Archive for September, 2010

YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Week 3 Picks

  1. NY Jets at Miami (Mia- 16-13 OT)
  2. Dallas at Houston (Hou- 27-24)
  3. Green Bay at Chicago (GB- 34-27)
  4. Atlanta at New Orleans (NO- 23-17)
  5. Tennessee at NY Giants (NYG- 20-16)
  6. Indianapolis at Denver (Ind- 30-20)
  7. Philadelphia at Jacksonville (Phi- 27-20)
  8. Pittsburgh at Tampa Bay (TB- 10-6)
  9. Detroit at Minnesota (Min- 27-10)
  10. San Diego at Seattle (SD- 24-13)
  11. San Francisco at Kansas City (KC- 17-14)
  12. Washington at St. Louis (Was- 19-17)
  13. Cleveland at Baltimore (Bal- 30-6)
  14. Cincinnati at Carolina (Cin- 16-6)
  15. Oakland at Arizona (Ari- 23-14)
  16. Buffalo at New England (NE- 48-10)
2010
09/26
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NCAA Football Preview- Week 4

  • (1) Alabama at (10) Arkansas

 

This would be quite a Heisman statement in Mallett can somehow lead his troops to a win in this one.

Ark- 34-31

  • (24) Oregon State at (3) Boise State

 

Virginia Tech is rapidly dropping down the rankings.  Oregon State suddenly becomes Boise’s toughest opponent.

BSU- 37-27

  • (12) South Carolina at (17) Auburn

 

Tough road test for the Cocks.  I’m not sure what to make of Auburn’s Cameron Newton.

SC- 20-16

  • (5) Oregon at Arizona State

 

I liked what I saw out of Arizona State last week against Wisconsin.  Oregon however has their mascot doing a lot of pushups.

Ore- 44-23

  • (22) West Virginia at (15) LSU

 

Baton Rouge at night, hmmmm.

LSU- 27-20

  • (16) Stanford at Notre Dame (Stan- 38-30)
  • North Carolina at Rutgers (Rut- 21-20)
  • California at (14) Arizona (Ari- 34-19)
  • (8) Oklahoma at Cincinnati (Ou- 51-34)
  • Temple at (23) Penn State (PSU- 23-17)
2010
09/24
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Week 2 Picks

  1. New England at New York Jets (NYJ- 22-19 ot)
  2. Pittsburgh at Tennessee (Ten- 20-15)
  3. NY Giants at Indianapolis (Ind 34-24)
  4. Baltimore at Cincinnati (Cin- 20-17)
  5. New Orleans at San Francisco (SF- 31-26)
  6. Houston at Washington (Was- 17-13)
  7. Philadelphia at Detroit (Phi- 27-17)
  8. Arizona at Atlanta (Atl- 20-9)
  9. Miami at Minnesota (Min-24-10)
  10. Chicago at Dallas (Dal- 26-21)
  11. Seattle at Denver (Den- 24-13)
  12. Jacksonville at San Diego (SD- 34-17)
  13. Tampa Bay at Carolina (Car- 23-14)
  14. Kansas City at Cleveland (Cle- 27-23)
  15. St. Louis at Oakland (Stl- 13-9)
  16. Buffalo at Green Bay (GB- 41-13)
2010
09/19
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NCAA Football Preview- Week 3

  • (9) Iowa at (24) Arizona 

If Iowa wants the Big 10 Crown and a possible trip to the Rose Bowl, this would be a nice road win to pick up. 

(Nick Foles)

Iowa- 27-20 

  • (12) Arkansas at Georgia 

It’s a tough start for the Dogs as they start SEC play with back to back ranked opponents.  This game’s at home, and they need it. 

UGA- 24-20 

  • (8) Nebraska at Washington 

This is a nice little test for the Jake Locker to Jermaine Kearse duo, but I think they come up short. 

Neb- 19-17

  • (6) Texas at Texas Tech 

Let’s see what Garret Gilbert’s got.  Lubbock is a tough place to play, especially for the Longhorns. 

TT- 41-33 

  • Notre Dame at Michigan State 

Notre Dame gets a back to back with the Michigan schools.  

MSU- 38-31 

  • Clemson at (16) Auburn  (Aub- 23-10)
  • (23) Houston at UCLA  (Hou- 34-24)
  • (3) Boise State at Wyoming (BSU- 38-10)
  • BYU at Florida State (FSU- 34-23)
  • Cal at Nevada (Nev- 27-24)
2010
09/17
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Back to the Old King Cole

Cole Hamels has been absolutely dominant the 2nd half of the season, especially his last 4 starts where he’s 4-0 with a .76 ERA.  Baseball is all about making adjustments; batters adjust to pitchers, and the pitchers adjust to batters.  That’s exactly what Hamels has done this season.    

Hamels came onto the national stage in 2008 with a superb postseason.  He won the NLCS and World Series MVP awards.  In five starts, Hamels went 4-0 with a 1.80 ERA.  In the regular season, Hamels went 14-9 with a 3.09 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 196 K’s in 227.1 IP.  Even in 2007, Hamels went 15-5 with a 3.39 ERA and 1.12 WHIP.  

In 2009, the hitters adjusted to Hamels and got to him.  Cole saw significant decreases in his statistics.  During the regular season, Hamels struggled, going 10-11 with a 4.32 ERA and a 1.29 WHIP.  All season long, the fans just assumed that Cole would regain his 2008 form in the postseason.  It didn’t happen.  In the playoffs, Cole struggled in 4 starts posting a 1-2 record with a 7.58 ERA and a 1.53 WHIP. 

This year, Cole is back to being Old King Cole.  Don’t look at the record (11-10); he doesn’t get any run support.  So far this season, as of today, Hamels has a 3.01 ERA, 1.16 WHIP with a career-high 201 K’s in 194.2 IP. 

So, what is Cole doing differently this season?  There are actually a couple of different things.  Some people think that Hamels tired out last year after throwing 227.1 innings in 2008.  In my opinion, I just think the batters adjusted to Hamels.  

Let’s go back to 2007 and 2008.  Hamels was strictly a 2-pitch pitcher; the fastball and changeup.  He had a 90-93 mph fastball to go along with that devastating changeup.  Last year, Cole tried to add a curveball to his repertoire, but he clearly didn’t feel comfortable throwing it.  The tilt on it wasn’t great when he threw it.  

This year, Hamels has finally adjusted to the hitters.  He’s now a 4-pitch pitcher; the fastball, cut fastball, curveball and changeup.  His velocity on his fastball is way up over recent years.  Over the last month, the fastball has been approximately 92-96 mph.  He’s also mixed in the cutter and curveball more and more often.  To show you this, I’ve gathered some statistical information to show you that he’s indeed incorporated the cutter and curveball more as the season has gone along.  I have 2 sets of data, the percentage of times he’s thrown each pitch over the season, compared to his last 5 starts. 

            2010 MLB Season

Fastball-           58%

Changeup-       26%

Curveball-        9 %

Cutter-               4 %

            Last 5 Starts

Fastball-           53%

Changeup-       24%

Curveball-        9%

Cutter-              14%

As you can see, he’s getting much more comfy using and locating the cut fastball.  He’s hitting the glove with the pitch on a fairly consistent basis.  The curveball percentage has been the same throughout the season, but the tilt on the pitch has enhanced drastically.  Last night was arguably his best start of the season.  He went 6.2 IP with 13 strikeouts.  He’s putting it all together. 

When it comes to the mental part of the game, Hamels has definitely matured.  He’s now 26, married with a newborn child.  Even when I watched last night’s game, Hamels complained on a couple occasions on some pitches.  In year’s past this would come back to haunt him.  Not last night, he’s the calmest I’ve ever seen him during his career. 

 

We saw it all the time.  Hamels would cruise through 5 innings, and then have his patented “Blow-up” inning.  His face would look much like the image above.  The innings would start with either an error in the field, or a bad-umpiring call.  His emotions would get the best of him.  He’s learned to control those emotions. 

As the Phillies head towards what looks like another postseason appearance, Cole is an intrical part of the rotation.  If he can pitch the way he did in 2008’s postseason, there’s no doubt in my mind that the Phillies could be holding up another World Series crown by season’s end.

