Mike Lockhart's Sports Blog

Moss back to his roots

2010-10-07T06:45:00.004-04:00

Well the Pats traded Randy Moss for a 3rd round pick yesterday. I was sick to my stomach all day. This certainly has an impact on fantasy football. I don't think it will have a major impact on Brady. I foresee him not having the long shot, but multiple short to intermediate passes. This could be big for leagues that have points for completions. BenJarvus Green-Ellis should see more carries as well. I like this idea. I think BenJarvus is one of those backs who gets better with more carries. In Minnesota this should be huge. Favre has the deep threat that has been missing. This will help open up the running game for Adrian Peterson. Getting defenders off the line of scrimmage. Another player who will be positively effected is tight end Visanthe Shiancoe. He had a big first 2 weeks. After that teams started doubling him up and taking that weapon away. Although, playing the Jets "D" is never a good way to start off. After that, things should start falling into place.

Fantasy football radio show

2010-08-25T18:09:00.003-04:00

Every Sunday starting at 9am, tune into 98.5 The Sports Hub for the fantasy football show. We will be there for your weekly lineup questions, add/drops and trades will all be covered. This week will be a pre-draft show. Every Sunday at 9:20am, Will Carroll from SI.com will join us for the injury report. Call us at 617-779-0985 or text us at 69985. If your not near a radio, steam us live at 985thesportshub.com. Join Nick Cattles and myself all season long for your fantasy fix!

A sigh of relief

2010-08-12T19:37:00.003-04:00

The Patriots opened up the preseason at Gillette tonight against the reining champs the saints. the defense came out looking good. Rookie Jermaine Cunningham recorded a sack in the first drive. Brady and the offense came out looking a little flat after a long Julian Edelman punt return. But after that the offense started to gel. BenJarvus Green-Ellis ran well and scored a TD. Rookie tight end Rob Gronkowski had a great block on that play. Moss, Tate and Edelman got into the mix catching passes. Edelman looks great everytime he touches the ball. Left guard Dan Connolly did a fine job in the place of Logan Mankins who is currently holding out in a contract dispute. The defense looked stout against the run. It wont surprise me to see Brandon Spikes end up getting the defensive rookie of the year award. After Brady losing it on the line last week and some poor practices. There was a lot of positives from tonights game. The defense looked good and the offense did as well. Lawrence Maroney ran hard, but can he do it during the regular season? We've all bee fooled before.

Brady sets a tone

2010-08-05T12:11:00.004-04:00

Today was an interesting morning at camp. When I got there the three QB's were tossing footballs into a barrel from 30 yards away into the corner end zone. Brian Hoyer was the only player to sink one in the can. meanwhile the rest of the team was practicing special teams. Again, Brandon Tate stood out. After the horn sounded the first offense got together against the first defense. The offense looked sloppy. Aaron Hernandez, Randy Moss and the entire offensive line got chewed out by Brady at different points. Near the end of practice the team ran two minute drills. After being yelled at by Tom, the offense looked much better. Hernandez and Welker made a most of the plays. Both looked good in the short to intermediate routes. Ben Jarvus Green-Ellis was by far the best runner. Kevin Faulk was his usual outlet in the flats catching the ball. Offensive lineman Dan Connolly played a lot of left guard. He made some nice blocks out there and could be the replacement for Logan Maknkins. I was pretty big on Torry Holt coming in here. It looks as if he could be a roster casualty if things don't turn around. With Moss, Welker, Edelman, Tate and Price he could have a tough time making the 53 man roster.

Breaking down the divisions: AFC West

2010-08-04T06:42:00.006-04:00

1. San Diego Chargers - (10-6) - The Chargers are in a year in which they need to find an identity. Tomlinson is gone and rookie Ryan Mathews is in. Mathews and Darren Sproles should form a solid duo in the backfield. Philip Rivers is coming off a nice season in which he threw 4,254 and 28 touchdowns. One of his top targets Vincent Jackson is suspended for the first three games. Jackson had his best season a year ago. Tight end Antonio Gates inked a new deal with the team and should be River's security blanket again this season. He will be leaned on in the first three weeks. Malcom Floyd is the only guy who had a decent amount of catches and he only had 45. He will have to step up the first few weeks and through out the season. Josh Reed and Buster Davis aren't going to do much. The offensive line is solid. Marcus McNeil has taken some steps back in the last few seasons. Not to mention he is holding out of camp for a new contract. The defense has some new faces. Massive Rookie Cam Thomas will battle Ogemdi Nwagbuo as the Anchor at nose. Shawne Merriman is another holdout for the team. Larry English will take his spot should the team release him or if he continues to hold out. English got his feet wet as a rookie and should be a good replacement. The rest of the linebackers look good. Shaun Phillips, Brandon Siler and Stephen Cooper are all good tacklers and can get after the QB. Trading Antonio Cromartie should have no effect of the defense. Antione Cason and Quentin Jammer should hold down the backfield fine. Neither are shutdown corners, but they can get the job done with a solid pass rush. Rookie Darrel Stuckey should be the starting strong safety if he can pick up the defense in the preseason. He doesn't have much competition. Eric Weddle will be back at free safety. Weddle is a very underrated player in my opinion. There probably wont be another team from this division in the playoffs. So it;s the Chargers spot to take.

2. Oakland Raiders - (8-8) - The Raiders made some positive moves this offseason. Bringing In Jason Campbell was a good start. Campbell has had his hiccups in his career. But he has some very good games under his belt as well. Jason Campbell is an upgrade over JaMarcus Russell for sure, that's not saying a whole lot. Darren McFadden has been a bust up to this point. Michael Bush will try to win the top runningback stop this preseason. Zack Miller has been the most consistent weapon in the passing game for the Raiders. The tight end is entering his forth season and could blow up this year with a legit QB. Campbell loved to target tight end Chris Cooley when in Washington. So look for big things from Miller this season. The Wide outs are below average. Chaz Shillins is the best player in that group. He missed the first 9 weeks of the season. But played pretty well when he came back. He should have a solid season for himself. The rest of the receivers aren't anything special. Louis Murphy will have to take a step forward after a decent rookie year. Darrius Heyward-bey is a huge bust and was a big mistake of a first round pick. Johnnie Lee-Higgins isn't anything special. The offensive line is average. Drafting Bruce Campbell could come in handy in passing situations. The defense is going to be the strength of the team, although I believe the offense will be better than in past seasons. The defensive line is solid. A 4-3 defense featuring Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly, John Henderson and Quentin Groves. They will be good against the run. They may not be as good against the pass. Rookie Lamarr Houston is a smaller lineman who can get after the passer. Quentin Groves may be able to help in that area as well. The linebackers should be very strong. Rookie middle linebacker Rolondo McClain will be the next big thing. He will be that 100+ tackles a year type of player. Oakland got Kamerion Wimbley in a trade with Cleveland. He's a been a bit disappointing but can still bring something to the pass rush. Thomas Howard has been backing up Wimbley at the weak side this camp. He lost his position on the strong side to Trevor Scott. The secondary is held down by one of the top corners in the league. Nnamdi Asomugha makes it impossible to throw on and can shut down any teams top receiver. Tyvon Branch has been a nice surprise at strong safety. Free safety Hiram Eugene has been entrenched as the starter since his rookie year. He only has one interception in that span. Chris Johnson is excellent against the run at the other corner spot. If the line and linebackers can step it up rushing the pass. This could be a strong defense in a weak division.

3. Kansas City Chiefs - (6-10) - Matt Cassell and the Chiefs had a tough season a year ago. The offense looks like it could be potent this year. New additions Thomas Jones and rookie Dexter McCluster should add between the tackles runner and an explosive play maker. Jones gives Jamaal Charles a change of pace from a speed outside runner. Dwayne Bowe and Chris Chambers form a formidable duo. McCluster can play running back as he did at Ole Miss, Receiver, kick returner and QB in the wildcat formation. The offensive line is average. Matt Cassel will pair up again with former coordinator Charlie Weis to try and rekindle the old Patriot magic. I think Cassel will have a solid year. He should hit the 3,000 yard mark and 22-25 TD's. The defense is the weakness. Even though they have spent so many draft picks on it, it's not good. The line is underwhelming. Tyson Jackson only had 36 tackles and no sacks in his rookie season. Glen Dorsey hasn't been much better in the 2 seasons he has played. Both high first round picks. The middle linebackers are terrible. Outside linebackers Mike Vrabel is getting old and showed it last year. Tamba Hali had 8.5 sacks. He was the pass rush last year. The secondary is going to be better. It's young like the rest of the defense. Rookie Eric Berry will be a star and will make an immediate impact. Javier Arenas is another rook who may start this season at corner. Brandon Flowers is solid and will man the other corner spot. The linebackers are to bad to make this a good defense. In a 3-4 defense the backer are the most important players on the field. The will lose a lot of game because of them.

4. Denver Broncos - (5-11) - It was a tale of two seasons a year ago for Denver. They went from the hottest team in the NFL to finding a hard time to find a win. They lost star player Brandon Marshall. It looks as if Kyle Orton will be back behind center. They acquired Brady Quinn from the Browns and drafted Tim Tebow late in the first round. Orton should be the guy as he was last year. The runningbacks are not great. Correll Buckhalter and Knowshon Moreno will get the bulk of the carries. Moreno suffered a hamstring tear and the team hopes he will be ready for week one. They added some pieces to the receiving core. Eddie Royal hopes to rebound from a down year two. They drafted Demaryius Thomas in the first round. They hope he can replace Brandon Marshall. That will be a tough task. Look for Eric Decker to be a surprise for the team in the receiving game. He was a top prospect until he was injured half way through his senior year at Minnesota. The offensive line took a major hit when left tackle Ryan Clady hurt himself playing basketball. The team hope he can be ready early in the season. But it could take longer and he wont be full strength or speed. The defense has taken some major blows as well. NFL sack leader Elvis Dumervil's season is in jeopardy. He tore a pectoral mussel. His back up Javis Moss is also injured. He will need surgery to repair his broken hand. He should be back at some point in the season. Robert Ayers needs to have a better second year to make up for these injuries. The signing of nose tackle Jamal Williams will help plug up the middle. The secondary is average. Champ Bail;y is still good, he has definitely lost a step. Safety Brian Dawkins brought a lot of leadership to the defense last season. He should be back with a high motor this year as well. Andre Goodman had a good year intercepting 5 balls. They will need this secondary to really play well with Dumervil sidelined for the season. I think injuries, bad roster moves could really hurt Denver enough to land them in the cellar of the AFC West.

Tate stands out day 1

2010-07-30T07:58:00.004-04:00

It was a nice sunny day when the second session started yesterday in Foxboro. Many questions surround the team in the preseason. Wide receiver is a position with many battling for position. Second year receiver Brandon Tate looked great. His speed and route running was better than I expected. Rookie Taylor Price showed very good speed. Both players returned kicks also. Veteran Torry Holt doesn't have the speed he once did but his cutting and routes were on point. Holt still has great hands. Wes Welker did not participate. No need to rush him back, he will be fine by week one. A guy who will struggle to make the cut is Matthew Slater. Slater went down with a calf injury yesterday and did not return. His main roll with the team is returning kicks. Price, Tate and Julian Edelman should all make the team and have return abilities. Sam Aiken may have a hard time making the team if Holt catches on quick and mentors the younger guys. Holt helped the Jacksonville receivers become standouts last season. his leadership could be invaluable. During a running drill yesterday, Rob Gronkowski looked like a school bus running through tall grass. With 5 players on each side holding bags, the players would run through them with getting hit by the bags. Fred Taylor and a few others fell. Gronk ran through them like they weren't there. We are going to see him running over many safeties down the field in his patriot career. I liked the way Zac Robinson looked. He threw a tight spiral and showed excellent form. On the defensive side, Johnathon Wilhite got burned continuously be Edelman and Price. he could be a camp casualty. The linebacking core was scary. Tully Banta-Cain started on the right side and Rob Ninkovich on the left. Banta-Cain is a nice situational pass rusher but now more than that. Rookie Jermaine Cunningham got a lot of work on the right side. Gary Guyton and Jerod Mayo in the middle. I fully expect rookie Brandon Spikes to be playing next to mayo at some point. Spikes by the way wearing long sleeves on a hot and somewhat muggy day. In the backfield Brandon McGowan, Patrick Chung and James Sanders all rotated at safety. So there are some big questions. Who gets cut? Who can rush the passer? These are the questions we hope will get answered in the coming weeks. only time will tell.

Breaking down the divisions: AFC North

2010-07-19T06:45:00.007-04:00

1. Baltimore Ravens - (13-3) - The Baltimore Ravens are my preseason pick to win the super bowl. The offense is young and reloaded. Joe Flacco is entering season 3 and has the weapons he's ever had. Anquan Boldin Has top receiver potential. Derrick Mason is ageless and still productive. New Tight ends Ed Dickson and Dennis Pitta will make an impact. Pitta can line up in the slot and on the line. He has a Dallas Clark skill set. Ray Rice was a beast last season. He showed great running and catching ability. Willis McGahee is on the back nine but there is still some gas left in the tank. Baltimore's offensive line is one of the top in the league. All this is the making of a dangerous offense combined with a tough defense. The Ravens D-line is very stout. Rookie Terrence Cody will be a force in the middle while splitting time with Kelly Greg. Ray Lewis is still a dominant linebacker. Terrell Suggs is a speed demon rushing the QB. Paul Kruger and Sergio Kindle will get their chances at cracking the other outside linebacker side. The secondary still has Ed Reed and Dawan Landry at safety. The corners have some question marks. Fabian Washington and Dominique Foxworth are solid but unspectacular. The rushing attack of the linebackers helps any secondary so they don't have to have two Revis's holding down the corner spots. I was very surprised they didn't draft some depth at D-back. Last season they were bitten by the injury bug. The Ravens have the offense, defense and leadership to go all the way. Keeping guys healthy is always the key.

2. Cincinatti Bengals - (10-6) - The Bengals reemerged as a playoff team after a drought. Carson Palmer was back to top form. Chad Ochocinco had a good year. With more help around him this season he should be even better. Antonio Bryant is a solid number 2 receiver. The Bengals may finally have a pass catching tight end. Jermaine Gresham was the Teams first round draft choice. Gresham is a big target with good speed, questions linger due to being injury prone. Cedric Benson had a great year after many thought he was done. He rushed for 1251 and 6 td's. Can he do that again? The line still scares me and so does Benson. I don't trust that he will match what he did a season ago. I'm looking for 1050 yards, 6 touchdowns. I think the line may have some trouble holding up. Right tackle Andre Smith could easily show up to camp 360lbs. The Bengals defense took a big step forward last season. The defensive line is solid and they grabbed two players in the draft to help out even more. Carlos Dunlap and Geno Atkins could both start this season. Atkins is an undersized tackle, but he stood out at the senior bowl and was a tremendous player at Georgia. Two USC former standouts Keith Rivers and Rey Maualuga should be excellent outside linebackers. Dhani Jones came in and played a pro bowl caliber game last year. The safeties aren't the strongest. Roy Willimas can't cover. The two corners are good. Leon Hall and Johnathon Joseph are a good duo, combining for 11 interceptions. The Bengals defense is good and so is the offense. Cincinnati should be in a playoff hunt again this year. If I am wrong about the offensive line look out. this could be a 12 win team.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers - (8-8) - With Ben Roethlisberger out 4 weeks the Steelers are going to have to run the ball. Rashard Mendenhall needs to come up big in the first for weeks. He showed flashes of being a big time rusher. Dennis Dixon and Byron Leftwich will battle it out in camp for the starting quarterback spot while Big Ben is out. Hines Ward is still a good receiver and premiere run blocker. Mike Wallace came out in his rookie season and played well. Wallace caught 6 TD's for 756 yards. He could challenge for the top spot this season statistically. Heath Miller had a solid year catching the ball from the tight end spot. The Steeler's O-line is solid and got an up grade. They took Maurkice Pouncey in the first round and he should start at center from day 1. The Steelers D is still good. Keeping Troy Polomalu healthy is always the biggest factor. The rest of the secondary is just okay. Ryan Clark is a big hitter from the other safety spot. Ike Taylor and Bryant McFadden are less than spectacular. But they have great pass rushers Lamar Woodley and James Harrison in front of them to help out. Casey Hampton is still the rock in the middle, stuffing the run in front of two good inside linebackers Farrior and Timmons. The Steelers have a shot at the playoffs. They need to at least split the first 4 games. After that they get their QB back and should be a solid team.

4. Cleveland Browns - (3-13) - The Browns may get first pick in the draft come April 2011. They would have been better off with Brady Quinn behind center than Jake Delhomme. Jerome Harrison played extremely well when he took over for Jamal Lewis. He rushed for 561 yards total in the last 3 games of 2009. He is a smaller back at 5'9' 202lbs. He will be in a 2 back system with rookie Montario Hardesty. Hardesty is a power back and will be a nice combo for the team. I think they will both be productive. Last season Mohamed Massaquoi played well as a rookie at wide receiver. Josh Cribbs is a do it all type of player. He is productive running, catching and returning kicks. The line is solid with Joe Thomas holding down the blind side. But how far can Delhomme take them? Not far enough to over come a terrible defense. The defensive line is mediocre. Middle linebacker D'Qwell Jackson is about the only good player on the whole defense. The rest of the defensive unit is filled with role players and fringe guys. It's going to be another long winter in Cleveland in a tough AFC North. The Cleveland Browns are on the clock, Jake Locker or Ryan Mallett will be the biggest topic this coming season.

Fantasy Football top ten

2010-07-17T16:12:00.004-04:00

Here's a look at my fantasy football top ten. Ranks are based on PPR(Points per reception) league:

1. Chris Johnson - RB - Titans - After amassing 2509 overall yards in 2009. Johnson is the consensus number one overall pick. Rushing receiving, he does it all. The only thing I am keeping an eye on is his contract situation. I think they will get it done before preseason games start. Best pure runner in football hands down.

2. Adrian Peterson - RB - Vikings - Despite fumbling issues, Peterson remains a top back. He scored 18 touchdowns and caught 43 passes. A number I think will go up with Chester Taylor's 50 catches a year ago now in Chicago. Rookie Toby Gerhart could be looked upon to get some of the tougher short yardage. This should help save Peterson's body and help him remain healthy.

3. Ray Rice - RB - Ravens - Rice took over as the main running back in Baltimore. He caught 78 balls a years ago. I think that number goes down this season with the new weapons in the Ravens passing attack. But his rushing yards will go up and his touchdowns should as well. Weeks 14 - 17 are in the Ravens favor as far as match ups.

4. Maurice Jones-Drew - RB - Jaguars - Jones Drew took over as the main back for Jacksonville and had nothing but success. he will be looked at to provide the bulk of the Jags offense again. Expect double digit touchdowns and over 50 receptions again this season. He should run for 1200+ yards.

5. Michael Turner - RB - Falcons - Remember two years ago, not 2009. Turner had a down year but is looking to be the monster he was in 08'. I expect him to run for 1400 yards and 15-17 td's. Turner has said he's hungry to be the guy he was. He gets the ball on the goal line and can break them for 50. Not much of a pass catcher.

6. Frank Gore - RB - 49ers - Gore is coming off a terrific season with two new editions on the offensive line. San Francisco spent two first round picks on O-lineman. I predict this will be Gore's best season ever. He is a very good receiver out of the backfield. look for 1400 yards and 10 touchdowns. between 40 and 50 receptions.

7. Aaron Rodgers - QB - Packers - I think this is Rodgers year to be the top QB. After adjustments to the Pack's throwing scheme to keep Rodgers off his back worked. They Grabbed some linemen in the draft to help it out even more. He has 5 quality receivers in Jennings, Drivers, Jones, Nelson and Finley. I see a career year of 4500 yards and 33-36 touchdowns.

8. Rashard Mendenhall - RB - Steelers - Mendenhall is going to be the offense for the first 4 weeks with Ben "The Hounddog ' Roethlisberger out. It will be run first and Mendenhall showed last year he can be the top runner the Steelers need. If Big Ben doesn't do anything to get into further trouble between now and then, Mendenhall will get some of the throws his way as well. 35 receptions and 1300 yards is a possibility for him.

9. Drew Brees - QB - Saints - Brees marched the high powered Saints offense to a championship last season. He will be huge again. The Saints division isn't the best, particularly against the pass. It should be high numbers for brees again. You can build a team around a great quarterback and come back round to and get a solid RB or top wide receiver.

10. Steven Jackson - RB - Rams - Jackson is the premier guy in the Rams offense. They have been building the line for the last 3 seasons and I think this is the year they gel. Jackson ran for 1416 yards and only 4 touchdowns. Mainly because they were never in the red zone. Even with a rookie or veteran behind center look for Jackson to get some passes his way. Jackson has caught 98 balls in a season before. I think his rushing rays stay the same, receptions and touchdowns go up.

Breaking down the divisions: AFC South

2010-07-15T06:29:00.008-04:00

1. Indianapolis Colts - (12-4) - The defending AFC champs are still loaded on offense. Payton Manning seems ageless and still has the weapons to succeed. Reggie Wayne is one of the top wide outs in the game. Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie had very nice seasons and should take another step forward this year. Anothony Gonzalez has been a bit of a disappointment so far. He improved on his rookie season. Can he go one step further this year? His competition proves to be tough and receptions will be harder to get with the cast around him. Another receiver that will be looking for catches is rookie Blair White. White is a tough slot receiver out of Michigan State. He has great hands but mediocre speed. Dallas Clark is one of the best tight ends in the league. Clark has the versatility to line up all over the field and creates match up nightmares for opposing defenses. The line is still a solid unit to protect manning and open up holes for the backs. Joseph Addai managed to stay relatively healthy and have a decent season for himself. Donald Brown got banged up in his rookie season. He showed flashes of being able to have success. The jury is still out on Brown, This season should be a showcase to see if he can take over as top dog for the Colts rushing attack. The Colts used their first round draft choice to add depth the the Defensive pass rush. Indy took defensive end Jerry Hughes from TCU. Hughes fits the fast smaller end speed rushing type they covet. He can get his feet wet behind the top duo of Mathis and freeney. The linebacking corps are solid. Philip Wheeler and Clint Sessions stepped up and showed they were worthy of being starters on the outside. Gary Brackett is a steady veteran. They added Pat Angerer in this past draft to learn behind Brackett. He could be the middle linebacker of the future. The defensive backs have some question marks. Safeties Sanders and Bethea are holding down the safety spots. The corners are another story. Kelvin Hayden has had good seasons in his career but hasn't stayed healthy the past two in a row. Jarraud Powers had one interception last year and looks to be the starter on the right side for the Colts D. With the defensive line as good as they are, it will help the backs.

