2010 saw some exceptional performances from the league’s elite quarterbacks. Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Philip Rivers and Aaron Rodgers all had seasons of varying degrees of success, but it was Tom Brady who came out on top. The three-time Super Bowl winner was awarded the regular season MVP award after leading the Patriots to a 14-2 record prior to their play-off loss to arch-rival Jets at the Divisional stage.
Belichick’s apprentice threw an incredible 36 touchdown passes and just four interceptions for 3,900 yards. But how did he compare to other franchise QB’s like Manning, Brees and even Michael Vick? And, more importantly, who is likely to come out on top this season?
Brady’s long-time rival, Peyton Manning – signal-caller for the Colts – threw three touchdowns fewer than the Pats’ star man, but his turnover count was not nearly as impressive. Despite throwing for 4,700 yards, Manning was picked off 17 times. He did have 679 passing attempts compared to Brady’s 492, and a marginally higher completion rate of 66.3%, but the interceptions brought his QB rating down to 91.9. Brady, however, had the highest passer rating in the league – 111.0.
Despite his electrifying form in the postseason, ultimately leading his team to the NFL championship, Super Bowl MVP Aaron Rodgers was some way short of Brady’s touchdown milestone. Rodgers threw 28 TD’s and 11 interceptions in 2010 – although he almost single-handily carried his team to the title because of injuries to key players. The loss of RB Ryan Grant and TE Jermichael Findlay, in particular, were huge blows, and it meant Packers coach Mike McCarthy could not utilise the play-action pass as much as he would have liked.
One year removed from his own Super Bowl MVP performance, by his own high standards Drew Brees had a rather disappointing season. The Saints QB, along with Manning, had by far the highest number of pass attempts and completions, with just three touchdowns fewer than Brady. However, his biggest downfall was turning the ball over, which he did a massive 22 times last year.
In terms of passing yards, the only men to eclipse Brees last season were Peyton and San Diego’s Philip Rivers. The Chargers QB threw and completed more passes than both Brady and Rodgers in what was the NFL’s number one offense. His 30 touchdowns put him up there with the top performing quarterbacks last season and reinforced his position as a true franchise signal-caller. But he came nowhere near Brady’s stunning interception ratio – throwing 11 picks as the Chargers fell short of a play-off spot for the first time in five years.
Honourable mentions also go to third-year QB Matt Ryan, who led the Falcons to the number one seed in the NFC – in a season which included 28 touchdowns and nine interceptions – and the Eagles’ Michael Vick. Vick missed a number of games through injury but still managed to throw 21 touchdowns and just six interceptions. He also rushed for 676 yards and narrowly missed out to Brady for the MVP – partly due to the fact that he missed five games of the regular season.
If he can repeat those kinds of numbers over a whole season then Vick has to be the favourite for this year’s MVP, especially if he goes on to lead the hotly-tipped Eagles to Super Bowl glory. However, because of how susceptible to injury his style of play makes him, the question still remains as to whether he can stay healthy.
For that reason alone, it’s difficult to predict Vick coming out on top in the quarterback competition. It’ll also be extremely difficult for him to emulate last season’s success, partly due to defensive coordinators being more clued up on how to deal with him.
At the moment, Brady has to be the leading candidate for another season at the top of his profession, with Matt Ryan being a dark horse for those who fancy a flutter. After the addition of wide receiver Julio Jones in April’s draft, Ryan has a number of potent weapons in the passing game, as well as Michael Turner and Jason Snelling to assist him in the backfield. That offense has the potential to be explosive. Brady also shows no signs of slowing down, and looking at the Pats’ schedule, they have to be favourites to grab the number one seed in the AFC this season.
Manning has spent the offseason recovering from neck surgery and has to suffer a decline in production at some stage. He lacks the supporting cast around him, with the exception of the aging Reggie Wayne, TE Dallas Clark and young receivers Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon, and many experts predict a season of struggle for the Colts this year.
The same goes for Brees. Although the big difference for him is that he has a legitimate running game to help him – with the Saints having drafted Mark Ingram and picked up Darren Sproles in free agency. Don’t get me wrong, the Saints’ offense has the potential to be extremely dangerous once again – particularly so with Drew Brees and Sean Payton at the helm. But I believe there are two teams in their division who are more talented – the Falcons and the Buccaneers. For that reason, I think the Saints will fall short of the play-offs despite another admirable effort from Brees.
Philip Rivers put up some great numbers last year, and he did lead the NFL’s number one offense during the regular season, but I don’t believe he’s quite on the same level as Brady yet. If Norv Turner finally gets his act together, and the Chargers deliver on their often-talked about potential, then Rivers has a chance. The problem is, last season Rivers was throwing a lot because the Chargers were chasing games – if they’re winning, and RB Ryan Mathews lives up to the hype, the stats might not be so inflated.
The only other player not already mentioned who has a legitimate shot of number one QB status is Aaron Rodgers. He was the Super Bowl MVP last year, and with the Packers roster even stronger than their championship winning one, you’d be a fool not to predict them repeating that feat. The Pack are without doubt the best team in the NFC North – and by a long way too. If Rodgers tears it up like he did in last season’s play-offs, he’ll run Brady close, but I think the Pats’ main man will come out on top for the second year running.
Thursday 18 August 2011
Wednesday 10 August 2011
2011 NFL Predictions: The Philadelphia Eagles' 7 Possible Weaknesses
Check out my latest article on Bleacher Report. Do the Eagles have any weaknesses having been branded the Dream Team?
The Philadelphia Eagles' 7 Possible Weaknesses
The Philadelphia Eagles' 7 Possible Weaknesses
Teams poised for a Super Bowl run: Part 2
5. Minnesota Vikings - Now I know this might upset a few, and believe me it was a tough decision, but I honestly believe the Vikings could be the dark horses of the NFC this year. They have no pressure at all and not many are mentioning them. As opposed to the start of last season, their offseason movements have mostly gone under the radar, despite picking up quarterback Donovan McNabb in free agency, and losing wide receiver Sidney Rice. Assuming McNabb doesn’t go down injured like Brett Favre did last year, he could be a step in the right direction for the Vikings. And it may be that he is the difference-maker for Minnesota this season, helping them to sneak into the play-offs via a wildcard spot.
Although they’ve lost Sidney Rice, the Vikings still have a number of big playmakers, including Bernard Berrian, Percy Harvin, tight end Visanthe Shiancoe and of course Adrian Peterson. Even while struggling at the quarterback position last season, and missing Rice through injury, they still managed to out rank rivals Chicago Bears in terms of offence, and it seems their defence is still as strong as ever, ranking eighth overall in the league last season.
The Vikings have also been strengthened offensively by the addition of wideout Michael Jenkins, a big-framed receiver who has played under offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave before. Jenkins departed Atlanta after the Falcons traded up to select receiver Julio Jones in the 2011 draft – a move that shocked most back in April.
McNabb may have had a tough season with the Redskins last year, but that was mostly down to a lack of protection from what was a weak offensive line. The Vikings OL, however, was much more impressive – allowing Brett Favre to be sacked just 22 times last season, one of the lowest in the league. With more time to make passes, McNabb could be very dangerous.
Don’t write the Vikings off just yet, they still might pose a threat in their division.
4. Philadelphia Eagles - How could I not include the Eagles after they made big waves in this year’s free agency period. Having already been coined the ‘Dream Team’, the Eagles have a lot of pressure to do well this season, and a Super Bowl appearance is a feat that I see being highly attainable.
They have been the most consistent team in the NFC East in recent years, making the play-offs on eight occasions in the past 10 years. With the few key changes they have made, it is entirely possible to see them finally going the distance.
Having strengthened the roster by bringing in Vince Young as a backup QB, it means that if Vick does get injured, they will have a signal caller who is still capable of getting the job done. Also, with the addition of Cullen Jenkins, Jason Babin and big time cornerbacks Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie and Nnamdi Asomugha, hopefully the Eagles’ red zone defensive woes will be put to bed.
3. Atlanta Falcons - With ‘Matty Ice’ Ryan at the helm, the Falcons have come very close to mounting a serious Super Bowl run in recent years. This season, the team will be much the same as last year, with a few new additions. The Falcons surprised a lot of people when they jumped up the draft ladder to pick up wide receiver Julio Jones. Atlanta’s front office must have seen something they like in the player, and he could have a huge role this season with his speed and athleticism. Early reports from pre-season training camp are that Jones has been lighting it up – prompting talk that the team’s decision to give up a whole host of draft picks may be vindicated immediately. The Falcons now have an offence bursting with talent, and one which looks set to explode again this season.
One problem with the Falcons last year was that they lacked a game-changing pass rusher. This lack of pressure on the quarterback left them vulnerable in the secondary and, as a result, they were torn to pieces by Aaron Rodgers in the playoffs. Hopefully by adding Ray Edwards this will not be as damaging a problem as last season.
2. New England Patriots - With Tom Brady back to his best, look out for the Patriots to dominate the AFC again this season. The possibility of an undefeated season for the Pats might not be as laughable as it sounds either, as Belichick has managed to keep most of their key players during the past offseason.
Bill Belichick is a man who knows what he is doing in free agency, and picking up wide receiver Chad Ochocinco and defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth will without doubt enhance the team’s Super Bowl prospects.
The most important signing, however, is likely to be defensive end Shaun Ellis. Ellis spent 11 years at bitter rivals the New York Jets , helping coach Rex Ryan mould the defence into one of the most feared in the NFL. Now that he has crossed the bitter divide, he takes with him all his experience and knowledge of how the Jets defence operates. It looks as if the Patriots might just have the edge over the Jets, exactly what they need if they are to pay a visit to Lucas Oil Stadium in February.
1. Green Bay Packers - Everyone is now fully aware of just how dangerous Aaron Rodgers can be. On the back of last season’s success, only a fool would fail to predict them making a return to the big one.
History is also in the Packers’ favour; every other time they have featured in a Super Bowl, they have repeated the achievement the following year.
Last season the Packers did it the hard way, winning the Super Bowl after finishing the year in one of two NFC wildcard berths, and they did it missing key players such as TE Jermichael Finley and RB Ryan Grant. This year, after adding reinforcements in the draft and free agency, the Pack have increased the strength and depth of their roster still further.
They are a legitimate threat to any team in the NFL, and I expect to see them at the summit of their division come January.
Although they’ve lost Sidney Rice, the Vikings still have a number of big playmakers, including Bernard Berrian, Percy Harvin, tight end Visanthe Shiancoe and of course Adrian Peterson. Even while struggling at the quarterback position last season, and missing Rice through injury, they still managed to out rank rivals Chicago Bears in terms of offence, and it seems their defence is still as strong as ever, ranking eighth overall in the league last season.
The Vikings have also been strengthened offensively by the addition of wideout Michael Jenkins, a big-framed receiver who has played under offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave before. Jenkins departed Atlanta after the Falcons traded up to select receiver Julio Jones in the 2011 draft – a move that shocked most back in April.
McNabb may have had a tough season with the Redskins last year, but that was mostly down to a lack of protection from what was a weak offensive line. The Vikings OL, however, was much more impressive – allowing Brett Favre to be sacked just 22 times last season, one of the lowest in the league. With more time to make passes, McNabb could be very dangerous.
Don’t write the Vikings off just yet, they still might pose a threat in their division.
They have been the most consistent team in the NFC East in recent years, making the play-offs on eight occasions in the past 10 years. With the few key changes they have made, it is entirely possible to see them finally going the distance.
Having strengthened the roster by bringing in Vince Young as a backup QB, it means that if Vick does get injured, they will have a signal caller who is still capable of getting the job done. Also, with the addition of Cullen Jenkins, Jason Babin and big time cornerbacks Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie and Nnamdi Asomugha, hopefully the Eagles’ red zone defensive woes will be put to bed.
