Grade: B
Seattle failed to find a developmental offensive guard in the draft, but they did well to get help along the defensive line. They selected DE Lawrence Jackson (USC) in the first round and Texas A&M defensive tackle Red Bryant in the fourth. Jackson’s performance last season warranted a first round selection, and he should be able to provide a pass rush for the ‘Hawks. Bryant, on the other hand, won’t provide much of a rush, but he should be a good run stopper. With sack artists Patrick Kerney, LeRoy Hill, Julian Peterson, and now, Lawrence Jackson, Bryant doesn’t need to get to the quarterback.
TE John Carlson, Seattle’s second round pick, should be an upgrade over Jeb Putzier. He is a complete tight end and will provide QB Matt Hasselbeck with another target. Seattle got more offensive help in FB Owen Schmitt (West Virginia) and RB Justin Forsett (California). Schmitt is a hardnosed fullback, and his attitude alone will make him an NFL starter. Forsett can develop into a third down, change of pace type of back.
With their final pick, Seattle took the best kicker in the draft in Brandon Coutu from Georgia. Josh Brown left via free agency this offseason, and the Seahawks signed Olindo Mare as a short term fix, but Coutu could be there for the long run. He’s consistent from within 40 yards, has a powerful leg, and can develop into an effective field goal kicker in the NFL.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
2008 NFL Draft Recap - Minnesota Vikings
Grade: B
I think the Vikings were big winners coming out of the 2008 draft. They gave up a lot to get DE Jared Allen, but he is going to have a tremendous impact on this defense. Minnesota didn’t have a first round pick, so their first pick was S Tyrell Johnson (Arkansas State) at pick #43. Johnson was arguably the best safety in the draft and was projected to go in the first round, so this is great value for the Vikes. They added more youth and depth to an already strong secondary, and, next season, Minnesota might just have the best defense in the NFL.
Minnesota only had four other picks, but they made what might be the pick of the draft in John David Booty (QB, USC) in the fifth round. Booty should’ve gone in the third round—there was even talk of him going in the second—so getting him in the fifth is a steal. Tarvaris Jackson hasn’t proven he can be an NFL starting quarterback, so Booty has a chance to come in here and take the job over the next two years.
Minnesota is an ideal situation for a young quarterback. They have a great defense, an excellent rushing attack, and a potentially surprising receiving corps with Bernard Berrian and Sidney Rice (if he continues to develop). This is the perfect situation for Booty, and he has the chance to be a more successful NFL quarterback than fellow USC QB, and current Arizona Cardinals starter, Matt Leinart.
I think the Vikings were big winners coming out of the 2008 draft. They gave up a lot to get DE Jared Allen, but he is going to have a tremendous impact on this defense. Minnesota didn’t have a first round pick, so their first pick was S Tyrell Johnson (Arkansas State) at pick #43. Johnson was arguably the best safety in the draft and was projected to go in the first round, so this is great value for the Vikes. They added more youth and depth to an already strong secondary, and, next season, Minnesota might just have the best defense in the NFL.
Minnesota only had four other picks, but they made what might be the pick of the draft in John David Booty (QB, USC) in the fifth round. Booty should’ve gone in the third round—there was even talk of him going in the second—so getting him in the fifth is a steal. Tarvaris Jackson hasn’t proven he can be an NFL starting quarterback, so Booty has a chance to come in here and take the job over the next two years.
Minnesota is an ideal situation for a young quarterback. They have a great defense, an excellent rushing attack, and a potentially surprising receiving corps with Bernard Berrian and Sidney Rice (if he continues to develop). This is the perfect situation for Booty, and he has the chance to be a more successful NFL quarterback than fellow USC QB, and current Arizona Cardinals starter, Matt Leinart.
2008 NFL Draft Recap - Green Bay Packers
Grade: B-
With GM Ted Thompson drafting, it’s tough to doubt anything the Packers do. They traded out of the first round, so their first pick wasn’t until number 36 overall. They selected Jordy Nelson (WR, Kansas State) as the third wide receiver in the draft. I thought that was a bit high for him, but he fits what Green Bay looks for in wideouts. He’s a big, polished route-runner, so he can contribute right away.
The most interesting picks came in the 2nd and 7th rounds however. The Pack selected quarterbacks in each spot—Brian Brohm (Lousville) in the second, and Matt Flynn (LSU) in the seventh. Both add much needed depth to the Packers’ quarterback situation, and Brohm could push Aaron Rodgers for the starting job in the near future. Flynn has the intangibles to be an NFL leader, and, with some coaching, could end up being a great backup or an adequate starter.
Patrick Lee (CB, Auburn) and Jermichael Finley (TE, Texas) were excellent picks as well. Green Bay selected Lee with their 3rd pick in the second round, and he has a chance to become a solid number two corner for the team. Al Harris and Charles Woodson are getting up there in age, so Green Bay needed to find a corner they can groom for the future.
Finley is not a great blocker for a tight end, but he’s a good receiver. Green Bay let Bubba Franks go this offseason, so they needed to find someone to play behind David Martin. Martin will still be the starter, but Finley could see some time in certain situations and two tight end sets.
With GM Ted Thompson drafting, it’s tough to doubt anything the Packers do. They traded out of the first round, so their first pick wasn’t until number 36 overall. They selected Jordy Nelson (WR, Kansas State) as the third wide receiver in the draft. I thought that was a bit high for him, but he fits what Green Bay looks for in wideouts. He’s a big, polished route-runner, so he can contribute right away.
The most interesting picks came in the 2nd and 7th rounds however. The Pack selected quarterbacks in each spot—Brian Brohm (Lousville) in the second, and Matt Flynn (LSU) in the seventh. Both add much needed depth to the Packers’ quarterback situation, and Brohm could push Aaron Rodgers for the starting job in the near future. Flynn has the intangibles to be an NFL leader, and, with some coaching, could end up being a great backup or an adequate starter.
Patrick Lee (CB, Auburn) and Jermichael Finley (TE, Texas) were excellent picks as well. Green Bay selected Lee with their 3rd pick in the second round, and he has a chance to become a solid number two corner for the team. Al Harris and Charles Woodson are getting up there in age, so Green Bay needed to find a corner they can groom for the future.
Finley is not a great blocker for a tight end, but he’s a good receiver. Green Bay let Bubba Franks go this offseason, so they needed to find someone to play behind David Martin. Martin will still be the starter, but Finley could see some time in certain situations and two tight end sets.
2008 NFL Draft Recap - Denver Broncos
Grade: C+
Denver needed to get two things out of this draft—a left tackle and a defensive tackle. They got both, even though they didn’t draft a defensive tackle - they acquired former first round pick Dewayne Robertson in a trade with the New York Jets. Robertson has underachieved over his career, but he’s a big body who is an upgrade over last year’s defensive tackle rotation.
With their first pick (#12 overall), Denver selected Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State. He was the guy we thought they were targeting all along due to his athleticism and mobility. He is perfect for Denver’s zone blocking scheme and should really help protect Jay Cutler’s blindside.
Denver’s most intriguing picks past round one are Eddie Royal (WR, Virginia Tech), Kory Lichtensteiger (C, Bowling Green), and Ryan Torain (RB, Arizona State). I thought they reached for Royal with Cal’s DeSean Jackson, Oklahoma’s Malcolm Kelly, and Texas’ Limas Sweed all still available. Royal is somewhat raw in his route running, but should provide some explosiveness in the return game. If that’s what they were looking for, though, why not take this draft’s best game-breaker in Jackson?
Lichtensteiger was Denver’s first fourth round pick, and he should provide the offensive line with much needed depth. He doesn’t project as an NFL starter, but he should be able to play in spot duty.
When Denver picks a running back, we always look for him to succeed behind their usually incredible blocking. Torain is a north-south runner, so I’m not sure how well he fits their scheme, but he should be able to make one cut and go. He’s not going to outrun many defenders, but he should be able to break a few tackles and gain some yards after contact.
Denver needed to get two things out of this draft—a left tackle and a defensive tackle. They got both, even though they didn’t draft a defensive tackle - they acquired former first round pick Dewayne Robertson in a trade with the New York Jets. Robertson has underachieved over his career, but he’s a big body who is an upgrade over last year’s defensive tackle rotation.
With their first pick (#12 overall), Denver selected Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State. He was the guy we thought they were targeting all along due to his athleticism and mobility. He is perfect for Denver’s zone blocking scheme and should really help protect Jay Cutler’s blindside.
Denver’s most intriguing picks past round one are Eddie Royal (WR, Virginia Tech), Kory Lichtensteiger (C, Bowling Green), and Ryan Torain (RB, Arizona State). I thought they reached for Royal with Cal’s DeSean Jackson, Oklahoma’s Malcolm Kelly, and Texas’ Limas Sweed all still available. Royal is somewhat raw in his route running, but should provide some explosiveness in the return game. If that’s what they were looking for, though, why not take this draft’s best game-breaker in Jackson?
Lichtensteiger was Denver’s first fourth round pick, and he should provide the offensive line with much needed depth. He doesn’t project as an NFL starter, but he should be able to play in spot duty.
When Denver picks a running back, we always look for him to succeed behind their usually incredible blocking. Torain is a north-south runner, so I’m not sure how well he fits their scheme, but he should be able to make one cut and go. He’s not going to outrun many defenders, but he should be able to break a few tackles and gain some yards after contact.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Montana Draft Prospects
There are several UM and MSU players that have entered this year's NFL Draft, but only two that have a legitimate shot at hearing their names called in New York - Griz RB Lex Hilliard, and Griz DE Kroy Biermann.
Lex Hilliard: The outstanding Griz running back, Lex Hilliard, might have to learn a new position if and when his name gets called during the NFL draft. Most analysts have Hilliard projected as a fullback, much like Justin Green a few years ago. Hilliard is a 231 pound runner who ran the 40 in the 4.7 range, so he is a bit of a ‘tweener, which hurts his draft stock. He’s too big and a little slow to be an NFL running back, but may be a bit small to play fullback. He’s ideal for short yardage situations, though, because he tends to fall forward when tackled. Yards after contact are probably the most important statistic to runners in the NFL, since it’s a rarity to burst through the line untouched. He has a nose for the endzone (as evidenced by his UM record 49 career rushing touchdowns), but his lack of production in the passing game hurts his stock.
Projection: Hilliard might come off the board late on day two (sixth or seventh round), but it’s more likely that he goes undrafted and signs with a team next week.
Kroy Biermann: Of the Montana draft prospects, Griz defensive end Kroy Biermann has the best shot at being drafted on Sunday. Biermann is a bit undersized to play end in the NFL, which is why most scouts have him projected as a 3-4 rush linebacker. He tested as a defensive end at the combine, but if you compare his numbers to the linebacker class, he does quite well. He is strong (repping 225 pounds nine times) and quick, but he doesn’t have elite top end speed (he ran the 40 in 4.85 seconds). However, with more and more NFL teams implementing a 3-4 defense, a player like Biermann has a chance to get his name called late in the draft.
Projection: The most likely scenario is for Biermann to come off the board in the sixth or seventh round. I’ll go out on a limb and say he gets taken in round six as the only Montana player drafted in 2008.
