Archive for February, 2010

NFL Best of the Decade- Part 8- Secondary

Out of all the lists I’ve made thus far, this one was the toughest.  You really could go either way with many of these players, especially the cornerbacks.

Anyway, here’s what I came up with.

Top 10 Cornerbacks

1. Champ Bailey- The Champ is here.  If you read my top running backs of the decade, you read why the Bailey, Portis trade was one of the greatest trades ever because of how it benefited both teams so adamantly.  Bailey was one of the rare corners who stuck to a receiver like glue and had unbelievable ball skills.  He had the quickness to stick to underneath routes, and the speed to stick with deep threat receivers.  One play defines his career.  In the 2005 NFL Divisional Playoffs, Bailey intercepted Tom Brady in the end-zone.  He ran the ball all the way back to the one-yard line.  The Broncos won the game and advanced to the AFC Championship Game. 

2. Ronde Barber- The twin brother of former running back Tiki Barber.  Ronde is an all-around corner.  He became the first cornerback in history to amass over 20 career interceptions and sacks.  He wasn’t the most athletic, but he was smart, instinctive and savvy.  In the 2002 NFC Championship Game, Barber took all the air out of Veterans Stadium when he sealed a Bucs win over the Birds after he returned an interception 92 yards for a touchdown. 

3. Charles Woodson- He sealed the 3 spot after winning the Defensive Player of the Year Award this past season; the first corner to do so since Deion Sanders achieved the distinction 15 seasons ago.  Woodson had 9 interceptions and returned 3 of those for a touchdown.  He was very physical and aggressive; excellent in helping against the run.

 

4. Ty Law- He was tough, physical and always made the big plays on the big stage.  His most important play came in Super Bowl XXXVI when he intercepted Rams quarterback Kurt Warner, returning the pick 47 yards to paydirt.  Law had absurd ball-skills to go along with his wide-receiver like hands.

 

5. Nnamdi Asomugha- Approximately two years ago, I had a friend ask me who the best corner in the league was.  I said Nnamdi Asomugha, he literally thought I made the name up.  He never heard of the guy.  I guess it sucks playing in Oakland.  I have also had people tell me, well how come he doesn’t have any interceptions?  I just laugh.  Anyone who judges this guy because he doesn’t have any picks clearly doesn’t know anything about football.  He takes half the field away, no one throws at him, he simply has superior cover ability.

6. Troy Vincent

7. Chris McAllister

8. Patrick Surtain

9. Antoine Winfield

10. Sheldon Brown

Honorable Mentions- Asante Samuel, Terrence Newman, Dre Bly, Rashean Mathis, Terrence McGee, Shawn Springs, Sam Madison, Samari Rolle, Deltha O’neal, Marcus Trufant, Al Harris, Walt Harris, Quentin Jammer, Aaron Glenn, Bobby Taylor

Some Names to Throw Out for Next Decade- Darrelle Revis, Tracy Porter, Mike Jenkins, Leon Hall, Eric Wright, Leodis McKelvin, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Aqib Talib, Antoine Cason, Malcolm Jenkins, Tramon Williams, Brandon Flowers, Vontae Davis, Alphonso Smith, Joe Haden, Kyle Wilson

Top 10 Safeties

1. Ed Reed– The best ball skills, instincts and closing speed I have ever seen.  He played head games with the quarterback, constantly baiting quarterbacks to throw interceptions.  Reed holds the NFL record for longest interception return for touchdown, 108 yards.  He is simply a “game-changer.”

   

2. Brian Dawkins- Dawkins was the heart and soul of the Eagles defense.  He was an emotional leader, getting his team fired up with bone-crunching hits.  He was fantastic at pressuring the quarterback in Jim Johnson’s complex blitzing schemes.  He is one of ten players to have over 20 career interceptions and sacks.

3. Troy Polamalu– An intrical part in Pittsburgh’s zone-blitz packages.  He had marvelous ability to stop the run, and play back in coverage.  He played with reckless abandon, throwing his body around. 

Troy_Polamalu_Icon.jpg image by revmyspace 

4. Darren Sharper- He showed this past season that he’s still got it.  With the Saints Sharper set the record for most interception return yards in a season, eclipsing Ed Reed’s mark of 358 yards set in 2004.  Sharper had 374 interception return yards.

5. John Lynch– He was predominantly known for his fantastic tackling ability.  In fact, in NFL Films top 10 feared tacklers, Lynch came in at number 10.  He played a coach on the field, always helping out his defense with positioning.  Lynch wasn’t athletic, but he was great at taking the proper angles to the ballcarriers.

6. Rodney Harrison 

7. Adrian Wilson

 Wide receiver Johnnie Lee Higgins #15 of the Oakland Raiders is sent flying by defensive back Adrian Wilson #24 of the Arizons Cardinals during a preseason game on August 23, 2008 at the McAfee Coliseum in Oakland, California.

