Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesAlmost from the moment DeMar DeRozan was drafted ninth overall in 2009, the rookie was a virtual lock to be the Toronto Raptors starting shooting guard.And almost to the moment Sonny Weems was drafted ninth in the second round of the 2008 draft by the Chicago Bulls, he was traded to the Denver Nuggets for a 2009 second-round draft pick.Weems never really got a chance to play with the Denver Nuggets. That's not really a surprise, as Denver was a fully loaded Western Conference contender that had little time or patience to deal with a rookielet alone a second-round rookie.Weems had a total of 55 minutes of NBA court experience when he arrived in Toronto. And he never even saw the floor until Game Five of Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
the 2009-10 season, when Weems played for two minutes against New Orleans.The differences between Weems and DeRozan can be summed up in one word: age.DeRozan was a 19-year-old freshman from USC when he was drafted. He was the typical young, high-potential wing player who is a lottery draft pick in the hopes that he develops into a legitimate NBA starteror better.Weems was a college senior about to turn 22 years old when drafted. He was the typical good college player who everyone believed may have topped out in his development after four years of college ball.But as a physical specimen, Weems tested out superior to his younger competition in many areas.First, Weems is fast. At the NBA draft camp testing, Weems completed the three-quarter court sprint in under three secondsa full 10 percent faster than DeRozan.Second, Weems is strong. Weems completed 12 bench press reps, compared with just five for DeRozan.And Weems is decidedly longer than his friend DeRozan. A standing reach of 88 and a wingspan of 610 gives Weems a better than 1 advantage.It might be interesting to note that DeRozan, at 66.5 in shoes, measured 1 taller than Weems. But that isn noticeable on the court.As one of the league prized rookies, DeRozan was invited to the Slam Dunk Contest during All-Star weekend. And DeRozan can do some amazing things in the air. A good leaper, he has a 29 standing vertical jump that he can get to a maximum of 38.5.But Weems won a college slam dunk competitionand he can get some air of his own. He also has a 29 standing vertical jump and can get to a maximum of 36.5. One may have noticed: Weems can dunk.As the season has worn on, it has become apparent that the on-court offensive production differences between these two players wasn like the typical lottery pick versus second-rounder.When given a chance, Weems could hold his own against the rookie. And Weems' age, quickness, and strength was giving him a decided advantage on the defensive end of the floor.Quite simply, it has been harder for opposing wings to take advantage of Weems.As each month of the season has passedReebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
and the Raptors coaching staff gained confidence in Weems' abilities, his on-court performances have improved.Sonny Weems And in DeRozan last four games as a substitute off the bench, the rookie has elevated his level of play and has been decidedly more effective.Jay Triano late-season move to promote Weems to the starting lineup and bring the Raptors' prized rookie off the bench looks like the right moveeven if some of us were calling for this a month ago.DeMar DeRozan looks like the Raptors starting shooting guard of the future; his play does not resemble that of a starting shooting guard of today.Source: Time for a ChangeTriano has already proven that he can keep the rookie minutes the same coming off the benchand DeRozan looks like he enjoying the opportunity to play against backups.If the Raptors hold onto both of Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
their young prospects through the coming offseason, the battle between them to start is far from over. And it the team that will be the ultimate winner of that contest.But for the rest of this season, it Weems' turn to take on the burden of guarding some of the NBA best talent while continuing to be effective at the offensive end of the court.And DeRozan can continue his development against slightly less-skilled second-string wing players coming off the bench.It all good!
2010年12月30日星期四
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 Kevin Durant: The Final Case for MVP
Elsa/Getty ImagesApproximately 55 years ago, the NBA MVP award was created to award the player who was most valuable to his team's success.Somewhere along the line, we all forgot that.Anybody with a half a brain could look at the statistical comparison between Kevin Durant and LeBron James, and quickly establish the fact that James is having the better season.Anybody with a whole brain could look past those statistics, and realize that the Thunder would be lucky to win 20 games in the stacked Western Conference without Kevin Durant. Minnesota Vikings
Durant has taken that team on his back, and they have ridden him all the way to the playoffs.The same could be said about LeBron and the Cavs, but is that really the case?Is there really anybody who truly believes that a team made up of Mo Williams, Antawn Jamison, Shaq, Anderson Varejao, and Delonte West isn't good enough to be an Eastern Conference juggernaut?If the Bucks can cruise into the fifth seed, then they sure as hell can.Would they be the contender they are now, if not for the King?Absolutely not.Would they be better than the Durant-less Thunder?No question.LeBron has the better record, team, stats, and reputation. He makes a pretty compelling case himself.His 30 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists per game have had us screaming Magic Johnson all season. He hosts the league's best record and the league's best persona. And you better believe that he will see some favoritism come voting day, but I'm certainly not on the James for MVP bandwagon.Durant's line of 30 points, seven rebounds, and two assists per game clearly can't hold a candle to what James has done this season.Well, at least not on paper.However, anybody who has watched the Thunder play this season has come away thinking the same thing: "That wouldn't have been New England Patriots jersey
close without Durant"and it's true.For a 29-game stretch this season, Durant scored at least 25 points per game. It's safe to say that without that streak the Thunder would be on the outside looking in, in the West.Kevin Durant plays with a group of young high-flyers trying to get their heads on straight, LeBron James plays with a group of experienced players who know their roles.Behind LeBron, the Cavs might not have the big names you would want. They gel so well as a team that they might as well.Anderson Varejao is Horace Grant with poofy hair, Mo Williams is John Starks with a level head, Shaq is, well, Shaq. Not to mention Daniel "sharpshooter" Gibson, Sebastion Telfair, and J.J. Hickson, amongst others.The point is that the Cavs play so well as a team that they give LeBron James one of the league's best supporting casts. People just fail to realize it.Kevin Durant has a very good, young point guard in Russel Westbrook, but there is no way he is mature enough to be the second option on a 50-win team. Jeff Green New Orleans Saints jersey
and James Harden are two other young athletes looking good this season, but much like Westbrook, have not even come close to their potential.The bottom line is that the Most Valuable Player award is supposed to be given to the player who was most valuable to his team.Either give it to the player who single-handedly carried his team, or change the name.
Durant has taken that team on his back, and they have ridden him all the way to the playoffs.The same could be said about LeBron and the Cavs, but is that really the case?Is there really anybody who truly believes that a team made up of Mo Williams, Antawn Jamison, Shaq, Anderson Varejao, and Delonte West isn't good enough to be an Eastern Conference juggernaut?If the Bucks can cruise into the fifth seed, then they sure as hell can.Would they be the contender they are now, if not for the King?Absolutely not.Would they be better than the Durant-less Thunder?No question.LeBron has the better record, team, stats, and reputation. He makes a pretty compelling case himself.His 30 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists per game have had us screaming Magic Johnson all season. He hosts the league's best record and the league's best persona. And you better believe that he will see some favoritism come voting day, but I'm certainly not on the James for MVP bandwagon.Durant's line of 30 points, seven rebounds, and two assists per game clearly can't hold a candle to what James has done this season.Well, at least not on paper.However, anybody who has watched the Thunder play this season has come away thinking the same thing: "That wouldn't have been New England Patriots jersey
close without Durant"and it's true.For a 29-game stretch this season, Durant scored at least 25 points per game. It's safe to say that without that streak the Thunder would be on the outside looking in, in the West.Kevin Durant plays with a group of young high-flyers trying to get their heads on straight, LeBron James plays with a group of experienced players who know their roles.Behind LeBron, the Cavs might not have the big names you would want. They gel so well as a team that they might as well.Anderson Varejao is Horace Grant with poofy hair, Mo Williams is John Starks with a level head, Shaq is, well, Shaq. Not to mention Daniel "sharpshooter" Gibson, Sebastion Telfair, and J.J. Hickson, amongst others.The point is that the Cavs play so well as a team that they give LeBron James one of the league's best supporting casts. People just fail to realize it.Kevin Durant has a very good, young point guard in Russel Westbrook, but there is no way he is mature enough to be the second option on a 50-win team. Jeff Green New Orleans Saints jersey
and James Harden are two other young athletes looking good this season, but much like Westbrook, have not even come close to their potential.The bottom line is that the Most Valuable Player award is supposed to be given to the player who was most valuable to his team.Either give it to the player who single-handedly carried his team, or change the name.
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 Boston Celtics Gain Momentum and Homecourt, Tie Series 1-1
Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesThis Article Can Also Be Viewed at North Station Sports For the second consecutive game, the Celtics jumped out on the Cavaliers early only to see the lead evaporate to four points at half time (52-48). Rajon Rondo carried 10 assists into the half. Rasheed Wallace finally joined the Celtics 89 games into the season. He lit a fire off the bench hitting from every angle of the floor. He hit his first five shot's and scored 13 points in seven minutes in the first half.Is this the 'Sheed we've all been hearing about?I am unsure Kansas City Chiefs jersey
how close we got to the "good-Sheed" his fans have been taunting us with but he compensated for a Celtics foul festival in the first half that had Pierce benched with three and the Cavs out-shooting the C's at the line 18-5.As the third quarter opened, the Celtics had a fire in their eye and a bounce in there "aging" feet. The Celtics opened up a 25 point lead with just under 10 minutes remaining. The fan's at the Q and the home team looked shocked. In the blink of an eye, the Cavs went on a 15-0 run, cutting the lead to 10. Doc Rivers, infuriated with his club, called the appropriate time-out and tried to settle his team down. The Celtics had blown double digit lead's to the Cavs all season and Doc was not about to watch it happen againin the most important game to date. From the Boston Globe:"We were stuck on 91 points for an hour it felt like, said Celtics coach Doc Rivers. I just kept telling our guys the clock is still moving. We need one bucket. We just need somebody to make one shot. "We knew what happened last time when we let up, said Kendrick Perkins. Doc said weve got to keep taking punches. When they throw punches weve got to take them and keep coming.he Celtics finally closed out the game on a late Paul Pierce (14 points) layup and Kevin Garnett (18 points/10 rebounds) jumper. Rajon Rondo finished with 13 points and tied the franchise playoff record with 19 assists. Rondo settled the team down when needed and called plays for Ray Allen, who finished with 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 Miami Dolphins jersey
steal.The Celtics stifling defense held LeBron to 24 points on 7-15 shooting. The official's helped out LeBron's scoring with 15 free throw attemptsthe King clanked five of them. LeBron wasn't the only Cav who fell hard under the Celtics blanket of lock-down defense. The Cavs shot 40 percent as a team and 19 percent from three-point range. The Celtics dominated the boards, 43-32, behind 9 boards from Kendrick Perkins and 10 rebounds from KG.Rasheed Wallace may have been the difference however. 'Sheed showed that when the Celtics second unit has a go-to-guy on the court, they can hold and even expand a lead. Rasheed finished with 17 points in 18 minutes. Most importantly, we saw the effect of Rasheed on the floor when he is hitting. He spread the court and opened the driving lanes. Let's hope the old man has a few more game's like that left in himwith Rasheed Wallace and the Big FOUR in full effect, the Celtics can beat any team in the NBA in seven games.As the game was out of reach for the Cavs, fan's hit the exits hard but not before showering there own team with boo's and a run away beer bottle that smashed on the hardwood.Like the flying bottle that appeared from nowhere, LeBron rediscovered his "injured" elbow in the second Minnesota Vikings
half when he realized the ball was not bouncing his way.Most will say that we have just witnessed LBJ's worst game of the playoffs and that he will be back with a vengeance in game three. The Celtics have two words to combat that with...READ MORE Reminder:Tim Donaghy will be appearing on the Celtics Late Night Show on May 10 for a two-hour, unscripted, live interview. He will be accepting callers questions. Mark your calender.
how close we got to the "good-Sheed" his fans have been taunting us with but he compensated for a Celtics foul festival in the first half that had Pierce benched with three and the Cavs out-shooting the C's at the line 18-5.As the third quarter opened, the Celtics had a fire in their eye and a bounce in there "aging" feet. The Celtics opened up a 25 point lead with just under 10 minutes remaining. The fan's at the Q and the home team looked shocked. In the blink of an eye, the Cavs went on a 15-0 run, cutting the lead to 10. Doc Rivers, infuriated with his club, called the appropriate time-out and tried to settle his team down. The Celtics had blown double digit lead's to the Cavs all season and Doc was not about to watch it happen againin the most important game to date. From the Boston Globe:"We were stuck on 91 points for an hour it felt like, said Celtics coach Doc Rivers. I just kept telling our guys the clock is still moving. We need one bucket. We just need somebody to make one shot. "We knew what happened last time when we let up, said Kendrick Perkins. Doc said weve got to keep taking punches. When they throw punches weve got to take them and keep coming.he Celtics finally closed out the game on a late Paul Pierce (14 points) layup and Kevin Garnett (18 points/10 rebounds) jumper. Rajon Rondo finished with 13 points and tied the franchise playoff record with 19 assists. Rondo settled the team down when needed and called plays for Ray Allen, who finished with 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 Miami Dolphins jersey
steal.The Celtics stifling defense held LeBron to 24 points on 7-15 shooting. The official's helped out LeBron's scoring with 15 free throw attemptsthe King clanked five of them. LeBron wasn't the only Cav who fell hard under the Celtics blanket of lock-down defense. The Cavs shot 40 percent as a team and 19 percent from three-point range. The Celtics dominated the boards, 43-32, behind 9 boards from Kendrick Perkins and 10 rebounds from KG.Rasheed Wallace may have been the difference however. 'Sheed showed that when the Celtics second unit has a go-to-guy on the court, they can hold and even expand a lead. Rasheed finished with 17 points in 18 minutes. Most importantly, we saw the effect of Rasheed on the floor when he is hitting. He spread the court and opened the driving lanes. Let's hope the old man has a few more game's like that left in himwith Rasheed Wallace and the Big FOUR in full effect, the Celtics can beat any team in the NBA in seven games.As the game was out of reach for the Cavs, fan's hit the exits hard but not before showering there own team with boo's and a run away beer bottle that smashed on the hardwood.Like the flying bottle that appeared from nowhere, LeBron rediscovered his "injured" elbow in the second Minnesota Vikings
half when he realized the ball was not bouncing his way.Most will say that we have just witnessed LBJ's worst game of the playoffs and that he will be back with a vengeance in game three. The Celtics have two words to combat that with...READ MORE Reminder:Tim Donaghy will be appearing on the Celtics Late Night Show on May 10 for a two-hour, unscripted, live interview. He will be accepting callers questions. Mark your calender.
28 Dec 10 Boston Celtics Gain Momentum and Homecourt, Tie Series 1-1
Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesThis Article Can Also Be Viewed at North Station Sports For the second consecutive game, the Celtics jumped out on the Cavaliers early only to see the lead evaporate to four points at half time (52-48). Rajon Rondo carried 10 assists into the half. Rasheed Wallace finally joined the Celtics 89 games into the season. He lit a fire off the bench hitting from every angle of the floor. He hit his first five shot's and scored 13 points in seven minutes in the first half.Is this the 'Sheed we've all been hearing about?I am unsure Kansas City Chiefs jersey
how close we got to the "good-Sheed" his fans have been taunting us with but he compensated for a Celtics foul festival in the first half that had Pierce benched with three and the Cavs out-shooting the C's at the line 18-5.As the third quarter opened, the Celtics had a fire in their eye and a bounce in there "aging" feet. The Celtics opened up a 25 point lead with just under 10 minutes remaining. The fan's at the Q and the home team looked shocked. In the blink of an eye, the Cavs went on a 15-0 run, cutting the lead to 10. Doc Rivers, infuriated with his club, called the appropriate time-out and tried to settle his team down. The Celtics had blown double digit lead's to the Cavs all season and Doc was not about to watch it happen againin the most important game to date. From the Boston Globe:"We were stuck on 91 points for an hour it felt like, said Celtics coach Doc Rivers. I just kept telling our guys the clock is still moving. We need one bucket. We just need somebody to make one shot. "We knew what happened last time when we let up, said Kendrick Perkins. Doc said weve got to keep taking punches. When they throw punches weve got to take them and keep coming.he Celtics finally closed out the game on a late Paul Pierce (14 points) layup and Kevin Garnett (18 points/10 rebounds) jumper. Rajon Rondo finished with 13 points and tied the franchise playoff record with 19 assists. Rondo settled the team down when needed and called plays for Ray Allen, who finished with 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 Miami Dolphins jersey
steal.The Celtics stifling defense held LeBron to 24 points on 7-15 shooting. The official's helped out LeBron's scoring with 15 free throw attemptsthe King clanked five of them. LeBron wasn't the only Cav who fell hard under the Celtics blanket of lock-down defense. The Cavs shot 40 percent as a team and 19 percent from three-point range. The Celtics dominated the boards, 43-32, behind 9 boards from Kendrick Perkins and 10 rebounds from KG.Rasheed Wallace may have been the difference however. 'Sheed showed that when the Celtics second unit has a go-to-guy on the court, they can hold and even expand a lead. Rasheed finished with 17 points in 18 minutes. Most importantly, we saw the effect of Rasheed on the floor when he is hitting. He spread the court and opened the driving lanes. Let's hope the old man has a few more game's like that left in himwith Rasheed Wallace and the Big FOUR in full effect, the Celtics can beat any team in the NBA in seven games.As the game was out of reach for the Cavs, fan's hit the exits hard but not before showering there own team with boo's and a run away beer bottle that smashed on the hardwood.Like the flying bottle that appeared from nowhere, LeBron rediscovered his "injured" elbow in the second Minnesota Vikings
half when he realized the ball was not bouncing his way.Most will say that we have just witnessed LBJ's worst game of the playoffs and that he will be back with a vengeance in game three. The Celtics have two words to combat that with...READ MORE Reminder:Tim Donaghy will be appearing on the Celtics Late Night Show on May 10 for a two-hour, unscripted, live interview. He will be accepting callers questions. Mark your calender.
