In the coming weeks before the 2010 NFL draft the Miami Dolphins have made a few attempts to fill the holes on the roster. The addition of Karlos Dansby improves the linebacking corps tremendously. He is arguably one of the most underrated middle linebackers in the game. The team attempted to improve to the missing piece at free safety but both Antrel Rolle and Ryan Clark declined amd signed elsewhere.
Bill Parcels, Jeff Ireland and Tony Sparano find themselves looking to fill the voids at nose tackle, outside linebacker, wide receiver, and at safety. Based on previous drafts conducted by the team the possibility that they draft a wide receiver in the first round is slim. The needs at nose tackle or outside linebacker will probably be addressed first.Should they look to improve the front seven the Dolphins have alot of options.
At nose tackle the Dolphins could select Tennessee's Dan Williams who has experience playing in Monte Kiffin's pro scheme. Williams would fill the need left from Jason Ferguson's recent 8 game suspension and Paul Soliai's inconsistency. He looks to be the most pro ready tackle needed to anchor the middle of the 3-4 defense. His arrival would help free up inside linebackers Karlos Danby and Channing Crowder to chase the running backs and make plays behind the line of scrimmage.
The release of the declining Joey Porter and uncertainty surrounding Jason Taylor leaves a void at outside linebacker. Cameron Wake, Charlie Anderson, and Quentin Moses all possess the potential to contribute but Defensive Coordinator, Mike Nolan needs more of an arsenal to execute his aggressive schemes.
Should Miami select a linebacker, first round options are Michigan's Brandon Graham, who lit up the senior bowl for 2 sacks and a forced fumble. He was a consistent force for the Wolverines. Texas' Sergio Kindle has more experience standing upright and shifting into coverage while providing the speed, and aggressive skill set to harass quarterbacks on Sunday. Some Mock Drafts have the Dolphins selecting Georgia Tech's Derrick Morgan who is a force off the edge but hasn't necessarily proved to be a fit in the 3-4 scheme. Michigan's Graham provides the best option due to his consistent motor, high effort style that more than makes up for his size limitations. Plus, Dolphins QB Chad Henne and OT Jake Long provide an inside view on a highly regarded college teammate.
The needs at wide receiver and free safety will likely be addressed in the third and fourth rounds. If available the Dolphins should select Missouri's Danario Alexander who had over 1400 receiving yards while catching 14 touchdowns in 2009. He possess the speed and big play ability needed to help out the core group of Brian Hartline, Davone Bess and Greg Camarillo. At 6-5, 220 pounds he has the size to out jump defensive backs and break tackles. His knee is being rehabilitated and progressing well. Teams may stray from selecting the Missouri talent due to health concerns which could leave a opening for Miami.
In the fourth round, Miami could shore up the secondary by adding a young free safety to compete with the current group of defensive backs. Utah's Robert Johnson is a big presence at 6'2 206 and could compete for a starting spot while contributing on special teams. He flashed potential and has the size and speed to play the position and run with the premier tight ends in the league.
The days leading to the draft will lead to all sorts of predictions and mock drafts about who Miami will select. Hopefully some of the mentioned names will be called on draft day and help get the team on track to compete with the Patriots and Jets.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Brady Quinn's Fresh Start
Over the weekend the Clevland Browns continued to purge remnants of the old regime with Mike Holmgren's decision to trade QB Brady Quinn to the Denver Broncos. In exchange for the maligned Quarterback, Denver gave up fullback/running back Peyton Hillis, 6th round draft pick, and a conditional draft pick based on Brady Quinn's role and performance.
The deal marks a smart move for the Denver Broncos because of the uncertainty surrounding RFA(restricted free agent) quarterback, Kyle Orton. Orton had a productive season under the guidance of Josh McDaniels but he has yet to prove he can be a franchise QB in a league where the passing game increasingly determines the outcome for many teams. Brady Quinn has the potential and familiarity with Denver's offensive scheme to be successful. Quinn played in a pro-style offense for former New England Offensive Coordinator, Charlie Weis.