8. Bob Sanders

9. Sean Taylor (What could have been)

10. Roy Williams

Honorable Mentions- Donovan Darius, Nick Collins, Adam Archuleta, Rod Woodson, Lance Schulters, Sammy Knight, Lawyer Milloy, Kerry Rhodes, Mike Brown, Ken Hamlin

Some Names to Throw Out for Next Decade- Quinton Mikell, Jairus Byrd, Roman Harper, Brandon Merriweather, LaRon Landry, Michael Griffin, Reggie Nelson, Kenny Phillips, Louis Delmas, Eric Berry, Taylor Mays, Earl Thomas

  

2010
02/25
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NFL Best of the Decade- Part 7- Linebackers

The 3-4 defense changed the way the linbacker position is played, especially the outside linebackers.  Defensive ends who played in college are now learning how to play outside linebacker. 

With the skill players on offense getting faster, the defense has to adjust.  Linebackers are getting smaller and faster.

Thus let’s look at who were the best linebackers of the decade.

Top 10 Inside Linebackers

1. Ray Lewis- Before the 1996 NFL Draft, scouts stated that Lewis was too small for the middle linebacker position.  At 6’1 235 pounds, Lewis may have been a tweener, but he was relentless.  Lewis has since then bulked up, now 260 pounds.  Lewis wound up being picked 26th in the first round.  Since then, Lewis has won 2 Defensive Player of the Year Awards (2000 and 2003) and a Super Bowl MVP.  Lewis is just so instinctive, he flies to the football. He’s also one of the most emotional players I have ever seen.

2. Brian Urlacher-  At New Mexico, Urlacher played safety.  At 6’4 260 pounds, Urlacher simply had unreal athleticism for his size.  He was picked 9th by the Bears in 2000 to play linebacker.  The transition to the middle linebacker position worked out just fine.  Not only could Urlacher close in on tackles, he used his experience playing safety in college to become one of the best linebackers in pass coverage ever, period. 

 

3. Zach Thomas- Tough, the one word Thomas is associated with.  He wasn’t the tallest, he wasn’t the most athletic, but he was tougher than a $2 steak.  Thomas played middle-linebacker for the Miami Dolphins for 12 seasons.  Year after year, Thomas’ name would be on top or near the top of the list in tackles.  He was only 5’11, but he was an incredible worker.

4. London Fletcher-  In my opinion, the most underrated player of the decade.  He finally got some due by making his first pro-bowl this past season.  He went undrafted in the 1998 NFL Draft after winning the Division III Defensive Player of the Year Award at John Carroll.  Like Zach Thomas, Fletcher was a phenomenal tackler. 

 

5. James Farrior- His career really got going after signing as a free agent in 2002.  He fit perfectly for Defensive Coordinator’s Dick Lebeau’s zone blitzing scheme.  Farrior had great timing on his blitzes up the middle, and backing out of a blitz into coverage.  He was also a great tackler, consistently leading the Steelers in tackles during the decade.

6. Al Wilson

7. Keith Brooking

8. Donnie Edwards

9. Tedy Bruschi

Tedy Bruschi #54 of the New England Patriots reacts after stopping Larry Johnson of the Kansas City Chiefs on September 7, 2008 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts.

10. Patrick Willis

Honorable Mentions- Nick Barnett, Jeremiah Trotter, Junior Seau, Jonathen Vilma, Jamie Sharper, DeMeco Ryans, Jon Beason, Mike Peterson, Antonio Pierce, Mike Peterson

Some Names to Throw Out for Next Decade- Keith Rivers, Rey Maualuga, James Laurinaitis, Jerod Mayo, Curtis Lofton, DeMeco Ryans, David Harris, Rolando McClain, Brandon Spikes, Quan Sturdivant

Top 10 Outside Linebackers

1. Derrick Brooks- He could roam sideline to sideline and make tackles as well as he could drop back into coverage in Tony Dungy’s Tampa 2 Defense.  He was blistering fast and incredibly agile.  He excelled at making tackles in the open field.  In 2002, Brooks won the Defensive Player of the Year Award.  He had an NFL Record 4 returns for touchdown. (3 interception returns and 1 fumble return)

2. Joey Porter- He had a huge mouth, but he backed his trash talk with his play on the field.  He had 90 sacks in the decade, 2nd to only Jason Taylor.  Porter had great speed off the edge, he closes in on the quarterback in a hurry.

3. DeMarcus Ware- He has revolutionized the 3-4 outside linebacker position.  An exceptional pass rusher with extreme explosiveness.  He had 20 sacks in 2008, the most since 2001 when Michael Strahan broke the single season sack record with 22 1/2.  As we head into the new decade, Ware is still improving.

4. Julian Peterson- A very uniquely talented outside linebacker because of his ability to dominate in all facets.  He was strong v.s. the run, solid in pass coverage, and could rush the passer.  His 2003 season proves my point, 144 tackles, 7 sacks, 2 picks and 2 forced fumbles.  That is a true smorgasbord of NFL statistics.

5. Keith Bulluck- He was a very versatile player.  In college at Syracuse, Bulluck played strong safety, middle linebacker and outside linebacker.  As a Titan, Bulluck settled in on the outside.  He had nimble and quick feet.  He shined in coverage as he could cover a lot of ground.  He also had great ball skills.