how close we got to the "good-Sheed" his fans have been taunting us with but he compensated for a Celtics foul festival in the first half that had Pierce benched with three and the Cavs out-shooting the C's at the line 18-5.As the third quarter opened, the Celtics had a fire in their eye and a bounce in there "aging" feet. The Celtics opened up a 25 point lead with just under 10 minutes remaining. The fan's at the Q and the home team looked shocked. In the blink of an eye, the Cavs went on a 15-0 run, cutting the lead to 10. Doc Rivers, infuriated with his club, called the appropriate time-out and tried to settle his team down. The Celtics had blown double digit lead's to the Cavs all season and Doc was not about to watch it happen againin the most important game to date. From the Boston Globe:"We were stuck on 91 points for an hour it felt like, said Celtics coach Doc Rivers. I just kept telling our guys the clock is still moving. We need one bucket. We just need somebody to make one shot. "We knew what happened last time when we let up, said Kendrick Perkins. Doc said weve got to keep taking punches. When they throw punches weve got to take them and keep coming.he Celtics finally closed out the game on a late Paul Pierce (14 points) layup and Kevin Garnett (18 points/10 rebounds) jumper. Rajon Rondo finished with 13 points and tied the franchise playoff record with 19 assists. Rondo settled the team down when needed and called plays for Ray Allen, who finished with 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 Miami Dolphins jersey
steal.The Celtics stifling defense held LeBron to 24 points on 7-15 shooting. The official's helped out LeBron's scoring with 15 free throw attemptsthe King clanked five of them. LeBron wasn't the only Cav who fell hard under the Celtics blanket of lock-down defense. The Cavs shot 40 percent as a team and 19 percent from three-point range. The Celtics dominated the boards, 43-32, behind 9 boards from Kendrick Perkins and 10 rebounds from KG.Rasheed Wallace may have been the difference however. 'Sheed showed that when the Celtics second unit has a go-to-guy on the court, they can hold and even expand a lead. Rasheed finished with 17 points in 18 minutes. Most importantly, we saw the effect of Rasheed on the floor when he is hitting. He spread the court and opened the driving lanes. Let's hope the old man has a few more game's like that left in himwith Rasheed Wallace and the Big FOUR in full effect, the Celtics can beat any team in the NBA in seven games.As the game was out of reach for the Cavs, fan's hit the exits hard but not before showering there own team with boo's and a run away beer bottle that smashed on the hardwood.Like the flying bottle that appeared from nowhere, LeBron rediscovered his "injured" elbow in the second Minnesota Vikings
half when he realized the ball was not bouncing his way.Most will say that we have just witnessed LBJ's worst game of the playoffs and that he will be back with a vengeance in game three. The Celtics have two words to combat that with...READ MORE Reminder:Tim Donaghy will be appearing on the Celtics Late Night Show on May 10 for a two-hour, unscripted, live interview. He will be accepting callers questions. Mark your calender.
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 LeBron Gone? Not So Fast
Elsa/Getty ImagesFirst off, let me preface this article by saying that I am not a Cleveland fan. In fact, I am the antithesis of a Cleveland fan; I am a Detroit fan. Saying something nice about Cleveland pains me to no end.However, everyone is chiming in on the LeBron James sweepstakes with their opinions and I am no different.I also (though it pains me to talk about it) am uniquely qualified to discuss said issue. Who else knows the pain of having a highly prized free-agent-to-be wearing the home team colors more than a Detroit fan.Think about it, all Detroit Cleveland Browns jersey
teams have been in the same position the Cavaliers find themselves in this summer.The Pistons have had Grant Hill, Ben Wallace, and countless others poached by teams with more glamorous locales and prettier faces (although the talent in the state of Michigan is underrated to say the least).The Tigers experienced the same with Kirk Gibson back in the late 80's, and we had to watch him win the National League MVP as well as the World Series in dramatic fashion.The Lions have lost just about everyone and even the Red Wings have had players like Sergei Federov peeled off by the lure of riches.Believe me, Detroit fans get it and if it were anyone else we would sympathize with you.But of course the city of Cleveland is a rival and so of course most fans in Detroit are deviously hoping James jumps ship and leaves that other town on Lake Erie in dire straits.But before we get carried away with the celebration, we need to take a step back and figure out exactly what makes the most sense for James. That involves weighing the pros and cons of each move.The Case for ClevelandFirst off, what is LeBron James about?In a word, money.Now, that is not to say that he isn't about winning or establishing a legacy as the greatest ever, which I think could be a close 2nd or 3rd (or 1a and 1b). James obviously is not just about money or else he wouldn't improve each year, which he has.But, like all players, LeBron wants to be a billionaire and use the Michael Jordan model of marketing to catapult to Oprah-rich. He definitely can do that, and it all starts with receiving the most money he can, which is in Cleveland.Secondly, Cleveland has the most talented squad among those being mentioned. Can you seriously say that the New Jersey Nets (even with their lottery pick) would instantly become a winner with LeBron?Sure, they have a solid nucleus and could be a team on the rise with the right management, but they easily would be at least two important pieces away from winning a titleeven with Dallas Cowboys jersey
LeBron.Obviously they could add a Chris Bosh or a Joe Johnson, but even that would take time to gel the way the Cavs have.The rumor dujour has been the Chicago Bulls, and while they are definitely better than New Jersey, they too are not as good as Cleveland. Joakim Noah is a better version of Anderson Varejao and Derick Rose is a very talented guard, but the rest of the roster is equally as unimpressive as Cleveland's.Sure they could potentially lure someone like Amar'e Stoudemire, but even then they would have issues with James and Rose having to share the ball.The only other reasonable possibility is New York, but the Knicks roster is an absolute mess. David Lee will be a free agent and the only other players remaining that are under contract are scrap parts that would need more than James' Midas touch to amount to anything.I know, I know, New Yorkers, LeBron is just one of five moves that Donnie Walsh will make, including signing Bosh and Johnson and re-signing Lee and Tracey McGradyand allowing the Knicks to put together a starting lineup of epic proportions.It definitely could happen, but I just don't see it.Now before you Cavs fans start celebrating the new long-term deal with James by lighting the Cuyahoga River on fire again, think about this: James likely will not be yours for long.Confused? Bear with me.I do think that re-signing with Cleveland makes the most sense for James, but I don't think this will involve a max, long term deal. Instead, I think James will keep the pressure on management and sign a two year deal with a player option for a third.This will force the front office to immediately stock the cupboard with talent for his King-ness.He will essentially be saying "okay, we will try this again, but you guys have to help me out here."Therefore, you will see Cleveland immediately make a sign and trade move for a stud low-post scorer, perhaps taking another chance on Carlos Boozer or making a move on one of the aforementioned free agent prizeseven if itDenver Broncos jersey
means parting with the beloved J.J. Hickson.Dan Gilbert will open his checkbook and buy a title for the King.Then, after two years and probably one title, LeBron James will bow to his home state, thank them for the memories and move on to a greener pasture (i.e. Brooklyn).That's right, moving to the Nets doesn't make any sense today for LeBron, but it does in two years when they begin playing in Brooklyn. Then, he will unite with his pal Jay-Z and the Russian oligarchy and take his star to the next stratosphere.This gives the Nets two years to assemble a strong team around James and usher in a new generation of East Coast basketball domination.Remember, you heard it here first!
teams have been in the same position the Cavaliers find themselves in this summer.The Pistons have had Grant Hill, Ben Wallace, and countless others poached by teams with more glamorous locales and prettier faces (although the talent in the state of Michigan is underrated to say the least).The Tigers experienced the same with Kirk Gibson back in the late 80's, and we had to watch him win the National League MVP as well as the World Series in dramatic fashion.The Lions have lost just about everyone and even the Red Wings have had players like Sergei Federov peeled off by the lure of riches.Believe me, Detroit fans get it and if it were anyone else we would sympathize with you.But of course the city of Cleveland is a rival and so of course most fans in Detroit are deviously hoping James jumps ship and leaves that other town on Lake Erie in dire straits.But before we get carried away with the celebration, we need to take a step back and figure out exactly what makes the most sense for James. That involves weighing the pros and cons of each move.The Case for ClevelandFirst off, what is LeBron James about?In a word, money.Now, that is not to say that he isn't about winning or establishing a legacy as the greatest ever, which I think could be a close 2nd or 3rd (or 1a and 1b). James obviously is not just about money or else he wouldn't improve each year, which he has.But, like all players, LeBron wants to be a billionaire and use the Michael Jordan model of marketing to catapult to Oprah-rich. He definitely can do that, and it all starts with receiving the most money he can, which is in Cleveland.Secondly, Cleveland has the most talented squad among those being mentioned. Can you seriously say that the New Jersey Nets (even with their lottery pick) would instantly become a winner with LeBron?Sure, they have a solid nucleus and could be a team on the rise with the right management, but they easily would be at least two important pieces away from winning a titleeven with Dallas Cowboys jersey
LeBron.Obviously they could add a Chris Bosh or a Joe Johnson, but even that would take time to gel the way the Cavs have.The rumor dujour has been the Chicago Bulls, and while they are definitely better than New Jersey, they too are not as good as Cleveland. Joakim Noah is a better version of Anderson Varejao and Derick Rose is a very talented guard, but the rest of the roster is equally as unimpressive as Cleveland's.Sure they could potentially lure someone like Amar'e Stoudemire, but even then they would have issues with James and Rose having to share the ball.The only other reasonable possibility is New York, but the Knicks roster is an absolute mess. David Lee will be a free agent and the only other players remaining that are under contract are scrap parts that would need more than James' Midas touch to amount to anything.I know, I know, New Yorkers, LeBron is just one of five moves that Donnie Walsh will make, including signing Bosh and Johnson and re-signing Lee and Tracey McGradyand allowing the Knicks to put together a starting lineup of epic proportions.It definitely could happen, but I just don't see it.Now before you Cavs fans start celebrating the new long-term deal with James by lighting the Cuyahoga River on fire again, think about this: James likely will not be yours for long.Confused? Bear with me.I do think that re-signing with Cleveland makes the most sense for James, but I don't think this will involve a max, long term deal. Instead, I think James will keep the pressure on management and sign a two year deal with a player option for a third.This will force the front office to immediately stock the cupboard with talent for his King-ness.He will essentially be saying "okay, we will try this again, but you guys have to help me out here."Therefore, you will see Cleveland immediately make a sign and trade move for a stud low-post scorer, perhaps taking another chance on Carlos Boozer or making a move on one of the aforementioned free agent prizeseven if itDenver Broncos jersey
means parting with the beloved J.J. Hickson.Dan Gilbert will open his checkbook and buy a title for the King.Then, after two years and probably one title, LeBron James will bow to his home state, thank them for the memories and move on to a greener pasture (i.e. Brooklyn).That's right, moving to the Nets doesn't make any sense today for LeBron, but it does in two years when they begin playing in Brooklyn. Then, he will unite with his pal Jay-Z and the Russian oligarchy and take his star to the next stratosphere.This gives the Nets two years to assemble a strong team around James and usher in a new generation of East Coast basketball domination.Remember, you heard it here first!
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 2010 NBA Playoffs: Boston Celtics Are No Boston Bruins, Reach NBA Finals
A team beats a one-man show.That lesson was hammered home when the Celtics defeated LeBron James and the Cavaliers in the previous round.And in case anyone forgot, they were reminded again in Game Six between Boston and Orlando, as the Celtics defeated the Magic 96-84. The win avenges Boston lossAtlanta Falcons jersey
to the Magic in last year playoffs, and advances the Celtics to the NBA Finals for the 21st time in franchise history and second time in three years.Dwight Howard was great for the Magic with 28 points and 12 rebounds, shooting 64 percent from the floor (11-17). His teammates, however, shot just 36 percent (20-55). Other than a brief spurt from Vince Carter near the end of the first half, no one else on the Magic offered Howard any assistance.For the Celtics, it was a different player stepping up at various times on the offensive end combined with a team effort on the defensive end that propelled them to the victory.After watching Orlando basically lead wire-to-wire in Games Four and Five, the Celtics led in Game Six for all but 13 seconds. Boston came out strong and led 30-19 after one quarter.Rajon Rondo was quiet in the Game Four and Five losses, being outplayed by Magic point guard Jameer Nelson. From the start, Rondo made it obvious that would not happen again. He pushed the tempo the entire quarter and had 12 points in the first 12 minutes.But, Boston fans did not care about Rondo 12 points or the 11-point lead after one quarter. They were all worried about Rondo, who took a hard fall on a drive to the hoop in the final minutes of the quarter.Boston had not had a back-up point guard make any contribution all playoffs. The Celtics were no doubt in trouble if Rondo was significantly hampered from the fall, or even worse, if he could not return at all.To quote Lee Corso, Not so fast.We all heard for weeks that Doc Rivers believed Nate Robinson would win a game for the Celtics at some point. No one believed him. But Rivers turned out to be dead on and Game Six was Robinson chance.He took full advantage. After not even playing in eight of Boston previous 16 playoff games, he was the primary reason Boston pushed the lead to as many as 21 points.Robinson had 13 of Boston 25 second quarter points. He started things off with a pair of three pointers, then hit his free throws, Baltimore Ravens jersey
and knocked down a couple of jumpers. Robinson even attempted to attack the rim over Howard, getting fouled in the attempt.Robinson joins fellow Celtic bench players Rasheed Wallace, Tony Allen, and Glen Davis as having his moment in the playoffs where his play was crucial to a Celtics victory.The Magic, however, crawled back in to the game before the end of the half and trailed just 55-42 at the break. Considering how things were going at one point, Orlando had to be very happy to be down just 13.In the third quarter though, the Celtics quickly put out any hopes the Magic may have had with an 11-2 run to start the quarter. Kevin Garnett hit a jump shot. Then, after a Dwight Howard hoop, Ray Allen hit back-to-back three pointers and Paul Pierce would hit a third straight three for the Celtics.The Big Three scored all of Boston 27 points in the third quarter Pierce had 11, Allen 10, and Garnett six.Boston led 82-61 entering the fourth quarter and Pierce then took the Celtics home. He opened the quarter with a three pointer. Orlando tried to stay in the game with a quick 7-0 run. Pierce though, would have none of that, hitting yet another three.And after J.J. Redick hit a three for Orlando, to cut Boston lead to 14, Pierce responded with another jumper.The Celtics captain finished with 31 points, 19 coming in the second half, with 13 rebounds, five assists, and two steals. It was Pierce second 30-point game of the series and third of the playoffs, after reaching 30 points just once in the regular season. Pierce is also just the fourth player in the last 30 years to have at least 30 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in the clinching game of a conference finals (Kobe Bryant, Karl Malone, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar are the other three).Boston put five players in double figures (Pierce, Allen, Garnett, Robinson, Rondo). It was the point guard play that sparked Boston in the first half, with Rondo and Robinson combining for 25 points. In the second half, Pierce and Allen stepped up, scoring 31 of the team 41 points after the break.For the Celtics, they become just the sixth team in NBA history to reach the finals when seeded fourth or lower. Of the previous five teams to do so, only the 1995 Houston Rockets would win the championship.After losing two games in a row, Boston fans everywhere collectively exhaled with the win, as the fear set in everywhere that the Celtics would repeat what just happened to the Bruins by blowing a 3-0 lead.But as was perfectly written on twitter by celticsblog, I know the Boston Bruins, and you Celtics are no Boston Bruins!The Celtics will now get to sit back, see how the Lakers-Suns series wraps up, and rest up for the finals to begin next Thursday. After a pair of Buffalo Bills jersey
very physical series, Boston no doubt needs this break.Regardless of who the opponent is, the Celtics will be a confident team, having knocked off in consecutive series the teams with the top two records in the league during the regular season. The Celtics will also be a team hoping that ESPN experts continue to pick against them. They did in each of the last two series. (see here and here).Please do so again.This article can also be read here at 4SportBoston.comMake sure to check outNBA Draft
to the Magic in last year playoffs, and advances the Celtics to the NBA Finals for the 21st time in franchise history and second time in three years.Dwight Howard was great for the Magic with 28 points and 12 rebounds, shooting 64 percent from the floor (11-17). His teammates, however, shot just 36 percent (20-55). Other than a brief spurt from Vince Carter near the end of the first half, no one else on the Magic offered Howard any assistance.For the Celtics, it was a different player stepping up at various times on the offensive end combined with a team effort on the defensive end that propelled them to the victory.After watching Orlando basically lead wire-to-wire in Games Four and Five, the Celtics led in Game Six for all but 13 seconds. Boston came out strong and led 30-19 after one quarter.Rajon Rondo was quiet in the Game Four and Five losses, being outplayed by Magic point guard Jameer Nelson. From the start, Rondo made it obvious that would not happen again. He pushed the tempo the entire quarter and had 12 points in the first 12 minutes.But, Boston fans did not care about Rondo 12 points or the 11-point lead after one quarter. They were all worried about Rondo, who took a hard fall on a drive to the hoop in the final minutes of the quarter.Boston had not had a back-up point guard make any contribution all playoffs. The Celtics were no doubt in trouble if Rondo was significantly hampered from the fall, or even worse, if he could not return at all.To quote Lee Corso, Not so fast.We all heard for weeks that Doc Rivers believed Nate Robinson would win a game for the Celtics at some point. No one believed him. But Rivers turned out to be dead on and Game Six was Robinson chance.He took full advantage. After not even playing in eight of Boston previous 16 playoff games, he was the primary reason Boston pushed the lead to as many as 21 points.Robinson had 13 of Boston 25 second quarter points. He started things off with a pair of three pointers, then hit his free throws, Baltimore Ravens jersey
and knocked down a couple of jumpers. Robinson even attempted to attack the rim over Howard, getting fouled in the attempt.Robinson joins fellow Celtic bench players Rasheed Wallace, Tony Allen, and Glen Davis as having his moment in the playoffs where his play was crucial to a Celtics victory.The Magic, however, crawled back in to the game before the end of the half and trailed just 55-42 at the break. Considering how things were going at one point, Orlando had to be very happy to be down just 13.In the third quarter though, the Celtics quickly put out any hopes the Magic may have had with an 11-2 run to start the quarter. Kevin Garnett hit a jump shot. Then, after a Dwight Howard hoop, Ray Allen hit back-to-back three pointers and Paul Pierce would hit a third straight three for the Celtics.The Big Three scored all of Boston 27 points in the third quarter Pierce had 11, Allen 10, and Garnett six.Boston led 82-61 entering the fourth quarter and Pierce then took the Celtics home. He opened the quarter with a three pointer. Orlando tried to stay in the game with a quick 7-0 run. Pierce though, would have none of that, hitting yet another three.And after J.J. Redick hit a three for Orlando, to cut Boston lead to 14, Pierce responded with another jumper.The Celtics captain finished with 31 points, 19 coming in the second half, with 13 rebounds, five assists, and two steals. It was Pierce second 30-point game of the series and third of the playoffs, after reaching 30 points just once in the regular season. Pierce is also just the fourth player in the last 30 years to have at least 30 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in the clinching game of a conference finals (Kobe Bryant, Karl Malone, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar are the other three).Boston put five players in double figures (Pierce, Allen, Garnett, Robinson, Rondo). It was the point guard play that sparked Boston in the first half, with Rondo and Robinson combining for 25 points. In the second half, Pierce and Allen stepped up, scoring 31 of the team 41 points after the break.For the Celtics, they become just the sixth team in NBA history to reach the finals when seeded fourth or lower. Of the previous five teams to do so, only the 1995 Houston Rockets would win the championship.After losing two games in a row, Boston fans everywhere collectively exhaled with the win, as the fear set in everywhere that the Celtics would repeat what just happened to the Bruins by blowing a 3-0 lead.But as was perfectly written on twitter by celticsblog, I know the Boston Bruins, and you Celtics are no Boston Bruins!The Celtics will now get to sit back, see how the Lakers-Suns series wraps up, and rest up for the finals to begin next Thursday. After a pair of Buffalo Bills jersey
very physical series, Boston no doubt needs this break.Regardless of who the opponent is, the Celtics will be a confident team, having knocked off in consecutive series the teams with the top two records in the league during the regular season. The Celtics will also be a team hoping that ESPN experts continue to pick against them. They did in each of the last two series. (see here and here).Please do so again.This article can also be read here at 4SportBoston.comMake sure to check outNBA Draft
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Chicago Bulls Beat Down Thunder: Is It Their Best Performance of the Year?