The offense that made Brady Quinn a successful quarterback in Notre Dame is strikingly similar to the offense used by Josh McDaniels. As long as Denver straightens out the situation with receiver Brandon Marshall by either retaining him long term or move him in a trade and draft another top flight receiver. McDaniels runs a creative scheme that focuses on high percentage passes that spread a defense out before unleashing the big play. Quinn has the intangibles and ability to thrive in their scheme as long as the talent and committment is made to develop his skills.
Denver came out victorious after the trade but Clevland did receive some fair compensation in return. Clevland acquired fullback/running back Peyton Hillis, who is only two years removed from making waves for his big plays in Mike Shanahan's offense. Hillis gives Clevland a power pack who is capable of pairing up with the smaller,gifted Jerome Harrison. He also provides a weapon out of the backfield who is capable of being used at H-back, Tight end, and some receiver. He provides versatility and size to the position that supplants the loss of the aging, Jamal Lewis. Clevland has also gets an extra draft pick in 2010 and a conditional pick in 2011 which could be huge depending on how successful Quinn's move to Denver pans out.
Many football experts and Browns fans feel that Brady Quinn is a bust and someone who cost the organization the opporunity to fill other needs. In Quinn's defense, Denver gets a QB who has more potential than many quarterbacks coming out in the approaching draft and was never given the opportunity to thrive or properly develop because of the Browns inability to decide on a starting QB and maintain the committment. This move may not seem like anything to write home about but when the 2010 season begins Denver could find itself guilty of grand theft if Brady Quinn thrives.
The deal marks a smart move for the Denver Broncos because of the uncertainty surrounding RFA(restricted free agent) quarterback, Kyle Orton. Orton had a productive season under the guidance of Josh McDaniels but he has yet to prove he can be a franchise QB in a league where the passing game increasingly determines the outcome for many teams. Brady Quinn has the potential and familiarity with Denver's offensive scheme to be successful. Quinn played in a pro-style offense for former New England Offensive Coordinator, Charlie Weis.
The offense that made Brady Quinn a successful quarterback in Notre Dame is strikingly similar to the offense used by Josh McDaniels. As long as Denver straightens out the situation with receiver Brandon Marshall by either retaining him long term or move him in a trade and draft another top flight receiver. McDaniels runs a creative scheme that focuses on high percentage passes that spread a defense out before unleashing the big play. Quinn has the intangibles and ability to thrive in their scheme as long as the talent and committment is made to develop his skills.
Denver came out victorious after the trade but Clevland did receive some fair compensation in return. Clevland acquired fullback/running back Peyton Hillis, who is only two years removed from making waves for his big plays in Mike Shanahan's offense. Hillis gives Clevland a power pack who is capable of pairing up with the smaller,gifted Jerome Harrison. He also provides a weapon out of the backfield who is capable of being used at H-back, Tight end, and some receiver. He provides versatility and size to the position that supplants the loss of the aging, Jamal Lewis. Clevland has also gets an extra draft pick in 2010 and a conditional pick in 2011 which could be huge depending on how successful Quinn's move to Denver pans out.
Many football experts and Browns fans feel that Brady Quinn is a bust and someone who cost the organization the opporunity to fill other needs. In Quinn's defense, Denver gets a QB who has more potential than many quarterbacks coming out in the approaching draft and was never given the opportunity to thrive or properly develop because of the Browns inability to decide on a starting QB and maintain the committment. This move may not seem like anything to write home about but when the 2010 season begins Denver could find itself guilty of grand theft if Brady Quinn thrives.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Beware the Ides of March
As the start of free agency, the NFL combine and draft speculation intensify; teams will attempt to supplement or reshape their rosters in hopes of making the great leap to the to the Super Bowl. The Miami Dolphins find themselves caught in a quandary and facing tough decisions on the course of action necessary for success in 2010.
The Trifecta have holes on both offense and defense. The linebacking corps,inside and outside, need improvement and consistency. The free agent signing of Gibril Wilson proved to be as successful as the signing of Ernest Wilford. In all likelihood Wilson finds himself being released and looking for a new employer. The return of LB Jason Taylor remains a question mark. The hope is that promising LBs Charlie Anderson and Cameron Wake take their game to the next level. The receving corps is in need of a booster shot because the Dolphins lack a true threat at TE and WR. Moving on to the Defensive line, NT is a crucial need because Jason Ferguson is 35 and coming off a serious injury. Paul Soliai's play has been too inconsistent to be considered the future.
