The HBO show Hard Knocks, which follows a NFL team during training camp and preseason, is entering its ninth season but has yet to select a team. In 2013, the NFL passed a rule that allows the league to force a team to be on Hard Knocks unless they are exempt. Teams can be exempt from being on hard knocks if they have a new head coach, if they have made the postseason in one of the last two seasons, and/or if they were on the show in the last 10 years. Teams can still volunteer to be on Hard Knocks, but if there are no volunteers then the NFL can force a team if they do not meet any of those criteria. This year, the teams that potentially could be forced to appear on Hard Knocks are the Chicago Bears, Buffalo Bills, Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, Jacksonville Jaguars, Oakland Raiders, St. Louis Rams, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
While there are a couple intriguing names amongst those teams, most of them don't really have much going for them in terms of intriguing storylines and entertainment. With that in mind, I'd like to mention my Top 10 for teams that would be the best for Hard Knocks, regardless of the criteria that exempts teams. Some are from the pool of teams that can be forced to do it, but most are from teams that are exempt, but can still volunteer.
10. Dallas Cowboys
My team, and America's team, is always good for drama. They were on the show back in 2008, so they are exempt from being forced to do it. While that year was entertaining, this year has more intrigue and questions surrounding it. For starters, Tony Romo is coming back from back surgery and has to be seeing his window of opportunity closing in Dallas in win a Super Bowl. Dez Bryant has recently said that he deserves to be paid as one of the top receivers, if not the best receiver, in the game. While I agree with that statement, it will be interesting to see how contract talks go.
While the offensive side of the ball has its storylines, the defensive side is where it gets entertaining because there is so much uncertainty surrounding it. They lost DeMarcus Ware in free agency and Sean Lee once again got injured, this time in OTAs. They will need to find a replacement for both of them during OTAs and training camp. Rod Marinelli, the Cowboys' defensive line coach last year, has been promoted to defensive coordinator. I think this will help out this defense a lot considering the lack of raw talent on the defensive side of the ball. He's going to need to find diamonds in the rough and come up with creative schemes to try and hide some of the glaring weaknesses they have on defense.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs are intriguing because of all the newness that they have this year. Lovie Smith is the new head coach, Josh McCown is a new quarterback, Mike Evans and Austin Seferian-Jenkins are two pass catching giants they drafted, and Alterraun Verner is a talented corner coming from Tennessee to try and compensate for the loss of Darrelle Revis. It appears as though the Bucs are trying to replicate what McCown had in Chicago, and that is tall, physical pass catchers that can fight for the ball. In Chicago, McCown had 6'4" Brandon Marshall, 6'3" Alshon Jeffery, and 6'6" Martellus Bennett. In Tampa, McCown will now be throwing to 6'5" Vincent Jackson, 6'5" Evans, and 6'6" Seferian-Jenkins. This is great for replicating the Bears system, but McCown still might not be the starter.
Mike Glennon, the Bucs third round pick last year, had an up and down rookie season, but proved that he can at least do decent in the NFL. While he only finished with 2,608 yards passing, he did have a 19 to 9 touchdown to interception ratio. He only won four games, but pushed the Seahawks to overtime in Seattle before falling by a field goal. I think the battle for starter between Glennon and McCown will be closer than people think as Glennon currently is on the outside looking in.
The departure of Revis, one of the best corners in the game, cannot be overlooked. The Bucs realized that by signing Verner, although I don't think he's reached Revis' skill level yet but I think he can. Add in that Lovie is a defensive minded coach, and I think he can continue to improve this young defense. It probably won't happen this year, but if he can get players to buy into his system and improve as individuals, they should have better showings in the future against division quarterbacks Drew Brees, Matt Ryan, and Cam Newton.
8. New York Jets
Similar to the Cowboys, the Jets have already been on Hard Knocks back in 2010. While they were fairly sure of who was going to start on offense back in 2010, things are a bit muddier this time around. Geno Smith, the incumbent, will be battling veteran Michael Vick for the starting job. The big debate going on is do you allow Smith to progress by playing him and having an okay record, or allow Vick to come in and try to produce his Atlanta magic and lead this team to the playoffs? Another issue is the position right behind the QB and the position the QB will be throwing to. The Jets picked up Chris Johnson in free agency who has gone from CJ2K in 2009 to CJBarelyK in 2013, prompting the Titans to part ways with him. A few years ago, it would be a no brainer that he's the starter, but Chris Ivory showed flashes last year and I wouldn't be surprised if there's some kind of split that develops there.
On the outside, the Jets picked up Eric Decker and...no one else. Well, they actually picked up Jacoby Ford and drafted Shaq Evans, but c'mon. Their receiving corps doesn't scare anyone. With Smith, or a less-mobile-than-he-used-to-be Vick starting, I think the Jets should have done more to emphasize getting weapons around both of these QBs. It will be interesting to see who will emerge and develop some kind of chemistry with either one of them.
7. Seattle Seahawks
I wouldn't say this team has a lot of questions at positions, but they would surely be entertaining (except Marshawn Lynch). The obvious ringleader for this show would be Richard Sherman and the Legion of Boom. I think he, more than anyone in the league, would relish having cameras around 24/7. Then you have the rah rah coach Pete Carroll who shows his emotion more than a lot of other coaches in the NFL. The only real positional battle that would be intriguing is out at WR. They lost Golden Tate to the Lions, and the only new players at that position are three rookies they drafted this year. Their best WR is Percy Harvin, but he's been anything but a picture of health (has played in only 12 games the past two years in Minnesota and Seattle). I would also like to see what the Seahawks think they need to improve, even though they won a Super Bowl. Teams improve and change every year so if the Seahawks want to repeat, they cannot be satisfied and stand back without changing and improving in certain areas.
6. Cleveland Browns
Johnny Manziel. That is all.
Just kidding, there's actually more to this team than just him. Manziel would certainly be the focal point though as he tries to win the starting job against the starter from last year and Ohio native, Brian Hoyer. Hoyer only started three games last year, but the Browns won all three, although he was injured in the third and never played the rest of the year. The Browns were 3-2 when he went out, and they finished the year 4-12. The coaches will have to decide if they want the flash (Manziel) or the calm (Hoyer).
Then there's the whole Josh Gordon saga, that might clear up before Hard Knocks would even begin. Gordon failed a drug test again, putting him at risk for a year long suspension. This wouldn't be a big deal if he was a third stringer, but he proved to be the Browns' best WR last year, and one of the best ones in the league. Despite knowing the potential suspension, the Browns were stubborn to a fault and refused to draft a WR in a fairly deep class. Even if Gordon isn't suspended, they don't have someone behind him to draw coverage away. They picked up veterans Miles Austin, Earl Bennett, and Nate Burleson, but each come with their own questions (injury, lack of production). Someone is bound to emerge during training camp, I just couldn't tell you who.
One great thing that would come from the Browns on Hard Knocks is allowing people to realize that this defense is pretty good. A good defense isn't usually associated with a 4-12 team, but the Browns finished 9th in overall defense last year and 6th in passing defense thanks to cover corner Joe Haden. The Browns finally got a corner to play opposite Haden by drafting Justin Gilbert out of Oklahoma State in the first round. It looks like they're building their defense like Arizona has built theirs with solid cover corners and letting everything else fall into place. Safety is still an issue, but their front seven is decent. Unfortunately, the Browns declined Hard Knocks this past week so we won't be seeing them this year.
5. Houston Texans
These last five really could have been put in any order as they all have their fair share of intrigue. Talk about the Texans recently has circled around their number one overall pick Jadeveon Clowney. I think Hard Knocks could be great for Clowney considering one of the knocks against him coming out of college was his lack of work ethic. Here, he could show the hard work he puts in during the week away from game day. He now joins a defense looking to slow down Andrew Luck and claim the AFC South.
The offensive side is much more worrisome. Andre Johnson, arguably their best player and lifetime Houston Texan, is extremely unhappy with the way the Texans' front office is assembling this team. His view is that they are rebuilding and, at 32 without even a whiff of the Super Bowl, Johnson wants to be on a contender. In truth, there's very little he can do because of his contract, but you have to wonder how committed he will be to giving it his all in training camp and throughout the season. He's a great player and far from a "diva" WR, but it is hard to get 100% effort from an unhappy employee in any job.
The Texans, similar to the Browns, were also incredibly stubborn by not taking a QB during the draft until the end of the fourth round when they took Pittsburgh's Tom Savage. There were some experts that believed Savage can be a good QB in this league, and maybe he can. But when your current QBs are Ryan Fitzpatrick, Case Keenum, and TJ Yates, I would think the urgency would be greater if you truly want to win now. Out of those four, it's anyone guess who will win the starting job. Fitzpatrick had his moments in Buffalo, Savage is a rookie, Keenum played eight games last year and lost all eight with a 9 to 6 touchdown to interception ratio, and Yates has a career 3 to 6 touchdown to interception ratio, but did win a playoff game in 2012 for the Texans.
4. Oakland Raiders
Unlike teams that built themselves during the draft, the Raiders decided to throw money around in free agency and improve their team that way. They brought in Antonio Smith from the Texans, Carlos Rogers from the 49ers, James Jones from the Pack, Justin Tuck from the Giants, LaMarr Woodley from the Steelers, Maurice Jones-Drew from the Jaguars, and traded for Matt Schaub from the Texans. Wow, welcome to the team. Schuab was an interesting trade considering the dreadful year that he had for the Texans (10 TDs, 14 INTs, 2,310 yards). The Raiders are banking on the fact that he has been a 4,000+ yard passer three times in his career and that last year was just a fluke. The Raiders hedged their bet by taking Derek Carr in the second round. Believed by some to be a first round, even top 10 talent, Carr will battle with Schuab to determine the starting QB.
Jones-Drew enters an interesting situation because Darren McFadden is still in Oakland. They're almost complete opposites with McFadden wanting space to use his speed, and Jones-Drew being a little bowling ball with enough quickness to bounce it outside if need be. There's also the fact that McFadden has bones made of glass and has yet to play more than 13 games in six years, whereas Jones-Drew has played 15 or more games six times in his eight year career. Will they play them both in a thunder and lightning kind of role? Will they allow one to take over the starting job with the other getting little touches? Will we see some Wildcat? A lot of uncertainty, but a lot of excitement as well at that position.
The defense is where they need the most improvement, and I think they got it with their free agent signings and by taking Khalil Mack fifth overall in this year's draft. In a division with Peyton Manning, Jamaal Charles, and Phillip Rivers, the Raiders need to have players to slow them down. They went 1-5 in the division last year including giving up 34+ to the Broncos twice, and Kansas City dropping 56 on them. The Raiders actually scored 31 points that game, which is normally enough to win in the NFL. Mack, who will have a great mentor in Woodley, will need to come along and play like a fifth overall pick. I don't think they'll overtake the Broncos for the division crown, at least not until Manning is gone, but I think they could push for runner up, possibly even a Wild Card if they can steal a couple games.
3. St. Louis Rams
Just like the Browns and Manziel, the big topic with the Rams will be with Michael Sam. Just like the Browns, however, there's a lot more to this team than just the player that has been shown by the media. To be clear, Sam is an interesting story, regardless of his sexual orientation. Every year on Hard Knocks they follow players scrapping for a roster spot and Sam is no exception. A SEC Defensive Player of the Year last year, Sam steps into a situation where the starters are already set at his position. Chris Long and Robert Quinn are two of the best defensive ends in the game and there's no way Sam is supplanting them between now and the start of the season. Sam will have to grind it out on special teams, like most late draft picks do, to make the team and possibly get in a couple defensive packages. The public would also be able to see how other players interact and respond with Sam during camp.
Offensively, this team has the potential to be explosive. The first step in that process is getting Sam Bradford back to full health. Even going back to his Oklahoma days, Bradford has struggled with injury and this past year as well as 2011 were no different. The good news is that when Bradford has been healthy, he's been a fairly good NFL QB. He won't be winning MVP anytime soon, but he's thrown for 3,500+ both times he played a full season and saw his touchdown to interception ratio improve from 18 to 15 his rookie year to 21 to 13 in 2012. No one will challenge him for the starting gig, but he needs to progress and establish chemistry with the young corps of WRs that they have if St. Louis is to make the playoffs out of a tough NFC West.
The WR and RB positions, however, will see some battles. At WR, Tavon Austin was electric when the ball was in his hands last year, but his chances were limited. He played in 13 games and finished with 40 receptions. By comparison, Julio Jones played in 5 games last year and finished with 41 receptions. If Austin is to be a true number one WR, he's going to need to be sharper running routes and be more reliable. Lots of times he wasn't even on the field in some formations. He has the chance to separate himself from the oft injured Kenny Britt, and fellow Rams from last year Chris Givens, Brian Quick, and Austin Pettis.
At RB, Zac Stacy finished the year with a bang, but the Rams needed a solid backup or challenger for the starting position. Enter Auburn's Tre Mason who was a key reason why the Tigers made it to the National Championship game. While Stacy had success when called upon, the sample size is very small and it never hurts to have depth at the RB position. Mason is a faster than he looks runner who should settle into the number two position behind Stacy. Should anything happen with Stacy, however, I think Mason will be a more than capable backup.
2. Philadelphia Eagles
Was it a fluke or sign of things to come? That is the question that will be asked throughout this season about Chip Kelly's offense and Nick Foles' QB play. Kelly's offense looked and worked just like it did at Oregon. No huddle was the norm as the offense spread your defense out looking for matchups that favored the Eagles. LeSean McCoy finished with his best rushing yardage total of his career with 1,607 and Foles had an insane 29 to 2 touchdown to interception ratio in the 13 games he played. It didn't look like anyone could stop them. Turns out that they weren't the only one with a juggernaut offense as the Saints beat them in Philly in the playoffs with the Eagles being outgained and running less plays than the Saints. Now Kelly will have time to fine tune and tweak his system as Foles tries to continue his success from last year.
One glaring name that will be missing on that offense will be DeSean Jackson. Jackson, released by the Eagles reportedly because of off the field concerns, was Philly's number one WR for a few years now. He led the Eagles in receiving yards and TDs last year and was, and still is, a dangerous kick returner when called upon. Jackson denies the off the field issues, but now finds himself playing for division rival Washington and Robert Griffin III. The Eagles need to find a WR to step up to replace him. Riley Cooper had a nice season last year and Jeremy Maclin has played well despite missing all of last year with an injury. They also picked up Jordan Matthews in the draft, who I think has star potential. Despite their successes, none of them have the elite speed and deep threat down the field that Jackson brought to the table. If Matthews fails to progress and Maclin's injury flares up, this offense could be in serious trouble no matter what system they run.
