Ok, I had this written up and my Internet went Buh-Bye! Let try this againmy take on where to rack em and stack em this week.1. CavsYes, I know they had the same record this time last year.However, this year team seems to be playing better and has more momentum heading into the post season, than the team did last year.King James for MVP?I think he got it-now can he get a championship too?2. MagicOk so Vinsanity (I love that nickname) goes down with an injury and JJ Redick comes in and what? racks up 23 points, Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
eight assists and seven rebounds?As a Duke fan, I gotta say, I loved it!You never know who will step up on the offensive side with this team and the defense is ranked first overall, if I am not mistaken.They are proving to be a championship contender.3. LakersOk Reg, Im throwing you a bone here! LOLI don see them losing that No. one seed in the West, however, they looked quite beatable in OKC.Can they be beat in a seven game series?Only time will tell.4. SunsThey have the longest current win streak in the NBA at eight.Robin Lopez is out with a bulging disk and I will admit that worried me.However, the team has stepped up and continues to play defense, something unheard of in the desert.The way they are playing makes a lof of the West scared to meet them in the playoffs.5. Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
JazzThey are playing pretty darn good ball up there in Utah and they are doing it with plenty of injuries.Another team that is a force to be reckoned with in the West.6. Mavs-Dirk finally put up some superstar numbers and they are going to be needed come playoff time.7. PortlandOk, officially I think, this is the team no one wants to meet come playoff time.Too bad front office drama is spilling out and could cause a distraction.8. DenverThey had a 1-4 road trip, but luckily for them, they play five of their last seven at home where they are 30-6 this season.Nothing will matter though, if they have to head into the postseason without Karl.9. HawksThey beat the Magic this past week and face the Cavs and Lakers this week.They need wins over those two teams to show they can, hang with the big boys.10. ThunderYes, they completely SQUASHED the Lakers the other night, however, I don think they want to face them come playoff time.Only 1/2 game separates OKC, Portland and the Spurs in the sixthReebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
through eight seedings in the West. A 2-2 homestand isn going to cut it if they want to go in as a higher seed some playoff time, and those narrow losses to the Spurs and Blazers only hurt that much more. Tilly is a Jabberhead and Sports Jabber Contributing Author.
2010年12月30日星期四
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 Dallas Mavericks-San Antonio Spurs: NBA Playoffs, Preview and Prediction
Dallas Mavericks vs. San Antonio SpursSeason Series: Dallas 3-1(This is just a preview for one of the eight games, to see all, click here)Come playoff time in the Western Conference, in recent years if you don't see Dirk Nowitzki and hisDallas Mavericks near the top of the standings and contending for the championship, then you'vebeen watching the Japanese Basketball League.Anyone who is a fan of the game knows year-in and year-out that the Mavericks will play a full 48 minutes of hard-nosed basketball in order to knock off their Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
opponent, and this year should be no different.It will be tougher considering that the Western Conference is stacked withall playoff teams having 50+ wins (Oklahoma is the eighthseed with50 wins). Through the season the Mavericks havedone everything they can to improvethemselves by trading away Josh Howard and DrewGoodenfor Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood.Butler (who is currently battling a sore hip), has been sensational offensively since arriving, putting up more points than Josh Howard had averaged.The addition of Haywood has added a young defensiveminded presence to the Mavs' team. I'll take the younger big man who's averaging just under Gooden's point totals, but is ahead of him in rebounds, blocks, and assist-to-turnover ratio, and who does it all while committing less fouls per game. In my mind, it was an extremely smart pick up and will only help Dallas for years to come.The starting line consists of Jason Kidd, who seems to have been in the league forever, Caron Butler/Jason Terry, Shawn Marion, Dirk Nowitzki, and Erick Dampier, with Haywood coming off the bench.Unfortunately for the Mavericks, they picked up Tim Thomas, who over nine seasons has played with seven teams, and his constant poor attitude and conditioning kept showing him the door. But this year was different. In early 2010, when Thomas vanished and was nowhere to be found on the Mavericks' starting roster, many suspected that something had happened that made the Mavs cut ties with Thomas. Nottrue.In actuality, he was playing some of the best basketball of his career and not creating any fuss in the locker room, but it was his wife has fallen ill (illness unknown) and Thomas stated, "I have to give up what I love, to take care of someone I love." It's a stand-up decision, and whatever illness may your wife be battling Thomas, I wish the both of you the best of luck.The Mavs, with or without Thomas, are going to be an extremely hard team to beat due to a vast amount of Kansas City Chiefs jersey
experience tied in with a vast amount of talent.TheSan Antonio Spurs, along with the L.A. Lakers, have combined to win seven of the last 10 NBA Championships, and will be looking to keep the tradition alive. And to be quite honest, it is possible. Much like the Dallas Mavericks, the Spurs have a wide variety of talent that has played together for numerous years, and because of it they are very hard to beat come playoff time.The trio of Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobilli, and Tony Parker is quite possible the most well known three players on any team in basketball. More than Kobe, Gasol, and anyone else, more than Melo, Billups and an unknown. The only comparison is Garnett, Pierce and Allen, but they were all paired up near the end of their careers to win a championship. The Spurs already have three under their belt.Along with the trio, San Antonio starts Richard Jefferson at small forward and Antonio McDyess at center and when either Ginobilli or Parker need a break, 2008 first-round draft pick George Hill comes in to relieve his teammates and give them some much needed rest.The Spurs can also put young big man DeJuan Blair into the game when Duncan needs a break. Overall, the Spurs have a lot of talent, and it doesn't matter who they are playing, whether it be the Lakers, Mavericks, Suns, Jazz or anyone else, the Spurs know how to win.Even MyDress is underrated and overshadowed in San Antonio due to the fact that everyone loves the big, fundamental Tim Duncan.The biggest concern I have going Miami Dolphins jersey
into the 2010 NBA Playoffs is the following...Bruce Bowen retired. After last season Bowen, who has been selected to either the first or second All-NBA Defensive Team a total of eight times during his career, called it quits.The Spurs lost not only one of the greatest defenders in the history of the game, but also a leader by voice and by example. He was there for their three titles in '03, '05, and '07. The Spurs can give any team a run for their money, but it will be extremely evident how much they miss Bowen come the end of this series.The Coach's Pick:Mavericks in six
opponent, and this year should be no different.It will be tougher considering that the Western Conference is stacked withall playoff teams having 50+ wins (Oklahoma is the eighthseed with50 wins). Through the season the Mavericks havedone everything they can to improvethemselves by trading away Josh Howard and DrewGoodenfor Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood.Butler (who is currently battling a sore hip), has been sensational offensively since arriving, putting up more points than Josh Howard had averaged.The addition of Haywood has added a young defensiveminded presence to the Mavs' team. I'll take the younger big man who's averaging just under Gooden's point totals, but is ahead of him in rebounds, blocks, and assist-to-turnover ratio, and who does it all while committing less fouls per game. In my mind, it was an extremely smart pick up and will only help Dallas for years to come.The starting line consists of Jason Kidd, who seems to have been in the league forever, Caron Butler/Jason Terry, Shawn Marion, Dirk Nowitzki, and Erick Dampier, with Haywood coming off the bench.Unfortunately for the Mavericks, they picked up Tim Thomas, who over nine seasons has played with seven teams, and his constant poor attitude and conditioning kept showing him the door. But this year was different. In early 2010, when Thomas vanished and was nowhere to be found on the Mavericks' starting roster, many suspected that something had happened that made the Mavs cut ties with Thomas. Nottrue.In actuality, he was playing some of the best basketball of his career and not creating any fuss in the locker room, but it was his wife has fallen ill (illness unknown) and Thomas stated, "I have to give up what I love, to take care of someone I love." It's a stand-up decision, and whatever illness may your wife be battling Thomas, I wish the both of you the best of luck.The Mavs, with or without Thomas, are going to be an extremely hard team to beat due to a vast amount of Kansas City Chiefs jersey
experience tied in with a vast amount of talent.TheSan Antonio Spurs, along with the L.A. Lakers, have combined to win seven of the last 10 NBA Championships, and will be looking to keep the tradition alive. And to be quite honest, it is possible. Much like the Dallas Mavericks, the Spurs have a wide variety of talent that has played together for numerous years, and because of it they are very hard to beat come playoff time.The trio of Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobilli, and Tony Parker is quite possible the most well known three players on any team in basketball. More than Kobe, Gasol, and anyone else, more than Melo, Billups and an unknown. The only comparison is Garnett, Pierce and Allen, but they were all paired up near the end of their careers to win a championship. The Spurs already have three under their belt.Along with the trio, San Antonio starts Richard Jefferson at small forward and Antonio McDyess at center and when either Ginobilli or Parker need a break, 2008 first-round draft pick George Hill comes in to relieve his teammates and give them some much needed rest.The Spurs can also put young big man DeJuan Blair into the game when Duncan needs a break. Overall, the Spurs have a lot of talent, and it doesn't matter who they are playing, whether it be the Lakers, Mavericks, Suns, Jazz or anyone else, the Spurs know how to win.Even MyDress is underrated and overshadowed in San Antonio due to the fact that everyone loves the big, fundamental Tim Duncan.The biggest concern I have going Miami Dolphins jersey
into the 2010 NBA Playoffs is the following...Bruce Bowen retired. After last season Bowen, who has been selected to either the first or second All-NBA Defensive Team a total of eight times during his career, called it quits.The Spurs lost not only one of the greatest defenders in the history of the game, but also a leader by voice and by example. He was there for their three titles in '03, '05, and '07. The Spurs can give any team a run for their money, but it will be extremely evident how much they miss Bowen come the end of this series.The Coach's Pick:Mavericks in six
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 Kobe Bryant Would've Failed in the NBA Without Being Rescued by the LA Lakers
Only nine seconds still grace the scoreboard and the shot clock is turned off. Everyone in the arena knows who is going to get the ball, but not much can be done to stop him.He receives the ball right off of the left elbow, backing into another unwary young shooting guard just waiting to be violated. What happens Houston Texans jersey
next is what created the phenomenon: Kobe! Kobe! Kobe!For the last 14 years, Kobe Bryant has captivated fans of all ages for the Los Angeles Lakerslove him or hate himhe does it quite well.But as millions of us continue to chant MVP to no avail, one must wonder, what would the NBA be like if Kobe wasn dressed in purple and gold? Would he be known more commonly as just Bryant?Simply putabsolutely.In the 1996 NBA Draft, Kobe Bryant was picked 13th overall by the Charlotte Hornets at the age of 17, and was then traded to the Lakers.When Bryant first entered the league, he was surrounded by extreme talentthough he was criticized by scouts for his size and cocky demeanor. However, since Bryant had the opportunity to play around future stars like Shaquille ONeal and Derek Fisher for the majority of his career, his mantra was born.If Bryant would have stayed in Charlotte, however, his legacy may tell a completely different storyor may have been nonexistent.Before the higher education policy of the NBA implemented preceding the 2005 season, prep-to-pro phenoms were deemed saviors by their respect teams, and thus, immense amounts of pressure were placed on athletes still too young to buy a pack of cigarettes.Few players are truly ready for the NBA Indianapolis Colts jersey
at such a young ageLeBron James and Dwight Howard are good examples.However, unlike these future Hall of Famers, Bryant would have been placed into a small Charlotte market that didn have a lot of time to wait for a young athlete to develop physically and he may have fallen by the wayside.Small programs do not have the time or the resources to culture draftees for multiple years without a supporting roster to balance the load.Bryant also had another asset in his corner: aphenomenalfront office staff, coupled with the coaching genius of Phil Jackson, who knows how to deal with young talent.In his first two seasons, Bryant started only seven games out of the 150 that he appeared in. During his third season (1998-99), he started all 50 games that he played in. Then with the help of Shaquille O'Neal, Bryant won a championship ring in just his fourth season.The same fate may have game for Oklahoma City star, Kevin Durant, who played his first two seasons in the dismal professional basketball market of Seattle.Durant nearly stole an opening-round series from the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers last week, but may have never gotten the opportunity if he would've remained in the unfriendly Northwest sports realm.Durant has since developed into aJacksonville Jaguars jersey
superstar at the ripe old age of 21, with future Western Conference dominance on the horizon for the young OKC squad.Bryant owes all of his success to the patience of the Lakers front office, and the support of star heavyweights like Robert Horry and O'Neal, though basketball fans need rejoice more for the 31-year-old superstarbecause without him, we would have no one to compare LeBron James to.
next is what created the phenomenon: Kobe! Kobe! Kobe!For the last 14 years, Kobe Bryant has captivated fans of all ages for the Los Angeles Lakerslove him or hate himhe does it quite well.But as millions of us continue to chant MVP to no avail, one must wonder, what would the NBA be like if Kobe wasn dressed in purple and gold? Would he be known more commonly as just Bryant?Simply putabsolutely.In the 1996 NBA Draft, Kobe Bryant was picked 13th overall by the Charlotte Hornets at the age of 17, and was then traded to the Lakers.When Bryant first entered the league, he was surrounded by extreme talentthough he was criticized by scouts for his size and cocky demeanor. However, since Bryant had the opportunity to play around future stars like Shaquille ONeal and Derek Fisher for the majority of his career, his mantra was born.If Bryant would have stayed in Charlotte, however, his legacy may tell a completely different storyor may have been nonexistent.Before the higher education policy of the NBA implemented preceding the 2005 season, prep-to-pro phenoms were deemed saviors by their respect teams, and thus, immense amounts of pressure were placed on athletes still too young to buy a pack of cigarettes.Few players are truly ready for the NBA Indianapolis Colts jersey
at such a young ageLeBron James and Dwight Howard are good examples.However, unlike these future Hall of Famers, Bryant would have been placed into a small Charlotte market that didn have a lot of time to wait for a young athlete to develop physically and he may have fallen by the wayside.Small programs do not have the time or the resources to culture draftees for multiple years without a supporting roster to balance the load.Bryant also had another asset in his corner: aphenomenalfront office staff, coupled with the coaching genius of Phil Jackson, who knows how to deal with young talent.In his first two seasons, Bryant started only seven games out of the 150 that he appeared in. During his third season (1998-99), he started all 50 games that he played in. Then with the help of Shaquille O'Neal, Bryant won a championship ring in just his fourth season.The same fate may have game for Oklahoma City star, Kevin Durant, who played his first two seasons in the dismal professional basketball market of Seattle.Durant nearly stole an opening-round series from the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers last week, but may have never gotten the opportunity if he would've remained in the unfriendly Northwest sports realm.Durant has since developed into aJacksonville Jaguars jersey
superstar at the ripe old age of 21, with future Western Conference dominance on the horizon for the young OKC squad.Bryant owes all of his success to the patience of the Lakers front office, and the support of star heavyweights like Robert Horry and O'Neal, though basketball fans need rejoice more for the 31-year-old superstarbecause without him, we would have no one to compare LeBron James to.
