positions on the offensive side of the ball in senior quarterback Ryan Lindley and sophomore runningback Ronnie Hillman. The Aztecs navigated a tougher schedule with the same results as the Ragin' Cajuns. Look for the Aztecs balance to build a nice early lead and the run game to hold on in the second half.
San Diego State 31 UL-Lafayette 17
Thursday, October 27, 2011
UFC 137: Expect Finishes
If long, drawn out fights that go to a decision are your thing, UFC 137 is not for you. Looking at the matchups this is a card that will have finishes galore. Here’s a rundown of a few of the bigger fights on the card.
DENNIS SIVER VS DONALD “COWBOY” CERRONE
Siver and Cerrone appear to be on similar arcs right now and this match will be a good title eliminator. Siver, a stocky German with a formidable kickboxing background, will look to employ a similar strategy as the one that enabled him to upset grappling specialist George Sotiropolous. Siver was able to stuff Sotiropolous’s takedowns and pick him apart by controlling the distance with vicious kicks.
Cerrone, a WEC transplant riding a nice five fight win streak, finds himself a win or two away from a lightweight title shot. Cerrone looked mighty impressive defeating promising prospect Charles Oliveira by Technical Knockout in a mere three minutes for his first knockout win at UFC Live: Hardy vs Lytle. Cerrone has won 12 of his 16 fights by submission and will be looking for an impressive finish of Siver in this fight.
Prediction: Cerrone has simply been on a tear and Siver has been impressive but has had difficulty putting opponents away. I think Cerrone’s superior submission skills get him the win Cerrone by Submission.
ROY “BIG COUNTRY” NELSON VS MIRKO CRO COP
Skipping to the pay-per-view card is a heavyweight tilt between two guys fighting for their jobs. After winning the Ultimate Fighter 10 and defeating Danish prospect Stefan Struve, the rotund Nelson has been on the losing side of lopsided decisions against Junior Dos Santos and Frank Mir. What Nelson has shown in those two fights is that he has a heart the size of Texas and a chin that could get hit by a truck and keep going.
On the flip side of the affair is the aging Mirko Cro Cop. Cro Cop is an MMA legend branching back to his days in the now defunct Japanese organization, PRIDE. Cro Cop is known as the best kickboxer to ever become a Mixed Martial Artist and has earned the right to be called a legend with his impressive resume. However, he is now a 225 pound Chuck Liddell at this point in his career. For the latter part of Liddell’s career we kept telling ourselves he could still compete at the highest level he just kept getting caught. Then after watching him do his best Glass Joe impersonation everyone came to the sad conclusion that ole Chuck just couldn’t take a punch anymore.
Cro Cop has become the same thing. His last few fights he seems like he could possibly still land that signarure left high kick that used to be the most feared strike in MMA, but most of the time he ends up flat on the canvas with the medics checking his vitals.
Prediction: Unfortunately for Cro Cop, Nelson has a pretty nice overhand right that he is able to land with regularity. The weakness of Cro Cop has always been his inability to take a fight to the ground in the rare case he was in trouble on the feet. If Nelson doesn’t catch him standing he should be able to easily drag the fight to the ground and pick up the TKO victory. Nelson by TKO.
MATT MITRIONE VS CHEICK KONGO
Aside from the main event, this matchup is truly the most intriguing of the night. It is truly a classic gatekeeper vs prospect matchup. Playing the role of interesting prospect is Matt Mitrione. A former practice squad fullback for the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings Mitrione has athleticism in abundance and continue to evolve as a Mixed Martial Artist.
Playing the role of gatekeeper will be Cheick Kongo. A hulking Frenchman with a kickboxing background, Kongo is certainly not an opponent to be taken lightly and will certainly put Mitrione’s lauded chin to the test. Kongo is coming off of the craziest comeback in UFC history when he knocked out Pat Barry after the ref had almost came to his rescue from being pummeled seconds earlier. The win was certainly a huge won and showed the striking prowess that Kongo truly possesses. Mitrione may be wise to try to take Kongo down and not stand and trade like he is known to do.
Prediction: Kongo is by far the toughest test Mitrione has faced and how he fares will go a long way in determining his rank in the heavyweight division. One thing is for certain, this fight won’t be going to decision. I think Mitrione continues to show progress as he wins a close fight that nearly goes the distance. Mitrione by TKO.
B.J. PENN VS NICK DIAZ
For my full Penn-Diaz preview check out my first Bleacher Report piece here: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/909878-ufc-137-6-things-to-expect-in-the-penn-vs-diaz-main-event
Prediction: As stated in my preview I am not a believer in Diaz’ boxing. Penn is the more polished fighter in every area and I look for him to beat Diaz with his own impressive boxing. Penn by TKO.
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