Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesThe Miami Heat are the NBA's hottest team right now, having won 14 out of its last 17 games and they currently own the league's longest winning streak at eight victories in a row.They had a stellar month of March, only dropping three games, which enabled them to climb all the way up the standings and regain the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference.They had crucial wins over the Charlotte Bobcats and Milwaukee Bucks, who they overcame in the standings to get back to the fifth spot.In Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
addition, Miami has won six straight road games, which is their longest streak in three years. They sit nine games over the .500 mark at 43-34, which is also their best record since 2007.The Heat are playing their best ball of the season at the right time with only five games remaining and the team in the thick of the playoff race, holding a slim half game lead over the Bucks and a 2.5 game lead over the seventh-seeded Bobcats.Miami's recent surge is a product of their fierce defense that ranks best in the league in most categories.Second-year head coach Erik Spolestra has instilled a strong sense of defensive prowess in his team, which has been passed down to him from former Heat skipper Pat Riley and his defensive minded approach.The Heat have finally realized that their defense is what fuels their game and makes them successful. They have learned that their defense gives them a chance to win every night and it has been their formula for success in their recent winning streak.Miami is now second in the NBA in points allowed, limiting opponents to an impressive 94 points per game. They only trail their division-mate Charlotte Bobcats by 0.5 points, who allow 93.5 points per game, for the least amount of points allowed.They rank No. 1 in the league in lowest field goal percentage against at 43.7 percent per game and they are tied for third-best in three-point percentage allowed at 33.9 percent.In addition, they are tied for second in the NBA for blocked shots, swatting 5.7 shots per contest.Miami takes a lot of pride in its defense and relies heavily on it in late game situations. They have the ability to play lock-down defense every night that is among the most ferocious defenses in the NBA.Their defensive effort has made them a playoff team this season and the Heat are among the best defensive squads in the NBA.The Heat are equipped with defensive weapons both in the starting lineup and off the bench.Jermaine O'Neal and Dwyane Wade highlight the defense for the starting lineup. O'Neal is still an excellent inside defensive presence and shot blocker, averaging 1.4 blocks per game. He still has the ability to change shots and hassle the best big men in the league.Wade is undoubtedly one of the top defensive players in the league.The All-Star averages 1.9 steals per game, which is third-best in the NBA and leads the Heat, and he is good for 1.1 blocks per game. He is hands-down the best shot blocking guard in the league and is an Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
overall relentless defender.Quentin Richardson is also a solid defender in the starting rotation. He is fourth on the team in steals and he can be counted on to take charges on a nightly basis.The Heat's second unit also contains some great defensive weapons.Point guard Mario Chalmers, who hasn't been as effective as last year, is still a reliable defender. He averages 1.2 steals per game, which is second on the team. He receives a lot fewer minutes this season in a reserve role, but still contributes highly on defense.Miami's defensive frontcourt off the bench is even more impressive, with Dorell Wright, Udonis Haslem, and Joel Anthony making up that cast.Wright's length and athleticism allows him to be a dangerous defender.At the small forward position, he receives defensive assignments against the NBA's elite players and does a solid job. Wright has finally started to come together on the court and is finally part of the regular rotation.Haslem leads the Heat's second unit and brings lots of energy off the bench with his hustle and motivation. He is a hounding defender that is able to out-rebound bigger opponents. Haslem also has a knack for sacrificing his body to take charges, further adding to his value to the Heat's roster.Anthony has been a nice surprise for Miami. He might be the most unknown player in the league, but has quietly been one of the team's most valuable players in their recent surge.Anthony has started in place of the injured Jermaine O'Neal for the last four games and responded well. He has averaged six points and 4.2 rebounds in those four victories and the Heat are 11-3 this season with Anthony as their starting center. He has 100 blocks on the season, which is the most on the team.When both the bench and the starters are on defensively, the Heat are one of the most lethal defensive teams in the NBA.In their current eight-game win streak, their defense has limited opponents' scoring to 82.9 points per game.Miami hasn't allowed 100 points or more in more than two weeks.While an argument could be made that during the streak, the Heat have only faced three playoff-contending teams (Milwaukee, Toronto, and Charlotte), it's undeniable that the Heat have noticeably picked up their defense.Miami is playing with a sense of urgency as they know they have no room for error with the Bucks scratching at their heels for the fifth seed. Miami has worked hard to recapture the fifth spot and they don't want to relinquish it.To Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
accomplish that, the Heat will simply have to maintain their defensive intensity. They have relied on it consistently over the past month to win ballgames and rise up the standings.If the Heat continue that defensive mentality, they will be a very dangerous team in the postseason. With five games left to determine their playoff fate, Miami will turn to their defense to help them prevail.If Miami can carry that defensive momentum into the playoffs, they have the opportunity to be a surprise threat.
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 NBA Championship Betting – Nuggets, Jazz Get Things Rolling in Denve
Both even ended the season by winning six of their last 10 games, so who gets the edge when the series kicks off in Denver on Saturday night?Jazz vs Nuggets odds Saturday, April 17, 10:30 PM ETThe Jazz were a force down the stretch, and Deron Williams was the key, averaging 23.0 points and 9.2 assists for Minnesota Vikings
Utah. Williams is easily a top-five point guard in the league, and people can make good arguments for him being the best. Carlos Boozer ended the season with an average of 19.5 points and 11.2 boards, and it unlikely that hell be back in Utah after this season, so he would like to go out on a high note. Williams leads an attack that was fourth in the West in scoring, but they haven been as strong defensive as a Jerry Sloan-coached team usually is, although they did manage to get their season average under 100 points to 98.9 points.The Nuggets basketball betting odds received a boost as Kenyon Martin returned to the lineup with three games left in the season after dealing with tendinitis in his knee, and having Martin back is great for the Nuggets as he their best interior defender, and probably their toughestNew England Patriots jersey
player. It on the defensive end of the floor that the Nuggets need him, because offensively, theyre fine with Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups steering the attack. The X-factor for the Nuggets NBA odds could be J.R. Smith, who has improved this season, but he still sometimes takes some truly awful shots.Online sports betting odds should favor the Nuggets in this contest, but not because theyve won three of four against the Jazz this season. The Jazz have dropped four in a row and five of their last six in Denver, and the Nuggets 34 home wins led the West (ironically, just two wins ahead of Utah), and that pulls them even with Atlanta for second place in the NBA behind Cleveland. There are matchups all over the place to watch, like Martin and Boozer in the post, although the Nuggets may rotate defenders on Boozer to take care of Martin knee. There also Billups and Williams at the point, while Utah Andrei Kirilenko will probably guard Anthony, who averaged 33.5 points in two games against the Jazz this season. The New Orleans Saints jersey
crowd is going to be up for this game, and the Nuggets need them as coach George Karl isn back on the bench yet due to his cancer treatments, although doctors say he should be back for the second round, if Denver makes it that far. The Nuggets will get off to a good start, so take them in your sportsbook.
Utah. Williams is easily a top-five point guard in the league, and people can make good arguments for him being the best. Carlos Boozer ended the season with an average of 19.5 points and 11.2 boards, and it unlikely that hell be back in Utah after this season, so he would like to go out on a high note. Williams leads an attack that was fourth in the West in scoring, but they haven been as strong defensive as a Jerry Sloan-coached team usually is, although they did manage to get their season average under 100 points to 98.9 points.The Nuggets basketball betting odds received a boost as Kenyon Martin returned to the lineup with three games left in the season after dealing with tendinitis in his knee, and having Martin back is great for the Nuggets as he their best interior defender, and probably their toughestNew England Patriots jersey
player. It on the defensive end of the floor that the Nuggets need him, because offensively, theyre fine with Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups steering the attack. The X-factor for the Nuggets NBA odds could be J.R. Smith, who has improved this season, but he still sometimes takes some truly awful shots.Online sports betting odds should favor the Nuggets in this contest, but not because theyve won three of four against the Jazz this season. The Jazz have dropped four in a row and five of their last six in Denver, and the Nuggets 34 home wins led the West (ironically, just two wins ahead of Utah), and that pulls them even with Atlanta for second place in the NBA behind Cleveland. There are matchups all over the place to watch, like Martin and Boozer in the post, although the Nuggets may rotate defenders on Boozer to take care of Martin knee. There also Billups and Williams at the point, while Utah Andrei Kirilenko will probably guard Anthony, who averaged 33.5 points in two games against the Jazz this season. The New Orleans Saints jersey
crowd is going to be up for this game, and the Nuggets need them as coach George Karl isn back on the bench yet due to his cancer treatments, although doctors say he should be back for the second round, if Denver makes it that far. The Nuggets will get off to a good start, so take them in your sportsbook.
29 Dec 10 NBA Championship Betting – Nuggets, Jazz Get Things Rolling in Denve
Both even ended the season by winning six of their last 10 games, so who gets the edge when the series kicks off in Denver on Saturday night?Jazz vs Nuggets odds Saturday, April 17, 10:30 PM ETThe Jazz were a force down the stretch, and Deron Williams was the key, averaging 23.0 points and 9.2 assists for Minnesota Vikings
Utah. Williams is easily a top-five point guard in the league, and people can make good arguments for him being the best. Carlos Boozer ended the season with an average of 19.5 points and 11.2 boards, and it unlikely that hell be back in Utah after this season, so he would like to go out on a high note. Williams leads an attack that was fourth in the West in scoring, but they haven been as strong defensive as a Jerry Sloan-coached team usually is, although they did manage to get their season average under 100 points to 98.9 points.The Nuggets basketball betting odds received a boost as Kenyon Martin returned to the lineup with three games left in the season after dealing with tendinitis in his knee, and having Martin back is great for the Nuggets as he their best interior defender, and probably their toughestNew England Patriots jersey
player. It on the defensive end of the floor that the Nuggets need him, because offensively, theyre fine with Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups steering the attack. The X-factor for the Nuggets NBA odds could be J.R. Smith, who has improved this season, but he still sometimes takes some truly awful shots.Online sports betting odds should favor the Nuggets in this contest, but not because theyve won three of four against the Jazz this season. The Jazz have dropped four in a row and five of their last six in Denver, and the Nuggets 34 home wins led the West (ironically, just two wins ahead of Utah), and that pulls them even with Atlanta for second place in the NBA behind Cleveland. There are matchups all over the place to watch, like Martin and Boozer in the post, although the Nuggets may rotate defenders on Boozer to take care of Martin knee. There also Billups and Williams at the point, while Utah Andrei Kirilenko will probably guard Anthony, who averaged 33.5 points in two games against the Jazz this season. The New Orleans Saints jersey
crowd is going to be up for this game, and the Nuggets need them as coach George Karl isn back on the bench yet due to his cancer treatments, although doctors say he should be back for the second round, if Denver makes it that far. The Nuggets will get off to a good start, so take them in your sportsbook.
Utah. Williams is easily a top-five point guard in the league, and people can make good arguments for him being the best. Carlos Boozer ended the season with an average of 19.5 points and 11.2 boards, and it unlikely that hell be back in Utah after this season, so he would like to go out on a high note. Williams leads an attack that was fourth in the West in scoring, but they haven been as strong defensive as a Jerry Sloan-coached team usually is, although they did manage to get their season average under 100 points to 98.9 points.The Nuggets basketball betting odds received a boost as Kenyon Martin returned to the lineup with three games left in the season after dealing with tendinitis in his knee, and having Martin back is great for the Nuggets as he their best interior defender, and probably their toughestNew England Patriots jersey
player. It on the defensive end of the floor that the Nuggets need him, because offensively, theyre fine with Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups steering the attack. The X-factor for the Nuggets NBA odds could be J.R. Smith, who has improved this season, but he still sometimes takes some truly awful shots.Online sports betting odds should favor the Nuggets in this contest, but not because theyve won three of four against the Jazz this season. The Jazz have dropped four in a row and five of their last six in Denver, and the Nuggets 34 home wins led the West (ironically, just two wins ahead of Utah), and that pulls them even with Atlanta for second place in the NBA behind Cleveland. There are matchups all over the place to watch, like Martin and Boozer in the post, although the Nuggets may rotate defenders on Boozer to take care of Martin knee. There also Billups and Williams at the point, while Utah Andrei Kirilenko will probably guard Anthony, who averaged 33.5 points in two games against the Jazz this season. The New Orleans Saints jersey
crowd is going to be up for this game, and the Nuggets need them as coach George Karl isn back on the bench yet due to his cancer treatments, although doctors say he should be back for the second round, if Denver makes it that far. The Nuggets will get off to a good start, so take them in your sportsbook.
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and the Rebirth of the Showtime Lakers
Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesI became a life-long fan of the Los Angeles Lakers in 1980 when a skinny rookie by the name of Earvin "Magic" Johnson guided his team to a NBA championship, while playing center in place of an injured Kareem-Abdul Jabbar.In that memorable Game Six, Magic had more than 40 points and 15 rebounds, as well as seven assists, and from that moment on my allegiance to the Lakers was simply a matter of course.1980 was the beginning of a magicaltime in Lakers' history, for Johnson went on to lead Los Miami Dolphins jersey
Angeles to four more championships as the lead guardin what came to be known as the Showtime era.That group of players, consisting of names such as Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy, Byron Scott, Michael Cooper, A.C. Green, Kurt Rambis and others is considered one of the most dominant teams of all time.The Lakers earned their Showtime moniker because of the flair they brought to the court, the tempo at which they played, and the flawless rhythm that Magic established while running the offense.Magic at the head of a fast break was truly a thing of beauty, and with finishers like Worthy and Scott filling the lane, you could surely expect fireworks above the rim.The Lakers circa 2010 may not play with the same flair as the team of the '80s, and one would be hard pressed to prove theyare anywhere near as exciting, but this team does share some similarities with that fabled squad.Magic and Kareem were the centerpieces of those Lakers' teams, and they represented the best two players at their respective positions, and the 2010 Lakers can arguably make the same claim.Kobe Bryant is generally regarded as the best guard in the entire league, and while Pau Gasol is not usually thought of in terms of the NBA's best power forward, there are points in his favor.Gasol has undoubtedly been the best power forward in the playoffs so far, and if the postseason ended today he would definitely be the MVP for the Lakers at least.Gasol has increased his scoring average, rebounds, and shooting percentage in the postseason, and his seven-foot frame and wide array of post skills makes him a terror to defend for opposing players.Versatility may be the best way to describe Gasol, as he is comfortable shooting with either hand, while also a competent passer, and his talents translate to the defensive end of the floor as well.In the first two games against the Utah Jazz Gasol has recorded seven blocks and his length has caused the Jazz to alter many of their shots at the rim, but Gasol's best Minnesota Vikings
attribute may be his chemistry with Bryant.Before Gasol arrived in 2008 Bryant was a captain without a side-kick, but once Gasol was added to the Lakers' roster, the team under went a seismic shift, which has seen them capture three straight Western Conference titles.The Lakers were a good team before Gasol arrived, but his presence made them a great team almost immediately and his transition to the triangle offense was so seamless, it seemed he had been running it for years.Bryant and Gasol's bond is evident on the court, and even though Bryant has suffered through periods of disappointment in Gasol's play, and the same can be said in reverse, they both credit each other with the Lakers' meteoric rise from irrelevance.It is in much the samemanner that Magic often gave most of the credit for the Lakers' success to Kareem, and the legendary center would do the same for his equally legendary point guard.Magic and Kareem were the anchorsof the Showtime Laker teams, but they were surrounded by an abundance of talent who all excelled in different areas of the game.Lamar Odom, Ron Artest, Andrew Bynum, and Derek Fisher are representative of players like Worthy, Scott, Cooper and Green, who all added their own imprint to the Lakers' strength.There are some glaring differences in the two teams, and at a glance the most glaring one would be the complacent attitude that has sometimes plagued the 2010 version of the Lakers.The passion and drive of Magic would never allow his teams to get too complacent, and he had the Lakers ready to play on every occasion, whether it was the regular season or playoffs.The '80s team was glamorous for sure, but they also had a nasty edge with players such as Green and Rambis who acted as enforcers, and were never afraid to back down from a mental or physical challenge.Artest is probably the most physical member of this Lakers' team, and although the 2010 version of the Lakers have been accused of playing soft, lately they have shown they are more than capable of holding their own.Both teams prided themselves on defense, and it is this category where they are most similar, because this year's Lakers have been the best defensive team in the playoffs, and when motivated are the best defensive team in the NBA.The two teams had different approaches to success, as Magic's teams liked to push the tempo and run an opponent out of the arena, while Kobe's teams grind an New England Patriots jersey
opponent down with the precision of the triangle offense.But the measure of both teams has been the number of championships won, and Magic's teams were able to capture five in a decade, while Kobe's Lakers could approach that same number this year.These two eras may stand as the best in the long and glorious history of the Lakers' franchise, and even though they appear to be different on the surface, their paths have led them to almost the exact same conclusion.
Angeles to four more championships as the lead guardin what came to be known as the Showtime era.That group of players, consisting of names such as Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy, Byron Scott, Michael Cooper, A.C. Green, Kurt Rambis and others is considered one of the most dominant teams of all time.The Lakers earned their Showtime moniker because of the flair they brought to the court, the tempo at which they played, and the flawless rhythm that Magic established while running the offense.Magic at the head of a fast break was truly a thing of beauty, and with finishers like Worthy and Scott filling the lane, you could surely expect fireworks above the rim.The Lakers circa 2010 may not play with the same flair as the team of the '80s, and one would be hard pressed to prove theyare anywhere near as exciting, but this team does share some similarities with that fabled squad.Magic and Kareem were the centerpieces of those Lakers' teams, and they represented the best two players at their respective positions, and the 2010 Lakers can arguably make the same claim.Kobe Bryant is generally regarded as the best guard in the entire league, and while Pau Gasol is not usually thought of in terms of the NBA's best power forward, there are points in his favor.Gasol has undoubtedly been the best power forward in the playoffs so far, and if the postseason ended today he would definitely be the MVP for the Lakers at least.Gasol has increased his scoring average, rebounds, and shooting percentage in the postseason, and his seven-foot frame and wide array of post skills makes him a terror to defend for opposing players.Versatility may be the best way to describe Gasol, as he is comfortable shooting with either hand, while also a competent passer, and his talents translate to the defensive end of the floor as well.In the first two games against the Utah Jazz Gasol has recorded seven blocks and his length has caused the Jazz to alter many of their shots at the rim, but Gasol's best Minnesota Vikings
attribute may be his chemistry with Bryant.Before Gasol arrived in 2008 Bryant was a captain without a side-kick, but once Gasol was added to the Lakers' roster, the team under went a seismic shift, which has seen them capture three straight Western Conference titles.The Lakers were a good team before Gasol arrived, but his presence made them a great team almost immediately and his transition to the triangle offense was so seamless, it seemed he had been running it for years.Bryant and Gasol's bond is evident on the court, and even though Bryant has suffered through periods of disappointment in Gasol's play, and the same can be said in reverse, they both credit each other with the Lakers' meteoric rise from irrelevance.It is in much the samemanner that Magic often gave most of the credit for the Lakers' success to Kareem, and the legendary center would do the same for his equally legendary point guard.Magic and Kareem were the anchorsof the Showtime Laker teams, but they were surrounded by an abundance of talent who all excelled in different areas of the game.Lamar Odom, Ron Artest, Andrew Bynum, and Derek Fisher are representative of players like Worthy, Scott, Cooper and Green, who all added their own imprint to the Lakers' strength.There are some glaring differences in the two teams, and at a glance the most glaring one would be the complacent attitude that has sometimes plagued the 2010 version of the Lakers.The passion and drive of Magic would never allow his teams to get too complacent, and he had the Lakers ready to play on every occasion, whether it was the regular season or playoffs.The '80s team was glamorous for sure, but they also had a nasty edge with players such as Green and Rambis who acted as enforcers, and were never afraid to back down from a mental or physical challenge.Artest is probably the most physical member of this Lakers' team, and although the 2010 version of the Lakers have been accused of playing soft, lately they have shown they are more than capable of holding their own.Both teams prided themselves on defense, and it is this category where they are most similar, because this year's Lakers have been the best defensive team in the playoffs, and when motivated are the best defensive team in the NBA.The two teams had different approaches to success, as Magic's teams liked to push the tempo and run an opponent out of the arena, while Kobe's teams grind an New England Patriots jersey
opponent down with the precision of the triangle offense.But the measure of both teams has been the number of championships won, and Magic's teams were able to capture five in a decade, while Kobe's Lakers could approach that same number this year.These two eras may stand as the best in the long and glorious history of the Lakers' franchise, and even though they appear to be different on the surface, their paths have led them to almost the exact same conclusion.