2008 Montana NFL Draft Prospects
Lex Hilliard: The outstanding Griz running back, Lex Hilliard, might have to learn a new position if and when his name gets called during the NFL draft. Most analysts have Hilliard projected as a fullback, much like Justin Green a few years ago. Hilliard is a 231 pound runner who ran the 40 in the 4.7 range, so he is a bit of a ‘tweener, which hurts his draft stock. He’s too big and a little slow to be an NFL running back, but may be a bit small to play fullback. He’s ideal for short yardage situations, though, because he tends to fall forward when tackled. Yards after contact are probably the most important statistic to runners in the NFL, since it’s a rarity to burst through the line untouched. He has a nose for the endzone (as evidenced by his UM record 49 career rushing touchdowns), but his lack of production in the passing game hurts his stock.
Projection: Hilliard might come off the board late on day two (sixth or seventh round), but it’s more likely that he goes undrafted and signs with a team next week.
Kroy Biermann: Of the Montana draft prospects, Griz defensive end Kroy Biermann has the best shot at being drafted on Sunday. Biermann is a bit undersized to play end in the NFL, which is why most scouts have him projected as a 3-4 rush linebacker. He tested as a defensive end at the combine, but if you compare his numbers to the linebacker class, he does quite well. He is strong (repping 225 pounds nine times) and quick, but he doesn’t have elite top end speed (he ran the 40 in 4.85 seconds). However, with more and more NFL teams implementing a 3-4 defense, a player like Biermann has a chance to get his name called late in the draft.
Projection: The most likely scenario is for Biermann to come off the board in the sixth or seventh round. I’ll go out on a limb and say he gets taken in round six as the only Montana player drafted in 2008.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Q2 NFL Mock Draft - 1st Round
Hello everybody! Sorry for not posting in a while, but Slim and I have been hard at work on Q2's first NFL Mock Draft. We are here to submit our picks for Saturday's upcoming NFL Draft 1st Round, saying who we think will go at which spot and to which team.
NOTE: We went about this draft without factoring in any draft-day trades that might occur. We understand, and believe, that it will happen, but we cannot predict who will be trading and at what price (which draft picks will go to which teams). Thus, we made these picks with the assumption that each team will stay in its pre-determined spot, and select players with the intention of making their particular team better.
With that said, Slim and I are planning on coming out with a "Draft Day Trade Scenario" post before Saturday's draft kicks off (1:00 PM MST, ESPN), that will detail all the possible trades that could occur, and thus the changes in which players will go where.
So without further ado, I give you Q2's first ever Mock Draft.
1. Miami Dolphins – Jake Long, OT, Michigan
2007 Record (1-15) – Miami has already reached a contract agreement with Long (5 years, $57.75 million with $30 million guaranteed), so he is signed, sealed, and delivered. At this point, announcing his name on Saturday is just a formality. The Dolphins have been saying Long was their guy all along, and he’s a great pick. He has a chance to be the cornerstone left tackle for this struggling franchise for the next ten years.
2. St. Louis Rams – Chris Long, DE, Virginia
2007 Record (3-13) – The Rams face a tough decision between Chris Long and DT Glenn Dorsey, but should go with Long based on his ability to rush the QB. Long, the son of Hall of Fame DE Howie Long, has a special skill set rarely seen from someone right out of college, and can line up at either end position or even outside linebacker. Dorsey also has durability issues, and may not hold up well on the turf of the Edward Jones Dome. Long will use his exceptional quickness to an advantage on the surface, so he should be the choice.
3. Atlanta Falcons – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
2007 Record (4-12) - This should be the easiest choice in the top half of the draft. Atlanta’s only star is in jail for the next two years (QB Michael Vick), and the Falcons cannot hope to sell tickets (or win for that matter) with Joey Harrington leading them. Draft Ryan, and hope he turns into your new QB of the future.
4. Oakland Raiders – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
2007 Record (4-12) - While I think the Raiders would be better off addressing a position of more need, it’s hard to argue with selecting maybe the draft’s Most Talented Player. Owner Al Davis is famous for his love of athletic skill players, and “Run DMC” is definitely that. The backfield tandem of McFadden and last year’s #1 overall pick, QB JaMarcus Russell, would be very formidable to opposing defenses.
5. Kansas City Chiefs – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
2007 Record (4-12) – With Tuesday’s trade that sent NFL sack leader Jared Allen to the Vikings, the Chiefs need to bolster their now depleted defensive line. Thus, Dorsey should be the pick. He’s a mammoth DT with great hands, and will be a multiple Pro-Bowler if he can stay healthy. There have been rumors circulating that they would reach for OG Branden Albert here, but Dorsey has too much upside to pass up. Plus, Kansas City now has Minnesota’s first round pick as well (#17), so they can look to add an o-linemen at that spot.
6. New York Jets – Vernon Gholston, DE/OLB, Ohio State
2007 Record (4-12) - The Jets would love it if McFadden fell to them in this spot, and might even trade up to get him. But if they’re forced to stay here, and McFadden is gone, they should take Gholston, a great pass rushing threat in the style of Shawne Merriman. Gholston will bolster a Jets D that ranked near the bottom last season, and should provide an immediate impact.
7. New England Patriots (from San Francisco)
2007 Record (16-0)
NOTE: We went about this draft without factoring in any draft-day trades that might occur. We understand, and believe, that it will happen, but we cannot predict who will be trading and at what price (which draft picks will go to which teams). Thus, we made these picks with the assumption that each team will stay in its pre-determined spot, and select players with the intention of making their particular team better.
With that said, Slim and I are planning on coming out with a "Draft Day Trade Scenario" post before Saturday's draft kicks off (1:00 PM MST, ESPN), that will detail all the possible trades that could occur, and thus the changes in which players will go where.
So without further ado, I give you Q2's first ever Mock Draft.
2008 NFL MOCK DRAFT - ROUND 1
1. Miami Dolphins – Jake Long, OT, Michigan2007 Record (1-15) – Miami has already reached a contract agreement with Long (5 years, $57.75 million with $30 million guaranteed), so he is signed, sealed, and delivered. At this point, announcing his name on Saturday is just a formality. The Dolphins have been saying Long was their guy all along, and he’s a great pick. He has a chance to be the cornerstone left tackle for this struggling franchise for the next ten years.
2. St. Louis Rams – Chris Long, DE, Virginia2007 Record (3-13) – The Rams face a tough decision between Chris Long and DT Glenn Dorsey, but should go with Long based on his ability to rush the QB. Long, the son of Hall of Fame DE Howie Long, has a special skill set rarely seen from someone right out of college, and can line up at either end position or even outside linebacker. Dorsey also has durability issues, and may not hold up well on the turf of the Edward Jones Dome. Long will use his exceptional quickness to an advantage on the surface, so he should be the choice.
3. Atlanta Falcons – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College2007 Record (4-12) - This should be the easiest choice in the top half of the draft. Atlanta’s only star is in jail for the next two years (QB Michael Vick), and the Falcons cannot hope to sell tickets (or win for that matter) with Joey Harrington leading them. Draft Ryan, and hope he turns into your new QB of the future.
4. Oakland Raiders – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas2007 Record (4-12) - While I think the Raiders would be better off addressing a position of more need, it’s hard to argue with selecting maybe the draft’s Most Talented Player. Owner Al Davis is famous for his love of athletic skill players, and “Run DMC” is definitely that. The backfield tandem of McFadden and last year’s #1 overall pick, QB JaMarcus Russell, would be very formidable to opposing defenses.
5. Kansas City Chiefs – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU2007 Record (4-12) – With Tuesday’s trade that sent NFL sack leader Jared Allen to the Vikings, the Chiefs need to bolster their now depleted defensive line. Thus, Dorsey should be the pick. He’s a mammoth DT with great hands, and will be a multiple Pro-Bowler if he can stay healthy. There have been rumors circulating that they would reach for OG Branden Albert here, but Dorsey has too much upside to pass up. Plus, Kansas City now has Minnesota’s first round pick as well (#17), so they can look to add an o-linemen at that spot.
6. New York Jets – Vernon Gholston, DE/OLB, Ohio State2007 Record (4-12) - The Jets would love it if McFadden fell to them in this spot, and might even trade up to get him. But if they’re forced to stay here, and McFadden is gone, they should take Gholston, a great pass rushing threat in the style of Shawne Merriman. Gholston will bolster a Jets D that ranked near the bottom last season, and should provide an immediate impact.
7. New England Patriots (from San Francisco)2007 Record (16-0)
- Slim: Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
This is the first pick Casey and I disagree on, primarily because we disagree on the Patriots’ needs. After losing Asante Samuel and Randall Gay to free agency, New England needs a corner. McKelvin is arguably the best in the class and has steadily climbed up draft boards. OLB Keith Rivers could be the choice here as LB is also a need, but McKelvin represents better value in the top 7. - Casey: Keith Rivers, OLB, USC
New England plays a base 3-4 defense, meaning they play AT LEAST 4 linebackers on each down. Here is their current starting Linebacking corps (and age): Tedy Bruschi (34), Mike Vrabel (32), Adalius Thomas (30), and Eric Alexander (26). And that doesn’t even mention their top two reserves are 33 and 31. That would all be ok if these guys were Pro-Bowl caliber LB’s…but they’re not. New England not only needs help, but they need a franchise LB that can anchor this unit for years to come. That’s Rivers, a prototypical leader who, at 6’2”, 240 lbs, can play inside or outside, and will always be around the ball.
8. Baltimore Ravens – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
2007 Record (5-11) – Baltimore is one team in the draft who definitely should look to trade up. With Steve McNair’s recent retirement, the Ravens are left with Kyle Boller and Troy Smith on their QB depth chart, so trying to grab Boston College’s Matt Ryan would be wise. He shouldn’t fall past Atlanta at 3, though, leaving Baltimore in a tough spot. Sedrick Ellis doesn’t represent the biggest need, but he does represent the best value. Pairing him with Haloti Ngata would give the Ravens one of the best, young defensive tackle tandems in the league.
9. Cincinnati Bengals – Branden Albert, OG/OT, Virginia
2007 Record (7-9) - Albert is flying up draft boards as a versatile O-Lineman who scouts say can play either G or T in the pros. Ideally, Cincinnati will hope that Sedrick Ellis falls to them here, but if he doesn’t, Albert would be a solid pick to bolster a suspect offensive line. Albert’s versatility is what’s making him a potential Top-10 pick.
10. New Orleans Saints
2007 Record (7-9)
- Slim: Keith Rivers, OLB, USC
The Saints’ weakness is their defense, so they will be one of the teams trying to trade up to grab one of the elite defensive tackles. They can look at CB here, but I have LB as a higher need, so Rivers makes the most sense. He is a big, strong ‘backer who is a better leader than player and will provide New Orleans with a good character guy to build their defense around. - Casey: Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
Corner is the most intriguing position in this draft. There are four elite guys that could all be the first CB off the board. It all depends on which one is the right fit for each individual team, but I agree with Slim that McKelvin should be rated slightly above the rest. He is the most complete corner of the four at 5'11", 190 lbs, and will also add an explosive return game to New Orleans with his 4.38 speed. No matter the team, McKelvin should be the first corner taken, and in my opinion, that will be New Orleans.
11. Buffalo Bills – Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State
2007 Record (7-9) - The Bills need a WR bad to draw attention away from Lee Evans and give last year’s second round pick, QB Trent Edwards, another receiving option. Thomas is a reach, but the Bills are reportedly very high on him, and will likely take him at this spot.