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesIt's hard to believe but the Chicago Bulls pretty much controlled a game against one of the NBA's better teams with Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah scoring a total of 17 points.This was the best team win the Bulls have had this season, Carlos Boozer's best game by far and overall, the first real look at what the Bulls can be. Derrick Rose's production was down in terms of scoring, but he still controlled much of the offensive pace of the game; his speed was still setting up everyone. The movement away from the ball by both Luol Deng Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
and Boozer was active and precise, giving Rose plenty of opportunities to pass off the ball underneath the basket. Boozer's production was outstanding, with 29 points and 12 rebounds. One play in particular was an indication of better things to come from Boozer, an over-the-back circus shot, that also drew a foul call.Boozer is giving the Bulls exactly what they are giving him $80 million for, an offensive presence in the paint. Then, if the middle was jammed up there were wide open players out by the perimeter. Kyle Korver hit two three-pointers and scored 13 overall, Deng hit one and even Keith Bogans hit one, on a shot where he was so open he had time to take a nap. In addition to his perimeter shooting, Deng did a much better job of putting the ball on the floor and going to the rim without getting out of control. Was this the Bulls best overall performance this season?Was this the Bulls best overall performance this season?Yes67.4%No32.6%Total votes: 236For the first time this year, the Bulls looked like a team that could score from Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
anywhere, and with anyone. It was the most even, steady offensive performance by the team this year.The Bulls weren't just impressive on offense either. In fact, it's possible they were even more impressive on defense. Rose kept the young Thunder superstar, Russell Westbrook, in check, holding him to 15 points on 7-18 shooting. Boozer looked comfortable for the first time in the defense, and with Noah sitting much of the game due to foul trouble, filled in spots at center. Along with the other big men, he did a nice job of forcing out the ball to the perimeter. From outside, the Thunder did not do very well, as the Bulls for the first time were on the spot, getting hands in faces from behind the arc, holding Oklahoma City to 4-19 on threes. Deng did a much better job of defending the NBA's leading scorer, Kevin Durant, than the 29 points may indicate;Durant scored most of his points from the free-throw line, going 14-14 from the charity stripe. From the start of the third quarter to the five minute mark of the fourth, the Bulls played straight out shut-down defense, limiting the Thunder to just 25 points over 19 minutes of play. It was over that stretch that the Bulls just grabbed control of the game, and there was little question about the outcome for most of the second half. If there Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
was any criticism, it was that the Bulls let up near the end, and were outscored by eight points in the last three minutes of the game.Still, on the whole it was the Bulls best team effort of the year, and was very promising of things to come.Certainly the Rose/Boozer tandem is looking like what we'd been hoping for at the start of the year.
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25 Dec 10 Phoenix Suns Need Defense To Rise to the Promised Land
内容: Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesThe Phoenix Suns are one of the most dominant offensive teams in the NBA, but also one of least dominant defensive teams.Since the 2004-2005 NBA season, the Suns have averaged 109.5 points per game, but during the same time period they have given up 104.5. From the 2003-2008 the Suns were led by Mike DAntoni, who instilled the famous seven-seconds-or-less offense, and they were constantly a contender in the talented Western Conference. They reached the playoffs almost every year and multiple conference championship Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
series but always fell short.There was one thing missing from the team: defense.The Suns could score on anyone, but anyone could score on them. Something had to give. The Suns argued with DAntoni about paying increased attention to the defensive end, and following the 2008-2009 season, DAntoni was gone. His successor, Terry Porter, lasted half of the ensuing season and was replaced by Alvin Gentry.Under Porter the Suns were supposed to have been a better defensive team with the addition of future-Hall of Fame big man Shaquille ONeal and the presence of players such as Amar'e Stoudemire, Matt Barnes, Jason Richardson and Steve Nash. But they were no better than previous seasons, and Porter was fired. Porter instilled similar concepts as DAntoni but with a few significant changes; the seven-seconds-or-less offense was gone, and the team ran more half-court offense.Under Gentry the team has reverted to running more, but there has been an increase on defensive attention. The Suns gave up 107.5 points per game in the 2008-2009 Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
season and 104.9 points per game in 2009-2010. That almost three less points given up per game, which could be the difference between a win and a loss in a close game.During Gentry first full season (2009-2010), the Suns surprised the league with their offensive efficiency and improved defensive ability. They reached the Western Conference Finals but lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games.The Lakers were much larger than the Suns and used their height to perfection. The Suns couldn contain the likes of the twin towers, 7-footers Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum. They exposed the Suns defense and stopped the Suns offense with superior defense. The Suns held strong the first four games, but the last two games showed how the Suns need a better defense to succeed at a high level.This isn the first time they lost to defensive-minded teams, either. They have also dealt with the San Antonio Spurs on multiple occasions, and until the second round matchup with the Spurs in last year playoff series, they hadn been able to get past them since the 1999-2000 NBA playoffs.But the Suns once again faltered when matched with a dominant defensive team in the Lakers. They showed that no matter how explosive an offense is, there has to be at least an average defense behind it, or the team Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
won win the title.The worst points per game allowed by an NBA champion was 98.4 points per game by the 2008-2009 Los Angeles Laker squad. The 2008-2009 Suns allowed 107.5 points per game and missed the playoffs. This is testament to the fact that defense wins titles.The Suns won be there anytime soon if they don focus on defense more.
and Boozer was active and precise, giving Rose plenty of opportunities to pass off the ball underneath the basket. Boozer's production was outstanding, with 29 points and 12 rebounds. One play in particular was an indication of better things to come from Boozer, an over-the-back circus shot, that also drew a foul call.Boozer is giving the Bulls exactly what they are giving him $80 million for, an offensive presence in the paint. Then, if the middle was jammed up there were wide open players out by the perimeter. Kyle Korver hit two three-pointers and scored 13 overall, Deng hit one and even Keith Bogans hit one, on a shot where he was so open he had time to take a nap. In addition to his perimeter shooting, Deng did a much better job of putting the ball on the floor and going to the rim without getting out of control. Was this the Bulls best overall performance this season?Was this the Bulls best overall performance this season?Yes67.4%No32.6%Total votes: 236For the first time this year, the Bulls looked like a team that could score from Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
anywhere, and with anyone. It was the most even, steady offensive performance by the team this year.The Bulls weren't just impressive on offense either. In fact, it's possible they were even more impressive on defense. Rose kept the young Thunder superstar, Russell Westbrook, in check, holding him to 15 points on 7-18 shooting. Boozer looked comfortable for the first time in the defense, and with Noah sitting much of the game due to foul trouble, filled in spots at center. Along with the other big men, he did a nice job of forcing out the ball to the perimeter. From outside, the Thunder did not do very well, as the Bulls for the first time were on the spot, getting hands in faces from behind the arc, holding Oklahoma City to 4-19 on threes. Deng did a much better job of defending the NBA's leading scorer, Kevin Durant, than the 29 points may indicate;Durant scored most of his points from the free-throw line, going 14-14 from the charity stripe. From the start of the third quarter to the five minute mark of the fourth, the Bulls played straight out shut-down defense, limiting the Thunder to just 25 points over 19 minutes of play. It was over that stretch that the Bulls just grabbed control of the game, and there was little question about the outcome for most of the second half. If there Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
was any criticism, it was that the Bulls let up near the end, and were outscored by eight points in the last three minutes of the game.Still, on the whole it was the Bulls best team effort of the year, and was very promising of things to come.Certainly the Rose/Boozer tandem is looking like what we'd been hoping for at the start of the year.
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25 Dec 10 Phoenix Suns Need Defense To Rise to the Promised Land
内容: Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesThe Phoenix Suns are one of the most dominant offensive teams in the NBA, but also one of least dominant defensive teams.Since the 2004-2005 NBA season, the Suns have averaged 109.5 points per game, but during the same time period they have given up 104.5. From the 2003-2008 the Suns were led by Mike DAntoni, who instilled the famous seven-seconds-or-less offense, and they were constantly a contender in the talented Western Conference. They reached the playoffs almost every year and multiple conference championship Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
series but always fell short.There was one thing missing from the team: defense.The Suns could score on anyone, but anyone could score on them. Something had to give. The Suns argued with DAntoni about paying increased attention to the defensive end, and following the 2008-2009 season, DAntoni was gone. His successor, Terry Porter, lasted half of the ensuing season and was replaced by Alvin Gentry.Under Porter the Suns were supposed to have been a better defensive team with the addition of future-Hall of Fame big man Shaquille ONeal and the presence of players such as Amar'e Stoudemire, Matt Barnes, Jason Richardson and Steve Nash. But they were no better than previous seasons, and Porter was fired. Porter instilled similar concepts as DAntoni but with a few significant changes; the seven-seconds-or-less offense was gone, and the team ran more half-court offense.Under Gentry the team has reverted to running more, but there has been an increase on defensive attention. The Suns gave up 107.5 points per game in the 2008-2009 Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
season and 104.9 points per game in 2009-2010. That almost three less points given up per game, which could be the difference between a win and a loss in a close game.During Gentry first full season (2009-2010), the Suns surprised the league with their offensive efficiency and improved defensive ability. They reached the Western Conference Finals but lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games.The Lakers were much larger than the Suns and used their height to perfection. The Suns couldn contain the likes of the twin towers, 7-footers Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum. They exposed the Suns defense and stopped the Suns offense with superior defense. The Suns held strong the first four games, but the last two games showed how the Suns need a better defense to succeed at a high level.This isn the first time they lost to defensive-minded teams, either. They have also dealt with the San Antonio Spurs on multiple occasions, and until the second round matchup with the Spurs in last year playoff series, they hadn been able to get past them since the 1999-2000 NBA playoffs.But the Suns once again faltered when matched with a dominant defensive team in the Lakers. They showed that no matter how explosive an offense is, there has to be at least an average defense behind it, or the team Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
won win the title.The worst points per game allowed by an NBA champion was 98.4 points per game by the 2008-2009 Los Angeles Laker squad. The 2008-2009 Suns allowed 107.5 points per game and missed the playoffs. This is testament to the fact that defense wins titles.The Suns won be there anytime soon if they don focus on defense more.
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 LeBron James vs. Kevin Durant: Who is Better?
Jamie Squire/Getty ImagesThe LeBron James versus Kevin Durant debate has been a hot topic lately and it is one that will never be trulysettled. It is simply a matter of opinion; therefore, we will never come to a definitive conclusion for one side or the other.LeBron fans are always going to say LeBron is better, and Durant fans will say he is better. However, according to recent statements by players and a survey of the league’s general managers, Kevin Durant is the better player.That is hard for a lot of people to come to Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
grips with. There are two types of people who won’t even consider Durant as a better player than James: die-hard LeBron fans and those who have not had a lot of exposure to Durant. Anyone else realizes that Durant versus James is a legitimate argument, despite which player they feel is actually better.Most recently, Ron Artest said, “He’s the second best player in the league,” speaking of Durant. Granted, Artest, one of the league’s premier defenders, is only sane about 50 percent of the time, but he has spent an ample amount of time guarding both players.When Dwight Howard was asked who is better, he simply responded, “I’m gonna go with Kevin.” Another NBA All-Star is giving the nod to Durant.For whatever reasons, both Artest and Howard believe that Durant is better than James. They’ve both watched and played against both guys, so you have to give some credit to their opinion on the subject.In a recent survey of the NBA general managers, we learn a bit more about what the front office personnel think about the debate. When asked who would win the 2010-11 NBA MVP, Durant received 66.7 percent of the votes, while LeBron earned under five percent.This could be a little deceiving, because on LeBron’s new team, it will be a bit more difficult for him to be the MVP. Maybe that’s whatthey’re considering?The next question is the most telling. When asked if they could sign any player to start a new franchise, 55.6 percent chose Durant, while 25.9 percent chose LeBron.Now this is the one thing that stuck out to me the most. These men are paid big bucks to put together the best players to make the best teams. For the most part, they know what they’re doing.If over 50 percent of GMs would prefer to start a franchise with Kevin Durant as their centerpiece over LeBron or any other player, doesn’t that point to Durant being the better player? Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
It definitely shows that he is a more important player.Another interesting part of this survey was the individual position rankings. LeBron received 67.9 percent of the votes as the best small forward, while Durant came in second with 28.6 percent.At first glance, that appears to contradict the previous survey questions. However, the GMs also voted Durant as the third-best shooting guard and third-best power forward.LeBron received no votes in any position outside of small forward. This shows that the GMs consider Durant a much more versatile player, rather than being confined to one position.Most of the time, individual opinions are presented in defense of LeBron or Durant, butthe statements and numbers above are facts. When truly looking at who is the better player, you have to check all of your biases at the door.It doesn’t matter which player you like more. If you hate LeBron because of his offseason antics, you can’t automatically say Durant is better. If you’re a Miami Heat fan, you can’t immediately come to LeBron’s defense and choose him as the better player simply because he’s the newest toy in town.Watch both players play and think about the things that make a player better. Which one makes his teammates better? Which player is more versatile? Which is the better scorer? Which is the better defender?The hype that has surrounded James since he was a freshman in high school has conditioned a lot of people to believe that he is “out of this world” good. This conditioned mentality has caused some people to consider LeBron on a different level than anyone else. Well, it’s time for a wake-up call.Ron Artest and Dwight HowardReebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
will confirmmy nextstatement, but more importantly, the NBA general managers will. You cannot discount the opinions of the menwho are in charge of deciphering the league’s best talent.LeBron James is not the best player in the NBA, and he’s not the second-best player in the NBA.