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 2010 NBA Free Agency: Where Will LeBron James Land?
Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesThe playoffs have been flat this year, really flat.So it's not surprising that most of the media glare has been focused on the upcoming free agent bonanza, which includes Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, and of course, LeBron James.The much anticipated summer of LeBron is finally here.There's no doubt that the reigning two-time MVP is the biggest fish around, and there hasn't been a player so big since Jordan.But who will LeBron sign with?In this article, I hope to provide the reader with an outlook as to how Cincinnati Bengals jersey
well-equipped the contenders are in this big-money race. A neutral viewpoint as to which team is the best set for a monarchy.Chicago BullsProsThe biggest reason why LeBron should come to Chicago is the supporting cast.It has a legitimate superstar in Derrick Rose, a passionate big man who protects the rim in Joakim Noah, a good two-way player in Luol Deng, a solid defender and shooter in Kirk Hinrich, and a young asset in Taj Gibson.Add LeBron to the mix, and you have a team which can instantly contend for a championship.Another reason is the media.Chicago is a big city, but not a global hub. This ensures that the exposure is more than sufficient to make LeBron even more of a global icon.However, unlike cities like New York, the media glare is not too much. Each and every shot he misses will not make the front page, and his private life will not be busted open completely.Moreover, Chicago has a sports culture. It is the home to several successful and storied franchises like the Bulls, Cubs, and the Bears. Even the Blackhawks have risen to prominence recently, plus, Chicago has educated fans who actually care.ConsWhile Rose is a major selling point, he can also be a drawback.Like LeBron, he too needs the ball in his hands. Can he handle not being the star attraction?Even if the ego problems can be settled, it would not be easy for the dynamic duo to share the ball-handling responsibilities and maximize their individual output.LeBron may have problems co-existing with Joakim Noah. The two aren't exactly the best of friends. And that's the understatement of the century.Importantly, Chicago is a place where Michael Jordan will forever remain the icon.The ghost of Jordan may come back to haunt James, and at every step he will be compared to the greatest of all time. He can never really be the icon which he (presumably) wants to be.But maybe the biggest negative is the coach situation.It is unlikely that LeBron will come to a team which doesn't have a coach as ofCleveland Browns jersey
yet, especially after his struggles with the offensive cripple Mike Brown.However, this situation can be turned around superbly if the Bulls end up with John Calipari or Phil Jackson.Cleveland CavaliersProsPerhaps the likeliest move.The biggest pro is that in Cleveland, LeBron is a god. Every superstar has an ego, and there is no place where LeBron's ego will be fed better than in Cleveland.He hails from Akron and Cleveland is really close to home. If he re-signs with Cleveland, he'll be hailed as the epitome of loyalty and a one-team man, and who doesn't like that.The roster may be aging, but it's really quality. Ferry is ready to do anything he wants. If he signs a short-term deal, this team could really contend. He also has good team chemistry with the players there.He's as powerful as the GM with the Cavs. No deal can go through without the King's approval. I'd be surprised if he can wield anywhere near that much power somewhere else.But the biggest reason is that every athlete cares for money above all else, besides maybe winning, and no team can give LeBron more dough than the Cavaliers.ConsThe roster is getting older by the day.When Antawn Jamison, Shaquille O' Neal, Anthony Parker and Zydrunas Ilgauskas are vital contributors, you know you're greying fast.Another major problem is the coach.Mike Brown is undoubtedly good as a defensive manager, but offensively, you would be hard-pressed to find somebody more inept than him.His best chance at capturing that elusive championship lies elsewhere.When you need to make your six-foot eight-inch forward defend the opposing team's lightning quick point guard, you know that you've got problems.James is a competitor. If he doesn't leave Cleveland and never wins a championship, evenDallas Cowboys jersey
a celebrated career will somewhat be lamented.It will always be a case of what if, and I don't think that LeBron wants that.Plus Delonte West, no further comments.A final major negative is the "Curse of Cleveland."It's increasingly looking like it's possible to win a major championship while playing in Cleveland, and for somebody who's primary aim is to win, it sure doesn't bode well.Los Angeles ClippersProsThe one thing that the Clippers have going for them is that they have a solid nucleus.Say whatever you want about Baron Davis, but the guy with the beard can still ball.Chris Kaman has slowly but surely matured into an All-Star caliber center, Blake Griffin may have had his rookie season destroyed by injuries, but the amount of upside that he has is worth drooling over.Add to that Eric Gordon, a sure-fire star for the future and a great offensive player, as well as some other solid parts like DeAndre Jordan, and you've really got something.The other major plus they have going for them is the city itself. Los Angeles is a massive city, and a major marketing hub.Playing in LA could only improve his image as the world's most popular athlete.The NBA would profit greatly.It currently lacks a cut-throat rivalry, and if LeBron played for the Clippers, the NBA would get one as big as any other.Viewership numbers would rise again, something that the Association badly needs.ConsThe biggest reason for LeBron to not sign with the Clippers is simple, name one major athlete who entered the Clippers and saw Denver Broncos jersey
professional sports. Need I say more?Playing in LA means that LeBron would have to share the spotlight with Kobe Bryant, and he may even have to be second most popular athlete in his own town.I'm not sure he can handle that.Davis and Gordon are both ball-dominating guards. Add LeBron to the mix, and you get a combustible mixture full of ego problems.It's nearly impossible for LeBron, Davis, and Gordon to co-exist because of the way they play.Miami HeatProsThe biggest pro is by far Dwyane Wade, whom the Heat have an excellent chance of re- signing.Can you even imagine how good a LeBron-Wade combo would be? I can't. It wouldn't be Batman and Robin, it would be Batman and Superman.If they off-load Beasley, Cook, and Chalmers, they will then have enough money to sign a third big free agent.If Bosh, Wade, and James were playing, the Heat could win a championship with my grandmother as the fourth wheel.Another massive positive is Pat Riley.The guy is one of the best general managers in the game, and a great coach to boot. LeBron will want a great coach wherever he goes, and Riley fits the bill.The final pro is Miami. The city is probably the celebrity capital of the USA.Great beaches, great parties, and all in all, it seems ideal for somebody like LeBron.ConsAfter Wade and LeBron, the team would probably lack depth, not a good sign for any championship contending team.There would be major alpha dog struggles between Wade and LeBron, and they're probably two of the three greatest "basketballers" in the world today.It wouldn't be easy for either of them to compromise their status', and there would be ball sharing troublesBut if the egos are managed, then the Heat could be formidable.New Jersey NetsProsOne thing that the Nets have going for them is that in two years time, they are moving to Brooklyn.Another reason is Jay-Z.The popular rapper is a close friend of LeBron's, and also a minority owner of the Nets. He will undoubtedly do everything in his power to convince LeBron to come to New Jersey.The Nets also have a young one-two punch. The bigger part of that is Brook Lopez. He may one day become the NBA's best center, and no, I'm not overstating things.They also boast Devin Harris, one of the fastest guards around and a great complimentary scorer.Besides these two players, they have a solid core. Courtney Lee, Terrence Williams, Chris Douglas-Roberts, Yi Jianlian, and, most importantly, one of Detroit Lions
Evan Turner, Wesley Johnson, DeMarcus Cousins, and Derrick Favors are solid rotational players, if not more.They have the cap space to sign another big free agent, a Joe Johnson or a Chris Bosh, to complement the already mentioned team and LeBron would be really, really good.Last but not least, the Nets have a new owner in Mikhail Prokhorov.The Russianbillionairecould extend LeBron's appeal to Russia. He has shown that he cares about winning, and that's what matters most.ConsThere is a lot of instability over where the Nets are going to play next year, and the year after that.They aren't moving to Brooklyn before two years time, and that means two years of playing in New Jersey. It is unlikely that the King would want to play in such a place for two whole years, especially after playing in Cleveland.Plus, the players on the Nets are good, but the supporting cast is not likely to be as good as the Bulls or even the Cavaliers.Finally, their is no head coach at the present moment. Unless they bag a big name soon, it's likely to adversely affect James.New York KnicksProsWe're talking about the Big Apple here. The odds are that there is no more desirable city to play in, and that's why LeBron is likely to come.He's made it known several times that he loves NYC.New York have a lot of cap space, and he can basically come in and choose the sidekick that he wants. To LeBron, that's a big plus.Madison Square Garden is hands down the most famous venue in the world, and the chance to come and play there must be an enticing one.Another positive is Mike D' Antoni. His system is probably not one likely to deliver a championship, for it lays a lot of emphasis on offense, but nevertheless LeBron is a great fan of his.Finally, no other place offers half the media coverage of New York, and that's a great thing for James who wants to become the world's most popular athlete.ConsThe media glare is maddening. It may make him even more of an icon, but it's equally likely to dissect every move he makes, and tear into his private life. Plus the supporting cast really isn't that good. You aren't going to win a title withDanilo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler, Toney Douglas, Bill Walker and Eddy Curry.David Lee probably isn't returning either. Green Bay Packers jersey
While Mike D' Antoni's system may be very entertaining, it isn't the type of system which wins championships. You need to play defense for that.All said and done, the squad, even with LeBron and another free agent isn't enough to contend for the Larry O' Brien trophy, and that's probably the decisive factor.The VerdictLeBron James is a man who loves attention. He's undoubtedly going to wine and dine with the GM of all thirty teams, and he's going to drop hints about joining each and every team.He loves the attention.But at the end of the day, he'll narrow it down tothe Bulls,the Cavaliers and the Heat.Then he'll sign a two-year contract with any one of them, with a player option for the third year. He'll win at least one trophy in that two-year period, maybe two.And in 2012, all the madness will start again.
well-equipped the contenders are in this big-money race. A neutral viewpoint as to which team is the best set for a monarchy.Chicago BullsProsThe biggest reason why LeBron should come to Chicago is the supporting cast.It has a legitimate superstar in Derrick Rose, a passionate big man who protects the rim in Joakim Noah, a good two-way player in Luol Deng, a solid defender and shooter in Kirk Hinrich, and a young asset in Taj Gibson.Add LeBron to the mix, and you have a team which can instantly contend for a championship.Another reason is the media.Chicago is a big city, but not a global hub. This ensures that the exposure is more than sufficient to make LeBron even more of a global icon.However, unlike cities like New York, the media glare is not too much. Each and every shot he misses will not make the front page, and his private life will not be busted open completely.Moreover, Chicago has a sports culture. It is the home to several successful and storied franchises like the Bulls, Cubs, and the Bears. Even the Blackhawks have risen to prominence recently, plus, Chicago has educated fans who actually care.ConsWhile Rose is a major selling point, he can also be a drawback.Like LeBron, he too needs the ball in his hands. Can he handle not being the star attraction?Even if the ego problems can be settled, it would not be easy for the dynamic duo to share the ball-handling responsibilities and maximize their individual output.LeBron may have problems co-existing with Joakim Noah. The two aren't exactly the best of friends. And that's the understatement of the century.Importantly, Chicago is a place where Michael Jordan will forever remain the icon.The ghost of Jordan may come back to haunt James, and at every step he will be compared to the greatest of all time. He can never really be the icon which he (presumably) wants to be.But maybe the biggest negative is the coach situation.It is unlikely that LeBron will come to a team which doesn't have a coach as ofCleveland Browns jersey
yet, especially after his struggles with the offensive cripple Mike Brown.However, this situation can be turned around superbly if the Bulls end up with John Calipari or Phil Jackson.Cleveland CavaliersProsPerhaps the likeliest move.The biggest pro is that in Cleveland, LeBron is a god. Every superstar has an ego, and there is no place where LeBron's ego will be fed better than in Cleveland.He hails from Akron and Cleveland is really close to home. If he re-signs with Cleveland, he'll be hailed as the epitome of loyalty and a one-team man, and who doesn't like that.The roster may be aging, but it's really quality. Ferry is ready to do anything he wants. If he signs a short-term deal, this team could really contend. He also has good team chemistry with the players there.He's as powerful as the GM with the Cavs. No deal can go through without the King's approval. I'd be surprised if he can wield anywhere near that much power somewhere else.But the biggest reason is that every athlete cares for money above all else, besides maybe winning, and no team can give LeBron more dough than the Cavaliers.ConsThe roster is getting older by the day.When Antawn Jamison, Shaquille O' Neal, Anthony Parker and Zydrunas Ilgauskas are vital contributors, you know you're greying fast.Another major problem is the coach.Mike Brown is undoubtedly good as a defensive manager, but offensively, you would be hard-pressed to find somebody more inept than him.His best chance at capturing that elusive championship lies elsewhere.When you need to make your six-foot eight-inch forward defend the opposing team's lightning quick point guard, you know that you've got problems.James is a competitor. If he doesn't leave Cleveland and never wins a championship, evenDallas Cowboys jersey
a celebrated career will somewhat be lamented.It will always be a case of what if, and I don't think that LeBron wants that.Plus Delonte West, no further comments.A final major negative is the "Curse of Cleveland."It's increasingly looking like it's possible to win a major championship while playing in Cleveland, and for somebody who's primary aim is to win, it sure doesn't bode well.Los Angeles ClippersProsThe one thing that the Clippers have going for them is that they have a solid nucleus.Say whatever you want about Baron Davis, but the guy with the beard can still ball.Chris Kaman has slowly but surely matured into an All-Star caliber center, Blake Griffin may have had his rookie season destroyed by injuries, but the amount of upside that he has is worth drooling over.Add to that Eric Gordon, a sure-fire star for the future and a great offensive player, as well as some other solid parts like DeAndre Jordan, and you've really got something.The other major plus they have going for them is the city itself. Los Angeles is a massive city, and a major marketing hub.Playing in LA could only improve his image as the world's most popular athlete.The NBA would profit greatly.It currently lacks a cut-throat rivalry, and if LeBron played for the Clippers, the NBA would get one as big as any other.Viewership numbers would rise again, something that the Association badly needs.ConsThe biggest reason for LeBron to not sign with the Clippers is simple, name one major athlete who entered the Clippers and saw Denver Broncos jersey
professional sports. Need I say more?Playing in LA means that LeBron would have to share the spotlight with Kobe Bryant, and he may even have to be second most popular athlete in his own town.I'm not sure he can handle that.Davis and Gordon are both ball-dominating guards. Add LeBron to the mix, and you get a combustible mixture full of ego problems.It's nearly impossible for LeBron, Davis, and Gordon to co-exist because of the way they play.Miami HeatProsThe biggest pro is by far Dwyane Wade, whom the Heat have an excellent chance of re- signing.Can you even imagine how good a LeBron-Wade combo would be? I can't. It wouldn't be Batman and Robin, it would be Batman and Superman.If they off-load Beasley, Cook, and Chalmers, they will then have enough money to sign a third big free agent.If Bosh, Wade, and James were playing, the Heat could win a championship with my grandmother as the fourth wheel.Another massive positive is Pat Riley.The guy is one of the best general managers in the game, and a great coach to boot. LeBron will want a great coach wherever he goes, and Riley fits the bill.The final pro is Miami. The city is probably the celebrity capital of the USA.Great beaches, great parties, and all in all, it seems ideal for somebody like LeBron.ConsAfter Wade and LeBron, the team would probably lack depth, not a good sign for any championship contending team.There would be major alpha dog struggles between Wade and LeBron, and they're probably two of the three greatest "basketballers" in the world today.It wouldn't be easy for either of them to compromise their status', and there would be ball sharing troublesBut if the egos are managed, then the Heat could be formidable.New Jersey NetsProsOne thing that the Nets have going for them is that in two years time, they are moving to Brooklyn.Another reason is Jay-Z.The popular rapper is a close friend of LeBron's, and also a minority owner of the Nets. He will undoubtedly do everything in his power to convince LeBron to come to New Jersey.The Nets also have a young one-two punch. The bigger part of that is Brook Lopez. He may one day become the NBA's best center, and no, I'm not overstating things.They also boast Devin Harris, one of the fastest guards around and a great complimentary scorer.Besides these two players, they have a solid core. Courtney Lee, Terrence Williams, Chris Douglas-Roberts, Yi Jianlian, and, most importantly, one of Detroit Lions
Evan Turner, Wesley Johnson, DeMarcus Cousins, and Derrick Favors are solid rotational players, if not more.They have the cap space to sign another big free agent, a Joe Johnson or a Chris Bosh, to complement the already mentioned team and LeBron would be really, really good.Last but not least, the Nets have a new owner in Mikhail Prokhorov.The Russianbillionairecould extend LeBron's appeal to Russia. He has shown that he cares about winning, and that's what matters most.ConsThere is a lot of instability over where the Nets are going to play next year, and the year after that.They aren't moving to Brooklyn before two years time, and that means two years of playing in New Jersey. It is unlikely that the King would want to play in such a place for two whole years, especially after playing in Cleveland.Plus, the players on the Nets are good, but the supporting cast is not likely to be as good as the Bulls or even the Cavaliers.Finally, their is no head coach at the present moment. Unless they bag a big name soon, it's likely to adversely affect James.New York KnicksProsWe're talking about the Big Apple here. The odds are that there is no more desirable city to play in, and that's why LeBron is likely to come.He's made it known several times that he loves NYC.New York have a lot of cap space, and he can basically come in and choose the sidekick that he wants. To LeBron, that's a big plus.Madison Square Garden is hands down the most famous venue in the world, and the chance to come and play there must be an enticing one.Another positive is Mike D' Antoni. His system is probably not one likely to deliver a championship, for it lays a lot of emphasis on offense, but nevertheless LeBron is a great fan of his.Finally, no other place offers half the media coverage of New York, and that's a great thing for James who wants to become the world's most popular athlete.ConsThe media glare is maddening. It may make him even more of an icon, but it's equally likely to dissect every move he makes, and tear into his private life. Plus the supporting cast really isn't that good. You aren't going to win a title withDanilo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler, Toney Douglas, Bill Walker and Eddy Curry.David Lee probably isn't returning either. Green Bay Packers jersey
While Mike D' Antoni's system may be very entertaining, it isn't the type of system which wins championships. You need to play defense for that.All said and done, the squad, even with LeBron and another free agent isn't enough to contend for the Larry O' Brien trophy, and that's probably the decisive factor.The VerdictLeBron James is a man who loves attention. He's undoubtedly going to wine and dine with the GM of all thirty teams, and he's going to drop hints about joining each and every team.He loves the attention.But at the end of the day, he'll narrow it down tothe Bulls,the Cavaliers and the Heat.Then he'll sign a two-year contract with any one of them, with a player option for the third year. He'll win at least one trophy in that two-year period, maybe two.And in 2012, all the madness will start again.
