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Showing posts with label Indianapolis Colts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Indianapolis Colts. Show all posts
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Fantasy Football Week 9 Preview
There
is no bigger fan attraction in American sports, and arguably all of
entertainment, than the National Football League. While the Thursday
night games on the NFL Network are certainly not the best representation
of what pro football has to offer (the lethargic Jets-Patriots week 2
game for example), NFL Sundays have become a larger than life spectacle.
Although serious concerns have begun to circulate about the safety of
football and the long-term effects of concussions on players, the NFL
has never been as popular as it is today. The league is in an age where
there are more quality quarterbacks than ever before (outside of
Jacksonville, Oakland, and Cleveland), and quarterbacks often have a
powerful impact on the following of the sport. Not only is the NFL
blessed with two of the greatest quarterbacks of all-time (Peyton
Manning and Tom Brady) and a panoply of Super Bowl winners (Eli Manning,
Aaron Rodgers, Drew Bress, Joe Flacco, and Ben Roethlisberger), but it
is also very fortunate to have its future lined up with a bevy of young
quarterback stars (Robert Griffin III, Cam Newton, Russell Wilson, Colin
Kaepernick, Andrew Luck). The NFL is likely in the mist of its best
quarterback era since the 1990's, a time when guys like John Elway, Dan
Marino, Warren Moon, Steve Young, Jim Kelly, Troy Aikman, and Brett
Favre were throwing around the football.
However, there is something that people have become more worried, obsessive, and neurotic about than actual football: fantasy football. The online contest has taken over the lives of countless Americans and become bigger than the game itself. I'm sure that there were an array of Redskins fans who were somewhat satisfied that Aaron Rodgers picked their defense apart for an easy 480 yards and 4 touchdowns in week 2 because he got them more than 30 fantasy points. How many Cardinals fans were faintly pleasured that Jimmy Graham had 134 yards and 2 touchdowns against their team in week 3? I'm assuming that the 10 Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans in all of Florida were even happy that their catastrophe of a team allowed 296 passing yards and 4 total touchdowns to Nick Foles in week 6. There is even a successful tv show based around a fantasy football league (The League). So, if you're a crazed fantasy football fanatic, here are some things to keep an eye on in week 9 of your season.
Kansas City Chiefs Defense at Buffalo Bills:
When last year's pro bowl rosters were announced, the biggest surprise to most fans wasn't the fact that both Richard Sherman (8 interceptions) and Alfred Morris (Redskins record 1,613 rushing yards) were left off the team, but that the Kansas City Chiefs had 6 pro bowlers despite going 2-14. However, outside of the Chiefs atrocious quarterback play (only John Skelton had a worst QB rating than Matt Cassel and Brady Quinn amongst quarterbacks that threw at least 175 passes), Kansas City actually had a lot of talent, especially on the defense side of the ball. Alex Smith's steadiness behind center (only 4 interceptions in 286 pass attempts) has brought new life to Kansas City this season, and the Chiefs stout defense is proving that it is more than capable of containing any offense in the NFL. With Dontari Poe clogging up the middle of the field, Justin Houston and Tamba Hali have been able to dominate off the edge in the Chiefs 3-4 scheme. The outside linebackers have combined for 20 sacks and 5 forced fumbles and are looking to become the first pair of teammates to each finish in the top 5 in the league in sacks since Adewale Ogunleye and Jason Taylor did so in 2003 with the Miami Dolphins. As we have seen in the past, a dominate pass rush can mask the weaknesses of a defensive secondary because of the constant pressure that a quarterback faces from a dominate defense front. The New York Giants 2007 and 2011 Super Bowl victories were characterized by a strong pass rush (Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora in 2007 and Jason Pierre-Paul and Justin Tuck in 2011) despite some definite holes that the team had in the secondary during both championship runs. However, the fact that Kansas City has a solid secondary makes it that much more difficult to avoid the pass rush because opposing quarterbacks have to hold onto the ball to find open receivers. With three of the leagues upper echelon defensive backs (Brandon Flowers, Sean Smith, and Daunta Robinson) and the crafty Eric Berry, the Chiefs are 4th in the league in passing yards allowed per game (205.8) and lead the league in points allowed per game (12.3). In fact, in 8 games, the Chiefs have not allowed more than 17 points. Thus, when an injury plagued Buffalo Bills team, who will likely be down to their third quarterback within the first 9 weeks of the season (Thad Lewis is listed as doubtful with a rib injury), take on the Chiefs, expect a big fantasy output from Kansas City's defense. The Chiefs, who have already had four fantasy games with at least 20 points, should be salivating knowing that they will likely be facing either Matt Flynn (somehow signed a 20.5 million dollar contract with the Seahawks after literally one good game, and then proceeded to get benched before the season even began) or Jeff Tuel (so bad against the Browns after replacing EJ Manuel that the Bills went to their practice squad QB). Expect more of the same this weekend in Buffalo: another performance by C.J. Spiller that makes you wonder why in the world you picked him in the first round before LeSean McCoy and Matt Forte and another dominating Chiefs defense showing.
Jake Locker vs the St. Louis Rams:
You won't get an argument from me if you think that last year's NFL draft will eventually go down in history as the best quarterback draft (Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Ryan Tannehill, Brock Osweiler, Russell Wilson, Nick Foles, Kirk Cousins) since 1983 (John Elway, Todd Blackledge, Jim Kelly, Tony Eason, Ken O'Brien, Dan Marino). Due to the phenomenal quarterback play of some of the 2012 draftees, people have neglected to realize that the 2011 draft class has actually far exceeded expectations. Von Miller, Aldon Smith, and J.J. Watt are likely the three best pass rushers in the entire league and aside from Calvin Johnson, who is legitimately a transformer, A.J. Green and Julio Jones are arguably the most dynamic wide receivers in the NFL. Patrick Peterson is so talented and athletic that the Arizona Cardinals even play him on offense from time to time. However, what has added early credence to the argument that the 2011 draft class could be one of the best of all-time is that Jake Locker has been playing at a very high level this year. Locker is an extremely underrated fantasy option considering his dual threat capabilities in Tennessee's new offense under first year coordinator Dowell Loggains. In 5 starts this season, Locker has only thrown 1 interception and his passer rating of 97.1 is the 8th highest in the entire league. Locker's mobility also causes defenses a lot of trouble because he can escape the pocket and run for first downs. While he is still regaining strength in his right knee and hip, which he injured in week 4 against the Jets, Locker is a quarterback that can certainly run for a touchdown every few weeks. Furthermore, the Rams are a defense that Tennessee can definitely exploit. In the Titans 3 victories against the Steelers, Chargers, and Jets, the team ran for an average of 120 rushing yards. However, in their 4 losses against the Texans, Chiefs, Seahawks, and 49ers, the Titans averaged a measly 90 yards per contest. Locker is not a quarterback who is going to throw the ball 40-45 times in a game and pick apart a defense. However, with a solid run game, he can be very effective, especially with his scrambling ability. The Rams are a defense that ranks 27th in the league in rushing yards allowed (929 in 8 games) and their defense front of Chris Long, Kendall Langford, Michael Brockers, and Robert Quinn is nothing to fear. Tennessee's run game will likely find some success against St. Louis behind their massive offensive line with guys like Andy Levitre and Chance Warmack, which should thereby open up the field for Locker to have a big fantasy day.
Pierre Garcon vs the San Diego Chargers:
Anybody who has watched the Redskins this season could tell you that the team has a panoply of concerns, mainly the fact that their defense has allowed an average of 32.7 points per game through their first 7 contests. However, the Skins offense has people even more worried because the group has looked a shell of the team that finished at the top of the NFL in rushing yards in 2012. It is hard to argue the notion that the Washington Redskins entire offense dynamic changed after RGIII torn his ACL in last year's NFC divisional playoff round loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Despite the fact that Griffin has looked a little better each week on the field, it is evident that he lacks the explosiveness that made him such a weapon last season. The Skins obviously don't want to risk any future injures to Robert Griffin III, which has restricted their play calling to keeping RGIII in the pocket throwing the ball rather than allowing him to make plays down the field with his feet. Griffin has only had 2 games in which he ran the ball for at least 40 yards this season. The unpredictability of Washington's offense made it so difficult for defenses to defend both the run and the pass last season. Without the threat of RGIII keeping the ball on Washington's read option, defenses have been able to key on Alfred Morris, which has only allowed the back, who set the Redskins single-season rushing record last year, to have one game in which he ran for more than 95 yards. Washington has been throwing the ball much more from the pocket this season than last year, which should result in some big games for Pierre Garcon in the near future. Garcon has been very solid so far this year, but he has yet to break out for some bigger games. The wide out has had at least 58 yards in all but one of the Redskins matchups, but he's only been over the 100 yard barrier one time. However, Garcon is destined to have a breakout game this weekend against a sub-par San Diego secondary. Garcon is undoubtedly the Skins best receiving threat, as he has been targeted 78 times in 7 games, which is the 5th most in the NFL only behind A.J. Green, Vincent Jackson, Cecil Shorts, and Calvin Johnson. The balls are going to continue to come Garcon's way as Washington doesn't have any other real receiving options, which means he should have plenty of opportunities to make some plays. Unlike some other receivers, Garcon is also very crafty after he catches the ball, as his 276 yards after catch are the best for any wide receiver in the league. Washington's defense wouldn't be able to stop Jacksonville (that's saying something), so there should be a lot of points scored in the nation's capital this weekend. Meanwhile, Derek Cox or Shareece Wright will likely have the matchup with Garcon, both of whom Garcon should be able to take advantage of in the big week 9 game.
