Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesTexasReebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
football is reeling after the UCLA loss, while Bob Stoops' Oklahoma football team seeks consistencyView complete "Matchup Stats" for Texas and Oklahoma at Big12Matchups.com.The aroma of fried food is wafting through the air at the State Fairgrounds in Dallas and people are lined up to ride the Texas Star. This means it is time for the Red River game Saturday with Texas and Oklahoma both looking to take a step forward in the Big 12 South.Oklahoma is coming off of another inconsistent performance against Big East member Cincinnati. The good news for Sooner fans is their team squeaked out a 31-29 win to remain undefeated on the season.Texas, meanwhile, did not fare as well in their match with UCLA. It was a dismal day for the Longhorns as the Bruins dominated the game from start to finish and left bruised feelings behind as they took Texas down, 34-12.So, how do Texas and Oklahoma look on paper? Consider first the Sooner offense against the Longhorn defense.Oklahoma moves the ball well and puts points on the scoreboard, but 71 percent of their offense comes through the air. While Texas may have looked lousy last weekend, it was not their pass-defense that was shredded. Nationally, against the pass, the Longhorns rank sixth. Against UCLA, they only gave up 27 yards passing, but in fairness, the Bruins tried less than two handfuls of passes.So who has the edge when Texas is on defense against the Sooners? Looking at the numbers, Texas gets the nod just because Oklahoma is not trying to do enough on the run.Want an iPhone app with stats, rosters schedules and more? Click here to visit the iTunes store.Running back DeMarco Murray is the key to flipping the advantage back to the Sooners. He is averaging 4.15 yards per carry this season and Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
has totaled 436 yards through Oklahomafirst four games. If the Oklahoma offense can score points while moving the balance of running and passing yards closer to 40/60, it will give them a huge boost in this game.Now, what does it look like when Texas has the football and Oklahoma is playing "D"?This season, Oklahoma has managed to give back all but eight yards of what their offense gains on average each game. So, while the Sooners are good at moving the ball, they are not doing very well when it comes to stopping the other guys.Oklahoma has not done too badly against the rush except when they faced Air Force and their option attack. In the other three games, they have only given up an average of 119 yards per game.Texas provided UCLA the shovel so they could bury them last Saturday. When you give up four fumbles and one interception during a game you are just gift-wrapping a win for the other team.So far, Texas has given the ball back to the other team 10 times this season. Think how much better the yards per game and scoring would look if they cut that number in half. Think about how much better the defense could look if they were not being called on to bail out the mistakes of the offense.Comparing the Oklahoma defense to the Texas offense is tricky, but by just the slightest of margins the edge goes to the Longhorns.There are two ways Oklahoma can regain the advantage over Texas when these units are on the field. First, they need to win on third down. Oklahoma currently allows other teams to convert at a rate of 40 percent on third down.To state the obvious, if your defense is off the field, then the offense has more opportunities to rack up points.Second, the Sooner defenders must swarm to the ball. If Texas drops the football, it increases the odds of Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
making the recovery if your side has lots of bodies there.The call for the game? Texas should win the game. Should.On paper they are also a better team than UCLA. Count on Bob Stoops to have his Sooners ready for this game and the energy to be more consistent with what was shown in their meeting with Florida State. Given the unanswered questions both team have, this game is a genuine toss-up.
2011年1月24日星期一
2011年1月22日星期六
22 Jan 11 Week 3 Recap: Nebraska Cornhuskers Dominate Washington Huskies
Otto Greule Jr/Getty ImagesWeek three's SWOT analysis is, quite frankly, very easy to write. The first two games of the season were a mixed bag of great performances and head-scratching mistakes against inferior foes.It's true that the Huskers faced an easier opponent for the third consecutive Saturday, but at leastthey faceda BCS team on the road in a traditionally difficult environment for visitors. Many questions remained unanswered for Nebraskaafter the Idaho game:How do theystack up against BCS competition? How wouldfreshman QB Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
Taylor Martinez performin his first start on the road? Will the hostile, loud crowd contribute to the Husker's penchant for committing penalties? Will turnovers finally catch up to the offense against a much better Washingtonteam?Couldthe Huskerssecondary contain quarterback Jake Locker, who isexpected to be a top-five in the 2011NFL draft?Nebraska stomped into Husky stadium, asserted its will on the home team, destroyed a Heisman campaign, and turned a potential trap game into a laugher. In the end, itturns out that Idaho provided more of a challenge for themthan the Huskies. Now, on to the SWOT:Strengths7.1 yards and a cloud of dust.Last week I lamented that Nebraska proved it could score from the 50-yard line but seemed to have problems mounting sustained, clock-eating drives. Obviously Shawn Watson and Barney Cotton (the Husker's offensive coordinator and offensive line coach, respectively) read my analysis and decided to prove me wrong.The offensive line played like men against a pee wee team. A nearly 10 minute difference in time of possession solidified Watson's commitment to game management.Even better news: the time differential got better for the Huskers as the game wore on. Washington held the ball for over nine minutes in the first quarter while Nebraska won the clock battle in all succeeding quarters,including nearly 11 minutes in the fourth quarter.Martinized.Any questions about Nebraska's inexperienced freshman quarterback? Martinez had more miscues at home last week than on the road this week. Once again, he leads the team in rushing.His 7-11 and no INT passing performance was the model of efficiency in a hostile stadium. Sure, hewas sacked three timesbut did I mention he led the team in rushing? Again? Speaking of which...A little help from his friends.Martinez, or T-Mart, or T-Magic, or whatever the Husker fan base wants to call him (I sense another column coming up to squash this nickname issue) had some company in the 100-yard club. Along with the QB's 137 net yards, seniorReebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
Roy Helu, Jr. contributed 110 and sophomore Rex Burkhead pitched in 104. It was only the fifth time in school history that threeNebraska players rushed for 100+ yards. And the first time ever that Washington allowed that feat.Today's Pick-Six Winner is...Three interceptions returnedfor touchdowns in two games for the defense. This week CBAlfonzo Dennard got into the act. The Huskers need only three more to break the school record for a season. I'm looking at you, Missouri.WeaknessesMental Lapses.Ok, let's reach to find a weakness this week. The stellar, other-worldly defensive secondary had its once-a-game mental lapse on Heisman dope-ful Jake Locker's only TD pass of the day, a 45-yard strike to Jermaine Kearse that resulted from a missed assignment by Nebraska's safeties.It temporarily halted momentum forthe Huskersafter opening the second half on a one-play, 80-yard TD drive by Martinez that should have ended hope on the purple sideline.OpportunitiesScoreboard.Is it just me or does it seem like there is really no intimidating presence in the Big 12 this year? Check out these scores from around the Big 12: Oklahoma 27, Air Force 24; Missouri 27, San Diego State 24; Texas AM 27, Florida International 20. Kansas 16, Southern Miss 31.Colorado was down 10-0 at home at the half against Hawaii. Texas and Kansas State don't look awe-inspiring. Oklahoma State struggled against Troy last week. This could be a really special year for the Huskers.ThreatsStringing out the QBs.When Martinez started at quarterback in the firstweek of the season,the deepest position on the team seemed to be QB. Think about it: the starter is a freshman, the back-up is a sophomorewho started two games last year, and the third stringer is a senior who started in 12 games in 2009.Yet, Cody Green's two fumbles and the complete absence of Zac Lee makes one wonder where Nebraska would be if the unthinkable happened.Jacked-up.Nebraska rolled through its first three opponents and is eager to start their final Big 12 Conference campaign on a nationally-televised Thursday night game at Kansas State. But the team must not forget the trap game coming up this Saturday in Lincoln against a gritty South Dakota State team.A Husker let-down against a determined Jackrabbit squad would destroy Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
the season andoh, hell. Who am I kidding? I couldn't write this with a straight face. Next Saturday will be a great night to take the family out to dinner, with an ear piece on, of course.Get the Red out!Lil' Red was given face time on this ABC/ESPN regional telecast. The more this puffed-up balloon boy shows up on TV the less intimidating the Husker football team becomes. I've made my stance perfectly clear on who should be representing this program.So, Nebraska passes what wassupposed to beits first real test with flying colors. The question is, did they pass because Washington really is that bad or because Nebraska is really that good? Who cares? South Dakota State is next.