Exploring all possible options for the Dolphins lead to the assumption that hitting on the early round draft picks and finding some buried treasure on waivers or among the undrafted free agents would surely provide the needed depth. The Nose Tackle position is thin on the free agent market but options exist in former Green Bay tackle Ryan Pickett. Pickett is a proven starter and in his early thirties which makes him a viable option. The impending release of FS Antrel Rolle creates an interesting possibility for replacing Wilson. Wide receiver is the only other position with a few intriguing pass catchers. Antonio Bryant, Kevin Walter and Nate Burelson could provide a veteeran presence but none are a true threat that can keep defenses honest.
The draft brings several possibilities. Depending on how the draft pans out, the Dolphins would be wise to add Alabama ILB Rolando McClain. McClain brings a vocal,instinctive and sure tackling machine that can harass both running backs and quarterbacks alike. Taking the Alabama playmaker in the first round fills one need in the linebacking corps. In the second round the Dolphins could fill the need at receiver and draft Illinois' Aurrelius Benn or South Florida's Carlton Mitchell. Both receivers are the big, speedy receivers capable of opening the offense and giving Chad Henne a much needed weapon.
Moving into the third round, the Dolphins could add pass rushing depth with Murray State DE Austen Lane who has the potential to stand up as a 3-4 linebacker, in the mold of Jason Taylor. Troy's Brandon Lang and USF's George Selvie also provide the Dolphins more options.
In the mid to late rounds tf the Dolphins could find depth at Nose Tackle, linebacker, and tight end. In the fourth round the Dolphins will base their decision on the talent available. Hopefully, UNC mammoth DT Cam Thomas slides into the fourth round but is highly unlikely.
Trying to predict the Dolphins draft is a challenge in itself. Parcells probably will be tempted to draft linebackers in the first two rounds or mix it up with a nose tackle, which is vital to the 3-4 defense. Management will probably go and draft a receiver in the 3rd or 4th rounds but the selection of QB Pat White in 2009 suggests that leaps can be made based on the talent available the the ranking on the Trifecta's draft board.
The free agency period preceeding the draft will help determine the approach the Dolphins take in addressing their need in the draft. Regardless of the players selected the goal is to return to 2008 form, which saw the Dolphins rise to Division Championship and bring a much needed Super Bowl.
The Trifecta have holes on both offense and defense. The linebacking corps,inside and outside, need improvement and consistency. The free agent signing of Gibril Wilson proved to be as successful as the signing of Ernest Wilford. In all likelihood Wilson finds himself being released and looking for a new employer. The return of LB Jason Taylor remains a question mark. The hope is that promising LBs Charlie Anderson and Cameron Wake take their game to the next level. The receving corps is in need of a booster shot because the Dolphins lack a true threat at TE and WR. Moving on to the Defensive line, NT is a crucial need because Jason Ferguson is 35 and coming off a serious injury. Paul Soliai's play has been too inconsistent to be considered the future.
Exploring all possible options for the Dolphins lead to the assumption that hitting on the early round draft picks and finding some buried treasure on waivers or among the undrafted free agents would surely provide the needed depth. The Nose Tackle position is thin on the free agent market but options exist in former Green Bay tackle Ryan Pickett. Pickett is a proven starter and in his early thirties which makes him a viable option. The impending release of FS Antrel Rolle creates an interesting possibility for replacing Wilson. Wide receiver is the only other position with a few intriguing pass catchers. Antonio Bryant, Kevin Walter and Nate Burelson could provide a veteeran presence but none are a true threat that can keep defenses honest.
The draft brings several possibilities. Depending on how the draft pans out, the Dolphins would be wise to add Alabama ILB Rolando McClain. McClain brings a vocal,instinctive and sure tackling machine that can harass both running backs and quarterbacks alike. Taking the Alabama playmaker in the first round fills one need in the linebacking corps. In the second round the Dolphins could fill the need at receiver and draft Illinois' Aurrelius Benn or South Florida's Carlton Mitchell. Both receivers are the big, speedy receivers capable of opening the offense and giving Chad Henne a much needed weapon.
