Tuesday, September 4, 2012

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Saturday, June 23, 2012

Pats loaded up for another dynasty

No team in NFL history has compiled success in back to back decades, but thats about to change. The New ENgland Patriots, led by BB and Tom Brady once again are loaded in the talent pool, and have all the pieces in place to make another run at the superbowl for years to come. The reasonings for this is mostly through the NFL draft. BB has made some questionable picks the last couple years, but he has found some stars in the rough. Lets look more in depth in some areas that will help the Pats redefine the organization.

1. The Tight End Connect:

No other team in the league can match the Patriots at the tight end position. The have Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez and Daniel Fells. "Gronk" compiled one of the most successful seasons not only as a tight end, but as a pass catcher. His 17 touchdowns was untouchable, and his physical assests are hard to cover. He has a big frame that helps him bring in balls thrown his way, and protects him from big hits. If you need a example, just watch the highlights from the Redskin or Jet games. Don't forget about his complement Aaron Hernandez, who also had a big season. He had 910 yards, and caught 7 td's. They are a combination that includes big size, and speed that leaves safeties and linebackers shaking their heads to cover. And did I mention Daniel Fells, who started in Denver as their featured tight end. Fells signed a three year deal to be a third tight end in New England. That says he took less money and less of a role to go to a to organization for a chance to play in the postseason. What was key this offseason was the Pats locking up Gronkowski with a 6 year, 54 million dollar contract. Tom Brady just got his favorite target signed until he retires, and I believe Aaron Hernandez will get a extension sometime this year. I can see the Patriots letting Welker go after this year, going with more tight end sets.

2. Getting Defensive:

The Patriots were down right ugly last season against the pass, partially with a limited offseason because labor talks. Regardless, the secondary was getting torched through the air it seemed on a weekly basis. Given this, I think their defense is about to come together and b a force in the league. They have a full offseason to come together as a unit, and determine the play packages more rather then switching as much as they did. I believe they have the personnel to match either a 3-4 or 4-3 base scheme. The key component of the defense will be the front seven, which I believe is very athletic and strong. The additions of Jonathan Fannene will help the line create some more pressure in passing downs. I think Chandler Jones will emerge on the scene at defensive end, and become their man pass rusher with Rob Ninkovich. To top that off, Donta Hightower is a versitile linebacker who can play defensive end, inside/outside linebacker. He was used all over the place at Alabama, and will be a valuable asset when the Pats rotate the 3-4 and 4-3. The linebacking core is led by Jerod Mayo, who likely will line up as a outside backer now. But pairing Brandon Spikes and Hightower inside seems like a power house against the run in the middle. You add Mayo and Ninkovich(or Jones in 3-4) outside and you have a very young and strong linebacker core.

Overall, the defense will have only 1 starter, being Wilfork at the north of 30 mark. Every other player is south of it, most still youngsters. Thos eunder the age of 26 include; Jerod Mayo, Kyle Love, Patrick Chung, Kyle Arrington, Brandon Spikes, Brandon Deaderick, Donta Hightower, and Chandler Jones. At least five will be starters, depending on the defense. The Pats use a hybrid 3-4/4-3 so in many cases all of these kids will see plenty of time. It's alot of youth, but we have seen Mayo lead the league in tackles one year, McCourty grab 7 INT's, and Spikes has closed up the middle runnnig games. If all of these players gel in camp this season and next, I think you could see 4-5 pro bowl players, and a defensive in the top 10.

3. Coaching:

Its no doubt BB and Robert Kraft have turned aroung the New England Patriot organization apon their arrival. Kraft has not only made a great team, but was the biggest difference maker in labor talks last year. BB has a very interesting coaching style, he goes for it when most would punt, and he will run the score up if the other team quits. Regardless of what people think, this guy has nailed down how to run this team. The Patriots didn't have a strong core of players in the first Superbowl win, but they played how they were coached. I think the big thing here is can BB develop all these youngsters on the defensive side of the ball. Since Mike Vrabel, and Tedy Bruschi, the Pats haven't had a leader on defense. The emergences of Vince Wilfork the last couple years has helped. But they need Jerod Mayo to help as well, and other kids to play to that level. Another area to watch is the offensive lineman and how they adjust. Dante Scarnecchia is considered one of the best out there, and he has some work to do. Logan Mankins is coming off knee surgery, and Matt Light retired. They still are waiting on Brian Waters, and Sebastian Vollmer has been banged around. In my opinion, I think the Pats are ok, with the depth of Robert Gallery who can play guard or tackle. They also have both Dan Koppen and Dan Connely back after signing them. Both can play center and guard. Nate Solder will replace Matt Light, and he showed how physical he can be last year when playing for Vollmer. Marcus Cannon was a steal a couple years back when the Pats got him in 5th round, because of health issues. He can also play guard and tackle, and has a very big frame. After that the Pats hav a mixed bag, with Donald Thomas, Ryan Weendell and Matt Kopa. All who have had playing time, and shown flashes of starting ability. With work they definately can be great depth help, and start if need be. I think Scarnecchia can develop these players more, and help add needed depth behind a great front line.