2010
09/15
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- Playoff and Super Bowl Picks

NFC East

  1. Dallas (11-5)
  2. Philadelphia (9-7)
  3. NY Giants (8-8)
  4. Washington (6-10)

NFC North

  1. Minnesota (12-4)
  2. Green Bay (9-7)
  3. Chicago (7-9)
  4. Detroit (3-13)

NFC South

  1. Atlanta (11-5)
  2. New Orleans (9-7)
  3. Carolina (6-10)
  4. Tampa Bay (4-12)

NFC West

  1. Arizona (9-7)
  2. San Francisco (8-8)
  3. St. Louis (4-12)
  4. Seattle (3-13)

AFC East

  1. NY Jets (11-5)
  2. New England (10-6)
  3. Miami (8-8)
  4. Buffalo (3-13)

AFC North

  1. Baltimore (12-4)
  2. Cincinnati (9-7)
  3. Pittsburgh (9-7)
  4. Cleveland (5-11)

AFC South

  1. Indianapolis (14-2)
  2. Tennessee (8-8)
  3. Houston (8-8)
  4. Jacksonville (4-12)

AFC West

  1. San Diego (10-6)
  2. Denver (10-6)
  3. Oakland (6-10)
  4. Kansas City (5-11)

Wild Card Weekend

  • NFC- (6) Philadelphia at (3) Dallas
  • NFC- (5) Green Bay at (4) Arizona
  • AFC- (6) Denver at (3) NY Jets
  • AFC- (5) New England at (4) San Diego

Divisional Weekend

  • NFC- (4) Arizona at (1) Minnesota
  • NFC- (3) Dallas at (2) Atlanta
  • AFC- (5) New England at (1) Indianapolis
  • AFC- (3) NY Jets at (2) Baltimore

Championship Weekend

  • NFC- (2) Atlanta at (1) Minnesota
  • AFC- (2) Baltimore at (1) Indianapolis

SUPER BOWL XLV

  • Indianapolis vs Minnesota (Ind- 34-20)

 

2010
09/12
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Season- Week 1 Picks

It’s in order from the games I look forward to most.

  1. Baltimore at NY Jets (Bal- 20-13)
  2. Cincinnati at New England (NE- 34-27)
  3. Atlanta at Pittsburgh (Atl- 19-13)
  4. Indianapolis at Houston (Ind-30-27)
  5. Green Bay at Philadelphia (Phi- 33-24)
  6. Carolina at NY Giants (NY- 31-20)
  7. Dallas at Washington (Dal- 16-10)
  8. San Diego at Kansas City (Kc- 27-24 ot)
  9. Denver at Jacksonville (Den-20-6)
  10. San Francisco at Seattle (Sea- 20-17)
  11. Arizona at St. Louis (Ari- 23-16)
  12. Miami at Buffalo (Mia- 16-6)
  13. Oakland at Tennessee (Ten- 27-13)
  14. Detroit at Chicago (Chi- 30-23)
  15. Cleveland at Tampa Bay (TB- 13-12)
2010
09/12
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NCAA Football Week 2 Preview- “Monster Saturday”

OK, basically what I’m going to do is pick the 10 games that intrigue me most.  I’ll make a quick synopsis of my first 5 and then just pick the rest.Sounds easy enough, right?

1. (12) Miami vs (2) Ohio State

If Ohio State wants to contend for a National Championship, this is a must win at home.  For Miami, this is a great tune up as they aim to win the ACC.  A win here in “The Horshoe” would be a bonus.

(Terrelle Pryor)

Ohio State- 30-20

2. (17) Florida State at (10) Oklahoma

If you read above, good.  You can move on to the next game.  It’s essentially the same situation in this one.  OU title dreams, FSU ACC aspirations.

Oklahoma- 38-33

 3. (22) Georgia at (24) South Carolina

This game isn’t as sexy to other people, but I have high expectations for South Carolina this season.  Who knows what’s going on with A.J. Green.  This is a fantastic SEC opener before we head to those 2 huge 3:30 confrontations.

SC- 23-17

 4.      (18) Penn State at (1) Alabama

This is a fantastic looking matchup on paper.  On grass, not so much.

Ala- 38-20

5.      Michigan at Notre Dame

This game is intriguing because of the down years that 2 storied programs have had recently.  Then both programs impress in week 2.  Which one of these teams is for real.  Are they both for real.  Or are they both frauds like they were last season.

ND- 30-27 OT

6.      Stanford at UCLA (Stan- 27-16)

7.      (7) Oregon at Tennessee (Ore- 40-24)

8.      Colorado at California (Cal- 34-24)

9.      BYU at Air Force (BYU- 34-23)

(19) LSU at Vanderbilt (LSU- 17-16)

2010
09/11
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- Cincinnati Bengals

I blog for the Cincinnati Bengals for prosportsblogging.com  I already previewed all of the positions, so I’ll just post the links and you can be on your way.

Quarterbacks- http://prosportsblogging.com/nfl-football/cincinnati-bengals/2010-cincinnati-bengals-preview-quarterbacks/

Running Backs- http://prosportsblogging.com/nfl-football/cincinnati-bengals/2010-cincinnati-bengals-preview-running-backs/

Receivers- http://prosportsblogging.com/nfl-football/cincinnati-bengals/2010-cincinnati-bengals-preview-receivers/

Offensive Line- http://prosportsblogging.com/nfl-football/cincinnati-bengals/2010-cincinnati-bengals-preview-offensive-line/

Defensive Line- http://prosportsblogging.com/nfl-football/cincinnati-bengals/2010-cincinnati-bengals-preview-defensive-line/

Linebackers- http://prosportsblogging.com/nfl-football/cincinnati-bengals/2010-cincinnati-bengals-preview-linebackers/

Secondary- http://prosportsblogging.com/nfl-football/cincinnati-bengals/2010-cincinnati-bengals-preview-secondary/

2010 PREDICTION- 9-7

I think the Bengals are a much improved team from last season, but the schedule isn’t easy.  It’s not a cakewalk, like it was last season.

Offensive MVP- Carson Palmer

Defensive MVP- Leon Hall

Breakthrough- Michael Johnson

Overrated- Cedric Benson

Underrated- Domata Peko

2010
09/09
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- Baltimore Ravens

The last 2 years, the Ravens have flown under the radar.  After a busy offseason, and 2 straight successful playoff appearances, the expectations are high in Baltimore.  Joe Flacco adds another year under his belt, it seems that they’ve found something in Ray Rice and they’ve signed some weapons for Flacco.  This team is no joke.

 Quarterbacks

 Joe Flacco- 315/499  63.1%  3,613 yds  21 td  12 int  88.9 rat

Arguably the toughest throw to make in football is the 15-18 yard out pattern.  Flacco makes it look routine.  With such a surrounding cast of weapons, he is ready for a breakout.  He has one of the strongest arms in the league to go along with very good accuracy.  He also has very nice touch on his deep balls.  Flacco is the real deal.

(Joe Flacco)

Others- Marc Bulger

Bulger at this point of his career is a very solid and experienced backup.

GRADE- 8

 Running Backs

 Ray Rice- 254 car  1,339 yds  5.3 avg  7 td  78 rec  702 yds  1 td

Rice reminds me a lot of Maurice Jones-Drew of Jacksonville.  He has thick legs, has good quickness, finishes runs and has more power than you might think.  He is fantastic out of the backfield, and will line up at the slot on occasion.

(Ray Rice)

Willis McGahee- 109 car  544 yds  5.0 avg  12 td  15 rec  85 yds  2 td

McGahee is a nice change of pace back.  He’s a power runner who can wear a defense down.

Others- Le’Ron McClain, Jalen Parmele

McClain didn’t get as many carries last year because people were healthy, but he was an effective blocker.

GRADE- 8.5

 Wide Receivers

 Anquan Boldin- 84 rec  1,024 yds  12.2 avg  4 td

 Boldin is an effective receiver underneath and creates after the catch.  He’s tough and not afraid to go over the middle.

Derrick Mason- 73 rec  1,028 yds  14.1 avg  7 td

Mason is just so reliable.  You just keep waiting for the season in which he breaks down, but he just doesn’t.  The reason why he continues to be so successful, his route running.

(Derrick Mason)

T.J. Houshmanzadeh- 79 rec  911 yds  11.5 avg  3 td

I thought I just wrote about this guy.  Wasn’t he just in Seattle?  Anyway, what a number 3!

TE- Todd Heap- 53 rec  593 yds  11.2 avg  6 td

He isn’t getting any younger or faster, but he can still run the seam.

Others- Donte Stallworth, David Reed, Marcus Smith

Stallworth is a vertical threat and a solid #4.

GRADE- 8

 Offensive Line

LT- Jared Gaither

Gaither is huge, he’s 6’9.  You just don’t get around this guy.

LG- Ben Grubbs

Grubbs is strong and athletic and quickly becoming one of the league’s best guards.

C- Matt Birk

Birk is still quick and smart and had a good 1st year in Baltimore.

RG- Marshall Yanda

Yanda played well late and took the job away from Chris Chester.

RT- Michael Oher

For now, he’s at right tackle, but he’ll be on the left protecting the quarterback’s blind side for years to come.