Moving into the third round, the Dolphins could add pass rushing depth with Murray State DE Austen Lane who has the potential to stand up as a 3-4 linebacker, in the mold of Jason Taylor. Troy's Brandon Lang and USF's George Selvie also provide the Dolphins more options.
In the mid to late rounds tf the Dolphins could find depth at Nose Tackle, linebacker, and tight end. In the fourth round the Dolphins will base their decision on the talent available. Hopefully, UNC mammoth DT Cam Thomas slides into the fourth round but is highly unlikely.
Trying to predict the Dolphins draft is a challenge in itself. Parcells probably will be tempted to draft linebackers in the first two rounds or mix it up with a nose tackle, which is vital to the 3-4 defense. Management will probably go and draft a receiver in the 3rd or 4th rounds but the selection of QB Pat White in 2009 suggests that leaps can be made based on the talent available the the ranking on the Trifecta's draft board.
The free agency period preceeding the draft will help determine the approach the Dolphins take in addressing their need in the draft. Regardless of the players selected the goal is to return to 2008 form, which saw the Dolphins rise to Division Championship and bring a much needed Super Bowl.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Gone Phishin'
On December 30th 2009, Jam band pioneers, Phish came to South Florida and brought large crowds of fans along for the ride. Phish ended their revival tour at American Airlines arena and filled the arena with more fans than the Miami Heat have seen this season.
After taking a hiatus to pursue individual projects and break from life on the road, Phish released the long awaited album, Joy in 2009 featuring many great tracks such as 'Stealing Time From the Faulty Plan,Sugar Shack, Kill Devil Falls' and many more. When the show began, Phish came out to roaring crowds of loyal Phish heads that had long awaited their return and many others that traveled across country to attend all three nights. As the music began, fans were given the perfect introduction to the evening as the band played "Soul Shakedown Party", the Bob Marley classic. Witnessing the ocean of fans sway from side to side and the entire arena packed with grooving concert goers, it was a great start to a perfect evening.
I have atteneded many concerts overs the years and can say I have seen incredible live performances, but the intensity of the light shows, great songs by first class musicians, and a lively, friendly atmosphere made for an unforgettable evening. Phish played a great set that included "Free, Stealing Time from the Faulty Plan, Jesus Left Chicago,Gone, David Bowie" and many other great songs that energized the crowds.
Never have I experienced a performance like that i did that evening. I can honestly say that I have seen great live sets for Red Hot Chili Peppers, 311, and Matisyahu, but never have i witnessed such a connection between fans and band in my lifetime. Even for the indiividual who isn't a Phish fan, just being in attendance was a life changing experience that could turn anyone into a listener. For any fan of music, being at the Phish show is an experience one could share with all their friends and have a grea story for their children. If you had the opportunity to go and missed out then you can only hope that Phish returns but as they get older one can only hope that they could be lucky enough to experience a Phish show.
After taking a hiatus to pursue individual projects and break from life on the road, Phish released the long awaited album, Joy in 2009 featuring many great tracks such as 'Stealing Time From the Faulty Plan,Sugar Shack, Kill Devil Falls' and many more. When the show began, Phish came out to roaring crowds of loyal Phish heads that had long awaited their return and many others that traveled across country to attend all three nights. As the music began, fans were given the perfect introduction to the evening as the band played "Soul Shakedown Party", the Bob Marley classic. Witnessing the ocean of fans sway from side to side and the entire arena packed with grooving concert goers, it was a great start to a perfect evening.
I have atteneded many concerts overs the years and can say I have seen incredible live performances, but the intensity of the light shows, great songs by first class musicians, and a lively, friendly atmosphere made for an unforgettable evening. Phish played a great set that included "Free, Stealing Time from the Faulty Plan, Jesus Left Chicago,Gone, David Bowie" and many other great songs that energized the crowds.
Never have I experienced a performance like that i did that evening. I can honestly say that I have seen great live sets for Red Hot Chili Peppers, 311, and Matisyahu, but never have i witnessed such a connection between fans and band in my lifetime. Even for the indiividual who isn't a Phish fan, just being in attendance was a life changing experience that could turn anyone into a listener. For any fan of music, being at the Phish show is an experience one could share with all their friends and have a grea story for their children. If you had the opportunity to go and missed out then you can only hope that Phish returns but as they get older one can only hope that they could be lucky enough to experience a Phish show.