Overall, I believe the Patriots can make at least 3 Superbowl apperences by the year 2020. As long as they keep a majority of the core players together, they should see significant growth. Gronkowski is just one example, and they locked him up long term. If the Patriots can extend one key player each offseason, then the adding of role players will help mold around their youth. It will be interesting to see the draft approach they use in the near future, given the amount of young blood of this team. I can say, they will continue to target the defensive, and also the offesive line.

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Bryce Who? Mike Trout best baseball prospect

He might not be a household name like a Stephen Strasburg or Bryce Harper, but Mike Trout the rookie outfielder in Los Angeles is quickly changing that. The 20 year old rookie has been tearing the cover off the ball for the start of this season. Trout currently holds a .337 batting average, .397 on base percentage and he is holding down the leadoff position in the Angels lineup.

The biggest difference between Harper and Trout was where they were selected in the MLB draft, as Harper was the 1st selection in 2010 and Trout was 25th overall in 2009. Both of these kids are talented beyond their ages, both possessing qualities to become superstars in the next wave of stars in baseball. Both are considered the top prospects for each of there respected teams. Harper was a young, raw kid that has played all over the place in high school, demonstrating his speed and leadship. Trout was primarily used in the outfield, and has explosive speed.

So far, Harper is batting .289 with a .367 on base percentage. He is definately having a immediate impact of the Nationals efforts this season. He was called up back in April when the injury bug bit the Nats when losing Roger Bernadina and Michael Morse. He has shown glipses of why they selected him 1st overall 2 years ago. Of recent he has been starting to tune up his power and hit 7 homers, in which the last month has been where most have came. The one thing im waiting on is his speed, and increase stolen base opportunities. He currently is only 4 for 7, which is nothing to raise eyebrows to. Don't get me wrong, the Nationals have the opportunity to reshape a down franchise through Strasburg and now Harper. And I think the future for the organization is as bright as any other team, time will tell how Harper does.

But back to Trout, who most average fans probably couldn't even name what team he played for, or what level in the organization he was at. He is currently coming off a 4 hit game against th Giants, and he scored 4 runs as well. For the month of June, Trout is batting a ridiculous .398, and has shown a great deal of patience at the plate. The Angels were 7-14 pre Trout, and 30-18 since the call up and emergences of speed demon in the leadoff position. His good plate discipline, and base path knowledge has help the Angles manufacture more runs, and really is benefiting Albert Pujols and company.


Where I think he separates himself right now from Harper and any other fielding prospect is the 19 for 22 stolen base attempts. That 86 successful stolen base percentage is a unrealistic number, and shows he possess the knowledge of when the best time to role the dice to steal. Unlike other rookies, Trout can be considered not only a rookie of the year candidate, but the MVP of the league. If Trout keeps this pace of; average, runs, hits, and stolen bases I believe he will be in the top 3 of MVP talks if not win the honor.

The real test in my eyes comes twice a year; once right after the all-star break when you have time off which can throw off your streak of play. Also when you reach thos games in late August when the summer heat starts draining you, and you top the 100 plus game mark. Regardless of the end results, we may be in line for one of the best one-two combo's as far as prospect position players to develop and hit their stride at the same time. Be ready baseball, who says veteran presences holds the advantage in the game of patience.

Monday, June 18, 2012

NFL 32: Buffalo Bills

The Bills this offseason made huge strides to become a force in the AFC playoff picture. The addition of "Super" Mario Williams and a reliable Mark Anderson from division rival New England has solidified the front 7. The Bills came off a disappointment last season with start 5-0, then falling off and missing the playoffs. Another big area the Bills made smart decisions was in the draft this past year.