(Michael Oher)

GRADE- 8.75

 Defensive Line

LDE- Cory Redding- 20 tck  2 sck

Redding is quick, strong and plays hard.

NT- Kelly Gregg- 63 tck  3 sck 

Gregg is a hard worker and knows how to play with leverage.

RDE- Haloti Ngata- 35 tck  1.5 sck  1 p def  1 ff

His statistics may not show it, but Ngata single-handedly controls the opponents running game.  He is one of the strongest players in the game, and is very quick for his size.

(Haloti Ngata)

Others- Trevor Pryce, Terrence Cody

Cody is the nose tackle of the future.  He’s huge, has long arms, but needs to watch his weight.

Pryce still has pass rush ability, but he’s 35.

GRADE- 8.5

 Linebackers

LOLB- Jarrett Johnson- 50 tck  6 sck  2 int  4 p def  1 ff

Johnson is a converted defensive end who has fit in as a 3-4 OLB beautifully.

LILB- Ray Lewis- 134 tck  3 sck  7 p def  2 ff

Lewis is 35 and still up there with the best inside linebackers.  He still runs well for his age and still has those fantastic instincts.

RILB- Dannell Ellerbe- 41 tck  1 int  1 p def

Ellerbe took the inside linebacking job away from Tavares Gooden who has struggled with injuries.

ROLB- Terrell Suggs- 59 tck  4.5 sck  5 p def  1 ff

Suggs, if he can stay healthy, has the potential to become a complete edge rusher.

(Terrell Suggs)

Others- Tavares Gooden, Sergio Kindle

Kindle fell into the 2nd round, and Baltimore snatches him.  He’s athletic, explosive and has potential to blossom.

GRADE- 8.5

 Secondary

 LCB- Chris Carr- 44 tck  2 int  4 p def  1.5 sck  2 ff

The secondary has been decimated by injury, and now Chris Carr becomes the number 1 corner.  That should say something here.

RCB- Fabian Washington- 36 tck  6 p def

Washington comes off knee surgery.  He needs to stay healthy.  He has great speed.

CB- LaDarius Webb- 35 tck  6 p def  1 sck

Webb had a solid rookie season.  He’s fast and physical.

FS- Ed Reed- 50 tck  3 int  5 p def  3 ff

Ed Reed is out the 1st 6 games of the season due to a hip injury.  When healthy, Reed is the best safety in the game.  He is a ballhawk.  He reads the quarterback and breaks quickly on the football.

(Ed Reed)

SS- Dawan Landry– 89 tck  4 int  8 p def  1 ff

Landry is a versatile safety.  He’s a solid tackler in the box and solid in coverage.

GRADE- 7.25

 Special Teams

PK- Billy Cundiff- 18/23 46 lg

Steve Hauschka was a disaster.  Cundiff isn’t much better.

P- Sam Koch- 73 punts  43.7 avg  26 in 20  60 lg

Koch is above average with a solid leg.

KR- LaDarius Webb- 35 ret  26.2 avg  95 lg  1 td

Jalen Parmele is another option on kickoffs, especially with the lack of depth at corner.

PR- Chris Carr- 32 ret  8.2 avg  34 lg

Solid, not much to say.

GRADE- 6.5

 2010 PREDICTION- 12-4

Even without Reed for 6 weeks, this offense is good enough to win games now.  They don’t have to rely on the defense as much anymore.  I’ve always been a Flacco fan, and have always liked him as a starting quarterback.

Offensive MVP- Ray Rice

Defensive MVP- Haloti Ngata

Breakthrough- Joe Flacco

Overrated- Anquan Boldin

Underrated- Joe Flacco

2010
09/09
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- AFC East Predictions

Now that I’ve given you the previews of all 4 teams from the AFC East, this is how I think it will play out.

  1. New York Jets-                    11-5
  2. New England Patriots-  10-6
  3. Miami Dolphins-                8-8
  4. Buffalo Bills-                         3-13

Offensive MVP- Tom Brady

Defensive MVP- Darrelle Revis

Best Rookie-  C.J. Spiller

Breakthrough- Antonio Cromartie

2010
09/09
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- New York Jets

They’ve been the most talked about team of the offseason.  They had the distinction of getting the Hard Knocks series on HBO.  We found out that Rex Ryan loves M&M’s a lot and Mike Tannenbaum can’t field a punt.  Darrelle Revis wants a lot of money (and got it) and an island named after him.  Mark Brunell’s daughter thinks Mark Sanchez is hot.  Now that the entertainment aspect is over, it’s time to translate the expectations onto the football field.  Fireman Ed is in midseason form, did you see him dump that drunken Giants fan on his ass in the preseason, great stuff.

(Fireman Ed)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUy8P8LhWsA&feature=related

 Quarterbacks

 Mark Sanchez- 196/364  53.8%  2,444 yds  12 td  20 int  63.0 rat

All the Jets are asking out of Sanchez is to not make major mental mistakes.  He didn’t have a great rookie regular season, but he turned it on late and into the playoffs. 

(Mark Sanchez)

His arm strength isn’t great, but it’s good enough.  Sanchez is good on his feet, knows how to slide in the pocket and throw on the move.  He’s eager to learn and improve.  He’s also shown that he wants to be a leader.

Others- Mark Brunell, Kellen Clemens

Brunell was brought in to tutor Sanchez. 

Clemens is a former starter.

GRADE- 7.25

 Running Backs

Shonn Greene- 108 car  540 yds  5.0 avg  2 td

Greene is suited perfectly for what the Jets want to do, that’s pound the rock with physical running.  Greene isn’t a burner, but he will run through you, break tackles and constantly keep his feet moving.

(Shonn Greene)

LaDainian Tomlinson- 223 car  730 yds  3.3 avg  12 td  20 rec  154 yds

Tomlinson is not the same, dynamic back he used to be.  He will catch the ball out of the backfield, and probably see goal line carries. 

Others- Joe McKnight, Chauncey Washington, John Connor

The Jets are hoping that McKnight can fill Leon Washington’s “do it all” role.

Connor is nicknamed “The Terminator.”  He can hit.

GRADE- 7.25

 Receivers

 Santonio Holmes- 79 rec  1,248 yds  15.8 avg  5 td

Holmes will miss the 1st four games of the season due to suspension.  When he’s on the field, Holmes stretches the field.  He’s great after the catch.

Braylon Edwards- 45 rec  680 yds  15.1 avg  4 td

Edwards has had one great season in the NFL, and has yet to get back to that level.  He drops more footballs than any starting receiver I know, besides maybe Terrell Owens.  He has the tools; size, speed and leaping ability, but he still has yet to put it all together. 

Jerricho Cotchery- 57 rec  821 yds  14.4 avg  3 td

Cotchery isn’t fast, but he knows how to set his defender up to get by him.  He has sure hands.

TE- Dustin Keller- 45 rec  522 yds  11.6 avg  2 td

Keller is looking to breakout entering his 3rd season.  He needs to become more consistent, but he’s a heck of a talent.

Dustin Keller Dustin Keller #81 of the New York Jets runs past Brandon Meriweather #31 of the New England Patriots on November 13, 2008 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts.

(Dustin Keller)

Others- Brad Smith

Smith took some snaps in the “pistol” formation.  He played quarterback in college at Missouri.

GRADE- 8

 Offensive Line

 LT- D’Brickashaw Fergusen

Fergusen is very athletic for a tackle.  He’s long armed and durable.  He showed improvement as a run blocker last year.  The Brick has always been a solid pass protector.

LG- Matt Slausen

The Jets were hoping that Vladimir DuCasse would be the starter, but he’s been atrocious during the preseason.

C- Nick Mangold

In my opinion, he’s the best center in football, and the best run-blocking center in football.  Mangold is a manchild at the point of attack and gets rid of linebackers on the second level.

(Nick Mangold)

RG- Brandon Moore

Moore can create holes for running backs, but needs to get a bit better in pass protection.

RT- Damien Woody

Woody is not as quick as he used to be, but he can still keep a pass rusher in front of him.

 GRADE- 9

 Defensive Line

 LDE- Shaun Ellis- 53 tck  6.5 sck  1 ff

Ellis is entering his 11th season and seems to be breaking down a bit.  He’s the teams best pass rushing lineman.

NT- Kris Jenkins- 13 tck 

Jenkins comes back after tearing his ACL in week 6.  He’s the most important player in the Jets scheme.  He is a massive space eater.

(Kris Jenkins)

RDE- Sione Pouha- 45 tck 

Pouha did a solid job filling in a nose tackle in Jenkins absence.  He gives a solid push and pop to opposing lineman.

Others- Vernon Gholston, Mike DeVito

Gholston was seen as a bust until this past camp.  He’s looked good as a 3-4 defensive end.