Taylor Martinez performin his first start on the road? Will the hostile, loud crowd contribute to the Husker's penchant for committing penalties? Will turnovers finally catch up to the offense against a much better Washingtonteam?Couldthe Huskerssecondary contain quarterback Jake Locker, who isexpected to be a top-five in the 2011NFL draft?Nebraska stomped into Husky stadium, asserted its will on the home team, destroyed a Heisman campaign, and turned a potential trap game into a laugher. In the end, itturns out that Idaho provided more of a challenge for themthan the Huskies. Now, on to the SWOT:Strengths7.1 yards and a cloud of dust.Last week I lamented that Nebraska proved it could score from the 50-yard line but seemed to have problems mounting sustained, clock-eating drives. Obviously Shawn Watson and Barney Cotton (the Husker's offensive coordinator and offensive line coach, respectively) read my analysis and decided to prove me wrong.The offensive line played like men against a pee wee team. A nearly 10 minute difference in time of possession solidified Watson's commitment to game management.Even better news: the time differential got better for the Huskers as the game wore on. Washington held the ball for over nine minutes in the first quarter while Nebraska won the clock battle in all succeeding quarters,including nearly 11 minutes in the fourth quarter.Martinized.Any questions about Nebraska's inexperienced freshman quarterback? Martinez had more miscues at home last week than on the road this week. Once again, he leads the team in rushing.His 7-11 and no INT passing performance was the model of efficiency in a hostile stadium. Sure, hewas sacked three timesbut did I mention he led the team in rushing? Again? Speaking of which...A little help from his friends.Martinez, or T-Mart, or T-Magic, or whatever the Husker fan base wants to call him (I sense another column coming up to squash this nickname issue) had some company in the 100-yard club. Along with the QB's 137 net yards, seniorReebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
Roy Helu, Jr. contributed 110 and sophomore Rex Burkhead pitched in 104. It was only the fifth time in school history that threeNebraska players rushed for 100+ yards. And the first time ever that Washington allowed that feat.Today's Pick-Six Winner is...Three interceptions returnedfor touchdowns in two games for the defense. This week CBAlfonzo Dennard got into the act. The Huskers need only three more to break the school record for a season. I'm looking at you, Missouri.WeaknessesMental Lapses.Ok, let's reach to find a weakness this week. The stellar, other-worldly defensive secondary had its once-a-game mental lapse on Heisman dope-ful Jake Locker's only TD pass of the day, a 45-yard strike to Jermaine Kearse that resulted from a missed assignment by Nebraska's safeties.It temporarily halted momentum forthe Huskersafter opening the second half on a one-play, 80-yard TD drive by Martinez that should have ended hope on the purple sideline.OpportunitiesScoreboard.Is it just me or does it seem like there is really no intimidating presence in the Big 12 this year? Check out these scores from around the Big 12: Oklahoma 27, Air Force 24; Missouri 27, San Diego State 24; Texas AM 27, Florida International 20. Kansas 16, Southern Miss 31.Colorado was down 10-0 at home at the half against Hawaii. Texas and Kansas State don't look awe-inspiring. Oklahoma State struggled against Troy last week. This could be a really special year for the Huskers.ThreatsStringing out the QBs.When Martinez started at quarterback in the firstweek of the season,the deepest position on the team seemed to be QB. Think about it: the starter is a freshman, the back-up is a sophomorewho started two games last year, and the third stringer is a senior who started in 12 games in 2009.Yet, Cody Green's two fumbles and the complete absence of Zac Lee makes one wonder where Nebraska would be if the unthinkable happened.Jacked-up.Nebraska rolled through its first three opponents and is eager to start their final Big 12 Conference campaign on a nationally-televised Thursday night game at Kansas State. But the team must not forget the trap game coming up this Saturday in Lincoln against a gritty South Dakota State team.A Husker let-down against a determined Jackrabbit squad would destroy Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
the season andoh, hell. Who am I kidding? I couldn't write this with a straight face. Next Saturday will be a great night to take the family out to dinner, with an ear piece on, of course.Get the Red out!Lil' Red was given face time on this ABC/ESPN regional telecast. The more this puffed-up balloon boy shows up on TV the less intimidating the Husker football team becomes. I've made my stance perfectly clear on who should be representing this program.So, Nebraska passes what wassupposed to beits first real test with flying colors. The question is, did they pass because Washington really is that bad or because Nebraska is really that good? Who cares? South Dakota State is next.
2011年1月18日星期二
18 Jan 11 Wisconsin Football: Austin Peay Governors Coming To Madison With No Expectations
When the Wisconsin Badgers Run Out Of The Tunnel At Camp Randall, The Austin Peay Governors Wil Find That Game Film Wont Prepare You For Gametime Atmospheres Like Camp RandallEthan Miller/Getty ImagesThe Austin Peay Governors (named after the Governor by the same name who served Tennessee Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
from 1923-27) are coming to Madison with very low expectations. Coach Rick Christophel hasn't had a winning year in his five year tenure, and says while the program is starting to turn the corner with pieces like running backs Ryan White and Terrence Holta standout seniorthey're nowhere where they'd like to be as a program. "We've got to get to that upper-echelon level. We're not there yet. There's three, four, five teams in our conference that are there. That's how you measure yourself. When you go outside the conference, then maybe you'll be able to compete." Christophel said. Austin Peay plays in the OVC, the Ohio Valley Conference of the FCS. For Austin Peay, staying on the field long enough at least competently, would be nice. "It's going to be hard to tell after a game like this because Wisconsin's so good," Christophel said. Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
"If we can just play our assignments and do the things we're supposed to do, then hopefully we can be competitiveve enough to stay on the field for a little while." The Governors have little to lose, but the intimidation factor will definitely be there, coming out of the tunnel on to the field to play the Badgers, with just a handful of fans in their corner, out of thousands.The offense of Austin Peay will be very limited, likely focused in large on Holt (700-plus rushing yards and 13 touchdowns last season) but the attack shouldn't be too much to handle. For the Badgers, it's a refresher on what needs to be worked on, where they can improve, and getting healthy against a lesser opponent. Starters will get their time on the field, but once the Badgers pull aheadand they willthe backups (namely Montee Ball, James White, some interior linemen) should get plenty of garbage time reps. Junior running back John Clay and his physical running style should make short work of the Governors defense, and continue into Big Ten play stronger than in previous weeks. Clay sits at 383 yards and five touchdowns, but I'm sure he'd love to bump those numbers up to perhaps 500 yards and seven or eight scores. That would certainly put him back in the discussion of Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year again, an award he won last season. Quarterback Scott Tolzien will hopefully continue to grow into his role, and progress further as a passer for the Badgers. It's key that he keeps developing his passing game (which is already rather efficient and low on mistakes) because the runningReebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
game needs the passing game to work well to keep defenses honest, keeping men in traditional positions rather than loading the box suspecting run. If the No. 11 Badgers want to make a serious BCS push, it starts Oct. 2nd, at Michigan St. If they can roll over Austin Peay Saturday, look for a hot Badgers team to roll into conference play with issues resolved.