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 Los Angeles Lakers: How Six More Wins Can Cement Kobe Bryant's Legacy
Harry How/Getty ImagesKobe Bryant is the single most polarizing NBA player of this generation.He is both globally loved and loathed. Laker fans jump to his defense when they hear any disparaging word, while his detractors relish in every single one of his failures.Bryant is either a fierce warrior who drives Baltimore Ravens jersey
his team to victory or a selfish dictator who saps the confidence from his teammates. It just depends who you ask.He is either a rapist who should be incarcerated or the victim of a fame-hungry floozy in search of money. It just depends who you ask.Kobe is either a soulless, derivative force that succeeds in spite of himself or a misunderstood superstar on a never-ending search to be loved. It just depends on who you ask.Despite the vigor with which people show their emotions toward him and despite the awards and championships he has won, there has been only one constant in Kobe Bryant's career: It has been plagued by a massive shadow of doubt.That shadow of doubt was cast immediately after Kobe stepped to the podium at Lower Merion High School and smugly announced his intention to enter the NBA draft right out of high school. People wondered aloud whether he was mature enough to handle the rigors of being an NBA player. Consequently, he fell to thirteenth to the Charlotte Hornets in the 1996 Draft.The shadow grew even larger when Bryant's agent let it be known Kobe wouldn't play in Charlotte, which led to the famous Kobe-for-Vlade Divac trade.After a complete choke-job during the 1996 playoffs against the Utah Jazz in which Bryant shot three air balls in crunch time, the criticism changed from his maturity level to whether Kobe was even good enough to be an NBA player.Kobe then squashed that criticism over the next few seasons, becoming a crunch-time scorer, an All-Defense and All-NBA selection, and one of the three alpha dogs that led the Lakers to back-to-back titles in 2000-2001.After the second title, most fans began wondering aloud who the true catalyst for the Lakers' success was. Was it Phil Jackson, the "Zen Master," who had already led Michael Jordan's Bulls to six NBA championships in the 1990s? Was it Shaquille O'Neal, the most dominating big-man since Wilt Chamberlain? Or was it Kobe Bryant, the up-and-coming superstar who had already heard comparisons to the aforementioned Michael Jordan?Well, Kobe sure thought he was the catalyst.Throughout the next three seasons (which include one title), the Lakers locker room was divided by constant in-fighting and bickering, Buffalo Bills jersey
both in the media and behind the scenes.Basically, you were in Camp Shaq/Phil or Camp Kobe. There was no middle ground.The masses all piled into Camp Shaq/Phil in the summer of 2003 when Bryant was accused of raping a woman in Eagle, CO. The media once portrayed Bryant as a clean-cut family man who some would even call "boring." But following his indictment, many wondered if we ever knew Kobe Bryant at all.The shadow of doubt continued to rear its ugly head following the 2004 NBA Finals as fans and media alike wondered whether Kobe would allow his ego to destroy a juggernaut Lakers team that could be dominant for years.Well, now we know the rest of the story. It's been told. A lot. (If you don't know, just pick up Phil Jackson's book The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul , and it will tell you everything you need to know). After Phil and Shaq's departure, doubt grew even more as Laker fans and the media vocally wondered if Kobe could win without them.Following that break-up was a three-year stretch where, at best, Kobe acted like a petulant child without his binky. At worst, he was the reincarnation of the devil himself.Bryant barked at teammates, quit during games, wore on fans, and irreparably damaged his image. Oh yeah, he also put together one of the most dominating individual stretches of basketball in NBA history and lead teams to the playoffs that started the likes of "Smush" Parker, Chris Mihm, Brian Cook, Vladimir Radmanovic, and Kwame Brown.Not exactly the 1986 Celtics.The "can't win without Shaq" criticism continued until last season when the Lakers won the NBA championship five seasons after the Big Aristotle's departure.All shadows gone from a brilliant career, right?. . . Not quite.There are still two massive shadows that Kobe must compete with: Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan.The competition with Magic Johnson is quite simple: Who is the greatest Laker of all-time?The MJ one, however, is much more complex. As previously mentioned, Kobe began drawing Jordan comparisons very early in his career. And it wasn't by mistake.Kobe modeled his game after Jordan and attempted to do everything he possibly could do to emulate his idol. Some of his critics even called it an obsession. The Jordan-Kobe comparisons are spot-on. They are both incredibly intelligent basketball minds, both are extremely demanding teammates, both are disgustingly sore losers, and both certainly are the top two shooting guards ofCarolina Panthers jersey
all-time.The problem is, Jordan was better. And knowing that has given Bryant the ultimate Napoleon complex.So, what is the point in all of this? Why bring up all of Kobe's old criticisms?Because Kobe Bryant is six wins away from extinguishing any shadow left on his NBA career.With the Lakers currently up 2-0 on the Suns, they are almost assuredly on their way to the franchise's seventh NBA Finals appearance in eleven yearsa feat only eclipsed by Russell's Celtics and Magic's Lakers.Given the improvements to the competitive balance of the game, you could argue that Kobe's feat is better than the aforementioned dynasties.If, as favored, the Lakers do win the six games necessary for the 2010 NBA titleBryant's fifththe new question becomes how highly do you place Kobe Bryant among the greats of all time?I say no lower than fifth.You can debate your top five all you want, because after number one, it's debatable. (For full disclosure, here is my current top 10: Jordan, Kareem, Russell, Magic, Wilt, Bird, Kobe, Oscar, West, Shaq).If the 2010 Lakers win the NBA title, Kobe simply vaults Bird andWilt into the top five.Why?Well, first let's take care of Bird.Bird: 13 seasons; 12 All-Stars; 10 All-NBA selections; 3 All-Defensive Team selections; 3 MVP's; 3 NBA Titles; 21,791 Points; 5,695 Assists; 9,874 Rebounds.Kobe: 14 Seasons; 12 All-Stars; 12 All-NBA selections; 10 All-Defensive Team selections; 1 MVP; 5 NBA Titles; 25,790 Points; 4,766 Assists; 5,410 Rebounds.The only two places where Kobe loses by a significant margin are MVP's and rebounds. On the other hand, Kobe is a far superior defensive player, better scorer, and has won more championships.Don't get me wrong, if Bird's back doesn't go out on him this very easily could have gone the other way, but Kobe has both better stats and more rings.As for Wilt, there is absolutely no individual statistical way you can possibly defend saying Kobe is better, and that's the problem: It was always about stats for Wilt.There have been countless tales about Wilt overpowering 6'4" white guys and scoring 50.1 PPG. But there have also been just as many stories about Chamberlain's petulant babyish attitude that would make Kobe's greatest temper tantrum Chicago Bears jersey
eem like a minor complaint.Winners win championships. Wilt won scoring titles. Edge to Kobe.Do you want to know the greatest part of this? Kobe is nowhere near finished.This Lakers team, as currently constituted, could be a top-tier team for three or four more years.If Bryant finishes with six titles and eclipses Kareem's all-time scoring record (both semi-realistic), how great does that make him?Better than Jordan?I don't know.I just know one thing: Writing this will either make me someone who finally recognizes how great Kobe is or a complete moron. It just depends who you ask.
his team to victory or a selfish dictator who saps the confidence from his teammates. It just depends who you ask.He is either a rapist who should be incarcerated or the victim of a fame-hungry floozy in search of money. It just depends who you ask.Kobe is either a soulless, derivative force that succeeds in spite of himself or a misunderstood superstar on a never-ending search to be loved. It just depends on who you ask.Despite the vigor with which people show their emotions toward him and despite the awards and championships he has won, there has been only one constant in Kobe Bryant's career: It has been plagued by a massive shadow of doubt.That shadow of doubt was cast immediately after Kobe stepped to the podium at Lower Merion High School and smugly announced his intention to enter the NBA draft right out of high school. People wondered aloud whether he was mature enough to handle the rigors of being an NBA player. Consequently, he fell to thirteenth to the Charlotte Hornets in the 1996 Draft.The shadow grew even larger when Bryant's agent let it be known Kobe wouldn't play in Charlotte, which led to the famous Kobe-for-Vlade Divac trade.After a complete choke-job during the 1996 playoffs against the Utah Jazz in which Bryant shot three air balls in crunch time, the criticism changed from his maturity level to whether Kobe was even good enough to be an NBA player.Kobe then squashed that criticism over the next few seasons, becoming a crunch-time scorer, an All-Defense and All-NBA selection, and one of the three alpha dogs that led the Lakers to back-to-back titles in 2000-2001.After the second title, most fans began wondering aloud who the true catalyst for the Lakers' success was. Was it Phil Jackson, the "Zen Master," who had already led Michael Jordan's Bulls to six NBA championships in the 1990s? Was it Shaquille O'Neal, the most dominating big-man since Wilt Chamberlain? Or was it Kobe Bryant, the up-and-coming superstar who had already heard comparisons to the aforementioned Michael Jordan?Well, Kobe sure thought he was the catalyst.Throughout the next three seasons (which include one title), the Lakers locker room was divided by constant in-fighting and bickering, Buffalo Bills jersey
both in the media and behind the scenes.Basically, you were in Camp Shaq/Phil or Camp Kobe. There was no middle ground.The masses all piled into Camp Shaq/Phil in the summer of 2003 when Bryant was accused of raping a woman in Eagle, CO. The media once portrayed Bryant as a clean-cut family man who some would even call "boring." But following his indictment, many wondered if we ever knew Kobe Bryant at all.The shadow of doubt continued to rear its ugly head following the 2004 NBA Finals as fans and media alike wondered whether Kobe would allow his ego to destroy a juggernaut Lakers team that could be dominant for years.Well, now we know the rest of the story. It's been told. A lot. (If you don't know, just pick up Phil Jackson's book The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul , and it will tell you everything you need to know). After Phil and Shaq's departure, doubt grew even more as Laker fans and the media vocally wondered if Kobe could win without them.Following that break-up was a three-year stretch where, at best, Kobe acted like a petulant child without his binky. At worst, he was the reincarnation of the devil himself.Bryant barked at teammates, quit during games, wore on fans, and irreparably damaged his image. Oh yeah, he also put together one of the most dominating individual stretches of basketball in NBA history and lead teams to the playoffs that started the likes of "Smush" Parker, Chris Mihm, Brian Cook, Vladimir Radmanovic, and Kwame Brown.Not exactly the 1986 Celtics.The "can't win without Shaq" criticism continued until last season when the Lakers won the NBA championship five seasons after the Big Aristotle's departure.All shadows gone from a brilliant career, right?. . . Not quite.There are still two massive shadows that Kobe must compete with: Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan.The competition with Magic Johnson is quite simple: Who is the greatest Laker of all-time?The MJ one, however, is much more complex. As previously mentioned, Kobe began drawing Jordan comparisons very early in his career. And it wasn't by mistake.Kobe modeled his game after Jordan and attempted to do everything he possibly could do to emulate his idol. Some of his critics even called it an obsession. The Jordan-Kobe comparisons are spot-on. They are both incredibly intelligent basketball minds, both are extremely demanding teammates, both are disgustingly sore losers, and both certainly are the top two shooting guards ofCarolina Panthers jersey
all-time.The problem is, Jordan was better. And knowing that has given Bryant the ultimate Napoleon complex.So, what is the point in all of this? Why bring up all of Kobe's old criticisms?Because Kobe Bryant is six wins away from extinguishing any shadow left on his NBA career.With the Lakers currently up 2-0 on the Suns, they are almost assuredly on their way to the franchise's seventh NBA Finals appearance in eleven yearsa feat only eclipsed by Russell's Celtics and Magic's Lakers.Given the improvements to the competitive balance of the game, you could argue that Kobe's feat is better than the aforementioned dynasties.If, as favored, the Lakers do win the six games necessary for the 2010 NBA titleBryant's fifththe new question becomes how highly do you place Kobe Bryant among the greats of all time?I say no lower than fifth.You can debate your top five all you want, because after number one, it's debatable. (For full disclosure, here is my current top 10: Jordan, Kareem, Russell, Magic, Wilt, Bird, Kobe, Oscar, West, Shaq).If the 2010 Lakers win the NBA title, Kobe simply vaults Bird andWilt into the top five.Why?Well, first let's take care of Bird.Bird: 13 seasons; 12 All-Stars; 10 All-NBA selections; 3 All-Defensive Team selections; 3 MVP's; 3 NBA Titles; 21,791 Points; 5,695 Assists; 9,874 Rebounds.Kobe: 14 Seasons; 12 All-Stars; 12 All-NBA selections; 10 All-Defensive Team selections; 1 MVP; 5 NBA Titles; 25,790 Points; 4,766 Assists; 5,410 Rebounds.The only two places where Kobe loses by a significant margin are MVP's and rebounds. On the other hand, Kobe is a far superior defensive player, better scorer, and has won more championships.Don't get me wrong, if Bird's back doesn't go out on him this very easily could have gone the other way, but Kobe has both better stats and more rings.As for Wilt, there is absolutely no individual statistical way you can possibly defend saying Kobe is better, and that's the problem: It was always about stats for Wilt.There have been countless tales about Wilt overpowering 6'4" white guys and scoring 50.1 PPG. But there have also been just as many stories about Chamberlain's petulant babyish attitude that would make Kobe's greatest temper tantrum Chicago Bears jersey
eem like a minor complaint.Winners win championships. Wilt won scoring titles. Edge to Kobe.Do you want to know the greatest part of this? Kobe is nowhere near finished.This Lakers team, as currently constituted, could be a top-tier team for three or four more years.If Bryant finishes with six titles and eclipses Kareem's all-time scoring record (both semi-realistic), how great does that make him?Better than Jordan?I don't know.I just know one thing: Writing this will either make me someone who finally recognizes how great Kobe is or a complete moron. It just depends who you ask.
27 Dec 10 Los Angeles Lakers: How Six More Wins Can Cement Kobe Bryant's Legacy
Harry How/Getty ImagesKobe Bryant is the single most polarizing NBA player of this generation.He is both globally loved and loathed. Laker fans jump to his defense when they hear any disparaging word, while his detractors relish in every single one of his failures.Bryant is either a fierce warrior who drives Baltimore Ravens jersey
his team to victory or a selfish dictator who saps the confidence from his teammates. It just depends who you ask.He is either a rapist who should be incarcerated or the victim of a fame-hungry floozy in search of money. It just depends who you ask.Kobe is either a soulless, derivative force that succeeds in spite of himself or a misunderstood superstar on a never-ending search to be loved. It just depends on who you ask.Despite the vigor with which people show their emotions toward him and despite the awards and championships he has won, there has been only one constant in Kobe Bryant's career: It has been plagued by a massive shadow of doubt.That shadow of doubt was cast immediately after Kobe stepped to the podium at Lower Merion High School and smugly announced his intention to enter the NBA draft right out of high school. People wondered aloud whether he was mature enough to handle the rigors of being an NBA player. Consequently, he fell to thirteenth to the Charlotte Hornets in the 1996 Draft.The shadow grew even larger when Bryant's agent let it be known Kobe wouldn't play in Charlotte, which led to the famous Kobe-for-Vlade Divac trade.After a complete choke-job during the 1996 playoffs against the Utah Jazz in which Bryant shot three air balls in crunch time, the criticism changed from his maturity level to whether Kobe was even good enough to be an NBA player.Kobe then squashed that criticism over the next few seasons, becoming a crunch-time scorer, an All-Defense and All-NBA selection, and one of the three alpha dogs that led the Lakers to back-to-back titles in 2000-2001.After the second title, most fans began wondering aloud who the true catalyst for the Lakers' success was. Was it Phil Jackson, the "Zen Master," who had already led Michael Jordan's Bulls to six NBA championships in the 1990s? Was it Shaquille O'Neal, the most dominating big-man since Wilt Chamberlain? Or was it Kobe Bryant, the up-and-coming superstar who had already heard comparisons to the aforementioned Michael Jordan?Well, Kobe sure thought he was the catalyst.Throughout the next three seasons (which include one title), the Lakers locker room was divided by constant in-fighting and bickering, Buffalo Bills jersey
both in the media and behind the scenes.Basically, you were in Camp Shaq/Phil or Camp Kobe. There was no middle ground.The masses all piled into Camp Shaq/Phil in the summer of 2003 when Bryant was accused of raping a woman in Eagle, CO. The media once portrayed Bryant as a clean-cut family man who some would even call "boring." But following his indictment, many wondered if we ever knew Kobe Bryant at all.The shadow of doubt continued to rear its ugly head following the 2004 NBA Finals as fans and media alike wondered whether Kobe would allow his ego to destroy a juggernaut Lakers team that could be dominant for years.Well, now we know the rest of the story. It's been told. A lot. (If you don't know, just pick up Phil Jackson's book The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul , and it will tell you everything you need to know). After Phil and Shaq's departure, doubt grew even more as Laker fans and the media vocally wondered if Kobe could win without them.Following that break-up was a three-year stretch where, at best, Kobe acted like a petulant child without his binky. At worst, he was the reincarnation of the devil himself.Bryant barked at teammates, quit during games, wore on fans, and irreparably damaged his image. Oh yeah, he also put together one of the most dominating individual stretches of basketball in NBA history and lead teams to the playoffs that started the likes of "Smush" Parker, Chris Mihm, Brian Cook, Vladimir Radmanovic, and Kwame Brown.Not exactly the 1986 Celtics.The "can't win without Shaq" criticism continued until last season when the Lakers won the NBA championship five seasons after the Big Aristotle's departure.All shadows gone from a brilliant career, right?. . . Not quite.There are still two massive shadows that Kobe must compete with: Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan.The competition with Magic Johnson is quite simple: Who is the greatest Laker of all-time?The MJ one, however, is much more complex. As previously mentioned, Kobe began drawing Jordan comparisons very early in his career. And it wasn't by mistake.Kobe modeled his game after Jordan and attempted to do everything he possibly could do to emulate his idol. Some of his critics even called it an obsession. The Jordan-Kobe comparisons are spot-on. They are both incredibly intelligent basketball minds, both are extremely demanding teammates, both are disgustingly sore losers, and both certainly are the top two shooting guards ofCarolina Panthers jersey
all-time.The problem is, Jordan was better. And knowing that has given Bryant the ultimate Napoleon complex.So, what is the point in all of this? Why bring up all of Kobe's old criticisms?Because Kobe Bryant is six wins away from extinguishing any shadow left on his NBA career.With the Lakers currently up 2-0 on the Suns, they are almost assuredly on their way to the franchise's seventh NBA Finals appearance in eleven yearsa feat only eclipsed by Russell's Celtics and Magic's Lakers.Given the improvements to the competitive balance of the game, you could argue that Kobe's feat is better than the aforementioned dynasties.If, as favored, the Lakers do win the six games necessary for the 2010 NBA titleBryant's fifththe new question becomes how highly do you place Kobe Bryant among the greats of all time?I say no lower than fifth.You can debate your top five all you want, because after number one, it's debatable. (For full disclosure, here is my current top 10: Jordan, Kareem, Russell, Magic, Wilt, Bird, Kobe, Oscar, West, Shaq).If the 2010 Lakers win the NBA title, Kobe simply vaults Bird andWilt into the top five.Why?Well, first let's take care of Bird.Bird: 13 seasons; 12 All-Stars; 10 All-NBA selections; 3 All-Defensive Team selections; 3 MVP's; 3 NBA Titles; 21,791 Points; 5,695 Assists; 9,874 Rebounds.Kobe: 14 Seasons; 12 All-Stars; 12 All-NBA selections; 10 All-Defensive Team selections; 1 MVP; 5 NBA Titles; 25,790 Points; 4,766 Assists; 5,410 Rebounds.The only two places where Kobe loses by a significant margin are MVP's and rebounds. On the other hand, Kobe is a far superior defensive player, better scorer, and has won more championships.Don't get me wrong, if Bird's back doesn't go out on him this very easily could have gone the other way, but Kobe has both better stats and more rings.As for Wilt, there is absolutely no individual statistical way you can possibly defend saying Kobe is better, and that's the problem: It was always about stats for Wilt.There have been countless tales about Wilt overpowering 6'4" white guys and scoring 50.1 PPG. But there have also been just as many stories about Chamberlain's petulant babyish attitude that would make Kobe's greatest temper tantrum Chicago Bears jersey
eem like a minor complaint.Winners win championships. Wilt won scoring titles. Edge to Kobe.Do you want to know the greatest part of this? Kobe is nowhere near finished.This Lakers team, as currently constituted, could be a top-tier team for three or four more years.If Bryant finishes with six titles and eclipses Kareem's all-time scoring record (both semi-realistic), how great does that make him?Better than Jordan?I don't know.I just know one thing: Writing this will either make me someone who finally recognizes how great Kobe is or a complete moron. It just depends who you ask.