12. Denver Broncos – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
2007 Record (7-9) - The Broncos O-Line used to be a thing of beauty…maybe the most dominating unit ever in the late-90’s and early 2000’s. That is not the case anymore, and Denver needs to start injecting youth into the lineup. Clady is the perfect fit for the zone-blocking system. He has incredibly quick feet and is extremely agile for his size (6’6 ½”, 310 lbs). If they take him, Clady will be the next franchise Bronco Tackle.
13. Carolina Panthers – Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
2007 Record (7-9) – Up until Tuesday, OT was Carolina’s biggest need. Then DE Mike Rucker retired. Derrick Harvey will be an excellent complement to Julius Peppers and give the Panthers two potentially great pass rushers. Harvey is a huge DE (6’5”) with a quick first step who should be a very solid rush end at the next level.
14. Chicago Bears – Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
2007 Record (7-9) – The Bears’ biggest need is OT, and Chris Williams is the best on the board. He has good size (6’6”, 315 lbs.) and adequate mobility. Running back is an option, but I don’t think the team is ready to give up on Cedric Benson just yet. Williams should make Benson’s life easier, and, if not, then RB should be addressed next offseason.
15. Detroit Lions – Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
2007 Record (8-8) – The Lions have been in love with Mendenhall since he announced he was entering the draft, so he will no doubt be the pick here. With last season’s offensive coordinator Mike Martz leaving for San Francisco, the Lions will now go back to a more run-oriented offense. Mendenhall was the only player on Illinois’ team last season that looked like he belonged on the same field as USC during the Rose Bowl. He can be a workhorse-type back and should be able to carry the load for a franchise that has struggled drafting offensive players in the first round in the past.
16. Arizona Cardinals
2007 Record (8-8)
- Slim: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State
Arizona’s offense is set, and their biggest need on defense is in the secondary. Everything I’ve read suggests Rodgers-Cromartie is their guy. He’s the cousin of San Diego CB Antonio Cromartie, which can’t be a bad thing. Simply put, Rodgers-Cromartie is a playmaker and instantly would improve Arizona’s secondary. - Casey: Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
Slim and I agree that the Cardinals with take a CB here…we just disagree on which one it will be. Most draft analysts have Jenkins and Rodgers-Cromartie neck and neck when it comes to talent, so this may come down to the best "system" fit. In my opinion, the Cardinals need a leader in the secondary at corner, a guy that plays with a mean streak and can play bump, zone, and man-to-man coverage. That's Jenkins, the most physical of the four corners. Jenkins has great bulk for his 5'11" frame, and can turn and run with receivers with his 4.38 speed. Jenkins is the more well-rounded of the two, so he should be the pick.
17. Kansas City Chiefs (from Minnesota) – Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
2007 Record (4-12) – Before last season, Kansas City was *THE* quintessential rushing team in the league over the last 5 years. It all started with Priest Holmes, and never even skipped a beat when Holmes got hurt, and Larry Johnson stepped in. Not to take anything away from those backs, but neither would have the numbers they do if it weren’t for Kansas City’s O-line. Case in Point: Last year, when Johnson averaged only 3.5 yards per carry over the 1st half of the season before getting hurt. With Brodie Croyle still finding his legs as the team’s new QB, the Chiefs need to rebuild the line to become one of the top rushing teams once again. Otah is a big, strong drive-blocker and will be a perfect complement to LT Damian McIntosh on the right side.
18. Houston Texans – Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
2007 Record (8-8) – CB is a bigger need. No denying it. But Houston is better on defense than it is on offense, and in our mind, needs to improve that side of the ball. Stewart is an undersized, but incredibly strong and shifty back who can be a star in this league. He has a great initial burst to get to the second level, and enough quickness to outrun the secondary. His only knock is durability, as he’s been slightly injured at most points during his college career. But Houston should take him to round out a budding offense that could have them challenge for the playoffs this year.
19. Philadelphia Eagles – Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
2007 Record (8-8) – The Eagles need a WR more than any other position. Some will argue that with CB Lito Sheppard asking to be traded, CB is just as big of a need, and thus one of the top four CB’s should go here (best value). But the Eagles spent big money to bring in CB Asante Samuel, maybe the league’s best corner, in the offseason, so they should address a weak WR corps here. Sweed is a reach, but he is the most complete WR with the best chance to develop into a consistent #1 in the league.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
2007 Record (9-7) – The Bucs are in the same boat as Philly, in that CB and WR are the two biggest needs. However, the Bucs still have Joey Galloway, who despite being 34, still is a top 15 receiver, and Michael Clayton, who has the potential to regain his 1200-yd. rookie season form. Thus, it makes more sense to a CB here. On Slim’s board, he has Talib and Mike Jenkins still available, where I have Talib and Rodgers-Cromartie. We both think Talib will be the pick here however, since he is the most athletic of the top four, and has the best chance to score on defense. The Bucs are known for their aggressive D, so they should take the ultra-aggressive Talib, who loves to go for the big play.
21. Washington Redskins – Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
2007 Record (9-7) – Washington also is in need of a big time WR, but we think Thomas and Sweed, the two most talented guys, will be gone at this point, so they can’t get good enough value. Thus, they should addres another big need at Defensive End. At 6’4 ¼” and 276 lbs, Merling has a great combination of size and strength to go along with his 4.7 speed. He is not spectacular at any one aspect as a DE, but is one of the most well-rounded ends in the draft, and would be very good value here.
22. Dallas Cowboys (from Cleveland) – Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
2007 Record (13-3) – This pick is the worst kept secret in the draft. Dallas has targeted Felix Jones from the day the junior announced he was entering the draft. Marion Barber III showed he was the best big back in the league last year, and the ultra-quick Jones would be the perfect change-of-pace complement. A no-brainer pick here.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers – Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
2007 Record (10-6) – The Steelers biggest need is a DE for their 3-4 scheme, and while Balmer played DT in college and is technically more suited to stay there in the pros, he could actually be a solid DE in a 3-4 defense. He has a great initial burst off the line, and can overwhelm guards and tackles with his size and strength from the position (6’4 ½”, 308 lbs).
24. Tennessee Titans – DeSean Jackson, WR, California
2007 Record (10-6) – Tennessee’s biggest needs are WR and now CB, after Wednesday’s trade that sent suspended CB Adam ‘Pacman’ Jones to Dallas. However, the Titans fared fine last season without Jones, so I think adding another weapon for Vince Young is the key. While Young has never been the most accurate thrower, he has a cannon for an arm, and would love to be able to use it. Jackson is a game-changer when he gets the ball in his hands. He is maybe the quickest player in this year’s draft, and would give Tennessee the deep-threat they lack…not to mention fill in for Pacman as a return man, a position he will make the Pro-Bowl from.
25. Seattle Seahawks – Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue
2007 Record (10-6) – In a perfect world, Kentwan Balmer would fall to the Seahawks here. However, the NFL Draft is far from perfect, so with Balmer gone, Seattle will be left to address their most pressing need. The Hawks need pass catchers, both from the WR and TE spot. However, with the development of the TE as an offensive weapon over the past few season (Antonio Gates, Jeremy Shockey, Kellen Winslow, etc.), Keller is the best value here. At 6’2”, 242 lbs, Keller runs a 4.5 40-yard dash, and has unbelievable hands. He will be un-coverable by any NFL linebacker, and will be a huge weapon for Matt Hasslebeck.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars – Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
2007 Record (11-5) – Jacksonville’s biggest need is along the defensive front, which is why there are many rumors floating around that have Miami DE Jason Taylor heading up the road to the Jags next season. But if that doesn’t happen, they should look to add the top DE still available, which would be Jackson. “Lo-Jack” had the benefit of lining up against All-American tackle Sam Baker in practice and next to Top 10 pick Sedrick Ellis on the D-Line for four years. He’s seen elite competition, and is extremely prepared for the next level.
27. San Diego Chargers
2007 Record (11-5)
- Slim: Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
The Chargers need a right tackle to complement Pro-Bowler Marcus McNeil on the left side, and Cherilus is a perfect fit here. He has a massive frame (6’6 ½”, 314 lbs), and has enormous arms and hands. Thus, he has a great reach and can push around most defensive linemen. He even has a frame to get bigger, which would make him a steal this late. - Casey: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State
In my scenario, Rodgers-Cromartie is the last of the top four corners still on the board, and the Chargers would be ecstatic if he fell to them. Cromartie ran a 4.33 40-yard dash, and is one of th quickest players in the draft. He has decent size (5’10 ½”) for his speed, and has good ball skills. Thus, he is always a factor to make the big play. Not to mention that he is the cousin of San Diego’ Pro-Bowl CB Antonio Cromartie, who led the league in INT’s last year. That would be too good of a secondary combination to pass up.
28. Dallas Cowboys – Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
2007 Record (13-3) – After getting Pacman from Tennessee on Wednesday, and with Commissioner Roger Goddell likely reinstating him before training camp, Dallas no longer needs a corner to play across from Terence Newman. Thus, receiver becomes their top need, as Terry Glenn is getting old and is to injury prone to count on as a viable complement to T.O. Kelly and James Hardy are the best WR’s left, but Kelly, the 6’4”, 225 lb. WR out of Oklahoma, is definitely the more athletic and gifted of the two, so he should be the pick.
29. San Francisco 49ers (from Indianapolis)
2007 Record (5-11)
- Slim: James Hardy, WR, Indiana
Darrell Jackson was not the answer at WR for San Francisco last season, and is now gone. The Niners are now left with a WR core of Arnaz Battle, Ashley Lelie, Bryant Johnson, and Isaac Bruce. Not exactly a fearsome foursome. At 6’6”, Hardy is a huge wideout from Indiana who runs well (4.5) for his size. He would give QB Alex Smith another big target, in addition to last year’s 1st Round choice, TE Vernon Davis, and might finally get this offense rolling. - Casey: Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
The 49ers offensive woes stem from one simple problem: they can’t protect QB Alex Smith. In 6+ games last season, Smith was sacked 17 times, including one that knocked him out for the rest of the season. RT Joe Staley is a solid player, but they would love to get Cherilus here so that they could move Staley to the left (Smith’s blind side) and slide Cherlius in on the right. Cherilus plays with a mean streak, and would form a solid anchor-tandem with Staley. The Niners might then finally score some points.
30. Green Bay Packers
2007 Record (13-3)
- Slim: Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
Green Bay’s dream scenario is if one of the top four CB’s falls to them at this spot. And if they had their choice, they would probably like it to be Jenkins above all else. As Casey said earlier, Jenkins is the toughest corner in this class, and would fit very well into the Packers press-coverage scheme. He also ran a sub 4.4 40-yard dash, and has excelled in his limited opportunities in the return game, a position he would no doubt improve for the Pack. - Casey: Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech
Since none of the ‘Big 4’ are left at this spot, Green Bay will settle for Flowers, a strong, tough corner who would fall in line perfectly behind Charles Woodson and Al Harris. Woodson and Harris make their living in press coverage, bumping and jamming receivers off the line of scrimmage all day. However, they are 31 and 33 years old, respectively, and the Packers need an heir apparent. Flowers is the same type of player, and will transition beautifully.
31. New England Patriots – Pick Forfeited
2007 Record (16-0) – The Patriots lost the 31st overall pick as part of the penalty handed down for illegally videotaping Jets coaches from their sideline in Week 1.