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 Lakers-Celtics Finals' Preview: All That But STILL The Usual This
The "All That"... The Draft: You know how it works. Like all professional leagues in America, the NBA holds one every year. It's designed, of course, to give the crappy teams leverage in the acquisition of new, young talent. The NBA relatively recently even injected a draft lottery, to supposedly Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
keep said crappy teams from tanking the latter portion of seasons (as if some can help it) in order to secure the best draft position. But mainly, the lottery gives those crappy teams something extra to get excited about in May, while they're watching the good teams on TV in the playoffs. The Regular Season: The NBA plays an 82-game schedule. That's a lot of basketball. Then they put over half (16 out of 30) of the teams in the playoffs. This renders the regular season semi-meaningless. Teams have to really suck to not make the playoffs. The good-great teams go into each season knowing they'll make the playoffs and hence can dork-around through entire chunks of the season. So, in essence, the regular season only serves to resolve the mystery of which good-great teams will be seeded where and which mediocre-sorry teams will manage to back in at the seventh eighth slots in each conference (although for the past few years, the seventh eighth seeds out West have been pretty darn good). Turning It On Just For The Playoffs: Every year, fans and the media's "Talking Heads" yap incessantly about how some good-great team that's dorking-around in parts or all of the regular season won't be able to turn it on for the playoffs. And every year, fans and "Talking Heads" are proven wrong. This season, it was the Lakers (dorking-around most of the second half of the season) and the Celtics (dorking-around most of ALL of the season). I think you see where I'm Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
going with this...I mean..."All That". Free Agency: A bunch of teams, as usual, scrambled and made big headlines in adding players who "will put us over the top". The Magic added Vince Carter to "Superman". The Cavaliers were front-runners here with the additions of Shaq and Antoine Jamison. With "The King" already in his "freak" (that's a compliment) place, Cavs' fans in some quarters pre-ordered their "Cavaliers' 2009-2010 NBA Championship T-Shirts last November. I think you see where I'm going with this also...I mean..."All That" also. The "Usual This"... This will be the 64th NBA Finals. The Celtics will have played in 21 Finals and the Lakers will have played in 31 Finals. This will be the 12th time that they've played each other in the Finals...theReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
second time in the last three years. The Celtics own 17 rings and the Lakers own 15 rings. Therefore, combined, these two teams already own slightly more than HALF of all NBA Championships. The "Usual This".CONTINUE... Reg DeVone is co-owner/admin: Sports Jabber. Join in the discussion on this and other topics in the NEW Sports Jabber Forums!
keep said crappy teams from tanking the latter portion of seasons (as if some can help it) in order to secure the best draft position. But mainly, the lottery gives those crappy teams something extra to get excited about in May, while they're watching the good teams on TV in the playoffs. The Regular Season: The NBA plays an 82-game schedule. That's a lot of basketball. Then they put over half (16 out of 30) of the teams in the playoffs. This renders the regular season semi-meaningless. Teams have to really suck to not make the playoffs. The good-great teams go into each season knowing they'll make the playoffs and hence can dork-around through entire chunks of the season. So, in essence, the regular season only serves to resolve the mystery of which good-great teams will be seeded where and which mediocre-sorry teams will manage to back in at the seventh eighth slots in each conference (although for the past few years, the seventh eighth seeds out West have been pretty darn good). Turning It On Just For The Playoffs: Every year, fans and the media's "Talking Heads" yap incessantly about how some good-great team that's dorking-around in parts or all of the regular season won't be able to turn it on for the playoffs. And every year, fans and "Talking Heads" are proven wrong. This season, it was the Lakers (dorking-around most of the second half of the season) and the Celtics (dorking-around most of ALL of the season). I think you see where I'm Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
going with this...I mean..."All That". Free Agency: A bunch of teams, as usual, scrambled and made big headlines in adding players who "will put us over the top". The Magic added Vince Carter to "Superman". The Cavaliers were front-runners here with the additions of Shaq and Antoine Jamison. With "The King" already in his "freak" (that's a compliment) place, Cavs' fans in some quarters pre-ordered their "Cavaliers' 2009-2010 NBA Championship T-Shirts last November. I think you see where I'm going with this also...I mean..."All That" also. The "Usual This"... This will be the 64th NBA Finals. The Celtics will have played in 21 Finals and the Lakers will have played in 31 Finals. This will be the 12th time that they've played each other in the Finals...theReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
second time in the last three years. The Celtics own 17 rings and the Lakers own 15 rings. Therefore, combined, these two teams already own slightly more than HALF of all NBA Championships. The "Usual This".CONTINUE... Reg DeVone is co-owner/admin: Sports Jabber. Join in the discussion on this and other topics in the NEW Sports Jabber Forums!
26 Dec 10 Lakers-Celtics Finals' Preview: All That But STILL The Usual This
The "All That"... The Draft: You know how it works. Like all professional leagues in America, the NBA holds one every year. It's designed, of course, to give the crappy teams leverage in the acquisition of new, young talent. The NBA relatively recently even injected a draft lottery, to supposedly Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
keep said crappy teams from tanking the latter portion of seasons (as if some can help it) in order to secure the best draft position. But mainly, the lottery gives those crappy teams something extra to get excited about in May, while they're watching the good teams on TV in the playoffs. The Regular Season: The NBA plays an 82-game schedule. That's a lot of basketball. Then they put over half (16 out of 30) of the teams in the playoffs. This renders the regular season semi-meaningless. Teams have to really suck to not make the playoffs. The good-great teams go into each season knowing they'll make the playoffs and hence can dork-around through entire chunks of the season. So, in essence, the regular season only serves to resolve the mystery of which good-great teams will be seeded where and which mediocre-sorry teams will manage to back in at the seventh eighth slots in each conference (although for the past few years, the seventh eighth seeds out West have been pretty darn good). Turning It On Just For The Playoffs: Every year, fans and the media's "Talking Heads" yap incessantly about how some good-great team that's dorking-around in parts or all of the regular season won't be able to turn it on for the playoffs. And every year, fans and "Talking Heads" are proven wrong. This season, it was the Lakers (dorking-around most of the second half of the season) and the Celtics (dorking-around most of ALL of the season). I think you see where I'm Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
going with this...I mean..."All That". Free Agency: A bunch of teams, as usual, scrambled and made big headlines in adding players who "will put us over the top". The Magic added Vince Carter to "Superman". The Cavaliers were front-runners here with the additions of Shaq and Antoine Jamison. With "The King" already in his "freak" (that's a compliment) place, Cavs' fans in some quarters pre-ordered their "Cavaliers' 2009-2010 NBA Championship T-Shirts last November. I think you see where I'm going with this also...I mean..."All That" also. The "Usual This"... This will be the 64th NBA Finals. The Celtics will have played in 21 Finals and the Lakers will have played in 31 Finals. This will be the 12th time that they've played each other in the Finals...theReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
second time in the last three years. The Celtics own 17 rings and the Lakers own 15 rings. Therefore, combined, these two teams already own slightly more than HALF of all NBA Championships. The "Usual This".CONTINUE... Reg DeVone is co-owner/admin: Sports Jabber. Join in the discussion on this and other topics in the NEW Sports Jabber Forums!
keep said crappy teams from tanking the latter portion of seasons (as if some can help it) in order to secure the best draft position. But mainly, the lottery gives those crappy teams something extra to get excited about in May, while they're watching the good teams on TV in the playoffs. The Regular Season: The NBA plays an 82-game schedule. That's a lot of basketball. Then they put over half (16 out of 30) of the teams in the playoffs. This renders the regular season semi-meaningless. Teams have to really suck to not make the playoffs. The good-great teams go into each season knowing they'll make the playoffs and hence can dork-around through entire chunks of the season. So, in essence, the regular season only serves to resolve the mystery of which good-great teams will be seeded where and which mediocre-sorry teams will manage to back in at the seventh eighth slots in each conference (although for the past few years, the seventh eighth seeds out West have been pretty darn good). Turning It On Just For The Playoffs: Every year, fans and the media's "Talking Heads" yap incessantly about how some good-great team that's dorking-around in parts or all of the regular season won't be able to turn it on for the playoffs. And every year, fans and "Talking Heads" are proven wrong. This season, it was the Lakers (dorking-around most of the second half of the season) and the Celtics (dorking-around most of ALL of the season). I think you see where I'm Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
going with this...I mean..."All That". Free Agency: A bunch of teams, as usual, scrambled and made big headlines in adding players who "will put us over the top". The Magic added Vince Carter to "Superman". The Cavaliers were front-runners here with the additions of Shaq and Antoine Jamison. With "The King" already in his "freak" (that's a compliment) place, Cavs' fans in some quarters pre-ordered their "Cavaliers' 2009-2010 NBA Championship T-Shirts last November. I think you see where I'm going with this also...I mean..."All That" also. The "Usual This"... This will be the 64th NBA Finals. The Celtics will have played in 21 Finals and the Lakers will have played in 31 Finals. This will be the 12th time that they've played each other in the Finals...theReebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
second time in the last three years. The Celtics own 17 rings and the Lakers own 15 rings. Therefore, combined, these two teams already own slightly more than HALF of all NBA Championships. The "Usual This".CONTINUE... Reg DeVone is co-owner/admin: Sports Jabber. Join in the discussion on this and other topics in the NEW Sports Jabber Forums!
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Memphis Grizzlies: Watch Out They're Sleepers!
Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesThe Memphis Grizzlies did not make the postseason last year. They haven't made it in the last four years. This franchise has never eyed passed the first round. They aren't in that big of a market compared to other NBA cities.Yet, they have a whole lot to be excited about. Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
Over the last couple of years, this team has created an amazingly talented core of Mayo, Gay, Randolph, and Gasol. Pretty good there, huh?It shows that the Grizzlies have excellent management because all of them have been acquired by trade. Sure they have made mistakes, like drafting Thabeet, but the good done by the team overshadows the bad.Let's take a deeper look into this team's starting lineup last season. The point guard, Mike Conley, is an excellent three point shooter. O.J Mayo, is a very dynamic guard that can perform at high level.Rudy Gay, is among the league's best small forward and is apparently worth a max contract. Zach "Zeebo" Randolph, is a 20-10 player and an all-star. Marc Gasol, is a 7'1 big that can be very good if he stays healthy.This summer they continued to improve, Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
by adding rookies Xavier Henry and Greivis Vasquez. The Grizzlies also signed defensive marksman Tony Allen.So what's been holding them back?They are a pretty young team. Their starting lineup includes four players in their early 20s. The team will begin to mesh better next season. At the rate this team is rising, don't be surprised if they sneak into the playoffs.Grizz Nation has a lot to excited about.---------------------------Please leave your feedback!
Over the last couple of years, this team has created an amazingly talented core of Mayo, Gay, Randolph, and Gasol. Pretty good there, huh?It shows that the Grizzlies have excellent management because all of them have been acquired by trade. Sure they have made mistakes, like drafting Thabeet, but the good done by the team overshadows the bad.Let's take a deeper look into this team's starting lineup last season. The point guard, Mike Conley, is an excellent three point shooter. O.J Mayo, is a very dynamic guard that can perform at high level.Rudy Gay, is among the league's best small forward and is apparently worth a max contract. Zach "Zeebo" Randolph, is a 20-10 player and an all-star. Marc Gasol, is a 7'1 big that can be very good if he stays healthy.This summer they continued to improve, Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
by adding rookies Xavier Henry and Greivis Vasquez. The Grizzlies also signed defensive marksman Tony Allen.So what's been holding them back?They are a pretty young team. Their starting lineup includes four players in their early 20s. The team will begin to mesh better next season. At the rate this team is rising, don't be surprised if they sneak into the playoffs.Grizz Nation has a lot to excited about.---------------------------Please leave your feedback!
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 LeBron James and Kevin Durant: Not As Different As You May Think
Not so different after allLeBron James, the two-time defending MVP, has been the face of the NBA for the last few years. But after “The Decision,” the basketball world almost unanimously turned their back on the Chosen One, no longer wanting to be "witnesses." And just Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
as people turned to James after Kobe’s fall from grace in a Denver hotel room, a replacement was needed. An elite player, someone humble and loyal, the exact opposite of the values James had shown by taking his talents to South Beach. By forgoing a press conference to announce his extension with the small-market Oklahoma City Thunder and dominating in the World Championships, Kevin Durant has been thrust into that role. In a preseason poll of NBA GM’s, Durant received 20 votes while LeBron got 1. Leave aside the question of whether Durant has reached James’ level as a player—despite being an inferior rebounder, passer and defender. The public perception of the two, and Durant’s ascension to the LeBron/Kobe discussion, is mostly due to two men behind the scenes—Thunder GM Kevin Presti and former Cavs president Danny Ferry. Regardless of how “The Decision” had went down, LeBron would have been roasted alive for leaving his hometown ring-less. Meanwhile, Durant is being rewarded for sticking with the small-market team and forgoing the free agency courting process. Jared Diamond’s award-winning historical biography of the world, Guns, Germs and Steel, revolves around the idea of geographical determinism. It starts with a New Guinea tribesmen wandering why Europeans “discovered” the rest of the world instead of vice versa. While traditional history tended to attribute this success because ofwhothey were—European brain-power, the Protestant work ethic—Diamond’s insight was that it came fromwherethey were. He attributes their success to factors inherent to European geography, including the continent’s alignment on an east/west axis instead of north/south (allowing societies to trade easier) and their access to more types of animals suited towards domestication and heavy labor. So it was circumstance, not character, that allowed the Europeans to conquer the globe before the tribesman of Papua New Guinea, trapped on an island not amenable to farming, and therefore civilization. Just as Europeans began talking of the “White Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
Man’s Burden” to rule the globe, a deceptively easy narrative began to emerge about the NBA: LeBron callously left his small-town team while Durant selflessly stayed. But in reality, neither had as much a choice in the matter as the media has portrayed. Almost to a man, great basketball players want to win. For years, people have wondered why more didn’t flock to the bright lights of Madison Square Garden and NYC, long considered the league’s brightest stage. The young talent LeBron never had in ClevelandThe Knicks even gutted their team over the last few years, assuming that location enough was a selling point. But the only big-time free agent they could get was Amare Stoudemire, a defense-less big man whose injury history made his $100 million contract uninsurable. That’s because the league’s brightest stage isn’t a place but an event—the NBA Finals. After taking a cold, hard look at the players around him, LeBron saw that this team couldn’t acquire the talent he needed to get there. History has shown that you need at least two, if not three, All-Star type talents on a team to win an NBA championship. Jordan needed a Pippen, Shaq a Kobe, Tim Duncan a Ginobili and Kobe a Gasol. In retrospect, the best thing to ever happen to Michael Jordan’s career was his broken foot in the 1986-1987 season. It forced him to miss 64 games, pushed the Bulls record to 30-52, and gave them the fifth pick in next year’s draft—a then unknown small forward named Scottie Pippen. Without that injury, Jordan would have been good enough to make his team at least mediocre by himself, pushing the Bulls out of the bottom of the draft and never getting the chance to acquire world-class talent around him. Or in other words, his career trajectory might have looked more like LeBron’s. In LeBron’s tenure with the Cavs, the team had one other lottery pick—LukeReebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
Jackson. Durant, on the other hand, currently plays with three other top five picks—Russell Westbrook, Jeff Green and James Harden. The decision that led to "The Decision"Aside from the draft, the other main way to acquire assets is free agency. The NBA’s current salary structure, with a soft cap, means teams have a crucial time period in building their rosters. Once an All-NBA player receives a max salary, the team is usually too good to be drafting very high and no longer has the cap room to pick up someone in free agency. That’s how Chicago and Orlando, two of the East’s best young teams, were built. Carlos Boozer came to the Bulls before Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah signed contract extensions, while Rashard Lewis came to the Magic before Dwight Howard got paid. So the roots of “The Decision,” and LeBron’s subsequent vilification, extend at least as far back to the summer of 2005, when Cleveland had enough salary-cap room to make a push for some big-time help for James. Their man acquisitions were Larry Hughes and Donyell Marshall. The Cavs roster that LeBron left was way over the cap and had only one other young player with any potential—PF JJ Hickson. That meant the only way to acquire talent was through teams dumping salary, which usually involves aging veterans like recent Cavs acquisitions Shaquille O’Neal and Antawn Jamison. If Kevin Durant's two best teammates for the Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
foreseeable future were Anderson Varejao and Mo Williams, he’d leave too. And if LeBron could make more money playing with a fellow All-Star like Russell Westbrook, he wouldn’t ever have left his hometown. So while LeBron became the villain and Durant the hero, perhaps a more accurate draft of history would give the men who built the teams around them these very same labels—Ferry, the Cavs recently fired GM, and Presti, universally regarded as one of the best young minds in basketball. For more, check out the FanTake Blog:Get Buckets Follow on Twitter at:GetBucketsFT Follow on Facebook:Get Buckets
