Saturday, December 8, 2012

Post Season Mock






AFC

BYES: (1)Texans, (2)Patriots

3 Broncos vs 6 Colts

Story lines a plenty wildcard weekend. Mannings return to the playoff draws him a match up against his replacement and former team. Colts. Broncos. Manning. Luck. A potential epic duel of Young gun vs the ole Stalwart. Really... would football fans have it any other way? I think not. Von Miller and the Broncos D will prove to be the difference in this one allowing Manning to leave Colts fans with yet another Postseason dissapointment.

4 Ravens vs 5 Steelers

Ready the Ice baths. Double.. wait no Triple the medical staff for this one. The NFLs greatest rivalry kicks off for a 3rd time. With Roethlisburger set to return, Polomalu back, James Harrison returning to form The Steelers are picking up steam at just the right time and might just enter the playoffs as the most dangerous team in either conference.With late season momentum on their side and a healthy Ben under center, the steelers should be able to cruise past their bitter divisional foe and earn a trip to Houston.

Divisional Round

Texans vs Steelers

I'm sure many of you will chalk this up to bias but allow me to lay it all out for you guys. Who has the number ONE defense in the league despite missing the Leagues greatest X-factor on the defensive side of the Ball? NOooo. It isnt the Texans. It's the Steelers. Their D has still proven to be the best through 12 games despite missing its center piece for much of the season and lack luster performance from another former league defensive MVP James Harrison due to offseason back surgery. Foster and the Run game will be slowed. Schaub will be forced to make plays and make Big plays. You may say hes been making big plays throughout the year. He also hasn't been in a pressure situation like the one he will be thrown in against the Steel Curtain. No. Coming from behind to beat the Jags behind a near historic performance doesn't count. The "young money crew" (Wallace, Brown, Sanders) and Heath Miller will make more than enough plays for Ben to get past the Texans. The Bulls on Parade will crash and break against the Steel Curtain bring another depressing end to this Franchises season.

Patriots vs Broncos

Who doesnt want to see a Manning return to Foxboro in January. Unfortunately for him much like his past trips it will likely end in failure. Brady and the boys will come out on top in this AFC shootout. This should be an instant classic as two of the greatest signal callers to ever play the game will clash in a back in forth "whoever has it last wins" type of game.
AFC Championship

Patriots vs Steelers



The Class of the NFL over the last decade meet once more in the AFC Championship.

NFC

BYES: (1) Falcons, (2) Packers

3 Niners vs 6 Seattle

Niners just edged out for a bye face off against their divisional foes at Candlestick with a hint of anger. The Niners, motivated and hungry should be able to get past the Russel "magicman" Wilson

4 Redskins vs 5 Bears

The magical season of the skins, compliments of their football "messiah" RGIII will sadly come to a close at home against the Bears. Nothing to hang their heads on. Despite a first round exit the skins will have accomplished more than enough this season as RGIII and the gang will have brought DC its first divisional crown since 1999. They just simply do not match up well against the Bears. Cutler and the Bears earn a trip to the Georgia dome after this one.

Divisional Round

Falcons vs Bears

Could the Falcons again taste the bitterness of a first game exit? I believe so. Another case of a team peaking too early. The Bears bring a nasty turnover forcing machine D with a complete and potent offense. Cutler out duels Ryan in the end behind a strong defensive performance and a huge game from his P.I.C B-Marsh.

Packers vs Niners

A rematch of a week one match up however the destinations are flipped. This time around its the Packers who enjoy the comfort of their own house. Rodgers rises to the occasion and gets the Pack past one of the strongest and most complete teams in the NFL due to a strong mentality and full compliment of weapons (Jennings, Nelson, Jones, Cobb, Finley)

NFC Championship

Bears vs Packers

Another Classic NFL Match up as one of the leagues oldest and greatest rivalries square off in what has the makings of a classic.


SUPERBOWL??????

to be continued......

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

All Things Fantasy






Tired of falling short of Fantasy glory? Want this to be your year? Ready to commit to the research grind to win your draft? Do you enjoy a good American Cheeseburger now and then? If you answered yes to any or all of those questions than you couldn't of picked a better place for your Fantasy Draft needs. There's always different draft philosophies and talks of "Value Based Drafting" but if you want to reach the pinnacle of success in the fantasy world you must look at it differently. No one knows how the season is going to go. There's constant variance so what you must do is draft the team with the most potential. Draft players only with combinations of talent and good situations to give yourself the best chance at big production. Talented players in starting roles who are on the cusp of NFL stardom and talented vets who are either underrated or coming off a down yr due to misfortune and not a decline in physical skills who can thus bounce back nicely. The later you get in the draft the more you turn to "upside" with your picks. Using this draft style you are never drafting players such as Michael Turner, Frank Gore, Deangelo Williams or even players such as Larry Fitzgerald or Andre Johnson because at best you can only "get what you paid for" and won't be able to "turn a profit" on the pick. Allow me to explain while you curse my credibility. Fitz and Andre are 2 of the best WRs in the league and have been for about a decade. In Andres' case its simple. He's on the wrong side of 30, never had double digit TD's, battling injuries every yr and now is on one of the most conservative offenses in the league with a QB who carries his own health risks. His days of 1500 yard seasons are behind him and in today's NFL you can find other guys later in your draft who will out produce 1200 and 8 production possibly even via the waiver wire. In Larrys' case it has more to do with situation and where you have to get him. He won't have stable QB play and despite his 1400 8 TD campaign last yr in the same situation I'm simply not touching Fitz in the top 20 because what he did last season is his ceiling. Scoring opportunities will be few and far between and his yardage total will be hard to repeat and even with last yrs numbers he still finished just 6th in standard scoring. He's no lock for top 3 production at the position. If I'm going to take a WR that high in today's NFL he will have to have big TD potential along with the big yardage which is why I consider only 1 WR after Calvin Johnson worth taking in the top 20. But I'll get to that later.