T.Y. Hilton vs the Houston Texans:
The Colts victory over the Denver Broncos could not have been much better from an Indianapolis perspective. The Colts fans got to rightfully celebrate and recognize the accomplishments of their beloved quarterback of 14 years in a very touching pre-game ceremony, and then they got to beat his undefeated team in route to a 5-2 start and a 2 game division lead in the AFC South. However, there was one thing in the game that could change the course of the entire NFL season: the devastating torn ACL suffered by Reggie Wayne. Wayne has been a steady presence in the Colts organization for 13 years and Sunday will mark the first game in an astonishing 15 years that the Colts will be taking the field without Marvin Harrison or Reggie Wayne in the lineup. Wayne has been by far Andrew Luck's favorite target over the past two seasons, as his 106 catches last year were only eclipsed by his 2010 campaign of 111 catches. In fact, Reggie had 46 more receptions than anybody else on the Colts team last season (Donnie Avery). Without Wayne on the field, the ball is going to have to go to somebody; step in T.Y. Hilton. Much like a DeSean Jackson or Mike Wallace, Hilton is a guy with blazing quickness and can break the lid off any NFL defense. However, Hilton and Luck have rarely been on the same page this season to create some big plays down the field in the passing game. In 5 of the Colts 7 games, Hilton has been held under 46 yards without a reception of more than 19 yards. However, in the other two games, Hilton had 124 yards including a 47 yard catch against the Dolphins and a 140 yard game with two touchdowns including a 73 yard reception versus the Seahawks. With Wayne out of the lineup and the Colts unable to create a productive running game despite the trade with the Browns for Trent Richardson, expect more of the latter than the former from Hilton. Hilton will likely get more opportunities to stretch the field this weekend against the Texans and he will therefore have more chances to make plays than ever before. Under defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, Houston like to play a lot of man-to-man defense with corner backs Kareem Jackson and Johnathan Joseph. For Hilton to break a big play loose, all he needs is a step on a defensive back and he could be gone with his rare speed.
However, there is something that people have become more worried, obsessive, and neurotic about than actual football: fantasy football. The online contest has taken over the lives of countless Americans and become bigger than the game itself. I'm sure that there were an array of Redskins fans who were somewhat satisfied that Aaron Rodgers picked their defense apart for an easy 480 yards and 4 touchdowns in week 2 because he got them more than 30 fantasy points. How many Cardinals fans were faintly pleasured that Jimmy Graham had 134 yards and 2 touchdowns against their team in week 3? I'm assuming that the 10 Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans in all of Florida were even happy that their catastrophe of a team allowed 296 passing yards and 4 total touchdowns to Nick Foles in week 6. There is even a successful tv show based around a fantasy football league (The League). So, if you're a crazed fantasy football fanatic, here are some things to keep an eye on in week 9 of your season.
Kansas City Chiefs Defense at Buffalo Bills:
When last year's pro bowl rosters were announced, the biggest surprise to most fans wasn't the fact that both Richard Sherman (8 interceptions) and Alfred Morris (Redskins record 1,613 rushing yards) were left off the team, but that the Kansas City Chiefs had 6 pro bowlers despite going 2-14. However, outside of the Chiefs atrocious quarterback play (only John Skelton had a worst QB rating than Matt Cassel and Brady Quinn amongst quarterbacks that threw at least 175 passes), Kansas City actually had a lot of talent, especially on the defense side of the ball. Alex Smith's steadiness behind center (only 4 interceptions in 286 pass attempts) has brought new life to Kansas City this season, and the Chiefs stout defense is proving that it is more than capable of containing any offense in the NFL. With Dontari Poe clogging up the middle of the field, Justin Houston and Tamba Hali have been able to dominate off the edge in the Chiefs 3-4 scheme. The outside linebackers have combined for 20 sacks and 5 forced fumbles and are looking to become the first pair of teammates to each finish in the top 5 in the league in sacks since Adewale Ogunleye and Jason Taylor did so in 2003 with the Miami Dolphins. As we have seen in the past, a dominate pass rush can mask the weaknesses of a defensive secondary because of the constant pressure that a quarterback faces from a dominate defense front. The New York Giants 2007 and 2011 Super Bowl victories were characterized by a strong pass rush (Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora in 2007 and Jason Pierre-Paul and Justin Tuck in 2011) despite some definite holes that the team had in the secondary during both championship runs. However, the fact that Kansas City has a solid secondary makes it that much more difficult to avoid the pass rush because opposing quarterbacks have to hold onto the ball to find open receivers. With three of the leagues upper echelon defensive backs (Brandon Flowers, Sean Smith, and Daunta Robinson) and the crafty Eric Berry, the Chiefs are 4th in the league in passing yards allowed per game (205.8) and lead the league in points allowed per game (12.3). In fact, in 8 games, the Chiefs have not allowed more than 17 points. Thus, when an injury plagued Buffalo Bills team, who will likely be down to their third quarterback within the first 9 weeks of the season (Thad Lewis is listed as doubtful with a rib injury), take on the Chiefs, expect a big fantasy output from Kansas City's defense. The Chiefs, who have already had four fantasy games with at least 20 points, should be salivating knowing that they will likely be facing either Matt Flynn (somehow signed a 20.5 million dollar contract with the Seahawks after literally one good game, and then proceeded to get benched before the season even began) or Jeff Tuel (so bad against the Browns after replacing EJ Manuel that the Bills went to their practice squad QB). Expect more of the same this weekend in Buffalo: another performance by C.J. Spiller that makes you wonder why in the world you picked him in the first round before LeSean McCoy and Matt Forte and another dominating Chiefs defense showing.
Jake Locker vs the St. Louis Rams:
You won't get an argument from me if you think that last year's NFL draft will eventually go down in history as the best quarterback draft (Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Ryan Tannehill, Brock Osweiler, Russell Wilson, Nick Foles, Kirk Cousins) since 1983 (John Elway, Todd Blackledge, Jim Kelly, Tony Eason, Ken O'Brien, Dan Marino). Due to the phenomenal quarterback play of some of the 2012 draftees, people have neglected to realize that the 2011 draft class has actually far exceeded expectations. Von Miller, Aldon Smith, and J.J. Watt are likely the three best pass rushers in the entire league and aside from Calvin Johnson, who is legitimately a transformer, A.J. Green and Julio Jones are arguably the most dynamic wide receivers in the NFL. Patrick Peterson is so talented and athletic that the Arizona Cardinals even play him on offense from time to time. However, what has added early credence to the argument that the 2011 draft class could be one of the best of all-time is that Jake Locker has been playing at a very high level this year. Locker is an extremely underrated fantasy option considering his dual threat capabilities in Tennessee's new offense under first year coordinator Dowell Loggains. In 5 starts this season, Locker has only thrown 1 interception and his passer rating of 97.1 is the 8th highest in the entire league. Locker's mobility also causes defenses a lot of trouble because he can escape the pocket and run for first downs. While he is still regaining strength in his right knee and hip, which he injured in week 4 against the Jets, Locker is a quarterback that can certainly run for a touchdown every few weeks. Furthermore, the Rams are a defense that Tennessee can definitely exploit. In the Titans 3 victories against the Steelers, Chargers, and Jets, the team ran for an average of 120 rushing yards. However, in their 4 losses against the Texans, Chiefs, Seahawks, and 49ers, the Titans averaged a measly 90 yards per contest. Locker is not a quarterback who is going to throw the ball 40-45 times in a game and pick apart a defense. However, with a solid run game, he can be very effective, especially with his scrambling ability. The Rams are a defense that ranks 27th in the league in rushing yards allowed (929 in 8 games) and their defense front of Chris Long, Kendall Langford, Michael Brockers, and Robert Quinn is nothing to fear. Tennessee's run game will likely find some success against St. Louis behind their massive offensive line with guys like Andy Levitre and Chance Warmack, which should thereby open up the field for Locker to have a big fantasy day.