6. James Harrison

7. Lance Briggs

8. Shawne Merriman

9. Takeo Spikes

10. Lavar Arrington

Honorable Mentions- Willie McGinest, Shaun Phillips, Adalius Thomas, Terrell Suggs, Jason Gildon, Peter Boulware, Ernie Sims, Cato June, Mike Vrabel, D.J. Williams

Some Names to Throw Out for Next Decade- Brian Cushing, Clay Matthews, Aaron Curry, Sergio Kindle, Sean Witherspoon, Greg Jones, Sean Lee, Bruce Carter

 

 

 

 

2010
02/23
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Tiger Woods Apology Speech

Although’s today’s speech was completely overblown, I have to give Tiger Woods a lot of credit for coming out and doing something he didn’t have to do, please the public.  Today was an apology to his wife, family, friends, and fans.  It was a starting point and a visible step towards his long and winding road back to golf. 

I’ve heard some bashing to his speech as being too overcliche’d and robotic.  You have to remember, Tiger’s personality isn’t exactly like that of Will Ferrell.  He’s very private.

Woods is an alum of Stanford University, so I think he would know how to write an effective, compelling speech.  Anyway, along with Kobe Bryant and Mark McGwire, this was the most talked about athlete apology speech ever.   Except, Tiger allegedly didn’t rape anyone or cheat the game.  Tiger’s actions were inexcusable, but all the drama has been completely overexaggerated, magnified, and blown-up.  I mean, even I’m writing a response to his speech.  Poor Tiger.

 

 

2010
02/19
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NFL Best of the Decade- Part 6- Defensive Line

Jason Taylor and Michael Strahan dominated their positions in the decade.  Strahan played the right side, Taylor the left.  Which one was better?

As for the defensive tackles, Sapp has to be number 1, right?

Lets count them down.

Top 10 Defensive Ends

1. Jason Taylor- Taylor was the sack-leader of the decade.  He was almost impossible to block one-on-one.  Taylor was tall and lean and played more of a finesse style, although, he had underrated power.  He did more than just rush the quarterback, he made plays.  He was outstanding at stripping the football and had great hands to intercept passes.

2. Michael Strahan- Will be most notably known for breaking the NFL single season sack record of 22.5 in 2001.  Strahan may have been the most complete end of the decade.  He caused havoc for quarterbacks, but he also excelled in stopping the run.  He won the defensive player of the year award in both 2001 and 2003.  Strahan retired after the 2007 season after accomplishing his goal, winning a Super Bowl with the Giants.  Not a bad way to go out.

3. Richard Seymour- He played stellar in the Patriots 3-4 defensive scheme.  He dominated as a 3-4 defensive end, but could also slide inside at defensive tackle in the 4-3.  He made essentially every tackle he had to.  He didn’t always put up the sack totals, which may make him be looked at in a negative light by casual football fans. 

4. Dwight Freeney- His patented spin move caused chaos for opposing offensive tackles in Tony Dungy’s Tampa 2 defense in Indianapolis.  Freeney is so quick off the ball, and stays low to the ground.  His relentless motor has allowed him to become the Colts all-time sack leader.

5. Julius Peppers-  He has all the tools; speed, quickness, power, agility and lateral mobility.  The 2002 NFL Defensive Player of the Year does a little bit of everything.  He sacks the quarterback, stops the run and creates turnovers.  Peppers also owns the accolade of both making the Super Bowl with Carolina, and the NCAA Final Four with North Carolina.

 

6. John Abraham

7. Simeon Rice

8. Jared Allen

9. Patrick Kerney

10. Leonard Little

Honorable Mentions- Hugh Douglas, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, Aaron Kampman, Aaron Schobel, Robert Mathis, Mario Williams, Osi Umenyiora, Marcellus Wiley, Robert Porcher, Joe Johnson, Jevon Kearse, Aaron Smith, Andre Carter, Kevin Carter, Shaun Ellis

Some Names to Throw Out for Next Decade- Mario Williams, Trent Cole, Justin Tuck, Chris Long, Lawrence Jackson, Derrick Harvey, Robert Ayers, Derrick Morgan, Carlos Dunlap, Tamba Hali 

Top 10 Defensive Tackles

1. Warren Sapp- Sapp had unreal speed and agility for his size.  He was also very strong and had a non-stop motor. In 2000, Sapp recorded 16.5 sacks, astonishing for a defensive tackle.  Sapp demolished inside, stuffing opposing running backs and getting to the quarterback.  He caused teams to double and sometimes triple team him. 

2. Kevin Williams-  I remember watching the 2003 NFL Draft and just laughing at the Minnesota Vikings.  The Vikings had the 7th overall pick, and for the 2nd consecutive season, Minnesota couldn’t get their pick in on time.  They eventually took the guy they wanted at 9, Kevin Williams.  ESPN host Chris Berman made a mockery of Minnesota, and the “experts” insisted that Williams was taken a bit early.  I guess it’s Minnesota laughing now as Williams dominated the decade.

    

3. LaRoi Glover- He was one of the best interior pass rushers of the decade.  Glover’s effort was all-out.  He was strong, held a wide-base and had exceptional leg drive.  Off the field, Glover always gave back to the community.  He won the 2007 Walter Payton Man of the Year award.

 

4. Jamal Williams- He was the epitome of a 3-4 nose tackle, squashing running backs and quarterbacks.  Williams was massive and it takes a lot to move him.  He engages a double-team just about every down.  His ability to take up blockers allows the Chargers defensive ends and linebackers to roam free.