2. Houston Texans - (9-7) - The Houston Texans are still looking for that playoffs birth. The offense has been deepened By free agency and the draft. Ben Tate was taken in the second round. Tate played at Auburn in a spread offense. He should be a perfect fit for Houston. He is a between the tackles runner with some skills in the receiving game. Look for Tate to get most of the goal line carries. Steve Slaton and Arian Foster will be looking for touches this season. Slaton Dissapointed in 2009. Foster had nice good games at the end of the year. It's an open competition at runningback, I think in the end Ben Tate becomes the workhorse they need. Matt Schaub led the league in passing yards a year ago. He has reached top status amongst active NFL quarterbacks. Throwing to the best wide receiver in the NFL helps. Johnson was again an unstoppable beast. Except when lining up across from New York Jet Darrell Revis. Kevin Walter is a solid option for Schaub. Owen Daniels is an excellent tight end but got injured last season. Jacoby Jones showed some skills in the receiving game and return game. The Texans still need one more option to throw to. Rookie Dorin Dickerson could be that guy. He made need a year of seasoning. Dickerson spent the last few seasons at tight end for the university of Pittsburg. The defense will take a hit the first month. Defensive rookie of the year Brian Cushing is out due to suspension. DeMaco Ryans is one of the premiere middle linebacker in the league. The defensive line is good. Mario Williams has been proving himself as the number one overall pick in 2006. Connor Barwin had a decent rookie year and should be more of a presence rushing the passer. Houston spent their first pick in the draft on Kareem Jackson a cornerback from Alabama. Bernard Pollard has established himself as an important player in the Texans Backfield. The rest of the defensive backfield is iffy at best. Eugene Wilson isn't a great free safety. The other corner Glover Quinn and Jaques Reeves need to step up to make this defense better. If they struggle it could be the difference between making the playoffs and not.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars - (8-8) - It aint gonna be pretty! But this team will win some games through grit, defense and a ground attack. Quarterback David Garrard has been good, bad and down right ugly at times. He has a young receiver core that learned a lot from Torry Holt last season. Mike Sims-Walker had a career high 63 receptions last season. He will be the main target in the passing game. Mike Thomas had a solid rookie season for himself in 2009 on the other side of Sims-Walker. The offensive line is good. The Jags took two tackles a year ago in the draft and they will again be opening holes for Maurice Jones-Drew. He is like a cannon ball running down the field at 5'7'' 210 lbs. Jones-Drew will again be a premiere back in the league. He ran for 1394 yards and 15 touchdowns when Fred Taylor departed via free agency. The defense was disappointing last year. They couldn't put any pressure on the quarterback. To fix in they spent first round pick on Tyson Alualu. A surprising pick, but Alualu is a speedy Defensive tackle. Austin Lane was taken in the fifth round. Lane was a stand out at the senior bowl rushing the passer. Aaron Kampman was brought in to play end where he is best suited. Kampman had a bad knee injury last season. Time will tell on his impact. The biggest acquisition was Kirk Morrison. He came over in a trade with the raiders. Morrison is one of the most underrated backers in the league. He is a tackling machine, averaging around 100 a year. Daryl Smith and Justin Durant can make this an elite group if Durant can step up his play a bit. The defensive backfield should be helped by the better pass rush. Rashean Mathis has show lock down ability at corner. Reggie Nelson has been impressive in his three years with the team. This could be a play off team if the defense can get after the QB. Jacksonville could take over Houston for a wild card spot if they can put it all together.

4. Tennessee Titans - ( 7-9 ) - Tennessee had two different seasons in 09'. after a 59-0 beating in New England, the Titans came out playing strong. Chris Johnson took the keys to the offense and ran all over opposing defenses. Johnson gained the most total yards ever in the NFL(2509) in his second season. Entering year three he is in a contract hold out with the team. I believe they will come to an agreement before the season starts. How can't they? He is the offense. Javon Ringer will get some touches this year with LenDale White gone. Rookie Lagarrette Blount could see some goal line carries. Vince Young still isn't a quality quarterback. He needs to throw more TD's and less picks. He can make things happen in the clutch toward the end of the game. But if there is any chance of making the post season, it rides on his shoulders. Kenny Britt was a bright spot at wide receiver. He showed the ability to be a top player at his position at times. Look for him to be even better this year. Only problem for him is the guy throwing the ball. Rookie Damien Williams could be another target for Young. Williams is an excellent route runner with good size and solid speed. The defense took a step back losing Albert Haynesworth. They added Derrick Morgan in round 1 of the draft and he should upgrade the line at defensive end. Will Witherspoon was brought in via free agency to complete a very good linebacking unit. Courtland Finnegan is a great Corner. The defense has the chance to bounce back. I like this team, but they are a quarterback away from being a playoff contender.

Breaking down the divisions: AFC East

2010-07-08T07:18:00.006-04:00

1. New York Jets - (12-4) - The Jets have brought in some big names to win a championship. Rex Ryan's defense was great in his first season and should be again. Adding Jason Taylor can give them another pass rusher. Darrell Revis gets help on the other side of the field with Cromartie and rookie Kyle Wilson. Quarterback Marc Sanchez Got a couple of weapons in Santonio Holmes and Ladanian Tomlinson. Holmes can be great but needs to be more consistent. He is an upgrade. Tomlinson can take over the role of Leon Washington, catching passes out of the backfield. I think this can help keep him healthy. Shonn Green can be the main back chewing up the clock between the tackles. Tight end Dustin Keller could take that next step to be Sanchez's big target. He came into his own in the playoffs a season ago. The line is still strong. Left tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson just signed, a long term deal. The only question mark is if rookie Vladimir Ducasse can transition to guard. This is a team built to go far into the playoffs. Can the egos stay in check? There is the major question.

2. New England Patriots - (11-5) - Tom Brady has a year under his belt since the ACL injury. Randy Moss is in the final year of his contract and should be at the top of his game. Wes Welker is already running routes since getting hurt in week 17 in Houston. He may not play in the preseason, but could be suited up on week one. Julian Edelman stepped up as rookie to make an impact last year. Brandon Tate is healthy, two young tight ends in Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez will help the offense. Gronk should be a solid run blocker and a big target over the middle. Hernandez can be lined up all over the field. Don't forget the acquisition of future hall of famer Torry Holt. Holt wont light up the world. But he will add a great veteran presance and will be a target in the short to middle routes. He is not another Joey Galloway. Brady has a ton of weapons this year. The runningback situation hasn't gotten any younger. Fred Taylor, Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk, Laurence Maroney are all back. Taylor will be the feature back. But fragile Fred has a history of injury. Faulk is a clutch player for the offense. He was the only player who tried in the blow out against the Ravens in the playoffs. Logan Mankins contract is a big problem. He wants a ton of money and probably isn't going to get it. The Pats have built up some depth in the last two drafts which will ease the blow should Mankins sit out. Rich Ohrnberger, Dan Connolly could both be starters at right and left guard this year. Ted Larsen was drafted this season and can play center and guard. So there is there. Vollmer will hold down the right side and Matt Light will be back at left. Thomas Welch is a viable back up for both sides. Welch is a rookie out of Vanderbilt. The defense added some parts in the draft. Devin McCourty was taken in round one and could be a starter at corner. He has 4.3 speed and will contribute on special teams. Brandon Spikes and Jermaine Cunningham will add depth and push for starting jobs at linebacker. Tyrone McKenzie missed last season due to injury at rookie mini camp. He is back healthy and wants to start this season. Leigh Bodden is back at corner. He was a solid performer last season and will be again in 2010. This unit needs to find a leader and tougher identity. If they find themselves in camp, it could be stronger that last year.

3. Miami Dolphins - (10-6) - Miami is going to sneak up on people by the end of the season. Chad Henne now has a year under center and a top wide receiver to throw to. Brandon Marshall is one of the most talented receivers in the NFL. Devon Bess, Greg Camarillo and Brian Hartline are all very underrated players. Ronnie Brown will be back with Ricky Williams. All this with a very solid offensive line makes for a tough offense. The defense has been upgraded through the draft and free agency. Jared Odrick was taken round 1 and could be a force at right end.
Karlos Dansby will play next to Channing Crowder making it tough for offenses to rush on them. The pass rush of Cameron Wake and rookie Koa Misi could prove to be very effective. The secondary is young and up and coming. Watch out for the Dolphins this year. They have a tough schedule but will find themselves in a playoff race.

4. Buffalo Bills - (5-11) - In my opinion the Bills totally whiffed by taking C.J. Spiller with their first pick of the draft. Runningback was not a major need. They could have taken a franchise left tackle which they need in Anthony Davis. But they passed on him. Trent Edwards is still at quarterback. He will never lead a team to the promise land of a championship. He doesn't have any great weapons to throw to. James Hardy has been a complete bust at wide receiver. Lee Evans skills have seemed to diminish. I like Fred Jackson at runningback. He is a tough running who's pass catching has been utilized more and more each of the last few years. Spiller can spell him and should be the main special teams player. The Bill defense is nothing special. Jarius Byrd was a bright spot at Safety as a rookie. Middle linebacker Paul Posluszny is solid but get hurt a lot. They will win some games with their rushing attack. Maybe a couple special teams plays by Spiller get them to win a game or two. Playing in Buffalo late in the season is tough. But 5 or 6 wins is the limit for the Buffalo Bills.

Diamonds in the rough III

2010-07-06T07:57:00.003-04:00

We know the big rookie names. Mathews, Best, Bryant are the guys you'll grab early to mid rounds. Who might be there late in your draft that could Surprise this season? Lets take a look at a few players who could be the next Colston or Edelman.

1. Ben Tate - Tate was a player I wanted the Patriots to take. His combination of size, speed and receiving ability make him a hot commodity. He should be the perfect fit for the Texans offense. Tate played in the spread offense at Auburn and has skills catching the ball. He is a between the tackles runner that could provide many touchdown opportunities and could gain some needed yardage on the ground. Grab Tate in your draft as your third of fourth runningback. He will be great depth or a good flex option. Possibly a good starting option. Especially if you a bitten bvy the injury bug.

2. Eric Decker - Decker was a top receiving prospect before a season ending injury at Minnesota last season. Decker is 6'2'' 215lbs and runs great routes. He may be the steal of the draft and Denver's number 1 receiving option. Look for Decker in the later rounds. 70 receptions 800 yards and 5 td's is not out of the question. A great third receiver or flex.

3. Mike Williams - Like Denver, Tampa Bay also will be relying on two rookie receiver. Mike Williams is impressing coaches in Tampa. The troubled Williams had many problems while Syracuse. Hopefully he can overcome them and be a valuable option for your fantasy team as depth. Grab Williams in the last round or two. He could either have a solid season or be a quick fantasy cut. worth taking a flyer on. Josh Johnson needs to be a better QB in his second season with the Bucs.

4. Dorin Dickerson - Dickerson is another weapon added to the Houston Texans arsenal. Dickerson played wide receiver early in his playing days at Pitt. He was converted to tight end later years. Dickerson could be that complement on the other side of Andre Johnson. Dickerson is 6'2'' 230lbs and runs a 4.4 40 yard dash. He could be a nightmare for opposing cornerbacks because of his size and tough on linebackers because of his speed. Dickerson has the ability to line up all over the field. If he becomes a polished route runner, look out for Dickerson in the coming years.

Trouble in paradise

2010-06-15T06:19:00.003-04:00

Patriots left guard Logan Mankins contract issues went from bad to worse. The two time pro bowler is demanding a trade. The two sides can't meet on a figure they agree upon. New England has set a precedent on negotiating contracts. The normally stingy Patriots are offering up 7 million dollars a year. This would put him top 5 of all the guards in the NFL. So the 28 year old Mankins is demanding a trade. Apparently he thinks he should be paid as the top guard. At what point do you set your ego aside and take a great contract. When the Pats try to give you a big contract, it shows they value your game. They usually low ball their players. I guess a trade is in order. I like Mankins, he is a very good player. But a guard is going to cause a stink because he's being offered a top 5 contract at a position? Get real buddy. It will be a tough loss for the line. But a survivable one. If they trade him a valuable piece can be retained from another team. Either through draft picks or a solid position player. So it's not a total loss. Sorry Logan, i don't think there will be a lot of out cry for you. especially with 7 million being laughed at. I hope Ted Larsen is knee deep in his playbook. The rookie out of N.C. State will have to transition from center to guard a little quicker than they had hoped.

Thin position thickening for Pats

2010-06-08T08:20:00.003-04:00

The thinnest postion on the Pats roster a few months ago seems to be getting very deep. Wide receiver was a weak spot for the Patriots outside of Randy Moss and Wes Welker. Welker went down week 17 in Houston making the position even thinner. Welker's progress from and ACL tear has been nothing short of amazing. He has been running routes and catching passes in the OTA's the past week. An injury that usually takes a year to come back from. He will most likely start the season on the PUP, but all this news is very encouraging. Julian Edelman should fill in nicely in his presence. Having Torry Holt can only help out the younger guys in their route running and game prep. Holt can be that Gaffney, Stallworth player for the offense. He doesn't need to make a huge impact. He can be that third outlet, chain moving option. Rookie Taylor Price will help out in the return game and be that 4th speed option to stretch the field. Brandon Tate got his feet wet last season before being put on the IR. So he will be in the mix for playing time next season. Veteran David Patten is back with the team. He can also help ease having Welker out for the begging of the season and gives them depth should someone go down. Rookie tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez will give them two more targets in the passing game. Gronkowski will be more of a short yardage target and Hernandez has some more speed and could be moved into the slot at times. Brady has plenty of players to go to this season. He'll need to spread it out against the Jets. Darrell Revis has Randy Moss and every other top wide out in the league on lock down. So adding these other pieces should benefit the offense. Hopefully the passing game can help keep the runningback healthy, all but Laurence Maroney are long in the tooth.

Seperated at birth?

2010-05-19T06:48:00.002-04:00

Have you seen Florida Evans of "Good Times" and David Ortiz of the Red Sox in the same place?
I didn't think so!

Grading the Divisions: AFC EAST

2010-04-26T08:16:00.003-04:00

In my last blog I gave the New England Patriots a B+. I thought they filled a lot of positions, but the lack of a running back and fist round pick kept me from giving them an A. Lets take a look at the other teams in the Pats division.

New York Jets - (B), I liked the Jets first round pick in Kyle Wilson. I thought they should have grabbed a pass rusher like Jerry Hughes instead. Wilson was not a bag selection by any means. Vlad Ducasse is a tackle out of UMASS who should transition into guard. They other two picks went to running backs. Joe McKnight and John Connor. McKnight is a runner with a ton of hype coming out of high school. He never lived up to it at USC. He's fast and has great hands. McKnight has the potential to be a great piece. If he doesn't take advantage and work hard, he'll just be another name in the league. Connor is a big big in the Shonn Green mold. More of a full back but can be used in short yardage situation. He is nice depth for the Jets, should anything happen to Green.

Miami Dolphins - (A-), I like what the Phins did. First rounder Odrick will be a great fit at D-end. Second round they grabbed a high motor speed rusher in Koa Misi. Misi will fill the void of Joey Porter's departure via free agency. I really like the third round selection in guard John Jerry. Jerry could start at multiple positions on the line. He just needs to control his weight. The two fifth rounders were nice secondary pieces. They add depth and should contribute on special teams and some on defense. another good parcells draft.

Buffalo Bills - (C+), C,J. Spiller is a tremendous athlete. He could be a excellent pro if he can stay healthy. But running back was not a position of need for a team with holes all over the roster. The next two picks were spent on D-line which is smart. second and third rounders, Torrell Troupe and Alex Carrington will add depth and could start at some point for a line that gave up a ton of yardage on the ground. Ed Wang from Virginia Tech could find himself starting due to a poor offensive line. He was a fifth round pick. I think they really struck out not grabbing Anthony Davis(LT) round one and Jimmy Clausen(QB) round 2. Again, Spiller is a good player, but not a need.

The New England.....Gators?

2010-04-24T11:04:00.007-04:00

The round one pick by the New England Patriots came with much scrutiny. Devin McCourty from Rutgers went to the Pats. My hope is that he steps in at free safety and nickle next season.
I think the Patriots had a solid draft and in the end, patched some holes.

I liked their first selection in round two. They filled a major need by grabbing tight end Rob Gronkowski out of Arizona. Gronkowski is a huge end at 6'5'' 260 pounds with great hands. With the next two picks in the second round, the Pats grabbed two teammates from the Florida gators. Both defensive players who can help immediately. Jermaine Cunningham played defensive end in college. He should fit great at outside linebacker in a pass rushing role. Cunningham is very fast coming off the edge. He is also solid against the run, which can make him a three down linebacker. The third pick in round two was spent on Brandon Spikes an inside linebacker. Spikes is a leader who was the heart of the Gators defense. Spikes isn't a fast player but playing inside in a 3-4 defense he doesn't have to be. I like the thought of him lining up next to Jerod Mayo. He loves to hit and is great against the run and better against the pass than he gets credit for. Great pick, he is passionate about the game of football. I fully expect him to be the leader of the defense for years to come once he gets comfortable in the New England defensive scheme.

The Patriots had one pick in round three. The grabbed Taylor Price from the university of Ohio. Price has great speed and nice size. He needs to work on his hands a bit. Taylor showed he can play against top competition when he had a very nice game against Tennessee this past season. His quarterback held him back a bit. He plays tough and doesn't mind getting hit. He may never be the top dog on the Pats roster but should be a fine number two receiver at some point.

In the fourth round New England took another tight end in Aaron Hernandez. Hernandez has a much different game that Gronkowski. His speed is tremendous for an end who is 6'2'' 250lbs. He has been clocked in the 4.5's and his hands are good. One major plus is the fact he can line on and off the line of scrimmage. Something the Pats will need with Welker out much of next season. This was a very smart pick for New England. It gives Brady a solid receiver who is a mach up nightmare for both corners and linebackers due to his size and speed.

With the 19th pick in the fifth round(119 overall) the Patriots took punter Zoltan Mesko from the university of Michigan. Another holed they needed to fill. The only punter on the team is David king who has never played in the NFL before. Mesko was the Wolverines punter for the last three seasons.

In the sixth, The Pats drafted interior offensive lineman Ted Larsen. Ted played at N.C. State under former Boston College head coach Tom O'Brien. Larsen can play guard and center. His versatility gives him a better chance to catch on with the team. Most likely as a back up. He even played defensive tackle early in his college career.

New England had many seventh round picks. Thomas Welch, a big tackle from Vanderbilt can play on the right or left side will gives competition for the back up spots. Late in the seventh round they had three out of four picks. Brandon Deadrick is a defensive lineman from the national champion Alabama Crimson Tide. He has experinece in a 3-4 defense playing for coach Nick Saban. I think he will stick around and get some time next season at end. Nice pick in the so late. After Deadrick the Pats went D-line again. Kade Weston who is a massive nose tackle prospect. Weston got a ton of experience at Georgia in all four years. The next pick was quarterback Zac Robinson from Oklahoma State. I really like this choice. Robinson was a productive passer in a tough Big-12. Zac was in my opinion the best looking quarterback at the Senior bowl this past february. He is a mobile guy but needs to get bigger. Injuries have been a problem for Robinson because of his weight. Something that can be worked on while sitting and learning from one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game in Tom Brady.

I really like the whole body of work in the draft for the Patriots. Many of the players they chose will make the team and have various impacts through out the season. I give them an B+ overall.

Pats swing and miss round 1

2010-04-23T09:09:00.002-04:00

The Patriots selected Devin McCourty with the 27th pick in the NFL draft. I'm not really sure why they took him. He went right about where I thought he was going to go late in the first round. But why the Patriots took him is what puzzles me. They re-signed Leigh Bodden and Darius Butler is entering his second season. The Patriots have needs. Defensive end, outside linebacker, wide receiver and even guard. All of these would have been better slots to fill than D-Back. The Patriots were bad against the pass last season. The Major reason, no rush! They could have grabbed Jerry Hughes out of TCU who played in a pro style defense. But they didn't, the Colts did. They could have upgraded the defensive end position. They didn't and Miami a division rival did. They have three picks tonight in the second round. It's important they fill some holes on the defense. Ricky Sapp out of Clemson could be a target. Sapp was an end in College but looks to be an outside linebacker in the Patriots 3-4 defensive alignment. Corey Wooten is a big end prospect at 6'7'' and 270 pounds. Wooten injured his knee in the bowl game against Auburn in January. They need to take advantage of the next four picks. The one pick in the third could be a starter because of the depth of this draft.

Top 5 Defensive backs

2010-04-08T08:23:00.002-04:00

1. Eric Berry - The university of Tennessee star has been on every one's radar since his freshman year. Berry is equally as good against the run as he is in pass protection. He is not afraid to come up and stick someone. Berry is an all pro caliber player. Eric Berry will be a game changing type safety for someone. He will go top 10. If Tampa doesn't take him at 3, Joe may land with the chiefs at pick 5 or 6 to Cleveland.

2. Joe Haden - Haden was a star for the Florida Gators national title teams. He shut down many of the top receivers in college. Haden ran a 4.5 40 at his pro day. Haden will be a solid corner in the NFL. I'm not sure if he is on the same level as Revis or Bailey. He will be a valuable asset for someone in need of a good corner. Haden will come off the boards top 15. Cleveland has a lot of interest in Haden.

3. Patrick Robinson - Robinson has shown flashes of brilliance at Florida State. He had some injury problems his senior year. Robinson looked good at the senior bowl. He could end up being the better pro between himself and Haden. He runs well with 4.42 speed. He should go mid to late first round.

4. Kyle Wilson - Wilson was a very good corner in the WAC, which is known as a passing conference. The Boise State stand out has good speed and great foot work. Wilson should go late first to mid second round. Wilson will be a good corner for the team that drafts him.

5. Devin McCourty - McCourty is a fast riser on the draft boards. His 4.3 40 at the combine has him climbing up charts. McCourty is not the biggest guy, he is only weighing in at 185 lbs. He could find himself in the late first round. most likely going in the second.

Other notable D-backs: Jamar Wall from Texas Tech played in a good Big 12. He also had a lot of competition in practice against some great Texas tech passing offense. Wall had a nice showing at the East-West shrine game. 3rd or 4th round prospect. Akwasi Owusu-Ansah is a small school guy. He played at Indiana (PA) a division 2 school. He has great speed and good size. Scouts are very intrigued by him. He looks to be a 3rd round prospect with a lot of raw talent. Larry Asante was a stand out for Nebraska at safety and on special teams. Solid tackler who could find a starting position with the right team.