Here's the only way to draft if you only want to win


The Start



The Fantasy Game today is much more complex and much much deeper than ever. In fact this is possibly the deepest Fantasy Draft of all time featuring multiple 5000 yard passers and countless 1000 yard WRs. Workhorse RBs are a dieing breed and thus must be valued at a premium. Foster, Rice, McCoy are as close to a consensus top 3 as we have. After the top 3 many like to venture off into the Aaron Rodgers realm which is fine. Its the safe route, but safe can only get you so far. RB depth is far too thin this yr to disregard. With the latest injuries to Ryan Mathews and Trent Richardson, Darren McFadden should draw serious consideration at 4. Yes, he carries his own red flags, but his upside and situation must be realized. McFadden is as talented as they come and without Michael Bush to vulture TDs his upside becomes greater than any other back. "Roll the dice" on McFadden and reap the ever so great benefits. Drafts slots 5-8 are tough spots to pass on one of the elite QBs because of the "uncertainty" surrounding the remaining backs. However, when you take in account the potential scoring differential between the true every down work horses and the remaining time share backs these picks almost certainly must be used on Ryan Mathews, Trent Richardson, Demarco Murray and Chris Johnson. All every down backs without competition for carries and bolstered by receiving skills and goal line duties. Once the elite upside backs are off the board look to snatch Calvin Johnson just before turning to the QB route as he has the biggest potential scoring differential between him and the next group of WR's and unlike Andre and Fitz, Calvin is still getting better and holds 20 TD potential. At this stage its safe to throw tiers out the window and snatch up an elite QB starting with Cam Newton. Listen to what history tells you if you must and buy into a serious decline in rushing production and thus a possible Sophomore Slump, but there's never been a QB like Cam to enter the league. He's the ultimate weapon. He's a bigger stronger Vick without the durability issues. He had a historic rookie season with a shortened offseason behind him and QB's tend to have their biggest jumps in production from years 1-2 much like WR's from years 2-3. He has every attribute needed to light up the fantasy world and he's simply unstoppable at the goal line. After Cam take your pick of the NFL's elite gunslingers in your leagues "arm race". The only player worth taking over one of these signal callers is Jamaal Charles. Sure, hes coming off an ACL injury and will cede goal line work to running mate Peyton Hillis, but from all accounts Charles is healthy and more than ready for the season. His workload is nothing to worry about either considering Jamaal is one of the most efficient RB's of all time (6.1 career ypc). So don't forget to hail to the chief in your draft and enjoy the top 10 RB production you will get out of your RB2 if you pair him with the likes of McFadden, Mathews, T-Rich, Murray or Chris Johnson.

Elite Wingmen




After the big 5 at the QB position and Charles it's time to start considering AP, MJD, Vick and Julio Jones. Yes, Julio Jones as the 2nd WR off the board. Forte is an obvious safe play in this range, but with Michael Bush vulturing TD's and Cutler airing it out more this yr Forte lacks premium upside. AP will be a major difference maker likely producing RB1 totals in the 2nd half, but obviously carries a bit of risk and low early season expectations. MJD appears to be a headache you pass on to another owner to deal with. After his first full offseason as the Eagles starter and hungrier than ever Michael Vick is primed for perhaps his greatest season as a pro. The Eagles offense will bounce back in a big way this year lead by the highlight reel. Julio Jones totaled 959 yards and 8 TDs in just 13 games as a rookie. Now fully healthy and primed to be the offenses go to option Julio has mammoth upside. I look for him to produce yardage totals similar to Victor Cruzs' from a year ago as he will be a big play machine likely eclipsing 1400 yards and double digit TD's in an offense that will be very pass heavy. Even if he were to have the slightest uptick in production from last yrs per game average he would still be sitting on a 1200 yard 10 TD season which wouldn't kill you even as your 2nd pick. The upside with Julio is well worth it. You can't reach to far on him. As you head into round 3 your short list of target players should include:




With Blounts' fumbling issues, lack of passing down skills and overall lackadaisical behavior Martin, a 3 down back, holds loads of potential as the lead back for what is to be one of the leagues most run heavy offenses. The Bucs also have the easiest rushing schedule according to last yrs numbers for what that's worth. Martin doesn't have "wow" factor but he's solid in all aspects of the game with good vision, instincts, cut ability, power and hands. Blount may cap his upside to an extent but there's no question Martin will rack up big time yardage as a rookie.



 Harvin finished 7th at the position last yr. He lead all WRs in touches and was 2nd in yards after catch behind Wes Welker. From weeks 10-17 he averaged over 100 yards per game with Christian Ponder under center. After an offseason to gain more rapport with Ponder and a full season with Ponder under center the sky is the limit for Harvin in 2012. Especially when you consider the Vikings will likely lean even more on Harvin as the ease AP back.

honorable mention: Hakeem Nicks

Adding Framework to your foundation

Round 4 target list:



 Dez Bryant is entering his 3rd season in the NFL and we all know the lure of "3rd yr breakouts". He's notarized those claims with an outstanding camp and appears primed to be the focal point of the Cowboys passing attack. He will only further be leaned upon with Miles Austin likely having lingering hamstring issues throughout the yr and Jason Witten now out for the preseason with a spleen injury. Dez has the ability to beat any DB and is a dark horse candidate to lead the league in receiving TD's.