his team to victory or a selfish dictator who saps the confidence from his teammates. It just depends who you ask.He is either a rapist who should be incarcerated or the victim of a fame-hungry floozy in search of money. It just depends who you ask.Kobe is either a soulless, derivative force that succeeds in spite of himself or a misunderstood superstar on a never-ending search to be loved. It just depends on who you ask.Despite the vigor with which people show their emotions toward him and despite the awards and championships he has won, there has been only one constant in Kobe Bryant's career: It has been plagued by a massive shadow of doubt.That shadow of doubt was cast immediately after Kobe stepped to the podium at Lower Merion High School and smugly announced his intention to enter the NBA draft right out of high school. People wondered aloud whether he was mature enough to handle the rigors of being an NBA player. Consequently, he fell to thirteenth to the Charlotte Hornets in the 1996 Draft.The shadow grew even larger when Bryant's agent let it be known Kobe wouldn't play in Charlotte, which led to the famous Kobe-for-Vlade Divac trade.After a complete choke-job during the 1996 playoffs against the Utah Jazz in which Bryant shot three air balls in crunch time, the criticism changed from his maturity level to whether Kobe was even good enough to be an NBA player.Kobe then squashed that criticism over the next few seasons, becoming a crunch-time scorer, an All-Defense and All-NBA selection, and one of the three alpha dogs that led the Lakers to back-to-back titles in 2000-2001.After the second title, most fans began wondering aloud who the true catalyst for the Lakers' success was. Was it Phil Jackson, the "Zen Master," who had already led Michael Jordan's Bulls to six NBA championships in the 1990s? Was it Shaquille O'Neal, the most dominating big-man since Wilt Chamberlain? Or was it Kobe Bryant, the up-and-coming superstar who had already heard comparisons to the aforementioned Michael Jordan?Well, Kobe sure thought he was the catalyst.Throughout the next three seasons (which include one title), the Lakers locker room was divided by constant in-fighting and bickering, Buffalo Bills jersey
both in the media and behind the scenes.Basically, you were in Camp Shaq/Phil or Camp Kobe. There was no middle ground.The masses all piled into Camp Shaq/Phil in the summer of 2003 when Bryant was accused of raping a woman in Eagle, CO. The media once portrayed Bryant as a clean-cut family man who some would even call "boring." But following his indictment, many wondered if we ever knew Kobe Bryant at all.The shadow of doubt continued to rear its ugly head following the 2004 NBA Finals as fans and media alike wondered whether Kobe would allow his ego to destroy a juggernaut Lakers team that could be dominant for years.Well, now we know the rest of the story. It's been told. A lot. (If you don't know, just pick up Phil Jackson's book The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul , and it will tell you everything you need to know). After Phil and Shaq's departure, doubt grew even more as Laker fans and the media vocally wondered if Kobe could win without them.Following that break-up was a three-year stretch where, at best, Kobe acted like a petulant child without his binky. At worst, he was the reincarnation of the devil himself.Bryant barked at teammates, quit during games, wore on fans, and irreparably damaged his image. Oh yeah, he also put together one of the most dominating individual stretches of basketball in NBA history and lead teams to the playoffs that started the likes of "Smush" Parker, Chris Mihm, Brian Cook, Vladimir Radmanovic, and Kwame Brown.Not exactly the 1986 Celtics.The "can't win without Shaq" criticism continued until last season when the Lakers won the NBA championship five seasons after the Big Aristotle's departure.All shadows gone from a brilliant career, right?. . . Not quite.There are still two massive shadows that Kobe must compete with: Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan.The competition with Magic Johnson is quite simple: Who is the greatest Laker of all-time?The MJ one, however, is much more complex. As previously mentioned, Kobe began drawing Jordan comparisons very early in his career. And it wasn't by mistake.Kobe modeled his game after Jordan and attempted to do everything he possibly could do to emulate his idol. Some of his critics even called it an obsession. The Jordan-Kobe comparisons are spot-on. They are both incredibly intelligent basketball minds, both are extremely demanding teammates, both are disgustingly sore losers, and both certainly are the top two shooting guards ofCarolina Panthers jersey
all-time.The problem is, Jordan was better. And knowing that has given Bryant the ultimate Napoleon complex.So, what is the point in all of this? Why bring up all of Kobe's old criticisms?Because Kobe Bryant is six wins away from extinguishing any shadow left on his NBA career.With the Lakers currently up 2-0 on the Suns, they are almost assuredly on their way to the franchise's seventh NBA Finals appearance in eleven yearsa feat only eclipsed by Russell's Celtics and Magic's Lakers.Given the improvements to the competitive balance of the game, you could argue that Kobe's feat is better than the aforementioned dynasties.If, as favored, the Lakers do win the six games necessary for the 2010 NBA titleBryant's fifththe new question becomes how highly do you place Kobe Bryant among the greats of all time?I say no lower than fifth.You can debate your top five all you want, because after number one, it's debatable. (For full disclosure, here is my current top 10: Jordan, Kareem, Russell, Magic, Wilt, Bird, Kobe, Oscar, West, Shaq).If the 2010 Lakers win the NBA title, Kobe simply vaults Bird andWilt into the top five.Why?Well, first let's take care of Bird.Bird: 13 seasons; 12 All-Stars; 10 All-NBA selections; 3 All-Defensive Team selections; 3 MVP's; 3 NBA Titles; 21,791 Points; 5,695 Assists; 9,874 Rebounds.Kobe: 14 Seasons; 12 All-Stars; 12 All-NBA selections; 10 All-Defensive Team selections; 1 MVP; 5 NBA Titles; 25,790 Points; 4,766 Assists; 5,410 Rebounds.The only two places where Kobe loses by a significant margin are MVP's and rebounds. On the other hand, Kobe is a far superior defensive player, better scorer, and has won more championships.Don't get me wrong, if Bird's back doesn't go out on him this very easily could have gone the other way, but Kobe has both better stats and more rings.As for Wilt, there is absolutely no individual statistical way you can possibly defend saying Kobe is better, and that's the problem: It was always about stats for Wilt.There have been countless tales about Wilt overpowering 6'4" white guys and scoring 50.1 PPG. But there have also been just as many stories about Chamberlain's petulant babyish attitude that would make Kobe's greatest temper tantrum Chicago Bears jersey
eem like a minor complaint.Winners win championships. Wilt won scoring titles. Edge to Kobe.Do you want to know the greatest part of this? Kobe is nowhere near finished.This Lakers team, as currently constituted, could be a top-tier team for three or four more years.If Bryant finishes with six titles and eclipses Kareem's all-time scoring record (both semi-realistic), how great does that make him?Better than Jordan?I don't know.I just know one thing: Writing this will either make me someone who finally recognizes how great Kobe is or a complete moron. It just depends who you ask.
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Joe Johnson: Re-Creating a Bulls Dynasty?
Michael Jordan.We all know the name. The name inspires greatness, determination, grit, and overwhelming success.No doubt Michael Jordan was if not the greatest, one of the greatest ever to play the game of basketball.He had individual talent that will never be seen again in the NBA. His individual success came fromhis attributes by which we have all come toknow his name.However, his team success came from a tremendous supporting cast.Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, and Horace Grant are just some of the names that surroundedReebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
Jordan and provided him with the team talent to bring championships to the city of Chicago.LeBron is one of the most exciting and individually talented players in the NBA today.However, if he is to match the substantial impact that Jordan and the Bulls had on the game of basketball, he needs a supporting cast that is capable of achieving such a daunting task.Would Dwayne Wade and Joe Johnson be capable?Definitely.With James, Wade, and Johnson all NBA free agents this summer, and talks of the trio wanting to all play for the same team, that would be a force to be reckoned with.Possible destinationscould be many, but narrowed down to twoteams: The New York Knicks and The Chicago Bulls.Let me first say that the possibility of LeBron making his glorified return to the Cleveland Cavaliers was erased with the firing of head coach Mike Brown.You cannot find a coach who can win 120-plus games in two seasons at the nearest corner store.So back to New York.Would there be any better stage for LeBron James Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
and company totry tomatchMichael Jordan and company thanMadison Square Garden?These three together would lightupthe Madison Square Garden brighter than the Fourth of July.LeBron James has the swagger and persona to lead the Knicksandtohandle the big city living and media spotlight that comes with playingin New York City.But,the city of Chicago is another possibility, and a better fit for King James.How happy wouldBulls fansbe if LeBron led the way to another six championship dynastywith Wade and Johnson?What is convenient to LeBron about the Bulls is that the team is very young. Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah, and Luol Deng could grow up with LeBron James and the free agent crew of Dwayne Wade and Joe Johnson.Chemistry between players is an important assetto a team that wins championships on a regular basis. If this group of players can grow up together, there could be a long string of championships coming for the Bulls.LeBron James has amazing individual skill that has been showcased for his entire young career in the NBA.Without a doubt he has the talent to winfinals MVPs and league MVPs that will solidify him as one of the individual greats to ever play the game.But, he needs to grow up with agroup of Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
players that will provide him with the team chemistry and talent needed to conquer the final frontier of a great dynasty: championships.LeBron may be named "King James," but he needs his crowns toprove his royalty. Dwayne Wade and Joe Johnson can help him forge many.If this trio is called together to play in Chicago, the dynasty that was"Da Bulls"during the times of MichaelJordan could beresurrected.
Jordan and provided him with the team talent to bring championships to the city of Chicago.LeBron is one of the most exciting and individually talented players in the NBA today.However, if he is to match the substantial impact that Jordan and the Bulls had on the game of basketball, he needs a supporting cast that is capable of achieving such a daunting task.Would Dwayne Wade and Joe Johnson be capable?Definitely.With James, Wade, and Johnson all NBA free agents this summer, and talks of the trio wanting to all play for the same team, that would be a force to be reckoned with.Possible destinationscould be many, but narrowed down to twoteams: The New York Knicks and The Chicago Bulls.Let me first say that the possibility of LeBron making his glorified return to the Cleveland Cavaliers was erased with the firing of head coach Mike Brown.You cannot find a coach who can win 120-plus games in two seasons at the nearest corner store.So back to New York.Would there be any better stage for LeBron James Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
and company totry tomatchMichael Jordan and company thanMadison Square Garden?These three together would lightupthe Madison Square Garden brighter than the Fourth of July.LeBron James has the swagger and persona to lead the Knicksandtohandle the big city living and media spotlight that comes with playingin New York City.But,the city of Chicago is another possibility, and a better fit for King James.How happy wouldBulls fansbe if LeBron led the way to another six championship dynastywith Wade and Johnson?What is convenient to LeBron about the Bulls is that the team is very young. Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah, and Luol Deng could grow up with LeBron James and the free agent crew of Dwayne Wade and Joe Johnson.Chemistry between players is an important assetto a team that wins championships on a regular basis. If this group of players can grow up together, there could be a long string of championships coming for the Bulls.LeBron James has amazing individual skill that has been showcased for his entire young career in the NBA.Without a doubt he has the talent to winfinals MVPs and league MVPs that will solidify him as one of the individual greats to ever play the game.But, he needs to grow up with agroup of Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
players that will provide him with the team chemistry and talent needed to conquer the final frontier of a great dynasty: championships.LeBron may be named "King James," but he needs his crowns toprove his royalty. Dwayne Wade and Joe Johnson can help him forge many.If this trio is called together to play in Chicago, the dynasty that was"Da Bulls"during the times of MichaelJordan could beresurrected.
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Chicago Bulls at Cleveland Cavaliers: It Was Ugly, But at Least It's Over
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesThe Chicago Bulls came out blistering, scoring the first ten points of the game. After that, they spent most of the evening seeing if they could make more turnovers than a corner bakery. It was awful, it was ugly, but at least in the end, it was win.They owed the win primarily to three things. One, the Cavaliers did a great job of shooting themselves into the loss. It became apparent that Daniel Gibson's taste in shots is much like Tiger Woods taste in women. He never saw one he thought was ugly, and he Tennessee Titans jersey
never said no to any of them. His four of 15 from the field had Stacey King suggesting he should the Player of the Game...for the Bulls.Next, Kyle Korver really helped them to get into the game and keep them there throughout the fourth quarter. His 12 fourth quarter points accounted for all of his scoring, and nearly half of what the Bulls racked up in the final frame.Third, Derrick Rose did what D-Rose does. He grabbed the reigns of the game when he needed to and took over the game. There were some great plays late, including one where Korver missed a three, and Rose and Anderson Varejao were alone under the rim. Rose went up strong, grabbing the ball away from the 6 foot 11, 260 pound center, and then stabbed the ball in for the offensive put back.On the night Rose finished with 29 points and eight assists.For a couple of reasons Tom Thibodeau didn't play Carlos Boozer in the fourth quarter. None of them had to do with his hand though. He felt it was better both offensively, giving Luol Deng a chance to play the power forward spot and swing out to the perimeter in a way that Boozer can't. Also, Antawn Jamison was playing very well, and he felt that Deng's better speed equipped him better to match up with him.Overall, it was good to see the Bulls win a game that they played Washington Redskins jersey
ugly, but it would be better to see them win playing well. The Bulls were slow, low on energy, settling into half court offenses. They were sloppy with the ball, forcing passes, and turning the ball over. Hopefully they got all the ugly out of their system before Friday's game against the Lakers.
never said no to any of them. His four of 15 from the field had Stacey King suggesting he should the Player of the Game...for the Bulls.Next, Kyle Korver really helped them to get into the game and keep them there throughout the fourth quarter. His 12 fourth quarter points accounted for all of his scoring, and nearly half of what the Bulls racked up in the final frame.Third, Derrick Rose did what D-Rose does. He grabbed the reigns of the game when he needed to and took over the game. There were some great plays late, including one where Korver missed a three, and Rose and Anderson Varejao were alone under the rim. Rose went up strong, grabbing the ball away from the 6 foot 11, 260 pound center, and then stabbed the ball in for the offensive put back.On the night Rose finished with 29 points and eight assists.For a couple of reasons Tom Thibodeau didn't play Carlos Boozer in the fourth quarter. None of them had to do with his hand though. He felt it was better both offensively, giving Luol Deng a chance to play the power forward spot and swing out to the perimeter in a way that Boozer can't. Also, Antawn Jamison was playing very well, and he felt that Deng's better speed equipped him better to match up with him.Overall, it was good to see the Bulls win a game that they played Washington Redskins jersey
ugly, but it would be better to see them win playing well. The Bulls were slow, low on energy, settling into half court offenses. They were sloppy with the ball, forcing passes, and turning the ball over. Hopefully they got all the ugly out of their system before Friday's game against the Lakers.
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 NBA Rumors: Boston Celtics Head Coach Doc Rivers To Miami Heat?
As Featured on http://crankuptheheat.net/ Can you imagine the Heat hiring a head coach with a championship ring? Well, this could actually happen in the near future, according to Adrian Wojnarowski from Yahoo Sports. According to the report, Heat President Pat Riley has the experienced Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
Doc Rivers at the very top of his list of potential coaching candidates. This report is a hypothetical scenario of what could happen if Riley ever decides to replace Erik Spolestra, who is entering his third season with the team. It is very important to understand that this is nothing more than a rumor. However, it is not a crazy rumor and within the realm of possibility. There is no doubt that Erik Spolestra can flat out coach. He has a tremendous understanding for the game of basketball and he knows what it takes to win. In addition, you can’t compare Doc Rivers to Erik Spolestra. Rivers is the more experienced of the two and knows what it takes to win a championship. Therefore, you can’t make a fair comparison. During the past two seasons, Spolestra helped keep the Heat very competitive. Spolestra led the Heat to two straight playoff appearances, with an overall record of 90-74. I think he has done a very respectable job in his tenure as the Heat’s head coach. It is Spolestra’s job to keep, but at the same time it is his job to lose. If the Heat underachieve for any reason, Spolestra’s job will immediately be in jeopardy. The pressure is on Spolestra, who is a young and energetic coach. Spolestra started his career as a video coordinator working for the great Pat Riley. He has spent 13 years on the Heat coaching staff. Coach Spolestra is a defensive-minded coach who emphasizes defensive fundamentals and principals. He shares many of Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
Pat Riley’s philosophies, but he has implemented some of his own ideas into the Heat gameplan as well. The bottom line is that Riley is in control and calling the shots. He will do what is in the best interest of the Heat organization. Therefore, Riley will not be afraid to make a change if he feels it is necessary. Interestingly, Rivers almost decided not to return to Boston this summer. It was believed that he wanted to spend more time with his family, but ultimately he decided to coach the Celtics for at least one more season. Rivers is not interested in discussing his future right now, but all indications are that he would be interested in the Heat’s potential job opening if he decides that he wants a change of scenery. It is also not a secret that the Celtics’ Big Three is not getting any younger. Their window of opportunity to win another championship title is starting to close. I think it will take an epic failure of astronomical proportions for Spolestra to lose his job. I have tremendous faith and confidence in Spolestra’s coaching abilities, and will be absolutely astonished if he does notsucceed. The bottom line is Coach Spo is in the best possible position to be successful with the unbelievable talent that he has to work with. Therefore, SReebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
polestra has the ultimate NBA dream job. If he fails to help guide the Heat towards theultimate goal of achieving greatness and winning championships, then there is no doubt in my mind that his head will be on the chopping block. Pat Riley will be very anxious to go in a different direction. Also, Heat fans will be crying a river for a coaching change as well
Doc Rivers at the very top of his list of potential coaching candidates. This report is a hypothetical scenario of what could happen if Riley ever decides to replace Erik Spolestra, who is entering his third season with the team. It is very important to understand that this is nothing more than a rumor. However, it is not a crazy rumor and within the realm of possibility. There is no doubt that Erik Spolestra can flat out coach. He has a tremendous understanding for the game of basketball and he knows what it takes to win. In addition, you can’t compare Doc Rivers to Erik Spolestra. Rivers is the more experienced of the two and knows what it takes to win a championship. Therefore, you can’t make a fair comparison. During the past two seasons, Spolestra helped keep the Heat very competitive. Spolestra led the Heat to two straight playoff appearances, with an overall record of 90-74. I think he has done a very respectable job in his tenure as the Heat’s head coach. It is Spolestra’s job to keep, but at the same time it is his job to lose. If the Heat underachieve for any reason, Spolestra’s job will immediately be in jeopardy. The pressure is on Spolestra, who is a young and energetic coach. Spolestra started his career as a video coordinator working for the great Pat Riley. He has spent 13 years on the Heat coaching staff. Coach Spolestra is a defensive-minded coach who emphasizes defensive fundamentals and principals. He shares many of Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
Pat Riley’s philosophies, but he has implemented some of his own ideas into the Heat gameplan as well. The bottom line is that Riley is in control and calling the shots. He will do what is in the best interest of the Heat organization. Therefore, Riley will not be afraid to make a change if he feels it is necessary. Interestingly, Rivers almost decided not to return to Boston this summer. It was believed that he wanted to spend more time with his family, but ultimately he decided to coach the Celtics for at least one more season. Rivers is not interested in discussing his future right now, but all indications are that he would be interested in the Heat’s potential job opening if he decides that he wants a change of scenery. It is also not a secret that the Celtics’ Big Three is not getting any younger. Their window of opportunity to win another championship title is starting to close. I think it will take an epic failure of astronomical proportions for Spolestra to lose his job. I have tremendous faith and confidence in Spolestra’s coaching abilities, and will be absolutely astonished if he does notsucceed. The bottom line is Coach Spo is in the best possible position to be successful with the unbelievable talent that he has to work with. Therefore, SReebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
polestra has the ultimate NBA dream job. If he fails to help guide the Heat towards theultimate goal of achieving greatness and winning championships, then there is no doubt in my mind that his head will be on the chopping block. Pat Riley will be very anxious to go in a different direction. Also, Heat fans will be crying a river for a coaching change as well