GRADE- 8

 Linebackers

LOLB- Bryan Thomas-  53 tck  2 sck  1 p def  1 ff

The injury to Calvin Pace hurts.  Jason Taylor will move from the left side to right, and Bryan Thomas gets plugged in to start.  Thomas is an inconsistent player who’s strong vs the run.

LILB- Bart Scott- 92 tck  1 sck  1 p def

Scott is the vocal leader of the defense.  He’s a physical player who loves to hit.

RILB- David Harris- 127 tck  5.5 sck  2 int  3 p def  2 ff

Harris is the best linebacker you’ve never heard of.  He is a playmaker.  He’s aggressive and plays with great instincts.  He blitzes well, sheds blocks and relentlessly pursuits the ball.  Shit, he does it all.

(David Harris)

ROLB- Jason Taylor- 42 tck  7 sck  1 int  5 p def  3 ff

Taylor doesn’t possess the speed he used to, but can still get to the quarterback.

Others- Kenwin Cummings, Calvin Pace

I believe Pace will be out 4-6 weeks.  He’ll start when he gets back.  He brings a burst off the edge.

GRADE- 8

 Secondary

LCB- Darrelle Revis- 54 tck  6 int  31 p def 

The best cornerback in football finally got his much coveted payday.  He shuts everyone down, EVERYONE!

(Coming Soon)

RCB- Antonio Cromartie- 33 tck  3 int  10 p def 

He may not know how many kids he has, but he’s a good cornerback.  I predict him to flourish playing opposite Revis.  He will get those interception numbers he was getting a few years ago.  Cromartie is extremely athletic, and has outstanding ball skills.  He can get beat on occasion, but those are the chances you take with this guy.

CB- Kyle Wilson- ROOKIE

Wilson was too good to pass up at 29.  He’s a playmaker with good recovery speed.

FS- Brodney Pool- 50 tck  4 int  10 p def  1 sck

Pool is a physical, hard hitter.  Good luck replacing Kerry Rhodes though.

SS- Jim Leonhard- 76 tck  1 int  5 p def  2.5 sck  1 ff

Leonhard isn’t athletic, but he’s smart and a leader in the secondary.

Others- Eric Smith, Dwight Lowery

Smith could get the nod over Pool at free safety.  He’s the same type of player Pool is.

GRADE- 9.25

 Special Teams

 PK- Nick Folk- 18/28 51 lg

Folk gets a fresh start.  The former Pro-Bowler just came off a dismal season in Dallas before getting released.

P- Steve Weatherford- 80 punts  42.0 avg  25 in 20  66 lg

Weatherford has a strong leg and will kick off.

KR- Brad Smith- 10 ret  31.0 avg  1 td  101 lg

Smith has return ability, but he’s no Leon Washington.

PR- Jerricho Cotchery- 23 ret  10.3 avg  31 lg

Joe McKnight and Kyle Wilson could return kicks too.

GRADE- 7

 2010 PREDICTION- 11-5

A lot of the success this season hinges on Mark Sanchez.  When he doesn’t make mistakes, the Jets win.  Look at what they did in the playoffs.  They have the best defense in football.  If  the 1999 Rams was last year’s New Orleans Saints, this could possibly be the 2000 Baltimore Ravens. 

Offensive MVP- Nick Mangold

Defensive MVP- Darrelle Revis

Breakthrough- Antonio Cromartie

Overrated- Braylon Edwards

Underrated- David Harris

2010
09/08
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- New England Patriots

It’s been a while since the New England Patriots headed into an NFL season as an underdog to win the AFC East.  The 2009 season ended in a disaster due to a 33-14 drubbing by the Ravens in the AFC Wild Card.  It’s going to be an interesting season because the offense is so good, and the defense is so bad.  With such a bad defense, it’s going to be very important for New England to put up 7’s and not 3’s on the scoreboard on each possession.  And then there’s Tom Brady.  It seems like everyone forgot how good the guy is.

 Quarterbacks

Tom Brady- 371/565  65.7%  28 td  13 int  96.2 rat

They say that it takes 2 years to fully recover from an ACL knee injury.  Well, this is Brady’s 2nd year back from his knee injury suffered in week 1 of the 2008 season against Kansas City.  That damn Bernard Pollard.

(Tom Brady)

Brady can still throw it around, and has one of the best deep balls in the NFL.  uncharacteristically, Brady made some bonehead decisions and mistakes late in some contests last year.  He’s usually the most clutch quarterback in the NFL.  With a chip on his shoulder and fully recovered from the knee injury, I expect a huge season from Brady.

Others- Brian Hoyer, Zac Robinson

Hoyer is a smart quarterback who has picked up the Patriots complex offense quite well.

GRADE- 9

 Running Backs

Laurence Maroney- 194 car  757 yds  3.9 avg  9 td  14 rec  99 yds

The Patriots use a plethora of backs, and Maroney is the number 1 guy.  He is at his best near the goal line.  Maroney downfalls are his fumbling and his inability to hit the hole.

(Laurence Maroney)

Fred Taylor- 63 car  269 yds 4.3 avg  4 td  2 rec  17 yds

Taylor missed a lot of the season due to an ankle injury.  He is in the twilight of his career at this point.

Others- Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk

Morris does a bit of everything, and Faulk is a fantastic receiver out of the backfield on 3rd downs.

GRADE- 7

Receivers

Randy Moss- 83 rec  1,264 yds  15.2 avg  13 td

Moss can be the most dangerous receiver in the NFL when he wants to be.  Unless you’re Darrelle Revis, you have to double cover this guy.  Even at this point of his career, he’s still one of the best deep threats in the league.

(Randy Moss)

Wes Welker- 123 rec  1,348 yds  11.0 avg  4 td

Welker, in my opinion, is the best slot receiver in the game.  If he can come back from the ACL tear, he will be Brady’s go to guy in clutch spots.  Welker knows how to get open and read a defense.  He’s quick and slippery and great after the catch.

Julian Edelman- 37 rec  359 yds  9.7 avg  1 td

Edelman is a former quarterback in college and a Wes Welker clone.  He had a fantastic game in the Wild Card Game against Baltimore scoring 2 touchdowns.

TE- Alge Crumpler- 27 rec  222 yds  8.2 avg  1 td

Crumpler is strictly a blocking tight end at this point of his career.

Others- Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Brandon Tate, Taylor Price

Gronkowski and Hernandez are both rookie tight ends who should see playing time.

Tate can be solid receiver if he can stay healthy.

GRADE- 9

 Offensive Line

LT- Matt Light 

Light is a solid left tackle, but he struggles against speed rushers.

 LG- Logan Mankins

Mankins is a mauler.  He plays with a mean streak and sets the tone up front.  He is very good at setting the seal.

(Logan Mankins)

 C- Dan Koppen

Koppen isn’t dominant, but he’s a great match for Brady.

 RG- Stephen Neal 

Neal is another mauler who excels in the run game.

 RT- Sebastian Vollmer

Vollmer was very impressive as a rookie, starting 12 games at both tackle spots.  He’s a good run blocker and can get to the 2nd level effectively.

 GRADE- 7.5

 Defensive Line

 LDE- Gerard Warren- 35 tck  2 sck  1 p def 

Losing Ty Warren is huge.  Warren, Myron Pryor and Ron Brace will all fight for playing time.

NT- Vince Wilfork- 43 tck  2 p def  1 ff

Wilfork is the unsung hero on the defense.  He’s a 2 gap plugger, opens up space for others and collapses the pocket.

(Vince Wilfork)

RDE- Mike Wright- 35 tck  5 sck  2 p def  1 ff

Wright is a smart football player, and can play anywhere on the line.

Others- Myron Pryor, Ron Brace

Besides Wilfork, the starting lineups may change weekly.  The Ty Warren injury is a huge blow.

GRADE- 7.25

 Linebackers

 LOLB- Tully Banta-Cain- 54 tck  9.5 sck  2 p def  2 ff 

Banta-Cain is a solid pass rusher, good run stuffer and solid in pass coverage.

 LILB- Jerod Mayo- 103 tck  1.5 sck  1 p def  1 ff

Mayo is smart, instinctive and a good tackler.  He does everything well.

(Jerod Mayo)

RILB- Gary Guyton- 85 tck  2 sck  4 p def

In my opinion, I think Guyton is more suited to play of the outside.  I question his ability to take on blockers.

ROLB- Marques Murrell- 12 tck  1 ff

The Pats can go with a couple options at this spot. 

Others- Brandon Spikes, Bruce Davis, Shawn Crable

Spikes is a guy I love.  By the end of the season I can see New England inserting Spikes in Guyton’s spot and moving Guyton outside.