Monday, January 25, 2010
When The Saints Go Marching "Over the Vikings"
Is he retiring and going out failing to reach the Super Bowl? Will Brett Farve return for the 2010 season and bring a Lombardi trophy to Minnesota? The odds favor another eventful offseason of indecision from the veteran passer and leaving a mess in the process.
Farve posted a 107 passer rating and threw for over 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns as he led the Vikings to the NFC Championship game. Over the course of the season, Farve helped revive the Vikings' passing game and elevate the numbers of the young receiving corps featuring Sidney Rice, Percy Harvin, and Bernard Berrian. Going into the Divisional Round game versus the Dallas Cowboys, Farve silenced the critics and those who believed the Cowboys would end Farve's postseason run.
Going into the game, the Vikings featured a physical and high ranked defense that can plug any holes for the running game and harass the passer, disrupting an offense. Offensively, the Vikings have a young and talented receiving corps and have one of the NFL's premier backs in Adrian Peterson.
Standing in Farve's way to the Super Bowl, the New Orleans Saints bring their second ranked attack and find themselves bolstered by the "12th Man" in their homefield Superdome. The Saints bring a top tier passing attack and offer a capable defense, that has been lacking in previous seasons. The addition of Defensive Coordinator, Gregg Williams and the improvements made in the secondary factored into the Saints run to the NFC championship game. Drew Brees comes in leading a multifaceted offense that spreads the ball among many receivers and a capable rushing attack with tailbacks Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush.
The 2010 NFC Championship game featured two of the top ranked offenses in the league but the game was decided by defense and multiple turnovers. When either team seemed to be getting into an offensive rhythm the effort went in vain as both the Saints and Vikings committed turnovers. The game of numbers stayed in favor of the Saints as Adrian Peterson fumbled like a pop warner tailback playing his first game. Brett Farve contributed to the poor exchanges on handoffs and his second half interception contributed to the slight edge needed for the Saints to win. Similar to his last NFC title game appearance, Farve made poor decisions in his pass attempts. Farve had a difficult time staying on his feet as the Saints penetrated the Vikings offensive line and seemed to have injured Brett Farve on one play. Farve looked like a veteran past his prime and wore down as the Saints remained relentless in their defensive schemes.
As Brett Farve mulls over the decision to play another season or to "finally" call it quits, Drew Brees gets to enjoy South Florida and the 2010 Super Bowl game as he attempts to bring a title to a city that has seen hard times since Hurricane Katrina crashed through the football loyal,and historic city.The city has been recharged by the Saints' success and a NFL Championship would bring festivities to a city that could use the celebration. Farve and the Vikings had plenty of motivation to win, but the emotions of the Saints and their connection to the city and its fanbase provided a higher level of intensity as the game clock wore down to 0:00
Farve posted a 107 passer rating and threw for over 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns as he led the Vikings to the NFC Championship game. Over the course of the season, Farve helped revive the Vikings' passing game and elevate the numbers of the young receiving corps featuring Sidney Rice, Percy Harvin, and Bernard Berrian. Going into the Divisional Round game versus the Dallas Cowboys, Farve silenced the critics and those who believed the Cowboys would end Farve's postseason run.
Going into the game, the Vikings featured a physical and high ranked defense that can plug any holes for the running game and harass the passer, disrupting an offense. Offensively, the Vikings have a young and talented receiving corps and have one of the NFL's premier backs in Adrian Peterson.
Standing in Farve's way to the Super Bowl, the New Orleans Saints bring their second ranked attack and find themselves bolstered by the "12th Man" in their homefield Superdome. The Saints bring a top tier passing attack and offer a capable defense, that has been lacking in previous seasons. The addition of Defensive Coordinator, Gregg Williams and the improvements made in the secondary factored into the Saints run to the NFC championship game. Drew Brees comes in leading a multifaceted offense that spreads the ball among many receivers and a capable rushing attack with tailbacks Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush.