5. Kris Jenkins- Another massive tackle with outstanding run-stuffing ability.  He was and still is strong and quick.  He was one of the main reasons why the Panthers made the Super Bowl in 2003 along with Julius Peppers.

6. Albert Haynesworth

7. Casey Hampton

8. Marcus Stroud

stroud

9. Rod Coleman

10. Vince Wilfork

Honorable Mention- Shaun Rogers, Bryant Young, Pat Williams, Anthony McFarland, John Henderson, Tommie Harris, Sam Adams, Trevor Pryce, Cornelius Griffin, Corey Simon

Some Names to Throw Out for Next Decade- Haloti Ngata, Amobi Okoye, Mike Patterson, Domata Peko, Jay Ratliff, Darnell Dockett, Ndamokung Suh, Glenn Dorsey, Sedrick Ellis, B.J. Raji, Gerald McCoy, Brian Price 

 

2010
02/17
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NFL Best of the Decade- Part 5- Offensive Line

You’ve all heard the saying, a football game is won in the trenches.  The following were the best offensive linemen of the decade.

Top 5 Tackles

1. Jonathan Ogden  

2. Walter Jones 

3. Orlando Pace

4. Willie Roaf

5. Willie Anderson

 

Top 5 Guards

1. Alan Faneca

2. Steve Hutchinson

3. Will Shields

4. Brian Waters

5. Larry Allen

 

Top 5 Centers

1. Kevin Mawae

2. Olin Kreutz

3. Jeff Saturday

4. Matt Birk

5. Tom Nalen

 

2010
02/15
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Bracketology 2/14/10

Midwest (St. Louis)

1. Kansas

16. Lehigh/Jackson St

8. Louisville

9. Illinois

4. Vanderbilt

13. UTEP

5. Gonzaga

12. Siena

6. BYU

11. Dayton

3. Wisconsin

14. Charleston

7. Missouri

10. Florida State

2. West Virginia

15. Coastal Carolina

South (Houston)

1. Syracuse

16. Middle Tennessee State

8. Northern Iowa

9. Richmond

4. Texas

13. Murray State

5. Tennessee

12. Virginia Tech

6. Baylor

11. Old Dominion

3. Michigan State

14. Oakland

7. Xavier

10. Cincinnati

2. Duke

15. Belmont

West (Salt Lake City)

1. Kentucky

16. Robert Morris

8. Maryland

9. UNLV

4. Pittsburgh

13. Utah State

5. Temple

12. UAB

6. Butler

11. Ole Miss

3. Georgetown

14. Weber State

7. Clemson

10. Cornell

2. Kansas State

15. Morgan State

East (Syracuse)

1. Villanova

16. Stony Brook

8. California

9. Oklahoma State

4. Ohio State

13. Kent State

5. Wake Forest

12. Charlotte

6. Texas A+M

11. Marquette

3. New Mexico

14. Sam Houston State

7. Georgia Tech

10. Rhode Island

2. Purdue

15. UC Santa Barbara

Last 4 in- Ole Miss, Virginia Tech, Charlotte, UAB

Last 4 Out- Florida, St. Mary’s, San Diego State, South Florida

Next 4 Out- Washington, Notre Dame, Mississippi State, Northeastern

2010
02/15
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NFL Best of the Decade- Part 4- Tight Ends

The tight-end position has been revolutionized once again this decade.  While blocking is still a major factor, speed and catching the football has become an important factor.  For example at the scouting combine, Vernon Davis ran a 4.4 40-yard-dash, simply astonishing. 

I’ve blabbled enough, here are the to 10 tight ends of the decade!

Top 10 Tight Ends of the Decade

1. Tony Gonzalez- As a tight-end, he was the best receiving tight-end of the decade.  He reset the standard for a tight-end in the NFL.  He holds various NFL records for a tight-end including touchdowns, yards, and receptions.      He was also a very effective blocker, part of the reason why Priest Holmes and Larry Johnson had stellar seasons in their stints with Kansas City.     

2. Antonio Gates- The best athlete at the position of the decade.  As a pass catcher,  he is too fast for linebackers, and too big for defensive backs.  As a college athlete, Gates played basketball for Kent State.  In many of his receptions in the NFL, Gates uses his basketball background by “boxing out” defenders as he goes for the ball. 

3. Jason Witten-  As a blocker, he is adept in both the running and passing game.  He is just as good a receiver.  He’s tough to cover, and when he’s in the open field he knows how to deliver a blow.

4. Jeremy Shockey- As a Giant, Shockey always played with a chip on his shoulder.  He is the epitome of a hard-nosed football player.  Great blocker and receiver.  He really excelled lining up in the slot, running the seam.   

 

5. Alge Crumpler-  He was a rare athlete at his size.  He had huge legs that helped him quite well in the running game.  He was like adding another offensive lineman to the line of scrimmage.  As a receiver he can go get it in the end-zone.

6. Todd Heap- If the Ravens actually had a quarterback during the decade, Heap’s numbers could have been great.  Still, he was one of the top pass catchers at the position.  He was the main target in the passing game for the Ravens for many seasons.

7. Chris Cooley-  He played more of an H-back, but Cooley could really block well.  In the running game, he can clear a hole and seal the edge.  He could go get out, run good routes and catch the football.  Some say he has great hair.