GRADE- 7

Secondary

 LCB- Darius Butler- 35 tck  3 int  8 p def 

The Leigh Bodden injury is huge, because he was really the only really experienced starter in the secondary.  Butler had some growing pains as a rookie with penalties and mistakes.

RCB- Devin McCourty- ROOKIE

McCourty is a 1st round pick from Rutgers.  McCourty is good at flipping his hips and keeping up with faster receivers.

CB- Terrence Wheatley- 2 tck

Wheatley hasn’t really developed into anything as of yet, but there is so little depth at the position.

FS- James Sanders- 48 tck  3 p def

Sanders is a solid tackler, and with the youngster Patrick Chung on his tail, Sanders needs to perform.

SS- Brandon Meriweather- 83 tck  5 int  9 p def  2 ff

Meriweather is a playmaker and a hinderance.  He makes plays, and then he can also miss a lot of tackles.

(Brandon Meriweather)

Others- Jonathan Wilhite, Patrick Chung

Chung will start if Sanders falters.

GRADE- 7

 Special Teams

PK- Stephen Gostowski- 26/31  53 lg

Gostowski is the number 1 ranked fantasy kicker, will that translate on the field?

  P- Zoltan Mesko- ROOKIE

When I think of Zoltan, I think of “Dude Where’s My Car.”

 KR- Brandon Tate- 4 ret  26.5 avg  34 lg

Tate needs to stay healthy, because he’s a threat.

PR- Wes Welker-  2 ret  22.5 avg  27 lg

Welker is quick and shifty as a returner.

 GRADE- 7

 2010 PREDICTION- 10-6

This is a tough team to gauge.  Offensively they’re superb, and they’re going to have to dictate how a game is played.  If they can put up some points, that may make the opposing offenses one dimensional, which could benefit the Patriots defense.  Bill Belichick is the most knowledgable football mind in the game right now.  He knows how to adjust.  I’m just not going to give up on Brady and Belickick thus yet.  Brady has something to prove.

Offensive MVP- Tom Brady

Defensive MVP- Jerod Mayo

Breakthrough- Patrick Chung

Overrated- Randy Moss

Underrated- Tom Brady

2010
09/08
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- Miami Dolphins

In a week 3 game in the 2008 season against New England, the Dolphins reintroduced the single wing formation and called it the “Wildcat.”  Ronnie Brown had a total of 5 touchdowns (4 rush, 1 pass) that game as Miami cruised to a 38-13 win.  Now, virtually every NFL team has their form of the “Wildcat.”  In that same season, Miami went 11-5 and won the AFC East.  Last year, the squad dipped to 7-9 as the competition adjusted to the “Wildcat.”  Was 2008 a fluke?  We’ll find that out this season.

 Quarterbacks

 Chad Henne- 274/451  60.8%  2,878 yds  12 td  14 int  75.2 rat

This will be Henne’s 1st full season as a starter.  He’s well built and has a very strong arm.  His decision making and game management need to improve.

(Chad Henne)

Others- Tyler Thigpen, Chad Pennington

Pennington comes off his 3rd shoulder surgery of his career.  His football intelligence make up for his lack of arm strength.

Thigpen is mobile and can make plays.

GRADE- 7.25

 Running Backs

Ronnie Brown- 147 car  648 yds  4.4 avg  8 td  14 rec  98 yds 

Brown orchestrates the “Wildcat”, but he comes off his 2nd surgery in the past 3 seasons.  He’s played all 16 games just once in 6 professional seasons.

(Ronnie Brown)

As a runner, Brown can do a bit of everything.  He’s agile, powerful and speedy enough to make people miss.

 Ricky Williams- 241 car  1,121 yds  4.7 avg  11 td  35 rec  264 yds  2 td

At 33, Williams doesn’t look to be slowing down.  He’s a punishing runner who finishes runs.  He had his 1st 1,000+ yard season since 2003. 

Others- Lex Hilliard, Lousaka Polite

Injuries decimated the Dolphin backs a year ago.  A guy like Hilliard and Cobbs can see plenty of carries this season.

Polite is the fullback who gets some short yardage attempts.

GRADE- 8

 Receivers

Brandon Marshall- 101 rec  1,120 yds  11.1 avg  10 td

Marshall overstayed his welcome with head coach Josh McDaniels and the Denver Broncos.  He gets a fresh slate. 

(Brandon Marshall)

He’s a possession receiver who uses his size, strength and leaping ability to make plays. 

Brian Hartline- 31 rec  506 yds  16.3 avg  3 td

Hartline produced late in the season as a rookie.  He plays with a solid burst and is a smart route runner.

Davone Bess- 76 rec  758 yds  10.0 avg  2 td

Bess is quick and best after the catch.

TE- Anthony Fasano- 31 rec  339 yds  10.9 avg  2 td

Fasano isn’t a playmaker, but he’s a solid blocking tight end.

Others- Roberto Wallace, Marlon Moore, John Nalbone

Wallace and Moore are both rookies.  Greg Camarillo was traded and Patrick Turner was cut.

GRADE- 7.5

 Offensive Line

LT- Jake Long

Long, the 2008 overall number 1 pick has already made an impact in the NFL.  He has extremely long arms and knows how to use them effectively.  He packs a powerful initial 1st punch.  Long is a very strong run blocker who has improved as a pass protector.

(Jake Long)

LG- Nate Garner

Garner is currently injured and will most of the 1st half of the season.  The fiery Richie Incognito will start in place of Garner for the time being.

C- Jake Grove

Grove is an excellent run blocker as a center.

RG- John Jerry

Jerry is a 3rd round rookie from Ole Miss. He’s powerful and has lost some weight 

RT- Vernon Carey

Carey is a massive man and dominates when he maintains leverage.

GRADE- 8

 Defensive Line

 LDE- Kendall Langford- 43 tck  2.5 sck  2 p def  1 ff

Langford relies on his power.  He’s solid against the run.

NT- Randy Starks- 56 tck  7 sck 

Fergusen is the best nose tackle on the team, but will miss the 1st 8 games due to suspension.  Starks started at end last season.

RDE- Jared Odrick- ROOKIE

The rook will get thrown right into the fire with the Achilles injury to Philip Merling.  Odrick is tough, but needs to show consistency.

(Jared Odrick)

Others- Paul Soliai, Jason Fergusen

Fergusen will be back for the 2nd half of the season.

GRADE- 7

 Linebackers

 LOLB- Koa Misi- ROOKIE

Misi is a 2nd round pick from Utah who is the latest college defensive end who is transitioning to a 3-4 outside linebacker.  He’s a high motor player.

LILB- Channing Crowder- 51 tck  1 sck  1 int  3 p def 

Crowder is at his best playing near the line of scrimmage and stopping the run.  He needs to get better in coverage.

(Channing Crowder)

RILB- Karlos Dansby- 109 tck  1 sck  1 int  4 p def  1 ff

Dansby comes over from Arizona and is an athletic playmaker.  He will have to adjust playing the inside backer in a 3-4.  Dansby is good in coverage but can have trouble shedding off blocks.

ROLB- Cameron Wake- 23 tck  5.5 sck  1 p def  1 ff

Wake is a great story becoming a starter in the NFL after playing in the CFL.  He has the ability to become a solid pass rusher.

Others- Reggie Torbor, Charlie Anderson

Anderson is a veteran and a career backup.

Torbor is another savvy veteran.

GRADE- 7.5

Secondary

LCB- Vontae Davis- 53 tck  4 int  11 p def 

Davis is athletically gifted, even though he can get burned on occasion. 

RCB- Sean Smith- 38 tck  12 p def

Smith has long arms and uses them effectively in press coverage.  He needs to put on a few pounds.

CB- Jason Allen- 22 tck  2 p def

Has yet to turn the corner since being drafted in the 1st round in 2006.

FS- Chris Clemons- 13 tck

Clemons has plenty of speed, but he’s not a dependable tackler.

SS- Yeremiah Bell- 114 tck  3 int  9 p def  1.5 sck

Bell is one of the hardest hitters in the NFL at the safety position.  He struggles a bit covering tight ends.

(Yeremiah Bell)

Others- Tyrone Culver, Reshad Jones, Bennie Sapp

With Will Allen on IR, someone is going to have to step up as the 3rd corner, whether it’s Jason Allen, Bennie Sapp or someone else.

Culver is a free safety who’s a better tackler than Clemons.

GRADE- 7.5

 Special Teams

PK- Dan Carpenter- 25/28  52 lg

Carpenter has a nice leg and hit 2 game winning field goals.

P- Brandon Fields- 75 punts  46.3 avg  25 in 20  66 lg

Fields, at 6’5, has to be the tallest punter in the league.