Similar to Kelly's offense that relies on speed, his defensive system also relies on speed. Unlike the offense, they did not find immediate success last year. They finished 4th to last in yards allowed and middle of the pack in points allowed per game. I realize that because their offense moves so quickly that their defense will be out there more often than other teams'. That does not excuse the high yardage and point totals that they gave up to some teams last year. They grabbed safety Malcolm Jenkins from the Saints in the offseason and drafted defensive end Marcus Smith in the first round. With Tony Romo, RGIII, and Eli Manning in their division, they will need to be better defensively to win another division crown. If that offense struggles in Year 2, the defensive side will be even more critical to their success.
1. Denver Broncos
Veteran nearing end of career? Check. Big name free agent signings? Check. Questions at critical positions? Check. Super Bowl Champion or bust mentality? Check. The Broncos have it all for a show like Hard Knocks. Let's start with the obvious name of Peyton Manning. Obviously no one is coming for his job, but you have to wonder if this will be his last rodeo? He can still play given his past two years in Denver, but eventually father time catches up with everyone. Getting an inside look at his preparation and the teaching that he does with his WRs and offensive line would be pretty cool to see. It also might be the last training camp he goes through, especially if they win the Super Bowl this year.
If there's one position that has to concern Broncos' fans, it has to be RB. In fact, it was probably concerning to them last year as well. This year, their leading rusher Knowshon Moreno departed for the Miami Dolphins. While I don't see this as a significant loss (Moreno has injury problems and had routinely underachieved prior to last year), it still leaves a question at RB. The obvious choice for starter is Montee Ball, but there were those that thought he would take control of the starting job last year. Instead, he caught a case of the fumbleitis and finished with half of the rushing attempts that Moreno did. Ball will have to prove during camp that those days are behind him and that he can take on an every down role. Improving at pass protection will also be key as protecting Manning is priority number one for this offense.
Despite not making much noise in free agency on the offensive side (lost Eric Decker, gained Emmanuel Sanders), the Broncos bullied their way into the free agent market and took Aqib Talib from New England, TJ Ward from Cleveland, and DeMarcus Ware from Dallas. The Broncos clearly saw defense as a need to go from Super Bowl Runner-up to Super Bowl Champion, and rightly so. Similar to the Eagles, because of how quick and efficient Manning is at running that offense, consequently the defense will be on the field more than normal, as well as some garbage time points given up since the game was wrapped up. Still, they were 19th in overall defense last year and gave up point totals of 48 (Dallas), 39 (Indianapolis), 34 (New England), and of course, 43 in the Super Bowl (Seattle). While these big name free agents were good with their former teams, they will need to establish chemistry and learn the system in Denver. Hard Knocks would be able to show this progression and learning experience for what could be a top five, and possible Super Bowl winning, defense next year.
Matty O
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Six Sunday Summaries (6/8/2014)
Heat Taking Heat For The Heat
A broken air conditioner, in a crowded arena, during the summer in Texas is the recipe for an unpleasant experience. That's what the Spurs and Heat found themselves in during Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Had it not been for a LeBron James cramp in the fourth quarter, this story probably would have been glossed over and chalked up to it being hot in San Antonio this time of year. Unfortunately for the Heat, the cramp monster came and bit LeBron during the critical stretch run when the Heat still had the lead. Without him on the court, Danny Green exploded down the stretch to make the final 110-95 score look a lot worse than how the game actually was played.
Anything that happens to LeBron nowadays, people are going to get all over him for. Some people went so far as to call him soft or say that he wasn't mentally tough enough to just battle through it. As someone who hasn't liked LeBron since he went to Miami, I have to say that is unfair. LeBron did try and get back in the game, scored on a pretty nice drive and layup, then couldn't even walk to the bench. Anyone who has ever had a cramp knows that they can be next to impossible to handle. If you didn't prepare for it with hydration, salt, etc., then it will be very difficult to overcome that, much less play a NBA Finals basketball game. Some people want to sound tough and say, "Oh, I could have played through that." In truth, no you could not have. You might be less prone to cramps or had prepared better than LeBron in that situation, but once you get those nasty cramps, you'd have been sitting on the bench too.
Where The Series Stands Now
Cramp or no cramp, the Spurs won the game. While I do think the heat had an impact on the game (Heat lose their best player down the stretch), I don't think it was the reason the Spurs won. The Heat were only up by two when LeBron played his last seconds in the game, so it's not like the Spurs were done for. The Spurs let Miami back in the game by being sloppy with the ball early, but their ball movement in the final minutes was vintage Spurs. Ball screen, pass to Duncan in the post, quick pass right back out to Tony Parker for an open 3. Just because LeBron was out, doesn't mean that a two point lead should turn into a 15 point deficit.
The good news for Heat fans is that the A/C is fixed, and nothing about Game 1 should have changed anyone's predictions. Whether you picked the Spurs in six or the Heat in six, you should still feel pretty good about your prediction. It was a close game with a score that was not reflective of the game itself. One thing that does have to worry Heat fans is Tim Duncan. The building might be cooler for Game 2, but Duncan isn't getting any shorter. He was a man amongst boys down low as he shot 9 for 10 from the field for 21 points to lead all Spurs scorers. The Heat don't have the personnel to guard him one on one, so more double teams will be in order, as well as doing a better job of denying him the ball down low in the first place. It's certainly a risk as the Spurs have Parker, Green, and Manu Ginobili running around on the perimeter, but I've always thought that you lose games getting beat from the outside, but you lose series getting beat down low.
They Never Lead, But They Always Win
See: 2014 Los Angeles Kings. For the second game in a row, the New York Rangers took a two goal lead in the first period, and for the second game in a row, they lost in overtime. The Kings have been doing this the entire post season as they kind of hang around for the first two periods, then finish the deal late. It's actually quite surprising that the Kings have had to rally in the first two games, despite out shooting the Rangers 87-65. Now they have home ice advantage, something they haven't had this entire postseason, and a 2-0 lead heading to New York. Is there any hope for the Rangers?
The answer is a hesitant and uneasy, yes. The outlook doesn't look good, but anytime you have Henrik Lundqvist back in net, you got a shot. Similar to an ace pitcher in baseball, if he plays at his best, you can turn a 2-0 series into an interesting one real fast. Speaking of fast, one thing that has really bothered the Kings in this series is the Rangers' speed. You saw some of that last series against the Hawks, but even more so with this Rangers' squad. There have been multiple times where the Rangers will win a face off in their own zone, flip the puck up in the air up ahead, and one of their speedsters will skate onto it and get a shot on goal. The Kings have gotten beat on a couple of occasions, so maybe they need to put at least one defenseman even further back, similar to a corner backing off a speedy wide receiver.
More good news for the Rangers is that they have come back from worse deficits this postseason. The Penguins were up 3-1 on them in the Conference Semifinals heading back to Pittsburgh. The Rangers had to take two in Pittsburgh and hold serve at home. Lundqvist dropped the hammer, allowing only three goals in the final three games as the Rangers advanced. If the Rangers are to win the Cup, Lundqvist will have to do the same in this series. He's made some great saves already, but the offensive waves just keep coming and coming for the Kings. Although the Rangers have been in both games this series, I think a high scoring shootout favors the Kings. Not pressing on offense, and playing sharper on defense is the formula for getting back in the series. The Rangers want to see scores like 2-1 or 1-0, rather than the scoring bonanza that has taken place the first two games.
Stay In School
Every year when there are coaching vacancies at the NBA and NFL levels, everyone looks to the college game and tries to make the case how this coach could fit in there. This off season, the head coaching job for the Los Angeles Lakers, arguably one of the most prestigious jobs in sports, opened up. Immediately, National Championship winning head coach Kevin Ollie (UConn), former Championship winner John Calipari (Kentucky), and Hall of Famer Mike Kryzewski (Duke) were all mentioned as possible candidates. Ollie actually grew up in LA, and was coming off a sensational coaching job by taking a UConn team that wasn't the most talented, to a National Championship. He was also a mentor and friend to Kevin Durant, so there was some appeal with Ollie perhaps being able to draw Durant to LA once his contract was up.
Calipari has already coached in the NBA and struggled to find success. In three years with the 76ers, he finished with a .391 winning percentage and only made the playoffs once (swept by the '98 Bulls). His success at the college level, however, has been spectacular. At Memphis, the Tigers were always near the top of the rankings, and were frequent tournament participants. Had it not been for their inability to make free throws, he might have won his first National Championship in 2008, with Derrick Rose leading the way. That first title didn't come until 2012 when he led a mostly freshmen Kentucky team to the title, while only losing two games the entire year.
Coack K always gets mentioned for any NBA coaching job, and rightfully so. He's already in the Hall of Fame, has four National Championships, and is a three time Naismith College Coach of the Year. While he hasn't had a head coaching job in the NBA, he has led NBA superstars to gold medals in 2012 and 2008. Any coach that can get Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Russell Westbrook, and Kobe Bryant to play as a cohesive unit is doing a pretty good job. As it stands, Ollie signed a new contract in May, Coach Cal signed a new contract this past week, and Coach K won't leave Duke, probably ever.
I think this is great for all parties involved that none of them jumped ship. Very rarely, in any sport, does a successful college coach go on to be a successful pro coach. Exceptions include Jack Ramsay, Jimmie Johnson, and Pete Carroll (took him a couple tries though) to name a few. Coach K is the only one of the three I could see being successful given how well he managed players and egos at the last two Olympics. Still, all of them have great programs going and are great for basketball in general in terms of preparing them for the NBA. Ollie hasn't had time yet, but Coach Cal has recently sent a flood of talent that has done well in the pros. The amount of Dukies that played under Coach K in the NBA is numerous. With them staying at their colleges, it allows young players to develop better, and also leaves the head coaching positions open to better fits, rather than just taking the best college coach at the time.
What Position Do You Play?
It's hard to argue that the best tight end in the NFL is the Saints' Jimmy Graham. Graham, however, would argue that he isn't even a tight end. Well, at least when it comes to getting paid. Graham is arguing that, since the Saints used the franchise tag on him, that he should get the money a wide receiver gets when franchised tagged ($12.3 million) rather than what tight ends get ($7.035 million). His argument is that he lined up either in the slot or out wide 67% of the snaps he played last year. Anyone who has watched the Saints play know that Graham plays very much like a wide receiver. While he did play the majority of his snaps like a WR, he did play 33% of his snaps as a tight end. Also, he is not listed on any roster as a WR. If you were to ask someone who the best wide receiver in the game is, I'm not sure if Graham's name comes up. Not because he's not a good receiver, but because no one thinks of him that way. Ask the same question about the best tight end, and he'll be one of the first two (other one probably being Gronk).
I agree with Graham on this matter that he should get paid like a WR, but I think the NFL's parameters for this should change. Where someone lines up in a formation shouldn't dictate the money they get paid and/or deserve. If Graham lines up at TE every play, runs routes from that position rather than out wide, and still gets the same stats, should he still get WR pay? I would say yes, because it should be based on performance rather than where they lined up. One example I can think of where basing franchise tag payouts on where someone lines up is flawed goes back to the Wildcat Miami Dolphins.
Normally reserved for the college game, the Wildcat formation exploded onto the scene in 2008 when the Dolphins lined up Ronnie Brown at quarterback and had Ricky Williams either standing beside him or coming in motion, with the option to keep it, hand it to Williams, or pass it. While they used it sparingly, let's say for argument's sake that it became the base set of their offense and had good success. Now, let's say Brown runs the ball 80% of the time, hands it off 15% of the time, and throws it 5% of the time from that formation. Should he get tagged as a quarterback? Of course not, but given the position where he lined up from, then the current system would argue that he should. So while I don't agree with how it is set up currently, I think that Graham has a case to take advantage of a broken rule. If the decision on Graham's tag doesn't change any policy, look for more players to do this. I think of a Darren Sproles type back or a defensive end/outside linebacker hybrid as players that could make a case to be tagged as a different position. His grievance hearing is scheduled for June 17-18.
World Cup Update
Big news on the World Cup front this week as Marco Reus of Germany and Franck Ribery of France were both declared out for their respective squads, less than a week away from the starting tournament. I think Germany has the means and strength in midfield to overcome Reus' injury. The loss of a Bastian Schweinsteiger would have been much more harmful. Ribery's injury, however, may not be so easy to recover from. Throughout his career, at the club and international level, he has been a great distributor of the ball, and France doesn't really have anyone to replace what they will lose with him. As it stands, nothing regarding Germany changes. They still win their group, and make it to the semis against Brazil where they fall. France, however, is in a bit more trouble. I now see the Swiss winning the group, and Ecuador possibly sneaking in the backdoor to advance. That's how much Ribery means to this team. If France falls in the group stage in back to back World Cups, expect a very uneasy next four years for everyone involved with the French National Team.
Matty O
A broken air conditioner, in a crowded arena, during the summer in Texas is the recipe for an unpleasant experience. That's what the Spurs and Heat found themselves in during Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Had it not been for a LeBron James cramp in the fourth quarter, this story probably would have been glossed over and chalked up to it being hot in San Antonio this time of year. Unfortunately for the Heat, the cramp monster came and bit LeBron during the critical stretch run when the Heat still had the lead. Without him on the court, Danny Green exploded down the stretch to make the final 110-95 score look a lot worse than how the game actually was played.
Anything that happens to LeBron nowadays, people are going to get all over him for. Some people went so far as to call him soft or say that he wasn't mentally tough enough to just battle through it. As someone who hasn't liked LeBron since he went to Miami, I have to say that is unfair. LeBron did try and get back in the game, scored on a pretty nice drive and layup, then couldn't even walk to the bench. Anyone who has ever had a cramp knows that they can be next to impossible to handle. If you didn't prepare for it with hydration, salt, etc., then it will be very difficult to overcome that, much less play a NBA Finals basketball game. Some people want to sound tough and say, "Oh, I could have played through that." In truth, no you could not have. You might be less prone to cramps or had prepared better than LeBron in that situation, but once you get those nasty cramps, you'd have been sitting on the bench too.