With their first selection they took Stephen Gilmore, cornerback out of South Carolina. Gilmore's stock flew up the charts since the NFL combine, and went from 2nd round to top 15 selection. Gilmore is considered the 2nd best corner to come out this year, and can be physical at the line. Even though the Bills have a solid secondary, maybe future plans to part with veterans is in the mix. Gilmore will add speed and physicality to the back 4, and help slow down the Patriots potent pass offense.

The offensive line for Buffalo has always been a concern, due to the fact of injuries seem to always hit. The have drafted good linemen (Eric Wood, Andy Levitre), they have just found the injury bug year in and year out. So with Cordy Glenn on the boards when they picked again, they jumped on the oppoprtunity. Glenn is 6'5" 345lbs, having one of the larger frames for offensive linemen to come out this year. To me he is a Lg/Rg because of how big he is, I can't see him moving fast enough at a tackle position. Unless he gets down to 330lbs minimum, I can't see him used as a tackle, as faster pass rushers will be able to fly by him.

Overall I think the Bills were one of the top teams to be aggressive in free agency, and also put together a solid draft. I think this is the year that the Bills may make the playoffs, obtaining one of the wild card positions. I don't think that they have the weapons on offense to help push them above the Patriots, but do have a good defense that will slow down high scoring teams. Look for the Bills to finish either 9-7 or 10-6 this season.

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Final Mock Draft

1. Andrew Luck- It's as clear as day that the Colts have decided to take Luck with the first pick, it now shifts to how will they address others areas to help him succeed. With help needed in many areas not only on offense, look for the Colts to bea top 5 pick next year as well.

2. RGIII-  The Redskins traded everything but the kitchen sink to move up 4 spots. Though they will get their franchise Qb, I feel they will provide limited help this year and for years to come which will significantly hurt Griffins progress.

3. Matt Kalil-  The Vikings won't pass up on the 3rd best offensive player in the draft, and help protect Christian Ponder. Though a CB is another need area, I think they wait until round 2 to get one. Kalil is lights out and a starter a left tackle for the long haul.

4. Trent Richardson-  The Browns have needs all along the offense, but being that there is a drop off at running back they grab the best available. Richardson is powerful, and going to free pressure of McCoy or whoever the starter will be.

5. Morris Clayborne-  With the numerous question marks in the secondary, the Buccs need desperate help at corner. So its a no brainier that they take the best corner who is a instant impact in the league. Talib is in the thick, and not drafting Clayborne will be a mistake they will never let go.

6. Justin Blackmon-  The Rams have pulled off one of the best trades I have ever seen. Not only will they get their wide receiver that's needed, but they have extra picks this year and next. Adding a playmaker for Bradford is a must after losing Lloyd. The Rams could have a quick turnaround with 2 picks in the 2nd round.

7. Melvin Ingram-  The Jaguars need help pressuring the Qb so they don't get picked apart. Ingram is the top pass rushing option this year, and the Jags front 4 is been week for som90000000000
9. Fletcher Cox-   The Panthers have good defensive ends, but they need help getting pressure. Adding Cox, who is the most explosive d tackle in the draft will help free up Charles Johnson. Cox can add some pass rushing pressure in the middle, while slowing down the run game.

10. Riley Rieff-  With addinghelp on the defensive front 7, the Bills will look offense come Thursday night. Trading down is a option, but if they keep the pick I believe adding a top lineman finally happens. Rieff would replace the loss of Jason Peters and help keep Fitz alive.

11. Luke Kuechly-  Kuechly is the 2nd best defensive prospect behind Clayborne and the Chiefs would love the help in the middle. A player that can play in coverage, as well as physical against the run. One of the best linebackers since Patrick Willis came out.

12. Quinton Coples-  Seattle has lost several key players in the front seven, including the cut of Aaron Curry. So they look for a pass rusher who can come in and start day one. Though some question the motor of Coples, he becomes the 2nd defensive end taken.

13. Michael Floyd-  When you top player talks, you should listen and Fitzgerald is asking for this pick right here. Floyd can come and and take alot of pressure off of Fitz doing everything in the receiving game. The other option is getting a offensive tackle to help protect who ever will start at Qb.

14. Mark Barron-  The Cowboys have added Brodney Pool and Brandon Carr to help the secondary. Pool is not a long term starter, and Barron is a hard hitter who can make a instant impact.