The 2010 NFC Championship game featured two of the top ranked offenses in the league but the game was decided by defense and multiple turnovers. When either team seemed to be getting into an offensive rhythm the effort went in vain as both the Saints and Vikings committed turnovers. The game of numbers stayed in favor of the Saints as Adrian Peterson fumbled like a pop warner tailback playing his first game. Brett Farve contributed to the poor exchanges on handoffs and his second half interception contributed to the slight edge needed for the Saints to win. Similar to his last NFC title game appearance, Farve made poor decisions in his pass attempts. Farve had a difficult time staying on his feet as the Saints penetrated the Vikings offensive line and seemed to have injured Brett Farve on one play. Farve looked like a veteran past his prime and wore down as the Saints remained relentless in their defensive schemes.
As Brett Farve mulls over the decision to play another season or to "finally" call it quits, Drew Brees gets to enjoy South Florida and the 2010 Super Bowl game as he attempts to bring a title to a city that has seen hard times since Hurricane Katrina crashed through the football loyal,and historic city.The city has been recharged by the Saints' success and a NFL Championship would bring festivities to a city that could use the celebration. Farve and the Vikings had plenty of motivation to win, but the emotions of the Saints and their connection to the city and its fanbase provided a higher level of intensity as the game clock wore down to 0:00
1-25-10: NFL Championship Games
So the results are in and the AFC Champion is the Indianapolis Colts. In the days leading up to the big game, the media focused on Rex Ryan's remarks about being "suprised" if the Jets lost to the Colts and the hype surrounding their postseason success. The experts were in awe over the Jets aggressive defense and unstoppable rushing attack. It seemed as if everyone forgot that MVP, Peyton Manning was leading the NFL's first ranked Colts and field a defense that has played efficiently and routinely prevented the big play.
The Colts have an established offense and have been a fixture of the playoffs for most of the last decade. Peyton Manning may be the best quarterback to ever play the game and arguably the most instinctive passer that has taken the field.
As for the Jets, having a rookie quarterback competing with the MVP tilts the scales in favor of the Colts. However, despite the lack of a aerial attack, the Jets field a quality offensive line that has helped pave the way for the NFL's first ranked, rushing offense. On the defensive side, Rex Ryan features a physical, attacking approach that heavily blitzes the passer. The Jets don't have an Elvis Dumervil or Demarcus Ware rushing the passer, but with a solid linebacking corps that combines the talents of Bart Scott and David Harris on the inside, and Calvin Pace off the edge, the unit manages to create pressure and disrupt an offensive attack.
Going into the game, both teams faced off with their contrasting styles and the Colts came out as the victor. The Jets kept it close in the first half thanks to solid pressure on Manning and Mark Sanchez's two touchdown strikes to Braylon Edwards and Dustin Keller. The critics who gave the Jets a chance were looking rational for their predictions
Despite the Jets' first half success, Peyton Manning made a statement to the boisterous Jets and the critics with precision passes to young receivers, Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon. Both receivers helped push the Colts to victory. Garcon posted double digit receptions and caught a td pass while Collie did much of his damage from the slot and through the middle as Dallas Clark stayed back in pass protection throughout a large portion of the game.
In the end, the Colts won with their passing game but were able to limit the Jets rushing attack and keep rookie tailback, Shonn Greene out of commission for most of the second half. Running back, Joseph Addai ran well and despite Clark's blocking assignments and Wayne's blanket coverage, Manning found a way to lead his team to victory. It was fitting that Peyton Manning made a slight remark to the Jet's "loudmouth" appraoch and proved it on the field. The Colts will be playing for the title while the Jets begin planning for the 2010 season.
The Colts have an established offense and have been a fixture of the playoffs for most of the last decade. Peyton Manning may be the best quarterback to ever play the game and arguably the most instinctive passer that has taken the field.
As for the Jets, having a rookie quarterback competing with the MVP tilts the scales in favor of the Colts. However, despite the lack of a aerial attack, the Jets field a quality offensive line that has helped pave the way for the NFL's first ranked, rushing offense. On the defensive side, Rex Ryan features a physical, attacking approach that heavily blitzes the passer. The Jets don't have an Elvis Dumervil or Demarcus Ware rushing the passer, but with a solid linebacking corps that combines the talents of Bart Scott and David Harris on the inside, and Calvin Pace off the edge, the unit manages to create pressure and disrupt an offensive attack.