Where The Series Stands Now
Cramp or no cramp, the Spurs won the game. While I do think the heat had an impact on the game (Heat lose their best player down the stretch), I don't think it was the reason the Spurs won. The Heat were only up by two when LeBron played his last seconds in the game, so it's not like the Spurs were done for. The Spurs let Miami back in the game by being sloppy with the ball early, but their ball movement in the final minutes was vintage Spurs. Ball screen, pass to Duncan in the post, quick pass right back out to Tony Parker for an open 3. Just because LeBron was out, doesn't mean that a two point lead should turn into a 15 point deficit.
The good news for Heat fans is that the A/C is fixed, and nothing about Game 1 should have changed anyone's predictions. Whether you picked the Spurs in six or the Heat in six, you should still feel pretty good about your prediction. It was a close game with a score that was not reflective of the game itself. One thing that does have to worry Heat fans is Tim Duncan. The building might be cooler for Game 2, but Duncan isn't getting any shorter. He was a man amongst boys down low as he shot 9 for 10 from the field for 21 points to lead all Spurs scorers. The Heat don't have the personnel to guard him one on one, so more double teams will be in order, as well as doing a better job of denying him the ball down low in the first place. It's certainly a risk as the Spurs have Parker, Green, and Manu Ginobili running around on the perimeter, but I've always thought that you lose games getting beat from the outside, but you lose series getting beat down low.
They Never Lead, But They Always Win
See: 2014 Los Angeles Kings. For the second game in a row, the New York Rangers took a two goal lead in the first period, and for the second game in a row, they lost in overtime. The Kings have been doing this the entire post season as they kind of hang around for the first two periods, then finish the deal late. It's actually quite surprising that the Kings have had to rally in the first two games, despite out shooting the Rangers 87-65. Now they have home ice advantage, something they haven't had this entire postseason, and a 2-0 lead heading to New York. Is there any hope for the Rangers?
The answer is a hesitant and uneasy, yes. The outlook doesn't look good, but anytime you have Henrik Lundqvist back in net, you got a shot. Similar to an ace pitcher in baseball, if he plays at his best, you can turn a 2-0 series into an interesting one real fast. Speaking of fast, one thing that has really bothered the Kings in this series is the Rangers' speed. You saw some of that last series against the Hawks, but even more so with this Rangers' squad. There have been multiple times where the Rangers will win a face off in their own zone, flip the puck up in the air up ahead, and one of their speedsters will skate onto it and get a shot on goal. The Kings have gotten beat on a couple of occasions, so maybe they need to put at least one defenseman even further back, similar to a corner backing off a speedy wide receiver.
More good news for the Rangers is that they have come back from worse deficits this postseason. The Penguins were up 3-1 on them in the Conference Semifinals heading back to Pittsburgh. The Rangers had to take two in Pittsburgh and hold serve at home. Lundqvist dropped the hammer, allowing only three goals in the final three games as the Rangers advanced. If the Rangers are to win the Cup, Lundqvist will have to do the same in this series. He's made some great saves already, but the offensive waves just keep coming and coming for the Kings. Although the Rangers have been in both games this series, I think a high scoring shootout favors the Kings. Not pressing on offense, and playing sharper on defense is the formula for getting back in the series. The Rangers want to see scores like 2-1 or 1-0, rather than the scoring bonanza that has taken place the first two games.
Stay In School
Every year when there are coaching vacancies at the NBA and NFL levels, everyone looks to the college game and tries to make the case how this coach could fit in there. This off season, the head coaching job for the Los Angeles Lakers, arguably one of the most prestigious jobs in sports, opened up. Immediately, National Championship winning head coach Kevin Ollie (UConn), former Championship winner John Calipari (Kentucky), and Hall of Famer Mike Kryzewski (Duke) were all mentioned as possible candidates. Ollie actually grew up in LA, and was coming off a sensational coaching job by taking a UConn team that wasn't the most talented, to a National Championship. He was also a mentor and friend to Kevin Durant, so there was some appeal with Ollie perhaps being able to draw Durant to LA once his contract was up.
Calipari has already coached in the NBA and struggled to find success. In three years with the 76ers, he finished with a .391 winning percentage and only made the playoffs once (swept by the '98 Bulls). His success at the college level, however, has been spectacular. At Memphis, the Tigers were always near the top of the rankings, and were frequent tournament participants. Had it not been for their inability to make free throws, he might have won his first National Championship in 2008, with Derrick Rose leading the way. That first title didn't come until 2012 when he led a mostly freshmen Kentucky team to the title, while only losing two games the entire year.
Coack K always gets mentioned for any NBA coaching job, and rightfully so. He's already in the Hall of Fame, has four National Championships, and is a three time Naismith College Coach of the Year. While he hasn't had a head coaching job in the NBA, he has led NBA superstars to gold medals in 2012 and 2008. Any coach that can get Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Russell Westbrook, and Kobe Bryant to play as a cohesive unit is doing a pretty good job. As it stands, Ollie signed a new contract in May, Coach Cal signed a new contract this past week, and Coach K won't leave Duke, probably ever.
I think this is great for all parties involved that none of them jumped ship. Very rarely, in any sport, does a successful college coach go on to be a successful pro coach. Exceptions include Jack Ramsay, Jimmie Johnson, and Pete Carroll (took him a couple tries though) to name a few. Coach K is the only one of the three I could see being successful given how well he managed players and egos at the last two Olympics. Still, all of them have great programs going and are great for basketball in general in terms of preparing them for the NBA. Ollie hasn't had time yet, but Coach Cal has recently sent a flood of talent that has done well in the pros. The amount of Dukies that played under Coach K in the NBA is numerous. With them staying at their colleges, it allows young players to develop better, and also leaves the head coaching positions open to better fits, rather than just taking the best college coach at the time.
What Position Do You Play?
It's hard to argue that the best tight end in the NFL is the Saints' Jimmy Graham. Graham, however, would argue that he isn't even a tight end. Well, at least when it comes to getting paid. Graham is arguing that, since the Saints used the franchise tag on him, that he should get the money a wide receiver gets when franchised tagged ($12.3 million) rather than what tight ends get ($7.035 million). His argument is that he lined up either in the slot or out wide 67% of the snaps he played last year. Anyone who has watched the Saints play know that Graham plays very much like a wide receiver. While he did play the majority of his snaps like a WR, he did play 33% of his snaps as a tight end. Also, he is not listed on any roster as a WR. If you were to ask someone who the best wide receiver in the game is, I'm not sure if Graham's name comes up. Not because he's not a good receiver, but because no one thinks of him that way. Ask the same question about the best tight end, and he'll be one of the first two (other one probably being Gronk).
I agree with Graham on this matter that he should get paid like a WR, but I think the NFL's parameters for this should change. Where someone lines up in a formation shouldn't dictate the money they get paid and/or deserve. If Graham lines up at TE every play, runs routes from that position rather than out wide, and still gets the same stats, should he still get WR pay? I would say yes, because it should be based on performance rather than where they lined up. One example I can think of where basing franchise tag payouts on where someone lines up is flawed goes back to the Wildcat Miami Dolphins.
Normally reserved for the college game, the Wildcat formation exploded onto the scene in 2008 when the Dolphins lined up Ronnie Brown at quarterback and had Ricky Williams either standing beside him or coming in motion, with the option to keep it, hand it to Williams, or pass it. While they used it sparingly, let's say for argument's sake that it became the base set of their offense and had good success. Now, let's say Brown runs the ball 80% of the time, hands it off 15% of the time, and throws it 5% of the time from that formation. Should he get tagged as a quarterback? Of course not, but given the position where he lined up from, then the current system would argue that he should. So while I don't agree with how it is set up currently, I think that Graham has a case to take advantage of a broken rule. If the decision on Graham's tag doesn't change any policy, look for more players to do this. I think of a Darren Sproles type back or a defensive end/outside linebacker hybrid as players that could make a case to be tagged as a different position. His grievance hearing is scheduled for June 17-18.
World Cup Update
Big news on the World Cup front this week as Marco Reus of Germany and Franck Ribery of France were both declared out for their respective squads, less than a week away from the starting tournament. I think Germany has the means and strength in midfield to overcome Reus' injury. The loss of a Bastian Schweinsteiger would have been much more harmful. Ribery's injury, however, may not be so easy to recover from. Throughout his career, at the club and international level, he has been a great distributor of the ball, and France doesn't really have anyone to replace what they will lose with him. As it stands, nothing regarding Germany changes. They still win their group, and make it to the semis against Brazil where they fall. France, however, is in a bit more trouble. I now see the Swiss winning the group, and Ecuador possibly sneaking in the backdoor to advance. That's how much Ribery means to this team. If France falls in the group stage in back to back World Cups, expect a very uneasy next four years for everyone involved with the French National Team.
Matty O
Thursday, June 5, 2014
World Cup Preview
Group A: Brazil, Cameroon, Croatia, Mexico
Winner: Brazil
Runner Up: Croatia
Group A, the one that kicks off the Cup with host Brazil facing Croatia on June 12th, has a fairly clear cut winner. At home, with a loaded roster, Brazil seems to have a stranglehold here. Second place is a bit dicier with Mexico and Croatia both worthy of consideration. I'll take Croatia as Mexico struggled to even qualify for the World Cup, and just suffered a head scratching friendly loss to Bosnia-Herzegovina. Croatia, meanwhile, has the strong 1-2 punch of Luka Modric and Mario Mandzukic from Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, respectively. It might come down to tiebreakers, but I think Croatia escapes the group along with the host.
Critical Games
Brazil vs. Croatia, June 12th
Opening game of the Cup
Mexico vs. Croatia, June 23rd
Game will most likely decide who advances along with Brazil
Group B: Australia, Chile, Netherlands, Spain
Winner: Spain
Runner Up: Netherlands
This group could get interesting with Chile playing spoiler to the more well known Spanish and Dutch teams. Chile is actually ranked higher than the Dutch in the official FIFA rankings, but it's hard to deny the firepower and history the Dutch possess. The battle for first will be crucial, however, as the runner up will have to face the winner of Group A, most likely Brazil. Avoiding the host and being on the other side of the bracket should be motivation enough for the teams in this group. I give Spain the nod given their recent successes (2010 World Cup Champions, back to back European Champions in 2008 and 2012, runner up in 2013 Confederations Cup), as well as their always loaded midfield. The Dutch and Spain sweep Chile and Australia, but Spain edges the Dutch 1-0 on June 13th in a rematch of the 2010 World Cup Final.
Critical Games
Netherlands vs. Spain, June 13th
Not only does this feature two powerhouses in the sport, but it could determine who wins the group and avoids Brazil
Chile vs. Netherlands, June 23rd
I don't think Chile can catch Spain, but they could steal one against the Dutch and slide themselves into the runner up spot
Group C: Colombia, Greece, Ivory Coast, Japan
Winner: Colombia
Runner Up: Greece
The biggest storyline out of this group so far is talented Colombian striker Falcao being held out of the Cup due to his injury from January not healing fully yet. They should still win the group, but if they have an off game, they might finish runner up. The tempting team to put in the runner up position would be the Ivory Coast, but I'm going to go with Greece. There's always a couple teams in each World Cup that are a bit of a surprise to escape the group stages and I think Greece could be one of this year's. They play a heavily defensive style of play, and take counter attacks if the opportunity presents itself. It's not a particularly entertaining style to watch, but it's a style that could help them steal a game against the Ivory Coast, and maybe even Colombia, to advance.
Critical Game
Greece vs. Ivory Coast, June 24th
Important game to battle it out for second place in the group
Group D: England, Costa Rica, Italy, Uruguay
Winner: Uruguay
Runner Up: Italy
Just like in Group C, the big story here revolves around injury. Star Liverpool striker Luis Suarez continues to try and come back from a leg injury he suffered in training after a spectacular season in England for Liverpool. Similar to Colombia, this won't be a make or break injury, but one that could keep them from winning the group and having to settle for second. England will give Italy and Uruguay a run for their money, and won't be an easy out by any means. The name power (Wayne Rooney) and veteran leadership (Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard) are there, but I don't think they have the guns to match Uruguay and Italy. Italy, seeking its fifth World Cup, have to be more than a little bit motivated after winning a grand total of zero games and not getting out of their group in the 2010 Cup. Gianluigi Buffon returns in net after leading Juventus to a ridiculous 33-3-2 record in Serie A this past season. Pirlo in midfield and the always dangerous, but emotional, Mario Balotelli, should be enough for Italy to advance and possibly even win, pending Suarez's health.
Critical Games
England vs. Italy, June 14th, England vs. Uruguay, June 19th, Italy vs. Uruguay, June 24th
All three teams are ranked in the top 13 in the FIFA rankings, and all three have star power up and down their lineups. England could still make some noise in this group
Group E: Ecuador, France, Honduras, Switzerland
Winner: France
Runner Up: Switzerland
Similar to Italy, France is seeking redemption for a disastrous 2010 World Cup which included a team protest against their own coach, zero wins, and an early exit. This year, just like prior to 2010, the hopes are high that France will contend not just for a spot in the knockout stage, but for the Cup itself. The group they are placed in certainly helps as they should win this one with the Swiss nipping at their heels. The Swiss had an impressive qualifying run which included seven shut outs in their ten games. They should slide in comfortably into second place.
Critical Games
France vs. Honduras, June 15th
The meltdown in 2010 in South Africa started early, so it will interesting to see how France perform and how their team reacts to the first game of this tournament.
France vs. Switzerland, June 20th
If France get off to a rocky start on June 15th, expect the Swiss to win this match as well as the group. The battle for first will be on the line here
Group F: Argentina, Nigeria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iran
Winner: Argentina
Runner Up: Bosnia-Herzegovina
Argentina may have gotten the easiest draw of all the powerhouse nations, including Brazil. They are the clear cut number one and would not come as a shock if they won all three of their group matches. Second place should go to Bosnia-Herzegovina as they rolled through qualifying, posting 30 goals in 10 games. They also have striker Edin Dzeko from Manchester City, who helped City win the Premier League title. They could give Argentina a scare when they face off, but Argentina should pull away.