Top 5 wide receiver prospects

2010-03-31T07:39:00.002-04:00

1. Dez Bryant - Dez Bryant has a ton of talent. He has size and decent speed. Questions linger about how passionate he is about the game of football. He should still go top 15. The early entry was also suspended this past year at Oklahoma St. Denver, Miami, Cleveland, Seattle could all be landing spots.

2. Golden Tate - Tate has been a star since high school. A top ten ranked high school player had a good college career. Tate has great hands and good speed. A constant target for Jimmy Clausen at Notre dame. He reminds me of a Steve Smith type player. He may end up having the best career of all the receivers in his class. Tate could be a great slot receiver and eventually number 1 guy for someone. I don't see him falling past the Jets in the first round.

3. Arrelious Benn - Benn has excellent size and speed. His stats at Illinois suffered due to a poor quarterback in Juice Williams. Benn is also a good kick returner. He should go late first to mid second round. Terrific value for him. He could be a great fit for many teams.

4. Demaryius Thomas - Thomas didn't get many looks in the Georgia Tech Offense. If he had played in a passing offense he could be considered the number one guy at the position. Thomas could land in the late first round. He's a big player for the position at 6'3'' 229lbs.

5. Andre Roberts - Roberts is a small school player from the Citadel. He broke many records while playing in college. Roberts is a smaller prospect at 5'11' 190lbs. He had a nice week during senior bowl week in practice. Roberts didn't have a huge game but was solid enough. Andre could go late second, or find himself in the fourth. This is a sleeper pick for someone. He runs in the 4.4's and also returns kicks. Roberts should be a great slot receiver.

Other notable players: Damian Williams from USC has good size and experience. Should come off the boards in the second round. Blair White out of Michigan St is a slower wide receiver but runs solid routes. Dexter McCluster played running back at Ole Miss. Dexter could be a player that lines up all over the field. Getting 5-10 carries and out wide. McCluster is a tiny guy, but plays like he's 220lbs.

Tomlinson Jets to AFC

2010-03-15T08:31:00.004-04:00

The New York Jets have signed veteran running back LaDainian Tomlinson. It didn't make sense to me why they cut Thomas Jones. Jones has been very productive for New York. He slowed down toward the end of the season. That could have been more about injuries. Tomlinson also adds to what may be lost with Leon Washington going down with a knee injury last season. Washington may not be full strength all of next year. LaDainian could come into New York with a chip on his shoulder. He still has some gas in the tank. He could definitely run for 1,000 yards next season. LT can also add a receiving threat out of the backfield. New York has an excellent offensive line making this move look like it could really work. Curtis Martin resurrected his career and had great success toward the end. I think Tomlinson can do the same. It may be a one and done, but I think he will be solid in 2010. It wont surprise me if the Jets end up in the Super Bowl. I don't think LT is the reason. A good offensive line and quarterback in his second season with playoff experience should help the offense. This is a run first team with a great defense. The have those pieces. Adding a pass rusher or a top wide receiver in the first round would be smart. Brandon Graham or Arrellious Benn could put this team over the top as first round picks.

Ranking the top 5 Runningback prospects

2010-03-04T08:13:00.006-05:00

1. C.J. Spiller - The Clemson speedster is a very versatile back. He has experience in the return game and passing game. I think this is where he will be best used. Spiller needs to go to a team that likes to pass. He is not a 20 carry a game back. C.J. is more of a Reggie Bush Leon Washington type player. He could go anywhere from Cleveland's 6 pick to Seattle's 14th pick. He did not flourish in his senior season running the ball. He had only 4 games over 100 yards rushing.

2. Ryan Mathews - Mathews had a huge junior year in the WAC. The Fresno star ran for 1808 yards and 19 TD's. He is a bigger running back at 5'11'' 225lbs. He may find himself in the first round with teams cutting ties with older backs. San Diego could be a landing spot late. He reminds me a bit of Detroit's Kevin Smith the way he runs. He is a little shorter and about 10 pounds heavier.

3. Ben Tate - Ben Tate had a nice career at Auburn. He flew under the radar in the SEC. Tate is a down hill runner and tough to bring down with his 5'11'' 218 pound frame. He ran a 4.43 and benched 225lbs 26 times showing his strength. He's not much of a threat in the passing game, but can catch passes out of the backfield. He should be a grinder for some one. Tate will most likely go in the second round pick. I'd love to see the Pats take him round 2. Cut ties with Sammy Morris.

4. Jahvid Best - Best is a Darren Sproles type back. He wont be a guy you can depend on for a lot of carries. He's a change of pace type runner who can catch and return. He isn't afraid of contact but can be injury prone. He could slip into the first round. Will help immediately in the return game.

5. Johnathon Dwyer - Dwyer is a slower back that will find success between the tackles. He ran well in Georgia Tech's triple option offense. Dwyer will be a two down back and in short yardage situation. He should find himself off the boards in the second or third.

Other notable players: Joe McKnight, The USC Trojans back never lived up to the hype out of high school. Fumbles and injuries plagued his college years. Fast back that wont pan out. Lonyae Miller was the other half of the running attack at Fresno St. Miller will find himself later in the draft around the 5th round. I think in a few years he will have some big games for somebody. Never an elite runner but may have some success.

NFL Mock Draft 2.0

2010-03-02T09:59:00.006-05:00

1 - STL: Suh, Ndamukong - DT - Nebraska - Suh is a tremendous athlete. He would immediately improve the defensive line. The Rams were 27th in the league against the run. St. Louis was also 25th against the pass.

2 - DET: Okung, Russell - T - Oklahoma St - The Lions need defense, but adding Okung will help Stafford in the long run.

3 - TB: Berry, Eric - FS - Tennessee - Upgrades a poor Tampa secondary day 1. May be the best player in this draft.

4 - WAS: Bradford, Sam - QB - Oklahoma - Bradford added weight and draft stock. It's time to move on from Jason Campbell. If Okung is still on the board he could go here. the redskins line is old.

5 - KC: Bulaga, Bryan - T - Iowa - Bulaga will upgrade the line, Pierre-Paul could land here also.

6 - SEA: Spiller, C.J. - RB - Clemson - Seattle has needed a running back since Shawn Alexander left. Spiller can do multiple things for the team.

7 - CLE: Haden, Joe - CB - Florida - The Browns secondary is awful.

8 - OAK: McCoy, Gerald - DT - Oklahoma - Upgrading the defensive line is a big need. McCoy falls a bit after poor combine.

9 - BUF: Williams, Trent - T - Oklahoma - The Bills need to upgrade the line. Williams may be a great fit a right tackle.

10 - JAX: Pierre Paul, Jason - The Jags pass rush was awful in 09' Pierre Paul adds it.

11 - DEN: Mcclain, Rolando - ILB - Alabama - A stud MLB and will be a beast in the Denver 3-4

12 - MIA: Williams, Dan - DT - Tennessee - Miami needs a number 1 wide out. But Parcells loves a big man in the middle of the D.

13 - SF: Bryant, Dez - WR - Oklahoma St - Adding Bryant gives the 49ers two promising WR's. I think he falls due to questions about him showing up for practice and games on time. could fall further.

14 - SEA: Clausen, Jimmy - QB - Notre Dame - Clausen would be a great fit in the Seahawks pro style system.

15 - NYG: Price, Brian - DT - UCLA - Price adds an up grade of the defensive line. He will be a great pro.

16 - TEN - Morgan, Derrick - DE - The Titans DE's are old. Morgan adds youth. Great pick for the Titans if he's still there.

17 - SF: Kindle, Sergio - OLB - Texas - Kindle brings a pass rusher and upgrade to the linebacker core. Could line up on the line in certain situation.

18 - PIT: Iupati, Mike - OG - Idaho - Iupati will take over where Alan Fanaca left off a few season ago.

19 - ATL: Thomas, Earl - SS - Texas - Thomas will start day one in the Flacons terrible secondary.

20 - HOU: Benn, Arrelious - WR - Illinois - Benn would be a great addition to an offense that already has the best WR in Andre Johnson.

21 - CIN: Tate, Golden - WR - Notre Dame - The Bengals really like Tate. He will be a fantastic pro with sure hands.

22 - NE: Weatherspoon, Sean - OLB - Missouri - Weatherspoon is a leader who talks a lot and backs it up on the field. Something the Pats need. Brandon Graham could land here too. A pass rusher is a major need.

23 - GB: Campbell, Bruce - OT - Maryland - Offensive line is the number 1 issue for the Packers. Campbell boosted his stock at the combine

24 - PHI: Best, Jahvid - RB - California- With Westbrook gone, Best fits the type of back the Eagles like.

25 - BAL: Wilson, Kyle - CB - Boise St - Baltimore may trade back. A WR is number one on the list but a corner is needed as well.

26 - ARI: Mays, Taylor - FS - USC - Releasing Rolle opened the door for Mays to land here if he is still available

27 - DAL: Davis, Anthony - T - Rutgers - Dallas could also trade back. A left tackle is a needed if Davis or Campbell is gone.

28 - SD: Mathews, Ryan - RB - Fresno St. - Mathews stays in Cali after Tomlinson and Sproles are not coming back.

29 - NYJ: Graham, Brandon - OLB - Michigan - Rex Ryan would love to get a pass rusher like Graham. A WR is also an option.

30 - MIN: Cody, Terrence - DT - Alabama - Losing 16lbs at the combine helped him stay in the first round. Will take over when the 37 year old Pat Williams departs.

31 - IND: Odrick, Jared - DT - Penn State - Jared Odrick will start for the Colts in Indy. The only reason he goes late first round is questions about off field issues.

32 - NO: Bowman, Navorro - OLB - Penn State - The Saints need some help at linebacker. Bowman should start at weakside.

Top TE draft prospects

2010-02-28T12:21:00.005-05:00

1. Dennis Pitta - Most will disagree with me here. But I believe when it is all said and done, Pitta will be the best tight end of this years crop. He was super productive at BYU. Pitta is a solid run blocker and has good speed complete with excellent hands. He ran a 4.63 40 and lifted 225lbs 27 times showing his strength. Pitta can line up in the slot as well. He has nice size as well, 6'5'' 248lbs. Dennis Pitta reminds me a lot of Dallas Clark of the Colts and I think he will have a similar career. high to mid second round pick.

2. Jermaine Gresham - Most people have Gresham as their number 1 overall tight end. I do not for a few reasons. He is slower than Pitta and not nearly as strong. Gresham isn't a good run blocker either. The former Oklahoma Sooner has also had two major knee injuries in his playing career. This past season being the most recent. He did not play. Gresham is an excellent weapon in the passing game when healthy. He may go late first round to Arizona. The Cardinals have been searching for a pass catching tight end for years.

3. Ed Dickson - Ed Dickson was a solid play maker for the Oregon Ducks. He had a nice combine running the 40 in 4.66. Dickson is not a great run blocker. Good size at 6'5'' 243lbs. He should go 3rd or 4th round. Will contribute for somebody next year. Not a star but could be a nice piece to a teams puzzle.

4. Dorin Dickerson - Dickerson turned heads at the combine when he ran a 4.40 40 yard dash. He also benched 225lbs 24 times. Very impressive for a guy who is 6'4'' 228lbs. He can play all over the field in the slot, H-back, or tight end. He's like a big wide out.

5. Charles Quarless - Quarless is a talented athlete but has had some character issues in the past at Penn St. He had a solid performance at the East-West shrine game where he caught the game winning touchdown. Charles ran well at the combine which helps his stock. He ran a 4.63 40 and did 23 reps of 225lbs. He should go somewhere in the fourth round. Could be a pleasant surprise down the road if he can leave the off the field issues behind him.

Other notable tight ends include: Rob Gronkowski. This past season was ended early by a back injury. A bit slow but has a big wing span. Anthony McCoy was a solid performer for the USC Trojans. He disappointed with a slow 40 at the combine. An intriguing player is Jimmy Graham from Miami. A basketball player until this past season. He showed soild hands and good speed running a 4.57 40. A guy who could land on the Pats late is former Pittsburgh end Nate Bynam. He is a tremendous run blocker and could be a solid second tight end for someone. Look for Bynam to go 5th or 6th round. Didn't get much of a chance in the passing game because of Dorin Dickerson.

Top offensive tackle draft prospects

2010-02-27T21:08:00.006-05:00

1. Russell Okung - Okung is a Very athletic left tackle. He has prototypical size at 6'5'' 300lbs. Ran very well at the combine 5.17 40 yard dash. He also lifted 225lbs an impressive 38 times. Okung will be a top pick. The Lions(2), Chiefs(5) or Seahawks(6) could all be landing spots. An impressive college career will lead to a good pro career.

2. Bryan Bulaga - Bulaga is a young rising player. He is only 20 years old. Brian is a tough left tackle prospect. He is a fluid technical blocker. Turning into a good run blocker, Athletic enough to take on speed rushers. Should land top ten with Chiefs(4) Seahawks(5) Raiders(8) or Buffalo(9). Bulaga will not go before Okung.

3. Trent Williams - Trent Williams solidified himself as a top ten pick at the combine. Williams benched 225lbs only 23 times but ran a very fast 4.82 in the 40. So I see the Raiders taking this guy at (8). He needs to get stronger to be a dominant left tackle. Should play for years on the right side for someone. Solid run and pass blocker.

4. Bruce Campbell - Campbell is a combine freak. At 6'6'' 313lbs he ran an amazing 4.78 40 and lifted 225lbs 34 times. Bruce Campbell is a more impressive athlete than football player. Not a great run blocker. Second round talent will go in the first. Could go as high as 17 to San Fransisco. May fall to to Dallas at 27. He would be a better fit for a pass first offense.

5. Anthony Davis - A very good college tackle. Davis is not strong or athletic enough to be a dominating force in the NFL. Scouts like his tape but I don't see him transitioning to the next level. Could be a major bust. Looked slow and fat running at the combine. Green Bay or Dallas could be landing spots in the first round.

Other notable offensive tackles are Vladimir Ducasse from UMASS. Didn't do a ton to show he can play at a higher level in the senior bowl. Good athlete that doesn't want to play guard. Late second, early third rounder. Sam Young is a right tackle prospect out of Notre Dame. Bigger player at 6'8'' 330lbs. He ran and lifted well at the combine. 5.19 40 and benched 225lbs 29 times. Late second to mid third round pick. John Jerry from Mississippi will be a nice surprise for someone. He played as big as 360lbs in his college career. Jerry showed up at the combine weighing 328. He ran 5.19 40. He played guard in his Early in his Ole Miss days so he has versatility. Mike Iupati is being considered for a move to left tackle. The Idaho stand out is best fit at guard. He is a superior run blocker. Gets to the second level very well. Iupati makes long touchdown runs happen.

To trade or not to trade

2010-02-10T08:14:00.002-05:00

Trade rumors are flying in Boston involving Tim Thomas. A year after winning the Vezna trophy and being awarded a new contract, Thomas is on the trading block. Tim Thomas had an excellent season a year ago. This year has not been a similar season. Thomas was also awarded a contract that was way too long. If the Bruins can get a veteran goalie and a goal scorer or defenseman in return, they have to make this deal. They will be ridding themselves of a bad contract. Adding another player they need in the line up. Rask can handle the duties between the pipes as he has all season. I don't care who they trade him to. Just dump this terrible contract. Make a playoff run and hopefully next season will be more like last year. What are your thoughts on the potential Thomas trade?

98 5 the Sports Hub

2010-02-02T08:18:00.002-05:00

Look out for my blogs on 98 5 the sports hub. So far it's just the mock draft i have posted on here. more to come in the future. It's a new station in town so give us a look if you already haven't.

Mock draft 1

2010-02-02T06:34:00.003-05:00

1. Ndamukong Suh - DT - St. Louis
The Rams need a lot, Suh is a great start. He is one of the best D Lineman I have seen in a long time.

2. Russell Okung - OT - Detroit
The Lions made Matthew Stafford the number 1 overall pick a year ago. Okung will be a good investment to protect Stafford.

3. Eric Berry - S - Tampa Bay
Berry is a game changer on defense. He is tough against the run and against the pass.

4. Sam Bradford - QB - Washington
It’s time to move on from Jason Campbell. Bradford has a big arm. But questions about his durability will linger until he proves otherwise.

5. Terrence Cody - DT - Kansas City
The Chiefs have built the defensive line for a few years. A nose tackle is hard to find. The massive Cody (6′5” 365lbs) will be a two gap run stuffer in the 3-4. I think KC would love if Berry could fall to them. Georgia Tech’s Derrick Morgan is also an option.

6. Trent Williams - OT - Seattle
Jimmy Clausen could be looked at here. But in the end Williams is too good to pass.

7. Derrick Morgan - DE/OLB - Cleveland
Morgan will most likely play outside linebacker for the Browns. He can rush the passer and fall back into coverage.

8. Gerald McCoy - DT - Oakland
This is a major upgrade for the raiders at Defensive tackle.

9. Jimmy Clausen - QB - Buffalo
Buffalo has been in need of a quarterback since Jim Kelly retired. Offensive line could be addressed here also.

10. Jason Pierre-Paul - DE/OLB - Jacksonville
Adding Pierre-Paul will give the Jags pass rush a much-needed boost.

11. Rolando McClain - ILB - Denver
McClain is a great athlete. He is a steal here at number 11.

12. Dez Bryant - WR - Miami
Bryant didn’t play much in 09′ due to a suspension. The Dolphins could use a deep threat. C.J. Spiller is an option with Ronnie Brown a free agent and injured again this season.

13. Joe Haden - CB - San Fransisco
The defensive backfield could use an upgrade. Haden is the cover corner they need.

14. C.J. Spiller - RB - Seattle
Spiller can make plays running, catching and returning. The Seahawks need some one to make plays all over the field. Spiller is the guy.

15. Brian Price - DT - New York Giants
The Giants need a big disruptive player like Price in the middle of their defense.

16. Carlos Dunlap - DE - Tennessee
Kyle Vanden Bosch is getting older and his production has dropped the last two seasons. Dunlap is a good choice here.

17. Brian Bulaga – OT – San Francisco
The 49ers need to strengthen the offensive line. Bulaga or Idaho’s Mike Iupati are good choices here. Bulaga has played left tackle and Iupati would transition from guard.

18. Dan Williams – DT - Pittsburgh
Williams is a dominating force. Casey Hampton is getting old and is a free agent. Williams is a perfect 3-4 nose.

19. Earl Thomas - S - Atlanta
Atlanta’s pass defense was terrible this season. Thomas is an upgrade.

20. Arrelious Benn - WR - Houston
Another big target for Matt Schaub. Benn is 6′2” 218 lbs and an excellent athlete. Played his college days with a bad quarterback (Juice Williams)

21. Navarro Bowman - OLB - Cincinnati
Bowman would step right in on the weak side for the Bengals.

22. Brandon Graham - DE/OLB - New England
Graham was a constant threat to the south quarterback in the senior bowl. Think Julius Peppers/ Dwight Freeney.

23. Anthony Davis - OT - Green Bay
Aaron Rodgers was on his back far too much this season. Green Bay’s pass blocking was better toward the end of the season. They still need to add a talented player like Davis.

24. Taylor Mays - S - Philadelphia
Losing Brian Dawkins stung the Eagles D harder than they anticipated. They need to pick up a safety

25. Golden Tate - WR - Baltimore
The Ravens wide receivers are terrible outside of Derrick Mason. But he could retire for real this time. Tate is an electric play maker with very good hands.

26. Brando Spikes - ILB - Arizona
Spikes could be a good fit for Arizona playing next to Karlos Dansby. Spikes may be best suited as a 4-3 linebacker.

27. Bruce Campbell - OT - Dallas
Dallas needs to find a replacement for tackle spot. Mike Iapati could get a look here if they think he can transition

28. Sergio Kindle – DE/OLB – San Diego
The Chargers could lose Shaun Merriman. Kindle could play down or at outside linebacker. It all depends on future plans with Larry English. Kindle could go much earlier depending on his combine.

29. Mardy Gilyard – WR – New York Jets
Gilyard was a stand out for Cincinnati and in the senior bowl. The jets need another weapon at wide receiver.

30. Patrick Robinson - CB - Minnesota
Cedric Griffin is out for a lot of next season. The Vikes need to add depth at corner.

31. Sean Weatherspoon - OLB - New Orléans *
Weatherspoon has the talent to be a play maker. Something the Saints need at outside linebacker. He is a vocal leader with fire and passion. He helped himself at the senior bowl

32. Jared Odrick - DT - Indianapolis *
Odrick will help against the run. The Colts were terrible against the run this season.

Senior Bowl Winners

2010-01-31T12:04:00.007-05:00

The North beat the South 31-13 with a great defensive effort. Brandon Graham and outside linebacker/defensive end prospect from the university of Michigan was dominating. He continually put pressure on the quarterback. accumulating 2 sacks and 1 fumble. Other stars on the North defense were Will Witherspoon from Missouri. He played very well at linebacker stopping the run. Jared Odrick(Penn St) Played very strong at defensive tackle. Odrick penetrated the line very well, making plays behind the line of scrimmage. On the south side I thought Dan Williams(Tennessee) was a beast on the D-line. he looked like an unmovable force all game. He will be a great nose tackle in the NFL. Williams is a sure first rounder after his performance. He was double teamed all day and still was shutting down the run. Terrence Cody(Alabama) played very well next to him. On the offensive side of the ball Mardy Gilyard shined with a 105 yard 1 touchdown performance at wide receiver. The Citadel's Andre Roberts put on a strong performance as well. He caught 2 passes for 45 yards. Tulane's Jeremy Williams led the south with 6 catches for 82 yards.Williams ran a reverse for 28 yards also. The top runners were Lonye Miller(Fresno St.) and Legarrette Blount(Oregon) for the north. On the the south side, Ben Tate(Auburn) led the way. The only quarterbacks that showed me anything were Zac Robinson(Oklahoma St.) and Dan Lefevour(Central Michigan). Both need work become starters in the NFL with accuracy with the long ball. I liked the way Robinson threw the ball. Off all the quarterbacks that played in this game he was most impressive. On a lower note, Tim Tebow didn't look right. My 2 year old daughter has better throwing mechanics. Mike Iupati from Idaho was a little disappointing. I had seen him play once this season and he dominated. But he had a tougher time with Dan Williams. But so did everyone. So I give him a pass. Iapati is at his best when pulling and leading the charge on a run or screen. Eric Norwood(South Carolina) didn't do alot to jump out at me. Norwood was very quiet at linebacker for the south.