KR- Patrick Cobbs- 16 ret  22.6  39 lg

Ginn was a good return man.  Cobbs will try to fill the vacancy.

PR- Davone Bess- 28 punts  7.5 avg  22 lg

Bess doesn’t have breakaway speed, but he’s quick.

GRADE- 7

2010 PREDICTION- 8-8

I think last season’s record of 7-9 was a good indicator of what Miami is, a 7 to 9 win football team.  The “Wildcat” got them an AFC East Title in 2008.  Unless Tony Sparano has some new innovations, I don’t think this team has enough overall talent to get a playoff berth.  I do like Chad Henne, he reminds me of Joe Flacco.

Offensive MVP- Ronnie Brown

Defensive MVP- Yeremiah Bell

Breakthrough- Chad Henne

Overrated- Brandon Marshall

Underrated- Ricky Williams  

2010
09/07
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- Buffalo Bills

It’s been a baffling couple of months for Buffalo Bill fans.  They made a head scratching coaching change by selecting the offensive minded Chan Gailey.  Gailey will try to fix a miserable offense.  He hasn’t coached in the NFL since 1999.  In the NFL Draft, instead of going for a need, they take the best running back on the board in C.J. Spiller.  They already have established backs in Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson, but out of the 3 Spiller is the best. 

 Quarterbacks

 Trent Edwards- 110/183  60.1%  1,169 yds  6 td  7 int  73.8 rat 

Edwards is a mobile quarterback who is very accurate and has the ability to make most of the throws.  The dilemma with him is how ultra conservative he is.  Instead of taking a chance here or there, he constantly hits the check-down receiver.  I’m not sure whether or not he doesn’t have the confidence, or the arm strength. 

 

(Trent Edwards) 

Others- Ryan Fitzpatrick, Levi Brown 

Fitzpatrick has a big arm and can get the ball downfield.  He has a fairly long delivery, and isn’t the most accurate.  He also locks onto receivers a bit too much. 

Levi Brown is a 7th round developmental project from Troy. 

GRADE- 7 

 Running Backs

C.J. Spiller- ROOKIE 

Spiller is simply electrifying.  In my opinion, I think Spiller is the 2nd fastest running back in the NFL, behind only Chris Johnson.  He has great vision to go along with his speed.  Chan Gailey has already been drawing up some plays specifically for Spiller to try and create some mismatches. 

 

(C.J. Spiller) 

Fred Jackson- 237 car  4.5 avg  1,062 yds  2 td  46 rec  371 yds  2 td 

Jackson made most of his chance to start as teammate Marshawn Lynch was suspended for the 1st 5 games of last season.  He’s not the most athletic, or possess game changing speed, but he’s versatile, agile and knows how to hit the hole.  He has fantastic hands out of the backfield. 

Others- Marshawn Lynch, Corey McIntyre 

Lynch’s future is a question mark.  He has ability, but will he be motivated as he looks to be the 3rd running back on the depth chart.  He’s a power runner who lowers his shoulder pads and lays the boom.  He has a good burst to go along with his power. 

McIntyre is a veteran fullback. 

GRADE- 7.5 

Receivers

Lee Evans- 44 rec  612 yds  13.9 avg  7 td 

Evans is a burner, and can get deep on any defense.  The dilemma is getting him the ball.  Edwards isn’t a guy who likes to throw the deep ball.  

 

(Lee Evans) 

Steve Johnson- 2 rec 10 yds  5.0 avg  

Buffalo cut their losses, and got rid of 2008 2nd round disappointment James Hardy.  Johnson seems to be more of a slot guy, but has good quickness. 

Roscoe Parrish- 3 rec  34 yds  11.2 avg  

Parrish is a small, speedy receiver in the mold of Devin Hester. 

TE- Shawn Nelson- 17 rec  156 yds 9.2 avg  1 td 

Nelson will miss the 1st 4 games of the season due to suspension.  He’s a natural receiver who has size and speed. 

Others- Marcus Easley, Derek Schouman, Jonathan Stupar 

Easley is a 4th round pick from Connecticut.  

Schouman and Stupar will battle to see who will start for Nelson the 1st 4 weeks. 

GRADE- 6.75 

 Offensive Line

LT- Demetrius Bell 

Bell struggled with injuries and play last season.  The tackle spots were wrecks last season, so we could see a merry go round of starters at both tackle spots.  Rookie Ed Wang, and Jamon Meredith are other options to start at left tackle. 

LG- Andy Levitre 

Levitre has a very high football iq.  He’s not the most athletic guard. 

C- Geoff Hangartner 

Hangartner plays with good technique and is quick off the snap.  He tends to get overpowered by bigger defensive tackles. 

RG- Eric Wood 

Wood had a fine rookie season until suffering one of the worst looking leg injuries I’ve ever seen in week 10.  He’s a tough, competitive and aggressive player. 

Eric Wood Eric Wood #70 of the Buffalo Bills readies for a play against the Chicago Bears on August 15, 2009 at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park, New York. 

(Eric Wood) 

RT- Cornell Green 

The Bills went out and got Green in the offseason.  He’s not a great tackle, but he’s a veteran and he’s a huge improvement to what they had last season. 

GRADE- 6.75 

 Defensive Line

LDE- Marcus Stroud- 56 tck  2 sck  8 p def 

Stroud is athletic for a defensive tackle.  He will slide over to end in the 3-4.  He can rush the passer and play the run. 

 

(Marcus Stroud) 

NT- Kyle Williams- 66 tck  4 sck  1 ff 

Williams is not your prototypical nose tackle.  He’s strong and powerful, but may not be strong enough to play the nose. 

RDE- Dwan Edwards- 47 tck  1 sck  1 p def 

Edwards was brought in from Baltimore where he was a bit underrated.  He’s not that powerful, but he plays with fire and is good in pursuit. 

Others- Spencer Johnson, Alex Carrington 

Johnson will see time in the rotation.  He plays with good leverage. 

Carrington is a 3rd rounder from Arkansas State. 

GRADE- 7 

Linebackers

LOLB- Chris Kelsay- 62 tck  5 sck  1 ff 

Kelsay will move from defensive end to outside linebacker in the 3-4.  He’s athletic and plays with good range.  

LILB- Andra Davis- 90 tck  3.5 sck  3 p def 

Davis is a veteran who has experience playing the 3-4 inside linebacker position in Denver.  He can have trouble shedding off bigger blockers. 

RILB- Paul Posluszny- 110 tck  1.0 sck  3 int  4 p def  3 ff 

Posluszny is on the verge of becoming a star in this league.  He’s tough, plays with a mean streak and is a very sure tackler. 

 

(Paul Posluszny) 

ROLB- Aaron Maybin- 18 tck  1 ff 

With the release and retirement of Aaron Schobel, 2nd in team history with 78 sacks, Maybin will get to start.  Maybin had a very disappointing rookie season, but I think the positional change will benefit him greatly.  He has a good burst and a quick 1st step.  

Others- Kawika Mitchell, Keith Ellison 

Mitchell and Ellison are both versatile and can play any linebacker spot. 

GRADE- 7.25 

Secondary

LCB- Terrence McGee- 48 tck  1 int  7 p def  

McGee is at his best anticipating and reacting to the throws from the quarterback.  He lacks size and can get outmuscled by bigger and taller receivers. 

RCB- Leodis McKelvin- 11 tck  1 p def  

McKelvin is an athlete.  He’s another corner who has good instincts to go along with solid closing speed. 

 

(Leodis McKelvin) 

CB- Drayton Florence- 60 tck  1 int  11 p def 

Florence did a solid job filling in for an injured McKelvin last season. 

FS- Jairus Byrd- 45 tck  9 int  11 p def 

As a rookie, Byrd tied the NFL lead in interceptions with 9. 

SS- Donte Whitner- 57 tck  2 int  5 p def 

Whitner and George Wilson will fight it out for the starting safety spot.  Whitner is a hitter who’s a liability in coverage. 

Others- George Wilson, Ashton Youboty, Reggie Corner 

Wilson is the better cover guy between he and Whitner. 

Youboty and Corner provide solid depth at cornerback. 

GRADE- 8 

Special Teams

  

PK- Rian Lindell- 28/33 56 lg 

  

Lindell is a veteran who has always handled the tough conditions in Buffalo well. 

  

P- Brian Moorman- 90 punts  46.6 avg  25 in 20  73 lg 

  

Another special teamer who handles the tough conditions in Buffalo well. 

  

KR- Leodis McKelvin- 5 ret  24.2 avg  33 lg 

  

McKelvin or the dynamic Spiller could return kicks. 

  

PR- Roscoe Parrish- 24 ret  5.5 avg  31 lg 

   

Parrish has good vision returning kicks. 