Critical Game
Argentina vs B-H, June 15th
We should know the fate of this group only four days into the tournament
Group G: Germany, Portugal, United States, Ghana
Winner: Germany
Runner Up: Portugal
Even though Group G is labeled the group of death, I think the top two teams are pretty clear cut. There is some concern over Christiano Ronaldo's injury and whether or not he will be healthy enough to play in the Cup. They still make it out of the group without him, but go farther in the knockout stages with him. Even with Ronaldo at full health, I think Germany wins this group rather easily. Optimistic U.S. fans will point to the fact that they beat Germany in a friendly back in June, and it was Germany that needed to rally only to come up short with the US winning 4-3. Let's be real though, that was Germany's B-squad. Yes, players like Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski played in that game, but star goalie Manuel Neuer, Germany and Bayern Munich stalwart Bastian Schweinsteiger, and Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil didn't play that match. Portugal snags second, but it is Germany that will come out of this group with World Cup Title expectations rather than World Cup Title hopes.
Critical Games
Germany vs. Portugal, June 16th
A game good enough for a quarter or even semi final gets played in the group stage. If Ronaldo is fit enough to play, expect an exciting one
United States vs. Ghana, June 16th
Ghana has been a thorn in the United States' side the past two World Cups. The US lost to Ghana in their final group match in 2006 that could have sent them on to the knockout stage. Then, in 2010, the US won their group, only to lose a 2-1 heart breaker in extra time in the knockout stage. If Ghana beats the US again, any hopes of advancing could go out the window early.
United States vs. Portugal, June 22nd
Assuming they beat Ghana, if the US are to advance they will need to beat Portugal, without a healthy Ronaldo, to get to the knockout stage. I expect Germany to beat both of them, so this game will be critical to put themselves in a position to come in second.
Group H: Belgium, Algeria, Russia, South Korea
Winner: Belgium
Runner Up: Russia
Belgium is the popular dark horse pick this year, but I'm not so sure the dark horse label is appropriate. It most likely has to do with their World Cup history having never won one, and only making it past the round of 16 once in 1986 (4th place). When you look at their roster, you see the makings of a favorite, not a dark horse. They have stars on every level with goalie Thibaut Courtois who just led Atletico Madrid to a Champions League Final, defender and captain Vincent Kompany, midfielders Marouane Fellaini, Mousa Dembele, and the youngster from Manchester United, Adnan Januzaj, feeding it to arguably Chelsea's best player this year, Eden Hazard. Dark horses are supposed to surprise, but it will come as no shock to me if Belgium go far, even making the finals. Russia's team is not that strong, but Algeria and South Korea should not be a threat. The luck of the draw has Russia advancing, but a knockout stage date with either Germany or Portugal sends them packing promptly afterwards.
Star Players Whose Nations Didn't Make World Cup
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden, PSG), Robert Lewandowski (Poland, Borussia Dortmund), Gareth Bale (Wales, Real Madrid), Martin Skrtel (Slovakia, Liverpool), Branislav Ivanovic (Serbia, Chelsea), Petr Cech (Czech Republic, Chelsea)
Winner: Brazil
The host nation pulls this one out as the raucous crowds and firepower up front carry them. Their road is by no means easy, as they will have to face Spain or the Dutch in the first round of the knockout stage. Add in games against Italy, Germany, and then the final and you have a daunting road ahead. Looking up and down their lineup, however, and it's hard to find a weakness. I think their 3-0 drubbing of Spain in last year's Confederations Cup was not a fluke, but more so a sign of things to come for this Cup and beyond.
Matty O
Winner: Brazil
Runner Up: Croatia
Group A, the one that kicks off the Cup with host Brazil facing Croatia on June 12th, has a fairly clear cut winner. At home, with a loaded roster, Brazil seems to have a stranglehold here. Second place is a bit dicier with Mexico and Croatia both worthy of consideration. I'll take Croatia as Mexico struggled to even qualify for the World Cup, and just suffered a head scratching friendly loss to Bosnia-Herzegovina. Croatia, meanwhile, has the strong 1-2 punch of Luka Modric and Mario Mandzukic from Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, respectively. It might come down to tiebreakers, but I think Croatia escapes the group along with the host.
Critical Games
Brazil vs. Croatia, June 12th
Opening game of the Cup
Mexico vs. Croatia, June 23rd
Game will most likely decide who advances along with Brazil
Group B: Australia, Chile, Netherlands, Spain
Winner: Spain
Runner Up: Netherlands
This group could get interesting with Chile playing spoiler to the more well known Spanish and Dutch teams. Chile is actually ranked higher than the Dutch in the official FIFA rankings, but it's hard to deny the firepower and history the Dutch possess. The battle for first will be crucial, however, as the runner up will have to face the winner of Group A, most likely Brazil. Avoiding the host and being on the other side of the bracket should be motivation enough for the teams in this group. I give Spain the nod given their recent successes (2010 World Cup Champions, back to back European Champions in 2008 and 2012, runner up in 2013 Confederations Cup), as well as their always loaded midfield. The Dutch and Spain sweep Chile and Australia, but Spain edges the Dutch 1-0 on June 13th in a rematch of the 2010 World Cup Final.
Critical Games
Netherlands vs. Spain, June 13th
Not only does this feature two powerhouses in the sport, but it could determine who wins the group and avoids Brazil
Chile vs. Netherlands, June 23rd
I don't think Chile can catch Spain, but they could steal one against the Dutch and slide themselves into the runner up spot
Group C: Colombia, Greece, Ivory Coast, Japan
Winner: Colombia
Runner Up: Greece
The biggest storyline out of this group so far is talented Colombian striker Falcao being held out of the Cup due to his injury from January not healing fully yet. They should still win the group, but if they have an off game, they might finish runner up. The tempting team to put in the runner up position would be the Ivory Coast, but I'm going to go with Greece. There's always a couple teams in each World Cup that are a bit of a surprise to escape the group stages and I think Greece could be one of this year's. They play a heavily defensive style of play, and take counter attacks if the opportunity presents itself. It's not a particularly entertaining style to watch, but it's a style that could help them steal a game against the Ivory Coast, and maybe even Colombia, to advance.
Critical Game
Greece vs. Ivory Coast, June 24th
Important game to battle it out for second place in the group
Group D: England, Costa Rica, Italy, Uruguay
Winner: Uruguay
Runner Up: Italy
Just like in Group C, the big story here revolves around injury. Star Liverpool striker Luis Suarez continues to try and come back from a leg injury he suffered in training after a spectacular season in England for Liverpool. Similar to Colombia, this won't be a make or break injury, but one that could keep them from winning the group and having to settle for second. England will give Italy and Uruguay a run for their money, and won't be an easy out by any means. The name power (Wayne Rooney) and veteran leadership (Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard) are there, but I don't think they have the guns to match Uruguay and Italy. Italy, seeking its fifth World Cup, have to be more than a little bit motivated after winning a grand total of zero games and not getting out of their group in the 2010 Cup. Gianluigi Buffon returns in net after leading Juventus to a ridiculous 33-3-2 record in Serie A this past season. Pirlo in midfield and the always dangerous, but emotional, Mario Balotelli, should be enough for Italy to advance and possibly even win, pending Suarez's health.
Critical Games
England vs. Italy, June 14th, England vs. Uruguay, June 19th, Italy vs. Uruguay, June 24th
All three teams are ranked in the top 13 in the FIFA rankings, and all three have star power up and down their lineups. England could still make some noise in this group
Group E: Ecuador, France, Honduras, Switzerland
Winner: France
Runner Up: Switzerland
Similar to Italy, France is seeking redemption for a disastrous 2010 World Cup which included a team protest against their own coach, zero wins, and an early exit. This year, just like prior to 2010, the hopes are high that France will contend not just for a spot in the knockout stage, but for the Cup itself. The group they are placed in certainly helps as they should win this one with the Swiss nipping at their heels. The Swiss had an impressive qualifying run which included seven shut outs in their ten games. They should slide in comfortably into second place.
Critical Games
France vs. Honduras, June 15th
The meltdown in 2010 in South Africa started early, so it will interesting to see how France perform and how their team reacts to the first game of this tournament.
France vs. Switzerland, June 20th
If France get off to a rocky start on June 15th, expect the Swiss to win this match as well as the group. The battle for first will be on the line here
Group F: Argentina, Nigeria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iran
Winner: Argentina
Runner Up: Bosnia-Herzegovina
Argentina may have gotten the easiest draw of all the powerhouse nations, including Brazil. They are the clear cut number one and would not come as a shock if they won all three of their group matches. Second place should go to Bosnia-Herzegovina as they rolled through qualifying, posting 30 goals in 10 games. They also have striker Edin Dzeko from Manchester City, who helped City win the Premier League title. They could give Argentina a scare when they face off, but Argentina should pull away.
Critical Game
Argentina vs B-H, June 15th
We should know the fate of this group only four days into the tournament
Group G: Germany, Portugal, United States, Ghana
Winner: Germany
Runner Up: Portugal
Even though Group G is labeled the group of death, I think the top two teams are pretty clear cut. There is some concern over Christiano Ronaldo's injury and whether or not he will be healthy enough to play in the Cup. They still make it out of the group without him, but go farther in the knockout stages with him. Even with Ronaldo at full health, I think Germany wins this group rather easily. Optimistic U.S. fans will point to the fact that they beat Germany in a friendly back in June, and it was Germany that needed to rally only to come up short with the US winning 4-3. Let's be real though, that was Germany's B-squad. Yes, players like Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski played in that game, but star goalie Manuel Neuer, Germany and Bayern Munich stalwart Bastian Schweinsteiger, and Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil didn't play that match. Portugal snags second, but it is Germany that will come out of this group with World Cup Title expectations rather than World Cup Title hopes.
Critical Games
Germany vs. Portugal, June 16th
A game good enough for a quarter or even semi final gets played in the group stage. If Ronaldo is fit enough to play, expect an exciting one
United States vs. Ghana, June 16th
Ghana has been a thorn in the United States' side the past two World Cups. The US lost to Ghana in their final group match in 2006 that could have sent them on to the knockout stage. Then, in 2010, the US won their group, only to lose a 2-1 heart breaker in extra time in the knockout stage. If Ghana beats the US again, any hopes of advancing could go out the window early.
United States vs. Portugal, June 22nd
Assuming they beat Ghana, if the US are to advance they will need to beat Portugal, without a healthy Ronaldo, to get to the knockout stage. I expect Germany to beat both of them, so this game will be critical to put themselves in a position to come in second.
Group H: Belgium, Algeria, Russia, South Korea
Winner: Belgium
Runner Up: Russia
Belgium is the popular dark horse pick this year, but I'm not so sure the dark horse label is appropriate. It most likely has to do with their World Cup history having never won one, and only making it past the round of 16 once in 1986 (4th place). When you look at their roster, you see the makings of a favorite, not a dark horse. They have stars on every level with goalie Thibaut Courtois who just led Atletico Madrid to a Champions League Final, defender and captain Vincent Kompany, midfielders Marouane Fellaini, Mousa Dembele, and the youngster from Manchester United, Adnan Januzaj, feeding it to arguably Chelsea's best player this year, Eden Hazard. Dark horses are supposed to surprise, but it will come as no shock to me if Belgium go far, even making the finals. Russia's team is not that strong, but Algeria and South Korea should not be a threat. The luck of the draw has Russia advancing, but a knockout stage date with either Germany or Portugal sends them packing promptly afterwards.
Star Players Whose Nations Didn't Make World Cup
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden, PSG), Robert Lewandowski (Poland, Borussia Dortmund), Gareth Bale (Wales, Real Madrid), Martin Skrtel (Slovakia, Liverpool), Branislav Ivanovic (Serbia, Chelsea), Petr Cech (Czech Republic, Chelsea)
Winner: Brazil
The host nation pulls this one out as the raucous crowds and firepower up front carry them. Their road is by no means easy, as they will have to face Spain or the Dutch in the first round of the knockout stage. Add in games against Italy, Germany, and then the final and you have a daunting road ahead. Looking up and down their lineup, however, and it's hard to find a weakness. I think their 3-0 drubbing of Spain in last year's Confederations Cup was not a fluke, but more so a sign of things to come for this Cup and beyond.
Matty O
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Six Sunday Summaries (6/1/2014)
NBA Finals Set
The Spurs and Heat are set to meet for the second year in a row in the NBA Finals, with the Spurs seeking revenge after having the title within their reach, only to have Ray Allen snatch it away from them. I think the script will be a bit different this time. The first reason you have to like the Spurs actually comes from looking at last year's Finals. Yes they lost, but they were up 3-2 in the series heading back to Miami, including a 113-77 beat down of the Heat in Game 3. In 2013, the setup for games was 2-3-2, meaning the team with home court advantage were home for the first two and the last two. Even with a 3-2 series lead, the Spurs had to take one in Miami to win the whole thing. In 2014, the setup is 2-2-1-1-1, like all the other rounds of the playoffs. Would 2013 have turned out differently had this been the format? Hard to say, but having two home games to close out a series is quite the luxury.
Looking at the teams this year, the two cores are still intact. Chris Bosh, Dwayne Wade, and James for the Heat, and Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker for the Spurs. There are two big x factors in this series however, both of them dealing with the Spurs. The first one is Kawhi Leonard. Leonard, in his third year out of San Diego State, has really improved his game and become a big reason why the Spurs are in the Finals. He brings athleticism and length to the floor, which will be helpful on both the offensive and defensive ends against the Heat. The second x factor is Tony Parker's health. The Spurs get a break because the Finals don't start until Thursday, so Parker will have plenty of time to rest. Although the Spurs won last night with Parker sitting out in the second half and overtime, they won't be able to pull that off against the Heat. If he misses any time, I think the odds swing heavily in favor of the Heat pulling off the three-peat.
When it's all said and done, I think the Spurs will take this series in six. They're hungry from last year, get production off their bench, and have home court advantage this year. They have only lost one game at home this postseason, and took a game in Rip City (Portland) and Oklahoma City, both tougher places to play than Miami. Again, Parker's health will drastically swing the series to the Heat if he can't go, but I think they get it done.
Bright Futures
For the two NBA Conference losers, just remember that it's always darkest before dawn. Both teams have solid young cores to build around, as well as good, young coaches. The Pacers have the benefit of playing in the East where the road is much easier to get back to the Conference Finals and possibly the NBA Finals. With Larry Bird calling the shots, I believe he will surround that core with some solid pieces and they'll be back to the Conference Finals sooner rather than later.