One problem with the Falcons last year was that they lacked a game-changing pass rusher. This lack of pressure on the quarterback left them vulnerable in the secondary and, as a result, they were torn to pieces by Aaron Rodgers in the playoffs. Hopefully by adding Ray Edwards this will not be as damaging a problem as last season.
2. New England Patriots - With Tom Brady back to his best, look out for the Patriots to dominate the AFC again this season. The possibility of an undefeated season for the Pats might not be as laughable as it sounds either, as Belichick has managed to keep most of their key players during the past offseason.
Bill Belichick is a man who knows what he is doing in free agency, and picking up wide receiver Chad Ochocinco and defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth will without doubt enhance the team’s Super Bowl prospects.
The most important signing, however, is likely to be defensive end Shaun Ellis. Ellis spent 11 years at bitter rivals the New York Jets , helping coach Rex Ryan mould the defence into one of the most feared in the NFL. Now that he has crossed the bitter divide, he takes with him all his experience and knowledge of how the Jets defence operates. It looks as if the Patriots might just have the edge over the Jets, exactly what they need if they are to pay a visit to Lucas Oil Stadium in February.
1. Green Bay Packers - Everyone is now fully aware of just how dangerous Aaron Rodgers can be. On the back of last season’s success, only a fool would fail to predict them making a return to the big one.
History is also in the Packers’ favour; every other time they have featured in a Super Bowl, they have repeated the achievement the following year.
Last season the Packers did it the hard way, winning the Super Bowl after finishing the year in one of two NFC wildcard berths, and they did it missing key players such as TE Jermichael Finley and RB Ryan Grant. This year, after adding reinforcements in the draft and free agency, the Pack have increased the strength and depth of their roster still further.
They are a legitimate threat to any team in the NFL, and I expect to see them at the summit of their division come January.
Saturday 6 August 2011
Teams poised for a Super Bowl run: Part 1
10. St. Louis Rams – Unlucky to miss out on the play-offs last season, the Rams, led by Coach Spagnuolo, have been busy during the draft and free agency, strengthening their offensive core around young quarterback Sam Bradford. With many believing they will struggle with a tough schedule, I believe they will show their true colours when Philadelphia Eagles come to visit the first week of the season.
In his rookie year, Bradford surpassed Peyton Manning in pass completions and if he continues to follow in Manning’s footsteps, avoiding the sophomore slump, the Rams could make a realistic run for the Lombardi trophy. The Rams were lacking a back-up running back to support Steven Jackson but have recently picked up Cadillac Williams in the free agency. Will he be able to perform though? If not, it puts a lot of pressure on Jackson and could be the difference between success and failure this year.
9. Houston Texans – Brimming with potential, could the Texans finally pip the Indianapolis Colts to the AFC South crown? With a threatening offensive line-up, including Matt Schaub, Arian Foster, Jacoby Jones and of course Andre Johnson, they were unfortunate not to come away with a positive record last season. The main problem for the Texans was on defense – last year they had the worst secondary in the league. That could all change this season with the appointment of ex-Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips as defensive coordinator, although missing out on Nnamdi Asomugha was a huge disappointment.
With Peyton Manning still recovering from a neck injury, the Colts could begin the season with quarterback Curtis Painter, a player with only two miserable games under his belt so far, where he threw two interceptions and was sacked three times. Seemingly anything but a sturdy leader, the Texans could get an early advantage over their league rivals in week one and lead the league from the start.
8. San Diego Chargers – The Chargers are simply too talented not to make a run. They have had a lot of potential for a number of years now but always seem to falter at some point during the postseason. Similar to the Philadelphia Eagles, every year they seem to cruise into the play-offs – with the exception of last year – despite poor performances at some point during the regular season, only to be dumped out unceremoniously before the big game. Granted, last season was a blip, with a few results not going the Chargers’ way, but statistically they have the makings of something great.
The Chargers are still coached by Norv Turner – who is now entering his fifth season – but with such a talented roster at his disposal, many fans see him as a scapegoat for the team’s failure to make the Super Bowl in recent years. Last season the Chargers finished with a 9-7 record, unfortunately falling short of the play-offs, but statistically they had the number one offense and defense in the league. What’s more, they are led by Philip Rivers. He posted the most yards of any quarterback in the league with over 4,700. The defense amassed 47 sacks and gave up the least first downs in the league. They were also placed fourth-best in preventing third down completions.
One key area that needs addressing is the rushing game. With Darren Sproles having signed for the Saints it means Mike Tolbert and Ryan Matthews must step up, otherwise the Chargers could be made to seriously regret ever letting LaDainian Tomlinson go. I comfortably see the team going 4-1 in their first five games of the season, finally shaking their slow-starter tag. The Chargers will regain their AFC West throne and cause a few upsets in the play-offs.
7. Dallas Cowboys – The Cowboys have laid dormant for most of Free Agency so far – but don’t let that fool you. At the start of last season, most fans were tipping them for success in the Super Bowl – played at the brand new Cowboys stadium. Despite having all the components to be serious title contenders, a 1-5 start meant the season was all but done before it had really started. And when quarterback Tony Romo broke his collarbone in week seven, any slim hopes they harbored of reaching the play-offs were gone.
This time round, however, they have Romo back healthy, and head coach Jason Garrett at the helm. Garrett appeared to revitalize the Cowboys in the second half of the season, but by then it was too little, too late. The Cowboys are a talented team and already have all the talent to take them to a Super Bowl. The question that remains is whether Romo can overcome his play-off demons and finally lead his team-mates to the big one. Watch out for Dez Bryant and Miles Austin to put up big numbers this season as well.
6. Baltimore Ravens – The Ravens are a team with the talent and potential to go the distance and this season is surely theirs for the taking. If they want to win the Super Bowl they need to do it soon, before their defensive playmakers Ed Reed, Terrell Suggs, Dominque Foxworth and Ray Lewis are past their best. They also need to find a way to overcome the Steelers when it comes down to the wire.
The Steelers are the biggest obstacle standing between the Ravens and a shot at Super Bowl success, and last season they came ever so close to overcoming their old foes, only to crumble in the second half of their Divisional match-up. However, they have a great opportunity for revenge in the first game of the season at the M&T Bank stadium – one which is surely a ‘must-win’.
Offensively they have the skillset to get the job done. In quarterback Joe Flacco's short career with the Ravens he has demonstrated delicate poise and maturity to lead the Ravens to three consecutive play-off appearances. Accompanied by star running back Ray Rice and wide receiver Anquan Boldin, the Ravens have strengthened their roster still further this season by acquiring fullback Vonta Leach from the Texans.
In his rookie year, Bradford surpassed Peyton Manning in pass completions and if he continues to follow in Manning’s footsteps, avoiding the sophomore slump, the Rams could make a realistic run for the Lombardi trophy. The Rams were lacking a back-up running back to support Steven Jackson but have recently picked up Cadillac Williams in the free agency. Will he be able to perform though? If not, it puts a lot of pressure on Jackson and could be the difference between success and failure this year.
9. Houston Texans – Brimming with potential, could the Texans finally pip the Indianapolis Colts to the AFC South crown? With a threatening offensive line-up, including Matt Schaub, Arian Foster, Jacoby Jones and of course Andre Johnson, they were unfortunate not to come away with a positive record last season. The main problem for the Texans was on defense – last year they had the worst secondary in the league. That could all change this season with the appointment of ex-Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips as defensive coordinator, although missing out on Nnamdi Asomugha was a huge disappointment.
With Peyton Manning still recovering from a neck injury, the Colts could begin the season with quarterback Curtis Painter, a player with only two miserable games under his belt so far, where he threw two interceptions and was sacked three times. Seemingly anything but a sturdy leader, the Texans could get an early advantage over their league rivals in week one and lead the league from the start.
8. San Diego Chargers – The Chargers are simply too talented not to make a run. They have had a lot of potential for a number of years now but always seem to falter at some point during the postseason. Similar to the Philadelphia Eagles, every year they seem to cruise into the play-offs – with the exception of last year – despite poor performances at some point during the regular season, only to be dumped out unceremoniously before the big game. Granted, last season was a blip, with a few results not going the Chargers’ way, but statistically they have the makings of something great.
The Chargers are still coached by Norv Turner – who is now entering his fifth season – but with such a talented roster at his disposal, many fans see him as a scapegoat for the team’s failure to make the Super Bowl in recent years. Last season the Chargers finished with a 9-7 record, unfortunately falling short of the play-offs, but statistically they had the number one offense and defense in the league. What’s more, they are led by Philip Rivers. He posted the most yards of any quarterback in the league with over 4,700. The defense amassed 47 sacks and gave up the least first downs in the league. They were also placed fourth-best in preventing third down completions.
One key area that needs addressing is the rushing game. With Darren Sproles having signed for the Saints it means Mike Tolbert and Ryan Matthews must step up, otherwise the Chargers could be made to seriously regret ever letting LaDainian Tomlinson go. I comfortably see the team going 4-1 in their first five games of the season, finally shaking their slow-starter tag. The Chargers will regain their AFC West throne and cause a few upsets in the play-offs.
7. Dallas Cowboys – The Cowboys have laid dormant for most of Free Agency so far – but don’t let that fool you. At the start of last season, most fans were tipping them for success in the Super Bowl – played at the brand new Cowboys stadium. Despite having all the components to be serious title contenders, a 1-5 start meant the season was all but done before it had really started. And when quarterback Tony Romo broke his collarbone in week seven, any slim hopes they harbored of reaching the play-offs were gone.
The Steelers are the biggest obstacle standing between the Ravens and a shot at Super Bowl success, and last season they came ever so close to overcoming their old foes, only to crumble in the second half of their Divisional match-up. However, they have a great opportunity for revenge in the first game of the season at the M&T Bank stadium – one which is surely a ‘must-win’.
Offensively they have the skillset to get the job done. In quarterback Joe Flacco's short career with the Ravens he has demonstrated delicate poise and maturity to lead the Ravens to three consecutive play-off appearances. Accompanied by star running back Ray Rice and wide receiver Anquan Boldin, the Ravens have strengthened their roster still further this season by acquiring fullback Vonta Leach from the Texans.
Friday 5 August 2011
Five of last year’s play-off teams who will fail to make the postseason this time around
5. Seattle Seahawks – Lucky to make the play-offs in the first place thanks to an inspired performance by Charlie Whitehurst in Week 17, and even luckier to beat the Saints in the wildcard, I doubt the Seahawks will have as much good fortune this time around. Letting Matt Hasselbeck depart to the Tennessee Titans and replacing him with Tarvaris Jackson is a huge gamble, and one that I just don’t see paying off. The other three NFC West teams also look stronger and better equipped to wrestle the division title away from the Seahawks. Without winning the division, it’s unrealistic to believe Seattle has a chance of a wildcard berth with so many other teams in the NFC appearing to be much stronger on paper.
4. Kansas City Chiefs – Last year the Chiefs had a stellar season which was built around their success at Arrowhead Stadium, before faltering at their very own self-proclaimed fortress in the play-offs. The majority of the Chiefs’ triumphs were against below-par teams and it is questionable whether Matt Cassel will have as much success with a tougher schedule. Add this to the fact that the Chargers will likely be back to their very best, and it looks like the Chiefs may have to watch the play-offs from the sidelines this season.
3. Chicago Bears – In 2010, the Bears claimed the NFC North crown ahead of eventual Super Bowl winners, the Green Bay Packers. Chicago’s season was defined by a series of ground-out wins, with only one word coming to mind, ‘ugly’. The Bears will still be coming back with a strong defense this season, held together by LB Brian Urlacher, the heart and soul of the defensive unit.
Of course, they will always have their home-field advantage – the terrible turf, coupled with adverse weather conditions, always seem to trouble any team that sets foot on Soldier Field. However, there is a question mark over quarterback Jay Cutler. Usually a leader brimming with arrogance, he appeared to be dependable throughout 2010, up until his team reached the play-offs. Cutler has shown signs of coming unstuck a little too easily. In the Bears' NFC Championship loss to the Packers, Cutler went off injured at half-time and failed to return from the locker room to support his teammates. For this act of desertion in the team’s hour of need, many fans lost their faith in the QB.