as people turned to James after Kobe’s fall from grace in a Denver hotel room, a replacement was needed. An elite player, someone humble and loyal, the exact opposite of the values James had shown by taking his talents to South Beach. By forgoing a press conference to announce his extension with the small-market Oklahoma City Thunder and dominating in the World Championships, Kevin Durant has been thrust into that role. In a preseason poll of NBA GM’s, Durant received 20 votes while LeBron got 1. Leave aside the question of whether Durant has reached James’ level as a player—despite being an inferior rebounder, passer and defender. The public perception of the two, and Durant’s ascension to the LeBron/Kobe discussion, is mostly due to two men behind the scenes—Thunder GM Kevin Presti and former Cavs president Danny Ferry. Regardless of how “The Decision” had went down, LeBron would have been roasted alive for leaving his hometown ring-less. Meanwhile, Durant is being rewarded for sticking with the small-market team and forgoing the free agency courting process. Jared Diamond’s award-winning historical biography of the world, Guns, Germs and Steel, revolves around the idea of geographical determinism. It starts with a New Guinea tribesmen wandering why Europeans “discovered” the rest of the world instead of vice versa. While traditional history tended to attribute this success because ofwhothey were—European brain-power, the Protestant work ethic—Diamond’s insight was that it came fromwherethey were. He attributes their success to factors inherent to European geography, including the continent’s alignment on an east/west axis instead of north/south (allowing societies to trade easier) and their access to more types of animals suited towards domestication and heavy labor. So it was circumstance, not character, that allowed the Europeans to conquer the globe before the tribesman of Papua New Guinea, trapped on an island not amenable to farming, and therefore civilization. Just as Europeans began talking of the “White Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
Man’s Burden” to rule the globe, a deceptively easy narrative began to emerge about the NBA: LeBron callously left his small-town team while Durant selflessly stayed. But in reality, neither had as much a choice in the matter as the media has portrayed. Almost to a man, great basketball players want to win. For years, people have wondered why more didn’t flock to the bright lights of Madison Square Garden and NYC, long considered the league’s brightest stage. The young talent LeBron never had in ClevelandThe Knicks even gutted their team over the last few years, assuming that location enough was a selling point. But the only big-time free agent they could get was Amare Stoudemire, a defense-less big man whose injury history made his $100 million contract uninsurable. That’s because the league’s brightest stage isn’t a place but an event—the NBA Finals. After taking a cold, hard look at the players around him, LeBron saw that this team couldn’t acquire the talent he needed to get there. History has shown that you need at least two, if not three, All-Star type talents on a team to win an NBA championship. Jordan needed a Pippen, Shaq a Kobe, Tim Duncan a Ginobili and Kobe a Gasol. In retrospect, the best thing to ever happen to Michael Jordan’s career was his broken foot in the 1986-1987 season. It forced him to miss 64 games, pushed the Bulls record to 30-52, and gave them the fifth pick in next year’s draft—a then unknown small forward named Scottie Pippen. Without that injury, Jordan would have been good enough to make his team at least mediocre by himself, pushing the Bulls out of the bottom of the draft and never getting the chance to acquire world-class talent around him. Or in other words, his career trajectory might have looked more like LeBron’s. In LeBron’s tenure with the Cavs, the team had one other lottery pick—LukeReebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
Jackson. Durant, on the other hand, currently plays with three other top five picks—Russell Westbrook, Jeff Green and James Harden. The decision that led to "The Decision"Aside from the draft, the other main way to acquire assets is free agency. The NBA’s current salary structure, with a soft cap, means teams have a crucial time period in building their rosters. Once an All-NBA player receives a max salary, the team is usually too good to be drafting very high and no longer has the cap room to pick up someone in free agency. That’s how Chicago and Orlando, two of the East’s best young teams, were built. Carlos Boozer came to the Bulls before Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah signed contract extensions, while Rashard Lewis came to the Magic before Dwight Howard got paid. So the roots of “The Decision,” and LeBron’s subsequent vilification, extend at least as far back to the summer of 2005, when Cleveland had enough salary-cap room to make a push for some big-time help for James. Their man acquisitions were Larry Hughes and Donyell Marshall. The Cavs roster that LeBron left was way over the cap and had only one other young player with any potential—PF JJ Hickson. That meant the only way to acquire talent was through teams dumping salary, which usually involves aging veterans like recent Cavs acquisitions Shaquille O’Neal and Antawn Jamison. If Kevin Durant's two best teammates for the Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
foreseeable future were Anderson Varejao and Mo Williams, he’d leave too. And if LeBron could make more money playing with a fellow All-Star like Russell Westbrook, he wouldn’t ever have left his hometown. So while LeBron became the villain and Durant the hero, perhaps a more accurate draft of history would give the men who built the teams around them these very same labels—Ferry, the Cavs recently fired GM, and Presti, universally regarded as one of the best young minds in basketball. For more, check out the FanTake Blog:Get Buckets Follow on Twitter at:GetBucketsFT Follow on Facebook:Get Buckets
2010年12月23日星期四
On offense Dalembert is a capable high post passer who otherwise displays terrible shot selection
Against the Nets he missed badly on a 10-foot fallaway, a clumsy right hook, and a short jumper, while also bricking a layup.Luther Head has come a long way in improving his once-disastrous defense to respectable levels. He also made several crisp passes, didn’t make any egregious mistakes, and knocked in a trey. He’s not good at penetration, partially because he doesn’t have a great deal of talent, but moreover, because he doesn’t use ball screens well, coming off of screens too flat to allow defenders time to fight or squeeze their way through those screens to stay in front of him.Donte Greene spent the game against the Nets going through the motions when the Kings ran sets that didn’t involve him, and he was habitually late on his rotations. This Miami Dolphins jersey
after reporting to camp out of shape and winding up in Paul Westphal’s doghouse. It’s time for this kid to grow up.DeMarcus Cousins—2-8 FG, 10 REB, 1 AST, 1 TO, 8 PTS—is Sacramento’s prized rookie, but he can’t stay on the floor because of perpetual foul trouble. When showing on screens he has a tendency to jab at the ball, a needless exercise that will only continue to feed his foul problems, and when defending shot attempts, he throws his hands more forward than high, leading to more contact with opponents arms than the ball. When guarding the post or defending cross-screens, he’s all about fighting and shoving with his upper body than using any kind of positional advantage, and he’s flat-footed as a defender. Offensively, Cousins’ foot work is slow and clumsy, and none of his moves—a mechanical right hook, an awkward step through, a clumsy baseline spin—are executed with any degree of grace. What Cousins did do well was read double teams and make the appropriate pass to both spot-up shooters and cutters, no easy task, and he always, always boxed out. He also has good touch on his shot, and executed an impressive high-arching, reverse pivot fadeaway jumper that dropped in—shades of Rasheed Wallace.Until Cousins unlearns his bad defensive habits he’ll be hard-pressed to improve because he’ll never be on the floor. Until he improves his footwork, he’ll be predictable to defend by good defenses. At the very least, he has good potential as a rebounder and help defender, though the Kings need him to develop to move Landry to a sixth-man role off the bench.Beno Udrih—5-9 FG, 2-3 3FG, 3 AST, Minnesota Vikings
0 TO, 12 PTS—is a good backup point guard because he has good vision, takes care of the ball, and has an accurate mid-range jumper. Against the Nets, Udrih’s clutch three in the final seconds eventually iced the game. However, Udrih is another poor defender who lacks the athleticism to stay in front of most NBA point guards, hence why pairing him with Evans gets problematic.Francisco Garcia—3-7FG, 7 PTS—is little more than a streaky, inconsistent scorer who only has eyes on the basket.Jason Thompson knocked down an 18-footer, was active in tracking down three rebounds, and played some effective defense in contesting a Jordan Farmar drive, and stuffing a Derrick Favors layup, though he tends to get pushed around down low because of his thin frame.What will the Kings need to rule the Western Conference? A defensive minded guard or wing who can shoot the three.Evans to improve his passing, his decision making, his jump shooting, his left hand, and his defense, while also developing either a floater, or a short jumper.Because of Landry’s limitations, he’d be best served as a designated second-unit scorer. To facilitate that, Cousins needs to improve his offensive game to become the designated frontcourt scorer.A power forward with three-point range to take advantage of Evans’ drive-and-kick game.Greene to take the game more seriously.Omri Casspi to get tougher.In lieu of the above two, one more creative wing scorer or New England Patriots jersey
a wing defender who can shoot.The entire team to start committing itself to playing defense on every possession. Right now, Sacramento’s offense, while raw and rugged, at least has the right idea. Westphal calls a lot of split cuts that take advantage of Cousins’ and Dalembert’s passing, and the players play with physicality and aggressiveness. However, as the Kings’ defense rests, so too does the approach of their potentially bright future.
after reporting to camp out of shape and winding up in Paul Westphal’s doghouse. It’s time for this kid to grow up.DeMarcus Cousins—2-8 FG, 10 REB, 1 AST, 1 TO, 8 PTS—is Sacramento’s prized rookie, but he can’t stay on the floor because of perpetual foul trouble. When showing on screens he has a tendency to jab at the ball, a needless exercise that will only continue to feed his foul problems, and when defending shot attempts, he throws his hands more forward than high, leading to more contact with opponents arms than the ball. When guarding the post or defending cross-screens, he’s all about fighting and shoving with his upper body than using any kind of positional advantage, and he’s flat-footed as a defender. Offensively, Cousins’ foot work is slow and clumsy, and none of his moves—a mechanical right hook, an awkward step through, a clumsy baseline spin—are executed with any degree of grace. What Cousins did do well was read double teams and make the appropriate pass to both spot-up shooters and cutters, no easy task, and he always, always boxed out. He also has good touch on his shot, and executed an impressive high-arching, reverse pivot fadeaway jumper that dropped in—shades of Rasheed Wallace.Until Cousins unlearns his bad defensive habits he’ll be hard-pressed to improve because he’ll never be on the floor. Until he improves his footwork, he’ll be predictable to defend by good defenses. At the very least, he has good potential as a rebounder and help defender, though the Kings need him to develop to move Landry to a sixth-man role off the bench.Beno Udrih—5-9 FG, 2-3 3FG, 3 AST, Minnesota Vikings
0 TO, 12 PTS—is a good backup point guard because he has good vision, takes care of the ball, and has an accurate mid-range jumper. Against the Nets, Udrih’s clutch three in the final seconds eventually iced the game. However, Udrih is another poor defender who lacks the athleticism to stay in front of most NBA point guards, hence why pairing him with Evans gets problematic.Francisco Garcia—3-7FG, 7 PTS—is little more than a streaky, inconsistent scorer who only has eyes on the basket.Jason Thompson knocked down an 18-footer, was active in tracking down three rebounds, and played some effective defense in contesting a Jordan Farmar drive, and stuffing a Derrick Favors layup, though he tends to get pushed around down low because of his thin frame.What will the Kings need to rule the Western Conference? A defensive minded guard or wing who can shoot the three.Evans to improve his passing, his decision making, his jump shooting, his left hand, and his defense, while also developing either a floater, or a short jumper.Because of Landry’s limitations, he’d be best served as a designated second-unit scorer. To facilitate that, Cousins needs to improve his offensive game to become the designated frontcourt scorer.A power forward with three-point range to take advantage of Evans’ drive-and-kick game.Greene to take the game more seriously.Omri Casspi to get tougher.In lieu of the above two, one more creative wing scorer or New England Patriots jersey
a wing defender who can shoot.The entire team to start committing itself to playing defense on every possession. Right now, Sacramento’s offense, while raw and rugged, at least has the right idea. Westphal calls a lot of split cuts that take advantage of Cousins’ and Dalembert’s passing, and the players play with physicality and aggressiveness. However, as the Kings’ defense rests, so too does the approach of their potentially bright future.
2010年12月22日星期三
That's Amare! The Knicks Are in the Mix
Jim McIsaac/Getty ImagesAre the New York Knicks back in the spot light? With this acquire the Knicks are back in the spot light. They can now be a legit contender of the LeBron and Wade sweepstakes. This is what the Knicks were waiting for, a mega star like Amare. This is the most excitingevent in Knicks' history since Dave Debusschere banged his fist on the table at the 1985lottery draft, knowing they got the first pick, in which the Knicks drafted the great Patrick Ewing.Now Amare and the Knicks organization have to start recruiting to build a serious playoff contender team. If the Knicks don’t get LeBron or Wade, things might not be that terrible. I believe Plan B would be to sign David Lee and than trade him to the Spurs for Tony Parker. Amare and Tony are pretty Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
good friends and before signing, Amare told Parker to come to New York and wait for Carmelo Anthony next year. I can’t remember the last time the Knicks had a veteran point guard and won championships. This has to be a strong option for Donnie Walsh and the Knicks.As a Knicks fan you have to be excited for the future for once. You finally can stop thinking about the trade of Patrick Ewing, the signing of Isaiah Thomas, and finally the franchise destroyer Stephon Marbury. Now we can just stay tuned and see what else falls into the Knicks hands. Like AmareStated,"The Knicks are back."
good friends and before signing, Amare told Parker to come to New York and wait for Carmelo Anthony next year. I can’t remember the last time the Knicks had a veteran point guard and won championships. This has to be a strong option for Donnie Walsh and the Knicks.As a Knicks fan you have to be excited for the future for once. You finally can stop thinking about the trade of Patrick Ewing, the signing of Isaiah Thomas, and finally the franchise destroyer Stephon Marbury. Now we can just stay tuned and see what else falls into the Knicks hands. Like AmareStated,"The Knicks are back."
2010年12月21日星期二
Boston: Did the Red Sox Make a Grave Mistake in Letting Victor Martinez Walk?
Jim Rogash/Getty ImagesOutrageous! I guess it's anotherReebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
bridge year for John Henry and the Boston Red Sox. Victor Martinez, the 31 year old switch hitting catcher who can play three positions: catcher, first base and designated hitter, was signed today by the Detroit Tigers for four years and $50 million. Martinez, who was a great fit for the Red Sox, was originally offered two years and $21 million by Boston. A mere insult in my opinion to a player with some value to the Red Sox. Martinez who is a four-time All Star, finished the 2010 season with a .302 average, 20 home runs and 79 RBI in 127 games. Plain and simple, this guy can hit good pitching, something, that at the present time without a Manny Ramirez in the middle of their lineup can't all but afford to lose. Why weren't the Red Sox originally willing to offer Martinez a four-year deal? With the news spreading that the Tigers were close to a four-year, $50 million contract, Boston offered arbitration and will get two draft picks from his departure. Wow, great deal! Rumors were reported that the Red Sox were only willing to offer Martinez a four-year $42 million contract. So, should the Red Sox have offered the $8 million more in order to try and keep Martinez in a Red Sox uniform? Do you believe the Red Sox Should have increased their offer to keep Victor Martinez in Boston?Do you believe the Red Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
Sox Should have increased their offer to keep Victor Martinez in Boston?Yes64.7%No35.3%Total votes: 156The Red Sox didn't just do this on a whim, they know their players better than anybody else. So, the question then remains: why would the Red Sox allow one of their most productive run producing switch- hitting catchers to leave? Then replace him with a guy that has a long name and a lot of injuries named Jarrod Saltalamacchia. I think it's funny that the Red Sox picked up Ortiz's option at $12 million to play as a designated hitter, mostly against right handed pitching, then let a switching hitting catcher that can also play first base and DH go. Martinez is 31 years old, when he plays out this contract he'll finish at 36. So consider this, Jorge Posada was 36 when the Yankees signed him to a four-year, $52.4 million deal in 2007. Posada was older when he got the deal and didn't become a full-time catcher until he was 28. Martinez has been an everyday catcher since he was 25. Theo Epstein now has 127 days or a little over four months to put together his Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
roster for the 2011 season. It's a little more than a hunch, but I bet they plan to improve the team this off-season. It's only November, so let's see what kind of product the Red Sox put on the field on opening day before declaring next year over already.
bridge year for John Henry and the Boston Red Sox. Victor Martinez, the 31 year old switch hitting catcher who can play three positions: catcher, first base and designated hitter, was signed today by the Detroit Tigers for four years and $50 million. Martinez, who was a great fit for the Red Sox, was originally offered two years and $21 million by Boston. A mere insult in my opinion to a player with some value to the Red Sox. Martinez who is a four-time All Star, finished the 2010 season with a .302 average, 20 home runs and 79 RBI in 127 games. Plain and simple, this guy can hit good pitching, something, that at the present time without a Manny Ramirez in the middle of their lineup can't all but afford to lose. Why weren't the Red Sox originally willing to offer Martinez a four-year deal? With the news spreading that the Tigers were close to a four-year, $50 million contract, Boston offered arbitration and will get two draft picks from his departure. Wow, great deal! Rumors were reported that the Red Sox were only willing to offer Martinez a four-year $42 million contract. So, should the Red Sox have offered the $8 million more in order to try and keep Martinez in a Red Sox uniform? Do you believe the Red Sox Should have increased their offer to keep Victor Martinez in Boston?Do you believe the Red Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
Sox Should have increased their offer to keep Victor Martinez in Boston?Yes64.7%No35.3%Total votes: 156The Red Sox didn't just do this on a whim, they know their players better than anybody else. So, the question then remains: why would the Red Sox allow one of their most productive run producing switch- hitting catchers to leave? Then replace him with a guy that has a long name and a lot of injuries named Jarrod Saltalamacchia. I think it's funny that the Red Sox picked up Ortiz's option at $12 million to play as a designated hitter, mostly against right handed pitching, then let a switching hitting catcher that can also play first base and DH go. Martinez is 31 years old, when he plays out this contract he'll finish at 36. So consider this, Jorge Posada was 36 when the Yankees signed him to a four-year, $52.4 million deal in 2007. Posada was older when he got the deal and didn't become a full-time catcher until he was 28. Martinez has been an everyday catcher since he was 25. Theo Epstein now has 127 days or a little over four months to put together his Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
roster for the 2011 season. It's a little more than a hunch, but I bet they plan to improve the team this off-season. It's only November, so let's see what kind of product the Red Sox put on the field on opening day before declaring next year over already.