Pierre Garcon vs the San Diego Chargers:
Anybody who has watched the Redskins this season could tell you that the team has a panoply of concerns, mainly the fact that their defense has allowed an average of 32.7 points per game through their first 7 contests. However, the Skins offense has people even more worried because the group has looked a shell of the team that finished at the top of the NFL in rushing yards in 2012. It is hard to argue the notion that the Washington Redskins entire offense dynamic changed after RGIII torn his ACL in last year's NFC divisional playoff round loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Despite the fact that Griffin has looked a little better each week on the field, it is evident that he lacks the explosiveness that made him such a weapon last season. The Skins obviously don't want to risk any future injures to Robert Griffin III, which has restricted their play calling to keeping RGIII in the pocket throwing the ball rather than allowing him to make plays down the field with his feet. Griffin has only had 2 games in which he ran the ball for at least 40 yards this season. The unpredictability of Washington's offense made it so difficult for defenses to defend both the run and the pass last season. Without the threat of RGIII keeping the ball on Washington's read option, defenses have been able to key on Alfred Morris, which has only allowed the back, who set the Redskins single-season rushing record last year, to have one game in which he ran for more than 95 yards. Washington has been throwing the ball much more from the pocket this season than last year, which should result in some big games for Pierre Garcon in the near future. Garcon has been very solid so far this year, but he has yet to break out for some bigger games. The wide out has had at least 58 yards in all but one of the Redskins matchups, but he's only been over the 100 yard barrier one time. However, Garcon is destined to have a breakout game this weekend against a sub-par San Diego secondary. Garcon is undoubtedly the Skins best receiving threat, as he has been targeted 78 times in 7 games, which is the 5th most in the NFL only behind A.J. Green, Vincent Jackson, Cecil Shorts, and Calvin Johnson. The balls are going to continue to come Garcon's way as Washington doesn't have any other real receiving options, which means he should have plenty of opportunities to make some plays. Unlike some other receivers, Garcon is also very crafty after he catches the ball, as his 276 yards after catch are the best for any wide receiver in the league. Washington's defense wouldn't be able to stop Jacksonville (that's saying something), so there should be a lot of points scored in the nation's capital this weekend. Meanwhile, Derek Cox or Shareece Wright will likely have the matchup with Garcon, both of whom Garcon should be able to take advantage of in the big week 9 game.
T.Y. Hilton vs the Houston Texans:
The Colts victory over the Denver Broncos could not have been much better from an Indianapolis perspective. The Colts fans got to rightfully celebrate and recognize the accomplishments of their beloved quarterback of 14 years in a very touching pre-game ceremony, and then they got to beat his undefeated team in route to a 5-2 start and a 2 game division lead in the AFC South. However, there was one thing in the game that could change the course of the entire NFL season: the devastating torn ACL suffered by Reggie Wayne. Wayne has been a steady presence in the Colts organization for 13 years and Sunday will mark the first game in an astonishing 15 years that the Colts will be taking the field without Marvin Harrison or Reggie Wayne in the lineup. Wayne has been by far Andrew Luck's favorite target over the past two seasons, as his 106 catches last year were only eclipsed by his 2010 campaign of 111 catches. In fact, Reggie had 46 more receptions than anybody else on the Colts team last season (Donnie Avery). Without Wayne on the field, the ball is going to have to go to somebody; step in T.Y. Hilton. Much like a DeSean Jackson or Mike Wallace, Hilton is a guy with blazing quickness and can break the lid off any NFL defense. However, Hilton and Luck have rarely been on the same page this season to create some big plays down the field in the passing game. In 5 of the Colts 7 games, Hilton has been held under 46 yards without a reception of more than 19 yards. However, in the other two games, Hilton had 124 yards including a 47 yard catch against the Dolphins and a 140 yard game with two touchdowns including a 73 yard reception versus the Seahawks. With Wayne out of the lineup and the Colts unable to create a productive running game despite the trade with the Browns for Trent Richardson, expect more of the latter than the former from Hilton. Hilton will likely get more opportunities to stretch the field this weekend against the Texans and he will therefore have more chances to make plays than ever before. Under defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, Houston like to play a lot of man-to-man defense with corner backs Kareem Jackson and Johnathan Joseph. For Hilton to break a big play loose, all he needs is a step on a defensive back and he could be gone with his rare speed.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Top 10 Most Intriguing NFL Games
The release of the NFL schedule has become its own holiday, as the gaiety surrounding the unfolding of the pro football slate leaves fans in presentiment over the season to come. There are a few things about this year's schedule that are very conspicuous, including the multitude of players returning to their old stomping grounds, and the prodigious number of impressive prime time matchups. While the NFL is very unpredictable, it appears as if the schedule sets up very well for the Chargers, Cowboys, and Steelers. Meanwhile, the Saints, Packers, and 49ers all figure to have a much more rigorous regular season slate. Here are 10 NFL regular season games that should be amongst the most fascinating of the year:
Baltimore Ravens at Denver Broncos in Week 1:
The anticipation for the first game of the NFL season is a unique phenomenon. After nearly 7 months without an NFL game (not counting the preseason as an official contest), the opening kickoff is a sight that all football fans so desperately welcome. However, the opening night of the NFL will have a little different feel this season. First, due to a scheduling conflict with the Baltimore Orioles and Major League Baseball, the Ravens will not open up the 2013-2014 season at M&T Bank Stadium. The defending Super Bowl Champions have hosted the NFL kickoff game every year since 2004, but due to traffic and parking issues that would have been created if the Orioles and Ravens both had home games, the Ravens will head to Denver in week 1. The game will also feel a little abnormal because of how different the Baltimore Ravens will look on both sides of the ball. The Ravens were depleted in the offseason, as the team lost center Matt Birk (retirement), wide receiver Anquan Boldin (traded to 49ers), middle linebacker and team leader Ray Lewis (retirement), linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (signed by the Dolphins), outside linebacker Paul Kruger (signed by the Browns), cornerback Cary Williams (signed by the Eagles), safety Ed Reed (signed by the Texans), and safety Bernard Pollard (cut and later singed by the Titans). However, Baltimore did add pass rusher Elvis Dumervil, who will open up his 2013 campaign against his former team, along with safety Michael Huff, who will have his work cut out for him against the great Peyton Manning.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New York Jets in Week 1:
Oh how serendipitous this week 1 game has turned out to be. No offense to either the Bucs or the Jets, but typically a matchup between these two out of conference teams doesn't conjure up to much excitement or emotion. However, the Revis saga in New York has finally come to a conclusion, as the Jets traded the all-pro corner to who else but their week 1 opponent, Tampa Bay, for the 13th pick in this year's draft and a 2014 conditional pick. Revis, who signed a 6-year, 96 million dollar deal with the Bucs, will try to revamp a Tampa Bay secondary that ranked dead last in passing yards allowed per game in 2012. Along with newly acquired safety Dashon Goldson, who signed a 5-year, 41.25 million dollar deal in the offseason, the Bucs are hoping to fill up gaps that were wide open for opposing quarterbacks last season. However, for Revis, his return to New York will be more than just about improving his new team's secondary; it will be about showing the Jets his dissatisfaction with how he perceived he was treated in the form of a shutdown defensive performance. Revis was very frustrated with New York's handling of his trade rumors, and their unwillingness to comply with some of his demands concerning his injury. Thus, when he visits MetLife Stadium, Revis will be looking for personal revenge, which should provide a thrilling contest between two teams that may not even be in playoff contention come January.
Philadelphia Eagles at Washington Redskins in Week 1:
The Eagles-Redskins week 1 divisional matchup on Monday Night Football has two main headlines that will both prove to be very compelling. First, football fans around the country are fascinated to see what Chip Kelly has in store with his innovative and inventive offensive schemes. The former Oregon head coach likes to run his hurry-up offense, which creates havoc for defenses that have difficulty containing the speed and pace of their opponents. The Eagles certainty have very dangerous weapons, which fit quite nicely into Kelly's offense, as he will use the quickness of LaSean McCoy, DeSean Jackson, and Jeremy Maclin to spread out defenses and exploit any holes deep in the secondary. Kelly's up-tempo style has never been seen before in the NFL, so coaches around the league will be watching to see how his offense will fare against a defense that ranked 5th in the league in rushing yards allowed per game last season. The other major storyline is obviously Robert Griffin III, and whether he will be able to return for the opening week of the season a little more than 8 months after tearing his ACL in the team's playoff loss to the Seahawks. If the gifted QB is able to play in week 1, all eyes will be on his mobility. Although RGIII can certainty be a very proficit pocket passer, his athleticism gives him an added dimension that is so difficult to account for defensively. If Griffin lacks the quickness that he possessed before the surgery, it could attenuate his unique ability to allude defenders and make plays with his feet.