Senior Bowl week

2010-01-25T09:31:00.003-05:00

Practice for the Senior Bowl starts today. This is a big game for many players. It brings all the nations best seniors together to compete. Many players from smaller schools get the chance to shine against top talent. Vladimir Ducasse from the University of Massachusetts is one of those prospects. Ducasse is a massive left tackle at 6' 5'' 330 pounds. With a good Senior Bowl and combine he could find himself going late in the first round. Other smaller school guys include Joique Bell from Wayne State. Bell was the division II player of the year. He rushed for 2,084 yards and 29 touchdowns. He leaves Wayne state with 100 scores and 8,055 all purpose yards. Andre Roberts from the Citadel is a Wide receiver who also has kick return skills. Roberts finishes his career at Citadel with 285 receptions and 3,743 yards receiving. It's not just the small school guys who have something to prove. Names like Tim Tebow and George Selvie have a lot of pressure to perform this week. Tebow is one of the greatest college quarterbacks in history. But many scouts and media don't think he has the mechanics to make it in the NFL. A year ago the same questions surrounded Pat White. He landed in the second round because he had a tremendous week passing the ball during senior bowl practices and in the game. Selvie is a defensive end from South Florida. Before last season he was considered a first round pick. After two sub par season's Selvie has found himself as a mid to late round prospect. He could move up boards with a good showing this week and at the combine. I watched the East - West game this past weekend. Jamar Wall out of Texas Tech really impressed me. He showed great coverage ability as a corner. He could find himself as the second corner off the boards. Player's like Wall will take advantage of their opportunities and make some money for themselves while other will lose it.

Early draft looks

2010-01-21T16:22:00.002-05:00

With the senior bowl coming up and the NFL combine just a month away. What will the Patriots be looking for in the draft? To me they need to go defense. I'd love to see them trade up to Jacksonville's spot at 11 and grab Rolondo McClain if he is still on the boards. The inside Linebacker out of Alabama In my opinion is top 5 talent. If they elect to stay I think players like Eric Norwood(South Carolina), Sergio Kindle, Joe Pawelek(Baylor) are guys they should give looks. Norwood and Pawelek are guys who have been extremely successful in their college careers. Both were stand out from freshman year on. I believe if both have solid combines and pro days they will end up in the first round. Kindle was a Defensive end at Texas. He will have to be a linebacker in the 3-4. But gives them the option of a speed rusher on third downs as a lineman. If the right wide receiver was available it could be an intriguing move for the Pats. With Moss not getting any younger and Welker out with a knee injury, Brady will need some weapons. A guy like Golden Tate or Arrelious Benn could be a nice addition. Benn is a bigger receiver at 6'2 220 with all the talent in the world. He didn't have super star number because of Illinois inconsistent quarterback play. Benn is also a good returner on special teams. Golden Tate is a tremendous play maker. He is very quick with exceptional hands. He would be a nice complement on the other side of Moss. The pats need a runningback under 30 not named Maroney. If they elect to move down the boards, Georgia Tech's Jonathon Dwyer is a guy that could find himself late first early second round. He reminds me a lot of the Dolphins Ronnie Brown. He has good size at 6'0 230 lbs. Dwyer has solid speed, however is not a home run threat. Another Back that really intrigues me is Keith Toston from Oklahoma State. Toston is a complete back who can run, catch and block. he has good size at 6'0 214 lbs. He could be a great find in the second round. I am not a C.J. Spiller guy. He only totaled 4 games over 100 yards this season and his average yards per game was in the 80's. I don't believe he is worth a first round pick. He is not a guy that will be able to handle 20 carries a game. Ben Tate out of Auburn is another back who could really help himself in the coming months. Tate is another bigger back at 5'11 218 lbs. He can run 4.40 40, but is a between the tackles downhill runner. I will have my early mock draft out soon after the combine.

Time for change?

2010-01-19T15:34:00.002-05:00

Could it be that there is a time for a head coaching change in New England? After a season of terrible play calling and losing players emotionally is the game is passing Belichick by? The thing that set off an alarm to me was defensive coordinator Dean Pees leaving. He cited health issues as the reason. A week later he is now rumored to be going to Denver with Josh McDaniels. That makes me think that things are not good at Gillette. Is Bill Belichick making this a place where players and coaches don't want to come or stay anymore? Are we seeing the fall of a dynasty before our eyes? Look at the offense this year. It was basically the same personnel on offense as 2007 with no flavor and they floundered many times. Will Pepper Johnson get his shot at being defensive coordinator? This to me is the tell tale sign. If he bolts, it tells me things are not being handled correctly and change is in order. The Patriots like to bring up coaches from within their own system. i.e. McDaniels, Pees, Mangini. Is the pressure of a falling dynasty getting to the once dominant coach? Or could it be arrogance? Something has got to give. This is an important offseason. The can reload and make this a tough team again with the right moves. But it could be that the players on the team have lost that championship mojo.

Time to re-tool

2010-01-10T17:13:00.003-05:00

The Patriots got their asses handed to them today in foxboro. The first play from scrimmage was a long Ray Rice run and that said it all. They didn't come out ready t0 play and it showed. The 24-0 score at the end of the first quarter showed the of lack of toughness and leadership on defense. They are missing that Rodney Harrison or Ray Lewis type player. A Teddy bruschi that knows where to be at all times making clutch plays. The offense was terrible today as well. The only guy who played hard was Kevin Faulk. Tom Brady made some terrible decisions leading to 3 interceptions. It's time to start getting some of those guys like Bobby Hamilton, Joe Andruzzi or Mike Vrabel. These players came in and played tough. Laying the ground work for a dynasty along with guys who were already on the team. The free agents that have been brought in have lacked a toughness. I am sick of hearing Branden Meriweather is a budding superstar. He will never be a Rodney harrison in run support or Ed Reed in coverage. He's a B+ that needs other playmakers around him. This draft and off season will be very important if New England wants to go into the playoffs next year. Otherwise expect more of this. Adailius Thomas needs to go. Jerod Mayo needs some other players around him like Meriweather. He is a good, not great linebacker. Let's get Julius Peppers in here. He can get some pressure on the QB. There are some good players in this free agent class. Time to dump some of the garbage.

PLAYOFFS!

2010-01-09T10:07:00.003-05:00

well let's take a shot at picking the playoffs. My preseason Superbowl pick was New England Over Philadelphia.

AFC Wild Card

Jets 17
Bengals 21

New England 31
Ravens 21

NFC Wild Card

Eagles 24
Dallas 20

Packers 38
Cardinals 14

AFC Divisional Round

Patriots 24
Charger 28

Bengals 14
Colts 31

NFL Divisional round

Eagles 28
Saints 24

Packers 21
Vikings 28

AFC Championship

Chargers 24
Colts 21

NFC Championship

Eagles 10
Vikings 31

SUPERBOWL

Chargers 17
Vikings 21

The Vikings were on a downward spiral as the season was ending. Week 17 they destroyed the Giants who had all but given up. I think that win gives them the confidence and swagger they need to make a run at the Superbowl. It's all about Favre keeping his ego and Int's in check. A Peterson first approach should make this well rounded team, NFL Champions.

Final Move

2010-01-05T06:58:00.002-05:00

The Boston Red Sox made what is most likely their final move of the post season. Signing Adrian Beltre to a one year deal with an option. He brings excellent defense. But this is just another side step move. They have a great defense in the infield. They Needed some Power. Adrian Beltre will not hit 30 home runs. There is this fantasy that he is such a better hitter away from Seattle. But he will never be the guy he was in 2004. I expect 20 home runs from him. Hopefully he stays healthy. He had an injury plagued season in 2009. So this says to me that Adrian Gonzalez is out of the picture. I guess this really is a bridge year. Hey they have great starting pitching. They didn't give up any big prospects. So there is good from this off season. They will be a playoff team. But I don't see them as a World Series team. At this point, that's what matters most in Boston.

A total loss

2010-01-03T16:25:00.003-05:00

What a joke of a coaching decision for Bill Belichick to play Wes Welker. There was really nothing to gain, except for the third seed in the playoffs. Welker should have never played in that game and look. He will not be back in 2010. It looked like an ACL. Edelman stepped up and played well. He is not Wes Welker. Tom Brady was in and out of the game. Then when the game is on the line they pulled him. At that point leave him in the game. try to score and bring some momentum heading into the playoffs. This was the worst display of player management i have ever seen. You got the most productive player on the team injured for no reason and put others at risk. The Patriot apologists are already saying is they left Brady in to work with Edelman. Brady works with the receivers ever week in practice and extra after practice. They've played in games before. Nothing made sense and the loss of Welker will be the nail in the coffin for a championship.

A restful week 17

2010-01-02T12:19:00.003-05:00

The Patriots head to Houston for the final game of the regular season. With many players banged up it is a good chance to get some much needed rest for the players. Coach Belichick has said Tom Brady will start. I think getting the starters some work is fine. But at the end of the game they should all be on the sidelines. Welker and Moss don't need to play in my opinion. Welker brings intensity every week. Moss is banged up. Getting Brady a few reps in the first half to keep sharp is fine. I think the defensive back should play the entire game. This is a good chance to get them work against Andre Johnson who is arguably the best wide receiver in the NFL. They need all the work they can get. If Wilfork and Warren play they should see limited time. No need for them to be on the field all game. I fully expect them to lose this game. Houston has everything to play for. This is a tune up for next week for the Pats and a chance for rest.

Red Sox finally making moves

2009-12-18T08:30:00.004-05:00

I think Red Sox nation can breath a little easier with the signing of John Lackey. He's always a consistent pitcher. Even when he gets hurt, Lackey bounces back to pitch well. Mike Cameron was also signed. Which is intriguing because he is an excellent centerfielder. This could be another piece to a trade. Now Ellsbury is a chip that can be thrown into the mix. Adrian Gonzalez has been a name that has been talked about. I'm not sure if San Diego is going to part with him. If they do they will certainly want a major league ready player in return plus a lot more. Gonzalez hit 40 home runs and drove in 99 runs with no protection in the line up. He is famous for having a bad July. But that is his only bad month. With the addition of Cameron you can play him in center and put Gonzalez at first. I like Ellsbury but Perdoia can hit first in the order. Ellsbury and Gonzalez are a year apart in age. Not to mention the Sox probably wont have to give up Bard if Jacoby is dealt. He will most likely be the closer in a few years when they let Pap walk. Papelbon was a rollercoaster ride last season. He also wants to be paid as the top closer. It's looking more and more like Bay is not coming back. the Red Sox told his agent they are not budging from the 4 years 15 million they offered. They need to make a move to get some more power in the line up. I like the idea of Pedroia, Youk, Martinez and Gonzalez.

Trouble in paradise

2009-12-11T06:40:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Adalius Thomas had some colorful comments for reporters at Gillette. He went on for ten minutes about being sent home. Never taking responsibility for being late. He also angrily commented on if he had gotten any motivation from being sent home. Saying it was for school children. His neighbor Ty Warren had no problem making it to work on time. This is the second time he has been sent home this season. Thomas is having a terrible career with the Patriots. He was the first of the Patriots bad player evaluation. He will be gone after this season. Belichick has a way of getting rid of people when the go against the grain. They need to bring in a couple of pass rushers and defensive linemen who can rush the pass. the cap hit is 4.4 million for two seasons. Bye Bye! He could end up on the jets with Rex Ryan next season.

Tiger on the prowl

2009-12-08T09:55:00.003-05:00

Another woman has been alleged as having an affair with Tiger Woods. Joslyn James an adult movie star is now being reported as having an affair with Woods. AJ Daulerio from deadspin.com said this should be the next name to come out. A.J. Broke the story on the Toucher and Rich show on 985 the sports hub today. This story just keeps spinning out of control. Especially with the 911 call to his home at 2:30am this morning A blond woman was ruched to the hospital this morning. This is a story line only Hollywood could make up!

Who's the man?

2009-12-05T20:17:00.002-05:00

There are a lot of unfamiliar names being looked at for the Heisman trophy. Sam Bradford and Tim Tebow were the names a year ago and figured to be this year again. But the guys in the running are runningbacks Toby Gerhart from Stanford and Mark Ingram from Alabama. Quarterback Case Keenan from Houston had a monster year throwing the ball. Gerhart seems to me like he will be the winner. He rushed for 1736 yards on the ground and scored 26 touchdowns. He averaged 144.7 yards per game and 5.6 per carry. Gerhart ran against Pac-10 competition. Ingram may be the best runner in college football. His stats aren't what Gerhart's are. Keenan threw for 4922 yards and 38 touchdowns. He only threw 6 interceptions. Keenan didn't face the competition that the other two did. That's why I think Toby Gerhart will win it. The Pac-10 is a good conference. Maybe not as good defensively as the SEC. But very impressive.

Sox get their short stop

2009-12-04T08:25:00.003-05:00

Well I guess the fantasy of getting Hanley Ramirez back is over. The Sox signed 34 year old short stop Marco Scutaro. He had a career year last season with Toronto. Scutaro is a very good fielder. Marco should be a bottom of the order guy who can steal a base or two. I think this signing makes acquiring Miguel Cabrera a must at this point. If the Red Sox can land Cabrera, it makes the Scutaro deal better. It gives them an Alex Gonzalez type signing at short. Thankfully it is only a two year deal. Julio Lugo was a disaster and still on the books. The Sox now need to go make a blockbuster deal. Get Miguel Cabrera in here to play third. They also need to get a left fielder. It's looking more and more like Matt Holliday could be an option. I would much rather have Jason Bay for less money. I guess Matsui could be an option but he is not a great fielder. He is much more of a DH at this point. That would seem like a panic move. There isn't much else out there. The winter meetings start next week in Indianapolis.

Saints march over Patriots

2009-12-01T06:37:00.002-05:00

Drew Brees was electric last night in a dominating win over New England. The Saints could not be stopped. Brees spread the ball around hitting multiple receivers with pin point accuracy. The Pats D was absolutely pathetic. They must have not got the memo that they weren't playing against Mark Sanchez this week. They couldn't get a pass rush at all. The defensive backs got burned all game long. It was an all around disaster. The Saints defensive backs stepped up and played well. They were able to limit Wes Welker and Randy Moss. Laurence Maroney ran pretty well despite fumbling which the Patriots got back on the first drive of the third quarter. Brady continues to over throw his receivers. There were a couple of throws that could have been big completions but Brady threw it 5 yards over the receivers head. New England is having a hard time winning games on the road. This is not a good thing considering they only have one home game left. Bill Belichick better stick his foot up the ass's of multiple players. If they want to make any noise at all in the playoffs something better change. I thought this team was championship caliber, but they didn't look like it last night. This defense can't beat a top offense. They are just not good enough. The Saints will make a run at the Lombardi trophy. They will need to take out the Vikings which look like they may be the best team in football. The Patriots have always been a good team down the stretch. We will see what they are made of in week 13 when they travel to Miami in a short week. Miami is always a tough place to play. This could be a one and done year in the playoffs.

Hot Stove

2009-11-25T13:07:00.003-05:00

The Major league baseball stove is heating up with trade rumors involving the Boston Red Sox. Left Fielder Jason Bay is still a free agent and should remain a top priority. The Sox have spoken with several players including Matt Holiday(LF), John Lackey(SP) and Adrian Beltre(3B). Trade rumors have started with possible acquisitions of pitcher Roy Halladay and first baseman/ Left fielder/third baseman Miguel Cabrera of the Tigers. I'd love to see Roy Halladay come to town. They would have to trade Clay Buchholz and SS/SP Casey Kelly who is the organizations top prospect. A rotation of Halladay, Beckett, Lester, Matsuzaka and Wakefield would be unreal. They would have to extend his contract. It is up at the end of this coming season. I don't think there is anyway to get both of them. Cabrera would be a huge addition to the line up if they got him. He is a young slugger who consistently drives in over 100 runs and hits 30+ home runs. I'm not that interested in Matt Holliday. I think they can get Bay a little cheaper and he has a nice body of work already laid down in Boston. Holliday struggled in his only season In the American League before being traded to St. Louis. I think signing Bay is a must either way they go. Halladay or Cabrera is a win win situation. If you sign Bay and trade for one of the players it makes your team better not matter what. The next couple weeks should be fun. If they get Halladay I don't think they are done. I think you'll see them try to get a first or third baseman. It doesn't have to be a blockbuster. But it is time to move on from Mike Lowell. He is getting old.

Pats wet the bed in Indy

2009-11-16T09:29:00.002-05:00

Before we get to the obvious. Sabastian Vollmer had an excellent game. I hope he is the left tackle from now on. for years I have been driven crazy by Matt Light and his offsides penalties and inadequate play. I'd really like to see him move to the right side. Laurence Maroney's fumble was the nail in the coffin. If he scores they win. Plain and simple. He has shown flashes of brilliance in his few years here. But those have been over shadowed by injuries and a hesitant running style. He is not the answer at running back and never will be. Tom Brady looked great under pressure. He threw some pin point passes including a 62 yard touch down to Moss. The defense looked good but was on the field to much in the first half and wore down. Leading to a bad decision by coach Belichick in the forth quarter. You have to punt the ball on your own 28 yard line. it's not a question. It was a stupid uncharacteristic move. This doesn't mean they cant win the superbowl. Hopefully this is a loss to build on. something to fuel the fire even more. They need to come out the next couple weeks storming and play with a chip on their shoulder. there is a lot being said that is negative. I still think this team is championship calibar.

Second season

2009-11-10T08:57:00.002-05:00

After the bye week the Patriots stood at 5-2. New England beat a tough Miami team at home improving to 6-2. This week they travel to AFC rival Indianapolis. Peyton Manning and the Colts are unbeaten with an 8-0 record. Both Patriots losses have been on the road. I'd like to see the Patriots come out with their first 8-10 plays scripted. It will help with the crowd noise, which should be rocking on Sunday night. The running game will be a must. They need to keep the clock moving and Manning off the field. Maroney ran hard last week. He will need to run like that again, especially with Bob Sanders out who is a game changer against the rush. The Colts are good against the pass ranking 9th overall. With a banged up secondary, Matt Schaub was 32-43 for 311 yards in week 9. Tom Brady should be able to torch the Colts. He is a far better QB with a better core of receivers. This is the first big test for both teams. If Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark can be contained the Patriots have a chance to win. This will shut the offense down. The Colts running game hasn't been very good this season ranking 29th overall. surprisingly the Patriots are in the middle of the pack. The Patriots are a better team who is on the rise. Each week the young players are contributing more and more and getting better. They should hand the Colts their first loss of the season. I see a 31-24 for the New England Patriots.

New deal for Rondo

2009-11-02T09:00:00.002-05:00

After a dramatic week of will they wont they. Rajon Rondo and the Celtics are coming to terms on a new contract. Rondo was going to be a restricted free agent at the end of this season. The deal is reportedly worth around 55 million dollars. This was a smart move for the Celtics. Rondo is still developing into one of the better guards in the NBA. We have seen him take over games when needed. He is excellent driving to the hoop and dishing the ball out. I was afraid this was going to be another Chauncey Billups move if we lost him. It took a long time to get another guy in here after that for a period of time. He is a piece that can be built off for years. As the older stars fade he will still be running the ball up court. I like this deal and this should make a happier Rondo.

Celtics to start run for title

2009-10-27T07:25:00.002-04:00

After losing to the Magic in the playoffs, the Celtics retooled. They brought in vets like Rasheed Wallace, Marquis Daniels and Sheldon Williams. I asked Doc Rivers on media day what these players bring to his roster. He told me they bring experience and great depth. Giving the big 3 a chance to rest. Glen Davis broke his thumb and will be on the shelf for a while. It could be up until the new year. Supposedly he was defending himself from a friend. Davis took up MMA in the offseason. I wonder if this is from an altercation with a friend messing around. It's too bad he was in great shape and looked like he could have a good year off the bench. I don't know at this point if it is his shooting hand. Rajon Rondo will be playing for a max contract. He will be a restricted free agent at the end of the season with dollar signs on his mind. Look for another big year from him. This team should be ready to make a title run. As long as the starting 5, Wallace and Daniels can stay healthy they wont just beat some teams, they will destroy them. I don't think the addition of Shaq makes Cleveland more of a threat. He is old, gets hurt a lot and his skills have diminished. The Magic added Vince Carter who makes them deeper. Atlanta should be a solid team again. They should battle Detroit and Miami for fourth overall in the east. The loss of Ben Gordon hurts the Bulls who looked like a legit up and coming team. Tyson Chandler's health could make Charlotte a playoff team if he can recover and play well. I don't see anyone even coming close to challenging the Lakers in the west. The addition of Artest makes them tougher and better.

England Patriots

2009-10-22T06:09:00.006-04:00

The New England Patriots head to London England to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Tampa is the second winless team the Pats have played in a row. This should be another one sided battle. Tampa Bay is giving up an average of 28 points a game. They are 31st against the run and 11th against the pass. The Patriots should be able to take advantage of Josh Johnson who is only in his 6th game as a starter and prone to throwing interceptions. Johnson did not play last season as a rookie. Carnell Willliams is running well as of late. so shutting down the running game should be priority number one. Especially with Josh Johnson being a mobile quarterback. The Tampa Offensive line is a good unit. Brady and the offense should be able to put up 35 points this week. I see a 38-14 game with the Patriots causing turnovers on defense. Brady should have 4 touchdowns. Aqib Talib will not shutdown Randy Moss. A rushing combo of BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Laurence Maroney should gain over 100 yards on the ground. With Kevin Faulk doing his part on third downs. Only Buffalo is worse at stopping the run. The passing attack should open up the run game. These two games should give the Patriots the swagger and confidence to start playing at the top of there game coming into the bye week. Setting up for a tougher run against Miami, Indianapolis, New York Jets, New Orleans and in Miami which is usually a tough place for Brady. But a much easier December awaits after that stretch of games.

Pats release Banta Cain

2009-10-19T19:38:00.002-04:00

The New England Patriots released Outside linebacker Tully Banta Cain today. The move is a head scratcher. But after the two young corners Wilhite and Butler got the start yesterday and Adailias Thomas not even coming to the stadium. It seems the Patriots are sending a message to the defense. Get on board or get off. Banta Cain though i thought has done well this season. He is a situational player and a proven special teams player. he has 3 sacks this season which isn't a jaw dropper but is tied with Mike Wright for the team lead. I'm not sure why they did this. I don't think it makes the team better unless there are some plans we don't know of yet. Tully Banta Cain will never be an effective starter in the NFL but adds depth and can make plays at the right time.

