Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesThe Atlanta Hawks are 0-3 against the Cleveland Cavaliers this season after tonight 93-88 loss in Cleveland.This game had a familiar tune to those played in the first two meetings with the Cavaliers. Atlanta played very well in the beginning of the game and led in the fourth quarter 76-74 with seven minutes left in the game.However, just like in their two previous games, the Hawks went cold from the field, leading to a 14-0 run by Cleveland. Lebron James led the way during the run, scoring seven of Cleveland 14 points on Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
his way to finishing with a game-high 27 points. James also had 13 rebounds and six assists.But it wasn just James who was too much for the Hawks. The Hawks inability to play consistently for 48 minutes, especially during the clutch moments, left them winning some battles but not the war.It begins with Joe Johnson and Jamal Crawford. Johnson and Crawford have been Atlanta two most consistent offensive threats this season. They went a combined 12-of-35 from the field, including 3-of-12 from beyond the 3-point line.Josh Smith led the Hawks with 20 points and filled up the stat sheet with seven rebounds, four assists, and three blocked shots.While he played well on both ends of the floor for Atlanta, Smith was just 2-of-7 from the line, including two big misses during Cleveland 14-0 fourth quarter run.With 6:43 left in the game, Al Horford made both free throws to put the Hawks up 76-74. The Hawks would not score again until Johnson made a layup with 1:13 left in the game.The Hawks only scored 42 points in the second half, getting Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
points 31 and 32 of the second half on Johnson layup.Basically, it took the Hawks 23 minutes to score 32 points in the second half. In that same length of time the Cavaliers scored 39 points.The loss stings even more for the Hawks because the Boston Celtics lost at home to the Houston Rockets tonight. Had the Hawks won tonight, they could have increased their lead over the Celtics for the third seed in the East to two games. Since they both lost, the Hawks will have to remain just a game ahead of Boston.Why is that so important?Because of the rules decided by the league, if Boston and Atlanta are tied with the same record at the end of the season, Boston would get the nod over Atlanta for the third spot because the Celtics are going to win the Atlantic Division.How bad does that suck? Atlanta Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
swept Boston this season, but would lose the tiebreaker because the Atlantic Division is a joke.If Atlanta does lose the third seed to the Celtics, then that would mean Atlanta would get to see Cleveland in the second round of the playoffs. How fun.Atlanta will get one more shot against Cleveland. They play their final game of the regular season against the Cavaliers at home on April 14.
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 When Push Comes To Shove: The End of the Road for Vinny Del Negro
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesWhen hiring someone with little-to-no experience, one has to expect an open mind and cooperation from the new hiree. Usually a company will try to mold the fresh face to their liking, hence the advantage of hiring someone with no experience. So maybe it was his unexpected hiring, his mediocre .500 first season, or his team's remarkable showing in last year's playoff series against the Celtics that made Chicago Bulls Coach Vinny Del Negro think of himself as a wily veteran.Whatever the reason, Dallas Cowboys jersey
Del Negro's ego may have finally sealed his future with the team beyond this season. Sure, reports from Yahoo Sports have not been confirmed by Bulls executives, nor have comments been received from either party involved, but allegedly a spat between Del Negro and Vice President John Paxson broke out regarding the playing time of Joakim Noah. Noah, who has just recently returned from an elongated stay on the bench with plantar fasciitis, played 27 minutes March 30th against the Phoenix Suns. Apparently Paxson had given Del Negro an allotment of less than 27 minutes for Noah. According to the report, Paxson entered Del Negro's office, grabbed him by his tie and poked him with jabs into the chest. Apparently Vinny didn't retaliate out of fear that his contract would be voided or that he would lose credibility for future endeavors, maybe the smartest thing the coach has done all season. After an exciting showing in the playoffs last season, and a very similar team returning, expectations were that the Bulls would at least challenge for a higher playoff seed than the seven they received last season. After all, with teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Bobcats currently occupying the six and seven seeds, the bottom of the Eastern Conference was a wide open race. But with the higher expectations came what seemed like the inevitable departure of Del Negro. The coach, who was originally hired by then GM Paxson, was completely inexperienced in the coaching field, Denver Broncos jersey
and it eventually caught up with him. The first murmurs of a possible Del Negro departure came near Christmas, the usual axing period for Bulls coaches, but the time never came. It was known that the team actively searched for replacements around the new year, but none were found and Vinny kept his job. However, a disappointing slide this season amidst numerous injuries and new players has the Bulls sitting in a spot that Paxson can't enjoy, even if they might still make the playoffs. Even with a win tonight (or a Toronto loss), the Bulls will still have to play the Cavaliers, the owners of the best record in the league, in the first round. Couple that with the recent Noah-gate (that also includes Del Negro sitting the limited player in a double-overtime loss to the Nets, even with confirmation from Paxson to extend his playing time) and it looks as if Del Negro's time has finally arrived. Sure, Paxson will probably wait until the season is officially over, but when the Bulls take on the 2010 offseason, one that they're Detroit Lions
supposedly going to be big players in, Bulls executives will want stability at the coaching position to try and attract the biggest of free agents. Either way, Del Negro and Paxson's recent scuttle probably marks the end of the road for one of the two, and here seniority will rule.
Del Negro's ego may have finally sealed his future with the team beyond this season. Sure, reports from Yahoo Sports have not been confirmed by Bulls executives, nor have comments been received from either party involved, but allegedly a spat between Del Negro and Vice President John Paxson broke out regarding the playing time of Joakim Noah. Noah, who has just recently returned from an elongated stay on the bench with plantar fasciitis, played 27 minutes March 30th against the Phoenix Suns. Apparently Paxson had given Del Negro an allotment of less than 27 minutes for Noah. According to the report, Paxson entered Del Negro's office, grabbed him by his tie and poked him with jabs into the chest. Apparently Vinny didn't retaliate out of fear that his contract would be voided or that he would lose credibility for future endeavors, maybe the smartest thing the coach has done all season. After an exciting showing in the playoffs last season, and a very similar team returning, expectations were that the Bulls would at least challenge for a higher playoff seed than the seven they received last season. After all, with teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Bobcats currently occupying the six and seven seeds, the bottom of the Eastern Conference was a wide open race. But with the higher expectations came what seemed like the inevitable departure of Del Negro. The coach, who was originally hired by then GM Paxson, was completely inexperienced in the coaching field, Denver Broncos jersey
and it eventually caught up with him. The first murmurs of a possible Del Negro departure came near Christmas, the usual axing period for Bulls coaches, but the time never came. It was known that the team actively searched for replacements around the new year, but none were found and Vinny kept his job. However, a disappointing slide this season amidst numerous injuries and new players has the Bulls sitting in a spot that Paxson can't enjoy, even if they might still make the playoffs. Even with a win tonight (or a Toronto loss), the Bulls will still have to play the Cavaliers, the owners of the best record in the league, in the first round. Couple that with the recent Noah-gate (that also includes Del Negro sitting the limited player in a double-overtime loss to the Nets, even with confirmation from Paxson to extend his playing time) and it looks as if Del Negro's time has finally arrived. Sure, Paxson will probably wait until the season is officially over, but when the Bulls take on the 2010 offseason, one that they're Detroit Lions
supposedly going to be big players in, Bulls executives will want stability at the coaching position to try and attract the biggest of free agents. Either way, Del Negro and Paxson's recent scuttle probably marks the end of the road for one of the two, and here seniority will rule.
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 7 Cool Things You Learn By Having NBA Floor Seats
Like an injury-free Clipper draft pick, a sober Red Sox fan, or a golf course free of jokes involving Tiger putter, there are many things in life one may hope for but which, deep down, you just know aren't going to happen. For me, one of these was getting actual floor seats to an NBA game.Eva Longoria gets floor seats. Jack gets floor seats. I sit where the players look like those little football players on my old Coleco electric football game, where my running back would invariably vibrate straight to the sideline and then just kind of Cincinnati Bengals jersey
stop there, shaking like he had a horrible cold and wanted a little rest. BUT! It did happen. Aside from how great it is to see a game up close there are some things you learn even if youre a veteran fan. Here are the top seven, in reverse order:7. Trainers and Assistant Coaches Are Really Into the Game. On TV one reason it always looks so crowded around the bench is because it is. The trainer and an assistant coach sit between the first row and the bench with their chairs turned sideways. I saw the final regular season Rockets-Nuggets game and the Nuggets head trainer and a defensive coach were actually in my row immediately to my right and left.This has the down side of making it a little crowded in there, but has the upside of making you really, really excited about the game, because, man, they certainly are.You know how you and your buddies yell at the T.V. during playoff games, calling fouls and screaming about walks and charges? We have nothing on trainers and coaches. At one point I thought the Nuggets trainer, all 5 feet of him, was going to leap over Nene and garrote the ref with his dreadlocks (yes, 5-foot white guy with dreadlocks, and built like a tiny locomotive.)6. Yes, Great Player Really Are That Good. On TV, or even live up in the stands, there remains a shroud of unreality as to what you are seeing. A distance that makes great plays seem like a movieyou expect great players to be great and that it. From the floor, though, when youre watching from the same vantage point that you used to watch, or play in, high school, pick-up games at the Y or on the playground, the level of talent is astonishing. Carmelo put up a 3-pointer at the 3rd quarter buzzer that was probably 25 feet away and all you can do so think, Oh, right, that why Cleveland Browns jersey
Im not in the NBA.5. The Violence is Greater Than You Think. It looks like incidental contact on TV, but when it happens right in front of you, it looks more like an NFL game. Nene elbowed Shane Battier with such force it would have broken ribs on anyone else; Chuck Hayes drove into Chauncey like a fullback on a goal line stand; and the arm grabbing, jersey yanking and knees to the legs are ubiquitous, making a typical rebound look more like the UFC than basketball. It really makes you realize that when guys go down with an injury, it not flopping, it just the natural result of a 69 guy whipping his arm into someone with a quickness that suggests Manny Pacquiao.4. You Have Your Own Wait Staff. I know, minor, but STILL COOL! Our wait-person was named Adorna, and she was terrific. 3. Sometimes There is Profanity. Im not saying that any coach or player violated any NBA official proscription on using profanity that might exist in League rules--all Im saying is that basketball as played in your YMCA or JCC team is not very different when it comes to, let say, descriptive assessments as to what went wrong with a play, or that a ref should do things that really are physically impossible given what we know about the reproductive process. Besides that, Adrian Dantley is a choirboy.2. The X and O. I saw them draw up the last play. Freakin cool. And better yet, it involved Melo sliding down to the low right post, taking the pass and then converting what would be a virtual lay-up. Instead, Dallas Cowboys jersey
Chuck Hayes switched, interrupted the shot and my Rockets won by 2 in the last few seconds.1. My Dad. Happens to have access to NBA floor seats. And while he could have used them for profit, he used them on me. So thanks Dad! and I hope this little column is in a small way recompense, I just wanted to say thanks.And that the coolest thing of all.
stop there, shaking like he had a horrible cold and wanted a little rest. BUT! It did happen. Aside from how great it is to see a game up close there are some things you learn even if youre a veteran fan. Here are the top seven, in reverse order:7. Trainers and Assistant Coaches Are Really Into the Game. On TV one reason it always looks so crowded around the bench is because it is. The trainer and an assistant coach sit between the first row and the bench with their chairs turned sideways. I saw the final regular season Rockets-Nuggets game and the Nuggets head trainer and a defensive coach were actually in my row immediately to my right and left.This has the down side of making it a little crowded in there, but has the upside of making you really, really excited about the game, because, man, they certainly are.You know how you and your buddies yell at the T.V. during playoff games, calling fouls and screaming about walks and charges? We have nothing on trainers and coaches. At one point I thought the Nuggets trainer, all 5 feet of him, was going to leap over Nene and garrote the ref with his dreadlocks (yes, 5-foot white guy with dreadlocks, and built like a tiny locomotive.)6. Yes, Great Player Really Are That Good. On TV, or even live up in the stands, there remains a shroud of unreality as to what you are seeing. A distance that makes great plays seem like a movieyou expect great players to be great and that it. From the floor, though, when youre watching from the same vantage point that you used to watch, or play in, high school, pick-up games at the Y or on the playground, the level of talent is astonishing. Carmelo put up a 3-pointer at the 3rd quarter buzzer that was probably 25 feet away and all you can do so think, Oh, right, that why Cleveland Browns jersey
Im not in the NBA.5. The Violence is Greater Than You Think. It looks like incidental contact on TV, but when it happens right in front of you, it looks more like an NFL game. Nene elbowed Shane Battier with such force it would have broken ribs on anyone else; Chuck Hayes drove into Chauncey like a fullback on a goal line stand; and the arm grabbing, jersey yanking and knees to the legs are ubiquitous, making a typical rebound look more like the UFC than basketball. It really makes you realize that when guys go down with an injury, it not flopping, it just the natural result of a 69 guy whipping his arm into someone with a quickness that suggests Manny Pacquiao.4. You Have Your Own Wait Staff. I know, minor, but STILL COOL! Our wait-person was named Adorna, and she was terrific. 3. Sometimes There is Profanity. Im not saying that any coach or player violated any NBA official proscription on using profanity that might exist in League rules--all Im saying is that basketball as played in your YMCA or JCC team is not very different when it comes to, let say, descriptive assessments as to what went wrong with a play, or that a ref should do things that really are physically impossible given what we know about the reproductive process. Besides that, Adrian Dantley is a choirboy.2. The X and O. I saw them draw up the last play. Freakin cool. And better yet, it involved Melo sliding down to the low right post, taking the pass and then converting what would be a virtual lay-up. Instead, Dallas Cowboys jersey
Chuck Hayes switched, interrupted the shot and my Rockets won by 2 in the last few seconds.1. My Dad. Happens to have access to NBA floor seats. And while he could have used them for profit, he used them on me. So thanks Dad! and I hope this little column is in a small way recompense, I just wanted to say thanks.And that the coolest thing of all.
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 Wizards Win NBA Draft Lottery and the Media Loses Its Ever-Loving Mind
A few years ago, one could argue that the Wizards became the darling of the NBA. Under Ernie Grunfeld and Eddie Jordan the Wizards made the playoffs four years in a row and, as many of us who live in the DMV have heard much too often, they even had the best record in the East - prior to the 06/07 All-Star break. Hell, as recently as this season, the Wizards were a popular candidate to again compete with the best in the East. However, today most in the popular press want to lead off their Wizards draft lottery stories by focusing on the Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
infamous gun issue and use it to describe what prevented the Wizards from recapturing the glories of its recent past. More insulting still, they want to use it as a means to describe the Wizards franchise as a fatally flawed organization that no one would want to play for. And while that incident clearly, was a significant contributing factor, there were many other issues that plagued the team. And all of those issues in total, ultimately wrecked the 2009/10 Wizards season. (I highly recommend reading Michael Lee of the Post, Truthaboutit and Bulletsforever to get a broader perspective on all of the issues that undermined the 09/10 Wizards season.)It is easier, however, to focus only on the more salacious and dysfunctional story of Gilbert and the guns. It is also easier to characterize the Wizards organization as the Raiders of the NBA or the Clippers of the East. And while the Wizards have not had the same level of success as it did in the 70s, it is not accurate to describe them in the same manner as the Clippers. It may shorten your copy to pretend as if the Wizards recent stretch of playoff appearances did not occur. Selectively focusing on a few facts tightens up the story, but it also serves to aggravate those of us who follow the team faithfully.This post isn just about the way in which the franchise has been characterized. I also have issues with a number of story lines and/or recommendations that have been floated since the Wizards won the draft lottery. I have paraphrased and responded to some of my favorites :The Wizards may trade the pick:This thought is just insane and I will not waste any more keystrokes on this.Winning the lottery means that the Wizards will/should trade Arenas:There were multiple variations of this floated by many different journalists and experts. I believe this is a ridiculous claim and I will pick this up later in this posting. However, those who floated the idea have clearly not listened to the things that Ted Leonsis has said publicly. I believe that Gilbert Arenas will be (and should be) a Wizard next season.Should the Wizards take Wall or Turner with the first pick?:Most have said that the Wizards should draft Wall and I am of that camp. However a few, including Tim Legler on ESPN, floated the idea that they should take Turner even though he contradicted himself by saying that Wall would be the first pick. There are plenty of places on the net in which you can find stats on both players until you are warm and Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
fuzzy, but here are a couple thoughts that jumped out to me: Magic Johnson who I believe is the best PG ever immediately stated that the Wizards have to take Wall because he will be a special player. I am inclined to believe that Magic has forgotten more about the position of PG than the majority of us have ever known. So his recommendation carries more weight for me than nearly every other person who is not named Earvin Magic Johnson. Sorry, Tim Legler that goes for you too. While Turner appears that he will be a very solid (if not special) pro, I give Wall credit for having to play the entire season with the label as the man. Just as importantly he did not fold or disappoint, while carrying that label and he outplayed most on his more talent rich team. Many did not start talking about Turner until some of his more amazing performances in March. I will continue to lean towards a person who had more pressure and performed consistently at a high level for an entire season.And finallyGilbert Arenas and John Wall can play on the same team or in the same backcourt:I believe this opinion is based on feelings and not based in fact. Not only do I think that these two can and will play for the same team. I think that they will form an incredible backcourt.First, let me point out that I believe that Gilbert will grow following his recent self-inflicted wounds. He is no longer the youngest guy on the roster, this last issue almost sent him to jail and nearly ended his career. I believe that this served as the wakeup call that he needed. I also believe that he will come back more highly motivated than ever.Those who don think Gil can play with Wall clearly forget that Gil truly enjoyed playing in a two guard system with Larry Hughes. Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
More pressure was put on him to score when Larry left and then he had to share the backcourt with combinations that included Daniels, Butler, and Stevenson (during the 05/06 and 06/07 seasons) none of which struck fear in the competition. Adding someone as dynamic as Wall will provide Arenas with his best backcourt mate since Larry Hughes, while reducing the need for him to constantly handle the ball and run the offense. Just as importantly, it puts pressure on the competition to decide how best to match up with the two of them.And for those that want to talk about Arenas knee injury and whether he had fully recovered, it is true that early in the season he had struggled, but much of that was fitting into a new system with additional responsibilities. Prior to the suspension, Gilbert was having a comparable season, Per 36 minutes, to both the 05/06 06/07 campaigns. In December Gilbert appeared to be rounding back into form and while his scoring numbers were in his normal range, more impressive was that he had superior assist numbers.I don believe that Gilbert is going to come back and be a problem. I believe that he will be highly focused and motivated, and when you combine that with his already high work ethic and the stage is set for an extremely productive season. Pairing him in the backcourt with a talent like John Wall could create a tandem that you cannot find in the NBA.One of the weaknesses that the Wizards have had is the lack of a true Point Guard. Well, with some poor play Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
and a great deal of luck they have the opportunity to select a potential star at the position. I suggest they take the potential star and deal with any potential issues as they develop. Unlike many in the popular press, I don think there will be any issue between Arenas and Wall. Gilbert has proven that he is willing and able to adapt his play to fit with another talented guard.