Denver Broncos at New York Giants in Week 2:
Any time that two brothers rise up to play at the highest level of professional sports, it creates a unique interest amongst fans who are struck by the fortune of theses siblings. Whether it is the Lopez twins of the NBA or the Upton brothers of the MLB, relatives reaching the apex of sports is a very attractive commodity. However, when two brothers have combined to win 3 of the past 7 Super Bowls and are future hall of famers, it reaches a whole new level of fascination. Although Eli and Peyton have admitted that they are uncomfortable playing against each other, the Manning battle will be one of the most watched NFL games all season long. In their two previous meetings, Peyton has come out the victor in each occasion. In 2006, Peyton and his Colts knocked off Eli and the Giants 26-21 and in 2010, Peyton topped Eli once again in a 38-14 blowout. From now until their week 2 battle, Peyton and Eli will both be fielding a lot of questions about facing off against one another. However, while it is such a cliche, the game will come down to Peyton and the Broncos offense against the Giants defense and Eli and the Giants offense against the Broncos defense. Nonetheless, a Manning duel is good for the NFL and for its fans; just maybe not the best thing for the Manning family.
San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks in Week 2:
Before Jim Harbaugh came to San Francisco and before the Seahawks were blessed to have Russell Wilson fall in their laps, the NFC West was the laughing-stock of the NFL. From 2004 to 2011, the NFC West never had more than one team with a record better than .500 and in 2010 the Seahawks became the first team to ever win a divison despite having a sub .500 record. However, coming into the 2013 NFL season, by many accounts, the two best teams in the NFL reside in the NFC West. Not only do the 49ers and Seahawks have rock solid defenses to go along with their huge offensive lines and fearless running backs, but they also have dynamic duel threat quarterbacks in Colin Kaepernick and Russell Wilson that can single-handedly propel their team to a victory. As if having top 5 defenses in 2012 wasn't good enough, both teams drastically improved in the offseason on the other side of the ball. The Seahawks made a very daring move by acquiring Percy Harvin from the Vikings and then signing him to a new 6-year, 67 million dollar contract. Although Harvin's toughness and willingness to persevere through difficult stretches has been questioned, there is no doubt that the offensive speedster is a very unique and talented wide out when on the field. San Francisco also made a significant upgrade with the acquisition of Anquan Boldin, who was arguably the biggest reason behind the Ravens Super Bowl run last season. Boldin's matchup with Seattle corners Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner could be the determining factor in the team's first divisional matchup in Seattle.
Kansas City Chiefs at Philadelphia Eagles in Week 3:
Eagles fans are notorious for their nature to become disgruntled with not only the opposing team, but with their own team. The booing and petulance of the Philadelphia fan base is sometimes seen as vile and iniquitous, and former head coach Andy Reid was at the end of many of those taunts, specifically towards the end of his tenure with the Birds when the team failed to make the playoffs two straight years. When Andy Reid returns to Lincoln Financial Field, this time as coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, the reaction from the Eagles crowd should be very interesting. There are some supporters of Reid who have very fond memories of all the Eagles accomplished with him at the helm. In 14 seasons with the team, Reid led the Eagles to the playoffs 9 times (2000-2004, 2006, 2008-2010). Philly also reached the NFC Championship game 5-times including four in a row from 2001 to 2004. However, there are some fans who refuse to forgive Reid for his numerous errors in terms of clock management in late game situations, and that are still very bitter that the Eagles never won a championship despite all of the great teams that Reid had at his disposal. Chip Kelly's arrival in Philadelphia, along with the addition of Alex Smith in Kansas City, has given both clubs a reason to look forward to a positive season, but for one game, there will be a lot of looking back.
Denver Broncos at Indianapolis Colts in Week 7:
For 14 incredible years, Peyton Manning was the Colts and the Colts were Peyton Manning. While Indy obviously had other legendary superstars like Edgerrin James, Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, and Dwight Freeney, Manning meant more to the Colts than any other quarterback to a team in NFL history. Just look at 2011 when the Colts, without Manning due to his neck surgery, went 2-14, the team's fewest wins since they went 1-15 in 1991. The city of Indianapolis was so devoted to Manning that ticket sales were originally down for the beginning of last season due to people's resentment that the Colts let Manning go. The former number 1 pick was held in such high reverence from the Colt faithful that it was difficult for many to move on. While Andrew Luck more than proved last season that he is worthy of all the praise he has received, there will always be a special place in Indy for Peyton. Although it will be very difficult for Manning to play against his former club, the affection from the fans for all Manning accomplished with the team will be a spectacle to see. There have only been a few times in the history of sports that a superstar of the same ilk as Manning has returned to the city he once patrolled in another uniform. Thus, the matchup between the Broncos and Colts will not only be a high quality football game between two playoff teams from last season, but it will also be a matchup with unique emotion.
New England Patriots at Houston Texans in Week 13:
There is really no way around this statement: the Patriots absolutely owned the Houston Texans last season. In their regular season matchup in Foxborough, the Patriots clubbered the Texans 42-14. When the same two teams met in the Divisonal Round of the AFC Playoffs, the Patriots dominated once again at Gillette Stadium, this time coming out on top 41-28 in a game that wasn't even as close as the score indicates. In both contests, Tom Brady picked apart the Texans defense, which instead of mixing up coverages, continued to rely on man-to-man defensive schemes. Despite the fact that Johnathan Joseph and Danieal Manning are all-pro secondary players, it is a very perilous plan to play one coverage against a quarterback of the caliber of Brady. By not giving him different reads, Brady was able to sit in the pocket and become comfortable with the same defensive look over and over. Futhermore, the Pats limited the pressure of J.J. Watt on the quaterback, which gave Brady added time in the pocket that most QB's don't get against Watt and the Texans. This largely explains why Brady was able to throw for 296 yards and 4 touchdowns in the first game and 344 yards and 3 touchdowns in the second encounter. The Texans will greatly benefit from playing the Patriots in the friendly confines of Reliant Stadium. However, if J.J. Watt is unable to disrupt Brady's rhythm, it could be another long day for the Texans against New England.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens in Week 13:
Any time the Steelers and Ravens square off, you can expect the smash-mouth, physical style that these two teams always bring to the field. Over the past 10 years, no rivalry in the NFL has been more meaningful than the clashes between Pittsburgh and Baltimore. Since the formation of the AFC North in 2002, the Steelers or the Ravens have won the division 9 of the 11 times. As previously mentioned in this article, the Ravens are going to look like a much different team this season. However, the Steelers have also made some significant changes after finishing 8-8 in 2012, their worst record since a 6-10 campaign in 2003. Without some of the usual Pittsburgh suspects like running back Rashard Mendenhall, wide receiver Mike Wallace, linebacker James Harrison, and cornerback Kennan Lewis, the Steelers are going to have a fresh face in 2013. The relationship between Ben Roethlisberger and offensive coordinator Todd Haley, which at times was a very strenuous and arduous partnership, will have to improve in order for the Steel Curtain to find success in 2013. In their matchup with the Ravens in the finale of the Thanksgiving Day games, the Steelers will have to prove that they can run the ball on a Baltimore defense susceptible to the ground game in order to open up the down field attack for Big Ben.
Atlanta Falcons at Green Bay Packers in Week 14:
While there are a multitude of interesting matchups on this year's schedule due to the storylines of players returning to former teams or brothers squaring off once again, the Falcons-Packers game is so compelling just because of the high quality that both teams play at. Atlanta and Green Bay's championship aspirations were both cut short by the San Francisco 49ers last season and each team will be Super Bowl or bust once again in 2013. This late-season contest, which could possibly decide home-field advantage for the NFC in the playoffs, has the very real possibility of being an offensive slugfest. With Julio Jones quickly becoming one of the best wide outs in the NFL, the Falcons now have the most explosive wide receiver tandem in the league with Roddy White and Jones. Futhermore, with the return of Tony Gonzalez, despite his constant suggestions that he was going to retire, the Falcons could certainty pick apart a Green Bay defense that lacks a true shutdown corner. Much like the progression of Jones, the emergence of Randall Cobb has added a totally new dynamic to an already loaded Packers offense. Cobb's quickness and ability to play in the slot provides a perfect mix for the smooth route running ability of Jordy Nelson and the intermediate game of Jermichael Finley. Additionally, Atlanta is a nice matchup for a Packers offensive line that greatly struggles with the pass rush, as the Falcons registered the 2nd fewest sacks in the NFC in 2012. The Falcons-Packers week 14 contest could be the most enthralling and back-and-fourth game all season long.