                                                

 Demaryius Thomas is another monster upside WR entering his 3rd season. He's big. He's Strong. He's Fast. And hes incredibly dangerous after the catch. He even trimmed down this offseason to add more quickness and explosion to his game making his potential with Manning under center lethal. Thomas was able to strike fear into defenses with Tebow throwing him passes (had a 103.5 ypg average from wks 13-16 with 3 TDs) the sky is the limit with Peyton.



 2 yrs ago Maclin finished as the number 11 WR in Fantasy at age 22. Last season his 3rd yr campaign was robbed by a mysterious illness that forced him to lose 30 lbs in training camp and the overall disappointment of the Eagles offense as a whole, but was still able to post a very respectable 859 yard 5 TD line in 13 games. Now fully healthy and set to be the lead WR for the Eagles offense that is ready to wreak havoc on the league Maclin is primed for a huge season.



Reggie Bush has said he wants to lead the league in rushing this season. So maybe that's not something to buy into, but his prior seasons' production and utilization for this season is. He had his first 1000 yard season averaging a salivating 5ypc in 2011 and added 43 catches. With the lack of Receiving threats on the Dolphins roster that total is very likely to only go up. He's their only weapon. He will be used in the backfield, out wide and in the slot giving him numerous ways to produce. He could easily have 500 receiving yards this season giving him 1500 total yard potential which is nothing to overlook in round 4 as a potential 3rd RB.

 Round 5 target list:


 From his Breakout game in week 7 against the Cardinals, Brown lead the Steelers in yards (846) Targets and only had one game under 8 fantasy points which came against the Niners when Ben played on a broken ankle. Now entering his 3rd season and in a pass happy Todd Haley offense with an upgraded O-line, Brown holds 1300 yard 10 TD upside. Don't let his lack of TDs last yr fool you. That number is very skewed due to bad luck as he actually lead the team in redzone targets. He's Roethlisbergers favorite target and rightfully so as Brown simply catches everything thrown his way no matter where the ball is placed or how many defenders crowd his catch radius.



Antonio Gates has never had less than 7 TDs in a season and has had at least 50 yards or a TD in 75% of his games. He's Mr. Consistant and during Vincent Jacksons holdout yr, Gates was on historic pace with 782 yards and 10 TDs in just 10 games with many of those games being either not finished or at much less than 100%. Now fully healthy and without V-Jax yet again Gates should step back into the elite tier of TEs as Rivers will lean Heavily on him this season.



 Hernandez is yet another freak at the TE position. Last yr he totaled 910 yards and 7 scores in just 14 games and was eased back after his knee injury. Although overshadowed by Gronk, Hernandez is another uncoverable target with big play ability on the team that will likely lead the NFL in pass attempts this season with the reunion of Josh McDaniels. And if the playoffs are any indication of things to come you may just see him in the backfield getting ample carries as well only further adding to his production.

 Round 6 targets:



Pierre Garcon will be one of the biggest difference makers in your fantasy draft. He finished just shy of a 1000 yards last yr with Kerry Collins, Dan Orlovski and Curtis Painter chunking up ducks. Now in Washington and slotted to play the X WR position (the go to option in shanahans offense) and with a QB to compliment his skill set to perfection in RGIII, Garcon will explode in 2012. He's received nothing but rave reviews at camp and turned in an excellent preseason debut. Garcon is one of the most explosive WR's in the game and will be unleashed this yr as he and RGIII will likely step right onto the field for the skins' as one of the leagues most lethal combos. Snag him round 6 and watch round 4 or greater production roll in.



Eric Decker appears primed for a 1000 yard 10 TD type season with Peyton at the helms. He has nice route running ability, great hands, decent ability after the catch and good ball skills. He's a great buy if he slips into round 6.



The Cheifs want to split 500 carries between Hillis and Charles this season leaving plenty of workload to go around in KC. Hillis will batter defenses early wearing them out for charles to blow by them. He will also receive most if not all goal line work which will lead to some nice TD potential in an underated offense. He's reunited with OC Brian Dabol who he enjoyed his breakout campaign two years ago in Cleveland. The stars seem to be aligning nicely for Peyton "big guns" Hillis.


Honorable mention: Stevan Ridley
Round 7 targets:



Denarius Moore is probly the most talented WR that most have never heard of. His skills are a blend of Mike Wallace speed and explosiveness and Mike Williams ball skills. He's currently battling a lingering hamstring issue but there's still plenty of time to get the kinks worked out before the season starts. When healthy he will produce like a WR1 this yr. Carson Palmer loves to sling it deep (2nd highest ypa last yr to Aaron Rodgers) and he also loves Moore. With defenses unable to double him due to the attention McFadden will require in the box Moore may very well emerge as one of the leagues premier deep threats this season. 1000 yds and 7 TD's is easily attainable with upside for much more.



Kevin Smith is about the only bankable skill player in Detroit right now outside of Calvin. With Best headed towards the pup list and Leshoure battling his own issues and suspension Smith will open the season as the lead back in a high scoring offense. He will be an every wk RB2 in that role. He's as healthy as ever and ready to carry the load according to all reports. And if you remember back when he was first drafted Smith was thought to be their RB for years to come. He's always had the talent but has been held back by injuries which appear to be behind him.



Donald Brown is locked into the starting line up and the Colts offense should be rather conservative giving Brown ample touches. He's received nothing but bodes of confindence from coaches this offseason and has a nice preason debut. As thin as RB is landing a starter with 3 down potential in round 7 is a true gem.