grips with. There are two types of people who won’t even consider Durant as a better player than James: die-hard LeBron fans and those who have not had a lot of exposure to Durant. Anyone else realizes that Durant versus James is a legitimate argument, despite which player they feel is actually better.Most recently, Ron Artest said, “He’s the second best player in the league,” speaking of Durant. Granted, Artest, one of the league’s premier defenders, is only sane about 50 percent of the time, but he has spent an ample amount of time guarding both players.When Dwight Howard was asked who is better, he simply responded, “I’m gonna go with Kevin.” Another NBA All-Star is giving the nod to Durant.For whatever reasons, both Artest and Howard believe that Durant is better than James. They’ve both watched and played against both guys, so you have to give some credit to their opinion on the subject.In a recent survey of the NBA general managers, we learn a bit more about what the front office personnel think about the debate. When asked who would win the 2010-11 NBA MVP, Durant received 66.7 percent of the votes, while LeBron earned under five percent.This could be a little deceiving, because on LeBron’s new team, it will be a bit more difficult for him to be the MVP. Maybe that’s whatthey’re considering?The next question is the most telling. When asked if they could sign any player to start a new franchise, 55.6 percent chose Durant, while 25.9 percent chose LeBron.Now this is the one thing that stuck out to me the most. These men are paid big bucks to put together the best players to make the best teams. For the most part, they know what they’re doing.If over 50 percent of GMs would prefer to start a franchise with Kevin Durant as their centerpiece over LeBron or any other player, doesn’t that point to Durant being the better player? Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
It definitely shows that he is a more important player.Another interesting part of this survey was the individual position rankings. LeBron received 67.9 percent of the votes as the best small forward, while Durant came in second with 28.6 percent.At first glance, that appears to contradict the previous survey questions. However, the GMs also voted Durant as the third-best shooting guard and third-best power forward.LeBron received no votes in any position outside of small forward. This shows that the GMs consider Durant a much more versatile player, rather than being confined to one position.Most of the time, individual opinions are presented in defense of LeBron or Durant, butthe statements and numbers above are facts. When truly looking at who is the better player, you have to check all of your biases at the door.It doesn’t matter which player you like more. If you hate LeBron because of his offseason antics, you can’t automatically say Durant is better. If you’re a Miami Heat fan, you can’t immediately come to LeBron’s defense and choose him as the better player simply because he’s the newest toy in town.Watch both players play and think about the things that make a player better. Which one makes his teammates better? Which player is more versatile? Which is the better scorer? Which is the better defender?The hype that has surrounded James since he was a freshman in high school has conditioned a lot of people to believe that he is “out of this world” good. This conditioned mentality has caused some people to consider LeBron on a different level than anyone else. Well, it’s time for a wake-up call.Ron Artest and Dwight HowardReebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
will confirmmy nextstatement, but more importantly, the NBA general managers will. You cannot discount the opinions of the menwho are in charge of deciphering the league’s best talent.LeBron James is not the best player in the NBA, and he’s not the second-best player in the NBA.
2010年12月23日星期四
23 Dec 10Fantasy Basketball Buzzer Beater: Steve Nash Hurt, Troy Murphy on Trading Block?
Troy Murphy has been left in the dust and out of the Nets rotation.Marc Serota/Getty ImagesSteve Nash sat out Thursday’s game against the Magic with a strained groin. He is expected to play in Charlotte on Nov. 20.JR Smith played just one minute in Week 4, losing his spot in the rotation to Houston Texans jersey
Gary Forbes, whom has played at least 16 minutes over the past 5 games. The real winner in Smith’s demotion is Aaron Afflalo, who is averaging 12.7 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and 1.7 three-pointers over the past week.There are reports that Troy Murphy is on the trading block after losing his starting spot to Kris Humphries. Nets Head Coach Avery Johnson has made it clear in the past that rookie Derrick Favors will continue to get minutes. This has resulted in a log jam at the PF position with Murphy as the odd man out.Murphy has been hurt so perhaps it is just taking time for him to get back into the rotation. He has always been more valuable as a fantasy player than as a reality player since he can knock down the three but is limited defensively. Considering he was the biggest acquisition for the Nets this year and a former stat stuff in points, rebounds and threes, things have not worked out for Murphy fantasy owners.With Brandon Roy expected to miss the next few games, Wesley Matthews should continue produce a strong fantasy line. Even once Roy returns, Matthews will continue to be fantasy-relevant as the Blazers will likely put a cap on Roy’s minutes in an effort to limit his DNPs for the rest of the season.The starting lineup carousal continues in Sacramento. One game after inserting both Luther Head and Jason Thompson into the starting lineup, coach Paul Westphal has decided to add Donte Greene to the mix. Thompson will return to the bench and Carl Indianapolis Colts jersey
Landry will return to his power forward position.ESPN provides a breakdown of the players that are producing strong ‘out-of-position’ numbers. For example, despite playing the Center position, Roy Hibbert is averaging an impressive 3.4 assists per game.
Gary Forbes, whom has played at least 16 minutes over the past 5 games. The real winner in Smith’s demotion is Aaron Afflalo, who is averaging 12.7 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and 1.7 three-pointers over the past week.There are reports that Troy Murphy is on the trading block after losing his starting spot to Kris Humphries. Nets Head Coach Avery Johnson has made it clear in the past that rookie Derrick Favors will continue to get minutes. This has resulted in a log jam at the PF position with Murphy as the odd man out.Murphy has been hurt so perhaps it is just taking time for him to get back into the rotation. He has always been more valuable as a fantasy player than as a reality player since he can knock down the three but is limited defensively. Considering he was the biggest acquisition for the Nets this year and a former stat stuff in points, rebounds and threes, things have not worked out for Murphy fantasy owners.With Brandon Roy expected to miss the next few games, Wesley Matthews should continue produce a strong fantasy line. Even once Roy returns, Matthews will continue to be fantasy-relevant as the Blazers will likely put a cap on Roy’s minutes in an effort to limit his DNPs for the rest of the season.The starting lineup carousal continues in Sacramento. One game after inserting both Luther Head and Jason Thompson into the starting lineup, coach Paul Westphal has decided to add Donte Greene to the mix. Thompson will return to the bench and Carl Indianapolis Colts jersey
Landry will return to his power forward position.ESPN provides a breakdown of the players that are producing strong ‘out-of-position’ numbers. For example, despite playing the Center position, Roy Hibbert is averaging an impressive 3.4 assists per game.
2010年12月22日星期三
Bryant Is Not The Next M.J. He May Be Something Greater: The First Kobe.
Kobe's ascension up the ladder of the NBA's historically elite has been anything but typical. Unlike many of the greats before him, Mr. Bryant was not assisted by the media in his conquest. Deemed another cocky wanna be Jordan before he could take his first shot, the Mamba was already doomed.Early Philadelphia Eagles jersey
on in his career fate would turnits back on him also being drafted to one of the most athletically stacked teams guard wise in Lakers history. Kobe was denied what all the other great guards before was given, rights to his own team.Even though he would come off the bench, his relentless worth ethic would not let him remain there for long. It is also worth noting that Shaq did not get is first ring until Kobe finally got a bigger role with the Lakers.Going of Kobe's first three years in the league one would be hard pressed to guess that Kobe would be in the postion he is now. At his lowest he put up consecutive air balls in a close playoff game versus the Utah Jazz, at his pinnacle he has lead the Lakers team post-Shaq to back to back finals winning Finals, MVP in both.The road in between has been more Six Flags "Iron Wolf" then Dorthy's yellow brick road. So while he's no Michael Jordan, lets sit back and enjoy something possibly greater the first Kobe.As far as I can remember Kobe is the first non-starter to eventually gain a startingspot,co-lead a team to 3 consecutive NBA titles and lead them to back to back titles as Finals MVP twice.Kobe was also the youngest player to start in the All-Star game. In 1999 Kobe was the youngest ever to win defensive honors making the Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
NBA's all defensive team. At 23 years old Bryant is the youngest player to win three rings.I see your back to back MVP's at 25 Lebron and I raise you back to back to back chips,while being second on my tam in points first in assists and fist in steals. Thought so! On December 20, 2005, Bryant scored 62 points in three quarters against the Dallas Mavericks.Entering the fourth quarter, Bryant had outscored the entire Mavericks team 62–61, the only time a player has done this through three quarters since the advent of the 24-second shot clock. On January 22, 2006, Bryant did something even Jordan wasn't capable of doing scoring 81 points in a 122–104 victory against the Toronto Raptors.Not only did he break the previous franchise record of 71 set by Mr.Elgin Baylor, Bryant's 81-point game was the second highest point total in NBA history, surpassed only byWilt the Stilt.In that same month, Bryant also became the first player since 1964 to score 45 points or more in four consecutive games, joining Chamberlain and Baylor as the only players ever to do so.Bryant was now entering a part of basketballs sanctuary that not even Michael had graced.For the month of January, Bryant averaged 43.4 points per game,the eighth highest single month scoring average in NBA history and highest for any player other than Chamberlain.By the end of the 2005-06 season, Bryant set Lakers single-season franchise records for most 40-point games (27) and most points scored (2,832). Not bad for a bench warmer huh? At 29 years and 122 days bryant became the youngest player to 20,000 career points.In a career that is far from its final chapter Kobe has amassed One league MVP, 5 NBA Championships, 2 NBA Finals MVP awards, 12 All San Diego Chargers jersey
Star Selections, 3 NBA All-Star MVP's, 2 NBA Scoring titles, 8 NBA first teams, 2 NBA second teams, 2 NBA third teams, 8 NBA defensive first teams, 2 NBA defensive second teams, Slam dunk contest winner ( Lebron were you at man).With atleast five good years left in Kobe's career he has a legitment chance of passing Jordan up in NBA titles and surpassing the great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA's greatest offensive talent. So I say lets sick back and enjoy the greatest show on earth, The Mamba not becoming the next Jordan, but becoming what he was destined to be from the beginging the first Kobe.
on in his career fate would turnits back on him also being drafted to one of the most athletically stacked teams guard wise in Lakers history. Kobe was denied what all the other great guards before was given, rights to his own team.Even though he would come off the bench, his relentless worth ethic would not let him remain there for long. It is also worth noting that Shaq did not get is first ring until Kobe finally got a bigger role with the Lakers.Going of Kobe's first three years in the league one would be hard pressed to guess that Kobe would be in the postion he is now. At his lowest he put up consecutive air balls in a close playoff game versus the Utah Jazz, at his pinnacle he has lead the Lakers team post-Shaq to back to back finals winning Finals, MVP in both.The road in between has been more Six Flags "Iron Wolf" then Dorthy's yellow brick road. So while he's no Michael Jordan, lets sit back and enjoy something possibly greater the first Kobe.As far as I can remember Kobe is the first non-starter to eventually gain a startingspot,co-lead a team to 3 consecutive NBA titles and lead them to back to back titles as Finals MVP twice.Kobe was also the youngest player to start in the All-Star game. In 1999 Kobe was the youngest ever to win defensive honors making the Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
NBA's all defensive team. At 23 years old Bryant is the youngest player to win three rings.I see your back to back MVP's at 25 Lebron and I raise you back to back to back chips,while being second on my tam in points first in assists and fist in steals. Thought so! On December 20, 2005, Bryant scored 62 points in three quarters against the Dallas Mavericks.Entering the fourth quarter, Bryant had outscored the entire Mavericks team 62–61, the only time a player has done this through three quarters since the advent of the 24-second shot clock. On January 22, 2006, Bryant did something even Jordan wasn't capable of doing scoring 81 points in a 122–104 victory against the Toronto Raptors.Not only did he break the previous franchise record of 71 set by Mr.Elgin Baylor, Bryant's 81-point game was the second highest point total in NBA history, surpassed only byWilt the Stilt.In that same month, Bryant also became the first player since 1964 to score 45 points or more in four consecutive games, joining Chamberlain and Baylor as the only players ever to do so.Bryant was now entering a part of basketballs sanctuary that not even Michael had graced.For the month of January, Bryant averaged 43.4 points per game,the eighth highest single month scoring average in NBA history and highest for any player other than Chamberlain.By the end of the 2005-06 season, Bryant set Lakers single-season franchise records for most 40-point games (27) and most points scored (2,832). Not bad for a bench warmer huh? At 29 years and 122 days bryant became the youngest player to 20,000 career points.In a career that is far from its final chapter Kobe has amassed One league MVP, 5 NBA Championships, 2 NBA Finals MVP awards, 12 All San Diego Chargers jersey
Star Selections, 3 NBA All-Star MVP's, 2 NBA Scoring titles, 8 NBA first teams, 2 NBA second teams, 2 NBA third teams, 8 NBA defensive first teams, 2 NBA defensive second teams, Slam dunk contest winner ( Lebron were you at man).With atleast five good years left in Kobe's career he has a legitment chance of passing Jordan up in NBA titles and surpassing the great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA's greatest offensive talent. So I say lets sick back and enjoy the greatest show on earth, The Mamba not becoming the next Jordan, but becoming what he was destined to be from the beginging the first Kobe.
2010年12月21日星期二
Major League Lottery: How MLB Teams Make Big Gambles in the Dominican
Young Dominican prospects dont have the best equipment.Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesPicture a young kid, no older than 12, hitting hundreds of baseballs into a ragged net, or throwing them at a makeshift backstop. They grow up with huge dreams, living in an impoverished nation of less than 10 million people. Aside from the location, their dream sounds none to different than the one we all had, right? Bottom of the ninth, bases loaded, two out. The pennant on the line. With one swing, you win a ring, the love of a city, and secure financial stability for your family. Of Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
course, these two things aren't really alike at all. Picture that young kid again. Except this time he's the target of a scout, or as they're called locally: a buscon. The kid can run like the wind. He's tall and strong. His parents, like so many here, are poor. Or, perhaps his parents aren't around at all. So, instead of being in school like we were when having these dreams, the kids are at a makeshift academy, ran by buscones. They live here, eat here and learn baseball here all under poor conditions. They're sometimes honing their baseball skills under the direction of former prospects who went through the same situation. There are lots of stories to be found about buscones. The large chunks of the signing bonus some take in return for the training. The way someof them help the kids lie about their ages andpump them with drugs: often of the performance enhancing variety. MLB and its clubs have improved the academies.Like anything, this isn't always the case. One reportfrom MLB identified Dominican imports committing identity fraud at a clip of 60 percent in 2002, but had that number reduced to 25 percent by 2009. So, progress has been made. And, there are some success stories. From David Ortiz to Hanley Ramirez. Miguel Tejada to Vladimir Guerrero. Considering the size of the country, some big name players have emerged. Big money is going to players who are unpolished and untested, but have real athletic ability. Like the steroid problem in the '90s, when bad PR comes out, MLB moves fast and hard with corrective Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
actions. Sandy Alderson was tasked with cleaning up some of the mess. Drug testing, identity verification, better facilities for training, English lessonsand other steps have been taken within the academies ran by MLB clubs. Twenty-eight of the 30 clubs now have an academy in the DR. There are less and less instances of exploited prospects being trust into American culture with added pressure to perform well at their craft. The kids are being taken care of better now. So, are the risks lower for teams? Word came out on Mondaythat the Seattle Mariners have signed17-year-old shortstop Esteilon Peguero, with a signing bonus of $4.9 million. Only three players in Mariners history have received bigger bonuses: Dustin Ackley, Ichiro Suzuki and Jeff Clement. Vladimir Guerrero came to MLB via a buscon.Elsa/Getty ImagesI asked Dave Cameron, co-founder of USSMariner.com and editorat FanGraphs.com if Mariners fans should be even a little stoked, regardless of how little we can possible know about Peguero, considering the size of the bonus. "These kids are lottery tickets," he said, "but when they hit, they can be a big deal." Peguero could be the next diamond in the rough, or he could be a sunk cost that returns home after not panning out. The good news is that regardless of the outcome,they're being better taken care of during the process. They aren't being told to lie about who they are. They're living and training better. They're evenbeing offered an education outside of baseball by some teams. They aren't just being Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
treated as a future payday anymore. The system still isn't perfect. Neither for the teams or the players. There's still some corruption and millions of dollars might still be sunk on a kid who never makes it to the show. But if they're not just glorified slaves sold off to the highest bidder anymore, it's a gamble much easier to live with.