Home field advantage

2009-10-19T05:39:00.006-04:00

Sunday's game between the Patriots and the Titans was the text book example of home field advantage. Tennessee was clearly disrupted by the weather and New England was not. Tennessee looked like they were playing with roller skates on. It started early for the Patriots after Sammy Morris went down with a leg injury. Moroney came in and ran well. His usual stuttering and stopping was replaced by moving laterally and keeping his feet moving. Tom Brady torched a hapless Titans secondary. This is hopefully the confidence booster that sends him back to the old Brady. Things changed dramatically when McGowen laid a hit on Chris Johnson sending him out for the play. Len Dale White came in and fumbled the next play setting up the drive with the flea flicker and multiple other scores. Sabastian Vollmer was a beast. Is this the guy who can take the reins at left tackle. It looked like it yesterday. I think if when Light comes back, it's time for Vollmer to take over at right tackle. The defense looked great again. Mike Wright has been playing very well this season. We didn't see Adalias Thomas yesterday. He was listed out with an elbow injury. A.K.A. he's in the dog house. The secondary is shaping up to be a very solid unit. The addition of Seau will add a lot of depth to the linebacking core. The line play has been pretty strong. Things are looking good for the Patriots. Another blow out in London coming up before the bye week.

Patriots back home after loss

2009-10-15T06:33:00.002-04:00

The Patriots are back home after an overtime loss to the Denver Broncos. Tennessee comes to town with an 0-5 record. Vince Young took over late last week for Kerry Collins who hasn't played well this season. Chris Johnson is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. The defense has been good and bad. They are in the top of the NFL against the rush and the bottom against the pass. This is good for the Patriots who are a pass heavy offense. They will have trouble containing Johnson on defense. I don't think this will be as easy as it should be against an 0-5 team. They key to the game for the Pats is forcing turnovers and containing Johnson. This is a team that went 13-3 a year ago with virtually the same team. At some point they are going to start winning games. I do not think it will be this week. They could give the Pats a good game, but in the long run I think the Pats will end up with some passing TD's and pulling away in the second half. I see a 27-14 win. Is this the week Brady finally breaks out? The Titans stats against the pass would say yes. We'll see on Sunday. I think Junior Seau will See some time this week. Not a ton but enough to get his feet wet.

Denver still perfect

2009-10-11T20:02:00.003-04:00

New England lost an overtime battle in Denver today. Brady seemed very comfortable in the pocket. He was able to move around and avoid multiple sacks. He is still off with the long ball but that should come in time. The offensive line looked good until late in the game giving Brady sometime to throw. Sammy Morris ran hard, but dodged a bullet when the Pats recovered his fumble. I'd really like to see more Edelman. Moss is constantly double covered. Eyes are on Welker. Why not have him out there more running short and intermediate routes. They let the Broncos hang around to long and it came back to bite them. But I have to hand it to Denver. They played well. They reminded me of a Pats team from early in the dynasty. They bent but never broke and took advantage when they had to. They are a well coached team with quality players. I really thought they were a fraud but watching them play really opened up my eyes. They will be a playoff team. Orton and his receivers seem to be on the same page and the whole team looks like they are having fun. I'm not worried about the Pats. I just hope this game doesn't effect the playoffs and have New England travel back to Invesco were they have a hard time. Up coming games with Tennessee and Tampa should put them at 5-2 when the bye week approaches.

1,000 hits!

2009-10-07T19:46:00.001-04:00

Thank you for all the followers of my blog. Since putting the counter up in March the site has reached 1,000 hits!

2009 Fall Classic

2009-10-07T19:13:00.002-04:00

The playoffs are here. here are my predictions...

American League:

Yankees sweep the Twins. Minnesota is coming off an emotional ride that ends quickly to a much better team all around. Even if Justin Morneau was healthy this would be a quick one. They just don't match up.

Red Sox beat the Angels in 5 games. This is going to be another classic late innings dramatic series. I think Boston edges them in the fifth game. I like Boston's line up and pitching slightly better than LAA. Especially late innings with Wagner, Bard and Pap. Look for JD Drew to be a big factor as he was last post season.

Red Sox in 7 over the Yankees. Call me a homer, but i think this will be a grind it out up and down series. Sabathia has never pitched well in the playoffs against the Sox. ARod still hasn't performed in the post season. We've seen Jon Lester go into the old Yankee stadium and almost throw a no hitter. I like the Sox to take this one.

National League:

Phillies sweep Rockies. Philly is stacked. They have a line up like an American league team. Far better starting pitching.

Cardinals win in 5 games over Dodgers. I have liked the red birds all season. Carpenter and Wainwright may be the best 1-2 punch in the game. Albert Pujols is the best hitter in baseball and adding Matt Holliday has been a great pick up. Manny Ramirez has not been the same guy since his suspension for failing the league's substance abuse policy for PED's.

Cardinals in 7 over the Phillies. This series could go anyway. The fact that the Phillies have home field actually is good for the Cardinals. They have hit much better at Citizens bank Ballpark than at Busch Stadium against Philly. This will be a series to remember.

World Series:

Red Sox win in 6 games over the Cardinals. The Sox have a deeper line up than the the cardinals do. They match up well in starting pitching. I think the key to this run is going to be Daisuke Matsuzaka. If he can pitch like he has, Beckett can get into playoff form and Buchholz can be serviceable. The Sox have a great chance to go all the way. This post season is going to be the final page turned for Jon Lester. He becomes the dominant starter for the rest of his career starting in the 2009 playoffs at some point.

Ravens flying high into Foxborough

2009-09-30T13:42:00.002-04:00

The 3-0 Ravens come to town this week in what is supposed to be another wet day at Gillette. Last week we saw the Patriots beat the then undefeated Atlanta Falcons. Brady didn't look sharp again and New England left points on the field. There is much less room for error this week as the Ravens boast one of the top defenses in the league. Two big factors for the Pats will be the availability of Wes Welker and Vince Wilfork. Brady needs Welker as an outlet. He was a big part of the win against Baltimore a couple years ago when the Patriots squeaked out a win on there way to an undefeated season. Wilfork is a big factor against the run. With the excellent vet Matt Birk towing the line for the run heavy Ravens he could be dominant with the missing Vince in the middle. The forecast is rain all weekend and the focus will be on the run which is Baltimore's forte anyway. If Vince and Wes are missing I think the Ravens will pound the ball and take time off the clock. Leaving zero room for error for Brady and the passing attack. The line looked good against an inferior defense last week. But the Ravens have an excellent line and linebackers. Not to mention a very good defensive backfield. I see a low scoring game with the Ravens taking this one 17-10. If Welker and Wilfork play and the Patriots can establish a decent running attack to stay on the field things could work in their favor. This is a real test for New England. If they do lose, it's not the end of the world. The next 3 games are winnable heading into the bye week. The week after the bye Miami comes to town. Miami is not the same team they were a year ago. So the patriots should go into the Indy game at 6 - 2 with Jerod Mayo that much closer to returning and Brady that much sharper. The Patriots are in good position with Mayo back for a tougher stretch against Indy, New york Jets and New Orleans. They should end up 12-4 or 11-5. I think this team should really hit it's stride in mid November. just in time for a playoff run to a Championship.

Week 3 Pats need to win

2009-09-25T07:12:00.002-04:00

After not looking good against the Jets last week. The Patriots need to get a win against a 2 and 0 Atlanta team. Atlanta has an explosive offense that has been retooled by former Patriots director of college scouting Thomas Dimitroff. Second year pro Matt Ryan has been excellent in developing into an NFL quarterback. Tony Gonzalez will be a tough opponent for the Patriots linebackers. If they can limit his production and take Roddy White out of the team with double coverage the Patriots have a chance to win this one. I think Tom Brady will have a break out game this week. The Atlanta secondary isn't very good. Randy Moss should have two td's and if Welker can play he should get a ton of receptions. If Brady has a break out game this will limit the monstrous Michael Turner's carries. They need to make sure John Abraham doesn't put a lot of pressure on Brady. Matt Light needs to step his game up. I'd like to see New England establish a running game if they can get a lead. It will not be a blow out. Atlanta will put points on the board. I see a 35 to 24 win with a late score and a couple of sacks on Matt Ryan to end this one. They need to take this one with Baltimore coming to town.

Off the field highlight

2009-09-18T07:42:00.003-04:00

In sports, especially in the NFL. Off the field incidents are often negetive. But Wednesday Vince Young took deceased Steve McNairs kids out for a father son breakfast. The school has an annual father son breakfast and McNairs two kids were left fatherless when he was murdered in July. Young and McNair had grown close years before Young entered the NFL. Young had promised the two boys he would remain in their lives. He ended up paying for all the families that came out to the breakfast. With all the domestic altercations, DUI's and other criminal activity surrounding the league it is a breath of fresh air to see someone doing something positive.

Holes in the defense

2009-09-16T12:46:00.005-04:00

Jerod Mayo is out six to eight weeks with an MCL injury. This causes a major hole for the defense. Mayo's loss highlights some poor drafting by the Patriots the past few years. They left themselves vulnerable by not addressing this problem the past few years. Jerod mayo was a great pick last year. Tyrone McKenzie was taken this past April in the draft and went out with a season ending injury in rookie camp. I thought in 2006 they should have grabbed Houston middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans instead of Moroney. You could see the linebacking core getting older every year and they weren't addressing it aggressively enough. The signing of Adalius Thomas hasn't worked out as planned. He has been ok. The Colvin signing in 2004 backfired when he was injured with a broken hip. He wasn't the same after that although he had some decent moments. But injuries happen, there is nothing you can do about that. Trading Vrabel backfired because now you basically traded him and Cassel for Patrick Chung who at this point isn't ready to contribute on a full time basis. Derrick Brook's name is being tossed around to come play here. But how much of a difference would he make? Not enough. Junior Seau is another name being tossed out there. He may be a better fit for the pats. He can play inside and add to pass coverage. But he is old too. The pats have a tough three game stretch coming up with the Jets, Falcons and Ravens. All three teams can run the ball. Gary Guyton needs to step up for this defense. I'm looking for him to make a solid impact. I don't think a trade would make sense. The Pats value their picks and the season is under way. It takes time to learn a play book. The offense better start putting up 35 points a game. A running game will be needed also to take time off the clock. What do you think the Patriots should do?

Say good bye Seymour

2009-09-08T18:19:00.002-04:00

The Pats traded Richard Seymour yesterday for a first round pick in the 2011 draft. Seymour goes from an NFL dynasty to a joke of a franchise. The Raiders have no stability through the coaching ranks. Al Davis is making all the shots on players and has o clue what he is doing. Look at this years draft. The Patriots must see something dwindling in Seymour's play. They got a future first round pick instead of letting him walk at the end of the season. With the new 4-3 alignment, Derrick Burgess and Jarvis Green will be needed to add pressure on the quarterback. Myron Pryor and Mike Wright are more effective against the run. I don't love or hate the deal. I'm glad they got something instead of nothing. Seymour has been frequently hurt and in my opinion overrated. He had a good year in 2008 with a team leading 8 sacks. But 8 sacks doesn't exactly wow me. Coach Belichick must think he is less valuable to the team in the new defensive scheme. This defense has plenty of question marks. At some point this season they are going to need to find an identity to go all the way.

Super Bowl Pick

2009-09-07T18:10:00.003-04:00

A preseason Superbowl pick is more fun than anything. A lot can happen between now and February. So here it goes...

AFC Championship

New England
Baltimore

NFC Championship

Philadelphia
Atlanta

Superbowl

New England
Philadelphia

New England over Philadelphia

Who do you think has what it takes to go all the way?

NFC West

2009-09-05T10:46:00.003-04:00

Arizona Cardinals - ( 10-6 ) - Kurt Warner is back after an excellent season. He still has all three targets in Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin and Steve Breaston. All had over 1,000 yards last year. Leonard Pope seems to have stepped up is receiving game a bit as well. Pope is not a huge threat but another target is great to have. Tim Hightower and Chris Wells will do the running. Hightower was valuable in short yardage situations last year scoring 10 touchdowns. He also had 34 receptions making him a threat in the passing game. Chris Wells will probably be broken in slowly. He has a history of getting injured. He will be a nice change of pace. Hightower is be the starter. The offensive line finally came together last year. It had been a major problem. All five starters are back. Starting end Antonio Smith is gone so Calias Campbell will get his chance to start in his second season. He has had a solid preseason. The rest of the starters on the line are back including stand out Darnell Dockett. The linebackers are a good unit led by Karlos Dansby. Rookie Cody Brown will try to make an impact rushing the passer but Victor Hobson has made the most of his opportunity this preseason and should start at the other outside linebacker spot. The secondary looks great. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie played well as a rookie. Bryant McFadden who played great against the Cards in the Superbowl will get the other corner sport. Left void by the departure of Rod Hood. Antrel Rolle and Adrian Wilson are excellent safeties. Back to the post season for the Cardinals in this terrible division.

Seattle Seahawks - (7-9) - The success of this teams will be keeping Matt Hasselbeck up right and healthy. T.J. Houshmandzadeh is the dominant number one wide receiver they have been looking for. Hasselbeck and Houshmandzadeh have been hooking up for TD's all preseason. John Carlson should take another step forward after an impressive rookie season. Finding guys to fill in the blanks around them will be the big key. Nate Burleson needs to stay healthy. Deion Branch could be a cap casualty and is always hurt. Look for rookie Deon Butler out of Penn State to make an impact this year. Julius Jones will be the feature back. Even with the signing of Edgerin James, who seems to understand the team concept of using multiple backs from what he has been saying to the press. The line is not very impressive. Rookie Max Unger could be a breath of fresh air. They need to find stability at the tackle positions. The defense has some holes. Especially in the secondary. Ken Lucas was brought in to give this team 2 good corners. But Marcas Trufant but he has been pup on the P.U.P list (Physically unable to perform). They are not sure when his back will get better. Deon Grant and Brian Russell are average and below average safeties. The good news is Aaron Curry has been everything they expected in the preseason. Combing with Tatupu and Hill will make this a strong linebacking core. The line looks pretty good. The additions of Cory Redding and Colin Cole will bolster this group. I think if they can find some guys to step up on the offensive line and Josh Wilson and Kelly Jennings can fill in well while Trufant is out, the Seahawks could be a surprise team coming out of the west. I don't think they have enough of a total package to make the playoffs however.

San Francisco 49ers - (7-9) - Shaun Hill is the starting QB. He has a 7-3 record as a starter and is efficient in short yardage passing plays. Michael Crabtree still hasn't signed a contract leaving Issac Bruce, Josh Morgan and Jason Hill as the starters. None of which are dominant players. Can Vernon Davis finally play to his potential is the big question? Frank gore is a tough runner who will need to carry a heavy load for the offense. The line is led by center Eric Heitmann and Left tackle Joe Staley. The rest of the line is a question mark. Marvel Smith needs to stay healthy and play consistent football. Chilo Rachal and Tony Wragge will battle for starting spots. The defense is led by Patrick Willis. Arguably the best linebacker in the NFL. Justin Smith was amazing last season in his first year with he team. Rookie Kentwan Balmer will push for time at the other end. Issaac Sopoaga will probably move to nose. Nate Clements has been a good player for the 49ers after signing a huge contract. Safety Michael Lewis is great in run support. This is a team on the rise. They could make a push for the playoffs with solid offensive line play. a weak division helps.

St. Louis Rams - (5-11) - QB Marc Bulger is starting the season with a fractured pinkie finger in his throwing hand. He also has nobody to throw to. Donny Avery is the top wide reciever on the team and suffered a broken foot during camp. He will be ready to play but at what speed. Steven Jackson could have a monster year. He will need to catch a lot of passes and run the ball. The team has been trying to better the offensive line for a couple years. They signed center Jason Brown and drafted Tackle Jason Smith 2nd overall in April. The defense is switching to a 4-3 from 3-4. Chris Long should benefit from the change at end. James Laurinaitis was selected 34th overall. He isn't the fastest guy on the field but is a sure tackler. The secondary is okay. Led by safety Oshiomogho. He is one of those guys you don't here much about. But he is a star. There are holes all over this team. They will be better than last year. But that's not saying much.

NFC SOUTH

2009-08-29T11:21:00.005-04:00

Atlanta Falcons - (10-6) - Matt Ryan showed why he was the second overall pick of the 2008 draft. He will develop into an elite QB sooner than later. Top Wide out Roddy White has a new contract and acquiring future hall of famer Tony Gonzalez is a huge boost for the offense. Michael Jenkins is developing into a nice complement to White. Michael Turner was a beast running the ball last year, rushing for 1699 yards and 17 scores. After a disastrous 2007 season. The offensive line gelled to become a solid unit. They added some depth to the defense in the draft. Selecting tackle Peria Jerry out of Mississippi in the first round. Lawrence Sidbury is another interesting rookie who played at Richmond. He could be a major boost in pass rushing situations. Curtis Lofton is back for another big year at middle linebacker. He was a force as a rookie in 2008. Outside linebackers Stephan Nichols and Mike Peterson will make this a strong trio. Tony Gilbert will aslo get some time after missing all 16 games last season. Coy Wire also adds some run stopping ability as a hybrid linebacker/safety. The defensive backs are young. Erik Coleman has the most experience at safety. Chris Houston hasn't been the player they hoped for. He will get his shot to start in year three. Rookie Chris Owens out of San Jose State has a shot to start as the other corner. Von Hutchins will be in the mix at corner too. William Moore is a big player at safety. the rookie from Missouri is 6'o 221lbs and plays with every bit of that size to knock out opposing runners and receivers. I think if this defense can put it together Atlanta could make a Superbowl run.

Carolina Panthers - (9-7) - Jake Delhomme was signed to a contract extension through 2014. He is 34 and not an elite QB. DeAngelo Williams finally stayed healthy and made opposing defenses look foolish. Jonathon Stewart is a bigger back who compliments Williams. Stewart has had injury issues this preseason and has yet to play. Steve Smith had a shoulder injury. He should be fine for he start of the season and be the usual top receiver that he is. The offensive line is very good. Jordan Gross was resigned to protect Delholmme's blind side. Ryan Kalil is turning into a top center. The defense is good. Julius Peppers is back after an off season of drama. he was franchised and will make about a million a game. Everette Brown was taken in the first round to add another pass rusher. He could also be filling Peppers shoes in 2010 if the team decides not to sign him to a contract. Jon Beason has been nothing but a tackling machine since being drafted in 2007. He has been banged up so far and needs to be healthy. Chris Gamble is the top player in the secondary. Safety Charles Godfrey learned on the job as a rookie in 2008. they need him to take a step forward. although he played well for a rookie. Early injuries are a concern for Carolina. They will make a playoff push but will have to battle Atlanta and New Orleans for it.

New Orleans Saints - (8-8) - Drew Brees has been lighting up the scoreboard since his arrival from San Diego. Sean Payton's pass heavy offense has been in good hands with Brees. Marques Colston should return to his top form after battling injuries all season. Lance Moore and Devery Henderson stepped up in the passing game. Robert Meacham has been great this preseason and could have a break out year. Meacham is a big wide out who can fly. Shockey could be a factor this year after being hurt a lot of last season. The offensive line is a good unit. All five starters are back. Less Reggie Bush and more Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell or rookie P.J. Hill seems like the way the offense is heading at runningback. The defense was terrible last season and will be again in 2009. They resigned Jonathon Vilma who had 151 tackles. Sedrick Ellis had a decent rookie year at tackle. They desperately need him to take another step forward. Malcome Jenkins was drafted to bolster an atrocious secondary. He could end up at safety. Jabari Greer is an good player at corner. Tracy porter was having a good rookie season until it was ended by injury. Look for the same old huge offense and no defense from New Orleans. They will make a playoff push but wont have the defense do go anywhere if they do make it.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers - ( 3 - 13 ) Tampa Bay's roster has been gutted like the home of a first time buyer. Three games into the preseason they don't have an answer at quarterback. Although new offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski wants a run heavy offense. Derek Ward was brought in from New York and should get the bulk of the carries. Ernest Graham will get plenty of chances also. Carnell Williams is going to get a chance to resurrect a once hopeful career which has been shattered by injury. Antonio Bryant finally showed his potential. But the major issue at quarterback could seriously hinder his numbers. Kellen Winslow is a great tight end when healthy but faces the same problems as Bryant. The line has the potential to turn into a solid group. They are very young. Headlined by Davin Joseph and oldest member Jeff Faine who is only 28. The defensive line is bad. Adam Gaines hasn't developed into a good pass rusher. Chris Hovan has a lot of heart but that will only get him so far. especially entering year ten. Barrett Rudd is the heart of the defense in the middle. Angelo Crowell could be a nice addition to the outside if he can come back from a knee injury. Aqib Talib was just arrested and could face a suspension for punching a man. Safety Tanard Jackson was suspended for the first four games for violating the leagues substance abuse policy. Will Allen will have to step in for Jackson. It's going to be a long year in Tampa Bay. No playoffs this year or for the next few.

NFC North

2009-08-22T10:12:00.005-04:00

Minnesota Vikings - (11-5) - He's baaaack, yup Favre is back. Surprised, yes, no, maybe? Either way he will be taking snaps for the Vikes. He doesn't have to carry this team. Adrian Peterson is a workhorse. Chester Taylor is a great back up. Favre doesn't have great weapons to throw to. Rookie Percy Harvin can line up in multiple spots. Bernard Berrian could have a nice year with the addition of Favre. Tight End Visanthe Shiancoe had a solid season with 7 touchdowns. The offensive line is back except for a major piece. Matt Birk left via free agency. John Sullivan will get the start in his third pro season. The defense is good. Maybe a little overrated. The defensive line is great. Pat and Kevin Williams are giants beasts clogging the middle. Jared Allen provides a tough pass rusher at end. Linebacker isn't a deep unit. Chad Greenway played up to expectations last year. Look for him to get even better in his fourth year. E.J. Henderson is back from injury. He is the leader of the defense at middle linebacker. Ben Leber is a solid player on the outside. The defensive backs are led by Antoine Winfield. He is entering his tenth season and still laying out hits at corner. Cedric Griffin has the other corner spot. He needs to step up in his coverage abilities. Mediau Williams is a good safety but got injured early last year. He came back late and played well. Tyrell Johnson will take over for long time Viking Darren Sharper. He needs to help solidify that spot. If Griffin and Johnson can play well, This defense can be top notch. If not it could lead to some holes.

Chicago Bears - (9-7) - The Bears and Vikings remind me alot of each other. New QB Jay Cutler will need to be the answer Chicago has been looking for. Matt Forte is a workhorse much like Peterson. He has excellent hands as well. Tight ends Desmond Clark and Greg Olson will need to make alot of catches. The wide receivers are poor. Jauquin Iglesias is a rookie out of Oklahoma. He could be a great short yardage receiver in the slot. Orlando Pace was brought in to strengthen the line. A change of scenery could wake Pace up for a season. But his best days are far behind. Olin Kreutz is still a tough gritty player but he is getting older as well. The defense is tough. Tommy Harris is one of the top linemen in the NFL. Lance Briggs is a tremendous outside linebacker. Brian Urlacher is still a solid player. Nick Roach, Hunter Hillenmeyer and rookie Marcus Freeman will battle for the other outside spot. Charles Tillman and Nathan Vasher are a top duo at corner. But they have had alot of injuries the past few years. D.J. Moore was drafted in the fourth round this April. He is a tough player who will play through injury. He could be a stand out at some point in his career for the Bears. Kevin Payne is a good all around player at strong safety. This team could challenge the Vikings for the division title. Especially if someone steps up at wide receiver.