   

  2010 PREDICTION- 3-13

The Bills are becoming another Detroit Lions with what they’ve done over the last decade.  The Lions struggled trying to find that franchise quarterback (Stafford may be the answer), and kept mistakenly drafting wide receivers in the 1st round.  The Bills still have yet to find a franchise quarterback, but instead of drafting wide receivers, they keep opting for running backs.  Just like Detroit, the last time Buffalo has made the postseason was 1999. 

Offensive MVP- C.J. Spiller 

Defensive MVP- Paul Posluszny 

Breakthrough- Leodis McKelvin 

Overrated- Jairus Byrd 

Underrated- Terrence McGee

2010
09/06
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- NFC West Predictions

Now that I’ve given you the previews of all 4 teams from the NFC South, this is how I think it will play out.

  1. Arizona Cardinals-      9-7
  2. San Francisco 49ers-  8-8
  3. St. Louis Rams-             4-12
  4. Seattle Seahawks-        3-13

Offensive MVP- Larry Fitzgerald

Defensive MVP- Patrick Willis

Best Rookie- Sam Bradford

Breakthrough- Aaron Curry

2010
09/04
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- Seattle Seahawks

Pete Carroll is back in the NFL after leaving USC, the most dominant NCAA Football institution the last decade.  Jim Mora got only 1 year after a hugely disappointing 5-11 season.  Carroll gets a lot of slack for his ineffective coaching career.  Surprisingly, Carroll has a career 33-31 record.  The Seahawks also made wholesale changes with the team, acquiring Charlie Whitehurst in a trade with San Diego, getting running backs LenDale White and Leon Washington and drafting tackle Russell Okung and safety Earl Thomas in the 1st round of the NFL Draft.

 Quarterbacks

 Matt Hasslebeck- 293/488  60.0%  3,029 yds  17 td  17 int  75.1 rat

Hasslebeck comes off his worst season as a pro throwing for a career high 17 interceptions; 9 of which came in the final 3 games.  He’s had a difficult time staying healthy in 3 of the last 4 years.  The inconsistent line play seemed to propel Hasslebeck to force throws which resulted into turnovers. 

This will most likely be Hasslebeck’s final season as a starter in Seattle.  His contract expires after the season.

Others- Charlie Whitehurst, Mike Teel

Whitehurst is the quarterback of the future in Seattle.  He was acquired in a trade with San Diego.  At 6’4, Whitehurst has the prototypical quarterback size to go along with a strong arm and the athleticism to move within the pocket.  I expect Whitehurst to start by the end of the year.

 

(Charlie Whitehurst)

Teel is a 2nd year guy from Rutgers.

 GRADE- 7

 Running Backs

 Julius Jones- 177 car  663 yds  3.7 avg  2 td  35 rec  232 yds  2 td

Jones may be well equipped in Pete Carrol’s offensive zone running scheme.  Jones is a one-cut and go runner.  He improved in the pass game last year as well.

Justin Forsett– 114 car  619 yds  5.4 avg  4 td  41 rec  350 yds  1 td

Forsett has big play ability.  He likes to use his blockers and burst into the open spaces.  He is excellent catching the ball out of the backfield.

(Justin Forsett)

Others- LenDale White, Leon Washington

Carrol liked to use multiple backs during his tenure at USC.  White and Washington should each see time on the field.  White is a power back, while Washington is a scatback.

GRADE- 7

 Receivers

T.J. Houshmanzadeh- 79 rec  911 yds  11.5 avg  3 td

There are talks around the NFL that the Seahawks may indeed be trying to move or cut Houshmanzadeh.  He was openly frustrated last season when he wasn’t seeing the football when he was open.

Houshmanzadeh is normally a huge competitor.  He’s a good route runner who gets most of his production over the middle of the field.

Golden Tate- ROOKIE

Tate is a 2nd round pick from Notre Dame.  He is excellent after the catch.

Deion Branch- 45 rec 437 yds  9.7 avg  2 td

Branch won a MVP in Super Bowl XXXIX as a member of the New England Patriots.  As a Seahawk, he’s been a huge disappointment. 

TE- John Carlson- 51 rec  574 yds  11.3 avg  7 td

In 2008, Carlson led the team in receiving.  Last season, he was a bit inconsistent.  He didn’t get as many pass catching opportunities because he was asked to be an extra blocker on the sub par offensive line.

(John Carlson)

Others- Ben Obomanu, Deon Butler, Mike Williams

The Seahawks are just hoping for any wide receiver to emerge whether it’s Obomanu, Butler, or Williams.

GRADE- 7

 Offensive Line

 LT- Russell Okung

Okung has huge shoes to fill with the retirement of legendary left tackle Walter Jones.  Okung is very athletic, possesses long arms and good balance. 

(Russell Okung)

 LG- Ben Hamilton

Hamilton was brought in to mentor Okung, the same way he did for Ryan Clady.  Alex Gibbs the offensive line coach, was the offensive line coach in Denver when Hamilton was there.

C- Chris Spencer

Spencer is quick off the ball and has a nasty mean streak.

RG- Max Unger

Unger is back at guard after playing some center last year.  He’s a tough and smart player.

RT- Sean Locklear

Locklear is a better fit at right tackle, after struggling to fill in for Walter Jones at left tackle.

GRADE- 7

 Defensive Line

 LDE- Chris Clemons- 11 tck  3 sck  1 p def

Clemons is a speed edge rusher who had a career high 8 sacks with Oakland in 2007.  He accumulated just 7 sacks in two years in Philadelphia.  He struggles against power runners.

(Chris Clemons)

LDT- Brandon Mebane- 49 tck  1.5 sck

The Seahawks hoped that Mebane would present a 3 technique pass rusher.  He had just 1.5 sacks, but he is a good run stuffer.

RDT- Colin Cole- 48 tck  2 p def

Cole is a mammoth run plugger.

RDE- Red Bryant- 8 tck

The Seahawks traded Lawrence Jackson to Detroit, and it looks like defensive tackle Red Bryant will move to end. 

Others- Nick Reed, Robert Henderson, Craig Terrill, E.J. Wilson

The Seahawks will look for Reed, Henderson and Wilson to step up and be effective edge rushers, at least one of them.

GRADE- 6.75

 Linebackers

 LOLB- David Hawthorne- 117 tck  4 sck  3 int  5 p def  2 ff

Hawthorne did a fantastic job filling in for injured middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu for most of the season.  He led the team in tackles.

MLB- Lofa Tatupu- 32 tck  1 sck  2 p def

Tatupu tore his pectoral muscle in week 6 and was done for the season.  The defense missed his leadership.  He’s a speedy player with fantastic instincts.

(Lofa Tatupu)

ROLB- Aaron Curry- 61 tck  2 sck  6 p def  2 ff

Curry encompasses a rare blend of speed and athleticism for the position.  He plays with good instincts and intensity.  He can get out of control sometimes.  Curry looks to be the leading candidate to be the “Elephant” stand up pass rusher that head coach Pete Carroll employed at USC.

Others- Leroy Hill, D.D. Lewis, Matt McCoy

Hill is a good player when healthy.  He gets hurt a lot because of his physical and aggressive play.

GRADE- 8

 Secondary

LCB- Marcus Trufant- 49 tck  2 int  6 p def 

Trufant was hampered by a back injury which cost him the first 6 games of the season and hampered him all season long.  When healthy, Trufant has burst and makeup speed to hang with any wide receiver.

 RCB- Kelly Jennings- 30 tck  5 p def

Jennings is an undersized corner who hasn’t lived up to the 1st round hype thus far.

CB- Walter Thurmond- ROOKIE

Thurmond is a 4th round pick from Oregon.

FS- Earl Thomas- ROOKIE

Thomas is a ball hawk.  He has all the intangibles, athleticism, range and instincts. 

SS- Jordan Babineaux- 104 tck  2 int  6 p def  1.5 sck  1 ff

Babineaux is a playmaker.  He played better as the season went along.

Others- Lawyer Milloy, Quinton Teal

Milloy is a veteran who should teach Thomas a few things.

 GRADE- 7

Special Teams

PK- Olindo Mare- 24/26  47 lg

Mare is a reliable veteran kicker who doesn’t have the leg strength he used to.

P- Jon Ryan- 88 punts  46.2 avg  28 in 20  70 lg

Ryan set a franchise record with a 46.2 punting average.

KR- Justin Forsett- 18 ret  24.0 avg  46 lg

The Seahawks could go with Forsett or Leon Washington.

PR- Golden Tate- ROOKIE

The same goes here, it could be Tate, Forsett or Washington.