32. New York Giants – Tyrell Johnson, S, Arkansas State
2007 Record (10-6) – The Giants lost FS Gibril Wilson to free agency this offseason, and thus need to find his replacement. S Kenny Phillips (Miami) and Johnson have flip-flopped at this spot for the last two months, but is looks like New York is favoring Johnson as we approach Saturday’s big day. Johnson is a very strong safety. In fact, his 27 reps on the 225-lb. bench press at the combine was the most by any DB. He is not the most athletic, but has adequate speed at 4.55, and good size at 6’0”, 200 lbs to be a solid starter in the league.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
NFL Draft Capsule: Minnesota Vikings
Minnesota showed a lot of promise last season behind their vaunted rushing attack. However, an injury derailed Adrian Peterson's rookie campaign, and he never returned to his pre-injury form. Defenses started to load the box against Minnesota's offense and tried to force QB Tarvaris Jackson to beat them. Simply put, he couldn't, and Minnesota stumbled down the stretch. They have the number one run defense in the NFL, but they absolutely cannot pressure the quarterback. In order to have a successful 2008-2009 season, Minnesota has to find a pass rush and develop their passing attack.
Offense
Offensively, Minnesota has one of the best lines and the best running back tandem in the League. Their shortcomings last season were in the passing game - so the Vikings spent big dollars on Bernard Berrian, hoping he could be their number one option. Sidney Rice showed promise as a rookie, but depth here is still an issue.
Public opinion says Minnesota needs to change direction at quarterback. Tarvaris Jackson was Brad Chilldress’s selection to be The Guy, but he has yet to show he can lead this team to the playoffs. Brooks Bollinger and recently signed Gus Frerotte are the backups, but neither inspires much confidence. Jackson will only be entering his third year next season, so it might be too soon to give up on him. But if the value is right in the first two rounds of the draft, Minnesota has to consider the options.
Defense
Minnesota has six defensive ends on the roster, and none of them have more than four years of experience. The Vikings have tried to add ends through the draft, but this still remains an area of need. In spot duty last season, Brian Robison showed that he could be a steady situational pass rusher. The depth here is good, but the Vikings need to add at least one starter. The defensive tackles are great—Kevin Williams and Pat Williams make up one of the best defensive tackle duos in the League. Pat Williams is getting up there in age, but the depth behind him is okay. Minnesota could look to add another, younger tackle in the draft, though.
The linebackers don’t inspire fear in opposing offenses, but they are adequate. The huge defensive tackles in front them occupy blockers, allowing the backers to roam and make tackles. Chad Greenway and E.J. Henderson both broke the 100 tackle mark last season. Ben Leber is the weakest of the group, but he doesn’t need to be replaced. If a good linebacker is available in the draft, Minnesota could go that route, although it is not their biggest need.
The secondary has two outstanding starters, with Antoine Winfield playing cornerback and Darren Sharper at one safety spot. The other starters are young and show promise, so the secondary should be on the rise next season.
Special Teams
Minnesota stole Ryan Longwell from division rival Green Bay last offseason to handle their field goal kicking duties. Longwell was a great addition, and he’s still in his prime for a kicker at 33. Chris Kluwe is a good, young punter, so there is no need to attempt to add a kicker or punter in the draft.
Bobby Wade and Maurice Hicks should perform Minnesota’s return duties next season. Again, both are adequate, so there is no need to look for return specialists in the draft.
Draft
Minnesota picks 17th in this April’s draft, and their primary focus should be on finding a starting defensive end. Even with the addition of Berrian, Minnesota should look to add another wide receiver to push Sidney Rice, as well. ESPN’s Todd McShay has Minnesota drafting CB Mike Jenkins (5'10", 197 lbs, South Florida). ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Jr. has them selecting DE Philip Merling (6'4", 276 lbs, Clemson). Having too much depth in the secondary is never an issue, but a cornerback in the first round does not make a lot of sense. If an end like Merling falls to the Vikings, he should be the pick.
Merling's draft stock has been all over the board this offseason, so he could be gone by the time the Vikings pick. If that's the case, Minnesota could look at wide receiver. WR Devin Thomas (6'2", 216 lbs, Michigan State) will probably be the highest rated receiver on the board, but, with the addition of Berrian, Minnesota will probably look to go in a different direction and reach for a defensive end like Calais Campbell (6'8", 290 lbs, Miami).
In the later rounds, look for the Vikings to add another wide receiver, depth along the offensive line, and maybe another quarterback, although probably not in the first two rounds.
Next Friday (April 25): Q2's NFL Mock Draft - Round 1
Offense
Offensively, Minnesota has one of the best lines and the best running back tandem in the League. Their shortcomings last season were in the passing game - so the Vikings spent big dollars on Bernard Berrian, hoping he could be their number one option. Sidney Rice showed promise as a rookie, but depth here is still an issue.
Public opinion says Minnesota needs to change direction at quarterback. Tarvaris Jackson was Brad Chilldress’s selection to be The Guy, but he has yet to show he can lead this team to the playoffs. Brooks Bollinger and recently signed Gus Frerotte are the backups, but neither inspires much confidence. Jackson will only be entering his third year next season, so it might be too soon to give up on him. But if the value is right in the first two rounds of the draft, Minnesota has to consider the options.
Defense
Minnesota has six defensive ends on the roster, and none of them have more than four years of experience. The Vikings have tried to add ends through the draft, but this still remains an area of need. In spot duty last season, Brian Robison showed that he could be a steady situational pass rusher. The depth here is good, but the Vikings need to add at least one starter. The defensive tackles are great—Kevin Williams and Pat Williams make up one of the best defensive tackle duos in the League. Pat Williams is getting up there in age, but the depth behind him is okay. Minnesota could look to add another, younger tackle in the draft, though.
The linebackers don’t inspire fear in opposing offenses, but they are adequate. The huge defensive tackles in front them occupy blockers, allowing the backers to roam and make tackles. Chad Greenway and E.J. Henderson both broke the 100 tackle mark last season. Ben Leber is the weakest of the group, but he doesn’t need to be replaced. If a good linebacker is available in the draft, Minnesota could go that route, although it is not their biggest need.
The secondary has two outstanding starters, with Antoine Winfield playing cornerback and Darren Sharper at one safety spot. The other starters are young and show promise, so the secondary should be on the rise next season.
Special Teams
Minnesota stole Ryan Longwell from division rival Green Bay last offseason to handle their field goal kicking duties. Longwell was a great addition, and he’s still in his prime for a kicker at 33. Chris Kluwe is a good, young punter, so there is no need to attempt to add a kicker or punter in the draft.
Bobby Wade and Maurice Hicks should perform Minnesota’s return duties next season. Again, both are adequate, so there is no need to look for return specialists in the draft.
Draft
Minnesota picks 17th in this April’s draft, and their primary focus should be on finding a starting defensive end. Even with the addition of Berrian, Minnesota should look to add another wide receiver to push Sidney Rice, as well. ESPN’s Todd McShay has Minnesota drafting CB Mike Jenkins (5'10", 197 lbs, South Florida). ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Jr. has them selecting DE Philip Merling (6'4", 276 lbs, Clemson). Having too much depth in the secondary is never an issue, but a cornerback in the first round does not make a lot of sense. If an end like Merling falls to the Vikings, he should be the pick.
Merling's draft stock has been all over the board this offseason, so he could be gone by the time the Vikings pick. If that's the case, Minnesota could look at wide receiver. WR Devin Thomas (6'2", 216 lbs, Michigan State) will probably be the highest rated receiver on the board, but, with the addition of Berrian, Minnesota will probably look to go in a different direction and reach for a defensive end like Calais Campbell (6'8", 290 lbs, Miami).
In the later rounds, look for the Vikings to add another wide receiver, depth along the offensive line, and maybe another quarterback, although probably not in the first two rounds.
Next Friday (April 25): Q2's NFL Mock Draft - Round 1
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
NFL Draft Capsule: Seattle Seahawks
Seattle finished 10-6 last season, winning the NFC West. However, the season was not necessarily a success, as the running game behind Shaun Alexander continued to struggle. His diminishing performance led Head Coach Mike Holmgren to go with a pass-first offense towards the end of the year, which allowed the Seahawks to make the playoffs…in which they ended up losing to the Packers in the Divisional Round. This is Holmgren's last season coaching in Seattle, so the team has to improve their ground attack. Overall, they still have the weapons to contend for the playoffs and possibly a Super Bowl berth, but the window is closing.
Offense
I believe Mike Holmgren is one of the best coaches in the League, and this is his last year in Seattle to make a deep playoff run. With that in mind, the Seahawks made an effort to improve their running game this offseason. Shaun Alexander missed three games last season and only averaged 3.5 yards per carry. So…Seattle signed T.J. Duckett and Julius Jones to compete with Alexander and Maurice Morris.
Rushing problems often times stem from poor offensive line play. Since Steve Hutchinson left in free agency two years ago, Seattle’s rushing attack hasn’t been the same. They signed Mike Wahle this year to try to fill that void, but he is in his thirties, as are Chris Gray and Walter Jones. Seattle’s line could start to show their age in the next couple of years, so drafting some young talent would be wise.
Seattle’s passing attack should be one of the most dangerous in the League next year. Matt Hasselbeck is a pro-bowl caliber quarterback, and he has good, but not great, receivers at his disposal in Deion Branch, Nate Burleson, and Bobby Engram. If Seattle can grab a tight end in this month’s draft to pair with recently added Jeb Putzier, Hasselbeck should have another solid year.
Defense
You look at this unit and don’t really see any glaring needs. The Seahawks have one of the best linebacking corps in the League with Lofa Tatupu, Julian Peterson, and LeRoy Hill. They’re not deep at corner, but their starters—Marcus Trufant and Kelly Jennings—are very solid.
Seattle’s defensive weaknesses are at safety (where they have incredible depth, but no outstanding starters) and on the defensive line, especially with the departure of Cedric Darby this offseason. If the ‘Hawks can find a legitimate starting safety early in the draft, that could be an option, but they have to start looking for defensive tackles. Rocky Bernard is one solid DT, but they could definitely use another from the draft and maybe a defensive end to add depth.
Special Teams
Seattle’s special teams are not special, but they are nothing to be concerned about either. Josh Brown signed with division rival St. Louis, but the Seahawks filled the position by signing Olindo Mare. Mare has seen better days, but he is still a more than adequate kicker.
Nate Burleson can be one of the more electrifying returners in the game, scoring two touchdowns on returns last season.
Draft
Seattle has the 25th pick in the draft, which is not an ideal place for them to be picking. Their top need is guard, and the top guard in this class, Branden Albert (6’5 ½”, 309 lbs, Virginia) should be off the board. If he’s still there, Seattle will take no time running his name up to the podium. Since Albert will be gone, ESPN’s Todd McShay and Mel Kiper, Jr. have them drafting TE Dustin Keller (6’2”, 242 lbs, Purdue). According to McShay, Keller has the "potential to create mismatches in the passing game." Lining him up with Seattle’s trio of wide receivers will create havoc for opposing defenses. DT Kentwan Balmer (6’4 ½”, 308 lbs, North Carolina) and S Kenny Philips (6’2 ¼”, 212 lbs, Miami) are also possibilities.
Ideally, OG Chilo Rachal (6’5”, 315 lbs, USC) will fall to them in the second round. He’s the second rated guard prospect and would be a great value pick towards the bottom of the second. Further down the draft, the ‘Hawks should look to add depth to the defensive line and secondary.