One of the Bears' most glaring weaknesses is their offensive line, although much of this can be attributed to the system employed by offensive coordinator Mike Martz. Last season, the OL struggled mightily to keep Jay Cutler upright, leading to the QB being sacked 52 times - 12 more than second-placed Joe Flacco. Admittedly, the addition of Gabe Carimi might help those issues, but the Bears did themselves no favours by trading tight end Greg Olsen to the Panthers. I really see the Bears struggling to repeat a push for a play-off berth.
2. New Orleans Saints - It was a difficult choice between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New Orleans Saints as to which team might not feature in next season’s play-off picture. On this occasion I have decided that despite many predicting a post-Super Bowl loss slump for the Steelers, they will still remain strong enough to make the play-offs again. It is the Saints that might struggle, however. In last year's wildcard match-up against the Seahawks, the Saints' defense was worryingly exposed, with Seattle exploiting glaring holes in the secondary and in the Saints' inability to prevent the run, a fact that Marshawn Lynch can testify to only too well.
Also, with Jeremy Shockey having departed to the Carolina Panthers, Drew Brees is lacking a tight end he can truly depend on with important check-downs. Head coach Sean Payton is placing a lot of faith in second-year tight end Jimmy Graham, selected in the third round of the 2010 draft, to fill the void left by Shockey. Not only this, but in a league that is growing ever tougher, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are now hot on their heels and are a team bursting with exuberance and talent.
1. Indianapolis Colts – Maybe a surprise to most but if Peyton Manning has any reoccurring problems with his recent neck surgery it could bring the curtains down on the Colts’ play-off hopes. Depending on Curtis Painter could prove problematic, even with Reggie Wayne pulling defenses apart. Proven in college but a long way from NFL stardom, Painter could find it difficult dealing with the pressure of so many fans expecting to make the play-offs. Having missed out on the postseason just once in the past 10 years, surely the run has to end at some point. Doesn’t it?
4. Kansas City Chiefs – Last year the Chiefs had a stellar season which was built around their success at Arrowhead Stadium, before faltering at their very own self-proclaimed fortress in the play-offs. The majority of the Chiefs’ triumphs were against below-par teams and it is questionable whether Matt Cassel will have as much success with a tougher schedule. Add this to the fact that the Chargers will likely be back to their very best, and it looks like the Chiefs may have to watch the play-offs from the sidelines this season.
3. Chicago Bears – In 2010, the Bears claimed the NFC North crown ahead of eventual Super Bowl winners, the Green Bay Packers. Chicago’s season was defined by a series of ground-out wins, with only one word coming to mind, ‘ugly’. The Bears will still be coming back with a strong defense this season, held together by LB Brian Urlacher, the heart and soul of the defensive unit.
Of course, they will always have their home-field advantage – the terrible turf, coupled with adverse weather conditions, always seem to trouble any team that sets foot on Soldier Field. However, there is a question mark over quarterback Jay Cutler. Usually a leader brimming with arrogance, he appeared to be dependable throughout 2010, up until his team reached the play-offs. Cutler has shown signs of coming unstuck a little too easily. In the Bears' NFC Championship loss to the Packers, Cutler went off injured at half-time and failed to return from the locker room to support his teammates. For this act of desertion in the team’s hour of need, many fans lost their faith in the QB.
One of the Bears' most glaring weaknesses is their offensive line, although much of this can be attributed to the system employed by offensive coordinator Mike Martz. Last season, the OL struggled mightily to keep Jay Cutler upright, leading to the QB being sacked 52 times - 12 more than second-placed Joe Flacco. Admittedly, the addition of Gabe Carimi might help those issues, but the Bears did themselves no favours by trading tight end Greg Olsen to the Panthers. I really see the Bears struggling to repeat a push for a play-off berth.
2. New Orleans Saints - It was a difficult choice between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New Orleans Saints as to which team might not feature in next season’s play-off picture. On this occasion I have decided that despite many predicting a post-Super Bowl loss slump for the Steelers, they will still remain strong enough to make the play-offs again. It is the Saints that might struggle, however. In last year's wildcard match-up against the Seahawks, the Saints' defense was worryingly exposed, with Seattle exploiting glaring holes in the secondary and in the Saints' inability to prevent the run, a fact that Marshawn Lynch can testify to only too well.
Also, with Jeremy Shockey having departed to the Carolina Panthers, Drew Brees is lacking a tight end he can truly depend on with important check-downs. Head coach Sean Payton is placing a lot of faith in second-year tight end Jimmy Graham, selected in the third round of the 2010 draft, to fill the void left by Shockey. Not only this, but in a league that is growing ever tougher, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are now hot on their heels and are a team bursting with exuberance and talent.
1. Indianapolis Colts – Maybe a surprise to most but if Peyton Manning has any reoccurring problems with his recent neck surgery it could bring the curtains down on the Colts’ play-off hopes. Depending on Curtis Painter could prove problematic, even with Reggie Wayne pulling defenses apart. Proven in college but a long way from NFL stardom, Painter could find it difficult dealing with the pressure of so many fans expecting to make the play-offs. Having missed out on the postseason just once in the past 10 years, surely the run has to end at some point. Doesn’t it?
Thursday 4 August 2011
The most feared fortresses in the NFL: why home-field advantage can be so important
A hot topic of discussion in the NFL is which venue is the toughest to get a ‘W’ at. There are lots of different reasons why a stadium or field can be difficult to visit – with the weather, type of turf, exuberance of the fans and whether or not the game is played in a dome being key factors.
The question is, which of these aspects contributes most to a home team’s advantage? Is there one team that stands out as being able to use more than one of these factors to their benefit?
Let’s start with intimidating fans. Many teams are notorious for having ruthless supporters, a perfect example being the Philadelphia Eagles fans at Lincoln Financial Field, who are well-known for egging rival teams. Philly’s fans are renowned for being incredibly merciless – and on some occasions even towards their own under-performing players.
It’s not just at the Linc that the callous abusive nature is evident. Cleveland Browns’ fabled Dawg Pound and Oakland Raiders’ Black Hole both create just as uninviting an atmosphere.
But the most talked about fans can be found in Seattle. Known as the ‘12th man’, visitors to Qwest Field have to endure their play calls being drowned out by the decibels of noise the unique stadium design generates. So effective can they be that during the 2005 season a huge 11 false starts were called against the New York Giants.
It is a similar case with the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium and many of the teams that now play in an indoor stadium or dome. These teams can all bring noise to put off their opponents when they need to.
Heinz Field and Soldier Field, home to the Steelers and Bears respectively, earn notable mentions for having the worst playing turf in the league, as well as windy weather conditions. But it is Lambeau Field, home of the Packers, Patriots’ Gillette Stadium and Broncos’ Invesco Field that all experience the worst weather conditions. Especially so when the snow falls in the winter months.
Invesco Field has another trick up its sleeve for opposing teams, however. It’s called Mile High for a reason, and that means the air is much thinner, making it difficult for players to breathe – something the Broncos players are all used to.
But what do the stats say? Well, since the league expanded in 2002, it comes as no surprise that the Patriots are top of the pile with home wins – having a win percentage of 83%. This is closely followed by the Colts with a 79% win rate. Surprisingly, a team that is rarely mentioned when talking about the toughest place to visit, the Ravens, came third in the rankings with 74%.
Fourth were the Steelers and their terrible towels with 71% and in fifth were the Chargers who play their home games at Qualcomm Stadium, the heat being the most problematic issue at their venue. Missing the cut in joint sixth place were the Packers, Eagles, Seahawks and the Vikings. The stats would seemingly suggest that these are the most difficult places to go to and come away with a win.
However, when considering the toughest place to play, it’s understandable that not all the best teams should be ranked at the top. Most of the time good teams will naturally have good home winning percentages. The Colts’ Lucas Oil Stadium is a prime example of this.
Playing in a dome, the Colts do not have to endure adverse weather conditions like they would at other stadia. Their fans are also not renowned for being the loudest or most intimidating in the league, but they continue to deliver when it matters most – perhaps more down to the Peyton Manning factor than any outside influences.
So, after compiling this data about home-field advantage, here are my thoughts about the most impenetrable fortresses in the NFL:
1. Gillette Stadium, New England Patriots – A mix of cold weather and the Bill Belichick/Tom Brady connection.
2. Heinz Field, Pittsburgh Steelers – Terrible Towels, terrible turf and terrible weather: enough said.
3. Lambeau Field, Green Bay Packers– Cold, miserable weather and intimidating ‘cheesehead’ fans.
4. Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia Eagles – Rowdy, ruthless and unforgiving. The fans are as unwelcoming as the weather.
5. Quest Field, Seattle Seahawks – The 12th Man!
The question is, which of these aspects contributes most to a home team’s advantage? Is there one team that stands out as being able to use more than one of these factors to their benefit?
Let’s start with intimidating fans. Many teams are notorious for having ruthless supporters, a perfect example being the Philadelphia Eagles fans at Lincoln Financial Field, who are well-known for egging rival teams. Philly’s fans are renowned for being incredibly merciless – and on some occasions even towards their own under-performing players.
It’s not just at the Linc that the callous abusive nature is evident. Cleveland Browns’ fabled Dawg Pound and Oakland Raiders’ Black Hole both create just as uninviting an atmosphere.
But the most talked about fans can be found in Seattle. Known as the ‘12th man’, visitors to Qwest Field have to endure their play calls being drowned out by the decibels of noise the unique stadium design generates. So effective can they be that during the 2005 season a huge 11 false starts were called against the New York Giants.
It is a similar case with the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium and many of the teams that now play in an indoor stadium or dome. These teams can all bring noise to put off their opponents when they need to.
Heinz Field and Soldier Field, home to the Steelers and Bears respectively, earn notable mentions for having the worst playing turf in the league, as well as windy weather conditions. But it is Lambeau Field, home of the Packers, Patriots’ Gillette Stadium and Broncos’ Invesco Field that all experience the worst weather conditions. Especially so when the snow falls in the winter months.
Invesco Field has another trick up its sleeve for opposing teams, however. It’s called Mile High for a reason, and that means the air is much thinner, making it difficult for players to breathe – something the Broncos players are all used to.
But what do the stats say? Well, since the league expanded in 2002, it comes as no surprise that the Patriots are top of the pile with home wins – having a win percentage of 83%. This is closely followed by the Colts with a 79% win rate. Surprisingly, a team that is rarely mentioned when talking about the toughest place to visit, the Ravens, came third in the rankings with 74%.
Fourth were the Steelers and their terrible towels with 71% and in fifth were the Chargers who play their home games at Qualcomm Stadium, the heat being the most problematic issue at their venue. Missing the cut in joint sixth place were the Packers, Eagles, Seahawks and the Vikings. The stats would seemingly suggest that these are the most difficult places to go to and come away with a win.
However, when considering the toughest place to play, it’s understandable that not all the best teams should be ranked at the top. Most of the time good teams will naturally have good home winning percentages. The Colts’ Lucas Oil Stadium is a prime example of this.
Playing in a dome, the Colts do not have to endure adverse weather conditions like they would at other stadia. Their fans are also not renowned for being the loudest or most intimidating in the league, but they continue to deliver when it matters most – perhaps more down to the Peyton Manning factor than any outside influences.
So, after compiling this data about home-field advantage, here are my thoughts about the most impenetrable fortresses in the NFL:
1. Gillette Stadium, New England Patriots – A mix of cold weather and the Bill Belichick/Tom Brady connection.
2. Heinz Field, Pittsburgh Steelers – Terrible Towels, terrible turf and terrible weather: enough said.
3. Lambeau Field, Green Bay Packers– Cold, miserable weather and intimidating ‘cheesehead’ fans.
4. Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia Eagles – Rowdy, ruthless and unforgiving. The fans are as unwelcoming as the weather.