24 Dec 10 NBA Rumors: Boston Celtics Head Coach Doc Rivers To Miami Heat?
As Featured on http://crankuptheheat.net/ Can you imagine the Heat hiring a head coach with a championship ring? Well, this could actually happen in the near future, according to Adrian Wojnarowski from Yahoo Sports. According to the report, Heat President Pat Riley has the experienced Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
Doc Rivers at the very top of his list of potential coaching candidates. This report is a hypothetical scenario of what could happen if Riley ever decides to replace Erik Spolestra, who is entering his third season with the team. It is very important to understand that this is nothing more than a rumor. However, it is not a crazy rumor and within the realm of possibility. There is no doubt that Erik Spolestra can flat out coach. He has a tremendous understanding for the game of basketball and he knows what it takes to win. In addition, you can’t compare Doc Rivers to Erik Spolestra. Rivers is the more experienced of the two and knows what it takes to win a championship. Therefore, you can’t make a fair comparison. During the past two seasons, Spolestra helped keep the Heat very competitive. Spolestra led the Heat to two straight playoff appearances, with an overall record of 90-74. I think he has done a very respectable job in his tenure as the Heat’s head coach. It is Spolestra’s job to keep, but at the same time it is his job to lose. If the Heat underachieve for any reason, Spolestra’s job will immediately be in jeopardy. The pressure is on Spolestra, who is a young and energetic coach. Spolestra started his career as a video coordinator working for the great Pat Riley. He has spent 13 years on the Heat coaching staff. Coach Spolestra is a defensive-minded coach who emphasizes defensive fundamentals and principals. He shares many of Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
Pat Riley’s philosophies, but he has implemented some of his own ideas into the Heat gameplan as well. The bottom line is that Riley is in control and calling the shots. He will do what is in the best interest of the Heat organization. Therefore, Riley will not be afraid to make a change if he feels it is necessary. Interestingly, Rivers almost decided not to return to Boston this summer. It was believed that he wanted to spend more time with his family, but ultimately he decided to coach the Celtics for at least one more season. Rivers is not interested in discussing his future right now, but all indications are that he would be interested in the Heat’s potential job opening if he decides that he wants a change of scenery. It is also not a secret that the Celtics’ Big Three is not getting any younger. Their window of opportunity to win another championship title is starting to close. I think it will take an epic failure of astronomical proportions for Spolestra to lose his job. I have tremendous faith and confidence in Spolestra’s coaching abilities, and will be absolutely astonished if he does notsucceed. The bottom line is Coach Spo is in the best possible position to be successful with the unbelievable talent that he has to work with. Therefore, SReebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
polestra has the ultimate NBA dream job. If he fails to help guide the Heat towards theultimate goal of achieving greatness and winning championships, then there is no doubt in my mind that his head will be on the chopping block. Pat Riley will be very anxious to go in a different direction. Also, Heat fans will be crying a river for a coaching change as well
Doc Rivers at the very top of his list of potential coaching candidates. This report is a hypothetical scenario of what could happen if Riley ever decides to replace Erik Spolestra, who is entering his third season with the team. It is very important to understand that this is nothing more than a rumor. However, it is not a crazy rumor and within the realm of possibility. There is no doubt that Erik Spolestra can flat out coach. He has a tremendous understanding for the game of basketball and he knows what it takes to win. In addition, you can’t compare Doc Rivers to Erik Spolestra. Rivers is the more experienced of the two and knows what it takes to win a championship. Therefore, you can’t make a fair comparison. During the past two seasons, Spolestra helped keep the Heat very competitive. Spolestra led the Heat to two straight playoff appearances, with an overall record of 90-74. I think he has done a very respectable job in his tenure as the Heat’s head coach. It is Spolestra’s job to keep, but at the same time it is his job to lose. If the Heat underachieve for any reason, Spolestra’s job will immediately be in jeopardy. The pressure is on Spolestra, who is a young and energetic coach. Spolestra started his career as a video coordinator working for the great Pat Riley. He has spent 13 years on the Heat coaching staff. Coach Spolestra is a defensive-minded coach who emphasizes defensive fundamentals and principals. He shares many of Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
Pat Riley’s philosophies, but he has implemented some of his own ideas into the Heat gameplan as well. The bottom line is that Riley is in control and calling the shots. He will do what is in the best interest of the Heat organization. Therefore, Riley will not be afraid to make a change if he feels it is necessary. Interestingly, Rivers almost decided not to return to Boston this summer. It was believed that he wanted to spend more time with his family, but ultimately he decided to coach the Celtics for at least one more season. Rivers is not interested in discussing his future right now, but all indications are that he would be interested in the Heat’s potential job opening if he decides that he wants a change of scenery. It is also not a secret that the Celtics’ Big Three is not getting any younger. Their window of opportunity to win another championship title is starting to close. I think it will take an epic failure of astronomical proportions for Spolestra to lose his job. I have tremendous faith and confidence in Spolestra’s coaching abilities, and will be absolutely astonished if he does notsucceed. The bottom line is Coach Spo is in the best possible position to be successful with the unbelievable talent that he has to work with. Therefore, SReebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
polestra has the ultimate NBA dream job. If he fails to help guide the Heat towards theultimate goal of achieving greatness and winning championships, then there is no doubt in my mind that his head will be on the chopping block. Pat Riley will be very anxious to go in a different direction. Also, Heat fans will be crying a river for a coaching change as well
2010年12月23日星期四
23 Dec 10Trade Analysis: Fantasy Basketball Impact of Raptors-Hornets 5 Player Deal
Sam Greenwood/Getty ImagesWe had our first in season trade of the NBA season and it was between the New Orleans Hornets and Toronto Raptors. There won’t be a ton of fantasy impact involved in the move, but there is some so let’s take a look at all the players involved and what fantasy value implications there are. Toronto Raptors GetJerryd Bayless: He wasn’t getting much time in New Orleans as the backup to Chris Paul, averaging just 13.5 minutes per game. He won’t come in and start for the Raptors Cleveland Browns jersey
or anything, but he should see more time, potentially even 20 minutes a game playing for a bad team. Bayless has a ton of potential and it’s not impossible to think he could wrestle the starting job away from Jose Calderon eventually. The value may not be real high this year, but going forward he should be the point guard of the future for the Raptors and I do like the upside.Peja Stojakovic: He couldn’t get anything going this year for the Hornets and he hasn’t really getting much of a chance to either. Peja is only getting 14.8 points per game, but he still had nearly two three’s per game still. Right now the Raptors are going with a three guard lineup and starting Sonny Weems and Demar Derozan. Backing them up is Linas Kleiza, so it’s not real clear what role Peja will play, either as a starter or a bench player, but he should get more time, and if you need three’s he might be worth a shot. Just don’t drop anyone to good for him.Raptors Value Up: Jose Calderon, Jerryd Bayless and Peja Dallas Cowboys jersey
StojakovicRaptors Value Down: Sonny Weems and Linas KleizaNew Orleans Hornets GetJarrett Jack: He is going from starting and playing over 26 minutes a game to backing up one of the best point guards in the league. No one’s value is hurt more by this move than Jack’s is and he is droppable in all league formats now as his minutes may get cut all the way down to 15. And he was doing ok in Tornoto, but nothing incredible. Jack is the biggest loser in this trade.David Anderson: The Hornets needed a guy like Anderson to shore up a very thin frontcourt. But he still won’t get enough playing time to make usable in fantasy leagues unless we see an injury to David West or Emeka Okafor. Marcus Banks: He wasn’t really doing anything in Toronto and he probably won’t do anything in New Orleans. This was just a contract throw in. Hornets Value Up: NoneHornets Value Down: Jarrett JackSummary: The biggest thing here for fantasy purposes is that the Raptors point guard situation is cleared up. Denver Broncos jersey
Jarrett Jack leaves town and his value becomes nearly non-existant, while Jose Calderon is worth owning in all formats now and should see a boost in stats to around 12-13 points and seven assists per game. For more fantasy basketball analysis check out The Rotoprofessor
or anything, but he should see more time, potentially even 20 minutes a game playing for a bad team. Bayless has a ton of potential and it’s not impossible to think he could wrestle the starting job away from Jose Calderon eventually. The value may not be real high this year, but going forward he should be the point guard of the future for the Raptors and I do like the upside.Peja Stojakovic: He couldn’t get anything going this year for the Hornets and he hasn’t really getting much of a chance to either. Peja is only getting 14.8 points per game, but he still had nearly two three’s per game still. Right now the Raptors are going with a three guard lineup and starting Sonny Weems and Demar Derozan. Backing them up is Linas Kleiza, so it’s not real clear what role Peja will play, either as a starter or a bench player, but he should get more time, and if you need three’s he might be worth a shot. Just don’t drop anyone to good for him.Raptors Value Up: Jose Calderon, Jerryd Bayless and Peja Dallas Cowboys jersey
StojakovicRaptors Value Down: Sonny Weems and Linas KleizaNew Orleans Hornets GetJarrett Jack: He is going from starting and playing over 26 minutes a game to backing up one of the best point guards in the league. No one’s value is hurt more by this move than Jack’s is and he is droppable in all league formats now as his minutes may get cut all the way down to 15. And he was doing ok in Tornoto, but nothing incredible. Jack is the biggest loser in this trade.David Anderson: The Hornets needed a guy like Anderson to shore up a very thin frontcourt. But he still won’t get enough playing time to make usable in fantasy leagues unless we see an injury to David West or Emeka Okafor. Marcus Banks: He wasn’t really doing anything in Toronto and he probably won’t do anything in New Orleans. This was just a contract throw in. Hornets Value Up: NoneHornets Value Down: Jarrett JackSummary: The biggest thing here for fantasy purposes is that the Raptors point guard situation is cleared up. Denver Broncos jersey
Jarrett Jack leaves town and his value becomes nearly non-existant, while Jose Calderon is worth owning in all formats now and should see a boost in stats to around 12-13 points and seven assists per game. For more fantasy basketball analysis check out The Rotoprofessor
2010年12月22日星期三
2010 NBA Free Agency: Orlando Magic Sign Chris Duhon to Back Up Jameer Nelson
Today the Magic made their plunge into free agency, using two thirds of their mid-level exceptionto sign Knicks free agent guard Chris Duhon.New York, in the hunt for Tony Parker, made no effort to sign Duhon and his sub par performance last year.Still, I do like this signing for Orlando.Duhon has New York Jets jersey
proven himself to be an adept passer and is capable of creating a lot of offense for Dwight Howard. His shooting is poor, 37 percent from the field last year, but it was an aberration, as in 07-08 in Chicago he shot 43 percent from the field.Despite the poor overall field goal percentage, Duhon is a decent three point shooter, which is a requirement for the Magic's inside-out offense.The best thing about Duhon, however, is his pass-first mentality, which will be a welcome change from starter Jameer Nelson, who is basically the definition of a shoot-first point guard.When Duhon enters the game, the ball movement will increase as Duhon only attempted 6.7 field goals per game in almost 31 minutes a night. Compare that to Nelson, who averaged more than 10 attempts in three minutes fewer per game.Another bonus to signing Duhon is that if Nelson goes down, Duhon could adequately step in and start for a long stretch of games. Nelson is injury prone, as he failed to play more than 65 games each of the last two seasons.With Oakland Raiders jersey
Duhon, the Magic will be able to shield the blow if Nelson should prove to be an injury liability again next season.All in all, Duhon is not the kind of signing that will bring a lot of "oohs" and "ahhs," but he is a solid and proven point guard. And spending $15 million over four seasons isn't a bad price to pay for someone like that.
proven himself to be an adept passer and is capable of creating a lot of offense for Dwight Howard. His shooting is poor, 37 percent from the field last year, but it was an aberration, as in 07-08 in Chicago he shot 43 percent from the field.Despite the poor overall field goal percentage, Duhon is a decent three point shooter, which is a requirement for the Magic's inside-out offense.The best thing about Duhon, however, is his pass-first mentality, which will be a welcome change from starter Jameer Nelson, who is basically the definition of a shoot-first point guard.When Duhon enters the game, the ball movement will increase as Duhon only attempted 6.7 field goals per game in almost 31 minutes a night. Compare that to Nelson, who averaged more than 10 attempts in three minutes fewer per game.Another bonus to signing Duhon is that if Nelson goes down, Duhon could adequately step in and start for a long stretch of games. Nelson is injury prone, as he failed to play more than 65 games each of the last two seasons.With Oakland Raiders jersey
Duhon, the Magic will be able to shield the blow if Nelson should prove to be an injury liability again next season.All in all, Duhon is not the kind of signing that will bring a lot of "oohs" and "ahhs," but he is a solid and proven point guard. And spending $15 million over four seasons isn't a bad price to pay for someone like that.
2010年12月21日星期二
Cliff Lee, Philadelphia Phillies Reportedly Agree To $100 Million Contract
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesAccording to multiple sources, the Philadelphia Phillies have injected themselves into the bidding for Cliff Lee and currently have a slight edge over the Texas Rangers and New York Yankees—the only two other teams still in the mix for the star lefty.The Yankees, especially, are "extremely negative" about their chances to land Lee, according to the New York Post's Joel Sherman. The Yankees reportedly believe that the Phillies entering the picture late has effectively ended any opportunity they had to land Lee.The details are of course very shaky Tennessee Titans jersey
right now, but the reasoning for Lee returning to Philly would be very interesting on his end. For the Phillies it's fairly obvious why they'd want him back, but he would almost certainly be turning down more years and money from the Yankees and Rangers.According to an unnamed Phillies source, the team would not be willing to match the seven-year deal the Yankees offered Lee. However, they might be willing to offer the same $18 million per season the Yankees did.Over the next three years, Roy Halladay—who is undeniably a notch or two better than Lee—is scheduled to make $20 million per season, so paying Lee $17-18 million per season would not be unreasonable.The key is that the Phils have liked to keep years down. That way, should a player not pan out, they're not left paying his guaranteed contract for another three or four years down the road.There are always the misses, however, and that brings us to Joe Blanton.Apparently the Phils have gotten positive feedback regarding Blanton from teams around the league and now feel better Washington Redskins jersey
about the prospect of trading him. The only caveat is the Phils would likely be asked to eat about half of the remaining $17 million he's owed.Being able to part ways with his contract, even only half of it, might be enough to convince Ruben Amaro, Jr. that the expense related with Lee would be worth it to have him, Halladay, Roy Oswalt, and Cole Hamels all in the same rotation.Then, with Blanton gone, they have cheap but effective options for the fifth starter in either Kyle Kendrick or Vance Worley, and can toss the guy who doesn't make the rotation to the bullpen or, in Worley's case, perhaps to Triple-A ball.Blanton could be a piece the Phils put together in order to acquire a right-handed outfielder they can stick in the middle of the lineup.With Lee in the rotation and a mid-level replacement for Jayson Werth out in right field, the Phillies would once again have to be considered the top contenders in the NL. Without Lee, they are still in the upper-echelon, but with him, the Phils became nearly unhittable in at least four of every five games.UPDATE: Several sources Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
are now reporting that the deal is done. Numbers are not yet available, but several guys "in the know" have confirmed it. Rejoice, Philly.UPDATE(2): ESPN's Jerry Crasnick is reporting deal is for five years and will be worth over $100 million with an option for a sixth year.This article is also featured on2 Minutes to Midnight Green
right now, but the reasoning for Lee returning to Philly would be very interesting on his end. For the Phillies it's fairly obvious why they'd want him back, but he would almost certainly be turning down more years and money from the Yankees and Rangers.According to an unnamed Phillies source, the team would not be willing to match the seven-year deal the Yankees offered Lee. However, they might be willing to offer the same $18 million per season the Yankees did.Over the next three years, Roy Halladay—who is undeniably a notch or two better than Lee—is scheduled to make $20 million per season, so paying Lee $17-18 million per season would not be unreasonable.The key is that the Phils have liked to keep years down. That way, should a player not pan out, they're not left paying his guaranteed contract for another three or four years down the road.There are always the misses, however, and that brings us to Joe Blanton.Apparently the Phils have gotten positive feedback regarding Blanton from teams around the league and now feel better Washington Redskins jersey
about the prospect of trading him. The only caveat is the Phils would likely be asked to eat about half of the remaining $17 million he's owed.Being able to part ways with his contract, even only half of it, might be enough to convince Ruben Amaro, Jr. that the expense related with Lee would be worth it to have him, Halladay, Roy Oswalt, and Cole Hamels all in the same rotation.Then, with Blanton gone, they have cheap but effective options for the fifth starter in either Kyle Kendrick or Vance Worley, and can toss the guy who doesn't make the rotation to the bullpen or, in Worley's case, perhaps to Triple-A ball.Blanton could be a piece the Phils put together in order to acquire a right-handed outfielder they can stick in the middle of the lineup.With Lee in the rotation and a mid-level replacement for Jayson Werth out in right field, the Phillies would once again have to be considered the top contenders in the NL. Without Lee, they are still in the upper-echelon, but with him, the Phils became nearly unhittable in at least four of every five games.UPDATE: Several sources Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
are now reporting that the deal is done. Numbers are not yet available, but several guys "in the know" have confirmed it. Rejoice, Philly.UPDATE(2): ESPN's Jerry Crasnick is reporting deal is for five years and will be worth over $100 million with an option for a sixth year.This article is also featured on2 Minutes to Midnight Green
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 Tennessee Titans: Looking for an AFC Playoff Spot Following Bye Week
Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesThe Tennessee Titans Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
come into their bye week this year with a 5-3 record, considerably better than their 0-6 record at the bye last year. After an 0-6 start heading into the bye week, Chris Johnson said the team would win its last 10 games and make the playoffs. The Titans almost made good on his prediction by winning five in a row and 8-of-10 to finish the season, just missing the playoffs. This Titans have started 5-3 thanks to an explosive offense that scores more points than any Titans team in recent memory and a rock-solid red-zone defense that sacks the quarterback almost at will. The offense is taking pressure off the defense, and at the same time the defense is helping the offense by creating turnovers and holding opponents to field goals. This is all going on while the special teams is doing everything it could be asked to do. The Titans are simply playing winning football. The biggest problem this year is the Titans are part of a stacked AFC. They have to compete with the Steelers, Patriots, Colts, Texans, Ravens and Jets for Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
a playoff spot. That is assuming the Chiefs or Raiders can keep it up and get out in the West. The easiest way for the Titans to get in would be to win their division, but with Peyton Manning heading a division rival that isn't the easiest thing to do. Will the Titans make the playoffs?Will the Titans make the playoffs?Yes.92.6%No.7.4%Total votes: 136Both the Titans and Colts are 5-3 with both meetings between the team coming later this year. Their second meeting comes in Week 17 and may very well be the most crucial game of the season for both teams. As everyone knows, the Titans added deep threat Randy Moss to fill the spot left by an injured Kenny Britt, who has been having a great sophomore season. Along with the addition of Moss, the Titans have had time to get healthy in some other areas. Most notably, quarterback Vince Young's knee and ankle should be fully healed by the time the Titans take the field in Miami. Justin Gage will also be back to help complement the talent of Randy Moss and Nate Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
Washington. With a healthy offense and a well-rested defense, the Titans are poised to make a run at a playoff spot in this crowded AFC race, and maybe even come out top dogs in Dallas, where someone needs to give the city a game worth watching. The one thing that is certain is that there is too much football left for anyone to get comfortable. How do you feel the Titans season will play out from here?