The Thunder have an even brighter future. Unlike the Pacers, they've been to the big dance before, only to be beaten by the Heat 4-1. That was expected given that it was Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook's first appearance in the Finals. Now those two are much better than they were two years ago, as Durant has the 2014 MVP to show for it. They have two first round draft picks in this loaded, upcoming draft, and it will be interesting to see if they stay where they are, or package those picks to move up. The thing that really did them in against the Spurs was their lack of production off the bench. Their starters were fine, but the Spurs kept rotating guys in and out and the Thunder couldn't match that. If they can get some depth on that roster, look for the Thunder to be frequent visitors to the Conference Finals, and possibly even NBA Finals for years to come.
Put Him Back In Or Ride With The Backup?
That was the question facing New York Rangers' coach Alain Vigneault halfway through the second period of Game 5. With the Rangers up 3-1 in the series, the Canadiens stormed out of the gates at home and were up 4-1 just seven minutes into the second period. Henrik Lundqvist, one of the best, if not the best, goalies in the league, had a terrible night and gave up four goals on 19 shots. The Bell Centre was rocking, so Vigneault decided to pull his star goalie, roll with the backup Cam Talbot, and live to fight another day. The thing was that the Rangers wanted to fight this day, not another one. The Rangers proceeded to rattle off three goals in a span of about five minutes to tie the game towards the end of the second period. Unlike a pitcher in baseball or goalie in soccer, Vigneault had the option of putting Lundqvist back in to try and wrap up the series.
It's not like Talbot was some scrub, however. Talbot had gone 12-6-1 in the regular season with a 1.64 goals against average. Pretty good for a backup rookie. There is really no comparison though, between Lundqvist and Talbot. Lundqvist is much better than him. The issue is whether Lundqvist would be too cold or too mentally shaken to go between the pipes later in the game. The Canadiens scored one more goal in the second to make it a 5-4 game heading into the third, still within reach for the Rangers. The intermission could give Lundqvist time to prep and get ready to come out and play in the third.
All things considered, however, I think the move to keep him out was the right one, even though they wound up losing the game 7-4. Even if Lundqvist had come in and stopped all the Montreal shots in the third period, they still lose 5-4. Also, although you never want to let another team back in a series, the Rangers didn't really need this game. They would still have a 3-2 lead with a loss with a game back in Madison Square Garden, and a game back in Montreal where they already won Games 1 and 2. The decision seemed to have paid off as Lundqvist recorded a shutout in Game 6 to close out the series.
Who Will Face The Rangers?
With the East set, we get to find out how the West was won tonight. Ironically, the Blackhawks are doing to the Kings what the Kings did to their first two postseason opponents. With the Kings up 3-1 in the series, they dropped a close double overtime game at the United Center to make it 3-2. Game 6, however, is the one they will be kicking themselves over. Back in L.A. where the Hawks dropped Games 3 and 4 earlier in the series, the Kings had a 3-2 lead midway through the third period. Two goals and two Patrick Kane points later, and the Kings and Hawks were headed back to Chicago.
The one thing that might give Kings' fans some hope is that their team is probably the most unflappable team in the NHL. They've already won in Chicago thanks to a furious third period in Game 2, and have clinched both of their previous series on the road in Game 7s. Maybe this team just hates being in front in a series unless it's 4-3. Unfortunately for them, I think the Hawks buck the trend, as their offense is simply too much for Jonathan Quick, who hasn't had the best of all postseasons. This will set up an Original Six matchup in the Stanley Cup Finals, which is always special.
In Like A Tiger, Out Like A Lamb
Tiger Woods will never win another major. This seemed outrageous at the turn of the millennium, but it is slowly becoming a possibility. The question of whether he would break Jack Nicklaus' major wins record of 18 seemed more of when, rather than if. Tiger currently sits at 14, so it's certainly tempting to say that he will break that record considering Tiger is only 38, relatively young for a golfer. Given his recent struggles, however, I'm beginning to have my doubts. It's easy to say, "Well, if he wins just one major every four years, he'll tie the record." The problem is that five years have passed since his last major win, and people were saying the same things. During those five years, he has been cut twice, had five where he didn't even play, and eight where he finished outside the Top 10. Now, he was declared himself out of this year's U.S. Open due to a back injury.
Looking at his age and how close the gap is, the odds are certainly on his side to break the record. After what Peyton Manning did this past year, it's hard to doubt any athlete coming back from injury to be as good or better than they were before. I just don't see it. Not with the consistent back pain and guys like Bubba Watson, Adam Scott, Rory McIlroy, and old rivals Phil Mickelson and Sergio Garcia still in the game. I would love to see him pull it off, but he isn't getting any younger and the game isn't getting any easier.
NFL Double Standard
A player takes a performance enhancing substance to use as fertility assistance. An owner is arrested for a DWI and having possession of a controlled substance. Which of these requires more immediate action? Unless you are vehemently against people having babies, you'd have to go with the latter option. Robert Mathis was the player and Jim Irsay was the owner, both from the Indianapolis Colts. Mathis was swiftly punished and suspended for four games, while the commissioner has yet to hand down a punishment for Irsay, even though his arrest came back in the middle of March. It is still possible that the commissioner will hand down a harsh punishment to Irsay, but the wait in doing so has many people questioning if there is a double standard with the NFL's policy.
Should Mathis still be suspended? Sure. Some debate whether or not he really took the substance for fertility or not, but that is of little concern to me. He did it, got punished, it is what it is. To allow Irsay to continue without a punishment and run team operations is pretty insane considering the severity of his actions. Commissioner Roger Goodell may be waiting for the June 19th hearings concerning Irsay's charges, but that doesn't mean he can't still punish him. It seems pretty clear at this point that he did something wrong, yet nothing has happened yet. Goodell needs to either issue a punishment or public statement justifying why he has taken zero action yet. If he wants to wait on handing out punishments, fine, but have this leniency with the players as well.
Matty O
The Spurs and Heat are set to meet for the second year in a row in the NBA Finals, with the Spurs seeking revenge after having the title within their reach, only to have Ray Allen snatch it away from them. I think the script will be a bit different this time. The first reason you have to like the Spurs actually comes from looking at last year's Finals. Yes they lost, but they were up 3-2 in the series heading back to Miami, including a 113-77 beat down of the Heat in Game 3. In 2013, the setup for games was 2-3-2, meaning the team with home court advantage were home for the first two and the last two. Even with a 3-2 series lead, the Spurs had to take one in Miami to win the whole thing. In 2014, the setup is 2-2-1-1-1, like all the other rounds of the playoffs. Would 2013 have turned out differently had this been the format? Hard to say, but having two home games to close out a series is quite the luxury.
Looking at the teams this year, the two cores are still intact. Chris Bosh, Dwayne Wade, and James for the Heat, and Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker for the Spurs. There are two big x factors in this series however, both of them dealing with the Spurs. The first one is Kawhi Leonard. Leonard, in his third year out of San Diego State, has really improved his game and become a big reason why the Spurs are in the Finals. He brings athleticism and length to the floor, which will be helpful on both the offensive and defensive ends against the Heat. The second x factor is Tony Parker's health. The Spurs get a break because the Finals don't start until Thursday, so Parker will have plenty of time to rest. Although the Spurs won last night with Parker sitting out in the second half and overtime, they won't be able to pull that off against the Heat. If he misses any time, I think the odds swing heavily in favor of the Heat pulling off the three-peat.
When it's all said and done, I think the Spurs will take this series in six. They're hungry from last year, get production off their bench, and have home court advantage this year. They have only lost one game at home this postseason, and took a game in Rip City (Portland) and Oklahoma City, both tougher places to play than Miami. Again, Parker's health will drastically swing the series to the Heat if he can't go, but I think they get it done.
Bright Futures
For the two NBA Conference losers, just remember that it's always darkest before dawn. Both teams have solid young cores to build around, as well as good, young coaches. The Pacers have the benefit of playing in the East where the road is much easier to get back to the Conference Finals and possibly the NBA Finals. With Larry Bird calling the shots, I believe he will surround that core with some solid pieces and they'll be back to the Conference Finals sooner rather than later.
The Thunder have an even brighter future. Unlike the Pacers, they've been to the big dance before, only to be beaten by the Heat 4-1. That was expected given that it was Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook's first appearance in the Finals. Now those two are much better than they were two years ago, as Durant has the 2014 MVP to show for it. They have two first round draft picks in this loaded, upcoming draft, and it will be interesting to see if they stay where they are, or package those picks to move up. The thing that really did them in against the Spurs was their lack of production off the bench. Their starters were fine, but the Spurs kept rotating guys in and out and the Thunder couldn't match that. If they can get some depth on that roster, look for the Thunder to be frequent visitors to the Conference Finals, and possibly even NBA Finals for years to come.
Put Him Back In Or Ride With The Backup?
That was the question facing New York Rangers' coach Alain Vigneault halfway through the second period of Game 5. With the Rangers up 3-1 in the series, the Canadiens stormed out of the gates at home and were up 4-1 just seven minutes into the second period. Henrik Lundqvist, one of the best, if not the best, goalies in the league, had a terrible night and gave up four goals on 19 shots. The Bell Centre was rocking, so Vigneault decided to pull his star goalie, roll with the backup Cam Talbot, and live to fight another day. The thing was that the Rangers wanted to fight this day, not another one. The Rangers proceeded to rattle off three goals in a span of about five minutes to tie the game towards the end of the second period. Unlike a pitcher in baseball or goalie in soccer, Vigneault had the option of putting Lundqvist back in to try and wrap up the series.
It's not like Talbot was some scrub, however. Talbot had gone 12-6-1 in the regular season with a 1.64 goals against average. Pretty good for a backup rookie. There is really no comparison though, between Lundqvist and Talbot. Lundqvist is much better than him. The issue is whether Lundqvist would be too cold or too mentally shaken to go between the pipes later in the game. The Canadiens scored one more goal in the second to make it a 5-4 game heading into the third, still within reach for the Rangers. The intermission could give Lundqvist time to prep and get ready to come out and play in the third.
All things considered, however, I think the move to keep him out was the right one, even though they wound up losing the game 7-4. Even if Lundqvist had come in and stopped all the Montreal shots in the third period, they still lose 5-4. Also, although you never want to let another team back in a series, the Rangers didn't really need this game. They would still have a 3-2 lead with a loss with a game back in Madison Square Garden, and a game back in Montreal where they already won Games 1 and 2. The decision seemed to have paid off as Lundqvist recorded a shutout in Game 6 to close out the series.
Who Will Face The Rangers?
With the East set, we get to find out how the West was won tonight. Ironically, the Blackhawks are doing to the Kings what the Kings did to their first two postseason opponents. With the Kings up 3-1 in the series, they dropped a close double overtime game at the United Center to make it 3-2. Game 6, however, is the one they will be kicking themselves over. Back in L.A. where the Hawks dropped Games 3 and 4 earlier in the series, the Kings had a 3-2 lead midway through the third period. Two goals and two Patrick Kane points later, and the Kings and Hawks were headed back to Chicago.
The one thing that might give Kings' fans some hope is that their team is probably the most unflappable team in the NHL. They've already won in Chicago thanks to a furious third period in Game 2, and have clinched both of their previous series on the road in Game 7s. Maybe this team just hates being in front in a series unless it's 4-3. Unfortunately for them, I think the Hawks buck the trend, as their offense is simply too much for Jonathan Quick, who hasn't had the best of all postseasons. This will set up an Original Six matchup in the Stanley Cup Finals, which is always special.
In Like A Tiger, Out Like A Lamb
Tiger Woods will never win another major. This seemed outrageous at the turn of the millennium, but it is slowly becoming a possibility. The question of whether he would break Jack Nicklaus' major wins record of 18 seemed more of when, rather than if. Tiger currently sits at 14, so it's certainly tempting to say that he will break that record considering Tiger is only 38, relatively young for a golfer. Given his recent struggles, however, I'm beginning to have my doubts. It's easy to say, "Well, if he wins just one major every four years, he'll tie the record." The problem is that five years have passed since his last major win, and people were saying the same things. During those five years, he has been cut twice, had five where he didn't even play, and eight where he finished outside the Top 10. Now, he was declared himself out of this year's U.S. Open due to a back injury.
Looking at his age and how close the gap is, the odds are certainly on his side to break the record. After what Peyton Manning did this past year, it's hard to doubt any athlete coming back from injury to be as good or better than they were before. I just don't see it. Not with the consistent back pain and guys like Bubba Watson, Adam Scott, Rory McIlroy, and old rivals Phil Mickelson and Sergio Garcia still in the game. I would love to see him pull it off, but he isn't getting any younger and the game isn't getting any easier.
NFL Double Standard
A player takes a performance enhancing substance to use as fertility assistance. An owner is arrested for a DWI and having possession of a controlled substance. Which of these requires more immediate action? Unless you are vehemently against people having babies, you'd have to go with the latter option. Robert Mathis was the player and Jim Irsay was the owner, both from the Indianapolis Colts. Mathis was swiftly punished and suspended for four games, while the commissioner has yet to hand down a punishment for Irsay, even though his arrest came back in the middle of March. It is still possible that the commissioner will hand down a harsh punishment to Irsay, but the wait in doing so has many people questioning if there is a double standard with the NFL's policy.
Should Mathis still be suspended? Sure. Some debate whether or not he really took the substance for fertility or not, but that is of little concern to me. He did it, got punished, it is what it is. To allow Irsay to continue without a punishment and run team operations is pretty insane considering the severity of his actions. Commissioner Roger Goodell may be waiting for the June 19th hearings concerning Irsay's charges, but that doesn't mean he can't still punish him. It seems pretty clear at this point that he did something wrong, yet nothing has happened yet. Goodell needs to either issue a punishment or public statement justifying why he has taken zero action yet. If he wants to wait on handing out punishments, fine, but have this leniency with the players as well.
Matty O
Sunday, May 25, 2014
Six Sunday Summaries (5/25/2014)
Top Seeds In Trouble
The Blackhawks and Canadiens have both lost home ice advantage in the Conference Finals during this past week. The Canadiens lost it thanks in large part to their starting goalie, Carey Price, getting injured in Game 1. Ironically, they are back in this series thanks in large part to their backup goalie, Dustin Tokarski. He faced 37 shots this past Thursday in Madison Square Garden and turned back 35 of them. That was just enough for the Habs to clinch the game in overtime, keeping the series within reach for Montreal. Unfortunately, the way that Henrik Lundqvist and the rest of the Rangers are playing, Tokarski will likely have to play that well for the rest of the series. It's possible, but not likely. If the Rangers win Game 4 tonight, I think Montreal might be done.