Green Bay Packers - (8-8) - Aaron Rodgers played well in his first year as a starter. He has a ton of weapons. Greg Jennings highlights the receiver group. Veteran Donald driver, James Jones and second year player Jordy Nelson round out a very solid 1- 4 on the depth chart. Ryan Grant and Brandon Jackson are serviceable at runningback. The O-Line is good. Chad Clifton had surgery on both knees and is entering his tenth year. Other than that they are set on the line. The defense will be interesting due to the switch from a 4-3 to a 3-4. The grabbed a key piece in the draft selecting B.J. Raji to play nose. Finding ends to fit the scheme may be tough with they're current players. They may have great players at linebacker. Aaron Kampman will move to outside linebacker. The top end needs to make a smooth transition. A.J. Hawk will move inside next to Nick Barnett. The Packers also selected the very athletic Clay Matthews out of USC in the first round as well. He will get every chance to start at the other OLD spot. Charles Woodson is still playing at a high level at corner. Safety Anthony smith could find himself starting after coming from Pittsburgh where they play a 3-4. If the new defensive scheme works well, Green bay could make a playoff push. If not it could be another 6-10 year.

Detroit Loins - (2-14) - Daunte Culpepper and Mathew Stafford will battle for the top spot. They would be smart to let Stafford sit and learn for the first five or six games depending on Culpepper's play. If he plays well than letting him sit the entire year could be smart. But smart has never been associated with he Detroit Loins. Calvin Johnson is a top wide out. Brandon Pettigrew was added at tight end in the draft. He can catch and block. Kevin Smith stepped in and run well as a rookie in 2008. The offensive line isn't very good. Dominic Roiola is a solid center. Jeff Backus has been the starting left tackle for 9 years and is okay. Gosder Cherilus needs to improve in his second season at right tackle. The defense is still not good. Adding free agent Grady Jackson gives them a plug in the middle. They have upgraded at linebacker which was a priority. Larry Foote will play in the middle and Julian Peterson was brought in from a trade with Seattle. They will help take pressure off Ernie Sims who was the Lions defense last year. The defensive backfield is not good. Louis Delmas was selected with the number 33 pick in the draft. He could be a future building block for the team at safety. The rest of the group is underwhelming with no stars. This organization is still a long way from being good. It will take alot to reverse what Matt Millen did.

NFC East

2009-08-13T11:18:00.003-04:00

Philadelphia Eagles - (12-4) - The Eagles look to be ready to make a Superbowl run. They need Quarterback Donovan McNabb to be the player he was in the second half of last season after being benched. The Eagles added Runningback LeSean McCoy in the draft to take some carries from the aging often injured Brian Westbrook. Westbrook is still a star when healthy. But the game is starting to wear on him physically. McCoy was a star in college when he played 3 seasons at Pittsburgh. Philadelphia also added Wide receiver Jeremy Maclin in the first round in the draft. Maclin is a speedster who can stretch the field. DeSean Jackson led the team in receptions in 2008 as a rookie. Kevin Curtis should also be back after getting injured last year. Brent Celek and Cornelius Ingram will battle for the Tight End spot to replace L.J. Smith. The offensive line is massive. They aquired Jason Peters in a trade with Buffalo. Peters is one of the top left tackles in the league. He is back with former college teammate/roommate Shawn Andrews. Shawn's Brother Stacey is also joining the team and will play right guard. Jamaal Jackson could lose his starting spot at center. He has had a few down seasons. The defense is very solid. The line is anchored by tackles Mike Patterson and Broderick Bunkley. Stewart Bradley is a strong middle linebacker entering his fourth season. Outside linebackers Chris Gocong and Akeem Jordan are tough against the run and pass. The secondary is very deep with talented players. Asante Samuels is in his second year with the team. He added the excellent pass coverage the defense needed. Sheldon Brown has the other corner spot. he is excellent against the run. Ellis Hobbs will try to make his case for a starting spot at corner. He will return kicks and be a top player in nickel and dime packages. Quintin Demps will have to fill the shoes of longtime Eagle Brain Dawkins. Quintin Mikell was an all-pro at strong safety. This team is strong and should go deep into the playoffs.

New York Giants - (11-5) - The Giants look strong again this season. Bruising back Brandon Jacobs punishes defenses but gets nicked up doing it. Andre Brown was drafted to give the Giants another runner who can also catch. Brown was a steal in the fourth round this past April. Ahmad Bradshaw adds alot of speed off the bench also. Somebody needs to emerge as the top target for Eli Manning. Steve Smith made strides last year and should see more catches with Amoni Toomer gone. Dominik Hixon, Hakeem Nicks and Ramses Burden will all get shots to play. Kevin Boss has been adequate at tight end. Travis Beckum was taken in the third round and was a dynamic receiving end at Wisconson. Pro Bowler Chris Snee headlines a tough gritty offensive line. The defense will be better this season. Justin Tuck has worked hard to become one of the better defensive ends in football. Osi Umenyiora is a great pass rusher on the other side. Rookie Clint Sintim will push for a starting spot at outside linebacker. Antonio Pierce holds down the inside as he has since being signed in 2005. Aaron Ross and Corey Webster are both solid corners. Michael Johnson and Kenny Phillips are young talented players who will start at safety.

Dallas Cowboys - (10-6) - Tony Romo and the Cowboys will be happy to move on from the T.O. years. Roy Williams was acquired in a mid-season trade in 08' but never hit his stride. He will have every chance to this season and I believe he will. Jason Witten is the best tight end in football. If not a close second to Tony Gonzalez in Atlanta. Runningbacks Marion Barber and Felix Jones need to stay healthy. Jones was a game breaker last year scoring a 33 and 60 yard touchdowns. The offensive line is good. They Need Doug Free to step up and Push Flozell Adams for the staring left tackle spot. Center Andre Gourode and Leonard Davis are both pro bowlers. The defense is good, however the secondary has some issues. They need to find a starter opposite Terence Newman at corner. Mike Mickens could step in as a rookie and fill the shoes that Mike Jenkins could not. DeMarcus Ware is one of the top linebackers in football. He and James Brady make this an above average unit. Jay Ratliff Made the pro bowl last year at nose tackle. he is the star of the line.

Washington Redskins - (7-9) - The Redskins have enough talent to win other NFL divisions. But not the NFC East. Quarterback Jason Campbell is on the hot seat. They need him to come up big in this contract year to show he is the long term answer. Clinton Portis had a monster first half. But got banged up in the second and his productivity went down. The Offensive line was once a strength. But age is taking it's toll. Tight end Chris Cooley had another exceptional year. He only had one touchdown though. The rest of the receiving core is a mess. The two rookies from a year ago Reggie Kelly and Devin Thomas did nothing. Santana Moss exploded in the first few weeks but didn't do much down the stretch. They added Albert Haynesworth and Brian Orakpo to bolster the defensive line. London Fletcher is a rock at middle linebacker. But he is getting older. Corners DeAngelo Hall and Carlos Rogers played well last season. After being released by the Raiders Hall got a much needed reality check and played to potential. LeRon Landry has not played to potential at safety. This team doesn't have what it takes to win this division. It is still a solid team.

AFC West

2009-08-06T13:05:00.004-04:00

San Diego Chargers - (10-6) - San Diego is the most talented team in a weak division. Unfortunately they have to play the NFC East this season. Philip Rivers is coming off a career season. He threw 34 touchdowns in 2008 which is a franchise best. LaDanian Tomlinson had a down year after getting nicked up early. Darren Sproles filled in nicely when called apon. Giving the chargers two good backs. Vincent Jackson stepped up and had his best season at wide receiver. He surpassed 1,000 yards. Antonio Gates is still one of the premier tight ends in the game. He is back at full strength this season. A usually good offensive line struggled. They should be back at 100 percent. The defensive line lost end Igor Olshansky in free agency. They hope Ryon Bingham can fill in against the run. Rookie Larry English may come in in passing situations. He will also see time at outside linebacker. Losing Shawne Merriman for the season with a torn ACL was devastating. Shaun Phillips took advantage and led the team in sacks. If Antonio Cromartie can relive his 2007 season, the defensive backs are an excellent unit. Quintin Jammer is a very good corner on the other side. Eric Weddle has done nothing but make tackles all over the field since being drafted in 2007. The Chargers would really have to fall apart to not make the playoffs. The West is very weak.

Kansas City Chiefs - (8-8) - Scott Pioli has done a nice job building this team. He acquired former Patriot Quarterback Matt Cassel in a trade. The jury is still out on Cassel, but I think he has the tools to succeed. He should throw for 3,000 yards. Matt may also get the green light to run a little more. Dwayne Bowe is a talented young player at wide receiver. He is entering his third season and gotten better each year. Losing future hall of famer Tony Gonzalez is tough. His production will be a tall task to replace. Brad Cottam is going to get the shot. He showed good skills catching and blocking last season. Veteran Bobby Engram was brought in to play the slot. If Larry Johnson can get his emotions in check and play football. It will be a major boost for the offense. They hope second year player Jamaal Charles can take a step forward this year to help the rushing attack. Brandan Albert showed why he was the top choice for the Chiefs a year ago. He made a smooth transition from guard to left tackle in his rookie season. The line is above average. The defense is making the switch to a 3-4 alignment. They started by drafting End Tyson Jackson third overall in april. Glenn Dorsey will go from tackle to end. Finding a suitable nose may not be easy. They added a couple of vets to the linebacking core with 3-4 experience. Mike Vrabel was also acquired in the Cassel trade. Zack Thomas was also signed via free agency. Derrick johnson may play in the middle next to Thomas. Tamba Hali may move from end to outside linebacker. The defensive backfield is underrated. Brandon Flowers and Brandon Carr both played solid in their rookie seasons. Bernard pollard and Jarred Page are both solid safeties. KC may have some trouble in a couple areas in switch to the 3-4. But adding vets with experience will help. They could surprise with a playoff push late. Maybe a year away from playoff contention.

Denver Broncos - (6-10) - Josh McDaniels takes over a rebuilding Broncos team. Jay Cutler was traded to Chicago after a tumultuous offseason. Denver acquired Kyle Orton in the trade. Orton has had unspectacular success in the NFL. But if he can play efficient football he will win the job. Denver signed a slew of runningbacks as well as drafting the out of this world athletic Knowshon Moreno. Correll Buckhalter will also get some touches. Eddie Royal emerged as a reliable receiver last year as a rookie. The troubled Brandon Marshall is talented but wants a trade and is always in legal trouble. Jabar Gaffney came over from New England will will add depth. The offensive line is a good unit. Top choice in 2008 Ryan Clady gave up only a half a sack in his rookie year. The defense doesn't look good. They selected Robert Ayers with their second pick in the first round. He can play end or outside linebacker and could be a bright spot. DJ Williams is the best player on the defense. He has little help out there. The Defensive backs are the strongest part of the D. Perennial Pro bowler Brian Dawkins was signed as a free agent. They hope he can bring experience to the defense. Champ Bailey is still a top corner and hopes to stay healthy. The Broncos are a year or two away from competing for the playoffs. Josh McDaniels takes over a tough situation.

Oakland Raiders - (5-11) - Entering year three, Big things are expected from Quarterback JaMarcus Russell. Jeff garcia was brought in and could see time if Russell struggles. Rookie Darrius Harward-Bey was drafted in the top ten. He has blazing speed but questions surround his hands. Zack Miller has been a steady player at tight end. Justin Fargas and Darren McFadden will split the duties at runningback. they have two different running styles which has become a trend in the NFL. The offensive line is bad. Robert Gallery has resurrected his career at guard after being taken second overall in the 2004 draft. But he is the only solid player. Kirk Morrison is a beast at middle linebacker. Thomas Howard is also an underrated player. But the defensive line struggled last year. The line has the potential to be okay. But they need to stay healthy. The defensive secondary is a strong unit. Asomugha Nnamdi is could be the best corner in the league. Young Tyvon branch looked good before getting injured last year at safety. Chris Johnson has the other corner spot and looks very good. The defense can be good if they stay healthy and play up to potential. They defense could win them a couple mores games if this happens. No playoffs for Oakland.

AFC South

2009-08-03T13:28:00.007-04:00

Tennessee Titans - (11-5) - Tennessee finally toppled the Colts for the top spot in the South. Kerry Collins saved the day after Vince Young had an emotional episode. Chris Johnson showed why their made him the top selection of the 2008 NFL draft. He ran for 1228 yards and 9 touchdowns. His counter part Lendale White added 15 touchdowns. Johnson looks to improve from a breakout rookie season. White had dropped 30 pounds and is i a contract year. Look for big things out of this duo again. The wide receiving core has gotten better. Nate Washington comes over from the Steelers and has big play ability and Kenney Britt was drafted in the first round out of Rutgers. Bo Scaife led the offense with 58 receptions last season. The offensive line is a top NFL unit. They gave up only 8 sacks all season and allowed the runningbacks to run wild. All five starters are back. Losing Albert Haynesworth hurts. But if they can find someone to fill in and do a solid job that will help. Jason Jones and Rookie Sen'Derrick Marks will battle to for that spot. This is still a very good defense with out Haynesworth. Keith Bullock is still a beast at weakside linebacker. He is also in a contract year. Courtland Finnegan went from 7th round selection to all-pro. He leads a strong defensive backfield. Tennessee should be a sure thing for the playoffs. They could make a Superbowl push but i see them falling just short.

Indianapolis Colts - (9-7) - Payton Manning lost his favorite weapon in Marvin Harrison. He still has a pretty potent arsenal. Reggie Wayne is an elite receiver. Anthony Gonzalez will move from the slot to Harrison's spot. Dallas Clark will be seen all over the field as usual. The tight end will line up at slot, on the line and out wide. Joseph Addai hasn't been the same guy as the one we saw his rookie season. The Colts added Donald Brown II to deepen the runningback position. Brown is a workhorse who ran for over 2,000 yards at UConn. Brown was in a offense that virtually never threw the football and still had a ton of success. The O-Line is getting older. They Need Ryan Lilja to bounce back from a major knee injury. Jeff Saturday is in his eleventh season. This is still a good unit and got alot deeper after injuries forced players into the lineup. The defensive line is a solid unit. Eric Foster was a nice surprise in 2008. He won a starting job at tackle as an undrafted free agent. The Linebackers are an average unit. Not alot of depth if someone should go down either. Bob Sanders is a game changer at safety. He gets hurt often and the Colts go from having a top run defense to nothing special depending if he plays or not. Sanders, Marlin Jackson and Kelvin Hayden all had injuries last year and need to stay healthy. Questions surround the Colts this season. Can they stay healthy? Can They adapt to a new coach. All these things will come into play in order to make the playoffs in this tough division.

Houston Texans - (9-7) - Can this finally be the the year quarterback Matt Schaub stays healthy for a whole season? If he does I think Houston will make the playoffs. Steve Slaton emerged as the top runningback after critics deemed him to small for success. Andre johnson and Kevin Walter are a fantastic duo at wide receiver. Owen Daniels is a great pass catching tight end an is coming off his first Pro bowl. The Texans have finally put together a solid offensive line. A five starters are back. Guard checter pitts has never missed a start in the franchise history. Middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans has been dominant since his first day in Houston. Former first pick overall in 2006 has become the dominant end they thought he would be. He had 12 sacks in 08'. The defensive backfield is the weakest spot on the team. Jacques Reeves came over from Dallas and played well last year. If this team can stay healthy I see them making a playoff push. But only if they can stay healthy!

Jacksonville Jaguars - (7-9) - David Garrard looks to rebound from a down year. The Jags added veteran wideout Torry Holt. They hope he can be what he was a few years ago. Jarrett Dillard and Tiquan Underwood are two rookies trying to make an impact. Maurice Jones-Drew will be the feature back. I think he is a bit overrated but he has some big play ability. Eugene Monroe was the Jags top draft choice. He will be the left tackle for the foreseeable future. The defense has weakened over recent years. Jacksonville had virtually no pass rush. Linebacker Daryl Smith is a force, but the rest of the group is subpar. Rashean Mathis has pro bowl ability. He needs to regain that form. This is a tough division. Each week will be a playoff factor for every team. I think Jacksonville falls short of the playoffs.

AFC North

2009-07-30T12:40:00.005-04:00

Pittsburgh Steelers - (11-5) - The super bowl champions look strong as always. The steady Ben Roethlisberger is back for another solid year. Controversy surrounds his personal life but i don't think it will effect him. Willie Parker will be the feature runner. He is very fast but gets banged up alot. Last years first round draft choice Rashard Mendanhall is back from injury. They hope he can take some touches away from Parker. Mendanhall did not look ready for the pros when he played early in the season. The Steelers hope Santonio Holmes can continue to shine after his Superbowl MVP game. Hines Ward is back to lay the lumber on opposing defenses and make catches over the middle. There isn't a better blocking receiver in football. The offensive line isn't dominating. Justin Hartwig had a good season at center in his first year with the team. Kraig Urbik was drafted in the third round of this years draft. He will push for a starting spot at guard. Heath Miller is an excellent player catching and blocking at tight end. The defense is one of the top units in the league. Top draft choice Evander "Ziggy" Hood will bolster and already excellent defensive line. He could take Brett Keisel's job. Casey Hampton is a fixture at the pro bowl. He is a massive Nose tackle at 6'1'' 330lbs. Aaron Smith is an excellent player at end. The linebacking unit is the best in the NFL as far as i'm concerned. James Harrison plays like a maniac. James Farrior is the captain and quarterback of the defense. LaMarr Woodley is an underrated player on the strong side. Ryan Clark stepped up at free safety last season. I think we all remember when he almost took Wes Welker's head off when Pittsburgh came to New England and dominated. Troy Polamalu is one of the best at strong safety. Polamalu is a game changer. William Gay and rookie Keenan Lewis will compete for the vacant corner spot left by Bryant Mcfadden. While Ike Taylor is entrenched at the other Corner spot. This team will go deep in the playoffs. Lead by a great defense and a ton of veteran leadership.

Baltimore Ravens - (10-6) - Baltimore got an accurate and good decision making quarterback by drafting Joe Flacco last year. His biggest problem is the lack of talent at wide reciever. Mark Clayton has the most ability now that Derrick mason has retired. There have been rumors about a trade with Denver for Brandon Marshall. We will see less Willis McGahee and more Ray Rice and LeRon McClain at runningback. Willis took a shot that ended is season and sent him out on a cart in the playoffs. The offensive line got better with the addition of perennial pro bowler Matt Birk who anchored an exceptional line for the Vikings. First Round pick Michael Oher will try to win the right tackle spot. Haloti Ngata is the best lineman on the defense. Tavares Gooden will step in for Bart Scott who was a free agent loss. Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs make this unit very strong. The secondary is a tough unit as well. Ed Reed and Dewan Landry are an excellent combo at safety. Fabian Washington came over from Oakland and had his best season in 2008. The Ravens will battle the Steelers for the top spot in the division and should make the playoffs again in 2009.

Cleveland Browns - (7-9) - Who will quarterback this team is the biggest question. A battle between Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson in training camp should give us this answer. Anderson has had the more success of the two. I was surprised that the browns didn't take a runningback until this sixth round this April. Jamal Lewis is getting old. Look for James Davis to try and takes carries away. He had some success in college at Clemson. They did add Brian Robiskie in the draft to help the receiving core. Kellen Winslow is gone and Dante Stallworth's legal troubles have his career in question. Braylon Edwards can be one of the best in the game. Mohamed Massaquoi was also drafted in the second round and could be o a big suprise this season. Joe Thomas is one of the best left tackles in football. Alex Mack was drafted out of California and should be a starter from day one at Center. The defense is serviceable. Kenyon Coleman was brought over in a trade from new york. He knows new coach Eric Mangini's system and will start at end. So does inside linebacker Eric Barton. He will play next to D'Qwell Jackson who has been a very good player for the Browns. The defensive Backfield will not be giving offensive coordinators nightmares. Brandon Macdonald and Eric Wright are just ok at corner. Pool and Elam aren't anything special either. I think the Browns might win a few games they aren't supposed to. But no playoffs this year.

Cincinnati Bengals - (5-11) - It has been a steady decline for the Bengals since winning the division in 2005. Carson Palmer is back from injury. His favorite target is gone. Leaving Chad Johnson the primary receiver. Johnson's best days maybe behind him. Laveranues Coles was broght into replace Houshmanzadeh. Be he is not the same player. Although Coles still has some gas in the tank. The Bengals hope they found thier runningback in Cedric Benson. Benson resurected his career after being cut by the Bears. They tried to strengthen the line on draft day. Taking Andre Smith and Jonathan Luigs. Luigs may end up having the better career even though he was taken three rounds later. The offensive line is not very good. The defensive line isn't much better. Domato Peko had a career year at tackle. But they lack a pass rush from this unit. They hope to make up in the pass rush at linebacker. They selected Rey Maualuga in the second round this spring. They hope he can play alot on the outside this season. Former USC teammate Keith Rivers is back from injury after taking a vicious hit from Hines Ward. Ward broke his Jaw in week 7 which ended River's season. Roy Williams comes over from Dallas to play Safety. The game is passing Williams by who can't cover very well. Former number on pick Leon Hall is not living up to his potential at corner. This is a below average group. It will be a long season for Cincinnatti. they will have a top ten choice again in 2010.

AFC EAST

2009-07-22T19:40:00.006-04:00

The NFL is set to open training camps around the league soon. Lets take a look at the divisions starting with the AFC East.