作者:
course, these two things aren't really alike at all. Picture that young kid again. Except this time he's the target of a scout, or as they're called locally: a buscon. The kid can run like the wind. He's tall and strong. His parents, like so many here, are poor. Or, perhaps his parents aren't around at all. So, instead of being in school like we were when having these dreams, the kids are at a makeshift academy, ran by buscones. They live here, eat here and learn baseball here all under poor conditions. They're sometimes honing their baseball skills under the direction of former prospects who went through the same situation. There are lots of stories to be found about buscones. The large chunks of the signing bonus some take in return for the training. The way someof them help the kids lie about their ages andpump them with drugs: often of the performance enhancing variety. MLB and its clubs have improved the academies.Like anything, this isn't always the case. One reportfrom MLB identified Dominican imports committing identity fraud at a clip of 60 percent in 2002, but had that number reduced to 25 percent by 2009. So, progress has been made. And, there are some success stories. From David Ortiz to Hanley Ramirez. Miguel Tejada to Vladimir Guerrero. Considering the size of the country, some big name players have emerged. Big money is going to players who are unpolished and untested, but have real athletic ability. Like the steroid problem in the '90s, when bad PR comes out, MLB moves fast and hard with corrective Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
actions. Sandy Alderson was tasked with cleaning up some of the mess. Drug testing, identity verification, better facilities for training, English lessonsand other steps have been taken within the academies ran by MLB clubs. Twenty-eight of the 30 clubs now have an academy in the DR. There are less and less instances of exploited prospects being trust into American culture with added pressure to perform well at their craft. The kids are being taken care of better now. So, are the risks lower for teams? Word came out on Mondaythat the Seattle Mariners have signed17-year-old shortstop Esteilon Peguero, with a signing bonus of $4.9 million. Only three players in Mariners history have received bigger bonuses: Dustin Ackley, Ichiro Suzuki and Jeff Clement. Vladimir Guerrero came to MLB via a buscon.Elsa/Getty ImagesI asked Dave Cameron, co-founder of USSMariner.com and editorat FanGraphs.com if Mariners fans should be even a little stoked, regardless of how little we can possible know about Peguero, considering the size of the bonus. "These kids are lottery tickets," he said, "but when they hit, they can be a big deal." Peguero could be the next diamond in the rough, or he could be a sunk cost that returns home after not panning out. The good news is that regardless of the outcome,they're being better taken care of during the process. They aren't being told to lie about who they are. They're living and training better. They're evenbeing offered an education outside of baseball by some teams. They aren't just being Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
treated as a future payday anymore. The system still isn't perfect. Neither for the teams or the players. There's still some corruption and millions of dollars might still be sunk on a kid who never makes it to the show. But if they're not just glorified slaves sold off to the highest bidder anymore, it's a gamble much easier to live with.
作者:
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 College Football Odds: NebraskaCornhuskers The Underdog in Big 12 Finale
Eric Francis/Getty ImagesNebraska will play its final game in the Big 12 before heading to the Big Ten in 2011 by trying to end its 11-year title drought with a win over the Oklahoma Sooners in the Big 12 Championship game this Saturday. The 13th-ranked Cornhuskers have won two Big 12 conference championship games since the league formed in 1996 and participated in another, but haven’t won the title since 1999. The two schools will meet for the 86th time with the Sooners leading the series 44-38-3. Nebraska won last season’s game 10-3 in Lincoln, but the South has won the last six Big 12 title games with an overall 10-4 advantage. Our latest college football odds show football jerseysthe Sooners at -6.5 over the Huskers with a game total of 54. With a 47-41 win over the Oklahoma State Cowboys in Stillwater last weekend, the ninth-ranked Sooners earned their way to this Saturday’s big dance. It wasn’t easy, though. Sophomore QB Laundry Jones stumbled out of the starting block early on tossing a few bad passes, including one that was returned for a touchdown, but he also made some clutch throws late that went for 80-plus-yard touchdowns. Jones has completed 66 percent of his passes for a whopping 3,947 yards with 34 touchdowns to just 10 interceptions. To say it’s been a good season is an understatement. Meanwhile, the Huskers needed to win their final game of the season against Colorado to make it make it to this game, and on an impressive effort behind backup QB Cody Green, who was standing in for injured starter Taylor Martinez.It was one of Nebraska’s best games of the season as they thrashed the Buffaloes, 45-17. The big question now is if Martinez will return in time for Saturday’s matchup. He is currently listed as day-to-day. While Green has proven he has the arm to Vikings jerseyget the job done, he lacks the running skill of Martinez, who has 974 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns to go with his 1,435 passing yards and nine touchdowns. His dual-threat ability could be useful in keeping the Sooners defense on its heels. If Martinez does not return, the rushing tandem of Roy Helu and Rex Burkhead will be counted on to Steelers jerseycarry out the running plan. Helu has rushed for 1,120 yards and 10 touchdowns while Burkhead has rushed for 822 yards and seven touchdowns. The Sooners will hope to counter with its rushing attack, led by senior DeMarco Murray, who has rolled-up 1,053 yards and 14 touchdowns. But Murray is banged-up and is questionable for this one. Roy Finch is a capable replacement, but Murray’s absence would definitely limit the Sooners' effectiveness on the ground. That may force Jones to pass more than he wants, but a skilled receiving corps that turned in the big plays in the waning minutes at OSU will be there. Both defenses are solid allowing less than 23 points per game but the Sooners defense has shown more holes at times this season as they allowed 41 points last week, 33 to Texas A&M, and 36 to Missouri while Nebraska has been stingy allowing three, nine, and 17 points in their last three games. Oklahoma is 4-1 against the spread in their last five Big 12 games, while the favorite has covered in seven of the last 10 meetings of these two. Matt’s Free Prediction: Nebraska +6.5Even with the possibility of being without Martinez, the Huskers will eke out the win here with its better running attack and stringy defense. Interested in making some money this college football season? Check out what our expert college football handicappers have to offer in their weekly college football picks
19 Dec 10 Todd Haley Apologizes To Josh McDaniels for Handshake Fiasco
Todd Haley and Josh McDanielsJustin Edmonds/Getty ImagesIt’s not easy to find interesting storylines from 20-point routs like yesterday’s 49-29 Denver Broncos' victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. But luckily for us, there are men like Chiefs coach Todd Haley. After the loss, Haley was caught on camera refusing to shake Denver coach Josh McDaniels’ hand during the traditional midfield postgame coach’s meeting. Not only did Haley simply leave his counterpart hanging; the coach went so far as to angrily wave his finger at McDaniels while shouting a sentence or two before storming away. Kansas City’s WDAF-TV turned over audio of the incident to The Associated Press, which reported that Haley said, “There's a lot of Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jerseyshit being talked about you.''Take a look at the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyLHtXWJvj8&feature=player_embeddedAfter taking a good amount of heat after the video went viral, Haley decided to offer a public apology for his actions today. Although he didn’t talk to McDaniels personally, the Kansas City coach did express his remorse and regret to the media. Now this is nothing new to the NFL. We know that for the most part, many coaches simply don’t like each other for one reason or another. Sure, they all respect each other and are all part of the “fraternity” but the NFL is a competitive environment and that brings out some jealousies and insecurities that manifest themselves in this kind of behavior, especially when it comes Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
to division rivals. We’ve seen coaches completely blow off postgame handshakes like San Francisco’s Mike Singeltary did earlier this season after a loss to Atlanta. We’ve seen freezing cold, I’m-only-doing-this-because-I-have-to-type handshakes from frostbitten foes like Eric Mangini and Bill Belichick. And we’ve also seen the kind of fireworks that Haley flashed from coaches who don’t appreciate a little extra butt whooping. So was Haley in the wrong to do what he did or was it just a bit of gamesmanship? Considering he’s already apologized for the incident less than 24 hours after it happened, it’s hard to say it wasn’t a mistake on his part. He broke the unwritten code that says no matter how mad you are at the outcome: you bite your lip, don’t make a big fuss, shake the others guy’s hand and move on.It’s true, many people are absolutely talking about Josh McDaniels and he's exemplified someReebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
less-than-endearing qualities during his tenure in Denver. But the time to tell him that isn’t after his team just got done stomping all over you. That looks tacky on your part, Todd Haley. You got beat handily. So take it like a man, own up to it and move on. There’s no need to draw any more negative attention to your team that just lost two consecutive crucial division games. Adhere to the code, bite your lip and move on.
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Get a Win To Savor
Gerald McCoy strips Mike Goodson of the ball to set up a Buc TD.J. Meric/Getty ImagesThis was one of those wins that you just want to sit back and enjoy.Light up a $10 cigar, sip a single malt, a beer, some other adult beverage or simply some fancy water if you so prefer.Sit back and enjoy that 31-16 thumping of those pesky Carolina Panthers. Savor a sweep of that Carolina team, the first since the NFC South was born.So you say it's ONLY the Panthers?Upsets happen all the time in the NFL, teams lose to teams they shouldn't lose to. Teams take seemingly lousy teams Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
for granted. Just ask the New York Giants about their little fiasco with the lowly Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.Savor the fact that these Bucs won when they were expected to. Savor the fact that these Bucs actually scored a touchdown on their first possession. Savor the fact that there was actually a very, very effective ground game.Savor the fact that LeGarrette Blount put some Blount Force Trauma on the ole Panthers, including that wonderful, airborne, spinning leap for a touchdown on a 17-yard run that was pure highlight film material.Savor, if you will, that 45-yard burst by old Cadillac Williams that sealed this deal. Heck, the last time Caddy ran like that, there was a healthy real estate market.Was this a good win for the Buccaneers?Was this a good win for the Buccaneers?A: Yes, no doubt about it.63.8%B: Not really, the Panthers are terrible.10.0%C: Four more wins to go.26.2%Total votes: 130Savor that move by Gerald McCoy during the Panthers first possession when he stripped Mike Goodson of the football to put Josh Freeman and his guys in business at the Carolina 47.Think about 186 yards rushing. This sounds so unbelievable but it's been 10 years, ladies and gentlemen, since the Bucs had 30 rushing attempts that averaged six yards Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
per.Surely it's a great thing to see Mike Williams continue to do what he does. Surely it was a great thing to see Kellen Winslow back in the game plan in a big way and good gosh-almighty, he scored a touchdown!Is there no end to this offensive madness?Are Blount and Williams the new Csonka and Kiick?And let's face it and love it—Josh Freeman is just plain good and getting better with time and experience. His quarterback rating was 134.2 and Jimmy Clausen's was 75.5. Go Irish!Oh, and we'd be remiss if we did not tip our caps to Marcus Arrelious Benn—just call me Gladiator. He continues to improve and make an impact. His TD catch was a humdinger.Now before we get carried away with the pure giddiness of a 6-3 record. There was still stuff to gripe about, like those eight offensive penalties, that were, well, for a better word, just plain offensive.Yes, the defense surrendered 100 yards to Goodson, but there were crucial stops when needed and it doesn't look like they'll stop anyone on the ground Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
this year.This defensive line will never be mistaken for the Steel Curtain.Still, 6-3 is 6-3."I know stats are for losers," Raheem Morris said after the win. "But having this kind of production with those guys is fun."Yes, Raheem, it is.
for granted. Just ask the New York Giants about their little fiasco with the lowly Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.Savor the fact that these Bucs won when they were expected to. Savor the fact that these Bucs actually scored a touchdown on their first possession. Savor the fact that there was actually a very, very effective ground game.Savor the fact that LeGarrette Blount put some Blount Force Trauma on the ole Panthers, including that wonderful, airborne, spinning leap for a touchdown on a 17-yard run that was pure highlight film material.Savor, if you will, that 45-yard burst by old Cadillac Williams that sealed this deal. Heck, the last time Caddy ran like that, there was a healthy real estate market.Was this a good win for the Buccaneers?Was this a good win for the Buccaneers?A: Yes, no doubt about it.63.8%B: Not really, the Panthers are terrible.10.0%C: Four more wins to go.26.2%Total votes: 130Savor that move by Gerald McCoy during the Panthers first possession when he stripped Mike Goodson of the football to put Josh Freeman and his guys in business at the Carolina 47.Think about 186 yards rushing. This sounds so unbelievable but it's been 10 years, ladies and gentlemen, since the Bucs had 30 rushing attempts that averaged six yards Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
per.Surely it's a great thing to see Mike Williams continue to do what he does. Surely it was a great thing to see Kellen Winslow back in the game plan in a big way and good gosh-almighty, he scored a touchdown!Is there no end to this offensive madness?Are Blount and Williams the new Csonka and Kiick?And let's face it and love it—Josh Freeman is just plain good and getting better with time and experience. His quarterback rating was 134.2 and Jimmy Clausen's was 75.5. Go Irish!Oh, and we'd be remiss if we did not tip our caps to Marcus Arrelious Benn—just call me Gladiator. He continues to improve and make an impact. His TD catch was a humdinger.Now before we get carried away with the pure giddiness of a 6-3 record. There was still stuff to gripe about, like those eight offensive penalties, that were, well, for a better word, just plain offensive.Yes, the defense surrendered 100 yards to Goodson, but there were crucial stops when needed and it doesn't look like they'll stop anyone on the ground Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
this year.This defensive line will never be mistaken for the Steel Curtain.Still, 6-3 is 6-3."I know stats are for losers," Raheem Morris said after the win. "But having this kind of production with those guys is fun."Yes, Raheem, it is.
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Fantasy Football Hot Pickup Alert: Jahvid Best's Turf Toe Flares Up
Maurice Morris is a hot pickup following Jahvid Best aggravating his turf toe injury.Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesJahvid Best's turf toe flared up against the Cowboys and reportsindicate that is getting progressively worse.This makes Maurice Morris a must-add in fantasy football leagues.Maurice Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Morris got the first carry of the game for the Lions with Jahvid Best’s turf toe acting up and he stands to have some significant fantasy value going forward. He finished Sundays game with 10 carries for 31 yards and 4 receptions for 40 yards.Kevin Smith was recently placed on injured reserve, and Best aggravating his turf toe means that Maurice Morris is next in line to start.Morris has proved capable in a fantasy setting in previous years and is looking like a must-add in all leagues. Whether you need him or not, you need to make the add--- even if it's just to block your opponents from doing so.
Morris got the first carry of the game for the Lions with Jahvid Best’s turf toe acting up and he stands to have some significant fantasy value going forward. He finished Sundays game with 10 carries for 31 yards and 4 receptions for 40 yards.Kevin Smith was recently placed on injured reserve, and Best aggravating his turf toe means that Maurice Morris is next in line to start.Morris has proved capable in a fantasy setting in previous years and is looking like a must-add in all leagues. Whether you need him or not, you need to make the add--- even if it's just to block your opponents from doing so.
2010年12月16日星期四
16 Dec 10 Giants Wide Receiver Derek Hagan Shows Patience Is a Virtue
Nick Laham/Getty ImagesThe New York Giants got bad news for their receiving corps when they found out they would be without Steve Smith until early December last week, and now Hakeem Nicks is going to miss the next three games with a leg condition that developed as a result of a hard hit against the Eagles.After Steve Smith tore his pectoral muscle in practice the week before they played the Dallas Cowboys, Ramses Barden was forced into action; it didn't last long, as he had to be placed on injured reserve due to two Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
fractures in his ankle.Not only that, the Giants have had to place Victor Cruz on IR to make room for other players, despite his insistence that could have returned this season.Top that injury sundae off with Domenik Hixon's knee surgery in the offseason that forced him to miss all of this season and you have five of the Giants top six receiving options out for at least one more game.Insert Derek Hagan.Hagan had been watching games on TV this year from his couch, and with all of the injuries, the Giants gave him a call last week and threw him to the lions in a fight for first place in the NFC East with the Eagles.He did his best and even scored a touchdown, but on several occasions proved rusty and even dropped a couple balls.Hagan gave the Giants the easiest option in free agency because he had spent the 2009 season and 2010 training camp with the team. He knew the offense and Eli already had some chemistry due to practicing with him in the past. However, he wasn't relied upon for much of the game, only coming in Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
on certain packages.How does the Giants Offense Do This Weekend?How does the Giants Offense Do This Weekend?Horrible 14.0%Average, win the game with defense53.7%Pounds the rock and rushed for over 200 yards22.3%Doesn't miss a beat9.9%Total votes: 121In this Sunday's game against the Jaguars, Hagan will get the start opposite Mario Manningham in lieu of Duke Calhoun, who has been terrible when the Giants needed him the most.In an effort to give the unit some more help, the Giants worked out both Kevin Curtis, former Eagles wide out and Michael Clayton, formerly of the Buccaneers.Apparently, Clayton did more to impress and he has been signed today; he will have three days to figure out the offense.Tom Coughlin actually mentioned that he would consider using Travis Beckum at wide out, since he possesses the necessary speed to do so. Exactly how much Clayton will be used is still up in the air.Getting back to Hagan, he was forced out of the team's final roster due to the sheer depth of Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
talent at the position and now, ironically, that depth is gone and he is back.He will have a chance to prove why he wanted to change from a full time special teams player to wide receiver.It was his loss of passion for special teams that ultimately cost him a spot in favor of Calhoun, maybe in this short time period he can justify a long term place with the team.
fractures in his ankle.Not only that, the Giants have had to place Victor Cruz on IR to make room for other players, despite his insistence that could have returned this season.Top that injury sundae off with Domenik Hixon's knee surgery in the offseason that forced him to miss all of this season and you have five of the Giants top six receiving options out for at least one more game.Insert Derek Hagan.Hagan had been watching games on TV this year from his couch, and with all of the injuries, the Giants gave him a call last week and threw him to the lions in a fight for first place in the NFC East with the Eagles.He did his best and even scored a touchdown, but on several occasions proved rusty and even dropped a couple balls.Hagan gave the Giants the easiest option in free agency because he had spent the 2009 season and 2010 training camp with the team. He knew the offense and Eli already had some chemistry due to practicing with him in the past. However, he wasn't relied upon for much of the game, only coming in Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
on certain packages.How does the Giants Offense Do This Weekend?How does the Giants Offense Do This Weekend?Horrible 14.0%Average, win the game with defense53.7%Pounds the rock and rushed for over 200 yards22.3%Doesn't miss a beat9.9%Total votes: 121In this Sunday's game against the Jaguars, Hagan will get the start opposite Mario Manningham in lieu of Duke Calhoun, who has been terrible when the Giants needed him the most.In an effort to give the unit some more help, the Giants worked out both Kevin Curtis, former Eagles wide out and Michael Clayton, formerly of the Buccaneers.Apparently, Clayton did more to impress and he has been signed today; he will have three days to figure out the offense.Tom Coughlin actually mentioned that he would consider using Travis Beckum at wide out, since he possesses the necessary speed to do so. Exactly how much Clayton will be used is still up in the air.Getting back to Hagan, he was forced out of the team's final roster due to the sheer depth of Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
talent at the position and now, ironically, that depth is gone and he is back.He will have a chance to prove why he wanted to change from a full time special teams player to wide receiver.It was his loss of passion for special teams that ultimately cost him a spot in favor of Calhoun, maybe in this short time period he can justify a long term place with the team.