come into their bye week this year with a 5-3 record, considerably better than their 0-6 record at the bye last year. After an 0-6 start heading into the bye week, Chris Johnson said the team would win its last 10 games and make the playoffs. The Titans almost made good on his prediction by winning five in a row and 8-of-10 to finish the season, just missing the playoffs. This Titans have started 5-3 thanks to an explosive offense that scores more points than any Titans team in recent memory and a rock-solid red-zone defense that sacks the quarterback almost at will. The offense is taking pressure off the defense, and at the same time the defense is helping the offense by creating turnovers and holding opponents to field goals. This is all going on while the special teams is doing everything it could be asked to do. The Titans are simply playing winning football. The biggest problem this year is the Titans are part of a stacked AFC. They have to compete with the Steelers, Patriots, Colts, Texans, Ravens and Jets for Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
a playoff spot. That is assuming the Chiefs or Raiders can keep it up and get out in the West. The easiest way for the Titans to get in would be to win their division, but with Peyton Manning heading a division rival that isn't the easiest thing to do. Will the Titans make the playoffs?Will the Titans make the playoffs?Yes.92.6%No.7.4%Total votes: 136Both the Titans and Colts are 5-3 with both meetings between the team coming later this year. Their second meeting comes in Week 17 and may very well be the most crucial game of the season for both teams. As everyone knows, the Titans added deep threat Randy Moss to fill the spot left by an injured Kenny Britt, who has been having a great sophomore season. Along with the addition of Moss, the Titans have had time to get healthy in some other areas. Most notably, quarterback Vince Young's knee and ankle should be fully healed by the time the Titans take the field in Miami. Justin Gage will also be back to help complement the talent of Randy Moss and Nate Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
Washington. With a healthy offense and a well-rested defense, the Titans are poised to make a run at a playoff spot in this crowded AFC race, and maybe even come out top dogs in Dallas, where someone needs to give the city a game worth watching. The one thing that is certain is that there is too much football left for anyone to get comfortable. How do you feel the Titans season will play out from here?
19 Dec 10 Fantasy Football Week 11 Rankings: Quarterbacks
Bob Levey/Getty ImagesFinally, we are done with the bye weeks and ready to head down the home stretch into the fantasy playoffs. Of course, there are a couple of teams that wish they still had a bye week because of dire quarterback situations.The Miami Dolphins decided to start Chad Pennington last week...except he hurt his shoulder and is out for the rest of the season. Chad Henne came in and later hurt his knee, and his status for Thursday’s game with the Chicago Bears is in jeopardy.Enter third-string Tyler Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
Thigpen. He is not the only third-string quarterback who could play this week, though, as the Carolina Panthers could turn to rookie Tony Pike. Pike, a sixth-round pick out of Cincinnati, could start because Jimmy Clausen suffered a concussion during last week’s loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.1. Philip Rivers (San Diego Chargers) vs. DenverSan Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers continues to chug along despite the lack of a top-flight receiver. The good news is that tight end Antonio Gates may play this week, which would be a huge boost to Rivers. Of course, even if Gates doesn’t return, Rivers will still have a big day.In his last four games against Denver, Rivers has thrown seven touchdowns and just one interception. The Broncos are giving up an average of around 16 fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, and they rank 30th in the league in points allowed per game. This is a defense that Rivers can, and will, exploit. Point Projection: 22 pointsWho will be the top QB in Week 11?Who will be the top QB in Week 11?Philip Rivers (SD)32.0%Michael Vick (PHI)57.8%Peyton Manning (IND)10.2%Total votes: 2062. Michael Vick (Philadelphia Eagles) vs. New York GiantsThere is no stopping Vick right now. Everyone imagined he would put together a solid performance against the Washington Redskins on Monday Night Football, however, Vick more than exceeded expectations.His 333 passing yards, 80 rushing yards and six total touchdown led to 49 fantasy points in standard scoring leagues and helped fantasy football owners across America pull out miracle wins in Week 10. In fact, his 49 fantasy points are the highest ever recorded in a standard scoring format at the Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
quarterback position.This would appear to be a tough matchup for the Philadelphia Eagles and quarterback Vick. However, given the level he is playing at, and how poorly the Giants played in last week’s loss to the Dallas Cowboys, perhaps the New York defense has been exposed.If there’s one thing Vick excels at it’s taking advantage of whatever opportunity the defense presents him, which should make it a good day for the southpaw.Point Projection: 22 points3. Peyton Manning (Indianapolis Colts) New EnglandIndianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning didn’t have a touchdown in last week’s win over the Cincinnati Bengals.Holy crap, what should we do? Panic!? No, quite the opposite. The last time Manning was held scoreless was in a Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Week 6 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, and in his next game he eclipsed 300 passing yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions.Also consider that the New England Patriots are giving up almost 17 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks and the meeting of these two AFC rivals will be won by Manning. Well, at least from a statistical standpoint it will be.Point Projection: 20 pointsTo see where you fantasy quarterback ranks this week go here...Week 11 QB Rankings.
Thigpen. He is not the only third-string quarterback who could play this week, though, as the Carolina Panthers could turn to rookie Tony Pike. Pike, a sixth-round pick out of Cincinnati, could start because Jimmy Clausen suffered a concussion during last week’s loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.1. Philip Rivers (San Diego Chargers) vs. DenverSan Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers continues to chug along despite the lack of a top-flight receiver. The good news is that tight end Antonio Gates may play this week, which would be a huge boost to Rivers. Of course, even if Gates doesn’t return, Rivers will still have a big day.In his last four games against Denver, Rivers has thrown seven touchdowns and just one interception. The Broncos are giving up an average of around 16 fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, and they rank 30th in the league in points allowed per game. This is a defense that Rivers can, and will, exploit. Point Projection: 22 pointsWho will be the top QB in Week 11?Who will be the top QB in Week 11?Philip Rivers (SD)32.0%Michael Vick (PHI)57.8%Peyton Manning (IND)10.2%Total votes: 2062. Michael Vick (Philadelphia Eagles) vs. New York GiantsThere is no stopping Vick right now. Everyone imagined he would put together a solid performance against the Washington Redskins on Monday Night Football, however, Vick more than exceeded expectations.His 333 passing yards, 80 rushing yards and six total touchdown led to 49 fantasy points in standard scoring leagues and helped fantasy football owners across America pull out miracle wins in Week 10. In fact, his 49 fantasy points are the highest ever recorded in a standard scoring format at the Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
quarterback position.This would appear to be a tough matchup for the Philadelphia Eagles and quarterback Vick. However, given the level he is playing at, and how poorly the Giants played in last week’s loss to the Dallas Cowboys, perhaps the New York defense has been exposed.If there’s one thing Vick excels at it’s taking advantage of whatever opportunity the defense presents him, which should make it a good day for the southpaw.Point Projection: 22 points3. Peyton Manning (Indianapolis Colts) New EnglandIndianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning didn’t have a touchdown in last week’s win over the Cincinnati Bengals.Holy crap, what should we do? Panic!? No, quite the opposite. The last time Manning was held scoreless was in a Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Week 6 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, and in his next game he eclipsed 300 passing yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions.Also consider that the New England Patriots are giving up almost 17 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks and the meeting of these two AFC rivals will be won by Manning. Well, at least from a statistical standpoint it will be.Point Projection: 20 pointsTo see where you fantasy quarterback ranks this week go here...Week 11 QB Rankings.
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 Seattle Seahawks Re-Claim NFC West Lead, Matt Hasselbeck Injured Again
Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesAfter two brutal weekends losing to the New York Giants at Qwest and the Oakland Raiders, the Seattle Seahawks are back on track. For the second time this season Arizona served as the Seahawks’ stepping stone to first place in the NFC West (thanks, in part, to the Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
49ers win over St. Louis) and Seattle finds themselves poised, once again, for the playoffs. Matt Hasselbeck had a great game, throwing for a total of 333 yards, his single-game best since 2007. 273 of those yards came in the first half before he jogged off the field to get an x-ray on his left wrist. The wrist turned out to be cracked, but Hasselbeck was able to return for the fourth quarter. Though the Seahawks’ latest re-addition, quarterback J.P. Losman was chomping at the bit, Charlie Whitehurst got the call to step in for Hasselbeck in the third quarter. Aside from one misstep that resulted in an easy interception for the Cardinals, Whitehurst showed improvement crisply finishing 4 of 6 passes for 53 yards. Mike Williams was playing with a dislocated finger, but that didn’t keep him from returning to Cinderella story status and having hissecond career dayagainst the Cardinals, this time with 11 catches for 145 yards. Kelly Jennings’ coverage was flawless, mostly shutting down Larry Fitzgerald and Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
once coming up with an interception. The Seahawks sacked Derek Anderson five times, one of which (Aaron Curry) resulted in a fumble and a turnover for the Seahawks. Chris Baker and Deon Butler both made big catches for heavy gain and a touchdown (Butler). While the Seahawks still have things to work on this week to prepare to meet defending Super Bowl Champions the New Orleans Saints on the road, the long list of positives bodes well for the rest of the season.
49ers win over St. Louis) and Seattle finds themselves poised, once again, for the playoffs. Matt Hasselbeck had a great game, throwing for a total of 333 yards, his single-game best since 2007. 273 of those yards came in the first half before he jogged off the field to get an x-ray on his left wrist. The wrist turned out to be cracked, but Hasselbeck was able to return for the fourth quarter. Though the Seahawks’ latest re-addition, quarterback J.P. Losman was chomping at the bit, Charlie Whitehurst got the call to step in for Hasselbeck in the third quarter. Aside from one misstep that resulted in an easy interception for the Cardinals, Whitehurst showed improvement crisply finishing 4 of 6 passes for 53 yards. Mike Williams was playing with a dislocated finger, but that didn’t keep him from returning to Cinderella story status and having hissecond career dayagainst the Cardinals, this time with 11 catches for 145 yards. Kelly Jennings’ coverage was flawless, mostly shutting down Larry Fitzgerald and Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
once coming up with an interception. The Seahawks sacked Derek Anderson five times, one of which (Aaron Curry) resulted in a fumble and a turnover for the Seahawks. Chris Baker and Deon Butler both made big catches for heavy gain and a touchdown (Butler). While the Seahawks still have things to work on this week to prepare to meet defending Super Bowl Champions the New Orleans Saints on the road, the long list of positives bodes well for the rest of the season.
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Jake Long to Be Shut Down? Other Miami Dolphins News And Notes
Jake Long is playing through a torn labrum in his shoulder two weeks ago against the Titans.It was a long and predominantly football-less weekend, so I was unable to get my game picks up in time for yesterday's games. Too bad, as I've gotten 12 out of 15 right so far. In the interest of Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
quickly catching up on Miami Dolphins news a bit, here are some of the news items floating around the internet over the weekend and the following Monday: Offensive lineman Cory Procter was indeed placed on season-ending injured reserve Friday, just a day after suffering a torn ACL in a 16-0 loss to the Chicago Bears. Procter was filling in for starting center Joe Berger, who is still out with a knee injury. Richie Incognito filled in for Procter against the Bears and struggled with his snaps. Procter is making $630,000 this season and is slated to be an unrestricted free agent in the offseason, so he is no lock to return to the Dolphins. With Jake Long (torn labrum) struggling against the Bears and the Dolphins contemplating shutting him down for the season, the Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
Dolphins worked out free-agent offensive tackles Levi Jones and Tony Ugoh. The 10th overall pick in 2002 out of Arizona State, Jones started 89 games for the Bengals over seven seasons. He was released in May 2009 and later signed by the Redskins, starting eight games for the team that season. Ugoh was drafted by the Colts in the second round in 2007 out of Arkansas and started 27 of 37 games played over three seasons. He was moved to guard late in his stint with the Colts and was released on Sept. 8. Defensive end Phillip Merling, currently on the Reserve/Non-Football Injury list with a torn Achilles' tendon, returned to practice for the first time Monday. The Dolphins have eight days to decide whether to add him to the active roster or leave him on the NFI list for the remainder of Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
the 2010 season. Discuss this article on the forum here! Chris J. Nelson majored in journalism at Georgia State University and is currently a programming coordinator for Turner Sports in Atlanta. He operates his own Miami Dolphins website, The Miami Dolphins Spotlight, and he can be followed on Twitter here.
quickly catching up on Miami Dolphins news a bit, here are some of the news items floating around the internet over the weekend and the following Monday: Offensive lineman Cory Procter was indeed placed on season-ending injured reserve Friday, just a day after suffering a torn ACL in a 16-0 loss to the Chicago Bears. Procter was filling in for starting center Joe Berger, who is still out with a knee injury. Richie Incognito filled in for Procter against the Bears and struggled with his snaps. Procter is making $630,000 this season and is slated to be an unrestricted free agent in the offseason, so he is no lock to return to the Dolphins. With Jake Long (torn labrum) struggling against the Bears and the Dolphins contemplating shutting him down for the season, the Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
Dolphins worked out free-agent offensive tackles Levi Jones and Tony Ugoh. The 10th overall pick in 2002 out of Arizona State, Jones started 89 games for the Bengals over seven seasons. He was released in May 2009 and later signed by the Redskins, starting eight games for the team that season. Ugoh was drafted by the Colts in the second round in 2007 out of Arkansas and started 27 of 37 games played over three seasons. He was moved to guard late in his stint with the Colts and was released on Sept. 8. Defensive end Phillip Merling, currently on the Reserve/Non-Football Injury list with a torn Achilles' tendon, returned to practice for the first time Monday. The Dolphins have eight days to decide whether to add him to the active roster or leave him on the NFI list for the remainder of Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
the 2010 season. Discuss this article on the forum here! Chris J. Nelson majored in journalism at Georgia State University and is currently a programming coordinator for Turner Sports in Atlanta. He operates his own Miami Dolphins website, The Miami Dolphins Spotlight, and he can be followed on Twitter here.
2010年12月16日星期四
16 Dec 10 Tennessee Titans' Next Quarterback Should Be...?
Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesThe Tennessee Titans need a quarterback. Vince Young will never play another down for the Titans after being banned from the team's facilities. He will likely be traded just like Steve McNair after he was banished from the team's facilities. The Titans have a team Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
that is built for playoff success. Their best running back and wide receiver are coming into their own and the defense is in its prime. Jeff Fisher has been there for 16 years and does not have time to undertake another rebuilding project with a rookie quarterback. Fisher's best bet is to bring in a veteran quarterback. His choice should be to go after Donovan McNabb of the Redskins. McNabb is the best quarterback that will be available during the next offseason. There are other quarterbacks that will be free agents, but there is no chance that their current teams will let them go. Peyton Manning and Michael Vick will either receive new deals or be franchised by their current teams. The Redskins would likely deal McNabb for a low draft pick since Mike Shanahan does not Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
appear to be enamored with the veteran quarterback. He would be a perfect fit in the Titans system and could guide the team for the next three years. This gives Fisher time to draft a young quarterback and to bring him along slowly. Who do you think should be the Titans quarterback for the 2012 season? Visit Sportsfeens.com for a live Fantasy Football Chat Wednesday night 7PM EST. This article is also featured onSportFeen
that is built for playoff success. Their best running back and wide receiver are coming into their own and the defense is in its prime. Jeff Fisher has been there for 16 years and does not have time to undertake another rebuilding project with a rookie quarterback. Fisher's best bet is to bring in a veteran quarterback. His choice should be to go after Donovan McNabb of the Redskins. McNabb is the best quarterback that will be available during the next offseason. There are other quarterbacks that will be free agents, but there is no chance that their current teams will let them go. Peyton Manning and Michael Vick will either receive new deals or be franchised by their current teams. The Redskins would likely deal McNabb for a low draft pick since Mike Shanahan does not Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
appear to be enamored with the veteran quarterback. He would be a perfect fit in the Titans system and could guide the team for the next three years. This gives Fisher time to draft a young quarterback and to bring him along slowly. Who do you think should be the Titans quarterback for the 2012 season? Visit Sportsfeens.com for a live Fantasy Football Chat Wednesday night 7PM EST. This article is also featured onSportFeen
2010年12月15日星期三
Chicago Bears Are Making No Apologies: Team Is Feeding Off of Disrespect
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesDespite the Chicago Bears receiving absolutely no respect from any media outlet leading up to their game against the Philadelphia Eagles, they went out and did exactly what they had to do. The offense executed excellently with touchdowns by Earl Bennett, Steelers 43 Polamalu jersey
Greg Olsen and Johnny Knox and had a big day running the ball from Matt Forte. Jay Cutler had an outstanding day passing, going 14 for 21 for 247 yards, four touchdowns and zero interceptions. The defense also played strongly, allowing mostly short passes and few big plays. DeSean Jackson was a non-factor and while Michael Vick ended up with 333 yards passing and two touchdowns, most of those yards came on underneath routes that the Bears defense were allowing him to have. In fact, the only "big play" of the day for the Eagles came near the end of the game on a perfect pass to Brent Celek. All in all, it was a very solid win for the Bears against a team that most were saying was top three in the conference. Yet, as the Bears sit at 8-3, one glaring question comes to mind. Where is the respect? After every victory Chicago has had this season it seems that the national pundits, especially those at ESPN, make excuses for why their opponents lost the game, not explanations as to why the Bears won. The Steelers 43 Polamalu jersey
Lions got a bad call in the endzone, the Packers were playing hurt, Miami had its third string quarterback and most recently, the Eagles didn't have Asante Samuel. So what? The Bears are not, nor should they ever make apologies for whom they play and when they play them. It's ridiculous that this late in the year people believe the Bears are winning with smoke and mirrors rather than quality execution and good coaching. Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesThat's fine. Keep disrespecting them. Keep saying that a Week 11 match-up between the Falcons and Packers is a preview of the NFC Championship game even though the Bears were tied for first place. Keep picking against them and giving them bulletin board material because right now this team is feeding off of 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
it. Each week they listen to how they are not supposed to win and each week they step up and do it anyway. Each week analysts point out how the Bears will show their true colors as a sub-par team and each week they pull out a victory. Each week the defense excels and each week the offense gets better and better. Each week the Bears show why they are for real. You know what? Keep letting them fly under the radar because it seems to be working just fine.