  

8. Dallas Clark-  A great target in the passing game, and a huge asset for Peyton Manning.  Similar to Gates, Clark is too quick for linebackers, and too strong for defensive backs.  He runs the slot very well.

9.  Kellen Winslow II-  The son of the sensational Hall-of-Fame tight end Kellen Winslow of the San Diego Chargers from the 1980’s.  He plays a lot like his father did.  In 2005, Winslow suffered a horrific knee injury to his right knee in a motorcycle accident.  He wound up missing the entire 2005 NFL season.  I’m curious to what could have been if it wasn’t for that crash. 

10. Shannon Sharpe-  Arguably the top tight-end in the 1990’s makes the top ten in the 2000’s.  Sharpe is most notably known in the decade for his 2000 Baltimore Ravens Super Bowl run.  He had two extroardinary touchdown catches.  The first came on a 58-yard juggling score against the Broncos in the Wild-Card round.  In the AFC Championship Game against Oakland, he scored the only touchdown of the game on a crushing 96-yard touchdown reception. 

Honorable Mention- Randy McMichael, Freddie Jones, Frank Wycheck, Bubba Franks, Heath Miller

Some Names to Throw Out for Next Decade-  Vernon Davis, Owen Daniels, Dustin Keller, JerMichael Finley, Brandon Pettigrew, Brent Celek,  Fred Davis, JerMaine Grisham, Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez. 

 

 

 

2010
02/12
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NFL Best of the Decade- Part 3- Wide Receivers

There were some bigtime stars at the wr position this past decade.  Who was the best?

Top 20 Wide Receivers

1. Marvin Harrison- The decade was filled with some ground breaking touchdown celebrations, but that wasn’t Harrison’s style. His superior hands and feet did the talking for him, constantly plucking balls out of the air with his hands and tip-toeing the sideline with his feet to pull in some of the decades most astonishing receptions.  Year after year, he and Manning were consistently rewritting the NFL history book.  He and Manning have set 3 NFL records as a QB to WR tandem; receiving touchdowns, yards and receptions .

 

2. Randy Moss- Absolutely the best deep threat of the decade.  His athletic prowess at the position made him almost impossible to keep up with on a deep route in single coverage.  In 2007, Moss set the reception touchdown record of 23.  His quarterback, Tom Brady set the single-season passing touchdown mark with 50. 

3. Terrell Owens- By far the most controversial wide-receiver of the decade.  He played for four different franchises; San Francisco, Philadelphia, Dallas, and Buffalo.  He excelled working underneath and picking up yards after the catch.  For a big man he also had some freakish speed when he went out for deeper routes.  His most courageous effort came as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles.  Late in the 2004 season against Dallas, Owens severely sprained his ankle on a horse-collar tackle by Roy Williams.  Many wondered if Owens would play again that season.  In the Super Bowl against New England gave it a go and caught 9 balls for 122 yards.  The Eagles lost the game.

4. Torry Holt- Torry “Big Game” Holt surely played up to his entitled monicker.  He had spectacular hands, and always ran precise, crisp, clean-cut routs. Top 10 all-time in receiving yards and total receptions.  He holds NFL records for most consecutive 1,300 plus receiving yard seasons with 6, and consecutive 90+ receptions seasons with 6.

 

5. Chad Ocho-Cinco- Another rather flamboyant individual who loved the attention and spotlight, constantly creating innovative touchdown celebration routines for everyone to see.  Of course, you have to be catching touchdowns to celebrate in the endzone; Chad had plenty of those.  He was consistent in his production, averaging approximately 90+ catches, 1,200 yards and 8-10 touchdowns a season.

6. Reggie Wayne- Peyton Manning’s second favorite target of the decade.  He really excelled when Marvin Harrison started to slip out of his prime playing career.  He ran great routes and snagged balls with his vice-grip like hands.  He was another stand-out of “The U” of Miami, as that school produced NFL star after star early on in the decade. 

7. Larry Fitzgerald- The best jump-ball receiver in the decade.  Just go back and look at his outstanding playoff performance in the 2008 season, pulling down jump-ball after jump-ball.  He has already eclipsed the 1,400 receiving mark in a season 3 times, and has also had 4 10+ touchdown seasons. 

LarryFitzgerald.jpg Larry Fitzgerald image by sjs8736

8. Hines Ward- One of the most versatile receivers of the decade.  He had great hands, and was always delivering a blow when he was blocking.  Ward played quarterback in college, and he has been used on that capacity for Pittsburgh throwing the football on trick plays, and running many reverses and end-arounds.  He won the Super Bowl XL MVP award.

9. Steve Smith- He was one of the top deep-threats in the decade.  He had unreal speed to go along with great body-control.  He won the “Triple Crown” of the position in 2005, he led the league in receptions, yards, and touchdowns.  Earlier on in his career, Smith also created havoc in the special teams game as an excellent punt-returner.

10. Derrick Mason- Began the decade as an elite special teams return man, he ended the decade as an elite wide-receiver.  The start of his career began as Tennessee Titan where he was quarterback Steve McNair’s favorite target on the outside.  As he got older, Mason went to the Baltimore Ravens; he continues to be an elite wide-receiver.