2010年12月15日星期三
Fantasy Football Spin on the Best and Worst Performers of Week 12
Each week at FFSpin.com we take a look at the most surprising break out and break down performances and analyze the short and long term fantasy football implications.
Here are the performances that stood out in Week 12 and what they mean...
Matt Forte– The Eagles made Forte look good. He is not nearly as good as his 14-carry, 117-yard performance against the Birds would indicate.
The Bears managed to take advantage of 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
an Eagles defense that was compensating for the absence of Asante Samuel by playing safeties off the line and focusing on stopping the pass—not that it worked or anything. Forte also exploited their over pursuing nature. This performance actually pushes Forte over 4.0 yards per carry—a number that has been elusive for the third year back.
Forte owners should be a little concerned that this week marked a reversal in the trend of the Bears running the ball more. In the three games leading up to this week, the team had averaged 36 running attempts, a whopping number for a Mike Martz offense. Their variance is probably attributable to the fact that Eagles secondary was so vulnerable.
Final Spin:Shop him. In Week’s 15 and 16, the all important playoff weekends, the Bears face the Vikings and Jets, very unfavorable matchups. If you can capitalize on the combination of a desperate owner and the residue of a big game, do it. Forte seems fairly safe as the Bears starter of the future. In keeper/dynasty leagues he is a high end RB#3.
Jonathan Stewart- Stewart looked strong in his return rushing 12 times for 98 yards. Mike Goodson still saw more carries and was the team’s leading receiver with eight receptions for 80 yards. The Panthers look like they will be a true RBBC, but considering they favor Goodson in the passing game, we think he has more value than Stewart for the remainder of this season.
This week, Goodson got 14 carries to Stewart’s 12. That split may have been a product of missed time for Stewart and the team’s need to come from behind and pass the ball. Next week will tell the tale.
Final Spin: Stewart’s value is limited. Best case scenario is that he gets more carries than Goodson but not enough to consistently produce starting numbers every week. Goodson has made someone expendable. DeAngelo Williams is in his contract year and either he or Stewart will not be back with the team in 2011. Stewart may be traded in the offseason. Stewart’s value depends on where he plays.
Hines Ward– The old man still has it left in him. You can’t simply write off his seven-catch, 107-yard performance as simply a product of playing the Bills. The Bills actually have the ninth ranked pass defense in the league. It looks like Ward has fully recovered from the 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
concussion he suffered in Week 10, and this game may have been closer to the norm for the rest of the season from the Ward/Roethlisberger connection.
Final Spin: Ward has a tough schedule coming up. Every team he faces through Week 16 ranks in the top 15 in pass defense and two are in the top 10. There should be owners looking to bolster their playoff roster, and we recommend shopping Ward right away. Next year will be Ward’s 14th season. Obviously, his keeper/dynasty value is limited, but he should have at least one more good year in him.
Jason Witten– Witten finally looked like the top tight end people counted on when they drafted him in the early rounds of fantasy drafts. In the three games leading up to the Thanksgiving Day contest, Witten had eight catches for 99 yards. He hauled in 10 passes for 99 yards on turkey day and was Kitna’s favorite target for the first time since Halloween. Maybe it has something to do with Kitna only looking Witten’s way on holidays.
Final Spin: We think this represents a turning point for Witten. He is not a big TD guy, but in our estimation, he will be among the leading TEs in PPR leagues from here on out. As a keeper/dynasty option, he is border line top five at the position.
Maurice Morris– He filled in admirably for a hobbled Jahvid Best who’s turf toe injuries have limited his ability to cut and his speed—his two biggest attributes. At this point, the Lions realize they aren’t going to win the Super Bowl this year, and they should put Best on the shelf to heal.
They probably won’t do that, but they should. Morris only got nine carries, but he made the most of them accumulating 55 yards and two TDs. Inexplicably, the team gave an ineffective Aaron Brown 13 carries. Maybe after totaling on 36 yards, they will wise up and increase Morris’ work load.
Final Spin: Pay close attention to what the Lions have to say about Jahvid Best’s health and how they may use their RBs. If Best plays, Morris can’t be relied on as a starter. If he is out, he may still have to deal with a split with Brown. Week 13 will be tough either way. The Bears are stingy against the run. Morris has very little value from a keeper/dynasty perspective.
Danario Alexander– In the two full games the injury-prone rookie has played, he has eight receptions 167 yards and a TD. If he could stay healthy, he has the kind of talent to regularly post performances like his four catches for 95 yards he posted in Week 12. The Rams have a Wes Welker—like target in Danny Amendola, but they do not have the big target that can go up and get balls and win battles for jump balls. Alexander has the attributes to be that guy, but he simply cannot stay healthy.
Final Spin: If you have roster space, pick Alexander up. He is likely to be inconsistent for the remainder of the season, but he also has the potential to have a breakout performance any week. Three of the Rams next four matchups are favorable, Arizona, Kansas City, and San Francisco. You want to find room for this guy on a dynasty roster. He could amount to something big for a very small investment.
Derrick Mason– Anquan Boldin owners should be just about ready to hit the panic button. His production has really tailed off of late, and he has less than 30 receiving yards in three of the last four contests. Meanwhile, Mason has TDs in three of the last four games. He is not posting big reception or yardage numbers, but he has become a reliable flex option again.
You could use him as a WR#3, although it may be a stretch. In Week 13, the Ravens face the Steelers against whom Mason posted six catches for 80 yards in Week 4. They follow that up with Houston who is ranked dead last in the league in pass defense.
Final Spin– Mason is worth inserting in your line up for Week 13, 14, and 16. He has a tough matchup against the Saints in Week 15. As a keeper/dynasty prospect, he is a WR#4.
Jacoby Ford– This guy is lightening fast. He led the 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
Raiders in rushing and receiving in Week 12. He added a kickoff return TD to his impressive receiving stats (4/108/1) and 20 rushing yards. The rookie is a threat to score any time he touches the ball. One of the most promising stats is that he was targeted by the team, leading 10 times in Week 12. That stat is indicative of the fact that he is to play a central role in the passing game and that the QB is looking to him often.
Final Spin: Don’t expect him to post great numbers against the Chargers in Week 13, although he could benefit from the team likely playing from behind. He should be considered a low end WR#3 for the remainder of the season, and as a rookie with skill, he should be coveted by dynasty league owners.
Click here for "The BAD". Follow us on Twitter FFSpin to get the Fantasy Football Spin on the latest NFL News.
Here are the performances that stood out in Week 12 and what they mean...
Matt Forte– The Eagles made Forte look good. He is not nearly as good as his 14-carry, 117-yard performance against the Birds would indicate.
The Bears managed to take advantage of 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
an Eagles defense that was compensating for the absence of Asante Samuel by playing safeties off the line and focusing on stopping the pass—not that it worked or anything. Forte also exploited their over pursuing nature. This performance actually pushes Forte over 4.0 yards per carry—a number that has been elusive for the third year back.
Forte owners should be a little concerned that this week marked a reversal in the trend of the Bears running the ball more. In the three games leading up to this week, the team had averaged 36 running attempts, a whopping number for a Mike Martz offense. Their variance is probably attributable to the fact that Eagles secondary was so vulnerable.
Final Spin:Shop him. In Week’s 15 and 16, the all important playoff weekends, the Bears face the Vikings and Jets, very unfavorable matchups. If you can capitalize on the combination of a desperate owner and the residue of a big game, do it. Forte seems fairly safe as the Bears starter of the future. In keeper/dynasty leagues he is a high end RB#3.
Jonathan Stewart- Stewart looked strong in his return rushing 12 times for 98 yards. Mike Goodson still saw more carries and was the team’s leading receiver with eight receptions for 80 yards. The Panthers look like they will be a true RBBC, but considering they favor Goodson in the passing game, we think he has more value than Stewart for the remainder of this season.
This week, Goodson got 14 carries to Stewart’s 12. That split may have been a product of missed time for Stewart and the team’s need to come from behind and pass the ball. Next week will tell the tale.
Final Spin: Stewart’s value is limited. Best case scenario is that he gets more carries than Goodson but not enough to consistently produce starting numbers every week. Goodson has made someone expendable. DeAngelo Williams is in his contract year and either he or Stewart will not be back with the team in 2011. Stewart may be traded in the offseason. Stewart’s value depends on where he plays.
Hines Ward– The old man still has it left in him. You can’t simply write off his seven-catch, 107-yard performance as simply a product of playing the Bills. The Bills actually have the ninth ranked pass defense in the league. It looks like Ward has fully recovered from the 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
concussion he suffered in Week 10, and this game may have been closer to the norm for the rest of the season from the Ward/Roethlisberger connection.
Final Spin: Ward has a tough schedule coming up. Every team he faces through Week 16 ranks in the top 15 in pass defense and two are in the top 10. There should be owners looking to bolster their playoff roster, and we recommend shopping Ward right away. Next year will be Ward’s 14th season. Obviously, his keeper/dynasty value is limited, but he should have at least one more good year in him.
Jason Witten– Witten finally looked like the top tight end people counted on when they drafted him in the early rounds of fantasy drafts. In the three games leading up to the Thanksgiving Day contest, Witten had eight catches for 99 yards. He hauled in 10 passes for 99 yards on turkey day and was Kitna’s favorite target for the first time since Halloween. Maybe it has something to do with Kitna only looking Witten’s way on holidays.
Final Spin: We think this represents a turning point for Witten. He is not a big TD guy, but in our estimation, he will be among the leading TEs in PPR leagues from here on out. As a keeper/dynasty option, he is border line top five at the position.
Maurice Morris– He filled in admirably for a hobbled Jahvid Best who’s turf toe injuries have limited his ability to cut and his speed—his two biggest attributes. At this point, the Lions realize they aren’t going to win the Super Bowl this year, and they should put Best on the shelf to heal.
They probably won’t do that, but they should. Morris only got nine carries, but he made the most of them accumulating 55 yards and two TDs. Inexplicably, the team gave an ineffective Aaron Brown 13 carries. Maybe after totaling on 36 yards, they will wise up and increase Morris’ work load.
Final Spin: Pay close attention to what the Lions have to say about Jahvid Best’s health and how they may use their RBs. If Best plays, Morris can’t be relied on as a starter. If he is out, he may still have to deal with a split with Brown. Week 13 will be tough either way. The Bears are stingy against the run. Morris has very little value from a keeper/dynasty perspective.
Danario Alexander– In the two full games the injury-prone rookie has played, he has eight receptions 167 yards and a TD. If he could stay healthy, he has the kind of talent to regularly post performances like his four catches for 95 yards he posted in Week 12. The Rams have a Wes Welker—like target in Danny Amendola, but they do not have the big target that can go up and get balls and win battles for jump balls. Alexander has the attributes to be that guy, but he simply cannot stay healthy.
Final Spin: If you have roster space, pick Alexander up. He is likely to be inconsistent for the remainder of the season, but he also has the potential to have a breakout performance any week. Three of the Rams next four matchups are favorable, Arizona, Kansas City, and San Francisco. You want to find room for this guy on a dynasty roster. He could amount to something big for a very small investment.
Derrick Mason– Anquan Boldin owners should be just about ready to hit the panic button. His production has really tailed off of late, and he has less than 30 receiving yards in three of the last four contests. Meanwhile, Mason has TDs in three of the last four games. He is not posting big reception or yardage numbers, but he has become a reliable flex option again.
You could use him as a WR#3, although it may be a stretch. In Week 13, the Ravens face the Steelers against whom Mason posted six catches for 80 yards in Week 4. They follow that up with Houston who is ranked dead last in the league in pass defense.
Final Spin– Mason is worth inserting in your line up for Week 13, 14, and 16. He has a tough matchup against the Saints in Week 15. As a keeper/dynasty prospect, he is a WR#4.
Jacoby Ford– This guy is lightening fast. He led the 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
Raiders in rushing and receiving in Week 12. He added a kickoff return TD to his impressive receiving stats (4/108/1) and 20 rushing yards. The rookie is a threat to score any time he touches the ball. One of the most promising stats is that he was targeted by the team, leading 10 times in Week 12. That stat is indicative of the fact that he is to play a central role in the passing game and that the QB is looking to him often.
Final Spin: Don’t expect him to post great numbers against the Chargers in Week 13, although he could benefit from the team likely playing from behind. He should be considered a low end WR#3 for the remainder of the season, and as a rookie with skill, he should be coveted by dynasty league owners.
Click here for "The BAD". Follow us on Twitter FFSpin to get the Fantasy Football Spin on the latest NFL News.
2010年12月13日星期一
NFL Week 13 Spreads: New York Giants Favored By a TD Over Washington Redskins
Al Bello/Getty ImagesThis Sunday, the New York Giants will look to build off a big win over Jacksonville when they host the Washington Redskins in an important NFC East matchup.The Giants fell behind 17-6 at home against the Jaguars, but turned it on in the second half for a 24-20Vikings Brett Favre jersey
win. The Redskins come in off a 17-13 loss at home against the Vikings, and have now lost four of their last six games.This will be the first of two meetings between these two teams over the final five weeks of the season.If you are thinking about betting on the game this weekend, the current NFL spreads have the Giants favored by seven points over the Redskins at home.Washington (5-6)The Redskins offense couldn’t get anything going against the Vikings defense last Sunday. Washington managed just 216 yards of total offense with just 29 yards coming in the ground game.Quarterback Donovan McNabb completed 21 of 35 attempts for 211 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Fred Davis hauled in the touchdown pass from 10 yards out and finished with three catches for 25 yards.With Clinton Portis on IR and Ryan Torain inactive with a hamstring injury, Keiland Williams and James Davis were the top two backs, and they combined for just 16 yards on nine carries.Torain is questionable to return this week, and it appears the Redskins could definitely use him back in the lineup. The Giants just allowed Jacksonville to run for 207 yards last week, so expect a much better day on the ground no matter who starts.The big concern for the Redskins will likely be finding a way to slow down the Giants pass rush.Minnesota had just 17 sacks going into the game against the Redskins, but managed to sack McNabb four times. New York has 31 sacks on the 4 Brett Favre White jersey
season, and you can expect them to come hard at McNabb all game.New York (7-4)While last weeks win over the Jaguars might not have been the most impressive showing the Giants have had, it was a huge win for a team that had lost two games in a row. After starting fast and falling apart last season, this win will give the Giants confidence over the final five games.Eli Manning had another fine day throwing the football, as he completed 14-of-24 for 226 yards and two touchdowns despite the fact that he was missing both Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith.Tight end Kevin Boss hauled in three passes for 74 yards and a score while Mario Manningham also had three catches for 61 yards and a touchdown.Brandon Jacobs got his first start of the season at running back and responded with a solid game, rushing for 87 yards on 14 carries. Ahmad Bradshaw, who is now the backup, ran for 49 yards on nine carries.The Redskins defense has had trouble stopping much of anything this season, so expect a big day in both the passing and running game for the Giants.Looking at the OddsI am all over the Giants to cover the spread in this one.New York will be able to put a ton of pressure on McNabb and keep the Redskins offense Vikings Brett Favre jersey
in check, while the Giants offense should be able to move up and down the field against one of the worst defenses in the league.My final score prediction is New York 31, Washington 17.Interested in making some money this NFL season? Check out what our expert NFL handicappers have to offer in their weekly NFL picks.
win. The Redskins come in off a 17-13 loss at home against the Vikings, and have now lost four of their last six games.This will be the first of two meetings between these two teams over the final five weeks of the season.If you are thinking about betting on the game this weekend, the current NFL spreads have the Giants favored by seven points over the Redskins at home.Washington (5-6)The Redskins offense couldn’t get anything going against the Vikings defense last Sunday. Washington managed just 216 yards of total offense with just 29 yards coming in the ground game.Quarterback Donovan McNabb completed 21 of 35 attempts for 211 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Fred Davis hauled in the touchdown pass from 10 yards out and finished with three catches for 25 yards.With Clinton Portis on IR and Ryan Torain inactive with a hamstring injury, Keiland Williams and James Davis were the top two backs, and they combined for just 16 yards on nine carries.Torain is questionable to return this week, and it appears the Redskins could definitely use him back in the lineup. The Giants just allowed Jacksonville to run for 207 yards last week, so expect a much better day on the ground no matter who starts.The big concern for the Redskins will likely be finding a way to slow down the Giants pass rush.Minnesota had just 17 sacks going into the game against the Redskins, but managed to sack McNabb four times. New York has 31 sacks on the 4 Brett Favre White jersey
season, and you can expect them to come hard at McNabb all game.New York (7-4)While last weeks win over the Jaguars might not have been the most impressive showing the Giants have had, it was a huge win for a team that had lost two games in a row. After starting fast and falling apart last season, this win will give the Giants confidence over the final five games.Eli Manning had another fine day throwing the football, as he completed 14-of-24 for 226 yards and two touchdowns despite the fact that he was missing both Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith.Tight end Kevin Boss hauled in three passes for 74 yards and a score while Mario Manningham also had three catches for 61 yards and a touchdown.Brandon Jacobs got his first start of the season at running back and responded with a solid game, rushing for 87 yards on 14 carries. Ahmad Bradshaw, who is now the backup, ran for 49 yards on nine carries.The Redskins defense has had trouble stopping much of anything this season, so expect a big day in both the passing and running game for the Giants.Looking at the OddsI am all over the Giants to cover the spread in this one.New York will be able to put a ton of pressure on McNabb and keep the Redskins offense Vikings Brett Favre jersey
in check, while the Giants offense should be able to move up and down the field against one of the worst defenses in the league.My final score prediction is New York 31, Washington 17.Interested in making some money this NFL season? Check out what our expert NFL handicappers have to offer in their weekly NFL picks.