Baltimore Ravens at Denver Broncos in Week 1:
The anticipation for the first game of the NFL season is a unique phenomenon. After nearly 7 months without an NFL game (not counting the preseason as an official contest), the opening kickoff is a sight that all football fans so desperately welcome. However, the opening night of the NFL will have a little different feel this season. First, due to a scheduling conflict with the Baltimore Orioles and Major League Baseball, the Ravens will not open up the 2013-2014 season at M&T Bank Stadium. The defending Super Bowl Champions have hosted the NFL kickoff game every year since 2004, but due to traffic and parking issues that would have been created if the Orioles and Ravens both had home games, the Ravens will head to Denver in week 1. The game will also feel a little abnormal because of how different the Baltimore Ravens will look on both sides of the ball. The Ravens were depleted in the offseason, as the team lost center Matt Birk (retirement), wide receiver Anquan Boldin (traded to 49ers), middle linebacker and team leader Ray Lewis (retirement), linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (signed by the Dolphins), outside linebacker Paul Kruger (signed by the Browns), cornerback Cary Williams (signed by the Eagles), safety Ed Reed (signed by the Texans), and safety Bernard Pollard (cut and later singed by the Titans). However, Baltimore did add pass rusher Elvis Dumervil, who will open up his 2013 campaign against his former team, along with safety Michael Huff, who will have his work cut out for him against the great Peyton Manning.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New York Jets in Week 1:
Oh how serendipitous this week 1 game has turned out to be. No offense to either the Bucs or the Jets, but typically a matchup between these two out of conference teams doesn't conjure up to much excitement or emotion. However, the Revis saga in New York has finally come to a conclusion, as the Jets traded the all-pro corner to who else but their week 1 opponent, Tampa Bay, for the 13th pick in this year's draft and a 2014 conditional pick. Revis, who signed a 6-year, 96 million dollar deal with the Bucs, will try to revamp a Tampa Bay secondary that ranked dead last in passing yards allowed per game in 2012. Along with newly acquired safety Dashon Goldson, who signed a 5-year, 41.25 million dollar deal in the offseason, the Bucs are hoping to fill up gaps that were wide open for opposing quarterbacks last season. However, for Revis, his return to New York will be more than just about improving his new team's secondary; it will be about showing the Jets his dissatisfaction with how he perceived he was treated in the form of a shutdown defensive performance. Revis was very frustrated with New York's handling of his trade rumors, and their unwillingness to comply with some of his demands concerning his injury. Thus, when he visits MetLife Stadium, Revis will be looking for personal revenge, which should provide a thrilling contest between two teams that may not even be in playoff contention come January.
Philadelphia Eagles at Washington Redskins in Week 1:
The Eagles-Redskins week 1 divisional matchup on Monday Night Football has two main headlines that will both prove to be very compelling. First, football fans around the country are fascinated to see what Chip Kelly has in store with his innovative and inventive offensive schemes. The former Oregon head coach likes to run his hurry-up offense, which creates havoc for defenses that have difficulty containing the speed and pace of their opponents. The Eagles certainty have very dangerous weapons, which fit quite nicely into Kelly's offense, as he will use the quickness of LaSean McCoy, DeSean Jackson, and Jeremy Maclin to spread out defenses and exploit any holes deep in the secondary. Kelly's up-tempo style has never been seen before in the NFL, so coaches around the league will be watching to see how his offense will fare against a defense that ranked 5th in the league in rushing yards allowed per game last season. The other major storyline is obviously Robert Griffin III, and whether he will be able to return for the opening week of the season a little more than 8 months after tearing his ACL in the team's playoff loss to the Seahawks. If the gifted QB is able to play in week 1, all eyes will be on his mobility. Although RGIII can certainty be a very proficit pocket passer, his athleticism gives him an added dimension that is so difficult to account for defensively. If Griffin lacks the quickness that he possessed before the surgery, it could attenuate his unique ability to allude defenders and make plays with his feet.
Denver Broncos at New York Giants in Week 2:
Any time that two brothers rise up to play at the highest level of professional sports, it creates a unique interest amongst fans who are struck by the fortune of theses siblings. Whether it is the Lopez twins of the NBA or the Upton brothers of the MLB, relatives reaching the apex of sports is a very attractive commodity. However, when two brothers have combined to win 3 of the past 7 Super Bowls and are future hall of famers, it reaches a whole new level of fascination. Although Eli and Peyton have admitted that they are uncomfortable playing against each other, the Manning battle will be one of the most watched NFL games all season long. In their two previous meetings, Peyton has come out the victor in each occasion. In 2006, Peyton and his Colts knocked off Eli and the Giants 26-21 and in 2010, Peyton topped Eli once again in a 38-14 blowout. From now until their week 2 battle, Peyton and Eli will both be fielding a lot of questions about facing off against one another. However, while it is such a cliche, the game will come down to Peyton and the Broncos offense against the Giants defense and Eli and the Giants offense against the Broncos defense. Nonetheless, a Manning duel is good for the NFL and for its fans; just maybe not the best thing for the Manning family.
San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks in Week 2:
Before Jim Harbaugh came to San Francisco and before the Seahawks were blessed to have Russell Wilson fall in their laps, the NFC West was the laughing-stock of the NFL. From 2004 to 2011, the NFC West never had more than one team with a record better than .500 and in 2010 the Seahawks became the first team to ever win a divison despite having a sub .500 record. However, coming into the 2013 NFL season, by many accounts, the two best teams in the NFL reside in the NFC West. Not only do the 49ers and Seahawks have rock solid defenses to go along with their huge offensive lines and fearless running backs, but they also have dynamic duel threat quarterbacks in Colin Kaepernick and Russell Wilson that can single-handedly propel their team to a victory. As if having top 5 defenses in 2012 wasn't good enough, both teams drastically improved in the offseason on the other side of the ball. The Seahawks made a very daring move by acquiring Percy Harvin from the Vikings and then signing him to a new 6-year, 67 million dollar contract. Although Harvin's toughness and willingness to persevere through difficult stretches has been questioned, there is no doubt that the offensive speedster is a very unique and talented wide out when on the field. San Francisco also made a significant upgrade with the acquisition of Anquan Boldin, who was arguably the biggest reason behind the Ravens Super Bowl run last season. Boldin's matchup with Seattle corners Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner could be the determining factor in the team's first divisional matchup in Seattle.
Kansas City Chiefs at Philadelphia Eagles in Week 3:
Eagles fans are notorious for their nature to become disgruntled with not only the opposing team, but with their own team. The booing and petulance of the Philadelphia fan base is sometimes seen as vile and iniquitous, and former head coach Andy Reid was at the end of many of those taunts, specifically towards the end of his tenure with the Birds when the team failed to make the playoffs two straight years. When Andy Reid returns to Lincoln Financial Field, this time as coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, the reaction from the Eagles crowd should be very interesting. There are some supporters of Reid who have very fond memories of all the Eagles accomplished with him at the helm. In 14 seasons with the team, Reid led the Eagles to the playoffs 9 times (2000-2004, 2006, 2008-2010). Philly also reached the NFC Championship game 5-times including four in a row from 2001 to 2004. However, there are some fans who refuse to forgive Reid for his numerous errors in terms of clock management in late game situations, and that are still very bitter that the Eagles never won a championship despite all of the great teams that Reid had at his disposal. Chip Kelly's arrival in Philadelphia, along with the addition of Alex Smith in Kansas City, has given both clubs a reason to look forward to a positive season, but for one game, there will be a lot of looking back.
Denver Broncos at Indianapolis Colts in Week 7:
For 14 incredible years, Peyton Manning was the Colts and the Colts were Peyton Manning. While Indy obviously had other legendary superstars like Edgerrin James, Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, and Dwight Freeney, Manning meant more to the Colts than any other quarterback to a team in NFL history. Just look at 2011 when the Colts, without Manning due to his neck surgery, went 2-14, the team's fewest wins since they went 1-15 in 1991. The city of Indianapolis was so devoted to Manning that ticket sales were originally down for the beginning of last season due to people's resentment that the Colts let Manning go. The former number 1 pick was held in such high reverence from the Colt faithful that it was difficult for many to move on. While Andrew Luck more than proved last season that he is worthy of all the praise he has received, there will always be a special place in Indy for Peyton. Although it will be very difficult for Manning to play against his former club, the affection from the fans for all Manning accomplished with the team will be a spectacle to see. There have only been a few times in the history of sports that a superstar of the same ilk as Manning has returned to the city he once patrolled in another uniform. Thus, the matchup between the Broncos and Colts will not only be a high quality football game between two playoff teams from last season, but it will also be a matchup with unique emotion.