from 1923-27) are coming to Madison with very low expectations. Coach Rick Christophel hasn't had a winning year in his five year tenure, and says while the program is starting to turn the corner with pieces like running backs Ryan White and Terrence Holta standout seniorthey're nowhere where they'd like to be as a program. "We've got to get to that upper-echelon level. We're not there yet. There's three, four, five teams in our conference that are there. That's how you measure yourself. When you go outside the conference, then maybe you'll be able to compete." Christophel said. Austin Peay plays in the OVC, the Ohio Valley Conference of the FCS. For Austin Peay, staying on the field long enough at least competently, would be nice. "It's going to be hard to tell after a game like this because Wisconsin's so good," Christophel said. Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
"If we can just play our assignments and do the things we're supposed to do, then hopefully we can be competitiveve enough to stay on the field for a little while." The Governors have little to lose, but the intimidation factor will definitely be there, coming out of the tunnel on to the field to play the Badgers, with just a handful of fans in their corner, out of thousands.The offense of Austin Peay will be very limited, likely focused in large on Holt (700-plus rushing yards and 13 touchdowns last season) but the attack shouldn't be too much to handle. For the Badgers, it's a refresher on what needs to be worked on, where they can improve, and getting healthy against a lesser opponent. Starters will get their time on the field, but once the Badgers pull aheadand they willthe backups (namely Montee Ball, James White, some interior linemen) should get plenty of garbage time reps. Junior running back John Clay and his physical running style should make short work of the Governors defense, and continue into Big Ten play stronger than in previous weeks. Clay sits at 383 yards and five touchdowns, but I'm sure he'd love to bump those numbers up to perhaps 500 yards and seven or eight scores. That would certainly put him back in the discussion of Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year again, an award he won last season. Quarterback Scott Tolzien will hopefully continue to grow into his role, and progress further as a passer for the Badgers. It's key that he keeps developing his passing game (which is already rather efficient and low on mistakes) because the runningReebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
game needs the passing game to work well to keep defenses honest, keeping men in traditional positions rather than loading the box suspecting run. If the No. 11 Badgers want to make a serious BCS push, it starts Oct. 2nd, at Michigan St. If they can roll over Austin Peay Saturday, look for a hot Badgers team to roll into conference play with issues resolved.
2011年1月15日星期六
15 Jan 11 St. Louis Rams Week 1 Report Card Marc Bulger Leonard Little
The more things change, the more they stay the same. In Sunday's win at home versus the Denver Broncos, the St. Louis Rams' defense forced five turnovers but couldn't stop the run. The Rams' offense displayed a vastly improved rushing attack but was still unable to find the end zone. The Rams' special teams contained the Broncos' returners and proved that Jeff Wilkins can still kick, yet were anything but special returning the ball themselves. As a result, the Rams' grades are something of a mixed bag:Quarterback: Considered among the most accurate passers in the Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
league, Marc Bulger turned in a pedestrian effort on Sunday. Bulger's career passing percentage is an impressive 65 percent, yet he managed only 18-for-34 for 217 yards, barely over 50 percent. What may be considered a decent outing for other quarterbacks is extremely average for Bulger. Continuing the touchdown drought of the preseason, Bulger should get better in subsequent games after he has knocked the rust off. He missed a couple throws he normally makes, including a wide open Torry Holt in the end zone. Grade: B -Receivers: A decent, if unspectacular outing. Holt and Issac Bruce had solid games, catching seven balls for 80 yards and five for 64, respectively. However, the Rams saw virtually nothing from third and fourth receivers Kevin Curtis and Shaun McDonald. Head coach Scott Linehan's dedication to the run could come at the expense of opportunities for the Rams' talented backups. Note: Congratulations to Issac Bruce, who passed Shannon Sharpe and former Ram Henry Ellard for 11th place on the NFL all time list with 818 receptions. Grade: BRunning backs: It seems Linehan will afford Steven Jackson the opportunity he's been asking for; now he must literally take the ball and run with it. Jackson rushed for 121 yards on 22 attempts and generally looked strong throughout the game. Unfortunately, Jackson still shows a propensity for trying to juke the entire defense in the backfield, causing him to have multiple rushes for negative yardage (he led the league in this category last season). Although elusive at his size, Jackson is no Marshall Faulk and must learn to recognize when there are no holes and push the pile for a couple yards. Jackson can be downright scary when running north and south, evidenced by his dragging of defenders for first downs on Sunday. Tony Fisher was productive in his backup role, with two receptions for 54 yards. Grade: B +Offensive line: The line did a credible job opening up some holes for Jackson and generally looked strong early. Unfortunately, center Andy McCollum went down with what is being deemed a serious knee injury in the second quarter. Without McCollum, the Rams' linemen went on to give up three sacks and committed numerous penalties. Backup center Larry Turner watched Broncos' defensive end Kenard Lang blow byReebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
him and crush Bulger on a critical fourth-quarter drive. If McCollum is out for an extended period, look for some shuffling and veteran backup Todd Steussie to see some playing time. Grade: C +Defensive line: Leonard Little appeared unstoppable, racking up five tackles, two sacks and forcing a fumble. Little's constant harassment of Broncos quarterback Jake Plummer contributed to hurried throws and three interceptions. Anthony Hargrove contributed a sack and La'Roi Glover looked solid on the interior of the line. However, the Rams are still having trouble stopping the run, getting torched for a combined 161 yards on 25 attempts by the Denver running backs. Failing to stop the run could prove fatal in subsequent contests. Note: Jimmy Kennedy broke his hand but returned to the game with a cast. Grade: B (A - for Little's superior effort)Linebackers: Will Witherspoon earned every penny of his lucrative free agent deal, posting eight tackles and forcing a fumble to halt an early Denver drive. Witherspoon's tipped pass (and subsequent interception by Fakhir Brown) all but sealed the Broncos' fate. Pisa Tinoisamoa recovered a fumble and Brandon Chillar looked like he belongs with the first unit. Unfortunately, the Rams' linebackers must share the burden of not consistently holding up against the run and it keeps them from earning a higher grade. Grade: B +Secondary: Numerous penalties (including two pass-interference calls against Fakhir Brown) marred an otherwise stellar performance. The Rams' secondary was credited with three interceptions and a fumble recovery by O.J. Atogwe. Brown contributed a sack. They held Plummer to a mere 138 yards passing. The additions of Brown and Corey Chavous have shown immediate dividends. If the defense can continue to play at this level and the Rams' offense can return to form, St. Louis' opponents are in serious trouble. Defensive coordinator Jim Haslett's arrival has brought not only sweeping changes in personnel, but also in attitude. The aforementioned penalties (including a ridiculous unsportsmanlike conduct call for "Excessive Celebration," that could have proved costly) keep the secondary from earning a perfect score. Grade: A - Special teams: Jeff Wilkins' reliable leg simply won the game for the Rams, setting a franchise record with six field goals. Matt Turk proved to be a valuable asset, averaging 50 yards on three punts. While the Rams did nothing noteworthy returning kicks, they broke with tradition and stymied the Denver return game, disallowing any kind of meaningful gains. IfReebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
the special teams units can continue to contribute in this manner it will erase a perennial glaring weakness in the Rams. Grade: A -Much like last year the St. Louis Rams are committing far too many penalties and continue to struggle stopping the run. However, unlike last season, the Rams' defenders played inspired football and the offense proved it can run the ball. Indeed, the more things change the more they stay the same. However, the biggest change this time is the Rams pulled out a game that last year they would have lost.Get more St. Louis Rams insights (0)