 

11. Andre Johnson

12. Isaac Bruce-

13. Donald Driver-

14. Rod Smith-

RodSmith.jpg Rod Smith image by MrRighTNow954

15. Joe Horn

16.  Jimmy Smith

17. Plaxico Burress

18. Eric Moulds

19. Wes Welker

20. T.J. Houshmenzadeh

Notable Mentions- Muhsin Muhammed, Anquan Boldin, Lavernous Coles, Keenan McCardell, Troy Brown, Santana Moss, Amani Toomer, Joey Galloway, Keyshawn Johnson, Drew Bennett, Lee Evans, Brandon Marshall, Marques Colston, Jerry Rice, Peerless Price

Some Names to Throw Out for Next Decade- Calvin Johnson, DeSean Jackson, Sidney Rice, Michael Crabtree, Steve Smith, Miles Austin, Vincent Jackson, Roddy White, Santonio Holmes, Greg Jennings, Donnie Avery, Mohammed Massaquio, Louis Murphy Percy Harvin, Jeremy Maclin, Kenny Britt, Dez Bryant, Mardy Gillyard, Golden Tate 

 

 

 

2010
02/10
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NFL Best of the Decade- Part 2 Running Backs

Early on in the decade you saw the speed of Faulk dominate.  Then the touchdown mark kept getting shattered with Holmes, Alexander and Tomlinson.  Emmitt Smith held the record coming into the decade.  He is now 4th.  Late in the decade, the league saw a transition with many teams now using 2 backs and the re-emergence of the single-wing aka the “Wildcat.”

So who are the top 20?

Top 20 Running Backs of the Decade

1. LaDainian Tomlinson- Unbelievable speed and balance; predominantly known for his jump cuts.  He set the single season rushing touchdown record of 28 in 2004; he wound up with 31 total touchdowns. 

2. Edgerrin James- Won NFL rushing titles in his first 2 season in the league in 1999 and 2000.  In 2001, he suffered a torn ACL.  Finally rebounded in 04 and 05 with back to back 1,500 plus rushing yard seasons.  James was an amazing asset for then a young Peyton Manning.  Never achieved the same excellence and success he received when he landed in Arizona.   

3. Marshall Faulk- The best pass receiver out of the backfield ever.  Impossible to stop in the open field and could break anything for a touchdown.  MVP in 2000, set a then record 2,429 yards from scrimmage and 26 total touchdowns.  Most of his dominance came in the 1990’s, although he was absolutely staggering in the first 3 years of the decade.   

4. Clinton Portis- Before the 2004 NFL season, an exchange was made between the Denver Broncos and Washington Redskins.  The Skins got Portis, the Broncos received Champ Bailey, wow!  Definitely not the worst trade in NFL history as this benefited both teams.  Bailey isn’t too shabby himself.  Critics felt that Portis was a product of the Broncos offensive-line scheme.  Washington was and still is a power rushing attack.  Portis did just fine in Washington,  he had 3 career 1,500 plus rushing seasons.  Two of them in Washington.

5.  Shaun Alexander-  Prior to the 2006 NFL season Alexander signed a huge and substantial 8-year $62 million contract, $15 million was gauranteed.  Also that offseason, all-pro guard Steve Hutchinson signed with Minnesota.  Just two years after the signing, Alexander was cut by the team.  Behind one of the best offensive lines of the decade, Alexander excelled and topped the 15 rushing touchdown mark three times, and surpassed 1,500 rushing yards twice.  Alexander had 27 rushing touchdowns in 2005.   

6. Tiki Barber- Although he retired rather earlier than many expected, Barber still accumulated some extremely impressive statistics.  He led the NFL in total yards from scrimmage in back to back seasons in 2004 and 2005.  Known for his great vision, cutback ability and pass catching out of the backfield.  He was once fumble prone, but then he learned a rather unique way of carrying the football as shown in the picture below.

 

7. Fred Taylor- It is a shame that Fred Taylor had the joy to celebrate just one All-Pro Team and attend 1 Pro Bowl in his career. Taylor should have been on multiple All-Pro and Pro-Bowl teams.  His appearance in the Pro Bowl and the All-Pro team came in 2007. 

8. Curtis Martin- Martin will ultimately known for being one of two backs ever to amass for over 1,000 rushing yards in his first ten seasons in the league, most of them in the 00’s.  The other back to do the same, some scrub named Barry Sanders.  He won the NFL rushing title in 2004  by one yard over Shaun Alexander with 1,697 yards.  Another thing, Curtis Martin has a perfect career passer rating of 158.3.  He was 2/2 for 36 yards and 2 touchdowns. 

9. Brian Westbrook- He was a wide receiver playing running back in Philadelphia’s West Coast Offense.  He had 10+ total touchdown seasons four times.  Early on in his career, Westbrook was a very dangerous punt returner.  In a regular season game in 2003 the Eagles won a pivotal game against the Giants entitled by some as the “Miracle in the Meadowlands 2.”  Down 10-7 late in the 4th quarter, Westbrook took an 84 yard punt return for a touchdown.  The Eagles escaped with a 14-10 win on a day where the Eagles seemed to be fairly outplayed by New York.