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 Oakland Raiders: At Long Last, the Cable Guy Has Finally Arrived
Tom CableEzra Shaw/Getty ImagesSATIRE ; We all hate to wait for the cable guy, but this one has arrived!In a year where the New Orleans Saints won the Super Bowl, Ron Artest kept his cool, and the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup, I've learned that anything is possible.Now, Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
the Oakland Raiders are once again relevant in the NFL and Coach Tom Cable has legitimized himself as a head coach. This is quite possibly the most surreal week I can possibly remember.After the Raiders defeated the Kansas City Chiefs game last Sunday, I could not help but sense that game was an instant classic. Not only that, but that the game deserves the honor of being named.The Raiders victory on Sunday meant more to me than most people could begin to understand.The game was what being a loyal fan is all about. I'll admit that there have been times where I considered being a Colts fan, but it just never felt right.All of you around the Water Cooler in every office 'round the country, get your "O face" on.O for offense of course.A game that the refs had appeared to snatch away from the Raiders with goofy calls. A game that the Raiders snatched away from the Chiefs and all those who doubted the Raiders and have bashed Al Davis since 2003.Jacoby FordThat is why in my mad-scientist of Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
a mind, I would propose to all you faithful in Raider Nation, that the name of the game should refer to the euphoria-inducing catches of Jacoby Ford, one of which, he appeared to snatch away from cornerback Brandon Flowers to setup the game tying field goal by Sebastian Janikowski.For a game that certainly rocked the world of Raider and NFL fans alike, it seems only fitting that the game should be immortalized as, "The Snatch."Get it?I also find it amusing that within this past week, Raiders coach Tom Cable has proved himself as a head coach in the NFL, and Keith Olbermann of MSNBC was suspended because he acted as if NBC policies did not apply to him.Almost to the day, Keith Olbermann named me, "Best Uniformed Blogger" (not Worst Person) on November 2, 2009, because I had the gall to say that everyone has a bias, including people from the East Coast.But also because I goofed by saying that ESPN should have it's license to broadcast revoked for the blatant attempts of the gossip guys to defame Tom Cable with gossip.Oops.I didn't know that ESPN does not need a license to broadcast. I don't know all the details about a company (or industry for this matter) that does not employ me. Relative to NBC, neither does Keith Olbernann.Ah, yes, even I have a sense of humor about myselfI guess we all make silly mistakes.Also in this week that was, Californians rejected the legalization of marijuana, the San Francisco Giants won the World Series and more voters that identify as Gay voted for Republicans than ever before.Maybe, the Mayans were right.This past week also made it official. With the economy in the sink-hole, the price of gold skyrocketing, the election of Jerry Brown as governor and the reemergence of relevance of the Oakland Raiders in the NFL, it truly is, the 1970s.At least in California.We in California have gone from a governor that once played a time-traveling robot in The Terminator in 1984 to a governor that left the office of Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
governor in 1983. Why does this feel like deja vu all over again? Why do I get the feeling that another actor not named Arnold could become president?Here's a weird conspiracy theory that I don't believe and yet my mind can think of it.The Republicans don't want to fund health-care, because it would siphon money that has been earmarked for medical science to study ways in which to revive Ronald Reagan from the dead. Then again, his organs may have already been harvested to sustain the life of Dick Cheney.
the Oakland Raiders are once again relevant in the NFL and Coach Tom Cable has legitimized himself as a head coach. This is quite possibly the most surreal week I can possibly remember.After the Raiders defeated the Kansas City Chiefs game last Sunday, I could not help but sense that game was an instant classic. Not only that, but that the game deserves the honor of being named.The Raiders victory on Sunday meant more to me than most people could begin to understand.The game was what being a loyal fan is all about. I'll admit that there have been times where I considered being a Colts fan, but it just never felt right.All of you around the Water Cooler in every office 'round the country, get your "O face" on.O for offense of course.A game that the refs had appeared to snatch away from the Raiders with goofy calls. A game that the Raiders snatched away from the Chiefs and all those who doubted the Raiders and have bashed Al Davis since 2003.Jacoby FordThat is why in my mad-scientist of Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
a mind, I would propose to all you faithful in Raider Nation, that the name of the game should refer to the euphoria-inducing catches of Jacoby Ford, one of which, he appeared to snatch away from cornerback Brandon Flowers to setup the game tying field goal by Sebastian Janikowski.For a game that certainly rocked the world of Raider and NFL fans alike, it seems only fitting that the game should be immortalized as, "The Snatch."Get it?I also find it amusing that within this past week, Raiders coach Tom Cable has proved himself as a head coach in the NFL, and Keith Olbermann of MSNBC was suspended because he acted as if NBC policies did not apply to him.Almost to the day, Keith Olbermann named me, "Best Uniformed Blogger" (not Worst Person) on November 2, 2009, because I had the gall to say that everyone has a bias, including people from the East Coast.But also because I goofed by saying that ESPN should have it's license to broadcast revoked for the blatant attempts of the gossip guys to defame Tom Cable with gossip.Oops.I didn't know that ESPN does not need a license to broadcast. I don't know all the details about a company (or industry for this matter) that does not employ me. Relative to NBC, neither does Keith Olbernann.Ah, yes, even I have a sense of humor about myselfI guess we all make silly mistakes.Also in this week that was, Californians rejected the legalization of marijuana, the San Francisco Giants won the World Series and more voters that identify as Gay voted for Republicans than ever before.Maybe, the Mayans were right.This past week also made it official. With the economy in the sink-hole, the price of gold skyrocketing, the election of Jerry Brown as governor and the reemergence of relevance of the Oakland Raiders in the NFL, it truly is, the 1970s.At least in California.We in California have gone from a governor that once played a time-traveling robot in The Terminator in 1984 to a governor that left the office of Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
governor in 1983. Why does this feel like deja vu all over again? Why do I get the feeling that another actor not named Arnold could become president?Here's a weird conspiracy theory that I don't believe and yet my mind can think of it.The Republicans don't want to fund health-care, because it would siphon money that has been earmarked for medical science to study ways in which to revive Ronald Reagan from the dead. Then again, his organs may have already been harvested to sustain the life of Dick Cheney.
Leon Halip/Getty ImagesThis year
Leon Halip/Getty ImagesThis year, the NFL has seen more parity and more wild shifts in power than ever before. This week, the New York Jets claim top spot in DraftTek's weekly power rankings. If someone argued New England, Atlanta or even Pittsburgh as the top team, it would be hard to Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
fault them—each team has much to like about them. On the bottom half of things? Detroit looks like they were ready to ascend before losing to the winless Bills; Dallas looked like their season was over before beating the Giants; the Redskins looked average until getting hoisted by their petards on Monday Night Football. Without further ado: The DraftTek Week 11 NFL Power Rankings! 32) Carolina Panthers: (1-8) - Matt Moore is still the QB and some think the Panthers could have a tough decision with Clausen this offseason. Mike Goodson has the only 100-yard game on the year and David Gettis is emerging as the top wide out. This is not how things were supposed to go. 31) Detroit Lions: (2-7) - Detroit is a mess. One of the most penalized teams and still can't keep their quarterbacks upright, the Lions could easily have three or four more wins but clearly lack NFL-level toughness. 30) Buffalo Bills: (1-8) - Fred Jackson is making a lot of fans scratch their head as CJ Spiller continues to be far less effective. Will Buffalo go with Luck over Fitzpatrick in a similar move? The Bills aren't going to face Detroit every week but it is easy to foresee them picking up a few more wins. They've been better than their record for a while. 29) Cincinnati Bengals: (2-7) - Chad Ochocinco remarked on Twitter (where else?) that he has more commercials than touchdowns. Couldn't say it better myself! Maybe the Bengals can pick up that Stu guy from the NFL Training Camp/Kinect commercial. 28) Arizona Cardinals: (3-6) - Matt Leinart couldn't have done this? 27) Minnesota Vikings: (3-6) - The media has fallen out of love with Favre. The country now knows what most local reporters long knew—these players don't like Childress. For most teams, I would prescribe a team bonding session on Lake Minnestonka, but the Vikings are the last group of guys you want out on the water. Take 20 doses of Adrian Peterson and stop throwing so gosh-darned much! 26) San Francisco 49ers: (3-6) - Troy Smith has this team "rolling"—at least comparatively speaking. Winning is always better than losing, but if the 49ers move into 2011 with Singletary and Troy Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Smith, fans will look back and wish the team had stayed in merry old England. 25) Washington Redskins: (4-5) - If the NFL had a mercy rule, Monday Night Football would have lasted about 20 minutes. Then again, if the NFL had a mercy rule, Dan Snyder probably would be wasting money elsewhere. 24) Dallas Cowboys: (2-7) - Wade Phillips might be a putz, but I don't buy that this team didn't like him. He's a players' coach and nearly impossible to hate. Respect? Now that's another story. Regardless, his firing turned out to be a wake up call and players perform once all their jobs are on the line. 23) Denver Broncos: (3-6) - Kyle Orton was taking a lot of unnecessary heat from Broncos fans and redeemed himself, trouncing on the Chiefs like he had a personal mandate from Andrew Jackson. Meanwhile, the Tim Tebow experiment is working the way many expected—scoring TDs other players could have easily gotten. Historically, no one kills fantasy teams like the Denver Broncos. 22) Cleveland Browns: (3-6) - Beating the Saints and the Pats is impressive; taking the Jets to OT is pretty nice as well. Colt McCoy is making a lot of GMs look like fools and Peyton Hillis is establishing himself as a go-to back. This is a team on the rise. 21) Houston Texans: (4-5) - Sure, the Texans have an offense but local authorities put out an Amber Alert out for the pass defense, which might by the worst of the modern era if it weren't so non-existent. 20) San Diego Chargers: (4-5) - Coming off a bye with two straight wins, the Chargers could be making that end-of-the-year push they are accustomed to. Would anyone really be surprised? Monday Night Football should be fun to watch with Denver in town. 19) St. Louis Rams: (4-5) - Is there a more quixotic team than the Rams? One moment Bradford is winning games by going to the air with reckless abandon; the next week, the St. Louis D can't stop Troy Smith when it counts the most. Much like the Chiefs above them, the Rams have been adding talent the right way but simply don't have enough of it to go on an extended run or dominate all the teams they should be able to beat. 18) Kansas City Chiefs: (5-4) - Losing to Oakland in OT clearly took the wind out of the Chiefs sails and Denver even more clearly took advantage. The fact that Cassel was still able to have a career day speaks volumes after Denver exploded to a 35-point lead. The Chiefs have a ton of young talent but are still (at least) a year away. 17) Tennessee Titans: (4-5) - It'd be easy to "blame" the offensive gameplan in Tennessee because Chris Johnson only got 18 touches. Yet, the defense (or lack there of) was the real culprit. Tyler Thigpen and Chad Henne both drove on Coach Washburn's unit and kept the ball away from Johnson and the offense. Randy Moss just isn't the answer. 16) Miami Dolphins: (5-4) - Completely torn with the Dolphins who should be ranked higher because they've managed to play opponents close no matter what. However, how do you "power rank" a team highly that just lost its top two QBs? 16 might be as high as the Dolphins get the rest of the season, but don't count out Tyler Thigpen, he has more talent than a lot of QBs who have gotten many more chances. 15) Seattle Seahawks: (5-4) - The Seahawks are overperforming all expectations and that starts with "Big" Mike Williams, who was done in this league before his college coach gave him one more chance. The 'Hawks have a legitimate shot at the playoffs if Hasselbeck can stay healthy and that defense can continue to steal possessions and keep opponents out of the endzone. 14) Jacksonville Jaguars: (5-4) - David Gerrard is not an elite QB, he might not even be the "franchise" QB (depending on your definition). But could one player take any more blame for a team so devoid of talent and depth all over Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
the roster? Garrard isn't perfect, but he's carried this team in the past and he's doing it now. 13) Oakland Raiders: (5-4) - Oakland is coming off a bye, winners of three straight and sitting in the lead of their division. Things couldn't be going better. What's that? They're headed to Pittsburgh this week? You say Pittsburgh is hopping mad after losing to the Pats? Well, that's a horse of a different color. If the Raiders can win in Heinz field this week, experts will have to take back all the nasty things they've said about Oakland recently. But even diehard fans have to realize that's a big if. 12) New York Giants: (6-3) - Trust me, I wish I could drop this squad lower. Losing to Dallas is embarrassing, but not if you remember that the Cowboys have a lot of talent that has been laying dormant. Losing Steve Smith is a big blow and Eli Manning—now more than ever—needs to stay focused and carry this team. 11) Chicago Bears: (6-3) - Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears are the epitome of boom or bust teams: On their best day, they could easily put up 50 on a top defense; at their worst, Cutler is more-than-able to complete more passes to the wrong color of jersey. This team rises and falls with the accuracy of their QB. The running game can't get into second gear and the defense isn't getting the stops Bears fans are accustomed to. They play the Tyler Thigpen-led Miami Dolphins on Thursday and need to win to maintain any semblance of respectability. 10) New Orleans Saints: (6-3) - The Saints have won two in a row, but are they back? We might not know until Week 15, when they travel to Baltimore. Until then, it's pretty smooth sailing. It is clear Reggie Bush meant more to this team than many realized and Pierre Thomas needs to be healthy if they want to make a run. Plus, losing to Cleveland doesn't look nearly as bad as it did before the Browns beat New England and took NYJ to overtime. 9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: (6-3) - Picking on Carolina at home is like taking the school nerd's lunch money the day after he breaks his leg. Who Is The Best Team After 11 Weeks?Who Is The Best Team After 11 Weeks?New England Patriots30.9%Atlanta Falcons14.8%New York Jets 28.9%Other25.5%Total votes: 149Raheem Morris wants us to believe his squad is the best in the NFC and it was hard to argue with him when he said it, but the proof will be in the pudding as the Bucs travel to San Francisco and Baltimore in the coming weeks, setting up a home game against Atlanta. This stretch will be the true test of this young team's mettle. 8) Indianapolis Colts: (6-3) - Winning close at home against the Bengals isn't exactly a marquee event. Thanks to recent events, beating Houston, Kansas City and the Giants doesn't look as great as it did a week ago either. This week at New England will make or break their season. 7) Green Bay Packers: (6-3) - The Packers had a bye week and travel to Minnesota and Atlanta for their next two games. Beating Brett Favre at home might be easier than it used to be, but the Packers can't take that game for granted. We'll all know a little bit more about Green Bay after their trips to the frozen North and Dirty South. Until then, there's little reason to doubt the Pack who have the league's best point differential in spite of injuries all over the field. 6) Philadelphia Eagles: (6-3) - Michael Vick is for real! That probably isn't news to anyone reading this, but it bears repeating: Vick is more of a quarterback now than he has ever been and he's maintained that second gear which makes him so dangerous to contain. 28 points in a 1st quarter is insane. Against a division rival on the road? Legit. In this new era of NFL parity, the Eagles might not be the best team but they're probably the scariest on a lot of opponents' schedules. 5) Pittsburgh Steelers: (6-3) - Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
The Steelers couldn't have looked much worse as the Patriots caught Big Ben and crew with their pants down on Sunday night. One has to slightly forgive the loss due to numerous injuries and the fact that Tom Brady always has Pittsburgh's number. The Jekyll and Hyde routine needs to stop. If it does, winning out is still a possibility. 4) Baltimore Ravens: (6-3) - The Ravens are their own worst enemy at times—clearly having the ability to beat any team, including themselves. The rest of the schedule couldn't get much easier, but Baltimore needs to keep their act together. 3) New England Patriots: (7-2) - Tom Brady might not have Randy Moss, but all-in-all, he's probably glad. His new cast of offensive talent is filled with blue collar types who continue to grow; the defense is even younger and looking far better in recent weeks than any of the experts could have ever predicted. Meanwhile, Bill Belichick is still their head coach and that means more than his critics like to admit. If you would argue they're the best team in the league, I couldn't disagree with you. 2) Atlanta Falcons: (7-2) - This year's "Rodney Dangerfield" award goes to the Falcons, who are getting absolutely no respect with seven wins—even when the last one is against the mighty Ravens. Matt Ryan and co. aren't the most explosive bunch, but they are the most balanced and have more playmakers than they're given credit for. Disrespect them if you'd like, just don't bet against them. 1) New York Jets: (7-2) - "Just Win Baby" was long the motto of Al Davis and the Oakland Raiders. Now? It seems as if Rex Ryan and the J.E.T.S. Jets Jets Jets have adopted it as their own. Gang Green becomes the first team in history to Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
win back-to-back road games in overtime. It isn't dominant, but it's effective. If the Jets continue to win while they mature as a team, they could end up peaking at the perfect time—rough story for the rest of the league. This article can also be found at DraftTek—The internet's premier computer based NFL Draft site. Michael Schottey is the managing editor of the College Writing Internship at Bleacher Report, and an NFL Featured Columnist. He has covered the NFL in a number of media markets for over five years and is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America.