league, Marc Bulger turned in a pedestrian effort on Sunday. Bulger's career passing percentage is an impressive 65 percent, yet he managed only 18-for-34 for 217 yards, barely over 50 percent. What may be considered a decent outing for other quarterbacks is extremely average for Bulger. Continuing the touchdown drought of the preseason, Bulger should get better in subsequent games after he has knocked the rust off. He missed a couple throws he normally makes, including a wide open Torry Holt in the end zone. Grade: B -Receivers: A decent, if unspectacular outing. Holt and Issac Bruce had solid games, catching seven balls for 80 yards and five for 64, respectively. However, the Rams saw virtually nothing from third and fourth receivers Kevin Curtis and Shaun McDonald. Head coach Scott Linehan's dedication to the run could come at the expense of opportunities for the Rams' talented backups. Note: Congratulations to Issac Bruce, who passed Shannon Sharpe and former Ram Henry Ellard for 11th place on the NFL all time list with 818 receptions. Grade: BRunning backs: It seems Linehan will afford Steven Jackson the opportunity he's been asking for; now he must literally take the ball and run with it. Jackson rushed for 121 yards on 22 attempts and generally looked strong throughout the game. Unfortunately, Jackson still shows a propensity for trying to juke the entire defense in the backfield, causing him to have multiple rushes for negative yardage (he led the league in this category last season). Although elusive at his size, Jackson is no Marshall Faulk and must learn to recognize when there are no holes and push the pile for a couple yards. Jackson can be downright scary when running north and south, evidenced by his dragging of defenders for first downs on Sunday. Tony Fisher was productive in his backup role, with two receptions for 54 yards. Grade: B +Offensive line: The line did a credible job opening up some holes for Jackson and generally looked strong early. Unfortunately, center Andy McCollum went down with what is being deemed a serious knee injury in the second quarter. Without McCollum, the Rams' linemen went on to give up three sacks and committed numerous penalties. Backup center Larry Turner watched Broncos' defensive end Kenard Lang blow byReebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
him and crush Bulger on a critical fourth-quarter drive. If McCollum is out for an extended period, look for some shuffling and veteran backup Todd Steussie to see some playing time. Grade: C +Defensive line: Leonard Little appeared unstoppable, racking up five tackles, two sacks and forcing a fumble. Little's constant harassment of Broncos quarterback Jake Plummer contributed to hurried throws and three interceptions. Anthony Hargrove contributed a sack and La'Roi Glover looked solid on the interior of the line. However, the Rams are still having trouble stopping the run, getting torched for a combined 161 yards on 25 attempts by the Denver running backs. Failing to stop the run could prove fatal in subsequent contests. Note: Jimmy Kennedy broke his hand but returned to the game with a cast. Grade: B (A - for Little's superior effort)Linebackers: Will Witherspoon earned every penny of his lucrative free agent deal, posting eight tackles and forcing a fumble to halt an early Denver drive. Witherspoon's tipped pass (and subsequent interception by Fakhir Brown) all but sealed the Broncos' fate. Pisa Tinoisamoa recovered a fumble and Brandon Chillar looked like he belongs with the first unit. Unfortunately, the Rams' linebackers must share the burden of not consistently holding up against the run and it keeps them from earning a higher grade. Grade: B +Secondary: Numerous penalties (including two pass-interference calls against Fakhir Brown) marred an otherwise stellar performance. The Rams' secondary was credited with three interceptions and a fumble recovery by O.J. Atogwe. Brown contributed a sack. They held Plummer to a mere 138 yards passing. The additions of Brown and Corey Chavous have shown immediate dividends. If the defense can continue to play at this level and the Rams' offense can return to form, St. Louis' opponents are in serious trouble. Defensive coordinator Jim Haslett's arrival has brought not only sweeping changes in personnel, but also in attitude. The aforementioned penalties (including a ridiculous unsportsmanlike conduct call for "Excessive Celebration," that could have proved costly) keep the secondary from earning a perfect score. Grade: A - Special teams: Jeff Wilkins' reliable leg simply won the game for the Rams, setting a franchise record with six field goals. Matt Turk proved to be a valuable asset, averaging 50 yards on three punts. While the Rams did nothing noteworthy returning kicks, they broke with tradition and stymied the Denver return game, disallowing any kind of meaningful gains. IfReebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
the special teams units can continue to contribute in this manner it will erase a perennial glaring weakness in the Rams. Grade: A -Much like last year the St. Louis Rams are committing far too many penalties and continue to struggle stopping the run. However, unlike last season, the Rams' defenders played inspired football and the offense proved it can run the ball. Indeed, the more things change the more they stay the same. However, the biggest change this time is the Rams pulled out a game that last year they would have lost.Get more St. Louis Rams insights (0)
2011年1月13日星期四
14 Jan 11 Seattle Seahawks "If not Jim Mora, then whom?"
If not Jim Mora, then whom?Mora was hired to coach the Seattle Seahawks' secondary this year, but that might not have been the primary purpose for bringing him to the team. As indicated by his other title -- "assistant head coach" -- the coach the Atlanta Falcons fired this offseason is now the No. 2 man behind Mike Holmgren in Seattle. And with Holmgren playing it one year at a time these days, team president Tim Ruskell obviously is bracing for Holmgren's departure by setting up Mora as a potential successor.While it seems like a sound contingency, it might be Carolina Panthers jersey
good for only one year. If Holmgren stays through his two-year contract, Mora might not be around to replace him in 2009 (or 2010 or whenever). As the Seahawks' assistant head coach, Mora can get out of his contract only for a head-coaching job, but he figures to get another such chance next offseason. Among those who could be looking for coaches then are the New York Giants, Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, Washington Redskins and Oakland Raiders. Of course, former Pittsburgh coach Bill Cowher figures to get the job of his choice, assuming he plans to re-enter the NFL coaching ranks. That would leave Mora going against as many as a dozen legitimate candidates for perhaps five or six other jobs. Odds are pretty decent that Mora gets one of those jobs -- if he wants it.Assuming Mora does leave Seattle after one year and Ruskell's replacement plan does fall through, the Seahawks president would have to come up with Plan B to replace Coach H.So who then could Plan B be?The first thing to keep in mind is that Ruskell will want to keep the offense intact. Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck has put in too much time mastering Holmgren's West Coast scheme, and Ruskell surely would not want to make the Pro Bowl quarterback start all over and learn a new offense. The addition of Chicago Bears jersey
Mora indicates that Ruskell is in fact looking at defensive-minded coaching candidates, but any offensive coach who favors the West Coast scheme would probably be a candidate as well. Or Ruskell could favor a coach who has been there before and knows how to manage a team. Mora fits all of those qualities.So who else fits those profiles?Defensively, there could be a number of options. Jim Haslett, former coach of the New Orleans Saints, probably deserves another shot -- and probably could succeed with a better franchise. He interviewed with Detroit and Buffalo last year, and if he can revive the St. Louis defense in his second year with the Rams, he could quickly jump back into the pool of prime candidates. The Seahawks actually looked at him in 1999 before they hired Holmgren, and he favored the West Coast offense when he was with the Saints. If the Panthers let John Fox go, the former defensive coordinator for the Giants could become another recycled candidate. Rising defensive minds include Ron Rivera, Greg Manusky as well as Rob and Rex Ryan. Rivera, formerly the Chicago Bears' defensive coordinator, has garnered the interest of at least 10 teams over the past two years. The Bears inexplicably allowed Rivera to leave this offseason -- he replaced Manusky as the linebackers coach in San Diego -- but Rivera should still command interest two years from now if the Seahawks are in the market for a new coach. So should Manusky, provided he can work wonders for San Francisco's porous defense over the next two seasons.The Ryan brothers, sons of former Chicago and Philadelphia defensive guru Buddy Ryan, both run their own NFL defenses these days. Rex is in charge of the Baltimore Ravens' vaunted unit, while Rob has turned the Oakland Raiders' defense into one of the league's better squads. A couple of experienced offensive coaches who could step in are Mike Sherman and Mike Mularkey. Sherman, who coached under Holmgren in Seattle in 1999, ran the same offense for several years in Green Bay. And Mularkey coached Buffalo for two years and is known by Ruskell from their days in Tampa Bay (1994-95).But the best choice could be someone who is not even in the NFL right now. Two years from now, Pete Carroll could be ready to leave USC. And the NFL already seems ready to have him back -- as the Miami Dolphins' interest this offseason showed. The only question would be whether Carroll would be willing to work under a general manager. But if he was, he would take over a team with a built-in offense Cincinnati Bengals jersey
and a bunch of defenders who play in a scheme similar to the one he runs at USC and who are led by one of his former stars, linebacker Lofa Tatupu. While Carroll might be a stretch, he could be the best option two years from now. Because if not Mora, then whom?RealFootball365.com: Where there's no such thing as an offseason for Seattle Seahawks football.