 

10.  Priest Holmes- Similarly to Shaun Alexander, Holmes ran behind a tremendous offensive line.  He had back to back 20 touchdown seasons in 2002 and 2003.  In 03, Holmes surpassed the single season touchdown mark at the time with 27 trips into the endzone.  He was superb during a three-year stretch between 2001-2003.  After that, he started going downhill.

 

     

11. Jamal Lewis- In 2003, relatively out of nowhere, Lewis broke out with 2006 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns on the year.  That season he also broke a then single game rushing record of 295 yards, surpassing Corey Dillon’s mark of 278 yards.  Some critics may say he was effective for basically only one season, but the guy went for over 1,300 rushing yards 3 other occasions in the decade.

     

12. Eddie George-  The epitome of being a power back in the NFL.  He was the best power back of the decade, tiring out defenses, picking up 3 plus rushing yards consistently on every carry.  Don’t let his career per carry average fool you.  It’s fitting that George was drafted as a Houston Oiler before the franchise relocated to Tennessee.  Many Oiler fans remember who Earl Campbell was.

eddiegeorge.jpg image by texansfanblog

13. Adrian Peterson- He has made a huge splash in the NFL in just his first three seasons in the league.  He may be the best at finishing off a run as he bulldozes defenders when he’s barreling at maximum speed in the open field.  He holds the single game rushing record of 296 yards, achieving the accomplishment in his rookie season.  

             

14. Corey Dillon-  He was very workmanlike consistently putting up 1,200 yard rushing seasons in the first 5 years of the decade.  He won a Super Bowl ring with the New England Patriots in 2004, and had statistically his best season amassing 1,600 rushing yards and reaching paydirt 12 times.  In 2000, Dillon set a then record 278 rushing yards in one game.  The mark has since been surpassed by Jerome Harrison, Jamal Lewis and Adrian Peterson.

15. Ricky Williams- Just imagine if football mattered a bit more to Williams.  In 2004, Williams then with the Dolphins, shockingly retired from the game to go study the Indian System of Holistic Medicine.  He returned to the NFL a year later, again with the Dolphins, but put up lackluster numbers.  Williams was suspended for the 2006 season.  In 2007, Williams was again suspended for the season after playing in just 1 game.  He never regained his previous form during his first 5 seasons in the NFL.  During this interval, Williams went over 1,300 yards and scored over 8 touchdowns three separate occasions.  He peaked out during his first season with Miami in 2002 with 1,853 rushing yards and 17 total touchdowns.

 

16. Ahman Green- From 2000-2004, Green had more rushing yards and total yards from scrimmage than any NFL player.  In 2003, his best season, Green had 1,883 rushing yards and 20 total touchdowns.  One of the better multi-dimensional backs of the decade.  He is one of two players in history to run for two 90+ yard touchdowns in his career, a feat shared with Bo Jackson

17. Deuce McAllister- Arguably the greatest running back in New Orleans Saints history.  He prominently posted most of his rushing totals during a 5 year stretch spanning from 2002-2006.  In 2003, McAllister rushed for 1,641 yards and 8 touchdowns.  Deuce was brought back as an honorary captain during this past postseason with the Super Bowl winning Saints.

18. Stephen Davis – Made an impact for two separate NFL franchises, Washington and Carolina, most significantly during 2000-2003.  In 2003, Davis lead the Carolina Panthers to their first Super Bowl appearance.  He had over 1,400 rushing yards and 8 rushing touchdown where he eventually finished in the top 3 in the MVP vote.  With Washington, Davis ran for over 1,300 yards in back to back seasons.

19. Larry Johnson- He makes the list because of two seasons where he posted back to back 1,700 yard 15+ touchdown seasons.  Like his predecessor Priest Holmes, Johnson was a beneficiary of the Chiefs talented offensive line.  Nonetheless, he put up some numbers in a brief stint of time.

 

20. Chris Johnson- He has played just two seasons, and is revolutionizing the running back position.  In a new era predicated on the spread and using speed, Johnson is the fastest player in the NFL.  During this past season, Johnson blazed his way to records in total yards, surpassing Marshall Faulk, and  galloping for 3 touchdowns of 85+ yards.  Johnson became the 6th player in NFL history to exceed the 2,000 yard rushing plateau with 2,006 yards.

Running back Chris Johnson #28 of the Tennessee Titans celebrates as he scores a touchdown past linebacker Chad Greenway #52 of the Minnesota Vikings at LP Field on September 28, 2008 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Titans defeated the Vikings 30-17.

Notable Mentions- Willie Parker, Warrick Dunn, Steven Jackson, Maurice Jones-Drew, Travis Henry

Some Names to Throw Out for Next Decade- Ray Rice, Dion Lewis, C.J. Spiller, Knowshown Moreno, DeMarco Murray, Mark Ingram

2010
02/08
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2000’s NFL Best of the Decade- Part 1- Top 20 QB’s

The 2009 NFL Season is officially complete with the Saints miraculous Super Bowl win over the Colts.  Wow, that onside kick really set the tone in the second half!

Anyway the 2000’s has seen its fair share of great players and moments in the past ten years.  In part 1, I look at the top 20 quarterbacks. Lets get to it.

TOP 20 QUARTERBACKS of the Decade

1. Peyton Manning- What can you say, he’s a coach on the field.  The 4 time NFL MVP may be the most intelligent and accurate quarterback ever. Some may say Brady, I say Manning.