With this being Holmgren’s last year at the helm, look for Seattle to try to add immediate impact players early in the draft, with the offensive and defensive lines taking priority in the later rounds.
Tomorrow: Minnesota Vikings
Offense
I believe Mike Holmgren is one of the best coaches in the League, and this is his last year in Seattle to make a deep playoff run. With that in mind, the Seahawks made an effort to improve their running game this offseason. Shaun Alexander missed three games last season and only averaged 3.5 yards per carry. So…Seattle signed T.J. Duckett and Julius Jones to compete with Alexander and Maurice Morris.
Rushing problems often times stem from poor offensive line play. Since Steve Hutchinson left in free agency two years ago, Seattle’s rushing attack hasn’t been the same. They signed Mike Wahle this year to try to fill that void, but he is in his thirties, as are Chris Gray and Walter Jones. Seattle’s line could start to show their age in the next couple of years, so drafting some young talent would be wise.
Seattle’s passing attack should be one of the most dangerous in the League next year. Matt Hasselbeck is a pro-bowl caliber quarterback, and he has good, but not great, receivers at his disposal in Deion Branch, Nate Burleson, and Bobby Engram. If Seattle can grab a tight end in this month’s draft to pair with recently added Jeb Putzier, Hasselbeck should have another solid year.
Defense
You look at this unit and don’t really see any glaring needs. The Seahawks have one of the best linebacking corps in the League with Lofa Tatupu, Julian Peterson, and LeRoy Hill. They’re not deep at corner, but their starters—Marcus Trufant and Kelly Jennings—are very solid.
Seattle’s defensive weaknesses are at safety (where they have incredible depth, but no outstanding starters) and on the defensive line, especially with the departure of Cedric Darby this offseason. If the ‘Hawks can find a legitimate starting safety early in the draft, that could be an option, but they have to start looking for defensive tackles. Rocky Bernard is one solid DT, but they could definitely use another from the draft and maybe a defensive end to add depth.
Special Teams
Seattle’s special teams are not special, but they are nothing to be concerned about either. Josh Brown signed with division rival St. Louis, but the Seahawks filled the position by signing Olindo Mare. Mare has seen better days, but he is still a more than adequate kicker.
Nate Burleson can be one of the more electrifying returners in the game, scoring two touchdowns on returns last season.
Draft
Seattle has the 25th pick in the draft, which is not an ideal place for them to be picking. Their top need is guard, and the top guard in this class, Branden Albert (6’5 ½”, 309 lbs, Virginia) should be off the board. If he’s still there, Seattle will take no time running his name up to the podium. Since Albert will be gone, ESPN’s Todd McShay and Mel Kiper, Jr. have them drafting TE Dustin Keller (6’2”, 242 lbs, Purdue). According to McShay, Keller has the "potential to create mismatches in the passing game." Lining him up with Seattle’s trio of wide receivers will create havoc for opposing defenses. DT Kentwan Balmer (6’4 ½”, 308 lbs, North Carolina) and S Kenny Philips (6’2 ¼”, 212 lbs, Miami) are also possibilities.
Ideally, OG Chilo Rachal (6’5”, 315 lbs, USC) will fall to them in the second round. He’s the second rated guard prospect and would be a great value pick towards the bottom of the second. Further down the draft, the ‘Hawks should look to add depth to the defensive line and secondary.
With this being Holmgren’s last year at the helm, look for Seattle to try to add immediate impact players early in the draft, with the offensive and defensive lines taking priority in the later rounds.
Tomorrow: Minnesota Vikings
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
NFL Draft Capsule: Green Bay Packers
Green Bay had a surprising 2007 regular season where they went 13-3. Their success continued with a win in the NFC Divisional Playoffs, but they fell to the eventual Super Bowl Champion New York Giants in the NFC Championship. General Manager Ted Thompson has done a great job assembling this team through the draft over the years, so the Packers do not have a lot of glaring needs.
Long-time cheesehead hero Brett Favre hung up the cleats this offseason, leaving the inexperienced and unproven Aaron Rodgers as the starter. His success will be measured by wins and losses, but Rodgers will have a lot of help from his teammates. The Packers have a solid line, good running game, and a plethora of pass catchers. The offense is virtually built, and the only downfall is that some of the players are starting to age. Green Bay most certainly will add some offensive talent during the draft, but it is not much of a need. Look for the Packers to primarily draft defensively, instead. The unit was underrated last year, but they definitely could still use more depth on the front line and in the secondary.
Offense
Green Bay’s offseason starts and ends with Favre’s retirement. The QB’s durability over his career hasn’t left Green Bay with much of a need to have a solid backup. They drafted Aaron Rodgers in 2005, and he’s patiently been waiting his turn. In limited action, Rodgers has looked like the real deal. He won’t make anybody forget about Favre, but he is an adequate starter, and he has a plethora of weapons around him.
Ryan Grant emerged as a pro-bowl caliber running back last season, showing exceptional power and burst through the hole. The Packers lack ideal depth behind Grant, but Vernand Morency provides solid help, and DeShawn Wynn and Brandon Jackson should improve upon their rookie seasons. They run behind a great offensive line, which is incredibly young on the interior. Starting tackles Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher, are both entering their ninth seasons, so it might be time to starting looking to add youth to the depth chart there.
In the passing game, Rodgers inherits three great options in wide receivers Donald Driver and Greg Jennings and tight end Donald Lee. The Pack let Bubba Franks leave via free agency this offseason, so they need another body at tight end. Favre’s gunslinger mentality got Green Bay’s third, fourth, and fifth wide receivers (James Jones, Ruvell Martin, and Koren Robinson) involved in the offense. Those three probably won’t have as big of an impact next season, but wide receiver depth definitely is not an issue for this team.
Defense
This unit has been very underrated the past couple of years. Looking across the board it’s hard to find a lot of weaknesses. Up front, the Packers have a great sack tandem in Aaron Kampman (12.0 sacks last season) and Kabeer Baja-Biamila (9.5). Cullen Jenkins provides them with a solid three man rotation. In the middle, they are anchored by Ryan Pickett. They traded Corey Williams to the Cleveland Browns this offseason, so last year’s first round pick Justin Harrell needs to step up.
The linebackers are solid, but outside of A.J. Hawk, unspectacular. Green Bay signed Brandon Chillar this offseason to compete with Brian Poppinga for the starting spot opposite Nick Barnett.
Charles Woodson and Al Harris are almost the quintessential cornerback tandem for this system. They play aggressive bump and run coverage, and, although sometimes they get beat deep, typically can cover wide outs without much safety help. Atari Bigby came up big during the playoffs last season and had a solid year. Nick Collins mans the other starting safety spot. Overall, the starters in the secondary are very good, but this unit lacks depth. Using nickel and dime sets is risky as their third and fourth corners are adequate at best.
Special Teams
Ryan Longwell left for Minnesota last offseason, but it looks like the Packers found their kicker of the present and the future last year when they drafted Mason Crosby out of Colorado. Crosby hit nearly 80 percent of his attempts last season, and should easily improve upon that stat next year.
Koren Robinson and Will Blackmon handle most of the return duties. Blackmon returned one punt for a touchdown, but, other than that, Green Bay’s return game was not special. Typically, teams don’t look for returners in the draft, but if a corner can assist in the return game, look for the Pack to jump on him.
Draft
Green Bay’s biggest need is definitely in their secondary, more so at cornerback than safety. They also need to add depth at tackle, tight end, and quarterback (they only have two on the roster right now). The Packers pick 30th in the first round. ESPN’s Todd McShay and Mel Kiper, Jr. agree that Green Bay’s biggest need is in the secondary and have them selecting CB Brandon Flowers (5’10”, 190 lbs, Virginia Tech). Flowers grades out as a first rounder, so he would be a good value pick there. Picking so low in the round, Green Bay probably won’t be able to target a single player.
They do have two second round picks (they acquired one from Cleveland in the Corey Williams trade), so they could move up in the first if they fall in love with a prospect. If they keep the picks, Green Bay would love to see someone like CB Mike Jenkins (5’10”, 197 lbs, South Florida) or CB Aqib Talib (6’1”, 202 lbs, Kansas) fall to them in the first, as both prospects were previously projected in the top ten of the draft. A more likely scenario, though, has Flowers sitting at their pick.
In the second round they could look specifically at tackles - Carl Nicks (6’5”, 341 lbs, Nebraska) – could be available, or take the BPA (best player available) approach. Green Bay does not have a lot of glaring weaknesses, so they can afford to draft without paying much attention to need. It is also gives them the flexibility to move around in the draft by packaging picks to move up or acquiring picks in next year’s draft to move down.
Tomorrow: Seattle Seahawks
Long-time cheesehead hero Brett Favre hung up the cleats this offseason, leaving the inexperienced and unproven Aaron Rodgers as the starter. His success will be measured by wins and losses, but Rodgers will have a lot of help from his teammates. The Packers have a solid line, good running game, and a plethora of pass catchers. The offense is virtually built, and the only downfall is that some of the players are starting to age. Green Bay most certainly will add some offensive talent during the draft, but it is not much of a need. Look for the Packers to primarily draft defensively, instead. The unit was underrated last year, but they definitely could still use more depth on the front line and in the secondary.
Offense
Green Bay’s offseason starts and ends with Favre’s retirement. The QB’s durability over his career hasn’t left Green Bay with much of a need to have a solid backup. They drafted Aaron Rodgers in 2005, and he’s patiently been waiting his turn. In limited action, Rodgers has looked like the real deal. He won’t make anybody forget about Favre, but he is an adequate starter, and he has a plethora of weapons around him.
Ryan Grant emerged as a pro-bowl caliber running back last season, showing exceptional power and burst through the hole. The Packers lack ideal depth behind Grant, but Vernand Morency provides solid help, and DeShawn Wynn and Brandon Jackson should improve upon their rookie seasons. They run behind a great offensive line, which is incredibly young on the interior. Starting tackles Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher, are both entering their ninth seasons, so it might be time to starting looking to add youth to the depth chart there.
In the passing game, Rodgers inherits three great options in wide receivers Donald Driver and Greg Jennings and tight end Donald Lee. The Pack let Bubba Franks leave via free agency this offseason, so they need another body at tight end. Favre’s gunslinger mentality got Green Bay’s third, fourth, and fifth wide receivers (James Jones, Ruvell Martin, and Koren Robinson) involved in the offense. Those three probably won’t have as big of an impact next season, but wide receiver depth definitely is not an issue for this team.
Defense
This unit has been very underrated the past couple of years. Looking across the board it’s hard to find a lot of weaknesses. Up front, the Packers have a great sack tandem in Aaron Kampman (12.0 sacks last season) and Kabeer Baja-Biamila (9.5). Cullen Jenkins provides them with a solid three man rotation. In the middle, they are anchored by Ryan Pickett. They traded Corey Williams to the Cleveland Browns this offseason, so last year’s first round pick Justin Harrell needs to step up.
The linebackers are solid, but outside of A.J. Hawk, unspectacular. Green Bay signed Brandon Chillar this offseason to compete with Brian Poppinga for the starting spot opposite Nick Barnett.