5. Quest Field, Seattle Seahawks – The 12th Man!
Thursday 28 July 2011
Free Agency Frenzy
With the lockout finally over it has already been a busy week in the NFL. Deals are still going off left, right and centre as the race to be ready for the upcoming season reaches fever pitch.
One of the hottest topics at the moment is which quarterback will end up where. At the start of the week we had at least 10 quarterbacks with an uncertain future, now with the latest deal it looks like only Vince Young, Marc Bulger and Kyle Orton are still missing a new home.
The week started with a bang when Seattle Seahawks snapped up Tarvaris Jackson, and that marked the end of Matt Hasselbeck’s long career with the Seahawks, as he moved to pastures new in Tennessee. Palmer looks like he is set to retire, and that has prompted the Bengals to bring in long time Oakland Raiders quarterback Bruce Gradkowski. Despite this move it still looks like the Bengals have a very long and unrewarding season ahead of them. This was amplified with the departure of top receiver Chad Ochocinco.
Donovan McNabb was the next to hit the headlines when he sealed a move to the Minnesota Vikings. The long-time Eagles QB had made it abundantly clear he was unhappy in Washington and now looks set to play a pivotal role in the mentoring of Christian Ponder.
Amongst all this mayhem, Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart joined the Houston Texans in what will surely be a back-up role to Matt Schaub. Look out for Schaub this season as it looks like the Texans might just make a significant push to knock the colts off their high horse.
Lastly, one of the most speculated moves during the lockout was finalised when the Eagles dealt Kevin Kolb to the Arizona Cardinals, in exchange for cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a second round pick. Personally I can’t help but think that the Philadelphia Eagles got a great deal out of the Kolb trade, the only issue is that it leaves them thin in the quarterback department. That brings me to my next topic.
The Titans have recently released Vince Young, making him the hottest quarterback available at the moment, with Kyle Orton looking like he will join Reggie Bush in Miami.
So who would be most suited to Young? Well, he has recently been linked as the ideal candidate to back-up Michael Vick in Philly. Both players have a similar playing style – with a strong arm, and the ability to scramble when needed. Alternatively, I could see Young being added to the Washington Redskins’ roster to beef up the competition under center.
It seems obvious at the moment that the Redskins are in a state of emergency. They’ve just lost DT Albert Haynesworth to the Patriots and since McNabb’s departure they have been left with two far from proven quarterbacks on their roster. Looking at their stats from previous seasons makes worrying reading. Both John Beck and Rex Grossman have thrown far too many interceptions during their limited playing time – a massive cause for concern that needs addressing ahead of pre-season.
That leaves Marc Bulger. Bulger has had a far from illustrious past three seasons and currently looks most likely to drop out of the league after 10 seasons. He could, however, still find himself a back-up role, but it seems unlikely having missed most of the quarterback rush so far.
It will be interesting to see which of these quarterback moves contributes to the most success come the regular season on September 8.
One of the hottest topics at the moment is which quarterback will end up where. At the start of the week we had at least 10 quarterbacks with an uncertain future, now with the latest deal it looks like only Vince Young, Marc Bulger and Kyle Orton are still missing a new home.
The week started with a bang when Seattle Seahawks snapped up Tarvaris Jackson, and that marked the end of Matt Hasselbeck’s long career with the Seahawks, as he moved to pastures new in Tennessee. Palmer looks like he is set to retire, and that has prompted the Bengals to bring in long time Oakland Raiders quarterback Bruce Gradkowski. Despite this move it still looks like the Bengals have a very long and unrewarding season ahead of them. This was amplified with the departure of top receiver Chad Ochocinco.
Donovan McNabb was the next to hit the headlines when he sealed a move to the Minnesota Vikings. The long-time Eagles QB had made it abundantly clear he was unhappy in Washington and now looks set to play a pivotal role in the mentoring of Christian Ponder.
Amongst all this mayhem, Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart joined the Houston Texans in what will surely be a back-up role to Matt Schaub. Look out for Schaub this season as it looks like the Texans might just make a significant push to knock the colts off their high horse.
Lastly, one of the most speculated moves during the lockout was finalised when the Eagles dealt Kevin Kolb to the Arizona Cardinals, in exchange for cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a second round pick. Personally I can’t help but think that the Philadelphia Eagles got a great deal out of the Kolb trade, the only issue is that it leaves them thin in the quarterback department. That brings me to my next topic.
The Titans have recently released Vince Young, making him the hottest quarterback available at the moment, with Kyle Orton looking like he will join Reggie Bush in Miami.
It seems obvious at the moment that the Redskins are in a state of emergency. They’ve just lost DT Albert Haynesworth to the Patriots and since McNabb’s departure they have been left with two far from proven quarterbacks on their roster. Looking at their stats from previous seasons makes worrying reading. Both John Beck and Rex Grossman have thrown far too many interceptions during their limited playing time – a massive cause for concern that needs addressing ahead of pre-season.
That leaves Marc Bulger. Bulger has had a far from illustrious past three seasons and currently looks most likely to drop out of the league after 10 seasons. He could, however, still find himself a back-up role, but it seems unlikely having missed most of the quarterback rush so far.
It will be interesting to see which of these quarterback moves contributes to the most success come the regular season on September 8.
Wednesday 27 July 2011
Titans begin hunt for Locker’s tutor
With the eighth overall pick, the Tennessee Titans select: Jake Locker. Inspired decision or a sign of desperation?
As Sam Bradford showed in 2010, a quarterback is the focal point of a rebuilding franchise and therefore a team is fully justified in selecting one in the first round.
Get the pick right and, like Bradford did, you can turn a franchise from a 1-15 disaster into a respectable 7-9 team. Get it wrong and the consequences can be catastrophic, not only on the football field, but also financially.
When Titans owner Bud Adams made it clear that Vince Young, selected in the first round of the 2006 NFL draft, would not be returning to LP Field, it was obvious the team needed a new face to lead the franchise.
But there were serious question marks hanging over Locker after he endured a lacklustre senior season at the University of Washington, finishing with a career completion percentage of 53.9.
Plagued by inaccuracy, his decision-making prowess was suddenly a red flag and, despite being projected as the number one overall pick ahead of Sam Bradford in 2010 by some – prior to his decision to stay in school for his final year – most experts predicted him to go in the middle of the second round at best.
What was not taken into account was the number of other teams in desperate need of a new franchise quarterback. Carolina, Seattle, the Vikings, Redskins, Arizona, Bengals, 49ers and arguably the Dolphins – despite looking like they are happy to give second round pick Chad Henne another season to show what he can do – are all in the hunt for a star signal caller.
Carolina nabbed Newton with the first overall pick and the Titans jumped at the chance to select Locker – obviously believing there were too many other teams sniffing around for there to have been any hope of him dropping to them in the second. This was somewhat justified as the Jaguars traded up for Blaine Gabbert, the Vikings chose Christian Ponder at 12 and early in the second Andy Dalton and Colin Kaepernick went to the Bengals and 49ers respectively.
Chances are, Locker won’t start right away. Although Sam Bradford did last year, that was only after a full pre-season and training camp. And it was clear from the start that the Rams QB was an exceptional talent.
There’s no question Locker has potential, but asking him to lead a team with a struggling offense, with little or no time to get to know the playbook – thanks to the ongoing lockout which has been in place since March – could do more harm than good for the young signal caller.
With veteran QB Kerry Collins, who led the Titans to a 13-3 season three years ago, announcing his retirement this month, the only other quarterback on the roster is Rusty Smith. And Titans fans will know from last year that he is not the answer.
What the team needs is a veteran QB who can take the reins and mentor Locker until he’s ready to take over. There are no shortage of options when Free Agency opens on Friday, but there are still a number of rival teams in the market for them.
Rumour has it that Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck is done in Seattle and that his most likely landing spot is with the Titans – General Manager Mike Reinfeldt knows the Pro Bowler well from the seven years he spent in the Seahawks front office.
Besides Hasselbeck, other options include former Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb, Ravens back-up Marc Bulger, the Eagles’ Kevin Kolb, Matt Moore from Carolina and former Heisman winner Matt Leinart.
McNabb looked very poor last season. He struggled mightily at the Redskins, but then how much of that was down to McNabb himself, and how much to a woeful franchise, is up for debate. In any case, it seems most likely that the long-time Eagles Pro Bowler will be snapped up by the Vikings as a tutor for their first-round pick Christian Ponder.
With Tarvaris Jackson being released in Minnesota, he may even be a potential target for the Titans. But it is more realistic for a team such as the Eagles, Ravens or even Dolphins to pick him up as a back-up QB, rather than throw him in as a starter right away. At the Dolphins he would be able to compete with Henne, although former Titan Vince Young has long been linked as the answer to that dilemma this past off-season.
The Eagles’ Kevin Kolb appears certain to join the Cardinals or the Seahawks, and both Moore and Leinart are probably too great a risk considering their poor performances in 2010.
That means the best option is likely to be Marc Bulger or Hasselbeck – who despite having a poor regular season disrupted by injuries, produced a superlative performance in the wild card game to dump the reigning champion Saints out of Super Bowl contention.
Bulger is well thought of in league circles, despite enduring a painful time at the Rams in his nine seasons – though not many QB’s could have done anything with that team, and in particular, that lack of protection from the offensive line.
The only other way to go would be to take a punt at Chicago’s Todd Collins, Tyler Thigpen of the Dolphins, the Raiders’ Gradkowski or another Heisman trophy winner in Troy Smith at the 49ers – who did show glimpses of potential last season, albeit fleetingly.
But it is unlikely any of those will offer as much benefit as Hasselbeck. The long-time Seattle QB has taken his franchise to the play-offs on six separate occasions, including four-straight division titles and a Super Bowl appearance in 2005.
That would seem the perfect CV for a man tasked with tutoring what the Titans hope will be their own future Pro Bowler.
As Sam Bradford showed in 2010, a quarterback is the focal point of a rebuilding franchise and therefore a team is fully justified in selecting one in the first round.
Get the pick right and, like Bradford did, you can turn a franchise from a 1-15 disaster into a respectable 7-9 team. Get it wrong and the consequences can be catastrophic, not only on the football field, but also financially.
When Titans owner Bud Adams made it clear that Vince Young, selected in the first round of the 2006 NFL draft, would not be returning to LP Field, it was obvious the team needed a new face to lead the franchise.
But there were serious question marks hanging over Locker after he endured a lacklustre senior season at the University of Washington, finishing with a career completion percentage of 53.9.
Plagued by inaccuracy, his decision-making prowess was suddenly a red flag and, despite being projected as the number one overall pick ahead of Sam Bradford in 2010 by some – prior to his decision to stay in school for his final year – most experts predicted him to go in the middle of the second round at best.
What was not taken into account was the number of other teams in desperate need of a new franchise quarterback. Carolina, Seattle, the Vikings, Redskins, Arizona, Bengals, 49ers and arguably the Dolphins – despite looking like they are happy to give second round pick Chad Henne another season to show what he can do – are all in the hunt for a star signal caller.
Carolina nabbed Newton with the first overall pick and the Titans jumped at the chance to select Locker – obviously believing there were too many other teams sniffing around for there to have been any hope of him dropping to them in the second. This was somewhat justified as the Jaguars traded up for Blaine Gabbert, the Vikings chose Christian Ponder at 12 and early in the second Andy Dalton and Colin Kaepernick went to the Bengals and 49ers respectively.
Chances are, Locker won’t start right away. Although Sam Bradford did last year, that was only after a full pre-season and training camp. And it was clear from the start that the Rams QB was an exceptional talent.
There’s no question Locker has potential, but asking him to lead a team with a struggling offense, with little or no time to get to know the playbook – thanks to the ongoing lockout which has been in place since March – could do more harm than good for the young signal caller.