New England Patriots at Houston Texans in Week 13:
There is really no way around this statement: the Patriots absolutely owned the Houston Texans last season. In their regular season matchup in Foxborough, the Patriots clubbered the Texans 42-14. When the same two teams met in the Divisonal Round of the AFC Playoffs, the Patriots dominated once again at Gillette Stadium, this time coming out on top 41-28 in a game that wasn't even as close as the score indicates. In both contests, Tom Brady picked apart the Texans defense, which instead of mixing up coverages, continued to rely on man-to-man defensive schemes. Despite the fact that Johnathan Joseph and Danieal Manning are all-pro secondary players, it is a very perilous plan to play one coverage against a quarterback of the caliber of Brady. By not giving him different reads, Brady was able to sit in the pocket and become comfortable with the same defensive look over and over. Futhermore, the Pats limited the pressure of J.J. Watt on the quaterback, which gave Brady added time in the pocket that most QB's don't get against Watt and the Texans. This largely explains why Brady was able to throw for 296 yards and 4 touchdowns in the first game and 344 yards and 3 touchdowns in the second encounter. The Texans will greatly benefit from playing the Patriots in the friendly confines of Reliant Stadium. However, if J.J. Watt is unable to disrupt Brady's rhythm, it could be another long day for the Texans against New England.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens in Week 13:
Any time the Steelers and Ravens square off, you can expect the smash-mouth, physical style that these two teams always bring to the field. Over the past 10 years, no rivalry in the NFL has been more meaningful than the clashes between Pittsburgh and Baltimore. Since the formation of the AFC North in 2002, the Steelers or the Ravens have won the division 9 of the 11 times. As previously mentioned in this article, the Ravens are going to look like a much different team this season. However, the Steelers have also made some significant changes after finishing 8-8 in 2012, their worst record since a 6-10 campaign in 2003. Without some of the usual Pittsburgh suspects like running back Rashard Mendenhall, wide receiver Mike Wallace, linebacker James Harrison, and cornerback Kennan Lewis, the Steelers are going to have a fresh face in 2013. The relationship between Ben Roethlisberger and offensive coordinator Todd Haley, which at times was a very strenuous and arduous partnership, will have to improve in order for the Steel Curtain to find success in 2013. In their matchup with the Ravens in the finale of the Thanksgiving Day games, the Steelers will have to prove that they can run the ball on a Baltimore defense susceptible to the ground game in order to open up the down field attack for Big Ben.
Atlanta Falcons at Green Bay Packers in Week 14:
While there are a multitude of interesting matchups on this year's schedule due to the storylines of players returning to former teams or brothers squaring off once again, the Falcons-Packers game is so compelling just because of the high quality that both teams play at. Atlanta and Green Bay's championship aspirations were both cut short by the San Francisco 49ers last season and each team will be Super Bowl or bust once again in 2013. This late-season contest, which could possibly decide home-field advantage for the NFC in the playoffs, has the very real possibility of being an offensive slugfest. With Julio Jones quickly becoming one of the best wide outs in the NFL, the Falcons now have the most explosive wide receiver tandem in the league with Roddy White and Jones. Futhermore, with the return of Tony Gonzalez, despite his constant suggestions that he was going to retire, the Falcons could certainty pick apart a Green Bay defense that lacks a true shutdown corner. Much like the progression of Jones, the emergence of Randall Cobb has added a totally new dynamic to an already loaded Packers offense. Cobb's quickness and ability to play in the slot provides a perfect mix for the smooth route running ability of Jordy Nelson and the intermediate game of Jermichael Finley. Additionally, Atlanta is a nice matchup for a Packers offensive line that greatly struggles with the pass rush, as the Falcons registered the 2nd fewest sacks in the NFC in 2012. The Falcons-Packers week 14 contest could be the most enthralling and back-and-fourth game all season long.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
The Jets Should Start Tim Tebow
Timothy Richard Tebow. Just uttering the name of the former Heisman Trophy winner steers up controversy, emotions, and heated arguments amongst fans and naysayers. Never in the history of the NFL has a backup quarterback, who has completed just 5 passes through the first 10 weeks of the season, been the talk of every radio show and television newscast in the country. Mark Sanchez has had to answer more questions about Tim Tebow than anybody could have imagined when Woody Johnson and Mike Tannenbaum traded for the polarizing QB from the Broncos back in March.
Although Rex Ryan continues to say Tebow will have an expanded role in the Jets offense, week after week Tebow is only on the field for a few snaps each game. With the Jets sitting in a 3-6 hole and in grave danger of being out of playoff contention with 5 or 6 games left in the season, it is time they turn the ball over to Tebow. Not only does the two-time college National Champion give the Jets a wide range of play choices with his dynamic ability to both pass and run, but Mark Sanchez has played so poorly the last couple of weeks that the Jets absolutely need a change behind center.
The struggles of Mark Sanchez, especially in the last two Jet losses, is the main reason gang green need to make a change at quarterback. If the Jets do in fact make a switch behind center, it would be more about Mark Sanchez losing his role due to his poor play rather than Tim Tebow taking over the quarterback job.
There have been glimpses this season where we have seen an effective Mark Sanchez, specifically in the Jets 29-26 overtime loss to the Patriots in Foxboro. Although the Pats secondary does rank dead last in the AFC in passing yards allowed per game and has been getting torched all season, Sanchez looked in rhythm with his receivers and was throwing the ball on time all game long.
However, moments of promise have been few and far between for Sanchez and the team's offense. Aside from the Patriots game, the Jets passing attack has been extremely lackluster. No team in the NFL fears gang green's air attack whatsoever, as only the Jacksonville Jaguars have thrown for less yards in the AFC than the Jets. Sanchez is also the only NFL starting quarterback to have thrown for less than 140 yards in more than two games this season, as he failed to eclipse the 140 yard mark in games against the Steelers, 49ers, Colts, and Seahawks. Not only has Sanchez held on to the ball for too long in the pocket, which has resulted in sacks and turnovers, but the former USC quarterback's accuracy has also failed him, as he ranks dead last in the league with a 52 percent completion percentage.
As a duel threat quarterback, Tebow can bring unique qualities to the Jets that the inept offense has been lacking all season long. Although Mark Sanchez is mobile in the pocket and can move around to evade sacks, Tebow can extend plays like no other quarterback in the NFL, which would allow the Jets poor receiving core more time to create separation down the field. Tebow's running ability would also prove to be a weapon for the Jets rushing attack, which is averaging just 3.8 yards per carry through nine games. With defenses keying on Tebow's running prowess and stacking the box, it would leave openings in the secondary for the Jets much-maligned receivers as well.
Obviously, Tebow has his limitations as a passer. Although his ability to throw the deep ball is very underrated, his accuracy is a source of concern. However, Tebow would bring something different to a Jets offense in need of a change, as the offensive attack has sputtered all season long.
While Mark Sanchez deserves the lion's share of the blame for the Jets 3-6 start, there have been a multitude of failures for the Jets not only on the field, but in management as well as in the front office.
Frankly, the Jets just don't have the talent that was there when they reached the AFC Championship game in back-to-back years in 2009 and 2010. While the Jets "ground and pound" style was in the top four of the NFL in both of their playoff years, only four other AFC teams have rushed for fewer yards per carry than the Jets this season. While Thomas Jones and LaDainian Tomlinson were proven running backs, Shonn Greene is nowhere near a top flight NFL back. The Jets also have limited talent and big play ability with their wide receivers. Whereas in 2010 gan green had Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards, Jerricho Cotchery, and Brad Smith at their receiver positions, with Holmes out for the season this year, the Jets receiving core of Stephen Hill, Chaz Schilens, Jeremy Kerley, and Clyde Gates is almost laughable to think about. Although Stephen Hill, who the Jets drafted in the second round from Georgia Tech, has electrifying speed, he has dropped far too many passes in his rookie campaign.
The Jets coaching staff has also miss managed their use of Tebow in their "wildcat" package. The former Florida QB has not had nearly enough snaps to make the plays that he is capable of making, as the Jets continue to use their dynamic playmaker for just seven snaps per game. Also, when Jets offensive coordinator Tony Sparano does use Tebow behind center, he is way too conservative with his play selection. Rather than let Tebow sit in the pocket and observe the field and allow him to make plays, Sparano continues to have Tebow fake the ball to the running back and run it straight up the gut, which every defense player is expecting, for three or four yards.
If Jets owner Woody Johnson and general manager Mike Tannenbaum brought Tebow in to be a factor rather than to sell hot dogs, PSL's, and make the back pages of the news, than why has Tebow's role been so small in the offense? Also, if Tebow is going to be rarely used, why bring him into the fold and create a tremendous amount of pressure on Mark Sanchez?