Honorable mention: Robert Griffin III, Torrey Smith

Building your Benches Ceiling as High as Possible

You want to get the most out of your roster spots. You should always wish you had more roster space if your managing right because your bench should be filled with high upside players who have starting capabilities for fantasy purposes. Roster stashes of premium talent especially if you are drafting prior or early in preseason action. Elite "lottery ticket" RBs and by that I mean back up RBs who if became the starters would be every week fantasy plays and are in situations behind aging or brittle backs. You never want to waste a single roster spot meaning drafting two defenses or TEs is usually a waste and drafting numerous QBs or any WR who doesnt have WR2 upside meaningless. You want the most upside possible. There's no upside in players like Matt Schaub, Chris Cooley, Andy Dalton, Mike Tolbert, Owen Daniels, or even Santana Moss. Your Bench should have a combination of the Following:

David Wilson - Extreme upside here as he has a great blend of incredible explosiveness and great balance. He was drafted in the first round so he will get his fair share of chances and he's far too talented to keep off the field. He also plays behind one of the most injury prone runners in football. Wilson is an RB2 with upside if Bradshaw goes down.

Isaiah Pead - Drawn Comparisons to Chris Johnson, Lesean McCoy, Jamaal Charles and Darren Sproles by coaches and NFL films experts. He was selected as the future workhorse and may get a chance at that sooner rather than later behind the RB with the most active carries in the league.

Ryan Williams - Very talented runner with uncanny instincts and cutting ability. He's also behind the very brittle Beanie Wells leaving a good chance he gets a fair share of starts this yr and he has a 3 down skill set

Rashad Jennings - A 3 down back with a Career 5.2 ypc running as the starter due to the high mileage MJD holding out. This situation is ripe. Reach for Jennings in your drafts.

Kendall Hunter - Hunter is the most talented runner on a Run Heavy team despite the signing of Brandon Jacobs and drafting of LaMichael James. Gore can break down at any moment and in that even Hunter would get the lions share of the work.

Evan Royster - Royster is just a run of the mill back but is the apparent golden boy to shanahan at the moment and slotted as the starter in Washington. As long as that holds true he's worth drafting in the middle rounds.

Roy Helu - By far th most talented runner in Washington, but is in the dog house for some reason. Helu is an RB2 as a starter and holds rushing title potential if he were to be "the guy". He has too much talent in a very fluid situation not to roster stash.

Shane Vereen - Very under the radar but has 3 down potential in the NFL and excels in the passing game which is what the Pats will mostly be doing. He could easily lead this backfield in snaps which would give him flex value at the least.

LeGarrette Blount - There should be so much work to go around in Tampa that Blount shouldn't have a problem getting his early down chances along with goal line work. He has definite flex appeal on an offense that sets up to be as run heavy as any.

Mark Ingram - As the goal line guy on a high scoring team the TD potential will give him flex value and if Thomas were to go down he would become an RB2.

Jacquizz Rodgers - Has been called the "do it all man" by HC Mike Smith. With the team opening up the offense Rodgers should provide nice ppr value and flex in appeal in deeper leagues. He also is behind an aging a high mileage back himself

Bilal Powell - The Jets look to be very run heavy leaving work for their number 2 runner. That runner is Powell who will also be their 3rd down back. Greene isn't a talented enough back to rule out the possiblity of Powell emerging as the lead guy.

Mike Goodson - Darren McFadden back up must always be stashes and Goodson is a talented enough runner be a valuable fantasy asset.

Robert Turbin - Mr. Muscles is worth drafting as a handcuff for all Lynch owners who fear a suspension.

Jonathan Dwyer - Gaining steam by the day after a nice preseason outing and the pedestrian Isaac Redman set for an MRI.

Austin Collie - Should be on everyones radar with high end WR 3 upside as an outside WR and not just a slot man. Luck won't have any trouble finding the pristine route runner.

Malcom Floyd - Floyd has 900 yard potential with Vincent Jackson gone and Robert Meachem struggling.

Leonard Hankerson - A very talented WR with hands bigger than even Hakeem Nicks to snag passes with. Hankerson is more than worth a late round fliar as a starter with good ball skills and after the catch ability in a Shanahan offense run by RGIII

Donald Jones - Had a lot of deep league appeal before injuries killed his momentum. Jones is slotted as the number 2 WR for the Bills and could make some noise on the fantasy gridiron this yr.

Brian Quick - A very raw talented in a very good situation. Hard to gauge the fantasy value there but he should open the season as the teams number1 WR.

Sidney Rice - Always holds a lot of upside. QB play and injuries are what holds him back. With Matt Flynn set to run the show the QB play will be more than adaquete and he began practicing with the team again today so perhaps he's healthy. Either way he's worth a roster stash especially with TO to take away defensive attention.

Terrell Owens - Shouldn't have a problem locking down a starting role oppositte of Rice. When on the Field Owens always produces. He should be very fantasy relevant with Flynn under center as a possible 900 yard 7-8 td producer.

Kendall Wright - Wright could have one of the greatest rookie WR seasons in NFL history if things fall into place. He and Locker will make a dynamic young duo in the passing game and with all the uncertaintys around Kenny Britts knees and his likely multiple game suspension Wright  should be a star right from the start. He will have every opportunity to put up big numbers with the offense turning to the Run in Shoot. He has tremendous after the catch abilty and is lethal as a deep threat. Wright is a true gem in the making.

Randall Cobb - Super talented WR behind dead weight on a high octane offense. Cobb will have his chance to shine this season. If he lands the WR3 job he will be a high upside flex play with his game breaking abilities.

Brandon LaFell - Yes another 3rd yr WR although this one is much more under the radar. LaFell is locked into the starting roll that produced 1180 yards last yr (divided amongst 2 guys) but thats more or less his ceiling for this season.

Vincent Brown - A favorite of Rivers with great ball skills and play making ability. Brown is currently behin the struggling Meachem but that shouldn't hinder his draft stock. Meachem and Floyd are always battling health issues, Brown has the best rapport with Rivers and had an excellent preason outing.