infamous gun issue and use it to describe what prevented the Wizards from recapturing the glories of its recent past. More insulting still, they want to use it as a means to describe the Wizards franchise as a fatally flawed organization that no one would want to play for. And while that incident clearly, was a significant contributing factor, there were many other issues that plagued the team. And all of those issues in total, ultimately wrecked the 2009/10 Wizards season. (I highly recommend reading Michael Lee of the Post, Truthaboutit and Bulletsforever to get a broader perspective on all of the issues that undermined the 09/10 Wizards season.)It is easier, however, to focus only on the more salacious and dysfunctional story of Gilbert and the guns. It is also easier to characterize the Wizards organization as the Raiders of the NBA or the Clippers of the East. And while the Wizards have not had the same level of success as it did in the 70s, it is not accurate to describe them in the same manner as the Clippers. It may shorten your copy to pretend as if the Wizards recent stretch of playoff appearances did not occur. Selectively focusing on a few facts tightens up the story, but it also serves to aggravate those of us who follow the team faithfully.This post isn just about the way in which the franchise has been characterized. I also have issues with a number of story lines and/or recommendations that have been floated since the Wizards won the draft lottery. I have paraphrased and responded to some of my favorites :The Wizards may trade the pick:This thought is just insane and I will not waste any more keystrokes on this.Winning the lottery means that the Wizards will/should trade Arenas:There were multiple variations of this floated by many different journalists and experts. I believe this is a ridiculous claim and I will pick this up later in this posting. However, those who floated the idea have clearly not listened to the things that Ted Leonsis has said publicly. I believe that Gilbert Arenas will be (and should be) a Wizard next season.Should the Wizards take Wall or Turner with the first pick?:Most have said that the Wizards should draft Wall and I am of that camp. However a few, including Tim Legler on ESPN, floated the idea that they should take Turner even though he contradicted himself by saying that Wall would be the first pick. There are plenty of places on the net in which you can find stats on both players until you are warm and Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
fuzzy, but here are a couple thoughts that jumped out to me: Magic Johnson who I believe is the best PG ever immediately stated that the Wizards have to take Wall because he will be a special player. I am inclined to believe that Magic has forgotten more about the position of PG than the majority of us have ever known. So his recommendation carries more weight for me than nearly every other person who is not named Earvin Magic Johnson. Sorry, Tim Legler that goes for you too. While Turner appears that he will be a very solid (if not special) pro, I give Wall credit for having to play the entire season with the label as the man. Just as importantly he did not fold or disappoint, while carrying that label and he outplayed most on his more talent rich team. Many did not start talking about Turner until some of his more amazing performances in March. I will continue to lean towards a person who had more pressure and performed consistently at a high level for an entire season.And finallyGilbert Arenas and John Wall can play on the same team or in the same backcourt:I believe this opinion is based on feelings and not based in fact. Not only do I think that these two can and will play for the same team. I think that they will form an incredible backcourt.First, let me point out that I believe that Gilbert will grow following his recent self-inflicted wounds. He is no longer the youngest guy on the roster, this last issue almost sent him to jail and nearly ended his career. I believe that this served as the wakeup call that he needed. I also believe that he will come back more highly motivated than ever.Those who don think Gil can play with Wall clearly forget that Gil truly enjoyed playing in a two guard system with Larry Hughes. Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
More pressure was put on him to score when Larry left and then he had to share the backcourt with combinations that included Daniels, Butler, and Stevenson (during the 05/06 and 06/07 seasons) none of which struck fear in the competition. Adding someone as dynamic as Wall will provide Arenas with his best backcourt mate since Larry Hughes, while reducing the need for him to constantly handle the ball and run the offense. Just as importantly, it puts pressure on the competition to decide how best to match up with the two of them.And for those that want to talk about Arenas knee injury and whether he had fully recovered, it is true that early in the season he had struggled, but much of that was fitting into a new system with additional responsibilities. Prior to the suspension, Gilbert was having a comparable season, Per 36 minutes, to both the 05/06 06/07 campaigns. In December Gilbert appeared to be rounding back into form and while his scoring numbers were in his normal range, more impressive was that he had superior assist numbers.I don believe that Gilbert is going to come back and be a problem. I believe that he will be highly focused and motivated, and when you combine that with his already high work ethic and the stage is set for an extremely productive season. Pairing him in the backcourt with a talent like John Wall could create a tandem that you cannot find in the NBA.One of the weaknesses that the Wizards have had is the lack of a true Point Guard. Well, with some poor play Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
and a great deal of luck they have the opportunity to select a potential star at the position. I suggest they take the potential star and deal with any potential issues as they develop. Unlike many in the popular press, I don think there will be any issue between Arenas and Wall. Gilbert has proven that he is willing and able to adapt his play to fit with another talented guard.
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 Hedo Turkoglu Won't Return to Raptors
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesAfter just one season, it seems that Hedo Turkoglu's time in Toronto is already over.According to the Basketball Jones blog, the Turkish delight has decided that he won't return to the Raptors. He voiced his displeasure with the team and city in an interview with Turkish television. Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
Turkoglu is actively seeking a release, and expects his lawyer to sort it all out with GM Bryan Colangelo and the Raptors' brass.Turkoglu was brought in by Colangelo last summer after prying him away from the Blazers, who were also seeking his services. But he really never added anything to the Raptors outside of frustration.Fans will be glad to see Turkoglu hitting the road, and his contract surely won't be missed (53 million over 5 years).Ridding themselves of Turkoglu's contract will add a few dollars to use this off-season, though they likely won't be spent on Chris Bosh.Even if Bosh is signed, it will likely be a sign and trade scenario where he is dealt to either Chicago or New York.Either way, it's good riddance to both. Neither brought any success to the Raptors.It seems like a better option for the Raptors to flip some players and try something new for next season.Hopefully they will spend the money on some players with real chops who can at least bring a playoff showing to the Canadian city.This type of situation however, Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
doesn't look too great on the Raptors, who have a tough enough time keeping players in Toronto as it is.It's safe to say this will be one of the most important off-seasons in recent Raptors memory.
Turkoglu is actively seeking a release, and expects his lawyer to sort it all out with GM Bryan Colangelo and the Raptors' brass.Turkoglu was brought in by Colangelo last summer after prying him away from the Blazers, who were also seeking his services. But he really never added anything to the Raptors outside of frustration.Fans will be glad to see Turkoglu hitting the road, and his contract surely won't be missed (53 million over 5 years).Ridding themselves of Turkoglu's contract will add a few dollars to use this off-season, though they likely won't be spent on Chris Bosh.Even if Bosh is signed, it will likely be a sign and trade scenario where he is dealt to either Chicago or New York.Either way, it's good riddance to both. Neither brought any success to the Raptors.It seems like a better option for the Raptors to flip some players and try something new for next season.Hopefully they will spend the money on some players with real chops who can at least bring a playoff showing to the Canadian city.This type of situation however, Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
doesn't look too great on the Raptors, who have a tough enough time keeping players in Toronto as it is.It's safe to say this will be one of the most important off-seasons in recent Raptors memory.
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Kevin Love's 33-15 Game Not Enough As Knicks Defeat Timberwolves
Amar'e Stoudemire netted 30 for the fifth straight game in the fifth straight win for the Knicks.Nick Laham/Getty ImagesThe last time the Minnesota Timberwolves faced the New York Knicks, Kevin Love made history.It was the first time in 28 years that a player had recorded 30 points and 30 rebounds in a single Tennessee Titans jersey
game, Moses Malone being the last to do so. Love scored 31 points and 31 rebounds and the Wolves won 112-103 in Minneapolis.That was November 12th, this was December 6th.Since then the Knicks have transformed into a team that is on a five-game winning streak and playing out-of-this-world basketball at the moment. With stars like Amar'e Stoudemire and Raymond Felton, this team is showing NYC what poise they have to get to the playoffs.Love put up numbers in this game (33 points and 15 rebounds to be exact), but a poor performance by the rest of the club led to the second-half disaster.At the half, the Wolves led 61-52, but the same old story of them losing second-half leads was bound to happen after a turnover-prone third quarter that saw a nine-point lead become a four-point deficit.The Knicks then closed out the deal with a 29-point fourth quarter.For the Knicks, the win improved their record to 13-9, despite being only 4-5 at home. Amar'e Stoudemire put up his fifth consecutive game with at least 30 points, totaling Washington Redskins jersey
34 on Monday night. He became the first Knick to accomplish this since the oft-troubled Stephon Marbury did it in 2005.Kevin Love's 33 points and 15 rebounds wasn't enough for Minnesota.Robert Laberge/Getty ImagesRaymond Felton put up a double-double, racking up 18 points with 11 assists. Wilson Chandler also chipped in 21 points.At one point the Wolves led by 11, making it the third game out of the last four where they have held double-digit leads and failed to close it out. It is become a reoccurring theme for the 5-16 Timberwolves, who moved to 1-11 on the road (gulp!).They play host the pesky Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night at the Target Center and hope to improve to .500 at home.The Wolves are desperate to beat a contender, and unfortunately, they couldn't on Monday. The KnicksReebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
evened the season series at 1-1 with this victory."This was the plan. The plan was to have success" Stoudemire said afterward.It appears right now that no one, and no one unfortunately includes the Minnesota Timberwolves, can stop Stoudemire or the Knicks.
game, Moses Malone being the last to do so. Love scored 31 points and 31 rebounds and the Wolves won 112-103 in Minneapolis.That was November 12th, this was December 6th.Since then the Knicks have transformed into a team that is on a five-game winning streak and playing out-of-this-world basketball at the moment. With stars like Amar'e Stoudemire and Raymond Felton, this team is showing NYC what poise they have to get to the playoffs.Love put up numbers in this game (33 points and 15 rebounds to be exact), but a poor performance by the rest of the club led to the second-half disaster.At the half, the Wolves led 61-52, but the same old story of them losing second-half leads was bound to happen after a turnover-prone third quarter that saw a nine-point lead become a four-point deficit.The Knicks then closed out the deal with a 29-point fourth quarter.For the Knicks, the win improved their record to 13-9, despite being only 4-5 at home. Amar'e Stoudemire put up his fifth consecutive game with at least 30 points, totaling Washington Redskins jersey
34 on Monday night. He became the first Knick to accomplish this since the oft-troubled Stephon Marbury did it in 2005.Kevin Love's 33 points and 15 rebounds wasn't enough for Minnesota.Robert Laberge/Getty ImagesRaymond Felton put up a double-double, racking up 18 points with 11 assists. Wilson Chandler also chipped in 21 points.At one point the Wolves led by 11, making it the third game out of the last four where they have held double-digit leads and failed to close it out. It is become a reoccurring theme for the 5-16 Timberwolves, who moved to 1-11 on the road (gulp!).They play host the pesky Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night at the Target Center and hope to improve to .500 at home.The Wolves are desperate to beat a contender, and unfortunately, they couldn't on Monday. The KnicksReebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
evened the season series at 1-1 with this victory."This was the plan. The plan was to have success" Stoudemire said afterward.It appears right now that no one, and no one unfortunately includes the Minnesota Timberwolves, can stop Stoudemire or the Knicks.
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 The NBA's Top 5 Coaches: Where Does Gregg Popovich Stand?
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesDuring the 1996 season, the coach of the San Antonio Spurs, Bob Hill,was handicapped by injuries that knocked out starters David Robinson, Sean Elliott, Vinny Del Negro and sixth man Chuck Person. The coach was fired aftera 3-15 start. That kind of start was understandable with so many top players out for much of those 19 games. The general manager then selected himself to coach for the rest of that season. That GM turned coach was Gregg Popovich. He didn't fare much better, by the way, going only 15-47 the rest of the way. It was a controversial move at the time becauseof the injuries that had decimated the team. However, with hindsight being 20/20, I can't say Bob Hill would have accomplished what Coach Pop has during that Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
time. If you look past the acerbic wit and dry humor, you see a man that can flat out coach and established a legacy of winning. His track recordincludes: Four NBA Championships (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007) Winning 736 regular season games. Winning 106 playoff games. Winning Coach of the Year in 2003. Leading the Spurs to their mostregular season wins in 2006, with a 63-19 record. Being an assistant coach on the Olympic Team (yes, it was the 2004 team, but it was still the Olympics, for Pete'ssake). Having established a few things, record-wise, here is the heart of the matter: Where does Coach Pop rank among NBA coaches? I'm not gonna try to get to 10, because I think that would insult Pop and the gentlemen who I think are currently the best in the NBA. I don't even think I could get to 10, unless I started adding the John Kuesters and Jay Trianos of the world. 5) Jerry Sloan, Jazz. I believe the biggest thing to note about Sloan is that his teams have seemingly looked similar for over 20 years, and like the famed Green Bay Packers sweep, there's nothing you can do about it. Hard nosed on defense and simplistic on offense (maybe to a fault). Like Jason in Friday the 13th, the Jazz just keep coming and keep winning. Will they ever win the championship? I don't know, but there are few coaches that have ever been more consistent than Mr. Jerry Sloan. 4) Doc Rivers, Celtics. Underrated in his tactical approach, Rivers is no slouch when it comes to his X's and O's. I think people make too much of his ability to get the Big 3 to play together, from a motivational standpoint, and downplay his scheming on the sidelines. Furthermore, he does get his players, whether in Beantown or Orlando (his first stop), motivated to give up a limb for him. Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
Thisman will win at least one more ring with the C's and probably a couple more at his next destination. Dispensing More Sagacious Wisdom?Christian Petersen/Getty Images3) Larry Brown, Bobcats. The master of both the beauty of coaching (still the only coach to have won both NCAA & NBA rings) and the self-destruct button (more stops than a Greyhound bus), Coach Brown has been mystifying and mysteriously left teams for nearly 40 years now. He is still the best coach the Clippers ever had and the only coach who could have done what he did with the Pistons in 2004 & 2005. He is a coach's coach, period. Watch this guru work the sidelines and you will see a coaching clinic almost every night. If he could have stayed in one place for his entire career, he would have won more than one championship ring. 2) Gregg Popovich, Spurs. His track record has been buoyed by coaching Tim Duncan for his entire NBA career (who doesn't win with some All-Star talent?), but more importantly, Pop knows the game and how to build a team. The former ace student under Larry Brown, he has won championships with the likes of Avery Johnson, Jaren Jackson (I know, right?), Stephen Jackson (younger, wilder, not Captain Jack) and Bruce Bowen starting. He simply knows the game of basketball. 1) Phil Jackson, Lakers. I hate to admit it. The smug attitude, the smarmy "know it all" approach at the press conferences, the whole Zen stuff during the season. However, I will give him his due in this regard. Jackson is the best at getting his players to believe in his system better, and perhaps faster, than any other coach in the league. Having those 11 rings does not hurt either. But don't get me started on his coaching Mike, Scottie, Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
Shaqand Kobe, either... So there it is. I have Pop as the tenuous second-best coach in the game. If (or shall I say when) the Spurs take home the ring this year, I may move him to numero uno. That would mean he won with another different type of group. That would be more impressive than Jax's sheer numbers, winning with the best hand dealt, in a seemingly rigged card game. Enjoy the read, I'm out.
time. If you look past the acerbic wit and dry humor, you see a man that can flat out coach and established a legacy of winning. His track recordincludes: Four NBA Championships (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007) Winning 736 regular season games. Winning 106 playoff games. Winning Coach of the Year in 2003. Leading the Spurs to their mostregular season wins in 2006, with a 63-19 record. Being an assistant coach on the Olympic Team (yes, it was the 2004 team, but it was still the Olympics, for Pete'ssake). Having established a few things, record-wise, here is the heart of the matter: Where does Coach Pop rank among NBA coaches? I'm not gonna try to get to 10, because I think that would insult Pop and the gentlemen who I think are currently the best in the NBA. I don't even think I could get to 10, unless I started adding the John Kuesters and Jay Trianos of the world. 5) Jerry Sloan, Jazz. I believe the biggest thing to note about Sloan is that his teams have seemingly looked similar for over 20 years, and like the famed Green Bay Packers sweep, there's nothing you can do about it. Hard nosed on defense and simplistic on offense (maybe to a fault). Like Jason in Friday the 13th, the Jazz just keep coming and keep winning. Will they ever win the championship? I don't know, but there are few coaches that have ever been more consistent than Mr. Jerry Sloan. 4) Doc Rivers, Celtics. Underrated in his tactical approach, Rivers is no slouch when it comes to his X's and O's. I think people make too much of his ability to get the Big 3 to play together, from a motivational standpoint, and downplay his scheming on the sidelines. Furthermore, he does get his players, whether in Beantown or Orlando (his first stop), motivated to give up a limb for him. Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
Thisman will win at least one more ring with the C's and probably a couple more at his next destination. Dispensing More Sagacious Wisdom?Christian Petersen/Getty Images3) Larry Brown, Bobcats. The master of both the beauty of coaching (still the only coach to have won both NCAA & NBA rings) and the self-destruct button (more stops than a Greyhound bus), Coach Brown has been mystifying and mysteriously left teams for nearly 40 years now. He is still the best coach the Clippers ever had and the only coach who could have done what he did with the Pistons in 2004 & 2005. He is a coach's coach, period. Watch this guru work the sidelines and you will see a coaching clinic almost every night. If he could have stayed in one place for his entire career, he would have won more than one championship ring. 2) Gregg Popovich, Spurs. His track record has been buoyed by coaching Tim Duncan for his entire NBA career (who doesn't win with some All-Star talent?), but more importantly, Pop knows the game and how to build a team. The former ace student under Larry Brown, he has won championships with the likes of Avery Johnson, Jaren Jackson (I know, right?), Stephen Jackson (younger, wilder, not Captain Jack) and Bruce Bowen starting. He simply knows the game of basketball. 1) Phil Jackson, Lakers. I hate to admit it. The smug attitude, the smarmy "know it all" approach at the press conferences, the whole Zen stuff during the season. However, I will give him his due in this regard. Jackson is the best at getting his players to believe in his system better, and perhaps faster, than any other coach in the league. Having those 11 rings does not hurt either. But don't get me started on his coaching Mike, Scottie, Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
Shaqand Kobe, either... So there it is. I have Pop as the tenuous second-best coach in the game. If (or shall I say when) the Spurs take home the ring this year, I may move him to numero uno. That would mean he won with another different type of group. That would be more impressive than Jax's sheer numbers, winning with the best hand dealt, in a seemingly rigged card game. Enjoy the read, I'm out.