good for only one year. If Holmgren stays through his two-year contract, Mora might not be around to replace him in 2009 (or 2010 or whenever). As the Seahawks' assistant head coach, Mora can get out of his contract only for a head-coaching job, but he figures to get another such chance next offseason. Among those who could be looking for coaches then are the New York Giants, Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, Washington Redskins and Oakland Raiders. Of course, former Pittsburgh coach Bill Cowher figures to get the job of his choice, assuming he plans to re-enter the NFL coaching ranks. That would leave Mora going against as many as a dozen legitimate candidates for perhaps five or six other jobs. Odds are pretty decent that Mora gets one of those jobs -- if he wants it.Assuming Mora does leave Seattle after one year and Ruskell's replacement plan does fall through, the Seahawks president would have to come up with Plan B to replace Coach H.So who then could Plan B be?The first thing to keep in mind is that Ruskell will want to keep the offense intact. Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck has put in too much time mastering Holmgren's West Coast scheme, and Ruskell surely would not want to make the Pro Bowl quarterback start all over and learn a new offense. The addition of Chicago Bears jersey
Mora indicates that Ruskell is in fact looking at defensive-minded coaching candidates, but any offensive coach who favors the West Coast scheme would probably be a candidate as well. Or Ruskell could favor a coach who has been there before and knows how to manage a team. Mora fits all of those qualities.So who else fits those profiles?Defensively, there could be a number of options. Jim Haslett, former coach of the New Orleans Saints, probably deserves another shot -- and probably could succeed with a better franchise. He interviewed with Detroit and Buffalo last year, and if he can revive the St. Louis defense in his second year with the Rams, he could quickly jump back into the pool of prime candidates. The Seahawks actually looked at him in 1999 before they hired Holmgren, and he favored the West Coast offense when he was with the Saints. If the Panthers let John Fox go, the former defensive coordinator for the Giants could become another recycled candidate. Rising defensive minds include Ron Rivera, Greg Manusky as well as Rob and Rex Ryan. Rivera, formerly the Chicago Bears' defensive coordinator, has garnered the interest of at least 10 teams over the past two years. The Bears inexplicably allowed Rivera to leave this offseason -- he replaced Manusky as the linebackers coach in San Diego -- but Rivera should still command interest two years from now if the Seahawks are in the market for a new coach. So should Manusky, provided he can work wonders for San Francisco's porous defense over the next two seasons.The Ryan brothers, sons of former Chicago and Philadelphia defensive guru Buddy Ryan, both run their own NFL defenses these days. Rex is in charge of the Baltimore Ravens' vaunted unit, while Rob has turned the Oakland Raiders' defense into one of the league's better squads. A couple of experienced offensive coaches who could step in are Mike Sherman and Mike Mularkey. Sherman, who coached under Holmgren in Seattle in 1999, ran the same offense for several years in Green Bay. And Mularkey coached Buffalo for two years and is known by Ruskell from their days in Tampa Bay (1994-95).But the best choice could be someone who is not even in the NFL right now. Two years from now, Pete Carroll could be ready to leave USC. And the NFL already seems ready to have him back -- as the Miami Dolphins' interest this offseason showed. The only question would be whether Carroll would be willing to work under a general manager. But if he was, he would take over a team with a built-in offense Cincinnati Bengals jersey
and a bunch of defenders who play in a scheme similar to the one he runs at USC and who are led by one of his former stars, linebacker Lofa Tatupu. While Carroll might be a stretch, he could be the best option two years from now. Because if not Mora, then whom?RealFootball365.com: Where there's no such thing as an offseason for Seattle Seahawks football.
2011年1月12日星期三
13 Jan 11 I'm Back...and So Are The Lakers at The Top
Harry How/Getty ImagesBrought to you by the guys at Lakers101.Hello one and all. It is true. I have been gone missing. It not all my fault. In the past six months, during my absence from writing, I got a job, planned a wedding, attended a wedding as both a groomsman and a groom, honeymooned on a seven-day cruise through the Western Caribbean (which I highly recommend), moved into a new home, got my wife a new job at my place of work, oh, and made two very important purchases: 1) a new big screen to enjoy all my Lakers Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
games, 2) and of course NBA League Pass since it the only way to get EVERY Lakers game when you live on the East Coast.The saying is true. It much easier to fall out of a habit than it is to get back into it. Even with all that going on, that doesn excuse my long hiatus. But, just because Ive been out of sight from my readers, doesn mean I haven been paying attention to our boys (reference #1 2 above). At night, instead of writing for your enjoyment, I have been selfish and chose to watch Lakers games instead.But Im backand without further adeuFor the entire article please visit www.Lakers101.com.
games, 2) and of course NBA League Pass since it the only way to get EVERY Lakers game when you live on the East Coast.The saying is true. It much easier to fall out of a habit than it is to get back into it. Even with all that going on, that doesn excuse my long hiatus. But, just because Ive been out of sight from my readers, doesn mean I haven been paying attention to our boys (reference #1 2 above). At night, instead of writing for your enjoyment, I have been selfish and chose to watch Lakers games instead.But Im backand without further adeuFor the entire article please visit www.Lakers101.com.
12 Jan 11 New Jersey Nets: Calm Before the Storm
Andy Lyons/Getty ImagesThe New Jersey Nets are in the midst of what might end up being the worst season in the history of the NBA. That just sounds horrible, the "Worst Team in the History of the NBA," no one would ever want attached to their name for eternity. Lets be honest, the Nets aren't nearly in as bad of shape as one would expect the "Worst Team in NBA History" to be in.This season might be a little hard to swallow, everyone in the Nets organization cannot wait for this 82 game season to be over. But it seems like their is a big light at the end ofHouston Texans jersey
this tunnel. First lets start with the young talented group New Jersey has pieced together of the past two seasons:Brook Lopez is one of the best young players in this league, averaging 19.0 points per game, 9.40 rebounds per game and 2 blocks per game, every night he gets a double double it seems.Devin Harris has fallen off a little, but he's also been injured and playing with worse talent. Harris can still be a star in this league and is still one of the better point guards in the league.Chris Douglas-Roberts does alot of things very well, and could be a very good 2 or 3 in a few years. Averaging 13.8 points per game, he's an average defender but has shown glimpses of brilliance this year.Terrence Williams has also had some big games for them this year, and could be a very good player.Well the first key for the Nets turning around is the obvious one, Get John Wall. Point blank, no other way of putting it. Get him and your team already added a superstar and it won't even be July by than. History shows that the team that's supposed to win the lottery doesn't, but the Nets really need this one, the lottery will be one of the most important days in the history of the Nets organization.Lets say they don't win and they pick No. 2 or No. 3, than they'll have to decide between Ohio States Evan Turner, Kansas's Xavier Henry, Syracuse's Wesley Johnson and Georgia Tech's Derrick Favor, who in my opinion will all be successful NBA players but none will touch the level of super stardom John Wall will. In this year's draft, if the season ended today they would have Indianapolis Colts jersey
the No. 1 overall pick, No. 23, and No. 31 picks, which could help fill a few of the holes on the team.Next step, sign one of the big name free agents; thinking they can convince two max contract guys to come to New Jersey is unrealistic, but signing Joe Johnson, Amar'e Stoudemire or Chris Bosh is realistic. Last week Amar'e Stoudemire said that New Jersey is a place he's keeping his eye on because of their ideal situation of good young talent and the possibility of playing with John Wall. Chris Bosh would fit in excellently on the Nets, who might be one of the few "max contract guys" who hasn't reached his full potential yet. I think they have a slight window for LeBron James to consider coming to New Jersey, that being his friendship with Nets part-owner Jay-Z. If that's the case, this is a completely different article, but it's being written assuming he's not coming to New Jersey.Now if everything falls right for the Nets and they win the John Wall lottery, Devin Harris, while being a very good player is expendable now. I can name a few teams that would love to have a Devin Harris (Portland, Phoenix [after Nash leaves], Lakers, Dallas (to replace Kidd, again), Minneasota) if the Nets can find a way to improve and add another player or two via trade, than they've given the team a face lift while keeping most of its young core in tact.The Nets are in an extremely interesting time for the franchise, in five years they could be in Newark sharing a building with ex-roommates the New Jersey Devils, or they could be the team that Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
brings back basketball to the Big Apple (which they desperately need). Regardless of where they are, the New Jersey Nets are a team to watch in the near future, but it all starts in May when their franchise's fate hangs in the balance of a bunch of ping pong balls.