Jerome Simpson - Once he returns from suspension Simpson will make for a nice bye week plug in as the only WR other than Harvin for Ponder to throw to. Simpson is a nice deep threat and a very atheltic WR capable of making big plays after the catch.

Emmanuel Sanders - If for some reason Wallace doesn't sign Sanders will be set for a 1000 yard campaign at minimum in Todd Haleys offense. Even as their 3rd WR he will be flex worthy as an incredibly explosive WR in an offensive scheme that produced 3 1000 yard WRs just a few seasons ago.

Alshon Jeffery - A very big athletic target who should receive minimal defensive attention opposite of Brandon Marshall. The Bears are set to air it out more this season which should allow them to support 2 WRs for fantasy purposes. Jeffery could also emerge as their go to redzone option as Marshall has never been a big TD guy.

Robert Griffin III - He couldn't of landed in a better spot for early success. Shanahans offense and weapons are perfect for Griffins skill set. He has a great blend of reliable possesion receivers and explosive playmakers with Moss, Fred Davis, Leonard Hankerson and Pierre Garcon. Griffin should also find nice ground totals this season which should make him a very valuable Fantasy asset. He could step in and produce a 3500 yard 20 TD 15 int 500 rushing yards 5 TDs season with upside for further passing production which could vault him into the top 8 at the position.

Jake Locker - Has a cannon for an arm and elite athleticism for a QB. He has all the makings of a big time fantasy QB especially that he will now be running a pass heavy system. Once Britt is ready to go Locker will lead one of the most entertaining young teams with a complete arsenal of weapons at his disposal. Locker could be in the neighborhood of 4200 yards 22 TDs 18 INTs 350 rushing yards 2 TDs which would be top 12 numbers at the position.

Kyle Rudolph - The MVP of Vikings training camp will ge numorus opportunties to excell in the passing game this season especially as they ease AP back into things. Rudolph is a legitimate redzone weapon with a big fame good ball skills and great hands. If theres one TE to stash on your bench, it's Rudolph.






And thats the Blue Print for Fantasy success. I hope all who read this to its entirety take note and have themselves a great Fantasy Football season.

Friday, June 29, 2012

McCoy on the Move: Where Will He Land?


During his first two seasons, the former University of Texas superstar has pleasantly surprised scouts and quieted draft analysts. While physically fragile and athletically underwhelming, McCoy's leadership and intangibles allowed him to command a huddle and make routine plays on Sundays. During the lockout last summer, he even took charge and led voluntary workouts for his teammates. As someone who felt physical limitations would ultimately halter his success, I stand before you eating more crow than Skip Bayless after the Heat defeated the Thunder and a once "prince" became a King.

McCoy managed to grab the starting job and throw for 20 touchdowns as a rookie despite lackluster weapons and a sub par passing blocking unit in front of him. Going into Colt's sophomore campaign, hopes were high for the dawg pound and America's most abysmal sports city. Like his Big 12 rival and personal friend of faith Sam Bradford, McCoy endured took a huge step back in 2011. With no WRs on the outside besides the extremely talented but fundamentally raw North Carolina product Greg Little, McCoy struggled to throw the ball down the field for big gains, averaging a dismal 5.1 yards per completion. He managed to improve his TD(14) to INT(11) ratio in 2012 but won only one four games as a starter. The honeymoon was over.

Current GM and Super Bowl winning head coach Mike Holmgren snagged his gunslinger in the first round of the 2012 draft, and the Browns are determined to go forward without McCoy. Brandon Weeden may be in line to receive social security in a couple of years, but he is the quarterback of the future in Cleveland in the eyes of upper level management. The Browns reportedly waited a couple of months to announce the trade news because they "felt bad" for McCoy and the way things went down. The team thinks so little of Colt's abilities currently that they are only seeking "minimal compensation." Holmgren may be a Hatfield, but to his credit he realizes McCoy is a great person and a solid player who deserves another shot to prove himself in a healthier environment. Take my hand, and together let's find a potential landing spot for #12.

Potential Suitors


Pittsburgh Steelers:

No team needs a backup signal caller worse Wiz Khalifa's sqaud. The team recently cut Troy Smith, freeing up yet another roster spot. The Steelers are a contender almost every season, and desperately need security at the quarterback position on an annual basis to remain in contention. Roethlisberger is one of the game's five best and a potential hall of famer, but the motorcycle man is always injury prone. Second stringer Charlie Batch will be 38 next season, and is only playing in the NFL still because of bad investments in bakery shops. YIKES  Bad News: Colt was beaten like a rag doll at UT and in Cleveland. The Steelers offensive line is even more horrendous than those previous groups of big uglies. Time to give rid of the ball quick, kid.

Will the Browns ever trade a player to a bitter, hated division rival like Pittsburgh? Only if they are indescribably incompetent and or do not respect/fear playing McCoy. This scenario is a pipe dream, but both teams benefit most here. It may be a little weird between James Harrison and Colt in the lockeroom though if he is in fact shipped to Steel City. Just remember guys, it's only awkward if you make it awkward.



Possiblilty Meter: 10% Chance




Green Bay Packers

Mr. Holmgren,  I'm not sure if you remember this but at one time you used to coach the Green Bay Packers and a crazy hick who used to wear #4. It's time to use those connections to acquire some assets and dump a quarterback you've lost in which you've lost faith. This is a eerily situation similar to Pittsburgh's. A great team and super bowl contender gravely needing depth at quarterback. GB backup Matt Flynn flew the coop to Seattle with the goal of becoming a starter(Russell Wilson says what's up by the way). If Aaron Rodgers ever got injured, god forbid cheeseheads, the Packers would be in dire straits. The names Graham Harrell and B.J. Coleman do anything for you? Yeah, me neither. Like literally nothing. Neither have ever taken a three step drop or thrown a single pass in the NFL.