If the Jets fail to beat the St. Louis Rams this week, their season will essentially be all but over and considering how poorly Sanchez has played in the Jets last two losses to the Dolphins and Seahawks, gang green need to turn to Tebow. With the Jets three games out in the AFC East as well as three games behind the Steelers and Colts in the AFC Wild Card, it is now or never for New York.
Although Rex Ryan continues to say Tebow will have an expanded role in the Jets offense, week after week Tebow is only on the field for a few snaps each game. With the Jets sitting in a 3-6 hole and in grave danger of being out of playoff contention with 5 or 6 games left in the season, it is time they turn the ball over to Tebow. Not only does the two-time college National Champion give the Jets a wide range of play choices with his dynamic ability to both pass and run, but Mark Sanchez has played so poorly the last couple of weeks that the Jets absolutely need a change behind center.
The struggles of Mark Sanchez, especially in the last two Jet losses, is the main reason gang green need to make a change at quarterback. If the Jets do in fact make a switch behind center, it would be more about Mark Sanchez losing his role due to his poor play rather than Tim Tebow taking over the quarterback job.
There have been glimpses this season where we have seen an effective Mark Sanchez, specifically in the Jets 29-26 overtime loss to the Patriots in Foxboro. Although the Pats secondary does rank dead last in the AFC in passing yards allowed per game and has been getting torched all season, Sanchez looked in rhythm with his receivers and was throwing the ball on time all game long.
However, moments of promise have been few and far between for Sanchez and the team's offense. Aside from the Patriots game, the Jets passing attack has been extremely lackluster. No team in the NFL fears gang green's air attack whatsoever, as only the Jacksonville Jaguars have thrown for less yards in the AFC than the Jets. Sanchez is also the only NFL starting quarterback to have thrown for less than 140 yards in more than two games this season, as he failed to eclipse the 140 yard mark in games against the Steelers, 49ers, Colts, and Seahawks. Not only has Sanchez held on to the ball for too long in the pocket, which has resulted in sacks and turnovers, but the former USC quarterback's accuracy has also failed him, as he ranks dead last in the league with a 52 percent completion percentage.
As a duel threat quarterback, Tebow can bring unique qualities to the Jets that the inept offense has been lacking all season long. Although Mark Sanchez is mobile in the pocket and can move around to evade sacks, Tebow can extend plays like no other quarterback in the NFL, which would allow the Jets poor receiving core more time to create separation down the field. Tebow's running ability would also prove to be a weapon for the Jets rushing attack, which is averaging just 3.8 yards per carry through nine games. With defenses keying on Tebow's running prowess and stacking the box, it would leave openings in the secondary for the Jets much-maligned receivers as well.
Obviously, Tebow has his limitations as a passer. Although his ability to throw the deep ball is very underrated, his accuracy is a source of concern. However, Tebow would bring something different to a Jets offense in need of a change, as the offensive attack has sputtered all season long.
While Mark Sanchez deserves the lion's share of the blame for the Jets 3-6 start, there have been a multitude of failures for the Jets not only on the field, but in management as well as in the front office.
Frankly, the Jets just don't have the talent that was there when they reached the AFC Championship game in back-to-back years in 2009 and 2010. While the Jets "ground and pound" style was in the top four of the NFL in both of their playoff years, only four other AFC teams have rushed for fewer yards per carry than the Jets this season. While Thomas Jones and LaDainian Tomlinson were proven running backs, Shonn Greene is nowhere near a top flight NFL back. The Jets also have limited talent and big play ability with their wide receivers. Whereas in 2010 gan green had Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards, Jerricho Cotchery, and Brad Smith at their receiver positions, with Holmes out for the season this year, the Jets receiving core of Stephen Hill, Chaz Schilens, Jeremy Kerley, and Clyde Gates is almost laughable to think about. Although Stephen Hill, who the Jets drafted in the second round from Georgia Tech, has electrifying speed, he has dropped far too many passes in his rookie campaign.
The Jets coaching staff has also miss managed their use of Tebow in their "wildcat" package. The former Florida QB has not had nearly enough snaps to make the plays that he is capable of making, as the Jets continue to use their dynamic playmaker for just seven snaps per game. Also, when Jets offensive coordinator Tony Sparano does use Tebow behind center, he is way too conservative with his play selection. Rather than let Tebow sit in the pocket and observe the field and allow him to make plays, Sparano continues to have Tebow fake the ball to the running back and run it straight up the gut, which every defense player is expecting, for three or four yards.
If Jets owner Woody Johnson and general manager Mike Tannenbaum brought Tebow in to be a factor rather than to sell hot dogs, PSL's, and make the back pages of the news, than why has Tebow's role been so small in the offense? Also, if Tebow is going to be rarely used, why bring him into the fold and create a tremendous amount of pressure on Mark Sanchez?
If the Jets fail to beat the St. Louis Rams this week, their season will essentially be all but over and considering how poorly Sanchez has played in the Jets last two losses to the Dolphins and Seahawks, gang green need to turn to Tebow. With the Jets three games out in the AFC East as well as three games behind the Steelers and Colts in the AFC Wild Card, it is now or never for New York.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Best Trades During The First Round Of The NFL Draft
Although the first two picks of the NFL draft lacked the drama of a normal year, there wasn't a dearth of quality selections and as always a lack of head scratchers.
On Wednesday, Colts officials confirmed the overwhelming thought that they were going to take Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck with the first pick in the NFL draft. General Manager Ryan Grigson said, "We didn't see the point in prolonging what the world already knows. It's about Andrew and we wanted to do the right thing by him... We've exhausted the process. We've pretty much made up our mind and we're going to go from there. We feel good about it and we'll go from there."
The next day, Redskins G.M. Bruce Allen announced what most people assumed when the Skins gave up three first round picks to acquire the second overall selection from the Rams, which was that the Skins would take Baylor quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III with their selection. Allen said, "We think that Robert fits our offense to a tee. We're excited about being able to complement him with what we've already been able to do with some of his special talents. Obviously his charisma is going to be embraced by the Redskins Nation."
Although this year had no where near the amount of anticipation at the top of the draft like in 2006 when questions swirled all draft week on the Texans difficult decision between taking Mario Williams, Reggie Bush, and Vince Young with the first pick, a lot of another intriguing stroylines emerged.
With offense numbers at a record high last year and team's slinging the ball all over the field with the passing game taking over the league, defense was a priority in the draft. From picks 6 to 21, there were 13 defenses players taken, compared to just 3 offense players selected.
Coming into the draft, most people thought that there wouldn't be as many trades as last year because of a lack of really can't miss guys and not a great disparity between players projected to go in the first round and the second round. For example, instead of a team trading up to try and get a guy like Quinton Coples, the assumption was that they could wait until the second round and select a guy like Andre Branch, while not losing any more picks.
However, the first round was littered with teams trading up to get a player they desperately wanted as well as teams trading down to stockpile on picks. There were eight draft day trades during the first round, as the Colts were the only team in the top 7 to hold on to their draft pick from the start of the draft process. The Patriots, Broncos, and Rams all made two trades to change their position in the draft (including the Rams pre-draft trade with the Redskins).
Best Trades During The First Round:
#5 Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars - WR Justin Blackmon from Oklahoma State:
When the Jacksonville Jaguars traded up from the 16th pick in last year's draft to acquire Blaine Gabbert out of Missouri with the 10th overall selection, the Jags expected Gabbert to become their quarterback of the future. Due to the ineffectiveness of Luke McCown (McCown was picked off 4 times in three quarters against the Jets in week 2) Gabbert was forced to play much earlier than expected, and the rookie severely struggled in his 14 starts.
In 8 of Gabbert's starts he threw for less than 150 yards and he had a woeful completion percentage of 50.8 to go along with a league low 65.4 passer rating. Gabbert was hit a ton in the packet, as he was sacked 40 times (tied for the most in the AFC along with Big Ben), and his confidence looked down and he looked deeply flustered when he would drop back to pass. Gabbert almost looked fearful of staying in the pocket and making a throw down the field because he was always getting hit.
Jacksonville's inept offense, which ranked dead last in yards per game and passing yards per game last year, will be getting a huge lift with the addition of 2-time Biletnikoff Award winner (given to the best receiver in college football) Justin Blackmon. Blackmon will provide the outside threat that Jacksonville so desperately needs, and a go-to-guy for Blaine Gabbert, who didn't have a receiver last year with more than 44 catches or 460 yards.