With veteran QB Kerry Collins, who led the Titans to a 13-3 season three years ago, announcing his retirement this month, the only other quarterback on the roster is Rusty Smith. And Titans fans will know from last year that he is not the answer.
What the team needs is a veteran QB who can take the reins and mentor Locker until he’s ready to take over. There are no shortage of options when Free Agency opens on Friday, but there are still a number of rival teams in the market for them.
Rumour has it that Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck is done in Seattle and that his most likely landing spot is with the Titans – General Manager Mike Reinfeldt knows the Pro Bowler well from the seven years he spent in the Seahawks front office.
Besides Hasselbeck, other options include former Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb, Ravens back-up Marc Bulger, the Eagles’ Kevin Kolb, Matt Moore from Carolina and former Heisman winner Matt Leinart.
McNabb looked very poor last season. He struggled mightily at the Redskins, but then how much of that was down to McNabb himself, and how much to a woeful franchise, is up for debate. In any case, it seems most likely that the long-time Eagles Pro Bowler will be snapped up by the Vikings as a tutor for their first-round pick Christian Ponder.
With Tarvaris Jackson being released in Minnesota, he may even be a potential target for the Titans. But it is more realistic for a team such as the Eagles, Ravens or even Dolphins to pick him up as a back-up QB, rather than throw him in as a starter right away. At the Dolphins he would be able to compete with Henne, although former Titan Vince Young has long been linked as the answer to that dilemma this past off-season.
The Eagles’ Kevin Kolb appears certain to join the Cardinals or the Seahawks, and both Moore and Leinart are probably too great a risk considering their poor performances in 2010.
That means the best option is likely to be Marc Bulger or Hasselbeck – who despite having a poor regular season disrupted by injuries, produced a superlative performance in the wild card game to dump the reigning champion Saints out of Super Bowl contention.
Bulger is well thought of in league circles, despite enduring a painful time at the Rams in his nine seasons – though not many QB’s could have done anything with that team, and in particular, that lack of protection from the offensive line.
The only other way to go would be to take a punt at Chicago’s Todd Collins, Tyler Thigpen of the Dolphins, the Raiders’ Gradkowski or another Heisman trophy winner in Troy Smith at the 49ers – who did show glimpses of potential last season, albeit fleetingly.
But it is unlikely any of those will offer as much benefit as Hasselbeck. The long-time Seattle QB has taken his franchise to the play-offs on six separate occasions, including four-straight division titles and a Super Bowl appearance in 2005.
That would seem the perfect CV for a man tasked with tutoring what the Titans hope will be their own future Pro Bowler.
Bush Destination Unknown?
According to recent reports from the NFL.com’s Jason LaCanfora, it sounds likely that New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush could be set to depart from the Superdome.
Currently still under contract with the Saints, Bush, 26, is now after a substantial salary which the Saints look unlikely to cough up having just drafted Mark Ingram Jr.
The 2010 Super Bowl winner has already been linked with the Miami Dolphins, who are looking to provide backup to veteran running backs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams. Bush has also been linked with the St Louis Rams and even more interestingly the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Rams have been looking to fill a running back role to supplement top NFL rusher Steven Jackson. They have also been linked with the San Diego Chargers’ Darren Sproles. Bush’s elusive and quick nature would definitely be an interesting contrast to Jackson’s obvious physical talents. The other upside to Reggie Bush is that he is a well-established pass catcher, similar to Jackson, so he would offer another dimension to the Rams’ rapidly developing offence under new coordinator Josh McDaniels.
Judging by current speculation, St Louis appears a more fitting destination for Bush, although admittedly I would welcome Bush to the Eagles. He could be a perfect addition to the offence as a relief running back and punt returner. He could also play a pivotal role on tough downs and would be well-suited to adopting a role equivalent to former Eagles player Brian Westbrook as the battering ram the offence needs.
He does, however, seem to play a very similar role to current running back LeSean McCoy, in that they both have the ability to catch the ball and gain big yardage from pass plays when a quarterback is forced to make a last-second check down. My view is that if the Eagles are looking for a running back to complement McCoy, they would be better suited to chasing after one with more physicality, similar to what the Rams have already.
On reflection it would seem that Bush coming to the Eagles would be more of a luxury rather than a necessity. I think a team such as the Dolphins or Rams, who already have a starved offence, would surely reap the rewards that Bush has to offer more than Philadelphia.
Currently still under contract with the Saints, Bush, 26, is now after a substantial salary which the Saints look unlikely to cough up having just drafted Mark Ingram Jr.
The 2010 Super Bowl winner has already been linked with the Miami Dolphins, who are looking to provide backup to veteran running backs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams. Bush has also been linked with the St Louis Rams and even more interestingly the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Rams have been looking to fill a running back role to supplement top NFL rusher Steven Jackson. They have also been linked with the San Diego Chargers’ Darren Sproles. Bush’s elusive and quick nature would definitely be an interesting contrast to Jackson’s obvious physical talents. The other upside to Reggie Bush is that he is a well-established pass catcher, similar to Jackson, so he would offer another dimension to the Rams’ rapidly developing offence under new coordinator Josh McDaniels.
Judging by current speculation, St Louis appears a more fitting destination for Bush, although admittedly I would welcome Bush to the Eagles. He could be a perfect addition to the offence as a relief running back and punt returner. He could also play a pivotal role on tough downs and would be well-suited to adopting a role equivalent to former Eagles player Brian Westbrook as the battering ram the offence needs.
He does, however, seem to play a very similar role to current running back LeSean McCoy, in that they both have the ability to catch the ball and gain big yardage from pass plays when a quarterback is forced to make a last-second check down. My view is that if the Eagles are looking for a running back to complement McCoy, they would be better suited to chasing after one with more physicality, similar to what the Rams have already.
On reflection it would seem that Bush coming to the Eagles would be more of a luxury rather than a necessity. I think a team such as the Dolphins or Rams, who already have a starved offence, would surely reap the rewards that Bush has to offer more than Philadelphia.
Tuesday 26 July 2011
Football is back!
Finally, after months of uncertainty, the NFL season is back.
The lockout, which had threatened to derail the 2011 season, was nothing short of a roller coaster ride of tense negotiations between team owners and players.
With many fans unsure if we would get a season at all, the recent news from NFL.com that a new CBA or Collective Bargaining Agreement has been agreed by both players and NFL owners has no doubt left many, including myself, elated.
Since the previous agreement expired back in March, both sides have spent months negotiating a way to bring an end to the lockout. The disagreement, which was essentially down to a dispute of how to split the sport’s multi-billion dollar fortune, was seemingly drawing to a close on Friday – with the owners agreeing to the latest CBA.
Unfortunately, however, the players took a little longer to agree to the terms, resulting in the cancellation of the Hall of Fame game between the Chicago Bears and St. Louis Rams scheduled for the 7th August. I guess on the upside for the Rams this wasn’t necessarily bad news considering the Bears have never lost a Hall of Fame game, but football is football!
Now, as we look ahead to what could be one of the most chaotic weeks in American football history, we will finally be able to answer so many of the questions that fans have had during the off-season. The end of this week will definitely be an eventful one. Free Agency opens up on Friday, resulting in what will be a bitter scrap for the league’s top players – including Pro Bowl corner Nnamdi Asomugha and veteran Super Bowl-winning WR Santonio Holmes.
With such little time to prepare, it could well alter many experts’ predictions of division winners and play-off bound teams. It will be interesting to see in Week 1 who will have a post lockout hangover.
But, more importantly, the good news is that we won’t have to go through another lockout again for a long time – after the latest CBA was signed as a 10-year deal with no room for negotiations.
For now, I’m delighted to say it’s ‘Game time’ again!
The lockout, which had threatened to derail the 2011 season, was nothing short of a roller coaster ride of tense negotiations between team owners and players.
With many fans unsure if we would get a season at all, the recent news from NFL.com that a new CBA or Collective Bargaining Agreement has been agreed by both players and NFL owners has no doubt left many, including myself, elated.
Since the previous agreement expired back in March, both sides have spent months negotiating a way to bring an end to the lockout. The disagreement, which was essentially down to a dispute of how to split the sport’s multi-billion dollar fortune, was seemingly drawing to a close on Friday – with the owners agreeing to the latest CBA.
Unfortunately, however, the players took a little longer to agree to the terms, resulting in the cancellation of the Hall of Fame game between the Chicago Bears and St. Louis Rams scheduled for the 7th August. I guess on the upside for the Rams this wasn’t necessarily bad news considering the Bears have never lost a Hall of Fame game, but football is football!
Now, as we look ahead to what could be one of the most chaotic weeks in American football history, we will finally be able to answer so many of the questions that fans have had during the off-season. The end of this week will definitely be an eventful one. Free Agency opens up on Friday, resulting in what will be a bitter scrap for the league’s top players – including Pro Bowl corner Nnamdi Asomugha and veteran Super Bowl-winning WR Santonio Holmes.
With such little time to prepare, it could well alter many experts’ predictions of division winners and play-off bound teams. It will be interesting to see in Week 1 who will have a post lockout hangover.
But, more importantly, the good news is that we won’t have to go through another lockout again for a long time – after the latest CBA was signed as a 10-year deal with no room for negotiations.
For now, I’m delighted to say it’s ‘Game time’ again!
Monday 25 July 2011
Hi everyone!
Apologies for not writing anything new for a while. I've been incredibly busy the last few weeks but check back very soon...
Monday 4 July 2011
Top 10 reasons why American football is a greater spectacle than soccer
The main aim of this blog is to widen the audience of American football in the UK so I thought I would give 10 reasons why I believe it is better, and what attracted me to the gridiron.
1. No boring 0-0 scores! - To often in soccer/football you spend the whole game waiting for a goal that sometimes never comes. It just never happens in American football, and whats better is that Touchdowns come way more often than goals.
2. Almost always a winner - You rarely see a tie, even if teams are drawing at the end of the 4th quarter they play overtime to produce a winner. This happens in every game, not just the cups like in soccer.
3. You can challenge plays - Often, in soccer, referees make the wrong call. What's worse is that there is nothing you can do about it, if your cheated, it's too late. In American football however you can challenge a referees decision to video replay - similar to Hawk-Eye in cricket and tennis.
4. You can't dive - unless its into an end zone! That's right, none of that Cristiano Ronaldo diving ever happens in American football, it's go hard or go home!
5. A new winner every year? - In soccer it is normally between four teams to win the league every year, especially in the English Premiership. In American football how ever the draft helps balance the teams giving every team the opportunity to win. You also don't have single teams buying all the best players. The NFL has this fully regulated and I think it is better this way.
6. Even the unlikeliest of teams can cause upsets often. - Take the Seahawks last season, no one expected them to win but they did. Manchester United Vs. Schalke 04 in the Champions League? It was over before kick off.
7. You never know what play will come next. - The intricate play calls make it impossible to guess what play will come next, and when you think you have read it completely, it could be a trick play.
8. The momentum can change in an instant - 4-0 in soccer, its all over. 21 point deficit with seven minutes remaining, a comeback with 28 unanswered points resulting in a miracle at the Meadowlands part two.
9. The cheerleaders - need I say more!
10. The hard hits, clutch kicks and draft picks - mix them altogether and you get one exciting sport that gives a whole new meaning to your Sunday's!
20% off at Blacks Clothing! Code:eUCQtR
1. No boring 0-0 scores! - To often in soccer/football you spend the whole game waiting for a goal that sometimes never comes. It just never happens in American football, and whats better is that Touchdowns come way more often than goals.
2. Almost always a winner - You rarely see a tie, even if teams are drawing at the end of the 4th quarter they play overtime to produce a winner. This happens in every game, not just the cups like in soccer.
3. You can challenge plays - Often, in soccer, referees make the wrong call. What's worse is that there is nothing you can do about it, if your cheated, it's too late. In American football however you can challenge a referees decision to video replay - similar to Hawk-Eye in cricket and tennis.