Both teams reportedly discussed a deal in April but talks have since stalled. Mike McCarthy loved Colt coming out of UT and something tells me he's not done trying to acquire Jordan Shipley's BFF. #BROMANCE


Possibility Meter: 35.78% Chance





Philadelphia Eagles

And alas, we've arrived at the home of American freedom and the ever so tasty cheesesteak. Where dog killers are field generals and dream teams go to die.




Really?

You really don't think it's destiny for one UT great to replace another as Mike Vick's backup?


Let me argue for Darrell Royal on this one. How many countless games has Vick missed due to injury? During his nine year career, #7 has only managed to play two full, ambulance free seasons. He is unquestionably one of the game's most physically gifted QB's of all time, but at a severe price. His escapability and fearlessness breeds pain. Severe, and career ending pain. Currently, the Eagles are planning to roll the dice with Trent Edwards(Concussions much?) and Mike Kafka, who is young and has the potential to be Michael's back up down the road. I just don't believe these are the guys you want to depend on going into the 2012 season.

McCoy's skill set is perfect for Reid's system. A smart, heady player who lacks arm strength but can make the necessary throws in a west coast system. He will put in the hours and out work anyone to learn and absorb the offensive scheme. Ties between the Cleveland and Philadelphia organization run deep and many personnel from both squads are personal friends. He many only be needed for two or three games, but the investment would pay dividends for a squad that needs to win every game in a brutal NFC East. The Eagles already have had a tremendous offseason, snagging DeMeco Ryans from Houston and shoring up their weak group of LB's. It's time to put it over the top and finally get Andy Reid the only accomplishment he lacks. A Super Bowl.



Possibility Meter: 25.56% Chance


 I knew you'd see it my way.

Monday, June 25, 2012

Muddog Mondays



It was the Summer of 08 and everything seemed to be going along just great. The Fantasy Season was rapidly approaching and dreams of a Fantasy championship began to fester. Then, as fast as that harmoneous period came it vanished when turmoil threatened my fantasy league. Disputes over the final league spot put a dark cloud over our upcoming house draft. Thats when I got the call. The call that would change my fantasy career and the perhaps even fantasy football all together... forever. A great and passionate competitor by the name of Tyler Branch was on the other end offering to share his team who had just landed the leagues number one pick, with me. His selfless act to save our league from disbandment was truely a tale for the grandchilderen. So we joined forces sacrificing our individual glory for the betterment of the league. We soon would learn that the bound between comanagers was greater that any other bound between men. Together we forged a roster built for fantasy gridiron greatness. The name of that roster struck fear into the hearts of managers around the league.... the "Muddogs". In the end our championship dreams were spoiled by a satanic dream killing devil creature you may know by the name of Antonio Bryant. His 200 yard 2 TD explosion on MNF against the Panthers that season dealt us a 1 point defeat forever burning in our souls and forever motivating us to take our dedication and overall fantasy game to another level so that we would never again leave even such a fluke occurance to rob us again. Flashforward to today and we have once again joined forces, only this time its for the betterment of your fantasy team. Our Fantasy wits are sharp and we will be doing our best to provide readers with the best insight to help you capture fantasy glory. I can assure you my efforts will provide you with insight as good as any other on the web. So take out the pens and paper and get ready for summer school everyone because Joseph Clayton Turnbull will be hitting you with all kinds of Fantasy Football knowledge.


NFL Offseason Report Card

Grading Each Team by Their Offseason Moves and Acquisitions


Well, it's officially the dog days of summer and I don't know about you but I am already starting to tire of the SportCenter highlights consisting of monotonous double plays, one-hit shutout games, and the world class athletes of the likes of CC Sabathia and Prince Fielder. Baseball is America's Pastime but in this generation eveyone knows that the NFL is king. Luckily for football fans, training camp is right around the corner and that means general managers, coaches, scouts and co. have been working diligently around the clock all spring.




The offseason is where franchises can evaluate their players, coaches and staff, and address the organization's needs. Some team general managers and co. will choose to address their shortcoming(s) by going out and acquiring a free agent or by trading draft picks for an instant production type of player, while some teams will choose to find solutions by looking within the organization or through their own draft picks.



Texans' General Manager Rick Smith
and Head Coach Gary Kubiak
Ask any general manager or anyone familiar with the game about how to build the foundation for a great NFL franchise and they will tell you that the draft is the best and possibly only way. There are many examples of this theory (Packers, Patriots, Giants, etc.) but it's always interesting to see where the big name free agents sign. The amount of money that these free agents sign for are also of great significance because these contracts usually set the standard for how all players around the league will negotiate when it is their turn to get paid on their next contract. Free agent acquisitions and draft picks can also give the everyday person a truthful inside look of what coaches and staff are trying to do in the future and what they really think of their current personnel.


Although this might not be the most exciting time to talk about football, I feel like this is a crucial period for teams to set themselves up for success or failure in the upcoming season. Listed below are my offseason grades for each team. The grade is based upon a combination of the teams' coaching/staff changes, incoming draft class and free agent acquisitions.




AFC East

New England Patriots

Super Bowl 2012: Tom Brady
After a devastating end to a fantastic 2011 season campaign, the Patriots have immediately gotten back on the horse and have revamped their ball club on both sides of the ball. Tom Brady is now 35 years old if you can believe it and the Patriots window with the future hall of fame, franchise quarterback is closing as each year passes.