2. Tom Brady- The “Joe Montana” of the decade.  3 Super Bowl titles for the GQ man. So calm and collected under pressure.  Don’t give him the ball with under two minutes.  Just look at Super Bowls XXXVI, and XXXVIII.  Don’t forget about the infamous “Tuck Game.”

3. Drew Brees- Scouts said he was too small.  Started in San Diego, then the Chargers picked Rivers over Brees after the 2005 season.  Brees went to New Orleans and he still did his thing.  Finally got his due with a Super Bowl win, although technically it didn’t happen in the previous decade.

4. Brett Favre- The “Cal Ripken” of the NFL.  Had many ups and downs and  many critics telling him he was washed up.  Arguably had his best season at age 40.

5. Donovan McNabb- I have never seen a quarterback so unfairly criticized ever.  Philadelphia football fans should be appalled.  While he didn’t win a Super Bowl title, he had 1 Super Bowl 5 NFC Championship appearences.  The infamous image of him shuffling his legs on a run against Washington in the regular season simply shows not only could he throw, but as a youngster he could really scramble for a run with the best of them.

6. Kurt Warner- You know his story.  While it looked like his career was over, Warner went to Arizona and led the Cards to an NFC Title in the 2008 season.  3 Super Bowl appearences and 1 Super Bowl win.

7. Steve McNair- McNair, McNabb, and Vick early on in their careers reinvented the quarterback position with their arm and legs.  He was so tough to bring down, no play was ever over when he was scrambling. Co-MVP in 2003. 

8. Rich Gannon- Sort of overlooked by many, maybe even myself.  Led the Raiders to Super Bowl XXXVII, although he threw 5 picks in that game. Won 2 MVP’s, 2000 and 2002. 

9. Ben Roethlisberger- Arguably the best rookie season for a quarterback ever.  A two-time Super Bowl winner; Super Bowls XL and XLIII. 

10. Jeff Garcia- Before anyone chuckles, take a look back and really look at what he did.  One of 8 quarterbacks in history to throw for back to back 30 touchdown seasons when he was in San Francisco.  What he did in Philadelphia in 2006 when McNabb went down was extraordinary. 

 

11. Philip Rivers- One of the best deep ball passers in the league currently.  He was put in a tough spot as the successor to fan-favorite Drew Brees in San Diego.  Had an NFL leading 34 touchdown passes in 2008.

12. Tony Romo- This undrafted QB took over an unpopular Drew Bledsoe in 2006.  Since then, Romo has made 3 pro-bowls.  He may always be known by fans as the man who let a wild-card win slip through his fingertips in 2006 against Seattle on a short field goal attempt.  

 

13. Matt Hasslebeck- The former backup to Brett Favre in Green Bay finally got a shot with the Seattle Seahawks in 2001.  Led Seattle to Super Bowl XL where they fell short to Pittsburgh. 

14. Eli Manning- Peyton’s little bro finally silenced some critics with an improbable win over the undefeated New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII.

15. Daunte Culpepper-  How do you rank this guy?  With Randy Moss, Culpepper was great, without him not so great.  You still can’t take away his season in 2004; 4,717 yards, 39 touchdowns and just 11 interceptions. 

16. Carson Palmer- If it wasn’t for his knee injuries, Palmer would be higher on this list.

17. Brad Johnson- A very underrated quarterback.  Led the Bucs to a Super Bowl win in 2002.

18. Trent Green- He may always be known as the guy who got hurt in the preseason in 1999.  This led to Kurt Warner being named the starting quarterback in St. Louis.  We all know what happened since then.  Had some very respectable seasons with the Chiefs.

19. Chad Pennington- Didn’t have the strongest arm, but he simply got the job done.  Led the Jets and Dolphins to playoff appearences.

20. Mike Vick- Before his ultimate demise in the dog fighting saga, Vick was one of most exciting quarterbacks of the decade.  At one point the highest paid quarterback in the league.

Notable Mentions- Marc Bulger, Jake Delhomme, Drew Bledsoe, Mark Brunell Brian Griese

Some Names to Throw Out for Next Decade- Aaron Rodgers, Vince Young, Matt Ryan, Mark Sanchez, Joe Flacco, Jimmy Clausen, Colt McCoy, Sam Bradford, 13 year old fella commited to USC

2010
02/07
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Super Bowl XLIV Prediction

I’m sure that all of you have already read plenty about this Super Bowl between the Saints and Colts.  So I’ll just make my quick prediction.  So who do I like, give me the Colts 24-20.  To me it’s going to come down to the defenses.  The Saints like to cause turnovers, but Manning is one of the smartest quarterbacks ever.  If the Jets couldn’t slow him down, the Saints won’t either. 

For the Saints to win Sean Payton will have to be crafty, perhaps even going for an onside kick to catch the Colts off guard.  The Colts are the more talented team, the Saints will need some tricks up their sleeve.

As for Dwight Freeney, he may be limited in what he can do with his patented spin move. Overall though, I am not too worried about his pass rushing skills as he will still be  able to bull rush.  I’m curious to see how he’ll fair in the running game.  With the bull rush he’ll be able to move straight ahead, but will he be as effective when he has to run laterally to stop the Saints running game on the edge.

COLTS 24-20.

2010
02/06
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