this tunnel. First lets start with the young talented group New Jersey has pieced together of the past two seasons:Brook Lopez is one of the best young players in this league, averaging 19.0 points per game, 9.40 rebounds per game and 2 blocks per game, every night he gets a double double it seems.Devin Harris has fallen off a little, but he's also been injured and playing with worse talent. Harris can still be a star in this league and is still one of the better point guards in the league.Chris Douglas-Roberts does alot of things very well, and could be a very good 2 or 3 in a few years. Averaging 13.8 points per game, he's an average defender but has shown glimpses of brilliance this year.Terrence Williams has also had some big games for them this year, and could be a very good player.Well the first key for the Nets turning around is the obvious one, Get John Wall. Point blank, no other way of putting it. Get him and your team already added a superstar and it won't even be July by than. History shows that the team that's supposed to win the lottery doesn't, but the Nets really need this one, the lottery will be one of the most important days in the history of the Nets organization.Lets say they don't win and they pick No. 2 or No. 3, than they'll have to decide between Ohio States Evan Turner, Kansas's Xavier Henry, Syracuse's Wesley Johnson and Georgia Tech's Derrick Favor, who in my opinion will all be successful NBA players but none will touch the level of super stardom John Wall will. In this year's draft, if the season ended today they would have Indianapolis Colts jersey
the No. 1 overall pick, No. 23, and No. 31 picks, which could help fill a few of the holes on the team.Next step, sign one of the big name free agents; thinking they can convince two max contract guys to come to New Jersey is unrealistic, but signing Joe Johnson, Amar'e Stoudemire or Chris Bosh is realistic. Last week Amar'e Stoudemire said that New Jersey is a place he's keeping his eye on because of their ideal situation of good young talent and the possibility of playing with John Wall. Chris Bosh would fit in excellently on the Nets, who might be one of the few "max contract guys" who hasn't reached his full potential yet. I think they have a slight window for LeBron James to consider coming to New Jersey, that being his friendship with Nets part-owner Jay-Z. If that's the case, this is a completely different article, but it's being written assuming he's not coming to New Jersey.Now if everything falls right for the Nets and they win the John Wall lottery, Devin Harris, while being a very good player is expendable now. I can name a few teams that would love to have a Devin Harris (Portland, Phoenix [after Nash leaves], Lakers, Dallas (to replace Kidd, again), Minneasota) if the Nets can find a way to improve and add another player or two via trade, than they've given the team a face lift while keeping most of its young core in tact.The Nets are in an extremely interesting time for the franchise, in five years they could be in Newark sharing a building with ex-roommates the New Jersey Devils, or they could be the team that Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
brings back basketball to the Big Apple (which they desperately need). Regardless of where they are, the New Jersey Nets are a team to watch in the near future, but it all starts in May when their franchise's fate hangs in the balance of a bunch of ping pong balls.
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 Bleacher Report Goes Hollywood: Are the Los Angeles Clippers Ready To Set Sail?
Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesWhile wondering what I should do with my Drew Gooden Clippers jerseyWelcome to the inaugural edition of Bleacher Report Goes Hollywood , where we look at the LA sports scene from a Tinsel town point of view. Each week well look at the major issues involving Southern California Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
franchises both college and professional. Also, on a completely unrelated note, well have a special feature at the end of each column called Pimp Slap of the Week , which needs no explanation, and deservedly so.Remember how in The Karate Kid when Daniel-San was always being beaten down by the Cobra Kai and finally getting the upper hand by crane-kicking Johnny in the tournament finals? Well for years Ive waited for the LA Clippers to do the same thing to their Staples Center brethren since they drafted Danny Manning No. 1 more than 20 years ago. Unfortunately though, knowing the Clippers history, Daniel-San crane kick was blocked, with him falling to the ground with a broken leg and Mr. Miyagi having to rely on washing windows.It as if for every draft pick for the Clippers that resulted in a Benoit Benjamin, Lamond Murray and even Michael Olowokandi No. 1 overall, there has always been that hope that they would finally rise up out of the incompetence of owner Donald Sterling and succeed in spite of his attempts to use former GM Elgin Baylor as the scapegoat for their failures. When they had a thrilling semi-final series against the Suns a few years ago in the playoffs, I thought their fortunes had changed. Since then Elton Brand went to sabotage his own career in Philly in a turncoat move worthy of Hulk Hogan-status, leaving Baron Davis and others to wonder whose dog they had ran over to end up in this situation.Yet, I remained hopeful when they selected Oklahoma Blake Griffin No. 1 in the 2009 NBA Draft. Then, in true Clipper fashion, he broke his kneecap on a fast-break dunk in the final preseason game, resulting in season-ending surgery and another year of setback. That being said, I do believe that THIS is the time in which the Clippers might finally awaken out of their own abyss.Now JR, Im sure you might be asking, when are you going to put the pipe down? This team hasn even won a game since Dumbleavy stepped down as coach? Well, the realist in me realizes this is the case, and yet the optimist in me looks at the recent moves and believes that perhaps Mike Dunleavy may know what he doing, despite the recent barbs fired by frustrated All-Star Center Chris Kaman . The recent trades have shed light into what appears to be an actual plan by the red-headed stepchildren of the Staples Center. Although Marcus Camby was leading the team in rebounding at 12.1/game, they made a shrewd move to send him to Portland for forward Travis Outlaw and point guard Steve Blake. Blake can provide a measure of Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
leadership that the Blazers will miss out on come playoff time, and he will provide a solid back up presence when Baron Davis has to rest. Davis had grown to actually realize there are actually guys he can pass the ball to this year, and also developed a (gasp!) relationship with Dunleavy before he spared all of us of his head-scratching decisions.Also, in what was a very good cap-clearing trade, which is the modus operandi in Clipperland, they executed a three-way deal that sent Al Thornton and draft bust Sebastian Telfair to the Wizards and resulted in Drew Gooden, who will probably smash the Mike Morgan record for the most number of teams played for in a career should they decide that his soul patch isn worth keeping around. Now it puts them in a category where only a few will reach come July 1, 2010. They are now in position to shop for that mega-star that could finally put butts in seats not named Billy Crystal or Bill Simmons.The question is now who should they get to go alongside Kaman, a healthy Griffin, Baron, and up-and-coming guard Eric Gordon? They would need someone who can play the three and switch over to the two if they want to go big. Someone who can placate as playmaker when Baron decides to revert back to his Golden State days and will have no problem playing second, or even third banana, yet have All-Star talent.I have to agree with Simmons and suggest they go hard after Joe Johnson of the Atlanta Hawks. He has spent the past five years making the Hawks relevant, and after another year of coming up short against the likes of Dwight Howard, LeBron, and KG, he will have had enough and want to go to a team that could possess legitimate title hopes with two strong post players. Also, JJ won have to feel like being the first go-to option all of the time, since he usually gets smothered come playoff time with no one else able to score consistently for Atlanta. That said, should Atlanta break through and reach the conference finals this year thanks to an improved Al Horford, Josh Smith and Jamal Crawford all bets are off.The Clips second best option would be Rudy Gay of Memphis. He is an unassuming slasher who can take a lot of guys off the dribble and won demand the ball as much. A lineup of Griffin, Gay, Kaman, Gordon and Baron as the veteran leader could create a lot of headaches out west.I don think LeBron will be willing to share top billing with Kobe in the Staples Center. Being in the same commercials is one issue, sharing the same court for six years is another altogether. All of the other potential big free agents (Bosh, Stoudemire, Boozer) will only hinder the development of Griffin, who actually looked interested in ending the so called Clippers curse after getting drafted. Dwayne Wade could be an option, but he seems like his mind is already focused on going north instead of west.Yes, the Clippers are 21-33, losers of six straight and are about to watch another season go up in ping-pong balls. However come October 2010 they might start off with one of the best starting fives in all of basketball without destroying their salary cap in the process. Here hoping they will finally be able to deliver that crane kick! PIMP SLAP OF THE WEEKThis is the portion of the column where we have to unfortunately smack some Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
sense into someone from the world of sports. However, for our first ever slap were headed in a totally different direction: were going towards those fans who actually believe Tiger Woods needs to apologize to them!Okay, I don necessarily like the fact that this man couldn figure out how to keep it in his pants, thus forcing his wife Elin to now place a house-arrest style ankle bracelet whenever Eldrick so much as goes to take out the trash. It won even matter what he says on his apology come Friday, the fact is that he doesn owe the fans any explanation because he didn cheat the game of golf, nor taint any of the majors that he won.Sure he a cheater to the nth degree, but the only people he needs to apologize too is to his family, case closed. It not his fault you bought Buicks, Titleist golf balls, and Nike gear because he said so. Besides, should he roll over to Augusta and shoot a first round 68 on the second Thursday in April, you fans will be the first ones running over family members to watch it on TV.Fans, time to a dose of reality, not every scumbag athlete needs to tell you Im sorry. For displaying a self-righteous desire to fulfill a sensitive ego, you deserve BRGH first Pimp Slap of the Week!