The Patriots are infamous for trading down in drafts and stockpiling picks for the upcoming years but this year was a different story.  They selected 2 players in the first round and 3 players in the top 48 picks. The defensive front seven was their main focus in the draft and they may have struck gold with their first round selections: Defensive End, Chandler Jones and Linebacker, Dont’a Hightower. These players should help the 31st ranked defense last season by adding some speed and versatility to the front seven that can rush the quarterback, which they struggled to do last year.


First Round Pick Chandler Jones


In free agency, the Patriots also made some splashes on the offensive side of the ball by signing former All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Lloyd, veteran running back Joseph Addai, veteran wide receivers Donte’ Stallworth and Jabar Gaffney, and last but not least, tight end Jake Ballard. These free agent signings should help keep the Patriots offense one the best in 2012 and perhaps make it even better than last year.

Additionally, the Patriots re-signed and extended most of their key contributors on both sides of the ball and are clearly intact for another run at a super bowl title.


Patriots Offseason Grade: A



 

New York Jets

Tim Tebow and Mark Sanchez
The New York Jets’ last several months can be summarized as a boom or bust type of offseason. If you have turned on your television or have surfed the internet since March then you probably know they acquired the ever-popular quarterback Tim Tebow in a highly questionable, controversial trade. This trade was a shock to everyone but probably most shocking to current quarterback, Mark Sanchez who was given a 5 year, $58 million dollar contract just days before the Tebow trade was finalized. Tebow will provide Sanchez with some much needed competition for the starting job and will put a “short leash” on the inconsistent Sanchez. The Jets also signed the big-hitting safety, Laron Landry to help sure up the back end of the defense. This signing is another big risk for the Jets’ organization. Landry is coming off an injury-plagued career and is not known for being good in pass coverage. He is capable of turning these flaws around though and could become a bruising centerpiece, safety for this ball club.


The boom or bust trend continues with the Jets’ 2012 draft in which they selected some players with a lot of upside but also a lot of dud possibility. Their picks are highlighted by defensive end Quinton Coples in the first round and wide receiver Stephen Hill in the early second round. Coples is a physical freak who Rex Ryan hopes can get to the quarterback and get to him often. He has a lot of potential but fell in the draft after a less than stellar senior year that led to rumors of taking plays off and laziness. Stephen Hill is also a physical specimen. The 6’5, 220 pound wide receiver from Georgia Tech skyrocketed up draft boards after running a sub 4.4 forty and showcasing his enormous frame and catching ability at the NFL Combine. Hill is still very raw though and needs a lot of work on his route running but he definitely has something you can’t teach, and that is size and speed.


Second Round Pick Stephen Hill


Jets Offseason Grade: C+



 

Buffalo Bills

After showing a lot of promise early in the year last season, the Bills struggled mightily down the stretch and ultimately finished last in the AFC East. The Bills are ready to put last year behind them though and this offseason could be a major turning point by showing that the organization is not afraid to go out and spend money to find the players necessary to compete and win in this tough division. The Buffalo Bills seem to be thinking that the time to win is now.

Mario Williams signs with Bills
Their offseason starts with the free agent signing of former Texan defensive end, Mario Williams. Williams didn’t come cheap by agreeing to a $100 million dollar contract with $50 million of that money guaranteed. This signing is a statement though and shows the city and the rest of the league that this organization is serious about winning now. Williams will be brought in to be the leader of the Bills’ defense, to rush the quarterback (especially the New England one) and to demand double teams which will open up doors for new playmakers to emerge in their front seven.

The Bills 2012 draft selections should also keep this organization flowing in the right direction. Their first round pick, Stephon Gilmore from South Carolina is a big-framed, solid cornerback that has been put through the test of the best conference in college football and has always seemed to respond well to challenges in the bigger games. The Bills are looking for him to help the back end of their defense immediately and to be a big contributor in Buffalo for a long time. Their second round pick, offensive tackle Cordy Glenn from Georgia looks like another very solid selection and may even be an answer for them at the starting left tackle position.


First Round Pick Stephon Gilmore


Bills Offseason Grade: B+

Miami Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins had a very forgettable 2011. They finished the season going 6-10 and firing head coach, Tony Sparano before the last game of the year. This team is looking to go in a different direction from the stingy, hard-nosed philosophy of Sparano to a more offensive, flashy mindset in the head coach hire of Joe Philbin, the former Packers offensive coordinator. That being said, this team is clearly in a state of transition and in a mega-rebuilding mode at this time.

In March, the Dolphins traded away the stud pro bowl wide receiver, Brandon Marshall to the Bears for 2 third round picks. This trade basically sent away the only weapon the Dolphins had on the outside and will give opponents one less playmaker to worry about on this already feeble offense. Miami hopes that the free agent signing of veteran wide receiver, Chad Ochocinco might help this weak wide receiving group by adding some experience but I wouldn't count on an Ochocinco revival anytime soon. 

First Round Pick Ryan Tannehill
The defense was not the cause of the disappointing 2011 season, so this gave focus to the offensive side of the ball in this year's draft. The Dolphins 2012 draft basically starts and ends with their first round draft pick, quarterback Ryan Tannehill from Texas A&M. Tannehill was selected to be the quarterback of the future and will work closely with his old coach, Mike Sherman, who is now the Dolphins’ offensive coordinator. This should provide Tannehill with a sense of comfort and a head start on learning the playbook. Tannehill has a lot of athleticism, good size, and a rocket arm but tends to struggle in decision making at times. Tannehill will definitely be given every opportunity to compete for the starting job but with quarterbacks Matt Moore and veteran David Garrard still in the mix, I wouldn’t plan on Tannehill seeing the field right away. The Dolphins also selected some intriguing talents for their offense in the later rounds including Missouri tight end, Michael Egnew and Miami Hurricane running back, Lamar Miller.