Greg Olsen and Johnny Knox and had a big day running the ball from Matt Forte. Jay Cutler had an outstanding day passing, going 14 for 21 for 247 yards, four touchdowns and zero interceptions. The defense also played strongly, allowing mostly short passes and few big plays. DeSean Jackson was a non-factor and while Michael Vick ended up with 333 yards passing and two touchdowns, most of those yards came on underneath routes that the Bears defense were allowing him to have. In fact, the only "big play" of the day for the Eagles came near the end of the game on a perfect pass to Brent Celek. All in all, it was a very solid win for the Bears against a team that most were saying was top three in the conference. Yet, as the Bears sit at 8-3, one glaring question comes to mind. Where is the respect? After every victory Chicago has had this season it seems that the national pundits, especially those at ESPN, make excuses for why their opponents lost the game, not explanations as to why the Bears won. The Steelers 43 Polamalu jersey
Lions got a bad call in the endzone, the Packers were playing hurt, Miami had its third string quarterback and most recently, the Eagles didn't have Asante Samuel. So what? The Bears are not, nor should they ever make apologies for whom they play and when they play them. It's ridiculous that this late in the year people believe the Bears are winning with smoke and mirrors rather than quality execution and good coaching. Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesThat's fine. Keep disrespecting them. Keep saying that a Week 11 match-up between the Falcons and Packers is a preview of the NFC Championship game even though the Bears were tied for first place. Keep picking against them and giving them bulletin board material because right now this team is feeding off of 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
it. Each week they listen to how they are not supposed to win and each week they step up and do it anyway. Each week analysts point out how the Bears will show their true colors as a sub-par team and each week they pull out a victory. Each week the defense excels and each week the offense gets better and better. Each week the Bears show why they are for real. You know what? Keep letting them fly under the radar because it seems to be working just fine.
2010年12月13日星期一
New York Giants Football: Antrel Rolle Goes Out of Bounds
Giants safety Antrel Rolle found out New York is not Arizona. He realized fans hold him and his teammates accountable at the New Meadowlands Stadium.
He is not happy about it. He ranted about the team being boeed on WFAN's Joe and Evan show. He lectured fans not to boo the team at anytime. It's surprising he did not tell fans to not to go to games. He probably would if he had his way.
Joe Benigno told Rolle not to take it personal. He mentioned the booing is out of love and frustration, but that did not calm the Giant down.
When Rolle made his decision to sign with the Giants, someone should have told him New York was not the place for him. If he thinks fans are going to listen to his message, he does not know them well.
New Yorkers expect effort and victories when their teams play. They except nothing less. That's the way it is, and that's the way it will be.
When they pay ridiculous amounts of nfl jersey
money to go to the games, they have every right to boo. Giants fans pay for their PSL seats, so they have every reason to boo. It's one thing to play bad on the road, it happens, but there's no way a team should be playing awful at home anytime. Home games are games teams need to make an impression to the fans.
The Giants played lousy in the first half of their contest with the Jaguars on Sunday. They did not play with emotion. They made terrible mistakes in the first half.
They were in danger of losing the game. They probably should have lost that one. They got by thanks to Manning hitting his targets in the second half, especially in the fourth quarter. If they lost this one, we would be talking about another collapse and Tom Coughlin's job security.
Giants fans haven't forgotten about last year's collapse. They don't know if this team is for real. So, don't blame them for booing their team.
There is this ridiculous idea no one should boo their own team. Guess what? This is not high school. This is not college. These are wealthy professionals who are supposed to get the job done.
Athletes are no different than any other professionals. If a firefighter screws up, he or she would be held accountable. If a doctor does not know what he or she is doing, lawsuit abounds. If the food stinks, customers complain.
Rolle doesn't understand the fans' perspective. He thinks fans should consider it a privilege to watch the best players on the field. He feels New York should be fortunate to have a football team.
This type of attitude is why fans and players don't have that bond. It's a different world now. Players act entitled. Fans expect results. There's no loyalty.
If those folks play the game of football, they may have a different paradigm. Still, it's a no-win battle to pick fights with the fans. It never ends well. Even the stars and the coaches steer clear from that. They don't have to like it or accept it, but they deal with it. Maybe Rolle should do just that.
It's easy to go take the money and talk about the good side of playing in New York. It also takes a lot of work to earn respect from the fans. Playing in New York is not easy as it looks. There are high standards.
In New York, they care about their sports. They live and breathe about their sports. Giants fans are as passionate as they come even if they act insecure and arrogant at times. We are talking about Don LaGreca blowing a kidney after the Giants blew a lead against the Niners and lost in the wild-card game.
Rolle should know fans here are fickle. They want to cheer. They will express their appreciation if they win. All it takes is one good play or one good lead. This is why it's silly for him to be upset about this.
Maybe he was defending his teammates when nfl jerseys
he did that, but that does not make it right. The Giants should have told him to say nothing. They probably gave him a reprimand once they found out about it.
Rolle apologized for what he said today, but it could be the Giants told him to apologize. They are sensitive about their players criticizing their fanbase. If he had his way, he wouldn't apologize. He does not sound like a guy that regrets speaking what's on his mind.
Fortunately for him, Giants fans won't get worked up about it. He has to perform now of course.
It's on Rolle to make plays. He should come up with many interceptions the rest of the season. He needs to be a dynamic player in the postseason. After what he said, he better back it up by performing on his own.
He hasn't been that guy so far this year. Its why it's comical he is speaking out. It's one thing for him to do it if he was playing well, but it's another thing to talk when not playing well.
He brought all this attention to himself. He has to deliver. Fans don't forget this type of stuff.
Maybe he will embrace this. There has to be a reason why he said these things. It was a calculating move.
Now, he has to use this to fuel him. It Dallas Cowboys jersey
may be a stupid way to get him going, but whatever.
He can start doing something starting Sunday.
He is not happy about it. He ranted about the team being boeed on WFAN's Joe and Evan show. He lectured fans not to boo the team at anytime. It's surprising he did not tell fans to not to go to games. He probably would if he had his way.
Joe Benigno told Rolle not to take it personal. He mentioned the booing is out of love and frustration, but that did not calm the Giant down.
When Rolle made his decision to sign with the Giants, someone should have told him New York was not the place for him. If he thinks fans are going to listen to his message, he does not know them well.
New Yorkers expect effort and victories when their teams play. They except nothing less. That's the way it is, and that's the way it will be.
When they pay ridiculous amounts of nfl jersey
money to go to the games, they have every right to boo. Giants fans pay for their PSL seats, so they have every reason to boo. It's one thing to play bad on the road, it happens, but there's no way a team should be playing awful at home anytime. Home games are games teams need to make an impression to the fans.
The Giants played lousy in the first half of their contest with the Jaguars on Sunday. They did not play with emotion. They made terrible mistakes in the first half.
They were in danger of losing the game. They probably should have lost that one. They got by thanks to Manning hitting his targets in the second half, especially in the fourth quarter. If they lost this one, we would be talking about another collapse and Tom Coughlin's job security.
Giants fans haven't forgotten about last year's collapse. They don't know if this team is for real. So, don't blame them for booing their team.
There is this ridiculous idea no one should boo their own team. Guess what? This is not high school. This is not college. These are wealthy professionals who are supposed to get the job done.
Athletes are no different than any other professionals. If a firefighter screws up, he or she would be held accountable. If a doctor does not know what he or she is doing, lawsuit abounds. If the food stinks, customers complain.
Rolle doesn't understand the fans' perspective. He thinks fans should consider it a privilege to watch the best players on the field. He feels New York should be fortunate to have a football team.
This type of attitude is why fans and players don't have that bond. It's a different world now. Players act entitled. Fans expect results. There's no loyalty.
If those folks play the game of football, they may have a different paradigm. Still, it's a no-win battle to pick fights with the fans. It never ends well. Even the stars and the coaches steer clear from that. They don't have to like it or accept it, but they deal with it. Maybe Rolle should do just that.
It's easy to go take the money and talk about the good side of playing in New York. It also takes a lot of work to earn respect from the fans. Playing in New York is not easy as it looks. There are high standards.
In New York, they care about their sports. They live and breathe about their sports. Giants fans are as passionate as they come even if they act insecure and arrogant at times. We are talking about Don LaGreca blowing a kidney after the Giants blew a lead against the Niners and lost in the wild-card game.
Rolle should know fans here are fickle. They want to cheer. They will express their appreciation if they win. All it takes is one good play or one good lead. This is why it's silly for him to be upset about this.
Maybe he was defending his teammates when nfl jerseys
he did that, but that does not make it right. The Giants should have told him to say nothing. They probably gave him a reprimand once they found out about it.
Rolle apologized for what he said today, but it could be the Giants told him to apologize. They are sensitive about their players criticizing their fanbase. If he had his way, he wouldn't apologize. He does not sound like a guy that regrets speaking what's on his mind.
Fortunately for him, Giants fans won't get worked up about it. He has to perform now of course.
It's on Rolle to make plays. He should come up with many interceptions the rest of the season. He needs to be a dynamic player in the postseason. After what he said, he better back it up by performing on his own.
He hasn't been that guy so far this year. Its why it's comical he is speaking out. It's one thing for him to do it if he was playing well, but it's another thing to talk when not playing well.
He brought all this attention to himself. He has to deliver. Fans don't forget this type of stuff.
Maybe he will embrace this. There has to be a reason why he said these things. It was a calculating move.
Now, he has to use this to fuel him. It Dallas Cowboys jersey
may be a stupid way to get him going, but whatever.
He can start doing something starting Sunday.
2010年12月12日星期日
Fantasy Football Week 14 QB Rankings: Get Your Team Ready For The Playoffs
Week 14 QB Player Rankingsbrought to you by pyromaniac.comRankings for RBs, WRs, and TEs1. Michael Vick (@ Dal)Vick has actually been better on the road this year, and don’t worry about this game being against an inner-division rival, as his BEST game of the year came against the Redskins in Washington. The guy is a machine who can only be stopped by injury at this point.2. Aaron Rodgers (@ Det)Rodgers has averaged 304.6 yards and 2.8 TD passes over his last five games against the Lions, and there’s no reason to think he won’t do the same this week. The guy has been on fire lately, so ride the storm throughout your playoffs.3. Drew Brees (vs StL)Brees absolutely LOVES playing at home (as his career stats will show you) and against a St. football jerseys
Louis Rams defense that’s relatively stingy against the run, you can bet the Saints will be opening it up quite a bit in this one.4. Philip Rivers (vs KC)Rivers was a bit off last game and has only thrown one TD pass over the last two, but make no mistake about it, he’s still a major fantasy force to be reckoned with. The Chiefs’ pass D is nothing to worry about, so with Gates back looking good and the Chargers playing at home, expect the Chargers to lean on him this game as they make a push for the playoffs.5. Peyton Manning (@ Ten)Peyton may be tossing up INTs like he’s Jake Delhomme right now, but he’s also putting up some massive yardage totals and multiple-TD games as well. In fact, the worse the Colts do as a team, the better off you are with Manning as your QB (even if your league counts negative points for INTs). Don’t even think about benching him just because his team is losing.6. Tom Brady (@ Chi)Brady is on one of the hottest streaks of all-time putting up multiple-TDs and zero INTs in five straight games, so even though the Bears are the second best defense in the league in not allowing TD passes (nine on the year), you have to put your money on Brady in this one.7. Kyle Orton (@ Ari)WOW, that was a bad one, eh? Maybe a touchdown or 10 yards rushing would have been nice, but Kyle couldn’t come up with anything even close last week. Hell, since everything else in Denver is being blamed on him, I’ll go ahead and blame Josh McDaniels as well. Don’t worry though, McDunce is gone, so Orton should be able to produce like a fantasy stud again this week, especially against defense like Arizona’s.8. Joe Flacco (@ Hou)Joe Cool couldn’t quite ice the game against the Steelers last week, but should be able to turn it around against the worst pass D in the league this Monday night in Houston. His numbers on the road haven’t been quite as good as they have been at home, but that shouldn’t matter against a Texans D giving up nearly 300 yards and over two passing TDs a game to opposing QBs this year.9. Jay Cutler (vs NE)Cutler’s another QB who tends to do much better at home, which is exactly nfl throwback jerseys
where he’ll be this Sunday. He also happens to have a match-up with a defense giving up the second most passing yards per game in the league, so this could shape up to be a pretty good fantasy outing for him. Be a bit cautious though, as Cutler tends to fold in the face of pressure; a little tidbit I’ll bet Coach Belichick knows by now.10. Ben Roethlisberger (vs Cin)So let’s go through the list here: He’s got a broken-as-hell nose, a fractured foot, has at least four prior concussions, has an abnormally large body, and can basically be described as a narcissistic date-rapist who’s fond of motorcycles and wins a Super Bowl on an average of every three years. Pretty interesting character; I say go with him.Oh, and Cincy’s D is absolutely sucking right now, giving up an average of 33 points over the last four games.11. Jon Kitna (vs Phi)Kitna may not be the cream of the crop, but neither is Philly’s pass D. Sure, Asante Samuel makes a difference as the Eagles have given up 1.7 passing TDs/game with him active (nine games) compared to three with him out (three games), but Kitna and the Cowboys will likely have to pass to keep up with Vick in this one. If that isn’t enough, check this: Kitna has played in seven games this year, with every other game going from his passing yards being in the 100’s to his yardage being up over 300. Last game he threw for 167 yards…guess what’s coming next.12. Matt Ryan (@ Car)Ryan may not need to do much in this game for Atlanta to get the Vic, but that’s actually exactly the type of game you want to play him in. His only two 3-TD games this year have come against the 3-9 Cardinals and the 2-10 Bengals.13. Matt Schaub (vs Bal)In the past four weeks, Schaub has thrown up three multi-TD games with two of them going over 300-yards, so he just might be coming to life here towards the end of the season. He also posted a 90+ QB Rating in all four of those games, and now he might even have a healthy Owen Daniels to throw to as well. He might not give you the world due to Baltimore’s always formidable defense, but it’s tough to bet against a guy throwing to Andre Johnson.14. Eli Manning (@ Min)Eli misses his boys, that’s for sure, but half the reason why he screwed over fantasy owners last week was because the Giants realized they could just run all over the Redskins and didn’t need Eli to pass the ball to his sub-par receiving corps. However, this Sunday, they will. Expect a decent bounce-back game out of young Manning against a mediocre Vikings D that the Giants won’t be able to run at will upon.15. Ryan Fitzpatrick (vs Cle)Fitz continued his streak of 10 straight games with a touchdown pass last weekend, but it’s starting to get a little tough to watch. Luckily the Browns’ pass D isn’t among the finest in the nfl jersey
league, so maybe the journeyman Harvard grad can show us a few high scores in this one.16. Carson Palmer (@ Pit)Palmer was just accepted as the new assistant manager at a downtown Cincinnati Wendy’s, so this should be the last we see of Carson until FOX hires him as a commentator. That said, Carson will try to go out with a bang, so expect a ton of passing from the new Burger King of Cincinnati.Week 14 rankings for RBs, WRs, and TEs
Louis Rams defense that’s relatively stingy against the run, you can bet the Saints will be opening it up quite a bit in this one.4. Philip Rivers (vs KC)Rivers was a bit off last game and has only thrown one TD pass over the last two, but make no mistake about it, he’s still a major fantasy force to be reckoned with. The Chiefs’ pass D is nothing to worry about, so with Gates back looking good and the Chargers playing at home, expect the Chargers to lean on him this game as they make a push for the playoffs.5. Peyton Manning (@ Ten)Peyton may be tossing up INTs like he’s Jake Delhomme right now, but he’s also putting up some massive yardage totals and multiple-TD games as well. In fact, the worse the Colts do as a team, the better off you are with Manning as your QB (even if your league counts negative points for INTs). Don’t even think about benching him just because his team is losing.6. Tom Brady (@ Chi)Brady is on one of the hottest streaks of all-time putting up multiple-TDs and zero INTs in five straight games, so even though the Bears are the second best defense in the league in not allowing TD passes (nine on the year), you have to put your money on Brady in this one.7. Kyle Orton (@ Ari)WOW, that was a bad one, eh? Maybe a touchdown or 10 yards rushing would have been nice, but Kyle couldn’t come up with anything even close last week. Hell, since everything else in Denver is being blamed on him, I’ll go ahead and blame Josh McDaniels as well. Don’t worry though, McDunce is gone, so Orton should be able to produce like a fantasy stud again this week, especially against defense like Arizona’s.8. Joe Flacco (@ Hou)Joe Cool couldn’t quite ice the game against the Steelers last week, but should be able to turn it around against the worst pass D in the league this Monday night in Houston. His numbers on the road haven’t been quite as good as they have been at home, but that shouldn’t matter against a Texans D giving up nearly 300 yards and over two passing TDs a game to opposing QBs this year.9. Jay Cutler (vs NE)Cutler’s another QB who tends to do much better at home, which is exactly nfl throwback jerseys
where he’ll be this Sunday. He also happens to have a match-up with a defense giving up the second most passing yards per game in the league, so this could shape up to be a pretty good fantasy outing for him. Be a bit cautious though, as Cutler tends to fold in the face of pressure; a little tidbit I’ll bet Coach Belichick knows by now.10. Ben Roethlisberger (vs Cin)So let’s go through the list here: He’s got a broken-as-hell nose, a fractured foot, has at least four prior concussions, has an abnormally large body, and can basically be described as a narcissistic date-rapist who’s fond of motorcycles and wins a Super Bowl on an average of every three years. Pretty interesting character; I say go with him.Oh, and Cincy’s D is absolutely sucking right now, giving up an average of 33 points over the last four games.11. Jon Kitna (vs Phi)Kitna may not be the cream of the crop, but neither is Philly’s pass D. Sure, Asante Samuel makes a difference as the Eagles have given up 1.7 passing TDs/game with him active (nine games) compared to three with him out (three games), but Kitna and the Cowboys will likely have to pass to keep up with Vick in this one. If that isn’t enough, check this: Kitna has played in seven games this year, with every other game going from his passing yards being in the 100’s to his yardage being up over 300. Last game he threw for 167 yards…guess what’s coming next.12. Matt Ryan (@ Car)Ryan may not need to do much in this game for Atlanta to get the Vic, but that’s actually exactly the type of game you want to play him in. His only two 3-TD games this year have come against the 3-9 Cardinals and the 2-10 Bengals.13. Matt Schaub (vs Bal)In the past four weeks, Schaub has thrown up three multi-TD games with two of them going over 300-yards, so he just might be coming to life here towards the end of the season. He also posted a 90+ QB Rating in all four of those games, and now he might even have a healthy Owen Daniels to throw to as well. He might not give you the world due to Baltimore’s always formidable defense, but it’s tough to bet against a guy throwing to Andre Johnson.14. Eli Manning (@ Min)Eli misses his boys, that’s for sure, but half the reason why he screwed over fantasy owners last week was because the Giants realized they could just run all over the Redskins and didn’t need Eli to pass the ball to his sub-par receiving corps. However, this Sunday, they will. Expect a decent bounce-back game out of young Manning against a mediocre Vikings D that the Giants won’t be able to run at will upon.15. Ryan Fitzpatrick (vs Cle)Fitz continued his streak of 10 straight games with a touchdown pass last weekend, but it’s starting to get a little tough to watch. Luckily the Browns’ pass D isn’t among the finest in the nfl jersey
league, so maybe the journeyman Harvard grad can show us a few high scores in this one.16. Carson Palmer (@ Pit)Palmer was just accepted as the new assistant manager at a downtown Cincinnati Wendy’s, so this should be the last we see of Carson until FOX hires him as a commentator. That said, Carson will try to go out with a bang, so expect a ton of passing from the new Burger King of Cincinnati.Week 14 rankings for RBs, WRs, and TEs
2010年12月11日星期六
Pittsburgh Steelers re-signed FS Chris Hope April 16 2005
The Pittsburgh Steelers and free safety Chris Hope agreed to a 1 year deal. The restricted free agent signed a $656,000 deal.The 5'11", 206 lbs. Hope only became a starter in 2004, recording 89 tackles, 1 interception, 4 deflected passes, and 1 forced fumble. In 3 years as a pro from 36 Bettis Black Jersey
Florida State, it is worth noting he has 139 tackles and 1 fumble recovery.The Steelers had the right to match any offer to Hope, and team signing him would have been required to give the Steelers a third-round draft pick. The Pittsburgh Steelers announced that linebacker Joey Porter will miss the entire preseason after undergoing arthroscopy knee surgery on Wednesday. Porter originally went in Wednesday morning for an MRI after swelling developed overnight on his injured knee. The doctor, James Bradley discovered loose cartilage that had to be removedThe Steelers hope to have Porter ready for their regular season opener on September 11th versus the Tennessee Titans. He originally suffered the injury on Tuesday afternoon in a one-on-one drill pass rush drill. According to reports, after he defeated free agent tackle Ulish Booker in the drill, he began celebrating and stomped down on the chalk mark that represents the quarterback and ended up hyper extending his knee. He had been beaten by Booker in 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
the proceeding drill and demanded a rematch. Joey Porter appeared in 15 games for the Pittsburgh Steelers last season and posted 54 tackles to go along with seven sacks and one interception. James Harrison will move into Porter's starting role at outside linebacker during the preseason. Pittsburgh coach Bill Cowher will also be getting a good look at various youngsters.