2010年12月23日星期四
23 Dec 10Dwyane Wade's Miami Heat Take on Gerald Wallace's Charlotte Bobcats in Miami
Mike Ehrmann/Getty ImagesWhat: LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, therejuvenatedChris Bosh and the rest of the Miami Heat take on the exciting Charlotte Bobcats led by high-flyer Gerald Wallace.Tipoff: 7:30 PM ET, Friday, November 19, 2010Where: American Airlines Arena, Miami, FLSpread: Cincinnati Bengals jersey
Miami by 11.5TV/Radio: Sun Sports, 790Records: Miami 7-4, Charlotte 4-7NotesJournalist banned from receiving heat credentials.Wade has had flu-like symptoms, but is expected to play.Joel Anthony’s twitter trending.Keys To The Game Shot Quality—Miami tops the league in offensive efficiency, averaging 1.37 points per shot, while Charlotte is fourth at 1.30. Both teams play solidperimeterdefense. This one will be about getting high percentage looks inside. Bosh has a huge quickness advantage against Boris Diaw. Expect a similargame-planto the Phoenix game. Bosh is in store for a another big game. Defensive intensity—Miami shut down a hot shooting Suns team from theperimeteron Wednesday. Charlotte ranks sixth in the NBA, shooting 40 percent Cleveland Browns jersey
from three. Miami’sperimeterdefenders need to show the same urgency and close out hard on shooters. Stephen Jackson, Gerald Wallace, and D.J Augustin are all shooting in the 40 percent range from the outside. Will Wade’s health limit him on the defensive end? Shut down Wallace—If LeBron can limit Wallace’s (18.5 PTS) offensive production, it’s going to be extremely difficult for the Bobcats to score. Expect a blowout if Wallace doesn’t explode as Charlotte doesn’t have many creators on offense.
Miami by 11.5TV/Radio: Sun Sports, 790Records: Miami 7-4, Charlotte 4-7NotesJournalist banned from receiving heat credentials.Wade has had flu-like symptoms, but is expected to play.Joel Anthony’s twitter trending.Keys To The Game Shot Quality—Miami tops the league in offensive efficiency, averaging 1.37 points per shot, while Charlotte is fourth at 1.30. Both teams play solidperimeterdefense. This one will be about getting high percentage looks inside. Bosh has a huge quickness advantage against Boris Diaw. Expect a similargame-planto the Phoenix game. Bosh is in store for a another big game. Defensive intensity—Miami shut down a hot shooting Suns team from theperimeteron Wednesday. Charlotte ranks sixth in the NBA, shooting 40 percent Cleveland Browns jersey
from three. Miami’sperimeterdefenders need to show the same urgency and close out hard on shooters. Stephen Jackson, Gerald Wallace, and D.J Augustin are all shooting in the 40 percent range from the outside. Will Wade’s health limit him on the defensive end? Shut down Wallace—If LeBron can limit Wallace’s (18.5 PTS) offensive production, it’s going to be extremely difficult for the Bobcats to score. Expect a blowout if Wallace doesn’t explode as Charlotte doesn’t have many creators on offense.
2010年12月22日星期三
2010 NBA Free Agent Rumors: Shaquille O'Neal: "The Big Sheriff"?
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesAmong the stories that have floated around the NBA since the early dismissal of the Cleveland Cavaliers is the status of future Hall-of-Famer Shaquille O'Neal, and how he has eluded the headlines.Shaq is arguably the most physically dominating force that the NBA has seen Miami Dolphins jersey
since Wilt Chamberlain. What's better, is the amount of championship medal that he sports.Though some would say the original basketball "Man of Steel" has shown much rust in his latter years, he is a disappearing breed. A true NBA big man.The Atlanta Hawks flirted with "The Big Formerly-known-as" this past weekend and anyone who knows NBA basketball had to sit up and take notice of this.This is a masterful play by the Hawks if they can make it come true.An Atlanta sports team needs to have a marketing cog that they can hang their hat on. The team must have star power and be entertaining.The most popular sports team in Atlanta is clearly the Falcons and they have a colorful history with Deion Sanders, Andre Rison, The "Dirty Bird," and Mike Vick.The Atlanta Hawks have had Dominique "The Human Highlight Film" and now the "Highlight Factory" led by former slam dunk champ, Josh Smith.Beside the backdrop of ticket sales, this is exactly what Hawk fans have been asking for since the departure of Minnesota Vikings
Dikembe Mutombo.The smart money says Josh Childress has learned to stop playing with PIGS (did you get that?) and will return to the NBA this summer. If you don't remember he's another 6'8" swing man that can shoot the three and defend. Our memory of Josh Childress is better than Marvin Williams on his best day.Congratulations Hawks. You may have walked into a 9-10 man rotation that is worthy to fight for Eastern Conference supremacy.PG: Jeff Teague/Mike BibbySG: Jamaal Crawford/Jordan CrawfordSF: Joe Johnson/Josh ChildressPF: Al Horford/Josh SmithC: Shaquille O'Neal/Al HorfordWith Joe Johnson and Josh Childress on the court at the same time, the Hawks can have one of the best DEFENSIVE tandems at the swing in the NBA. (Notice, no Marvin Williams.)Let's not kid ourselves thinking that Shaquille will be healthy and in shape for a full regular season and playoffs. Shaq will join the team for a series against Orlando. Horford will still play a lot of minutes at center and Josh Smith is 100 percent necessary.Josh New England Patriots jersey
Smith puts the highlight factor IN the "Highlight Factory." If they move Josh Smith for any reason Hawk fans will only be left with "y." (As in: "Why buy a ticket?)There is another aspect that Shaq is needed for—VOCAL LEADER.On a team that is free spirited and undisciplined Shaq is coming to make all our little soldiers march in step. He will be the iron fist that makes Larry Drew's word ring out in Philips Arena. Shaq has the rings, the experience, and the pure intimidation that can turn the Hawks into a force in the NBA.Welcome to Atlanta, "Big Sheriff." There will be a reserved place at Magic City for you I'm sure.
since Wilt Chamberlain. What's better, is the amount of championship medal that he sports.Though some would say the original basketball "Man of Steel" has shown much rust in his latter years, he is a disappearing breed. A true NBA big man.The Atlanta Hawks flirted with "The Big Formerly-known-as" this past weekend and anyone who knows NBA basketball had to sit up and take notice of this.This is a masterful play by the Hawks if they can make it come true.An Atlanta sports team needs to have a marketing cog that they can hang their hat on. The team must have star power and be entertaining.The most popular sports team in Atlanta is clearly the Falcons and they have a colorful history with Deion Sanders, Andre Rison, The "Dirty Bird," and Mike Vick.The Atlanta Hawks have had Dominique "The Human Highlight Film" and now the "Highlight Factory" led by former slam dunk champ, Josh Smith.Beside the backdrop of ticket sales, this is exactly what Hawk fans have been asking for since the departure of Minnesota Vikings
Dikembe Mutombo.The smart money says Josh Childress has learned to stop playing with PIGS (did you get that?) and will return to the NBA this summer. If you don't remember he's another 6'8" swing man that can shoot the three and defend. Our memory of Josh Childress is better than Marvin Williams on his best day.Congratulations Hawks. You may have walked into a 9-10 man rotation that is worthy to fight for Eastern Conference supremacy.PG: Jeff Teague/Mike BibbySG: Jamaal Crawford/Jordan CrawfordSF: Joe Johnson/Josh ChildressPF: Al Horford/Josh SmithC: Shaquille O'Neal/Al HorfordWith Joe Johnson and Josh Childress on the court at the same time, the Hawks can have one of the best DEFENSIVE tandems at the swing in the NBA. (Notice, no Marvin Williams.)Let's not kid ourselves thinking that Shaquille will be healthy and in shape for a full regular season and playoffs. Shaq will join the team for a series against Orlando. Horford will still play a lot of minutes at center and Josh Smith is 100 percent necessary.Josh New England Patriots jersey
Smith puts the highlight factor IN the "Highlight Factory." If they move Josh Smith for any reason Hawk fans will only be left with "y." (As in: "Why buy a ticket?)There is another aspect that Shaq is needed for—VOCAL LEADER.On a team that is free spirited and undisciplined Shaq is coming to make all our little soldiers march in step. He will be the iron fist that makes Larry Drew's word ring out in Philips Arena. Shaq has the rings, the experience, and the pure intimidation that can turn the Hawks into a force in the NBA.Welcome to Atlanta, "Big Sheriff." There will be a reserved place at Magic City for you I'm sure.
2010年12月21日星期二
Catcher Confusion: Russell Martin to Red Sox, Yankees or Blue Jays?
Catcher LImboStephen Dunn/Getty ImagesIt appears that the Red Sox are not finished capping off one of their most notable winter meeting sessions to date. Evidently Adrian Gonzalez and Carl Crawford were not enough. Now the Boston faithful are learning that Theo Epstein has his sights set on two-time all-star catcher Russell Martin.Martin was non-tendered last week by the Los Angeles Dodgers. It seems that LA didn’t want to pay Martin a guaranteed sum of $5 million, what with the torn labrum in his hip and the messy ownership divorce and all.So that opens the door for John Henry and the boys to further solidify the Fenway squad with an all-star catcher who has had a couple of rough seasons and therefore might be gotten on the cheap.I say might because much like every other acquisition in the game of San Francisco 49ers jersey
baseball there are always more sharks than bait fish, and it seems that a few great whites are circling Mr. Martin. It appears that they are all AL East sharks at that.Seems that the Yankees and Blue Jays are making a run at Martin as well. But who would want to go to Toronto? Let’s examine where Russell would fit best.In looking at the Yankees they already have two solid catchers. Jorge Posada and Francisco Cervelli. Cervelli, born in 1986, has a lot of good years left in him, and he seems to be playing rather well when spelling Jorge who is pushing 40.Where is the best fit for Russell Martin?Where is the best fit for Russell Martin?Boston58.9%NYY29.4%Blue Jays11.7%Total votes: 163I can’t believe that Russell Martin would be brought in to replace Posada, but nor can I see Martin being brought in Seattle Seahawks jersey
as a back-up when they already have a more than capable answer who already knows the rotation in Cervelli. Could it be to DH? I am stumped.As for the Red Sox, I thought that Theo Epstein was very happy with starter Jarrod Saltalamacchia and back-up Red Sox Captain Jason Varitek. Could it be that Salty is not quite what they were looking for? or is this their way of telling Tek that he has just this next year as a player with the Sox organization because after that it will be Salty and Martin behind the dish?The Blue Jays have a great up-and-coming catcher in J.P. Arencibia who with Triple-A Las Vegas hit .301 had 33 home runs and 85 RBI, winning the Pacific Coast League MVP.Jose Molina is their veteran catcher and current starter. Martin is still young and has proved himself to be a great player at a tough position, St. Louis Rams jersey
so maybe the Jays are signaling to Jose that his time is fast approaching.I have no idea folks. I am baffled here as well. In either organization I cannot see Martin solidifying himself as a starter over the current catchers, with the possible exception of the Blue Jays. Maybe Toronto wouldn’t be such a bad fit; after all, he is Canadian.
baseball there are always more sharks than bait fish, and it seems that a few great whites are circling Mr. Martin. It appears that they are all AL East sharks at that.Seems that the Yankees and Blue Jays are making a run at Martin as well. But who would want to go to Toronto? Let’s examine where Russell would fit best.In looking at the Yankees they already have two solid catchers. Jorge Posada and Francisco Cervelli. Cervelli, born in 1986, has a lot of good years left in him, and he seems to be playing rather well when spelling Jorge who is pushing 40.Where is the best fit for Russell Martin?Where is the best fit for Russell Martin?Boston58.9%NYY29.4%Blue Jays11.7%Total votes: 163I can’t believe that Russell Martin would be brought in to replace Posada, but nor can I see Martin being brought in Seattle Seahawks jersey
as a back-up when they already have a more than capable answer who already knows the rotation in Cervelli. Could it be to DH? I am stumped.As for the Red Sox, I thought that Theo Epstein was very happy with starter Jarrod Saltalamacchia and back-up Red Sox Captain Jason Varitek. Could it be that Salty is not quite what they were looking for? or is this their way of telling Tek that he has just this next year as a player with the Sox organization because after that it will be Salty and Martin behind the dish?The Blue Jays have a great up-and-coming catcher in J.P. Arencibia who with Triple-A Las Vegas hit .301 had 33 home runs and 85 RBI, winning the Pacific Coast League MVP.Jose Molina is their veteran catcher and current starter. Martin is still young and has proved himself to be a great player at a tough position, St. Louis Rams jersey
so maybe the Jays are signaling to Jose that his time is fast approaching.I have no idea folks. I am baffled here as well. In either organization I cannot see Martin solidifying himself as a starter over the current catchers, with the possible exception of the Blue Jays. Maybe Toronto wouldn’t be such a bad fit; after all, he is Canadian.
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 Big 12 Championship: Oklahoma and Nebraska Prepare To Dance To the Swan Song
Is this the last Big Red Rivalry?Brian Bahr/Getty ImagesOklahoma and Nebraska square off in the last Big 12 Championship contest on Saturday for the final Big Red Rivalry game scheduled to be played. With the birth of the Big 12 in 1996, this storied game has taken a back seat to other rivalry games across the country, including the Red River Rivalry, featuring OU vs. Texas. And what a shame. This game was played at or near the end of the season for 70 straight years, from 1928 when they first played in the same conference, till 1997. Between them, the Cornhuskers and Sooners have won 67 out of these 81 league titles. OU holds the slight edge in the all-time series, winning 43 times to 38 for Nebraska. There have been periods of football jerseydominance in the series for each team. Starting with the first game in 1912, Nebraska went 16-3-3 against Oklahoma up until 1942. Oklahoma won 16 straight from 1943-1958. OU went 9-1 against their conference rival from 1972-1980 while NU duplicated this mark from 1988-1997, winning 9 of 10 against the Sooners. They played the Game of the Century in 1971, with the Huskers prevailing 35-31 in Norman on their way to a second consecutive NC. Which rivalry game has decided the most NC's?Which rivalry game has decided the most NC's?OU vs. NU59.4%USC vs. Notre Dame5.1%OSU vs. MU1.5%OU vs. UT5.6%Texas sucks and Mack Brown means 'Giant Turd'28.4%Total votes: 197They played two games in 1978 with NU winning the first game in conference, while OU prevailed in the Orange Bowl rematch a few weeks later. Between them, they have 8 Heisman Trophy winners, 44 inductees into the College Football Hall of Fame, 49 bowl victories, 259 All-Americans, 951 All-Conference selections and 1370 weeks in the AP top-25. This rivalry may have played a major role in determining more national championships than any other game in the country over the span of the last 60 years. Since 1950, the year Oklahoma won its first national championship, OU (7) and NU (5) have combined for 12 NC's. That means once in every five seasons, one of Dallas Cowboys jersey these two teams has been crowned as champion of the college football world. At least nine other times during this span, one of these two schools has lost a season ending bowl game when a victory would have meant yet another championship. OU lost bowl games in 2008, 2004, 2003, 1987, 1984 and 1977 that cost the program a national championship. NU lost in 2001, 1993 and 1983. Now, add in the 11 games the winner of the late-season Big Red Rivalry has prevented the other team from having the opportunity of playing for a another title and.... WOW! That is an astounding 32 times in the last 60 years of football, one of these two elite teams has either won the title, lost a bowl game that would have won it, or has defeated their rival, thereby preventing the other from playing for the NC. Quickly now, name another series that has had as much impact over the last 60 years? And no Longhorn fans, the Red River Rivalry cannot match this. With the formation of the Big 12 in 1996, this rivalry took a back seat as the schools were placed in opposite divisions and the game was only played twice out of every four years. The Red River Rivalry, already a huge annual game pitting OU against UT, rose to be the dominant rivalry in conference. Many younger fans can not remember there was a time when the Oklahoma versus Nebraska game, almost always played the week of Indianapolis Colts jerseyThanksgiving, was the most anticipated late season game of the year. More often than not, the national championship picture was not clear until the winner of this epic battle was determined. The very fact that a rivalry as historic as this game has been over the years is allowed to wither and die on the vine does not reflect kindly on the current landscape of college football. The modern, money driven, power conference, BCS bowl world it has evolved into seems as cold and impersonal as some megalith government agency or multi-national corporation. It is not only Husker and Sooner fans who should mourn this death, but the entire college football world as a whole. All fans should acknowledge and reflect on the fact that as this last page is turned and the book is closed, a large part of the soul that has made the college game what it is today has been laid down in a premature death. With the passing of the Big Red Rivalry into the pages of college football history, the game itself is may be gone, but for true fans of college football, it should never be forgotten.