fault them—each team has much to like about them. On the bottom half of things? Detroit looks like they were ready to ascend before losing to the winless Bills; Dallas looked like their season was over before beating the Giants; the Redskins looked average until getting hoisted by their petards on Monday Night Football. Without further ado: The DraftTek Week 11 NFL Power Rankings! 32) Carolina Panthers: (1-8) - Matt Moore is still the QB and some think the Panthers could have a tough decision with Clausen this offseason. Mike Goodson has the only 100-yard game on the year and David Gettis is emerging as the top wide out. This is not how things were supposed to go. 31) Detroit Lions: (2-7) - Detroit is a mess. One of the most penalized teams and still can't keep their quarterbacks upright, the Lions could easily have three or four more wins but clearly lack NFL-level toughness. 30) Buffalo Bills: (1-8) - Fred Jackson is making a lot of fans scratch their head as CJ Spiller continues to be far less effective. Will Buffalo go with Luck over Fitzpatrick in a similar move? The Bills aren't going to face Detroit every week but it is easy to foresee them picking up a few more wins. They've been better than their record for a while. 29) Cincinnati Bengals: (2-7) - Chad Ochocinco remarked on Twitter (where else?) that he has more commercials than touchdowns. Couldn't say it better myself! Maybe the Bengals can pick up that Stu guy from the NFL Training Camp/Kinect commercial. 28) Arizona Cardinals: (3-6) - Matt Leinart couldn't have done this? 27) Minnesota Vikings: (3-6) - The media has fallen out of love with Favre. The country now knows what most local reporters long knew—these players don't like Childress. For most teams, I would prescribe a team bonding session on Lake Minnestonka, but the Vikings are the last group of guys you want out on the water. Take 20 doses of Adrian Peterson and stop throwing so gosh-darned much! 26) San Francisco 49ers: (3-6) - Troy Smith has this team "rolling"—at least comparatively speaking. Winning is always better than losing, but if the 49ers move into 2011 with Singletary and Troy Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Smith, fans will look back and wish the team had stayed in merry old England. 25) Washington Redskins: (4-5) - If the NFL had a mercy rule, Monday Night Football would have lasted about 20 minutes. Then again, if the NFL had a mercy rule, Dan Snyder probably would be wasting money elsewhere. 24) Dallas Cowboys: (2-7) - Wade Phillips might be a putz, but I don't buy that this team didn't like him. He's a players' coach and nearly impossible to hate. Respect? Now that's another story. Regardless, his firing turned out to be a wake up call and players perform once all their jobs are on the line. 23) Denver Broncos: (3-6) - Kyle Orton was taking a lot of unnecessary heat from Broncos fans and redeemed himself, trouncing on the Chiefs like he had a personal mandate from Andrew Jackson. Meanwhile, the Tim Tebow experiment is working the way many expected—scoring TDs other players could have easily gotten. Historically, no one kills fantasy teams like the Denver Broncos. 22) Cleveland Browns: (3-6) - Beating the Saints and the Pats is impressive; taking the Jets to OT is pretty nice as well. Colt McCoy is making a lot of GMs look like fools and Peyton Hillis is establishing himself as a go-to back. This is a team on the rise. 21) Houston Texans: (4-5) - Sure, the Texans have an offense but local authorities put out an Amber Alert out for the pass defense, which might by the worst of the modern era if it weren't so non-existent. 20) San Diego Chargers: (4-5) - Coming off a bye with two straight wins, the Chargers could be making that end-of-the-year push they are accustomed to. Would anyone really be surprised? Monday Night Football should be fun to watch with Denver in town. 19) St. Louis Rams: (4-5) - Is there a more quixotic team than the Rams? One moment Bradford is winning games by going to the air with reckless abandon; the next week, the St. Louis D can't stop Troy Smith when it counts the most. Much like the Chiefs above them, the Rams have been adding talent the right way but simply don't have enough of it to go on an extended run or dominate all the teams they should be able to beat. 18) Kansas City Chiefs: (5-4) - Losing to Oakland in OT clearly took the wind out of the Chiefs sails and Denver even more clearly took advantage. The fact that Cassel was still able to have a career day speaks volumes after Denver exploded to a 35-point lead. The Chiefs have a ton of young talent but are still (at least) a year away. 17) Tennessee Titans: (4-5) - It'd be easy to "blame" the offensive gameplan in Tennessee because Chris Johnson only got 18 touches. Yet, the defense (or lack there of) was the real culprit. Tyler Thigpen and Chad Henne both drove on Coach Washburn's unit and kept the ball away from Johnson and the offense. Randy Moss just isn't the answer. 16) Miami Dolphins: (5-4) - Completely torn with the Dolphins who should be ranked higher because they've managed to play opponents close no matter what. However, how do you "power rank" a team highly that just lost its top two QBs? 16 might be as high as the Dolphins get the rest of the season, but don't count out Tyler Thigpen, he has more talent than a lot of QBs who have gotten many more chances. 15) Seattle Seahawks: (5-4) - The Seahawks are overperforming all expectations and that starts with "Big" Mike Williams, who was done in this league before his college coach gave him one more chance. The 'Hawks have a legitimate shot at the playoffs if Hasselbeck can stay healthy and that defense can continue to steal possessions and keep opponents out of the endzone. 14) Jacksonville Jaguars: (5-4) - David Gerrard is not an elite QB, he might not even be the "franchise" QB (depending on your definition). But could one player take any more blame for a team so devoid of talent and depth all over Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
the roster? Garrard isn't perfect, but he's carried this team in the past and he's doing it now. 13) Oakland Raiders: (5-4) - Oakland is coming off a bye, winners of three straight and sitting in the lead of their division. Things couldn't be going better. What's that? They're headed to Pittsburgh this week? You say Pittsburgh is hopping mad after losing to the Pats? Well, that's a horse of a different color. If the Raiders can win in Heinz field this week, experts will have to take back all the nasty things they've said about Oakland recently. But even diehard fans have to realize that's a big if. 12) New York Giants: (6-3) - Trust me, I wish I could drop this squad lower. Losing to Dallas is embarrassing, but not if you remember that the Cowboys have a lot of talent that has been laying dormant. Losing Steve Smith is a big blow and Eli Manning—now more than ever—needs to stay focused and carry this team. 11) Chicago Bears: (6-3) - Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears are the epitome of boom or bust teams: On their best day, they could easily put up 50 on a top defense; at their worst, Cutler is more-than-able to complete more passes to the wrong color of jersey. This team rises and falls with the accuracy of their QB. The running game can't get into second gear and the defense isn't getting the stops Bears fans are accustomed to. They play the Tyler Thigpen-led Miami Dolphins on Thursday and need to win to maintain any semblance of respectability. 10) New Orleans Saints: (6-3) - The Saints have won two in a row, but are they back? We might not know until Week 15, when they travel to Baltimore. Until then, it's pretty smooth sailing. It is clear Reggie Bush meant more to this team than many realized and Pierre Thomas needs to be healthy if they want to make a run. Plus, losing to Cleveland doesn't look nearly as bad as it did before the Browns beat New England and took NYJ to overtime. 9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: (6-3) - Picking on Carolina at home is like taking the school nerd's lunch money the day after he breaks his leg. Who Is The Best Team After 11 Weeks?Who Is The Best Team After 11 Weeks?New England Patriots30.9%Atlanta Falcons14.8%New York Jets 28.9%Other25.5%Total votes: 149Raheem Morris wants us to believe his squad is the best in the NFC and it was hard to argue with him when he said it, but the proof will be in the pudding as the Bucs travel to San Francisco and Baltimore in the coming weeks, setting up a home game against Atlanta. This stretch will be the true test of this young team's mettle. 8) Indianapolis Colts: (6-3) - Winning close at home against the Bengals isn't exactly a marquee event. Thanks to recent events, beating Houston, Kansas City and the Giants doesn't look as great as it did a week ago either. This week at New England will make or break their season. 7) Green Bay Packers: (6-3) - The Packers had a bye week and travel to Minnesota and Atlanta for their next two games. Beating Brett Favre at home might be easier than it used to be, but the Packers can't take that game for granted. We'll all know a little bit more about Green Bay after their trips to the frozen North and Dirty South. Until then, there's little reason to doubt the Pack who have the league's best point differential in spite of injuries all over the field. 6) Philadelphia Eagles: (6-3) - Michael Vick is for real! That probably isn't news to anyone reading this, but it bears repeating: Vick is more of a quarterback now than he has ever been and he's maintained that second gear which makes him so dangerous to contain. 28 points in a 1st quarter is insane. Against a division rival on the road? Legit. In this new era of NFL parity, the Eagles might not be the best team but they're probably the scariest on a lot of opponents' schedules. 5) Pittsburgh Steelers: (6-3) - Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
The Steelers couldn't have looked much worse as the Patriots caught Big Ben and crew with their pants down on Sunday night. One has to slightly forgive the loss due to numerous injuries and the fact that Tom Brady always has Pittsburgh's number. The Jekyll and Hyde routine needs to stop. If it does, winning out is still a possibility. 4) Baltimore Ravens: (6-3) - The Ravens are their own worst enemy at times—clearly having the ability to beat any team, including themselves. The rest of the schedule couldn't get much easier, but Baltimore needs to keep their act together. 3) New England Patriots: (7-2) - Tom Brady might not have Randy Moss, but all-in-all, he's probably glad. His new cast of offensive talent is filled with blue collar types who continue to grow; the defense is even younger and looking far better in recent weeks than any of the experts could have ever predicted. Meanwhile, Bill Belichick is still their head coach and that means more than his critics like to admit. If you would argue they're the best team in the league, I couldn't disagree with you. 2) Atlanta Falcons: (7-2) - This year's "Rodney Dangerfield" award goes to the Falcons, who are getting absolutely no respect with seven wins—even when the last one is against the mighty Ravens. Matt Ryan and co. aren't the most explosive bunch, but they are the most balanced and have more playmakers than they're given credit for. Disrespect them if you'd like, just don't bet against them. 1) New York Jets: (7-2) - "Just Win Baby" was long the motto of Al Davis and the Oakland Raiders. Now? It seems as if Rex Ryan and the J.E.T.S. Jets Jets Jets have adopted it as their own. Gang Green becomes the first team in history to Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
win back-to-back road games in overtime. It isn't dominant, but it's effective. If the Jets continue to win while they mature as a team, they could end up peaking at the perfect time—rough story for the rest of the league. This article can also be found at DraftTek—The internet's premier computer based NFL Draft site. Michael Schottey is the managing editor of the College Writing Internship at Bleacher Report, and an NFL Featured Columnist. He has covered the NFL in a number of media markets for over five years and is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America.
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 Why The Donovan McNabb Benching Was The Right Decision
Leon Halip/Getty ImagesFor the past two weeks, NFL analysts, writers and bloggers have speculated as to the reason why Head Coach Mike Shanahan would have removed a "healthy" Donovan McNabb, with two minutes left in a winnable game against the Detroit Lions, in favor of Rex Grossman. Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
Both Coach Shanahan and Offensive Coordinator Kyle Shanahan have given varied, somewhat incoherent justification for their reasoning.I've listened to all the excuses and all the experts give their opinion, but it seems pretty straightforward: On that particular day, Donovan McNabb stunk.I knew it, and so did Mike and Kyle Shanahan.On the day, McNabb was 17 for 30 for 210 yards with one TD and one INT. A second interception could have turned into six for the Lions if the defensive player had not dropped the pass. McNabb's passes were not sharp all day, and he missed several open receivers with his patented in-the-ground throw.The last straw wasapass 2nd and 10 at their own 37 into triple coverage thatended up being intercepted with 5:21 left in the game.The Redskins had a five point lead at that point and protecting the ball should have been a priority. Nonetheless, the Lions took advantage and the lead.Will Donovan McNabb Bounce Back and Have a Big Game Against the EaglesWill Donovan McNabb Bounce Back and Have a Big Game Against the EaglesYes50.0%No50.0%Total votes: 4If it was any other quarterback, that pass would have been the end of their day. McNabb played poorly and then cost his team the lead late in the game by making an ill-advisedpass.Shanahan stuck with him, however, and gave McNabb one more chance to take back the lead with 3:15 left in the game. He failed miserably.The Skins were able to get the ball back one more time, however, inside two minutes. Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
McNabb had cost them the lead and had failed to succeed in his chance at redemption, so Coach Shanahan made the choice to put the other guy in.The other guy was Rex Grossman. Is hea better quarterback than Donovan McNabb?No. Is he something different? Yes.Step back from the names involved and look at how Mike Shanahan has treated this team from the beginning:The highest paid man on the team, who is arguably one of the best defensive players in football when properly motivated,didn't want to show upfor OTAs nor compete for his job as a starter. As a result, he's a backup and has been forced to work his way up with each performance.Three ProBowl running backs were brought in to try and be the starter. Two of them didn't perform up to par, so they were cut.A second round, young talent at WR, with all the physical tools, was givena chance to prove he wasn't a bust. He was, and they cut him.Coach Shanahan has made ithis credo since day one. If you don't perform to the level that he wants, regardless of who you are, who you were, how much they're paying you, or where you got drafted, you're not going to be out on the field.If it holds true for Albert Haynesworth, it should hold true for Donovan McNabb. No one, not even the quarterback, is above the rest of the team. McNabb stunk, so McNabb was pulled.You can sugar coat it with all the side talking you wantabout sore legs or not practicing the two minute drill. I'm sure those are contributing factors, but at the end ofReebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
the day McNabb's performance dictated the move.As a player and teammate, you should respect the move because CoachShanahan is only trying to win the game, and if someone isn't performing, you know he'll find someone new.McNabb will be back outthere at QBwhen the Redskins take on his old team, the Philadelphia Eagles, on Monday Night Football because he's the best quarterback on the team, and one of the better quarterbacksin the NFL. Hopefully for Redskins fans, this week, he'll show it.
Both Coach Shanahan and Offensive Coordinator Kyle Shanahan have given varied, somewhat incoherent justification for their reasoning.I've listened to all the excuses and all the experts give their opinion, but it seems pretty straightforward: On that particular day, Donovan McNabb stunk.I knew it, and so did Mike and Kyle Shanahan.On the day, McNabb was 17 for 30 for 210 yards with one TD and one INT. A second interception could have turned into six for the Lions if the defensive player had not dropped the pass. McNabb's passes were not sharp all day, and he missed several open receivers with his patented in-the-ground throw.The last straw wasapass 2nd and 10 at their own 37 into triple coverage thatended up being intercepted with 5:21 left in the game.The Redskins had a five point lead at that point and protecting the ball should have been a priority. Nonetheless, the Lions took advantage and the lead.Will Donovan McNabb Bounce Back and Have a Big Game Against the EaglesWill Donovan McNabb Bounce Back and Have a Big Game Against the EaglesYes50.0%No50.0%Total votes: 4If it was any other quarterback, that pass would have been the end of their day. McNabb played poorly and then cost his team the lead late in the game by making an ill-advisedpass.Shanahan stuck with him, however, and gave McNabb one more chance to take back the lead with 3:15 left in the game. He failed miserably.The Skins were able to get the ball back one more time, however, inside two minutes. Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
McNabb had cost them the lead and had failed to succeed in his chance at redemption, so Coach Shanahan made the choice to put the other guy in.The other guy was Rex Grossman. Is hea better quarterback than Donovan McNabb?No. Is he something different? Yes.Step back from the names involved and look at how Mike Shanahan has treated this team from the beginning:The highest paid man on the team, who is arguably one of the best defensive players in football when properly motivated,didn't want to show upfor OTAs nor compete for his job as a starter. As a result, he's a backup and has been forced to work his way up with each performance.Three ProBowl running backs were brought in to try and be the starter. Two of them didn't perform up to par, so they were cut.A second round, young talent at WR, with all the physical tools, was givena chance to prove he wasn't a bust. He was, and they cut him.Coach Shanahan has made ithis credo since day one. If you don't perform to the level that he wants, regardless of who you are, who you were, how much they're paying you, or where you got drafted, you're not going to be out on the field.If it holds true for Albert Haynesworth, it should hold true for Donovan McNabb. No one, not even the quarterback, is above the rest of the team. McNabb stunk, so McNabb was pulled.You can sugar coat it with all the side talking you wantabout sore legs or not practicing the two minute drill. I'm sure those are contributing factors, but at the end ofReebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
the day McNabb's performance dictated the move.As a player and teammate, you should respect the move because CoachShanahan is only trying to win the game, and if someone isn't performing, you know he'll find someone new.McNabb will be back outthere at QBwhen the Redskins take on his old team, the Philadelphia Eagles, on Monday Night Football because he's the best quarterback on the team, and one of the better quarterbacksin the NFL. Hopefully for Redskins fans, this week, he'll show it.
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Vince Young Meltdown, Brad Childress Fired and the Rest of Today's Top NFL News
Grant Halverson/Getty ImagesTwo big storiescirculating around the Web today are Vince Young's meltdown following his thumb injury and benching on Sunday, and Brad Childress getting the ax in Minnesota. According to Jay Glazer, Childress got fired late this morning and has been replaced by Leslie Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Frazier. We'll be looking at all aspects of the stories today, plus going over all the big stories of the day coming out of the NFL. Young's meltdown is one of the bigger stories of the day, since it's not the first time he has displayed immaturebehavior following a benching. Everyone should remember his brief disappearance in 2008 that resulted in the team calling Nashville police to find him. Young has had a history of immature behavior following poor play, and this wasn't the first time he has been benched. It's sad to see a guy with a lot of talent go down in flames, but this story happens almost every year to at least one player as expectations become too much to handle. As for Childress, this firing is about as surprising as the Wade Phillips firing a few weeks ago. So stay tuned to this site and we'll get you hooked up with wall-to-wall coverage of the day's big stories. 03:58 PM ETBroncos vs. Chargers Monday Night Football: Ryan Mathews Out With InjuryThe Chargers running back Ryan Mathews will be inactive for tonight's game versus the Denver Broncos, according to NFL.com Mathews has an ankle injury, adding to the Chargers' woes. Antonio Gates also is questionable for tonight's game, and like P...Read more » 03:46 PM ETVince Young Meltdown: Immature Actions, Injury End of the Road in 2010Vince Young's meltdown didn't just happen on the field, it continued in the locker room as well. Head coach Jeff Fisher confirmed that he had an argument with Young in the locker room following the loss to the Washington Redskins on Sunday. The ir...Read more » 03:31 PM ETJimmy Clausen Concussion: Will the Rookie Get Another Chance This Weekend?Jimmy Clausen may get another chance to prove his worth Sunday. Panthers Head Coach John Fox said he would start the rookie quarterback if the doctors clear him to play. Clausen has been anything but impressive in his limited action this year, but...Read more » 03:11 PM ETRichard Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
Seymour Punch: Steelers' James Harrison Wants Seymour SuspendedRichard Seymour may have tried to take out Ben Roethlisberger and failed, but now Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman James Harrison now wants Seymour taken out. In what can only be called "amusing," Harrison threw a fit after the game yesterday...Read more » 02:50 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: The Coach Is Gone, Players Are the SameBrad Childress may be gone from the Minnesota Vikings locker room, but the players in it haven't changed. The Vikings reportedly got into heated arguments after their last game, accusing one another of quitting on Sunday. The same arguments surfac...Read more » 02:32 PM ETEllis Hobbs Injury: Hobbs' Season Over After He Reportedly Ruptures Disc in NeckThe Eagles' Ellis Hobbs suffered what is being reported as a ruptured disc in his neck as a result of the hit he took in last night's game, according to NFL.com While his prognosis for next year is uncertain, his 2010 season is over, according to ...Read more » 02:14 PM ETColt McCoy: Will Ankle Injury Derail the Rest of His Rookie Season?Colt McCoy left the stadium on Sunday in a walking boot, becoming the third quarterback this season for the Cleveland Browns to suffer an ankle injury. High ankle sprains put Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace on the shelf for portions of the season...Read more » 01:56 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Former Vikings Head Coach Releases StatementBrad Childress just released a statement on his firing, and he is very gracious to the Vikings organization. "The past five years have been a tremendous experience for my family and I as the Head Coach of the Minnesota Vikings," reads the press re...Read more » 01:41 PM ETCleveland Browns: Is Eric Mangini Next to Go After Sunday Loss?After the fifth Browns loss this season in the fourth quarter, the question now has to be asked again: Will Eric Mangini survive to coach another season in the NFL? The Browns, 3-7, easily could be 7-3 or even 8-2 if they didn''t blow fourth-quart...Read more » 01:05 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Vikings Fans Rejoice as Long National Nightmare EndsAs reaction from the Brad Childress begins to filter in, the online response has been quick. Within minutes of the announcement, Childress' Wikipedia page had been updated to reflect his new status as "former head coach of the Minnesota Vikings." ...Read more » 12:53 PM ETRichard Seymour Punch: How Much Will the NFL Fine Raider Lineman for Hit?Richard Seymour left no doubt in anyone's mind he can drop somebody with one punch when he sent Ben Roethlisberger to the ground on Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
Sunday. While the Raiders already were losing, the game wasn't completely out of control. However, if you read betw...Read more » 12:43 PM ETVince Young Meltdown: Is This Really the Act of a Mature Quarterback?Vince Young really just doesn't seem to get it. Here's a guy who gets millions of dollars just to throw a football, and he acts like the weight of the world is on his shoulders. Granted, the life of a starting quarterback can be a pressure-cooker,...Read more » 12:31 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Vikings Finally Give Up on CoachWith accusations flying back and forth over who did and didn't quit in yesterday's game versus the Green Bay Packers, Brad Childress will be home for the holidays. Childress, who had become a lightning rod for criticism in Minnesota this season, f...Read more »