Florida State, it is worth noting he has 139 tackles and 1 fumble recovery.The Steelers had the right to match any offer to Hope, and team signing him would have been required to give the Steelers a third-round draft pick. The Pittsburgh Steelers announced that linebacker Joey Porter will miss the entire preseason after undergoing arthroscopy knee surgery on Wednesday. Porter originally went in Wednesday morning for an MRI after swelling developed overnight on his injured knee. The doctor, James Bradley discovered loose cartilage that had to be removedThe Steelers hope to have Porter ready for their regular season opener on September 11th versus the Tennessee Titans. He originally suffered the injury on Tuesday afternoon in a one-on-one drill pass rush drill. According to reports, after he defeated free agent tackle Ulish Booker in the drill, he began celebrating and stomped down on the chalk mark that represents the quarterback and ended up hyper extending his knee. He had been beaten by Booker in 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
the proceeding drill and demanded a rematch. Joey Porter appeared in 15 games for the Pittsburgh Steelers last season and posted 54 tackles to go along with seven sacks and one interception. James Harrison will move into Porter's starting role at outside linebacker during the preseason. Pittsburgh coach Bill Cowher will also be getting a good look at various youngsters.
2010年12月9日星期四
San Francisco 49ers Julian Peterson Brandon Lloyd
As the 49ers prepare for the 5-9 St. Louis Rams this week, they will do so with another two players on the injury report. The team has been battling a slew of injuries throughout the season, but thankfully these walking wounded will be able to suit up against the Rams.Receiver Brandon Lloyd suffered a neck injury against the Jaguars, but is listed as probable. The acrobatic receiver has been the only 49ers receiver this season to be a significant contributor to the team. He is also a restricted free agent at the end of 43 Polamalu white jersey
the season.Linebacker Julian Peterson suffered a dislocated right shoulder against the Jaguars. Peterson though, who is the teams exclusive franchise player, will play with a brace on his shoulder. The brace will likely limit his range of motion in his right arm.For all the latest news and resources about the 49ers, please visit 49ersparadise.com - you can also contact Bryan Hersh from there.
the season.Linebacker Julian Peterson suffered a dislocated right shoulder against the Jaguars. Peterson though, who is the teams exclusive franchise player, will play with a brace on his shoulder. The brace will likely limit his range of motion in his right arm.For all the latest news and resources about the 49ers, please visit 49ersparadise.com - you can also contact Bryan Hersh from there.
San Francisco 49ers "Offense needs Vernon Davis to step up"
Tight end Vernon Davis' inaugural campaign for the San Francisco 49ers offered flashes of brilliance but lacked consistency on a weekly basis last season. As Niner fans may recall, Davis scored a touchdown on his very first reception, a 31-yarder against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 1. Jets 6 Sanchez AFL50th jersey
Unfortunately, last year's sixth overall pick had his season derailed when he suffered a hairline fracture of his left fibula in a game against the Eagles, an injury that sidelined Davis for the next six games. As the season was concluding, a healthy Davis demonstrated his unique ability and limitless potential. He scored two touchdowns in a five-day span. The first score was an explosive 52-yard catch and run against the Green Bay Packers on Dec. 10. Four days later, Davis found the endzone again, in Seattle. In an abbreviated rookie campaign, the former University of Maryland star contributed 20 catches for 265 yards and three scores. Standing 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds with 4.4. speed, Davis certainly possesses the physical tools to rival the stellar production put forth by perennial All-Pro tight ends like Antonio Gates and Tony Gonzalez, both of whom had more than 70 catches and 900 receiving yards last season. The fact that Davis was such a high pick in the 2006 draft places additional pressure on him to live up to lofty expectations.In the upcoming season, the lack of a top-notch playmaker on the outside provides Davis with an opportunity to be quarterback Alex Smith's No. 1 receiving option. While the additions of veteran wideouts Darrell Jackson and Ashley Lelie improve an unremarkable receiving corps, it can be argued that Davis is the best candidate to be the Niners' most dangerous aerial threat. Granted, when Jackson can stay on the field, he has proven to be productive (63 catches, 956 yards and eight touchdowns for the Seahawks last year in 13 games). Despite his historic production, it's hard to say whether Jackson can be Smith's go-to guy in the clutch. As for Davis, there is no reason he can't put up the kind of numbers Gates and Gonzalez have for their respective clubs. The 23-year-old has great hands and incredible explosiveness, both of which make him a nightmare for defenders. The onus is on the coaches and Smith to allow Davis to flourish. If 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
the 49ers are serious about taking the next step as a franchise, they need Davis to have a breakout campaign and solidify himself as Smith's primary target. Combine that with Frank Gore's running ability, and the 49ers' offense should be much more dynamic and efficient in 2007.Original San Francisco 49ers insight
Unfortunately, last year's sixth overall pick had his season derailed when he suffered a hairline fracture of his left fibula in a game against the Eagles, an injury that sidelined Davis for the next six games. As the season was concluding, a healthy Davis demonstrated his unique ability and limitless potential. He scored two touchdowns in a five-day span. The first score was an explosive 52-yard catch and run against the Green Bay Packers on Dec. 10. Four days later, Davis found the endzone again, in Seattle. In an abbreviated rookie campaign, the former University of Maryland star contributed 20 catches for 265 yards and three scores. Standing 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds with 4.4. speed, Davis certainly possesses the physical tools to rival the stellar production put forth by perennial All-Pro tight ends like Antonio Gates and Tony Gonzalez, both of whom had more than 70 catches and 900 receiving yards last season. The fact that Davis was such a high pick in the 2006 draft places additional pressure on him to live up to lofty expectations.In the upcoming season, the lack of a top-notch playmaker on the outside provides Davis with an opportunity to be quarterback Alex Smith's No. 1 receiving option. While the additions of veteran wideouts Darrell Jackson and Ashley Lelie improve an unremarkable receiving corps, it can be argued that Davis is the best candidate to be the Niners' most dangerous aerial threat. Granted, when Jackson can stay on the field, he has proven to be productive (63 catches, 956 yards and eight touchdowns for the Seahawks last year in 13 games). Despite his historic production, it's hard to say whether Jackson can be Smith's go-to guy in the clutch. As for Davis, there is no reason he can't put up the kind of numbers Gates and Gonzalez have for their respective clubs. The 23-year-old has great hands and incredible explosiveness, both of which make him a nightmare for defenders. The onus is on the coaches and Smith to allow Davis to flourish. If 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
the 49ers are serious about taking the next step as a franchise, they need Davis to have a breakout campaign and solidify himself as Smith's primary target. Combine that with Frank Gore's running ability, and the 49ers' offense should be much more dynamic and efficient in 2007.Original San Francisco 49ers insight
2010年12月2日星期四
Jacksonville Jaguars LB Tommy Hendricks charged with violating restraining order March 19 2005
Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Tommy Hendricks was charged with violating a restraining order issued in Broward County taken out by his former wife. The couple previously lived there while Hendricks played with the Miami Dolphins.The LB called his ex-wife the day after the court-issued injuction. 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
Hendricks turned himself in to the Clay County Sheriff's office, according local tv station WJXX, and was later released on a $1,500 bond.Team spokesman Dan Edwards also said that Hendricks also is being treated for an unspecified medical condition. Edwards added that the team doesn't plan any disciplinary action against Hendricks. The former Michigan Wolverine joined the Jaguars last March after spending his first 4 seasons as a professional with the Dolphins. The 6'2", 235 lbs. LB is a special teams maven who specializes in wedge-busting. The Jacksonville Jaguars re-signed wide receiver Troy Edwards and fullback Chris Fuamatu-Ma'afala.The 27 year-old Edwards finished second on the Jaguars with 50 catches for 533 yards and 1 touchdown in 2004. The former first round pick from Louisiana Tech played for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1999 to 2001. Edwards then spent 1 year with the St. Louis Rams before spending 2003 and 2004 with Jacksonville.The 28 year-old Fuamatu-Ma'afala has played in 20 games with the Jaguars since 2003. Used primarily as a blocking fullback, Fuamatu-Ma'afala had only 20 carries for 69 yards and 1 TD in 2004. The University of Utah product broke into the league in 1998 with the Steelers and played 5 years in total for Pittsburgh. Less than two weeks ago, the RealFootball365.com ;Odds on the odd ; column featured a look at what one bookmaker dubbed ;reactionary odds, ; i.e., adjustments to certain high-profile posted lines like taking down that possible preseason 1/100 bet on the New England Patriots winning Super Bowl XLIII.At that point (it already seems so far in the past, doesn ;t it?), four teams remained undefeated in the NFL. Today there are two, and just one is 5-0: The Tennessee Titans. Though no one is taking the possibility of a 16-0 season from the 2008 Titans seriously, Tennessee ;s come-from-behind 13-10 win in Baltimore has to entertain discussion as to just how big this team can get.(And don ;t bring up the whole bad call argument: Luck is an essential spice in the recipe for success. After all, this is the franchise of the ;Music City Miracle.")One argument in favor of an unexpected monster record ; say, 14-2 or 15-1 ; from the Titans comes from the bottom of the food chain. In the NFL, a team ;s one-year dominance usually indicates a headline-worthy terrible team or two at bottom. Last year provided an excellent example of the principle, of course, with the existence of 6 Sanchez White Jersey
the 16-0 (or 18-1, depending on location in football fandom) New England Patriots somewhat dependent on the 1-15 Miami Dolphins. And while the Minnesota Vikings and Atlanta Falcons were going 15-1 and 14-2, respectively, back in 1998, the average game turned in by bottom-feeders the 3-13 Cincinnati Bengals and Philadelphia Eagles was a 12-point loss.Despite parity in the league, the NFL sports three utterly terrible teams (Kansas City, Detroit and St. Louis) and a couple more that can ;t buy a win (Cincinnati, Houston). Would you believe the Titans have three of these five remaining on the schedule, plus a date with Cleveland as well?With 10 games left on the schedule, the bookmakers ; payouts are now long and sweet, as Tennessee has since dispatched the two then-favorites (Minnesota at 3/2 and Baltimore at 1/1) to end the run of perfection. Whom, then, will Tennessee first fall to? The schedule would appear to throw red flags for the following weeks; odds of Tennessee loss in parentheses.Week 8: vs. Indianapolis (7/1). After a bye week this Sunday and a visit to Kansas City comes this Monday nighter against the Colts. Time may not be on the Titans' side here: Come on, bye week, Sunday game, Monday night game? Where ;s the trip to London in there?Week 10 at Chicago (20/1). In early November, this could be the first true cold weather game the Titans get this season. And the Bears ; tight schemes against the pass should keep Kerry Collins guessing.Week 11 at Jacksonville (30/1). Another bit of weirdness in this already bizarre season: This could be the game of the week by Week 11 and the Titans and Jags fighting for the AFC South's top spot. On the other hand, one more hit to the personnel in Jacksonville and the Jags have to be done, right?Week 13 at Detroit (50/1). Though the Lions will probably be 0-11 at this point in the season and haven ;t won on Thanksgiving since 2003, those Thursday games can do wacky things to a team.Week 16 vs. Pittsburgh, Week 17 at Indianapolis (125/1, 150/1). Wow. No matter the team records in these games, you've gotta be looking forward to these matchups already.Finally, the Titans running the regular-season table was going off at 150/1 in September. It 6 Sanchez Green Jersey
seems inconceivable to be sure, but so did the Titans entering the AFC playoffs as a top two seed ; today considered a realistic (even expected) outcome.Fan Pulse: Over at the team ;s page on FootballsFuture.com, Titans fans are geeked on the 5-0 start; are giving much love to Chris Johnson, Michael Griffin and Bo Scaife; and are kicking around the undefeated season with all the quiet swagger of a seasoned operative working in the undeveloped world. It ;s good to be on top.