19 Dec 10 Dallas Dreams Answered: What a Difference a 'Wade' Makes
Not in the shadows anymoreStephen Dunn/Getty ImagesThe first week in the hands of new leadership, the Dallas Cowboys walk into the ‘rough house’ of the NY Giants. Although many thought Dallas would play a little better than the previous weeks, who would have imagined a totally Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
refreshed Cowboys team that would take it to one of the best in the NFC?Coaching plays such a big role in college and pro sports, it is often overlooked to what degree a change of one individual can make. Being an LSU fan, I can relate to the frustration of having a Buffoon for a coach. The difference in Les Miles and Wade Phillips is that the LSU players still believe in Les Miles. I bring up the comparison of these 2 coaches because they lack the same main skills it takes to be a head coach.1) Discipline2) Motivation3) OrganizationBoth teams, the Cowboys and LSU, have top notch talent. But if that talent isn’t challenged and developed to its potential, it will play lethargic football. Yes, LSU has a much better record than Dallas this year, but the difference is the money. College kids are playing for pride and a future in the NFL, in spite of a poor coach. NFL players already have a fat contract (especially with JJ as the owner), so they need someone with some ‘fire’ to get them going. That is why Les Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Miles still has a successful record this year, while Wade was at rock bottom. The New Man in ChargeJim McIsaac/Getty ImagesPresent day….Wade is fired, and in comes Jason Garrett. Same Players, Same coaches (all but one)… but boy things are different. You could almost imagine the passion in the locker room the day Garrett came in the first time as ‘The Man’. Whatever he said… whatever he did… that wasn’t the same team against the Giants that we’ve seen the first half of the season. That was a team with a fresh start, a new vigor, a new hope… a future. Well, lucky for you Cowboys fans, you have turned the page. The future will be bright again. Unfortunately, a (end of year prediction) 10-3, 12th ranked LSU Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
team keeps the ‘hiring/firing company’happy with Les Miles, although they have national championship talent. Maybe, as an LSU fan, I’ll get lucky one day with a fresh start under a Head Coach like Boise State’s Chris Peterson. If that’s happens, I’d hate to be the opposing team in college football.Whowould’ve thought....comparing LSU with Dallas
refreshed Cowboys team that would take it to one of the best in the NFC?Coaching plays such a big role in college and pro sports, it is often overlooked to what degree a change of one individual can make. Being an LSU fan, I can relate to the frustration of having a Buffoon for a coach. The difference in Les Miles and Wade Phillips is that the LSU players still believe in Les Miles. I bring up the comparison of these 2 coaches because they lack the same main skills it takes to be a head coach.1) Discipline2) Motivation3) OrganizationBoth teams, the Cowboys and LSU, have top notch talent. But if that talent isn’t challenged and developed to its potential, it will play lethargic football. Yes, LSU has a much better record than Dallas this year, but the difference is the money. College kids are playing for pride and a future in the NFL, in spite of a poor coach. NFL players already have a fat contract (especially with JJ as the owner), so they need someone with some ‘fire’ to get them going. That is why Les Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison Realtree camo Jersey
Miles still has a successful record this year, while Wade was at rock bottom. The New Man in ChargeJim McIsaac/Getty ImagesPresent day….Wade is fired, and in comes Jason Garrett. Same Players, Same coaches (all but one)… but boy things are different. You could almost imagine the passion in the locker room the day Garrett came in the first time as ‘The Man’. Whatever he said… whatever he did… that wasn’t the same team against the Giants that we’ve seen the first half of the season. That was a team with a fresh start, a new vigor, a new hope… a future. Well, lucky for you Cowboys fans, you have turned the page. The future will be bright again. Unfortunately, a (end of year prediction) 10-3, 12th ranked LSU Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
team keeps the ‘hiring/firing company’happy with Les Miles, although they have national championship talent. Maybe, as an LSU fan, I’ll get lucky one day with a fresh start under a Head Coach like Boise State’s Chris Peterson. If that’s happens, I’d hate to be the opposing team in college football.Whowould’ve thought....comparing LSU with Dallas
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 Patriots Beat Steelers...Again
This has become an all-too-famaliar sight.Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesWell, another Patriots-Steelers game is in the books. The two teams have never played in the same division and didn’t cross paths in the playoffs until 1997. But over the past decade and a half, they have developed quite a rivalry. It’s also become nearly as one-sided as the Globetrotters versus the Generals.It’s no secret that a) the Patriots have the Steelers' number, and b) something big is on the line almost every time they meet. Or so it seems. Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
Sometimes it’s a long winning streak, sometimes it’s a Super Bowl appearance. New England has won three of its four playoff games against Pittsburgh, including two AFC Championship games at Heinz Field. Tom Brady has lost to the Steelers only once in his entire career.Just how lopsided has this series been? Let’s take a trip down memory lane...1996 Divisional Playoffs: Patriots 28, Steelers 3The Fog Bowl. This was the first playoff meeting between Pittsburgh and New England. The Steelers were the defending AFC Champions; the Patriots were enjoying their best season since 1986. With coach Bill Parcells looking on through a heavy fog at Foxboro Stadium, Terry Glenn burned Rod Woodson early in the game on a long pass from Drew Bledsoe. This turned out to be Woodson’s last game in a Steeler uniform.The first of many big games where New England beat Pittsburgh.Meanwhile, Pittsburgh’s vaunted QB combo of Mike Tomczak and Kordell Stewart—who can forget Stew-czak?—couldn’t muster much offense, as the Steelers didn’t get on the board until the third quarter. Behind a huge game from Curtis Martin—166 rushing yards, including a 78-yard touchdown run—the Patriots prevailed in a laugher. On a side note, the trio of Parcells, Bledsoe and Glenn would eventually stage a brief reunion comeback tour as members of the Dallas Cowboys, circa 2004.1997 Divisional Playoffs: Steelers 7, Patriots 6This was a dogfight, highlighted by Stewart’s early 40-yard touchdown run down the sideline that proved to be the difference. Late in the game, Bledsoe was sacked on a key third-down play by a little used rookie linebacker by the name of Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
Mike Vrabel. This turned out to be the Steelers' last playoff victory at Three Rivers Stadium.2001 AFC Championship: Patriots 24, Steelers 17This game was arguably the worst loss in the long career of Bill Cowher (I say this one wasn’t quite as bad as the ’94 AFC Championship, the home loss to the San Diego Chargers…but it was close). The Steelers had rolled to a 13-3 regular season, dominated the defending champion Ravens in the divisional round and came into this game as 13.5 point favorites. Their bags were pretty much already packed for the Super Bowl in New Orleans.The Steelers couldnt stop Troy Brown. Or anyone else, for that matter.But after giving up a punt return touchdown to Troy Brown, they fell behind 21-3 after giving up an even longer return of a botched field goal where punter Josh Miller let the snap go directly through his hands. Bledsoe even made a cameo appearance in this one, tossing a touchdown in the second quarter when Tom Brady got hurt. Pittsburgh’s furious comeback fell short after Stewart tossed three interceptions overall and two in the final five minutes, effectively ending his NFL career.2002 Monday Night Opener: Patriots 30, Steelers 14My bad, this was the game when Stewart’s career was officially over—he should have just signed his retirement papers immediately afterward. XFL legend Tom Maddox would take over two games after this debacle in which the Steelers were thoroughly dominated on national television.2004 Halloween: Steelers 34, Patriots 20On their way to a 15-1 regular season, the Steelers ended the Patriots NFL record 21-game winning streak behind a suffocating defense and a rookie quarterback named Ben Roethlisberger. It turned out to be the 2004 team’s finest hour. They would never be as good as they were on this day, and they wouldn’t lose again until...We have certainly seen this horror flick before.2004 AFC Championship: Patriots 41, Steelers 27First of all: it was closer than most people remember.The Steelers came out flat and lifeless, per protocol, and quickly fell behind 24-3. Roethlisberger finally got his comeuppance after winning the first 14 starts of his career. But still, the game was not out of reach, and Hines Ward took a pass down to the 1-yard line on the final play of the third quarter, with the score 31-17.The defense was playing well. There was a chance to make it a one-score game. There was plenty of time left. This set the scene for perhaps the worst four-play sequence of Cowher’s coaching career.Here it is: A handoff to Jerome Bettis for no gain, an incomplete fade pass to Plaxico Burress, another incompletion intended for Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
Burress, a field goal followed by a scattering of boos, followed by throngs of fans heading for the exits.Unbelievable.How do you not just give it to Bettis, one of the better goal line runners of his era—four times in a row? And, even more unbelievably, how do you not go for it on fourth down in that situation?? Cowher was known for making the ballsy calls during his career—the fake punts, the onside kicks, the fourth down conversions. But this one was inexcusable. I still can’t believe he didn’t go for it.2005 Week 3: Patriots 23, Steelers 20Brady does the Steelers dirty again, as he drives down the field in 52 seconds to set up a game-winning field goal after Ward had tied the game with a late touchdown. This was the game in which Antwaan Randle-El infamously tried to lateral the ball after catching a 40-yard pass in the middle of the field.2007 Week 14: Patriots 34, Steelers 14The Guarantee Game.Anthony Smith, a mediocre and previously unknown safety boldly declares that the Steelers will win. Smith is only in the lineup because regular starter Ryan Clark is out for the season. Most people outside of his teammates and family have never heard of him. Also, keep in mind that the Patriots at this point in the season are 12-0 and threatening to smash many NFL records.Smith predictably was burned for two long touchdowns, and the only guarantee afterward was that the Steelers were not going to offer him a new contract when his rookie deal expired.2008 Week 13: Steelers 33, Patriots 10Once again, Brady had his way with the Steeler D.Jared Wickerham/Getty ImagesThe Steelers defense roughs up Matt Cassell. Of course you know that sentence could never end with “Tom Brady.”Last Night: Patriots 39, Steelers 26Perhaps the worst game in the tenure of coach Mike Tomlin, as Pittsburgh came out flat, played without emotion and got worse as the game went on. It was Tomlin’s worst home loss as head coach. It was also Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
the most points the Steelers have given up since…the 2004 AFC Championship game.It was the also the first time two quarterbacks with multiple Super Bowl wins faced each other since Jim Plunkett and Joe Montana in ’85. On this night, only one quarterback played the part. Roethlisberger looked out of sorts until the prevent defense came in; Brady played with precision as he calmly dissected of the league’s (formerly) No. 1 rated defense.The only thing on the line last night in Pittsburgh was temporary supremacy in the AFC. At least one team played with emotion, pride and the motivation that these were high stakes.Guess who?
Sometimes it’s a long winning streak, sometimes it’s a Super Bowl appearance. New England has won three of its four playoff games against Pittsburgh, including two AFC Championship games at Heinz Field. Tom Brady has lost to the Steelers only once in his entire career.Just how lopsided has this series been? Let’s take a trip down memory lane...1996 Divisional Playoffs: Patriots 28, Steelers 3The Fog Bowl. This was the first playoff meeting between Pittsburgh and New England. The Steelers were the defending AFC Champions; the Patriots were enjoying their best season since 1986. With coach Bill Parcells looking on through a heavy fog at Foxboro Stadium, Terry Glenn burned Rod Woodson early in the game on a long pass from Drew Bledsoe. This turned out to be Woodson’s last game in a Steeler uniform.The first of many big games where New England beat Pittsburgh.Meanwhile, Pittsburgh’s vaunted QB combo of Mike Tomczak and Kordell Stewart—who can forget Stew-czak?—couldn’t muster much offense, as the Steelers didn’t get on the board until the third quarter. Behind a huge game from Curtis Martin—166 rushing yards, including a 78-yard touchdown run—the Patriots prevailed in a laugher. On a side note, the trio of Parcells, Bledsoe and Glenn would eventually stage a brief reunion comeback tour as members of the Dallas Cowboys, circa 2004.1997 Divisional Playoffs: Steelers 7, Patriots 6This was a dogfight, highlighted by Stewart’s early 40-yard touchdown run down the sideline that proved to be the difference. Late in the game, Bledsoe was sacked on a key third-down play by a little used rookie linebacker by the name of Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
Mike Vrabel. This turned out to be the Steelers' last playoff victory at Three Rivers Stadium.2001 AFC Championship: Patriots 24, Steelers 17This game was arguably the worst loss in the long career of Bill Cowher (I say this one wasn’t quite as bad as the ’94 AFC Championship, the home loss to the San Diego Chargers…but it was close). The Steelers had rolled to a 13-3 regular season, dominated the defending champion Ravens in the divisional round and came into this game as 13.5 point favorites. Their bags were pretty much already packed for the Super Bowl in New Orleans.The Steelers couldnt stop Troy Brown. Or anyone else, for that matter.But after giving up a punt return touchdown to Troy Brown, they fell behind 21-3 after giving up an even longer return of a botched field goal where punter Josh Miller let the snap go directly through his hands. Bledsoe even made a cameo appearance in this one, tossing a touchdown in the second quarter when Tom Brady got hurt. Pittsburgh’s furious comeback fell short after Stewart tossed three interceptions overall and two in the final five minutes, effectively ending his NFL career.2002 Monday Night Opener: Patriots 30, Steelers 14My bad, this was the game when Stewart’s career was officially over—he should have just signed his retirement papers immediately afterward. XFL legend Tom Maddox would take over two games after this debacle in which the Steelers were thoroughly dominated on national television.2004 Halloween: Steelers 34, Patriots 20On their way to a 15-1 regular season, the Steelers ended the Patriots NFL record 21-game winning streak behind a suffocating defense and a rookie quarterback named Ben Roethlisberger. It turned out to be the 2004 team’s finest hour. They would never be as good as they were on this day, and they wouldn’t lose again until...We have certainly seen this horror flick before.2004 AFC Championship: Patriots 41, Steelers 27First of all: it was closer than most people remember.The Steelers came out flat and lifeless, per protocol, and quickly fell behind 24-3. Roethlisberger finally got his comeuppance after winning the first 14 starts of his career. But still, the game was not out of reach, and Hines Ward took a pass down to the 1-yard line on the final play of the third quarter, with the score 31-17.The defense was playing well. There was a chance to make it a one-score game. There was plenty of time left. This set the scene for perhaps the worst four-play sequence of Cowher’s coaching career.Here it is: A handoff to Jerome Bettis for no gain, an incomplete fade pass to Plaxico Burress, another incompletion intended for Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
Burress, a field goal followed by a scattering of boos, followed by throngs of fans heading for the exits.Unbelievable.How do you not just give it to Bettis, one of the better goal line runners of his era—four times in a row? And, even more unbelievably, how do you not go for it on fourth down in that situation?? Cowher was known for making the ballsy calls during his career—the fake punts, the onside kicks, the fourth down conversions. But this one was inexcusable. I still can’t believe he didn’t go for it.2005 Week 3: Patriots 23, Steelers 20Brady does the Steelers dirty again, as he drives down the field in 52 seconds to set up a game-winning field goal after Ward had tied the game with a late touchdown. This was the game in which Antwaan Randle-El infamously tried to lateral the ball after catching a 40-yard pass in the middle of the field.2007 Week 14: Patriots 34, Steelers 14The Guarantee Game.Anthony Smith, a mediocre and previously unknown safety boldly declares that the Steelers will win. Smith is only in the lineup because regular starter Ryan Clark is out for the season. Most people outside of his teammates and family have never heard of him. Also, keep in mind that the Patriots at this point in the season are 12-0 and threatening to smash many NFL records.Smith predictably was burned for two long touchdowns, and the only guarantee afterward was that the Steelers were not going to offer him a new contract when his rookie deal expired.2008 Week 13: Steelers 33, Patriots 10Once again, Brady had his way with the Steeler D.Jared Wickerham/Getty ImagesThe Steelers defense roughs up Matt Cassell. Of course you know that sentence could never end with “Tom Brady.”Last Night: Patriots 39, Steelers 26Perhaps the worst game in the tenure of coach Mike Tomlin, as Pittsburgh came out flat, played without emotion and got worse as the game went on. It was Tomlin’s worst home loss as head coach. It was also Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
the most points the Steelers have given up since…the 2004 AFC Championship game.It was the also the first time two quarterbacks with multiple Super Bowl wins faced each other since Jim Plunkett and Joe Montana in ’85. On this night, only one quarterback played the part. Roethlisberger looked out of sorts until the prevent defense came in; Brady played with precision as he calmly dissected of the league’s (formerly) No. 1 rated defense.The only thing on the line last night in Pittsburgh was temporary supremacy in the AFC. At least one team played with emotion, pride and the motivation that these were high stakes.Guess who?