2010年12月12日星期日
Jets Vs. Patriots Monday Night Football: Live Reaction to Game's Biggest Stories
Al Bello/Getty ImagesJets vs. Patriots Monday Night Football is finally here. If you are anything like me, you had this game circled with a Sharpie. Well, the wait is finally over, almost. We have less than an hour to get home and comfortable before watching the best match up of the season. The Jets drew first blood this season with a home rout of the Pats 28-14. But I think we can all agree that New England was not quite themselves in the early rounds of 2010. It wasn't until they dismissed the malcontent Randy Moss that they started looking like the contenders we expected them to look like. What makes this game so special is that both teams are playing their best football of the season. Both teams have won four of their last five and seem to be rolling through the rest of 4 Brett Favre White jersey
the NFL. It all comes to a screeching halt for one of these teams tonight. As both boast a 9-2 record, only one can lead the AFC East after tonight. So I hope you are ready for some football. I know I am. Related Story:Jets Vs. Patriots: 10 Bold Predictions For Crucial Monday Night Football Clash 11:34 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Final Thoughts on Monday Night Jets Vs Patriots: As Monday afternoon turned into evening, we NFL faithful were certain we would see something special tonight. We were correct if not wrong in the aspect of what we would see. While I and many of you were set for a tight game that...Read more » 11:15 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Mark Sanchez Awful On Monday Night Jets Vs Patriots: The latest Mark Sanchez interception to Brandon Spikes typified his night. He threw to absolutely no Jets receiver. Spikes was in no man's land but still had the ball go right to him.How bad has Sanchez been? Well the game ...Read more » 11:02 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Things Go From Bad to Worse for JetsJets Vs Patriots:Down 31-3, Sanchez will have to throw. That is not a good fact for the Jets to live with. Right after the Welker touchdown, Sanchez got the ball and chucked it down field. He should have chucked a little harder.The bal...Read more » 10:51 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Patriots Score and Jets Running Out of Time Jets Vs Patriots: With latest touchdown by the Patriots, one thing is certain. The Jets are running out oftime.The Pats are extremely adept at lengthening a drive and consuming clock time. The Jets may have just sealed the game with th...Read more » 10:38 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Jets Show Life at Last and Then Die Jets Vs Patriots: The Jets started the second half doing the only thing that worked in the first half. They ran.It was clear early on that Mark Sanchez was not his usual self. He needed the ball out of his hands.So the Jets decided to come o...Read more » 10:18 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Do the Jets Stand A Chance in the Second Half?Jets Vs Patriots: One half down and one to go, what we know is that the Jets idea of confusing the Pariots is completely ineffective.The Jets are the kings of comebacks this year. But taking a game from the Patriots from behind may be too mu...Read more » 10:07 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Patriots Looking Like Jets On DefenseJets Vs Patriots: It is hard to say what is working better for the Patriots, the offense or the defense. The Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
Patriots are swarming the ball at every opportunity. They have only allowed Shonn Greene 37 yards and LaDanian Tomlinson 27 yards as of th...Read more » 09:53 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Danny Woodhead Featured in Game of StarsJets Vs Patriots: This has not been the game we all expected to see. There has been no defense from the Jets to speak of and the Patriots are doing their best impression of New York's defense.So it is fitting that early in the game an unlikely sta...Read more » 09:39 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: What Could Be Wrong With Jets?Jets Vs. Patriots: So Mark Sanchez is not himself what do you do? You give the ball to Shonn Greene and LaDainian Tomlinson. These two backs are doing their best to get the Jets back on track.More than that, they are taking the ball out of S...Read more » 09:25 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: The Jets Are Falling Apart EarlyJets Vs Patriots: The Jets look bad. But Mark Sanchez looks worse. He had Santonio Holmes wide open right in front of him and threw wide left. He then had a pass go behind Holmes to his right which was tipped and almost intercepted.It is cle...Read more » 09:13 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Brady and Pats CruisingJets Vs Patriots: It seems that Mark Sanchez has a lot to learn. The Patriots were supposed to have the porous defense. But early on it is Brady finding the open windows tothrow through. He has the Jets on their heels like a legendary quarte...Read more » 09:05 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: An Interesting First Drive for Jets Jets Vs Patriots: Now after a decent kick return by Brad Smith. We get to see how Mark Sanchez performs under the microscope of Foxboro. He is facing a soft secondary we expect him to air it out as he does to Santonio Holmes. It sailed way above h...Read more » 08:50 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Patriots Draw First BloodJets Vs Patriots: Rex Ryan promised to have the Jets showing a ton of differnt looks, now we get our chance to see how effective it can be. The Patriots get the ball first.Right off the bat Brady connects with his favorite receiver Wes Welke...Read more » 08:14 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Can Pats Offense Make Up For Defense?Jets Vs Patriots Now we are about to get some answers to our burning questions. Who is the best team in the NFL outside of the Falcons?The Patriots one Achilles heel has to be their secondary defense. They allow too many passes to get throug... Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
Read more » 08:04 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Pre-game Hype and HooplaJets Vs Patriots is finally here. Before you set down with a cold one in hand, lets educate ourselves on some of the story lines here.The Jets are a formidable foe on the road. They are 5-0 on the road this season. Keep in mind that the team...Read more »
the NFL. It all comes to a screeching halt for one of these teams tonight. As both boast a 9-2 record, only one can lead the AFC East after tonight. So I hope you are ready for some football. I know I am. Related Story:Jets Vs. Patriots: 10 Bold Predictions For Crucial Monday Night Football Clash 11:34 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Final Thoughts on Monday Night Jets Vs Patriots: As Monday afternoon turned into evening, we NFL faithful were certain we would see something special tonight. We were correct if not wrong in the aspect of what we would see. While I and many of you were set for a tight game that...Read more » 11:15 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Mark Sanchez Awful On Monday Night Jets Vs Patriots: The latest Mark Sanchez interception to Brandon Spikes typified his night. He threw to absolutely no Jets receiver. Spikes was in no man's land but still had the ball go right to him.How bad has Sanchez been? Well the game ...Read more » 11:02 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Things Go From Bad to Worse for JetsJets Vs Patriots:Down 31-3, Sanchez will have to throw. That is not a good fact for the Jets to live with. Right after the Welker touchdown, Sanchez got the ball and chucked it down field. He should have chucked a little harder.The bal...Read more » 10:51 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Patriots Score and Jets Running Out of Time Jets Vs Patriots: With latest touchdown by the Patriots, one thing is certain. The Jets are running out oftime.The Pats are extremely adept at lengthening a drive and consuming clock time. The Jets may have just sealed the game with th...Read more » 10:38 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Jets Show Life at Last and Then Die Jets Vs Patriots: The Jets started the second half doing the only thing that worked in the first half. They ran.It was clear early on that Mark Sanchez was not his usual self. He needed the ball out of his hands.So the Jets decided to come o...Read more » 10:18 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Do the Jets Stand A Chance in the Second Half?Jets Vs Patriots: One half down and one to go, what we know is that the Jets idea of confusing the Pariots is completely ineffective.The Jets are the kings of comebacks this year. But taking a game from the Patriots from behind may be too mu...Read more » 10:07 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Patriots Looking Like Jets On DefenseJets Vs Patriots: It is hard to say what is working better for the Patriots, the offense or the defense. The Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
Patriots are swarming the ball at every opportunity. They have only allowed Shonn Greene 37 yards and LaDanian Tomlinson 27 yards as of th...Read more » 09:53 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Danny Woodhead Featured in Game of StarsJets Vs Patriots: This has not been the game we all expected to see. There has been no defense from the Jets to speak of and the Patriots are doing their best impression of New York's defense.So it is fitting that early in the game an unlikely sta...Read more » 09:39 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: What Could Be Wrong With Jets?Jets Vs. Patriots: So Mark Sanchez is not himself what do you do? You give the ball to Shonn Greene and LaDainian Tomlinson. These two backs are doing their best to get the Jets back on track.More than that, they are taking the ball out of S...Read more » 09:25 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: The Jets Are Falling Apart EarlyJets Vs Patriots: The Jets look bad. But Mark Sanchez looks worse. He had Santonio Holmes wide open right in front of him and threw wide left. He then had a pass go behind Holmes to his right which was tipped and almost intercepted.It is cle...Read more » 09:13 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Brady and Pats CruisingJets Vs Patriots: It seems that Mark Sanchez has a lot to learn. The Patriots were supposed to have the porous defense. But early on it is Brady finding the open windows tothrow through. He has the Jets on their heels like a legendary quarte...Read more » 09:05 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: An Interesting First Drive for Jets Jets Vs Patriots: Now after a decent kick return by Brad Smith. We get to see how Mark Sanchez performs under the microscope of Foxboro. He is facing a soft secondary we expect him to air it out as he does to Santonio Holmes. It sailed way above h...Read more » 08:50 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Patriots Draw First BloodJets Vs Patriots: Rex Ryan promised to have the Jets showing a ton of differnt looks, now we get our chance to see how effective it can be. The Patriots get the ball first.Right off the bat Brady connects with his favorite receiver Wes Welke...Read more » 08:14 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Can Pats Offense Make Up For Defense?Jets Vs Patriots Now we are about to get some answers to our burning questions. Who is the best team in the NFL outside of the Falcons?The Patriots one Achilles heel has to be their secondary defense. They allow too many passes to get throug... Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
Read more » 08:04 PM ETJets Vs Patriots: Pre-game Hype and HooplaJets Vs Patriots is finally here. Before you set down with a cold one in hand, lets educate ourselves on some of the story lines here.The Jets are a formidable foe on the road. They are 5-0 on the road this season. Keep in mind that the team...Read more »
2010年12月11日星期六
Pittsburgh Steelers "The big misunderstanding"
Most NFL fans have heard what Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger recently said regarding the Steelers' receivers, but let's go over it one more time."I'm always going to ask for a tall receiver," Roethlisberger said. "That's just me. Our receivers are unbelievable, but our tallest guy might be 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
Hines? Or Santonio? Hines is going to say he's 6 foot, but he's 5-11, now."It's nice to have a bailout guy, you know when you're in trouble and you just kind of throw it up," Roethlisberger continued. "In the red zone its nice to have a guy like that. Obviously, we have a guy like Nate who can jump out of this world. He can jump so high. It's nice to have that."But to have a big guy who can create mismatches -- the same thing happened when Plax [Plaxico Burress] was here. So much presence went to Plax's side just because he's a big, good receiver, that Hines was always open or Antwaan [Randle El]. I just think it would open stuff up for us a lot more," he said.Unfortunately, Ward didn't appear thrilled with those comments. Ward, who is clearly one of the top all-around wideouts in the league, fired back."I don't buy into the hype you have to be tall. You throw the ball up and give somebody a chance to make a play, I'll make as many catches as anyone," commented Ward.Here's the thing: Nearly everything both guys said is true. First, let's start with Ward. The Steelers did win a Super Bowl without a tall receiver; thus, it certainly can be done. Further, Ward will make as many catches as anyone when given a chance.Meanwhile, Roethlisberger said, "our receivers are unbelievable," which is something that seems lost at this point in the melee. Beyond that, Roethlisberger will likely soon enter renegotiations with his contract. Thus, he's trying to make his wants known to the franchise for its benefit. And having a tall receiver isn't any more of a bad thing than having a short target who makes all the right catches and blocks better than some linemen (Ward).In other words, the team could use a large wideout. Still, Roethlisberger shouldn't 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
have said that in the press. Rather, he should have simply spoken privately to Pittsburgh's brass.Nevertheless, expect these two to make amends quickly and get back to business. Roethlisberger and Ward have gotten along great for four seasons, and one slight rift isn't going to throw a wrench in their relationship.
2010年12月9日星期四
San Francisco 49ers Alex Smith Anquan Boldin Larry Fitzgerald
It must have been the water.The San Francisco 49ers are likely still feeling the hangover from the whipping they received at the hands of the Arizona Cardinals the last time they faced off, on a Sunday night in Mexico City. This time around the 49ers offense must figure out a way to protect the 4 Brett Favre White jersey
quarterback and the defense must figure out a way to slow down the Cardinals potent passing attack in order for San Francisco to have a chance at victory.In their last meeting, the 49ers allowed the Cardinals to register five sacks. This constant pressure resulted in numerous turnovers and a general lack of rhythm for the 49ers offense. This time around the offensive line, which will be without Pro Bowl center Jeremy Newberry, will have to somehow become a stout unit and prevent the Cardinals pass rush from fouling up Alex Smith's first start in over a month.Defensively, the 49ers must figure out a way to slow down the receiving tandem of Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. These two young receivers might be the best tandem in the NFL right now. They have already combined for Vikings Brett Favre jersey
131 receptions, 11 touchdowns and nearly 2,000 receiving yards. Starting cornerbacks Derrick Johnson and Shawntae Spencer should have their hands full all afternoon long. However, if they can prevent big plays downfield and come up with a turnover or two the 49ers will be in a position to win this game.We'll find out for sure on Sunday. Kickoff is set for 1:05 pm PST.
quarterback and the defense must figure out a way to slow down the Cardinals potent passing attack in order for San Francisco to have a chance at victory.In their last meeting, the 49ers allowed the Cardinals to register five sacks. This constant pressure resulted in numerous turnovers and a general lack of rhythm for the 49ers offense. This time around the offensive line, which will be without Pro Bowl center Jeremy Newberry, will have to somehow become a stout unit and prevent the Cardinals pass rush from fouling up Alex Smith's first start in over a month.Defensively, the 49ers must figure out a way to slow down the receiving tandem of Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. These two young receivers might be the best tandem in the NFL right now. They have already combined for Vikings Brett Favre jersey
131 receptions, 11 touchdowns and nearly 2,000 receiving yards. Starting cornerbacks Derrick Johnson and Shawntae Spencer should have their hands full all afternoon long. However, if they can prevent big plays downfield and come up with a turnover or two the 49ers will be in a position to win this game.We'll find out for sure on Sunday. Kickoff is set for 1:05 pm PST.