4. You can't dive - unless its into an end zone! That's right, none of that Cristiano Ronaldo diving ever happens in American football, it's go hard or go home!
5. A new winner every year? - In soccer it is normally between four teams to win the league every year, especially in the English Premiership. In American football how ever the draft helps balance the teams giving every team the opportunity to win. You also don't have single teams buying all the best players. The NFL has this fully regulated and I think it is better this way.
6. Even the unlikeliest of teams can cause upsets often. - Take the Seahawks last season, no one expected them to win but they did. Manchester United Vs. Schalke 04 in the Champions League? It was over before kick off.
7. You never know what play will come next. - The intricate play calls make it impossible to guess what play will come next, and when you think you have read it completely, it could be a trick play.
8. The momentum can change in an instant - 4-0 in soccer, its all over. 21 point deficit with seven minutes remaining, a comeback with 28 unanswered points resulting in a miracle at the Meadowlands part two.
9. The cheerleaders - need I say more!
10. The hard hits, clutch kicks and draft picks - mix them altogether and you get one exciting sport that gives a whole new meaning to your Sunday's!
NFL outfits redesigned by Nike?
Take a look and let me know what you think. Personally, I’m not so keen on the Eagles yet, maybe if the pants were a different colour. Rams, Colts and Cowboys all work very well with the blue, although Titans is a sky blue overdose in my opinion. Vikings and Dolphins both top the table for the worst colour combinations. Unfortunately for Browns fans it looks like the creativity levels in your uniforms look to have reached their summit. I think any kit with a full colour, without variation just doesn’t go and I’m not to keen on the helmet redesigns as well if this takes place. Still, very smart, but it will be interesting to see how some of the bigger players mould into these sleek new concept designs.
Check it out…Nike Redesigned NFL Outfits.
Monday 27 June 2011
Were brothers Michael and Marcus both Vick-tims of difficult upbringings?
Last season Michael Vick became starting quarterback at the Philadelphia Eagles, propelling them to a 10-6 season, and, unfortunately, a one and done playoff surge. He showed poise and maturity, becoming a stand out leader in the NFL’s most explosive offence.
Vick was always destined for great things, and many believed the same could be said for his younger brother Marcus, also a quarterback starlet. Marcus never had the athleticism of Michael, but he made up for it by earning a reputation as a more accurate passer.
Unfortunately things turned out differently for the younger Vick. He struggled to put his fiery temperament aside and, off the back of a disastrous spell at the Miami Dolphins, where he played just one game before he was promptly dropped, his NFL career fizzled out when no other team were willing to take the risk with such a high maintenance player.
Both Marcus and Michael had widely publicised troubled pasts, with Michael sent to jail for operating an illegal dog fighting ring and Marcus most recently testing positive for drug use – just one of many incidents since a fall from grace in the NFL.
So why is it the two quarterbacks have had so many confrontations with the wrong side of the law? It appears to be a more common trait with the pros, so is it the money, or the fame?
Could a tough upbringing be a plausible excuse for both brothers? Both Michael and Marcus reportedly grew up in Ridley Circle East Newport News , Virginia
Marcus has had a very difficult decade. Numerous infractions with the law led to the Virginia Tech quarterback becoming unceremoniously thrown off the team, the final straw coming in the 2006 Gator Bowl victory against Louisville
Marcus has always shown a degree of arrogance. In response to being thrown off the Viriginia Tech team he proclaimed "It's not a big deal. I'll just move on to the next level, baby." Vick also then claimed that he was a better quarterback than both Jay Cutler and Matt Leinart.
Funnily enough Jamarcus Russell had a paralleled level of arrogance and he is now widely considered to be one of the biggest draft busts in NFL history. Is this a classic case of players trying to run before they can walk?
The Other Manning
He’s the one you don’t hear about so often. He’s the one without a Super Bowl ring. He’s the one that wasn’t a quarterback and he’s the one that never made it to the NFL.
Cooper Manning, the older brother of Peyton and Eli could have had a promising career in American football had it not been for an underlying nerve problem. A 6’4” tall wide receiver with passion and a will to win in his blood he could and should have been one of Ole’ Miss’s finest. Unfortunately the underlying nerve issue turned out to be Spinal Stenosis, a debilitating condition in which the spinal column narrows, causing pressure on the spinal cord. This nerve damage made it almost impossible for Cooper to compete in the game his whole family seemingly cherishes and without playing a single down for Ole Miss he was forced to quit the sport for good, a sad end for such a prospect.
Since then both his younger brothers have gone on to win Super Bowls, and also feature as the MVP for those games. Would this of all been possible without the inspiration of their older brother? Could Cooper have also been just as great?
I’ll leave that for discussion…
Saturday 25 June 2011
The best catch ever?
Just looking at some NFL action on YouTube and I managed to stumble across a bit of remarkable footage which I would question is one of the best catches I have ever seen. Noted it's not actually from the NFL but still impressive...
What are your most memorable catches within the NFL?
What are your most memorable catches within the NFL?
Monday 6 June 2011
Akers over the hill, Henery on the horizon?
Over Akers’s tenure spanning 12 seasons he has proved to be the surprise package for the team, scoring clutch field goals when depended upon and becoming one of the most consistent kickers in the league. Akers’s best statistical year came in his 4th year with the team when he successfully kicked a impressive 30 of 34 field goals, a percentage of 88.2%.
Akers’s has received five pro bowl selections and also holds the record for the most consecutive postseason field goal conversions. An extraordinary player, and a very charitable role model, it seems that in the light of most recent circumstances he might however not be returning with Philly. He is a free agent now, and the Eagles tagged him as their transition player this offseason, a move that Akers disagreed strongly with. The uncertainty surrounding Akers's contract is likely to be the motivation for picking a kicker in this season’s draft. Another factor might have been the underlying personal issues which led to a previously calm and collected kicker missing two vital field goals in last season’s playoff loss to eventual winners Green Bay Packers. We all know that even the most reliable kickers have been benched after missing key field goals.
So out with the old and in with the new. In Alex Henery, the Eagles get a fantastic player. The former Nebraska Cornhusker went 120th overall, and he is the highest kicker to be selected since the Patriots took Stephen Gostkowski two spots earlier than that in 2006, and the best part is that he is also a great punter.
Henery definitely has some big shoes to fill but looks like he is the right man for the job. In his four seasons with the Cornhuskers he missed just two attempts shorter than 50 yards. Does he have a long leg? Take a look at this kick and decide for yourself…
That was a 57-yard field goal winner against Colorado, already equalling Akers’s NFL best.
Is he a clutch kicker? Well, if scoring all the points against the Texas Longhorns in the Big 12 Championship game is anything to go by, it would suggest that he is ready for the task in Philly.
I still very much doubt that Akers’s career is over, one hiccup shouldn’t cost you your whole career and I’m sure he will get a second chance. One man’s loss is, of course, another man’s gain. Some sources have already linked Akers with NFC East rival teams the Redskins and Cowboys. The Cowboys' current kicker David Buehler converted 24 of 32 (75%) field goals last season, and Akers, even at the age of 36, still made 32 of 38 (84%). The Redskins' Graham Gano made just 24 of his 35 attempts (69%), illustrating another cause for concern for the struggling franchise.
As one of the Eagles most prolific scorers, wherever Akers ends up I'm sure he will be greatly missed. But in Henery I hope the Eagles can find a talisman able to guide them into the new era.
Motor City madness: is the suggestion of Detroit making the postseason so far-fetched?
Just two seasons removed from an 0-16 record, are the Lions in with a shot of making the play-offs? The short answer is yes.
When Nick Fairley dropped out of the top ten in April’s NFL draft it was never going to be long before someone nabbed him. And when Lions fans saw him within their grasp as he slipped past the Texans and Vikings at 11 and 12 respectively, their eyes must have been watering with the sheer anticipation and giddiness of what the pick could mean.
Sure enough GM Martin Mayhew and coach Jim Schwartz selected the defensive tackle at 13, and suddenly coaches from around the league had their heads in their hands when the realisation of what the choice meant hit home. The Lions had teamed up Fairley alongside last year’s Pepsi NFL rookie of the year Ndamukong Suh (pictured right) to create a formidable wall which has every chance of dominating up-front for years to come.
Opposing offensive coordinators will need every ounce of their attacking nous if they are to run through that barricade. Suh and Fairley could be stuffing halfbacks for the next decade. Add to that an improving offense, which may become great if 2009 first overall pick Matthew Stafford can stay healthy, and it’s difficult to argue against them making a run at the play-offs.
There is one thing, however. The Lions are forced to share the NFC North with Super Bowl champions the Green Bay Packers. Ok, so this is less than ideal. Detroit are nowhere near the level of Mike McCarthy’s world beaters so they won’t touch the Packers for first spot. And yes, on paper, going up against two other teams who have reached the NFC Championship game in the past two seasons suggests their chances may be bleak. But the Vikings are the not the team they were in 2009 when they were buoyed by the resurgence of a battling Brett Favre.
After Brad Childress’ departure and the appointment of former defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier, Minnesota is in a rebuilding phase. They drafted quarterback Christian Ponder in the 2011 draft and have suggested they want the rookie to start from the outset. One thing is clear in this league: if you don’t have steady and experienced quarterback play, you won’t stand a chance.
Then there’s last year’s NFC Championship losers, and current NFC North champions, the Chicago Bears. At times last season Lovie Smith’s men looked unbeatable. In other games they were average. Despite having the experience of Jay Cutler leading Mike Martz’s offense, there’s something about the Bears which says they won’t be able to reproduce the form they showed last season in making it to the postseason. How accurate an assessment this is, only time will tell.
It’s clear the Lions need a lot to go right for them if they are to reach the postseason, and having the current lockout in place is just another hurdle this young group of players must overcome. But they appear to have the necessary pieces of the puzzle and, with a bit of luck, they may well be the surprise outsider to nick a wild-card berth alongside the Bucs in the NFC South.
When Nick Fairley dropped out of the top ten in April’s NFL draft it was never going to be long before someone nabbed him. And when Lions fans saw him within their grasp as he slipped past the Texans and Vikings at 11 and 12 respectively, their eyes must have been watering with the sheer anticipation and giddiness of what the pick could mean.
Sure enough GM Martin Mayhew and coach Jim Schwartz selected the defensive tackle at 13, and suddenly coaches from around the league had their heads in their hands when the realisation of what the choice meant hit home. The Lions had teamed up Fairley alongside last year’s Pepsi NFL rookie of the year Ndamukong Suh (pictured right) to create a formidable wall which has every chance of dominating up-front for years to come.Opposing offensive coordinators will need every ounce of their attacking nous if they are to run through that barricade. Suh and Fairley could be stuffing halfbacks for the next decade. Add to that an improving offense, which may become great if 2009 first overall pick Matthew Stafford can stay healthy, and it’s difficult to argue against them making a run at the play-offs.
There is one thing, however. The Lions are forced to share the NFC North with Super Bowl champions the Green Bay Packers. Ok, so this is less than ideal. Detroit are nowhere near the level of Mike McCarthy’s world beaters so they won’t touch the Packers for first spot. And yes, on paper, going up against two other teams who have reached the NFC Championship game in the past two seasons suggests their chances may be bleak. But the Vikings are the not the team they were in 2009 when they were buoyed by the resurgence of a battling Brett Favre.After Brad Childress’ departure and the appointment of former defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier, Minnesota is in a rebuilding phase. They drafted quarterback Christian Ponder in the 2011 draft and have suggested they want the rookie to start from the outset. One thing is clear in this league: if you don’t have steady and experienced quarterback play, you won’t stand a chance.
Then there’s last year’s NFC Championship losers, and current NFC North champions, the Chicago Bears. At times last season Lovie Smith’s men looked unbeatable. In other games they were average. Despite having the experience of Jay Cutler leading Mike Martz’s offense, there’s something about the Bears which says they won’t be able to reproduce the form they showed last season in making it to the postseason. How accurate an assessment this is, only time will tell.