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Monday Night Fantasy Matchup: Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers
Week 11 Matchup: Denver Broncos(3-6) at San Diego Chargers(4-5) Click here for all other games Rankings based on top 16 QBs, 32 RBs, 48 WRs, and 16 TEs (brought to you by pyromaniac.com) Denver Broncos (Broncos Schedule) Opponent Defensive Ranks San Diego Pass Defense – 2010: Yards Allowed/Game, third - TDs Allowed, third San Diego Rush Defense – 2010: Yards Allowed/Game, fourth – TDs Allowed T-18th Denver Offensive Cast Kyle Orton (QB Week 11 Ranking: No. 12) Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
2010 Season: 317/350 – for 2,806 yards and 16 TDs I would normally tell you to sit any quarterback going up against this formidable San Diego defense, but I can’t do that with Captain Neckbeard. The guy is simply on a roll that can’t be stopped with the thickest tar in the world. If the Chargers allowed opposing teams to run on them, I might think differently, but they don’t. Orton will have to pass the ball for the Broncos to keep close, and 50-plus attempts wouldn’t shock me in this game. If that happens, he’ll go over 300 yards and likely have one to two TDs to boot. Knowshon Moreno (RB Week 11 Ranking: No. 22) 2010 Season: 98 carries for 358 yards & two TDs, 15 receptions for 177 yards & three TDs Moreno has a real nose for the endzone, and although I don’t expect more than 70 total yards or so out of him against this suffocating Chargers D, I would be shocked if he doesn’t cross the goalline with the ball at least once this game. Correll Buckhalter (RB Week 11 Ranking: Not ranked) 2010 Season: 38 carries for 82 yards & one TD, 18 receptions for 115 yards and one TD The Buck pretty much stops here. Don’t bother letting him take up a roster spot on your team. Brandon Lloyd (WR Week 11 Ranking: No. 4) 2010 Season: 48 receptions for 968 yards and six TDs Lloyd is probably the biggest freak show in the NFL right now as he basically came out of nowhere to become the second biggest fantasy point-getter for WRs this year. It’s not like he’s picking on poor cornerbacks either as just last week, he put up 90 yards and two TDs against one of the best CBs in the game (Brandon Flowers). San Diego has a stifling defense, but I’m not putting anything past this young phenom anymore. Eddie Royal (WR Week 11 Ranking: No. 47) 2010 Season: 43 receptions for 466 yards and two TDs The Chargers have a tough time covering the middle of the field, and with Orton possibly having to dump the ball off more with more frequency this Monday night, Royal may put up some pretty decent numbers, especially for PPR players. Jabar Gaffney (WR Week 11 Ranking: No. 40) 2010 Season: 48 receptions for 573 yards and two TDs The Chargers are a tough team to get yards against, but they CAN be scored upon. With Denver being as pass-happy as they are, Gaffney will have just as much of a shot to produce as any of the other receivers on the team not named Brandon Lloyd. Demaryius Thomas (WR Week 11 Ranking: Not ranked) 2010 Season: 19 receptions for 266 yards and two TDs Demaryius has the skills to put up some numbers, so hold onto him for a stretch-run. Daniel Graham (TE Week 11 Ranking: Not ranked) 2010 Season: 12 receptions for 94 yards and zero TDs If he catches one pass this Monday night, the slurpees are on me! San Diego Chargers (Chargers Schedule) Opponent Defensive Ranks Denver Pass Defense – 2010: Yards Allowed/Game 19th - TDs Allowed T-22nd Denver Rush Defense – 2010: Yards Allowed/Game 30th – TDs Allowed 32nd San Diego Offensive Cast Philip Rivers Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
(QB Week 11 Ranking: No. 5) 2010 Season: 215/329 – for 2,944 yards and 19 TDs Just because the guy was on a bye last week doesn’t mean you should forget what he’s done so far this year. He’s just 41 yards shy of the most passing yards in NFL history through nine games of the season (2,944, Drew Brees had 2,985) and is tied for the most TD passes to boot (w/ Eli Manning, 19). His injured receivers should be making their way back this game, but it doesn’t really matter with this kid. Against a Denver D that has given up 16 passing TDs already, bet on Rivers to shine. Mike Tolbert (RB Week 11 Ranking: No. 12) 2010 Season: 87 carries for 395 yards and seven TDs, 14 receptions for 99 yards and zero TDs Tolberticus Touchdownimust! All the guy seems to do is score TDs, and he won’t change that assessment this Monday night. The Broncos have given up the most rushing touchdowns in the league this year (14) and are ranked 30th in yards allowed. With Ryan Mathews still banged up, expect a heavy dose of the little big man in Week 11. Ryan Mathews (RB Week 11 Ranking: Not ranked) 2010 Season: 87 carries for 382 yards and two TDs, 15 receptions for 92 yards and zero TDs Mathews may or may not play, but even if he does, he won’t be at full strength and won’t do a thing for your fantasy team because of it. Don’t bother taking the chance. Malcolm Floyd (WR Week 11 Ranking: No. 31) 2010 Season: 24 receptions for 513 yards and three TDs Floyd looks like he’ll be back this week, but it might take a game or two for him to get back up to game-time speed. However, against a team that just gave up 469 yards and four TDs to Matt Cassel of all people and with Philip Rivers under center, it’s possible he could explode back onto the scene in a big way as well. Legedu Naanee (WR Week 11 Ranking: Not ranked) 2010 Season: 11 receptions for 181 yards and one TD It doesn’t look like Naanee will be back this week. Patrick Crayton (WR Week 11 Ranking: No. 45) 2010 Season: 25 receptions for 409 yards and zero TDs It’s unclear exactly what the Chargers WR situation is at the moment, but Crayton has done a fine job filling in for all the injuries. If he happens to get another start this week, he could pull off some decent numbers against an extremely vulnerable Denver secondary. Antonio Gates (TE Week 11 Ranking: No. 4) 2010 Season: Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
40 receptions for 663 yards and nine TDs Gates says he’s 50/50 to play on Monday, which leads me to believe he’ll fight through it and be out there for the team (but be ready to pull him out for Randy McMichael just in case). Because he won’t be at full strength, I’m not expecting the world out of him, but Broncos are the seventh-worst team in defending tight ends this year, so you never know.
2010 Season: 317/350 – for 2,806 yards and 16 TDs I would normally tell you to sit any quarterback going up against this formidable San Diego defense, but I can’t do that with Captain Neckbeard. The guy is simply on a roll that can’t be stopped with the thickest tar in the world. If the Chargers allowed opposing teams to run on them, I might think differently, but they don’t. Orton will have to pass the ball for the Broncos to keep close, and 50-plus attempts wouldn’t shock me in this game. If that happens, he’ll go over 300 yards and likely have one to two TDs to boot. Knowshon Moreno (RB Week 11 Ranking: No. 22) 2010 Season: 98 carries for 358 yards & two TDs, 15 receptions for 177 yards & three TDs Moreno has a real nose for the endzone, and although I don’t expect more than 70 total yards or so out of him against this suffocating Chargers D, I would be shocked if he doesn’t cross the goalline with the ball at least once this game. Correll Buckhalter (RB Week 11 Ranking: Not ranked) 2010 Season: 38 carries for 82 yards & one TD, 18 receptions for 115 yards and one TD The Buck pretty much stops here. Don’t bother letting him take up a roster spot on your team. Brandon Lloyd (WR Week 11 Ranking: No. 4) 2010 Season: 48 receptions for 968 yards and six TDs Lloyd is probably the biggest freak show in the NFL right now as he basically came out of nowhere to become the second biggest fantasy point-getter for WRs this year. It’s not like he’s picking on poor cornerbacks either as just last week, he put up 90 yards and two TDs against one of the best CBs in the game (Brandon Flowers). San Diego has a stifling defense, but I’m not putting anything past this young phenom anymore. Eddie Royal (WR Week 11 Ranking: No. 47) 2010 Season: 43 receptions for 466 yards and two TDs The Chargers have a tough time covering the middle of the field, and with Orton possibly having to dump the ball off more with more frequency this Monday night, Royal may put up some pretty decent numbers, especially for PPR players. Jabar Gaffney (WR Week 11 Ranking: No. 40) 2010 Season: 48 receptions for 573 yards and two TDs The Chargers are a tough team to get yards against, but they CAN be scored upon. With Denver being as pass-happy as they are, Gaffney will have just as much of a shot to produce as any of the other receivers on the team not named Brandon Lloyd. Demaryius Thomas (WR Week 11 Ranking: Not ranked) 2010 Season: 19 receptions for 266 yards and two TDs Demaryius has the skills to put up some numbers, so hold onto him for a stretch-run. Daniel Graham (TE Week 11 Ranking: Not ranked) 2010 Season: 12 receptions for 94 yards and zero TDs If he catches one pass this Monday night, the slurpees are on me! San Diego Chargers (Chargers Schedule) Opponent Defensive Ranks Denver Pass Defense – 2010: Yards Allowed/Game 19th - TDs Allowed T-22nd Denver Rush Defense – 2010: Yards Allowed/Game 30th – TDs Allowed 32nd San Diego Offensive Cast Philip Rivers Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
(QB Week 11 Ranking: No. 5) 2010 Season: 215/329 – for 2,944 yards and 19 TDs Just because the guy was on a bye last week doesn’t mean you should forget what he’s done so far this year. He’s just 41 yards shy of the most passing yards in NFL history through nine games of the season (2,944, Drew Brees had 2,985) and is tied for the most TD passes to boot (w/ Eli Manning, 19). His injured receivers should be making their way back this game, but it doesn’t really matter with this kid. Against a Denver D that has given up 16 passing TDs already, bet on Rivers to shine. Mike Tolbert (RB Week 11 Ranking: No. 12) 2010 Season: 87 carries for 395 yards and seven TDs, 14 receptions for 99 yards and zero TDs Tolberticus Touchdownimust! All the guy seems to do is score TDs, and he won’t change that assessment this Monday night. The Broncos have given up the most rushing touchdowns in the league this year (14) and are ranked 30th in yards allowed. With Ryan Mathews still banged up, expect a heavy dose of the little big man in Week 11. Ryan Mathews (RB Week 11 Ranking: Not ranked) 2010 Season: 87 carries for 382 yards and two TDs, 15 receptions for 92 yards and zero TDs Mathews may or may not play, but even if he does, he won’t be at full strength and won’t do a thing for your fantasy team because of it. Don’t bother taking the chance. Malcolm Floyd (WR Week 11 Ranking: No. 31) 2010 Season: 24 receptions for 513 yards and three TDs Floyd looks like he’ll be back this week, but it might take a game or two for him to get back up to game-time speed. However, against a team that just gave up 469 yards and four TDs to Matt Cassel of all people and with Philip Rivers under center, it’s possible he could explode back onto the scene in a big way as well. Legedu Naanee (WR Week 11 Ranking: Not ranked) 2010 Season: 11 receptions for 181 yards and one TD It doesn’t look like Naanee will be back this week. Patrick Crayton (WR Week 11 Ranking: No. 45) 2010 Season: 25 receptions for 409 yards and zero TDs It’s unclear exactly what the Chargers WR situation is at the moment, but Crayton has done a fine job filling in for all the injuries. If he happens to get another start this week, he could pull off some decent numbers against an extremely vulnerable Denver secondary. Antonio Gates (TE Week 11 Ranking: No. 4) 2010 Season: Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
40 receptions for 663 yards and nine TDs Gates says he’s 50/50 to play on Monday, which leads me to believe he’ll fight through it and be out there for the team (but be ready to pull him out for Randy McMichael just in case). Because he won’t be at full strength, I’m not expecting the world out of him, but Broncos are the seventh-worst team in defending tight ends this year, so you never know.
2010年12月16日星期四
16 Dec 10 2011 NFL Draft: Updated Draft Order Through Three Rounds
Streeter Lecka/Getty Images11 weeks of NFL play are in the books, and with that comes a more clear picture of the draft order for the upcoming 2011 NFL Draft.Here is a look at the draft order through the first three rounds.Please note: Draft order for playoff teams is decided by order of Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
elimination from playoffs, which is projected below.Round 11. Carolina (1-9)2. Cincinnati (2-8)3. Detroit (2-8)4. Buffalo (2-8)5. Arizona (3-7)6. San Francisco (3-7)7. Cleveland (3-7)8. Dallas (3-7)9. Denver (3-7)10. Minnesota (3-7)11. St. Louis (4-6)12. Houston (4-6)13. San Diego (5-5)14. New England—from Oakland (5-5)15. Tennessee (5-5)16. Washington (5-5)17. Miami (5-5)18. Jacksonville (6-4)19. Tampa Bay (7-3)20. Chicago (7-3)21. Seattle (5-5)22. Kansas City (6-4)23. New York Giants (6-4)24. Baltimore (7-3)25. Indianapolis (6-4)26. New Orleans (7-3)27. Pittsburgh (7-3)28. Atlanta (8-2)29. Green Bay (7-3)30. New York Jets (8-2)31. Philadelphia (7-3)32. New England (8-2)Round 233. New England—from Carolina (1-9)34. Detroit (2-8)35. Buffalo (2-8)36. Cincinnati (2-8)37. San Francisco (3-7)38. Cleveland (3-7)39. Dallas (3-7)40. Denver (3-7)41. Minnesota (3-7)42. Arizona (3-7)43. Houston (4-6)44. St. Louis (4-6)45. Oakland (5-5)46. Tennessee (5-5)47. Washington (5-5)48. Denver—from Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
Miami (5-5)49. San Diego (5-5)50. Jacksonville (6-4)51. Chicago (7-3)52. Tampa Bay (7-3)53. Seattle (5-5)54. New York Giants (6-4)55. Kansas City (6-4)56. Baltimore (7-3)57. Indianapolis (6-4)58. Pittsburgh (7-3)59. New Orleans (7-3)60. Atlanta (8-2)61. Green Bay (7-3)62. San Diego—from New York Jets(8-2)63. Philadelphia (7-3)64. New England (8-2)Round 365. Carolina (1-9)66. Buffalo (2-8)67. Cincinnati (2-8)68. Detroit (2-8)69. Cleveland (3-7)70. Dallas (3-7)71. Denver (3-7)72. New England—from Minnesota (3-7)73. Arizona (3-7)74. San Francisco (3-7)75. St. Louis (4-6)76. Houston (4-6)77. Tennessee (5-5)78. New Orleans—from Washington (5-5)79. Miami (5-5)80. San Diego (5-5)81. Oakland (5-5)82. Jacksonville (6-4)83. Tampa Bay Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
(7-3)84. Chicago (7-3)85. San Diego—from Seattle (5-5)86. Kansas City (6-4)87. New York Giants (6-4)88. Baltimore (7-3)89. Indianapolis (6-4)90. New Orleans (7-3)91. Pittsburgh (7-3)92. Atlanta (8-2)93. Green Bay (7-3)94. New York Jets (8-2)95. Philadelphia (7-3)96. New England (8-2)
elimination from playoffs, which is projected below.Round 11. Carolina (1-9)2. Cincinnati (2-8)3. Detroit (2-8)4. Buffalo (2-8)5. Arizona (3-7)6. San Francisco (3-7)7. Cleveland (3-7)8. Dallas (3-7)9. Denver (3-7)10. Minnesota (3-7)11. St. Louis (4-6)12. Houston (4-6)13. San Diego (5-5)14. New England—from Oakland (5-5)15. Tennessee (5-5)16. Washington (5-5)17. Miami (5-5)18. Jacksonville (6-4)19. Tampa Bay (7-3)20. Chicago (7-3)21. Seattle (5-5)22. Kansas City (6-4)23. New York Giants (6-4)24. Baltimore (7-3)25. Indianapolis (6-4)26. New Orleans (7-3)27. Pittsburgh (7-3)28. Atlanta (8-2)29. Green Bay (7-3)30. New York Jets (8-2)31. Philadelphia (7-3)32. New England (8-2)Round 233. New England—from Carolina (1-9)34. Detroit (2-8)35. Buffalo (2-8)36. Cincinnati (2-8)37. San Francisco (3-7)38. Cleveland (3-7)39. Dallas (3-7)40. Denver (3-7)41. Minnesota (3-7)42. Arizona (3-7)43. Houston (4-6)44. St. Louis (4-6)45. Oakland (5-5)46. Tennessee (5-5)47. Washington (5-5)48. Denver—from Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
Miami (5-5)49. San Diego (5-5)50. Jacksonville (6-4)51. Chicago (7-3)52. Tampa Bay (7-3)53. Seattle (5-5)54. New York Giants (6-4)55. Kansas City (6-4)56. Baltimore (7-3)57. Indianapolis (6-4)58. Pittsburgh (7-3)59. New Orleans (7-3)60. Atlanta (8-2)61. Green Bay (7-3)62. San Diego—from New York Jets(8-2)63. Philadelphia (7-3)64. New England (8-2)Round 365. Carolina (1-9)66. Buffalo (2-8)67. Cincinnati (2-8)68. Detroit (2-8)69. Cleveland (3-7)70. Dallas (3-7)71. Denver (3-7)72. New England—from Minnesota (3-7)73. Arizona (3-7)74. San Francisco (3-7)75. St. Louis (4-6)76. Houston (4-6)77. Tennessee (5-5)78. New Orleans—from Washington (5-5)79. Miami (5-5)80. San Diego (5-5)81. Oakland (5-5)82. Jacksonville (6-4)83. Tampa Bay Reebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
(7-3)84. Chicago (7-3)85. San Diego—from Seattle (5-5)86. Kansas City (6-4)87. New York Giants (6-4)88. Baltimore (7-3)89. Indianapolis (6-4)90. New Orleans (7-3)91. Pittsburgh (7-3)92. Atlanta (8-2)93. Green Bay (7-3)94. New York Jets (8-2)95. Philadelphia (7-3)96. New England (8-2)
2010年12月15日星期三
Curtis Martin: Rushing Into Pro Football Hall of Fame
Versatile. Consistent. Durable. These are some of the words that best describe Curtis Martin, who was named among the semi-finalists to go to the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Sunday.
Martin was not the fastest running back, nor was he the most powerful, but he was the perfect blend of both. Martin used his vision and hit the hole with speed and power, making him a tough runner to stop.