15. Dontari Poe-  Poe is a example of raw talent, that has the opportunity to grow into a stud. A big, strong, and physical athlete who can wreck havoc on a offensive line. He will need to be double teamed, and help open up the linebackers for the Eagles.

16. Courtney Upshaw-  The Jets need to address the pass rush, as well as the defensive tackle position since losing Jenkins. Upshaw has the ability to rush as a linebacker, or as a d end. He is physical and strong and fits into the Rex Ryan style of play.

17. Dre Kirkpatrick-  Leon Hall is a top cornerback in the league, but doesn't get much recognition. He could use someone opposite him to help out. The Bengals also need help on the line, but have another pick this round.

18. Cordy Glenn-  The Chargers have a pressing need on the offensive line, with the loss of Marcus McNeil and Kris Dielman being banged up. Glenn is a big bodied kid, who will be able to handle the rushing defensive ends.

19. Jonathan Martin-  Jay Cutler seems to be always banged up and hit, which affects his high INT count. Martin was a top tackle protecting Andrew Luck, and will be a reliable player for some time.

20. Stephen Gilmore-  After losing Cortland Finnegan, the Titans need alot of help to replace him. Gilmore is  a rising player, and may go even higher then here. Hewould be a steal for the Titans and become the number 2 at least.

21. David Decastro-  The loss Bobbie Willaims hurts at right guard, so taking Decastro would be a easy pick. He is the top guard, but usually they aren't given alot of love. The Chiefs may look at Decastro at the 11 spot as well.

22. Kendell Wright-  After getting their running back, the Browns come right back and take a wide out. If McCoy is the starter, he needs a true WR who can play the position. Qb is also a place of need, but I think the 2nd round or a trade for Brian Hoyer is likely.

23. Janoris Jenkins-  The Lions have lacked a good corner for quite some time, and after targeting the from trenches on defense on late they finally add help. Jenkins has alot of baggage off the field, but does have the talent to play.

24. Donta Hightower-  The Steelers have the need at defensive tackle as well as middle linebacker, but Hightower has alot of versatility. He will play inside with Lawerance Timmons, but can move outside in sub-packages.

25. Michael Brockers-  The need for a stronger defensive line is a must, and so is secondary help. With the top corners gone, and Brockers loaded with talent how can you pass on him. Ty Warren is average, and Brockers also can play defensive end as well.

26. Stephen Hill-  The lack of receiving help for Andre Johnson puts alot of pressure on him, and when injuried the WR core is silent. Adding a speed demon like Hill can help stretch the field to a good offense as it is. Johnson will feel less pressured to do it all.

27. Chandler Jones-  The Patriots have a need to replace Mark Anderson, and Andre Carter is injured. Jones has freak like ability, and hasn't gotten to his size potential yet. He will be able to get physical with lineman but have the speed as well to get past them.

28. Shea McCellin-  A under the radar player who is flying up the boards. He is a great pass rusher, and fit well in with Clay Mathews opposite of him.

29. Whitney Mercilus-  Mercilus led the nation for college players in sacks this past year. He is a big, physical athlete who is very raw. He only started one full season,but has the tools to be a force at rushing the passer.

30. Kevin Zietler-  Not a flashy pick, but the 49ers address the interior offensive line by grabbing a solid player. A Wisconsin product, Zietler is a top rated player at hisposition, and should help the 49ers already good line continue opening up holes for Gore.

31. Harrison Smith-  The Patriots secondary was terrible last year, and used a rotating committee at safety last year. Adding Steven Gregory was a good step, and adding a guy like Smith can help improve the leagues 31st rank pss defense.

32. Coby Fleener-  The Giants suffered two big loses in the Superbowl when both their tight ends tore their ACL's. So the Giants need to get a tight end that can help replace both. Fleener is a big, physical product who is the top ranked at his position.



Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Peyton Manning Saga

Its not to often a team faces a decision to cut loose its premier quarterback, one who has changed the face of there organization from the moment he was drafted. Yet they face a similar situation as they did back in 1998, except they have a top level quarterback, and an opportunity to remold their organization.