Over in the West, the Kings keep finding a way to get it done. After falling behind in the series, a recurring theme for them this playoffs, the Kings turned a close 2-1 lead heading into the third period in Game 2 into a 6-2 rout of the Hawks at the United Center. Yesterday, coming back to the West coast, the Kings overcame a two goal effort from Jonathan Toews to take the series lead. While I don't think you can pinpoint one exact moment as the cause for a team winning or losing, I thought the Kings' power play goal a minute after Toews scored first short handed was critical. The Toews goal sucked the life out of the building, but the place was rocking once again after Slava Voynov took a laser slap shot from the top of the circles. The series isn't over by any stretch, but the Hawks, particularly Crawford, better rally and step it up in Game 4.
The Old Guys Beating The Young'uns
Switching from the ice to the hardwood, it seems like both the Heat and Spurs have their series right where they want them. The Spurs take a 2-0 lead into Oklahoma City, but that 2-0 lead doesn't tell the whole story. Based on how badly they beat the Thunder, it should really be 4-0. Game 1 was actually a bit closer than the final score, but the Spurs simply pulled away down the stretch. Game 2 was an absolute pounding. 112-77. The team with 77 having the MVP along with one of, if not the best, point guard in the game. There's talk that Serge Ibaka will play in Game 3, but you have to question how effective he will be and how much, or if, he will play. Either way, the Thunder are in a hole they don't want to be in. If they drop even one of the next two in OKC, that means they will have to beat the Spurs twice in San Antonio to win the series. Good luck.
In the East, while the Pacers seemed to catch the Heat napping in Game 1, the Heat have since found their form. Game 3 looked like it was going well for the Pacers as the Heat struggled in the opening half of the first quarter. The tipping point in this game was the late run the Heat made right before halftime. Although the Pacers still led, their lead had been cut to four after leading by double digits through a lot of the first half. The Heat, and Ray Allen, did their veteran thing and pulled away down the stretch.
For the Pacers and Thunder, this has got to be frustrating. Both of them have a wealth of young talent, and they're both facing teams that start players considerably older than them. Despite this, these two teams continue to be spurned by the veteran groups. Even when the Thunder made it to the Finals, the Heat were able to beat them back. I know people would like to think they have plenty of time to get it done, but they're not getting any younger. I think their window to win a title is closing faster than either team thinks, even if the Spurs and Heat are not there down the line to defeat them.
Will LeBron Come Back?
Next time I buy a lotto ticket, I'm wearing a Cavaliers jersey, shorts, hat, socks, and shoes. Somehow, the Cavs once again got the number one overall pick in the NBA Draft, despite having just a 1.7% chance to get that pick. This, coming off last year's number one pick, as well as in 2011 when they selected Kyrie Irving at number one, and in 2003 when they selected one LeBron James. Now, with the possibility of Kyrie, a seasoned Anthony Bennett, and a possible franchise player this year (Andrew Wiggins, Jabari Parker, and Joel Embiid are the likely candidates to go number one), is it possible that James comes back to Cleveland with this core?
I think it would be a great move. I think the animosity in Cleveland has passed since he left for Miami. Whether or not James wins a title this year, he has to accept the fact that the Heat are getting old. Dwayne Wade has shown flashes of being Flash, but he's certainly not the player he used to be. With just a Bosh-LeBron core, I'm not sure if the Heat can win another title. Cleveland, however, has a solid point guard in Irving, a big man in Bennett if he ever pans out, and a possible wing player or center coming in this year. I think Wiggins and Parker are about as NBA ready as you can be, and I think Embiid could be great his first year pending his health. The point is they would have a great, young core, he would stay in the Eastern Conference where the road is not as rough as it is out West, and he could come back to his hometown. I still argue that one title in Cleveland would be more important than eight titles in Miami for LeBron. If he chooses to opt out of his contract, this is a possibility that is on the table.
Landon Donovan
How is this guy not on the World Cup squad? Not even as a sub? People that agree with his absence will point to his poor season he has had with the LA Galaxy, but I think that should be given a bit of a pass considering his past performance for the US National Team. He had eight goals in 11 appearances in 2013, and has been a crucial member of each US World Cup squad dating back to 2002. Is he getting older? Yes. Should the US try and give some of the young guys a chance? Yes, but that's what friendlies and things like the Gold Cup are for. The World Cup is the playoffs and Super Bowl of national soccer.
I think that the leadership that he would provide would help the young US squad, as well as draw attention to the event itself. I guarantee that by Donovan not being on the squad, there are some people in the US that won't wind up watching the Cup. I'm a Bulls fan, but with Derrick Rose out and Luol Deng traded, my interest in them was minimal at best until the playoffs (crappy time to become interested again). He, more so than Clint Dempsey and Tim Howard, is the most recognizable player on the team. To not have him out there would be like the Yankees without Jeter or the Lakers without Kobe (both of whom signed extensions with their teams, despite being not as skilled as they once were). In a group that includes Germany and Portugal, having a veteran like Donovan, even if he doesn't start, would help out.
Forget Lawsuits, The Culture Needs To Change
This past week, former NFL players filed a suit against the NFL, claiming that they were given harmful drugs and painkillers, which are now negatively effecting their lives. There are also claims that team doctors would allow players to play, despite having obvious injuries, which has now caught up to them later on in life. As harsh as it sounds, I don't agree with the suit at all and think former NFL players need to start taking a bit more responsibility. It's quite sad the damage, mentally and physically, that has been done to many of these players. The thing that gives me pause, however, is that pretty much every athlete in every sport will claim that if they are injured, they will do everything in their power to get back out there and continue playing. Concussion or not, these guys want to get back out there and finish the game with their team. I admire that, but you can't then turn around and blame the NFL and team doctors for the issues you have now.
While I am against the doctors and NFL in the fact that they hid injuries from players and did not tell players what drugs they were taking, I do understand where they are coming from. The doctors are employed by the team. With that in mind, there's not a "no" person along the line to protect the player from himself. The doctors want you to play, the coach wants you to play, the owners want you to play, and the NFL front office wants you to play. They put in a bunch of these tests to try and protect the players, but short of doing extensive tests and scans, it's hard to firmly say a player has an injury, when they are insisting that everything is fine.
The solution to this problem isn't clear. The owners and possibly coaches and current players as well, will likely protest an outside doctor coming in. The fear would be that injuries would swing too far in the other direction and players with a playable injury would be held out since that doctor has no stake in the player getting back out there. This means less skill players on the field, which could lead to less wins, which leads to less money. Nobody is happy. If the system stays as is, however, then players will continue to want to, and be, rushed back onto the playing field. It will be interesting to see how this suit plays out and if it causes any change in injury protocol for the NFL and/or other sports leagues.
Public Service Announcement
After seeing another Not Top 10 on ESPN of a fan getting nailed in the face with a baseball trying to catch it, I must emphasize that it is perfectly fine, no matter ones age, to bring a baseball glove to the game. The odds of catching a baseball are very low, so maybe you don't have to worry, but when the time comes, you'll be glad you have it. The reason is that, contrary to what a lot of people seem to think, catching a baseball when you're not expecting it, staring into the sun, are dodging seats and small children, while balancing your beer, is not easy. Add to the fact that you now don't have a glove, and you're just asking to look like a fool. I'd much rather be that guy that brought a glove to the game, but didn't need it, rather than the dope that just took a Mike Trout baseball to the face and is bleeding profusely from the nose. If you don't want to bring a glove to the game, fine, just please don't try and catch it when it comes near you.
Matty O
The Blackhawks and Canadiens have both lost home ice advantage in the Conference Finals during this past week. The Canadiens lost it thanks in large part to their starting goalie, Carey Price, getting injured in Game 1. Ironically, they are back in this series thanks in large part to their backup goalie, Dustin Tokarski. He faced 37 shots this past Thursday in Madison Square Garden and turned back 35 of them. That was just enough for the Habs to clinch the game in overtime, keeping the series within reach for Montreal. Unfortunately, the way that Henrik Lundqvist and the rest of the Rangers are playing, Tokarski will likely have to play that well for the rest of the series. It's possible, but not likely. If the Rangers win Game 4 tonight, I think Montreal might be done.
Over in the West, the Kings keep finding a way to get it done. After falling behind in the series, a recurring theme for them this playoffs, the Kings turned a close 2-1 lead heading into the third period in Game 2 into a 6-2 rout of the Hawks at the United Center. Yesterday, coming back to the West coast, the Kings overcame a two goal effort from Jonathan Toews to take the series lead. While I don't think you can pinpoint one exact moment as the cause for a team winning or losing, I thought the Kings' power play goal a minute after Toews scored first short handed was critical. The Toews goal sucked the life out of the building, but the place was rocking once again after Slava Voynov took a laser slap shot from the top of the circles. The series isn't over by any stretch, but the Hawks, particularly Crawford, better rally and step it up in Game 4.
The Old Guys Beating The Young'uns
Switching from the ice to the hardwood, it seems like both the Heat and Spurs have their series right where they want them. The Spurs take a 2-0 lead into Oklahoma City, but that 2-0 lead doesn't tell the whole story. Based on how badly they beat the Thunder, it should really be 4-0. Game 1 was actually a bit closer than the final score, but the Spurs simply pulled away down the stretch. Game 2 was an absolute pounding. 112-77. The team with 77 having the MVP along with one of, if not the best, point guard in the game. There's talk that Serge Ibaka will play in Game 3, but you have to question how effective he will be and how much, or if, he will play. Either way, the Thunder are in a hole they don't want to be in. If they drop even one of the next two in OKC, that means they will have to beat the Spurs twice in San Antonio to win the series. Good luck.
In the East, while the Pacers seemed to catch the Heat napping in Game 1, the Heat have since found their form. Game 3 looked like it was going well for the Pacers as the Heat struggled in the opening half of the first quarter. The tipping point in this game was the late run the Heat made right before halftime. Although the Pacers still led, their lead had been cut to four after leading by double digits through a lot of the first half. The Heat, and Ray Allen, did their veteran thing and pulled away down the stretch.
For the Pacers and Thunder, this has got to be frustrating. Both of them have a wealth of young talent, and they're both facing teams that start players considerably older than them. Despite this, these two teams continue to be spurned by the veteran groups. Even when the Thunder made it to the Finals, the Heat were able to beat them back. I know people would like to think they have plenty of time to get it done, but they're not getting any younger. I think their window to win a title is closing faster than either team thinks, even if the Spurs and Heat are not there down the line to defeat them.
Will LeBron Come Back?
Next time I buy a lotto ticket, I'm wearing a Cavaliers jersey, shorts, hat, socks, and shoes. Somehow, the Cavs once again got the number one overall pick in the NBA Draft, despite having just a 1.7% chance to get that pick. This, coming off last year's number one pick, as well as in 2011 when they selected Kyrie Irving at number one, and in 2003 when they selected one LeBron James. Now, with the possibility of Kyrie, a seasoned Anthony Bennett, and a possible franchise player this year (Andrew Wiggins, Jabari Parker, and Joel Embiid are the likely candidates to go number one), is it possible that James comes back to Cleveland with this core?
I think it would be a great move. I think the animosity in Cleveland has passed since he left for Miami. Whether or not James wins a title this year, he has to accept the fact that the Heat are getting old. Dwayne Wade has shown flashes of being Flash, but he's certainly not the player he used to be. With just a Bosh-LeBron core, I'm not sure if the Heat can win another title. Cleveland, however, has a solid point guard in Irving, a big man in Bennett if he ever pans out, and a possible wing player or center coming in this year. I think Wiggins and Parker are about as NBA ready as you can be, and I think Embiid could be great his first year pending his health. The point is they would have a great, young core, he would stay in the Eastern Conference where the road is not as rough as it is out West, and he could come back to his hometown. I still argue that one title in Cleveland would be more important than eight titles in Miami for LeBron. If he chooses to opt out of his contract, this is a possibility that is on the table.
Landon Donovan
How is this guy not on the World Cup squad? Not even as a sub? People that agree with his absence will point to his poor season he has had with the LA Galaxy, but I think that should be given a bit of a pass considering his past performance for the US National Team. He had eight goals in 11 appearances in 2013, and has been a crucial member of each US World Cup squad dating back to 2002. Is he getting older? Yes. Should the US try and give some of the young guys a chance? Yes, but that's what friendlies and things like the Gold Cup are for. The World Cup is the playoffs and Super Bowl of national soccer.
I think that the leadership that he would provide would help the young US squad, as well as draw attention to the event itself. I guarantee that by Donovan not being on the squad, there are some people in the US that won't wind up watching the Cup. I'm a Bulls fan, but with Derrick Rose out and Luol Deng traded, my interest in them was minimal at best until the playoffs (crappy time to become interested again). He, more so than Clint Dempsey and Tim Howard, is the most recognizable player on the team. To not have him out there would be like the Yankees without Jeter or the Lakers without Kobe (both of whom signed extensions with their teams, despite being not as skilled as they once were). In a group that includes Germany and Portugal, having a veteran like Donovan, even if he doesn't start, would help out.
Forget Lawsuits, The Culture Needs To Change
This past week, former NFL players filed a suit against the NFL, claiming that they were given harmful drugs and painkillers, which are now negatively effecting their lives. There are also claims that team doctors would allow players to play, despite having obvious injuries, which has now caught up to them later on in life. As harsh as it sounds, I don't agree with the suit at all and think former NFL players need to start taking a bit more responsibility. It's quite sad the damage, mentally and physically, that has been done to many of these players. The thing that gives me pause, however, is that pretty much every athlete in every sport will claim that if they are injured, they will do everything in their power to get back out there and continue playing. Concussion or not, these guys want to get back out there and finish the game with their team. I admire that, but you can't then turn around and blame the NFL and team doctors for the issues you have now.
While I am against the doctors and NFL in the fact that they hid injuries from players and did not tell players what drugs they were taking, I do understand where they are coming from. The doctors are employed by the team. With that in mind, there's not a "no" person along the line to protect the player from himself. The doctors want you to play, the coach wants you to play, the owners want you to play, and the NFL front office wants you to play. They put in a bunch of these tests to try and protect the players, but short of doing extensive tests and scans, it's hard to firmly say a player has an injury, when they are insisting that everything is fine.