Frazier. We'll be looking at all aspects of the stories today, plus going over all the big stories of the day coming out of the NFL. Young's meltdown is one of the bigger stories of the day, since it's not the first time he has displayed immaturebehavior following a benching. Everyone should remember his brief disappearance in 2008 that resulted in the team calling Nashville police to find him. Young has had a history of immature behavior following poor play, and this wasn't the first time he has been benched. It's sad to see a guy with a lot of talent go down in flames, but this story happens almost every year to at least one player as expectations become too much to handle. As for Childress, this firing is about as surprising as the Wade Phillips firing a few weeks ago. So stay tuned to this site and we'll get you hooked up with wall-to-wall coverage of the day's big stories. 03:58 PM ETBroncos vs. Chargers Monday Night Football: Ryan Mathews Out With InjuryThe Chargers running back Ryan Mathews will be inactive for tonight's game versus the Denver Broncos, according to NFL.com Mathews has an ankle injury, adding to the Chargers' woes. Antonio Gates also is questionable for tonight's game, and like P...Read more » 03:46 PM ETVince Young Meltdown: Immature Actions, Injury End of the Road in 2010Vince Young's meltdown didn't just happen on the field, it continued in the locker room as well. Head coach Jeff Fisher confirmed that he had an argument with Young in the locker room following the loss to the Washington Redskins on Sunday. The ir...Read more » 03:31 PM ETJimmy Clausen Concussion: Will the Rookie Get Another Chance This Weekend?Jimmy Clausen may get another chance to prove his worth Sunday. Panthers Head Coach John Fox said he would start the rookie quarterback if the doctors clear him to play. Clausen has been anything but impressive in his limited action this year, but...Read more » 03:11 PM ETRichard Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
Seymour Punch: Steelers' James Harrison Wants Seymour SuspendedRichard Seymour may have tried to take out Ben Roethlisberger and failed, but now Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman James Harrison now wants Seymour taken out. In what can only be called "amusing," Harrison threw a fit after the game yesterday...Read more » 02:50 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: The Coach Is Gone, Players Are the SameBrad Childress may be gone from the Minnesota Vikings locker room, but the players in it haven't changed. The Vikings reportedly got into heated arguments after their last game, accusing one another of quitting on Sunday. The same arguments surfac...Read more » 02:32 PM ETEllis Hobbs Injury: Hobbs' Season Over After He Reportedly Ruptures Disc in NeckThe Eagles' Ellis Hobbs suffered what is being reported as a ruptured disc in his neck as a result of the hit he took in last night's game, according to NFL.com While his prognosis for next year is uncertain, his 2010 season is over, according to ...Read more » 02:14 PM ETColt McCoy: Will Ankle Injury Derail the Rest of His Rookie Season?Colt McCoy left the stadium on Sunday in a walking boot, becoming the third quarterback this season for the Cleveland Browns to suffer an ankle injury. High ankle sprains put Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace on the shelf for portions of the season...Read more » 01:56 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Former Vikings Head Coach Releases StatementBrad Childress just released a statement on his firing, and he is very gracious to the Vikings organization. "The past five years have been a tremendous experience for my family and I as the Head Coach of the Minnesota Vikings," reads the press re...Read more » 01:41 PM ETCleveland Browns: Is Eric Mangini Next to Go After Sunday Loss?After the fifth Browns loss this season in the fourth quarter, the question now has to be asked again: Will Eric Mangini survive to coach another season in the NFL? The Browns, 3-7, easily could be 7-3 or even 8-2 if they didn''t blow fourth-quart...Read more » 01:05 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Vikings Fans Rejoice as Long National Nightmare EndsAs reaction from the Brad Childress begins to filter in, the online response has been quick. Within minutes of the announcement, Childress' Wikipedia page had been updated to reflect his new status as "former head coach of the Minnesota Vikings." ...Read more » 12:53 PM ETRichard Seymour Punch: How Much Will the NFL Fine Raider Lineman for Hit?Richard Seymour left no doubt in anyone's mind he can drop somebody with one punch when he sent Ben Roethlisberger to the ground on Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
Sunday. While the Raiders already were losing, the game wasn't completely out of control. However, if you read betw...Read more » 12:43 PM ETVince Young Meltdown: Is This Really the Act of a Mature Quarterback?Vince Young really just doesn't seem to get it. Here's a guy who gets millions of dollars just to throw a football, and he acts like the weight of the world is on his shoulders. Granted, the life of a starting quarterback can be a pressure-cooker,...Read more » 12:31 PM ETBrad Childress Fired: Vikings Finally Give Up on CoachWith accusations flying back and forth over who did and didn't quit in yesterday's game versus the Green Bay Packers, Brad Childress will be home for the holidays. Childress, who had become a lightning rod for criticism in Minnesota this season, f...Read more »
2010年12月16日星期四
16 Dec 10 Fantasy Football Start 'Em or Sit 'Em: Week 12
Streeter Lecka/Getty ImagesTrying to decide who you should start or sit this week? Let’s take a look at a few potential decisions owners have and try to sort through them.QuarterbacksStart – Joe Flacco – Baltimore Ravens – vs. Tampa BayIn his last five games, Flacco has averaged 263.4 yards while throwing 11 TD versus just one interception. It’s certainly hard to overlook what he has done, though his detractors will say that the some of those games were against weaker Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
passing defenses like New England and Atlanta.Tampa Bay’s defense has been good this season, allowing 200.8 passing yards per game and are tied for second in the league in interceptions with 15. Of course, in their 10 games the only big quarterbacks they’ve played are Carson Palmer, Drew Brees and Matt Ryan (unless you want to count Sam Bradford). There certainly is reason to believe that they are virtually untested and their success shouldn’t be used as a reason to bench Flacco.With the roll Flacco has been on, it’s certainly hard to keep him out of your fantasy lineup.Other quarterbacks to start:Shaun Hill – Detroit Lions – vs. New EnglandMatt Schaub – Houston Texans – vs. TennesseeSit – Carson Palmer – Cincinnati Bengals – at New York JetsHe has a ton of weapons and the Jets defense has not been as good as advertised. Well, at least it hadn’t been until recently. With the help of a healthy Darrelle Revis, the Jets have stymied some of the premier wide receivers the past three weeks:Calvin Johnson – One reception for 13 yardsAndre Johnson – Four receptions for 32 yardsYes, the Bengals have more receiving options then most teams, giving Palmer a glimmer of hope, but he is still too big of a risk to trust in one-quarterback formats. You just don’t know what to expect.Other quarterbacks to sit:Jon Kitna – Dallas Cowboys – vs. New OrleansSam Bradford – St. Louis Rams – at DenverRunning BacksStart – Mike Goodson – Carolina Panthers – at ClevelandThe Panthers running game had been rather inept this season, up until the past two weeks. In two starts Goodson has rushed for 220 yards on 45 carries (4.9 yards per carry) and draws a Cleveland defense that is allowing 116.4 rushing yards per game.It’s not like the Panthers are a threat to throw the ball a lot either, considering all the injuries and struggles their quarterbacks have had. That should mean more opportunities for Goodson to shoulder the load.His detractors will point to no touchdown runs (while Cleveland has allowed just three rushing touchdowns), but that shouldn’t be enough to deter you. He’s been too good of late not to consider as a RB2.Start – Darren McFadden – Oakland Raiders – vs. MiamiThis one shouldn’t be a shocking revelation, but at the same time it wouldn’t surprise me if there were owners out there so scared by his 10-carry, 14-yard performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 11. The Steelers are the premier rushing defense in the league and have stymied numerous backs this season, so there is no reason to fret.McFadden should rebound in a big way against Miami, who is allowing 112.7 rushing yards per game. Don’t make the mistake of losing patience.Other running backs to start:BenJarvus Green-Ellis – New England Patriots – at DetroitMatt Forte – Chicago Bears – vs. PhiladelphiaSit – Ryan Mathews – San Diego Chargers – at IndianapolisWith Mike Tolbert erupting in Week 11 for 111 yards and a touchdown on the ground (as well as two receptions for 42 yards), you have to wonder that, even if he were healthy, Mathews would see the bulk of Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
the carries? There was a lot of hype surrounding him prior to the season, but Mathews has clearly fallen flat. His best game was on opening day, when he had 78 carries on 20 carries.Since then, he’s only twice had more then nine carries and never more then 64 yards. He’s just not worth the gamble.Sit – Ronnie Brown – Miami Dolphins – at OaklandDoes anyone trust him at this point? He hasn’t rushed for more then 80 yards all season long and has just three touchdowns. Over the past two weeks, he has a grand total of 15 carries for 21 yards.Even with a poor passing game, the Dolphins opted to abandon the run against the Bears in Week 11. While Oakland’s run defense has been fairly porous this season, Brown’s performance makes him too big of a gamble if you have other usable options.Other running backs to sit:Fred Jackson – Buffalo Bills – vs. PittsburghMarshawn Lynch – Seattle Seahawks – vs. Kansas CityTwo Wide Receiver FormatsStart – Wes Welker – New England Patriots – at Detroit Prior to the season this would’ve been a no brainer, but Welker’s struggles have caused some owners to turn gun shy when deciding if they should start him or not. In the past two weeks, however, he’s started to show that the player of old is still in there. Over that time he’s had 13 receptions for 147 yards and a touchdown. Don’t give up on him yet.Another wide receiver to startJeremy Maclin – Philadelphia Eagles – at ChicagoSit – Brandon Marshall – Miami Dolphins – at OaklandHe’s been terrible this season, there’s no arguing that fact. Couple his inability with his injury and he is only borderline usable in three wide receiver formats, but I certainly wouldn’t trust him in shallower ones at this point.Another wide receiver to sit:Johnny Knox – Chicago Bears – vs. PhiladelphiaThree Wide Receiver FormatsStart – Nate Burleson – Detroit Lions – vs. New England He has a great matchup against a Patriots secondary that has routinely been torched by opposing offenses and has played the role of second wide receiver to perfection. He’s scored in four of his last six games and is certainly worth trusting at this point. He can even be considered in shallower leagues, but owners in deeper formats shouldn’t hesitate.Another wide receiver to start:Vincent Jackson – San Diego Chargers – at IndianapolisSit – Sidney Rice – Minnesota Vikings – at WashingtonThe matchup is appealing, but it’s hard to trust a wide receiver who converted just three of 10 targets in Week 11. Obviously it was his first game back, so we have to give him time, but it would be nice to see him actually produce (and how the new head coach is going to work the offense) before we slide him into our lineups. His time will come, so keep him stashed away for now, but it’s just not time to trust him quite yet. Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
Another wide receiver to sit:Randy Moss – Tennessee Titans – at HoustonWhat are your thoughts on these decisions? Who would you start? Who would you sit?Make sure to check out Rotoprofessor’s Week 12 Rankings:Top 25 QuarterbacksTop 40 Running BacksTop 60 Wide ReceiversTop 20 Tight Ends(coming soon) Top 15 Kickers(coming soon) Top 15 Defenses (coming soon) Waiver WorthySunday
passing defenses like New England and Atlanta.Tampa Bay’s defense has been good this season, allowing 200.8 passing yards per game and are tied for second in the league in interceptions with 15. Of course, in their 10 games the only big quarterbacks they’ve played are Carson Palmer, Drew Brees and Matt Ryan (unless you want to count Sam Bradford). There certainly is reason to believe that they are virtually untested and their success shouldn’t be used as a reason to bench Flacco.With the roll Flacco has been on, it’s certainly hard to keep him out of your fantasy lineup.Other quarterbacks to start:Shaun Hill – Detroit Lions – vs. New EnglandMatt Schaub – Houston Texans – vs. TennesseeSit – Carson Palmer – Cincinnati Bengals – at New York JetsHe has a ton of weapons and the Jets defense has not been as good as advertised. Well, at least it hadn’t been until recently. With the help of a healthy Darrelle Revis, the Jets have stymied some of the premier wide receivers the past three weeks:Calvin Johnson – One reception for 13 yardsAndre Johnson – Four receptions for 32 yardsYes, the Bengals have more receiving options then most teams, giving Palmer a glimmer of hope, but he is still too big of a risk to trust in one-quarterback formats. You just don’t know what to expect.Other quarterbacks to sit:Jon Kitna – Dallas Cowboys – vs. New OrleansSam Bradford – St. Louis Rams – at DenverRunning BacksStart – Mike Goodson – Carolina Panthers – at ClevelandThe Panthers running game had been rather inept this season, up until the past two weeks. In two starts Goodson has rushed for 220 yards on 45 carries (4.9 yards per carry) and draws a Cleveland defense that is allowing 116.4 rushing yards per game.It’s not like the Panthers are a threat to throw the ball a lot either, considering all the injuries and struggles their quarterbacks have had. That should mean more opportunities for Goodson to shoulder the load.His detractors will point to no touchdown runs (while Cleveland has allowed just three rushing touchdowns), but that shouldn’t be enough to deter you. He’s been too good of late not to consider as a RB2.Start – Darren McFadden – Oakland Raiders – vs. MiamiThis one shouldn’t be a shocking revelation, but at the same time it wouldn’t surprise me if there were owners out there so scared by his 10-carry, 14-yard performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 11. The Steelers are the premier rushing defense in the league and have stymied numerous backs this season, so there is no reason to fret.McFadden should rebound in a big way against Miami, who is allowing 112.7 rushing yards per game. Don’t make the mistake of losing patience.Other running backs to start:BenJarvus Green-Ellis – New England Patriots – at DetroitMatt Forte – Chicago Bears – vs. PhiladelphiaSit – Ryan Mathews – San Diego Chargers – at IndianapolisWith Mike Tolbert erupting in Week 11 for 111 yards and a touchdown on the ground (as well as two receptions for 42 yards), you have to wonder that, even if he were healthy, Mathews would see the bulk of Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
the carries? There was a lot of hype surrounding him prior to the season, but Mathews has clearly fallen flat. His best game was on opening day, when he had 78 carries on 20 carries.Since then, he’s only twice had more then nine carries and never more then 64 yards. He’s just not worth the gamble.Sit – Ronnie Brown – Miami Dolphins – at OaklandDoes anyone trust him at this point? He hasn’t rushed for more then 80 yards all season long and has just three touchdowns. Over the past two weeks, he has a grand total of 15 carries for 21 yards.Even with a poor passing game, the Dolphins opted to abandon the run against the Bears in Week 11. While Oakland’s run defense has been fairly porous this season, Brown’s performance makes him too big of a gamble if you have other usable options.Other running backs to sit:Fred Jackson – Buffalo Bills – vs. PittsburghMarshawn Lynch – Seattle Seahawks – vs. Kansas CityTwo Wide Receiver FormatsStart – Wes Welker – New England Patriots – at Detroit Prior to the season this would’ve been a no brainer, but Welker’s struggles have caused some owners to turn gun shy when deciding if they should start him or not. In the past two weeks, however, he’s started to show that the player of old is still in there. Over that time he’s had 13 receptions for 147 yards and a touchdown. Don’t give up on him yet.Another wide receiver to startJeremy Maclin – Philadelphia Eagles – at ChicagoSit – Brandon Marshall – Miami Dolphins – at OaklandHe’s been terrible this season, there’s no arguing that fact. Couple his inability with his injury and he is only borderline usable in three wide receiver formats, but I certainly wouldn’t trust him in shallower ones at this point.Another wide receiver to sit:Johnny Knox – Chicago Bears – vs. PhiladelphiaThree Wide Receiver FormatsStart – Nate Burleson – Detroit Lions – vs. New England He has a great matchup against a Patriots secondary that has routinely been torched by opposing offenses and has played the role of second wide receiver to perfection. He’s scored in four of his last six games and is certainly worth trusting at this point. He can even be considered in shallower leagues, but owners in deeper formats shouldn’t hesitate.Another wide receiver to start:Vincent Jackson – San Diego Chargers – at IndianapolisSit – Sidney Rice – Minnesota Vikings – at WashingtonThe matchup is appealing, but it’s hard to trust a wide receiver who converted just three of 10 targets in Week 11. Obviously it was his first game back, so we have to give him time, but it would be nice to see him actually produce (and how the new head coach is going to work the offense) before we slide him into our lineups. His time will come, so keep him stashed away for now, but it’s just not time to trust him quite yet. Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
Another wide receiver to sit:Randy Moss – Tennessee Titans – at HoustonWhat are your thoughts on these decisions? Who would you start? Who would you sit?Make sure to check out Rotoprofessor’s Week 12 Rankings:Top 25 QuarterbacksTop 40 Running BacksTop 60 Wide ReceiversTop 20 Tight Ends(coming soon) Top 15 Kickers(coming soon) Top 15 Defenses (coming soon) Waiver WorthySunday
2010年12月15日星期三
Terrell Owens Is a Disgrace To Himself and the Cincinnati Bengals
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesThe Cincinnati Bengals have two of the most outspoken wide receivers to ever play the game in Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco. They are so outspoken that they got their own Versus television show entitled the "T.Ocho show."I don't know who would give two overrated football players a show, but I guess Versus is just desperate for ratings. Too bad the show has been an absolute bomb as far as ratings go. So I guess after the show had a disastrous debut, Versus told Owens and Ochocinco to Minnesota Vikings jersey
say some things that would catch the media's attention. Well, if that was the mission, consider it accomplished.On Tuesday, November 23, Owens and Ochocinco were talking about the Richard Seymour incident, in which he punched Ben Roethlisberger in the face and was fined $25,000. Owens went on to call Big Ben "soft."I am a Steelers and Roethlisberger fan. Big Ben is far from "soft." Generally, he is considered one of the toughest quarterbacks in the league. Ben is usually near the top in the league as far as taking hits from the QB position. He has suffered multiple concussions and even survived a motorcycle accident. Speaking of soft, how about the guy sitting next to you, Ochocinco? He was complaining about people hitting too hard in the preseason.Ben responded but didn't really take the bait: "I don't need to comment on that," Roethlisberger said. "I want to focus on winning championships."Do you care what Terrell Owens has to say? Do you care what Terrell Owens has to say? yes36.1%no23.6%No and I never will40.3%Total votes: 216Ben's teammate Hines Ward also chimed in on it: "We're not even going to listen to T.O.'s show. When you're at that point, you're just trying to pump up your show as much as you can so people can talk about it."Couldn't have said it better myself. Ben wasn't the only victim from the T.Ocho show, as Owens called out New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis, calling him "an average player." Owens and the Bengals faced Revis and the Jets on Thanksgiving night, and Revis covered Owens mostly. Owens had three catches for 44 yards. Maybe Owens is the average player.I just don't know where Owens gets off. He is a proven cancer in the locker room, getting kicked off of nfl jerseys
three different teams, and is currently playing for his fifth NFL team. He has great stats but has always been prone to drops. Every team that T.O. goes to turns into absolute garbage. The Cincinnati Bengals were a playoff team a year ago and are now 2-9, tied for the second-worst record in the NFL.I've even heard some people call him a "Hall of Famer." That's hilarious. Stats don't get you in alone. Owens could arguably be the worst teammate in NFL history and is by far and away one of the most overrated players in the league.His NFL peers seem to agree with me. In a recent Sports Illustrated poll, Owens was voted as the most overrated player in the league. There's a reason that the Bengals were the only team that wanted him this year. I'm sure they regret the signing now.Would you want Terrell Owens on your team? Would you want Terrell Owens on your team? yes53.7%no46.3%Total votes: 242My advice for Owens is shut the hell up! You and Ocho have now become the official laughing stocks of Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
the entire NFL. Those two players are everything that is wrong with this league. Hopefully next season, every NFL team comes to their senses and refuses to sign Owens. He needs a humbling experience. The sad thing is I'm not sure that will help. Owens is a disgrace to everyone that has ever played football, yet he doesn't seem to care. I just don't know who Owens thinks he is
say some things that would catch the media's attention. Well, if that was the mission, consider it accomplished.On Tuesday, November 23, Owens and Ochocinco were talking about the Richard Seymour incident, in which he punched Ben Roethlisberger in the face and was fined $25,000. Owens went on to call Big Ben "soft."I am a Steelers and Roethlisberger fan. Big Ben is far from "soft." Generally, he is considered one of the toughest quarterbacks in the league. Ben is usually near the top in the league as far as taking hits from the QB position. He has suffered multiple concussions and even survived a motorcycle accident. Speaking of soft, how about the guy sitting next to you, Ochocinco? He was complaining about people hitting too hard in the preseason.Ben responded but didn't really take the bait: "I don't need to comment on that," Roethlisberger said. "I want to focus on winning championships."Do you care what Terrell Owens has to say? Do you care what Terrell Owens has to say? yes36.1%no23.6%No and I never will40.3%Total votes: 216Ben's teammate Hines Ward also chimed in on it: "We're not even going to listen to T.O.'s show. When you're at that point, you're just trying to pump up your show as much as you can so people can talk about it."Couldn't have said it better myself. Ben wasn't the only victim from the T.Ocho show, as Owens called out New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis, calling him "an average player." Owens and the Bengals faced Revis and the Jets on Thanksgiving night, and Revis covered Owens mostly. Owens had three catches for 44 yards. Maybe Owens is the average player.I just don't know where Owens gets off. He is a proven cancer in the locker room, getting kicked off of nfl jerseys
three different teams, and is currently playing for his fifth NFL team. He has great stats but has always been prone to drops. Every team that T.O. goes to turns into absolute garbage. The Cincinnati Bengals were a playoff team a year ago and are now 2-9, tied for the second-worst record in the NFL.I've even heard some people call him a "Hall of Famer." That's hilarious. Stats don't get you in alone. Owens could arguably be the worst teammate in NFL history and is by far and away one of the most overrated players in the league.His NFL peers seem to agree with me. In a recent Sports Illustrated poll, Owens was voted as the most overrated player in the league. There's a reason that the Bengals were the only team that wanted him this year. I'm sure they regret the signing now.Would you want Terrell Owens on your team? Would you want Terrell Owens on your team? yes53.7%no46.3%Total votes: 242My advice for Owens is shut the hell up! You and Ocho have now become the official laughing stocks of Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
the entire NFL. Those two players are everything that is wrong with this league. Hopefully next season, every NFL team comes to their senses and refuses to sign Owens. He needs a humbling experience. The sad thing is I'm not sure that will help. Owens is a disgrace to everyone that has ever played football, yet he doesn't seem to care. I just don't know who Owens thinks he is
2010年12月13日星期一
Cleveland Browns Head Coach Eric Mangini: Should He Stay or Should He Go?