Charles Woodson and Al Harris are almost the quintessential cornerback tandem for this system. They play aggressive bump and run coverage, and, although sometimes they get beat deep, typically can cover wide outs without much safety help. Atari Bigby came up big during the playoffs last season and had a solid year. Nick Collins mans the other starting safety spot. Overall, the starters in the secondary are very good, but this unit lacks depth. Using nickel and dime sets is risky as their third and fourth corners are adequate at best.
Special Teams
Ryan Longwell left for Minnesota last offseason, but it looks like the Packers found their kicker of the present and the future last year when they drafted Mason Crosby out of Colorado. Crosby hit nearly 80 percent of his attempts last season, and should easily improve upon that stat next year.
Koren Robinson and Will Blackmon handle most of the return duties. Blackmon returned one punt for a touchdown, but, other than that, Green Bay’s return game was not special. Typically, teams don’t look for returners in the draft, but if a corner can assist in the return game, look for the Pack to jump on him.
Draft
Green Bay’s biggest need is definitely in their secondary, more so at cornerback than safety. They also need to add depth at tackle, tight end, and quarterback (they only have two on the roster right now). The Packers pick 30th in the first round. ESPN’s Todd McShay and Mel Kiper, Jr. agree that Green Bay’s biggest need is in the secondary and have them selecting CB Brandon Flowers (5’10”, 190 lbs, Virginia Tech). Flowers grades out as a first rounder, so he would be a good value pick there. Picking so low in the round, Green Bay probably won’t be able to target a single player.
They do have two second round picks (they acquired one from Cleveland in the Corey Williams trade), so they could move up in the first if they fall in love with a prospect. If they keep the picks, Green Bay would love to see someone like CB Mike Jenkins (5’10”, 197 lbs, South Florida) or CB Aqib Talib (6’1”, 202 lbs, Kansas) fall to them in the first, as both prospects were previously projected in the top ten of the draft. A more likely scenario, though, has Flowers sitting at their pick.
In the second round they could look specifically at tackles - Carl Nicks (6’5”, 341 lbs, Nebraska) – could be available, or take the BPA (best player available) approach. Green Bay does not have a lot of glaring weaknesses, so they can afford to draft without paying much attention to need. It is also gives them the flexibility to move around in the draft by packaging picks to move up or acquiring picks in next year’s draft to move down.
Tomorrow: Seattle Seahawks
Monday, April 14, 2008
NFL Draft Capsule: Denver Broncos
Denver finished a disappointing 7-9 last year, but all was not lost over the course of the season. The Broncos found out that Jay Cutler is, and will be, their quarterback of the future, and he has a great #1 wide receiver in Brandon Marshall, assuming he can avoid McDonald’s bags off the field. Offensively, the team should continue to develop at the skill positions, but they do need to add depth to the offensive line and maybe at wideout. The biggest issue for the Broncos last season was their run defense. They have attempted to fix their defensive front in the past, but they have to get the job done this offseason—particularly through the draft.
Offense
Last offseason, the Broncos picked up Travis Henry and Daniel Graham, moves I thought were under-publicized. However, Henry was injured for much of the year and battling through suspension issues, and Graham never lived up to my expectations. Henry and Graham should figure to be major parts of the offense this season, and there is plenty of depth behind those two at the running back and tight end positions respectively.
This unit goes as Jay Cutler goes, and he is the real deal. He should continue to improve, especially with the vaunted Denver running game. He has two effective tight ends in Graham and Tony Scheffler and a stud wideout in Brandon Marshall. Brandon Stokley is a solid number three wide receiver, but Denver needs to find somebody to play opposite of Marshall. They went out and signed Keary Colbert, but they definitely should look to add one more wide receiver in the draft.
The biggest question on offense is along the line. Denver’s line has been one of the best for most of my life, but none of these guys make fans forget the lines from the Super Bowl teams of the late nineties. They just signed Casey Wiegmann to compete for the starting center job, and at guard they are probably okay. They could probably use a little more depth there, but the outside is where they are weakest. As of now, they only have three tackles on the roster, and one of those is Ryan Harris, a rookie last year out of Notre Dame. They could be projecting Harris as their starting left tackle this year, but they still need to add another tackle or two to the roster.
Defense
It’s no secret that the Broncos have spent much of this offseason focusing on their defense, especially the front seven. They have one of the best cornerback tandems in the League with Champ Bailey and Dre Bly. John Lynch can still get it done at FS, but Denver brought in Marquand Manuel and Marlon McCree to compete with Hamza Abdullah at SS, who filled in for Nick Ferguson last season. Ferguson is now gone, leaving Abdullah as the starter.
As for the front seven, in 2005, the Broncos decided to build their defensive line from Cleveland Browns castoffs. Since then, they’ve been trying to find answers up front. John Engelberger and Ebenezer Ekuban are serviceable veterans, and it looks like they struck gold with the Elvis Dumervil draft pick. However, Engelberger and Ekuban are more suited for backup roles, and Denver is incredibly thin in the middle of the line.
Gone is the linebacking corps of Al Wilson, D.J. Williams, and Ian Gold, leaving Williams paired with Nate Webster and recently added Boss Bailey. That trio won’t instill fear in opposing offenses, but it is more than adequate. They’re fairly deep with Jamie Winborn and Niko Koutouvides, and Brandon Archer was a promising prospect out of Kansas State at this time last year.
Special Teams
Without question, the biggest surprise of the Broncos’ offseason was the loss of Jason Elam. Elam should’ve retired a Bronco, but he’s with the Falcons now. He has been one of, if not, the best kicker in the League over his career. His departure leaves a huge void for the Broncos to fill, which must be addressed sometime between now and training camp. Drafting a kicker is not usually the solution, although the Packers did land Mason Crosby last year. They probably need to add a punter, too.
Draft
The Broncos pick 12th in round one. ESPN’s Todd McShay has them selecting OT Jeff Otah (6’6”, 340 lbs, Pittsburgh). Mel Kiper, Jr., also of ESPN, has them selecting LB Keith Rivers (6’3”, 235 lbs, USC). In his mock draft, Kiper has Otah and fellow tackles Ryan Clady (6’6”, 316 lbs, Boise State) and Chris Williams (6’6”, 315 lbs, Vanderbilt) falling past Denver’s pick. Clady grades out just a bit higher than the other two, and, if he’s available, shouldn’t make it past the Broncos’ pick. He is ideal for the Broncos, as his agility and athleticism make him perfect for their zone blocking scheme.
The Broncos do not have a third round pick in the 2008 draft, so they have to make the most out of their first two picks. I rank their most pressing needs as OT, DT, and WR for day one. If they get Clady or Williams in the first round then they obviously don’t look tackle in round two. Their run defense was flat awful last year, so I would look for them to go DT if they can. Someone like Pat Sims (6’2”, 310 lbs, Auburn) could be available, and he would be a great pick. WR is not as pressing of a need as DT, but if Sims is gone, the Broncos should look at the WRs. James Hardy (6’6”, 220 lbs, Indiana) and Early Doucet (6’0”, 212 lbs, LSU) are wideouts who could be available. I like Doucet just a little better than Hardy, so he would be my second option in round two if I were picking for the Broncos.
In the later rounds, Denver needs to address depth along the defensive front and maybe at the cornerback position. The Broncos absolutely need to find a tackle, defensive tackle, and wide receiver in this draft. Mike Shanahan should be looking for immediate impact players, as one more season ending without a playoff berth could put him on the hot seat.
Tomorrow: Green Bay Packers
Offense
Last offseason, the Broncos picked up Travis Henry and Daniel Graham, moves I thought were under-publicized. However, Henry was injured for much of the year and battling through suspension issues, and Graham never lived up to my expectations. Henry and Graham should figure to be major parts of the offense this season, and there is plenty of depth behind those two at the running back and tight end positions respectively.
This unit goes as Jay Cutler goes, and he is the real deal. He should continue to improve, especially with the vaunted Denver running game. He has two effective tight ends in Graham and Tony Scheffler and a stud wideout in Brandon Marshall. Brandon Stokley is a solid number three wide receiver, but Denver needs to find somebody to play opposite of Marshall. They went out and signed Keary Colbert, but they definitely should look to add one more wide receiver in the draft.
The biggest question on offense is along the line. Denver’s line has been one of the best for most of my life, but none of these guys make fans forget the lines from the Super Bowl teams of the late nineties. They just signed Casey Wiegmann to compete for the starting center job, and at guard they are probably okay. They could probably use a little more depth there, but the outside is where they are weakest. As of now, they only have three tackles on the roster, and one of those is Ryan Harris, a rookie last year out of Notre Dame. They could be projecting Harris as their starting left tackle this year, but they still need to add another tackle or two to the roster.
Defense
It’s no secret that the Broncos have spent much of this offseason focusing on their defense, especially the front seven. They have one of the best cornerback tandems in the League with Champ Bailey and Dre Bly. John Lynch can still get it done at FS, but Denver brought in Marquand Manuel and Marlon McCree to compete with Hamza Abdullah at SS, who filled in for Nick Ferguson last season. Ferguson is now gone, leaving Abdullah as the starter.
As for the front seven, in 2005, the Broncos decided to build their defensive line from Cleveland Browns castoffs. Since then, they’ve been trying to find answers up front. John Engelberger and Ebenezer Ekuban are serviceable veterans, and it looks like they struck gold with the Elvis Dumervil draft pick. However, Engelberger and Ekuban are more suited for backup roles, and Denver is incredibly thin in the middle of the line.
Gone is the linebacking corps of Al Wilson, D.J. Williams, and Ian Gold, leaving Williams paired with Nate Webster and recently added Boss Bailey. That trio won’t instill fear in opposing offenses, but it is more than adequate. They’re fairly deep with Jamie Winborn and Niko Koutouvides, and Brandon Archer was a promising prospect out of Kansas State at this time last year.
Special Teams
Without question, the biggest surprise of the Broncos’ offseason was the loss of Jason Elam. Elam should’ve retired a Bronco, but he’s with the Falcons now. He has been one of, if not, the best kicker in the League over his career. His departure leaves a huge void for the Broncos to fill, which must be addressed sometime between now and training camp. Drafting a kicker is not usually the solution, although the Packers did land Mason Crosby last year. They probably need to add a punter, too.
Draft
The Broncos pick 12th in round one. ESPN’s Todd McShay has them selecting OT Jeff Otah (6’6”, 340 lbs, Pittsburgh). Mel Kiper, Jr., also of ESPN, has them selecting LB Keith Rivers (6’3”, 235 lbs, USC). In his mock draft, Kiper has Otah and fellow tackles Ryan Clady (6’6”, 316 lbs, Boise State) and Chris Williams (6’6”, 315 lbs, Vanderbilt) falling past Denver’s pick. Clady grades out just a bit higher than the other two, and, if he’s available, shouldn’t make it past the Broncos’ pick. He is ideal for the Broncos, as his agility and athleticism make him perfect for their zone blocking scheme.
The Broncos do not have a third round pick in the 2008 draft, so they have to make the most out of their first two picks. I rank their most pressing needs as OT, DT, and WR for day one. If they get Clady or Williams in the first round then they obviously don’t look tackle in round two. Their run defense was flat awful last year, so I would look for them to go DT if they can. Someone like Pat Sims (6’2”, 310 lbs, Auburn) could be available, and he would be a great pick. WR is not as pressing of a need as DT, but if Sims is gone, the Broncos should look at the WRs. James Hardy (6’6”, 220 lbs, Indiana) and Early Doucet (6’0”, 212 lbs, LSU) are wideouts who could be available. I like Doucet just a little better than Hardy, so he would be my second option in round two if I were picking for the Broncos.