1. New England Patriots - (12 - 4) Missing the playoffs last year is going to give that chip on the shoulder they love to have. Not to mention Tom Brady is back behind center and ready to go. The schedule isn't to scary. On the road in Indy is always tough. A late game in Miami is usually a tough one to win also. Playing in London really shouldn't hurt them. It's no worse than playing on the west coast and they have a bye week after. The running backs are old but it's a deep unit. If Fred Taylor can stay healthy he could rush for a 1,000 yards. Sammy Morris is always a tough runner. Kevin Faulk maybe the most underrated player In the National football league. He was so clutch last year and carried the offense at time with huge runs and catches out of the backfield. Laurence Moroney is in a make or break season. He has broken every year and this could be his last training camp in Foxboro. Ben Jarvis Green-Ellis stepped in and filled a tough role when called apon as an undrafted rookie in 2008. He's is not a game breaker but will add depth. The receiving core is great. Moss, Welker and Galloway will be tough to stop. Brandan Tate is a rookie out of UNC will have time to learn the offense and get his surgically repaired knee back into shape. He could help out as a kick returner. The offensive line is solid. The Pats added 3 rookies in the draft. Second rounder Sebastian Vollmer could get a look as the right tackle depending on how he progresses in the preseason. The defensive line is still very good with the same old faces. Ron Brace was taken in the second round the this Aprils draft. Brace is a massive tackle who will spell Vince Wilfork at nose and come in on goal line situation. He could be the nose of the future because Wilfork's contract is up after this season. Ty Warren and Richard Seymore are back at end. Last years defensive rookie of the year is back in the middle. He has lived at Gillette this off season. He will be a pro bowler soon. If not this year than next. Adalius Thomas hasn't been the guy they thought he was when they signed him. But he is still solid. This will be his third year in the system and hopefully he can stay healthy. A guy i loved from the first day of training camp a year ago is Gary Guyton. Guyton is entering his second season and could start to be a player you notice. Shawn Crable is back from injury. I think if he stays healthy we should expect some good things from him on the outside. Outside linebacker is definitely the biggest question mark on the team. The defensive backfield could be a very underrated unit. Brandon Merriweather has progressed nicely. Patrick Chung the Patriots top draft pick will get the chance to play. The oft injured Tank Williams will make a push for playing time also. Leigh Bodden has been one of the top corners in the league. He has stumbled the past few seasons. Hopefully going from Detroit to New England will give him the drive to succeed again. Darius Butler is another second round pick. He is excellent in run support and is solid in defending the pass as well. He will battle Jonathon Wilhite, Terrence Wheatley and veteran Shawn Springs for the other starting spot. The kicking game looks good again with Stephan Gostkowski back for his fourth season. Chris Hanson did an excellent job punting last season which was nice after winning so many games despite Ken Walter. Patriots will be a Superbowl contender again.

2. Miami Dolphins - ( 9 - 7 ) The Cinderella story of last season is back to prove they are not a one year wonder. I think they have retooled to stay a competitive team. The addition of rookie Pat White will be key to the wildcat offense. White can run and was a stand out throwing the ball at the senior bowl and combine this winter. He will be all over the field making plays for them. Chad Pennington found a home in Miami at quarterback. Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams did well splitting carries. Greg Camarillo stepped up to be a tough physical playmaker at wide reciever in the slot. They upgraded the line by bringing in vetran center Jake grove. Ted Ginn has been getting better but is not a true number one receiver. Anthony Fasano and David Martin were huge at tight end last year. The Defense is good. The line is above average. The two young ends Merling and Langford played better than expected. But Jason Taylor is back. If he can stay healty he will be another boost. He could see time at outside linebacker too. If Joey Porter can keep his mouth shut and play, the linebacking core is very good. Porter was dominent at times but coaches became very annoyed with his act. Channing Crowder had a career high 114 tackles in the middle. Matt Roth made a very smooth transition to outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense. The defensive backs are good also. Will Allen had a career year. Sean Smith and Vontae Davis will compete for the other spot. Both are rookies with great athleticism. Yeremiah Bell led the team with 120 tackles at strong safety. Gibril Wilson was brought in from Oakland. He had a down year after signing a big deal with Oakland. But who doesn't have a down year when they play for the Raiders? Wilson is a talent. Miami has a tough start to the season. At Atlanta, Monday night against Indy and at San Diego. They will make a playoff push.

3. New York jets - ( 8 - 8 ) The Jets had an opportunity to come up big last year when the Patriots missed the playoffs. They blew it. But the high maintenance Brett Favre is gone. Kellen Clemens and rookie Marc Sanchez will battle for the QB spot. I think you will see Sanchez get the nod. He has been tirelessly watching film and working out. Kellen Clemens has never showed any signs of being the guy who can lead your team to the promise land. The Jets do not have a questionable offensive line however. They boast one of the better o-lines in football. Runningbacks Thomas Jones and Leon Washington have ran well behind it. Rookie Shonn Green had a great junior year at Iowa. But i really don't see him making the transition to a top NFL back. He isn't Fast or agile enough. Dustin Keller had a fine rookie season at tight end. Jerrico Cotchery is a decent wide receiver but may need another talented receiver on the other side to succeed. Chansi stuckey played well last season. But he is best fit in the slot. The defense is solid but there are some holes. Lito Shepard will pair up with lock down corner Darrelle Revis. Shepard has never been great and there is no depth behind him. Kerry Rhodes is a great safety and should blitz more this season. Bart Scott was brought in by new coach Rex Ryan. He played for Ryan in Baltimore. How will he do with out Ray Lewis beside him is the big question. Kris Jenkins is a dominant force at nose. The two ends are questionable and getting older. This team will need an efficient quarterback and luck with injuries on defense to be a playoff contender. I don't see them making it.

4. Buffalo Bills - ( 6 - 10 ) T.O. in Buffalo. I predict a disaster of epic proportions. Trent Edwards is not the guy Owens needs at quarterback. Owens needs a Brady, Brees or Romo type. Someone who can air it out. I see Terrell freaking out around week 6 or 7. They may get out to a fast start and then fade from there. Marshawn Lynch is out for the first four games due to a suspension. That will hurt too. Fred Jackson played well when spelling him last season. Lee Evans could thrive with the presence of Owens. Evans will draw less double teams. The team traded the best lineman on the team Jason Peters to the Eagles for financial reasons.. That will be a major loss. The defense couldn't get any pressure on the quarterback a year ago. They added rookie Aaron Maybin hoping he can help but i don't see him being a dominant force ever in his career. He had a down senior year at Penn St. They need Aaron Schobel back at full strength. Marcus Stroud is A big physical presence in the middle at nose. Kawika Mitchell is the most talented player for Buffalo in the linebacker corp. The defensive backs are a solid point on the defense. Donte Whitner is a very good safety. Young Leodis McKelvin has the athletic ability to start. Terrence McGee is a good player at the other corner. It could be a tough year in Buffalo. But i bet they get alot of media attention for some reason. I give in 8 weeks before Terrell Owens crys on camera.

Adding Pop

2009-07-11T21:30:00.002-04:00

As the trade deadline approaches you always hear alot of names thrown out there. A guy i would love to see in a sox uniform is Adrian Gonzalez. The 27 years old gonzalez is just hitting his prime. He got out to a fast start this season and has already totaled 24 home runs. All with no protection in the line up as Scott Hairston had gone on the DL and then got traded to Oakland. Gonzalez is also an excellent first baseman as well as a good person. Adding him to the Boston line up would be devistating. I would give up Clay Buchholz and Lars Anderson for him in a second. The Sox have Beckett and Lester who are two top starters. As good as Clay has been this season in Pawtucket, it is AAA not major league hitters. Lowell is getting old and hurt often. As much as i like him it's time to start planning for a perminent future at thirdbase. Adding a young slugger with a great glove is a good start. Youkilis plays third and Gonzalez at first would be amazing. Maybe better than adding Teixeira. The Padres will want Bowden from the Sox also i'm guessing. Which is alot, but when your getting one of the top hitters and fielders at the position it's a little easier.

Time off

2009-06-16T09:17:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone, Due to a crazy work schedule and family life i am gonna take a break from writing on this blog. look for new posts around the all-star break. Thanks for all the people who enjoy the blog and contribute in a helpful and positive manor.

Thanks, Mike

Ortiz's future

2009-06-05T12:55:00.002-04:00

What to do with the slumping David Ortiz? Nobody wants to see his demise. He has been beloved in Boston since 2003. His hitting ability is in a downward spiral. At this point putting him on the DL seems inevitable. He looks very uncomfortable at the plate. I think mentally it has taken a serious toll on him. I would put him on the 60 day DL. come up with some kind of injury. Making a trade this month could be a good idea. A player like Adam Dunn would be a great DH. He can play the feild if need be. He's a 40 home run a year guy. He strikes out a ton but he would be far more prductive than Big Papi. Hitting him fourth between youkilis and Bay would be a tough middle of the order. Alot of times players don't translate from one league to another. Jason Bay had no problem. Maybe Dave Magadan can help reduce the Dunn strike out factor. They need to do something. They share first with the Yankees right now. Adding another bat could help keep them there. What do you think the Red Sox should do about the decreasing skills of David Ortiz?

Diamonds in the rough for your fantasy football team

2009-05-30T10:25:00.005-04:00

Last season we saw Steve Slaton and Matt Forte bust onto the scene like they were 5 year vets. This year is not as strong as last season. But who are some guys you could draft late or pick up in free agency to help your team?

Andre Brown is a runningback the Giants took in the 4th round. He had a very successful college career. He is a versatile back and with the departure of Derrick Ward, Physical play of Brandon Jacobs and legal troubles of Ahmad Bradshaw makes Brown a guy to look out for. A guy you may want to take if you have Jacobs.

Travis Beckum is a player the Giants drafted with their second pick in the third round. Beckum was an excellent pass catcher in college. Something the Giants have lacked since trading Shockey. Beckum isn't somebody I would take early and depend on but could be good depth on your roster.

LeSean McCoy was taken in the second round. He will definitely get some touches to take the pressure off Brian Westbrook. Westbrook is a great back but gets banged up alot. Look for McCoy to have some big games this year. He is a second round pick like Forte was a year ago.

Brandon Tate is a talented wide reciever who would have been a first round pick had he not had a season ending knee surgery his senior year. He is on a deep Patriots roster and should fill the role that Stallworth and Gaffney have had. He could be a good flex option if your league has one. especially in a twelve team league.

Rashad Jennings is a big back out of a small school. He was selected in the seventh round and could be a goal line option for the Jags. Sometimes a guy can score 2 touchdowns and run for 25 yards and save you due to bye weeks or injury.

Jared Cook should be the starting tight end in Tennessee this season. He is very athletic can may be a good fit if your starter goes down or has a bye week. The Titans don't throw a ton but could throw a little more this season with the additions of Cook and Kenny Britt.

These are some names to look out for late in your draft or on the waiver wire. Good luck!

Celtics have roster moves to make

2009-05-20T06:49:00.005-04:00

Since the Celtics are out of the playoffs it's time for them to focus on the roster. The Big topic is whether or not to bring back Glen Davis. Big baby just finished his second NBA season. He is a good bench player and has alot of playoff experience under his belt. I'd like to see them bring him back. He has come up huge for this team many times. I've seen him guard some of the best big men in the game and make them a non factor. But if a team wants to throw him a ton of cash it's not an option to bring him back. A team could see his experience and try and make him a starter. If that doesn't happen i'd love to see them try and sign him for 4-6 million a year. He's not worth more than that. He hit a game winner against Orlando but was also non exsistant in other games. A strong bench is a great thing to have. The Celts need more help on the bench. Leon Powe could be out until december or january. It's time for Tony Allen to move on. I thought he was going to step up and be a solid bench player but he was not at all this year. Do they keep Marbury? It's seems like his better days have past him by. They need a back up point. Shawn Marion is out there. I think Andre Miller would be a great point coming off the bench. Anderson Varejoa would be another solid addition as a big man. Especially if Powe isn't at full strength next season. Drew Gooden could be a nice pick up if some team drops a ton of cash on Big Baby. What direction would you like to see the Celtics go?

Mark Herzlich diagnosed with cancer

2009-05-14T18:58:00.002-04:00

Boston College defensive stand out Mark Herzlich has been diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma. A tumor found in soft tissue and bone. Herzlich was the ACC defensive player of the year. He passed on the draft to finish his senior year at the heights. Mark would have been a high first round pick this past April had he decided to go pro. He is one of the best players i have ever seen at BC. Also a great teammate and hard worker. Hopefully he can make a quick recovery and get back on the field. He will make a great pro. But sports takes a back seat to life when your health is hanging in the balance. Ewing's Sarcoma has a high recovery rate if caught early enough. There is no time table for him to get back on the field right now. I wish him the best of luck and a fast recovery.

Manny Mania

2009-05-07T13:13:00.002-04:00

Well now we know why Manny shoved a sixty year old man in Houston last summer. He claims he got a medication from his doctor. Saying they didn't know it was banned. If your a major league player who is taking something isn't it your responcibility to know if it's banned or not? I would say yes. Ask a trainer, the team union rep or anyone. I don't buy his story. I'm so happy he's gone. I like Jason Bay in left. He wont be shoving old men or decideing not to play in July.

Evan Almighty

2009-05-02T10:51:00.002-04:00

3 on 2 out, BOOM. Another Longoria home run. This guy kills the Red Sox. Hitting .368 with seven homers in the first month i guess this guy is killing everyone. In his second season he is already one of the best hitters in the majors. He is an excellent defender as well. His swing is effortless and the ball jumps off his bat. It wouldn't suprise me if he wins the AL MVP this year. Maybe Kevin Youkilis will have something to say about that. I think if i was starting a team from scratch Longoria would be my first pick. A young middle of the ordere guy who can play defense. It wont be long before for he is considered the best hitter in the game.

Pats draft re-cap

2009-04-27T13:06:00.002-04:00

The Patriots did a alot of wheeling and dealing this weekend. They acquired two second rounders next year and sent corner/kick returner Ellis Hobbs packing. A move which surprised me. Ellis was a very good kick returner and a decent corner. But after signing Bodden, Springs and drafting Darius Butler it made Hobbs expendable. I liked Ellis, When most Patriots would give you a rude remark when asked for an interview, Hobbs was always ready to talk. The Patrick Chung choice for me is a filler for Rodney. He can learn from him and fill his shoes when his time is up. He is a similar player. One who can fill the box. Brace was a great move. I think you'll see Vince Wilfork walk at the end of the season. I think Wilfork is one of the best D-lineman in the game at stopping the run and will be paid like it. The Patriots don't play that game. Brace can now learn the system for a year. Get his feet wet and come in on 3rd and short and goal line situations. Darius Butler is a tough player against the run. I love when a cornerback isn't afraid to make a tackle. Sebastian Vollmer is a huge O-Tackle who could see early playing time on the right side. He could end up at left in a few years. He is still pretty raw and will only get better. Branden Tate was a first round prospect until he tore his ACL and MCL last season. Questions surrounded his character after failing a drug test at the combine. But that didn't seem to bother them taking him in the third round. The Pats other third round selection Tyrone Mckenzie was an excellent pick. He is a tackling machine and may be able to move inside in a 3-4 after playing outside linebacker in college. McKenzie had 18 tackles in a game against Pittsburgh in 2007. Rich Ohrnberger could be one of those picks like Dan koppen. He adds great depth to the guard position which needs it. I can see him becoming a starter in the future. He is also a great teammate. George Bussey is very similar to Ohrnberger in size and stats. Both top tier lineman in their conferences. I like these two picks and with Mankins future in question because of contract it was a smart move adding both players. Myron Prior was a 3 year starter at Kentucky. He isn't tall at 6'0'' but is 319lbs which could translate to the nose in a 3-4 adding more depth if he makes the squad. Long Snapper Jake Ingram out of Hawaii will battle for the Long snapper spot after Lonnie Paxton left for Denver. seventh round picks Julian Edelman of Kent and Darryl Richard will try and make the team. Edelman was a quarterback at Kent. I think they like his athleticism more than his throwing ability. His chance to make the team is more at kick returner. Richard is a D-lineman. He had an excellent four year career at Georgia tech. Winning numerous awards in many different seasons. At 6'4'' 290 he adds some depth at end. Jarvis Green and Richard Seymore have contracts up at the end of 2009. I give this draft a B. I think in a few years we will look back and see alot of the players from this years draft contributing to the team. with 4 to 6 potential starters.

Round 2

2009-04-21T16:54:00.019-04:00

33. James Lairanitis - ILB - Ohio State - Lions

The lions have a major hole to fill in the middle of the defense. Lairanitis would be an immediate upgrade and starter if he makes it to the second round.

34. Donald Brown - RB - Connecticut - Patriots

With all the patriots runningbacks over thirty except the soft, often injured moroney new england would be a great fit to the patriots running attack adding much needed youth.

35. Kenny Britt - WR - Rutgers - Rams

Torry Holt is gone. Britt will bring some size to the rams at 6'3'' 218lbs. Britt leaves Rutgers as the big east all time leading receiver with 3,043 yards.

36. Connor Barwin OLB/DE - Cincinnatti - Browns

Barwin will fit in as a pass rushing outside linebacker in the browns 3-4 defense. something they missed last year. Clint Sintim could also be an option here.

37. Sen'Derrick Marks - DT - Auburn - Seahawks

Seattle needs a pass rusher but there isn't one that fits them at this pick. Adding Marks next to newly acquired Corey Redding should make for a tough duo up the middle.

38. Percy Harvin - WR - Florida - Bengals

After losing t.j. houshmandzadeh the bengals signed laveranues coles from the jets. But coles skills are declining and chad johnson has been a roller coaster ride the past few years. Harvin could just as easy go mid first round if a team likes him enough.

39 Alphonso Smith - CB - Wake forest - Jaguars

Smith is a talented player who deepens the Jags defensive backfield.

40. Patrick Chung - SS - Oregon - Raiders

Oakland needs a strong safety to put in the box on run support. Chung is a hard worker and great tackler. He leaves oregon 4th in school history with 384 tackles.

41. D.J. Moore - CB - Vanderbilt - Packers

The Green Bay secondary is getting old. especially at the two corner positions. Great on run support and a very gifted athlete who played multiple position at Vanderbilt.

42. Lawrence Sidbury - DE - Richmond - Bills

A small school guy who has generated a huge buzz. Buffalo needs help in the pass rush. Sidbury is a super athlete who also ran track in the 100 meter dash and throwing events. He is a very intelligent person who was a frequent to the honor roll. Another player who could sneak in the first round.

43. Eben Britton - OT - Arizona - 49ers

Britton adds depth to the o-line. He could see action early if veteran Marvel Smith doesn't pan out.

44. Vontae Davis - DB - Illinois - Dolphins

in september Davis was being mentioned as a first rounder. He had a terrible year and was benched by coach ron zook at the end of the season. Davis is a gifted athlete who will serve best in a safety roll.

45. Brandon Pettigrew - TE - Oklahoma State - Giants

Pettigrew is an excellent blocker and great receiver in short yardage area. At 6'5'' 263lbs he is very tough to bring down after the catch.

46. Andre Brown - RB - N.C. State - Texans

Houston wants a bigger back to complement Steve Slaton. Brown is 6'0'' 224lbs who can run inside, outside and catch passes. Brown has helped himself greatly with a strong combine and pro day.

47. Franz Joseph - ILB - Florida Atlantic - Patriots

Joseph didn't get much media recognition. He transferred from boston college after a redshirt freshman year to be closer to home. Joseph was a tackling machine at FAU and may be the steal of the draft here.

48. Sean Smith - DB - Utah - Broncos

The Broncos need alot of defensive help. Smith should help out the skeleton crew defensive backfield. May be best suited as a safety.

49. Brian Robiskie - WR - Ohio State - Bears

The bears have nobody to throw to. Robiskie is a sound route runner but not a gamebreaker.

50. LeSean McCoy - RB - Pittsburg - Browns

Jamaal Lewis had a down year and is getting older by NFL standards. McCoy was super productive starting his freshman year. McCoy is a smaller back at 197 pounds. But after two seasons as a panther his 36 touchdowns in 25 games speak volumes of his talent.

51. Rashad Johnson - S - Alabama - Cowboys

The Cowboys need a safety and Johnson can help, especially in run support. He is a smaller safety and had an arrest in february. But was a team captain after walking on as a freshman.

52. Jauquin Iglesias - WR - Oklahoma - Jets

The jets need a wide out after losing Coles to free agency. Iglesias was overshadowed by past teammates.

53. Max Unger - C - Oregon - Eagles

Unger should step in over Jamaal Jackson at center who struggled last season.

54. Eric Wood - C - Louisville - Vikings

Wood will fill a huge hole after Matt Birk left via free agency.

55. Louis Delmas - S - Western Michigan - Falcons

The Falcons need to add depth after moving on from Lawyer Milloy. Delmas fits the hybrid safty they are looking for.

56. Pat White - QB/WR - West Virginia - Dolphins

The wildcat offense that Miami ran last year is built for white. White is a tremendous athlete who will find success in various rolls as a player.

57. Phil Loadholt - OT - Oklahoma - Ravens

He will beat out Willie Anderson for the right tackle spot.

58. Duke Robinson - G - Oklahoma - Patriots

The massive Robinson (6'5'' 329lbs) will add depth to the line which is needed. Logan Mankins contract is up at the end of this coming season.

59. Michael Johnson - DE - Georgia Tech - Panthers

With Julius Peppers unhappy this will help ease the pain should they trade him. Johnson was considered a high first rounder in august before a down year.

60. Clint Sintim - OLB/DE - Virginia - Giants

Adds another rusher to the Giants tough defense

61. Jasper Brinkley - ILB - South Carolina - Colts

Adds depth behind Gary Brackett and could be come the starter of the future.

62. Shawn Nelson - TE - Southern Miss - Titans

Tight End has never been a strong suit in Tennessee. Nelson could add another weapon to the passing game.

63. Jared Cook - TE - South Carolina - Cardinals

Cook had a very impressive combine. Should be the starter from day one catching passer. The tight end position was non existent for the Cards last year.

64. Andy Levitre - G - Oregon State - Steelers

There are other areas of need for the steelers. But they would get the best value here with Levitre. Adding Levitre and Mack would be a major upgrade to the line.

2009 NFL Mock draft round 1

2009-04-19T10:23:00.002-04:00

1. Matthew Stafford - QB - Georgia - Lions

word is the lions are trying to work out a contract before sunday with him.

2. Jason Smith - OT - Baylor - Rams

pace is gone and smith should step right in at left tackle.

3. Aaron Curry - OLB - Wake Forest - Chiefs

it would not suprise me to see the chiefs trade down. b.j. raji and eugene monroe could also land here. if they dont trade i think they will take the can't miss curry. this could aldo be a landing spot for marc sanchez if a trade is made.

4. Eugene Monroe - OT - Virginia - Seahawks

there's alot of buzz about marc sanchez landing here. but perennial pro bowler walter jones is 35 and monroe would be a great addition to the line. they could also trade down if a team looking for sanchez comes calling.

5. Michael Crabtree - WR - Texas Tech - Browns

cleveland needs a pass rusher but crabtree is to good to pass up and questions surround braylon edwards future with the team and the browns also lost stallworth.

6. Andre Smith - OT - Alabama - Bengals

the bengals need serious help on the offensive line. they are pleased with smith even though he has had some issues in the past 4 months. michael oher could also land here but word is they like smith better.