Drafted in the third round out of nfl jerseys
Pitt in 1996, Curtis Martin was a star right out of the gate for the Patriots. Martin rushed for nearly 1,500 yards, scored 14 touchdowns and made the Pro Bowl, all in his rookie year.
His success with the Pats continued the following two seasons as he rushed for over 1,000 yards in each season, scored 18 touchdowns, and helped lead the Pats to Superbowl XXXI.
In the 1997 offseason, the rival New York Jets snagged Curtis Martin from free agency, signing him to a six-year, $36 million contract. But that wasn’t the only price the Jets had to pay. They also had to give the Pats first- and third-round draft picks as compensation, but the Jets would later find out it was well worth the price.
Martin had an instant impact on his new team. In his first season with the Jets, he rushed for over 1,200 yards and helped lead them to the AFC championship.
Martin continued to be a huge success for the Jets, helping them get to two more playoff appearances, and rushed for six more 1,000-yard seasons.
In Martin’s seventh season with the Saints jersey
Jets, he rushed for 1,697 rushing yards, edging out Shaun Alexander for the rushing title by one yard. In that season he also helped lead the Jets to a 10-6 record and the divisional championship game against the Steelers, which the Jets lost mainly due to their former kicker, Doug Brien.
Martin’s last season with the Jets was in 2005, when he rushed for 735 yards and missed four games due to injury. However, during Curtis Martins’ eight-year career with the Jets, he only missed one other game out of 128 total, and led the Jets to four playoff appearances in eight seasons. He eventually retired in 2007.
Martin is one of the most consistent running backs in history, being the only player to rush for 1,000 yards in 11 straight seasons, an NFL record. During his career, Martin made five Pro Bowls and two All-Pro teams. He finished his career 12th all-time in rushing touchdowns with 90 total, seventh all-time in yards from scrimmage, with over 17,000, andthird all-time in rushing attempts with 3,518 carries.
Martin even finished his career with a perfect passer rating, having thrown two passes, both for touchdowns. One of those passes helped the Jets get a victory and Wayne Cherebet get revenge in the infamous “Flashlight Game.”
But to me, the most important stat: Martin is fourth all-time in rushing yards with 14,101 yards. The only three players to have rushed for more yards are Emmitt Smith, Walter Payton and Barry Sanders, arguably the best three running backs of all time. Notable Hall of Bills jersey
Famers behind Martin in rushing yards are Eric Dickerson, Jim Brown, and Tony Dorsett.
If that does not say Hall of Famer, I don’t know what does.
Martin was not the fastest running back, nor was he the most powerful, but he was the perfect blend of both. Martin used his vision and hit the hole with speed and power, making him a tough runner to stop.
Drafted in the third round out of nfl jerseys
Pitt in 1996, Curtis Martin was a star right out of the gate for the Patriots. Martin rushed for nearly 1,500 yards, scored 14 touchdowns and made the Pro Bowl, all in his rookie year.
His success with the Pats continued the following two seasons as he rushed for over 1,000 yards in each season, scored 18 touchdowns, and helped lead the Pats to Superbowl XXXI.
In the 1997 offseason, the rival New York Jets snagged Curtis Martin from free agency, signing him to a six-year, $36 million contract. But that wasn’t the only price the Jets had to pay. They also had to give the Pats first- and third-round draft picks as compensation, but the Jets would later find out it was well worth the price.
Martin had an instant impact on his new team. In his first season with the Jets, he rushed for over 1,200 yards and helped lead them to the AFC championship.
Martin continued to be a huge success for the Jets, helping them get to two more playoff appearances, and rushed for six more 1,000-yard seasons.
In Martin’s seventh season with the Saints jersey
Jets, he rushed for 1,697 rushing yards, edging out Shaun Alexander for the rushing title by one yard. In that season he also helped lead the Jets to a 10-6 record and the divisional championship game against the Steelers, which the Jets lost mainly due to their former kicker, Doug Brien.
Martin’s last season with the Jets was in 2005, when he rushed for 735 yards and missed four games due to injury. However, during Curtis Martins’ eight-year career with the Jets, he only missed one other game out of 128 total, and led the Jets to four playoff appearances in eight seasons. He eventually retired in 2007.
Martin is one of the most consistent running backs in history, being the only player to rush for 1,000 yards in 11 straight seasons, an NFL record. During his career, Martin made five Pro Bowls and two All-Pro teams. He finished his career 12th all-time in rushing touchdowns with 90 total, seventh all-time in yards from scrimmage, with over 17,000, andthird all-time in rushing attempts with 3,518 carries.
Martin even finished his career with a perfect passer rating, having thrown two passes, both for touchdowns. One of those passes helped the Jets get a victory and Wayne Cherebet get revenge in the infamous “Flashlight Game.”
But to me, the most important stat: Martin is fourth all-time in rushing yards with 14,101 yards. The only three players to have rushed for more yards are Emmitt Smith, Walter Payton and Barry Sanders, arguably the best three running backs of all time. Notable Hall of Bills jersey
Famers behind Martin in rushing yards are Eric Dickerson, Jim Brown, and Tony Dorsett.
If that does not say Hall of Famer, I don’t know what does.
2010年12月13日星期一
NFL Week 13 Odds: Kansas City Chiefs Laying Nine Points to Denver Broncos
Otto Greule Jr/Getty ImagesThe Denver Broncos head to Kansas City to take on the Chiefs for the second time this season. The two AFC West foes met in Week 10 as the Broncos stampeded the Chiefs 49-29.In 19 matchups, including the Week 10 win, Denver leads the fight 12-7. KC has scored 40 points or more twice in those contests, while Denver has done it four times.Our NFL odds show Kansas City at -9 over Denver with a game total of 48.5 points.Denver lost a close won to the Rams last week 36-33. The 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey White jersey
Broncos were down 26-13 at the half, and looked winded as they were shut down in the third quarter before a surprising fourth-quarter rally, where they scored 20 points but fell just a little short.The Rams had a reason to play hard, as the win moved them into a tie for first in the NFC West. QB Sam Bradford showed signs of developing into a true superstar, and with a little help from a broken Broncos’ secondary, tossed his first 300-yard game.He would complete 22-of-37 for three touchdowns. Meanwhile, true to form, Denver’s Kyle Orton was a bit better completing 24-of-41 for 347 yards and three touchdowns, but the effort was wasted in the Broncos eighth loss and sixth in their last seven.Once again, the Denver running game was dismal as RB Knowshon Moreno was held to a drab 56 yards, though he did score once.Denver dropped to 3-8, dead last in the AFC West. The offense and defense continue to struggle with Orton being one of the few upsides. He has 265 yards and 20 touchdowns for the year, as the passing ranks fourth overall with 288 yards a game.The rushing is nearly nonexistent with under 80 yards a game to rank 30th. Moreno has grabbed just four touchdowns and 472 yards.WR Brandon Lloyd is another bright spot and has 58 receptions for 1,122 yards and nine touchdowns.The defense has allowed 31 or more points four times, ranking 20th in opponent passing (239) and 30th in opponent rushing (141.6).As for the Chiefs, they beat the 4 Brett Favre White jersey
Seahawks last week 42-24. It was a Cassel-Bowe show, as the Cassel tied his career best with four touchdown passes. Three of those were to Bowe, who caught 13 passes for 170 yards. Cassel would complete 22 passes, including 15-of-20 in the first half for 233 yards.KC held a 21-10 half time lead, and then broke it open in the fourth with 21 points as the Chiefs showed why their rushing attack continues to lead the NFL, outrunning the Seahawks 270 yards to 20.The Chiefs improved to 7-4 with the win to rank first in the AFC West.Things seem to be settling into a groove, as both the offense and defense remain focused on what they do best—controlling the ground.The team leads the NFL in rushing yards with 174.3 a game, Charles, and Jones are a potent duo who have combined for 1,733 yards and eight touchdowns. One of them seems to always have the ball, but opposing defenses haven’t done a good job of predicting who has it and when.Cassel has been better than the numbers look, throwing 22 touchdowns for 2,307 yards on 195 completions. Despite those impressive stats, the team only ranks 25th overall in passing.The defense continues to guard against the run, limiting opposing rushers to under 97 per confrontation, and they do surrender to air attacks, allowing 247 a game to rank 24th. Matt’s Free Prediction: Kansas City 31, Denver 27At first glance, this looks like a bloodbath in the making, but closer analysis shows it won’t be Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
that bad. KC will have trouble against Orton, but Denver will have more trouble against the Chiefs absolutely dominating ground pounders.Look for the Chiefs to continue their march to the playoffs with an eight win.For more advice on this week’s games, check out our expert NFL picks from the top NFL handicappers in the business.
Broncos were down 26-13 at the half, and looked winded as they were shut down in the third quarter before a surprising fourth-quarter rally, where they scored 20 points but fell just a little short.The Rams had a reason to play hard, as the win moved them into a tie for first in the NFC West. QB Sam Bradford showed signs of developing into a true superstar, and with a little help from a broken Broncos’ secondary, tossed his first 300-yard game.He would complete 22-of-37 for three touchdowns. Meanwhile, true to form, Denver’s Kyle Orton was a bit better completing 24-of-41 for 347 yards and three touchdowns, but the effort was wasted in the Broncos eighth loss and sixth in their last seven.Once again, the Denver running game was dismal as RB Knowshon Moreno was held to a drab 56 yards, though he did score once.Denver dropped to 3-8, dead last in the AFC West. The offense and defense continue to struggle with Orton being one of the few upsides. He has 265 yards and 20 touchdowns for the year, as the passing ranks fourth overall with 288 yards a game.The rushing is nearly nonexistent with under 80 yards a game to rank 30th. Moreno has grabbed just four touchdowns and 472 yards.WR Brandon Lloyd is another bright spot and has 58 receptions for 1,122 yards and nine touchdowns.The defense has allowed 31 or more points four times, ranking 20th in opponent passing (239) and 30th in opponent rushing (141.6).As for the Chiefs, they beat the 4 Brett Favre White jersey
Seahawks last week 42-24. It was a Cassel-Bowe show, as the Cassel tied his career best with four touchdown passes. Three of those were to Bowe, who caught 13 passes for 170 yards. Cassel would complete 22 passes, including 15-of-20 in the first half for 233 yards.KC held a 21-10 half time lead, and then broke it open in the fourth with 21 points as the Chiefs showed why their rushing attack continues to lead the NFL, outrunning the Seahawks 270 yards to 20.The Chiefs improved to 7-4 with the win to rank first in the AFC West.Things seem to be settling into a groove, as both the offense and defense remain focused on what they do best—controlling the ground.The team leads the NFL in rushing yards with 174.3 a game, Charles, and Jones are a potent duo who have combined for 1,733 yards and eight touchdowns. One of them seems to always have the ball, but opposing defenses haven’t done a good job of predicting who has it and when.Cassel has been better than the numbers look, throwing 22 touchdowns for 2,307 yards on 195 completions. Despite those impressive stats, the team only ranks 25th overall in passing.The defense continues to guard against the run, limiting opposing rushers to under 97 per confrontation, and they do surrender to air attacks, allowing 247 a game to rank 24th. Matt’s Free Prediction: Kansas City 31, Denver 27At first glance, this looks like a bloodbath in the making, but closer analysis shows it won’t be Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
that bad. KC will have trouble against Orton, but Denver will have more trouble against the Chiefs absolutely dominating ground pounders.Look for the Chiefs to continue their march to the playoffs with an eight win.For more advice on this week’s games, check out our expert NFL picks from the top NFL handicappers in the business.
2010年12月12日星期日
Albert Haynesworth Saga: Phillip Daniels Keeps It Real, Calls Out Fat Albert
Greg Fiume/Getty ImagesAt one point not long ago, it almost appeared as if the whole Haynesworth Saga had gone mum. But, not wanting to disappoint or lead people to believe that he had turned the corner, Fat Albert reminded us that he was still around by laying belly down on the field mid-play 4 Brett Favre White jersey
against the Eagles while Michael Vick scrambled for eight seconds and completed a touchdown pass. The score of that game was embarrassing.To say that the Redskins organization and its players are fed up with Haynesworth would be an understatement. Head coach Mike Shanahan has made it very clear that Haynesworth is in his doghouse and select teammates have added their two cents regarding the lazy defensive tackle that has been nothing but an issue since arriving Washington.Today, those “two cents” turned into an all-out call-out of Haynesworth by 15-year veteran defensive end Phillip Daniels.But before you read Daniels’ quotes, remember what kind of player he is. Think about his production, his work ethic, his off-the-field involvement, and his reputation as a teammate.While Big Phil is easily the coolest Redskin on Twitter ( @P_Daniels93 ), it’s the other things that make it so easy to be a fan. When you think about successful teams, you think about character guys like Phillip Daniels. As a Redskins fan, I love to see this kind of thing and I believe that Daniels’ words will go a long way in this locker room.How Long Will Haynesworth Last?How Long Will Haynesworth Last?Cut By End of this Week21.4%Cut After this Season64.3%He'll Be Here Next Season14.3%Total votes: 28"I’ve been through 15 seasons and I ain’t won (anything). So what I’m saying is if I can come out here and do this, don’t tell me that you can’t do it. I want every guy on this team to do well. I want you to realize that if you ain’t all in, you don’t need to be here.That’s my point. I’m tired of going through season after season where we lose games that we should win, guys not doing the right thing, guys not putting the best effort in, whatever it may be. I’m tried of that, man. We deserve better."Without getting into the well-known details of the Saga, the latest news from Ashburn indicated that Haynesworth became sick last week in another attempt to avoid playing in the team’s new 3-4 defensive scheme. Shanahan told reporters that Haynesworth didn’t have a good practice on Thursday and then showed Dallas Cowboys jersey
up late on Friday, again being limited in practice. Shanahan then declared Haynesworth inactive just minutes before kickoff last week against the Giants, reportedly causing a bit of distraction in the Redskins’ locker room."It’s always something else. I just wish the team could stay focused and not worry about things like this. When I come to the locker room on game day, I expect guys to be ready to go and play. I don’t expect to get a surprise. … At the same time I can understand why it happened. I’m not questioning the coach’s decision at all.That’s what I go out there and play for every day—my teammates. And I think that’s the part of the game that really skipped by him."Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesDaniels is 37 years old and has yet to miss a practice all season, even after falling extremely ill over the past couple of weeks. Not to mention, Daniels is still lifting ungodly amounts of weight…on his back. Check that outHERE.Shanahan told reporters today that he would not comment on Haynesworth until he speaks with him one-on-one later in the week. Daniels made it clear that he supports Shanahan’s decisions because the coach is putting the team first."He’s not going to let one guy, one person, come in here and destroy what we have. You put the team first when you think about the future and things that we’ve got to do. If you don’t practice, you don’t play— and that’s putting the team first.Guys don’t want to say it, but guys feel the same way, man. I’m a guy that I’m going to tell you the truth, and I’m going to tell you how it is. I’m not going to hide behind anything. I 4 Brett Favre White jersey
would love for things to work out with him. If he put everything he had into football—I’m talking about the workout part of it, the weight room, just the learning the game, the studying of the game—he would be no doubt the NFL player of the year.I don’t know how much he can change. I think your DNA follows you in a lot of ways."Amen Big Phil. Thank you.HTTR!
against the Eagles while Michael Vick scrambled for eight seconds and completed a touchdown pass. The score of that game was embarrassing.To say that the Redskins organization and its players are fed up with Haynesworth would be an understatement. Head coach Mike Shanahan has made it very clear that Haynesworth is in his doghouse and select teammates have added their two cents regarding the lazy defensive tackle that has been nothing but an issue since arriving Washington.Today, those “two cents” turned into an all-out call-out of Haynesworth by 15-year veteran defensive end Phillip Daniels.But before you read Daniels’ quotes, remember what kind of player he is. Think about his production, his work ethic, his off-the-field involvement, and his reputation as a teammate.While Big Phil is easily the coolest Redskin on Twitter ( @P_Daniels93 ), it’s the other things that make it so easy to be a fan. When you think about successful teams, you think about character guys like Phillip Daniels. As a Redskins fan, I love to see this kind of thing and I believe that Daniels’ words will go a long way in this locker room.How Long Will Haynesworth Last?How Long Will Haynesworth Last?Cut By End of this Week21.4%Cut After this Season64.3%He'll Be Here Next Season14.3%Total votes: 28"I’ve been through 15 seasons and I ain’t won (anything). So what I’m saying is if I can come out here and do this, don’t tell me that you can’t do it. I want every guy on this team to do well. I want you to realize that if you ain’t all in, you don’t need to be here.That’s my point. I’m tired of going through season after season where we lose games that we should win, guys not doing the right thing, guys not putting the best effort in, whatever it may be. I’m tried of that, man. We deserve better."Without getting into the well-known details of the Saga, the latest news from Ashburn indicated that Haynesworth became sick last week in another attempt to avoid playing in the team’s new 3-4 defensive scheme. Shanahan told reporters that Haynesworth didn’t have a good practice on Thursday and then showed Dallas Cowboys jersey
up late on Friday, again being limited in practice. Shanahan then declared Haynesworth inactive just minutes before kickoff last week against the Giants, reportedly causing a bit of distraction in the Redskins’ locker room."It’s always something else. I just wish the team could stay focused and not worry about things like this. When I come to the locker room on game day, I expect guys to be ready to go and play. I don’t expect to get a surprise. … At the same time I can understand why it happened. I’m not questioning the coach’s decision at all.That’s what I go out there and play for every day—my teammates. And I think that’s the part of the game that really skipped by him."Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesDaniels is 37 years old and has yet to miss a practice all season, even after falling extremely ill over the past couple of weeks. Not to mention, Daniels is still lifting ungodly amounts of weight…on his back. Check that outHERE.Shanahan told reporters today that he would not comment on Haynesworth until he speaks with him one-on-one later in the week. Daniels made it clear that he supports Shanahan’s decisions because the coach is putting the team first."He’s not going to let one guy, one person, come in here and destroy what we have. You put the team first when you think about the future and things that we’ve got to do. If you don’t practice, you don’t play— and that’s putting the team first.Guys don’t want to say it, but guys feel the same way, man. I’m a guy that I’m going to tell you the truth, and I’m going to tell you how it is. I’m not going to hide behind anything. I 4 Brett Favre White jersey
would love for things to work out with him. If he put everything he had into football—I’m talking about the workout part of it, the weight room, just the learning the game, the studying of the game—he would be no doubt the NFL player of the year.I don’t know how much he can change. I think your DNA follows you in a lot of ways."Amen Big Phil. Thank you.HTTR!