In the later rounds, Denver needs to address depth along the defensive front and maybe at the cornerback position. The Broncos absolutely need to find a tackle, defensive tackle, and wide receiver in this draft. Mike Shanahan should be looking for immediate impact players, as one more season ending without a playoff berth could put him on the hot seat.
Tomorrow: Green Bay Packers
Sunday, April 13, 2008
NFL Draft Previews
Hello everybody! Hope all is well out there is cyberspace, and I hope everyone has had a chance to enjoy the UNBELIEVABLY NICE WEATHER we've been having. It's suppoed to be 79 degrees in Billings tomorrow. Woohoo!
It seems only appropriate that the weather begin to change now, as we're only two weeks away from the NFL Draft (April 26th and 27th)...a day where GM's, Team Presidents, and Coaches have the opportunity to turn their gloomy results from a year ago into potential playoff glory (with the exception of the Dolphins, who are gonna need more than a few draft picks to reverse a 1-15 campaign).
Starting tomorrow, Slim, our resident NFL expert, will be bringing you Draft Capsules for each of the teams in our "Viewing Area" (Broncos, Packers, Seahawks, Vikings). We'll be analyzing each team's offense, defense, special teams, and draft needs.
We'll roll out a new Capsule each day, with our very own Mock Draft of the 1st Round concluding it all on Friday.
Stay tuned!
It seems only appropriate that the weather begin to change now, as we're only two weeks away from the NFL Draft (April 26th and 27th)...a day where GM's, Team Presidents, and Coaches have the opportunity to turn their gloomy results from a year ago into potential playoff glory (with the exception of the Dolphins, who are gonna need more than a few draft picks to reverse a 1-15 campaign).
Starting tomorrow, Slim, our resident NFL expert, will be bringing you Draft Capsules for each of the teams in our "Viewing Area" (Broncos, Packers, Seahawks, Vikings). We'll be analyzing each team's offense, defense, special teams, and draft needs.
We'll roll out a new Capsule each day, with our very own Mock Draft of the 1st Round concluding it all on Friday.
Stay tuned!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Thank You, Mario Chalmers
Thank you, Mario Chalmers.
When I was a little kid, I was rummaging through my parents' video collection one day (all VHS tapes back in those days), and I came across a blank tape with a white label entitled, "1988 NCAA Championship: Kansas v. Oklahoma." It was my dad's personal copy of the battle between the Danny Manning-led Jayhawks and the #1-ranked Sooners, a matchup that would go down in history as one of the best title game performances in history.
"Danny and the Miracles," as the team came to be known, were the last Kansas team to cut down the nets at the Final Four as National Champs.
My dad always talked about that game as the best game of his life, and he went to KU with Wilt Chamberlain, who put on more than his fair share of shows on the court.
As many times as I watched that tape, I knew I could never feel the way my dad did about it. That game happened when I was 3 years old, long before I became the hardcore Jayhawks fan I am today. I knew that I needed my own game, my own Championship team to claim as my own.
Thank You, Mario Chalmers.
As my Kansas obsession grew through the mid-90's, I had some great teams to root for. Paul Pierce, Jacque Vaughn, and Raef Lafrentz in 1997. Nick Collison, Kirk Hinrich, and Drew Gooden in 2002. Collison, Hinrich, Keith Langford, and Aaron Miles in 2003.
And yet, with as much talent as Kansas had during the 15 year stretch after the '88 Title, there was nothing but dissapointment on the other end.
1997 - 34-2, #1 overall seed, Lost to Arizona in Sweet Sixteen
2002 - 33-4, #1 seed, Lost to Maryland in Final Four
2003 - 30-8, #2 seed, Lost to Syracuse in National Title Game
That last one really hurt. Kansas had absolutely throttled Dwayne Wade-led Marquette in the Final Four, and were playing as well as they had all year. But after six 1st half Gerry McNamara 3-pointers, a 20-10-7 game from Carmelo Anthony, and one big block from Hakim Warrick, KU left the court once again as losers of their final game.
Thanks You, Mario Chalmers.
After the 2003 Championship Game loss, the Jayhawks looked defeated. They should have won. They were supposed to win. But once again, in true Kansas post-1988 fashion, they choked and lost the big one once more.
After that, Collison and Hinrich left for the NBA, and Kansas wasn't the same. They fought admirably to the Elite Eight the next season, but suffered consecutive 1st round exits in 2005 and 2006 to Bucknell and Bradley, respectively. Jayhawk Nation hadn't seemed to recover from that Syracuse loss quite yet.
In 2007, the team regained that KU mystique it had so desperately needed, and once again reached the Elite Eight as a #1 seed, only to lose to #2 seed UCLA (who would lose to eventual National Champion Florida in the Final Four). But with a team consisting of 6 McDonald's All-Americans, including new Freshmen Darrell Arthur and Sherron Collins, the Jayhawks looked poised to make another run.
Thank you, Mario Chalmers.
KU started the season as the #2 team in the country, and promptly won their first 20 games of the year. And after hitting a bumpy stretch, in which Kansas lost 3 of their next 7 contests, the Jayhawks once again rolled into the NCAA's, winning their last 7 games including the Big 12 Tourney. There was hope once again.
KU drew the last #1 seed in the field, in the Midwest Region. They sailed through their first three games, winning each by at least 15 points. But then came Cinderella Davidson, with the baby-faced killer, Stephen Curry. And after a hard fought, defensive battle, the Jayhawks escaped.
Their reward: a date with #1 overall seed North Carolina in the Final Four, and former head coach Roy Williams, the same Williams who was on the wrong end of all those dissapointments of my lifetime so far. But no, KU would not let it happen it again.
Kansas played the best basketball I have ever seen in the first 12 minutes against Carolina. Offenseively, they could not miss. Defensively, they were too quick for Carolina to recognize what was going on. When all was said and done, KU was up 40-12. That is not a misprint. The Jayhawks were headed back to the title game.
Until they forgot how to play the game, let Carolina back in. Oh no, not again. This is too hard to watch. How can you blow a 28 point lead?!? Carolina cuts it to 4 with 10:00 to play. You have got to be kidding me?!? But then, something happened. Kansas played like...Kansas, circa 1988. And before you knew it, we were back.
Thank You, Mario Chalmers.
We were back. Against a team that had just set the all-time single season NCAA wins record. #1 seed Memphis, who came in at 38-1. This was no Orange Cinderella. This team, led by the most potent backcourt tandem in years (Derrick Rose and Chris Douglas-Roberts), was not just beating people. They were destroying them...on a mission to prove every doubter wrong.
Had we wasted all our energy holding off UNC? Could anyone stop Rose, the Fab Freshman who played his way into consideration as the #1 Draft Pick in June's NBA Draft? Could Kansas finally walk off the court at the end of the season...as winners?
Thank You, Mario Chalmers. I finally have my own title.
When I was a little kid, I was rummaging through my parents' video collection one day (all VHS tapes back in those days), and I came across a blank tape with a white label entitled, "1988 NCAA Championship: Kansas v. Oklahoma." It was my dad's personal copy of the battle between the Danny Manning-led Jayhawks and the #1-ranked Sooners, a matchup that would go down in history as one of the best title game performances in history.
"Danny and the Miracles," as the team came to be known, were the last Kansas team to cut down the nets at the Final Four as National Champs.
My dad always talked about that game as the best game of his life, and he went to KU with Wilt Chamberlain, who put on more than his fair share of shows on the court.
As many times as I watched that tape, I knew I could never feel the way my dad did about it. That game happened when I was 3 years old, long before I became the hardcore Jayhawks fan I am today. I knew that I needed my own game, my own Championship team to claim as my own.
Thank You, Mario Chalmers.
As my Kansas obsession grew through the mid-90's, I had some great teams to root for. Paul Pierce, Jacque Vaughn, and Raef Lafrentz in 1997. Nick Collison, Kirk Hinrich, and Drew Gooden in 2002. Collison, Hinrich, Keith Langford, and Aaron Miles in 2003.
And yet, with as much talent as Kansas had during the 15 year stretch after the '88 Title, there was nothing but dissapointment on the other end.
1997 - 34-2, #1 overall seed, Lost to Arizona in Sweet Sixteen
2002 - 33-4, #1 seed, Lost to Maryland in Final Four
2003 - 30-8, #2 seed, Lost to Syracuse in National Title Game
That last one really hurt. Kansas had absolutely throttled Dwayne Wade-led Marquette in the Final Four, and were playing as well as they had all year. But after six 1st half Gerry McNamara 3-pointers, a 20-10-7 game from Carmelo Anthony, and one big block from Hakim Warrick, KU left the court once again as losers of their final game.
Thanks You, Mario Chalmers.
After the 2003 Championship Game loss, the Jayhawks looked defeated. They should have won. They were supposed to win. But once again, in true Kansas post-1988 fashion, they choked and lost the big one once more.
After that, Collison and Hinrich left for the NBA, and Kansas wasn't the same. They fought admirably to the Elite Eight the next season, but suffered consecutive 1st round exits in 2005 and 2006 to Bucknell and Bradley, respectively. Jayhawk Nation hadn't seemed to recover from that Syracuse loss quite yet.
In 2007, the team regained that KU mystique it had so desperately needed, and once again reached the Elite Eight as a #1 seed, only to lose to #2 seed UCLA (who would lose to eventual National Champion Florida in the Final Four). But with a team consisting of 6 McDonald's All-Americans, including new Freshmen Darrell Arthur and Sherron Collins, the Jayhawks looked poised to make another run.
Thank you, Mario Chalmers.
KU started the season as the #2 team in the country, and promptly won their first 20 games of the year. And after hitting a bumpy stretch, in which Kansas lost 3 of their next 7 contests, the Jayhawks once again rolled into the NCAA's, winning their last 7 games including the Big 12 Tourney. There was hope once again.
KU drew the last #1 seed in the field, in the Midwest Region. They sailed through their first three games, winning each by at least 15 points. But then came Cinderella Davidson, with the baby-faced killer, Stephen Curry. And after a hard fought, defensive battle, the Jayhawks escaped.
Their reward: a date with #1 overall seed North Carolina in the Final Four, and former head coach Roy Williams, the same Williams who was on the wrong end of all those dissapointments of my lifetime so far. But no, KU would not let it happen it again.
Kansas played the best basketball I have ever seen in the first 12 minutes against Carolina. Offenseively, they could not miss. Defensively, they were too quick for Carolina to recognize what was going on. When all was said and done, KU was up 40-12. That is not a misprint. The Jayhawks were headed back to the title game.
Until they forgot how to play the game, let Carolina back in. Oh no, not again. This is too hard to watch. How can you blow a 28 point lead?!? Carolina cuts it to 4 with 10:00 to play. You have got to be kidding me?!? But then, something happened. Kansas played like...Kansas, circa 1988. And before you knew it, we were back.
Thank You, Mario Chalmers.
We were back. Against a team that had just set the all-time single season NCAA wins record. #1 seed Memphis, who came in at 38-1. This was no Orange Cinderella. This team, led by the most potent backcourt tandem in years (Derrick Rose and Chris Douglas-Roberts), was not just beating people. They were destroying them...on a mission to prove every doubter wrong.