Going into the game, both teams faced off with their contrasting styles and the Colts came out as the victor. The Jets kept it close in the first half thanks to solid pressure on Manning and Mark Sanchez's two touchdown strikes to Braylon Edwards and Dustin Keller. The critics who gave the Jets a chance were looking rational for their predictions
Despite the Jets' first half success, Peyton Manning made a statement to the boisterous Jets and the critics with precision passes to young receivers, Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon. Both receivers helped push the Colts to victory. Garcon posted double digit receptions and caught a td pass while Collie did much of his damage from the slot and through the middle as Dallas Clark stayed back in pass protection throughout a large portion of the game.
In the end, the Colts won with their passing game but were able to limit the Jets rushing attack and keep rookie tailback, Shonn Greene out of commission for most of the second half. Running back, Joseph Addai ran well and despite Clark's blocking assignments and Wayne's blanket coverage, Manning found a way to lead his team to victory. It was fitting that Peyton Manning made a slight remark to the Jet's "loudmouth" appraoch and proved it on the field. The Colts will be playing for the title while the Jets begin planning for the 2010 season.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Day 1. Another Tuesday in SoFLo
NFL Sports:
So I promised myself I would get this blog started and focus the attention of this blog on the topics highlighted in the title. Well to start things off, Football season is right around the corner and the preseason has begun with Tennessee playing the Buffalo Bills in the Hall Of Fame Game. The game was won by the Tennessee Titans, but as most football fans will know, that success in the pre-season is worth about as much as K-Mart Stocks. Kerry Collins began the first half doing what Carolina does best and thats hand the ball, to their running back duo of Chris Johnson and Lendale White. Free Agent addition Nate Washington proved to be a valuable asset to Tennessee with a few nice catches displaying the break away speed Tennessee lacked for most of last season in regards to the receiving corps. Buffalo's run defense attacked and proved to be force with their blend of power and speed among the front seven. Since it is only the first exhibition game, I wouldn't worry too much if I were Buffalo, however two observations that make me wonder about Buffalo's success, are their Offensive and Defensive Lines.
Buffalo has some concerns among the front seven in the defense and along the offensive lines. At Left Guard, 2nd Round Draft Pick,Andy Levitre was bullrushed right into Trent Edwards causing a turnover and only giving Tennessee a increased advantage. It appears that Tennessee may have enough on offense and enough talent to rotate along the defensive lines that the loss of Alberty Haynesworth may not prove to have such a dramtic effect on the defense. The Offensive line has issues with protection and opening up running lanes, but with 3 exhibition games left, there's plenty of room for adjustments. On the postive end, Terrell Owens looked like T.O. and made a couple nice catches and looks to be a valuable asset in Buffalo's arsenal. The loss of Jason Peters, is going to sting, because I don't feel that '08/09 RT Langston Walker has the foot speed to handle the game's speedier, pass rushers. Brad Butler at Right Tackle, may work out, but only time will tell. Hopefully, for Buffalo, their young rookies will make the necessary adjustments to the speed and caliber of players in the NFL. Lastly, I question Buffalo's ability to rush the passer, since RE Aaron Schobel is coming off a second injury decimated season, and LE Chris Kelsay and Ryan Denney appear to be nothing more than serviceable backups. When the Miami Dolphins, and New England Patriots are in the same Division, Buffalo will have their work cut out for them. Tennessee should be solid with 20-22 returning starters adding extra talent through FA and the draft.