The solution to this problem isn't clear. The owners and possibly coaches and current players as well, will likely protest an outside doctor coming in. The fear would be that injuries would swing too far in the other direction and players with a playable injury would be held out since that doctor has no stake in the player getting back out there. This means less skill players on the field, which could lead to less wins, which leads to less money. Nobody is happy. If the system stays as is, however, then players will continue to want to, and be, rushed back onto the playing field. It will be interesting to see how this suit plays out and if it causes any change in injury protocol for the NFL and/or other sports leagues.
Public Service Announcement
After seeing another Not Top 10 on ESPN of a fan getting nailed in the face with a baseball trying to catch it, I must emphasize that it is perfectly fine, no matter ones age, to bring a baseball glove to the game. The odds of catching a baseball are very low, so maybe you don't have to worry, but when the time comes, you'll be glad you have it. The reason is that, contrary to what a lot of people seem to think, catching a baseball when you're not expecting it, staring into the sun, are dodging seats and small children, while balancing your beer, is not easy. Add to the fact that you now don't have a glove, and you're just asking to look like a fool. I'd much rather be that guy that brought a glove to the game, but didn't need it, rather than the dope that just took a Mike Trout baseball to the face and is bleeding profusely from the nose. If you don't want to bring a glove to the game, fine, just please don't try and catch it when it comes near you.
Matty O
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Six Sunday Summaries (5/18/2014)
Miami Heat v. Indiana Pacers
The matchup we all thought we would see at the start of the season finally happened. Barely. While the Heat breezed through the first two rounds (sweep of Charlotte, 4-1 over Brooklyn), the Pacers struggled mightily. The under-.500 and eighth seeded Hawks pushed the Pacers to the limit, amidst concerns about Indiana's team chemistry. Then the Pacers beat back the Wizards in six games, although the series could have gone either way as Indiana certainly did not look like a one seed. Despite all that noise, Indiana finally made it and now lead the Heat 1-0 in the Eastern Conference Finals.
What I find most interesting is if Indiana does advance and wins the NBA title. I can't remember, in any sport, a more surprising number one seed to win a title. This team was hanging by a thread against Atlanta. There was zero team chemistry as talks of where Frank Vogel would go once he got fired were already swirling around before that series was over. Unfortunately for the Pacers, the Heat will probably have something to say about that. I still think Miami will win the series, but I think the ease with which they got through the first two rounds hurt them in this game. I know they've been here before and probably wanted to guard against that, but they did look a bit rusty. I doubt they'll shoot 26% from three, and only have 15 free throw attempts in game two.
NHL Game 1s In The Books
The Rangers opened up the NHL Conference Finals with a bang by trouncing Montreal and quieting the usually raucous Bell Centre. Henrik Lundqvist did his part as he stopped 20 of 22 shots he faced as the Rangers grabbed a 1-0 series lead. I was pretty surprised by this result as I thought that the winner of the Boston-Montreal series was not only the favorite to come out of the East, but the favorite to win the Cup. I'll chalk this up as a minor hiccup, though when Lundqvist is on his game, the Rangers can be unbeatable.
In a more tightly contested game, the Hawks were able to keep the Kings at bay with a 3-1 win, although the game was closer than that. Similar to the Heat, the Hawks had some extra rest and came out a bit rusty in the first few minutes. Getting on the board first certainly helped wake some of the guys up. The Kings answered early in the second, but the Hawks responded to take the 2-1, adding on a late Toews goal in the third. With the way these Kings have been playing though, Game 1 means not that much. The Kings bounced back from 3-0 in the first round, and were in deep trouble last round after being down 3-2 after Game 5 against the Ducks. The Hawks can't feel safe until that 4th game is won.
California Chrome and the Triple Crown
California Chrome is now in line to break the long drought of Triple Crown winners after winning both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. The last horse to capture the Triple Crown was Affirmed back in 1978. It's great for the sport when the Derby and Preakness are won because more people to tune into the Belmont Stakes just to see if history will happen. I'm not going to pretend to be a horse racing expert, I'm not, but I think California Chrome can pull it off. I watched both races, and you could just see how easy he made it look. Normally I pick winners by whoever has the most awesome sounding name, but for a chance at history, you have to take California Chrome in the Belmont.
World Cup Protests
Brazil, the host country of the World Cup this summer, is in the midst of strikes and riots, some of which revolve around the country's decision to have a World Cup. People are protesting the government's use of money on expensive stadiums over helping workers and the poor. Some businesses and residents were even relocated in order to prepare for the upcoming World Cup. The protesters are using the exposure the World Cup will bring as a means of pressuring the government into taking action. If their demands are not resolved, they are threatening protests during the event itself. It will be interesting to see how Brazil handles this situation as they prepare for this Cup, as well as the 2016 Olympic Games to be held in Rio.
Is It Time For Policy Change?
Browns fans excited by the prospect of Johnny Manziel, were soon taken down a notch when they found out their leading receiver from a year ago, Josh Gordon, was facing a year long ban for failing another drug test for marijuana. Personally, I wouldn't argue with the ban because it is a rule and Gordon is a repeat offender, but I would argue with the fact that it's even a rule in the first place. My case for it would be that it doesn't enhance performance (if anything it negatively effects performance), it's being legalized in some states that have NFL teams, and it's still the player's choice whether or not he wants to smoke it. Similar to drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, or even just playing football on a weekly basis (all legal activities), these players know the risks and must accept the consequences. As long as it's in a state that has it legalized, I would be fine if players in the league were allowed to smoke. I know I'm not going to see eye to eye with everyone on this, but I think more time and money should be going towards things on the field, particularly player safety, rather than on an issue such as this.
Fantasy Football in May? Sure
For those wondering, ESPN does have mock drafts up and running for the upcoming 2014 season. There are probably a few other sites doing it too, but you can usually find a good number of people on ESPN and they have all the players ranked reasonably (except rookies whom they have failed to rank yet, but they can be drafted). Only a few months away until the start of the season! How do you feel about that Bart Scott?
Matty O
The matchup we all thought we would see at the start of the season finally happened. Barely. While the Heat breezed through the first two rounds (sweep of Charlotte, 4-1 over Brooklyn), the Pacers struggled mightily. The under-.500 and eighth seeded Hawks pushed the Pacers to the limit, amidst concerns about Indiana's team chemistry. Then the Pacers beat back the Wizards in six games, although the series could have gone either way as Indiana certainly did not look like a one seed. Despite all that noise, Indiana finally made it and now lead the Heat 1-0 in the Eastern Conference Finals.
What I find most interesting is if Indiana does advance and wins the NBA title. I can't remember, in any sport, a more surprising number one seed to win a title. This team was hanging by a thread against Atlanta. There was zero team chemistry as talks of where Frank Vogel would go once he got fired were already swirling around before that series was over. Unfortunately for the Pacers, the Heat will probably have something to say about that. I still think Miami will win the series, but I think the ease with which they got through the first two rounds hurt them in this game. I know they've been here before and probably wanted to guard against that, but they did look a bit rusty. I doubt they'll shoot 26% from three, and only have 15 free throw attempts in game two.
NHL Game 1s In The Books
The Rangers opened up the NHL Conference Finals with a bang by trouncing Montreal and quieting the usually raucous Bell Centre. Henrik Lundqvist did his part as he stopped 20 of 22 shots he faced as the Rangers grabbed a 1-0 series lead. I was pretty surprised by this result as I thought that the winner of the Boston-Montreal series was not only the favorite to come out of the East, but the favorite to win the Cup. I'll chalk this up as a minor hiccup, though when Lundqvist is on his game, the Rangers can be unbeatable.
In a more tightly contested game, the Hawks were able to keep the Kings at bay with a 3-1 win, although the game was closer than that. Similar to the Heat, the Hawks had some extra rest and came out a bit rusty in the first few minutes. Getting on the board first certainly helped wake some of the guys up. The Kings answered early in the second, but the Hawks responded to take the 2-1, adding on a late Toews goal in the third. With the way these Kings have been playing though, Game 1 means not that much. The Kings bounced back from 3-0 in the first round, and were in deep trouble last round after being down 3-2 after Game 5 against the Ducks. The Hawks can't feel safe until that 4th game is won.
California Chrome and the Triple Crown
California Chrome is now in line to break the long drought of Triple Crown winners after winning both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. The last horse to capture the Triple Crown was Affirmed back in 1978. It's great for the sport when the Derby and Preakness are won because more people to tune into the Belmont Stakes just to see if history will happen. I'm not going to pretend to be a horse racing expert, I'm not, but I think California Chrome can pull it off. I watched both races, and you could just see how easy he made it look. Normally I pick winners by whoever has the most awesome sounding name, but for a chance at history, you have to take California Chrome in the Belmont.
World Cup Protests
Brazil, the host country of the World Cup this summer, is in the midst of strikes and riots, some of which revolve around the country's decision to have a World Cup. People are protesting the government's use of money on expensive stadiums over helping workers and the poor. Some businesses and residents were even relocated in order to prepare for the upcoming World Cup. The protesters are using the exposure the World Cup will bring as a means of pressuring the government into taking action. If their demands are not resolved, they are threatening protests during the event itself. It will be interesting to see how Brazil handles this situation as they prepare for this Cup, as well as the 2016 Olympic Games to be held in Rio.
Is It Time For Policy Change?
Browns fans excited by the prospect of Johnny Manziel, were soon taken down a notch when they found out their leading receiver from a year ago, Josh Gordon, was facing a year long ban for failing another drug test for marijuana. Personally, I wouldn't argue with the ban because it is a rule and Gordon is a repeat offender, but I would argue with the fact that it's even a rule in the first place. My case for it would be that it doesn't enhance performance (if anything it negatively effects performance), it's being legalized in some states that have NFL teams, and it's still the player's choice whether or not he wants to smoke it. Similar to drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, or even just playing football on a weekly basis (all legal activities), these players know the risks and must accept the consequences. As long as it's in a state that has it legalized, I would be fine if players in the league were allowed to smoke. I know I'm not going to see eye to eye with everyone on this, but I think more time and money should be going towards things on the field, particularly player safety, rather than on an issue such as this.
Fantasy Football in May? Sure
For those wondering, ESPN does have mock drafts up and running for the upcoming 2014 season. There are probably a few other sites doing it too, but you can usually find a good number of people on ESPN and they have all the players ranked reasonably (except rookies whom they have failed to rank yet, but they can be drafted). Only a few months away until the start of the season! How do you feel about that Bart Scott?
Matty O
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
2014 NFL Draft Recap
Best Draft
St. Louis Rams
The Rams had the best draft and, personally, I don't think it's even close. The only way they didn't have the best draft is if you believe that Sam Bradford is not the answer. If so, then they would have been wise to draft a quarterback other than Garrett Gilbert in the 6th round out of SMU. I actually like Bradford as a QB quite a bit and think that one of these days, he'll surprise everyone and become a consistently productive QB in the league. Let's not forget that this is a former Heisman Trophy winner, NFL Rookie of the Year, and a QB that went 4-1-1 against the big, bad NFC West two years ago, the last season he played a full 16 games. Injuries and a lack of supporting pieces on offense are the main reasons why he hasn't been successful. Hopefully, these past two drafts has changed that.
They got Tavon Austin and Zac Stacy last year, and kicked this year off by selecting offensive tackle Greg Robinson second overall, the final pick from the Robert Griffin III trade they made with the Redskins two years ago. They also grabbed defensive tackle Aaron Donald with their regular draft pick, to bolster an already stout defense. If Donald turns out to be the player that experts are saying he will, then the Rams will easily have the best defensive line in the league with Robert Quinn and Chirs Long on the edges. Unlike their front seven, however, the back end of their defense hasn't been so spectacular. Enter cornerback Lamarcus Joyner from Florida State who they picked up in the second round. Joyner's height is certainly an issue (5'8"), but his football instincts should make up for that. Not saying he's the second coming of Richard Sherman, but he's a great addition to that defense. Add in running back Tre Mason, who I think was an absolute steal in the third round, and you got quite a draft there already.
Towards the bottom of the draft, the name that obviously stands out is Michael Sam. Sexual orientation aside, getting a SEC Defensive Player of the Year in the seventh round is quite the pick. It is highly doubtful that Sam will compete with Quinn and Long for the starting defensive end position, but as a rotational player, I think he has a shot. Special teams will also be key for him making the roster. If he does, I'm sure Jeff Fisher will give him a few plays a game in obvious passing situations to just go after the QB until the rest of his game becomes more polished.
Worst Draft
Carolina Panthers
I was going to go with the Colts, but that would be a bit unfair considering they didn't have a first round pick and only had five selections overall. The Panthers, meanwhile, used their first round selection on Florida State wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin. The need at receiver was obvious as Steve Smith and Brandon LaFell both left during the offseason. The problem is that I think both Marquise Lee of USC and Jordan Matthews of Vanderbilt would have been better picks here. Consider that Benjamin has only played for two years and only got third team All-ACC honors last year when the Seminoles won it all. Matthews on the other hand, got first team All-SEC the past two years playing at Vanderbilt where he was the main focus of some of the best defenses in the nation. Lee didn't garner any awards this past season, but that was mainly due to quarterback and coaching inconsistencies. In 2012, he was a unanimous All-American award winner and won the award for best receiver in the nation. Benjamin fills a need, but it wasn't the best option available.
Kony Ealy, who played opposite Sam at Mizzou, adds to an already intimidating defense, but waiting until the third round to draft a guard was a questionable decision. Tackle was the main position they needed on the line, and they drafted a grand total of zero. Obviously things can change in free agency, but with the weapons that Cam Newton will have this upcoming year, he will need all the protection he can get. Steve Smith is one of the best route runners in the league and finding ways to get open. Even if they had selected Lee or Matthews, their weapons still wouldn't be close to what they were last year. Having that extra second or two in the pocket will be crucial to Newton's success this year, although the Panthers must believe the draft was not the way to do it.