Peyton Manning has been the top signal caller in the NFL for the last 10 years, and created one of the most hyped rivalry with counter part Tom Brady of the Patriots. When most games lead up to smack talking and  disrespect, the games between these two have none of that. Each player, each team knows it will be a physical, offensive battle and will usually come down to the last team with the ball. It was interesting that both players have   had an significant injury in there careers, when they were injury prone. Some will argue that Manning has had the statistics, as Brady has had the rings. If you ask me both players have been successful in their designated roles with there organization.

But Manning has had to deal with a injury that happened to totally control not only his football career, but his life. A injury believe to develop from several hits he has taken over the years, Manning finally needed surgery to fix a potential life threatening problem. So his decision to have surgery was simple, with the hope to miss maybe part of the season and return. The general public didn't realize how many surgeries were necessary to correct the issues in his neck/spine. It seemed that ever week some new development occurred about Peyton,  which eventually led to the leak of the multiple surgeries that were performed. It was finally found that a total of 4 operations were done to correct Manning's neck. This in turn led to the Colts posting a very disappointing season, andnow sit at the 1st selection in the draft. So it's a no doubter that the Colts will select the highest ranked QB since, well Manning. I'm not saying that this is a dumb move, because I wouldn't role the dice and bank on Peyton being 100 percent ever again. To top that off he is due 28 million dollars and the Colts decided that it isn't worth the risk.

So the next question to be answered, which everyone wonders is where will Peyton Manning end up. I think that given his situation with his health, and the limit left on his career he wants to go to a place that has pieces in place to win. I also believe he wants to be in a place with a strong front office, so I look at the Dolphins. He  would have Brandon Marshall as his big play receiver, and Davon  Bess As his sneaky go to guy. The phins need a leader at the helm, and Manning knows what he is doing. It comes down to if the Dolphins are willing to role the dice with his age and health. Matt Flynn is the highest sought QB being that he has youth and talent. It looks like the Redskins will make the move to get RG3, and that leaves Tannehill a solid 2nd round pick for a QB needy team. It should be interesting to see where Manning goes, and how the FA period develops, with so many big name players available. It seems this may be one of the most active FA and draft years in NFL history.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Patriots best draft Scenario

Well the combine is over, and there were several surprises that came about like Dontari Poe having a very respectable 40 time (4.98)and posting 44 reps on the bench press. Another surprise was Stephen Hill posting a crazy 40 time himself (4.33).But I will discuss the best options for the Patriots, and how they should draft to help improve the team.

The first order of business is to address the defense, more importantly the pass rushing area from the outside linebacker position.

So at #27 the Patriots should target multiple players if they are available when its their turn to select. First is Whitney Mercilus, Defensive End from Clemson. Mercilus led the nation in sacks last year (16) due to his aggressive and physical play. He is a motivated player who has a high motor. I see him as a OLB in the NFL, and can obviously play defensive  end as well. Hybrid formations in the 3-4 defense will utilize Mercilus and prevent protection problems Other players to look at here are Donatri Poe, Devon Still and Michael Brockers. All who are defensive tackles, but can be put at defensive end minus Poe. This allows more strength on the line, and take pressure of Wilfork to control things. A outside possibility here can be Nick Perry or Andre Branch. Both are in similar positions like Mercilus being they can play defensive end, yet will be used as OLB as well.

At #31, the Patriots can target a secondary need positions, which include safety and center, With the secondary getting torched last year, Mark Barron would come in and be a immediate force, and he is from Alabama where Nick Saban was a former Belichick product.Hewill allow Chung to come up in run support and Barron can punish receivers all day. Another option is Peter Konz, the lone center prospect that is worthy of a first round selection. He was very productive at Wisconsin, and is a beast who can start day one for the Pats who may lose Koppen and Connely.

In the second round, depending on the first round you may see the Pats trade up. if Hightower falls to the 2nd round I think a move up to select him would be a rewarding decision. He can play inside and outside linebacker and has good wheels for his size. Another guy to target is Stephen Gilmore, who is fast and uses good cover skills.

If the Patriots do not add a defensive end or linebacker in the 1st round, I think it will be another long year on the defense. Given that a good pass rush can lesson the pressure for the secondary, adding a edge rusher will help the secondary greatly. And if Barron falls, you found a steal at 31, with a player groomed for the NFL system. Bill Belichick needs to strike gold like last year in Grokowski and Hernandez, and Solder will be a great pick when he gets his chance. If they can add some playmaking help to a younger defense that has leadership (Mayo, Spikes, McCourty, Chung) will be great to help this team excel.