Hendricks turned himself in to the Clay County Sheriff's office, according local tv station WJXX, and was later released on a $1,500 bond.Team spokesman Dan Edwards also said that Hendricks also is being treated for an unspecified medical condition. Edwards added that the team doesn't plan any disciplinary action against Hendricks. The former Michigan Wolverine joined the Jaguars last March after spending his first 4 seasons as a professional with the Dolphins. The 6'2", 235 lbs. LB is a special teams maven who specializes in wedge-busting. The Jacksonville Jaguars re-signed wide receiver Troy Edwards and fullback Chris Fuamatu-Ma'afala.The 27 year-old Edwards finished second on the Jaguars with 50 catches for 533 yards and 1 touchdown in 2004. The former first round pick from Louisiana Tech played for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1999 to 2001. Edwards then spent 1 year with the St. Louis Rams before spending 2003 and 2004 with Jacksonville.The 28 year-old Fuamatu-Ma'afala has played in 20 games with the Jaguars since 2003. Used primarily as a blocking fullback, Fuamatu-Ma'afala had only 20 carries for 69 yards and 1 TD in 2004. The University of Utah product broke into the league in 1998 with the Steelers and played 5 years in total for Pittsburgh. Less than two weeks ago, the RealFootball365.com ;Odds on the odd ; column featured a look at what one bookmaker dubbed ;reactionary odds, ; i.e., adjustments to certain high-profile posted lines like taking down that possible preseason 1/100 bet on the New England Patriots winning Super Bowl XLIII.At that point (it already seems so far in the past, doesn ;t it?), four teams remained undefeated in the NFL. Today there are two, and just one is 5-0: The Tennessee Titans. Though no one is taking the possibility of a 16-0 season from the 2008 Titans seriously, Tennessee ;s come-from-behind 13-10 win in Baltimore has to entertain discussion as to just how big this team can get.(And don ;t bring up the whole bad call argument: Luck is an essential spice in the recipe for success. After all, this is the franchise of the ;Music City Miracle.")One argument in favor of an unexpected monster record ; say, 14-2 or 15-1 ; from the Titans comes from the bottom of the food chain. In the NFL, a team ;s one-year dominance usually indicates a headline-worthy terrible team or two at bottom. Last year provided an excellent example of the principle, of course, with the existence of 6 Sanchez White Jersey
the 16-0 (or 18-1, depending on location in football fandom) New England Patriots somewhat dependent on the 1-15 Miami Dolphins. And while the Minnesota Vikings and Atlanta Falcons were going 15-1 and 14-2, respectively, back in 1998, the average game turned in by bottom-feeders the 3-13 Cincinnati Bengals and Philadelphia Eagles was a 12-point loss.Despite parity in the league, the NFL sports three utterly terrible teams (Kansas City, Detroit and St. Louis) and a couple more that can ;t buy a win (Cincinnati, Houston). Would you believe the Titans have three of these five remaining on the schedule, plus a date with Cleveland as well?With 10 games left on the schedule, the bookmakers ; payouts are now long and sweet, as Tennessee has since dispatched the two then-favorites (Minnesota at 3/2 and Baltimore at 1/1) to end the run of perfection. Whom, then, will Tennessee first fall to? The schedule would appear to throw red flags for the following weeks; odds of Tennessee loss in parentheses.Week 8: vs. Indianapolis (7/1). After a bye week this Sunday and a visit to Kansas City comes this Monday nighter against the Colts. Time may not be on the Titans' side here: Come on, bye week, Sunday game, Monday night game? Where ;s the trip to London in there?Week 10 at Chicago (20/1). In early November, this could be the first true cold weather game the Titans get this season. And the Bears ; tight schemes against the pass should keep Kerry Collins guessing.Week 11 at Jacksonville (30/1). Another bit of weirdness in this already bizarre season: This could be the game of the week by Week 11 and the Titans and Jags fighting for the AFC South's top spot. On the other hand, one more hit to the personnel in Jacksonville and the Jags have to be done, right?Week 13 at Detroit (50/1). Though the Lions will probably be 0-11 at this point in the season and haven ;t won on Thanksgiving since 2003, those Thursday games can do wacky things to a team.Week 16 vs. Pittsburgh, Week 17 at Indianapolis (125/1, 150/1). Wow. No matter the team records in these games, you've gotta be looking forward to these matchups already.Finally, the Titans running the regular-season table was going off at 150/1 in September. It 6 Sanchez Green Jersey
seems inconceivable to be sure, but so did the Titans entering the AFC playoffs as a top two seed ; today considered a realistic (even expected) outcome.Fan Pulse: Over at the team ;s page on FootballsFuture.com, Titans fans are geeked on the 5-0 start; are giving much love to Chris Johnson, Michael Griffin and Bo Scaife; and are kicking around the undefeated season with all the quiet swagger of a seasoned operative working in the undeveloped world. It ;s good to be on top.
Jacksonville Jaguars re-signed QB David Garrard and LB Akin Ayodele
The Jacksonville Jaguars re-signed young quarterback David Garrard to a contract extension. The team also re-signed linebacker Akin Ayodele to a tender offer. The restricted free agent is one of the unsung stars on the Jaguars defense.The 6'1" Garrard appeared in 4 games (2 starts) during 2004. He went 38-72 Vikings Brett Favre jersey
for 374 yards, with 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. He also had 12 carries for 76 yds and 1 TD. The former East Carolina star has been a backup all 3 years with the Jags.The 6'2", 251 lbs. Ayodele played in all games in 2004. He recorded 92 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 pass breakups, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery. The ex-Purdue Boilermaker has also been with the Jaguars since 2002. He has appeared in all 48 games in his 3 year career, amassing 273 tackles, 6 sacks, 3 INTs, 6 passes deflected, 4 forced fumbles, and 4 fumble recoveries. The Jacksonville Jaguars signed defensive end Marcellus Wiley to a 1 year deal.The 6'4", 278 lbs. DE played in all 16 games with the Dallas Cowboys during 2004. He had 38 tackles, 3 sacks, and 1 forced fumble. Wiley was released after a disappointing season in Dallas after signing as a free agent.The Columbia University product was a second round choice by the Buffalo Bills in 1997. He stayed with the Bills until 2000 then joined the San Diego Chargers from 2001 to 2003. Wiley was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2001. He has 302 tackles, 44 sacks, 11 deflected passes, 13 forced fumbles, and 4 recoveries of opponents' fumbles in 124 games. The Jacksonville Jaguars signed Marcus Stroud to a 5 year, $31.5 million contract extension. The Pro Bowl defensive tackle is now one of the highest paid interior linemen in the NFL.The 6'6", 312 lbs. Stroud started all 16 games in 2004, registering 54 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 3 passes deflected, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery.A first round choice for the Jaguars in 2001 out of the University of Georgia, Stroud has played in 64 games in his 4 year career. He has totalled 189 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 15 passes defended, 5 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. Jacksonville Jaguars released linebacker Tommy Hendricks a week after being charged with violating a restraining order filed by his ex-wife. Hendricks turned himself on misdemeanor charges in violation of an injunction issued the previous day. He was released on $1,500 bond and was being treated for unknown medical issues.Hendricks recorded 28 tackles in 15 games played during 2004. He played his first 4 seasons with the Miami Dolphins. In 5 years, Hendricks has111 tackles and 2 forced 2010 pro bowl 4 Brett Favre Blue jersey
fumbles in 71 games.The franchise also re-signed restricted free agent safety Deke Cooper. In 16 games during 2004, Cooper recorded 37 tackles, 1 sack, 1 interception, and 2 forced fumbles. The University of Notre Dame product broke into the NFL in 2002 with the Carolina Panthers before joining the Jaguars in 2003. In 40 career games, Cooper has totalled 98 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 4 passes defended.
for 374 yards, with 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. He also had 12 carries for 76 yds and 1 TD. The former East Carolina star has been a backup all 3 years with the Jags.The 6'2", 251 lbs. Ayodele played in all games in 2004. He recorded 92 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 pass breakups, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery. The ex-Purdue Boilermaker has also been with the Jaguars since 2002. He has appeared in all 48 games in his 3 year career, amassing 273 tackles, 6 sacks, 3 INTs, 6 passes deflected, 4 forced fumbles, and 4 fumble recoveries. The Jacksonville Jaguars signed defensive end Marcellus Wiley to a 1 year deal.The 6'4", 278 lbs. DE played in all 16 games with the Dallas Cowboys during 2004. He had 38 tackles, 3 sacks, and 1 forced fumble. Wiley was released after a disappointing season in Dallas after signing as a free agent.The Columbia University product was a second round choice by the Buffalo Bills in 1997. He stayed with the Bills until 2000 then joined the San Diego Chargers from 2001 to 2003. Wiley was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2001. He has 302 tackles, 44 sacks, 11 deflected passes, 13 forced fumbles, and 4 recoveries of opponents' fumbles in 124 games. The Jacksonville Jaguars signed Marcus Stroud to a 5 year, $31.5 million contract extension. The Pro Bowl defensive tackle is now one of the highest paid interior linemen in the NFL.The 6'6", 312 lbs. Stroud started all 16 games in 2004, registering 54 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 3 passes deflected, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery.A first round choice for the Jaguars in 2001 out of the University of Georgia, Stroud has played in 64 games in his 4 year career. He has totalled 189 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 15 passes defended, 5 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. Jacksonville Jaguars released linebacker Tommy Hendricks a week after being charged with violating a restraining order filed by his ex-wife. Hendricks turned himself on misdemeanor charges in violation of an injunction issued the previous day. He was released on $1,500 bond and was being treated for unknown medical issues.Hendricks recorded 28 tackles in 15 games played during 2004. He played his first 4 seasons with the Miami Dolphins. In 5 years, Hendricks has111 tackles and 2 forced 2010 pro bowl 4 Brett Favre Blue jersey
fumbles in 71 games.The franchise also re-signed restricted free agent safety Deke Cooper. In 16 games during 2004, Cooper recorded 37 tackles, 1 sack, 1 interception, and 2 forced fumbles. The University of Notre Dame product broke into the NFL in 2002 with the Carolina Panthers before joining the Jaguars in 2003. In 40 career games, Cooper has totalled 98 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 4 passes defended.
2010年12月1日星期三
Fan Pulse: "Black flags at half-staff in Oakland Raider Nation"
News of the death of NFLPA director Gene Upshaw, an ex-offensive guard who was an 11-time All-Pro with the , as a result of complications stemming from pancreatic cancer was met with shock on Raider Fans.net.His unknown illness that resulted in his surprising death shook the Raiders community. Their discussion 6 Sanchez Purple AFL50th jersey
began around the start of the day in Oakland, when news of the Hall of Famer's passing swept through the NFL. The poster who broke the news on the forum admitted his lack of knowledge that Upshaw was even facing such a situation. "JT the brick called in to fox sports and reported it. I had no clue that gene was even ill. I hope he rests in peace, and ill definitely keep his loved ones in my prayers. One hell of an athlete, one hell of a raider, and just a good guy. He did alot for the NFL, and he will be missed. R.I.P. gene."The rough-and-tumble reputation of Raiders fans was put aside in mourning the loss of one of the greatest players in NFL history. "You definitely left an enduring legacy in the NFL." says one poster, echoing familiar sentiment. Another fan's multiple postings show a dull sense of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
shock. "wow i cant even express how sad i am"One poster on a different thread calls Oakland fans attending the Cardinals at Raiders game in Oakland Aug. 23 to honor Upshaw in a timeless fashion. "...to those attending the games this Saturday, lets all black out the coliseum. not just because it is a home game, but for Gene. even if all you have is a white Raider jersey, just wear a black Raider shirt or something. that would be pretty cool. i know i will be sporting black." (4)
began around the start of the day in Oakland, when news of the Hall of Famer's passing swept through the NFL. The poster who broke the news on the forum admitted his lack of knowledge that Upshaw was even facing such a situation. "JT the brick called in to fox sports and reported it. I had no clue that gene was even ill. I hope he rests in peace, and ill definitely keep his loved ones in my prayers. One hell of an athlete, one hell of a raider, and just a good guy. He did alot for the NFL, and he will be missed. R.I.P. gene."The rough-and-tumble reputation of Raiders fans was put aside in mourning the loss of one of the greatest players in NFL history. "You definitely left an enduring legacy in the NFL." says one poster, echoing familiar sentiment. Another fan's multiple postings show a dull sense of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
shock. "wow i cant even express how sad i am"One poster on a different thread calls Oakland fans attending the Cardinals at Raiders game in Oakland Aug. 23 to honor Upshaw in a timeless fashion. "...to those attending the games this Saturday, lets all black out the coliseum. not just because it is a home game, but for Gene. even if all you have is a white Raider jersey, just wear a black Raider shirt or something. that would be pretty cool. i know i will be sporting black." (4)
By the numbers: How good can the Raider rushing game be?
You don’t have to be a fan to admire the heck out of what the have cooking in the running game for 2008. Seeming rookie of the year shoo-in Darren McFadden (that sound, incidentally, is No. 20 steadily moving up fantasy draft boards across the country) and No. 3 option Michael Bush ran at will last weekend in the Titans Dallas Cowboys jersey
game, putting in performances equaling over 5.0 yards per carry. That chased a preseason-opening show which had McFadden totaling an even 4.0 yards per attempt and Justin Fargas (five carries, 25 yards) looking like he hadn’t missed a step from his breakout year of 2007.Though the verdict is still (still!) out on future leader JaMarcus Russell, the truth is the Russell-McFadden combo already looks as slick as though these guys have been playing together since high school. And while it’s still (way) premature to even get fuzzy reception in the crystal ball on the fortunes of this year’s Raiders, the early running-at-will success of the silver and black bodes great things for ground-first Oakland.How good can the team's running game get? The following represents a few statistical yardsticks by which we’ll certainly be measuring the NFL’s potential top threesome at halfback in 2008 come the final whistle.? 2,086. This represents the total yardage amassed by the Raiders in rushing last season; with Fargas leading the way with 1,009 (an ultra-convenient measuring stick in itself, eh?), Oakland chose to run an eyebrow-raising 53 percent of the time. Moving the ball on the ground on 508 of 959 plays from scrimmage (not including punts) despite usually trailing is a trend that figures to stay in what Anthony Carroll recently dubbed “ Kiffin’s not-so-exciting ‘O’"][Lane] Kiffin’s not-so-exciting ‘O’” in 2008. Last year’s numbers gave the Raiders the fourth-most rushing attempts and sixth-most yardage in the NFL; with McFadden looking as good as advertised, reckon the league’s best 1-2-3 combo to give Oakland a top-three running game this season.? 1,759. Back in 1985, Marcus Allen set the gold standard for Raider running backs in garnering just under 4.63 (!) yards per carry while toting the rock 380 times. While today’s en vogue rotation system pretty much guarantees no one except LaDainian Tomlinson and Adrian Peterson will approach this number of attempts in 2008, the McFadden/Fargas combo pumping up last season’s 4.1 yards per carry to resemble something more akin to Marcus’ mark hardly seems impossible. (Incidentally, such an average would fatten the Oakland rushing game to just over 2,350 yards on the season, or 147 per week, based on last year’s game plan: This would have been good enough for No. 3 in the league in 2007, chasing the similarly run-obsessed Minnesota Vikings and Jacksonville Jaguars.)? 14 and 31.5. More important than Allen’s yardage mark in 1985, however, was his scoring; on 441 total touches that year, Allen notched 14 TDs, good for one six-pointer every 31.5 plays. Oakland’s three-headed monster of Fargas, LaMont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes put the ball in the end zone just eight times (and not once through the air) on over 500 carries plus receptions for a woeful ratio of one TD per 62.5 touches. Can doubling the team’s scoring efficiency turn a 4-12 club into a 12-4 Super Bowl contender? You bet.? 1,025 (in 14 games). Forget Allen and his franchise records for just a moment. Truth is, Raider management would probably be thrilled if McFadden could just top this number, the most yards totaled by an Oakland back in this decade, believe it or not. Said standard was established in 2005 by Jordan, a guy who based on the preseason could be looking at a comeback player of the year nomination with the New England Patriots. Could McFadden average a measly 3.8 yards per carry while not 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
even playing out the string in 2008? Reckon it’s more than possible from a rookie who sported an insane 5.63 yards per carry with the Arkansas Razorbacks and playing behind blocking that’s got to be better than that of the 2005 Raiders.? 1,014. Speaking again of Allen, this is the yardage the man ran up in his sophomore year, his first as a starter. This was back in the Super Bowl-winning season of 1983. Just saying ...Fantasy Playbook: An entirely new kind of fantasy football game! (18)
game, putting in performances equaling over 5.0 yards per carry. That chased a preseason-opening show which had McFadden totaling an even 4.0 yards per attempt and Justin Fargas (five carries, 25 yards) looking like he hadn’t missed a step from his breakout year of 2007.Though the verdict is still (still!) out on future leader JaMarcus Russell, the truth is the Russell-McFadden combo already looks as slick as though these guys have been playing together since high school. And while it’s still (way) premature to even get fuzzy reception in the crystal ball on the fortunes of this year’s Raiders, the early running-at-will success of the silver and black bodes great things for ground-first Oakland.How good can the team's running game get? The following represents a few statistical yardsticks by which we’ll certainly be measuring the NFL’s potential top threesome at halfback in 2008 come the final whistle.? 2,086. This represents the total yardage amassed by the Raiders in rushing last season; with Fargas leading the way with 1,009 (an ultra-convenient measuring stick in itself, eh?), Oakland chose to run an eyebrow-raising 53 percent of the time. Moving the ball on the ground on 508 of 959 plays from scrimmage (not including punts) despite usually trailing is a trend that figures to stay in what Anthony Carroll recently dubbed “ Kiffin’s not-so-exciting ‘O’"][Lane] Kiffin’s not-so-exciting ‘O’” in 2008. Last year’s numbers gave the Raiders the fourth-most rushing attempts and sixth-most yardage in the NFL; with McFadden looking as good as advertised, reckon the league’s best 1-2-3 combo to give Oakland a top-three running game this season.? 1,759. Back in 1985, Marcus Allen set the gold standard for Raider running backs in garnering just under 4.63 (!) yards per carry while toting the rock 380 times. While today’s en vogue rotation system pretty much guarantees no one except LaDainian Tomlinson and Adrian Peterson will approach this number of attempts in 2008, the McFadden/Fargas combo pumping up last season’s 4.1 yards per carry to resemble something more akin to Marcus’ mark hardly seems impossible. (Incidentally, such an average would fatten the Oakland rushing game to just over 2,350 yards on the season, or 147 per week, based on last year’s game plan: This would have been good enough for No. 3 in the league in 2007, chasing the similarly run-obsessed Minnesota Vikings and Jacksonville Jaguars.)? 14 and 31.5. More important than Allen’s yardage mark in 1985, however, was his scoring; on 441 total touches that year, Allen notched 14 TDs, good for one six-pointer every 31.5 plays. Oakland’s three-headed monster of Fargas, LaMont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes put the ball in the end zone just eight times (and not once through the air) on over 500 carries plus receptions for a woeful ratio of one TD per 62.5 touches. Can doubling the team’s scoring efficiency turn a 4-12 club into a 12-4 Super Bowl contender? You bet.? 1,025 (in 14 games). Forget Allen and his franchise records for just a moment. Truth is, Raider management would probably be thrilled if McFadden could just top this number, the most yards totaled by an Oakland back in this decade, believe it or not. Said standard was established in 2005 by Jordan, a guy who based on the preseason could be looking at a comeback player of the year nomination with the New England Patriots. Could McFadden average a measly 3.8 yards per carry while not 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
even playing out the string in 2008? Reckon it’s more than possible from a rookie who sported an insane 5.63 yards per carry with the Arkansas Razorbacks and playing behind blocking that’s got to be better than that of the 2005 Raiders.? 1,014. Speaking again of Allen, this is the yardage the man ran up in his sophomore year, his first as a starter. This was back in the Super Bowl-winning season of 1983. Just saying ...Fantasy Playbook: An entirely new kind of fantasy football game! (18)
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