San Francisco 49ers "Reebok enforcing dress code on Mike Nolan"
Newly appointed NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has emphasized professionalism and responsibility in his short tenure at the helm. In an attempt to clean up the league's negative perception concerning player conduct, Goodell has handed down several suspensions to players who have reflected poorly on4 Brett Favre White jersey
the NFL as a whole. Players like Tennessee Titans defensive back Adam "Pacman" Jones, Cincinnati Bengals receiver Chris Henry and Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson have felt the brunt of Goodell's charge to improve the league's image. Considering the league's desire to promote excellence, it should come as a surprise that Reebok, the NFL's official clothing supplier, is enforcing a dress code against head coaches Mike Nolan (San Francisco) and Jack Del Rio (Jacksonville). Reebok has informed both coaches that they will only be allowed to wear suits in two games this upcoming season. Sorry, guys, the hoody is mandatory. Granted, Reebok hands out a hefty fee to be the official clothing supplier of the NFL, reportedly paying $250 million for 10 years of exclusive rights to the uniforms and apparel of every team in the league. For that kind of cash, the NFL is more than willing to outsource its dress code guidelines to Reebok. It is clear that Nolan disagrees with this decision. He has been very vocal with his displeasure. "I'd feel a lot better if they just put it to rest and let me do it all the time. Because it's ridiculous they don't," Nolan said. "We're trying to send the right message all the time. And it's ignorant for them not to recognize that. Reebok's never had more attention given to them."Setting a good example for his players is not Nolan's only motive for wearing a suit. As many 49ers fans likely know, his father, Dick, wore a suit when he coached the 49ers in the 1960s and '70s. With his father in failing health and suffering from Alzheimer's, Nolan seeks to honor his father with his attire. How can you argue with that?Reebok would be wise to take the high road and permit head coaches to have control over their attire. Their stance on this issue is petty and misguided. If more coaches wore suits on the field, it would enhance the league's perception. If head coaches were allowed to sport polished, responsible-looking attire, the league's bruised public image would be met with a 4 Brett Favre White jersey
counterbalancing force -- a force that fosters respect, admiration and professionalism. Who knows? This new message and attitude of respect and professionalism may even rub off on some of the character-empty players scattered throughout the league. Ultimately, Nolan will be judged on how his team performs on the field, but he should certainly have the right to lead the 49ers the way he sees fit. Got a bone to pick with a newspaper columnist, talk show personality or television analyst? E-mail us at mediawatch . For more information, visit our Media Watch info page.
the NFL as a whole. Players like Tennessee Titans defensive back Adam "Pacman" Jones, Cincinnati Bengals receiver Chris Henry and Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson have felt the brunt of Goodell's charge to improve the league's image. Considering the league's desire to promote excellence, it should come as a surprise that Reebok, the NFL's official clothing supplier, is enforcing a dress code against head coaches Mike Nolan (San Francisco) and Jack Del Rio (Jacksonville). Reebok has informed both coaches that they will only be allowed to wear suits in two games this upcoming season. Sorry, guys, the hoody is mandatory. Granted, Reebok hands out a hefty fee to be the official clothing supplier of the NFL, reportedly paying $250 million for 10 years of exclusive rights to the uniforms and apparel of every team in the league. For that kind of cash, the NFL is more than willing to outsource its dress code guidelines to Reebok. It is clear that Nolan disagrees with this decision. He has been very vocal with his displeasure. "I'd feel a lot better if they just put it to rest and let me do it all the time. Because it's ridiculous they don't," Nolan said. "We're trying to send the right message all the time. And it's ignorant for them not to recognize that. Reebok's never had more attention given to them."Setting a good example for his players is not Nolan's only motive for wearing a suit. As many 49ers fans likely know, his father, Dick, wore a suit when he coached the 49ers in the 1960s and '70s. With his father in failing health and suffering from Alzheimer's, Nolan seeks to honor his father with his attire. How can you argue with that?Reebok would be wise to take the high road and permit head coaches to have control over their attire. Their stance on this issue is petty and misguided. If more coaches wore suits on the field, it would enhance the league's perception. If head coaches were allowed to sport polished, responsible-looking attire, the league's bruised public image would be met with a 4 Brett Favre White jersey
counterbalancing force -- a force that fosters respect, admiration and professionalism. Who knows? This new message and attitude of respect and professionalism may even rub off on some of the character-empty players scattered throughout the league. Ultimately, Nolan will be judged on how his team performs on the field, but he should certainly have the right to lead the 49ers the way he sees fit. Got a bone to pick with a newspaper columnist, talk show personality or television analyst? E-mail us at mediawatch . For more information, visit our Media Watch info page.
2010年12月2日星期四
Tennessee Titans Steve McNair Matt Leinart Jay Cutler Vince Young
Far too regularly teams around the league refrain from using the word rebuilding. By football definition, it basically means going younger and cheaper, so forget about winning for at least three years. Football fans aren't fond of the term rebuild; to them, it's about as welcomed as Todd Bertuzzi hanging 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
out in Denver. However, when it comes to the Tennessee Titans, there's no mistaking the obvious: They're rebuilding. At 4-12, the Titans weren't good to begin with. With Brad Hopkins and Justin Hartwig gone and Tank Williams soon to follow, they aren't getting better anytime soon. Being near the bottom of the pecking in order of salary cap room (ballpark of $6 million under), rebuilding with multiple impact free agents isn't an option. Even though they own no third round pick because of the Travis Henry trade last year, the only real way for Tennessee to improve is through the draft. The good news is they own the third overall pick in the draft. The bad news is no single player is going to make the Titans competitive in 2006. That being said, they'd be foolish not to take a quarterback with that third pick. Although Steve McNair is back for one more season, he won't lead the team to many wins. Billy Volek appears to be stuck in no-man's land until he's traded. Assuming Reggie Bush is selected first in the draft, either Matt Leinart, Jay Cutler or Vince Young will be there for the taking. Any would be a good building block towards a fresh start. With Tennessee's offensive line already average, losing Hopkins and Hartwig all but assures a painful season for McNair and Volek. Coach Jeff Fisher may be wise to sit whomever they select as the QB of the future on the bench, keeping him from taking a physical beating and learning under McNair. Even if the rookie plays little or not at all in 2006, there's no better way to rebuild a franchise than around a franchise quarterback. Don't be surprised to see the Titans take offensive linemen with more than half of their draft day picks. But that's not to say they don't need plenty of 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
help all over the board. Drew Bennett hasn't proven he can be a number one receiver and acquiring someone to play with him may help. Keith Bullocks is one of the better linebackers in the NFL but doesn't have much talent surrounding him, so adding some playmakers on the defensive front is also a top priority. Realistically, the Tennessee Titans are at least two years away from being able to contend. Having a franchise quarterback on the roster now may pay off at that time
out in Denver. However, when it comes to the Tennessee Titans, there's no mistaking the obvious: They're rebuilding. At 4-12, the Titans weren't good to begin with. With Brad Hopkins and Justin Hartwig gone and Tank Williams soon to follow, they aren't getting better anytime soon. Being near the bottom of the pecking in order of salary cap room (ballpark of $6 million under), rebuilding with multiple impact free agents isn't an option. Even though they own no third round pick because of the Travis Henry trade last year, the only real way for Tennessee to improve is through the draft. The good news is they own the third overall pick in the draft. The bad news is no single player is going to make the Titans competitive in 2006. That being said, they'd be foolish not to take a quarterback with that third pick. Although Steve McNair is back for one more season, he won't lead the team to many wins. Billy Volek appears to be stuck in no-man's land until he's traded. Assuming Reggie Bush is selected first in the draft, either Matt Leinart, Jay Cutler or Vince Young will be there for the taking. Any would be a good building block towards a fresh start. With Tennessee's offensive line already average, losing Hopkins and Hartwig all but assures a painful season for McNair and Volek. Coach Jeff Fisher may be wise to sit whomever they select as the QB of the future on the bench, keeping him from taking a physical beating and learning under McNair. Even if the rookie plays little or not at all in 2006, there's no better way to rebuild a franchise than around a franchise quarterback. Don't be surprised to see the Titans take offensive linemen with more than half of their draft day picks. But that's not to say they don't need plenty of 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
help all over the board. Drew Bennett hasn't proven he can be a number one receiver and acquiring someone to play with him may help. Keith Bullocks is one of the better linebackers in the NFL but doesn't have much talent surrounding him, so adding some playmakers on the defensive front is also a top priority. Realistically, the Tennessee Titans are at least two years away from being able to contend. Having a franchise quarterback on the roster now may pay off at that time
Tennessee Titans Steve McNair Matt Leinart Jay Cutler Vince Young
Far too regularly teams around the league refrain from using the word rebuilding. By football definition, it basically means going younger and cheaper, so forget about winning for at least three years. Football fans aren't fond of the term rebuild; to them, it's about as welcomed as Todd Bertuzzi hanging 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
out in Denver. However, when it comes to the Tennessee Titans, there's no mistaking the obvious: They're rebuilding. At 4-12, the Titans weren't good to begin with. With Brad Hopkins and Justin Hartwig gone and Tank Williams soon to follow, they aren't getting better anytime soon. Being near the bottom of the pecking in order of salary cap room (ballpark of $6 million under), rebuilding with multiple impact free agents isn't an option. Even though they own no third round pick because of the Travis Henry trade last year, the only real way for Tennessee to improve is through the draft. The good news is they own the third overall pick in the draft. The bad news is no single player is going to make the Titans competitive in 2006. That being said, they'd be foolish not to take a quarterback with that third pick. Although Steve McNair is back for one more season, he won't lead the team to many wins. Billy Volek appears to be stuck in no-man's land until he's traded. Assuming Reggie Bush is selected first in the draft, either Matt Leinart, Jay Cutler or Vince Young will be there for the taking. Any would be a good building block towards a fresh start. With Tennessee's offensive line already average, losing Hopkins and Hartwig all but assures a painful season for McNair and Volek. Coach Jeff Fisher may be wise to sit whomever they select as the QB of the future on the bench, keeping him from taking a physical beating and learning under McNair. Even if the rookie plays little or not at all in 2006, there's no better way to rebuild a franchise than around a franchise quarterback. Don't be surprised to see the Titans take offensive linemen with more than half of their draft day picks. But that's not to say they don't need plenty of 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
help all over the board. Drew Bennett hasn't proven he can be a number one receiver and acquiring someone to play with him may help. Keith Bullocks is one of the better linebackers in the NFL but doesn't have much talent surrounding him, so adding some playmakers on the defensive front is also a top priority. Realistically, the Tennessee Titans are at least two years away from being able to contend. Having a franchise quarterback on the roster now may pay off at that time
out in Denver. However, when it comes to the Tennessee Titans, there's no mistaking the obvious: They're rebuilding. At 4-12, the Titans weren't good to begin with. With Brad Hopkins and Justin Hartwig gone and Tank Williams soon to follow, they aren't getting better anytime soon. Being near the bottom of the pecking in order of salary cap room (ballpark of $6 million under), rebuilding with multiple impact free agents isn't an option. Even though they own no third round pick because of the Travis Henry trade last year, the only real way for Tennessee to improve is through the draft. The good news is they own the third overall pick in the draft. The bad news is no single player is going to make the Titans competitive in 2006. That being said, they'd be foolish not to take a quarterback with that third pick. Although Steve McNair is back for one more season, he won't lead the team to many wins. Billy Volek appears to be stuck in no-man's land until he's traded. Assuming Reggie Bush is selected first in the draft, either Matt Leinart, Jay Cutler or Vince Young will be there for the taking. Any would be a good building block towards a fresh start. With Tennessee's offensive line already average, losing Hopkins and Hartwig all but assures a painful season for McNair and Volek. Coach Jeff Fisher may be wise to sit whomever they select as the QB of the future on the bench, keeping him from taking a physical beating and learning under McNair. Even if the rookie plays little or not at all in 2006, there's no better way to rebuild a franchise than around a franchise quarterback. Don't be surprised to see the Titans take offensive linemen with more than half of their draft day picks. But that's not to say they don't need plenty of 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
help all over the board. Drew Bennett hasn't proven he can be a number one receiver and acquiring someone to play with him may help. Keith Bullocks is one of the better linebackers in the NFL but doesn't have much talent surrounding him, so adding some playmakers on the defensive front is also a top priority. Realistically, the Tennessee Titans are at least two years away from being able to contend. Having a franchise quarterback on the roster now may pay off at that time
Tennessee Titans Steve McNair Bud Adams
Last week, the Tennessee Titans elected to kick their franchise quarterback, Steve McNair, out of their facilities after he showed up for a revitalizing April workout. Why? Because the Titans don't want to be responsible for the $9 million in salary McNair would get if he's injured before the season. Since the Titans' true colors shone through, they have come under more fire than George W. Bush, and rightfully so.In his 11 seasons with the Titans organization, McNair has been widely regarded as one of the true warriors in the NFL. There have been numerous times when he's been unable to practice all week, but he suited up on Sundays and shredded the opposition's pass-defense. In 2003, McNair's best season, he battled a barrage of injuries throughout the latter months of 43 Polamalu black jersey
the season and playoffs, but still won Co-MVP honors with quarterback Peyton Manning; McNair tossed 24 touchdowns against seven interceptions that season, with a 62.5 percent completion rate, and 3,215 passing yards. Tennessee ended up losing a heart-wrenching 17-14 game in Gillette Stadium to the eventual champion New England Patriots.In the McNair era, the Tennessee Titans have appeared in the playoffs four times and won five playoff games, including an AFC Championship back in 1999. After winning their conference, McNair and the Titans headed to the Super Bowl and lost a 23-16 heartbreaker to the St. Louis Rams. In that loss, McNair threw for 214 yards and rushed for 64 more, while leading Tennessee from a 16-0 deficit in the fourth quarter to get within a yard of overtime. Unfortunately for the Titans, a Rams victory was meant to be that day, as linebacker Mike Jones tackled Titans receiver Kevin Dyson on the Rams' goal-line as regulation expired.Without question, the 33-year-old McNair's best years are behind him, but it doesn't excuse the Titans' disrespectful behavior. Owner Bud Adams could have personally handled the matter in a much classier way, rather than having the Titans' trainer, Brad Brown, inform the quarterback that he wasn't welcome at the team's facilities. What Adams should have done is informed McNair by calling him at home, but he instead opted to make a mockery of the veteran by allowing him to show up and be unceremoniously ejected. Now, one has to wonder if any veterans will want to sign in Tennessee in the future; one thing that teams don't want to do is give themselves a track record of disrespecting one or some of the league's most treasured players, but the Titans did it anyway.At this point, it doesn't seem like the Titans and McNair will be able to carry on a relationship that went all the way back to the last two years of the Houston Oilers franchise. The Titans will likely release McNair at some point, but even if they refuse to do so, he'll expectedly demand a release. If the Titans fail to finish what they've started, this situation could get far uglier than it already is. Obviously, nobody wants that.With McNair more than likely out of the way, the Titans will at least be able to draft a quarterback with the third pick in the upcoming draft and throw the rookie to the fire immediately. USC's Matt Leinart, Texas' Vince Young and Vanderbilt's Jay Cutler are the three highest-rated quarterbacks coming out this year. Some believe that the pick will be Leinart because of his relationship with Titans offensive coordinator Norm Chow. Prior overtures claimed that Young would be the pick because McNair's his mentor, but picking the protégé of the man the organization just slapped in the face doesn't seem judicious. Cutler may be a long shot to go this high, but Chow was enamored with his individual workout two weeks ago. Essentially, don't rule any of these three out; however, the Titans would be wise to select Leinart because of the dead-on comparisons he's drawn to former San Francisco 49ers legend Joe Montana, and current Patriots star Tom Brady.Now that the Titans have thrown McNair under an 18-wheeler, they better hope 4 Brett Favre White jersey
that their quarterback of the future pans out. It will be difficult for the youngster to match what McNair did over 11 seasons in Tennessee, but if he does, he'll be a special player. As for the fans of Tennessee, they'll have to carry on sans the warrior they so affectionately referred to as "No. 9."
the season and playoffs, but still won Co-MVP honors with quarterback Peyton Manning; McNair tossed 24 touchdowns against seven interceptions that season, with a 62.5 percent completion rate, and 3,215 passing yards. Tennessee ended up losing a heart-wrenching 17-14 game in Gillette Stadium to the eventual champion New England Patriots.In the McNair era, the Tennessee Titans have appeared in the playoffs four times and won five playoff games, including an AFC Championship back in 1999. After winning their conference, McNair and the Titans headed to the Super Bowl and lost a 23-16 heartbreaker to the St. Louis Rams. In that loss, McNair threw for 214 yards and rushed for 64 more, while leading Tennessee from a 16-0 deficit in the fourth quarter to get within a yard of overtime. Unfortunately for the Titans, a Rams victory was meant to be that day, as linebacker Mike Jones tackled Titans receiver Kevin Dyson on the Rams' goal-line as regulation expired.Without question, the 33-year-old McNair's best years are behind him, but it doesn't excuse the Titans' disrespectful behavior. Owner Bud Adams could have personally handled the matter in a much classier way, rather than having the Titans' trainer, Brad Brown, inform the quarterback that he wasn't welcome at the team's facilities. What Adams should have done is informed McNair by calling him at home, but he instead opted to make a mockery of the veteran by allowing him to show up and be unceremoniously ejected. Now, one has to wonder if any veterans will want to sign in Tennessee in the future; one thing that teams don't want to do is give themselves a track record of disrespecting one or some of the league's most treasured players, but the Titans did it anyway.At this point, it doesn't seem like the Titans and McNair will be able to carry on a relationship that went all the way back to the last two years of the Houston Oilers franchise. The Titans will likely release McNair at some point, but even if they refuse to do so, he'll expectedly demand a release. If the Titans fail to finish what they've started, this situation could get far uglier than it already is. Obviously, nobody wants that.With McNair more than likely out of the way, the Titans will at least be able to draft a quarterback with the third pick in the upcoming draft and throw the rookie to the fire immediately. USC's Matt Leinart, Texas' Vince Young and Vanderbilt's Jay Cutler are the three highest-rated quarterbacks coming out this year. Some believe that the pick will be Leinart because of his relationship with Titans offensive coordinator Norm Chow. Prior overtures claimed that Young would be the pick because McNair's his mentor, but picking the protégé of the man the organization just slapped in the face doesn't seem judicious. Cutler may be a long shot to go this high, but Chow was enamored with his individual workout two weeks ago. Essentially, don't rule any of these three out; however, the Titans would be wise to select Leinart because of the dead-on comparisons he's drawn to former San Francisco 49ers legend Joe Montana, and current Patriots star Tom Brady.Now that the Titans have thrown McNair under an 18-wheeler, they better hope 4 Brett Favre White jersey
that their quarterback of the future pans out. It will be difficult for the youngster to match what McNair did over 11 seasons in Tennessee, but if he does, he'll be a special player. As for the fans of Tennessee, they'll have to carry on sans the warrior they so affectionately referred to as "No. 9."
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