Best Value Pick
Jordan Matthews
As stated previously, I'm a fan of this kid. Back to back All-SEC at Vanderbilt. Vanderbilt! Not Florida, Alabama or LSU. It's not like Jay Cutler was throwing him the ball either. This is why I, as a Cowboys fan, was absolutely devastated when the Eagles grabbed him in the second round. In that offense, I think he has a good chance to contend for rookie of the year if Nick Foles continues to play like he did last year. Despite six WRs going ahead of him, I still think that based on where all the receivers ended up, that Matthews will have the best rookie year and might even turn out to be the best receiver in this draft when it's all said and done.
Worst Value Pick
Sammy Watkins
It's not that I think Watkins won't be a good player, he will, it's just what the Bills had to give up to get him. Also, the fact that he's going to the Bills. For starters, the Bills had to give up their first round selection this year (9th overall), their first round selection next year, and a fourth rounder next year. That's a high price to pay in a fairly deep WR class this year. Then you look at the fact that he's going to the Bills. They just traded away Stevie Johnson so it's not like Watkins makes this receiving corps that much better. He's really just replacing Johnson. They still need to feed the ball to C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson, and they just made a trade to acquire Bryce Brown from the Eagles. With Johnson last year, the Bills finished 28th in the league in passing yards per game, and Watkins will have a sophomore quarterback throwing him the ball. It just doesn't sound like the formula for success. Perhaps he can contribute blocking for the second ranked rushing attack, but his receiving yards and TDs will leave something to be desired considering what they gave up.
When Does Loyalty Become Stupidity?
Loyal as in, being loyal to one's draft board. The Texans needed a quarterback and the Browns needed a wide receiver. Only one team actually drafted what they needed, and that team waited until the fourth round to do so. Let's talk about that team first, the Houston Texans. In defense of the Texans, they pretty much had to take Clowney number one since no trade offer was good enough, and I wouldn't be surprised if they thought Teddy Bridgewater was going to drop to the second round, before Minnesota traded up to get him with the last pick in the first round. Sometimes things don't go your way. I get that. The problem is that QBs were available during their next three picks and they didn't pull the trigger. They let Derek Carr slide to Oakland, Jimmy Garoppolo go to New England, and Logan Thomas go to Arizona before finally taking Tom Savage out of Pitt late in the fourth round. That's a bit too late for my liking when you have no true starter, with the NFL becoming a quarterback driven league. Look at the playoff teams from last year. You don't get anywhere in the NFL anymore without a star QB. Can Savage be that guy? I have my doubts.
Despite the Texans' stubbornness, I think the Browns were even worse. Although the news wasn't released to the public until after the first round of the draft, the Browns organization knew that their best WR, Josh Gordon, was facing a year long suspension due to a failed drug test. This means that, whether they drafted a QB or stuck with Hoyer, their most dangerous weapon from last year was gone. Knowing this, they traded away their pick to the Bills who drafted Watkins. Then, in a loaded class which included Mike Evans, Odell Beckham, Jr., Brandin Cooks, and others that I've mentioned already, the Browns decided to just select...none of them. You want to take Justin Gilbert and Johnny Football in the first round? Fine. No problems there. But then to go offensive tackle, linebacker, running back, and another cornerback with their next and last four picks is absurd.
The Browns must think that either a) Gordon somehow won't be suspended, or b) their receivers are good enough as is. Both of those statements would be incorrect. While it's entirely possible Gordon avoids a season long suspension, he is going to be suspended for some amount of time. I'm guessing it won't be a week or two. Let's say it's their first six games. That means no Gordon in Pittsburgh, at home against the Saints and Ravens, in Tennessee, the Steelers at home, and then in Jacksonville. I see a guaranteed 2-4, potentially 0-6 if the Titans and Jags can figure out their QB situation. Season done. And if they think that their receivers are good enough as is, then the entire Browns front office should be fired. Greg Little, Travis Benjamin, Andrew Hawkins, and Nate Burleson are the potential starting WRs without Gordon. Uh-oh.
Potential Tom Brady Award
A.J. McCarron
All he did in college was win three National Titles, one of which he won the Offensive MVP award, was a Heisman runner up last year, and only lost four times in the three years he was a starter. He didn't put up gaudy stats in college and probably won't in the NFL. But if you want a QB that will get you wins, he's the guy. Critics will say he played with a lot of talent at Alabama. Well, yea, they were also going up against pretty darn good defenses too. Also, it's not like he's going to be playing with scrubs in the NFL either. If he were to start for the Bengals today, he would get to play alongside A.J. Green, Giovani Bernard, Tyler Eifert, and Jermaine Gresham. Not bad. Taken in the 5th round, I think the Bengals got a steal. He can either develop behind Dalton and get traded, or take over Dalton's job if the Bengals don't think he's their guy. Either way, a smart pick late in the draft.
Running Back With A Vengeance
For those wondering, running back is indeed still a position in the NFL. I was starting to have my doubts after the first round. This draft set a record for the latest a running back has been taken with the first one not being snagged until pick number 54 when the Titans snagged Bishop Sankey. Then, backs starting going like hotcakes as two out of the next three players selected were running backs. Despite the Peyton Manning passing bonanza that went on last year, it was the ground and pound, throw it when you need to, Seattle Seahawks that wound up dominating in the Super Bowl. RBs aren't a requirement for a successful regular season, but you'll thank the Lord if you have a good one in the playoffs, especially with the NFL showing it's not afraid to take the Super Bowl to colder climates. I think that teams that waited on RBs or discount their importance should reassess how they view RBs. If not, they're going to spend Super Bowl Sunday like the rest of us, watching from their couch, instead of playing in it.
Matty O
St. Louis Rams
The Rams had the best draft and, personally, I don't think it's even close. The only way they didn't have the best draft is if you believe that Sam Bradford is not the answer. If so, then they would have been wise to draft a quarterback other than Garrett Gilbert in the 6th round out of SMU. I actually like Bradford as a QB quite a bit and think that one of these days, he'll surprise everyone and become a consistently productive QB in the league. Let's not forget that this is a former Heisman Trophy winner, NFL Rookie of the Year, and a QB that went 4-1-1 against the big, bad NFC West two years ago, the last season he played a full 16 games. Injuries and a lack of supporting pieces on offense are the main reasons why he hasn't been successful. Hopefully, these past two drafts has changed that.
They got Tavon Austin and Zac Stacy last year, and kicked this year off by selecting offensive tackle Greg Robinson second overall, the final pick from the Robert Griffin III trade they made with the Redskins two years ago. They also grabbed defensive tackle Aaron Donald with their regular draft pick, to bolster an already stout defense. If Donald turns out to be the player that experts are saying he will, then the Rams will easily have the best defensive line in the league with Robert Quinn and Chirs Long on the edges. Unlike their front seven, however, the back end of their defense hasn't been so spectacular. Enter cornerback Lamarcus Joyner from Florida State who they picked up in the second round. Joyner's height is certainly an issue (5'8"), but his football instincts should make up for that. Not saying he's the second coming of Richard Sherman, but he's a great addition to that defense. Add in running back Tre Mason, who I think was an absolute steal in the third round, and you got quite a draft there already.
Towards the bottom of the draft, the name that obviously stands out is Michael Sam. Sexual orientation aside, getting a SEC Defensive Player of the Year in the seventh round is quite the pick. It is highly doubtful that Sam will compete with Quinn and Long for the starting defensive end position, but as a rotational player, I think he has a shot. Special teams will also be key for him making the roster. If he does, I'm sure Jeff Fisher will give him a few plays a game in obvious passing situations to just go after the QB until the rest of his game becomes more polished.
Worst Draft
Carolina Panthers
I was going to go with the Colts, but that would be a bit unfair considering they didn't have a first round pick and only had five selections overall. The Panthers, meanwhile, used their first round selection on Florida State wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin. The need at receiver was obvious as Steve Smith and Brandon LaFell both left during the offseason. The problem is that I think both Marquise Lee of USC and Jordan Matthews of Vanderbilt would have been better picks here. Consider that Benjamin has only played for two years and only got third team All-ACC honors last year when the Seminoles won it all. Matthews on the other hand, got first team All-SEC the past two years playing at Vanderbilt where he was the main focus of some of the best defenses in the nation. Lee didn't garner any awards this past season, but that was mainly due to quarterback and coaching inconsistencies. In 2012, he was a unanimous All-American award winner and won the award for best receiver in the nation. Benjamin fills a need, but it wasn't the best option available.
Kony Ealy, who played opposite Sam at Mizzou, adds to an already intimidating defense, but waiting until the third round to draft a guard was a questionable decision. Tackle was the main position they needed on the line, and they drafted a grand total of zero. Obviously things can change in free agency, but with the weapons that Cam Newton will have this upcoming year, he will need all the protection he can get. Steve Smith is one of the best route runners in the league and finding ways to get open. Even if they had selected Lee or Matthews, their weapons still wouldn't be close to what they were last year. Having that extra second or two in the pocket will be crucial to Newton's success this year, although the Panthers must believe the draft was not the way to do it.
Best Value Pick
Jordan Matthews
As stated previously, I'm a fan of this kid. Back to back All-SEC at Vanderbilt. Vanderbilt! Not Florida, Alabama or LSU. It's not like Jay Cutler was throwing him the ball either. This is why I, as a Cowboys fan, was absolutely devastated when the Eagles grabbed him in the second round. In that offense, I think he has a good chance to contend for rookie of the year if Nick Foles continues to play like he did last year. Despite six WRs going ahead of him, I still think that based on where all the receivers ended up, that Matthews will have the best rookie year and might even turn out to be the best receiver in this draft when it's all said and done.
Worst Value Pick
Sammy Watkins
It's not that I think Watkins won't be a good player, he will, it's just what the Bills had to give up to get him. Also, the fact that he's going to the Bills. For starters, the Bills had to give up their first round selection this year (9th overall), their first round selection next year, and a fourth rounder next year. That's a high price to pay in a fairly deep WR class this year. Then you look at the fact that he's going to the Bills. They just traded away Stevie Johnson so it's not like Watkins makes this receiving corps that much better. He's really just replacing Johnson. They still need to feed the ball to C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson, and they just made a trade to acquire Bryce Brown from the Eagles. With Johnson last year, the Bills finished 28th in the league in passing yards per game, and Watkins will have a sophomore quarterback throwing him the ball. It just doesn't sound like the formula for success. Perhaps he can contribute blocking for the second ranked rushing attack, but his receiving yards and TDs will leave something to be desired considering what they gave up.
When Does Loyalty Become Stupidity?
Loyal as in, being loyal to one's draft board. The Texans needed a quarterback and the Browns needed a wide receiver. Only one team actually drafted what they needed, and that team waited until the fourth round to do so. Let's talk about that team first, the Houston Texans. In defense of the Texans, they pretty much had to take Clowney number one since no trade offer was good enough, and I wouldn't be surprised if they thought Teddy Bridgewater was going to drop to the second round, before Minnesota traded up to get him with the last pick in the first round. Sometimes things don't go your way. I get that. The problem is that QBs were available during their next three picks and they didn't pull the trigger. They let Derek Carr slide to Oakland, Jimmy Garoppolo go to New England, and Logan Thomas go to Arizona before finally taking Tom Savage out of Pitt late in the fourth round. That's a bit too late for my liking when you have no true starter, with the NFL becoming a quarterback driven league. Look at the playoff teams from last year. You don't get anywhere in the NFL anymore without a star QB. Can Savage be that guy? I have my doubts.
Despite the Texans' stubbornness, I think the Browns were even worse. Although the news wasn't released to the public until after the first round of the draft, the Browns organization knew that their best WR, Josh Gordon, was facing a year long suspension due to a failed drug test. This means that, whether they drafted a QB or stuck with Hoyer, their most dangerous weapon from last year was gone. Knowing this, they traded away their pick to the Bills who drafted Watkins. Then, in a loaded class which included Mike Evans, Odell Beckham, Jr., Brandin Cooks, and others that I've mentioned already, the Browns decided to just select...none of them. You want to take Justin Gilbert and Johnny Football in the first round? Fine. No problems there. But then to go offensive tackle, linebacker, running back, and another cornerback with their next and last four picks is absurd.
The Browns must think that either a) Gordon somehow won't be suspended, or b) their receivers are good enough as is. Both of those statements would be incorrect. While it's entirely possible Gordon avoids a season long suspension, he is going to be suspended for some amount of time. I'm guessing it won't be a week or two. Let's say it's their first six games. That means no Gordon in Pittsburgh, at home against the Saints and Ravens, in Tennessee, the Steelers at home, and then in Jacksonville. I see a guaranteed 2-4, potentially 0-6 if the Titans and Jags can figure out their QB situation. Season done. And if they think that their receivers are good enough as is, then the entire Browns front office should be fired. Greg Little, Travis Benjamin, Andrew Hawkins, and Nate Burleson are the potential starting WRs without Gordon. Uh-oh.
Potential Tom Brady Award
A.J. McCarron
All he did in college was win three National Titles, one of which he won the Offensive MVP award, was a Heisman runner up last year, and only lost four times in the three years he was a starter. He didn't put up gaudy stats in college and probably won't in the NFL. But if you want a QB that will get you wins, he's the guy. Critics will say he played with a lot of talent at Alabama. Well, yea, they were also going up against pretty darn good defenses too. Also, it's not like he's going to be playing with scrubs in the NFL either. If he were to start for the Bengals today, he would get to play alongside A.J. Green, Giovani Bernard, Tyler Eifert, and Jermaine Gresham. Not bad. Taken in the 5th round, I think the Bengals got a steal. He can either develop behind Dalton and get traded, or take over Dalton's job if the Bengals don't think he's their guy. Either way, a smart pick late in the draft.
Running Back With A Vengeance
For those wondering, running back is indeed still a position in the NFL. I was starting to have my doubts after the first round. This draft set a record for the latest a running back has been taken with the first one not being snagged until pick number 54 when the Titans snagged Bishop Sankey. Then, backs starting going like hotcakes as two out of the next three players selected were running backs. Despite the Peyton Manning passing bonanza that went on last year, it was the ground and pound, throw it when you need to, Seattle Seahawks that wound up dominating in the Super Bowl. RBs aren't a requirement for a successful regular season, but you'll thank the Lord if you have a good one in the playoffs, especially with the NFL showing it's not afraid to take the Super Bowl to colder climates. I think that teams that waited on RBs or discount their importance should reassess how they view RBs. If not, they're going to spend Super Bowl Sunday like the rest of us, watching from their couch, instead of playing in it.
Matty O
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