The Jags made a terrific move by giving the Buccaneers their 7th overall selection and a fourth round pick, in order to move up two spots and ensure that they would land Blackmon. Blackmon, who is 6'1'', is often compared to Anquan Boldin because of their similar stature and their great hands. Blackmon, who was third in the FBS last year with 121 catches, is very comfortable in catching the ball over the middle and he is also a huge red zone threat, as he ranked 2nd in the FBS last year with 18 touchdowns.
Whether Gabbert can be a successful quarterback in the NFL remains to be seen, but Jacksonville has found themselves a pro-bowl caliber receiver in Blackmon.
#6 Pick: Dallas Cowboys - CB Morris Claiborne from LSU:
The Cowboys time to win with their current core group of players is starting to run down and Cowboys fans are growing inpatient of their team's lack of success, despite all of the talent that they have assembled. By the start of next year, Tony Romo will be 32, Jay Ratliff will 31, DeMarcus Ware and Jason Witten will be 30, and Marcus Spears will be 29. For a team that has a 1-6 playoff record since 1998 and hasn't made it past the Divisional Round since they won the Super Bowl 17 years ago in 1995, the Cowboys had to move up in the draft.
Last year the Cowboys downfall was their atrocious secondary play. They ranked 23rd in the NFL in opponents passing yards per game, as the opposing quarterback threw for an average of 244 yards against them. After the worst season of his 9 year career, the Cowboys released their long time top cornerback Terence Newman. Newman looked like he lost a step, as he struggled to stay with speedy receivers and had a career low of just 8 pass deflections all season long. As Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said," We've had our shortcomings in our secondary for the last three seasons."
It was a great draft day trade by the Cowboys to make a leap up 8 spots to the 6th pick and give the Rams their 14th overall pick and a second rounder because the Cowboys desperately needed a cover corner with the ability of Morris Claiborne. Claiborne, who has been overshadowed in LSU's daunting secondary the past two years because of the play of Patrick Peterson (who was taken 5th in last year's draft by the Arizona Cardinals) and the "Honey Badger" Tyrann Mathieu (who finished 5th in the 2012 Heisman Trophy voting), is the best pure cornerback of all three guys.
Claiborne is everything that a team is looking for in a cornerback that is going to try and shut down the opposing team's best receiving threat. The 2012 SEC Defensive Player of the Year and Jim Thorpe Award Winner (given to the best cornerback in college football) is extremely athletic and has unbelievable ball skills for a cornerback, as Claiborne had 6 interceptions last year. Although the move was a bold one, it was necessary because the Cowboys need a shutdown corner, which Claiborne has the ability to be. The Boys will have to stop top receivers like Brandon Marshall, Anquan Boldin, Steve Smith, Roddy White, A.J. Green, Mike Wallace, Marques Colston, as well as Victor Cruz and DeSean Jackson twice a year if they want to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2009.
#12 Pick: Philadelphia Eagles - DT Fletcher Cox from Mississippi State:
Last year, the so called "Dream Team" began the season 1-4 and after a week 13 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, the Eagles were sitting at 4-8. A season that started so promising with the signings and acquisitions of quarterback Vince Young, running back Ronnie Brown, defensive end Jason Babin, defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins, and cornerbacks Nnamdi Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, ended without a playoff birth. It was the first time the Eagles didn't make the playoffs in back-to-back years since 1998-1999.
The Eagles downfall last year was their inability to stop the run. Through the Eagles first 5 games, they were allowing over 165 rushing yards per game and they allowed 6 rushing touchdowns in that span where they dug themselves into a huge 1-4 hole. The Birds allowed at least 100 yards to all of the top tier running back that they faced including Michael Turner, who ran for 114 yards, Frank Gore, who ran for 127 yards, Fred Jackson, who ran for 111 yards, Matt Forte, who ran for 133 yards, Marshawn Lynch, who ran for 148 yards, and finally Reggie Bush, who ran for 103 yards, and the Eagles had a 1-5 record in these games.
The Eagles made a smart move by trading their 15th overall pick, as well as a 4th and 6th rounder to the Seattle Seahawks, so that they could move up three spots and ensue that they would improve their run defense. With defensive tackle Dontari Poe from Memphis already off the boards after he was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs with the 11th pick and no insurance that the only other two top defensive tackles, Fletcher Cox and Michael Brockers, would still be around by pick 15, the Eagles had to pull the trigger and move up. The Birds will be more than pleased with their selection of Cox out of Mississippi St.
Cox, who was a Pro Football Weekly All-American and a First-Team All-SEC selection, will be a large presence in the middle of the Eagles defense. The pick of the 6'4'' and nearly 300 pound interior linemen, along with the trade to aquire linebacker DeMeco Ryans from the Texans will greatly improve the Eagles defensive interior.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Cory Tell All Sports
Welcome to my blog, Cory Tell All Sports! Before you begin to read my posts and my sports analysis and opinion, you should know a little about me and the teams who I live and die with. Helping me on the blog with all my articles and expert analysis will be my brother Rory. (We seldom have the same opinions). You can follow my blog by joining the fan page on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cory-Tell-All-Sports/201558063212620 or by following me on twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/ctallsports.
Now you know all you need to know about me. By the way, don't worry I am not crying in the locker room after writing this post (Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra)
My love for the Colts goes back to their days in Baltimore where they won three championships in 58, 59, and 68 and one super bowl in 71. My dad and his father were die hard Colts fans when they lived in Baltimore. My dad also went to school down in Baltimore at Maryland Dental School. When my dad was only nine years old on his birthday on January 12, 1969, he had to watch Broadway Joe Namath and come through on his guarantee to defeat the heavily favored Colts in Super Bowl II with the New York Jets. Although I got my super bowl in 07 and the monkey off the back of Peyton, I had to go through the anguish of a super bowl loss to the Saints in 2010.
When I was a little kid, I went to Boston three times a summer on the way up to my camp in Maine. Each year I went to a Red Sox game and I have just fallen in love with Fenway Park. In 2001 when the Red Sox only finished three games over .500 I felt like the curse may never be broken. Not winning a championship since 1918 isn't the easiest thing for a young kid to handle. I've had so many great memories with the World Series in 04 and then again in 07. I remember the cake that my mom wouldn't let me eat although the Sox were up three games to zero and the score was 3 to 0. I also remember the happy birthday wish on the big screen at the Red Sox game for my 11th birthday. I can say that I have seen my beloved Sox's win two world series and not lose one world series game. After next season that record in World Series will hopefully be 12-0. My obsession over the Red Sox has also helped me outside of baseball. For example, I know that France declared war on Austria to begin the French Revolutionary Wars on April 20, 1792 because on the same day 20 years later Fenway Park opened.
My dad went to Lafayette undergraduate school and although I love my Leopards and hope they beat Bucknell in the Patriot League championship game to get into the tourney, my dad's dental school and the Maryland Terps is the team that I have followed since I was young. I was pretty lucky to be alive for the final four in 01 and the national championship in 02. Although since the title we have only had one sweet 16 appearance in 03, I am looking forward to having a run in the ACC tournament this year. The Maryland football team has somewhat had the same kind of story as the basketball team. In 2001, we only lost two games all season to Florida St. and then to Florida in the Orange Bowl, after going 5-6 the previous season. We haven't won any ACC championships since then but we are looking forward to Randy Edsall coming to the program.
I love the Devils because I know most of the players and coaches as many of them live in my town. The former coach of the Devils John Maclean is my dads friend and I know Brodeur and his kids. Although I was disappointed over the firing of Maclean and their early season struggles, I am happy they are beginning the play well and are only eight points out of the final playoff spot.
When I was in London with my family, I begged my parents to take me to a soccer game. There were no games in London at the time because of the international break but since there was no game I wanted a shirt. There were Chelsea shirts everywhere in the city and I fell in love with the Chelsea blue. Little did I know that Chelsea was owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. I feel like I am Chelsea's good luck charm as they have won the league three times since my trip to London in 04-05, 05-06, and 09-10. They also reached the Champions League final in 2008 and I think we all have seen Terry's slip in the penalty shoot-out vs who else but Manchester United.
My love for sports doesn't end there though.
I love James Blake as I have read his auto biography and fallen in love with his story. He overcame a broken neck, his father's death, and shingles, to be ranked as high as number 4 in 2006. He currently is ranked 164 in the world.
I have never been a big Tiger fan and I love to see the underdog stories at the majors. What is better than Y.E. Yang outplaying Tiger on the final day of the 2009 PGA championship or Louis Oosthuizen just destroying the field at the 2010 Open championship? I have always loved lefty, Phil Mickelson as well.
Although I don't have one favorite NBA team, I love to watch the association. I am not a LeBron hater (sorry) and I have love Stephen Curry ever since his days at Davidson.
Now you know all you need to know about me. By the way, don't worry I am not crying in the locker room after writing this post (Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra)
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