Eric ManginiMatt Sullivan/Getty ImagesHead coaches, or any coach for that matter, are usually judged by their record, how many wins they have achieved. A coaches level of performance is gauged by a winning record, which does not always reflect the impact or lack of, that the coach has had on his team. Fans, owners, and the media are so engulfed in winning percentages that they often overlook the improvements a team has made, although their record may not show it. This is the case of Eric Mangini, head coach of Chargers jersey
the Cleveland Browns.Eric Mangini came to the Cleveland Browns in 2009, replacing head coach Romeo Crennel. Coach Mangini inherited a team that achieved 4 wins and 12 losses in 2008 under the supervision, or lack of supervision of Coach Crennel. Mangini, trying to build on the talent the Cleveland Browns had at their disposal, and building his program, went a dismal 5 wins and 11 losses in 2009. The 2009 Browns ranked 29th in offense, being led by Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson, who at times, played like the Browns had no quarterback at all. The single highlight of the season was winning the final four games of the season, possibly meaning that Coach Mangini was finally getting control of his team.2010 brought many changes to the Cleveland Browns, changes that would prove beneficial to Mangini. Rookies Colt McCoy, T.J. Ward, and Joe Haden are having an impact, and contributing to the teams performance.Team President Mike Holmgren, and General Manager Tom Heckert are constantly involved in acquiring players that may improve the Browns chances of winning. The Cleveland Browns, at the time this article was written, have a record of 4 wins and 7 losses, which is not impressive, however it is an improvement over the 1 win 10 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
losses at this time last year. What does impress me is that this team seems to be playing as just that, a team. Looking at the seven losses, you will find that four of those losses were decided by four points or less, meaning the Browns were competitive till the end. It is simple to see that this team has made improvements over last year. A great deal of this improvement comes from drafting and acquiring players who can have an impact on the game.Coach Mangini, along with his coaching staff are attempting to build a winning program. President Mike Holmgren, and General Manager Tom Heckert are aiding this coaching staff by constantly trying to improve the roster, giving Mangini the players needed to have a successful program.Eric Mangini is in his second year as head coach of the Cleveland Browns. While the Browns record is by no means impressive, the play on the field has improved greatly over last year. Eric Mangini is finally gaining control of this team, and the players are responding. The addition of 43 Polamalu white jersey
key players, along with input from the front office gives Mangini necessary tools to implement a competitive program. This years Browns have become fun to watch and proven that they can compete with anyone, that cannot be said about last years Browns. Should Mangini be fired at the end of the season? I think not, the Browns are improving, let's not throw a wrench in the building process.
the Cleveland Browns.Eric Mangini came to the Cleveland Browns in 2009, replacing head coach Romeo Crennel. Coach Mangini inherited a team that achieved 4 wins and 12 losses in 2008 under the supervision, or lack of supervision of Coach Crennel. Mangini, trying to build on the talent the Cleveland Browns had at their disposal, and building his program, went a dismal 5 wins and 11 losses in 2009. The 2009 Browns ranked 29th in offense, being led by Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson, who at times, played like the Browns had no quarterback at all. The single highlight of the season was winning the final four games of the season, possibly meaning that Coach Mangini was finally getting control of his team.2010 brought many changes to the Cleveland Browns, changes that would prove beneficial to Mangini. Rookies Colt McCoy, T.J. Ward, and Joe Haden are having an impact, and contributing to the teams performance.Team President Mike Holmgren, and General Manager Tom Heckert are constantly involved in acquiring players that may improve the Browns chances of winning. The Cleveland Browns, at the time this article was written, have a record of 4 wins and 7 losses, which is not impressive, however it is an improvement over the 1 win 10 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
losses at this time last year. What does impress me is that this team seems to be playing as just that, a team. Looking at the seven losses, you will find that four of those losses were decided by four points or less, meaning the Browns were competitive till the end. It is simple to see that this team has made improvements over last year. A great deal of this improvement comes from drafting and acquiring players who can have an impact on the game.Coach Mangini, along with his coaching staff are attempting to build a winning program. President Mike Holmgren, and General Manager Tom Heckert are aiding this coaching staff by constantly trying to improve the roster, giving Mangini the players needed to have a successful program.Eric Mangini is in his second year as head coach of the Cleveland Browns. While the Browns record is by no means impressive, the play on the field has improved greatly over last year. Eric Mangini is finally gaining control of this team, and the players are responding. The addition of 43 Polamalu white jersey
key players, along with input from the front office gives Mangini necessary tools to implement a competitive program. This years Browns have become fun to watch and proven that they can compete with anyone, that cannot be said about last years Browns. Should Mangini be fired at the end of the season? I think not, the Browns are improving, let's not throw a wrench in the building process.
2010年12月12日星期日
eyton Manning On Pace For 5,000 Yards, Completions Record As Colts Eye Playoffs
Manning Warming Up Before Thursday's Titans Game.Andy Lyons/Getty ImagesWhen Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts walked off the field Sunday evening following their third straight loss, a chorus arose singing the possible end of the Colts' decade-long playoff run, and with it, the Manning era.NFL Network claimed "there is no easy solution for the Colts," with "all" of their problems. ESPN's Mark Schlereth said on Mike and Mike in the Morning that the Colts "will not make the playoffs."The Indianapolis Chargers jersey
Star was quick to point out that Manning "joins [Aaron] Brooks (2001), Brett Favre (1998) and Jim Kelly (1996) as the only QBs with at least three pickoffs in three consecutive games in the past 20 years."Bleacher Report asked if the Colts' quarterback was overrated.Hold your horses.It's true that Manning and the Colts find themselves in unfamiliar territory. At 6-6, they have the most losses since 2002. That year, though, and every year since, they made the playoffs. You have to go back one more year, 2001, when the Colts lost 10, to find Peyton on the postseason sidelines.It's true that Manning personally lost that Sunday game against the Dallas Cowboys with his four interceptions, for which he took credit post-game."Two interceptions for touchdowns put our defense [and our team] in the hole. I don't want to make any excuses...I've just got to play better. I've just got to make better decisions and better reads."Addai's...And The Rest Of The Injuries...Are Hurting The ColtsWin McNamee/Getty ImagesBut, before you phone the glue factory and New Orleans' retirement homes, take another look. Manning is in fact having one of the best years of his career, interceptions not withstanding.It may in fact be one for the record books. He deserves even more credit when you consider the lack of a running threat and a weak offensive line, and take into account the injuries the Colts have been dealing with all season: Addai, Clark, Collie, Hart—the Colts injury report is a long list, indeed.Yes, Manning is on pace for 20 interceptions. If they come in bunches or lose games like the Dallas one, it's a big deal. Dan Marino threw 21, 23, 23 and 22 interceptions during some of his best years. Dan Fouts was a First Team All-Pro in 1979 with 24 interceptions. But will Manning continue to throw them?And take a look at these other stats:Currently, Manning stands at 3,709 yards over the first 12 games of the season. Averaged over the course of a full season, that would total 4,945—already third most ever thrown, behind the only two quarterbacks to throw for 5,000 yards: Dan Marino and Drew Brees (see top 10 below). Manning can even break the record.It's almost certain he will break the single-season pass attempts record which is 691 off the arm of Drew Bledsoe (Patriots, 1994). Peyton has thrown the ball 534 times so far, which will give him a total of 712 for the full season—the first QB to pass over 700 times.Peyton Manning Is Within Reach Of Single-Season Yardage, Attempts, And Completions RecordsAndy Lyons/Getty ImagesLess certain, though quite possible, Manning can break the single-season record for pass completions, topping Drew Brees' 440 in 2007 for the New Orleans Saints. Peyton stands at 353 through 12 games, which would give him 470 by year's end...plenty of breathing room.With the Colts on the outside of the playoff picture looking in, there is even greater pressure on Manning to perform. In that same post-game press conference, Manning said, "I'm continuing to throw. I'll keep throwing." That sounds like a quarterback who will be able to achieve those yardage, completion and attempts 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
milestones.Secondly, it is difficult to believe Manning will continue to make the same mistakes. The odds are he won't repeat such a cluster of errors. History indicates that Peyton Manning does not fluster easily—rather, he rises to the occasion. As he takes the practice field over the course of this and the following weeks, his focus will be to protect the ball—which will certainly lower the turnover factor.If running back Javarris James and the Indianapolis defense can show a little something down the stretch, the situation is ripe for the Colts to make the playoffs.So, before you finish writing Manning's and the Colts' epitaphs, take a look at the team's upcoming schedule:Game 13: at Tennessee Titans (Thu, Dec. 9)Will The Colts Make The Playoffs?Will The Colts Make The Playoffs?Yes100.0%No0.0%Total votes: 1Game 14: vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (Sun, Dec. 19)Game 15: at Oakland Raiders (Sun, Dec. 26)Game 16: vs. Tennessee Titans (Sun, Jan. 2)The Colts can win all four of these games.Three of their final four games are against fellow AFC South teams: two against the 5-7 Titans, and one against the 7-5 division-leading Jaguars (who are just a game up).Tennessee is ranked 23rd this year in opponent passing yards per game, while AFC South leader Jacksonville is even worse, at 27th. And, don't forget how bad the Jaguars looked earlier this season.It looks like the Raiders at home might be the scariest matchup here, one that may sabotage Manning's path to 5,000 yards and throw a wrench in the Colts' playoff plans. You can bet it is a matchup they will be ready for.Follow your Colts all year long at Bleacher Report's Indianapolis Colts Site.Top 10 Seasons - Passing Yardage (Team, Year)1. Dan Marino - 5,084 (Miami Dolphins, 1984)2. Drew Brees - 5,069 (New Orleans Saints, 2008)3. Kurt Warner - 4,830 (St. Louis Rams, 2001)4. Tom Brady - 4,806 (New England Patriots, 2007)5. Dan Fouts - 4,802 (San Diego Chargers, 1981)6. Matt Schaub - 4,770 (Houston Texans, 2009)7. Dan Marino - 4,746 (Miami Dolphins, 1986)8. Daunte Culpepper - 4,717 (Minnesota Vikings, 2004)9. Dan Fouts - 4,715 (San Diego Chargers, 1980)10. Warren Moon - 4,690 (Houston Oilers, 1991)Top 10 Seasons - Pass Attempts (Team, Year)1. Drew Bledsoe - 691 (New England Patriots, 1994)2. Warren Moon - 655 (Houston Oilers, 1991)3. Drew Brees - 652 (New Orleans Saints, 2007)4. Drew Bledsoe - 636 (New England Patriots, 1995)5. Drew Brees - 635 (New Orleans Saints, 2008)6. Dan Marino - 623 (Miami Dolphins, 1986) Drew Bledsoe - 623 (New England Patriots, 1996)8. Rich Gannon - 618 (Oakland Raiders, 2002)9. Jay Cutler - 616 (Denver Broncos, 2008)10. Dan 43 Polamalu white jersey
Marino - 615 (Miami Dolphins, 1994)Top 10 Seasons - Pass Completions (Team, Year)1. Drew Brees - 440 (New Orleans Saints, 2007)2. Rich Gannon - 418 (Oakland Raiders, 2002)3. Drew Brees - 413 (New Orleans Saints, 2008)4. Warren Moon - 404 (Houston Oilers, 1991)5. Kurt Warner - 401 (Arizona Cardinals, 2008)6. Drew Bledsoe - 400 (New England Patriots, 1994)7. Tom Brady - 398 (New England Patriots, 2007)8. Matt Schaub - 396 (Houston Texans, 2009)9. Peyton Manning - 393 (Indianapolis Colts, 2009)10. Peyton Manning - 392 (Indianapolis Colts, 2002)
Star was quick to point out that Manning "joins [Aaron] Brooks (2001), Brett Favre (1998) and Jim Kelly (1996) as the only QBs with at least three pickoffs in three consecutive games in the past 20 years."Bleacher Report asked if the Colts' quarterback was overrated.Hold your horses.It's true that Manning and the Colts find themselves in unfamiliar territory. At 6-6, they have the most losses since 2002. That year, though, and every year since, they made the playoffs. You have to go back one more year, 2001, when the Colts lost 10, to find Peyton on the postseason sidelines.It's true that Manning personally lost that Sunday game against the Dallas Cowboys with his four interceptions, for which he took credit post-game."Two interceptions for touchdowns put our defense [and our team] in the hole. I don't want to make any excuses...I've just got to play better. I've just got to make better decisions and better reads."Addai's...And The Rest Of The Injuries...Are Hurting The ColtsWin McNamee/Getty ImagesBut, before you phone the glue factory and New Orleans' retirement homes, take another look. Manning is in fact having one of the best years of his career, interceptions not withstanding.It may in fact be one for the record books. He deserves even more credit when you consider the lack of a running threat and a weak offensive line, and take into account the injuries the Colts have been dealing with all season: Addai, Clark, Collie, Hart—the Colts injury report is a long list, indeed.Yes, Manning is on pace for 20 interceptions. If they come in bunches or lose games like the Dallas one, it's a big deal. Dan Marino threw 21, 23, 23 and 22 interceptions during some of his best years. Dan Fouts was a First Team All-Pro in 1979 with 24 interceptions. But will Manning continue to throw them?And take a look at these other stats:Currently, Manning stands at 3,709 yards over the first 12 games of the season. Averaged over the course of a full season, that would total 4,945—already third most ever thrown, behind the only two quarterbacks to throw for 5,000 yards: Dan Marino and Drew Brees (see top 10 below). Manning can even break the record.It's almost certain he will break the single-season pass attempts record which is 691 off the arm of Drew Bledsoe (Patriots, 1994). Peyton has thrown the ball 534 times so far, which will give him a total of 712 for the full season—the first QB to pass over 700 times.Peyton Manning Is Within Reach Of Single-Season Yardage, Attempts, And Completions RecordsAndy Lyons/Getty ImagesLess certain, though quite possible, Manning can break the single-season record for pass completions, topping Drew Brees' 440 in 2007 for the New Orleans Saints. Peyton stands at 353 through 12 games, which would give him 470 by year's end...plenty of breathing room.With the Colts on the outside of the playoff picture looking in, there is even greater pressure on Manning to perform. In that same post-game press conference, Manning said, "I'm continuing to throw. I'll keep throwing." That sounds like a quarterback who will be able to achieve those yardage, completion and attempts 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
milestones.Secondly, it is difficult to believe Manning will continue to make the same mistakes. The odds are he won't repeat such a cluster of errors. History indicates that Peyton Manning does not fluster easily—rather, he rises to the occasion. As he takes the practice field over the course of this and the following weeks, his focus will be to protect the ball—which will certainly lower the turnover factor.If running back Javarris James and the Indianapolis defense can show a little something down the stretch, the situation is ripe for the Colts to make the playoffs.So, before you finish writing Manning's and the Colts' epitaphs, take a look at the team's upcoming schedule:Game 13: at Tennessee Titans (Thu, Dec. 9)Will The Colts Make The Playoffs?Will The Colts Make The Playoffs?Yes100.0%No0.0%Total votes: 1Game 14: vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (Sun, Dec. 19)Game 15: at Oakland Raiders (Sun, Dec. 26)Game 16: vs. Tennessee Titans (Sun, Jan. 2)The Colts can win all four of these games.Three of their final four games are against fellow AFC South teams: two against the 5-7 Titans, and one against the 7-5 division-leading Jaguars (who are just a game up).Tennessee is ranked 23rd this year in opponent passing yards per game, while AFC South leader Jacksonville is even worse, at 27th. And, don't forget how bad the Jaguars looked earlier this season.It looks like the Raiders at home might be the scariest matchup here, one that may sabotage Manning's path to 5,000 yards and throw a wrench in the Colts' playoff plans. You can bet it is a matchup they will be ready for.Follow your Colts all year long at Bleacher Report's Indianapolis Colts Site.Top 10 Seasons - Passing Yardage (Team, Year)1. Dan Marino - 5,084 (Miami Dolphins, 1984)2. Drew Brees - 5,069 (New Orleans Saints, 2008)3. Kurt Warner - 4,830 (St. Louis Rams, 2001)4. Tom Brady - 4,806 (New England Patriots, 2007)5. Dan Fouts - 4,802 (San Diego Chargers, 1981)6. Matt Schaub - 4,770 (Houston Texans, 2009)7. Dan Marino - 4,746 (Miami Dolphins, 1986)8. Daunte Culpepper - 4,717 (Minnesota Vikings, 2004)9. Dan Fouts - 4,715 (San Diego Chargers, 1980)10. Warren Moon - 4,690 (Houston Oilers, 1991)Top 10 Seasons - Pass Attempts (Team, Year)1. Drew Bledsoe - 691 (New England Patriots, 1994)2. Warren Moon - 655 (Houston Oilers, 1991)3. Drew Brees - 652 (New Orleans Saints, 2007)4. Drew Bledsoe - 636 (New England Patriots, 1995)5. Drew Brees - 635 (New Orleans Saints, 2008)6. Dan Marino - 623 (Miami Dolphins, 1986) Drew Bledsoe - 623 (New England Patriots, 1996)8. Rich Gannon - 618 (Oakland Raiders, 2002)9. Jay Cutler - 616 (Denver Broncos, 2008)10. Dan 43 Polamalu white jersey
Marino - 615 (Miami Dolphins, 1994)Top 10 Seasons - Pass Completions (Team, Year)1. Drew Brees - 440 (New Orleans Saints, 2007)2. Rich Gannon - 418 (Oakland Raiders, 2002)3. Drew Brees - 413 (New Orleans Saints, 2008)4. Warren Moon - 404 (Houston Oilers, 1991)5. Kurt Warner - 401 (Arizona Cardinals, 2008)6. Drew Bledsoe - 400 (New England Patriots, 1994)7. Tom Brady - 398 (New England Patriots, 2007)8. Matt Schaub - 396 (Houston Texans, 2009)9. Peyton Manning - 393 (Indianapolis Colts, 2009)10. Peyton Manning - 392 (Indianapolis Colts, 2002)
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