GRADE- 7.25

 2010 PREDICTION- 3-13

Pete Carroll is back in the NFL, but he inherits a team in shambles.  Just 5 years ago, this squad played in the Super Bowl.  5 years later, they’re one of the worst teams in the NFC.  There’s some solid young talent on the team, but this team is a few years away until they can contend for a division title in a very weak NFC West.

Offensive MVP- Justin Forsett

Defensive MVP- Lofa Tatupu

Breakthrough- Aaron Curry

Overrated- T.J. Houshmanzadeh

Underrated- David Hawthorne

2010
09/04
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YOOOAdrian’s 2010 NFL Preview- San Francisco 49ers

This is year 3 under head coach Mike Singletary.  Most prognosticators feel that the San Francisco 49ers will be the surprise team of the NFL this season and unseat the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC West.  With all the pressure now being put on the squad, can they get the job done on the football field?  The 49ers went 5-1 within the division last season, and the talent gap between the 49ers and Cardinals has certainly closed.

Quarterbacks

 Alex Smith- 225/372  60.5%  2,350 yds  18 td  12 int  81.5 rat

Smith is in a contract year, so this is the season in which Smith shows the team whether or not he will be the quarterback of the future.  The former 2005 1st overall pick finally looked healthy for the 1st time after fighting shoulder problems since 2007.

(Alex Smith)

Smith is more comfortable in a shotgun formation, and the 49ers employed more of a spread set the final month of the season to accompany Smith’s skill set.  He played in Urban Meyer’s spread formation in college at Utah.  Last year, Smith did a better job with his mechanics.  He is at his best improvising because of his unique athleticism. 

Others- David Carr, Nate Davis

Carr is also a former overall number 1 pick in the NFL Draft.

GRADE- 7

 Running Backs

 Frank Gore- 229 car  4.9 avg  1,120 yds  10 td  52 rec  406 yds  3 td

Gore rushed for 1000+ yards for the 4th consecutive season, a franchise record.  He’s a tough runner who doesn’t go down after initial contact.  He also has good hands out of the backfield.

(Frank Gore)

Brian Westbrook- 61 car  274 yds  4.5 avg  1 td  25 rec  181 yds  1 td

Westbrook signed as a free agent after spend 8 years in Philadelphia.  As long as he can avoid concussions, Westbrook should be able to contribute.

Others- Anthony Dixon, Michael Robinson, Moran Norris

Dixon is a bruising back taken in the 6th round from Mississippi State.

Robinson is an athlete who could see some snaps in the wildcat.

GRADE- 8

 Receivers

 Michael Crabtree- 48 rec  625 yds  13.0 avg  2 td

Crabtree had the most receptions by a rookie in team history since Jerry Rice in 1985.  And Crabtree missed the 1st 5 games.  He attacks the ball with long arms and sure hands.

(Michael Crabtree)

Josh Morgan- 52 rec  527 yds  10.1 avg  3 td

Morgan played better at the latter part of last season.  He’s big, physical and good after the catch.  He’s also an effective blocker downfield.

Ted Ginn Jr.- 38 rec  454 yds  11.9 avg  1 td

Ginn is a speedster who will provide a down the field threat.  He drops to many passes though.

TE- Vernon Davis- 78 rec  965 yds  12.4 avg  13 td

Davis’ 13 receiving touchdowns tied a NFL tight end record.  He is a freak athletically.  He runs a 4.4 40 yard dash.

Others- Jason Hill, Brandon Jones, Delanie Walker

Walker is a backup tight end who creates mismatches with his speed.

Hill and Jones will fight for playing time.

GRADE- 7.5

 Offensive Line

 LT- Joe Staley

Staley is athletic and has good footwork.  He missed 7 games last season due to knee injury.

 

(Joe Staley)

LG- Mike Iupati

Iupati was the 17th overall pick in the NFL draft.  He is a physical mammoth and considered the best guard in the draft.

C- Eric Heitman

Heitman is the veteran of the line and the leader.  He is technically sound.

RG- Chilo Rachal

Rachal struggled early, but got better as the season went along.

RT- Anthony Davis

Davis was the 1st of 2 offensive lineman taken in the 1st round of the NFL Draft.  He is long armed and powerful

GRADE- 7.25

 Defensive Line

 LDE- Isaac Sopoaga- 29 tck  1 sck  1 p def

Sopoaga is one of the strongest defensive lineman in the NFL.

NT- Aubrayo Franklin- 36 tck  2 sck  1 int  3 p def

Franklin has emerged as one of the better nose tackles in football.  He plays with a low center of gravity and takes on double teams well.  He lets the linebackers roam free.

(Aubrayo Franklin)

RDE- Justin Smith- 55 tck  6 sck  1 p def

In the past 9 years, no defensive lineman has accumulated more tackles than Smith.  Smith is a is a relentless pursuer with great upper body strength.  He comes off his best season as a pro.

Others- Ray McDonald, Ricky Jean-Francois

McDonald has a good 1st step and excels as a bullrusher.

Jean-Francois needs to improve his footwork.

GRADE- 7.5

 Linebackers

 LOLB- Manny Lawson- 68 tck  6.5 sck  2 p def

Lawson is best on the edge stuffing the run.  His pass rushing skills have significantly improved since his rookie season in 2006.

LILB- Takeo Spikes- 75 tck  4 sck  1 p def

Spikes is still an adequate player, but he’s a 49er more to tutor along Patrick Willis.

RILB- Patrick Willis- 152 tck  4 sck  3 int  8 p def  3 ff

Willis is the best linebacker in the NFL.  He’s led the NFL in tackles in 2 of his 1st 3 seasons.  He’s made the Pro-Bowl in all 3 years.  His sideline to sideline speed is the best in the game.  His run stuffing and pass coverage is equally impressive.  He plays with so much intensity as he is constantly around the football.  Willis is the best playmaker at the linebacker position.

willis_patrick.jpg Patrick Willis image by tmel07

(Patrick Willis)

ROLB- Parys Haralson- 45 tck  5 sck  2 p def

Haralson, like Lawson is a good run stuffer on the edge.  He plays with energy and toughness, but has short arms and plays a bit slow.

Others- Ahmad Brooks, Navorro Bowman

Brooks is Mike Singletary’s project.  He’s moved from the inside to the outside.  Brooks has potential to become the best pass rusher on the team.  He had 6 sacks last season.

Bowman is a 3rd round pick from Penn State.

GRADE- 8.5

 Secondary

LCB- Nate Clements- 35 tck  1 int  7 p def

Clements has lost a stop over recent years, but still remains one of the best tackling corners in the NFL.  He comes back after fracturing his right shoulder blade.

RCB- Shawntae Spencer- 53 tck  2 int  10 p def 

Spencer is a big corner who’s physical and plays with good technique.  He arguably had his best season as a pro last year.

CB- Tarell Brown- 40 tck  2 int  8 p def 

Brown is a speedster who will compete with Karl Paymah for the starting nickel spot.

FS- Dashon Goldson- 94 tck  4 int  6 p def  2 sck

Goldson improved as the season went along, and at season’s end he became one of the more underrated safeties in the league.  He plays with excellent range, and can lay the lumber.

(Dashon Goldson)

 SS- Michael Lewis- 82 tck  1 int  2 p def  1 sck  2 ff

Lewis is a consistent solid run stuffer.  He struggles in coverage.

Others- Taylor Mays, Karl Paymah

Mays fell all the way to the 49th overall pick after being touted as being a top 10 pick a year ago.  Mays is as big as a linebacker and as fast as a corner.

Paymah will compete with Brown for the nickel corner.

GRADE- 7

 Special Teams

 PK- Joe Nedney- 17/21  51 lg

Nedney is a longtime 49er who remains consistent.

P- Andy Lee- 99 punts  47.6 avg  30 in 20

Lee led the NFL in punt average

KR- Ted Ginn Jr.- 52 ret  24.9 avg  2 td  101 lg

Ginn is explosive as a return man.

PR- Ted Ginn Jr.- 5 ret  5.6 avg  12 lg

See above, but Ginn doesn’t return as many punts.

GRADE- 7.25

 2010 PREDICTION- 8-8

This 49ers team reminds me of the Arizona Cardinals the year before they went to the Super Bowl.  In the 2007 season, the Cardinals were the popular sleeper pick to win the West just like San Francisco this season.  The following year, of course the Cardinals went to the Super Bowl, but they weren’t as popular as a sleeper pick.  If San Francisco wins the NFC West, I think it’ll be next year.  I guess it’s a gut thing, I just don’t feel that they are ready to take the leap yet.

 Offensive MVP-  Frank Gore

Defensive MVP-  Patrick Willis

Breakthrough-  Michael Crabtree

Overrated-  Nate Clements

Underrated-  Aubrayo Franklin

2010
09/01
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