It’s clear the Lions need a lot to go right for them if they are to reach the postseason, and having the current lockout in place is just another hurdle this young group of players must overcome. But they appear to have the necessary pieces of the puzzle and, with a bit of luck, they may well be the surprise outsider to nick a wild-card berth alongside the Bucs in the NFC South.
Packers to repeat?
Last pre-season there were many analysts predicting the team with the best shot at Super Bowl glory was one of the NFL’s oldest and most decorated: the Green Bay Packers.
GM Ted Thompson and coach Mike McCarthy had assembled a young, talented crop of developing talent – sourced mainly through the NFL draft, something Thompson believes in so admirably. Then came the injuries, the slip-ups against teams like the Redskins, Dolphins and Lions, and it suddenly dawned on the Packers faithful that the Wisconsin outfit might not even make the play-offs.
The hot team in the NFC were the Falcons, and the Patriots seemed unbeatable once again as they went on an eight-game winning streak in the AFC – one which would have been a 14-game run had they not suffered a surprising loss to the Browns in week 9. Suddenly nobody was talking about Green Bay as a legitimate Super Bowl candidate anymore: big mistake.
The Packers rallied behind their leader Aaron Rodgers late in the season. Having carried his team for most of the year, the quarterback who replaced Brett Favre at the helm was never going to let the two concussions he suffered keep him out for long. Despite a growing list of injuries to key players, Rodgers and McCarthy continued to defy the odds. It seemed that every time someone went down, McCarthy found a way to patch-up what appeared to be a sinking ship. Players such as undrafted rookie Sam Shields stepped up to the plate big time, and after a crushing win against the New York Giants in week 16 the Packers had their postseason destiny in their own hands. Only one team stood in the franchise’s way: arch rivals the Chicago Bears.
In what was a drab encounter Green Bay scrapped a 10-3 win at Lambeau Field and the rest, as they say, is history. Chicago’s loss came back to haunt them as they were outfoxed by Mike McCarthy’s team in the NFC Championship game. The Pack were on a roll, and after demolishing every team like a wrecking ball as they gathered momentum in the postseason, they went on to claim their fourth Super Bowl title, and as number six seeds nonetheless. The question is, can they repeat?
The last time a team won back-to-back NFL championships was six years ago, when the New England Patriots were victorious in Super Bowl XXXVIII and XXXIX. The 2010 champions, the New Orleans Saints, looked well-placed to do so in the eyes of many observers last season. But after a solid, yet unspectacular regular season, which saw them slip under the radar and into the play-offs hot on the heels of division rivals the Atlanta Falcons, Drew Brees and co. were unceremoniously dumped out of the postseason at the first hurdle. By a team who won the NFC West with a 7-9 record no less: the Seattle Seahawks.
The Packers have key players such as RB Ryan Grant and TE Jermichael Finley back from injury, and have once again added a strong group of rookies from the draft. Going by what the record books say, the smart money would be on a return to the play-offs, with the franchise falling just short of winning another Super Bowl ring. But then again, every time Green Bay has won a Super Bowl they have reached the big game the following year – winning one and losing the other. If McCarthy and co. can lead a team decimated by injuries and without a running game to speak of – at least until the arrival of James Starks in the postseason – to Super Bowl glory, then imagine what they could do with a fit and healthy roster.
And with Aaron Rodgers having finally stepped out of Favre’s shoes with a Super Bowl ring of his own, there is a real possibility this franchise could become a dynasty over the next decade – much like the Patriots team that dominated the early part of the last one, the 70’s Steelers and Green Bay themselves in the 60’s, when the franchise was coached by the legendary Vince Lombardi. If ever the franchise had a chance to recreate just a snippet of his success, surely this crop of players are the ones who could do it.
The hot team in the NFC were the Falcons, and the Patriots seemed unbeatable once again as they went on an eight-game winning streak in the AFC – one which would have been a 14-game run had they not suffered a surprising loss to the Browns in week 9. Suddenly nobody was talking about Green Bay as a legitimate Super Bowl candidate anymore: big mistake.
The Packers rallied behind their leader Aaron Rodgers late in the season. Having carried his team for most of the year, the quarterback who replaced Brett Favre at the helm was never going to let the two concussions he suffered keep him out for long. Despite a growing list of injuries to key players, Rodgers and McCarthy continued to defy the odds. It seemed that every time someone went down, McCarthy found a way to patch-up what appeared to be a sinking ship. Players such as undrafted rookie Sam Shields stepped up to the plate big time, and after a crushing win against the New York Giants in week 16 the Packers had their postseason destiny in their own hands. Only one team stood in the franchise’s way: arch rivals the Chicago Bears.
In what was a drab encounter Green Bay scrapped a 10-3 win at Lambeau Field and the rest, as they say, is history. Chicago’s loss came back to haunt them as they were outfoxed by Mike McCarthy’s team in the NFC Championship game. The Pack were on a roll, and after demolishing every team like a wrecking ball as they gathered momentum in the postseason, they went on to claim their fourth Super Bowl title, and as number six seeds nonetheless. The question is, can they repeat?
The last time a team won back-to-back NFL championships was six years ago, when the New England Patriots were victorious in Super Bowl XXXVIII and XXXIX. The 2010 champions, the New Orleans Saints, looked well-placed to do so in the eyes of many observers last season. But after a solid, yet unspectacular regular season, which saw them slip under the radar and into the play-offs hot on the heels of division rivals the Atlanta Falcons, Drew Brees and co. were unceremoniously dumped out of the postseason at the first hurdle. By a team who won the NFC West with a 7-9 record no less: the Seattle Seahawks.
The Packers have key players such as RB Ryan Grant and TE Jermichael Finley back from injury, and have once again added a strong group of rookies from the draft. Going by what the record books say, the smart money would be on a return to the play-offs, with the franchise falling just short of winning another Super Bowl ring. But then again, every time Green Bay has won a Super Bowl they have reached the big game the following year – winning one and losing the other. If McCarthy and co. can lead a team decimated by injuries and without a running game to speak of – at least until the arrival of James Starks in the postseason – to Super Bowl glory, then imagine what they could do with a fit and healthy roster.
And with Aaron Rodgers having finally stepped out of Favre’s shoes with a Super Bowl ring of his own, there is a real possibility this franchise could become a dynasty over the next decade – much like the Patriots team that dominated the early part of the last one, the 70’s Steelers and Green Bay themselves in the 60’s, when the franchise was coached by the legendary Vince Lombardi. If ever the franchise had a chance to recreate just a snippet of his success, surely this crop of players are the ones who could do it.
Sunday 5 June 2011
The benefits of Burress
Having served a twenty-month jail sentence after pleading guilty to weapons charges, Super bowl winning wide receiver Plaxico Burress is hoping for a second chance in NFL through this year’s free agency.
Recent speculation has produced numerous suitors for the ex-Giant receiver, and most recently he has been linked to the Philadelphia Eagles, an outcome that doesn’t seem so farfetched to most critics.
The Eagles have recently helped reform Michael Vick into a leader that people place their faith in. Vick has also had a troubled past with a prison sentence but has seemingly put his past behind him. Would Andy Reid and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg relish the opportunity to mould Burress into a superstar again?
Philly already have deep routes covered by DeSean Jackson, and Jeremy Maclin has proven that he is a premium go-to guy but the Eagles could use some assistance converting short third downs. Last season the Eagles relied heavily on Vick’s running game to get those crucial downs, but this method also puts the quarterback hugely at risk of injury.
At the end of last season the Eagles made a swoop for Sinorice Moss, brother of Washington Redskins Santana Moss. Moss had previously been picked up by the New York Giants but due to injuries his time at the Meadowlands was hardly a memorable one. Also added to the receiver equation is tightend Brent Celek and fullback Leonard Weaver, both who were used extensively in McNabb’s last season with Philadelphia. Adaptations to the offence could easily see them playing more roles again in short gains.
So could Burress also feature? It’s a tough choice. Vick would be the ideal mentor for an already reliable receiver who can produce big yards after the catch is made. Will Burress have the same tenacity and attitude to win? Only time will tell.
The Eagles have recently helped reform Michael Vick into a leader that people place their faith in. Vick has also had a troubled past with a prison sentence but has seemingly put his past behind him. Would Andy Reid and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg relish the opportunity to mould Burress into a superstar again?
Philly already have deep routes covered by DeSean Jackson, and Jeremy Maclin has proven that he is a premium go-to guy but the Eagles could use some assistance converting short third downs. Last season the Eagles relied heavily on Vick’s running game to get those crucial downs, but this method also puts the quarterback hugely at risk of injury.
At the end of last season the Eagles made a swoop for Sinorice Moss, brother of Washington Redskins Santana Moss. Moss had previously been picked up by the New York Giants but due to injuries his time at the Meadowlands was hardly a memorable one. Also added to the receiver equation is tightend Brent Celek and fullback Leonard Weaver, both who were used extensively in McNabb’s last season with Philadelphia. Adaptations to the offence could easily see them playing more roles again in short gains.
So could Burress also feature? It’s a tough choice. Vick would be the ideal mentor for an already reliable receiver who can produce big yards after the catch is made. Will Burress have the same tenacity and attitude to win? Only time will tell.
Saturday 4 June 2011
Kafka the lone ranger
Signs of a lack of unity were witnessed in the Philadelphia Eagles camp today during an organised training session. Due to the lockout many players from various teams have been scheduling training sessions and exercise drills to stay fit in the vent of the upcoming season. According to NFL.com the majority of training sessions had drawn between 6-12 players, but they had been led by Michael Vick. Vick however is now reportedly training with a personal coach and with Kolb returning to Texas, numbers have vastly dropped. The passing camp was attended by just two players today, back up quarterback Mike Kafka who might have a point to prove if Kolb leaves, and Jeremy Maclin. Does this show a lack of respect for the young quarterback already, and will he be able to lead the team effectively if Vick becomes injured? Most teams have already easily been generating at least three dozen players to training camps, so will this stall the start of the Eagles season?
One player that has been absent for most of the Eagles training camps is wide receiver DeSean Jackson. Instead DeSean has decided to keep active by training with his longterm coaches from the west coast.
One player that has been absent for most of the Eagles training camps is wide receiver DeSean Jackson. Instead DeSean has decided to keep active by training with his longterm coaches from the west coast.
Friday 3 June 2011
Rams close to fitting missing pieces of the jigsaw – Part Two: Offense
Despite the obvious need to surround Bradford with weapons for his sophomore season, there were a lot of observers left with raised eyebrows when the Rams took TE Lance Kendricks from Wisconsin in the second round, and two very similar receivers in Austin Pettis out of Boise State and Greg Salas from Hawaii in rounds three and four. 
Securing the services of the athletic Kendricks appeared odd to a lot of fans because of the decision to take two development TEs in Michael Hoomanawanui and Fendi Onobun in the 2010 draft.
However, considering new offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels – previously head coach at the Denver Broncos and OC at the Patriots under Bill Belichick – likes to employ a spread offense with two TEs it is understandable why this decision was made. It also provides a nice comfort blanket for Bradford, in the form of a solid check-down option with good hands, and an equally useful blocker for Pro Bowl running back Steven Jackson.
There was also frustration at the choice of two very similar receivers in Pettis and Salas – both of whom are big, strong receivers with solid hands and great route-running ability, but who lack the explosiveness and speed of a number one receiver.
However, it is important to point out that last season the Rams struggles were not in moving the ball down field, the problem was picking up six once they reached the red zone – something which Pettis, Salas and Kendricks will all help address because of their route-running ability. And it must also be stressed that an out-an-out no.1 receiver would not solve this weakness in the Rams’ offensive unit.