2010年12月11日星期六
Pittsburgh Steelers "The Great 18: Unit evaluation for 2008"
The NFL's free agency period, set to commence Feb. 29, is looming. Here , we are in the process of setting the Pittsburgh Steelers' priorities before they delve into the free-agent market. Nine through 18 have been discussed, leaving the eight most important positions the Steelers will have to address this offseason. Here are the links for 9-18. 9. Outside linebacker; 10. Inside linebacker.11. Nose tackle; 12. Strong safety.13. Quarterback; 14. Running back.15. Tight end; 16. Punter; 17. Kicker; 18. Long snapper.Getting into No. 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
8 on the list, you really can't have enough of this position. Clearly, division rival Cincinnati feels that way, judging by its last two drafts. Baltimore ran out of them early last season, and finished in the bottom third of the league. Cleveland didn't have any at the start of the season, and the ones it did have were either too young or just not very good. The Steelers happen to be in a fairly decent situation at this spot, but much like the adage suggests, if one of them goes down, a season can turn south in a hurry. Coming in at No. 8 in the great 18 ...8. CornerbackIke Taylor, sixth season; Deshea Townsend, 11th season; Bryant McFadden, fourth season; William Gay, second season; Grant Mason, second season; Anthony Madison, third season; Allen Rossum, 11th season; Mike Lorello, third season. Ike Taylor's performance against Seattle in Week 5 was the shining example of not only why the Steelers gave him a five-year contract extension after the Super Bowl-winning 2005 season, but to the potential the rangy Taylor has. He seemed to be invisible to Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck, and was able to provide the rare game where a cornerback completely shuts down an entire offense on his own. It wasn't long ago that Taylor was in former Steelers coach Bill Cowher's doghouse. Last season, not only did he stop Seattle's powerful passing game (true, the Seahawks were without Deion Branch), but looking back on New England's aerial display against the
Steelers, Taylor actually played a very strong game against WR Randy Moss. His huge gains came from plays where Taylor was supposed to have deep help, and was assigned to cover the underneath routes. Taylor's coverage of Cincinnati's Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh twice last season were displays of beauty. He's on the cusp of a Pro Bowl selection. Deshea Townsend, Taylor's batterymate at the opposite corner position, was as solid as always. He's not going to shut down any receiver the way Taylor can, but his value comes in veteran savvy and the ability to provide excellent run support. Going into his 11th season, the Steelers have to think long term and consider replacing their boundary corner for the past six seasons. There, the battle at cornerback gets interesting. Bryant McFadden has shown flashes of becoming a great NFL corner, but an ankle injury clearly bothered him most of last season, and it did not give the team any reason to think he is ready to start in 2008. To be fair, though, McFadden has started plenty of games, and he saw lots of action when healthy as the team's primary nickel back. However, William Gay, the soon-to-be second-year man from Louisville, showed fantastic potential, performing well on special teams, and a knack for the big play in the preseason. McFadden is bigger, which was preferred under Cowher's regime, but coach Mike Tomlin, a former defensive backs coach, made Gay his first draft pick in the secondary. McFadden is in the last year of his rookie contract, and he will have to really step up.Even with those two battling to become Townsend's eventual replacement, Anthony Madison and Grant Mason may end up being kept around for depth and 6 Sanchez Purple AFL50th jersey
special teams assignments, even though neither player was overly impressive in either capacity last season. And just like Gay was taken in the fifth round last season, it's never been the Steelers' policy to not draft talent because of the current roster. If they have the chance to find a great athlete they can filter in at corner or even safety, plus return punts and kicks (Allen Rossum has a small chance of making the roster in 2008), don't be surprised to see them tag a corner even as high as the first day.It's football; you can't have enough good athletes on a team. Corner is one of the most athletic positions on the field.
8 on the list, you really can't have enough of this position. Clearly, division rival Cincinnati feels that way, judging by its last two drafts. Baltimore ran out of them early last season, and finished in the bottom third of the league. Cleveland didn't have any at the start of the season, and the ones it did have were either too young or just not very good. The Steelers happen to be in a fairly decent situation at this spot, but much like the adage suggests, if one of them goes down, a season can turn south in a hurry. Coming in at No. 8 in the great 18 ...8. CornerbackIke Taylor, sixth season; Deshea Townsend, 11th season; Bryant McFadden, fourth season; William Gay, second season; Grant Mason, second season; Anthony Madison, third season; Allen Rossum, 11th season; Mike Lorello, third season. Ike Taylor's performance against Seattle in Week 5 was the shining example of not only why the Steelers gave him a five-year contract extension after the Super Bowl-winning 2005 season, but to the potential the rangy Taylor has. He seemed to be invisible to Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck, and was able to provide the rare game where a cornerback completely shuts down an entire offense on his own. It wasn't long ago that Taylor was in former Steelers coach Bill Cowher's doghouse. Last season, not only did he stop Seattle's powerful passing game (true, the Seahawks were without Deion Branch), but looking back on New England's aerial display against the
Steelers, Taylor actually played a very strong game against WR Randy Moss. His huge gains came from plays where Taylor was supposed to have deep help, and was assigned to cover the underneath routes. Taylor's coverage of Cincinnati's Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh twice last season were displays of beauty. He's on the cusp of a Pro Bowl selection. Deshea Townsend, Taylor's batterymate at the opposite corner position, was as solid as always. He's not going to shut down any receiver the way Taylor can, but his value comes in veteran savvy and the ability to provide excellent run support. Going into his 11th season, the Steelers have to think long term and consider replacing their boundary corner for the past six seasons. There, the battle at cornerback gets interesting. Bryant McFadden has shown flashes of becoming a great NFL corner, but an ankle injury clearly bothered him most of last season, and it did not give the team any reason to think he is ready to start in 2008. To be fair, though, McFadden has started plenty of games, and he saw lots of action when healthy as the team's primary nickel back. However, William Gay, the soon-to-be second-year man from Louisville, showed fantastic potential, performing well on special teams, and a knack for the big play in the preseason. McFadden is bigger, which was preferred under Cowher's regime, but coach Mike Tomlin, a former defensive backs coach, made Gay his first draft pick in the secondary. McFadden is in the last year of his rookie contract, and he will have to really step up.Even with those two battling to become Townsend's eventual replacement, Anthony Madison and Grant Mason may end up being kept around for depth and 6 Sanchez Purple AFL50th jersey
special teams assignments, even though neither player was overly impressive in either capacity last season. And just like Gay was taken in the fifth round last season, it's never been the Steelers' policy to not draft talent because of the current roster. If they have the chance to find a great athlete they can filter in at corner or even safety, plus return punts and kicks (Allen Rossum has a small chance of making the roster in 2008), don't be surprised to see them tag a corner even as high as the first day.It's football; you can't have enough good athletes on a team. Corner is one of the most athletic positions on the field.
2010年12月9日星期四
San Francisco 49ers Alex Smith Houston Texans
The San Francisco 49ers continue to lose, and in so doing they continue to get closer to the number one pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, the Texans who currently hold claim to this pick also continue to lose, and stand in the way of the 49ers owning the top pick in the draft for the second straight year. In losing to the Arizona Cardinals this week, the team dropped to 2-10, but in the process rookie quarterback Alex Smith showed glimpses of how he may be able to solidify the quarterback position.Smith spent most of the day either on Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
the ground or running from his life, as the San Francisco 49ers offensive line did very little to offer Smith protection. But when Smith did have time to throw he was typically accurate and threw with confidence. There is no reason to question whether Smith can make the throws, only if he will be given the time to do so. Sure Smith also had his share of rookie mistakes that added up to a fumble and three interceptions, but two drives – one for a touchdown, in particular - gave 49ers fans hope that the teams answer to its quarterback woes may be over as soon as it finds an offensive line.The coaching staff did a much better job this week than in Smith's earlier starts in giving Smith plays from which he could make something happen. As a result Smith was able to make throws under pressure, and even on the move that helped keep the chains moving. Of course, it would be unfair for me not to acknowledge the fact that the Cardinals too, are a dreadful team.Defensively, the 49ers Derek Smith, Julian Peterson, Andre Carter and Brandon Moore had pretty solid outings. The rest of the defense, particularly the cornerbacks were outmatched. If Shawntae Spencer and Bruce Thornton are the 49ers future at cornerback than the team better find a better way to handle big, strong, Steelers 10 Santonio Holmes jersey
fast receivers like Fitzgerald and Boldin.An ugly loss to an awful team, but that has come to be the expectation for the San Francisco 49ers this season. The bright point was that Alex Smith took steps in the right direction. Hopefully he can continue to build on that improvement in the remaining four games of the season.
the ground or running from his life, as the San Francisco 49ers offensive line did very little to offer Smith protection. But when Smith did have time to throw he was typically accurate and threw with confidence. There is no reason to question whether Smith can make the throws, only if he will be given the time to do so. Sure Smith also had his share of rookie mistakes that added up to a fumble and three interceptions, but two drives – one for a touchdown, in particular - gave 49ers fans hope that the teams answer to its quarterback woes may be over as soon as it finds an offensive line.The coaching staff did a much better job this week than in Smith's earlier starts in giving Smith plays from which he could make something happen. As a result Smith was able to make throws under pressure, and even on the move that helped keep the chains moving. Of course, it would be unfair for me not to acknowledge the fact that the Cardinals too, are a dreadful team.Defensively, the 49ers Derek Smith, Julian Peterson, Andre Carter and Brandon Moore had pretty solid outings. The rest of the defense, particularly the cornerbacks were outmatched. If Shawntae Spencer and Bruce Thornton are the 49ers future at cornerback than the team better find a better way to handle big, strong, Steelers 10 Santonio Holmes jersey
fast receivers like Fitzgerald and Boldin.An ugly loss to an awful team, but that has come to be the expectation for the San Francisco 49ers this season. The bright point was that Alex Smith took steps in the right direction. Hopefully he can continue to build on that improvement in the remaining four games of the season.
San Francisco 49ers "How will Jim Hostler handle Alex Smith?"
When Norv Turner left the 49ers to take over the San Diego Chargers, a lot of people thought the sky would fall in San Francisco. In just one year with the 49ers, Turner had resuscitated the offense and begun to develop Alex Smith from a raw No. 1 draft pick into a capable NFL starting quarterback. Without Turner, critics have hollered, it will all unravel. But will it? Coach Mike Nolan chose to maintain continuity by handing the offense to quarterbacks coach Jim Hostler, who has come to know Smith better than anyone over the quarterback's first two years.It goes without saying that the 49ers' continued progress under Nolan -- from 4-12 in 2005 to 7-9 last season to hopefully a winning record and playoff berth in 2007 -- will hinge largely on how Hostler and Smith perform this Steelers 43 Polamalu jersey
year.Under Hostler's guidance and running Turner's plays, Smith made satisfactory progress from Year 1 to Year 2. But the big question is: Can Hostler get Smith to go from a barely average quarterback to better than average? And how will Hostler do it? To answer those questions, we must take a look at just who Hostler is. And the answer to that is that he is a combination of four coaches: Turner, Jimmy Raye, Paul Hackett and Mike McCarthy.Hostler began his NFL career in 2000 in Kansas City, where Raye was the offensive coordinator. Hostler already had experience coaching on both sides of the ball at small colleges in Pennsylvania, but he learned the foundation of pro offenses during his one year as offensive quality control coach with the Chiefs."Not only from teaching me but also helping me along, I probably owe him the most," Hostler said of Raye. "He's a great man and was the first coach I had ever been around who had been in both systems, the digit system and the West Coast, so he knows both systems very well, which is extremely rare. Usually guys in one system stay in it. He's been able to do both." From 2001 to 2004, Hostler focused on the West Coast scheme in New Orleans and New York. Under Saints offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy -- now the Green Bay Packers' coach -- Hostler spent one year in charge of the offensive line and one coaching wide receivers. Then he was hired by the Jets in 2003 to coach quarterbacks under Hackett."Paul taught me a lot about coaching quarterbacks in the West Coast philosophy," Hostler said, "and that experience also gave me my first taste of handling the quarterbacks on game day and understanding the communication that is involved." In 2005, Hostler reunited with McCarthy in 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
San Francisco, where Hostler immediately was given the major task of turning a raw No. 1 draft pick into a winning NFL quarterback. As with most young quarterbacks, Smith struggled in his first year trying to learn the complicated West Coast scheme.After McCarthy was hired by the Packers in January 2006, Nolan brought in Turner, who switched the offense from a West Coast derivative to his version of the "Air Coryell" system -- a simpler attack that features power running and deep passes. So Hostler had to begin teaching Smith a new system, and he said he plans to stick with it because that is what Nolan wants and because it is the best way to build on the progress Smith made in 2006."I owe this coordinator job to Norv because I think it was important to coach Nolan to stick with this system and Norv taught me that system very well," Hostler said. "Between the digit system and the West Coast system, those are the two that have dominated the offenses in this league for the last 25 years. Time and time again, their success has been proven."While the 49ers will continue to build off Frank Gore and the running game, Hostler plans to rely on the other offensive tricks he has learned over the past seven years."The one thing I've learned is that it's not what a play is called, it's about what you know about a play and how you apply it," Hostler said. "Over the years, I've been around a lot of great coaches, so over time I've collected all of this information and put a lot of time into thinking how it fit me and how I would do it, and you kind of take a piece of each guy and put it together the way you want to do it." Hostler plans to follow Raye's way of mixing systems, calling plays from Turner's system while training his quarterbacks using Hackett's West Coast way. "That's really the plan," Hostler said. "We'll continue what Norv started so our young players can grow and not have to learn a new system, but we'll incorporate my touches in how to train the quarterbacks within that system and allow them to become better at what they do." In the end, Smith should be better for it because he will have a foundation in both major offensive systems. The key then will be for Hostler to call the right plays for his young quarterback. Hostler admits he does not have much experience calling plays, but he thinks his knowledge of offense will make up for it."I don't have the experience calling plays that some guys might, but no one does when they start out," he said. "But, if you have the knowledge, that will come out and you will earn everyone's confidence. I'm fine with that. I've been overachieving and fighting my way through this my whole career. That's part of the terrain. Norv Turner wasn't born Norv Turner the 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey White jersey
offensive coordinator and neither was Mike McCarthy, Jimmy Raye or Paul Hackett. That's all earned. It's about having an overall knowledge of the offense, and I have that." And Nolan thinks that will be enough to keep the sky from falling in San Francisco.Got an idea or a topic that you would like to see explored? Tell us all about it by e-mailing us at feedback . Keep track of the San Francisco 49ers and the rest of the NFL
year.Under Hostler's guidance and running Turner's plays, Smith made satisfactory progress from Year 1 to Year 2. But the big question is: Can Hostler get Smith to go from a barely average quarterback to better than average? And how will Hostler do it? To answer those questions, we must take a look at just who Hostler is. And the answer to that is that he is a combination of four coaches: Turner, Jimmy Raye, Paul Hackett and Mike McCarthy.Hostler began his NFL career in 2000 in Kansas City, where Raye was the offensive coordinator. Hostler already had experience coaching on both sides of the ball at small colleges in Pennsylvania, but he learned the foundation of pro offenses during his one year as offensive quality control coach with the Chiefs."Not only from teaching me but also helping me along, I probably owe him the most," Hostler said of Raye. "He's a great man and was the first coach I had ever been around who had been in both systems, the digit system and the West Coast, so he knows both systems very well, which is extremely rare. Usually guys in one system stay in it. He's been able to do both." From 2001 to 2004, Hostler focused on the West Coast scheme in New Orleans and New York. Under Saints offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy -- now the Green Bay Packers' coach -- Hostler spent one year in charge of the offensive line and one coaching wide receivers. Then he was hired by the Jets in 2003 to coach quarterbacks under Hackett."Paul taught me a lot about coaching quarterbacks in the West Coast philosophy," Hostler said, "and that experience also gave me my first taste of handling the quarterbacks on game day and understanding the communication that is involved." In 2005, Hostler reunited with McCarthy in 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
San Francisco, where Hostler immediately was given the major task of turning a raw No. 1 draft pick into a winning NFL quarterback. As with most young quarterbacks, Smith struggled in his first year trying to learn the complicated West Coast scheme.After McCarthy was hired by the Packers in January 2006, Nolan brought in Turner, who switched the offense from a West Coast derivative to his version of the "Air Coryell" system -- a simpler attack that features power running and deep passes. So Hostler had to begin teaching Smith a new system, and he said he plans to stick with it because that is what Nolan wants and because it is the best way to build on the progress Smith made in 2006."I owe this coordinator job to Norv because I think it was important to coach Nolan to stick with this system and Norv taught me that system very well," Hostler said. "Between the digit system and the West Coast system, those are the two that have dominated the offenses in this league for the last 25 years. Time and time again, their success has been proven."While the 49ers will continue to build off Frank Gore and the running game, Hostler plans to rely on the other offensive tricks he has learned over the past seven years."The one thing I've learned is that it's not what a play is called, it's about what you know about a play and how you apply it," Hostler said. "Over the years, I've been around a lot of great coaches, so over time I've collected all of this information and put a lot of time into thinking how it fit me and how I would do it, and you kind of take a piece of each guy and put it together the way you want to do it." Hostler plans to follow Raye's way of mixing systems, calling plays from Turner's system while training his quarterbacks using Hackett's West Coast way. "That's really the plan," Hostler said. "We'll continue what Norv started so our young players can grow and not have to learn a new system, but we'll incorporate my touches in how to train the quarterbacks within that system and allow them to become better at what they do." In the end, Smith should be better for it because he will have a foundation in both major offensive systems. The key then will be for Hostler to call the right plays for his young quarterback. Hostler admits he does not have much experience calling plays, but he thinks his knowledge of offense will make up for it."I don't have the experience calling plays that some guys might, but no one does when they start out," he said. "But, if you have the knowledge, that will come out and you will earn everyone's confidence. I'm fine with that. I've been overachieving and fighting my way through this my whole career. That's part of the terrain. Norv Turner wasn't born Norv Turner the 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey White jersey