franchises both college and professional. Also, on a completely unrelated note, well have a special feature at the end of each column called Pimp Slap of the Week , which needs no explanation, and deservedly so.Remember how in The Karate Kid when Daniel-San was always being beaten down by the Cobra Kai and finally getting the upper hand by crane-kicking Johnny in the tournament finals? Well for years Ive waited for the LA Clippers to do the same thing to their Staples Center brethren since they drafted Danny Manning No. 1 more than 20 years ago. Unfortunately though, knowing the Clippers history, Daniel-San crane kick was blocked, with him falling to the ground with a broken leg and Mr. Miyagi having to rely on washing windows.It as if for every draft pick for the Clippers that resulted in a Benoit Benjamin, Lamond Murray and even Michael Olowokandi No. 1 overall, there has always been that hope that they would finally rise up out of the incompetence of owner Donald Sterling and succeed in spite of his attempts to use former GM Elgin Baylor as the scapegoat for their failures. When they had a thrilling semi-final series against the Suns a few years ago in the playoffs, I thought their fortunes had changed. Since then Elton Brand went to sabotage his own career in Philly in a turncoat move worthy of Hulk Hogan-status, leaving Baron Davis and others to wonder whose dog they had ran over to end up in this situation.Yet, I remained hopeful when they selected Oklahoma Blake Griffin No. 1 in the 2009 NBA Draft. Then, in true Clipper fashion, he broke his kneecap on a fast-break dunk in the final preseason game, resulting in season-ending surgery and another year of setback. That being said, I do believe that THIS is the time in which the Clippers might finally awaken out of their own abyss.Now JR, Im sure you might be asking, when are you going to put the pipe down? This team hasn even won a game since Dumbleavy stepped down as coach? Well, the realist in me realizes this is the case, and yet the optimist in me looks at the recent moves and believes that perhaps Mike Dunleavy may know what he doing, despite the recent barbs fired by frustrated All-Star Center Chris Kaman . The recent trades have shed light into what appears to be an actual plan by the red-headed stepchildren of the Staples Center. Although Marcus Camby was leading the team in rebounding at 12.1/game, they made a shrewd move to send him to Portland for forward Travis Outlaw and point guard Steve Blake. Blake can provide a measure of Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
leadership that the Blazers will miss out on come playoff time, and he will provide a solid back up presence when Baron Davis has to rest. Davis had grown to actually realize there are actually guys he can pass the ball to this year, and also developed a (gasp!) relationship with Dunleavy before he spared all of us of his head-scratching decisions.Also, in what was a very good cap-clearing trade, which is the modus operandi in Clipperland, they executed a three-way deal that sent Al Thornton and draft bust Sebastian Telfair to the Wizards and resulted in Drew Gooden, who will probably smash the Mike Morgan record for the most number of teams played for in a career should they decide that his soul patch isn worth keeping around. Now it puts them in a category where only a few will reach come July 1, 2010. They are now in position to shop for that mega-star that could finally put butts in seats not named Billy Crystal or Bill Simmons.The question is now who should they get to go alongside Kaman, a healthy Griffin, Baron, and up-and-coming guard Eric Gordon? They would need someone who can play the three and switch over to the two if they want to go big. Someone who can placate as playmaker when Baron decides to revert back to his Golden State days and will have no problem playing second, or even third banana, yet have All-Star talent.I have to agree with Simmons and suggest they go hard after Joe Johnson of the Atlanta Hawks. He has spent the past five years making the Hawks relevant, and after another year of coming up short against the likes of Dwight Howard, LeBron, and KG, he will have had enough and want to go to a team that could possess legitimate title hopes with two strong post players. Also, JJ won have to feel like being the first go-to option all of the time, since he usually gets smothered come playoff time with no one else able to score consistently for Atlanta. That said, should Atlanta break through and reach the conference finals this year thanks to an improved Al Horford, Josh Smith and Jamal Crawford all bets are off.The Clips second best option would be Rudy Gay of Memphis. He is an unassuming slasher who can take a lot of guys off the dribble and won demand the ball as much. A lineup of Griffin, Gay, Kaman, Gordon and Baron as the veteran leader could create a lot of headaches out west.I don think LeBron will be willing to share top billing with Kobe in the Staples Center. Being in the same commercials is one issue, sharing the same court for six years is another altogether. All of the other potential big free agents (Bosh, Stoudemire, Boozer) will only hinder the development of Griffin, who actually looked interested in ending the so called Clippers curse after getting drafted. Dwayne Wade could be an option, but he seems like his mind is already focused on going north instead of west.Yes, the Clippers are 21-33, losers of six straight and are about to watch another season go up in ping-pong balls. However come October 2010 they might start off with one of the best starting fives in all of basketball without destroying their salary cap in the process. Here hoping they will finally be able to deliver that crane kick! PIMP SLAP OF THE WEEKThis is the portion of the column where we have to unfortunately smack some Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
sense into someone from the world of sports. However, for our first ever slap were headed in a totally different direction: were going towards those fans who actually believe Tiger Woods needs to apologize to them!Okay, I don necessarily like the fact that this man couldn figure out how to keep it in his pants, thus forcing his wife Elin to now place a house-arrest style ankle bracelet whenever Eldrick so much as goes to take out the trash. It won even matter what he says on his apology come Friday, the fact is that he doesn owe the fans any explanation because he didn cheat the game of golf, nor taint any of the majors that he won.Sure he a cheater to the nth degree, but the only people he needs to apologize too is to his family, case closed. It not his fault you bought Buicks, Titleist golf balls, and Nike gear because he said so. Besides, should he roll over to Augusta and shoot a first round 68 on the second Thursday in April, you fans will be the first ones running over family members to watch it on TV.Fans, time to a dose of reality, not every scumbag athlete needs to tell you Im sorry. For displaying a self-righteous desire to fulfill a sensitive ego, you deserve BRGH first Pimp Slap of the Week!
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 Nuggets, Best Team In The NBA?
Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesThe Denver Nuggets have played some excellent stretches of basketball this season, you could say that they have been the surprise team this year.They have been playing with confidence, poise, and swagger, most of that provided by veteran Chauncey Billups.They can blow by anybody in terms of scoring, and can play lock-down defense when it really matters.They have amassed a 12-2 record against the best competition the NBA has to offer, and they are a combined 6-0 against the Los Angeles Lakers (2-0) Cleveland Cavaliers (2-0), Carolina Panthers jersey
Orlando Magic (1-0) and Boston Celtics (1-0), all widely considered contenders for the Larry O'Brien trophy come June.They have veteran leadership in Chauncey Billups, who is also one of the best point guards in the game today, and one of the best scorers in Carmelo Anthony, who can also play lock-down defense when it matters.All seems swell in Denver right?Well, it's not as dandy as they would like it to be.Denver currently has eight combined losses to: Detroit Pistons, Sacramento Kings, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Milwaukee Bucks.They seem to have the same problems that they Los Angeles Lakers have, they seem to play according to their competition.Not much of a problem considering that when the Playoffs come around, their competition will be fairly good, or great when they play teams like the Lakers, Mavs, or if they get that far, the Cavs or Magic.I wouldn't say that they play according to their competition, but I would say that they have problems focusing.Guys like J.R. Smith and Kenyon Martin can be real knuckle heads, and sometimes only take momentum away from the Nuggets.Especially if both are cold, because J.R. Smith has the tendency to shoot, shoot, and shoot, even when he's missing. Kenyon Martin also has the tendency Chicago Bears jersey
to take too many mid-range jumpers, even when they aren't falling.The Nuggets are a very talented team, and they will go far in the playoffs, but until they solve their focus problems, they will still be second in the West to the Lakers.Never mind that they are 2-0 against the Lakers this season, Orlando was also 2-0 against the Lakers last year, and they got beat in the Finals by the same Lakers' Squad.Are the Nuggets the best team in the NBA? Maybe the most talented, but they are not the best yet
Orlando Magic (1-0) and Boston Celtics (1-0), all widely considered contenders for the Larry O'Brien trophy come June.They have veteran leadership in Chauncey Billups, who is also one of the best point guards in the game today, and one of the best scorers in Carmelo Anthony, who can also play lock-down defense when it matters.All seems swell in Denver right?Well, it's not as dandy as they would like it to be.Denver currently has eight combined losses to: Detroit Pistons, Sacramento Kings, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Milwaukee Bucks.They seem to have the same problems that they Los Angeles Lakers have, they seem to play according to their competition.Not much of a problem considering that when the Playoffs come around, their competition will be fairly good, or great when they play teams like the Lakers, Mavs, or if they get that far, the Cavs or Magic.I wouldn't say that they play according to their competition, but I would say that they have problems focusing.Guys like J.R. Smith and Kenyon Martin can be real knuckle heads, and sometimes only take momentum away from the Nuggets.Especially if both are cold, because J.R. Smith has the tendency to shoot, shoot, and shoot, even when he's missing. Kenyon Martin also has the tendency Chicago Bears jersey
to take too many mid-range jumpers, even when they aren't falling.The Nuggets are a very talented team, and they will go far in the playoffs, but until they solve their focus problems, they will still be second in the West to the Lakers.Never mind that they are 2-0 against the Lakers this season, Orlando was also 2-0 against the Lakers last year, and they got beat in the Finals by the same Lakers' Squad.Are the Nuggets the best team in the NBA? Maybe the most talented, but they are not the best yet
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 Portland Trail Blazers VP of Basketball OperationsTom Penn Fired
As reported by Jason Quick :Tom Penn, the right-hand man of general manager Kevin Pritchard, has been fired by the Trail Blazers, The Oregonian has learned. Tuesday's decision comes nearly 10 months after Penn was promoted to Vice President of Basketball Operations. It is unknown why Denver Broncos jersey
Penn was fired, but it is believed to have come from owner Paul Allen and not Pritchard.Wait, what? Just like that? Penn was reportedly getting offers for the GM position at other organizations last year. It was thought that his promotion was the result of Portland's desire to keep him in the fold for as long as possible. He's supposed to be the CBA guru that can manufacture trade exceptions from thin air. Right?Hopefully we get more details soon.UPDATE: Via the venerable Wendell Maxey, "philosophical differences ." How often do people get fired in this manner because of differences in philosophy? Still waiting for a real explanation.UPDATED UPDATE: In all the excitement I was a bit late to Senor Brian T. Smith's information on the firing: According to the source, there had been rumblings in recent weeks within the organization that Penn's job was at stake. The primary reason was that Penn had a tendency to rub many of those he worked with the wrong way, the source said, and was seen as being a "ladder climber."UPDATE TO THE UPDATED UPDATE: Detroit Lions
Tom Penn is both surprised and disappointed . Don't sweat it, Tom. Anyone who ever built an empire or changed the world sat where you are sitting, and it's because they sat there that they were able to do it.As you can tell I'm out of original thoughts so I am done for the night.Photo courtesy of the Oregonian.
Penn was fired, but it is believed to have come from owner Paul Allen and not Pritchard.Wait, what? Just like that? Penn was reportedly getting offers for the GM position at other organizations last year. It was thought that his promotion was the result of Portland's desire to keep him in the fold for as long as possible. He's supposed to be the CBA guru that can manufacture trade exceptions from thin air. Right?Hopefully we get more details soon.UPDATE: Via the venerable Wendell Maxey, "philosophical differences ." How often do people get fired in this manner because of differences in philosophy? Still waiting for a real explanation.UPDATED UPDATE: In all the excitement I was a bit late to Senor Brian T. Smith's information on the firing: According to the source, there had been rumblings in recent weeks within the organization that Penn's job was at stake. The primary reason was that Penn had a tendency to rub many of those he worked with the wrong way, the source said, and was seen as being a "ladder climber."UPDATE TO THE UPDATED UPDATE: Detroit Lions
Tom Penn is both surprised and disappointed . Don't sweat it, Tom. Anyone who ever built an empire or changed the world sat where you are sitting, and it's because they sat there that they were able to do it.As you can tell I'm out of original thoughts so I am done for the night.Photo courtesy of the Oregonian.
8 Jan 11 Portland Trail Blazers VP of Basketball OperationsTom Penn Fired
As reported by Jason Quick :Tom Penn, the right-hand man of general manager Kevin Pritchard, has been fired by the Trail Blazers, The Oregonian has learned. Tuesday's decision comes nearly 10 months after Penn was promoted to Vice President of Basketball Operations. It is unknown why Denver Broncos jersey
Penn was fired, but it is believed to have come from owner Paul Allen and not Pritchard.Wait, what? Just like that? Penn was reportedly getting offers for the GM position at other organizations last year. It was thought that his promotion was the result of Portland's desire to keep him in the fold for as long as possible. He's supposed to be the CBA guru that can manufacture trade exceptions from thin air. Right?Hopefully we get more details soon.UPDATE: Via the venerable Wendell Maxey, "philosophical differences ." How often do people get fired in this manner because of differences in philosophy? Still waiting for a real explanation.UPDATED UPDATE: In all the excitement I was a bit late to Senor Brian T. Smith's information on the firing: According to the source, there had been rumblings in recent weeks within the organization that Penn's job was at stake. The primary reason was that Penn had a tendency to rub many of those he worked with the wrong way, the source said, and was seen as being a "ladder climber."UPDATE TO THE UPDATED UPDATE: Detroit Lions
Tom Penn is both surprised and disappointed . Don't sweat it, Tom. Anyone who ever built an empire or changed the world sat where you are sitting, and it's because they sat there that they were able to do it.As you can tell I'm out of original thoughts so I am done for the night.Photo courtesy of the Oregonian.
Penn was fired, but it is believed to have come from owner Paul Allen and not Pritchard.Wait, what? Just like that? Penn was reportedly getting offers for the GM position at other organizations last year. It was thought that his promotion was the result of Portland's desire to keep him in the fold for as long as possible. He's supposed to be the CBA guru that can manufacture trade exceptions from thin air. Right?Hopefully we get more details soon.UPDATE: Via the venerable Wendell Maxey, "philosophical differences ." How often do people get fired in this manner because of differences in philosophy? Still waiting for a real explanation.UPDATED UPDATE: In all the excitement I was a bit late to Senor Brian T. Smith's information on the firing: According to the source, there had been rumblings in recent weeks within the organization that Penn's job was at stake. The primary reason was that Penn had a tendency to rub many of those he worked with the wrong way, the source said, and was seen as being a "ladder climber."UPDATE TO THE UPDATED UPDATE: Detroit Lions
Tom Penn is both surprised and disappointed . Don't sweat it, Tom. Anyone who ever built an empire or changed the world sat where you are sitting, and it's because they sat there that they were able to do it.As you can tell I'm out of original thoughts so I am done for the night.Photo courtesy of the Oregonian.
订阅：
博文 (Atom)