 
Dolphins Offseason Grade: C+

 



Thursday, June 21, 2012

Drinking, Driving, and Touchdowns


Why It's Time For  Roger Goodell to Lay The Hammer Down on DUI's





Crush a bit, little bit, roll it up, take a hit

Feelin’ lit feelin’ light, 2 am summer night.
I don't care, hand on the wheel, drivin drunk, I'm doin’ my thang
Rollin the Midwest side and out livin’ my life getting’ out dreams



Perhaps it was Kid Cudi's "Pursuit of Happiness" that blared from the car stereo as the newly drafted rookie sensation swerved across multiple lanes on an Oklahoma highway. It was oddly enough a warm summer night, and the time was around 2 AM when Justin Blackmon saw flashing red lights in his rear view mirror. 


The draft's most highly touted wideout in the 2012 class now found himself covered by the best cornerback in the world, the United States Police. He usually never had any trouble exploding off the line of scrimmage and getting open, but his lack of awareness and blood shot eyes were making this game a little harder than those past. Slurring his speech and stumbling uncontrollably, Justin exited the vehicle. "I"m literally not a drinker. I'm literally not a drinker." The former college All American and Biletnikoff award winner repeated these words over and over throughout the night, hoping someone would hear his plea.


Every game comes to its inevitable end, and this time the fourth quarter occurred in the back of a police car. The post game festivities were held in a Tulsa based penitentiary. At 10AM central standard time, Justin Blackmon found himself in shackles under federal custody. 


The Goodell Signal

In the face of frightening peril and inescapable evil, one light shines over the city of Gotham to comfort and protect its citizens. Hey Commisioner Gordon while you're up there, you mind turning on the Goodell Signal for us too? Things appear grim down here. Really grim. 


Despite constant media coverage surrounding the bounty gate scandal, driving under the influence is the league's most vile and rampant epidemic. Almost every 90 seconds a person is injured in a drunk driving crash. Nearly half of all traffic related incidents are due to intoxication behind the wheel. One in three Americans is involved in a drunk driving accident in their lifetime. Yet it seems everyday we awake to the news of one our Sunday heroes putting not only his own life in grave danger but also the well being of others. 


Lions defensive tackle Nick Fairley and New York Giants Offensive Lineman David Diehl both dominate the trenches but were recently the latest offenders of this egregious crime. Diehl decided to get loaded and nail a few parked cars with his BMW before calling it a successful night out. Fairley felt like evading the authorities before he blew a breathalyzer to the moon.


What drives legends of the gridiron to take such chances? It's extremely easy for me to sit from afar and ponder "Why don't they just hire a freaking driver. Is it just alcohol induced decision hazy decision making, arrogance, or just an exhilarating rush to put the lives of innocent women and children at risk?" 


In a well written essay by Mike Freeman, the CBS sports journalist details that players do not trust car services due to "extreme paranoia." Some fear that pictures will be taken of them in car services and sold to tabloids. Others enjoy the thrill of showing off their personal cars and driving them through town.


At their very core, some NFL players believe they are invincible. These young men grow up as the pride and joy of their families, friends, towns, and communities. In a sense, some become their own Gods that can do no wrong and never face the consequences of their actions. And who could blame them for thinking so? Aren't we the ones who turn them into  monsters?


Regardless of the psychological and sociological reasons behind the vast number of athletes driving drunk, something drastic must be done to protect the innocent and the NFL. And there's only one man for the job.


Dropping The Hammer



On June 13th amidst the DUI fever across the league, Roger Goodell sent out a memo to all 32 organizations that was forwarded to management and player personnel. 




"There have been several negative law enforcement incidents in recent months involving both players and non-player employees. These incidents primarily have involved alcohol or drug-related offenses, specifically driving while impaired. Clearly, operating a vehicle under the influence of any substance poses a significant risk of injury to the driver and others. These risks are underscored by well-known tragedies within the NFL family.


"The Personal Conduct Policy makes clear that we must all conduct ourselves in a manner that is "responsible, that promotes the values upon which the league is based, and is lawful." Every negative incident undermines the respect we have earned from our fans, erodes the confidence of our business partners and threatens the continued success of the league.
Sincerely,

NFL Commisioner

-Roger Goodell

This is what Goodell should have sent to all 32 teams.

"If you drive while incapacitated, I will take every last cent you out out of your wallet. You think I fine James Harrison pretty frequently? I will make your ass more broke than Pac Man Jones after a wild night at the strip club. Bottom line, I own you. The NFL is the most dominant brand in all of sports and I will do everything in my power to make sure a player, who on average last less than 2 years in this league, doesn't put America's most powerful corporation in jeopardy. Bow before me. In the words of Mark Zuckerberg, I'm CEO, Bitch.

Sincerely,


-Roger Goodell
NFL Commisioner


 Sure, Roger might not be able to use similar verbiage, but it's time to drop the hammer like Thor. No commissioner in professional sports is given more free reign in disciplining players. The former lawyer and Rooney disciple sent one of the strongest and most controversial messages in league history regarding the New Orleans bounty gate scandal. Some feel punishments received by Saints players and coaches were too severe, but one thing is clear. No NFL team will ever set bounties against other players again. No team can afford to lose its personnel for a whole season and possibly forever. I have commended Goodell for his commitment to player safety, but now its time to further commit to player safety and citizen safety once more. If player on player crime such as bounties can result in huge penalties, how much more severe should the sanctions be when innocent people could potentially be killed? Currently, the maximum fine a player can receive for DUI's is 50,000 dollars and game suspensions. It's time to tremendously up the monetary ante so players fear the repercussions of their actions and do everything in their will to get a designated driver.


One message desperately needs to be sent to NFL players about driving while under the influence. 




You Can't Afford It.