offensive coordinator and neither was Mike McCarthy, Jimmy Raye or Paul Hackett. That's all earned. It's about having an overall knowledge of the offense, and I have that." And Nolan thinks that will be enough to keep the sky from falling in San Francisco.Got an idea or a topic that you would like to see explored? Tell us all about it by e-mailing us at feedback . Keep track of the San Francisco 49ers and the rest of the NFL
2010年12月2日星期四
Tennessee Titans Erron Kinney Ben Troupe Bo Scaife Steve McNair Billy Volek
It's not easy to name the Tennessee Titans' three tight ends. For the average football fan, it's not easy to name even one of them. However, Tennessee's trio quietly led the NFL last season for combined receptions by a group of tight ends all on one team. Erron Kinney, Ben Troupe and Bo Scaife combined for a whopping 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
147 catches in 2005, which averages out to exactly 49 receptions per player. With Billy Volek set to take the reins from Steve McNair at the quarterback position this upcoming season, the triumvirate will likely remain as important as they were last season.None of the Titans' tight ends are ostentatious or vocal, but they manage to get the job done with great production.The first piece of the puzzle is the veteran Kinney, who hauled in 55 catches for 543 yards last season. Although he only averaged 9.9 yards per reception, Kinney was a tremendous short-yardage target for both McNair and Volek in '05. As evidenced from his two touchdowns, he's not dependable as a red zone target. The 28-year-old's longest reception was only 27 yards last year, so he's not the type of athlete who can stretch the field and scare opposing defenses, a la Antonio Gates or Tony Gonzalez. However, for dependable tight ends that can be counted on for short, steady gains, Kinney takes the cake.Second in command for the Titans' threesome of tight ends is third-year man Ben Troupe, who has 88 catches in his first two seasons. The former Florida star, who was a second-round pick in 2004's draft, matched Kinney last season with 55 receptions. The 270-pound Troupe averaged 9.6 yards per catch, which was just shy of Kinney, but he doubled the veteran's touchdown production with four. Much like Kinney, Troupe's a trustworthy target who can be counted on in Norm Chow's short passing offense. Fortunately for the Titans, Troupe's the team's most adept red zone target and is also a legitimate big play threat.The third man for Tennessee is Scaife, who impressed as a rookie last season with 37 receptions. The ex-Texas standout started in five games, but appeared in all 16. The fact that he averaged under 7.5 yards per catch demonstrates just how conservative the Titans' offensive gameplan is. It tends to rely more on receivers for deep plays, while using the three tight ends as short-yardage security blankets when the quarterback is in trouble, or the Titans just need a few yards for a first down.Much like Kinney, Scaife had two touchdown receptions last season. However, his longest catch as a rookie was just 19 yards. For the ex-sixth-rounder, the '05 season was a great success. Without question, it seems as if he has a great future in front of him as a member of the Titans' short-yardage aerial attack.Next season, this trio will continue to be leaned on heavily for the Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
Tennessee Titans offense, which finished last season ranked 17th in yardage. As these tight ends would say, they aren't supposed to be contributing big gains. Instead, their intention is to serve as soft-handed behemoths who can consistently keep their quarterback happy.--Connor J
147 catches in 2005, which averages out to exactly 49 receptions per player. With Billy Volek set to take the reins from Steve McNair at the quarterback position this upcoming season, the triumvirate will likely remain as important as they were last season.None of the Titans' tight ends are ostentatious or vocal, but they manage to get the job done with great production.The first piece of the puzzle is the veteran Kinney, who hauled in 55 catches for 543 yards last season. Although he only averaged 9.9 yards per reception, Kinney was a tremendous short-yardage target for both McNair and Volek in '05. As evidenced from his two touchdowns, he's not dependable as a red zone target. The 28-year-old's longest reception was only 27 yards last year, so he's not the type of athlete who can stretch the field and scare opposing defenses, a la Antonio Gates or Tony Gonzalez. However, for dependable tight ends that can be counted on for short, steady gains, Kinney takes the cake.Second in command for the Titans' threesome of tight ends is third-year man Ben Troupe, who has 88 catches in his first two seasons. The former Florida star, who was a second-round pick in 2004's draft, matched Kinney last season with 55 receptions. The 270-pound Troupe averaged 9.6 yards per catch, which was just shy of Kinney, but he doubled the veteran's touchdown production with four. Much like Kinney, Troupe's a trustworthy target who can be counted on in Norm Chow's short passing offense. Fortunately for the Titans, Troupe's the team's most adept red zone target and is also a legitimate big play threat.The third man for Tennessee is Scaife, who impressed as a rookie last season with 37 receptions. The ex-Texas standout started in five games, but appeared in all 16. The fact that he averaged under 7.5 yards per catch demonstrates just how conservative the Titans' offensive gameplan is. It tends to rely more on receivers for deep plays, while using the three tight ends as short-yardage security blankets when the quarterback is in trouble, or the Titans just need a few yards for a first down.Much like Kinney, Scaife had two touchdown receptions last season. However, his longest catch as a rookie was just 19 yards. For the ex-sixth-rounder, the '05 season was a great success. Without question, it seems as if he has a great future in front of him as a member of the Titans' short-yardage aerial attack.Next season, this trio will continue to be leaned on heavily for the Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
Tennessee Titans offense, which finished last season ranked 17th in yardage. As these tight ends would say, they aren't supposed to be contributing big gains. Instead, their intention is to serve as soft-handed behemoths who can consistently keep their quarterback happy.--Connor J
Tennessee Titans LenDale White Donnie Nickey
Things got heated at Tennessee Titans training camp on Thursday, as rookie running back LenDale White incited a brawl with one of the team's safeties, Donnie Nickey. After bumping each other a couple times, White reportedly spit in the face of Nickey, causing an ugly pair of scuffles between the two Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
and some other Titan teammates.Nickey, in fact, took his helmet off and swung it at White during the second bout, leading head coach Jeff Fisher to go off on a verbal tirade. He claimed that a player taking his helmet off will result in a one-month suspension in the future. Afterwards, Fisher was a little calmer."Donnie understands, and LenDale understands he crossed the line. You just don't do that. It will not happen again. I assure you it will not happen again," Fisher told surrounding media members.White, who clearly had first-round talent, fell all the way to the 45th pick in April's draft, where the Titans scooped up the former USC Trojans star. Entering the proceedings, many were worried about White's perceived attitude problems. Last season, the 238-pound White had a nation-leading 26 total touchdowns and added 1,302 ground yards, helping power the men of Troy to a berth in the National Championship Game, eventually losing to the Texas Longhorns.Though White does have supreme talent, this brawl heaves more fuel onto the fire for his detractors. The bruising back may be somewhat rough around the edges, but camp fights like this are often forgotten immediately. Because of that, it's not necessarily anything to worry about. However, should it happen again, the Titans could have a few things worth fretting over.Having said that, though, there's no excuse for White to spit in anyone's face, let alone a veteran teammate. The 26-year-old Nickey may not be a household name to anyone outside Nashville, but he has been in the league for three years and deserves far more respect from a rookie teammate.At the end of the day, this kind of fierce competition is welcomed by the Tennessee Titans during the regular season. If the 22-year-old White manages to bring the same sort of passion to the game as he did in Thursday's training camp practice, he should pick up right where he left off in college - as a dominant ball carrier unafraid of any opposing defender. Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
For White everything begins this Saturday, when he and his teammates will work in cohesion to beat the New Orleans Saints in their first preseason game.--Connor J. Byrne can be reached at Sign up for our free e-mail alerts for original Titans' articles sent directly to your inbox.
and some other Titan teammates.Nickey, in fact, took his helmet off and swung it at White during the second bout, leading head coach Jeff Fisher to go off on a verbal tirade. He claimed that a player taking his helmet off will result in a one-month suspension in the future. Afterwards, Fisher was a little calmer."Donnie understands, and LenDale understands he crossed the line. You just don't do that. It will not happen again. I assure you it will not happen again," Fisher told surrounding media members.White, who clearly had first-round talent, fell all the way to the 45th pick in April's draft, where the Titans scooped up the former USC Trojans star. Entering the proceedings, many were worried about White's perceived attitude problems. Last season, the 238-pound White had a nation-leading 26 total touchdowns and added 1,302 ground yards, helping power the men of Troy to a berth in the National Championship Game, eventually losing to the Texas Longhorns.Though White does have supreme talent, this brawl heaves more fuel onto the fire for his detractors. The bruising back may be somewhat rough around the edges, but camp fights like this are often forgotten immediately. Because of that, it's not necessarily anything to worry about. However, should it happen again, the Titans could have a few things worth fretting over.Having said that, though, there's no excuse for White to spit in anyone's face, let alone a veteran teammate. The 26-year-old Nickey may not be a household name to anyone outside Nashville, but he has been in the league for three years and deserves far more respect from a rookie teammate.At the end of the day, this kind of fierce competition is welcomed by the Tennessee Titans during the regular season. If the 22-year-old White manages to bring the same sort of passion to the game as he did in Thursday's training camp practice, he should pick up right where he left off in college - as a dominant ball carrier unafraid of any opposing defender. Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
For White everything begins this Saturday, when he and his teammates will work in cohesion to beat the New Orleans Saints in their first preseason game.--Connor J. Byrne can be reached at Sign up for our free e-mail alerts for original Titans' articles sent directly to your inbox.
2010年12月1日星期三
12 Days of Christmas
To all Raider fans enduring a fourth consecutive painful season, push your Christmas décor aside, find the hole in the wall you created last Sunday during the game, sit nearby and sing:On the first day of Christmas,Al Davis sent to meAn old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the second day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to meTwo Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the third day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to meThree benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the fourth day of 10 Santonio Holmes White jersey
Christmas, Al Davis sent to meFour interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the fifth day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to meFiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubsAnd an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the sixth day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to meSix DBs hustling, Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the seventh day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to meJanikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the eighth day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to me Eight Walsh's cooking,Janikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the ninth day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to me Nine Gallery's clipping, Eight Walsh's cooking,Janikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the 10th day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to meTen Shell supporters, Nine Gallery's clipping, Eight Walsh's cooking,Janikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the 11th day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to me Eleven studs defending,Ten Shell supporters, Nine Gallery's clipping, Eight Walsh's cooking,Janikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the 12th day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to me Twelve losses and counting,Eleven studs defending,Ten Shell 10 Santonio Holmes black jersey
supporters, Nine Gallery's clipping, Eight Walsh's cooking,Janikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyyyyy!(A piece inspired by fellow RF365 columnist Os Davis).Happy Holidays from Anthony Carroll and all of us at .Want to be in the mailbag? Visit RaidersLive.com to submit your questions and comments for the Dec. 29 mailbag. (13)
Christmas, Al Davis sent to meFour interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the fifth day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to meFiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubsAnd an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the sixth day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to meSix DBs hustling, Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the seventh day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to meJanikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the eighth day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to me Eight Walsh's cooking,Janikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the ninth day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to me Nine Gallery's clipping, Eight Walsh's cooking,Janikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the 10th day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to meTen Shell supporters, Nine Gallery's clipping, Eight Walsh's cooking,Janikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the 11th day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to me Eleven studs defending,Ten Shell supporters, Nine Gallery's clipping, Eight Walsh's cooking,Janikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyy.On the 12th day of Christmas, Al Davis sent to me Twelve losses and counting,Eleven studs defending,Ten Shell 10 Santonio Holmes black jersey
supporters, Nine Gallery's clipping, Eight Walsh's cooking,Janikowski boozing, Six DBs hustling,Fiiiiiiiive linemen loooooooooost, Four interceptions, Three benched men, Two Pro Bowl snubs And an old Charles Woodson jerseyyyyyyyy!(A piece inspired by fellow RF365 columnist Os Davis).Happy Holidays from Anthony Carroll and all of us at .Want to be in the mailbag? Visit RaidersLive.com to submit your questions and comments for the Dec. 29 mailbag. (13)
Johnnie Morant "Birthday" Commentary
When thinking of the ' receiving corps, the two names that likely jump to mind for most are Randy Moss and Jerry Porter. The 29-year-old, uninterested Moss is the team's No. 1 wideout, having hauled in 40 receptions on the 12-game-old season. Porter, meanwhile, has gotten playing time in just four games and has a total of 36 Bettis Black Jersey
one reception. The highly talented target has been in head coach Art Shell's doghouse since the summer.Beyond that pair of big-name disappointments lies a group best represented by Ronald Curry, a legitimately promising 27-year-old who would probably fare much better on a different team with a better quarterbacking situation. Curry, who has 29 catches, is stuck, for some odd reason, behind No. 2 receiver Alvis Whitted, a ninth-year man who has spent the entirety of his career making virtually no impact in Jacksonville and Oakland.While Curry, the slot wideout, actually has been given a decent chance to produce this season, a forgotten man in the Raiders organization is another receiver, Johnnie Morant. Currently in his third season, Morant has just one career catch in only 12 games. The 25-year-old Morant (today's his birthday) has dressed for seven of Oakland's contests this season, but the Raiders' coaching staff treats him as though he's wearing an invisibility cloak.Morant, during his college career at Syracuse, was often the center of attention, so his NFL tenure has been disappointing. At 6-foot-4, 220 pounds, he clearly has the size to be a truly solid target for any offense, making it a wonder why he hasn't been given a fair opportunity to make an impact.Morant, who has an impressive 41-inch vertical leap and outstanding 4.4 speed, was an excellent performer at Syracuse. The New Jersey native had a 29-game reception streak and finished his career as a member of the Orange with 88 catches on 17.4 yards per grab and seven touchdowns. Thanks to his impressive numbers and scouting combine results, Morant was pegged by plenty of experts as a third-round pick. The Raiders ended up selecting him in the fifth round in 2004, and many labeled that choice as a great steal on the draft's second day. So far, though, it hasn't panned out -- especially for Morant.During the preseason back in August, the talented Morant made headlines by grabbing a 68-yard touchdown pass in a game against the Vikings. Most thought it was a sign of things to come; it proved a mere footnote in Oakland's five-game exhibition schedule."They don't make 6-4, 230-pound guys like that every day," Syracuse strength and 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
conditioning coach Will Hicks once said, referring to Morant.Perhaps Hicks should tell that to clueless Raiders head coach Art Shell, who would rather play a never-was (Whitted) and make a tall, speedy, 25-year-old a never-will-be in Oakland. For the grossly underutilized Morant, Dec. 7, 2006 isn't a very happy birthday. He can thank Shell for that.Senior Writer Anthony Carroll returns tomorrow. (26)
one reception. The highly talented target has been in head coach Art Shell's doghouse since the summer.Beyond that pair of big-name disappointments lies a group best represented by Ronald Curry, a legitimately promising 27-year-old who would probably fare much better on a different team with a better quarterbacking situation. Curry, who has 29 catches, is stuck, for some odd reason, behind No. 2 receiver Alvis Whitted, a ninth-year man who has spent the entirety of his career making virtually no impact in Jacksonville and Oakland.While Curry, the slot wideout, actually has been given a decent chance to produce this season, a forgotten man in the Raiders organization is another receiver, Johnnie Morant. Currently in his third season, Morant has just one career catch in only 12 games. The 25-year-old Morant (today's his birthday) has dressed for seven of Oakland's contests this season, but the Raiders' coaching staff treats him as though he's wearing an invisibility cloak.Morant, during his college career at Syracuse, was often the center of attention, so his NFL tenure has been disappointing. At 6-foot-4, 220 pounds, he clearly has the size to be a truly solid target for any offense, making it a wonder why he hasn't been given a fair opportunity to make an impact.Morant, who has an impressive 41-inch vertical leap and outstanding 4.4 speed, was an excellent performer at Syracuse. The New Jersey native had a 29-game reception streak and finished his career as a member of the Orange with 88 catches on 17.4 yards per grab and seven touchdowns. Thanks to his impressive numbers and scouting combine results, Morant was pegged by plenty of experts as a third-round pick. The Raiders ended up selecting him in the fifth round in 2004, and many labeled that choice as a great steal on the draft's second day. So far, though, it hasn't panned out -- especially for Morant.During the preseason back in August, the talented Morant made headlines by grabbing a 68-yard touchdown pass in a game against the Vikings. Most thought it was a sign of things to come; it proved a mere footnote in Oakland's five-game exhibition schedule."They don't make 6-4, 230-pound guys like that every day," Syracuse strength and 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
conditioning coach Will Hicks once said, referring to Morant.Perhaps Hicks should tell that to clueless Raiders head coach Art Shell, who would rather play a never-was (Whitted) and make a tall, speedy, 25-year-old a never-will-be in Oakland. For the grossly underutilized Morant, Dec. 7, 2006 isn't a very happy birthday. He can thank Shell for that.Senior Writer Anthony Carroll returns tomorrow. (26)
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