NBA:
This offseason has seen the balance of power in the NBA take a shift in favor of the Eastern conference. Boston, Clevland, Orlando, and possibly even Toronto seem ready to have a bigger role in the playoffs and affect the playoff hopes of other NBA Teams. The one team that has done little to nothing this past offseason is the Miami Heat. With rumors of Lamar Odom, Allen Iverson, and Carlos Boozer all headed to the Heat, none have panned out. I may be one of the few out there who feel that Miami should still be a solid playoff bound team but still is a couple seasons away from contending for another championship. Jermaine O' Neal is coming back in much better shape and injury free(for now), Michael Beasley and Mario Chalmers have added a year of experience to their young careers, and their is promise among the younger players such as F/G Dorrell Wright and G Daquan Cook. If healthy, and with the continued greatness of Dwayne Wade, the Heat should be solid if not spectacular,but time will tell. However, if Miami is able to land one of the free agent superstars of the 2010 offseason, their fate will change. The possbility of a Chris Bosh or Amare Stoudamire teamed up with Dwayne Wade will have any opposing team sweating in despair, but nothing is certain. Miami still has to be successful enough this season to prove to Swayne Wade that the franchise is committted to winning and providing Wade with the best talent available so that a championship is within reach.
So I promised myself I would get this blog started and focus the attention of this blog on the topics highlighted in the title. Well to start things off, Football season is right around the corner and the preseason has begun with Tennessee playing the Buffalo Bills in the Hall Of Fame Game. The game was won by the Tennessee Titans, but as most football fans will know, that success in the pre-season is worth about as much as K-Mart Stocks. Kerry Collins began the first half doing what Carolina does best and thats hand the ball, to their running back duo of Chris Johnson and Lendale White. Free Agent addition Nate Washington proved to be a valuable asset to Tennessee with a few nice catches displaying the break away speed Tennessee lacked for most of last season in regards to the receiving corps. Buffalo's run defense attacked and proved to be force with their blend of power and speed among the front seven. Since it is only the first exhibition game, I wouldn't worry too much if I were Buffalo, however two observations that make me wonder about Buffalo's success, are their Offensive and Defensive Lines.
Buffalo has some concerns among the front seven in the defense and along the offensive lines. At Left Guard, 2nd Round Draft Pick,Andy Levitre was bullrushed right into Trent Edwards causing a turnover and only giving Tennessee a increased advantage. It appears that Tennessee may have enough on offense and enough talent to rotate along the defensive lines that the loss of Alberty Haynesworth may not prove to have such a dramtic effect on the defense. The Offensive line has issues with protection and opening up running lanes, but with 3 exhibition games left, there's plenty of room for adjustments. On the postive end, Terrell Owens looked like T.O. and made a couple nice catches and looks to be a valuable asset in Buffalo's arsenal. The loss of Jason Peters, is going to sting, because I don't feel that '08/09 RT Langston Walker has the foot speed to handle the game's speedier, pass rushers. Brad Butler at Right Tackle, may work out, but only time will tell. Hopefully, for Buffalo, their young rookies will make the necessary adjustments to the speed and caliber of players in the NFL. Lastly, I question Buffalo's ability to rush the passer, since RE Aaron Schobel is coming off a second injury decimated season, and LE Chris Kelsay and Ryan Denney appear to be nothing more than serviceable backups. When the Miami Dolphins, and New England Patriots are in the same Division, Buffalo will have their work cut out for them. Tennessee should be solid with 20-22 returning starters adding extra talent through FA and the draft.
NBA:
This offseason has seen the balance of power in the NBA take a shift in favor of the Eastern conference. Boston, Clevland, Orlando, and possibly even Toronto seem ready to have a bigger role in the playoffs and affect the playoff hopes of other NBA Teams. The one team that has done little to nothing this past offseason is the Miami Heat. With rumors of Lamar Odom, Allen Iverson, and Carlos Boozer all headed to the Heat, none have panned out. I may be one of the few out there who feel that Miami should still be a solid playoff bound team but still is a couple seasons away from contending for another championship. Jermaine O' Neal is coming back in much better shape and injury free(for now), Michael Beasley and Mario Chalmers have added a year of experience to their young careers, and their is promise among the younger players such as F/G Dorrell Wright and G Daquan Cook. If healthy, and with the continued greatness of Dwayne Wade, the Heat should be solid if not spectacular,but time will tell. However, if Miami is able to land one of the free agent superstars of the 2010 offseason, their fate will change. The possbility of a Chris Bosh or Amare Stoudamire teamed up with Dwayne Wade will have any opposing team sweating in despair, but nothing is certain. Miami still has to be successful enough this season to prove to Swayne Wade that the franchise is committted to winning and providing Wade with the best talent available so that a championship is within reach.
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