Adding three new weapons for former Heisman trophy winner Bradford has now given the team serious depth in their receiving corps – enhanced by the return from season-ending injuries of Donnie Avery, a speedster who was selected ahead of Eagles stand-out receiver DeSean Jackson in the 2008 draft, and veteran Mark Clayton, who gelled well with Bradford in the short time he was on the field after joining from the Ravens.
Although he will hit the free agency market when the lockout is over, Clayton has expressed a desire to return to St Louis, and the Rams will surely look to snap up his services sooner rather than later. Then there’s Missouri wide receiver Danario Alexander – a guy who was undrafted in 2010 but signed by the Rams after Clayton went down injured. He struggled to stay healthy all year – part of the reason why he ended up signing with St Louis as an undrafted free agent after putting together stellar collegiate numbers in 2008.
However, if he can stay healthy there is real hope from within the organisation that the glimpses he showed last season were just a snippet of his talents. If he can fight off competition during training camp and gets an extended run in the team then he is a legitimate candidate for the number one receiver spot for years to come.
With Clayton, Avery and Alexander looking like shoe-ins for three of the receiver spots on the roster, and Amendola developing nicely as a slot receiver last season – much in the mould of Wes Welker, it leaves two players part of last year’s team out in the cold. Assuming the Rams do not cut this year’s third and fourth round draft picks, it would seem that Brandon Gibson and Laurent Robinson will likely be the two receivers released.
Then there’s the running back dilemma. Steven Jackson has been outstanding, there is no question about that. Last year he became the Rams’ all time leading rusher, surpassing the previous record set by Eric Dickerson. But he has been asked to carry the team for the past seven seasons and now the rebuilding finally appears to be taking shape it is crucial the Rams sign a change-of-pace back to help share the load.
San Diego’s Darren Sproles has been mooted as a potential addition to the team, and would seemingly be a perfect complement to Jackson in a feared running back tandem. Similarly, the explosive nature of Reggie Bush, who was vocal about his displeasure in seeing the Saints draft Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram in the first round last month, would turn the offense and special teams unit into an exciting and potentially devastating force.
The tackle spots on the offensive line seem set for years after Saffold, a second round pick in 2010, had a breakout year protecting Sam Bradford’s blindside and former number two pick Jason Smith finally found his feet on the right. With one of the most consistent and reliable center’s in Jason Brown bolstering the line the only real upgrades needed appear to be at the guard positions.
Veterans Adam Goldberg and Jacob Bell do not appear to be long term solutions for the Rams. Both struggled badly towards the end of last season, failing to create the necessary holes and running lanes for SJ to burst through. John Greco showed glimpses of potential but failed to remain healthy on a consistent basis. That means it is imperative the Rams pick up at least one guard in free agency and another in the later rounds of the 2012 NFL draft.
The only other area of need which many believe can be addressed in the free agency market is an out-and-out number one receiver. Having discussed the various options the Rams already have at this position it doesn’t appear to be that much of a glaring need. One thing is for sure, coach Spags believes above all else in playing for the team and having players with strong characters to be a part of it. It wouldn’t make much sense going out and grabbing Chad Ochocinco, Terrell Owens or Randy Moss because they’re likely to upset the apple cart and do more harm than good.
That leaves the only other option being Sidney Rice who may well hit the market from the Vikings. But despite having clear potential, as was demonstrated when he put together such impressive numbers with Brett Favre at the helm in 2009, Rice was hampered by injuries last season. And he wouldn’t come cheap either. The Vikings are likely to want at least a first-round pick for someone who has been a focal point of their offense – and that’s if they let him go at all. This move seems like a stretch for the Rams, and again one which seems unlikely when considering how coach Spags has built his team up till now.
The smart money says Spagnuolo sticks with what he already has and lets Josh McDaniels work his magic. And judging by the new offensive coordinator’s previous record, there is a distinct possibility he could ignite the passing game, while balancing it off with the consistent and devastating threat posed by the evergreen Steven Jackson.
Securing the services of the athletic Kendricks appeared odd to a lot of fans because of the decision to take two development TEs in Michael Hoomanawanui and Fendi Onobun in the 2010 draft.
However, considering new offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels – previously head coach at the Denver Broncos and OC at the Patriots under Bill Belichick – likes to employ a spread offense with two TEs it is understandable why this decision was made. It also provides a nice comfort blanket for Bradford, in the form of a solid check-down option with good hands, and an equally useful blocker for Pro Bowl running back Steven Jackson.
There was also frustration at the choice of two very similar receivers in Pettis and Salas – both of whom are big, strong receivers with solid hands and great route-running ability, but who lack the explosiveness and speed of a number one receiver.
However, it is important to point out that last season the Rams struggles were not in moving the ball down field, the problem was picking up six once they reached the red zone – something which Pettis, Salas and Kendricks will all help address because of their route-running ability. And it must also be stressed that an out-an-out no.1 receiver would not solve this weakness in the Rams’ offensive unit.
Adding three new weapons for former Heisman trophy winner Bradford has now given the team serious depth in their receiving corps – enhanced by the return from season-ending injuries of Donnie Avery, a speedster who was selected ahead of Eagles stand-out receiver DeSean Jackson in the 2008 draft, and veteran Mark Clayton, who gelled well with Bradford in the short time he was on the field after joining from the Ravens.
Although he will hit the free agency market when the lockout is over, Clayton has expressed a desire to return to St Louis, and the Rams will surely look to snap up his services sooner rather than later. Then there’s Missouri wide receiver Danario Alexander – a guy who was undrafted in 2010 but signed by the Rams after Clayton went down injured. He struggled to stay healthy all year – part of the reason why he ended up signing with St Louis as an undrafted free agent after putting together stellar collegiate numbers in 2008.However, if he can stay healthy there is real hope from within the organisation that the glimpses he showed last season were just a snippet of his talents. If he can fight off competition during training camp and gets an extended run in the team then he is a legitimate candidate for the number one receiver spot for years to come.
With Clayton, Avery and Alexander looking like shoe-ins for three of the receiver spots on the roster, and Amendola developing nicely as a slot receiver last season – much in the mould of Wes Welker, it leaves two players part of last year’s team out in the cold. Assuming the Rams do not cut this year’s third and fourth round draft picks, it would seem that Brandon Gibson and Laurent Robinson will likely be the two receivers released.
Then there’s the running back dilemma. Steven Jackson has been outstanding, there is no question about that. Last year he became the Rams’ all time leading rusher, surpassing the previous record set by Eric Dickerson. But he has been asked to carry the team for the past seven seasons and now the rebuilding finally appears to be taking shape it is crucial the Rams sign a change-of-pace back to help share the load.
San Diego’s Darren Sproles has been mooted as a potential addition to the team, and would seemingly be a perfect complement to Jackson in a feared running back tandem. Similarly, the explosive nature of Reggie Bush, who was vocal about his displeasure in seeing the Saints draft Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram in the first round last month, would turn the offense and special teams unit into an exciting and potentially devastating force.
The tackle spots on the offensive line seem set for years after Saffold, a second round pick in 2010, had a breakout year protecting Sam Bradford’s blindside and former number two pick Jason Smith finally found his feet on the right. With one of the most consistent and reliable center’s in Jason Brown bolstering the line the only real upgrades needed appear to be at the guard positions.
Veterans Adam Goldberg and Jacob Bell do not appear to be long term solutions for the Rams. Both struggled badly towards the end of last season, failing to create the necessary holes and running lanes for SJ to burst through. John Greco showed glimpses of potential but failed to remain healthy on a consistent basis. That means it is imperative the Rams pick up at least one guard in free agency and another in the later rounds of the 2012 NFL draft.
The only other area of need which many believe can be addressed in the free agency market is an out-and-out number one receiver. Having discussed the various options the Rams already have at this position it doesn’t appear to be that much of a glaring need. One thing is for sure, coach Spags believes above all else in playing for the team and having players with strong characters to be a part of it. It wouldn’t make much sense going out and grabbing Chad Ochocinco, Terrell Owens or Randy Moss because they’re likely to upset the apple cart and do more harm than good.
That leaves the only other option being Sidney Rice who may well hit the market from the Vikings. But despite having clear potential, as was demonstrated when he put together such impressive numbers with Brett Favre at the helm in 2009, Rice was hampered by injuries last season. And he wouldn’t come cheap either. The Vikings are likely to want at least a first-round pick for someone who has been a focal point of their offense – and that’s if they let him go at all. This move seems like a stretch for the Rams, and again one which seems unlikely when considering how coach Spags has built his team up till now.
The smart money says Spagnuolo sticks with what he already has and lets Josh McDaniels work his magic. And judging by the new offensive coordinator’s previous record, there is a distinct possibility he could ignite the passing game, while balancing it off with the consistent and devastating threat posed by the evergreen Steven Jackson.
Wednesday 1 June 2011
The Blind Side
I guess I never revealed what a Blind Side actually is. For some people it might make a lot of sense, others who have seen the film starring Sandra Bullock about Michael Oher might have an understanding. But to others new to the game of American football I thought I would clarify what a Blind Side or to be Blind Sided actually means.
The Blind Side actually is the area outside the quarterback's vision. This is supposedly the most dangerous place for a quarterback to receive a tackle or a sack from a defender because he never has the opportunity to see the pressure coming.
Specific players on the offensive line are used to protect this side for the quarterback and it is the position the Baltimore Raven's Michael Oher plays.
Anyway I hope explains the term the Blind Side.
The Blind Side actually is the area outside the quarterback's vision. This is supposedly the most dangerous place for a quarterback to receive a tackle or a sack from a defender because he never has the opportunity to see the pressure coming.
Specific players on the offensive line are used to protect this side for the quarterback and it is the position the Baltimore Raven's Michael Oher plays.
Anyway I hope explains the term the Blind Side.
Olympic Tickets
Well as I'm sure most of you are aware, the London 2012 Olympic Games are coming around fast. I'm very excited myself as I think it will be a great opportunity to see exciting sports that you rarely get the opportunity to see. I'm not so sure about this ticket bidding however. Some friends and I recently placed our interest in some tickets, going for the most abstract sports as well as the athletics of course. I chose Taekwondo, purely because I thought it would be an interesting spectacle (my friends didn't agree however).
Unfortunately today was the last day that the money for the tickets would of been taken out of bank accounts and seeing as nothing has happened in m accounts, I'm assuming I was unsuccessful. Disappointingly just one out of my six friends managed to secure tickets.
As a result I will be watching table tennis in the summer of 2012 cheering on the British players. In all honesty I know nothing about table tennis and our chances of success but I guess I have to be grateful that I have obtained some tickets at least where others might not of been so fortunate.
Unfortunately today was the last day that the money for the tickets would of been taken out of bank accounts and seeing as nothing has happened in m accounts, I'm assuming I was unsuccessful. Disappointingly just one out of my six friends managed to secure tickets.
As a result I will be watching table tennis in the summer of 2012 cheering on the British players. In all honesty I know nothing about table tennis and our chances of success but I guess I have to be grateful that I have obtained some tickets at least where others might not of been so fortunate.
What is the NFL Draft?
The NFL Draft is an annual process where the best players in college American football are selected by NFL teams. It is used effectively because it ensures that all the teams are even, ensuring competitive balance.
The draft consists of seven rounds, in which the 32 NFL teams take it in turns to select the top players. The team with the worst record from the previous season goes first and the order is based on how each club performed the previous year.
Most recently in the 2011 NFL Draft the Carolina Panthers selected first overall because they had the worst record in the league in 2010. It then continues all the way down to the Super Bowl champion’s Green Bay Packers, who will pick 32nd and last in the opening round.
The most interesting part of course comes when teams trade up the list to select better players. This can be done by making deals with other teams offering picks, sometimes even for future drafts.
The draft takes place at Radio City Music Hall in New York
Most of the time it is widely considered that the first round picks are the best players, but this is not always the case. Some gems have been found in the lower rounds, including New England Patriots Super bowl winning quarterback Tom Brady, picked round 6!
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