Had we wasted all our energy holding off UNC? Could anyone stop Rose, the Fab Freshman who played his way into consideration as the #1 Draft Pick in June's NBA Draft? Could Kansas finally walk off the court at the end of the season...as winners?
Thank You, Mario Chalmers. I finally have my own title.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Softball: Early Season
Mother Nature finally cooperated this week, allowing AA softball to really get underway in the Magic City. And After a weekend where West, Senior, and Skyview went 10-2 against the visiting Missoula schools (Hellgate, Sentinel, and Big Sky), I have to say that it's looking like an up-year on the diamond for the Billings' girls.
WEST (5-0)
The Lady Bears look very good, and it's because of one reason...actually, it's two reasons - Shelby Ballard and Kesley Jones. The two pitchers are each 2-0 for 5-0 West, and have been absolutely dominant so far.
In her first outing of the 2008 season, Ballard beat Sentinel Friday with a 2-hit shutout in which she struck out 13 Lady Spartans, and only allowed one ball out of the infield. And then, as if that wasn't enough, Ballard did herself one better with one-hit shutout Saturday over Big Sky, in which she struck out 10 Lady Eagles.
Ballard's '08 line: 2-0, 0.00 ERA, 12 IP, 3 hits, 23 K's
Not bad.
But not to be overshadowed is the other half of the Lady Bears' dynamic duo, Jones. Jones got the call for West's opener against Skyview on Tuesday, and carried a no-hitter into the 6th. Skyview eventually started to make some contact, but Jones still ended up giving up only 1 run on 4 hits, striking out 7 in the complete game win. Then, in the Lady Bears' first contest Saturday, Jones was even more spectacular, allowing just two hits and striking out 12 Lady Knight in the 9-0 win over Hellgate.
Jones' '08 line: 2-0, 0.64 ERA, 14 IP, 6 hits, 19 K's
And that doesn't even mention the Bears' other game, in which freshman Jessyka MacDonald pitched a gem in her debut, allowing only three hits while striking out 8 in West's 14-1 win over Sentinel in their 2nd game Friday afternoon. And the only run MacDonald allowed was off a missed return throw from catcher Allyson Peterson that allowed a Sentinel runner to come in from 3rd. Not too bad for your first Varsity start.
Offensively, the Bears' bats are on as much of a roll as the pitching staff. Through 5 games, West is averaging 10 runs per contest, including putting up 19 combined runs both Friday and Saturday in double-headers. West is led by Peterson on the offensive end, who has 3 HR's and 11 RBI's in 5 games. Kaitlyn Frank has 2 HR's of her own, both coming Friday against the young Lady Spartans, and Erin Compton has a hit in each game so far.
SENIOR (5-0)
Senior has been almost as impressive as the Lady Bears, although had three close games compared with West's blowouts over the weekend to put them a notch behind the Lady Bears in my rankings. However, the Lady Broncs are obviously still undefeated at 5-0, and go as star pitcher Lee Ann Anthony goes.
Anthony will be Senior's horse this season, and she proved that over the weekend with 3 starts resulting in 3 wins, and an additional 3 innings of relief in Senior's weekend double-headers. Anthony opened the Lady Broncs' season Thursday with an abbreviated 5-inning no-hitter over Bozeman, a game Senior won 27-0. Anthony had a perfect game into the fifth, in which she gave up 2 walks. She struck out 9 total Lady Hawks.
Anthony's workload really increased with Senior's 4 games over the weekend, and she did not dissapoint. On Friday, Anthony started the first game of Senior's double-header with Hellgate, pitching a complete game in which she allowed 1 run on 2 hits, and struck out 15 Lady Knights in Senior's 2-1 win. Then, in the 2nd game, Anthony came in to pitch 3 innings of relief, in which she struck out 7 to help Senior complete the sweep with a 4-1 win.
On Saturday, Anthony showed even she is not immune to getting a little tired, but still got the complete game win over the Lady Eagles of Big Sky, giving up 3 runs on 7 hits, including 2 HR's. But Anthony also struck out 11 batters and Senior pulled out a 4-3 win.
Anthony's '08 line: 3-0, 1.64 ERA, 22 IP, 11 hits, 42 K's
Anthony has also gotten considerable help on the offensive end, a welcome surprise to a Senior team that struggled to score runs last year. The Lady Broncs have scored 58 runs through their first 5 games, an average of 11.6 per, but that stat is actually misleading.
Senior scored 27 runs on a weak Bozeman squad, and 21 runs in their 2nd Saturday game against Sentinel, another very young team. So in Senior's other three games, they have only scored 10 runs, an average of 3.3 per contest. However, with Anthony on the mound, it's been good enough so far.
The trio of Kylie Kufeld, Courtney Gopp, and Hannah Stroebe has paced the Lady Broncs so far, and they'll count on their leadership to continue throughout the year.
SKYVIEW (2-3)
The Lady Falcons have not fared as well early in the 2008 season, losing their first three games before collecting two wins Saturday to move to 2-3 on the year. The most encouraging performer so far might be pitcher Teal Kaufman, who has looked strong against some strong early competition.
Kaufman came in in relief Tuesday against West, and shut down the Bears for 2+ innings before West finaly started to string together some hits. On Friday, Kaufman pitched a solid game against Big Sky, giving up 4 runs on 4 hits in 6 innings of work (Skyview lost 4-3). Then on Saturday, Kaufman came back to pitch 6 strong inning against Hellgate, in which she gave up only 3 runs and struck out 6 in Skyview's 4-3 win.
Offensively, the Falcons struggled in their first three game to really get anything going, averaging only 2.7 runs per contest. However, the bats came alive Saturday morning when the Lady Falcons' put up 24 runs on 19 hits against Sentinel...in only 2 innings! They then managed to score 4, including 2 in the bottom of the 7th, to get the win against Hellgate in Saturday's afternoon session.
Kate Brew and Nicole Miller will pace the Lady Falcon offense most of the year.
Make sure you catch Thursday's showdown between West and Senior @ 5:00 PM at the Lady Broncs field in Central Park!
WEST (5-0)
The Lady Bears look very good, and it's because of one reason...actually, it's two reasons - Shelby Ballard and Kesley Jones. The two pitchers are each 2-0 for 5-0 West, and have been absolutely dominant so far.
In her first outing of the 2008 season, Ballard beat Sentinel Friday with a 2-hit shutout in which she struck out 13 Lady Spartans, and only allowed one ball out of the infield. And then, as if that wasn't enough, Ballard did herself one better with one-hit shutout Saturday over Big Sky, in which she struck out 10 Lady Eagles.
Ballard's '08 line: 2-0, 0.00 ERA, 12 IP, 3 hits, 23 K's
Not bad.
But not to be overshadowed is the other half of the Lady Bears' dynamic duo, Jones. Jones got the call for West's opener against Skyview on Tuesday, and carried a no-hitter into the 6th. Skyview eventually started to make some contact, but Jones still ended up giving up only 1 run on 4 hits, striking out 7 in the complete game win. Then, in the Lady Bears' first contest Saturday, Jones was even more spectacular, allowing just two hits and striking out 12 Lady Knight in the 9-0 win over Hellgate.
Jones' '08 line: 2-0, 0.64 ERA, 14 IP, 6 hits, 19 K's
And that doesn't even mention the Bears' other game, in which freshman Jessyka MacDonald pitched a gem in her debut, allowing only three hits while striking out 8 in West's 14-1 win over Sentinel in their 2nd game Friday afternoon. And the only run MacDonald allowed was off a missed return throw from catcher Allyson Peterson that allowed a Sentinel runner to come in from 3rd. Not too bad for your first Varsity start.
Offensively, the Bears' bats are on as much of a roll as the pitching staff. Through 5 games, West is averaging 10 runs per contest, including putting up 19 combined runs both Friday and Saturday in double-headers. West is led by Peterson on the offensive end, who has 3 HR's and 11 RBI's in 5 games. Kaitlyn Frank has 2 HR's of her own, both coming Friday against the young Lady Spartans, and Erin Compton has a hit in each game so far.
SENIOR (5-0)
Senior has been almost as impressive as the Lady Bears, although had three close games compared with West's blowouts over the weekend to put them a notch behind the Lady Bears in my rankings. However, the Lady Broncs are obviously still undefeated at 5-0, and go as star pitcher Lee Ann Anthony goes.
Anthony will be Senior's horse this season, and she proved that over the weekend with 3 starts resulting in 3 wins, and an additional 3 innings of relief in Senior's weekend double-headers. Anthony opened the Lady Broncs' season Thursday with an abbreviated 5-inning no-hitter over Bozeman, a game Senior won 27-0. Anthony had a perfect game into the fifth, in which she gave up 2 walks. She struck out 9 total Lady Hawks.
Anthony's workload really increased with Senior's 4 games over the weekend, and she did not dissapoint. On Friday, Anthony started the first game of Senior's double-header with Hellgate, pitching a complete game in which she allowed 1 run on 2 hits, and struck out 15 Lady Knights in Senior's 2-1 win. Then, in the 2nd game, Anthony came in to pitch 3 innings of relief, in which she struck out 7 to help Senior complete the sweep with a 4-1 win.
On Saturday, Anthony showed even she is not immune to getting a little tired, but still got the complete game win over the Lady Eagles of Big Sky, giving up 3 runs on 7 hits, including 2 HR's. But Anthony also struck out 11 batters and Senior pulled out a 4-3 win.
Anthony's '08 line: 3-0, 1.64 ERA, 22 IP, 11 hits, 42 K's
Anthony has also gotten considerable help on the offensive end, a welcome surprise to a Senior team that struggled to score runs last year. The Lady Broncs have scored 58 runs through their first 5 games, an average of 11.6 per, but that stat is actually misleading.
Senior scored 27 runs on a weak Bozeman squad, and 21 runs in their 2nd Saturday game against Sentinel, another very young team. So in Senior's other three games, they have only scored 10 runs, an average of 3.3 per contest. However, with Anthony on the mound, it's been good enough so far.
The trio of Kylie Kufeld, Courtney Gopp, and Hannah Stroebe has paced the Lady Broncs so far, and they'll count on their leadership to continue throughout the year.
SKYVIEW (2-3)
The Lady Falcons have not fared as well early in the 2008 season, losing their first three games before collecting two wins Saturday to move to 2-3 on the year. The most encouraging performer so far might be pitcher Teal Kaufman, who has looked strong against some strong early competition.
Kaufman came in in relief Tuesday against West, and shut down the Bears for 2+ innings before West finaly started to string together some hits. On Friday, Kaufman pitched a solid game against Big Sky, giving up 4 runs on 4 hits in 6 innings of work (Skyview lost 4-3). Then on Saturday, Kaufman came back to pitch 6 strong inning against Hellgate, in which she gave up only 3 runs and struck out 6 in Skyview's 4-3 win.
Offensively, the Falcons struggled in their first three game to really get anything going, averaging only 2.7 runs per contest. However, the bats came alive Saturday morning when the Lady Falcons' put up 24 runs on 19 hits against Sentinel...in only 2 innings! They then managed to score 4, including 2 in the bottom of the 7th, to get the win against Hellgate in Saturday's afternoon session.
Kate Brew and Nicole Miller will pace the Lady Falcon offense most of the year.
Make sure you catch Thursday's showdown between West and Senior @ 5:00 PM at the Lady Broncs field in Central Park!
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