7. Jeremy Maclin - WR - Missouri - Raiders

maclin is a playmaker and the raiders need an explosive reciever.

8. B.J. Raji - DT - Boston College - Jaguars

after losing marcus stroud the jags look to fill the void with raji.

9. Tyson Jackson - DE - Louisiana State - Packers

Packers swith to a 3-4 this season leaves them needing an end and jackson fits perfectly, michael oher could also go here to upgrade the o-line.

10. Michael Oher - OT - Mississippi - 49ers

the 49ers need a pass rusher but oher is the depth and possibly starter they need on the line. there are more pass rushers in later rounds they can take a shot at.

11. Everette Brown - OLB - Florida State - Bills

the bills need a pass rusher and brown will be their man. an upgrade on the o-line is needed
after trading tackle jason peters but the value is not there at this pick to do it.

12. Marc Sanchez - QB - Southern California - Broncos

chances are they will have to trade up to land him if someone doesn't do it before them. if sanchez is gone josh freeman or a defensive player like brian orakpo could be the option here. a trade with the chiefs for the 3 spot or seattle at 4 could be on the horizon.

13. Aaron Maybin - DE - Penn State - Redskins

maybin gained 20 pounds and the redskins need a d-end. they could also trade up for marc sanchez.

14. Malcom jenkins - DB - Ohio State - Saints

alot of buzz about chris wells landing here. the saints need defense, defense and more defense!

15. Brian Orakpo - OLB/DE - Texas - Texans

i'm sure the texans would love if orakpo falls here. if he is already gone clay matthews would be a good fit to the defense.

16. Rey Maualuga - ILB - Southern California - Chargers

if tyson jackson is still here they would grab him to fill the hole left by d-end igor olshansky who joined the cowboys via free agency. but maualuga is a tremdous defender.

17. Josh Freeman - QB - Kansas State - Jets

questions surround the qb position after favre's retirement.

18. Peria Jerry - DT - Mississippi - Broncos

the defense needs help. but can they pass on moreno is the real question. signing an abundance of runningbacks this off season helps them go for jerry.

19. Clay Matthews - OLB - Southern California - Buccaneers

there are a number of ways the bucs could go here. they'd love freeman to be here and may trade up to get him. wide receiver and defensive tackle are also needs. could trade picks with new england and select evander hood.

20. Darius Butler - CB - Connecticut - Lions

Lions need d-backs, butler is an impressive player. alphonso smith, cornerback out of wake forest is also an option.

21. Knowshon Moreno - RB - Georgia - Eagles

Moreno fits the system and would add great depth for the eagles.

22. Darrius Hayward-Bey - WR - Maryland -Vikings

the vikings receiving core is terrible. they hope hayward bey will add an instant up grade for new signal caller sage rosenfels

23. Robert Ayers - OLB - Tennessee - Patriots

Ayers will be a great addition in rushing the passer. last years first round pick jarrod mayo's old teammate will help fill in for the departed vrabel. if ayers is gone jarron gilbert or larry english could be options. they could also move up to take ayers.

24. Brian Cushing - OLB - Southern California - Falcons

They need young talent at olb after losing boley and brooking in free agency. cushing is the guy.

25. Larry English - OLB - Northern Illinois - Dolphins

joey porter is getting older and was a problem at times for coaches last season despite his 17 1/2 sacks. wide reciever is also an area that needs to be addressed.

26. Jarron Gilbert - DE - San Jose State - Ravens

they could just as easy go o-line by taking william beatty or eban britton to play right tackle.

27. Evander Hood - Missouri - Colts

hood fits in great to their system as a one gap tackle and adds some much needed size to the smallest d-line in the nfl.

28. William Beatty - OT - Connecticut - Bills

left tackle jason peters was traded which landed them this pick. beatty should fill in nicely who helped pave the way for donald brown's 2000 yard season.

29. Hakeem Nicks - WR - North Carolina - Giants

if the giants don't aquire braylon edward or anquan boldin before this pick they will go wide receiver.

30. Ron Brace - DT - Boston College - Titans

Tennessee could add depth to the line here by going with brace. especially after losing albert hansworth. if they like wr's percy harvin or kenny britt they could also be options.

31. Chris Wells - RB - Ohio State - Cardinals

the cardinals rush was terrible until the playoffs. james has made it no secret he's not happy there.

32. Alex Mack - C - California - Steelers

Mack will eventually be a pro bowler in this league. he could move to guard.

Bruins up 1-0

2009-04-16T21:49:00.002-04:00

The Boston bruins took game 1 from the Canadiens tonight at the garden. After a physical brawl against Montreal a week ago, the Bruins didn't let their emotions get the best of them. Montreal tried to take Boston out of their game. Putting Georges Laraque on the first line was a sign they wanted to take the game down that road. But the B's stayed patient and ended up winning. Showing they learned a lesson from lastweeks game went hey almost lost because they let emotion get the best of them. Two goals from Phil Kessel and the one from the captain Zedano Chara helped seal the deal. It wasn't the Bruins best game but great defense and sharp goaltending helped. i still think the B's take it in 6.

Bruins, Habs round one

2009-04-12T20:15:00.002-04:00

The bruins beat the Islanders in the season finale today. Boston is the #1 seed and has home ice through the playoffs. A team who was lacking toughness the past years has toughened up. Milan Lucic, Shawn Thornton and Zedeno chara have played a physical brand of hockey this season. Tim Thomas has transformed himself into one of the NHL's premiere goaltenders. Thursday the Canadiens came to town. The first period and a half was a playoff preview. Boston came out on top in overtime. I expect this series to go 6 with the Bruins taking it. They have the making of a championship contender. I think you'll see the B's taking on the Capitals in the finals. Then beating Detroit for the cup. sealing the deal on a championship for all 4 major sports this decade.

Cutler a Bear

2009-04-02T18:28:00.002-04:00

Denver traded Jay Cutler today. A great move by the Bears. Chicago has needed a quarterback for a long time. Even when they went to the Superbowl a few years back Rex Grossman was in question. This could be a move that sends them back to the Superbowl. Chicago has an excellent defense and Matt Forte proved to be a major weapon for the offense. In return for Cutler, Denver received a first and a third round draft pick this year, a first round pick next year and quarterback Kyle Orton. Denver can now try to add a quarterback via the draft with the 12th pick and some defense with the second first rounder. Finally i can start moving forward with my mock drafts until i just read B.J. Raji the defensive tackle from BC failed a drug test at the combine. I never saw him making out of the top 5. Now he could slip to the Raiders at pick 7.

Broncos look to trade Cutler

2009-04-01T06:48:00.002-04:00

After trying to mend the strained relationship between Quarterback Jay Cutler and the Denver Broncos. It looks like the relationship is broken beyond repair. So where will he land? I think the teams that would be smartest to try to acquire Cutler would be Detroit New York Jets and Tampa Bay. Detroit may sit on Culpepper for a year and use the three picks they have to build the team. They could trade their second pick in the first round for him. Cutler is still young and has been proven in the NFL. I think they are in the best position to acquire Cutler due to having the extra first round pick. That's all it may take. Denver is in a corner because everyone knows Jay Cutler wants out. We all just saw the Patriots get a second round pick for Matt Cassel and Mike Vrabel. So the market seems to be way down. Although I think there are less sceptics on Cutler just because he's been taking snaps longer. So Denver might get a first rounder for him. So what does Denver do from here? They need defense and now a quarterback. Chris Simms is the guy with most experience on the roster now. He has had a little success, clearly not the answer they need. The other QB on the depth chart is Darrell Hackney.... Yup, an undrafted player out of UAB. So will they pick Mark Sanchez or Josh Freeman? I hope they've done their homework on these two players. If not it could be a long journey for Josh Daniels. Maybe they try to trade for Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson? It will be fun to see it play out because the Broncos have always been a tough opponent for New England. Besides the beating hey gave them this past season at Gillette.

Red Sox set rotation

2009-03-28T22:21:00.002-04:00

The Red Sox announced the starting 4 in their rotation today. Josh beckett will get the call for the opener. Jon Lester will be in the number two slot. Lester is getting older and better every year. He is basically a 1A and would be a number one starter for alot of teams in the major league. Daisuke Matsuzaka is in the 3 spot. I figured Lester would get the nod over him. Despite his excellent year last year going 18-3 with a 2.90 era and 154 strike outs, he just makes me nervous. He gets in alot of jams. But i guess the sign of a good pitcher is being able to get out of those jams. Either way he's a great number 3. Tim Wakefield is back in the number 4 spot. The knuckle baller is always consistently eating innings. he has his days when the knuckleball isn't working. But for the most part he pitches well and can throw off a team for a few days. Battling for the # 5 spot will be Brad penny and Clay Buchholz. Clay has looked really sharp in spring training. I'd like to see him get the job for now. Penny could use the Early part of the year getting back into form after injuries. Also John Smoltz should be healthy in the next couple of months. he is said to be ahead of schedule. Depth is not an issue on this team. This may be the best starting rotation in baseball. What are your thoughts on the Sox rotation?

WBC comes to an end

2009-03-24T08:33:00.002-04:00

The World Baseball Classic ended in another Japan Victory. The only game i watched was a USA loss to Japan in the semi-finals. The only reason i watched it was becuase i had to for highlights for work. I really have no interest in the WBC. My biggest problem with it is the rosters. Alot of the players from these teams aren't even from the country they play for. Almost the whole Italy team is from the USA. Mexico has a bunch of players from the USA also. If they want to have a true World Baseball Classic I think the players should be from that country. Not because their name ends in a vowel and they are from Bristol Connecticut. I know Italy wouldn't have a shot with players from they're country but shouldn't that be what its about. the country with the most talented players? I also would pay more attention if it were played in February. What are your thoughts on the WBC? Did you watch? The ratings were up from the first WBC.

Pats seek Vet Taylor

2009-03-13T13:00:00.002-04:00

I heard from a credible source that the Patriots are interested in unrestrcted free agent Jason Taylor. Taylor is entering his 12th season in the NFL. He is coming off a down year having injuries and a less productive year. Taylor would be a great addition to the Patriots pass rush. He is a hard working Veteran and a future hall of famer. I think they should also draft a younger player to learn from the vet. Bill Belichick met with Taylor in Miami to discuss the future of the two partys. What do you think of Jason Taylor possibly playing in New England?

Round 1 NFL Mock Draft

2009-03-03T21:44:00.002-05:00

This is an Early mock draft I have put together. This will change after free agency and the pro days have come to a close closer to the draft. I will put a out a final mock the week of the draft.

1. Lions - Mathew Stafford - QB - Georgia
The lions could elect to go with Jason Smith or Aaron Curry but i think they want to build with a franchise QB and select a OL later.

2. Rams - Jason Smith - OT - Baylor
The O-line is awful. Pace is 100 and hurt alot. Smith is the guy here unless the Lions take him #1.

3. Chiefs - Aaron Curry - LB - Wake Forest
It wouldn't surprise me if they traded down. Scott Pioli takes over and they just got Vrabel. But Curry could be the understudy to the old Patriot if they stay at 3.

4. Seahawks - B.J. Raji - DT - Boston College
Could just as easy take a OT because Walter Jones is getting old. I figured Crabtree here until they signed Houshmandzadeh.

5. Browns - Brian Orakpo - DE/LB - Texas
Browns need help in the pass rush.

6. Bengals - Michael Crabtree - WR - Texas Tech
Even though he just had surgery i think scouts love his size and production in college. Losing Housh helps his stock here. Jonathon Stewart had surgery before the draft and had no problem being on the field week one.

7. Raiders - Jeremy Macklin - WR - Missouri
He had a horrible combine. He was very productive in college. The Raiders also need O-line help. But with Al Davis anything is possible!

8. Jaguars - Michael Oher - OT - Mississippi
Alot of people thin Mark Sanchez lands here. I don't see it. The need a stud tackle and Oher is that guy.

9. Packers - Vontae Davis - CB - Illinois
The Packers D-backs are getting older. I think you'll see Davis end up a safety later in his career.

10. 49ers - Andre Smith - OT - Alabama
If he didn't just leave the combine with out telling anyone I think he'd be gone already. he also had some disciplinary issues at Bama. Hmm.. Perhaps he may be a Raider in my final mock.

11. Bills - Everett Brown - LB - Florida State
He could fill the need as an end or linebacker.

12. Broncos - Brian Cushing - LB - USC
Denver need defense. This is a good start. Teammate Rey Mauagula could get a look here as well.

13. Redskins - Eben Britton - OT - Arizona
With the recent signings filling needs. Tackle becomes the main focus.

14. Saints - Malcom Jenkins - CB - Ohio State
The Saints defensive backs are horrible. They could go with another corner here. Jenkins didn't have a great combine. He was great at OSU.

15. Texans - Peria Jerry - DT - Mississippi
After signing a D-End the focus goes on defensive tackle where Travis johnson has been a disappointment.

16. Chargers - Rey Mauagula - LB - USC
Many speculate runningback here. Darren Sproles is back and so is Tomlinson. Mauagula is the best talent here if he is still available.

17. Jets - Mark Sanchez - QB - USC
Favre is gone and Sanchez should land here.

18. Bears - William Beatty - OT - Connecticut
Chicago is depleted at the position. Beatty is a great fit and will have two young tackles after drafting Chris Williams in the first round in the 08' draft.

19. Buccaneers - Clay Matthews - LB - USC
Derrick Brooks is gone. Mathews should plug right in.

20. Lions - Alphonso Smith - CB - Wake Forest
They will hope an O-tackle of value is still here but Smith is a talent and they need plenty of it!

21. Eagles - Knowshon Moreno - RB - Georgia
He will be a great fit here. This will help out Westbrook to stay healthy and Correll Buckhalter just signed with denver.

22. Vikings - Hakeem Nicks - WR - North Carolina
They could flirt with Taking center alex mack due to Matt Birk's age. But i think they would like the 6'5'' Nicks here to go along with new QB Sage Rosenfels.

23. Patriots - James Laurinaitis - LB - Ohio State
There are so many ways to go here. Larry English and DJ Moore could also land. But I think Laurinaitis would look great next to Mayo. he is a tackling machine.

24. Tyson Jackson - DE - LSU
Atlanta need Linebacker help but i think the best value is Jackson here. Jackson is big and fast.

25. Dolphins - Larry English - DE/LB - Northern Illinois
English will move to outside linebacker in the Miami scheme. That is if he's still around.

26. Ravens - Alex Mack - C - California
The Ravens need a center. Mack is going to be an all-pro. No brainer here.

27. Colts - Darrius Hayward-Bay - WR - Maryland
Had the best combine showing of all. Harrison is gone. They could use defensive help also.

28. Eagles - Kenny Britt - RB - Rutgers
At 6'3' 218lbs and the big east all time leading receiver with 3,043 yards in 3 seasons. Britt would be a great target. If Moreno is gone before they select, Runningback Chris Wells could be an option here.
29. Giants - Brandon Pettigrew - TE - Oklahoma State
Pettigrew is 6'5'' 265lbs, he can catch and is a great blocker. He be a nice big target for Eli and a roadgrater for Jacobs.

30. Titans - Evander Hood - DT - Missouri
Albert Hansworth is gone leaving a giant void.

31. Cardinals - Robert Ayers - DE - Tennessee
They could flirt with Lesean McCoy or Donald brown here. But they lost D-end Antonio Smith via free agency.

32. Steelers - DJ Moore - CB - Vanderbilt
I'm sure they'd love Mack to fall here. Moore is very talented and will replace McFadden who is a free agent.

That's my early round 1 mock draft. Look for the final 2 round mock draft in late april!

Cassel and Vrabel sent packing

2009-03-02T11:12:00.002-05:00

I was pretty shocked when i heard Mike Vrabel was traded along with Matt Cassel. He was one of those lunch pale hard working guys who was always counted on to make a play. I was also shocked when i heard they only got a second round pick for them. Although it is a high one. This led me to believe they are clearing cap space. Vrabel is 34 and Cassel is set to make 14 million. I also thought maybe they didn't think there was alot of drop off in value between players in the draft. If you can draft a guy in the second round and get first round talent then you just save a boat load of cap room. Maybe a Vince Wilfork deal is on the horizon. He is easily the most valuable player on the defensive line. This deal makes linebacker a top priority in the draft. They should get a couple of them in the first four picks. I'd like to see them grab a corner and a runningback as well.

Checking in at the combine

2009-02-24T11:15:00.002-05:00

I am very disappointed by the showing by the runningbacks at the combine this year. I really expected better numbers by some of the athletes. I expected Georgia's Knowshon Moreno to run atleast a 4.4 and he did not. Although he did put up 225lbs 25 times. I didn't think he was that strong. His pro day numbers will really effect his draft position. A guy who has really helped himself out if Andre Brown out of NC State. He ran a 4.49 and showed good strength lifting 225 24 times. A team like Denver would be a great fit for Andre. My favorite runningback in this class is Donald Brown out of UConn. He ran a 4.51 which is not blazing speed by any means. Brown was a top performer in almost every category of the rest of the drills he was put through. Brown was a beast in college running for over 2,000 yards. Chris Wells did okay at the combine. But questions still surround him about his durability. Boise State's Ian Johnson also performed well at the combine and could be a sleeper in this draft. Much like Steve Slaton last year. The pro day numbers will give another look at when and where these guys will end up in the draft. Other player to look out for are: Rashad Jennings(Liberty) Gartrell Johnson(Colorado st) Javarris Williams(Tennessee St) Javon Ringer(Michigan st)

Fred Taylor

2009-02-18T12:40:00.002-05:00

Veteran runningback Fred Taylor was released the other day. This is player who could help a team. I don't think he is an every down back. But the NFL has gone to dual runningback systems. A team like Denver could use Taylor. Houston is also another team that could use Taylor to give rookie Steve Slaton a rest. Slaton is a smaller back. Philadelphia would be a good spot giving Westbrook a break. I think the eagles would like to limit his carries a little more. Westbrook has gotten banged up the past couple years. I don't think New England needs to run out and grab him. I'd like to see them go younger and draft a runningback. It will be interesting to see where Fred Taylor ends up. He still has some miles left in the tank.

win win for Pats and Cassel

2009-02-06T15:26:00.003-05:00

The New England Patriots placed the franchise tag on QB Matt Cassel yesterday. It is a good situation for both parties. This now makes it so Cassel can't just walk away and the Patriots get nothing back. The Pats can match any offer made by another team or allow him to sign with that team in exchange for two first-round draft picks. If they think Tom Brady may have trouble playing next season they can keep Cassel for one year at a high price of over 14 million. But they could trade Cassel rather than pay him the $14.65 million offer for 2009 in the franchise designation. Either way both parties win. They know what they have if he stays and they can get something in return if he doesn't. Good move for both sides.

Super Bowl XLIII

2009-01-29T18:54:00.002-05:00

Sunday the Pittsburg Steelers take on the Arizona Cardinals in Tampa Bay for Super Bowl XLIII. The Steelers come in with a top ranked defense with stars all over the field. The offense is a different story. Reports are coming out that Ben Rothlisberger is still hurt from the shot he took against Baltimore. Some are speculating it could be torn rib cartilage or broken ribs. Hines Ward is also nursing a knee injury. This could spell trouble for Pittsburg if the Cardinals can shut down the running attack. Then Hit Big Ben and throw off his game. The Cardinals Defense has found themselves through the course of the season. Darnell Dockett, Karlos Dansby and Adrian Wilson will become household names on Sunday. I'd like to see Arizona throw in a couple of trick plays to keep the Steelers D on there toes. I also think establishing a run game is a must. They can't let Pittsburg defense get into a situation where they can blitz and get to Warner. Thats what they do best. Watch out for Steve Breaston in this game. He quietly had over 1,000 yards receiving this year but with Fitzgerald and Boldin getting all the attention most people did not hear about the nice year he had for himself. Boldin has been fully participating in the practices so his hamstring injury looks like it is recovered. Although hamstring injuries are tricky and could strike again in the big game. Larry Fitzgerald has been amazing in the post season. In my opinion he is the leagues best wide receiver. I like the Cardinals 20-17 in this one. Call me crazy but I think Warner will lead them to victory. He's done it before with the Rams and I think he can do it again.

Early draft looks

2009-01-22T19:14:00.003-05:00

My favorite day of the year is approaching. Only four months until draft day! There are a few positions i'd like to see this team address. Runningback is one of them. This draft is chock full of them. My favorite right now is Donald Brown II. He ran for over 2,000 yards at Connecticut this year and 18 touchdowns. I'm not quite sure why he isn't getting first round attention yet. But I think in the next month after the combine he will. Everyone on the opposite side of the ball knew Brown was getting the ball and he still managed the most yards in football. Inside Linebacker is another position i'd like to see them add depth to. Rey maualula is a high energy guy who has lost is off field issues and really focused on football. He led a top USC defense to another great season. He would look great next to Mayo. Cornerback is a must. The signing of old has beens needs to stop. Guys like Duane Starks and Deltha O'neill killed the Pats. I was a huge Vontae Davis guy a year ago. But he had a real down year and was actually benched toward the end of the season. Not a good sign for Vernon's younger brother. Alphonso Smith out of Wake, Victor Harris From Va Tech and D.J. Moore from vandy are some good candidates and may be available in the second round. I think the Pats could add some O-Line depth and a possible wide receiver to replace Jabar Gafney. Check back in early March for more draft up dates.

Broncos hire McDaniels

2009-01-12T19:14:00.002-05:00

Today the Denver Broncos announced the hiring of Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. He was the coach of the record setting offense in 2007. Tom Brady, Randy Moss and the rest of the gang were the reason for the huge numbers. But McDaniels was a good coach. I thought he was far better than Charlie Weis. Denver has the tools and the coach to be an offensive Juggernaut. They will need to retool the defensive to help out. Josh had experince with the Pats D before joing the offense. This loss could be major for the Patriots. It's never good to lose a coordinator. It takes time for players to get used to a system, plays and terminology a new coordinator brings along. Who will take over next season? How about Jeff Jagodzinski? He is in need of a job and has coordinator experience in the NFL. I liked the things he did at BC.

A crazy regular season concludes

2008-12-29T10:17:00.002-05:00

What a great NFL season it was in 2008. We saw Miami go from worst to the 3 seed in the playoffs. The Patriots who made the Superbowl didn't make it at 11-5. Yet the 8-8 Chargers did. There are no clear cut teams to make it to the big show. Any team could go from the AFC. The NFC looks to be a little easier. I don't think Arizona has what it takes. I don't believe the Vikings or Falcons do either. My pick, Colts over Panthers. It will be fun to see how it all plays out. For all the Pats fans, time to start looking at mock drafts. April is only four months away!